THE WEIMARANER: A GREY GHOST

May 26th, 2009 by Chad Warwick

Youll know a Weimaraner right away due to their smooth, short coats color”theyre often called grey ghosts. They were once called the Weimer Pointer, for Weimer Court and the noblemen that promoted this breeds development”and surely this nobility shows even now in this dogs bearing.

Being a product of discerning German breeding, the Weimaraner derives from the same general stock as other German breeds. It is also believed to be a descendant of the Bloodhound, and was tasked to track and hunt such big game as wolves, boars, elk, deer and even bears! When it was no longer being used for hunting large game as these, the Weimaraner eventually became a bird dog and personal hunting comrade.

The Weimaraner is noted for its nimbleness, courage, and endurance in the hunt. With its high trainability, it is a friendly and obedient member of the family. It is amiable towards children, and loves being considered one of the family or pack. Its short, sleek hair makes it easy to groom and maintain.

The Weimaraner is tied closely to the German Shorthaired Pointer, and was also developed from the Red Schweisshund, also a scenter and tracker descended from the Bloodhound. They are quite energetic, because they were bred to be on the hunt all day with their owners! If you are thinking that this is a breed that doesnt move around a lot, you might want to reconsider adopting a lively Weimaraner!

True to most large hunting breeds, the Weimaraner should be given plenty of exercise, and in order to avoid him going out to stalk game, he should be best kept in a fenced yard. His instincts will tell him to track or hunt small animals and birds because of his hunting dog traits. Unlike most hunting breeds, though, the Weimaraner, or Weim is a house dog and should also be given a lot of love and attention from the family to avoid him becoming melancholy and listless.

Playing ball, spending days in the field, or generally just taking hikes are some of the activities suited for the Weim. Exercise is needed for this lively, athletic dog! Keep his toned body in shape with daily brisk walks and firmly establish who is boss so that you can end up with a fit, happy and submissive pet.

The Weimaraner is noble, stately and able-bodied. Their curious eye color and short, glossy coats give them a regal bearing that you cannot find in most other breeds. The eyes can be light amber, gray, or blue gray, and the fur can come in mouse-gray, charcoal-blue, or silver-gray: they are sometimes affectionately described with the phrase moonlight on chocolate.

The silvery-gray hue of its coat is uncommon in dogs, being the product of breeding for a recessive gene. The Weimaraner is called the silver or grey ghost because of this. This sturdy, hard-working and devoted animal will bring cheer and happiness to your family and home.

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All Natural Flea Remedies

May 25th, 2009 by Rick Jonson

All natural flea remedies would not be needed if pet owners would just use some all natural flea control techniques. Fleas are a headache. The best way to deal with fleas is to prevent fleas. The best way to prevent fleas is to use natural flea control methods. People are always looking for natural healthy ways to treat fleas.

All natural flea control techniques are safe and easy to accomplish. Pet owners often use a citrus repellent. To create this type of repellant for your pet, cut up a lemon and place in a 2 litre pot. Cover the lemon pieces with boiling water and let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. After the lemon pieces have soaked for enough time, transfer the citrusy water into a spray bottle. You now have an all natural flea repellent for your pooch. Spray your dog all over remembering to pay special attention to around his neck and ears, around the base of his tail and under each leg. Be careful of spraying around your dog’s head as citrus spray can sting.

I have heard of other dog owners using an aromatherapy repellant. Admittedly, these ingredients can be expensive and less easy to find but this repellant really does work. By using 10 ml. of sweet almond oil as your base combine 6 drops of cedar wood essence and 12 drops of lavender essence. Shake the mixture generously and rub a few drops over the skin of your dog, especially around dog’s neck and base of his tail. Repeat this treatment as needed or every 2 days.

Lastly, a natural flea collar can be created by rubbing a few drops of eucalyptus oil, Tea Tree Oil, citronella, lavender or geranium essence on to your pet’s ordinary rope or webbing collar or even his or her bandanna. Re-apply the oil or essence as needed or at least every week.

Another helpful and common sense suggestion is to reduce your dogs exposure to fleas. You may want to begin by getting rid of dog fleas outside your home. A failure to do so will result in your pets continually getting infested. One way to get rid of them outside is to install a Purple Martin bird house. Purple Martins will eat the dog fleas, thus keeping the outdoors flea free.

Fleas can be a serious dog health problem. The best flea remedy is to use an all natural flea control methods. Remember, fleas make your treasured pet very uncomfortable and they are no fun for the dog owner’s family either. The best cure for anything is an ounce of prevention, and this goes double for flea remedies.

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The Majestic Form of the Great Dane

May 24th, 2009 by Matt Warwick

The likeness of a dog very similar to the Great Dane is found on Greek money dating back to as long ago as 36 B.C., history tells us. In 407 A.D., an Asiatic people invade German Gaul and some areas of Spain and Italy, bringing with them a powerful group of Mastiff-like dogs. These animals were much admired in Germany for their ability to subdue fierce game like bears and wild boars, and a selective breeding program was commenced to enhance these qualities.

The product of crossing the breed with Irish Wolfhounds was a large, striking and lithe dog that we now know as the Great Dane. It was also called the Boarhound because of its initial purpose: to hunt the ferocious wild boar. The breed eventually settled into its role of family companion and estate guard dog when it was no longer used for the hunt.

The Great Dane is also known by the names Danish Gallant, Deutsche Dogge, or Danish Hound. It is commonly referred to as the Apollo of all breeds, and it is easy to see why. The Great Dane is considered one of the tallest dog breeds, alongside with the Irish Wolfhound.

In addition to that, the Guinness Book of World Records lauds a Great Dane as the title holder for the tallest dog in the world! Never clumsy or discomfited, this calm, stately giant is one of the largest working breeds. A regal bearing, strength and sheer size come together with a magnificent frame to form one arresting breed.

The massive form, subtle power and serene air all paint the picture of an eye-catching dog. The Great Dane is a handsome animal, conspicuous especially in the show arena. In addition, it is also well-liked as a family pet due to its agreeable temperament and loving nature, making them ideal family companions.

The Great Danes splendid appearance combines its great size, powerfully formed body and smooth musculature with poise, power, and grace. An ideal specimen of this breed is spirited and never faint-hearted. It is always courageous, friendly and dependable.

This hound has a narrow square-ish head, a long muscular neck and splendidly straight front legs, facing you with a bright and clever expression. Short-haired, thick coats are the norm among Great Danes, ranging from hues black, blue, brindle and mantle harlequin to merle. They are exceptionally easy to groom because of this, therefore it is best to groom them daily rather than give that whole huge body a bath!

The Great Dane, sweet and patient by nature, is playful and patient with children and loves everyone. It does not bark unless the circumstances call for it, and only becomes aggressive when needed, such as in a hostile environment and it is acting as a protector. This brave, loyal dog will be a steadfast companion and a worthy, wise addition to any family and home.

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Grooming Your Sweet Little Yorkie

May 23rd, 2009 by Yorkie Gibby

Cleaning and combing does not completely involve the brushing & combing of your canine friend it should include checking your canine’s ears, eyes, teeth, paws & their nails.

The Yorky is acknowledged for its long & flowing coat, to maintain this appearance the coat requires daily grooming. Yorkshire terriers possess what is acknowledged as a ‘single coat,’ simply meaning that they do not have an undercoat.

Generally, it is not a great intention to use human hair soap on a Yorkie. Because a Yorkie’s hide is more sensitive than human skin, and has different PH needs, human hair soap can dry it out and cause irritation. If you do use a human shampoo, be sure to use a premium brand.

Start out by teasing out any obvious tangles with your fingers.

When washing your full-breed’s coat, don’t scrub it excessively. The clean-up action of the cleaning agent will lift the dirt without scrubbing, and you take a chance tangling the coat. It is smart to use a tearless cleaning agent encircling the eyes and face.

Rinse thoroughly; leftover hair soap can irritate the skin. subsequent shampooing, condition the hair with a light conditioner. Let it sit for a while, as directed, then rinse it out.

One of the best things about giving your dog a bath can be drying him off. Because his body hair can easily be tangled into an aggravated mess at this point, you may try bundling him up with a soft absorbent towel and doing some one on one cuddle time. Taking advantage of his awesome snuggly goodness can be rewarding to both of you.

When your full-breed is no longer dripping, it is time to develop his hair into tip-top shape.

Before you comb your Yorkie lightly mist their coat with a solution of warm water & a average mild dog conditioner this will assist to soften the coat. If you brush the coat completely dry it can make it harder to work through any knots & there is more chance that you will break the hair.

Keep away from the pin brushes that have the little balls on the ends of the pins as they have a tendency to pull at the coat & break the fine hair.

Finally, take a long tined metal comb, and comb through the coat. It is amazing how many small snags remain, even subsequent a thorough brushing.

To complete your Yorkshire terrier’s look, it is essential to do a few touch-ups.

Their body hair grows permanently & can become very easily matted, thus requiring regular trimming.

The paws should be trimmed so that the fuzz spreads in a nice round shape.

Some pooches get what has been established as “dingle berries”. This is excrement handing from the canine’s body hair locality of his anus. Sometimes the excrement can actually cover the anus so extensively the dog cannot relieve himself. Thus trimming the body hair locality of the anus opening can and will effectively prevent the condition established as “dingle berries”.

Often Yorkshire terriers will get excess body hair inside their ears. This needs to be plucked, or your dog will have an increased take the chance of of infection.

With ear clean up solution, use some small gauze squares to freshen his ears. Never put anything small like Q-tips into his ears, it is easy to accidentally damage his eardrums.

Finally, you can decorate your little guy with a fancy ribbon or bow. Of course, many Yorkshire terrier owners prefer their pups to go au-natural instead.

You should also give his nails a quick trim.

Brush his teeth succeedent each bath, and have them checked annually by your vet.

The two main reasons for regular grooming are: If your Yorkshire terrier looks great he/she will feel great. As you are grooming you can check for any sores, lumps or cuts on your dog.

Help to keep your Yorkie joyful & strong by cleaning and combing him/her regularly, anon all if your dog is joyful you are happy!

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Pet Insurance Adds A New Dimension To Flexibility

May 22nd, 2009 by Sherry Harris

Affordable pet insurance policies set the industry standard in preventive care pet insurance. These inexpensive policies are designed to encourage regular medical care which has been proven to keep pets healthy and eliminate medical problems before they become chronic health problems.

Study after study has proven that regular medical care is a prime factor in giving humans longer healthier lives. The same is true of our animal friends. If they are given access to regular medical care they will not only live longer but maintain a higher degree of energy and mobility into later life.

Now is the time to take action get insurance for your pet. Whether you are facing routine or critical care, pet insurance can help you have peace of mind. A stable insurance policy can keep you out of financial trouble should you face an emergency bill.

Preventive care is specifically tailored to make the cost of routine care affordable and when you compare plans you get a better deal. Pet insurance policies are specifically tailored for the age of your pet. Routine care plans will cover vaccinations, routine dental cleanings, lab work, and annual tooth-to-tail comprehensive check ups.

Annual preventive care for pets is even more important than it is for humans because pets age faster. A single year can be equal to 6 or seven years of human aging. Imagine your 60 year old grandmother going for nearly 10 years without medical, dental or optical care. It is easy for us to forget how rapidly time can affect our pets. This is where a preventive health policy comes in.

If you truly want the best possible health care for your pet you will subscribe to a preventive health care policy. By ensuring that your pet has routine check ups you are helping to guard against chronic problems later in life.

A more comprehensive package might cover annual check ups and vaccinations in addition to the emergency cover. What you are looking for is a policy that will give you peace of mind. The last thing you want to face is a inability to afford a lifesaving procedure for your pet should the worst happen.

Pet insurance is specifically designed to help you manage the health care costs for your dog whether he is an adventurer or a homebody, a scout or a pampered pooch. When choosing coverage, be sure to carefully review the benefits and coverage limits so that you do not get caught short at the emergency room doors. Your happy go lucky fellow deserves the very best of care and a long and happy life in spite of his misadventures.

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