How to Choose a Pet

Did you know that pets outnumber people in the United States? Recent statistics have shown that 62% of homes have a pet, and that 46% of homes have more than one pet. That adds up to 380 million pets in a nation with a human population of 290 million people.

The first three categories are cats (78 million), dogs (65 million), and birds (18 million). Also popular are fish and small animals but their number is far behind the numbers of cats and dogs.

More and more people are buying pets because they realise the great advantages of having a pet, a pet is a great companion, a loyal friend and a part of the family. Since a pet has such an important role to play in your life it is important thinking hard to pick the right pet for you.

Carefully considering what pet you will get before getting it will pay off in the long run, that way you wont pick a pet you are incompatible with, you will get on well with your pet and you wont have problems with it in future. A poorly chosen pet may eventually have to leave, and the blame for the imcompatibility will be with you.

If you are choosing a pet the real choice you are probably making is whether to get a dog or a cat, perhaps you are considering a pet that requires less effort such as a fish or bird also. If you decide to opt for a dog you must then choose what breed of dog toget, with over 150 breeds you are spoiled for choice!

A dog will probably prove to be a better companion than a cat - it will be more of a friend, however a dog will also need more care than a cat. Dogs like to be around people whereas cats are more autonomous, they will generally spend their day off by themselves. Cats are more attracted to their home then to their owners generally.

You will need to carefully consider how much space you have, cats and dogd reuire quite a bit of space, so if you live in a small apartment then even a small breed of dog or a cat will feel restricted. If you have very little space perhaps you should go for a bird or fish, or may be a hamster?

Bear in mind that a dog cannot be left alone for very long, they need feeding, walking and attention. This may be a problem if you are away often and there is no one else around to mind the dog. Perhaps a kennel or neighbour would be available to care for the dog while you are away. Cats, though independent, do not like being left alone either although they can cope better than a dog.

Dogs need a lot of attention, they must be walked at least once or twice a day, on top of that they are full of energy and need space in which to live and play. Obviously the larger the breed of dog the more space it needs, large dogs such as shepherd dogs and Saint Bernards need a lot of space. Also consider how much your dog will eat - big dogs eat big meals!

Big dogs have the advantage that if trained properly, they can protect their owner and home, while small dogs (like
poodles) are more like a joyful toy at home. Small dogs are also suitable for children or for elderly people, who do not have the energy to walk a dog for miles and miles.

No matter what pet you decide on, ensure you have thought your desision through properly, a badly chosen pet will be unhappy if it doesn't suit you, so pick carefully.

Alyssa Hallam is the webmaster and operator of AH Pet [http://www.ahpet.com] Her site has a great collection of information on all different kinds of pets, including a free newsletter, pet resources and articles. For great pet information, go to: [http://www.ahpet.com]

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Pet Training Tips

If you have found this article, obviously you are searching for help with your pet. You have found the right article, I have studied primitive behavior of animals all my life to better understand my own pets. Most dogs still have instincts from when their ancestors were wild and free. Cats still have carnivore instincts even though they have been domesticated for hundreds of years and have become smaller in stature to there cousins, the big cats. Horses, even domesticated ones still have the same fears that their wild family members do.

Horses:

Have you ever wondered why horses seem to be jumpy around humans?
Well the answer is actually simple,You are a predator and have the ability to eat them. Predators have certain characteristics that mark them as predators and all prey animals know these characteristics. For example: You never want to look your animal directly in the eye and you never want to approach it head on. All natural predators (that includes humans) have eyes that are set close together, this is important because horses and other prey animals see this characteristic and assume that you are a predator and become jumpy and cautious.

The best way to counteract this is to look slightly down when you are approaching them, this signals that you are not in hunting mode and their flight or fight instincts don't go off. Always use calming voices and sounds when talking with your pet and never approach fast or aggressively. If you are having trouble catching your horse, walk up to its side then slightly turn and begin to walk away, you may have to repeat this over a few times, but your pet should begin to follow you. You can even use clicking noises or a piece of apple or carrot to help entice them to follow. The objective is to eventually get them to follow you with out bribery and make it easier for you to catch them.

Cats:

Have you ever got up in the morning and stepped outside on your front deck only to feel something cold and squishy under your foot, you look down and see a died mouse, and as you hop into the house to wash it's guts off your foot, you silently swear to yourself to kill your cat?

This is a behavior that can not be controlled really, but maybe I can shed some light on it so you can better understand why your beloved pet feels it necessary to leave these dead things on your front door mat. No, they are not trying to get back at you because you went away for a few hours and left them alone. It is actually the opposite.

If you watch wild cat behavior you will see that the mother feline will often bring back a kill (live/dead) to its cubs after hunting. This is to insure that her little family eats and if it's alive she is trying to teach them hunting skills for when they are older. Of course this is typically a female response but male cats can exhibit this behavior as well.

Your pet is trying to take care of you, they love you and consider you one of their little ones. This is not an act of revenge or punishment, but one of love. The best advice I have for you is to do what I do, I look down at my precious baby and say "Mystic, mommy doesn't eat mice." Then I bend down and pick it up and throw it in the outside garbage.

Dogs:

One of the most serious behavioral problems with dogs that I have run across is dominance issues. All dogs run off a hierarchical system, which means that the one highest on the totem poll wins. In a typical pack, there are the alphas (owner), Beta (this is usually the baby sitter), then the pups (very young children), and the omega (any other animal) this is the lowest position on the totem pole.

More often with male dogs and especially dogs that are highly intelligent or prey driven, the pup status meshes with the omega position. The omega's always get the worst of the worst, even if they haven't done anything wrong, they are there to take it because the others say so. In cases like this, there is really nothing you can do but separate the animals and only allow contact under supervision.

If you are having problems with your pet trying to press dominance issues over you or your child(ren), there is a simple trick that you can do. You need to be careful when implementing it, but it is what the alphas do to hold position in their packs. If your dog makes an aggressive move towards you or your children, knock him down a peg by putting him physically on his back and holding the palm of your hand over his throat. This is were the careful part comes in, you don't want to choke your animal, you only want to put slight pressure, enough that your animal knows you're there. Say 'NO' in a very deep tone (you don't have to yell) then stand up and walk away. It may take a few times, but your pet will get the idea. Also, if your dog comes up to you after wards or after getting in trouble and licks you, it is their way of apologizing.

I recommend watching some wildlife videos, you would be surprised at how much you can learn about animal behavior. Once you understand the core causes of certain behaviors and instincts of your animal, you will find training them simple and easy. Remember, patience and repetitiveness is a trainers best friend.

My own experience and techniques I have tested and tried and have been proven to work for me. These methods may or may not work for you and any methods that you try are of your own risk. These methods are some of many that can be found on the internet and should be used at your risk.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Training a Dog around Horses | HorseandRider UK

Starting a Pet Business in SA

There is a great deal of opportunity in the pet industry, however, as with many entrepreneurial ventures, it is essential that you obtain the relevant knowledge and expertise before starting out.

Dealing with pets brings with it much joy but of paramount importance for any pet related business is the ethos of responsible pet ownership and care. It is important that you consult with a veterinarian on any important issues to ensure the pets' wellbeing is always a priority.

Whilst the economic downturn has affected many industries, the pet industry has proven to be remarkably resilient to the global recession. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA) the pet industry has seen unprecedented growth in the last ten years in the USA, with spending up by an estimated $2.49 billion in 2011, despite the recession.

In South Africa there is a growing middle class who can afford to own pets and offer them the best care. In July 2011, a staggering 18,384 people attended the World of Dogs and Cats Pet Expo (WODAC) in Johannesburg during the two day show. The Expo had a record 123 exhibitor stalls and exceeded all expectations.

Within the pet industry, pet services would appear to be the fastest growing area both locally and internationally. While pet training, boarding and grooming remain popular and necessary, services such as pet photography, portrait artists, hydrotherapy and even pet spa treatments are offered as more and more owners are splashing out on their beloved pets. Innovative new products are constantly being developed for pets, from bacon scented bubbles to DNA tests that determine the heritage of your "pavement special".

There are a wide range of pet services and products you could offer the pet-loving public and we will highlight just a few;

Boarding Kennels and/or Cattery

Due to the growing demand for accommodation for pets whilst their owners are away on business or holiday, there has been a steady increase in the number of kennels and catteries available and there are even places that will look after more exotic pets. Taking care of a loved companion animal is a serious business and a huge responsibility, and a number of factors should be considered.

Most animals create noise so you would need to ascertain whether your neighbours would object, whether you comply with your local bylaws and what permissions need to be sought. Your facilities would also need to be secure enough to prevent the escape of an animal and large enough for dogs to have space to run and be exercised.

Animals are also more likely to pick up diseases when in high density, stressful conditions and a lenient intake protocol could result in disaster. It is therefore imperative that you receive proof that all animals admitted for boarding have had the relevant vaccinations, a schedule of which can be provided by your veterinarian or by consulting the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA).

You should also have a signed release form that allows you to take any pets to the vet should the need arise. Simple things, like a sudden change in diet for example, can result in diarrhoea and illness so care must be exercised when considering the dietary requirements of your lodgers.

Cats in particular are prone to stress and need to be kept in a quiet area far away from any barking dogs. There are some establishments that have gone the extra mile and included televisions and music to both soothe and entertain the pets in their temporary care.

Ensuring that your customers receive individual attention, exercise and mental stimulation in addition to a comfortable environment during their stay will result in happy pets, happy owners and return visits.

Pet Sitting

Professional pet sitting has become very popular and whilst there are a number of companies and individuals who offer these services, many are localised so it might be useful to check if there are any operating in your area.

Many owners prefer to have their pets stay at home whilst they are away and would rather have somebody come to their house. Your duties would include feeding the pets and giving them water and may also include walking, grooming, administering medications and even playing with the animals. You could be asked to stay at the property or to visit daily.

Dog Training

In recent times much progress has been made on the psychology of pet behaviour and a number of organisations in South Africa offer accredited behaviourist and training courses. These days it's not only horses that are "whispered to" and many a nervous kitty and misbehaving pooch have benefitted from seeing a professional who can provide guidance to both them and their owners!

It would be imperative to research which method of training appeals to you and to enrol in the recommended course before you attempt to offer classes or assistance.

A website to look at is: http://www.thinkingpets.co.za

Pet Foods

Pet foods makes up the bulk of spending within the pet industry but it requires a great deal of research and expertise and as a result would require a fair amount of capital expenditure and product development before the actual marketing of the product.

Anyone interested in food production would certainly benefit from consulting the Pet Food Industry (PFI) Association which is a non-profit body formed by manufacturers, dedicated to upholding quality standards that ensure the nutritional well-being of household pets.

Bedding and Housing

One only needs to visit your local veterinary store or pet shop to see the great number of different products available for your pets to sleep on or in. From adapted tractor tyres to custom made homes complete with lighting and under-floor heating, sponge cushions to memory foam mattresses and everything in-between, there are always unique new products entering the market and with some innovation and the right market research there are certainly opportunities in this area.

Animal Shelters

Starting a shelter requires much in the way of initial set up and administration, and possibly more good could be done channelling your energy into helping an existing shelter. Running a shelter is both physically and emotionally draining. In most cases it will deplete your financial resources rather than add to them.

Every animal that is admitted needs to be vaccinated, sterilised, treated for parasites and, ideally, micro-chipped. Even at reduced veterinary rates these essentials cost more than the adoption fee the public is willing to pay for a rescue animal and most shelters make a loss on each and every animal they home. Organisations that focus on fundraising for animal charities provide a tremendous boost to existing charities.

Emerging Trends

New moves within the pet industry according to the American Pet Products Association include;

Eco-friendly Pet Products
High-tech Pet Products
Monogrammed Pet Products
Pet-Friendly Hotels
Human Product Manufacturers now offering Pet Products (e.g. Paul Mitchell, Harley Davidson etc.)

Advertising your pet business

There are many pet owners out there just waiting to hear from you and there are number of platforms available to promote your pet related business. SA Pet Pages Magazine is a pet products and services directory that provides an extremely effective way of reaching your target market as it is distributed FREE into the hands of pet owners. Each quarter 55,000 copies are distributed through veterinary clinics throughout Gauteng, KZN and the Eastern & Western Cape.

The old adage goes: "Doing business without advertising is like winking at someone in a dark room. You know you're doing it but nobody else does." It is important for any business and especially for any new enterprise to advertise. Ensure that you make the most of your advertising investment by asking consumers how they found your product.

This will enable you to calculate the return on investment (ROI) that you are getting from the various advertising media you employ. Additional advertising platforms to consider include the annual WODAC Pet Expo, dog and cat shows, dog parks and the internet. Social media is of course another important tool that must not be overlooked.

For more on franchise, small business opportunities and business advice visit www.BizAssist.co.za

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Dog fence as a Pet Barrier to the horses

Therapy Dogs Needed

Therapy dogs provide comfort and reassurance for many people in locales such as nursing homes, schools and hospitals. The un-sung heroes of service dogs, however, are the dogs' owners.

These dogs provide love and calmness to children, but it is the owners who are the ones who volunteer to get their pets involved. The pair creates a team that works together to improve other people's lives.

Examples of therapy dogs' and their owners' work include visits to a senior in an assisted living program or helping a child who is struggling with learning to read.

And, yes, family pets other than dogs are therapy pets, for example, animals like cats and rabbits and horses, etc.

Therapy dogs should not be confused with service dogs that are trained to assist someone with whom they live. Therapy dogs visit along with their volunteer parents as a team.

So how do you get your pet involved in helping others?

Becoming a Therapy Dog

There are many pet organizations that help connect certified therapy dogs with those who will benefit most. Many times, there is a long waiting list for these dogs and their volunteer owners at these organizations.

Almost any friendly dog is a great candidate to become one. It's not like some breeds or sizes of dogs are better than others.

Some of the outward signs of a dog with the proper disposition to become a therapy dog include:

· Likes people

· Wiggles tail when meets people

· Enthusiastically greets visitors

Of course, there are a few other requirements such as knowing basic commands and demonstrating tolerance of a leash. But a dog's temperament is probably the most important aspect of a good therapy dog.

In fact, Love on a Leash, a foundation for pet-provided therapy, provides a certification form that includes the following note for the evaluator: "Note: Any dog that shows aggression toward a person or another dog is automatically disqualified."

A number of professionals can act as the evaluator and can fill out the certification form:

· Any professional animal behaviorists

· Dog Trainers

· Veterinarians

· Other dog professionals like boarding/kennel businesses

The evaluator's job is to examine your dog and provide a yes or no answer to questions about the dog and the handler.

The Dog's Evaluation

1. Sensitivity to sound
2. Shyness or fearfulness
3. Ability to pet its head, feet, ears and tail
4. Healthy & well-groomed
5. Controlled around people
6. Maintains composure while a stranger erratically approaches
7. Obvious biting or mouthing or aggression
8. Follow commands such as sit, lie down, heel, and come all while on a leash
9. Ability to sit or stay for two minutes while the owner holds leash

The Handler's Evaluation

1. Comfortable with the "therapy team" visiting a relative.
2. Handler's ability to maintain control over dog when greeting a friendly stranger

Since an evaluator must attest to the above items, it is important to train your dog for these commands and abilities. In addition, commands like "leave it" and "paws up" are also helpful for therapy dogs.

Whether you train your dog yourself or you have a professional help you, the most important aspect is your ability to control your dog even under stressful conditions. Places you will take your therapy-trained dog like hospitals and schools can become suddenly very loud at times.

If you have an interest in training your pooch to be a therapy dog, begin by teaching the basic commands, and then work with the more advanced commands. When your dog can demonstrate the required abilities, just have your veterinarian or trainer "evaluate" her and sign the certificate.

There are many organizations desperate for more therapy dogs and their volunteer owners. The AKC organization has a very extensive listing to assist you in finding one nearby.

You are a key component of your therapy team-though your pet is likely to get most of the credit. Don't forget to bring doggie treats with you to reward your therapy dog, and consider comfortable dog beds to give your therapy dog a nice place to sleep at night.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Cat Care : How to Train a Cat & Dog to Like Each Other Without Attacking

Horse Insurance Quotes - 10 Things to Consider

Horse Insurance Quotes can easily be found online. Here are some things to consider about horse insurance before you start looking for horse insurance quotes.

As you probably appreciate, a horse is not just a pet, it requires lots of attention, dedication and training. Considered as a pet, it is, perhaps, one of the most expensive pets to own, with the initial cost and then the cost of tack, equipment, feeding and stabling.

There are many things to consider regarding owning a horse and insurance should be somewhere near the top of your list of things to bear in mind. There are many things that can go wrong concerning horse ownership and therefore many things to think about insuring.

Your horse could become ill or sustain an injury and vets bills for horses can be very large. The veterinarian may have to visit you. The vet must be equipped and have the expertise for dealing with horses. Not quite the same as dogs, cats and hamsters, I think you'll agree. All this adds up to quite high vets fees. Quite a number of horses have to be put down because of lack of funds for veterinary costs. This is why proper horse insurance, or pony insurance is so important.

It would also be advisable to ensure dental care is included in the equine health insurance cover.

It is best to take out horse insurance as soon as possible when the horse is a foal, and to take out lifetime equine insurance. This will insure your horse for a lifetime whatever happens but look carefully at the limitations on the cover, either per condition, or per year.

You, yourself, may suffer injury by either falling from your horse or sustaining an injury from your horse. So you should consider horse rider insurance.

Even worse, is the case that your horse may be startled on a road, or escape onto your neighbor's land and cause some damage to persons or property. You will be required to put right any damage, and this could be a considerable amount, so public liability insurance is a must.

If you travel with your horse, then you may want horse box insurance to cover any repair or recovery problems connected with the horse box.

You could suffer loss or theft of your horse, your tack, or your equipment and it would be well to have this covered by your insurance. If your horse strays or is stolen, then the insurance company will possibly fund a publicity campaign and a reward. If you insure your horse and equipment in this way, then the insurance company will probably require you to take proper security measures.

You can also get mortality insurance for your horse to cover death costs, such as burial, and also to help towards the purchase of another horse.

The above are things to consider before looking at horse insurance quotes, but what about the quotes themselves. Here are some hints and tips.

Go online and, if possible, get at least 3 suitable quotes for comparison. Don't ignore offline sources of information such as fellow horse owners, stables, riding schools, or veterinarians who all may be able to point you to suitable insurance companies.

Tailor the quotes to match your specific requirements, bearing in mind the above list, and try to find a provider who covers as many of these points as standard. This will enable you to find more affordable quotes.

The insurance quotes may be cheaper than you think compared with the value of your investment in the horse and its related equipment and upkeep. Do not be tempted, however, to select the insurance based on cost alone. Cheapest is not necessarily best. You don't skimp on food and equipment, so definitely don't skimp on insurance. Look carefully at costs, terms and benefits.

I hope this information has been useful, and that you appreciate the benefits of equine insurance and getting the best horse insurance quotes in order to give you the peace of mind to enjoy the fantastic benefits of owning such an amazing companion, who will give you unqualified loyalty for all its life.

Click for more information on Pet Insurance Lifetime Cover [http://www.mypetinsurancecomparison.net/blog/pet-insurance-lifetime-cover]

Click for more information on pets and doing a pet insurance comparison [http://www.mypetinsurancecomparison.net/].

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Budweiser Clydesdale Team Commercial

Adopting A Pet

Before you go and buy a pet on impulse, you should sit back and think. Think about who wants the pet, who is going to take care of the pet, and vital things that will effect the pet's life. You don't want to get a pet, and then realize that you cannot take care of it. You will then either keep it, and it will be mistreated, or you will feed a great deal of stress to the pet by switching homes, and sending it to a new environment.

Why do you want a pet?

Is it the thing to do? Do you want a puppy in a handbag, or a cockatoo because the television shows have a character who owns one? Because the kids want one? For entertainment? Or, to give an animal a loving home and a place to live for the rest of it's life?

Can you afford the pet?

Pets can be expensive. Like hobbies, the expense is not in the initial purchase, but in the day to day expenses of caring for that pet. Vet bills, food, licenses, training classes, toys, grooming--all these things add up. Will you be able to set aside some money each week to be used for your pet care? Or will your pet just be taken care of and things paid for with last-minute money that you scrape up; giving the pet low quality items and food?

Have you got the time?

Do you work 12 hours a day? Work 6 days a week? Commute 60 miles or more one way making your day a very long one? If you own a dog, do you have the time and energy to walk the dog every day? Do you play with the dog? Have time to train your bird and give it attention and affection? Will you set aside some time to research your pet and learn proper care? Will you take it to the vet when needed? Or will you just put these vital things off until you "find time" - which will never happen?

Problem pets?

Can you handle a cat who continues to have accidents on your waterbed? Fleas? Scratching your beloved leather sofa? Can you afford the increase in insurance if the insurance company discovers that you own what they consider (rightly or wrongly) to be a 'dangerous' dog? Will you learn proper ways to discipline your pet, and not be hurtful? Will you understand some pets have problems and need to be worked with to achieve a normality?

Can you own that pet where you live?

You can't own a horse in most places if you have less than an acre of suitable land. Can you own a dog over 30 pounds weight if you live in an apartment? What will you do with your pet if your neighbors complain about the barking and howling? Is your landlord willing to allow you a small furry, such as a rat or gerbil, if they won't allow cats or dogs? Snakes? Fish?

Do you have a suitable space?

Are you trying to keep a pot-bellied pig in a flat with 250 square feet of living space? A Great Dane on a balcony? A horse in your apartment*? Just because the animal is small doesn't mean it can live in a small space. Again - research comes into play: Will you learn suitable keeping/living conditions for your pet?

Are you mature enough to take care of a pet?

Are you in a stable relationship, or will you be required to move a few months down the road, only to have nowhere for you and your pet to go? Do you have small children who can't handle treating animals with caution? Do you have a lifestyle which is on the move constantly, such as being in the military?

Are you willing to be a responsible pet owner?

A responsible owner will have the funds to pay for pet licenses, will obey community laws requiring dogs to be on leashes, or having their yard fenced. Will you show your animals true affection by planning to take care of their doctor's bills? Can you handle ending your friend's life with dignity when the time comes?

Who will pet-sit for you?

Do you have a responsible adult or mature teen to take care of your animals? Is there a clean, good kennel or cattery? Can you afford a pet-sitter?

Are you ready to spend the rest of your life with this pet?

Yes, it's possible that your cat or dog will probably not outlive you. But what if they do? Do you have plans to take care of them? How about animals such as parrots, or turtle and tortoises, which have very long lifespans? Will you have a will and fund in place just for them in case you go before them?

Animals need love and attention. They can cost a fair amount of money over the pet's lifetime--can you handle this?

These are some questions you should ask yourself before you go and get a pet.

You basically need to research your pet before you get one. Ask yourself these questions, and if you are capable and ready to get a pet of your own, then be sure to have things planned before-hand. Have the supplies ready, etc. Always continue to do research, especially on the internet.

A good way to learn and educate yourself constantly is an internet forum/discussion board. Find one dedicated to the topic of your pet, and learn some information.

Nick Rodriguez; Animal Lover and Owner; Pet & Animal Forum - http://www.pets-galore.net/forum

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Train your dog to be calm with your cat

Pets Both Large And Small

Pets do so many great things for people. They are companions, partners, and most important to some, our friends. This friendship is mutually beneficial for the animals and their people. Pets fill a void that would otherwise be empty, and in return they get good care and love. Animals don't judge people harshly. Given kindness, they love unconditionally and never question it.

It's not just dogs and cats that make good pets either. There are horses, cows, rodents, goats, even chickens can be pets. What pet(s) you have is greatly determined by where you live. If you live in town, with very small and limited space, you may sometimes have a cat, dog, or other small animal. On the other hand, if you live in a more rural area, you can have a horse, goat, or any other large animal. This also depends on the attitude of a landlord if you rent.

Do some research before you bring home a pet, however, and be sure you can fit one into your lifestyle and budget. Pets can be very expensive and time consuming. They require vet care, food, and supplies. Depending on the type of pet or animal you get or want to get, there may be specialized equipment and supplies required. And keep in mind that a larger animal can also mean larger expenses.

A dog or cat can be fairly simple to care for. You only need a collar, leash, food and water bowl, and a yearly vet check, or however often your veterinarian recommends.

Larger animals can be more expensive on vet care, food and supplies. If you have horses, cows, or goats, for instance, you need to have good fencing, water tanks, feeders, and a wind break or lean-to shed just to start. Then you have to have hay in the winter, grain is not always cheap, and tack and equipment, depending on what kind of animals you have.

Despite all of the expenses, what you get back is far more rewarding than you can imagine. Unconditional love, friendship, and even a playmate are just a few of the rewards of pet and animal ownership. You never have to come home to an empty house, yard, or lot. Someone is always happy to see you and spend time with you. Animals can also be very comforting at times of sorrow.

Pets can even be trained to work for us. Service animals are all over the place. They help with the blind and handicapped people. Dogs and horses are used on the police force, and in the military.

Pets are great motivation for kids to learn responsibility. They can also be four-legged babysitters (to an extent). Kids can also learn discipline by following strict schedules for showing their animals in programs like 4-H and the FFA. Animals can teach kids how to love and be respectful to the needs of others. Also, a high level of confidence and accomplishment can be achieved by caring for and owning an animal, no matter what type and size the animal is.

Whether you own a pet, or just love animals, your life can be touched and enriched by pets, both large and small.

If you love animals or have pets of your own you need to visit
http://petsbigandsmall.blogspot.com/

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Home Buddies Bellevue - Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Movie Theater Ad

Miniature Pets

by: CS Swarens

It is uncertain exactly when miniature breed animals first came about. Historical and archaeological evidence point to gargantuan rats and dinosaurs smaller than many chickens. What is certain is that miniature pets are a big business and offer big rewards, both financially and personally.

There may be many jokes among some men about miniature poodles or chihuahuas but the fact of the matter remains that miniature dogs are increasingly popular among people. Many people simply do not have the room to own a large dog. A small dog can be just as happy in a small house as it can be in a large home.

These days, you can find miniature horses, miniature pigs, and many other breeds that were very uncommon just a few short years ago. For some people it is simply a matter of the cute factor. Smaller animals somehow become "cute" even when their larger relatives are anything but good looking or popular among most people. Unless you live in the country, you probably never heard anyone bragging about their 1200 pound pig.

For some other people, the joys of owning a miniature pet is in no small part, due to the fact that they make much smaller messes. Anyone who has ever had to carry a plastic bag for waste removal every time that they took their dog for a walk will probably agree to this. Anybody who has ever had to housebreak a pet would also be hard-pressed to find the fault in this logic.

For some people, cost is a major factor. A large dog would eat large amounts of food every day. Over the course of time, those costs will add up to a large amount of money which to some people at least, shows no positive return for their investment. Other people may see the true value of their pets but just cannot afford to feed a large dog or other animal that will quite literally, eat them out of house and home.

Whatever reason people have for wanting a miniature pet, they have become big business as well. Contests, shows and major events regularly occur all over the world for miniature pet lovers. Some of these shows stress the importance of a lack of size but they are increasingly looking at other criteria for deciding winners as well.

Miniature horse shows have spawned entire new industries to keep up with the demands of that lifestyle. Miniature surreys are available as are carts, miniature saddles and other features that have no market outside that of the miniature horse.

Similarly, shows for the miniature pot-bellied pigs and other miniature breeds are becoming increasingly popular as well. Whatever your reasons are for wanting to own a miniature pet, remember that not only can you reap big rewards, you will also open brand new opportunities in ways you may never have imagined possible. There are many different reasons for owning a pet. Pet owners can enjoy a host of benefits that people without pets will never truly know or understand. Just remember that when you are looking for a pet, size really does not matter. Miniature pets really are big business that consistently reap big rewards.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com

Research over 430 pet breed profiles http://www.findapetonline.com/breeds.html

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Cat vs Dog: A Trick Contest

The Health Benefits Of Owning A Pet

by: CS Swarens

Do you pick out a pet to fulfill a need or do you consider the added health benefits of owning a pet?

A great number of people want to have pets simply so that they can have something cute, cuddly or an animal that will always love them, never leave them and never complain. Some people have pets because they need assistance and the pets have been trained to offer them the assistance that they need just to get by.

Still others want to have more exotic pets ... some for the purpose of bragging or showing off and others simply because they have a deep love for nature. Whatever your reason for owning a pet, would you believe that it actually increases your chances of being healthy, lowers your chances of serious disease and even increases your lifespan?

None other than the Center for Disease Control says so. The Center for Disease Control or CDC has conducted a great number of surveys, scientific experiments and other complicated studies in order to help the American public remain healthy. Their research has proven beyond any shadow of a doubt that pet ownership has many health benefits.

Now more than ever, depression is becoming more and more common among people. Treatments for depression often include costly drugs that sometimes have very unpleasant side effects. Sometimes, for some people, the side effects are actually worse than the depression that led them to resort to medication. Well, according to the CDC, pet ownership decreases the incidents and severity of depression.

Heart disease is also a major concern for many people. While the causes for heart attacks and other heart related issues are numerous, pet ownership decreases most of the causes of heart disease. Pet ownership also greatly decreases the likelihood of a heart attack or other fatal heart diseases. Something so simple as a cuddly kitten could very well save your life.

Further studies by the CDC show that pet ownership decreases the levels of LDL or low-density lipoprotein ... also known as the bad cholesterol. Pet ownership has also been directly correlated to a reduction in triglycerides. Triglycerides can be less scientifically defined as the bad and unhealthy fats in food and in your body. A reduction in the levels of triglycerides results in a greatly reduced risk of many heart related issues. Pet ownership can be directly related to a reduction in many heart-related health issues but it still gets better.

Would you believe that pet ownership is proven by a federal government agency to improve your possibilities of having an active and rewarding social life? Yup! According to the CDC, pet ownership will actually increase your opportunities to get out and exercise and be a great conversation starter among members of the opposite sex.

Who knew it was so easy? Would you like a rewarding life replete with great exercise, health benefits and an equally rewarding social life? Believe it or not, according to the CDC, pet ownership not only makes it possible, but probable.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com

Research over 430 pet breed profiles http://www.findapetonline.com/breeds.html

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Bus 52 Presents: Dogs Finding Dogs

Breaking A Wild Mustang

by: CS Swarens

Wild Mustangs are a legendary part of Historic America. They represent the very essence of freedom and times when life was simpler and less hurried. Despite some myths, they come in all sizes, shapes and colors. They are also one of the most affordable methods for people to own a horse when other options fail.

Almost every child has dreamed of owning a horse at one time or another. However, for quarter horses, thoroughbreds and many other "popular" breeds, it is not at all uncommon for prices to start in the thousands of dollars. Mustangs can be had for a fraction of that cost. Unfortunately, many people have misconceptions about the Wild Mustang and often, ignorance and a little bit of work is the only thing that is truly preventing these people from owning their very own horse.

Some people think that it is necessary to break a horse. This may be true if you just want a horse that knows how to do nothing more than play follow the leader in a long string of horses. However, if you want to really experience the full joy of riding on a horse rather than just warming up a saddle while it happens to be on the horses back, try training the horse instead of breaking its spirits completely.

Training a horse may take a little more effort than simply breaking it but it has many benefits which many riders otherwise miss out on completely. If you truly want a magnificent horse and a piece of Americana all at the same time, follow these simple steps and you will find yourself with much more than just a magnificent ride. Be ready to work but do not despair, within a week, you should be able to ride your newfound friend just about anywhere.

Make sure that you do not give the Wild Mustangs any oats before you begin working them. In all honesty, you should not even give them too much alfalfa at first. The reason for this is that in their natural environment, most truly wild mustangs do not enjoy a diet overly rich in proteins. Giving a wild horse nothing but timothy hay or even alfalfa too rich in proteins will cause the horse to suffer from colic and suffer unnecessarily. A good blend of alfalfa with a little straw is often the best diet for your wild mustang ... at least until it gets used to eating well.

You may need to place your wild mustang in a small stall to get the bridle on at first. Once you get the bridle on, use nothing more than a hackamore at first and attach about thirty feet of soft rope to it. Never rap the rope in your hand or around your hands or you may lose more than you bargained for. Keep the rope loosely in one hand so that you can drop it or release it quickly if your wild mustang bolts or panics.

A round corral is preferable but not an absolute necessity. Take your wild mustang out and run it in circles. Do not just run it one way but be sure to alternate directions so that the horse does not develop problems with its legs. Keep it running around in circles until it is hot, sweaty, tired and just beginning to foam at the mouth. After two or three days of this, the horse should be used to you placing the bridle and hackamore and will be ready to run some more so will likely fight you much less.

After you have run the horse a couple of times, begin placing a horse blanket on its back and secure it with a cinch strap. You do not want a lot of weight on the horses back but it will not be ready for a saddle just yet either. Be certain not to leave any loose strap or anything else hanging down around the horses feet. If anything flashes quickly in front of its face or dangles across its feet, your mustang may bolt. Take advantage of this time to get your horse used to the curry brush as well. After a good run, your horse may even get to enjoy the brushing almost as much as it does running. Again, you may want to try this while your mustang is in a small stall. The two main reasons for doing this are so you are not in danger should your horse panic and so that if it does panic, you are safely outside where you can get away until it quits fighting you.

After your horse becomes used to the blanket, you will want to try a saddle. After you run your horse and it is good and tired, place the blanket on its back and then while still in the stall, place the saddle on its back. Place the stirrups up over the saddle at first so that they will not be bouncing off the horses side. You and the mustang will both fare much better. After you have the saddle firmly cinched, let the stirrups down. Do not worry about cinching it up too tight as you will not be riding it just yet.

After you do this a couple of times you will be ready to start the final steps in getting your horse ready to ride. Try putting the saddle on the third time with the horse in the stall as usual but before you go running. You should still be using the hackamore at this stage and now more than ever, it will be important not to wrap your rope around anything you are not ready to lose. Take the horse out and let it walk with the saddle the first time. Do not run it as the stirrups may very well cause the horse to panic.

Continue this way until your horse is comfortable with the saddle on its back and then run it a little. You will not have to run it as hard as before but you do want it running with the saddle on before you ever attempt to go riding. After this though, you are almost there. Make certain to curry down the mustang after each ride. By now your horse should be more familiar and more comfortable with you and the entire experience.

After you have done this a few times, you should notice your wild mustang calming considerably and perhaps even looking forward to the time you are spending together. Increase the protein intake slowly as you work the horse more but remember that it will need time to adjust to the food as much as to the saddle. By doing everything in this way, it may take a little more time but your mustang will retain much of its wild spirit while befriending you and learning to trust you.

Once you can do all of this with your horse comfortably outside of the stall without fear of reprisal, you are ready to begin riding. The wild mustang is a wild, mystical and marvelous animal. Work with your wild mustang a little slower and with a bit more patience and you will have a ride that is the envy of all your friends.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com

Research over 134 horse breed profiles at http://www.findapetonline.com/horse_breeds_n_z.html

If You Need Massive Traffic For Your Website. Click Here  http://www.webfire.com/a/?id=21344

Tips for Taking Great Photos of Your Pets