Having a dog is not really very easy. Owning a dog is a bit like raising a child: they need love and kindness, but also food, shelter, exercise, hygiene, and health care. Not all the steps to proper dog care are intuitive. Reading this article is a great start.

Dog-proof your home. Prior to bringing your dog into your home, be sure that it is entirely safe. Put all medication and cleaning supplies away, and keep your indoor trash can inside a cabinet. Certain common house plants are toxic, so remove them or keep them out of reach.

Always have your dogs spayed or neutered. A neutered dog will live longer and have less risks of developing cancer. Also, dogs that are fixed do not want to run away as much.

Anti-flea products are dangerous. Several have cancer causing ingredients, and they can be especially harmful to young children. Ask the vet about flea powders and other products that are less hazardous for kids.

Keep table scraps to a minimum. Feeding a dog from the table only reinforces begging. The dog will also be less likely to eat its normal food. Scraps can be terrible for his diet and lead to obesity and other health problems. Make your dog leave the room if he begins to beg, or train him to spend mealtimes in another room entirely.

When training a dog, practice in the yard or your home. You should avoid training in heavily populated areas. They are going to become distracted, and the easiest commands can be tough.

Purchase a dog that can keep up with your lifestyle. For example, if you live an active lifestyle it is probably best for you to find an active dog instead of a little dog. If you like to stay at home, perhaps you would like a small dog. Steer clear of a breed mismatch if you want to be a happy dog owner.

Instead of feeding your dog meat bones, give him rawhide. Real bones chip apart and can become dangerously lodged in the oral cavity or digestive track. Also, rawhide is better for the health of your dog’s teeth.

Brushing your pup daily can do much more than reduce shedding in your home. It leaves them looking gorgeous, for one thing. When you brush the coat, oils from the skin are distributed throughout, and this is makes the coat soft and silky.

Should you visit a shelter to adopt a dog, take the animal to the vet as soon as possible. Animals from shelters sometimes have viruses or might have already been sick when taken in by the shelter. It’s smart to ensure your dog has all shots necessary before you take him home.

Your dog has to be leash trained. The dog needs to stay beside you, not behind or in front of you. It also needs to know the command “heel”. If your pet is leash trained, it’ll be safer, and you’ll enjoy walks more as well. Understanding that command is great, even if you choose to still walk with a loose leash periodically.

Use this expert advice daily if you have a dog. You now know what it takes to be a responsible, caring master. When you use these tips to become a more responsible master, your dog will reward you with love.…

Are you a proud cat owner? If you are, then you consider your cat precious. Cats are animals that require lots of care and affection. However, you are more than capable of meeting your cat’s needs. Keep reading for some excellent advice on cat care.

Ensure your cat remains groomed. Cats need to be combed or brushed regularly. This will keep your cat’s coat clean. It will reduce shedding, which means that they won’t be experiencing a ton of hairballs. Your cat should be kept groomed so that they look great and you’ll also make your home look good.

Putting a warm tile beneath the bed of an older cat will help it rest comfortably. Use a terra cotta tile to help relieve your cat’s aches and pains; put it in the oven on low heat – 200 degrees or so – for 15 minutes. Wrap it up in a towel and place it under where your cat sleeps. You can even switch it out every few hours.

Don’t use dog portions for your cat. They can have very strong and possibly negative reactions to dog products. This is especially true of flea products. Dog flea prevention products will kill your cat. Keep them separated by at least one door for a few hours after treatment.

You can also consider outfitting your cat with a chip so you can monitor its whereabouts. Even cats that live their lives entirely indoors can suddenly escape out a window or door. Although they provide the information needed to find your beloved pet, they can also accidentally get caught or even be wiggled out of. A microchip, on the other hand, is inserted near your cat’s shoulder blades, takes only a second to do, and all of your current contact info can be read through the chip. Most vets and animal shelters will have a microchip scanner and because it’s under the animal’s skin it can never become lost.

Never let your cat experience frequent boredom. Cats need stimulation. But many cat owners ignore that need. Bored cats will quickly wreck your home or become obese. Give them time and space where they can exercise and toys they can play with. If your cats are kept inside, set up a carpet lined scratching pad or post. There are many climbing structures that can be purchased or made for cats who enjoy heights.

The litter box for your cat needs to be positioned in the right place. Place the litter box away from high traffic areas. Additionally, the litter box should be placed away from your cat’s food and water. Also, minimize the smell by making sure it is a well ventilated area. Your cat will certainly appreciate your efforts, and you will too!

In all likelihood, your cat is very important to your household and taking good care of him is quite important to you. After reading this, you should have a better idea of how to care for your cat. You should apply the tips you just read in this article to make sure your cat is happy and healthy. If you love your cat, you will receive much love back.…

A cat is a great pet for anyone to own. This article is especially helpful for people who have never been a cat owner. Below are some great tips and tricks that every cat owner needs to know in order to live happily with their new feline friend.

Keep your drapery cords out of the reach of your cat. Keep the cat away from these cords as they tend to form loops when the cat is playing around, and it could accidentally go around their neck and strangle them. This is incredibly dangerous as it could be fatal for your cat. Therefore, ensure that drape cords are pinned away from your cat’s reach.

You should make sure your cat stays groomed properly. You can regularly brush or comb your cat. Doing this frequently can help them keep their coat clean. In addition, it helps decrease shedding, which results in less hairballs. In order to keep shed hair down to a minimum, plus have a beautiful cat, you must groom your cat regularly.

Cats love to squeeze into tiny spaces. If your cat is such a curious one, wearing a collar is a safety risk, as your feline might get stuck because of it while exploring. A breakaway collar is a good option since it will break if your cat pulls on it. This could help save your cat if it gets caught in a tight spot.

Never use something that is intended for a canine on your feline. Products designed for dogs or other animals could cause a negative reaction from your cat. This warning applies to products for getting rid of fleas. Products used for flea prevention in dogs can be very harmful to your cat. If you treat your dog for fleas, make sure you keep the cat away for several hours following the application.

If your cat ventures outdoors, it’s key to get your cat a collar which has a contact tag. Cats sometimes travel a bit when outside, and a tag prevents any mishaps due to your cat being lost. The tag needs your phone number and cat’s name at the minimum.

Deter your cat from chewing on inappropriate things by using bitter apple. If your cat still insists on chewing your cords, try to cover as many of them as possible. Loose cords can be bundled and tucked inside old paper towel rolls. Put your electronics away so your cat is not tempted to chew on the cords.

Consider having your cat fitted with a microchip. Even an indoor cat can get the urge to run out of a door or leap through a window. Tags and collars are great, but if a cat escapes them, there’s no guaranteeing they’ll make it home safe and sound. A microchip is tiny, similar in size to a single rice grain and capable of holding plenty of information. These days, pretty much all shelters and vet offices have scanners that can read these chips, and because they’re beneath your pet’s skin, they won’t ever get lost.

So, you have a cat or you are thinking about getting a cat. Cats are often a comfort and can also aid in stress relief. You cannot expect to fully enjoy the company of your pet if you are unwilling to take care of it. Use the tips below to make sure you and your pet have a happy relationship for years to come.…

If you could save a cat’s life, would you? Millions upon millions of cats are searching for a home. Simply adopt a cat and use this article as your guide to properly caring for it.

You never want to leave the cords of your drapes dangling down. If the cat becomes caught in a loop, they could choke to death. This could kill them. Keep all drape cords out of reach as a preventative measure.

A vet trip should happen for your cat yearly. Your vet can give you an idea of your cat’s overall health, in addition to administering any shots it may need. Try keeping the same vet throughout your cat’s life. That way, the doctor will be familiar with the history of your cat.

If your cat is a female, it needs to be spayed when it reaches the appropriate age. You may keep your cat inside, but she could still slip outside and become pregnant. Unless you want the hassle of getting rid of kittens, spaying is the best option for your cat.

Cat claws are one of the worst enemies of your home and furniture. If your cat is ripping up and shredding your home, invest in a kitty tower or scratching post. When your cat scratches inappropriately, redirect him to the scratching post. It might not happen overnight, but the problem should eventually stop.

It is a good idea to microchip your cat. Even an indoor cat can get the urge to run out of a door or leap through a window. Tags and collars are great, but if a cat escapes them, there’s no guaranteeing they’ll make it home safe and sound. Microchips are as tiny as a piece of rice and will tell people where the cat belongs. Scanners to read pet microchips are available in every town and they will not come out from under the skin.

Cats will be up during the night more often than not. This refers to the fact that they are usually more active at night. If your cats keep you up late at night, you should close the bedroom door. This will reduce the frequency that they wake you up.

Pick a good spot for the cat’s litter box. A cat’s litter box should be in a quiet spot in the house, away from where your cat eats. Also make sure the area is well ventilated to keep the smell to a minimum. Your cat will certainly appreciate your efforts, and you will too!

Many times, cat meds can be purchased on the internet for less than they’d cost if you got them from your vet. Online prescriptions are not the best choice if you do not have the time to wait on a mail order, such as in a medical emergency. However, for standard medications, like flea medications or heart worm pills, online sources offer a substantial savings to pet owners.

Having your own pet is proven to make your life happier. You are sharing your home with an animal that really needs your love. You will develop a strong bond with your cat that will last a lifetime. When you love your cat, it will love you back.…

Dogs are a good pet to have, they are very loyal. This, however, doesn’t mean that they just come that way. You need to take the time to encourage good behavior and make sure your dog learns a few commands. The following article can help.

Don’t buy your dog cheap dog food. The cheaper dog foods have tons of additives and preservatives which aren’t the best for your dog. Get a list from an animal advocacy or consumer awareness group of the highest recommended foods to give your dog. Your dog will enjoy and benefit much more from healthier food.

Don’t give your dog real bones. Real bones can chip and fragments may become lodged in their mouths or digestive tract. Rawhide is healthy for their teeth and gums, so don’t share your bones, even if the dog wants it!

If your dog has to stay outside during cold weather, give him a dog house. If your dog’s feet get wet, then the continued exposure can lead to stress and other health issues. Keep your dog safe from the elements by providing him the dry shelter he needs.

Try not to force your dog to eat things. If you’ve purchased your dog treats that it doesn’t want to eat, set them aside. Find out your dog’s likes and dislikes and feed him accordingly.

Grooming your dog every day will ensure it doesn’t shed all over the place. It leaves them looking gorgeous, for one thing. The brushing motion will distribute the oil through the dog’s fur.

Makes sure your dog gets adequate exercise. Dogs need game time and regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically healthy and happy. From a simple walk to a vigorous game of fetch, both of you will find the time well spent. This doesn’t just entertain and exercise your dog, it helps you form a bond.

Prevent matting on your dogs paws by keeping the area well trimmed. Before you trim, carefully run a comb through the hairs to separate them. Go to a professional groomer if you have a hard time doing this yourself.

Certain breeds of dog are prone to certain health problems, and you should be aware of what’s typical for your type of dog. Do what you can to combat those issues early. Also, see what advice the vet has in terms of helping your dog overcome breed liabilities.

Your dog needs both physical and mental exercise. Train him to fetch the newspaper and help with other household chore. This gives him a job to do and he’ll feel fulfilled as a result.

Get into pet politics! Be on the lookout for changes in local laws and ordinances that may restrict and regulate a dog owner’s rights. It often results from one bad breed or bad dog. Make sure that your voice is heard on behalf of other dog owners.

You have likely realized that it isn’t terribly hard to care for your dog. You may struggle in the beginning, but by educating yourself on your dog’s care, you will soon be headed for success. Use what you learned today to help make it easier for you and your furry companion to adjust.…

Are you having a hard time with training your dog? Is their daily behavior cause for concern? Perhaps your dog needs some behavioral lessons. The following article gives wonderful training advice for pet owners.

Make sure your house is free of doggy danger. It should be perfectly safe before you bring a dog in. Hide cleaning supplies and medicines and hide trashcans in a cabinet. Since some plants are very harmful because of their toxicity, it’s best to get rid of them or put them in an area that the dog cannot get to.

When you begin training your pup, start in your yard or home. You should avoid training in heavily populated areas. Your dog could become distracted and will be tougher to teach.

Talk to your vet about what foods are best for your dog. A lot of the time a dog might not want to eat some brands of dog food, this might make them sick. Use care when feeding your dog.

Be sure to show your dog lots of praise and love when they do something good. He needs to understand that this is the right thing to do. It teaches the dog that he gets praised when he does what you’d like him to do.

If you are not sure of how much to feed your dog each day, talk to your vet about it. While there are those that feed their dog whatever it says on the package, this may not be good for your dog and can make it overweight. Speak with your veterinarian about what your dog’s needs are and what amounts are proper.

Rawhide is a great alternative to the meat bones that most people feed dogs. Genuine bones can chip, and the pieces may become stuck in your dog’s teeth or digestive system. Rawhide is proven healthy and great for teeth as well, but don’t be tempted to share that T-bone, no matter what kind of eyes your dog gives you.

If you have an outdoor pet, build a shelter for him or buy one that is ready to use. Particularly if his feet get wet, extended exposure to extreme temperatures causes stress and can lead to health complications. Protect them from precipitation and wind by providing them a dry and spacious shelter.

If you’re adopting a dog through a local shelter, try scheduling a vet appointment right away. Illness is common in shelters, and your new pet could be at risk or already nursing an ailment. Make sure the new puppy gets their required shots before going home.

Become acquainted with dog food labels and avoid buying based solely on cost. Later on, it will help that you’ve fed your dog quality and nutritious food. Although it will cost you more, you can feel good about the fact that you aren’t skimping when it comes to what your pet eats.

You no longer need to worry about your dog misbehaving. No longer do you have to sit by and watch your dog destroy everything in it’s path or growl at everyone that comes it’s way. The way you treat your dog will be reflected back to you tenfold in terms of behavior. The above advice will assist in you in having the best dog possible.…

You can really enjoy bringing a dog into your family as long as you care for it properly. Before you can keep a dog happy and healthy, you must learn how. Continue reading for great information on having a terrific relationship with a dog.

Having a dog at your home is a big financial commitment. Good quality dog food and medical care can cost between $700-1000 a year. Also, emergency care is a lot if your dog was to ever get sick; you may want to think about pet insurance.

Always, have your dog spayed or neutered. A neutered dog will live longer and have less risks of developing cancer. Besides, a neutered dog will be less likely to run away or to get in fights with other animals.

Practice training your dog in your house or yard. You do not want to train your dog around a bunch of people. They can get distracted, which can make it harder to train them even basic commands.

Talk to your vet about how much your dog should eat. While some people feed their dogs according to the dog food package guidelines, these guidelines can be incorrect and lead to an overweight dog. Check with you vet to find out about the feeding guidelines for your particular dog.

You should always trim your nails. Your dog will be in pain if the nails begin curling. Buy some clippers from a pet store and cut them yourself. If you do not want to take this matter into your own hands, hire a professional.

To prevent the hair around a dog’s paws from matting, you should keep it trimmed. Comb the tangles out before you start trimming. Go to a professional groomer if you have a hard time doing this yourself.

Always follow your vet’s instructions to a tee. They may not like their cone, but they need it for a purpose. Your vet will recommend things that are good for the health of your dog, so make sure that you follow his advice.

Some dog breeds are more likely than others to develop certain health issues. Research the breed of your dog and take steps to ensure he does not get any infections or diseases. Be sure to ask the vet if there is anything you can do in order to avoid health problems that run in the breed.

If your pet slips up and uses the bathroom in your home, be sure to remove every trace of the mess. Use a product specifically designed to clean and remove pet odors. If the smell from your pet’s mess stays there, it might motivate your dog to continue defecating there.

When the weather gets warm, start checking your dog for ticks and fleas. Utilize a flea comb in order to eliminate any fleas on your pet. There are a lot of available products that can control fleas and ticks on your dog. Try to get your vet’s opinion on these products or what you can do to help your dog.

Dogs are wonderful companions, and they bring joy to families everywhere. It is very vital that you know what is going to make your dog happy. The tips you just read should help you choose the right dog and care for it properly.

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