Blogs

What is a Party Poodle

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:36:00 -0400

The question people have been asking a lot lately is: What is a party poodle? Well, lets talk about that. Some breeders will give different definitions to what a party poodle is. Some will tell you that any poodle with more than one color is a party poodle and that is not necessarly true. Some will even have you believe that, for example, an apricot poodle with a white blaze is a party poodle. That is not true, it is just what it is, an apricot poodle with a white blaze.

A true party poodle is one with two different colors that are marked evenly on the body and face, it is 50/50. They can come in many colors such as apricot and white, black and white, blue and white and so on....but the markings are 50/50, well marked, and evenly beautiful.

A poodle that has two different prominent colors that are not 50/50 and evenly marked from one side to the other is actually an "abstract party poodle". An example would be a black patch on one side of the poodles body, but not on the other side. Or a patch of color on one side of a poodles face and legs, but not on the other side. (are you picturing the difference now). An abstract party poodle does not have the evenly marked, 50/50 beautiful colors.

I hope I have solved, or at least made this great question clearer for my readers.

Doggie Hugs and Kisses;

DivaB

How To Build Your Own Dog Agility Course

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 14:07:00 -0400

I am looking for some ideas on How to build my own, affordable agility course. Please share your ideas on the different elements of the agility course and how others can build their own without the major expenses involved in purchasing the dog agility equipment.

Here are a couple of quick and cheap things:

Pause Ring: A hoola hoop from the dollar store

Pause Table: Our dogs are all very small, so we just just a wood foot stool.

Childrens skate board cones: you can get these some times in a package in Targets dollar day area. They are great to use for many things such as marking out the course, using as boundries, and so on.

Jump in and share your ideas!

Doggie Hugs and Kisses;

DivaB

http://www.divab-dogs.com

Is The Swifter Dangerous To Dogs?

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 14:05:00 -0400

It is a common rumor that the Swifters are dangerous to dogs when using the Wet Jet or Pre-wetted Wet Jet towlettes to clean your floors. I, myself have heard this rumor over and over again. Contrary to that believe, and thankfully, they are not true what so ever. As a matter of fact the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says that Swiffer products are safe to use around dogs and other pets when used as directed. Oh yea, ye'mighty Wet Jet God and of course the ASPCA, we can't forget them.

Of course, with common sense you should allow your floors to dry before letting your dog walk accross it. I suppose I needed to mention that before someone contacts me because their dog's pads got irritated due to me giving them the okay to Wet Jet away. With some, common sense is not always common.

Of course steam cleaning your floors is always best with pets, and even small children, but it is nice to be able to squilch this rumor regarding the Wet Jet when it comes to dogs and cats. As most of you know, we have pets in abundance here, and our dogs make up the majority, so I've always used the Wet Jet due to the simple fact that the floors need cleaned a lot and it is more convienient. I personally do not want to deal with a steam floor cleaner, or a mop and bucket every single day...and sometimes more than once a day due to rain and mud.

Doggie Hugs and Kisses;

DivaB

http://www.divab-dogs.com

Get Your Dog Tags and Update Shots!

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:27:00 -0400

It's a short one today:

Well, its another year. Make sure you have gotten your new tags for your dogs!! This is a yearly thing, that you as a responsible dog owner needs to take care of. Also, while on the subject of being a responsible dog owner, now is a good time to check your dog's shot records and plan your yearly shot updates. I can not stress enough the importance to maintaining up to date records. I personally do not want my dogs around someone else's dog who has not been kept up to date on their shots. Please, please take care of these important items every single year.

Doggie hugs and kisses;

Diva B

http://www.divab-dogs.com

Can Women Pee Standing Up? Try Go Girl!

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:15:00 -0400

How is that title for a blog? Did that get your attention? Let'sstart with the questions as to "what is a Go Girl"? It is anF.U.D, also know as a female urination device. Point blank, itallows women to pee standing up, a very liberating, yet strange feeling becausewe are not used to doing such a feat.

Yes, I got one of these. At first I was real hesitant, but now I seethe endless possibilities.

I do not get any kick backs from the Go Girl site, or the product. Itis just an easy product for us women to be able to use in our travels and Ifelt like sharing. To find out more please visit their site at http://www.go-girl.com/

Trust me, if you open your mind just a little bit, and realize howliberating it is, you will learn to appreciate this product as much as I do.

Once you have tried Go-Girl, give them some feedback. If theypublish your story you will get a free t-shirt and another Go-Girl for yourtravel needs. (I keep one in my glove box of my car...you just never knowwhen you'll need it!) They published my feedback 2 weeks ago, so now I amofficial so to speak. Yes, it is funny to think about, but now I don'tworry about camping, traveling, hiking, boating, or even those scaryport-a-pots! With so many knee surgeries, my squatting and hovering daysare over, so this is a God send to me.

Doggie Hugs and Kisses;

DivaB

http://www.divab-dogs.com

AKC Now Welcomes Mixed Breed Dogs

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 07:50:00 -0400

Hooray! AKC's Canine Partners is now open for business! This is very exciting news to many dog owners. It used to be that you could not enter your dog into any of the AKC competitions if they were not AKC registered. This also shut the door on many people who had CKC registered dogs from competing in the AKC arenas. Now, with the AKC Canine Partners program, all dogs that have the ability to compete in agility, obedience, and Rally competitions will have that opportunity.

I personally feel that this is a very positive and solid move for AKC to take. There will still be separation, but that is justifiably the right thing to do. However; with this new program it will allow for all dogs and dog owners to have a chance to make their mark. It will make for better, more exciting, dog competitions in the dog world.

If you are interested in signing up, go to http://www.akc.org/mixedbreeds/ In addition to event eligibility, owners enrolling in AKC Canine Partners will receive lifetime enrollment in the AKC CAR Lost and Foundrecovery service, a one-year subscription to AKC FAMILY DOG, an AKC Canine Partners decal and a frame-able certificate of recognition!

Currently the price to enroll your dog into the AKC Canine Partners program is only $35 for a lifetime membership. A very reasonable price, with many benefits that you and your dog will enjoy. I hope you will take advantage of this new program.

Doggie Hugs & Kisses;

DivaB

http://www.divab-dogs.com

All Dogs and Cats Must Have Microchips

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 16:47:00 -0400

In Elk Grove, Ca, as of September 23, 2009 all dogs and cats must have microchips in order to get their licences, and of course all dogs and cats must have a license or the owner gets fined.

This part of the new ordinance I can agree with. The cost is approximately $25 to get pets micro-chipped, and they do ask that you contact them if there is any kind of hardship with that cost. So, it appears to me as though financial issues should not be a problem. I also understand that many people feel that if you can't afford the $25 microchip, then you can't afford a pet.

There are so many lost pets that "escape" their yards that end up back home do to these microchips. This is both great for the owner and the pet and nothing but a benefit. Even most of your vet hospitals that have an animal brought in, will immediately check for a microchip. This doesn't only come in handy for lost pets, but for stolen pets too. It is a great way to be able to prove that your neighbor has stolen your pet....trust me on this one. I know from experience.

The ordinance goes on to say that all dogs and cats that are under the age of 8 weeks must be seen by a vet before sale. I definitely agree with this. We always take our pups to have a "well puppy check-up" before going to their new home. There are so many reasons that this portion of the ordinance is so important to have. First off, it would stop some people and stores from selling ill pets, this would be a big help to buyers. Secondly, it would also help to protect the sellers from any buyers who are not responsible pet owners.

Now we get to the part of the ordinance that makes me uneasy. It states that any dogs or cats being placed in ads for sale must have their license number printed also. Right now I can't put it into words exactly why that makes me uneasy, but it just does. I feel that this can bring about many problems and perhaps dishonest individuals making claims that they shouldn't. I personally don't want my "litter" registration number printed in a public anything. That number is personal, and between me and the new owner...once they have signed their contract. I guess I'm looking at it a bit like a social security number, something that shouldn't be just out there in papers. Now, I know that is maybe reaching far, by comparing it to a social security number, but that is the closest thing I can come up with right now. Call it intuition, and I've learned time and time again that my intuition is always, and sometimes regretfully right.

That is all I have to say about this. Just as with any ordinance, there are some good, bad, and ugly that has to be worked out. Let me know your opinions on any of this.

Doggie Hugs and Kisses;

DivaB

http://www.divab-dogs.com

Roly-poly pets: Overweight animals at risk for diseases, death

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:20:00 -0400

Chicago Sun Times

September 17, 2009

By: Celeste Busk Staff Reporter

If your pooch is packing on the pounds or the cat waddles when she struts, it may be time for a diet.

Pet obesity has emerged as a leading cause of preventable disease and death in dogs and cats, animal experts warn.

RELATED STORIES: Tips to help your pet lose weight "Our pets are in real danger of not living as long as previous generations and developing serious and costly diseases such as diabetes and other largely avoidable conditions," said Dr. Ernie Ward, presidentof the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention based in Calabash, N.C.

According to a 2008 study by the association, 7.2 million dogs are estimated to be obese and 26 million overweight. The number in cats is higher, with 15.7 million estimated to be obese and 35 million overweight.

"These numbers represent a huge problem. Just as we've become a nation of couch potatoes, our pets have become a nation of lap potatoes-- and that's not good for anyone," said Ward on his Web site, www.petobesityprevention.com.

Smaller breeds of dogs had more trouble with their weight than larger breeds, the study showed. Breeds such as Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire terriers were more likely to be classified as overweight than Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers or German shepherds.

"Smaller, indoor-only dogs tend to have more trouble maintaining a healthy weight because they don't get adequate exercise. Unfortunately, these are also the dogs we're seeing a high number of weight-related disorders in," Ward said.

Pet experts say excess weight causes or contributes to many painfuland debilitating conditions such as: osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes, respiratory disorders, hypertension (high blood pressure), heartdisease and many forms of cancer.

To determine if your dog or cat is overweight, check the rib cage, Ward said. If your pet is overweight ribs will be difficult to feelunder the fat. If the stomach sags and you can grab a handful of fat, the pet is overweight. Other obesity indicators are a broad and flatback or if the waist is barely visible or absent.

If your pet is obese, go to the vet. You should never put your older cat on a diet without the assistance of your vet, according to www.petobesityprevention.com. There may be a medical condition causing a pet's excess weight. Some common diseases associated with weight gain in dogs include hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease).

"Too many dogs start on a diet and fail to lose weight simply because the diet wasn't the problem -- a disease was," Ward said.

Celebrity pet expert Andrea Arden, who was in Chicago recently, saysthat an overweight pet is an unhealthy pet. Arden, who has written numerous pet training books, currently appears on three Animal Planet's shows, "Underdog to Wonder Dog," "Dogs 101" and "Cats 101."

"It's definitely a problem and a large percentage of the pet-owning population has pets who are overweight due in great part to the fact that people often kill with kindness by indulging pets with food and treats," Arden said.

One of the first steps is choosing the correct food. Read the labeland look for protein without any animal byproducts, Arden recommends. Avoid wheat gluten and soy artificial flavors, colors and preservatives.

"Carefully research what's in the bag or can. You, and your pet, are what you eat," Arden said.

According to www.petobesitypre vention.com, to maintain anideal weight, a typical indoor 10-pound cat should get 180 to 200calories a day. For indoor dogs, the daily calories are: 200 to 275 for 10-pound dogs; 325 to 400 for 20-pound dogs and 700 to 900 for 50-pounddogs.

"Make sure you don't overfeed your dog, don't feed them from the table and curtail the treats," Arden said. "Almost in all obesity cases, a dog doesn't have adequate fitness. They're home with not much to do. They need regular exercise. Don't just take the dog out for a walk, let them run," Arden said, noting that pet owners need to gradually introduce pets to exercise.

For those looking for a passive way to exercise the dog while hanging out on the couch, Arden suggested having the canine go through a regime of tricks -- roll over, take a bow, sit on hind legs.

"This way the pet gets physically and mentally stimulated," Arden said.

Another exercise trick is to take the food you normally fit in a bowl and put the food in three to five food stuffable toys, Arden said. "This gives your dog the ability to hunt for food instead of stuffingout from one big bowl."

I felt that the above article was very important to reprint for my readers, since many pets fall into this category. Please take care to feed your pet correctly, we all want them to live a healthy, long life.

Doggie Hugs and Kisses;

DivaB

http://www.divab-dogs.com

Pet Loss Ministry Help

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:22:00 -0400

We have just opened a new category for those needing support do to recently losing a pet, or just a little extra support for themselves while dealing with a sick pet.

Sometimes people don't understand how some one's pet is like a family member to them, and they aren't very supportive to others during that time. I honestly don't believe that it is anything intentional, I just don't think they are able to understand because they have not experienced the closeness, and the great relationship that one can have with a pet.

Losing a pet and/or dealing with a sick pet is a very trying time to most people. That is why I have started this service up. I feel it will be a great benefit to many. I know when I loss Angel last spring, I could have used a good shoulder to cry on. I also think about her every day. She was in our lives only a year, but she touched everything she came near with her big personality and heart full of love. It was hard to talk to my husband or son, because they were dealing with the loss also. It was hard to talk to my friends, because they didn't fully understand. I would ramble on about Angel while with my mother, until my mother came right and said "I just don't know what to do with your pain, you have other dogs." My reply was to "just listen". I then quit bringing Angel up with my mother.

So please take some time to bookmark our service and be sure to pass it on to your friends and family. You never know when they may need it. I hope that by having this service that it brings a positive note to your day and what we are trying to do here at DivaB-Dogs.

Doggie Hugs & Kisses;

DivaB

http://www.DivaB-Dogs.com

Urinary Tract Infections and Home Remedies

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 11:19:00 -0400

Below is a great information on home remedies for Urinary Tract Infections. Many of these we have used and they work great...especially the orange juice!

Urinary tract infection does not pose a life-threatening risk to dogs. Thus, you may address the problem yourself in your home. There are several homemade remedies that are effective in treating a dog's UTI. Some of these remedies are listed below.

1. Frequent bathing. Bathing your pet frequently can help prevent the recurrence or spread of bacteria that are causing complications. Bathing the dog frequently can help flush out bacteria that may invade its urinary system through the opening of the urethra.

2. Citrus juices. If your dog is suffering from UTI, you can give it citrus juices such as orange juice, lime juice, and cranberry juice. These can help boost the acid level of the dog's urine.

3. Apple cider vinegar. This has properties which can neutralize the bacteria present in the dog's urine, reducing the discomfort caused by the disease to the pet. You can give the animal apple cider vinegar by mixing it in water.

4. Clean water. Give your dog ample amount of clean water everyday. This can help wash out the bacteria that have accumulated in the canine's urine. In the process, the infection may be lessened.

Aside from the remedies listed above, you may also give your dog herbal remedies and homeopathic remedies. These remedies have been shown to have wonderful effects in dogs suffering from UTI and other urinary problems. These remedies cannot only help cure the UTI in your dog; these likewise prevent the recurrence of the disease. Herbal and homeopathic remedies are also safe because they do not have side effects that may add to the discomfort and pain felt by the pet.

If you are going to use herbal and homeopathic remedies in treating a dog's urinary tract infection, especially look for products with cantharis as ingredients. This ingredient has properties which can help soothe the dog's bladder, relieve the inflammation, and ultimately strengthen the bladder. Prolonged use of these remedies can help keep your dog in top shape by preventing the recurrence of infections.

Urinary tract infection is truly a rising problem in today's society. However, you can help keep your dog safe from infections by giving it home remedies. It is still very essential, though, that you take your pet to the vet regularly for check-ups. By doing so, occurrence of infections can be detected and dealt with earlier.

Melissa Simmonds is a dog health enthusiast. She has done several research in the hope of finding ways of treating a [http://healthierdogs.com/dog_health/urinary-tract-infection-in-dogs]dog's urinary tract infection She has learned from her research that a [http://www.pet-health-care-information.net]dog's UTI can be treated with homemade remedies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_Simmonds http://EzineArticles.com/?Dogs-Urinary-Tract-Infection---Are-There-Home-Remedies-For-It?&id=2187723

I hope this helps with expenses associated to Urinary Infections in your dog.

Doggie Hugs & Kisses;

DivaB

http://www.divab-dogs.com