Showing 17 posts from September 2008
Even though you’re allergic to cats, you still adore them. You love petting them, cuddling them and playing with them. In fact, you are a certifiable Cat Person ñ despite the fact that getting too close to most felines makes you miserable because of the allergies.
Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to reduce your reactions to most cats. You might still have a few reactions, but they won’t happen as often or be as severe.
These things are particularly important if you live with, or just spend lots of time around, cats. You and the kitties will be happier and healthier if you can do the following:
- Make sure that you’re really allergic to cats. This seems stupid; of course you’re allergic to cats! Even so, you should get an allergy test. You might actually be reacting to something else in the environment (dust or seasonal stuff in the air). You might also discover that something on the cat is triggering the allergies. More than a few people have had bad reactions to a cat’s flea collar, flea powder or other products.
- Obsessive vacuuming is a great place to begin. The less loose cat hair you have in the house, the less you’ll react. Don’t stop at cleaning up the carpet: be sure to use your vacuum cleaner’s hose attachment on your cat’s favorite furniture.
- Even though you’re vacuuming on a regular basis, you still need to wash any bedding, couch covers, etc. that your kitties call home. Buy a decorative drop cloth type cover for your couch so that you can strip it off and throw it into the washing machine once a week or so.
Tip: The best vacuum cleaner for this job is one with a HEPA filter. That way, you’ll actually trap and filter out the allergens instead of just stirring them up.
- Brushing the cats on a regular basis also helps. This is a great way to bond with your feline friends at the same time. You can have another family member do the brushing if this triggers your allergies. You can also wear a mask while you do the brushing.
- A good HEPA air filter is another great idea. A system that quietly filters allergy triggering particles out of your house’s air might cost you a big wad of cash, but your allergies will thank you for the investment by being quiet for a change. This will also help if you’re allergic to other things, like dust.
- A vet can help you find a cat friendly shampoo or rinse for the fur baby. Sometimes just rinsing off the cat about once a week can help too. This should help reduce the amount of dander that’s triggering your allergies. You’ll also have a less stinky cat.
- Create a cat free zone so that you have a safe place to retreat if your allergies become too severe. Your cat might not appreciate being banned from your bedroom, but your allergies won’t mind one bit.
- Many people with cat allergies are more allergic to some cats than they are to others. If you’re about to become a cat owner ñ i.e. you’re just researching at this point to see if you can even have a kitty in your home ñ be on the lookout for kitties who aren’t so rough on your allergies. Various breeds are more hypoallergenic than others, so talk to breeders and veterinarians about which cats might work best for you.
However: be aware that there is really no such thing as a one hundred percent, completely hypoallergenic cat. Some are more hypoallergenic than others, yes, but before you bring home a new cat of any breed you should spend some time with him or her. This will reassure you that this particular kitty isn’t going to trigger your allergies.
- You can also take allergy pills or shots to help subdue your reactions. Your doctor can help you find the right medicine to combat the symptoms.
Other people with cat allergies can be great sources of further information. Veterinarians and your allergist are also great people to ask for more tips. The important thing here is to keep trying: giving up your fur babies should be the last resort. Many cat lovers never have to seriously entertain the thought of life without a kitty because the steps that they take to reduce their allergic reactions work very well.
When you’ve done everything that you can to reduce your allergic reactions, you and your kitties will be much happier together. This isn’t to say that you’ll never break out, sneeze or otherwise react to your pals - but when you do, it won’t be nearly as bad.
All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com
Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to reduce your reactions to most cats. You might still have a few reactions, but they won’t happen as often or be as severe.
These things are particularly important if you live with, or just spend lots of time around, cats. You and the kitties will be happier and healthier if you can do the following:
- Make sure that you’re really allergic to cats. This seems stupid; of course you’re allergic to cats! Even so, you should get an allergy test. You might actually be reacting to something else in the environment (dust or seasonal stuff in the air). You might also discover that something on the cat is triggering the allergies. More than a few people have had bad reactions to a cat’s flea collar, flea powder or other products.
- Obsessive vacuuming is a great place to begin. The less loose cat hair you have in the house, the less you’ll react. Don’t stop at cleaning up the carpet: be sure to use your vacuum cleaner’s hose attachment on your cat’s favorite furniture.
- Even though you’re vacuuming on a regular basis, you still need to wash any bedding, couch covers, etc. that your kitties call home. Buy a decorative drop cloth type cover for your couch so that you can strip it off and throw it into the washing machine once a week or so.
Tip: The best vacuum cleaner for this job is one with a HEPA filter. That way, you’ll actually trap and filter out the allergens instead of just stirring them up.
- Brushing the cats on a regular basis also helps. This is a great way to bond with your feline friends at the same time. You can have another family member do the brushing if this triggers your allergies. You can also wear a mask while you do the brushing.
- A good HEPA air filter is another great idea. A system that quietly filters allergy triggering particles out of your house’s air might cost you a big wad of cash, but your allergies will thank you for the investment by being quiet for a change. This will also help if you’re allergic to other things, like dust.
- A vet can help you find a cat friendly shampoo or rinse for the fur baby. Sometimes just rinsing off the cat about once a week can help too. This should help reduce the amount of dander that’s triggering your allergies. You’ll also have a less stinky cat.
- Create a cat free zone so that you have a safe place to retreat if your allergies become too severe. Your cat might not appreciate being banned from your bedroom, but your allergies won’t mind one bit.
- Many people with cat allergies are more allergic to some cats than they are to others. If you’re about to become a cat owner ñ i.e. you’re just researching at this point to see if you can even have a kitty in your home ñ be on the lookout for kitties who aren’t so rough on your allergies. Various breeds are more hypoallergenic than others, so talk to breeders and veterinarians about which cats might work best for you.
However: be aware that there is really no such thing as a one hundred percent, completely hypoallergenic cat. Some are more hypoallergenic than others, yes, but before you bring home a new cat of any breed you should spend some time with him or her. This will reassure you that this particular kitty isn’t going to trigger your allergies.
- You can also take allergy pills or shots to help subdue your reactions. Your doctor can help you find the right medicine to combat the symptoms.
Other people with cat allergies can be great sources of further information. Veterinarians and your allergist are also great people to ask for more tips. The important thing here is to keep trying: giving up your fur babies should be the last resort. Many cat lovers never have to seriously entertain the thought of life without a kitty because the steps that they take to reduce their allergic reactions work very well.
When you’ve done everything that you can to reduce your allergic reactions, you and your kitties will be much happier together. This isn’t to say that you’ll never break out, sneeze or otherwise react to your pals - but when you do, it won’t be nearly as bad.
All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com
Also known as the Congo or Zaire Terrier, as well as carrying honors as the Barkless Dog, the Basenji is believed to have originated as far back as 4,000 B.C. and his likeness has been carved into the tombs of the ancient Egyptian kings, most likely where they were used as tribute offerings to the pharaoh. These interesting little canines are believed to have originated in Central Africa's rain forests and are still used, by native hunters, as a skilled sight hound, wearing wooden bells to alert their owners as to their whereabouts.
Basenji does not mean barkless, as many might think but, instead, means bush thing, pointing back to the dog's origins, as well as his usefulness as a hunting dog in the bush. Very active, these dogs make excellent coursers and the American Kennel Club (AKC) has made them eligible for coursing events, in addition to conformation classes. A very alert, intelligent and proud dog, they enjoy the show ring and are well-suited to the hustle and bustle of competitive life, though they also make wonderful pets. Loyal and protective, they tend to be a one-family dog so, if you intend to bring a Basenji into your life, itís best to ensure that your lifestyle is such that you will be able to keep him for the entirety of his days. Basenji who are given away, or separated from those they have bonded with, commonly suffer severe bouts of depression and anxiety. It is never a good idea to choose a Basenji, should you have a lifestyle where you must travel and board your dog in a kennel frequently; such a lifestyle is very hard on these russet-coated beauties.
Standing 16-17 inches high at the shoulder, this is a medium-sized dog with a light build and a distinctively wrinkled forehead, giving him an almost comically concerned expression. All-around, he is a unique little dog, from his bright coppery coat, to his tightly curled tail, reminiscent of a corkscrew. Healthy Basenji weigh between 21-24 pounds when fully grown and are not prone to obesity, as a rule, being very active little canines. Their erect ears seem to constantly be perked and looking for something to go darting off after and, for your own petís safety, itís important to always keep them on a leash when they are outside. Coursing hounds are notorious runners and, before they know it, they can become horribly lost or injured while in the midst of chasing down prey. They also have a tendency to chase anything that will run and so careful consideration should be taken before introducing them into a home with cats.
Basenji are extremely clean animals and have quite a few catlike tendencies, including how they will wash themselves. They are virtually odorless, which makes them very pleasant house dogs. Do not be fooled, however, while the Basenji cannot bark, he is not a silent dog either; fully capable of making yodeling and chortling noises, it is best to encourage him not to make a lot of noise when he is put in his crate, or neighbors are sure to wonder what strange bush thing you are keeping next door.
Overall, the Basenji is a generally robust breed of dog, though they have been heavily inbred. Hernias can be problematic, as can their tendencies to be prone to various allergic skin diseases. For more information on this copper-coated dog, be sure to talk to your veterinarian and local breeders; any fan of the Basenji is likely to have a wealth of information to share.
All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com
Basenji does not mean barkless, as many might think but, instead, means bush thing, pointing back to the dog's origins, as well as his usefulness as a hunting dog in the bush. Very active, these dogs make excellent coursers and the American Kennel Club (AKC) has made them eligible for coursing events, in addition to conformation classes. A very alert, intelligent and proud dog, they enjoy the show ring and are well-suited to the hustle and bustle of competitive life, though they also make wonderful pets. Loyal and protective, they tend to be a one-family dog so, if you intend to bring a Basenji into your life, itís best to ensure that your lifestyle is such that you will be able to keep him for the entirety of his days. Basenji who are given away, or separated from those they have bonded with, commonly suffer severe bouts of depression and anxiety. It is never a good idea to choose a Basenji, should you have a lifestyle where you must travel and board your dog in a kennel frequently; such a lifestyle is very hard on these russet-coated beauties.
Standing 16-17 inches high at the shoulder, this is a medium-sized dog with a light build and a distinctively wrinkled forehead, giving him an almost comically concerned expression. All-around, he is a unique little dog, from his bright coppery coat, to his tightly curled tail, reminiscent of a corkscrew. Healthy Basenji weigh between 21-24 pounds when fully grown and are not prone to obesity, as a rule, being very active little canines. Their erect ears seem to constantly be perked and looking for something to go darting off after and, for your own petís safety, itís important to always keep them on a leash when they are outside. Coursing hounds are notorious runners and, before they know it, they can become horribly lost or injured while in the midst of chasing down prey. They also have a tendency to chase anything that will run and so careful consideration should be taken before introducing them into a home with cats.
Basenji are extremely clean animals and have quite a few catlike tendencies, including how they will wash themselves. They are virtually odorless, which makes them very pleasant house dogs. Do not be fooled, however, while the Basenji cannot bark, he is not a silent dog either; fully capable of making yodeling and chortling noises, it is best to encourage him not to make a lot of noise when he is put in his crate, or neighbors are sure to wonder what strange bush thing you are keeping next door.
Overall, the Basenji is a generally robust breed of dog, though they have been heavily inbred. Hernias can be problematic, as can their tendencies to be prone to various allergic skin diseases. For more information on this copper-coated dog, be sure to talk to your veterinarian and local breeders; any fan of the Basenji is likely to have a wealth of information to share.
All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com
We’re all familiar with those beautiful spotted darlings from the Disney movie 101 Dalmatians. Many people are drawn to this breed because of its distinctive markings. The Dalmatian is the most easily identified due to its unique spots. Dalmatians are born pure white with their spots appearing ten days to two weeks later.
Dalmatians are named for a province in Croatia where they are thought to have originated. The breed was popular throughout Europe as guard dogs as well as herding livestock. The Dalmatian is a very old breed. They are intelligent, agile and graceful. These dogs are very active and energetic. They are fast runners that need plenty of exercise and room to run.
Dalmatians are usually well adjusted and well behaved dogs although they tend to be strong-willed and may require a firm hand when being trained. These dogs are quite sensitive and do not respond well to ill-tempered individuals or roughness. There is a distinct difference between firm training methods and being rough.
The Dalmatian is a very popular dog breed. They are strong, energetic animals with sturdy physical structures. Their sturdy, agile build allows for great stamina and endurance. Dalmatians have a coat that is short, dense and fine. They do tend to lose hairs constantly so you may find little white hairs wherever your Dalmatian has been. Color variations do exist in Dalmatians such as different colored markings or patches although these are seen as disqualifying in purebred Dalmatians. The male dogs are slightly larger than the females. Dalmatians usually produce six to eight pups per litter.
Dalmatians are a long-lived. The Dalmatian is a hearty breed that may have a lifespan of fifteen years or longer. Most Dalmatians enjoy excellent health and are free from ailments that may be present in other breeds. When illness does strike it is usually the result of old age or injury. The one health exception is the predisposition to deafness. One or both ears may be affected. The cause of deafness in Dalmatians is due to the absence of pigmentation cells in the inner ear. Dalmatians are highly intelligent dogs and there has been success in using sign commands to teach deaf dogs.
The good nature and protective instinct makes Dalmatians an excellent companion dog. These dogs are protective and tolerant of children and they enjoy being in the company of people. Dalmatians do get lonely if left alone. They are much happier when they have human companionship. They have a playful nature and love to run and romp through wide-open spaces. This dog needs plenty of attention and plenty of room to roam. This is a strong, independent breed with excellent survival skills. Dalmatians are loveable, protective dogs that will defend their owners with fierce loyalty.
All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com
Dalmatians are named for a province in Croatia where they are thought to have originated. The breed was popular throughout Europe as guard dogs as well as herding livestock. The Dalmatian is a very old breed. They are intelligent, agile and graceful. These dogs are very active and energetic. They are fast runners that need plenty of exercise and room to run.
Dalmatians are usually well adjusted and well behaved dogs although they tend to be strong-willed and may require a firm hand when being trained. These dogs are quite sensitive and do not respond well to ill-tempered individuals or roughness. There is a distinct difference between firm training methods and being rough.
The Dalmatian is a very popular dog breed. They are strong, energetic animals with sturdy physical structures. Their sturdy, agile build allows for great stamina and endurance. Dalmatians have a coat that is short, dense and fine. They do tend to lose hairs constantly so you may find little white hairs wherever your Dalmatian has been. Color variations do exist in Dalmatians such as different colored markings or patches although these are seen as disqualifying in purebred Dalmatians. The male dogs are slightly larger than the females. Dalmatians usually produce six to eight pups per litter.
Dalmatians are a long-lived. The Dalmatian is a hearty breed that may have a lifespan of fifteen years or longer. Most Dalmatians enjoy excellent health and are free from ailments that may be present in other breeds. When illness does strike it is usually the result of old age or injury. The one health exception is the predisposition to deafness. One or both ears may be affected. The cause of deafness in Dalmatians is due to the absence of pigmentation cells in the inner ear. Dalmatians are highly intelligent dogs and there has been success in using sign commands to teach deaf dogs.
The good nature and protective instinct makes Dalmatians an excellent companion dog. These dogs are protective and tolerant of children and they enjoy being in the company of people. Dalmatians do get lonely if left alone. They are much happier when they have human companionship. They have a playful nature and love to run and romp through wide-open spaces. This dog needs plenty of attention and plenty of room to roam. This is a strong, independent breed with excellent survival skills. Dalmatians are loveable, protective dogs that will defend their owners with fierce loyalty.
All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com
Many breeds of cats are distinguished by a single feature, such as a short tail or a curly coat, and the American Curl is certainly no exception. This unique cat is distinguished by its unique ears, which curl back gracefully, resulting in a happy and alert expression. The ears of the American Curl are similar in many ways to those of the wild Lynx, with the tufts of hair curling outward in a swept back look.
The personality of the American Curl is unique as well, and many owners remark on the intelligence and curiosity the breed exhibits. The breed is also known for the lovely trilling sounds it makes, and for its playful and active personality. In fact, many American Curl cats retain their kitten like playfulness and personality well into their adult lives.
It is interesting to note that American Curl kittens are not born with folded ears. Instead, the straight ears of those newborn kittens will begin to curl back anywhere from 3 to 5 days after birth. During this time period the ears curl back and remain in a tight rosebud manner, with the ears gradually uncurling until they are permanently set at approximately four months of age. The ear quality is of course critical to the show value of the kittens, and breeders use this time period to determine quality and sort out show quality kittens from their pet quality siblings.
Of course not all American Curls are show quality, but all can be wonderful house pets and treasured family members. The active and inquisitive nature of the breed make it a perfect addition to any type of home, and the beautiful folded ears are certainly a show stopper.
As one would expect with such a breed, good ear hygiene is critical to avoiding problems, and it is important for new owners to clean the cats’ ears on a regular basis. Getting the kitten used to this maintenance routine while still young is the best way to ensure he or she will not object later on.
All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com
The personality of the American Curl is unique as well, and many owners remark on the intelligence and curiosity the breed exhibits. The breed is also known for the lovely trilling sounds it makes, and for its playful and active personality. In fact, many American Curl cats retain their kitten like playfulness and personality well into their adult lives.
It is interesting to note that American Curl kittens are not born with folded ears. Instead, the straight ears of those newborn kittens will begin to curl back anywhere from 3 to 5 days after birth. During this time period the ears curl back and remain in a tight rosebud manner, with the ears gradually uncurling until they are permanently set at approximately four months of age. The ear quality is of course critical to the show value of the kittens, and breeders use this time period to determine quality and sort out show quality kittens from their pet quality siblings.
Of course not all American Curls are show quality, but all can be wonderful house pets and treasured family members. The active and inquisitive nature of the breed make it a perfect addition to any type of home, and the beautiful folded ears are certainly a show stopper.
As one would expect with such a breed, good ear hygiene is critical to avoiding problems, and it is important for new owners to clean the cats’ ears on a regular basis. Getting the kitten used to this maintenance routine while still young is the best way to ensure he or she will not object later on.
All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com
Several types of designer dogs have emerged into the world of family pets. The cockapoo is only one of them. An increased demand for designer dogs has led to a cost that is typically higher than that placed on a purebred. However, the specific characteristics that one can find in a crossbreed places the higher cost in the background.
A cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. This breed, the cockapoo, exhibits some of the characteristics of each parent yet does not seem to show signs of the genetic defects that are often found in purebreds. This often leads to a healthier and happier dog.
Why is this? Many of a purebred’s problematic traits have a recessive nature. This means that the trait must exist in both parents in order for it to occur in their puppies. It follows, then, that crossbreeding has a tendency to eliminate many of the undesirable characteristics found in the parents. This is especially so if the crossbreeding involves 50% purebred Cocker Spaniel and 50% purebred Poodle.
The adult cockapoo usually weighs between 6 and 19 pounds depending on the particular type. Teacup toys usually weigh less than 6 pounds, toys usually weigh under12 pounds, miniatures usually weigh between 13 and 18 pounds, and a maxi adult cockapoo usually weighs over 19 pounds.
The cockapoo does not shed much and is therefore considered a perfect dog for someone with pet allergies. He acquires this trait of low shedding from the parent that happens to be a poodle. Grooming needs are moderate. Professional grooming is not required, but can be beneficial.
Typically, Cockapoos are mild mannered and have a sweet disposition, which they probably get from their Cocker Spaniel parent. A very patient and friendly breed, the cockapoo gets along well with children as well as adults. This is a very affectionate breed.
Cockapoos make loyal pets. Additionally, they are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. In fact, cockapoos are very eager to please and this trait makes them even easier to train.
Cockapoos have received recognition from the CCA (Cockapoo Club of America), ACC (American Cockapoo Club), ACHC (American Canine Hybrid Club), and NACR (North American Cockapoo Registry).
All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
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