Neon Tetra Fish Disease

Unfortunately, neon tetras are occasionally afflicted by the so-called "Neon Tetra Disease" (NTD) or Pleistophora, a sporozoan disease caused by Pleistophora hyphessobryconis. Despite being a well-known condition, it is currently incurable and often fatal to the fish.

The disease cycle begins when microsporidian parasite spores enter the fish after it consumes infected material such as the bodies of a dead fish, or live food such as tubifex, which may serve as intermediate hosts. The disease is most likely to be passed on from newly acquired fish, which have not been quarantined.

Symptoms:

1. Restlessness.
2. Fish begins to lose coloration.
3. As cysts develop, the body may become lumpy.
4. Fish has difficulty swimming.
5. In advanced cases the spine may become curved.
6. Secondary infections such as fin rot and bloating.

Note that there is a so-called "false neon disease", which is bacterial, and shows very similar symptoms. It is impossible for the home aquarist to determine for certain the difference between NTD and false NTD on the basis of visible symptoms alone, without laboratory backup. This disease has also been confused with Columnaris (mouth rot, mouth fungus, 'flex').

To date, there is no known cure: the only 'treatment' is the immediate removal of diseased fish to preserve the remaining fish, but no way to save the diseased fish. The use of a diatom filter, which can reduce the number of free parasites in the water, may help.

Neon Tetra Fish Breeding

The male is slender, and the blue line is straighter. The female is rounder, producing a bent blue line. Some say that the females look plumper when viewed from above but this is disputed. However, the 'straightness' of the line and the plumpness of the female might occasionally be due to the eggs she is carrying.

To breed Neon Tetras, place a pair of the species in a breeding tank without any light, and gradually increase the lighting until spawning occurs. Other inducers include mosquito larvae and a hardness of less than 4 degrees. Some also recommend letting the level of nitrates rise, then do at least 50% water change to simulate the fresh rain the tetras get in their natural habitat, the Amazon. It is recommended that everything you place in the aquarium be sterilized, as well as the aquarium top. Because the adults will often eat newly-hatched fry, it is best to remove them as soon as the eggs have been laid. The eggs are especially sensitive to light. Eggs will hatch within 24 hours of the laying. Fry can be fed infusoria, especially rotifers and egg yolk for 1 to 4 weeks, followed by nauplii of brine shrimp, shaved cattle liver, and formulated diets. Fry will achieve their adult coloration at approximately one month of age. Adults can spawn every two weeks.

Neon Tetra Fish Nutrition

Neon tetras are omnivores and will accept most flake foods, but should also have some small foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, which can be stuck to the side of the aquarium, and micro pellet food to supplement their diet. A tropical sinking pellet is ideal as most brands of these include natural color enhancers that bring out the color in neon tetras. Some frozen foods including frozen blood worms add variety to their diet.

Neon Tetra Fish In the aquarium

While commercially bred neon tetras have adapted well to a wide range of water conditions, in the wild they inhabit very soft, acidic waters that are usually cooler than the 25°C most tropical aquaria are maintained at.[2] Neon Tetras can have a lifespan of up to 10 years, normally about 5 in an aquarium.

Neon tetras are considered easy to keep in a community aquarium that is at least 60 cm (24 inches), with a pH of 6.0–7.8 and KH of 1.0–2.0. However, they will die if traumatized by dramatic changes to their environment. They tend to be timid and, because of their small size, should not be kept with large or aggressive fish who may bully or simply eat them. Fish that mix well in an aquarium are other types of tetras, such as the rummy-nose tetra, cardinal tetra, and glowlight tetra, and other community fish that live well in an ideal Tetra water condition. Mid-level feeders, they are best kept in schools of six or more, for the shoaling effect when they move around the tank. They shoal naturally in the wild and are thus happier, more brightly colored, and more active when kept as a shoal as opposed to singly and feel more secure. Their colour and the iridescent stripe may become dim at night, and can be virtually invisible after a period of darkness. The color may also fade during a period of stress, such as human intervention into the tank. Neons are best kept in a densely planted tank with subdued light and an ideal temperature of 74-80 degrees Fahrenheit to resemble their native Amazon environment.

Neon Tetra Fish Economics

The Neon Tetra was first imported from South America and was described by renowned ichthyologist Dr. George S. Myers in 1936, and named after Dr. William T. Innes. P. innesi is one of the most popular aquarium fish, having been bred in tremendous numbers for the trade. Most neon tetras available in the United States are imported from Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand, where they are farm raised, or to a lesser extent (<5%) from Colombia, Peru, and Brazil, where they are collected from the wild. During a single month, an average of 1.8 million neon tetras with an estimated value of $175,000 are imported into the United States for the aquarium trade.[3] With the exception of home aquarists and a few commercial farms that breed neon tetras experimentally, captive breeding on a commercial scale is nonexistent in the United States.

four images Neon Tetra Fish

Description

The Neon Tetra has a light-blue back over a silver-white abdomen. The fish is characterized by an iridescent blue horizontal stripe along each side of the fish from its nose to the base of the adipose fin, and an iridescent red stripe that begins at the middle of the body and extends posteriorly to the base of the caudal fin. Most, if not all, will develop an olive green sheen lining their backs. The fish is completely transparent (including fins) except for these markings. During the night, the blue and red become silver as the fish rests—it reactivates once it becomes active in the morning. It grows to approximately 3 cm (1.2 in) in overall length. Sexual dimorphism is slight, the female having a slightly larger belly, and a bent iridescent stripe rather than the male's straight stripe.

2 Dog Poison Treatment Options

Dogs are born curious and use their mouths and noses to explore and investigate almost everything that they come in contact with; therefore, since your canine is probably a curious dog, poison can be a potential killer. Of course, the best way to save your dog from the dangers associated with poison is to make sure that all types of substances that could harm your pet are put away and securely closed and out of reach. However, in the event that your dog does become poisoned, you should get your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Before you do so, however, here are some things you should do immediately.
Induce Vomiting

If your dog has not already vomited, you need to get him to vomit as soon as possible. You can induce vomiting by orally giving your dog 1 tablespoon of 3% Hydrogen Peroxide for every 20 pounds of body weight every 10 minutes.
Delay or Prevent Poison Absorption

Give the dog a mixture of one tablet of active charcoal with 10cc of water for every two pounds of body weight and then have the dog ingest at least a pint of water. Depending on the condition of the dog, you may require a stomach tube to accomplish this; therefore, a veterinarian may be required. Thirty minutes after you have given the sick dog the active charcoal and water mixture, administer one teaspoon of sodium sulfate (also known as Glaubers Salt) for every ten pounds of body weight. If the sodium sulfate is not available, you may substitute one teaspoonful of Milk of Magnesia for every five pounds of body weight.

If you don't have any of the agents that are listed in the above paragraph, then you can substitute milk, egg whites or vegetable oil to coat the stomach of the dog. Furthermore, you should also give the dog a warm water enema. Keep in mind that these procedures will not cure your dog; they simply slow the absorption of the poison into the bloodstream of the dog.
Tips for Corrosive Poisons

If your dog was poisoned by a corrosive type poison such as are found in many common household cleaning products, drain opening liquids and commercial solvents, the poison will usually burn the mouth, esophagus and stomach; therefore, you should never induce vomiting with these types of poisons. If you do, you run the risk of causing a rupture in the stomach or more serious burns in the dog's esophagus.

To help treat dogs that have been poisoned with corrosive poisons, you will need to determine if the poison is an acid or an alkali. If the poison was acidic in nature, give the dog 1 to 2 teaspoons of Milk of Magnesia or Pepto Bismol for every 5 pounds of body weight. If the poison was an alkali type of poison, then give the dog a mixture of vinegar or lemon juice and water. Use four parts water for every part of vinegar or lemon juice used. Give the dog at least 3 or 4 teaspoons, of the mixture, for every five pounds of the dog's body weight. After administering the antacid or other type of mixture rush the dog to the vet as soon as possible.

If you are unsure of how to treat your dog, rush the dog to the veterinarian without delay. If you are far away from the nearest vet, call the Pet Poison Control Hotline at 1-888-426-4435. They can instruct you on how to perform basic first aid for your dog that might save his life.

2 Natural Dog Food Recipes

Making natural dog food recipes at home provides healthy food for your pet, and it's very easy to do. Simply balance his proteins, fats and carbohydrates with the occasional mineral or vitamin supplement to add more nutritional value.

The following is a basic guideline of ingredients needed to feed your dog healthy meals. You will have to gear them according to his size and the amount of food he typically eats per day.
Stock up on Proteins, Grains and Vegetables

Cooked ground lamb, poultry and beef are ideal for mixing into natural dog food recipes. Use quality organic meats free of hormones, chemicals and antibiotics.

Pass on vegetables high in oxalic acid since they will interfere with your dog's ability to absorb calcium; stay away from spinach, rhubarb and swiss chard.
Wholesome ingredients to incorporate into your dog's diet

Quick cooking grains:

* Rolled oats
* Cornmeal
* Bulgur
* Whole-wheat
* Couscous
* Quinoa

Other grains:

* Brown rice
* Barley
* Millet
* Wheat berries.

Frozen vegetables:

* Cut green beans
* Lima beans
* Corn
* Peas

Fresh cooked vegetables:

* Finley grated carrots or zucchini
* Yams/sweet potatoes
* Baking potatoes
* Broccoli

Tip: Natural dog food recipes can sometimes lack enough calcium. Sprinkle a bit of eggshell powder into your dog's food to make sure he gets enough.
Two Natural Dog Food Recipes

Recipe for a medium to large-sized dog:

* 1 to 1 ½ cup roasted chicken pieces, cut small
* ½ cup cooked, shredded carrots
* ½ cup cooked, green beans
* 1 tablespoon plain, organic yogurt
* 1 cup cooked barley

Recipe for a small to mid-sized dog:

* ½ cup ground lamb, beef, or poultry
* ½ cup brown rice
* ¼ cup lentils or split peas
* ¼ cup cooked peas
* 1 teaspoon canola oil

2 Wheat Free Dog Treat Recipes

Dog treat recipes are useful ways of making healthy and fun snacks for your pet. They allow you to better control the foods that your dog eats, as some types of dog treats contain a variety of ingredients that are difficult to monitor completely. If your pet is allergic to wheat or has some other type of sensitivity, it's a good idea to avoid store bought dog treats. Instead, try one of these wheat free dog treat recipes for a good alternative for your pet.
1. Salmon Dog Treats

Salmon is a great source of many different vitamins and minerals. The salmon is a fatty fish that is rich in omega 3 fatty acids. These help to benefit your dog's body in a number of different ways. Salmon is a good alternate protein source from the standard beef, chicken and lamb that most dogs eat in regular food. To make delicious salmon dog treats for your pet, combine the following ingredients:

* 8 ounces of salmon juice
* 1 tsp dill weed
* 3 eggs, including shells
* 1/2 cup sesame seeds and 1/2 cup flax seeds, ground finely
* 1-1/4 cup oat flour

Mix all of the ingredients in a food processor and then spread them out as a dough. Roll out the dough and cut the treats into small squares. Bake them in the oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, or until they are firm enough to retain their shape.
2. Pumpkin Carob Treats

Pumpkin is another food item that is rich in nutrients for your pet. Many dogs love the taste of pumpkin, because it provides them with a very different flavor and texture from standard dog food. For this recipe, be sure to only use carob chips, because chocolate is highly poisonous to dogs and should be avoided at all costs. To make pumpkin carob treats, combine the following ingredients:

* 1 can of mashed pure pumpkin (not spiced pumpkin pie mix), 15 ounces
* 1/2 cup dry powdered milk
* 3/4 cup rice cereal

Mix the ingredients in a food processor until they are thoroughly blended. Drop the mixture out onto a baking sheet in small, bite size bits. Top each one with a single unsweetened carob chip, if desired. Bake the entire baking sheet at about 300 degrees for 15 minutes, or until the drops have partially solidified.

Before giving your dog any of these treats, be sure that they are completely cool. It's important to check in with the vet before giving your pet any type of treat, because some treats contain items that your pet may be sensitive or allergic to. Don't overfeed your pet when it comes to treats, because this is one of the primary ways that many dogs develop problems with being overweight or obese. Exercise moderation when using treats to help train your pet.

24 Best Dogs for Allergies: Love More and Sneeze Less

Believe it or not, there really is a select group of canines that currently hold the title "best dogs for allergies." Some are purebreds and others are special crossbreeds. Called "hypoallergenic dogs," these canines benefit the more than 50 million Americans that suffer from allergies but who also want to own a dog. There are a number of breeds and crossbreeds to choose from, so continue reading to find out the best dogs for allergies and the worst.

What are the best dogs for allergies?

Some of the best dogs for allergies are dogs that produce less dander and dogs that don't tend to drool. it's not actual dog hair that causes an allergic reaction, but rather saliva and dander. Some of the best dogs for allergies are:

AffenPoo (crossbreed)
Airedale Terrier
Bascotti (crossbreed)
Basenji
Bea-Tzu
Bedlington Terrier
Bouvier des Flandres
Cairn Terrier
Chihuahua
Chinese Crested
Cockapoo (crossbreed)
Coton De Tulear
Italian Greyhound
Labradoodle (crossbreed)
LhasaPoo (crossbreed)
Maltese
MaltiPoo (crossbreed)
Old English Sheepdog
Poodle and most poodle mixes
Schnauzer
Scotchon (crossbreed)
Taco Terrier (crossbreed)
Yorkshire Terrier

What are some of the worse dogs for allergies?

Dogs that may not be agreeable with most allergy sufferers are not "bad breeds." These dogs tend to produce an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals more often because they might shed more, produce more dander, and their saliva might contain more of the protein produced by the sebaceous glands that causes an allergic reaction. Dogs that tend to "trigger" allergy symptoms in sensitive individuals include:

Afghan Hound
Basset Hound
Dachshund
Doberman Pinscher
German Shepherd
Springer Spaniel

How do I should I choose the best dog for allergies?

One of the most important things to keep in mind when choosing the best dog for allergies is, not all hypoallergenic dogs are 100% allergy free. You really won't know if you will have a reaction to the dog until you have spent some time with him. In some allergic individuals, allergic reactions can be immediate, in others they can be delayed. Plan to spend several hours interacting with the dog before taking him home. Even better, ask if you can take the dog home for several days. Many breeders are perfectly fine with allowing potential pet parents the opportunity to "test" the pet. In addition, many breeders of and pet stores that carry hypoallergenic dogs will offer a money back guarantee or an acceptable return policy.

20 Possible Dog Brain Tumor Symptoms

Possible symptoms of a dog brain tumor range from imperceptible to extreme. Tumors may develop in any part of the brain, with symptoms evident over time or abruptly. As the person who knows your dog the best, you are likely to be the first one to notice any physical and psychological changes signaling a brain tumor. Both malignant and non-malignant tumors pose a threat, so it is important for you to know how to recognize symptoms, no matter how subtle. The sooner treatment begins, the better chance your dog has for survival.
Physical Symptoms of a Dog Brain Tumor

Signs a tumor may be impairing your dog's motor skills and bodily functioning are:

* Changes in gait, including a slower walk
* Falls due to loss of balance
* Difficulty jumping and climbing
* Loss of senses, including sight and smell
* Hypersensitivity to touch
* Difficulty moving the eyes
* Reduced appetite
* Difficulty swallowing
* Excessive thirst
* Weakness on one side of the body
* Facial paralysis
* Head tilting
* Pressing the face against a hard surface
* Vomiting
* Tremors
* Seizures

Psychological Symptoms of a Dog Brain Tumor

Signs a tumor may be compromising your dog's mental functioning and mental health are:

* Personality reversal-for example, docile dogs becoming aggressive and aggressive dogs becoming docile
* Compulsions, including eating and barking
* Depression
* Disorientation, including an inability to recognize your voice or find the way home

Your dog may also communicate the extreme discomfort and distress caused by a brain tumor by whimpering, whining and whelping. The presence of one or more symptoms of a dog brain tumor necessitates prompt evaluation by a vet. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Such options can be highly effective, but extremely expensive.

24 Little-Known Facts About Dogs

There are many little-known facts about dogs (Canis lupus familiaris). Following are 24 rare informational facts about dogs:
Little-Known Dog Facts

1. Dogs are descended from wolves.
2. The normal body temperature of dogs is 101.5°F. They regulate their body temperature by panting.
3. Dogs have 231 bones and 42 permanent teeth.
4. Dogs are prone to tuberculosis.
5. Similar to humans, dogs tend to have a dominant hand they usually use when one one hand is needed.
6. Chocolate is toxic for dogs.
7. There are seven types of blood group in canines.
8. The average life span of dogs varies from 8 to 15 years.
9. The sweat glands in dogs are located between their paw pads.
10. Dogs mature at the age of approximately 6 months.
11. The normal gestation period of canines varies from 60 to 65 days.
12. Dogs' respiratory rates and heart rates vary from 10 to 30 breaths/minute and 70 to 120 beats/minute, respectively.
13. Dogs have night vision as the number of rod cells in their eyes is greater than that of cone cells.
14. Dogs can be identified by their nose prints.
15. Dalmatians develop black spots only after they grow older. The puppies are pure white in color.
16. Laika (named after the dog's Russian breed; literal meaning: "Barker") is the first dog to travel to outer space.
17. Saluki is the oldest breed of dog.
18. Lhasa Apso guarded Tibetan temples.
19. Pekingese, the royal dog of China, was once considered to be sacred; common men could not own this breed.

Little-Known Puppy Facts

1. Newborn puppies are blind, deaf and toothless.
2. In dogs, bladder control is attained 4 months after birth.
3. In the first week after birth, puppies spend almost 90% of their time sleeping and the rest of the time feeding. Later, they sleep for at least 12 to 14 hours a day.
4. The canine achieves his sense of smell only 3 weeks after birth.
5. The first teeth (milk teeth) appear between 3 and 7 weeks of age, and the adult teeth (permanent teeth) appear after four months.

10 Symptoms of Canine Heart Murmur

A canine heart murmur is caused when the blood flows abnormally in a canine heart. The abnormal change in the dog heart can cause the right side of the heart to not communicate well with the left side, sometimes affecting a dog's health.
Symptoms of a Heart Murmur in Dogs

* The dog's heartbeat seems irregular
* A hacking cough that does not seem to go away.
* Breathing that seems labored (excessive panting) even while the dog is resting
* The canine tires easily
* Lack of energy
* Collapsing or fainting
* The gums or tongue have a bluish color
* A racing pulse
* Severe water retention
* Lack of appetite

All of these symptoms may indicate health risks that are serious, but not necessarily a murmur. Only a veterinary doctor can diagnose a heart murmur in dogs.
Causes of Heart Murmurs in Dogs

Dogs can develop heart murmurs for a number of reasons. Some dogs may develop heart disease as they age, causing them to have an irregular heartbeat. Blood leakage from the heart valves to the atrium or high blood pressure could also be a cause. Some puppies are born with a birth defect that causes murmurs or they may be more genetically prone to this condition. Dogs that have anemia or a disease that affects the heart or blood vessels could make a canine more prone to developing a heart murmur.

Mitral valve stenosis, a condition in which the heart's valves leak, can result in a heart murmur in dogs. A condition where holes are present in the chamber that pumps blood, ventricular septal, can cause the blood to flood too rapidly in puppies, resulting in an irregular heartbeat. Pulmonary or aortic stenosis, the narrowing of the pulmonary or aortic artery, can cause an irregular blood flow, resulting in murmurs in dogs.
Diagnosing Heart Murmurs

When there is suspicion of a heart murmur in a canine, doctors will perform several different tests to confirm their diagnosis.

* Listening to the heart with a stethoscope
* Chest x-rays
* Heart ultrasound: to see all almost all of the functions of a dog's heart in real time and see if the heart has any irregularities
* Blood and urine tests: to check for any abnormalities in liver and kidney function
* Electrocardiogram: an assessment of the dog's heart activity over a period of time

Treating Heart Murmurs in Dogs

Heart murmurs in dogs can be nothing to worry about or a condition that can progressively get worse. If a puppy is found to have a murmur, it may not be treated until health problems are present. Heart murmurs cannot be cured, but they can be treated surgically, with medication, or dietary changes.

If you suspect your dog may have a problem with his or her heart, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Share your concerns and questions with your vet and tell them about any lifestyle and activity changes.

11 Tips for Living with Blind Dogs

Living with blind dogs can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Try these tips for bringing a blind dog home, helping him find his way around, socializing the dog and going outdoors.

1. Try not to move any furniture around once your dog has grown accustomed to the layout of your home and keep floors clear.
2. You may want to cushion sharp corners on furniture and cabinets.
3. Use textured rugs to help your dog recognize certain areas of the house.
4. Scents are also a great way to mark 'zones' in your home, like the bottom or top of stairs or door openings. Use the same scent for all safe areas and something different for dangerous spots.
5. Avoid picking up a blind dog to bring him to his food or a toy of his; this can be confusing and he needs to learn on his own.
6. Put bells on other pets to alert your blind dog of their presence.
7. Talk to your blind dog often to comfort and guide him with positive encouragement. Set up your own voice commands and be consistent with them.
8. Be careful not to startle the dog when you approach him and also teach guests and small children to be cautious. A dog might snap at someone who startles him from behind or while he sleeps. New
9. people should allow the dog to smell their hand before petting him.
10. Use a harness when outside with your dog, especially when going to new areas.
11. Consider a bandana or marker to put on your dog that says 'I'm blind' to alert others of your dog's condition.

10 Tips for Training Adult Dogs

The old cliché says you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but with patience, confidence and repetition, training adult dogs can be a fun and rewarding task for the owners and the animals. At animal shelters, senior dogs are often euthanized because they aren't wanted but, with training, all dogs of any age or breed can be a great addition to the home.
10 Tips for Training Adult Dogs

1. Praise, praise, praise - Use treats, verbal praise and petting to praise a dog that exhibits correct behavior. When a dog has followed a command and is calm and relaxed, offer some sort of treat or positive encouragement to reinforce good habits with rewards. Only offer rewards immediately after good behavior or the dog will not understand why he is getting a treat.
2. Never hit a dog - Using physical violence is never the answer to a dog that is misbehaving. Not only is this painful to the animal but can trigger aggression and make bad habits even worse.
3. Start with basic commands like you would with a puppy such as sit, stay, come and down.
4. Be consistent - Continue obedience training each day and stay with your chosen method rather than switching around so you don't confuse the dog. Also, be consistent with the commands you use but never repeat command words. If you're dog doesn't listen to 'sit' the first time, don't repeat the word. Instead, try again later until he learns the command and offer a treat when he performs correctly.
5. Stay calm - A calm but firm owner will reduce anxiety and fear in many dogs and also communicate clearly and efficiently.
6. Keep family members committed: Dedication is essential when it comes to teaching an older dog obedience training. If you are committed to the right behavior but your family members are letting the dog run wild, all of your time and energy may be wasted. Guests should also be aware of any rules for your dog, like a ban on table scraps or jumping on couches, to prevent any bad habits from continuing.
7. Make time - Dedicate at least 15 minutes every day to dog training. An adult dog has a longer attention span than a new puppy and will enjoy dog training periods for lengthier stretches of time.
8. Stay active - Exercise is a great outlet for an energetic dog and may prevent him from becoming distracted if he's had a chance to run around and play before training.
9. Walking - This is one great way to keep a dog active and stimulated. Stay in control by using a short leash and starting out with small walks until the dog is behaved and comfortable on the leash.
10. Classes - Consider signing up for a dog obedience class. These are usually offered for all types and ages of dogs and are a great way to socialize your dog while also training him.

10 Top Causes of Liver Disease in Dogs

Liver disease in dogs is one of the leading causes of death in dogs each year. The liver is very important for ensuring a long, healthy life. It purifies the blood, eliminates waste and aids healthy digestion. The liver is susceptible to a variety of diseases and conditions. Whenever the liver is compromised, the life of your dog is in serious jeopardy.
Causes of Liver Disease

Here are ten causes of liver disease:

1. Poor diet
2. Bacterial infection
3. Viral infection
4. Trauma, such as a blow when hit by a car or through a case of heatstroke
5. Some prescription drugs, including acetaminophen or medications used to treat other medical conditions
6. Toxic substances in the environment, such as pesticides
7. Over vaccinating
8. A birth defect or abnormality of the liver
9. Genetic predisposition
10. Ingesting poison

Symptoms of Liver Disease

If you suspect that your dog is suffering from liver disease, here are some symptoms to look out for:

* Gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea
* Loss of appetite
* Depression and lethargy
* A swollen or distended belly
* Pale or gray feces
* Discolored urine
* Jaundice
* Increased urination and water consumption
* Severe neurological problems such as seizures or aimless pacing
* Viral or bacterial infection

Prevention is the best defense against liver disease and being aware of contributing factors can help you protect your dog.

10 Types of Injuries That Cause Dog Limping

A dog limping does not necessarily mean he is getting up in years. It could be caused by a host of medical problems, ranging from trauma to subtle chronic conditions. A slight limp can even be a symptom of life threatening conditions, like malignant tumors. Here is a list of some of the likely causes of dog limping:
Soft Tissue Injury

This is the most common cause of limping for dogs. They include sprains, muscle pulls, and similar minor traumas. They are not serious, and can be successfully treated with a few days rest, and a mild analgesic.
Arthritis

If your dog has increasing difficulty with getting up after lying or sitting for some time, or trouble with climbing stairs or getting into and out of its bed, check with your vet about canine arthritis. If you have a large dog, hip dysplasia might be present.
Footpad or Paw Injuries

Look for cuts on the footpad. Also look for splinters or other foreign objects (thorns, sharp stones) imbedded in the footpad, or between the toes. Check for broken claws. Be alert for swelling or other possible signs of infection in this entire area. Extreme weather conditions can also cause painful cracks in the tissue of the footpad.
Closed Fracture

These injuries are bone fractures where the skin is not broken. They may not be immediately evident because the leg may not look misshapen or twisted.
Compound Fractures

This is a very serious type of bone fracture where the broken bone punctures the skin. This exposure often causes dangerous infections of the bone.
Epiphyseal and Greenstick Fractures

Epiphyseal fractures usually occur at the end of the long bones (femur, humerus) in puppies and young dogs. These areas are called growth plates, and because they are not matured, the bone there will soften and fracture.

A greenstick fracture is a crack in the bone. The bone is otherwise intact.
Growing Pains

A more scientific medical term for this complaint is Panosteitis. It is, of course, found in puppies and young dogs and usually does not need treatment.
Ligament Injuries

Ligaments are the bands of muscle tissue that knit bones together at the joints. When they're injured, stability of the joint is compromised or destroyed, and your dog's limping will get progressively worse over time.
Tumors

Limping is a symptom associated with tumors in or on the bones, or in the brain or central nervous system. If you see suspicious symptoms accompanying your dog's limping, such as dizziness or disorientation, or if you find any odd lumps or masses, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Tumors are often life threatening, and time is of the essence.
Kneecap Dislocation

Your dog's knee can adopt a sudden and dangerous side-to-side motion for various reasons, (trauma, infection) and the knee will slip out of alignment. The knee can also pop back into alignment just as quickly. Be watchful for recurring problems with this if you have a small dog.

11 Symptoms of Canine Liver Disease

Canine liver disease is one of the top five causes of possible death for a dog. The liver removes waste and toxins from the blood as well as produces bile to aid digestion. When the liver is compromised, the health of your dog is in jeopardy. Dogs with liver disease may show any number of signs and symptoms. A few symptoms, such as jaundice, are specific to liver disease and other liver problems.
11 Symptoms of Canine Liver Disease

1.
Recurrent gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea and constipation
2.
Loss of appetite and chronic weight loss
3.
Depression and lethargy
4.
A swollen belly due to fluid accumulation
5.
Pale, gray or white feces
6.
Orange colored urine
7.
Jaundice, this is when the skin or visible tissue takes on a yellow hue
8.
Pain associated with the abdomen
9.
Increased urination and water consumption
10.
Severe neurological problems such as seizures, aimless pacing and behavioral changes
11.
Bleeding problems may occur, but are rare

14 Dogs Good for Allergies: A Guide to Hypoallergenic Breeds

If your family wants a dog but allergies are a concern, there are dogs good for allergies. Hypoallergenic dogs come in a sizes and activity levels suitable for any family. Low-allergy dogs do not shed—they will need to be clipped regularly—but they are not dander-free. Even hairless dogs shed skin occasionally, so proper grooming and hygiene will still need to be addressed.

Consult your allergist before bringing a new dog home. She will be able to make recommendations to help keep your reaction to dog-related allergens to a minimum.

14 Dogs Good For Allergies

1. Chinese Crested
2. Maltese
3. Shih Tzu
4. Poodle
5. Schnauzer
6. Yorkshire Terrier
7. Havanese
8. Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier
9. Bedlington Terrier
10. Kerry Blue Terrier
11. Portuguese Water Dog
12. Puli
13. Irish Water Spaniel
14. "Doodle" Dogs


Recently, “doodle” dogs have become popular. These are hybrid crosses of certain popular breeds mixed with the hypoallergenic poodle. Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are among the best known. These dogs should be obtained from reputable breeders that breed for the specific low-allergy trait.

15 Prescription Medications for Controlling Dog Seizures

Dog seizure or epilepsy is a neurological disorder. There is an involuntary contraction of muscles that causes trembling, shaking and convulsions. Before you know the various prescription drugs available to treat seizures you must understand the types of dog seizures.
Types or Phases of Dog Seizures

* Pre-Ictal
* Ictal
* Petit Mal
* Grand Mal
* Status Epilepticus
* Post Ictal
* Pre-Ictal

In this phase there's a noticeable change in dog behavior. There will be involuntary head shaking, and salivation. The dog may also start whining.
Ictal

This is the actual seizure. It may last for a few seconds to five minutes. The dog may appear paralyzed. There could be spontaneous urination as he will lose bowel control. He will start foaming and there will be rapid jaw movement. The Ictal phase has three stages of severity, Petit Mal, Grand Mal and Status Epilepticus. The Status Epilepticus is highly dangerous as the dog will have many bouts of convulsions with little or no rest. Medical intervention is absolutely necessary. Seizures can kill your dog as they cut the supply of oxygen to the heart and the brain.
Post Ictal

During this phase the dog will regain consciousness but may show signs of blindness, fright and deafness.

Epilepsy or dog seizure cannot be cured but if the right medication is administered the seizures can be successfully controlled.
15 Common Dog Seizure Medications

* Phenobarbital
* Valium
* Potassium Bromide
* Chlorazepate dipotassium
* Felbamate
* Levetiracetam
* Zonisamide
* Propofol
* Diazepam
* Topiramate
* Primidone
* Neurosyn Tablets
* K-Bro Vet Chewable Tablets
* K-Bro Vet Oral Solution
* PrimiTabs

Very often after conducting tests on your dog the vet will diagnose Idiopathic epilepsy or epilepsy with no known cause of seizure. You must make sure to record the number of seizures your dog has had after the first one. Make note of the duration of the seizures as well as the physical symptoms. Medication is given daily and the potency of the drug may be gradually reduced after several years.

The medication that the vet will prescribe is based on the severity of the epilepsy and your dog's medical history.
Possible Side Effects

* Sedation
* Liver disease
* Bitter taste
* Gastric irritation
* Nausea
* Tremor

Epileptic seizures commence in a dog's brain when abnormal nerve tissues send signals to nerve impulses. Head injury or tumors may also cause canine seizures. If the seizure has reached a life threatening stage the vet might recommend surgical intervention. However since the risk of dog brain surgery is high, pet owners may choose to treat their dogs exclusively with medication. Some owners may prefer canine acupuncture or holistic treatments to control seizures. Although it's scary to watch your pet go through a seizure don't attempt to lift your dog or put a spoon in his mouth. Maintain contact with your dog and speak to him in a calm tone.

If your dog suffers from epilepsy, you will have to frequently correspond with your vet to determine the effects of medication and to report any new seizures.

10 Essential Dog Cleaning Supplies

With the right dog cleaning equipment, you can keep your house and car clean and fresh smelling, without limiting your dog to one room and no family trips. Even well trained dogs may occasionally have an accident or throw up on the rug. A good stain remover and odor remover are essential. Many dogs shed, so you'll also want a good pet hair remover for your furniture and clothes. An allergen remover and the proper grooming supplies will help you stay healthy while maintaining your dog's skin and fur.
Pet Stain Remover

You can find a stain remover that will make doghouse cleaning easy and effective. The best type includes enzymes that actually interact biologically with the stain and lift it off the carpet or furniture. Make sure to test the product on a hidden area of the carpet or furniture before applying it on a more visible area. You may need a separate product for carpets and furniture.
Pet Odor Remover

There are several ways to cope with pet odors, such as those associated with accidents or just the general aroma a dog can leave. Keeping your dog clean and groomed helps, but sometimes you'll want a good odor remover for accidents and the air. Many of the products that really remove stains will also remove the odor associated with the stain. There are sprays that will actually remove the odors from the air, versus just covering them up with perfume. Make sure to use a product that is safe and non-allergenic for people and pets.
Pet Hair Remover

There are simple and cheap ways to remove pet hair from clothes and furniture. You can invest in a commercial pet hair remover, which is usually a roller with a sticky surface that you can use on many surfaces and clothes. Wrapping wide tape around your hand, sticky side up, often does a good job. You can also take a slightly damp mop and mop your carpet. The small amount of water will lift the hair right off the carpet. This can also work with a slightly damp sponge on furniture, provided it's not leather. Remember to test on a hidden area first.
Grooming Supplies

Investing in several good grooming supplies will help your dog's skin and fur stay healthy, and it will reduce the amount of allergens your dog produces. The following items make dog cleaning simple and effective:

* A good hard wire dog brush
* Oatmeal shampoo
* Conditioner
* A grooming table and harness

Another important dog grooming tool is a washing glove or brush that really will remove the dead hair and skin. An allergen remover, usually in the form of a spray, will keep your house and car clean and smelling fresh.

10 Dog Insurance Comparison Points for New Owners

Owners can save money and get the best coverage for their dog with an informed comparison between insurance policies. Use these suggestions when comparing and contrasting plans.

1. Level of coverage: Find out what treatments are included in your plan, from basic checkups to cancer treatment.
2. Veterinarians: Some plans allow you to choose any veterinarian while others offer limited choices.
3. Deductibles: Compare the price of deductibles between plans.
4. Add-ons: Treatments and services like dental care, travel insurance and coverage of chronic conditions can be added on to plans.
5. Exclusions: Behavior or psychological problems, hip dysplasia and special conditions can exclude or limit coverage.
6. Genetic or pre-existing conditions: Find out how the plan defines pre-existing conditions and if they raise the price or exclude your dog from plans. There are insurance companies that concentrate on special conditions to give your animal personal coverage for his specific health problems.
7. Claims process: Look into deadlines, the filing process, payment details and claim limitations.
8. Payment options: What are the payment schedules, monthly rates, co-pays and reimbursement time for claims?
9. Multiple pet discounts: Some companies have special plans when you insure multiple animals; however, some companies will limit the number of 'high risk' breeds they will insure in a house, or ban any of these breeds from their insurance plans all together.
10. Increasing premiums: Most insurance companies increase premiums as a dog gets older, and sometimes if many claims are filed.

10 Dog Insurance Comparison Points for New Owners

Owners can save money and get the best coverage for their dog with an informed comparison between insurance policies. Use these suggestions when comparing and contrasting plans.

1. Level of coverage: Find out what treatments are included in your plan, from basic checkups to cancer treatment.
2. Veterinarians: Some plans allow you to choose any veterinarian while others offer limited choices.
3. Deductibles: Compare the price of deductibles between plans.
4. Add-ons: Treatments and services like dental care, travel insurance and coverage of chronic conditions can be added on to plans.
5. Exclusions: Behavior or psychological problems, hip dysplasia and special conditions can exclude or limit coverage.
6. Genetic or pre-existing conditions: Find out how the plan defines pre-existing conditions and if they raise the price or exclude your dog from plans. There are insurance companies that concentrate on special conditions to give your animal personal coverage for his specific health problems.
7. Claims process: Look into deadlines, the filing process, payment details and claim limitations.
8. Payment options: What are the payment schedules, monthly rates, co-pays and reimbursement time for claims?
9. Multiple pet discounts: Some companies have special plans when you insure multiple animals; however, some companies will limit the number of 'high risk' breeds they will insure in a house, or ban any of these breeds from their insurance plans all together.
10. Increasing premiums: Most insurance companies increase premiums as a dog gets older, and sometimes if many claims are filed.

10 Dog Illness Symptoms that Require Emergency Care

Dog illness symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Many symptoms may mean illness but not an acute emergency. But other symptoms such as loss of consciousness, seizures, difficulty breathing, high or low temperature, as well as several others can be an indication that your dog needs emergency veterinary assistance. If you notice any of the following signs or think you may be observing them, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
1. Loss of Consciousness

A change in consciousness can manifest as sudden collapse, tremors, staggering, sudden withdrawal or lack of responsiveness, coma, convulsions or sudden blindness. A dog may also exhibit a chronic tilting of the head or biting at imaginary objects.
2. Seizures

You can identify a seizure in several ways. The dog's entire body will likely shake or tremor for several seconds. Then the dog will be unresponsive for a few seconds or up to a minute. You may see the whites of the eyes.
3. Difficulty Breathing

If a dog is struggling to breathe, you may notice him gasping for breath or breathing in a labored manner. You might also notice noisy respiration, and the dog's tongue may become blue. It may also appear swollen.
4. Change in Temperature

A dog's temperature should be around 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If his temperature goes below 99 or above 104 degrees, something is seriously wrong. You need to take the dog's temperature if you see him panting, if he feels very cold or if he seems really lethargic.
5. Bleeding

If you cannot stop blood from any area of the dog's body, apply pressure with a clean piece of fabric and go to the emergency vet. Uncontrolled bleeding can cause loss of consciousness and death.
6. Signs of Acute Pain

If a dog won't stop whining or yelping, he's trying to tell you something is wrong. If the usual problem solvers don't work, seek veterinary attention.
7. Extreme Energy Changes

If a dog becomes extremely lethargic all of a sudden, it's a sign of a possible serious and systemic problem. Extreme lethargy manifests as a dog who won't come out of his crate or won't move a muscle when called or enticed with food or a favorite toy.
8. Symptoms that Do Not Alleviate

The following symptoms should not last for more than 2 to 3 days. These include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, poor appetite, constipation, wheezing, or dully, dry and flaky hair and skin. Lameness, weakness, and major changes in urination are also symptoms that should change in a few days.
9. Abdominal Bloating

A bloated or abnormally distended abdomen is an acutely serious issue. If your dog seems to be having abdominal pain (i.e. winces or whimpers when touched there), but he isn't vomiting, this is a sign of potential poisoning or an acute kidney problem.
10. Other Times to Call the Vet Immediately

After any accident, fall, or dog fight, a vet should check for trauma, injury, or shock. If you suspect that a dog has ingested poison or any sharp object, don't wait for symptoms to appear. It's better to be safe than sorry.

10 Causes of Feline Incontinence

Feline incontinence often links to an underlying disease or condition. With incontinence, pets dribble small amount of cat urine all over the house. Incontinence also includes cat diarrhea. Learn the ten common causes why cats deal with incontinence issues.
Bladder Stones

Bladder stones occur when minerals combine forming large crystals. Bladder stones reach the size of peas and irritate the lining of the bladder. If bladder stones reach the urethra, it becomes hard for a cat to urinate. You'll see him straining in the litter box with little to no urine coming out or cat urine will have a pinkish tint from blood.
Bladder Cancer

While rare, cats exposed to flea dips and insecticides in the yard have a higher risk of bladder cancer. Tumors build up on the inner lining of the bladder eventually blocking the urethra. Symptoms include straining while urinating or defecating, feline incontinence and lethargy.
Feline Diabetes

Feline diabetes rates are skyrocketing. A diabetic cat drinks excessive amounts of water and urinates often. Often, the cat fails to make it to the litter box on time. Controlling the diabetes eliminates this form of feline incontinence.
Feline Diarrhea

People associate incontinence with urine, but poor bowel control is another form of feline incontinence. In cases of severe cat diarrhea, common problems include spinal cord injuries, particularly including damage to the tail. Other issues include poor diet, digestive problems and bacteria or viruses in the intestines.
Feline Leukemia

The feline leukemia virus is preventable. Many spayed and neutered cats affected by feline leukemia have problems with bladder control. They frequently dribble urine when they are sleeping or resting. The problem does affect more male cats than females, however. Some veterinarians find that a low dose of chemotherapy helps eliminate if the feline incontinence is excessive.

Kidney Stones

Like bladder stones, kidney stones occur when crystals bind in the kidneys causing blockages and irritation. A cat with kidney stones will have a tender abdomen and often has problems urinating. Blood is often visible in the cat urine.
Scarred Bladder

If a urinary tract infection spreads to the bladder, scarring will occur. The scarring essential takes up room causing the bladder to hold less urine. He will need to urinate more frequently. More accidents occur as a result.
Senility

With old age, some cats simply lose sense of when they need to go to the bathroom. They may wait too long and dribble on the way to the litter box, or they may forget where their litter box is located. You may find it easier to keep one litter box on each level of your house to avoid these feline incontinence accidents.
Urinary Tract Infections

Feline urinary tract infections remain a leading cause of feline incontinence. When the urinary tract becomes infected, the cat finds it impossible to go to the bathroom. He will strain, but little to no urine comes out. Antibiotics are necessary for UTIs. They can quickly spread to the bladder and kidneys if left untreated.
Weakened Urinary Muscle Tone

Cats that are carrying litters of kittens or elderly cats lose control of their urinary system muscles. Leaking and dribbling of cat urine are common problems. In addition, when the bladder is full, it pushes against the bowels causing accidents with defecation.

10 Breeds More Prone to Canine Hypothyroidism

There are two main types of canine hypothyroidism, primary and secondary. There also some rarer forms of this condition. The neoplastic and congenital forms of hypothyroidism are frequently breed-specific. Primary hypothyroidism accounts for over 95 percent of all cases and usually occurs between the ages of four and six.

Located on either side of the windpipe in the dog's throat area, the thyroid gland produces hormones responsible for metabolic function. When this gland is not functioning properly, hormone production is disrupted.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

* Skin abnormalities, such as dark patches or dry skin
* Hair loss or poor hair coat
* Lethargy, excess sleep
* Weight gain
* Chills, poor cold tolerance
* Slow heart rate
* Constipation
* Infertility

Canine Breeds Most Prone to Hypothyroidism

Any dog-including mixed breeds-can suffer from primary hypothyroidism, but the 10 breeds most susceptible include:

1. Golden Retrievers
2. Labrador Retrievers
3. Dachshunds
4. Boxers
5. Cocker Spaniels
6. Greyhounds
7. English Bulldogs
8. Great Danes
9. Doberman Pinschers

Other breeds notably at risk of hypothyroidism include:

* Mastiff
* American Staffordshire Terrier
* Rottweiler
* Siberian Husky
* Border Collie
* Maltese
* Weimaraner
* Chinese Shar-Pei
* Dalmatian
* Bernese Mountain Dog

Types of Hypothyroidism

* Secondary hypothyroidism is caused by a tumor encroaching upon the thyroid gland. Fortunately, this form of dog cancer is a somewhat rare condition, but Beagles, Golden Retrievers and Boxers are more likely to develop tumors of this type.
* Neoplastic hypothyroidism causes an abnormal growth or destruction of thyroid tissue and is caused by iodine deficiency. This condition is seen in giant schnauzers and boxers.
* Congenital or juvenile onset hypothyroidism is an inherited condition that is seen in Giant Schnauzers and German Shepherd Dogs. Toy Fox Terriers also carry a gene for congenital hypothyroidism.

Canine Hypothyroid Diagnosis and Treatment

Most forms of hypothyroidism are diagnosed with a blood test. Samples are taken and tested for thyroid hormone concentrations in the blood. There are several tests available and the test results can be somewhat inconclusive. Your veterinarian may want to perform more than one test to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

Primary hypothyroidism is successfully treated with daily medications. Ongoing blood tests will be done to monitor hormone levels. As treatment progresses, the hormone dosages may change.

Treatment of secondary hypothyroidism is also treated with daily medications, combined with treatment of the underlying illness.

The most common form of thyroid hormone replacement is L-thyroxine. Depending upon the manufacturer, it is available in liquid, tablet or chewable form. Most dogs will show improvement within weeks of beginning hormone replacement therapy.

Dog health

The dog health is a well studied area in veterinary medicine.

Infectious diseases that affect dogs are important not only from a veterinary standpoint, but also because of the risk to public health; an example of this is rabies. Genetic disorders also affect dogs, often due to selective breeding to produce individual dog breeds. Due to the popularity of both commercial and homemade dog foods, nutrition is also a heavily-studied subject.

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever (also Labrador, or Lab for short) is one of several kinds of retriever, a type of gun dog. A breed characteristic is webbed paws for swimming, useful for the breed's original purpose of retrieving fishing nets. This and their subsequent use as hunting companions, gave them the name retriever. The dogs of this breed are very loving, kind and compassionate to their master. The Labrador is the most popular breed of dog in the world, and is, by a large margin, the most popular breed by registration in Canada, the United States (since 1991), and the United Kingdom. It is also the most popular breed of assistance dog in Canada, the United States, Australia, United Kingdom and many other countries, as well as being widely used by police and other official bodies for their detection and working abilities. Typically, Labradors are athletic, and love to swim, play catch and retrieve games, and are good with young children

History
The modern Labrador's ancestors originated on the island of Newfoundland, now part of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.[5] The founding breed of the Labrador was the St. John's Water Dog, (also a founding breed of the Newfoundland dog), a breed that emerged through ad-hoc breedings by early settlers of the island in the 16th century.[5] The forebears of the St. John's Dog are not known, but were likely a random-bred mix of English, Irish, and Portuguese working breeds. The Newfoundland (known then as the Greater Newfoundland) is likely a result of the St. John's Dog breeding with mastiffs brought to the island by the generations of Portuguese fishermen who had been fishing offshore since the 16th century. The smaller short-coated St. John's Dog (also known then as the Lesser Newfoundland) was used for retrieval and pulling in nets from the water. These smaller dogs were the forebears of the Labrador Retriever. The white chest, feet, chin, and muzzle - known as tuxedo markings - characteristic of the St. John's Dog often appear in modern Lab mixes, and will occasionally manifest in Labradors as a small white spot on the chest (known as a medallion) or stray white hairs on the feet or muzzle.

The St. John's area of Newfoundland was settled mainly by the English and Irish. Local fishermen originally used the St. John's dog to assist in carrying ropes between boats, towing dories, and helping to retrieve fishnets in the water. The Labrador's loyalty and hard working behavior were valuable assets for fishermen.[6]

A number of St. John's Dogs were brought back to the Poole area of England in the early 19th century,[5] then the hub of the Newfoundland fishing trade, by the gentry, and became prized as sporting and waterfowl hunting dogs.[5] A few kennels breeding these grew up in England; at the same time a combination of sheep protection policy (Newfoundland) and rabies quarantine (England) led to their gradual demise in their country of origin.

The first and second Earls of Malmesbury, who bred for duck shooting on his estate,[8] and the 5th and 6th Dukes of Buccleuch, and youngest son Lord George William Montagu-Douglas-Scott,[8] were instrumental in developing and establishing the modern Labrador breed in 19th century England. The dogs Avon ("Buccleuch Avon") and Ned given by Malmesbury to assist the Duke of Buccleuch's breeding program in the 1880s are considered the ancestors of all modern Labradors.[9]

The first St. John's Dog was said to be brought to England around 1820; however, the breed's reputation had spread to England long before. There is a story that the Earl of Malmesbury saw a St. John's Dog on a fishing boat and immediately made arrangements with traders to have some of these dogs exported to England. These ancestors of the first labradors so impressed the Earl with their skill and ability for retrieving anything within the water and on shore that he devoted his entire kennel to developing and stabilising the breed.

Early descriptions

Several early descriptions of the St. John's Water Dog exist. In 1822, explorer W.E. Cormack crossed the island of Newfoundland by foot. In his journal he wrote "The dogs are admirably trained as retrievers in fowling, and are otherwise useful.....The smooth or short haired dog is preferred because in frosty weather the long haired kind become encumbered with ice on coming out of the water."[10]

Another early report by a Colonel Hawker described the dog as "by far the best for any kind of shooting. He is generally black and no bigger than a Pointer, very fine in legs, with short, smooth hair and does not carry his tail so much curled as the other; is extremely quick, running, swimming and fighting....and their sense of smell is hardly to be credited...."[10]

In his book Excursions In and About Newfoundland During the Years 1839 and 1840,[11] the geologist Joseph Beete Jukes describes the St. John's Water Dog. "A thin, short-haired, black dog came off-shore to us to-day. The animal was of a breed very different from what we understand by the term Newfoundland dog in England. He had a thin, tapering snout, a long thin tail, and rather thin, but powerful legs, with a lank body, – the hair short and smooth." wrote Jukes. "These are the most abundant dogs in the country...They are no means handsome, but are generally more intelligent and useful than the others...I observed he once or twice put his foot in the water and paddled it about. This foot was white, and Harvey said he did it to "toil" or entice the fish. The whole proceeding struck me as remarkable, more especially as they said he had never been taught anything of the kind

Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever (also Labrador, or Lab for short) is one of several kinds of retriever, a type of gun dog. A breed characteristic is webbed paws for swimming, useful for the breed's original purpose of retrieving fishing nets. This and their subsequent use as hunting companions, gave them the name retriever. The dogs of this breed are very loving, kind and compassionate to their master. The Labrador is the most popular breed of dog in the world, and is, by a large margin, the most popular breed by registration in Canada, the United States (since 1991), and the United Kingdom. It is also the most popular breed of assistance dog in Canada, the United States, Australia, United Kingdom and many other countries, as well as being widely used by police and other official bodies for their detection and working abilities. Typically, Labradors are athletic, and love to swim, play catch and retrieve games, and are good with young children

History
The modern Labrador's ancestors originated on the island of Newfoundland, now part of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.[5] The founding breed of the Labrador was the St. John's Water Dog, (also a founding breed of the Newfoundland dog), a breed that emerged through ad-hoc breedings by early settlers of the island in the 16th century.[5] The forebears of the St. John's Dog are not known, but were likely a random-bred mix of English, Irish, and Portuguese working breeds. The Newfoundland (known then as the Greater Newfoundland) is likely a result of the St. John's Dog breeding with mastiffs brought to the island by the generations of Portuguese fishermen who had been fishing offshore since the 16th century. The smaller short-coated St. John's Dog (also known then as the Lesser Newfoundland) was used for retrieval and pulling in nets from the water. These smaller dogs were the forebears of the Labrador Retriever. The white chest, feet, chin, and muzzle - known as tuxedo markings - characteristic of the St. John's Dog often appear in modern Lab mixes, and will occasionally manifest in Labradors as a small white spot on the chest (known as a medallion) or stray white hairs on the feet or muzzle.

The St. John's area of Newfoundland was settled mainly by the English and Irish. Local fishermen originally used the St. John's dog to assist in carrying ropes between boats, towing dories, and helping to retrieve fishnets in the water. The Labrador's loyalty and hard working behavior were valuable assets for fishermen.[6]

A number of St. John's Dogs were brought back to the Poole area of England in the early 19th century,[5] then the hub of the Newfoundland fishing trade, by the gentry, and became prized as sporting and waterfowl hunting dogs.[5] A few kennels breeding these grew up in England; at the same time a combination of sheep protection policy (Newfoundland) and rabies quarantine (England) led to their gradual demise in their country of origin.

The first and second Earls of Malmesbury, who bred for duck shooting on his estate,[8] and the 5th and 6th Dukes of Buccleuch, and youngest son Lord George William Montagu-Douglas-Scott,[8] were instrumental in developing and establishing the modern Labrador breed in 19th century England. The dogs Avon ("Buccleuch Avon") and Ned given by Malmesbury to assist the Duke of Buccleuch's breeding program in the 1880s are considered the ancestors of all modern Labradors.[9]

The first St. John's Dog was said to be brought to England around 1820; however, the breed's reputation had spread to England long before. There is a story that the Earl of Malmesbury saw a St. John's Dog on a fishing boat and immediately made arrangements with traders to have some of these dogs exported to England. These ancestors of the first labradors so impressed the Earl with their skill and ability for retrieving anything within the water and on shore that he devoted his entire kennel to developing and stabilising the breed.

Early descriptions

Several early descriptions of the St. John's Water Dog exist. In 1822, explorer W.E. Cormack crossed the island of Newfoundland by foot. In his journal he wrote "The dogs are admirably trained as retrievers in fowling, and are otherwise useful.....The smooth or short haired dog is preferred because in frosty weather the long haired kind become encumbered with ice on coming out of the water."[10]

Another early report by a Colonel Hawker described the dog as "by far the best for any kind of shooting. He is generally black and no bigger than a Pointer, very fine in legs, with short, smooth hair and does not carry his tail so much curled as the other; is extremely quick, running, swimming and fighting....and their sense of smell is hardly to be credited...."[10]

In his book Excursions In and About Newfoundland During the Years 1839 and 1840,[11] the geologist Joseph Beete Jukes describes the St. John's Water Dog. "A thin, short-haired, black dog came off-shore to us to-day. The animal was of a breed very different from what we understand by the term Newfoundland dog in England. He had a thin, tapering snout, a long thin tail, and rather thin, but powerful legs, with a lank body, – the hair short and smooth." wrote Jukes. "These are the most abundant dogs in the country...They are no means handsome, but are generally more intelligent and useful than the others...I observed he once or twice put his foot in the water and paddled it about. This foot was white, and Harvey said he did it to "toil" or entice the fish. The whole proceeding struck me as remarkable, more especially as they said he had never been taught anything of the kind

Pekingese Dog - Famous Pekes

Famous Pekes

* Bambi, pet of Miss Marjory Warner, upon whom James Herriot based his characters Mrs. Pumphrey and Tricki Woo
* Chu-Chu from The Amazing Chan and the Chan Clan
* Fifi the Peke, the girlfriend of Pluto, Mickey Mouse's pet.
* Buster, Pet of Chinese folk historian Onoj Ewalg
* Manchu, pet of Theodore Roosevelt's daughter, Alice Lee Roosevelt Longworth.
* Winnie/Wednesday, pet of Bridget Marquardt, Hugh Hefner's girlfriend, as seen on E!'s The Girls Next Door.
* Sun-Yat Sen owned by Henry Sleeper Harper - Harper Brothers Publishing - was one of three dogs to survive[9] the sinking of RMS Titanic.
* Penelope, pet of Philadelphia composer Joseph Hallman
* The three pekes from Sagwa, the Chinese Siamese Cat
* Harm, the black peke from the Barker and Llewelyn Victorian mystery series by Will Thomas
* Mukstard the Christmas Pooch(originally named Monster) the Peke, son of Elizabeth Ordoñez
* General Motors the Peke, pet of William Boeing, founder of Boeing and United Airlines.

Pekingese Dog

The Pekingese, Pekinese or “Peke” (also commonly referred to as a "Lion Dog", or "Pelchie Dog" due to their resemblance to Chinese guardian lions) is an ancient breed of toy dog, originating in China. They were the favored pet of the Chinese Imperial court, and the name relates to the city of Beijing where the Forbidden City resides. The breed has several characteristics and health issues related to its unique appearance. Because of its desirable characteristics, the Pekingese has been part of the development of designer crossbreeds, such as the Pekeatese.


Appearance

The Pekingese breed is over 2000 years old and has hardly changed in all that time. One exception is that modern breeders and dog-show judges seem to prefer the long-haired type over the more-traditional spaniel-type coat.

The Pekingese's flat face is one of the breed's most obvious characteristics. The body is compact and low to the ground. Pekingese also have a muscular and durable body.[1] The legs are noticeably bowed and restrict the Pekingese's movement. The Peke's unusual rolling gait may have been deliberately bred to prevent the court dogs from wandering.

Toy Poodle Dog

The poodle is a breed of dog, and the Standard Poodle is regarded as the second most intelligent breed of dog after the border collie, and before the German Shepherd.

The poodle breed is found officially in toy, miniature, and standard sizes, with many coat colors. Originally bred as a type of water dog, the poodle is skillful in many dog sports, including agility, obedience, tracking, and even herding. Poodles are elegant in the conformation ring, having taken top honors in many shows, including "Best in Show" at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 1991 and 2002, and at the World Dog Show in 2007 and 2010.

Appearance

Most poodles have a dense, curly, non-shedding coat that requires regular grooming. Since poodles do not have the plush double coat of many breeds, their fur is often referred to as "hair", a term usually reserved for humans. Most poodles are solid-colored, and many registries allow only solid colors in conformation shows. "Parti" (short for parti-colored) poodles have large patches of colors different from the main body color. "Phantom" poodles have the color pattern of a black-and-tan dog, although not necessarily black and tan. Solid-colored poodles may either "hold" their color (i.e., stay more or less the same throughout their lives) or "fade" or "clear" to a lighter shade. Usually the ears and the thicker guard hairs hold more of the original color than other hair.

Yorkshire Terrier Dog

The Yorkshire terrier is a small dog breed of terrier type, developed in the 1800s in the historical area of Yorkshire, England. The defining features of the breed are its small size, less than 3.2kg, and its silky blue and tan coat.

The breed is nicknamed Yorkie and is placed in the Toy Terrier section of the Terrier Group by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale and in the Toy Group or Companion Group by other kennel clubs, although all agree that the breed is a terrier. A winning show dog and a popular companion dog, the Yorkshire terrier has also been part of the development of other breeds, such as the Australian Silky Terrier.

Chihuahua Dog

is the smallest breed of dog and is named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico.

Breed standards for this dog do not generally specify a height, only a weight and a description of their overall proportions. As a result, height varies more than within many other breeds. Generally, the height ranges between six and ten inches. However, some dogs grow as tall as 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 cm). Both British and American breed standards state that a Chihuahua must not weigh more than six pounds for conformation. However, the British standard also states that a weight of two to four pounds is preferred and that if two dogs are equally good in type, the more diminutive or smaller is preferred. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) standard calls for dogs ideally between 1.5 and 3.0 kg (3.3 to 6.6 lbs.), although smaller ones are acceptable in the show ring.[5] Pet-quality Chihuahuas (that is, those bred or purchased as companions rather than show dogs) often range above these weights, even above ten pounds if they have large bone structures or are allowed to become overweight. This does not mean that they are not purebred Chihuahuas; they do not meet the requirements to enter a conformation show. Oversized Chihuahuas are seen in some of the best, and worst, bloodlines. Typically the breed standard for both the long and short coat chihuahua will be identical except for the description of the coat.

Chihuahua breeders often use terms like miniature, teacup, tiny toy, apple headed, or deer headed to describe puppies. These terms are not recognized by the breed standards and are misleading

Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher (alternatively spelled Dobermann in many countries) or simply Doberman, is a breed of domestic dog originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann. Dobermann Pinschers are among the most common of pet breeds, and the breed is well known as an intelligent, alert, and loyal companion dog. Although once commonly used as guard dogs or police dogs, this is less common today.

In many countries, Dobermann Pinschers are one of the most recognizable breeds, in part because of their actual roles in society, and in part because of media attention (see temperament). Careful breeding has improved the disposition of this breed, and the modern Dobermann Pinscher is an energetic and lively breed suitable for companionship and family life.

Dogs - History and evolution

Domestic dogs inherited a complex social hierarchy and behaviors from their wolf ancestors. Dogs are pack hunters with a complex set of behaviors related to determining each dog's position in the social hierarchy, and they exhibit various postures and other means of nonverbal communication that reveal their states of mind. These sophisticated forms of social cognition and communication may account for their trainability, playfulness, and ability to fit into human households and social situations, and these attributes have earned dogs a unique relationship with humans despite being potentially dangerous apex predators.

Although experts largely disagree over the details of dog domestication, it is agreed that human interaction played a significant role in shaping the subspecies. Shortly after domestication, dogs became ubiquitous in human populations, and spread throughout the world. Emigrants from Siberia likely crossed the Bering Strait with dogs in their company, and some experts suggest that use of sled dogs may have been critical to the success of the waves that entered North America roughly 12,000 years ago. Dogs were an important part of life for the Athabascan population in North America, and were their only domesticated animal. Dogs also carried much of the load in the migration of the Apache and Navajo tribes 1,400 years ago. Use of dogs as pack animals in these cultures often persisted after the introduction of the horse to North America.

The current consensus among biologists and archaeologists is that the dating of first domestication is indeterminate. There is conclusive evidence that dogs genetically diverged from their wolf ancestors at least 15,000 years ago, but some believe domestication to have occurred earlier. It is not known whether humans domesticated the wolf as such to initiate dog's divergence from its ancestors, or whether dog's evolutionary path had already taken a different course prior to domestication. The latter view has gained proponents, such as biologists Raymond and Lorna Coppinger;[5] they theorize that some wolves gathered around the campsites of the paleolithical man to scavenge refuse, and that associated evolutionary pressure developed that favored those who were less frightened by, and keener in approaching, humans.

The bulk of the scientific evidence for the evolution of the domestic dog stems from archaeological findings and mitochondrial DNA studies. The divergence date of roughly 15000 years ago is based in part on archaeological evidence that demonstrates that the domestication of dogs occurred more than 15,000 years ago, and some genetic evidence indicates that the domestication of dogs from their wolf ancestors began in the late Upper Paleolithic close to the Pleistocene/Holocene boundary, between 17,000 and 14,000 years ago.[25] But there is a wide range of other, contradictory findings that make this issue controversial.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the latest dogs could have diverged from wolves was roughly 15000 years ago, although it is possible that they diverged much earlier. In 2008, a team of international scientists released findings from an excavation at Goyet Cave in Belgium declaring that a large, toothy canine existed 31,700 years ago and ate a diet of horse, musk ox and reindeer.

Prior to this Belgium discovery, the earliest dog fossils were two large skulls from Russia and a mandible from Germany, that dated from roughly 14,000 years ago.[4][24] Remains of smaller dogs from Natufian cave deposits in the Middle East, including the earliest burial of a human being with a domestic dog, have been dated to around 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. There is a great deal of archaeological evidence for dogs throughout Europe and Asia around this period and through the next two thousand years (roughly 8,000 to 10,000 years ago), with fossils uncovered in Germany, the French Alps, and Iraq, and cave paintings in Turkey.

Dogs - Taxonomy

The domestic dog was originally classified as Canis familiaris and Canis familiarus domesticus by Carolus Linnaeus in 1758, and was reclassified in 1993 as Canis lupus familiaris, a subspecies of the gray wolf Canis lupus, by the Smithsonian Institution and the American Society of Mammalogists. Overwhelming evidence from behavior, vocalizations, morphology, and molecular biology led to the contemporary scientific understanding that a single species, the gray wolf, is the common ancestor for all breeds of domestic dogs;however, the timeframe and mechanisms by which dogs diverged are controversial. Canis lupus familiaris is listed as the name for the taxon that is broadly used in the scientific community and recommended by ITIS, however Canis familiaris is a recognised synomym.

Dogs Etymology and related terminology

Dog is the common use term that refers to members of the subspecies Canis lupus familiaris. The term can also be used to refer to a wider range of related species, such as the members of the genus Canis, or "true dogs", including the Wolf, Coyote, and Jackals; or it can refer to the members of the subfamily Caninae, which would also include the African Wild Dog; or it can be used to refer to any member of the family Canidae, which would also include the Foxes, Bush dog, Racoon dog, and others. Some members of the family have "dog" in their common names, such as the Raccoon Dog and the African Wild Dog. A few animals have "dog" in their common names but are not canids, such as the prairie dog.

The English word dog comes from Middle English dogge, from Old English docga, a "powerful dog breed". The term may derive from Proto-Germanic *dukkōn, represented in Old English finger-docce ("finger-muscle"). The word also shows the familiar petname diminutive -ga also seen in frogga "frog", picga "pig", stagga "stag", wicga "beetle, worm", among others. Due to the archaic structure of the word, the term dog may ultimately derive from the earliest layer of Proto-Indo-European vocabulary, reflecting the role of the dog as the earliest domesticated animal.

In 14th century England, hound (from Old English: hund) was the general word for all domestic canines, and dog referred to a subtype of hound, a group including the mastiff. It is believed that this "dog" type of "hound" was so common that it eventually became the prototype of the category “hound”. By the 16th century, dog had become the general word, and hound had begun to refer only to types used for hunting. Hound, cognate to German Hund, Dutch hond, common Scandinavian hund, and Icelandic hundur, is ultimately derived from the Proto-Indo-European *kwon- "dog", found in Welsh ci (plural cwn), Latin canis, Greek kýōn, Lithuanian šuõ.

In breeding circles, a male canine is referred to as a dog, while a female is called a bitch (Middle English bicche, from Old English bicce, ultimately from Old Norse bikkja). A group of offspring is a litter. The father of a litter is called the sire, and the mother is called the dam. Offspring are generally called pups or puppies, from French poupée, until they are about a year old. The process of birth is whelping, from the Old English word hwelp, (cf. German Welpe, Dutch welp, Swedish valp, Icelandic hvelpur) .

Dogs

The dog (Canis lupus familiaris[1]) is a domesticated form of the gray wolf, a member of the Canidae family of the order Carnivora. The term is used for both feral and pet varieties. The domestic dog has been the most widely kept working, hunting and companion animal in human history. The word "dog" may also mean the male of a canine species, as opposed to the word "bitch" for the female of the species.

The dog quickly became ubiquitous across world cultures, and was extremely valuable to early human settlements. For instance, it is believed that the successful emigration across the Bering Strait might not have been possible without sled dogs.[4] Dogs perform many roles for people, such as hunting, herding, protection, assisting police and military, companionship, and, more recently, aiding handicapped individuals. This impact on human society has given them the nickname "Man's best friend" in the western world. Currently, there are estimated to be 400 million dogs in the world.

Over the 15,000 year span that the dog had been domesticated, it diverged into only a handful of landraces, groups of similar animals whose morphology and behavior have been shaped by environmental factors and functional roles. As the modern understanding of genetics developed, humans began to intentionally breed dogs for a wide range of specific traits. Through this process, the dog has developed into hundreds of varied breeds, and shows more behavioral and morphological variation than any other land mammal. For example, height measured to the withers ranges from a few inches in the Chihuahua to a few feet in the Irish Wolfhound; color varies from white through grays (usually called "blue'") to black, and browns from light (tan) to dark ("red" or "chocolate") in a wide variation of patterns; coats can be short or long, coarse-haired to wool-like, straight, curly, or smooth. It is common for most breeds to shed this coat.

Cats

The cat (Felis catus), also known as the domestic cat or housecat[5] to distinguish it from other felines and felids, is a small furry domesticated carnivorous mammal that is valued by humans for its companionship and for its ability to hunt vermin and household pests. Cats have been associated with humans for at least 9,500 years,[6] and are currently the most popular pet in the world. Owing to their close association with humans, cats are now found almost everywhere on Earth.

Cats are similar in anatomy to the other felids, with strong, flexible bodies, quick reflexes, sharp retractable claws, and teeth adapted to killing small prey. As nocturnal predators, cats use their acute hearing and ability to see in near darkness to locate prey. Not only can cats hear sounds too faint for human ears, they can also hear sounds higher in frequency than humans can perceive. This is because cats' usual prey (particularly rodents such as mice) make high frequency noises, so cats' hearing has evolved to pinpoint these faint high-pitched sounds. Cats rely more on smell than taste, and have a vastly better sense of smell than humans.

Despite being solitary hunters, cats are a social species and use a variety of vocalizations, pheromones and types of body language for communication. These include meowing, purring, trilling, hissing, growling, and grunting.

Cats have a rapid breeding rate. Under controlled breeding, they can be bred and shown as registered pedigree pets, a hobby known as cat fancy. Failure to control the breeding of pet cats by spaying and neutering and the abandonment of former household pets has resulted in problems caused by large numbers of feral cats worldwide, with a population of up to 60 million of these animals in the United States alone.

As The New York Times wrote in 2007, "Until recently the cat was commonly believed to have been domesticated in ancient Egypt, where it was a cult animal",[10] but a study that year revealed that the lines of descent of all house cats probably run through as few as five self-domesticating African Wildcats (Felis silvestris lybica) circa 8000 BC, in the Near East.[4] The earliest direct evidence of cat domestication is a kitten that was buried alongside a human 9,500 years ago in Cyprus.

Choice of a pet

The average cost of a dog over its lifetime is estimated at about £20,000 (USD33,152).[4] People most commonly get pets for companionship, to protect a home or property, or because of the beauty of the animals.[5] The most common reasons for not owning a pet are lack of time, lack of suitable housing, and lack of ability to care for the pet when traveling.

Pet popularity

Around 63 percent of all U.S. households (71.1 million) have pets, and more than half of these households have more than one animal.[2] The two most popular pets in most Western countries have been cats and dogs. In the United States, a 2007-2008 survey showed that dog-owning households outnumbered those owning cats, but that the total number of pet cats was higher than that of dogs. The same was true for 2009-2010.[3] Combined reptiles are the next popular followed by birds then horses.

About Pet Local restrictions

Many cities and towns have local ordinances limiting the number of pets a person may have, and may also restrict or forbid certain pets, such as exotics. Certain breeds of dog, such as pit bulls and rottweilers, are banned in some places. Dog/other canid/wolf mixes are also banned in some places.

In many locations, animals that are considered pets by their owners but are legally classified as livestock, including horses, pigs, camelids, and fowl may be banned from being kept within the city limits or restricted to property of a certain larger size.

The cities of Berkeley, California and Boulder, Colorado have passed laws stating that people who have pets do not "own" them; rather, they are the pet's "guardian."[citation needed]

Condominium associations and rental properties often ban all animals or animals that cannot be confined to a cage or aquarium because of the smells and noise associated with them.

What is a pet?

A pet is an animal kept for companionship and enjoyment or a household animal, as opposed to wild animals or to livestock, laboratory animals, working animals or sport animals, which are kept for economic or productive reasons. The most popular pets are noted for their loyal or playful characteristics, for their attractive appearance, or for their song.

Pets also generally seem to provide their owners with non-trivial health benefits; keeping pets has been shown to help relieve stress to those who like having animals around. There is now a medically-approved class of "therapy animals," mostly dogs, that are brought to visit confined humans. Walking a dog can provide both the owner and the dog with exercise, fresh air, and social interaction.