Pet Throw: Keeping Your Pet Cozy

The cold winter months are fast approaching, if they have not arrived already. Winter is the season for fun, family, the holidays, and enjoying your pets. A pet throw is a great product for your pet in the winter months and even all year around. There are so many colors to choose from. Get a Pet Throw that reflects your pet’s personality. If your dog is a diva, you might pick a pink throw with fur around the edges.

OR your dog may be a hunter, and you could go with a camouflage look. You can even get your pet throws personalized with your pets name on them.
Your friends and family will be impressed as they get to enjoy watching your pet in his or her own throw, the choices are endless. Your pet will feel cozy and relaxed. Just as humans, they instinctively like to have their own space. A pet throw will be a place to relax, sleep, and a retreat when feeling insecure.

The Uses Are Endless

Winter nights are cold, especially if you like to keep your house somewhat cool, a pet throw will help your older pets with aching bones and joints. Another idea to help your pet remain warm and comfy at night is to consider a dog bed. If your pet does not have a dog bed, you may want to get one for your pooch this holiday season.

Dog beds are built so your pet can snuggle warmly at night in their own soft and stain resistant fabric bed. When you put your dog to bed at night simply toss the pet throw over their body. Your dog will sleep like never before. For an added touch you can match your dog bed with your pet throw.

You can use this throw in your house on the couch, a special chair, or on your bed. If your dog sheds, a pet throw is great because it can be easily washed and reused. Your pet will feel comfortable and cozy on his or her own throw. Lay it by the fireplace where they will nap for hours, and take it in the car to protect your seats.

You can take your throw anywhere, use the pet throw when you are setting on the porch enjoying the outdoors and you want your pet to stay in a certain area. They will stay in an area that is familiar and comforting to them. The uses are endless and a pet throw is a wonderful invention for pet lovers all over the world.

Help keep your pet warm and protected from the winter elements this holiday season. Consider purchasing your pet a pet throw. Remember, investing in your pet’s comfort is investing in your pet’s happiness. It is well worth the cost!

When selecting a dog for a pet there are a few questions you need to keep in mind. Such as how frequently and how long will the dog be left alone? Are you an active or inactive person? Do you have children? Do you have other pets? How will your new dog fit into your budget?

Obviously, answers to these questions vary for each potential dog owner. This means comprising a list of the 10 best dog breeds to own as pets can be problematic. Perhaps our number one is too big for your apartment but our number nine fits your living situation perfectly. Maybe the first couple of dogs are too active but our number eight is more of your speed.

Individuals taste will vary and not all dogs are created equally. However, we ignored the particular needs of particular owners and conducted our rankings with broad and general strokes. In comprising our top ten we considered the totality of a dog’s breed giving the most weight to intelligence, loyalty, and personality.

Another major factor in our selection process was the breed’s affability towards children. That may not be a concerned if you live in a household without children but what’s a better indicator of a dog’s disposition?

Hopefully, our list will assist you in choosing your next pet and not cause any undue aggravation because your favorite breed was ranked too low. Certainly disagreements will arise over which dog should be where but we can all surely agree that each of the ten breeds listed below make great pets.

#1 Collie

The collie is a large active dog that’s probably the canine-world’s smartest representative.

These sweet and loyal dogs get along with everyone especially children. They love their family and don’t enjoy being away from them for too long. Basically, this breed craves to be around people.

While never one to shy away from a lazy afternoon they do require plenty of walks and physical activity.

Collies are also very sensitive. If they do something wrong you shouldn’t yell and scream. Instead, be patient and show them what they’re doing wrong. They are so smart they’ll understand.

The collies’ intelligence, sunny disposition and loving nature make them a terrific dog. Throw in their cleanliness and generally inoffensive aroma and they might be the perfect pet.

#2 Irish Setter

Irish Setters’ gorgeous red coat makes them one of the most indelible dogs in the canine world.

These large athletic dogs are kind, smart and full of charisma. They love being around people and need plenty of room. They do not thrive in kennels or small apartments unless they get plenty of exercise.

If properly trained, Irish Setters are great around other pets, even cats. They seldom, if ever, show “dog aggression” and if they do mix it up with Fluffy it will be nothing more serious than a chase.

Despite their size they are gentle around children and will even respond to their commands.

#3 Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is another great family dog. They are super-friendly and eager-to-please. While their excitability may be dangerous for really young children, they are typically gentle and accepting of other pets.

The Golden Retriever’s double coat is water repellent which is good because they love the water.

If you’re looking for a guard dog the Golden Retriever isn’t it. They do bark but they care more about getting-to-know the stranger than warding off any potential danger.

Golden Retrievers are a great breed for dog lovers with other pets, children and boats.

#4 Labrador Retriever

Annually battling the Golden Retriever for most popular breed in the U.S. is the Labrador Retriever. Their gentle, sporting and incredibly family-friendly behavior makes them a favorite with pet owners.

These large muscular dogs have floppy ears and a longish nose. They come in three hues: yellow, black, and chocolate.

Like Golden Retrievers, Labs love the water. Their web feet and otter-like tail makes them natural swimmers.

They have the reputation for being thick but they are actually quite intelligent. The problem is they get so excited they appear to act foolish. Also, they remain mentally immature for the first three years of their life.

The Labs’ over exuberance means small children should be supervised when in their presence. A Lab will never intentionally harm a member of the family but since they are known for getting riled up they may accidently be too much for some children to handle.

Be prepared to train and discipline your Lab. An untrained or poorly trained Lab can be a nightmare. So inexperienced dog owners beware. If you think cooing, giving it a treat and going on a quick walk is enough to keep your Lab happy you’re going to be sorely disappointed.

#5 Poodle

Poodles have a reputation that is quite different from their reality. Poodles are generally not seen as “man’s best friend” but as fashion accessories. In actuality, poodles are highly intelligent, loyal, and often described as having a great sense of humor.

The poodle is very territorial making them great guard dogs.

They are also the only breed that comes in three different sizes: standard, miniature and toy. Poodles have a short, dense, curly coat. While it seldom sheds it does need regular grooming.

When a precocious poodle gets in trouble (as dogs this smart usually do) they tend to make their owners chuckle. The dog takes their master’s laughter as praise. This phenomenon has earned them the reputation of having a great sense of humor. Bottom line, having a poodle as a pet will put a smile on your face.

Poodles need training or they will train themselves and that usually leads to problems. Fortunately their smart and it’s not very hard to tell what you want.

They are content to relax and take the day off. Yet, if you wish to go for walk they are more than happy to oblige.

The breed is good with children and other pooches. Unlike most dog breeds, poodles can recognize one of their own.

#6 Beagle

Beagles are one of the cutest dogs around.

They are squat and compact but very sturdy. Their short coat, which comes in a variety of colors, is very easy to care for.

These adorable and intelligence dogs are playful, sociable, loyal, and curious. They are great with children and other dogs but not so much with cats and other animals. In fact, you should keep animals (other than dogs) away from the Beagle. Still, the Beagle is known as a gentle dog with a good temper.

This breed doesn’t like to be left alone. If you’re worried about giving it too much me- time you can always get them another Beagle to bond with.

Beagles howl, especially in solitude. You may have to train them to control this noise as well as their bark.

If they were better with other animals and didn’t need constant monitoring when outdoors, the Beagle might be in our top five. Of course you may wish to forget all about those negatives since they are so darn cute.

#7 Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small dog that doesn’t always act its size. One, it likes children-most small dogs don’t. Two, it can be taught to guard. And three, it’s not what you would call a “yapper dog.”

This small breed of dog is highly intelligent, perky, friendly, and usually described as “happy go lucky.” It will occasionally become rambunctious but generally enjoys cuddling and lying on laps.

The breed needs frequent grooming so many owners take their Bichon Frise to a professional. The upside to their coat: it’s completely hypoallergenic.

Be careful how you discipline this breed. They are very sensitive and their feelings easily get hurt. The other downside to the Bichon Frise is the difficultly it takes to house train. It’s not impossible by any stretch of the means but it will take a commitment.

The Bichon Frise is a great pet especially for apartment dwellers or someone with a more low-key lifestyle.

#8 Newfoundland

Newfoundland is a big burly breed of dog that is also sweet and loving. While they are more than willing to leap in the water, go for a ride or explore the backyard, they are extremely docile and calm.

Despite being huge, they are known for being extremely careful in tight quarters. Meaning, your knick-knacks should be safe.

Although quiet as a watchdog, they are known for putting themselves between their family and possible danger. They are great with kids and their seemingly infinite supply of patience allows them to endure even the most obnoxious brat.

Very sensitive, Newfoundlands don’t like harsh criticism. Train them with kindness. They form strong bonds and don’t appreciate switching families or homes-then again who does.

Newfoundlands have enough independence to be left alone provided you give them plenty of attention when you return.

The adorable and loving Newfoundlands are perfect for families or those who have to leave the dog alone for extended periods of time. While they absolutely love the water and other activities, they are perfectly suited for less active owners. Keep in mind they do shed, slobber and need frequent grooming.

#9 Pug

Most articles about Pugs, and this is no exception, describe the dog with the phrase, “multum in parvor,” meaning “a lot of dog in a small space.”

They have tons of personality and are very stubborn. Somehow this mix works in the pugnacious Pug and their demeanor only adds to their charm. Too bad it makes them a bit difficult to train.

Yes they can be headstrong but they are also charming, devoted and loving. As one of the world’s oldest breeds of dogs, the Pug lives to please its family. They love to play but are seldom ever nervous or aggressive.

Pugs are excellent companions for apartment dwellers and those desiring an outgoing pet. Some may find their scrunched faces ugly and they do shed and snore. Watch their weight, they are notorious for overeating.

#10 Boxer

The Boxer may be the most athletic dog on our list. They are definitely the best guard dog in our countdown.

This mid-size, powerful pup with a short coat and a slight overbite is a great family dog. They have the patience necessary to be around all types of children.

Boxers are extremely loyal and love being with their family. They are good with other pets but not very tolerant of animals outside your brood.

Training the Boxer is a challenge. They are notorious for being difficult as puppies. They remain in that rambunctious puppy phase for two to three years but reach their physical maturity in half that time. So you may be frustrated that your training isn’t working but then one day it all clicks.

Like owners of Boxers will tell you, if you can get through their puppy phase you’ll have a relaxed and loyal dog for the rest of their lives.

The Boxer is probably best suited for an experience dog owner or an owner with the time and the willingness to train.

If the list had included 20 breeds the next ten would have been populated by Basset Hounds, Bull Terriers, Cairn Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dobermen Pinchers, Great Pyrenees, Pomeranians, Schnauzers, Shih Tzus, Whippets and of course, your favorite breed of dog.

One must remember that any breed of dog will make a dutiful and loyal pet if their owner gives them the love and attention they need.

Ghost Town, Patagonia, Argentina (2006.02.09)


Image by encosion
Before my DLSR I had a not-so-trusty lil Casio digital camera. Uploading this for a group my friend made… More to come…

"Stopped at a little ghost town… Completely abandoned, in the wake of Argentina’s the 2001 banking crash / crisis. We worked that out after much exploration and photography – magazines, letters and calendars dating from 1968 up until 2002… Skeletons of animals everywhere. Looks like they ran out of money and began to eat their pets and live stock! Or maybe they just enjoyed throwing animal bones all over the place… I’ll let the photos tell the story (a touch better no doubt)…"

Ultimate Quest (exhibit 3)


Image by GollyGforce
chose this shot for exhibit 3 because I loved the silhouette effect with the glow around her. The model was Monster No. Two aka our box of rocks. She looked so cute and the glow from the tree just set off her happy-go-lucky fun personality who doesn’t care what the world throws at her as long as she can cuddle with one of us, she’s just happy being a dog.

If you are putting your pet into a costume for the first time this Halloween, then you might want to keep a few things in mind. Planning and preparation are key, so don’t think you can just throw it together at the last minute.

Store Bought Halloween Pet Costumes or Homemade Halloween Pet Costumes
Just like costumes for kids, you’ll need to decide if you want to buy your Halloween pet costume at a store, or if you want to make it yourself. There are plusses and minuses to each, so it’s worth considering before you plunge headlong down a path.

Store Bought Halloween Pet Costumes the Plusses and Minuses

Store Bought Plusses

Can be done at the last minute Take less preparation A variety of options May be limited for any pet except your dog You don’t have to have any Halloween pet costume making skills like sewing You don’t have to be creative

Store Bought Minuses

May not fit very well May only be worn once It’s likely to be more expensive They can be ordinary

Homemade Halloween Pet Costumes the Plusses and Minuses

Homemade Plusses

You get more props for your creativity You also get more laughs You can match the costume to fit your pet and its personality If you build it, they can probably wear it more than once It’s a one-of-a-kind – much more memorable You can make it fit perfectly Simple ideas can be pretty good

Homemade Minuses

You need to at least be able to come up with an idea Once you have the idea, you have to have the skills to make it Finding and putting together the materials You need time and patience, if you don’t have either then buy it and save yourself the frustration.

Where to Buy Halloween Pet Costumes
You might want to check at your local pet store. Some pet stores will carry Halloween pet costumes, but might not have much of a selection. The upside, you can touch the costume and see how if it is made and will be able to tell if it will fit your pet. There are a number of online Halloween Pet Costume shops and they typically have a selection of dog costumes, although some carry other Halloween pet costumes as well.

How Much do Halloween Pet Costumes Cost
If you buy a Halloween pet costume at a store, or if you make it yourself, you can expect to pay anywhere between – . The more elaborate the costume, the more it will cost.

If you decide right away the costume you are going to get, or make for your pet, the easier the day will be.

Many pet owners like dog beds for their dogs because it provides a comfortable place for their dogs to rest and helps keep them off the furniture. There is a large variety of dog beds available to pet owners, with some being overly stuffed and others being flatter, pillow-type beds. There are also some simple accessories that go along with the beds, meaning that pet owners can customize their pet’s bed to fit their dog’s style and personality.

Easily Washable Beds

A favorite of many pet owners is the easy-to-clean dog bed. Most dog beds are washable, but some are easier to clean than others. Plastic dog beds are great for puppies who may have frequent accidents before they’re completely potty trained. Since these beds are made from plastic, you can put a small blanket or something simple as the bedding. There are vinyl mats available for plastic beds, but each owner has different preferences and you may prefer something softer. You may want to choose something that you can throw in the washing machine.  If your dog does have an accident, all you need to do is wash the blanket and wipe out the plastic bed. Once your dog is potty trained, you can move onto a more comfortable bed cushion.

Fancy Dog Beds

If you want your dog to rest in style, you can opt for a more fashionable dog bed. There are beds made from fleece, faux fur, and cotton. If your dog is an outside dog, there are also comfortable waterproof beds that dry quickly. This is great if your dog is a cattle dog that gets dirty or if they like to swim and are frequently wet. The fancier you go with your dog bed, the harder it is to clean. It’s best to choose a more expensive bed if your dog stays mostly indoors and is completely potty trained.

When looking for a fancier bed, make sure to choose a material that won’t make your dog too hot. If your dog has extremely long, thick hair, a faux fur bed may be too warm. If your dog is a small or teacup breed, choose a thick bed with cushioning and warmth, since these dogs tend to chill faster than larger dogs.

Bed Accessories

Typical accessories include blankets, mattresses, and roll-up beds. Blankets can be designed to match the style of the bed, or they can be added to a low-warmth bed in the winter months. Mattresses fit a variety of beds and can be vinyl, cotton, fur, or fleece. Roll-up beds are typically used for travelling, but they can also be used as a temporary bed. These beds deflate and roll up in a storage sleeve for easy portability. With the variety of dog beds on the market, you should be able to find a bed that fits your dog’s needs and your style.

More Pet Blankets Articles

It can be stressful planning a trip, and as for lining up a pet care fees range on the computer, it’s rare that a pet owner knows the best way to secure a good match for their pet. Can they trust chat rooms about pets, online job boards, or ask an acquaintance at starbuck’s or the gym? Does a pet owner have the instincts to judge who to entrust their pet with and who can be someone your pet will trust, too? Surely the least stressful and most dependable approach to carrying out this difficult job is to entrust the task to an online sitter-matching company that can fit the needs of families and sitters.

If you wish to find a pet care fees range – click here!

Step one, before committing yourself to a pet care fees range, you need to be clear about what the specific duties are as well as what you want in the way of character and personality. The list should include things like the desired experience level and pay range. Would he or she be considered a real pet person, e.g., willing to play with your pet? Does your pet require special treatment? Are you looking for someone who will look after your home as well as your pet? Write as detailed a list as possible that describes all of the requirements that are important to you.

Once you have defined the sitter duties, the next thing to do is decide on the most efficient and effective way to find the specific person you need. Perhaps the most likely method is to sign up with a computer-based sitter placement agency. Pet sitter coordinators have the means of showing you how to obtain impressive listings of a wide range of candidates who are available to take great care of your pets.

Locating a pet care fees range that is conveniently located and fits your needs, use your favorite search engine and specify the words you want to search on: your location – the city you live in, and the type of caregiver profile you are looking for. After scanning all the options which have shown up for your consideration, you decide upon the ones that might turn out to best fill your pet-sitting needs. Weigh the experience level and references of the pet sitters and pick the sitter who is able to meet your various job requirements.

Professional sitter’s agencies should provide you with these and other functions: a no-charge search of the pet sitters in your area, and a look at their online file, where you can see a photo and read about the caregiver, all at no charge to you. On the condition that they provide a no-cost tryout, which are usually available for limited time only, sign up as soon as you can it’s likely that you and your pet will be happy you did!

Related Pet Care Articles

Puppy training starts as soon as your new puppy arrives at his new home. Before you bring him home look at puppy names and decide what you are callling him. Below is a list of puppy training tips to guide you during the first month of acquiring your pet.

Week One: During your puppy’s first week home (he should be around 8 weeks old), it is important to take him for a vet check up. Sample of his stool is checked for worms and preventive inoculations are given. As I said puppy training starts on day one by calling him by his new puppy name.

Set up his eating area as well as his crate or sleeping quarters. Begin the process of house training as well as collar and leash training. Watch him while he plays by himself and observe his style and personality. Play gently and enthusiastically but avoid rough housing. Say “Ok” whenever you feed him, hand him a toy or a treat as you walk out the door with him. Use plenty of praise all the time.

Week Two: As you play with your puppy, gradually add simple phrases and words into the games. If he is retrieving, say “Take it “as you throw the object. Praise him when he brings the object back to you. Say “Out” as he drops it and praise him again. Continue with “Ok” during meal, for going out, with playing, housebreaking, leash training, and observing.

Week Three: During the third week of puppy training begin to correct him gently for nipping and for chewing on shoes, cords, and furniture. Provide a toy for him to chew instead. Even if he stays inside the house, be sure to walk him around on his leash everyday. Always use eye contact. Say “Watch me” to draw his attention to your eyes. Praise him for looking at you. This method teaches him to look to you for direction.A great leash training idea is to begin tying his leash to your belt and have him trail around wherever you go; starting for a few minutes at a time, working up to an hour as it becomes easier. This will help him bond to you and will also help with his puppy training.

Start teaching table manners, beginning with “No” and “Ok” for food. Initiate the “Sit” and “Stay”, working for no more than five minutes at a time this week. If you are at home most of the time, make sure that you leave him alone for short periods of time during the day to get him used to being alone. Begin to correct the stealing of food and found objects – keeping in mind that prevention is your best correction. Correct excessive barking, noise, and whining.

Week Four: Carry on with all of the above puppy training, adding more time that he walks properly on leash. Continue practicing “No” and “Ok” with food no more than twice per week. Continue to let him explore the house under supervision, both on and off the leash. Initiate the “Come” and “Down stay” to your puppy training program. Work with your puppy no more than fifteen minutes at a time. If he is going out, you may start teaching him to “Heel” but do it very gently. Get him used to grooming procedures such as brushing, nail clipping, and occasional baths. Always make sure that every puppy training session is run as a game that way your puppy will enjoy himself whilst being trained.

John Mailer
http://www.articlesbase.com/advice-articles/simple-puppy-training-tips-for-the-first-month-98073.html

There comes a time in most home families when the children get a bit older and their dog or teddy is no longer the best thing in the world to play with, every new friend or existing friend your children make seems to have a cute little dog, and its only a matter of time before your children are going to start pestering you for one. So what should you look for is your serious about getting a family dog?

For starters your dog will need to be able to take everything your children can throw at it, children often don’t have any idea of how to handle a new pet dog so don’t expect them to play gently all the time, unknowing children have a tendency to be a little rough wile playing with dogs so a dog breed that can take some rough playing is essential.

Different dogs have different personalities just like humans do so be aware of this when purchasing a new dog, just because a dog breed is normally playful, energetic, and nice , this does not mean the one you get will be the same. Being prepared to put in work and time with your dog is also essential with a family dog because dog’s often take the things your children tell it to do as acceptable when this may not be the case, so dog behavior training will be needed at some point.

After considering the previous paragraphs I’m sure you will be pretty certain on whether you still want a dog for your home or not, if you do then here are some suggestions on different breeds that you may want to consider.

Golden Retriever. The golden retriever is a good popular choice for families because of their active and loyal personality and a good all round dog.

Boxer. Although the boxer may look big and intimidating to some, the boxer is a very good family dog in that they love being around people, they take care of the family members, and are always willing to play.

Labrador Retreiver. An extremely popular pet in many households across the world, the Labrador is a very friendly loving dog that loves to play and be very active for your kids to play with.

Beagle. The beagle is a very sturdy dog that can take plenty of roughness and playing, and loves to be active and meet new people. A very excited and curious dog that is great for family life.

Boston Terrier. The terrier is a gentle, well mannered dog and enjoys a challenge. Boston terriers are very easy to train and make for great family dogs and friends.

Irish Setter. A very affectionate dog, the Irish setter is a very good choice for families due to its liking for children and constant happy playful attitude.

John Williams Dog Training
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-behavior-training-choosing-a-good-family-dog-256103.html

Check out www.dogshowusa.com for more great pet tricks!!

If you are like me, your dog is your best friend. Your dog is a companion that goes with you everywhere and loves to spend time with you. We love to care for our pets and spoil them in special ways. There is no better way to spoil your pup than to get them a Dog Blanket. Your dog will love the feel of this soft and cozy Dog Blanket. You can choose from different styles and designs.

You can get a thin fleece Dog Blanket, or plush wool type Dog Blanket. There are many to suit your dog’s needs. I personally enjoy picking a blanket that goes with my dog’s personality. If your dog is a girl you might choose a soft pastel colored blanket. If your dog is a boy, you may choose a more dark color or even a plaid. The color choices are endless. You may even want to personalize the Dog Blanket by embroidering the dog’s name on the blanket. You can spend as little or as much as you want on your special

Dog Blanket: Uses For Your Dog Blanket

If your pup is new to your home, a Dog Blanket is used for comfort and a familiar smell. Let your puppy sleep with this Dog Blanket from the first night in your house. The puppy will relate the smell of the blanket to comfort and know that it is time to go to sleep. Your new puppy will not howl as much and keep you up at night if he or she has their own Dog Blanket.

Some people like to have more than one Dog Blanket at their house. One could be use just for the bed and another in the living room where your dog likes to hang out with you on the couch. Dog Blankets will prevent your dog from scratching the furniture and prevent dirty paws from soiling your couch. A Dog Blanket is great for the car and traveling. Your pampered pooch will always feel at home when you carry their Dog Blanket along with them. If you travel and your dog has to be kenneled for a week or so, take their Dog Blanket with them. They will feel safer and more content with their blanket.

Warmth is a main reason for having a Dog Blanket. If it is winter time a Dog Blanket will be a favorite item when your dog comes in from the outside. Your dog will want to wrap up and warm up from the weather. You will see how happy your dog is with their very own Dog Blanket. You will find that you use this blanket more than any other pet item and your dog will thank you for it!