Tips On Caring For A Dog

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Did you know lavender is a great flea repellent or that Sugarless gum can cause liver failure, which can quickly lead to death in dogs?

 By Sharon Stajda

It' s a well known fact that dogs are the ancestors of wolves. There is good evidence that shows dogs were first domesticated many thousands of years ago in East Asia, most likely China. It is theory that a handful of breeds from East Asia were the first breeds of dog.( To name a few of the Asian breeds ,Chow Chow, Basenji, Shar Pei, Akita Inu, Shiba Inu ,and the Chihuahua).

These Asian breeds ended all over the around the world, and through cross breeding have evolved into the many breeds we enjoy today.

Luckily, dogs along the way have learned to discard their wolf like ways, and live comfortably side by side with the human species. In fact dogs have evolved into very social animals, and get along extremely well with humans. They haven't earned the name "mans best friend by accident"...

Even though dogs have come a long way, they have kept some of the wolves like instincts. One such instinct, the desire to live in a pack. Living in a pack is one of the instincts dogs seem to have inherited from wolves. In a pack a dog has a job, and earns the respect of other pack members by doing its job well. They also learn to be loyal and devoted to the other pack member, and developed life long friendships to other dogs in their pack. The pack provided a dog with a family, and they relied on each other for survival. Although pack dogs, and our pet dogs of today are different in many ways? The pet dogs of today still possesses many instincts from their ancestor, the wolf.

Thankfully dogs have evolved over these many thousands of years into the pets we know and love today. Our pets become intricate parts of our family's, and are enjoyed for their individual personalities. What would the world be today without pet dogs?

When a dog moves in it doesn't take them long to make themselves right at home. They quickly find their special place in the pack , so to speak. Some dogs take a while to find their pack status.While other dogsbecome pack leader with good speed--- and the pet owner is designated to be a lower pack member,and has their work cut out for them...

 But in most cases if a dog is treated with respect, and cared for properly, they will become devoted, and loyal to the people they live with. Letting their owners call all the shots.

I have a wonderful dog, her name is "Rose". Rose is a 13 year old Westie (West Highland White Terrier). Shes a great little dog. I will admit she  has been a handful at times, but my family, and I love her all  the same. She has been plagued with many of the health problems that can be prominent to the Westie breed. But I must say, I would not trade her for any other dog in the world. She is a joy to have around, and anyonre who gets to know her, loves her. Shes smart , funny, and has a huge personality!

It is my hopes that this lens will provide a forum where users can share their knowledge, and general tips on dogs. I would truly appreciate feedback at my Guest book, and hope other dog lovers will share their experience's in regards to training, feeding, grooming and so on... I will be sharing some helpful dog care tips with my visitor's. So please drop in often ...

Lavender Can Chase Away Fleas... 

Did you know lavender is a great flea repellent? Well, it is... I use lavender in many ways on my dog Rose. Check out Rose's Rinse. This rinse contains dried lavender bud, which not only soften, and soothe her skin, but repels bugs... Such as fleas, mosquitoes, ticks, and more.

I also make my own pet flea collars, just add lavender oil to a bandana or woven rope type collar, again it helps with doggie odor, plus repels bugs.

Does your dog sleep in a doggie bed or favorite blanket? Tuck a sachet of lavender under the lining of the bed. To chase away bugs. You can also just add drops of lavender oil to final rinse when washing your pets blanket.

Pamper Your Pup...Is Your Pup Properly Pampered? 

Things that most pampered pups owners make sure their pups don't do without.

Most pet owners would find these item's a bit over the top...Here are some not-so-basic pet supplies that every pampered pup might have?

Dog clothes
Pet insurance
Pet furniture
Dog steps
Dog dresses
Dog stroller
Dog jewelry
Dog car seat
Dog diapers
Dog China Bowls

Tips On Dog Care--And More... 

My Westie "Rose" has big time food allergies... I concocted this recipe so she could continue to enjoy a healthy treat. She loves it! It is not only health, but hard and crunchy--- good for dogs teeth....
Rose's Doggie Banana Biscotti - Bellissimo!
By Sharon Stajda,

After learning that my Westie Rose had several allergies, it had me checking all of her dry dog food, and goodies for the forbidden ingredients. She ended up being allergic to some of the most common ingredient in dry pet food, ingredients such as, beef, rice, corn, flax, milk, soy, white potato, and corn. As you can see from this list, it was not going to be easy to find a food that would be void of these popular ingredients. I had my work cut out for me? Please read further, great recipe...
Rose's Rinse
By Sharon Stajda,

Is your dog's skin overly dry or flaky? Is its coat dull, and lack luster? Are there any problems that should be taken into consideration, such as lesions or rashes? For Rose's Rinse Recipe, Read More...
Traveling With Your Dog
By Sharon Stajda,
If you own a pet at some point you might have to travel with that pet. It is very important to take your pets well being and safety into consideration. Read More...
The West Highland White Terrier
By Sharon Stajda
So you have decided you are going to buy a West Highland white terrier, otherwise known as a Westie. Westies are great little light-hearted dogs. They are quick to learn, and as a rule they are very self sufficient, and have wonderful, unique personalities. Please read more...
How The Dog Became Man's Best Friend...
Some scientists believe that the earliest wild dog originated in North America fifteen to thirty-five million years ago, long before any men lived there. No one really knows which animals were the ancestors of this first dog in the world. They think that he probably had a wolf father and a jackal mother. And the descendants of this puppy were the very first wild animals that primitive man ever tamed.read more...
So You Think You Want a Yorkshire Terrier ...
"If you think you might be interested in getting a Yorkshire terrier you should keep in mind that while small, this particular breed of dog needs a lot of attention--- read on

.....IMPORTANT FOR ALL DOG OWNERS TO READ..... 

Sugarless gum can cause liver failure, which can quickly lead to death in dogs----

A common sweetener by the name of Xylitol used in sugarless gum, and toothpaste. It can also be found in some food products naturally. Foods such as fruit, berries, mushrooms, and lettuce. If ingested even in small amounts it can lead to a serious problems. When Xylitol is ingested by dogs, it causes an increase in insulin production, which drops the dogs blood sugar dangerously low. Which can results in liver failure, and a speedy death. Symptoms of Xylitol poisoning can include; initially vomiting, loss of appetite, depression, loss of coordination, and seizures. Symptoms are rapid. If your dog ever ingests sugarless gum or toothpaste treat it as an emergency...

...Swiffer Wet Jet Rumor...
"ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Responds to
(Urbana, IL) May 6, 2004 -- Veterinary toxicologists at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center have reviewed the claim described in a widely distributed email alleging a relationship between the use of Swiffer Wet Jet and liver failure in a dog. The email alleges that exposure to the ingredients in Swiffer Wet Jet caused a dog's death." Please be informed on Wet Jet---Read more...

http://dogs.about.com/b/a/085114.htm

GROUPS OF DOGS 

Terrier Group...
All of the breeds in the Terrier Group are small enough to be kept in a city apartment. Nowadays, most of these dogs are raised as pets although, like the working and porting dogs, they, too, were originally trained to help man.Read more...
The Hound Group Of Dogs...
The word "hound" comes from the German word "hund," which means dog. The Hound Group is made up of dogs who hunt wild animals, instead of birds, as the dogs in the Sporting Group do. Some of them do this with their noses, and some with their eyes. That is why some are called "scent hounds" and others are called "sight hounds." read more...
The Toy Group...
Although the breeds in the Toy Group are as small as their name suggests, it is a mistake to think of them as being delicate or difficult to raise. Indeed, because they originated before there were good dog doctors in the world, such tiny animals had to be exceptionally hardy to have survived so long.read more...
The Sporting Group...
The Sporting Group contains in it some of the oldest breeds of dogs who have been helping men hunt for many centuries. The dogs that belong to this group still help sportsmen hunt wild birds. read more...
Working Dogs...
The breeds in this group were bred and trained to be just what the name says-workers. There are some of the best known and best loved of man's dog companions in this group. From the earliest days of recorded history, these are the animals who have helped man pull his sleds, guard his sheep, watch his home and family, fight his enemies, and trail criminals. read more...
Non-Sporting Dogs...
To call the breeds in this group "Non-Sporting" is not quite accurate. The name was given to them, however, because by and large they have lived with men as companions for such a long time that they are now known mainly as -pets. Originally, all the breeds in this group came from different lands and served different purposes. They were all raised and bred for some specific work or sport. Although almost always considered pets today, they could still be used for their specific purpose if trained properly. read more...

Is Your Dog Prone To Allergies? 

Check out link below...

What's Behind Your Dog's Allergies? 

Allergies And Your Dog
What's causing your dog to itch? It's probably dog allergies. But is it food, dust mites ... or you? There are hundreds of possibilities. Read On...

BOY HAVE I FOUND A GREAT DRY DOG FOOD FOR DOGS WITH OR WITHOUT ALLERGIES! 

Please check out foods made by the company Natura. I feed Rose(my westie)California Natural, made by Natura! Natura use only ingredients that are produced right here in the USA.

This company makes their dry dog foods in their own factory, from ingredients that are only produced here in the USA. These variables gives an added safeguard against the resent problems with the wheat gluten that is being imported from China that has been finding its way into our pets food, and causing death, and serious problems in pets.

I feed Rose California Natural Herring & Sweet Potato formula. She loves it, and her skin and coat are wonderful.

I have added the link to Natura,the company that makes California Natural Pet Foods.You Will Find It Just Below.

Stop in and reserch the foods they offer. I might mention the price's on their foods are very reasonable.

Natura Makes Wonderful Healthy Foods For Your Dog... 

Natura Pet Food Company
Natura never uses cheap pet food ingredients,in any of their foods. Such as protein fillers, or even premium ingredients fillers that can be highly allergic to pets with sensitive systems. In fact, they have the shortest ingredient list of any dry pet food and combine just one protein, one fat and one carbohydrate source to create a hypoallergenic pet food. You won't see anything on the lables that are chemical in nature.

Please Stop In And Visit A Few Other Squidoo Pups... 

Here are some wonderful Squidoo Len's, that are breed specific...

West Highland White...
West Highland White Terrier, Westie, little white dog. What ever you call them --- they are light hearted, and have such big personalities...
So You Think You Want a Yorkshire Terrier ...
Yorkshire terriers typically make great companion dogs, and will live somewhere between twelve and sixteen years and weigh under seven pounds full grown. If you think you might be interested in getting a Yorkshire terrier you should keep in mind that while small, this particular breed of dog needs a lot of attention, and a lot of activity.
Cool Cool---Corgi...
This is a compilation of the coolest, most fun and interesting Welsh Corgi sites on the web. Click through my lists and recommendations and you'll find some very enjoyable and informative sites for the corgi fancier!
Bull Dog Living...
I love you, and I love kids, and I love humor. I'm always as cute as anyone you've ever seen. If you're lonely, you can talk to me!

I go to a great bark park. Lots of friends, especially the 4 leggers! If you are one of my bark park buddies, send us your picture and I'll show you off too!
Golden Retrievers - Dogs with Hearts of Gold...
Goldens are active and fun-loving but also exceptionally patient, and have an inordinate love for cool water.

They are noted for their intelligence, their affection for people, and their tolerance of children. Golden Retrievers make great pets for young children due to their nurturing instincts and gentle nature. The other side of this is that they require lots of companionship to be happy.
Schnauzers - A delightful Companion...
Schnauzers are notably intelligent, have a friendly personality and a mischievous sense of humor. Schnauzers are also very loyal dogs.
My Chihuahuas -R- Barking...
Introducing Prissy and Shorty. We are both very curious and spunky. We are all bark and no bite !!! Not only do we love to bark, we love looking outside the storm door and seeing what's on the outside.
Oodles of Poodles...
I'm a doting dog lover. These are the two lucky recipients of my largesse, Whitney, a black Standard Poodle, and Dood, a cream Labradoodle. Aren't they the most preshus-weshus doggies you ever saw?
Total German Shepherds...
Total German Shepherds
The goal of this group is to provide and share among our members the best information available online about all aspects of the German Shepherd.
Jack Russell Terrier...
Love Jack Russells? Find out more about your favorite breed of dog.
You either love Jack Russells, or you don't. These live-wire bouncy, clever little dogs aren't for everyone.
Pug...
Pugs may be best known for their wrinkly, pushed in faces and their curly tales. But anyone who has ever met a pug knows what it feels like to be owned by a pug. Pugs are adorable, Spunky, and Loyal. Pugs have more personality than most humans. Here is some great pug stuff from around the net.
Beagle...
For all the snuffling beagles on the planet, and their humans - but especially for Toby and Heather.
Lucydog on the American Pit Bull Terrier...
Our family has shared our experiences with the American Pit Bull Terrier on the Lucydog.com website since 1996. My life with the APBT started in 1996, when we adopted our first silly Pit Bull, Lucy (at left) from a wonderful no-kill shelter. Now, we have three rescued Pit Bulls and a rare longhaired Pit Bull (just kidding, folks - he's a Chow Chow).

Traveling By Air With Your Dog 

Its getting better all the time...

Did You realize that some airlines now will let you bring your dog in the cabin Now? I have added some links below that you might want to check out before you fly with your dog.
Take your pet where you Go!
Good Site, lists Airlines that will let dogs ride in cabin...
Most airlines provide information about bringing pets onboard. Some airlines will not take pets at all and some will allow pets only when they are brought into the cabin.
American Airlines
The following information will provide the answers to many common questions regarding the transportation of pets. Special guidelines apply for travel to international destinations and Hawaii. Please refer to the appropriate sections below for more detailed information regarding those destinations.
Dog Lovers .com
DogFriendly.com promotes airlines that allow medium to large size well-behaved family dogs on airlines in the cabin section with people (not cargo).
Northwest Airlines Priority Pet
Small dogs, cats, and household birds may travel as carry-on luggage, in addition to the carry-on allowance for your flight. Click here to obtain the cost for pet transportation. The animal must be less than 15 pounds (with kennel), and must fit comfortably in a kennel placed under the seat.

SAFE GUARD YOUR DOG WHILE TRAVELING... 

If you own a pet at some point you might have to travel with that pet. It is very important to take your pets well being and safety into consideration.

I have several great tips to help you get through the challenge of traveling with your pet.

If the pet is to be accompanying you on an airplane, consider calling several airlines and check if you're particular pet would be perhaps allowed to ride in the passengers' compartment, with you. Many airlines are letting certain sized dogs and cats do just that. Small pets are allowed to sit at your feet in their carriers. Other airlines will allow you to purchase a seat for the pet carrier.

One way or the other, you will need a carrier for your pet. When choosing a carrier, there are a few things to consider. For safety it is recommenced to choose a carrier that your dog can just stand up in, and be able to turn around in. This size carrier promotes the dog to lie down and rest and is much safer in case of sudden unpredicted flight shift changes. That could cause the dog to be hurt if tossed into the sides of the carrier with a greater force due to it being to spacious.

If your dog has a hyperactive personality and you are concerned that the pet may be very hyperactive and upset due to travel, speak to your veterinarian in regards to possibly prescribing a mild tranquillizer for the flight.

Never, let me repeat never attempt to medicate your animal without first having talked to its veterinarian. This practice is dangerous.

It is wise to feed your dog about 3-4 hours prior to travel on an airplane. This gives the dog a better chance of not experiencing nausea or vomiting. Make sure to give the dog ampul time to void before heading to the airport, and before putting the pet in the carrier, for the flight. Offer a small mount of water before putting the dog in the carrier.

It is also smart to book your flight in the morning hours. Many airlines have strict rules that pets cannot travel in cargo if the temperature is above 85 degrees. With an early flight as a rule this won't be a problem.

When packing your dogs supplies, pack the food and goodies that they are accustom. If you are traveling to a destination that you might have a fear of the water you will consume? Make sure you consider the water your pet will consume. You won't want your pet to develop digestion problems away from home. Pack one of the pet's toys, and if they have a favorite blanket, I would bring it along too.

The American Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals... 

ASPCA
"Change the Fate of a Needy Animal Today

"When you sponsor one of these loving dogs or cats you will be changing more than just one life...you will be changing thousands. Every step we take to increase the number of shelter pets adopted means another dog's or cat's life will be saved."

The ASPCA Internet site offers an abundence of information. Not only on pet adoption, but on pet health and proper care. For instance---

"PET POISON PREVENTION, FROM A TO ZCheck out our mini-library of substances that are potentially poisonous to companion animals.

1. Yeast Dough
Raw or uncooked, it can expand in your pet's tummy if ingested-possibly causing obstruction or intestinal rupture.

2. Citrus Fruits
None of these sun-ripened sweets for your sweet, please. Peels, fruits and seeds can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

3. Mistletoe
Take care if decking your halls with this popular holiday plant-it can cause GI irritation, excessive thirst and, in severe cases, seizures, coma and even death."

Please read on for complete list of poisonous substances....

Lost Pets... 

Have you ever lost a beloved pet? It can happen in an instant... The gate is accidentally left ajar. The kids are in and out of the house, the dog slipped out without being noticed....

What now? Visit the link below "Lost Pets." Find out what you can do to perhaps find your lost friend...

Lost Pets... Check out this helpful link... 

Lost Pets...
If you have lost your beloved pet, check out this link. The Lens Master has gathered so much helpful information under one roof... Its a must visit for anyone that is loking for a lost pet.

Have You Been Thinking Of Picking Up Cesar Millan's Book? 

Cesar's Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems
America's most sought-after dog-behavior expert reveals what dogs truly need to live a happy and fulfilled life.

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Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan - Volume 1

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Cesar Millan's Mastering Leadership Series, Volume #1: People Training for Dogs

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Becoming a Pack Leader: Cesar Millan's Mastering Leadership Series Volume 2

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Great Stuff on Amazon 

Cesar's Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems

Cesar's Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems

by: Cesar Millan, Melissa Jo Peltier

Amazon Price: $16.47 (as of 12/20/2009) Buy Now

Shelter Dogs

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by: Traer Scott

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Aggression in Dogs: Practical Management, Prevention & Behaviour Modification

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Puppies for Dummies

Puppies for Dummies

by: Sarah Hodgson

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Great Stuff on eBay 

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Great Stuff on CafePress 

Love My Westie Boxer Shorts

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Westie & Cairn Terrier Women's T-Shirt

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Where do I start... I am married and have two wonderful children, along with two great in - law children, and I am also blessed with two Grandchildren... (more)

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