Category: Pets

Animals Are A Human’s Best Friend- And They Need Better Care Too

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It is no secret that animals are deemed as the best companions that human beings can have. Having a pet is as ancient as civilization itself and the phenomenon are continuing till date. The species on earth have found mutual harmony in their shared existence and that is something that nature intended to be. But, not always are the loyal companions of the human beings are treated with the amount of care that they surely deserve. It is heartbreaking to see that many animals succumb to untimely death, thanks to the deprivation of the very basic health care that is needed.

In developed and developing countries animal wellness is a major social issue with people being more aware about the upkeep of their pets. As the owners, it goes beyond just feeding the pet. One has to make sure that their pets are in the best hygiene condition and also maintains the basic good health parameters. Timely and regular checkups are the keywords here by virtue of which pet owners can resist a number of ailments in their pets. There are numbers of veterinary clinics or animal hospitals about in any major metropolis and even in the suburbs. It only takes a little effort from the viewpoint of the pet owners to take their pets for diagnosis in a few months time.

Much progress has been made in the field of veterinary science in recent times and that is something that will come to the aid of pet owners in the near future. The one aspect of animal science that has made much improvement is surgeries in animal hospitals. Advanced means of life saving surgeries like amputation and more are now possible without much danger to the animals life. This essentially means some more years of life for the animals, even if they attain an injury.

It is evident from the decreasing death rates among animals in developing countries that the steps towards animal wellness are yielding good results. Much work is still to be done; given the advancement in veterinary science is recent years. One can only expect the situation in developing countries to better in times to come. It is the government too who can play a vital role in the overall scheme of things. Grants alone wont do as regular supervision is also necessary. There is a fine line in splurging and optimum use, especially when it comes to animal wellness. That fine line can only be maintained by proper intervention from the government.

Pufferfish and Their Care

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Puffer fish have a great appeal with many fish keepers as they look adorable and there are many species to choose from, some are dwarf varieties, some can grow quite large but most of these species puffer fish can be very aggressive so lots or research should be carried out before they are purchased and added to any aquarium.

They get their common name from their unique ability to inflate themselves with air or water so that they can increase their body size up to three times their original size; this ploy is believed to ward off predators fooling them into thinking that the puffer fish is larger than it actually is. The only other fish that has this ability is the Porcupine fish; these are clearly differentiated from Puffer fish as their bodies are covered in spines.

Puffer fish can be found all over the world in various habitats, they are saltwater varieties, freshwater puffer fish and freshwater puffer fish that also inhabit brackish water conditions. One word of warning, all puffer fish, including freshwater puffer fish have a poison in their bodies, this is called tetrodotoxin and can paralyse humans if large enough quantities are ingested, in some cases it can also lead to fatalities. Some puffer fish are a delicacy in the East but the chefs have to be specially licensed to serve up this fish with the poison glands removed making them safe to eat.

Another reason that many keepers find puffer fish so appealing is their unique personalities, despite their aggression towards tank mates, they do become very tame towards their keepers and will swim to the front of the tank when the keeper approaches as they get ready for their next meal. Many of the species have really cute faces, one that comes to mind is the dog-faced puffer, and this fish has the puppy eyes that many people just cannot resist. The only downside is the aggression that they display to their tank mates and towards each other, this can turn really nasty with some specimens and they may even kill other puffer fish when defending their territories, this can be eased by keeping them in a roomy aquarium allowing each tank member the space to have their own territory, adding dcor and plants will help to divide the aquarium and break up each puffer fishes line of sight. A tight fitting lid should also be used, they are excellent jumpers and the last thing you want to happen is for your puffer fish to finish up on the carpet.

Puffer fish are also high waste producers, an excellent filtration system must be used to cope with the large bio load, regular water changes will also need to be performed, at least 10% weekly to keep the water quality high, any signs of the water quality dropping can bring on the onset of health problems for your puffer fish.

The diet of puffer fish is also crucial to keep them in top health and to keep them interested in eating properly. Puffer fish are greedy eaters when offered the correct foods, they may ignore commercial flakes or pellets, offering them live or frozen foods gives much better results. Prawns, lance fish, chopped earthworms, bloodworms and small pieces of fish can all be offered. One important aspect of the diet is providing the puffer fish with shelled crustaceans or snails to keep their beaks trimmed down, the shells will grind down the beak to an acceptable level, these beaks are growing all of the time, if they are allowed to get too long, your puffer fish will struggle to feed and you may have to trim the beak yourself to correct matters.

Protecting Pets From Household Poisons

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Pets are curious creatures by nature, always looking for something interesting to eat. This habit can sometimes get them into serious medical trouble when they accidentally find a toxic substance. Protecting pets from household poisons is all part of being a good pet parent. Start by following these tips on hazardous substances that are commonly found right where you live.

Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers for humans are frequently the cause of poisoning in dogs. Though some of these medications are sometimes used for veterinary care, the dosage is critical for safe administration. Tylenol, which contains acetaminophen, can cause severe liver damage. Ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, can cause gastric ulcers and kidney failure. Naproxen can cause stomach perforation, gastric ulcers and acute kidney failure and should never be used on dogs. If you carry these drugs in your purse, ensure that your dog cannot get at them.

Antidepressants

Increasingly, doctors prescribe antidepressant medications not only for depression, but also for a variety of other medical conditions. When pets accidentally get ahold of these medications, they may exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting and signs of -serotonin syndrome,- a condition that causes agitation, elevated temperatures, high blood pressure, increased heart rate, tremors, seizures and disorientation. As with over-the-counter pain relievers, these medications are often left in purses or on nightstands where pets can get into them. Take extra precautions with these medications and keep them in childproof containers on a high shelf.

Chocolate

By now, everyone knows that some types of chocolate are poisonous to dogs. However, this information has not reached the dog world, and dogs continue to take every opportunity to snap up chocolate candy, cookies and cake whenever they get the chance. Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which metabolizes much more slowly in dogs than in humans. Small amounts can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Large amounts can cause serious toxicity that requires anti-seizure medications and IV fluids. Of course, dogs only know chocolate foods taste good, so they must rely on owners to keep them safe. A program for protecting pets from household poisons includes keeping these foods on high counters and shelves where pets cannot reach them.

Grapes and Raisins

Many dog owners may not yet have gotten the word on grapes and raisins being poisonous to dogs. It wasn’t until about 25 years ago that documented statistics on the toxicity of grapes and raisins have been available. It is not known why these foods are toxic to dogs, but some researchers believe it may be a mycotoxin, a substance produced by a fungus or mold that causes the problem. After consumption, the dog may show symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, tremors, seizure and eventual acute kidney failure. The prognosis for recovery depends on how much was eaten and how quickly treatment was begun.

Onions

Onions can cause anemia in dogs and should not be given to them, either cooked in table foods or raw. Onions contain a substance called thiosulphate that is toxic to both dogs and cats. This substance damages the red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the animal’s body. Hemolytic anemia can cause lethargy, shortness of breath, vomiting and diarrhea. As little as five grams can cause toxicity.

Xilitol Sweeteners

Xilitol is a type of artificial sweetener that is found in many foods for humans. It is often used in chewing gum, cookies, candies and products made for diabetics. Xilitol is toxic to dogs and can produce changes in blood sugar levels, vomiting, lethargy and difficulty walking. Seizures and liver failure can also result. Protecting pets from household poisons means no Xilitol, ever.

Rodent Poison

Any poison you use to kill rodents in your home or yard can be ingested by your pet with disastrous results. Your dog or cat may find and eat the poison or consume part of an animal that has eaten it. Most rodenticides contain anticoagulant compounds that cause bleeding to kill the rats or mice. Symptoms of rodent poisoning in dogs may not occur until a week after ingestion. Bright green stools and bleeding from nose, ears, rectum or other areas can occur. Get your dog to a veterinarian immediately if you see these symptoms. Always use these poisons with great caution and keep your pets out of the area.

Household Plants

Generally, grown dogs will live with plants in their houses or yards without trying to eat them. However, puppies are often more adventurous and will try a taste of anything that is remotely edible and many things that aren’t. Common household plants that can be toxic to dogs include philodendron, ficus, croton, Boston fern, jade plant, snake plant, schefflera, antherium, ivy, spider plant, corn plant and pothos.

In your yard, bulb plants such as amaryllis, daffodil, gladiolus, iris and tulips can be toxic to dogs if they are prone to digging them up. Asparagus fern and lace fern are also poisonous. Hydrangea, kalanchoe, foxglove, morning glory, nightshade and tomato plants can also be poisonous to dogs. Shrubs like oleander, rhododendron, yucca, holly and sago palm should also be monitored closely to ensure that dogs do not eat them. The list of plants found in fields and wooded areas is extensive and varies from region to region. If you are out in these areas with your dog, ensure that he does not sample the local (possibly poisonous) flora.

Insecticides

Insecticides can be deadly to your pets. Always remove pets from the area when using them. Ensure that toys, feeding bowls, rawhide chews and other equipment are removed to avoid contaminating them with the pesticide. Keep pets out of the area until the insecticide has completely dried. Signs of insecticide poisoning include excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors or seizure. Get your pet to the vet as quickly as possible if you notice these symptoms after using a home or garden insecticide. Bring the insecticide with you to the vet so that he or she can treat the animal appropriately.

Household Cleaners

Substances like ammonia and bleach are highly toxic to pets if consumed. When these chemicals are mixed together, they can produce toxic fumes that can be deadly. Chlorine products used for cleaning and pool care are also toxic. Any type of floor, bathroom or all-purpose cleaner can contain harmful amount of these substances. Cleaners should always be stored in cabinets that close securely to prevent accidental ingestion.

Antifreeze

Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Generally, dogs encounter this substance when it drips from car engines. It gets left on the garage floor where the dog can lap it up. Some people use antifreeze in their toilets to keep pipes from freezing. Because antifreeze has a sweet taste, dogs may be attracted to it. However, it can affect kidneys, liver and the brain of these animals. Always store antifreeze on high shelves or in cabinets. Clean up any spills immediately. Seek veterinary attention if you suspect your dog has ingested antifreeze.

Fertilizers

Garden and lawn fertilizers can also be toxic to your pets. Though the pet may not directly eat the fertilizer compound, he can pick it up on paws, bones or toys. Always water the fertilizer to allow it to seep into the ground before allowing your pet into the area. Signs of fertilizer poisoning include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. There may also be difficulty breathing. Take your pet to the veterinarian immediately for emergency care if this happens.

Alcohol

Some manufacturers of conventional pet medications add dangerous amounts of straight grain alcohol to their products. Alcohol is a cheap preservative which allows products to be warehoused for many years with minimal spoilage. But alcohol, even in small amounts, is toxic to dogs and cats according to the ASPCA and an increasing number of informed veterinarians, animal rights organizations and medical researchers.

Makers of pet dental care products that remove plaque and tartar are among the worst alcohol abusers. Many of them spike their products with 190 proof Grain (Ethyl) Alcohol, equal to a whopping one-fourth (25% by weight) of their product’s ingredients. That’s like serving our beloved animal companions a 50 proof cocktail with every application.

Five Dimensions Of Winwin

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Win/Win is a frame of mind that constantly seeks mutual benefit in all human relations. It is based on the paradigm that there is plenty for everyone, and that one person’s success is not achieved at the expense of others.

It all begins with our character and moves toward relationships. Agreements between parties are the results of these relationships. Win/Win must be the basis for all structure and systems. And finally, it involves process; we cannot accomplish Win/Win ends with Win/Lose or Lose/Win means.

Win/Win is the habit of interpersonal leadership. The basic task of leadership is to increase the standard of living and the quality of life for everyone involved. This is the aim of my Internet Income Opportunity and why I started in Direct Sales Marketing.

Let’s have a look at the first four of these dimensions.

Character

Character is the foundation of Win/Win, and everything else builds on this foundation. There are three character traits that are essential to the Win/Win paradigm.

Integrity is defined as the value we place on ourselves. It is the cornerstone of the foundation. Integrity is conforming reality to our words, keeping promises and fulfilling expectations.

Abundance Mentality is the paradigm that there is plenty for everyone and therefore competition is not necessary.

Maturity is the balance between courage and consideration. Another definition is the ability to express one’s own feelings and convictions balanced with consideration for the thoughts and feelings of others.

Relationships

Win/Win relationships grow from the foundation of character. Trust is essential if Win/Win is to be achieved. Relationships must focus on the issues, not on personalities or positions.

We need to approach Win/Win from a genuine desire to invest in the relationships that make it all possible.

Agreements

It is from relationships that agreements are formed.

The Win/Win agreement has five elements that must be clear, mutually understood and agreed on upfront:
-Desired results identify what is to be done and when.
-Guidelines specify the parameters within which results are to be accomplished.
-Resources identify the support available to help accomplish the results.
-Accountability sets up the standard of performance and the time of evaluation.
-Consequences specify what will happen as a result of the evaluation.

If the trust account is high, we can let them do things their own way and trust that it will meet all these predetermined elements.

I’ll touch on the remaining dimensions tomorrow, so stay tuned!

Weight Problems In Pet dogs Is Your Pet dog Fat

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Individuals may not be aware of this, but excessive weight is among the best problems pets are handling these days. Weight problems, like human beings, is likewise triggered by excessive eating and unhealthy binges. Mostly, this circumstance is triggered by some ecological aspects that when not managed might just bring about more problems.

Like people, pet dogs develop specific conditions too when they are overweight. These illness will bring about more severe problems consisting of death. For individuals who want to know the repercussions of weight problems in canines, right here are some of the understood effects:.

1. Arthritis.

Excessive weight in pets oftens put additional weight on their bones. In turn, the joints and other parts of the pet dog’s bones develop arthritis.

Excess weight in canines might likewise initiate the development of various other muscle and joint troubles like spine disc illness, hip dysplasia, and fractures on the joint tendons.

2. Diabetic issues.

Like humans, dogs can get diabetes too. We all understand for a reality that overweight source diabetes in human beings, this can likewise take place in dogs.

3. Skin issues.

Weight problems in pets can trigger some skin troubles. When canines lack proper grooming, there is a propensity to collect microorganisms, dirt, or other aspects that could trigger damage to your pet’s skin.

4. Ability to put up with heat.

With too much fat deposits collected in their skin, dogs are more inclined to issues concerning heat tolerance. Due to the fact that canines find it difficult to endure heat due to the buildup of fats in their skin, this is. That is why most overweight pet dogs are susceptible to warm stroke specifically throughout summer time.

5. Respiratory issues and various other heart problem.

Like people, overweight canines have likewise the propensity to develop respiratory troubles and heart diseases. The problem begins when the heart and the lungs can no longer produce the right quantity of oxygen and distribute it within the canine’s body.

6. Gastrointestinal troubles.

Weight problems in dogs causes some troubles in their pancreas and intestinal tracts. This trouble results to irritated pancreas, which, in truth, is very painful to the pet dogs and can also cause death among them.

7. Liver problems.

Fats are more challenging to strain and this can pose an excellent issue to the pet dog’s liver. Hence, when the liver can not operate well due to the fact that of the fat deposits that gathered in the location, liver issues could occur and might even cause the fatality of your dogs.

These wellness troubles are certainly life threatening. And so, it depends upon the owner the best ways to battle these problems in order to keep their canines healthy.

Among the best ways in solving weight problems is a rigorous exercise schedule. It is a must that owners ought to create a healthy workout schedule for their pets. This can be done by tagging them for a walk every afternoon or letting him run through a field.

The finest thing about this program is that not only the pet dogs get the chance to exercise but their owners. So, it’s a double result with simply one purpose.

Next is to develop a healthy diet for your pets. Diet plan meals are exceptionally crucial for pets so that they can still obtain the required nutrients they require in order to remain healthy. This must consist of the right mix of fiber, meat, minerals, vitamins, and veggies. Canine owners ought to always keep in mind that when their dogs are taking fiber, more water must be employed so as to avoid irregularity. Canine owners need to also bear in mind that before including all of these things to your pet dog, it’s finest to speak with the vets. In this method, just the correct methods of dieting for pets will be used.

For healthier and happier pet dogs, offer them the finest love and care you can provide plus a fantastic nutritional regimen. As they state, a healthy do is a pleased pet dog.