Dog Pub

The Sense of Smelling: American Foxhound

David Webb — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 05:14:01 +0000

When Robert Brooke came to America from Britain in the year 1650, he brought along with him some hunting dogs, of which the American foxhound was one. The birth of American Foxhounds actually came from this group of hunt dogs. The Scent hound which is the other name of English foxhound is said to be the cousin of this breed. This breed of American Foxhounds, were categorized into two, one as individuals, who were wonderful as show dogs. And the other as a group, and these groups came to use during fox hunts. These dogs can also be called as hunt dogs, as they have a very sharp smelling sense. As these dogs have wonderful coat, they are mostly used as show dogs in competitions. It is advised that you use hand gloves to brush their hair regularly. They can be colored with any kind of combination using the colors tan, black and white.

Generally, these dogs are fed with pudding, which is nothing but mashed oatmeal and horse meat. As they are known to become active one day before the actual hunt, they are literally starved that day. If you have an American foxhound as your pet, then the best meal you can provide him with is dry dog food of about 5 cups, or about one and half a can filled with any kind of meat product, these products are easily available at pet stores.

The height of this breed is somewhere between 21 to 25 inches and weighs around 65-75 pounds. But, the breeds which are participate as show dogs are large. This is simply because the diet given to these show dogs are different when compared to the others.

This breed of dogs is extremely smart, so you have to keep an eye on them, when they are close to gates and fences. They are very quick in learning techniques to open gates, so that they can go out and wander. As they are very shrewd in smelling things, if they get in contact with any kind of scent, that is all they will concentrate on. It is because of this reason that, training becomes very difficult for you. Once they get hold of the scent of the smell, they will keep following the smell, so it is better, that you have them on their leash. You will not be taken aback, even if you see him following the smell in a major intersection at a traffic signal, which is obviously dangerous.

If you own an American foxhound, you should be full of energy. And you should give lots of tolerance and time during training. As these dogs are born energetic, you should give them many exercises so that they get over this extra energy. In spite of being a very energetic and highly strung dog, they make a fabulous and affectionate pet, to be grown at home. This dog can become very destructive, if you do not spend enough time with him. They can very easily scratch your doors and throw your things apart.

If you have children at home, then you have to watch your American foxhound very carefully. Not that, they are not friendly with kids, but their energy level will not match the young children. There are chances, that these might hurt your kids. This is the only drawback with having this dog breed as pets. And make sure, they are not left indoors alone for a very long time.

Foxhounds hates commands, they are independent by nature, and just cannot comply any kind of training given to them. Despite of being independent, they love strangers, so if you are using this dog as a watch dog, then you are doing a big mistake. You will not be surprised to see the dog treat even a stranger as a part of your family.

The most energetic dog breed is the American foxhound. So it is a must that you give them enough exercises, like throwing the ball and asking him to fetch and taking him for a long walk. They are best suited as a house pet for the elderly and disabled as they are highly active.

Make Arrangements to Take Your Dog Along to Stay Overnight at Your Friend’s Place

David Webb — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 05:14:01 +0000

If you have to stay overnight at your friend’s place after a party, and left with no other choice but to carry your dog along with you, then it is going to be really adventurous. When you take your dog to your friend/s house, the situation can take both sides, one you really have fun with your dog around and another is your dog can really get on your nerves and make you repent for taking him there. You can definitely avoid such unnerving adversity if you know how to handle the situation.

Never, wait for the last minute, to pack all the things that your dog requires well in advance. Staying overnight at another persons house is, definitely going to be a little disruptive. So don’t you forget any of the important items of your dog. And the situation will worsen if the person whom you are staying with does not like pets. It is very important that you take your dogs crate along with you when you go to somebody’s house. Take all the regular dog food you require for the feeding time. Also remember to carry a lot of snacks for your dog.

Sleeping for the first time in a new place will make your dog feel uncomfortable, so it would be great if you carry a doggy bed along with you, as he can sleep at peace without any kind of disturbance. Your host will also be happy to see your dog sleeping in one place rather than making a mess of the furniture and shedding his all over the their house.

You can also carry a chew toy for your dog, so that you can keep him occupied while you are travelling and it can also be used if necessary at your friend’s place. Remember, your dog will definitely try to grab all the thing that he can have his mouth on. If you have already trained him not to grab things in your house, then you don’t have to worry about that. As you have given him training, he will know what he much chew and what he must not. Of course, you would not want to see your dog ripping your friend’s costly Thomasville couch apart. And that can be the most annoying thing you can ever imagine. So never take a chance in forgetting your dogs favorite chew toy. This will keep him busy and will also save you from taking a huge risk.

Are there any kids at your friend’s house?

If you feel children are very careful when it comes to pets, then you are completely mistaken. As soon as you go to your friend’s house, make sure you carefully do an introduction to your dog and their family.

Though you might boast of your dogs good behavior when it comes to strangers, sometimes the children at your friends house can get over excited and affright your dog. This kind of sudden surprises can make your dog hostile and he can even start biting and nipping. If you feel that your dog might get triggered to this kind of a treatment, then it is always better to leave him back with a brooder at home or you can even leave at the dog kennel. Here the choice is yours, if you want again.

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Funny Dog & Cat Cartoon Products Benefit Animal Causes

David Webb — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 05:14:01 +0000

Though humans tend to have very many differences, nothing can bring us closer together than a cute puppy or kitty. They seem to have a special spirit with which humans can connect.

I have owned dogs and cats since I was six years old. I am now 53. My feelings about them have not changed. Like young children, they teach me about unconditional love, something that is often lost in the hustle and bustle world in which we live. They bring me back to basics.

I am a cartoonist, I have dedicated a great deal of my work to the animal kingdom; particularly dogs and cats. Though there are many topics with which I deal, from science to relationships, my dog, cat, and other animal ones are the ones of which I love the most. It seems our followers feel the same way, at least the majority of them.

My firm manufactures products such as cartoon hoodies, women’s and kids tees and tops, aprons, hoodies, tote bags, and other casual wear featuring cartoons. Again, my favorite are dog and cat comic gifts.

Each quarter, I pledge a percentage of all sales from those products to benefit various animal causes. At first, I thought it would be a good incentive for other animal lovers to purchase my products so I could help animals at shelters and others in trouble. Though that is happening, I am also receiving orders for pet-related cartoon products from people who have never cared for a pet.

Some customers just feel the products to be unique gifts with funny cartoons on them. But I’ve received emails from a number of clients who simply express that they want to help a good cause. If this does not renew one’s faith in the human race, I am not sure what will. Animals have nothing to give back (materially) but unconditional love, one of the most valuable, if not the most valuable asset one possess.

If you’ve not experienced the uncondional love of a pet, I suggest to visit your local shelter today. We all have done things in our lives of which we are not proud, possibly regret. I assure you this will not be one of them. It will change your life in such a positive way, words cannot express it.

Cartoonist and animal lover has found a way to embed passion into his cartoon work using his love of animals with a new line of funny dog and cat cartoon clothing at his Rick Londonwear Store. Dog, Cat & Other Hilarious Londons Times Cartoon Gifts & Collectibles Click Here

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Administering First Aid to Your Dog - Transporting the Injured Safely

David Webb — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 05:14:02 +0000

Dogs are severely injured when vehicles hit them. You can save the dog from further injuries by carrying it away or helping it walk away to safety by slowing down traffic. Knowledge of First Aid is essential as it helps you when you wish to help an injured dog or human being as the precautions in moving the injured are generally the same. However, the dog might try to escape or bite due to pain, so extra precautions in preventing further injuries are necessary such as keeping its muzzle closed loosely with a shoelace or a towel.

The very first thing to do before moving anyone/anything injured is to gauge their injuries, in order to prevent more injuries or worsening the present ones. Besides, improper handling of injured can be fatal especially in serious injuries.

If the dog has suffered “Spinal and Head Injuries”, it can be unconscious, shocked or even paralyzed. Blood might ooze out of its ear, mouth, nose, or anus and the pupils of its eyes might look dilated. Hence, if you feel that the dog has these injuries, a large, flat and solid surfaced object like sled, plywood or stiff cardboard is required, so that the whole animal can rest on it comfortably. Extreme caution is required in moving the dog on the object. Avoid turning or twisting the dogs’ neck or body as much as possible. The dog should lie on its side. If you are not able to find a flat surface, you can try using a towel and blanket and slowly move it onto the same. Afterwards, you shall need to carry it carefully to the vehicle. In this case, others help is definite, so do ask for help.

If the dog has suffered “Leg and Pelvic” injuries or fractures, it shall limp, be in extreme pain and the injured/fractured part can become swollen. If the dog is able to stand but is unable to apply weight or pressure on the affected limb, you can create a splint from wood to support and protect the limb from further dislocation of bones or swelling. If possible, you may even wrap a large towel (folded if required) over the limb to protect from accidental touching or bumping while carrying or walking the dog to the vehicle. You can even wrap a towel around its stomach and hold its ends like a sling to help the dog while walking.

If in case the dog is not able to stand on its own due to a serious fracture (like at pelvis) or injury, you shall need to transport the dog to the vehicle just as you would transport one having a head or spinal injury.

Once the dog is safely in the vehicle, it should not move until it is in the safe hands of the veterinarian, which is important for the safety and well-being of the dog and the vehicle occupants. Small dogs can be kept in a kennel fastened tightly in the car while large dogs shall need someone to hold it still.

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Italian Greyhounds: The Smallest of the Sight Hounds

David Webb — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 05:14:01 +0000

The Italian greyhound is a diminutive dog with delicate features that is gaining in popularity as a household companion. He is the smallest of a group of dogs known as sight hounds or dogs that relied on their vision to hunt for small moving prey.

Italian greyhounds no longer have to hunt for their dinner, but the desire to give chase to something that has caught their eye still remains.

His Origins:

Italian greyhounds (lovingly called IGs) are an old breed and may have originated somewhere about 2,000 years ago. Archaeologists have discovered greyhound skeletons in the countries that are now known as Turkey and Greece. IGs are also depicted on many of the early decorative art in this region.

They made their way throughout Europe, and they can thank their popularity in part to their miniature stature. The Italians were quite smitten with the breed and by the seventeenth century, the breed had made its way into England.

About Italian Greyhounds: Body, Mind, and Training

They are truly greyhounds just much smaller due to selective breeding. The average Italian greyhound is only 10 pounds in weight but can range anywhere from 7 pounds to 14 or 15.

While they are not an excessively fragile dog, they do have finer bones than many dogs. This doesn’t make them suitable for rough playing. In addition, Italian Greyhounds are known for being sensitive in personality. This sensitivity doesn’t always blend well with loud households or small children.

His sensitive nature can also pose challenges when trying to train the dog. IGs can be taught to work with you, but they are not a breed that has originated to work for people or to always be obedient. A skilled trainer or an owner invested in working with their dog needs to remain light and happy, keep training fun, and work to motivate the dog to learn.

Italian Greyhounds don’t handle rough or harsh training well, and training fraught with frustration, punishment, or anger will quickly shut the dog down to learning.

Health Concerns:

IGs are a fairly hardy breed, but there are three things that owners need to be aware of:

1. Dental disease: It is of utmost important that owners of Italian Greyhounds establish a good dental care routine with tooth brushing. Many of them may develop dental disease at an early age without proper care.

Also, beware of extra teeth. It is fairly common for a young puppy to retain his puppy teeth while his adult teeth break through. These puppy teeth will need to be removed if they do not fall out themselves.

2. Bone fractures: Because IGs do have finer bone structures, fractures of the forearm, particularly in a young, active puppy are not uncommon. Keep a close eye on young dogs to avoid injury.

3. Drug sensitivities: One of the biggest issues can come with anesthesia for medical procedures. IGs can be sensitive to some anesthetics, but they do fairly well with isoflurane.

As with any other breed, there are a few additional health issues that might arise in some Italian greyhounds. Do a little research to make sure you know all the problems that affect the breed.

For More Information:

To learn more about Italian greyhounds, look at kennel club websites like the American Kennel Club (www.akc.org) and breed clubs like the Italian Greyhound Club of America (www.italiangreyhound.org). There are comparable groups in other countries as well, if you are located outside the United States.

Lea Mullins shares information on Italian Greyhounds, the smallest sight hounds. Visit TrainPetDog.com to learn more about habits and temperament of Italian Greyhounds.

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