Archive for July, 2011

PostHeaderIcon The Language Of Pet Names

Its a definite turning point, isnt it? She blurts it out innocently enough, but there it isits out there, Honey” (or, if the Angels Of Affectionate Blessing are working extra hard, Sugar Smacks”or Beanly”or Goodness”). The proverbial cat is out of its bag. Just dont call me that in front of my friends, okay, Sweet Thing”?

Pet names. What a concept. A topic I genuinely like, and have thought about in detail. I believe its all about adding a new level of identity to a certain person so as to set apart the relationship between parties as sacred (or something like that). Pet names are a lot like nicknames in this respect, demonstrating that someone cares” enough to call you in a way more private or familial than your given name. But see, just about anyone you know can care” enough to tag you with a mere nickname, and the end result can be questionable, right Pigeon Lips”? Oh yeah. Make no mistake, pet names are nicknames made perfect. This is all part of that elusive language of love” made famous by Pepe LePew, et al.Women, Im guessing, typically get the ball rolling, and may wonder where the reciprocation is. Well, theres good cause for concern. A man might very well feel that “pet names” are a feminine thing, so during the normal course of life he may carefully guard his “macho” exterior and act embarrassed by them and/or refrain from using them–especially in public I’d think. During the passion of sex, however, he may feel more uninhibited or quite frankly may not be able to help himself from coming out with the little names he already has in mind for her.Did you know that it’s very common for women to “age regress” when they are both attracted to and comfortable with a man? It’s a very clear sign. “Baby talk” and pet-names are by products of this, and yes…it’s a feminine trait. You know what I mean: all those little cute-isms” used around the house that all healthy couples seem to have, but which the man would NEVER acknowledge outside of the safe confines of the house or the car. A while back Match.com used to have “baby talk” on its list of “turn on/turnoffs” for members to select from when creating profiles. Women almost always checked it as a “turnoff” (e.g. if coming from a guy). My educated guess, however, is that a man really likes when women do that stuff because it gives him the security of knowing she’s into himas bizarre as that sounds.And what about those pet names themselves? There are “universal” or “safe” pet names (e.g. baby, honey, cutie) that everyone can use over and over. Others, like “pumpkin”, “sweet stuff”, etc. probably aren’t ‘transferable’ to the next relationship–it would feel weird. Re-using the sacred” ones would be kind of like calling out an ex-lovers name in bed, right?All of this said, I do believe there are distinct words a man can use when talking to a woman he likes that accomplish the same endearing purpose as the “femmie” pet names, YET project all the right things about manhood. This is a tricky one, and highly variable depending on a guys personalityor the womans for that matter. Oddly enough, girlie”, female” and blondie” are examples Ive heard can be used effectivelyCopyright 2006 X & Y Communications——–Want to hear more? Scot McKay is a dating coach in San Antonio, TX and founder of X & Y Communications, a one-stop-shop for dating resources. He is the author of the new book Deserve What You Want”, and hosts the popular podcast series X & Y On The Fly” with his fiancee Emily. Sign up for the newsletter at http://www.dating-advice.us/ or http://www.datetoorder.com/ and get a FREE GIFT. The podcast series is also available free of charge at http://feeds.feedburner.com/xyonthefly .

PostHeaderIcon The Best Way to Keep Your Pet Calm Throughout Your

The Best Way to Keep Your Pet Calm Throughout Your Entire Relocation

Moving can be especially stressful for every member of your family. While it is true that homeowners are faced with the most stress with things like, choosing the right professional movers and evaluating moving company insurance policies. With so much going on its a good thing that there are options available that can ease the entire process like using well known movers like American Van Lines for your moving services. Unfortunately, no matter how you choose to move your pet will suffer the same amount of stress. Taking the necessary steps to help reduce the amount of stress your pet feels during a move can make a big difference in how they will react to the overall change of environment.

On your moving day there is bound to be a lot of commotion since all of your possessions will eventually be moved out of your home. If you are using professional movers, the many strange people moving about your home may agitate your pet. It is also possible for your pet to run away from the strange noises or be injured by some of the items that are being packed. To prevent this you will need to make sure your pet is well occupied on your moving day. If you have kids, you should encourage them to spend time with your pet during your relocation. Those without kids should leave their pet in an empty room as soon as one becomes available or keep them in the back yard as long as there is not a clear view of the front yard from there.

There is nothing worse than losing your pet when you are trying to meet a deadline. Most moving companies operate on a very strict timetable and may charge extra for broken appointments. This is why it is essential to make sure that your pet is wearing the right identification on your moving day. Your pet’s tags should include your name, your new address and your cell phone number since you may not have a number for your new home yet.

Keeping your pet calm may be as simple as leaving them with some of their favorite items. In the interest of time, you may be tempted to pack every single item in your home but remember to leave your pet with their personal favorites like a chew toy, and their favorite blanket or doggie bed.

During your move, you should put your pet in a pet carrier to avoid any potential accidents along the way. Even if you have allowed your pet to remain in your arms on previous occasions you may not want to find out what can happen if they where to become agitated during your travels. An anxious pet may scratch you or distract the driver, which can result in personal injuries.

Getting your pet to your destination safely is half of the battle; your pet may find it hard to adjust to a completely new environment once you arrive in your new home. To help your pet get used to your new home you will need to keep them in doors for a while. Dogs should be walked around the neighborhood to allow them to get used to their surroundings and to let them choose their territory. Cats should be kept in doors for a few days to prevent them from running off, in most cases cats that wander off in new neighborhoods do not come back keeping them in the house will allow them to get into a feeding routine that they will follow no matter how far they wander off to.

Sticking to your regular routine is a great way to help your pet adjust to your new home. Keep feeding times and play times as close to your old routine as possible. Your pet will be back to their old self before you know if you stick to this procedure.

PostHeaderIcon The Benefit of Pet Bird Toys

Birds are very intelligent and active animals. Unless the person is a bird enthusiast, the average person does not understand the importance of pet bird toys. Pet toys are the answer to many self-destructive and destructive behaviors that bird owners may experience. In the wild ones are free to fly as well as interact with other birds. In captivity birds are not afforded these opportunities. Pet toys will solve problems that can arise when birds are not in their natural habitat.

There are many common issues that owners experience. Birds will sometimes scream for attention or become aggressive towards their owners and other humans. Other behaviors that can occur are self-mutilation such as feather picking. Even taking them out of the cage for playtime and loving care will not always solve these issues. The reason for this is birds will still face a lot of time and isolation inside their cage. To combat this, these toys will keep their minds sharp and burn up any excess energy. For young birds, toys increases body and brain development. And in the case of aggression, they will take it out on their toys instead of humans. There are a variety of toys that will maintain the sanity and happiness for all in the household – including the humans.

Every bird has the instinct of foraging. Because they are so intelligent, they would enjoy the amount of stimulation that comes with foraging toys. Hiding the food and treats inside the secret compartments will give the bird the opportunity to hunt and work for their food.

Foot toys are another useful toy, especially for parrots since they use their feet to play with toys. There are many types of pet toys that can be used as foot toys such as sticks, small balls, blocks and leather. To keep them interest levels up, rotate the toys regularly.

All birds like to preen. And in the worst case scenario a bored bird will preen to the point of feather plucking. Bird toys that are designed for preening will give the bird something else to pull, shred or pick at – instead of their feathers. These preening toys also give a calming effect to pet birds. They are mostly found in rope or different types of paper.

We offer high quality, affordable pet bird toys that are perfect for you.

PostHeaderIcon Specialty Pet Products Litter Training Your Cat

Cats make great pets for many reason including companionship, personality and independence. You’ll want to create a cat friendly environment in your home by supplying a scratching post, toys, nutrition and a litter box. Training your cat to use a litter box is easier than you think. With a little patience and minimal training, feline instincts will kick in and kitty will be using the litter box like a pro.

A few things to keep in mind about cat litter training:
Kitty likes quiet time at litter time.Make sure to keep your cat’s litter box in a quiet, secluded area. Loud noises will distract or scare the cat, possibly causing accidents. If your cat isn’t familiar with the location of her litter, simply place her in the litter box. Don’t worry, her nose will take over and she will remember.
How does kitty know what to do?For most cats, using a litter box is instinctive. But if you are worried your cat won’t know what to do or if the cat has an accident before, rake your fingers through the litter teaching your cat what to do. Cats are smart and it won’t take much for her to figure it out. It might not be a bad idea to keep your cat enclosed in the same area with the litter for 30 minutes to ensure potty security.
Keep litter box clean.Cats are naturally clean creatures and require a tidy environment. If the litter box isn’t clean, the cat will find another place to relieve itself. To ensure the litter box meets cat standards, clean litter box daily by scooping. Change litter weekly and clean the box with a dishwasher soap and water solution. Sprinkle the bottom of the litter box with baking soda to neutralize future odors. If you experience odor problems, try changing the brand of litter and keeping pet friendly odor exterminating products in the area.
The relationship you develop with your cat will prove to be an exciting one. Good luck!

PostHeaderIcon Specialty Pet Products and the Outdoor Cat

Should I let my cat outside? Does this make me an irresponsible cat owner?

Welcome to the common cat questions. Depending on environment and the personality of your cat, the outdoor option may be perfectly acceptable for your feline friend.
Ten years ago, I adopted Allie, the one-year-old independent Tabby with a love for adventure. At first Allie was accepting of her indoor environment. She was content lounging on furniture and playing with toys. But as time passed, her curiosity grew and she longed to explore the outdoors.  Allie would meow constantly, paw at the door and try to escape at any chance.

There are risks letting a cat outside. Kitty could be hit by a car, hurt by another animal or run away. However, I wanted Allie to be happy and as my vet said “quality of life”. I knew Allie had some anxiety and in fairness, I needed to entertain the idea of her embracing the outdoors.
Before letting your cat outside make sure of the following:
•Train your cat to come when you call by name or a whistle. Reward your pet with a little wet food or tuna fish•Vaccinate your pet•Be responsible and neuter or spay your pet•Kitty must be over 6 months of age•Install a microchip or purchase a collar with current information•Make sure kitty is in by dark.
I’m happy to say Allie has been an indoor/outdoor cat for six months. She’s happier, less anxious and smiles often. Allie has also learned to come inside when I call for her. I would like to think she misses me, but I know that tuna fish is her true love.
About the author:Dana Starensier has been owned by her dog Gypsy and cat Allie for over 10 years.  Recently, she has joined the Specialty Pet Products odor exterminating team as a web master. Visit www.petcandles.comto view the odor exterminating smelly goodness.

PostHeaderIcon Secrets for success in petite modelling

It is the wrong assumption that only thin skinner people can become a fashion model. If you are person who falls in the category of petite or average sized, then don’t worry as, you guys also have a chance to enter into the industry through the category of petite modelling.  Are you wondering how you will achieve success in the petite modelling career? One of the keys for success in the modelling industry is that height and weight does not matter. Most of the work in the petite modelling industry includes close up pictures of the face, hands, feet or other body parts instead of body as a whole. That’s the reason this petite models have such stringent height requirements and the very essential thing is that to get your face in front of thousands of modelling clients and agencies that can offer you really the most lucrative job.
It can be done through the word tear sheets which is the pages you tear out of magazines that feature you as model or even as one among the models seen in the photos. As petite or average sized models, the type of tear sheets may be ranging from advertisements for everything and anything which relates to hair, skin, and nail care, including beauty and self improvement tips. This is in addition to exercise, fitness and diet management articles. Tear sheets can be termed as an entry pass to enter into, launch and manage your career in the modelling fashion arena. These tear sheets will declare to the outside world and other potential clients “I can get the job done”.  If you have at least one tear sheet in your portfolio it will prove to the clients that you have got sufficient work experience and have done the job of a professional model.
So how do you work to get to be one in these fashionable model shoots and the most obvious way is to seek the help of any modelling agency. But unfortunately, most of the agencies do not sign up the models that are below the prescribed height standards. So going by this way may offer you rejections and it will test your patience. Another way is that you can work directly with modelling and fashion magazines. Most of these magazines are geared towards the face of the fashion and modelling industry that are always in search of talented new faces for their upcoming project.
Most of the viewers of these magazines read it, so that they can select the models for their products and services or photo shoots for their own professional fashion magazines.  That’s why it is considered to be beneficial if we appeared in these types of fashion magazines. Thus if you are thinking to break through the petite modelling industry this is definitely something that should be looked into.

PostHeaderIcon Rat Food – What To Feed Your Pet Rat For

Rat Food – What To Feed Your Pet Rat For a Long and Happy Life

Rats are omnivores, which means they will basically eat anything. You can buy rat and mouse
food from the supermarket or a pet shop, but to keep your rat super happy you should supplement
their basic cereal food with something a bit more exciting. Improved nutrition
can lengthen your rats lifespan to 5 years.
You will discover what your pets favorite food are with a bit of
experimentation (don’t mention that word in front of the ratties). Try out lots
of healthy, fresh foods
like carrot sticks dipped in hommous, juicy apples and pears and you will soon
see what they eat straight away, what they hide for later and what they just
can’t be bothered with at all.
My Wombat rat loves grapes .
He holds them so delicately, takes off the top and the licks out the inside
like a crème egg.
It’s ok to give your rats treats too. They like the fruity treats you
can buy in the pet shop for rabbits and guinea pigs and carob drops that you
get for dogs. My rats like a bit of my dog’s dried biscuits too.
Try out raisins and bread and peanut butter, spread thinly, to avoid
choking (on a carrot or celery stick) and you will see what they like best.
Just like us, they like variation
in their diet. My rats, Ginger and Mr T just love chocolate soy milk and a lot
of rats like yoghurt too. Regular soy in our rats’ diet is proven to reduce
their chance of getting mammary tumors. Hard boiled eggs and bacon rind are
other things your ratties might enjoy.
Ginger in particular is rather greedy and will actually try and grab
things from my mouth! What a cheek!
Try hiding special treats around
their cage in secret places and your ratties will love spending time searching for
their favorite food, just like they would in the wild.
Remember not to overfeed your
rats. If they get fat they can be more susceptible to tumors and other nasty
things, so everything in moderation and try and feed lots of healthy living foods as well as the
odd treat.
Of course you must always provide plenty
of fresh water , ideally from a dripfeed bottle, fixed to the
cage, that you can get from the pet shop. Try to clean the bottle and the food
bowl out regularly to help keep your rats nice and healthy. Also make sure you
change the food every day.
Don’t feed male rats oranges . They have a
component called d-limonene that
builds up in the male rats kidneys and can cause cancer. Avoid all citrus flavours, oils and fruits .
D-limonene is not shown to have any effect on female rats, but perhaps it is
best to avoid these fruits anyway and stick to other foods your rat likes. Rats
don’t need to eat as much vitamin C as humans, as they are able to make their
own. When you find out
what your ratties favorite food is, you can use it to train him. Rats are very intelligent and will do
anything for their favorite food. They also like to please their favorite
person too. My rats love to do tricks for a piece of Nesquick chocolate cereal
or a spoon of chocolate soy milk (note the chocolate theme).

http://www.RatsRatsRats.com

copyright Catherine Smith 2007
Check out my website for everything you’ve ever wanted
to know about pet rats. From training to toys, housing to health. You can even
go shopping for your ratty friend.

PostHeaderIcon Pet Turtles for Kids

There is absolutely no doubt about the fact that turtles make amazing exotic pets, but are they ideal pets for your kids? Now that’s one question which you need to give a serious thought before you get a pet turtle for your kid. It’s a common misconception that small turtles are harmless for kids, and this very misconception can turn out to be harmful for your kids. Did you know that a significant proportion of cases of salmonella infection in children is attributed to pet turtles. Your ignorance about such facts can turn out to be dangerous for your kids, and therefore it is wise to do a thorough research before you move on and buy small pet turtles for kids.

Are Turtles Ideal Pets for Kids?

Experts are of the opinion that keeping pet turtles in homes which have children of five years or below can turn out to be harmful for these children as well as the turtle species. These turtles carry some harmful species of bacteria (salmonella bacteria being one of the most common) on their body. When kids come in contact with these turtles, this bacteria is transferred to them and affects their health adversely. Kids are not well versed with the importance of hygiene, so they may not even realized the risks associated with these bacteria species. More importantly, salmonella is naturally occurring bacteria in turtles, and you yourself may not even realize that your pet turtle is infested with this bacteria because these turtles seldom look sick when they are infested by it.

Similarly, when you keep turtles as pets, you need to subject them to proper care on a regular basis. Your kids may not be well versed with the importance of proper care for pet turtles either, and resulting bad hygiene will make these pet turtles more vulnerable to various diseases; which will be eventually transferred to your kids. At the same time, if your kids lose interest in their pet turtles, the onus of taking care of these pets will be on you. All these things need to be given a serious thought before keeping turtles as pets in homes with kids. In fact, taking into consideration the connection between pet turtles and salmonella infection in children, keeping turtles as pets in homes with small children is best avoided.

Best Pet Turtles for Kids

If you think your kids are old enough to take care of themselves (as well as their pet turtles), you can opt for some species which are docile in nature and don’t require much attention. When we talk about turtles as pets, the red eared slider is perhaps the best example. The docile nature of this species makes it one of the most popular pet turtle in the American households. Yet another popular pet turtle species is the musk turtle. These individuals seldom grow beyond a length of 5-6 inches. As in case of Red Eared slider, even the musk turtle species are quite docile in nature and therefore easy to handle. Even though the Cooter species tend to grow up to a length of 12-15 inches, their docile nature makes them ideal turtle species to be kept as pets for kids. Other species which can be good pets for kids include the box turtle, Speckled Padloper tortoise, Soft shelled turtle, Reeved turtle, etc.

That was brief information on pet turtles for kids, with special emphasis on risks associated with keeping them as pets and certain types of pet turtles which don’t require much attention. As we have been saying again and again, these turtles are not at all meant to be kept as pets for small kids. Even though they will make ideal pets for older kids, who will learn quite a few fascinating things about these reptiles when they keep them as pets, this should only be done under the watchful eyes of some adult.

PostHeaderIcon Pet Toad Care

There is perhaps no other creature that has been so mythologized, feared, and misunderstood as the toad. Indeed, the toad has long been associated with black magic, poison, and death. At the same time, however, toads have been considered symbols of fertility, love, and health by alchemists, gypsies, and all manner of ancient peoples. In a more modern context, toads have enjoyed increasing popularity as easy-to-keep, unique pets. With options ranging from the garden-variety American toad to the more exotic Oriental fire-bellied toad, keeping a pet toad can be an education unto itself, provided you learn the following valuable pet toad care pointers first!While your methods of toad pet care will depend largely upon the individual needs of the species you choose as a companion, there a few basic “rules” that should be heeded. The first rule as that most toads don’t take kindly to being held or touched. While there is no truth to the old wives’ tale that says touching a toad will cause warts, it is true that toads will secrete a toxic, defensive substance from their skin when they feel threatened. To that end, you should always wash your hands if you must touch your pet toad, but you should also keep in mind that the reason your toad feels threatened in the first place is because you’re many, many times larger than it is! Toads are not wired to respond to affection like a cat or dog, therefore, they are best enjoyed happily dwelling in an enclosure that resembles their natural habitat as closely as possible-an appropriately appointed living space.Your pet toad care success depends largely upon selecting a secure, adaptable home for your toad. Aquariums are always best, whether your toad is a land-dweller or a water lover as they allow for maximum viewing potential while keeping your toad safe from harm. Outfit your aquarium with a snug-fitting mesh top that will provide adequate ventilation, and ensure that your toad has enough room to hop and swim about. A good rule of thumb is that a single medium-sized toad should be given at least ten gallons worth of aquarium. Nearly all toads enjoy water to some extent-some pretty much live in it, climbing out only occasionally to rest, feed, or breathe while others spend most of their time grubbing around on land, entering the water only to drink or have a little swim. Once you’ve learned your toad’s species-specific preferences, you can devote your time to building a realistic habitat. For instance, if your toad is a native to wet forests, give him lots of leaf cover, moss, and a few lush, live plants to enjoy. If your toad is a prairie dweller, he’ll need flat rocks, a stand of tall grass, and a small pool to lounge in.As you consider your pet toad care checklist, keep in mind that you’ll have to account for your toad’s dietary needs, even if you’re squeamish about things like insects and worms. Most toads sold in the pet store will enjoy a steady diet of crickets, provided the crickets are dusted occasionally with a vitamin-rich powder (also available at pet stores). Toads may also enjoy earthworms or wax worms. Some toads have considerably more exotic dietary needs, and may need to be fed mice or goldfish to maintain their health and happiness, so always take care to consult a reputable book or salesperson before bringing your new toad home.While owning a toad may not be for everyone, learning the ins and outs of pet toad care can make for a rewarding, unique, and perhaps even magical pet ownership experience for those who are up to the task. As you learn more and more about the varying needs, habitats, and mythologies behind these fascinating creatures, you’ll soon be ready for a toad of your very own. Educate yourself well and head to the pet store. You may just return home with a new best friend.

PostHeaderIcon Pet Strollers Our Dog Zach Would Be Happy.

They make pet strollers in several configurations. At first I thought this was an over dose of luxury. Our dog Zach was with us since he was eight weeks old, we were his family and he definitely was a part of our family. After many years it was hard to remember life without Zack. He was friendly to a fault, loving and a real joy to all.

Then old age caught up to him and he started to slow down. The squirrels were now safe in the back yard and swimming was limited to in and around in a small circle and out to lie in the sun. What about those walks, and family outings at the park? Have you ever carried a dog for any distance? Just like us old age brings stiffening and weakness. Not fun.

A pet stroller can make life so much easier and fun for you and your pet at a time like this. A pet stroller is much easier on our back and a real comfort for the pet. Remember to take their leash for potty breaks and the quick investigation of something new. When watching the kid’s soccer game or practice, your pet can curl up and be with you yet safe and secure in their portable kennel on wheels.

If you are taking a walk and they get tried, you put them in and don’t worry about them chasing a bird or getting excited and jumping out for the pet stroller is completely enclosed; however, there are flaps for cool comfort. Larger wheels make for an easy push for all sizes of pets.