Boarding – Finding the Right Kennel

March 11th, 2010 by admin

It is the beginning of a New Year and in most places around the country, the wind is blowing, the snow is snowing and thoughts of vacations are still far away.

However, if you are planning a vacation in the coming months and you are the owner of one pet or several, now is the time to start thinking of alternative pet care while you are away.

Of course, if you are lucky enough to have a family member or a great neighbor, that is willing to step in and take over for you, wonderful.

However, many of us are not that lucky and we need to find a suitable kennel to take care of our pets.

During the last 20 years or so, the world of pet kennels has changed beyond our wildest dreams.

If you thought finding the right hotel for you to stay in was a challenge, wait until you begin to search for your dog or cat’s temporary home.

Most of us become a little anxious when we have to leave our pets in someone else’s care, so finding the right boarding facility is very important.

My suggestion is to start looking when you have some free time and are not anxious or rushed.

Boarding kennels run the full gamut from the very basic, to accommodations that include color TV’s and couches to sleep on.

It truly depends on your budget, what your dog is used to and if you want your dog to socialize with other dogs.

In your search you will find the basic or traditional kennels that offer, a dog run, indoor sleeping areas, and minimal extra care, over and above feeding and keeping the area clean.

Some boarding facilities offer day care along with overnight stays, many veterinarians have boarding facilities and then there are the very “upscale” boarding facilities that offer every amenity a person could ask for, let alone a dog.

Prices vary from $15.00 a night to $80.00 and more, depending on what you are looking for, the area in which you live and the size of your pet.

Here are some important things to keep in mind as you go out looking for suitable accommodations.

The traditional kennel depending on location will offer the basic care for your pet. The dogs will spend most of their time in their kennel, except for some exercise time outside.

Most traditional kennels follow their own feeding schedules and do not offer much in the line of extra services.

The day care/boarding kennels offer the opportunity for your pet to socialize not only with other boarders, but also with the day care dogs.

However, this requires a dog that is used to going to a dog park or other places, where it is used to socializing with new dogs.

A veterinary boarding facility for some gives peace of mind, because you know the vet is on call and if your pet should get sick, it is in good hands.

However, there is a negative side to that, if the boarding facility is located within the confines of the pet hospital there is a remote possibility that your pet can pick up a germ or two.

There is also a chance that your dog might be kept in a crate, instead of an area with a run and exercised only at specific times.

Up scale facilities are generally very expensive and in truth offer “no free lunches,” you are charged for everything.

They have no problem in carrying out your every wish for your pet, but expect to pay.

Cats have also moved up in the world of boarding. There are the basic facilities that keep the kitties in fairly large cages with their own litter boxes and food.

Then there are some facilities that have separate large berths for cats, that offer a window for seeing the world beyond, scratching posts, soft music, perches to climb and a soft bed.

There are high-end facilities that allow cats who are social, to spend time together in a large playroom, again with all types of amenities.

Truthfully, not many cats enjoy all this, as they prefer to be home. It is far easier on a cat to stay home, as new places create a great deal of stress.

If there are no family members or accommodating neighbors to care for your cat, consider hiring a bonded cat sitter.

A cat sitter would not cost too much more than most boarding facilities and having another person moving about the house adds a bit more security.

Just be certain the person is “bonded” and do check references.

There are several other things to consider when boarding your pet.

If you have 2 or more dogs that you want kept together, these takes planning and research, as many places do not have the facilities to keep two or more dogs together.

Make certain that any facility you choose, requires that all pets that are boarded, present proof that their shots are up to date.

Make certain the kennel is air-conditioned (heated) and that the humidity is not overwhelming. Humid air can be a breeding place for many kinds of bacteria and other germs.

Make certain that the facility is clean. Check to see that the kennel floor and dog runs are made of nonporous material (concrete.) Wood flooring or any flooring that can absorb water will also absorb germs and bacteria.

Check to see that there is no leftover food sitting around in the kennels. The kennel bowls should be made of stainless steel or some other nonporous material, as boarding kennels can be a great source for picking up unwanted germs.

Though dogs seem to eat just about anything, if your dog is used to a certain type of food make certain that the kennel will feed it only that type. You undoubtedly, will have to provide it, but this could save you a problem, as some dogs will develop intestinal problems, when their food source is changed to abruptly.

As careful as you may try to be, your dog may pick up what is known as “kennel cough,” this is an annoying contagious coughing disease that dogs seem to love to pass on to each other. For the most part it is not serious, can be annoying, but is very treatable by our vet.

I have tried to touch just the tip of the “boarding iceberg” in an effort to help you become an informed boarding shopper.

Do not look for a boarding kennel when you are rushed, take your time and be selective.

Your pet’s health and well being is at stake.

Happy hunting!

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Dog Kennel Plans

March 10th, 2010 by admin

While for most people, owning dogs is fun, it also poses many adjustments and careful arrangements. The challenge is even greater for those living in cities and urban areas. Dogs must be kept out of neighbors’ lawns and off the streets. The solution is a well-though-out kennel unit.

Planning the Kennel

When building or buying a kennel, keep in mind several important considerations that will ensure your dogs’ comfort and promote sanitation through ease of cleaning. You must have a plan that clearly outlines factors such as size of the kennel; where you will place it: does the location allow outside runs and exercises; ventilation and drainage systems; strength and kind of building materials; among others.

Size is an important consideration especially when you are keeping big dogs. The cage must be tall enough to provide considerable ceiling clearance as well as wide enough to allow the dogs to the sit or lay comfortably.

Location is the next thing important thing to consider. It will dictate the success of your project. If your main reason for building a kennel is to prevent your dogs form bothering your neighbors with their barking and smell, you must choose a location farthest from them. Tip: normally, you would not keep more than one dog in a cage to prevent aggressive or playful fights that will cause injuries to the dogs as well as noise. The kennel must also be able to open to a yard where you can release your dogs for exercise.

Your kennel must also allow convenience in carrying out sanitation procedures. It must have proper drainage for waste water and animal wastes. Ventilation is very important especially in hot seasons. There must be sufficient airflow to cool the dogs. But in colder seasons, you must shelter your pets form the harsh winds.

When planning a kennel, always put both your pets’ comfort and your convenience foremost. Build the kennel with considerations you would keep in mind when building your own house.

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The Purpose of Kennel & Grooming Leads

March 9th, 2010 by admin

Kennel leads offer many advantages to dog owners. The lead has an extra handle close to the dogs neck for extra control. Grooming and kennel leads allow you to have a better handle on your dog, and thus keeping them and others secure.

Kennel and grooming leads are good for keeping dogs in place. They are a popular choice during dog transportation and dog grooming sessions. They are also beneficial during dog shows.

The best kennel leads are made out of nylon or polypro webbing. This allows the leads to be both light-weight and durable. Nylon webbing is one of the most strong materials out there, and makes a great lead. Polypro, while not nearly as strong as nylon, is another good choice because of its quality.

Kennel and grooming leads come in a variety of sizes. They come in varying lengths and widths, though the average length of grooming leads are six feet long. Many leads are one size that “fits all” dogs, but there are other choices for larger or smaller than average dogs.

Kennel leads need to be extra durable. They should be resistant to absorbing a lot of liquid and resistant to abrasions. Being resistant to absorbing liquids can help keep the color of your lead last longer.

Leads should not be dull and listless. There are plenty of attractive leads out there. They come in a variety of colors and stylish finishes that will fit with your sense of style.

Dog leads are strong, but should be comfortable for your dog as well. Nylon and polypro webbing still should be non-abrasive with their strength. Rings on dog leads should be non-abrasive as well to reduce any friction.

There are many different reasons that a kennel lead can be a beneficial investment. They allow you to have control of your dog, whether that be to keep them in one spot or restraining them so they do not wander off. They are a popular choice for dogs that have to wait in waiting rooms at Veterinarian offices, or during tie downs.

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Building Dog Kennels – 2 Important Considerations

March 7th, 2010 by admin

When it comes to building dog kennels you should always start with a complete plan of action. While it might seem hard to believe it can be a little like building a house in that trying to get from conception to finished product without incident means knowing where you are every step of the way. You will find plenty of advice online regarding what constitutes a good dog house and how to go about building one that will keep your pet safe and comfortable, however these four areas are the most important ones to consider when you get ready to start building.

Size Matters

When you are building dog kennels size matters much more than most people realize. The design of dog kennel you decide to build needs to be tailored to the size of dog that you plan to house in it. Not building one that is too small is obvious, but too many people feel that they need to build their dog a virtual palace.

Most of us would not feel comfortable sleeping in the middle of a warehouse and your dog certainly does not want to sleep in the middle of a huge kennel. The size of the dog kennel you are building should allow your dog room to stand up with a few inches of head and shoulder clearance; it should only be big enough to give him room to turn around inside and a few inches around him when he is lying down. When the weather cools off he uses his body heat to warm up the inside of his kennel, if you make his kennel to big he will be cold all winter long.

Ventilation is Vital

One of the most important things to keep in mind when building dog kennels is that no matter whether you are building a small kennel or a very large one it must have plenty of ventilation. There are several reasons for this, the most obvious one being to provide your pet with a constant supply of fresh air. When it is raining outside your pet is going to track in certain amount of mud and water, if there is not a flow of fresh air the water is likely to sit and cause mold and mildew to grow.

When the weather is hot in the summer proper air flow can help to keep the kennel cooled off, especially if you place the kennel in the shade. Your dog is your best friend and depends on you to make sure that he is well taken care of, providing him with a good kennel that will protect him from the elements is one of the best things you can do for him.

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Choosing Your Portable Dog Kennel

March 6th, 2010 by admin

Do you plan to travel with your dog, have you thought about where you will put them? Well if are planning a trip then a portable dog kennel is what you will be requiring. It is too difficult to have a large bulky dog cage in the car and you do not want your dog to be uncomfortable. The portable dog kennel is a great product for both the owner and the dog. When purchasing a portable dog kennel there are a few things you will need to look at.

Size Of The Dog

Depending on the size of your dog will depend on the size of the kennel, if you have a puppy or a small dog then you will want to have smaller kennel and of course if you have a big dog you need a bigger kennel. Remember it should not be too big, the dog should be able to stand up, turn around and lay back down again without it being difficult.

Type Of Material Used On A Portable Dog Kennel

Portable dog kennels come in a few different materials such as wire, nylon or plastic. Some of the more elaborate and expensive portable dog kennels use bamboo or panels built onto a wire. The material of your portable dog kennel needs to be based on your pet’s personality. You don’t want them to be able to rip through it or break their teeth on it. Take some time to shop around before you spend money on a kennel. Look and style have nothing to do with quality of the kennel so don’t be fooled by one that looks cool.

What’s The Primary Use Of It?

Will your portable dog kennel be inside the house or will you be moving it around a lot. If it’s going to be used only in the house then you can get a large and sturdy wire kennel. On the other hand, if you’re going to be moving around a lot then you’re probably better off with a portable nylon kennel. This is because you can fold a nylon kennel flat so it is out of the way when it’s not use and just spring it back up when you want to use it again. There are wire kennels that can fold and transport pretty easily but nylon is the best one.

Budget

As with everything you need to decide on a budget for your kennel. There are many different types on the market, some more expensive than others. Nylon ones are generally less expensive and should be used if you’re training your pet. Wire kennels are slightly more expensive than nylon but they’re still reasonably priced. Plastic kennels are the most expensive.

Why Use A Portable Dog Kennel?

Portable dog kennels combine the features of a permanent dog shelter and a temporary kennel that you can take with you wherever you go, they are less expensive that large crates and are easy to move around and pack away. Decide on what your requirements are and shop around before you make your purchase.

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Dog Kennel Plans – Building the Perfect Home For Our New Pooch

March 5th, 2010 by admin

The kids promised not to say a peep until I had a chance to talk to Mom. So they took the stray dog into the spare bedroom and closed the door quietly. I thought I had her convinced but when she opened the door and saw that little guy had decided to use the closet as his own personal bathroom she hit the roof. She said If we were going to keep this mangy little pup he would have to live outdoors. So I immediately hit the internet to find some dog kennel plans.

I was absolutely blown away by all the choices. I found it hard to believe there were so many different shapes and styles of dog houses online. I was almost decided on a version that had a really cool fenced in dog run attached as well.

I learned a lot while researching all the different plans. And one of the most important things I learned was that not only does the kennel have to be comfortable for your pet it also has to be safe and sturdy; able to withstand all different types of weather conditions.

Now this concerned me a bit. If I had to build the dog kennel to withstand all kinds of harsh environments that means I will probably have to use pressure treated lumber. Normally that wouldn’t be an issue but if this little pup starts to chew things, we could have a sick dog on our hands.

As I got more familiar with the dog kennel plans I began to realize that I could use the pressure treated wood for portions of the house that the dog couldn’t get at like the frame and I should probably consider a material like cedar because it has been proven to really stand up to tough weather conditions and besides it won’t rot.

Looking at my own house, I thought this dog house should resemble it in some ways. I’m going to make sure that the plans have windows for cross ventilation just like my house. And I think I’m going to put a porch on too so poochy can lay out and get some sun.

Finally, I’m going to add another room in the back of the house away from the wind where we can insulate it and maybe line it with straw or a blanket so when things get harsh outside our little dog will be comfortable.

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Puppy Training – Teach Your Puppy to Sit

March 3rd, 2010 by admin

One of the most useful commands you can teach your puppy, is how to sit. When sitting, a dog will give you their full attention, which makes it a great command to use before moving to another command. It’s also great for safety- if your dog is about to cross the road unattended, then the sit command could even be a life saver! There are also some other commands (such as “stay”, and “lie down”), which actually begin from the sitting position, and you won’t be able to move onto them until your dog is sitting when you want.

Luckily, teaching a puppy to sit is quite simple. Dogs can’t flex their spine, so if you tip their heads high enough, they will just sit naturally. All puppies know how to sit already- you just have to teach them to sit, when YOU want! You can start teaching a puppy to sit from the age of about 8 weeks and above.

There are 2 easy steps to teach your puppy to sit…

1. Call you dogs name, and make sure it is standing in front of you, and looking you in the eye. This will ensure you have the dogs complete attention.

2. Command you puppy to sit. Make sure you use the same command each time (Usually just “sit”), and in the same tone of voice. At the same time as giving the command, push down on the back legs, forcing the puppy into the sit position. Make sure you push down gently, but firmly.

You can also use food- just hold the food above the puppies nose, and move it back behind the dog’s head. The puppy will follow the food, and sit down.

3. Congratulate your puppy for entering the sit position. Use praise even when you had to force the dog to sit, but give extra praise when the puppy sits on its own. You can use treats, but make sure not to use them every single time!

Repeat this training regularly, and be sure to phase out the use of treats, and you’ll have your puppy sitting on command in no time!

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Mixing Of The Breeds

March 2nd, 2010 by admin

You might know of them as ‘mongrels’, ‘mutts’ or have heard some more colorful descriptions like “designer breeds. Whatever you call them they are the result of either deliberate or accidental crossbreeding.

There are over 800 different breeds of dogs already recognized by Kennel Clubs around the world. Many people around the world have owned dogs considered to be mixed breeds for years but now crossbreeding is taking a more sinister turn.

Unscrupulous breeding practices have led to a new generation of dog that has highly valued traits and temperament. Many of today’s most popular celebrities are flaunting their tiny dogs proudly. Paris Hilton, Britney Spears and many of the world’s most elite socialites are rarely seen without their petite dogs.

But what’s so great about these dogs?

People who own dogs of mixed parentage say their dogs have better personalities. In theory a widening of the gene pool could in fact improve the temperament of some mixes. Fans of the designer dogs say you cannot be too sure of purebred dogs either.

Purebreds are all a result of some form of selective breeding; however these designers’ breeds are not. All dogs come from some intertwining however purebred is a more trusted source. People have been domesticating dogs for many of thousands of years by mixing a bit of this and that.

The term purebred is used with regard to dogs that have met certain criteria through an established track record. There are a minimum number of generations that must pass through a series of checks for a new variety to become a recognized breed.

Not everybody is as enthusiastic about these new hybrid dogs. The kinds of genetic weaknesses that could be introduced into the gene pool are infinite. This is quite a scary thought in terms of the future of our hairy companions. Imagine if 50 years from now there are no discernible traces of any of the breeds we once knew.

And it’s about much more than preservation of purity. If some of the newer mixes are proof of some kind of assisted evolution of dogs what are we really saying by breeding dogs the size of handbags?

In some kind of cyclical process fashion-statement-handbag-dogs are becoming as popular as they were in the late 19th Century. It was considered standard for any respectable woman to have a pint-sized pooch in her bag.

Now you can have a dog the size of a large mouse. Many celebrities can be seen fussing over their tiny dogs which serve to popularize the idea that these dogs are the latest ‘it’ thing. What happens when the neon lights fade away?

Paris Hilton gave her little pooch away. They’re awfully cute but as all with all dogs they’re a long term commitment. It doesn’t do the dog any favors to grow up spoilt and then be abandoned or given away.

Miniature dogs can develop all kinds of nasty health complications. If their lives are not cut short by their stature they can look forward to a wide range of health problems. Many of which are expensive and painful.

It’s widely acknowledged amongst experts that the newer Teacup varieties are irresponsible. You can be almost guaranteed of a sickly dog. Epileptic seizures, birthing problems, dental problems and back problems are just some of the conditions that these diminutive dogs are more likely to face.

There’s a good reason why no reputable breeder would breed their dogs down to a particular size that would be unhealthy; these breeding practices involved are widely considered to be dangerous.

But what’s wrong with purebred dogs?

Aren’t there enough variations to choose from already? What’s wrong with getting a Maltese if you want Maltese characteristics? What’s wrong with getting a Yorkshire Terrier if you want on that is full of energy? If you are highly allergic to dogs, chances are you will suffer no matter how carefully your dog was bred.

It is true that there is considerable variation in the predictability of purebred dogs, as with any kind of selective breeding. The biggest and foremost advantage is that purebred dogs have a better chance of becoming well adjusted, healthy dogs later in life because they have a proven track record.

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A Backyard Dog Kennel – Your Dog’s Safe Place

March 1st, 2010 by admin

A backyard dog kennel will keep your dog out of trouble while keeping trouble away from your dog. You will take comfort in knowing that your dog will not be wandering onto your neighbor’s property and is safe from neighborhood dogs, animals or traffic. When keeping your dog in your backyard kennel, there are no worries about coming home to find that your dog has torn through your or your neighbor’s trash, leaving a trail of garbage up and down the entire street. There is no need to worry about your dog running out in front of a moving car or attacking the mailman when the dog is secure in its kennel.

If you are a dog owner without a fenced in backyard you are usually faced with one of two choices. You either trust your dog enough to let them run free as you go on with your business or you chain them to a post or tree. I think it’s safe to assume that most pet owners would be much more comfortable with the chain, especially if you live near a busy road or the woods. A backyard kennel can also be a fitting alternative. Your dog will not be restricted by a chain and can run freely within the kennel. A kennel is easy and relatively inexpensive to construct. Just find a decent spot in your yard. A spot that is sizable enough for your dog to run carefree. A playful, healthy, active four-legged friend is a happy dog. Also look for spots that provide plenty of shade for hot summer days. Many people will put their kennel around a large tree in their yard to give their dog a cool spot under the shade.

You can find fencing at any local home improvement or pet store. You will need to take proper measurements to know exactly how many feet of fence will be needed (usually anywhere from 50 feet to 100 feet) and how high the fence should be. If your dog is known to be a high jumper, you may want to avoid a short fence. A bigger dog will usually require a five or six foot high fence. You should also consider whether you own your home or you are renting. A homeowner may want to install a more permanent structure in their yard while someone renting their property may want a temporary kennel that is easy to dismantle and relocate.

More and more people are opting for a backyard dog kennel when it comes to providing their dog with a safe place, in essence, a home outside of home.

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Discover the Many Types of Chihuahua Dogs

February 27th, 2010 by admin

If you love Chihuahuas, of course you’ll want to know more about them. These fascinating animals originated in Chihuahua, Mexico and were objects of worship to the ancient Aztecs. The word “chihuahua” means an arid, sandy place and there are actually several types of Chihuahua dogs.

The Chihuahua in part due to their portable size have become quite popular lately and their popularity continues to grow. Although the Chihuahua is known as the smallest of the dog breeds, but what many people don’t realize is there are different Chihuahua types. This little powerhouse has a huge heart so don’t be fooled by its tiny size!

Chihuahuas come in all sorts of colors, including chocolate, cream, silver, blue, black and fawn. Their heads can be shaped like deer or they can have apple heads. Applehead Chihuahuas have a very round head, a small snout, and close-set eyes. The ones with deer heads have an elongated nose similar to Doberman Pinschers.

The American Kennel Club recognizes long-haired and short-haired types of Chihuahuas. The smooth coat of the short-haired type sheds very little. Their tail is sometimes curved. Long-haired Chihuahuas can have flat or curly hair, and it is quite soft, with extra fluff around the tail and ears.

The terms “teacup” and “mini” when applied to Chihuahuas are merely commercial designations used to try to elicit high prices from the buyer. All Chihuahuas are genetically a toy breed, and breeding to produce the tiniest dog possible is a long-established custom. Don’t be fooled into paying more for a Chihuahua merely because of its description.

It’s easy to understand why Chihuahuas are the 10th most popular dog in the United States, since they’re such an intelligent dog, and fiercely protective of their owners. Standard Chihuahuas today weight six pounds or less, and are six to nine inches tall. The darling tan dog that starred in the Taco Bell commercial is representative of the most popular type of Chihuahua.

If you live in an apartment, you couldn’t do better than to get one of these tiny dogs. They are wonderful companions and live a long life, in many cases getting to be 16 years or older. Shorthaired companions may need a little extra warmth, sometimes burrowing under covers to maintain their body heat while asleep. My friend has a Chihuahua that will growl whenever anyone has the audacity to uncover her.

It is believed that Chihuahuas may be the oldest breed of dog to exist in the American continents. A slighter larger breed of Chihuahua existed in the 2nd century BC, and was known as a symbol of the upper class. It was probably bred with miniature Chinese dogs which the Spanish introduced to the New World.

Whichever type of Chihuahua dog you find, you owe it to yourself to think about taking one of these small devoted dogs home with you; you will find them to be entertaining and companionable pets for many years to come. In addition, once you buy one Chihuahua, you will want to get another!

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