If you live in a wooded area, then you probably see all sorts of little animals everyday. As serene as it may be for you, living in the countryside can be a headache for an owner with a curious, prey-driven pooch. Every time you venture outdoors, your pet is gone within seconds, chasing a poor little squirrel. Or, even worse, he’s pulling you on the leash behind him! Some people bring home dogs to do just that: guard their homes against unwanted creatures. But, other people just want the dog to leave things alone. If you are in this boat, then don’t worry; there are a couple of desensitizing techniques you can try.
The first thing to understand is a dog’s predatory instinct. He does not necessarily seek out little creatures to play with; the fun comes when he sees them running. Dogs love for animals or people to run away from them! Not only does it reassure their dominant thinking (“Oh, I scared him off!”), it is also a game for them. Chasing, for a dog, is a fun activity. So, whether it’s a frightened person running away or a rabbit, squirrel, or cat, a dog will love a good chase. Unfortunately, this behavior is not fun for you, especially when you are out for your evening walk. A dog that is unable to control his predatory instinct can endanger himself and others. If he’s on a leash, then you are forced to fight against the leash and the dog. If he’s not on a leash, then he may dart in front of a passing car or get himself into trouble. For these reasons, it’s a good idea to try to stop this behavior before it escalates.
Before you ever try to teach your pet “no critter,” he needs to understand other commands. Most importantly, you need to be able to get his attention in a variety of situations. It’s one thing for your pet to pay attention to you when it’s time for dinner, but it’s another thing for him to pay attention to you in public. Of course, if he was a master at paying attention, then you probably wouldn’t have a small animal problem in the first place. But, you need to be able to get his attention when you aren’t in the presence of a squirrel or rabbit. The easiest way to do this is to practice at a pet store. Take your pooch to the pet store, and venture down the small animal aisle. You can bet he’ll be intrigued by the hamsters, guinea pigs, mice, and gerbils. While he’s salivating over all the caged prey, practice getting his attention. Use whatever training method you are comfortable with. For instance, if you are clicker training, then click to get his attention and give him a treat. Or, come up with a command, such as “no animal” to get his attention. Reward him for looking to you (even if he doesn’t look very long) when you ask him to. Repeat this training as often as you can until your pet looks to you every time.
Now, just because you got his attention with caged animals, does not mean that you’ll gain his attention when the animals are running free. For this reason, you need to move the training to a spot where there may be a couple of creatures but not too many. For instance, if your home borders a wooded area, then your front yard may be the perfect spot. Keep your pet on a leash, and continue to practice getting his attention in the yard. Do this several days until you feel that you have better control, then move the training to the backyard or another area where more small animals are present.
Desensitizing your dog to his natural instinct is tough, and your methods may not always work. If nothing you have tried has prevailed, then try to stay away from areas full of small animals. If the problem is bothersome enough, then you may need to seek the help of a professional.
If your dog chases a squirrel or rabbit every time you walk outside, then you may dread outdoor activities with your dog. When a dog chases an animal, he is merely exercising his predatory instinct; the animal runs, and your pooch loves a good chase. Come up with ways to desensitize him to small animals, starting with trips to the pet store, and gradually work your way up to an area where squirrels and rabbits run free. If all else fails, seek professional help.
Dogsledding is a winter sport that is rapidly growing in popularity throughout the world. Dog sledding has been around for as long as people know, but only in the past century has it become considered a winter sport; the introduction of the Canadian Iditarod race has greatly increased this sport’s popularity.
The Alaskan sled dog Iditarod race originated in 1978; this race was created as a means to test the strength, speed and agility of sled dog musher’s and their dog teams. The Iditarod trail runs through Alaska and covers roughly 1,151 miles, taking anywhere from 8 to 15 days to complete. The race begins with a ceremonial start in the city of Anchorage, AK, and then officially resumes in Wasilla, AK. The trail follows through the Rainy Pass of the Alaska Range, proceeds along the Bering Sea shoreline, finally ending in the city of Nome in western Alaska. The current record holder for the Iditarod is Martin Buser, set in 2002, completing the race in 8 days, 22 hours, 46 minutes, and 2 seconds. There are many factors that contribute to the successful completion of the Iditarod route; the sled dogs and the type of sled are important factors in dog sledding.
The breeds of dogs commonly used for dog sledding are Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian huskies, Eskimo dogs and Samoyeds. Some musher’s prefer to crossbreed among these kinds of dogs because they believe certain mixes make for more efficient sledding. Some musher’s prefer the mix of greyhound with Siberian huskies; the speed of a greyhound-Siberian mix is certainly a desirable trait in a sled dog. Though there are preferred breeds, apparently almost any mid-sized dog breed is capable of being a part of a sled team.
There are many kinds of sleds used in dog sledding. The most common types are the toboggan sled and the basket sled. The toboggan sled is unlike other dog sleds because it does not have runners or skis on the bottom; the sled rides directly on top of the snow. The basket sled is raised several inches above the snow and rides on runners. The basket sled is also made of light material so that it is easily maneuverable and fast. Even though the style and make of the dog sled aides in speed and smooth travel, the dog teams are the ultimate means to the success of sledding.
These dog teams can consist of groups as few in number as 3, or they can contain up to 24 dogs on a single team. There are multiple functions of a dog sled team: there are lead dogs, point dog, swing dogs, and wheel dogs. The lead dog has the most responsibility of the group, and he or she is highly valued by the musher. The point dog position is optional, but when present, they are located behind the lead dog. The swing dogs are positioned behind the point dogs and in front of the team dogs. The wheel dogs are positioned behind the team dogs, and their main duty is to pull the sled out of the snow when needed. The dogs are held together by a harness connecting to the gang line that ultimately connects the dogs to the sled and the musher.
The Iditarod race is ultimately a test of a musher’s skill to drive and travel with a select team of sled dogs. These dogs are chosen for their ability to perform well in extremely cold climates, to strength as well as their incredible power, strength and speed of travel.
When we think of goldfish we usually think of the school carnival where we tossed a ping pong ball into a small bowl and took home the goldfish. Then, we think of the goldfish funeral we had to hold a few short days or weeks later.It doesn’t always have to end that way! With proper care and the correct environment, goldfish can live and long and healthy life.
Step 1: If you didn’t win your goldfish at a carnival, visit a pet store to purchase one. Make observations about the goldfish and choose one who doesn’t seem lethargic. On the other hand, don’t choose one that is too active, darting to and fro in the aquarium.A healthy goldfish has a shiny fin and scales.
Step 2: Purchase a tank that holds at least 12 gallons of water. Most people make the mistake of keeping goldfish in too small an environment. Purchase a few decorative items to place throughout the tank.
Step 3: Keep the water healthy. Before the fish arrives, de-chlorinate the water. Plan on changing the water in the tank on a weekly basis. If the tank is less than 10 gallons, the water needs to be changed more frequently. Keep the water at room temperature; purchase a thermometer if necessary.
Step 4: Periodically test the water for ammonia and nitrates. You can purchase testing kits at the pet store.
Step 5: Purchase a filter to aid you in keeping the tank clean. Goldfish create a lot of waste and the filter will help with the maintenance.
Step 6: Feed your goldfish a diet of flake food or small pellets. Be careful not to overfeed your goldfish; follow the recommendations on the food label based on the size of the fish.
Step 7: Look out for signs of illness so that you can quickly treat your goldfish should he become ill. Some telltale signs of illness include spots of any color, streaks, bloating or torn fins. Another sign of illness would be trouble swimming or inactivity. If you see any of these symptoms, make an appointment at a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Goldfish make great pets because they are inexpensive and easy to maintain. Whether you purchased your goldfish or brought him home from a carnival, if you’ve followed these steps, your goldfish should live a long and lengthy life.
This article was provided by pet super store. An online resource featuring dog doors and pet crates.
If you are a dog owner, then you may have read countless articles and talked to a number of owners about the importance of socializing your pet to other animals.There are a multitude of benefits associated with socialization.Many owners say that socialization is not an option but, instead, a requirement.It’s great if your dog loves other dogs, but it’s not always that straightforward.The truth is that some dogs just don’t care to get to know others.How do you know what’s right for your pooch?The best thing you can do is to pay attention to his actions and evaluate your individual situation.
In the past years, people have worked hard to domesticate canines.We’ve turned a once-pack-animal into a loving lap dog.Now, we change our minds and think, “Wait.Our dog needs to have other dog friends.”Then, we rush out to the pet store, purchase a fancy leash, and drag our dogs to multiple dog parks and daycares.In the course of these activities, have any of us thought about what the dog wants?We want him to be a house companion, and then suddenly think he should join a pack.
Now, don’t get me wrong.Socialization is not a bad thing.But, it can be unnecessary.If your dog stays close to you and you don’t venture out into dog-saturated territories, then why does it matter if he likes other pets?Unless he is meeting other dogs or going out into public places, then he doesn’t necessarily have to like other animals. The truth is many of our pets spend their entire lives in our homes and neighborhoods, never venturing outside the territory. You may resort to the idea that something like a doggy daycare is great for your pooch, since you don’t get to spend all day with him.This may be true for some pets but not all.There are ways to decide if your pet needs socialization training, but it deals with his needs over your needs.
There are times when socialization is completely in order.If your dog spends time at a dog park or if he accompanies you outside of the home, then socialization is a good safety net.Even though problems can still arise between completely socialized animals, one that is accustomed to being in the company of others is less likely to start a fight every time another comes around.If your pet has shown aggressive behaviors in the past, then this also flags a need for socialization.An overly aggressive dog can be a big problem, especially if he spends time around other pets.
So, how do you determine if your pet really needs to be socialized?The easiest way to find out is to put him in a social situation.The following suggestion is not intended for dogs that are already aggressive towards other animals; you should never put yourself or your dog in danger.Find a park in your area that allows dogs on leashes or set up a play date with a neighborhood dog.Having your pooch on a leash during the test is important, because it gives you better control over him.If you venture into an off-leash dog park and your dog has never been introduced to such a situation, then you may find yourself in a big mess.Take your dog to the park or the neighbor’s house and watch how he interacts with the other animals.Does he enjoy the company, or does he seem bored?Is he interacting with the other pets or simply doing his own thing?Does he even care to leave your side?Knowing how your dog feels about other animals can help you determine exactly how much socialization he needs.If he doesn’t enjoy the company, then there is no reason to drag him to a dog park or a doggy day care.Just like humans, some dogs simply don’t want (or care) to leave their comfort zones.
Socializing a pet is not a bad idea; but, in some cases, it is unnecessary.Each dog is different than the others, and some dogs just may not enjoy the company of other animals.Whether you put your pet through socialization training is up to you.But before you leave him at a doggy daycare for hours at a time, ask yourself, “Does my dog actually enjoy the daycare?”
This article was written by pet-super-store.com an online pet website featuring dog car seat covers and dog doors.
If you have a veteran dog in your home, then you may not worry about where you put him when you leave the home; he’s probably been around long enough that away-from-home disasters rarely happen.However, if you have a puppy or a dog that gets bored easily, then figuring out where to keep him when you are away can be an issue.Here are a few suggestions on what to do with your beloved pooch.
Some owners have an outdoor area for their dogs.So, when they leave their homes, the dogs have a place to chill out, and the owners do not have to worry about their homes being destroyed.If you have an outdoor area for your pooch, then use it!The area needs to be safe and provide protection for the dog.If it’s super hot outside, then your dog needs access to a shade.If it’s cold outdoors, then your dogs needs access to a dog house or something to keep him warm.No matter what, your pooch should always have access to plenty of water.If you choose to leave your dog outside, then don’t assume that he won’t be bored.Bored dogs outside can be just as destructive as bored dogs inside.An outside dog may dig holes, bark excessively, or try to escape.Keep your pet occupied with fun, mind-stimulating toys.
Be careful about chaining or tethering your dog.Many communities and organizations view chaining and tethering as a form of animal cruelty.No, that doesn’t mean that you are necessarily harming your dog, but problems can arise when an outdoor dog isn’t properly cared for or if he gets hung up on the chain.Before you place your animal on a chain, make sure that it is not illegal in your area, and follow extra safety precautions to keep him free of danger.
For the puppy:If you are crate training, then what to do with your puppy is probably not an issue.You simply leave the puppy in the crate while you are away.If you are not crate training, then you may have to be a little more creative.Does your puppy have a favorite room or area in your home?If you are away from your home a fair amount of time, then you may need to make an area especially for your pooch.You can even enclose a space with pet gates.Remove any breakable or valuable objects from the area.If you leave something dear to your heart with your puppy, then you should take the blame if something happens to it.If your puppy isn’t potty trained, then you may want to include potty pads or newspaper in the area.Also, throw in a Kong, chew toy, or other favorite toy to keep your pup occupied.
For the older pooch:Perhaps your dog has already gone through crate training, and you do not like the idea of keeping him in the crate.This is perfectly fine; however, many dogs will resort to destructive behaviors while their owners are away, so letting him roam your home may not be an option.In these cases, you may have to treat him like a puppy:make an area just for him to use while you are away.If he has shown destructive behaviors in a certain area of your home before, then do not leave him in this area.Instead, choose an area where he is normally calm and content.Often, a dog won’t destroy his sleeping area, so you may want to try that place out.If he is housetrained, then newspaper or potty pads are probably not necessary, but toys are a must!
If you must leave your pet at home during the day, then it’s always a good idea to relieve some of his excess energy before you go.Tiring him out can help ease his destructive behaviors.You can even play soothing music or music made especially for dogs (yes, it’s true), while you are gone.Be creative, and figure out what calms your pet.
You probably don’t want to leave your pet at home all day; but for most owners there is no way around it.Having a safe, outdoor area for your pooch is always a good option.But, if your dog needs to stay inside, then try to figure out what keeps him calm.Place him in “his” area, and leave him with plenty of toys.It’s always a good idea to tire him out before you leave, relieving some of his excess energy.
This article was provided by www.pet-super-store.com a pet website featuring dog strollers and dog crate pads.
As a responsible dog owner, you probably pick up after your pet wherever you go.It is easy to carry along plastic bags for your pet, since they keep your hands away from the waste and can be tossed in the trash can.But, have you ever thought about how bad those plastic bags are for our environment?If you’ve paid any attention to the “green” movement, then you may have an idea.Lucky for you, there is a green way to dispose of your pooch’s waste.
It seems that everywhere you go, companies are trying to reduce excess plastic consumption.Most grocery stores now offer an alternative to plastic when it comes to carrying your groceries home.Canvas (and similar material) bags can be purchased for a dollar at many stores.The bags are reusable, and help keep plastic out of the landfills.Even if you use a canvas bag to take your groceries home, you probably do not use one to dispose of your pet’s waste, since you would also have to dispose of the bag.But, don’t fret, a couple of eco-friendly companies have heard your concerns and have come up with a solution.
Poop Bags and BioBags are two companies that are offering environmentally-friendly dog waste bags.The bags are fairly inexpensive and can be purchased at a number of pet supply stores.The bags are made from biodegradable materials, such as corn.Although there are “safer” plastic bags, these bags do not contain plastic; so, they decompose easily without leaving behind harmful residue.You use the bag just like any other bag: collect your pooch’s waste and seal the bag.The bags are somewhat breathable, allowing moisture the escape and reducing odors. So, if you place the bag in your kitchen trash can, you can rest assured knowing that you won’t have to make an extra trip to the landfill before your scheduled trash pickup. Some people have expressed concerns about the shelf life of the bags, since they are not made of plastic.Just like paper products in your home (plates, towels, etc.), the bags can remain on the shelf for over two years.
So, how exactly do the bags work?First consider what goes inside the bags:your dog’s feces.Your dog’s waste is biodegradable, so it can break down in the landfill fairly quickly.However, if you place the waste in a traditional plastic bag, the plastic can take closer to 100 years to break down.The biodegradable bags take the same amount of time to break down as, let’s say, an apple or tomato.They decompose the fastest when they are placed in a commercial composting system, taking anywhere from 60 to 90 days to decompose.Pay attention to the word “commercial.”You may have a composting system at home, but it is never a good idea to dispose of your pet’s waste in a home system.The waste can carry bacteria, especially E. coli, which makes it less than ideal for a home-use system.
In addition to the quickness and ease that the bags degrade, there are other advantages to using this alternative.You probably know someone who litters.No, I’m not saying that it’s okay to litter if you are using these bags, but they can help short-term littering, especially when used in public areas.Not only will the bags break down, but they will not pose a choking hazard to other animals.If an animal tries to eat a biodegradable bag, then the bag can be digested.Dog waste also contributes to water pollution (via water runoff) when it is not properly disposed of.So, coming up with a way to remove the waste and dispose of it properly can keep some bacteria out of the water supply.
If you are looking for a way for you and your pooch to be more environmentally friendly, then consider purchasing a BioBag or a Poop Bag to clean up your dog’s waste.These bags are biodegradable and do not leave behind any harmful residues.They are fairly inexpensive and can be used just like traditional plastic bags.Don’t worry about shelf life; these bags survive just as long as paper towels and paper plates!
This article is sponsored by Pet Super Store. A great website for petsafe, innotek, and dogtra.
Perhaps you let your dog play with anything; if he finds it, then it’s his.Or maybe, you buy your dog a new toy every time you visit the pet store.The question is:are the toys you buy appropriate for your pooch?Before you purchase the softest stuffed animal and raw hides, or before you hand your pooch a ball of yarn, consider what your pooch needs to keep him both safe and occupied.
First of all, don’t underestimate the power of dog toys.You may think that your pooch doesn’t need anything to play with, since he seems so occupied already.The fact is toys can help stimulate your pooch’s mind, provide a little exercise and play, and help keep him away from boredom and destructive behaviors.If you don’t provide toys for your dog, then everything in your home is fair game, including socks, shoes, and anything that ends up within his reach.It is a bad idea to let your pooch chew on old socks and shoes in the first place!He will not be able to differentiate between your worn out house slippers and your expensive work shoes, so it’s better to never let him start the habit.
Your dog needs a variety of toys to keep him occupied and keep him interested.There’s no sense in throwing twenty toys around the house; instead, rotate four or five toys (at a time) every week.Each toy should engage him in a different way. He should have a chew toy, a mind-stimulating toy, a prey toy, a comfort toy, and an active toy. Below are a few suggestions on engaging and interactive toys for your pooch.
If you have a puppy, then you probably need to find a suitable chew toy.Don’t choose anything that could pose a choking hazard.This includes materials that can be easily shred, torn apart, or swallowed.Many owners like to give their puppies raw hides and hooves.Before you hand one of these items over to your pup, talk to your veterinarian.Your vet can recommend which types of hides are safe.If you do choose to give your puppy one of these items, then only let him play with the item while under supervision.A great chew toy for your puppy (or adult dog) is a rubber Kong.The Kong is filled with a treat, and your pup must chew the toy to access the treat.This is also a great mind-stimulating toy that can provide hours of fun for your pet.
If your dog likes to attack his “prey,” then find him a toy that is an appropriate size.His prey probably won’t be the size of a tennis ball, so look for something a bit larger.Often, large, stuffed animals make great prey objects.If you choose a stuffed animal, make sure that is made especially for your pooch.Remove any items on the toy that could pose a choking hazard, such as ribbons or buttons.Sometimes, you pooch may enjoy caring for his toys.Stuffed animals make great comfort toys, too.Unlike his prey toy, the comfort toy should be easy for him to carry around.
Your dog also needs a toy that allows him to be active.Rope toys are great for this purpose!They are fairly durable and can be used to play fetch.Make sure the rope won’t shred; or, if it does shred, throw it away and get a new one.A tennis balls can also make a great, inexpensive activity toy.Your pooch will enjoy carrying it around, fetching it, and just chasing it.Once the tennis ball starts to fall apart, it should also be thrown away.If you choose a ball other than a tennis ball, then make sure it is large enough so that it can’t be swallowed but small enough to be carried around.
Finding the right toys for your pooch may require a little trial and error.Keep your pet interested by rotating the toys each week.Provide your dog with different types of toys, including a chew toy, a mind toy, a prey toy, a comfort toy, and an active toy.No matter what you choose, make sure the toys do not pose choking hazards!
If you have heard about the possibility of litter box training your dog, then you may have investigated a few pros and cons.Training requires time, patience, and a little understanding and creativity on your part.Here are a few tips to get you started.Before you know it, you will be on your way to training your pooch how to use the indoor toilet.
First thing is first:you must acquire the supplies.If you have a small dog, then it is okay to use a cat’s litter box.But, you must make sure that the sides are low enough so that the dog can get in and out easily and high enough to keep the litter inside.Also, using a cat box means removing the top.Your pooch probably won’t like the idea of relieving himself in a small cave.If you have a larger pooch or prefer not to use a cat’s litter box, then you are in luck.Many companies have started making boxes especially for dogs!Do a little shopping, and you’ll find the perfect one.
Once you get the box, then it’s time to get litter.Many owners stick to lining the box with potty pads, especially if their pups are already accustomed to the pads.Other owners suggest newspaper or newspaper pellets, since it can be easily disposed of.There is also litter made especially for dogs.You can purchase the litter wherever your purchase the box; although, more and more retailers are beginning to sale dog litter.You will also need a scoop to clean out the box, unless you plan on disposing of the entire contents each time.In the beginning, your pet may not like to step in 6 inches of litter.It’s always a good idea to start with a small amount until he gets accustomed to the feel; then, you can slowly increase the amount of litter each time you change it out.
Once you have the supplies, then you need to concentrate on location; the location of the box is important.Some dogs have a hard time urinating outdoors because of all the sights and sounds:cars riding by, children yelling, other animals communicating.Consider this when placing the box in your home.It should not be in a high traffic area; your pet needs a little privacy.Since the box will emit an odor until it is cleaned out, it is also a good idea to keep it out of common areas.You can bet your guests won’t like to smell poop while they are eating!Another thing to consider with placement is the flooring.Accidents do happen, so carpeting may not be your best bet.If you have a bathroom or other room with tile or hardwood floors, then these can be better box-location options.
Make sure that the box is placed somewhere that is easily accessible to both you and your dog.You will need to clean the box frequently to encourage its use, so you better be able to get to it!To make cleaning easier, keep a covered trashcan nearby.You probably don’t want to drop the waste into the kitchen trash can, and you probably won’t you be able to take the trash to the dump everyday.Purchasing a small trashcan designed for diaper disposable is a great way to take care of your pooch’s wastes.
Now, the final tip:start early!Just like obedience training, it’s easier to teach a puppy the desired behavior than it is to teach an adult dog set in his ways.However, older puppies and adult dogs can be taught to use a litter box, but it will take more time and patience.Crate training is a great complement to litter training!Instead of taking your pup out of his crate and straight outdoors when it’s time, you can take him directly to the box.
If you are considering litter training your dog, then you will probably benefit from these tips.The size of the box and its location are extremely important when training your pup to use a litter box.The litter is also an important factor; it needs to be slowly introduced and cleaned often.It’s normally easier to train a puppy, but adult dogs can learn, too.Good luck with training!
Animal abuse is not a happy topic; it’s not something that sparks a conversation at a birthday party or family outing.However, as unmentionable as it is, animal abuse is real.There are two different categories of abuse, and each is a serious matter.Unfortunately, every state does not have strict laws against abuse.Understanding the differences can help you recognize abusive behavior and find ways to seek help.
The two types of animal cruelty are referred to as active cruelty and passive cruelty.Active cruelty can also be called “commission,” while passive cruelty is sometimes called “omission.”The two categories cover a wide range of abusive behavior, but they do not provide concrete definitions.It is up to the witness of the cruelty to interpret where the behavior lies.
Active cruelty is probably the most well-known (if, in fact, it can be considered as such).This type of malice is seen in movies or on the nightly news.Active animal abuse, like the name suggests, is where the abuser deliberately causes harm to the animal.Basically, the abuser resorts to violence when handling the animal.Kicking and hitting the pet are just two possibilities of an active abuser.Research has found that many active abusers suffer from psychological problems, and the abuse is often evident in other areas of their lives.Some theories suggest that people who feel powerless resort to exhibiting their “power” over their animals as a way to keep control.Whatever the underlying reasons, active abuse, or commission, is a serious problem.
Passive cruelty is often the most mistaken and the most overlooked.In the case of omission, the animal is not being physically abused.The owner may not be violent or controlling over the animal.Types of omission include a lack of veterinary care, unsatisfactory shelter, starvation, dehydration, and untreated illnesses or infections.Sometimes, a neglectful owner has been caught keeping a puppy’s collar on an adult dog, forcing the collar to grow into the skin of the dog.In many areas, tethering a dog is considered passive cruelty. Aside from the psychological difference, the acts of passive cruelty are similar to animal hoarding:the owner simply does not take care of the pet.Passive cruelty is often hard to identify because it can be a result of an uncaring owner or a result of an ignorant owner.For instance, someone who has never had a pet may not understand that the pet should have access to water at all times.No, that’s not the best hypothetical situation; but, you get the point.
Why someone would abuse an animal is often unknown.Many profiles on serial killers and rapists have identified animal abuse in the perpetrator’s past; so children who abuse animals are often flagged from an early age.In some cases, individuals who experienced abuse themselves passed on the action to animals.Perhaps the problem is psychological or perhaps it is ignorance; either way, identifying the cause does not necessarily help the animal that is being abused.It is up to the local, state, and federal governments to impose stricter animal abuse legislation.
Each country has its own laws and regulations concerning animal abuse.For instance, in the United States, it is still fairly easy to have your cat declawed.However, in many European countries, declawing is viewed as an act of animal abuse.The same is true for cropping a dog’s ears or docking a dog’s tail:it is allowed in some areas and banned in others.Even within the United States, each state has its own laws concerning animal abuse.In some states, animal abuse is considered a felony, in others a misdemeanor; and yet in other states abuse may not even be recognized.
Animal abuse is not a topic that makes people feel positive, but is it something that should be addressed.There are two main types of abuse:active (commission) and passive (omission).Active abuse is deliberate, while passive is usually a form of neglect or ignorance.The reasons why someone would cause harm to an animal are numerous and sometimes unidentifiable, and each area (whether it’s a country, state, or city) has its own laws against abuse.Being able to identify abuse can possibly save the life of a helpless animal.
There are multiple ways to get your dog where you are going.He can accompany you in the cabin of an airplane, travel in cargo, or ride in the car.No matter what the travel arrangeents are, there are a few essential items that must travel with you and your pooch. Aside from pet carriers or dog crates, here is a list of items that you need when traveling with your pet.
Leash.This is the most common, yet sometimes forgotten, item.Leashes are completely necessary in any public place.Before you get to the airport, you will need to walk your dog and let him take care of business.When you get off the plane, you’ll have to do the same.If you are traveling by car, then your pet must be leashed at the rest stop.When you get to your destination, then the leash will be even more important.Hotels that allow dogs will still require that you have him on a leash while outside of your room.
Water.Water is a must!Airlines require that you give your dog water so many hours prior to departure.Some even require water bottles to be fitted on the carrier.Your dog must be able to drink from the bottle, while access to refill the bottle must be on the outside of the carrier.If you are going on a trip, then stop by a grocery store and grab a couple of gallons.If it is a long trip, then consider buying more.Water bottles are also a great item to take on road trips.You can give your dog water without stopping to fill his bowl.Even if you plan on stopping at rest areas, you never know when you may not have access to clean water.Every time you stop, your pet should be able to get a drink.Don’t forget the bowl!If you don’t have a water bottle, then you will need a water bowl.
Food.You may think that it’s a short trip, so your pet will be okay without food.Never assume that your pet doesn’t need to eat.Like water, airlines require that your pet be fed so many hours prior to departure.Once you get off the plane, then your pooch may be hungry.If you plan on stopping to eat on a road trip, then you should also plan on feeding your dog.Don’t forget to take a food bowl along.If you are staying in a hotel, then you will need food and water bowls (along with food) once you get there.You never know if you will have instant access to food, so you should always take extra along.It’s also a great idea to throw in the treats.Your dog may be frightened by the trip, and the comfort of a treat may calm him down.If you stop in public to let him eat and he behaves well, then reward him for his good behavior.
Scoop and plastic bags.Responsible owners always clean up after their pets.Scoops are a sanitary way to clean up after your dog.Follow posted guidelines (if at a park or rest area) about how to dispose of the feces.Some places have trash containers especially for pet waste.Always bag the waste before you dispose of it.Once you get to your destination, then you will still need these items.
Toys.You don’t have to load your car down with tons of toys, but it’s always a good idea to pack your pooch’s favorite!He may be stressed from the travel, and his favorite toy will provide some familiarity.When you stop for a break, or when he gets off the plane, give him a little time to play.He can definitely use the exercise after a long ride or flight.
There are plenty of things you should consider taking with you on a trip with your pooch.If he requires any additional items (such as special bedding or medication), then be sure to pack those.You always need to make sure you have food and water for your pet at all times.Cleaning up after your pet is your responsibility, too.Your dog will need to be on a leash in most public places, so you can’t forget to take one!A toy or two is always a good idea.If you do forget something, then try to stop at a store as soon as possible.You never know when you may need an item that you forgot to pack!
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