Trimming Pet's Nails: Take Proper Care Of Your Pet

Trimming Pet's Nails: Take Proper Care Of Your Pet
Most pet owners understand how to take proper care of their pet. Many basic grooming procedures consist of brushing, bathing, and getting their hair cut. Some, however, overlook one of the most important tasks in keeping your pet well groomed. This part involves nothing more than keeping your pet’s nails neatly trimmed. Believe it or not, this is very important for a pet’s health and well being. Several benefits of this process include better mobility, less pain, bonding, and better health. These are all excellent benefits that make this process worth attempting. Granted, trimming a pet’s nails may seem like a difficult job, and it can be because many pets do not necessarily enjoy this and they are not afraid to let their owners know about it. Fortunately, there are some incredible tools available to make the job less painful for both of you. Using them and getting the job done correctly can have many benefits that are too large to ignore. When you keep up with trimming your pet’s nails, you can discover the following benefits:

• Mobility - When a dog’s claws are allowed to grow too long, basic tasks such as running and walking become painful and more difficult. This may even become a problem for very young dogs with a lot of energy. Dogs in particular, enjoy running and playing and by keeping their nails short, you can increase their comfort level while performing these activities. Keeping your pet’s claws correctly and neatly trimmed can help ensure that he never suffers the unnecessary pain long nails can cause.
• Better health - When claws are allowed to grow too long over an extended period of time, health problems can arise. An ordinarily healthy dog can become lame from favoring paws while walking. In some cases, broken nails can be an issue and can even cause infections in the paws. Long nails can cause problems for your pet including infections. These infections are caused by the nail cracking or splitting.
• Increased comfort - If you do not trim a cat’s nails often, they may begin scratching in an attempt to shorten their own nails. They may use a variety of surfaces including your furniture. Unfortunately, this also means that they may scratch you and other objects in your home.
• Bonding - Nail trimming and other routine health care maintenance can be the perfect time to bond with your cat or dog. Try to make the experience as enjoyable as possible and it can pay off for both of you. When you begin the process by calming your pet and finish by giving your pet a treat, he or she may look forward to a weekly claw inspection and trimming. This is a great experience because you can tell that your pet is happy and you know they are healthy too.

Getting the Job Done With Ease If you want to make sure your pet enjoys the benefits of routine claw trimming, you may want to learn how to perform the job yourself. Yes, you can go to a groomer for this, but it can prove costly to keep up with on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. There are several tools and tips for trimming your pet’s nails. To trim a cat or dog’s claws with relative ease, consider the following tips:

• Getting a nail grinder - There are specialized tools for trimming canine and feline claws. Rather than technically cut, they grind. These devices make it easier for you to handle the job and less intimidating for your dog or cat. A nail grinder is a tool that grinds the nails rather than cut them. This can be less painful for your pet because there is a lower chance of cutting the quick.
• Using rewards - Do not overlook the value of rewarding your pet for behaving well during a trim. When you reinforce that a treat is coming after a trim, your pet should respond well.
• Taking it with a grain of salt - If you are new at trimming your pet’s claws and find the job is a little difficult, do not sweat it. Rather than try to trim all four paws in one sitting, do one at a time. If your pet seems distressed, just back off for a bit and come back to the job later.

There are many benefits to trimming your pet’s nails. The main benefits include better mobility for your pet, improved overall health, and less pain. These benefits are worth it and even though your pet may be uncomfortable with the process, you should try to find ways to help them get through it. Rewards are important because they show your pet that your care and they were good during the process. This helps them to behave in a similar manner during the next nail trimming.

Jeremy Foster is a freelance writer who writes about pet care and pet products, focusing primarily on specific pet care products such as <a href="http://www.taylorgifts.com/prodetail~itemNo~29015.asp">Pedi Paws.</a>

Pet Nutrition and Health…Be Cautious!
If you are squeamish this article may be uncomfortable. This was a difficult article to write, because of the close relationship we have with our pets. My purpose is to inform and educate “Pet Parents” as to what can be done to extend the life and improve the health of their beloved friends.

I was brought up on a livestock and grain farm where there was never a problem feeding the pets as well as the other animals. With the declining farm population and people now living in cities and small towns, less and less people have access to the feeds that are so prevalent on farms. Consequently we purchase processed and prepared foods at supermarkets and pet stores and the like.

What we do not know is where the foods are prepared and more importantly from where the raw feedstuffs come. The following paragraphs expose facts generally unknown to the public. Read to the end of this article to find out what you can do to improve your pet’s nutrition and health.

Most of us have heard of a rendering plant, but don’t have much information as to what they do or how they do it. Rendering plants dispose of over 12 million tons of dead animals, fat and meat wastes every year. These dead animal processors gather dead, diseased, dying or disabled (know as 4-D animals). The processing consists of grinding carcasses into small pieces and “cooking” them just long enough to facilitate separating of the “meat” and offal from the bones, hides, etc.

An important point: Most pharmaceuticals and drugs are not broken down in the brief heated processing period.

What is not well known is the animals may have had charcoal or preservatives to slow the decay prior to processing. Another distressing fact is the animals may have been sick and previously treated with pharmaceuticals and other chemicals. Larger road-kill animals may also be included in the mix. The most upsetting fact is: Euthanized pets from pounds are many times included.

With those words, I am going to add the plastic bags used by pounds, supermarkets, veterinarians and labs are not removed, because of time and labor costs. Collars, ID tags, flea collars and the like are also not removed. The hair and feathers are processed with everything else.

What I have referred to above is what constitutes animal protein used in pet foods. Vegetable proteins are ground corn, wheat middlings and sweepings, soybean meal, rice hulls, peanut meal and shells and many other products. Other ingredients can be cooking oils from fast food restaurants, tallow and other vegetable and animal sources.

The American Veterinarian Medical Association (AVMA) has oversight, but they are understaffed and very little pressure is available to require monitoring.

There is help: A very limited number of companies avail themselves of the use of proper feedstuffs to produce a healthful, nutritional pet food. This requires third party verification of products used in preparing a healthy food. The cost, of course, is greater, but to extend your pet’s natural healthy life is a choice that many owners are now making with relief and great satisfaction. More information is available at:

Richard Monson is an entrepreneurial spirit with many interests. Pets are continuous companions in his life. Having lived on a farm he has concern for animals and out of necessity has studied animal nutrition and health. His interests in chemistry, physics and biology have provided him with the curiosity to look for answers beyond the usual methods.

Top Pet Medications
The development of medications for pets has increased rapidly in recent years. Pets are becoming a part of the family, and general advancements are being made in medicine. It makes sense that more resources are being devoted to pets. The advances in medications have increased the quality of life for many pets, and made life more pleasant for owners as well.

For instance, the development of Frontline, one of the top selling pet medications, has greatly reduced the hassles associated with fleas. Before the development of the topical spot-on treatment, fleas were a major problem for many pet owners. While there were a myriad of sprays, collars, dips and shampoos available to treat one’s pet, these were only temporary relief measures. Carpet powders and sprays could reduce the flea population in the home for a time, but flea eggs can remain dormant, and the fleas always came back. Frontline eliminated the need for ineffective flea treatments. Frontline is a very beneficial medication for your pet because it kills fleas and ticks that are on your pet while helping to kill those in your house.

Another medication that has improved the lives of one’s pet is the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, Rimadyl. Rimadyl is a highly effective pain reliever, which also helps reduce inflammation. This medication is used to treat temporary pain, such as post surgery, or chronic pain, such as that associated with osteoarthritis. The pain relief is dramatic, and for many pets that have suffered from osteoarthritis, the difference in the animals behavior and activity level is dramatic. Rimadyl has provided an alternative treatment for many pets whose owners would previously have had little choice other than euthanasia to relieve their pet’s pain.

Another way to treat arthritic conditions is through supplementation. While supplements such as Dasuquin do not provide pain relief in the traditional way, they contain ingredients that help lessen the pain of osteoarthritis. For instance, Dasuquin contains glucosamine, chondroitin, avocado and soybean unsaponifiables, tea polyphenols and other ingredients that have been shown to improve joint health. Dasuquin has a chicken and tuna flavor that most pets readily accept.

Many pets today suffer from various digestive ailments. Whether from allergies or disease, problems with the digestive tract are no fun. A pet that cannot properly absorb nutrients will not have a strong immune system, will have trouble maintaining weight, and may develop other problems as well. Denamarin is a liver supplement that can help with these issues. Denamarin provides support for liver function, and helps bile flow through the liver. This improves digestion and helps your pet absorb nutrients from his diet.

If your pet has problems with his skin and coat, you may be interested in Douxo Calm, an emulsion spray that is used in the treatment of seborrhea. The spray improves the quality of the coat, moisturizes and relieves your pet’s itching.

If you believe that your pet could benefit from one of these pet medications, it is important to talk to your veterinarian. Some medications, such as Frontline, are available without a prescription, but others require a prescription to be dispensed.
These medications can put a strain on your budget, but there are ways to make them more affordable. One way is to purchase the medications online. Even medications that require a prescription can be purchased online; you simply fax or ask your veterinarian to fax a copy of the prescription to the online store where you found a better price.

While some veterinarians may prefer to sell you the medication themselves, but if you explain the financial realities of your situation, many veterinarians may provide you with a prescription or offer to match the price of the online pharmacy.

Occasionally veterinarians are unwilling to provide a prescription for various medications. Often, prescription medications make up a large percentage of the profit that is generated by a veterinary hospital. Particularly with medications such as Rimadyl that are taken for chronic conditions. A medication for a chronic condition could become quite expensive, and purchasing online may be the best choice for your budget.

If your veterinarian is reluctant to provide you with a prescription, you have two remedies. The first is to shop around for a different veterinarian. If you are otherwise happy with your pet’s care, you may not want to switch hospitals over this issue. The other choice is to have a frank discussion with your veterinarian about the expense. In some states, the veterinarian is required to provide you with a prescription of any prescribed drug, but if the veterinarian is strongly opposed to you purchasing the prescription online, this can create conflict in your relationship and they may also charge you a fee for writing the prescription. It is best to be honest about your budget concerns in order to convince your pet’s health care provider that you need the option of ordering online.

Shawn Thomas is a freelance writer who often writes about topics pertaining to the care of pets and health options for pets such as <a href="http://www.vetrxdirect.com/">pet medicine</a>

Dasha's Healing
One day my wife went to our daughter s place to take her dog called Dasha for a walk. Usually it is the most joyous activity for Dasha and she is always grateful for this treat. But that evening she was breathing hard and expressed not joy but only sadness . When my wife touched her and wanted to give her a cuddle she screamed displaying unhappiness. As the next day it was planned to renovate our daughter s kitchen my wife offered to bring Dasha to our place next morning. In the morning, when Dasha came to our home, she did not greet us with joy standing on her back legs nor did she allow us to tickle her leg. She was breathing heavily, her head was bending down so that she could not look at us at all and her tail was hanging down as well. Instead of greeting me and lying down next to me as always happened before, she was just walking around me breathing with great difficulties. When I tried gently to pat her neck she screamed as she did the previous evening. I ve realized clearly that Dasha needs immediate help. I did not have much experience praying for the animals though I ve read and heard wonderful testimonies of healings. Though my heart was with that lovely dog but I still did not know exactly how to start praying for Dasha. My thoughts started wondering that the animals were not created as image and likeness of God, as man is, and therefore perhaps they are not spiritual and eternal. Suddenly the thought that All is infinite Mind and its infinite manifestations embraced my consciousness. That thought became so real to me because of my study of the Science of divine Mind, described in the book Science and Health with key to the Scriptures written by Mary Baker Eddy. From that fact I ve continued to reason that even though the animals perhaps are not eternal beings as man is, but because God, Mind created them, they also must reflect the beauty, health, goodness and perfection in their lives. Coming mentally to that point and seeing that Dasha was still suffering I ve called to the Lord God with all my heart and I ve started talking to Dasha claiming the truth about the dog as a God s creation. I ve said to Dasha with authority, Dasha, God made you good and therefore you are free from disharmony. Also I ve refused to accept in my consciousness that some accidents or evil tongues (these were two seeming suggestions about her abnormality) can have power or take a hold over Dasha! As she was still wondering around I ve continued to utter the truth for another 10 min until her breath calmed and she sat quietly in the corner. With some relief I ve praised God for that first step and mentally still was holding the truth that all creations which God has made are good including Dasha and so nothing inharmonious could enter in God s creation. In 5 min Dasha was already lying in peace. In 20 min I ve stood up and in that moment Dasha as usual joyfully ran up to me holding her head up and giving me her leg to pat and shake it. Her tail was up again and she ran quickly to the kitchen to have her breakfast. But this was not the end of the story. After the walks Dasha sometimes experienced difficulties with breathing but after that Friday morning she comes home after walk with joy and without laboured breathing at all. I was so grateful to God for that healing and for learning that the animals as the children are so receptive to healing.

If you would like to explore for yourselves how physical health is reflected by clear, pure or spiritual thoughts you can look at the site www.christian-healing-prayer.net.au or please contact Michael Blitchtein by e-mail mib@fhills.hotkey.net.au. About the author please look at www.christian.healing-prayer.net/about.htm

Belgian Malinois - Protector Of Home, Family And Livestock
The Belgian Malinois is a medium/large size dog that weighs between 40-80 lbs and is between 22″ to 26″ in height. Their name is pronounced MAL-in-wah. They are one of four Belgian Sheepdogs and are very work oriented and are protective of home, family and livestock.

The AKC recognizes the Belgian Malinois in the colors of fawn to mahogany to red with a black mask, ears and tips. Minimal white on the chest and feet is permitted. The short, smooth, straight and hard outer coat and dense undercoat require minimal grooming and are very easy to care for. Regular washing is not recommended as their coat has water proofing.

This intelligent, energetic, protective breed is still more of a working dog than companion. They have a strong drive to work. The Belgian Malinois makes an excellent farm dog, watchdog, police dog and herding dog because of their instinct to protect their family, home or whatever else they are trained to protect. They can make a great family pet as well. Early socialization is a must for children, other dogs and pets. In fact, they do best if they are socialized from the time they are born. They can be dominant towards other dogs. Early, consistent, firm but not harsh training is important. They are harder for a novice to train than someone who is more experienced. The Belgian Malinois has a lot of energy and loves to be on the go. They require a yard and plenty of room to run and play. They are not meant to be indoors all day. They enjoy being with their family and are not meant to be left alone for long periods of time as they will get bored and find some way to fill their time.

Originating in Belgium, the Belgian Malinois is one of four Belgian Sheepdogs. Their name comes from the Belgian city of Malines. It is recognize as its own breed by the AKC however, in some countries, all four Belgian Sheepdogs are considered to be one breed. The Belgian Malinois is popular in Belgium and is used for herding, police work and as a search and rescue dog.

A breed with such a strong work drive, protective instinct and high energy makes an excellent watchdog and farm dog. They do best with families that are active and will meet their work and exercise needs. An active, busy Belgian Malinois is a happy Belgian Malinois.

Learn more about the <a href="http://www.deardoggy.com/dog_breeds/belgian_malinois/">Belgian Malinois</a> or discuss <a href="http://www.deardoggy.com/">Dogs</a> with other dog lovers at <a href="http://www.deardoggy.com/">www.deardoggy.com</a>

Dog Adoption Tips I Learned From My 2 Dogs
There?s a hole in your life that only a dog can fill. You want a special dog, perhaps just a full-grown adult. Maybe your code of ethics calls for saving a dog?s life ? not buying an expensive purebred.

I?m not a veterinarian or a dog trainer, but I?ve enjoyed two successful adoptions. Here are some tips I?ve picked up along the way.

(1) Clarify your requirements ahead of time.

Once you?re standing in front of a cage, it?s easy to say, ?Well, he?s a lot bigger than I expected, and I really wanted a female, but oh he?s SO cute!? No amount of love or training will help if your dog needs more exercise than you can provide.

(2) Know the difference between shelter and rescue groups.

Most cities have humane societies where you can view dogs and make a choice. Rescue groups typically hold animals in foster care ? which is good, because you can ask the foster mom all sorts of questions. For example, they can say, ?This dog lived with two cats so you know you can trust her.?

(3) Be prepared to pay.

Shelter animals are not free, but you do get value for money. Expect to pay a fee that may include spay/neuter costs, licensing, and/or veterinarian visits.

(4) Consider an older dog.

By the time a dog has turned three or four, she?s as big as she?s going to get. No surprises! You?ll also have clues regarding his temperament.

(5) Plan to confine the dog during a period of transition.

Your new dog doesn?t get it. She was in a loving home (or left alone in a yard all day or even abused). Then she spent a few weeks in a cage, feeling lonely and isolated. Maybe she?s been passed around to multiple homes.

Bottom line, she?s stressed. She may chew, dig, bark, or even lose her house training at first.

Crating the dog prevents destructive behavior. My dogs both looked visibly relieved as they retreated to their crates every day. ?Time to relax,? they seemed to say.

(6) Invest in training.

Most dogs are turned over to the shelter because of behavior problems. If you?re new to the world of dog behavior, take a class or hire a professional. Most behavior can be corrected, even among older dogs. But if you?re not sure, ask a professional. Some behaviors can?t be ?fixed.?

(7) Incorporate large doses of exercise and walks into your day.

Walking together builds your bond and a tired dog is a good dog. Begin the exercise program immediately so you can gain a sense of how much exercise the dog needs ? an important factor in the dog?s adjustment ? and start training for the basics on the way home from the shelter.

Cathy Goodwin, a certfified Dog Fanatic, wrote Arf! Dog Health Comes Home: tips and resources to care for your aging, sick or injured dog. Download from <a href="http://www.dog-health.org" title="http://www.dog-health.org" target="_blank">http://www.dog-health.org</a>

Protect Your Pets Health With Home Cooking
My Lhasa Apso Gallagher came to me completely hairless except for the hair on his head. He looked so bad that the humane society scheduled him to be euthanized, luckily he was saved by a local rescue group. His hair loss was due to lack of care and nutrition from his time spent on the streets. I was able to see past Gallagher’s condition when I looked into his big brown eyes that were calling for me to save him. I immediately secured the services of a holistic veterinarian. Over a six month period we tried every specialty food product available on the market. Some were quite awful, mushy fish and potatoes being high on the list. No matter what I did Gallagher always had this smell of fish about him. Out of complete frustration I told the vet that I had to take matters into my own hands. The Vet was very helpful in telling me what not to feed the Lhasa breed. Of course I did do some further research as I didn’t want to jeopardize Gallagher’s heath in any way. It took another three months before I actually started to see a nice coat of hair covering his body. After experimenting with several food combinations I settled on chicken, fresh cat fish, some beef and occasionaly turkey. Unfortunately Gallgher has an aversion to rice, so he’s just a meat and poulty guy. It’s now eight years since Gallagher came into my life. He along with his sisters Fanny and Kiki are still eating home cooked meals. I truly believe this is the natural and healthy way to feed my pets. As a testament to this belief all of my pets have been quite healthy throughout their lives. I am also so grateful that I didn’t have to be concerned with all the pet food scares going on these days. I know that I’m doing the cooking and all my dogs are quite happy, healthy and satisfied. Whenever I take Gallagher to the groomer I am reminded of his early days in my life and I can clearly see the black leather skin on his hairless body. All it took was a little home cooking to restore Gallagher’s dignity and health.

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