Feeding the Dog From the Table - Good or Bad?


We've all done it. At dinner or anytime we sit down to have a meal at the table, poochie poo comes along and starts begging at our feet with those big, puppy eyes. And, softies that we are, we reward this begging with a scrap or two from our plate. Or three or four. The thing is, this is a bad habit to start or to sustain with your pet.   We have to keep in mind that just because the dog is willing to eat it, that doesn't mean it's good for him or won't harm him. While many of the different ingredients in our foods are fine for us, remember that a dog's system is not exactly the same as ours is. Some human foods can actually make your dog sick.

So, aside from trying to break this cute little habit, also make sure that when you do cave in and give up a scrap you only stick to certain basic food types. Lean meats, vegetables, rice and some unprocessed foods can be okay. However, food that is heavily seasoned and that has onions or garlic in it is a no. Foods that have a lot of artificial ingredients and additives should also be avoided.  Of course you know not to give your dog chocolate or chocolate based foods, and also, no foods high in sugar, fat or salt as they can wreak havoc on the dog's health eventually.  Yes, the same way they eventually do you!  Skip the fast food - we know what type of crap is in that stuff, and while you might be willing to do that to your own body, please, spare the dog!  He will be much better off without McDonald's!

While it's not the worst thing in the world, try not to have your dog accustomed to begging at the table. But if you do it, do it at least with a bit of common sense.

Cat of the Month - Chartreux


With origins in France, this plush, striking cat is most recognized by its thick, bluish-gray coat that is almost wooly, depending upon the climate in which the cat lives. They are muscular, thick bodied cats who at adult size range from about 11 to 15 pounds. The longer haired cats of this breed are very majestic looking, almost like miniature lions with their broad chests and massive furs. The were at one time mated with Persian cats to help preserve the breed.

Dog of the Week - Akita


This large, regal dog was first found in the Tohoko region of Japan. They were generally used for hunting such animals as deer, boar and bears. They were first introduced into America. They can grow to over 100 lbs, and full grown stand at about 28 to 30 inches at the shoulder. Their thick, lush coats are made for harsh, cold climates such as are found in certain regions in Japan. They saw an insurgence of popularity in the US in the 1980's, and still today retain some popularity. Their temperament is generally agreeable and calm around humans, but when in the vicinity of other dogs can become very agressive. They are known to be very protective of their owners.

When A Cat Growls....


...well, consider it a fair warning. Cats don't usually growl, but will meow angrily instead when just generally pissed off or unhappy. Even when cats are tousling with other cats, you will generally hear those mean meows and screeches. A growl, however, indicates that the cat really feels itself to be in danger and is going into absolute defensive mode, claws out, take no prisoners. Consider that to be a level 10 and step back!

Your Dog's Health - Vitamin Supplements


The market is exploding with products claiming to improve the health and wellness of individuals using vitamins and nutritional supplements. People are now seeking the same products to complement the health of their pets. The benefits of appropriate nutritional supplements are overwhelming and can add several healthy years to your life, as well as your dogs...

Cats Are Very Lovable Creatures


"Who would believe such pleasure from a wee ball o' fur?"- An Irish saying about cats, perhaps best describes what pleasure-giving creatures cats can be.

Jean Burden, beautifully defines the feline beauty. "A dog, I have always said, is prose; a cat is a poem." Cats for many people, are really very lovable - remember 'Snowbell' - the cat of "Stuart Little".

Cats are rather delicate creatures and they are subject to many ailments. Cat grooming is a very important part of keeping a cat as a healthy pet. Cat supplies can be defined as important things that can be purchased for cat grooming, and maintaining general good cat health.

Basic Training for Your Dog

Getting a dog can be exciting and rewarding. It can also be stressful. Whether you are getting a puppy or an older dog, you can bet that there will be an adjustment period while you all get used to each other. One of the best ways to make this transition period successful is to begin basic training with your new pet right away. Training for puppies can begin as young as 8 weeks, and with older dogs the sooner the better! Having a properly trained dog can lead to much happiness for you and your pet. Here are a few tips on teaching your dog to come, sit, lie down, and stay.

First, let's look at the basics of basic training. All dogs, especially puppies, learn more quickly with positive rather than negative reinforcement. Just as with humans, a little love goes a long way. The best reinforcements for good behavior are verbal praise, affection, a favorite toy, or a piece or two of your dog's regular food. Using treats can be motivating, but a dog can come to expect a treat if used too often, and using treats can become expensive. If you work on training immediately prior to your dog's normal meal time, your pet will usually be hungry and pieces of food as a reward will be welcomed. The reward should be given immediately following every correct response in the beginning. Once your dog has progressed, verbal praise should be offered each time, but a reward should only be given for exact responses performed in a timely manner. Gradually reduce the number of rewards given until you only give an occasional reward, but offer verbal praise each time. Dogs retain their training for the longest period of time this way. Also, you should use