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  • Create Art Digital Photo Creation Art Enhanced Picture Editing Photo Creation AI Art Create Your Own Art Photo Collage Assistance Artist by 3DCandleCreations

    Create Art Digital Photo Creation Art Enhanced Picture Editing Photo Creation AI Art Create Your Own Art Photo Collage Assistance Artist by 3DCandleCreations


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    Custom Printable Photo Design 🖼️

    Turn your cherished memories into stunning digital art with our Custom Printable Photo Design service. Whether you want to mix and match photos, create unique works of art, enhance current images, breathe new life into old photos, or even create an image from scratch without using any photos, we’ve got you covered. Our custom designs are perfect for personalized gifts, wall art, keepsakes, or any creative project you have in mind.

    Product Details:

    – Custom Design: Each design is tailored to your needs. We can use photos you provide, combine multiple images, add artistic elements, or enhance existing photos. If you don’t have a photo, we can create a unique image based on your ideas and preferences, making it a one-of-a-kind piece.
    – High-Quality Image: The final product is a high-resolution PNG file, perfect for printing. Use it to create custom wall art, photo gifts, or display it digitally.
    – Versatile Options: Whether you want to blend photos together, create a collage, add special effects, enhance the quality of an old photo, or create an entirely new image without any photos, we can tailor the design to your vision.
    – Printable PNG File: This listing is for a digital download only. No physical product will be shipped. Once your custom design is complete, you will receive a link to download the file.

    How to Order:

    1. Add to Cart: Choose this listing and add it to your cart.
    2. Upload Your Photos (if applicable): During checkout, upload any photos you want us to use. If you want us to create an image without using a photo, simply provide a description of your idea.
    3. Provide Personalization Details: Include any specific instructions or text you would like to add, such as names, dates, or a special message. Describe any creative ideas you have if you’re not using a photo.
    4. Complete Your Order: Proceed to checkout and complete your purchase.
    5. Receive Your Custom Design: Once your order is processed, we will create your custom design and send you a link to download the printable PNG file.

    Processing Time:

    Please allow 1-3 business days for us to create your personalized design. We will send you the download link as soon as the design is complete.

    Capture your memories or create something entirely new with our custom design service. If you have any questions or special requests, feel free to reach out to us. We are here to help you create beautiful, lasting memories or unique works of art. 🖼️

    Note: This is a digital product. No physical items will be shipped. The downloadable file is for personal use only and may not be resold or redistributed.

    http://dlvr.it/TKRqX2



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  • Pet Guardians: Is Your Pet Protected?

    Pet Guardians: Is Your Pet Protected?


    A lot of us don’t want to think of being separated from our pets in any way, shape, or form, but unfortunately, it can happen. If the worst should happen to you, is your pet protected? How do you know that your beloved pet is going to end up with someone you can trust or that they are going to be properly looked after?

    In this guide, we explore the options that you have to make sure your pet is looked after long after you have died and still lives the full and happy life you intended.

    Including a pet clause in your last will and testament

    When you work with an estate planning attorney to plan for your passing, there are a lot of different clauses and stipulations you can put into your will. A pet clause will outline who you want to look after your pet and turns this into a legal guideline to protect your pet when you die.

    Choosing a pet guardian

    Choosing a pet guardian

    Who will be your pet guardian? It isn’t easy to choose, and you will want to make sure that you have discussed with anyone you want to name as a guardian and see if they are happy for you to do so.

    Pet guardians should:

    • Be in a good state of health themselves and therefore in a good position to look after animals.
    • Like animals. It is essential that they don’t have any phobias and that they actually want to look after animals in the event of your death.
    • Have space for the animal and suitable facilities. For instance, if they live in a high-rise apartment block it may be harder for them to look after pets, as they don’t have a garden or outside space easily accessible.

    Leaving money to pets in a will

    It is a good idea to leave some money to pets. Of course, they can’t spend this money themselves, but it is for things that may crop up throughout their lives. Pets need food and care including veterinary attention from time to time. Leaving some money for this removes the burden from your potential guardian.

    Instructions for your pet guardian

    You can create a separate document that can go to the guardian in the event of your death. This can outline things like veterinary details, medical records, and other important documentation regarding your dog. It can also show what they like and the sort of things they are not keen on or even scared of.

    It is normal for a pet guardian to feel a bit overwhelmed in the case of needing to inherit and care for a pet, even if they love animals. This means that the more instructions and help you can provide, the better.

    Setting up a pet trust

    A pet trust is a way to ensure that you fund your pet’s care even after you have gone. Working with an estate planning attorney, you can complete the relevant documents to ensure that you have outlined what money is going to be put in this trust, as well as the trustees. The trustee/s will be able to access the money after you have passed and they are responsible for sticking to your instructions.

    What happens to your pet when you die?

    It is a real fear for many of us. What is going to happen when we die, and what will happen to our loved ones? This includes pets, of course.

    Luckily, by creating a will and a pet trust, you should be able to ensure that your pet has the kind of care they need. In your will, you can outline who you would like to leave your pet to, just make sure you have asked them if they are happy to take on the guardianship of your pet. It helps if you have left behind financial backing, of course.

    Conclusion

    We all love our pets and want to know that they are in good hands, even after we have passed away. Your will can give you the peace of mind you need, knowing that someone you can trust will be given your pet if you pass away and can no longer take care of them.



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  • 6 Signs You’re Ready to Adopt Your First Pet

    6 Signs You’re Ready to Adopt Your First Pet


    According to the 2023–2024 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), the number of pet-owning families in the United States has now reached 86.9 million. That’s approximately 66 percent of all US households. Are you thinking of adding to that number and opening up your home to a canine or feline companion? 

    A lot of people took the plunge in the previous years and have since discovered the many joys and benefits of becoming pet owners. These pets provide their owners with comfort and companionship, and their presence can even encourage people to adopt a healthier and more active lifestyle. But as much as pet ownership has its benefits, it’s also a big responsibility. If you’re considering becoming a pet parent for the very first time, it’s something that you should unreservedly want and be thoroughly prepared for. This is especially important if you intend to adopt a pet who’s gone through several obstacles in life before reaching their fur-ever home.

    Are you truly ready to adopt your first pet? Here are some signs that the answer is a resounding yes. 

    You’ve Done Your Fair Share of Research

    There are a lot of things you should look deeply into before adopting your first pet. First, you need to understand the implications of welcoming a certain species into your home, Next, you’ll need to narrow down the breed and know what its care requirements are.

    Cats and dogs have different needs, for instance, and the experience of owning a Bichon Frisé is wildly different compared to owning a Belgian Malinois. One dog might be completely content with being a couch potato, while another cannot stand inactivity and utter boredom. If your idea of pet ownership is collecting custom dog collars and dressing up your pet for walks and events, there are breeds that will suit your desired lifestyle more than others, and you need to do your research on which type of pet is the best fit.  

    You Have the Time and Space to Care for a Pet

    You Have the Time and Space to Care for a Pet

    Making time for your pet is a must. You’re not the only one longing for companionship—your pet wants the same thing from you. If you’re in a single-person household, then your pet may have no one to interact with when you’re out all the time. You also have to make time in your schedule for walks, feeding, bathroom breaks, grooming, trips to the vet, and other activities that will help ensure your pet’s health and well-being.

    Your living arrangement is also an important consideration when owning a pet. If you rent or live with others, you should be given the green light by your landlord to house them in your space, and it must not cause health issues for your housemates. It’s also a must to have a dedicated place where your pet can pee and poop even when you’re not around. 

    You’ve Accounted for the Cost of Pet Ownership

    It’s no secret that owning a pet can cost a fair bit of money. You have to buy items and supplies that will make your pets feel right at home, such as beds, food, toys, and bowls. Vaccinations, vet visits, spaying and neutering, and grooming services also cost money, and these are essential to ensure your pet’s good health.

    The same can be said of the other services that your pet might need in your absence, such as dog walkers, doggy daycares, and pet boarding. In some places, pet owners are even required to get licenses for certain types of pets, which is another expense you should consider. 

    You’re Ready to Make a Lifetime Commitment

    Pets are a lifetime commitment, and a cat or dog’s lifetime can last anywhere from 8 to 15 years. As a pet owner, you have to train your pet, provide them with the best possible quality of life, address any behavioral problems that they might have, and advocate for them when they have medical issues. While pet ownership can bring a lot of joy, it also has its dark days, and you should be there with your animal companion as they go through all of these. 

    You’re Prepared to Sacrifice Some Sleep

    Cats and dogs are crepuscular, meaning that they are most active during dusk and dawn. This can mean early wake-up calls for food, walks, and bathroom breaks for dogs.

    Cats, on the other hand, can get the so-called “zoomies” in the middle of the night. Both types of pets also tend to be more attentive and reactive to strange noises during these times.

    It’s possible to get them used to a diurnal schedule by sticking to a consistent routine. However, there will still be a period of adjustment in which you’ll have to deal with each other’s schedules and times of high activity. You should only say yes to adopting a pet if you’re willing to work through these growing pains with them.

    Your Home Has Been Thoroughly Pet-Proofed

    It’s ideal to keep cats indoors so that they are less likely to hunt other animals, get into fights or accidents, get lost, or eat things that they shouldn’t.

    This means that you should keep your doors and windows closed or screened. For either a dog or cat, you should also watch out for potential dangers inside your home.

    Curiosity can get the best of your animal companion, and they’re at risk of getting poisoned if they stick their noses where they shouldn’t. Keep your detergents, cleaners, medicines, and even food supplies behind closed doors and locked cabinets if you know that they could endanger your pet.

    If you have agile pets like cats and birds, clear your counters and shelves of things that they can damage. You should also check if all the plants that are accessible to your pets are actually safe for them. Plus, be ready to quickly clean up and disinfect your home in case your pet makes a mess anywhere they’re not supposed to. 

    Save both you and your pet from either troublesome or even heartbreaking events by ensuring that the space is fully pet-proofed before they make it their home.

    If you’ve said yes to all of these signs, then you might just be ready to adopt your first pet. Prep your heart and your home for the arrival of your new pet, and soon enough, you’ll discover why more and more households in the US count pets as beloved members of their families. 



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  • Signs Your Pet May Have Separation Anxiety


    Separation anxiety in pets can be a real curveball for both pets and their owners. This condition is where your pet freaks out when you’re not around. It’s like they’ve got their own kind of homesickness, but you’re the home.…

    The post Signs Your Pet May Have Separation Anxiety first appeared on People Loving Animals.



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  • Understanding Your Pet’s Body Language and Emotions


    Recognizing the subtle hints in your pet’s facial expressions and body language can unlock a whole new world of understanding. With dogs, for example, a relaxed, open mouth might signal contentment, while a tightly closed mouth can indicate discomfort or …

    The post Understanding Your Pet’s Body Language and Emotions first appeared on People Loving Animals.



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  • Creative Ways to Celebrate Your Pet’s Birthday


    First can I say how fortunate your pet is to have an owner who loves them so much that they’re actually celebrating their birthday?  It warms my heart so much when I see people loving their pets and going out …

    The post Creative Ways to Celebrate Your Pet’s Birthday first appeared on People Loving Animals.



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  • Dog Barking Problem: Common Reasons For Your Dog’s Constant Barking


    Dogs can bark for appropriate and good reasons, such as when strangers approach our house, they hear an odd noise, or they are herding sheep. Most of us want our dogs to be “watch dogs” and alert us to anything unusual.

     

    Humanity in its ways blended with the canine family more than anything in the animal kingdom. History of the two could be traced as early as men first walked the earth. They have been each other’s constant companion. Throughout the years, men and dogs could almost be associated with everything and recently this relationship has come over to an entirely new level.

     

    Dogs are treated as more than just pets. They are treated just like family members. When we welcome them into our family, we have to see to it that we welcome them and make their 1st few days not as shocking as possible.

     

    Bear in mind that these are our pets. They have needs but they cannot tell us what it is as they could not speak our language. The most they could do is to bark or whimper to let us know what they feel at the moment.

     

     

    Understanding Barking

    Do not mistake howling and barking as signs of discontentment on their part. Perhaps there are other factors at play like the environment and other dogs. By carefully listening to every action and whimper and bark they have, it would enable us to know and understand their present situation.

     

    Over the years, dogs barking at our neighborhood are a constant bother to us. Thus, the need for us, pet owners to take measures, to ensure that our dog will not be as bothersome, as most other dogs are. Sometimes nuisance dogs are the cause of trouble among neighbors and some even reach the courts to settle the issue. Now that is something we don’t want happening to us. The more we try to spend time and understanding with them, the more we will be able to get their trust and obedience.

     

    To fully understand them, try to know as much as you can about the present situation. Expand your knowledge so as to be able to know what to do or what could be the cause of your dog’s endless barking. Remember, things happen for a reason and some things could not be answered just by guessing.

     

    The more you learn about dogs, the better your relationship will be. As the higher species, it is our best interest that we show them that we understand them despite the language barrier.

     

    If you wish to know more about god training, we have the perfect entry for you: Puppy 101: A beautiful journey through dog training.

     

     

    Barking Is The Way Your Dog Communicates

    Oftentimes, we all ask why dogs bark? We all know that dogs descend from the wolves and that being their descendants; we also know why dogs howl. But why do they bark? One answer would be “because they can”. It’s pretty much like asking why people talk! Dogs however bark more often than wolves do. Wolves are more known for their howling, the kind that gives us the creep whenever we hear one.

     

    Dogs bark to communicate just like us. They have these different pitches and sounds that convey different thoughts and emotions to another dog. We should not be surprised if our dogs bark but we should worry if they don’t. Barking is one way of letting us know as well of how they feel and how they think. It’s pretty much like wagging their tail when we arrive to show that they are happy.

     

    The bark has evolved into a complicated means of communication between dogs and, potentially, between dogs and people.

     

    There are also long lists of reasons why they bark. We pet owners have an indirect effect on their barking and the different nature of the barking. It has been suggested that the reason for the difference lies in the dog’s domestication by humans. An increased tendency to bark could have been useful to humans in providing an early warning system. Domestication has altered the physical appearance of dogs. Individual dogs bark for a variety of reasons. They may bark to attract attention, to communicate a message, or to express excitement.

    Some people tend to shout or hurt their dogs when they bark. This is a no no! The most we could do is to train them or discipline them in a firm but gentle manner. Make the experience as positive as you can. Do not overreact to our dogs when they bark as this is their nature. It is natural for them to bark at things they don’t know or they think is a threat. The more we try to silence them, the more they will bark.

     

     

    When A Dog Barks All The Time

    There comes a time when our dogs can’t seem to stop barking. Since barking is one of the many vocal communications for dogs, it’s understandable why they bark when they see other dogs and this also pleases us because it alerts us when people approach or when they want something or something bad is happening.

     

    But there are cases when their barking can be excessive. It’s very important to identify its cause and your dog’s motivation as barking serves a variety of functions before you start considering it as a barking problem. Every type of barking serves a distinct function for a dog, and when he is repeatedly rewarded for his barking, which means, if he gets what he wants-he learns to use barking to his benefit. For example, dogs who successfully bark for attention often go on to bark for other things, like food, play and walks. For this reason, it’s important to train your dog to be quiet on cue so that you can stop his attention-related barking and teach him to do another behavior instead-like sit or down-to get what he wants.

     

    Now barking that is a behavior problem may result from one of several different issues. The key is to first identify the cause of the barking and then to change your dog’s triggers. As a pet owner, you have to know or identify why your dog is barking just by its specific bark. For instance, a dog’s bark sounds different when he wants to play as compared to when he wants to come in from the yard.

     

    It’s crucial to determine why your dog is barking. It will take some time to teach your dog to bark less. Unfortunately, it’s just not realistic to quick fix or to expect that your dog will stop barking altogether. It’s extremely impossible that this would happen. It’s pretty much like a person. A person can’t stop talking suddenly! Not unless it’s traumatized or dead. Now we don’t want that. Our goal should be to decrease, rather than eliminate, the amount of barking. Bear in mind that some dogs are more prone to barking than others.

     

    Our tolerance to dog barking varies with each person. Some can tolerate extreme levels of barking while others cannot. Canine barking however can be a nuisance to neighbors, and is a common problem dog owners or their neighbors may face. Thus we have to consider our neighbors’ tolerance as well. Different kinds of barking often require different kinds of approach to reduction.

    Positive training is always the best way to train your dog, that’s why we made an article about it: Time for puppy preschool: Get the basics for positive dog training

     

     

    Dog Barking And Danger

    We cannot deny the fact that excessive barking can be troublesome for us. It can even be dangerous for us and for our pooch. Excessive barking must be kept at bay.

     

    Intruders can also hurt our pets. A dog may bark to threaten intruders. This is usually a more menacing bark and may be accompanied by growling. Depending upon the situation, you may need to move the dog to a more secure location or quietly reassure him. Otherwise, the intruder might silence your dog for good.  A dog will also bark to warn other dogs or people of danger. The barking generally continues until the source of danger is removed or the dog is taken to safety.

     

    There are times when we are sleeping so comfortably and soundly when our beloved dog suddenly releases that long, hair raising howl followed by an entire night of barking!

     

    Now this is troublesome for us but it’s worse for our neighbors. Some people tend to get violent when they’re disturbed especially at night when they are resting after a long day from work. At first they will air out their complaints to us and then when the barking continues, some take matters into their own hands.

     

    What about chronic barking? This can pose physical threat if not damage to the dog. Do you know that exercise often stops your dog’s chronic barking? Well, barking is sometimes a sign of boredom and frustration. Therefore, you may actually be harming your dog by not exercising him! That’s because a bored dog is far more likely to bark than an active dog. So it’s up to you to make the time necessary to keep your dog active and stimulated.

     

    If you want to stop your dog’s chronic barking then you should try increasing the amount of exercise that he or she gets every day. This will tire your dog out while also providing much needed stimulation. And both of these factors will work together to reduce or even stop your dogs chronic barking.

     

     

    Dealing With Barking Problem

    Dog barking has several explanations. Yes, it’s not threatening and can certainly be useful. But too loud, too often is annoying. Left as it is, barking leads to some problems. The most common problem would come from neighbors complaining. Nothing beats knowing what the problem is. We cannot find solutions to our problems if we don’t have enough knowledge on the matter.

     

    The key to controlling any problem is understanding, what could trigger the behavior and how to deal with it. This holds true to any problems and thus could be used to deal with the dog barking. Below are helpful ways to deal with your dog’s barking problem:

     

    • Have your dog eat at regular intervals. When they’re thirsty, dogs will respond to nature by barking for water. Dogs produce a different kind of howl, bark or growl when they want food. Feeding them at regular intervals would let them know when to expect they will get fed.

     

    • Be certain your dog gets enough daily exercise. Dogs have energy reserves; they must use it up daily. If not, they get jumpy. Whether it’s rain or shine on any given day, let your dog have enough exercise – no exceptions. When the sun is out, just be imaginative with indoor exercises.

     

    • Bring home a toy or a second dog to keep your little friend entertained. Dogs suffer separation anxiety if left by themselves for a long time. Keeping him amused or with company effectively de-stresses the dog and keeps him calm. If you’re entertaining a guest with their dog along, don’t let yours see this. Stay out of earshot when you’re into something interesting. Dogs like to take part in activities and would bark for it.

     

    • It’s important for your dog to know when barking is appropriate and when it isn’t. One of the first commands you should teach your dog to obey is, “Quiet.”. Dogs can be fiercely territorial. They bark at anything unusual. Being warned of strange things or people around your house is a good thing. However, you’d like your dog to just stay and watch delivery people, joggers and the usual passers-by quietly. Teach your dog to discern strangers and bark only at them. But the most important of all is to have your dog learn to cease barking on a single command.

    Please feel encouraged to say hello – we’ll be happy to help with any questions you might have, and if you’d like to comment on our site, products or service, we’d love to hear from you!



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  • Dog Barking Problem: Controlling Your Dog’s Constant Barking


    Dogs bark. It is part of their normal and natural communication and behavior. Dogs can bark for appropriate and good reasons. The more you learn about dogs, the better your relationship will be. If you wish to know more about the reasons why your dog barks, here you go: Dog Barking Problem: Common Reasons For Your Dog’s Constant Barking

     

    If we want to control barking, we need a dog that can obey us and relax. The dog needs to look to their owner for behavior clues. If we can call them, have them lie down (dogs don’t bark as much when lying down) and stay, we are well on the way to solving a nuisance barking problem. In addition, there are some common principles we can use in modifying barking behavior.

     

    First, in most cases shouting “No” is only going to make matters worse since the dog is thinking you are barking too (and is probably happy you joined in).

     

    Be consistent. Pick a one-word command e.g., “Enough” for the behavior you want and always use that word in the same tone of voice. Everyone in the household must use the same command and act identically.

     

    Be patient with your dog and yourself. Changing behavior takes a lot of time, and you need to take it slowly, one step at a time. If you become angry at your dog, the chance to correctly modify the behavior will be gone.

     

    Reward the dog for good behavior. Positive reinforcement is much more powerful than punishment. Physical punishment will do nothing but make your dog fearful of you and break down the bond you wish to have with them. Often, picking a very special treat like small pieces of cooked chicken or hot dog will make the reward seem even better. As time goes on, you will not give a treat every time, sometimes just rewarding with a “Good Dog” and a pat on the dog’s chest.

     

    Control the situation. As much as possible, set up situations to use as training. Practice in short, frequent sessions, generally 5-10 minutes each.

     

    Do not be afraid to ask an expert. Animal trainers, behaviorists, and your veterinarian can give you valuable advice. Having them witness your dog’s barking episodes may give them valuable clues on helping you solve the barking problem.

     

     

    Still Curious About Common Barking Reasons?

    The key to knowing what to do with our dog’s barKing is to know why they do so in the first place. Here are some of the common reasons why they bark:

     

    • Trained to Bark: certain dogs are trained to bark while doing their jobs. Most common are the guard dogs.

     

    • Territorial Protection: when one comes near their territory, the dogs bark to show that you are intruding.

     

    • Startle barking: occurs in response to an unfamiliar or sudden sound or movement. As with an alert/warning bark, we need to be able to control this type of barking quickly.

     

    • Self-identification barking: is what you may be hearing when your dog seems to be answering other dogs he hears barking in the neighborhood. It is his way of saying, “I am over here.”

     

    • Play/excitement barks: often short and sharp. These barks are common if the dog gets too excited with the game. Often a time-out is in order.

     

    • Play or Excitement.

     

    • Lonely/anxious barking: occurs if your dog is experiencing separation anxiety. The barking can become self-reinforcing as he becomes more stimulated and anxious. Anxious barks tend to get higher in pitch as the dog becomes more upset. This type of barking can be especially annoying to your neighbors.

     

    • Lack of Exercise: your dog may need some time to stretch those muscles and give them time to play.

     

    • Improper Confinement: when their muscles due to small confinements in crates or cages, they bark or whimper.

     

    • Environmental Reasons: unfamiliar movements, people, or sounds cause dogs to bark as they may see it as a threat or fear it.

     

    • Boredom, Frustration, Loneliness: dogs feel lonely too and when they do, they bark and howl. Bored barkers simply need an outlet for their energy and a more stimulating environment.

     

    • Alert/warning barks: are the type of barks some owners encourage. They want their dog to alert them to the presence of a danger or suspicious stranger. Warning barks tend to become more rapid as the intruder approaches. Aggressive barks are low in pitch and may be combined with growls. We need to be able to distinguish warning barks from barks due to fear.

     

    • The Returning Family Member.

     

     

    Is There Any Other Reason?

    ? “I need to relieve myself please.”

     

    If this is the case, do not allow your dog’s barking to be its way of alerting you. You can try using a clicker to teach him a “Hush” command and then teach him an alternate alert signal such as pawing at the door. Every time he barks to go out, hush him, ask him if he has to “Go Potty” and then paw at the door with your hand. Repeat this process every time he barks to go out. Praise and treat every time he follows your lead.

     

    ? “I think someone is calling me.”

     

    Sometimes you’ll find dogs barking at each other. This doesn’t happen very often unless you have a dog next door that won’t shut up. You can try to distract him by playing with him or starting a game of fetch but this won’t solve the problem. Teaching him the “hush” command is the best way to eliminate this behavior.

     

    ? “I heard a loud noise and I don’t know what it is.”

     

    If you know that the noise does not pose a threat, stop the dog barking by playing with him or starting a game of fetch.

     

    ? “I’m thirsty.”

     

    Try teaching him the “Hush” command by using a clicker, and then when he has quieted down, fill his bowl with water. You can teach him to paw at his bowl by tapping on his bowl when he’s alerting you to fill his bowl. He will pick up on this after a while.

     

    ? “Don’t you dare come near my food while I’m eating?”

     

    Do not allow him to respond this way whenever someone walks by him while he’s eating. Next time it’s time to feed, place the bowl on your lap and feed him one morsel at a time. Do not allow him to reach the bowl. Show him that you are in control of his food. Do it until your pet gets accustomed to having someone touch his food. Have different members of the household try it as well. This will help desensitize him and show him he can trust you.

     

    If you have an overly-aggressive dog, then we would not recommend this.

     

    Your dog deserves the very best, that’s why you should learn how to feed them properly: Dog food for puppies: Why is it so important to get the best food for dogs.

     

     

    Control The Barking Behavior

    Once you determine the cause of your dog’s excessive barking, you can begin to control the behavior. Below are the things to do as agreed by most pet owners and handlers alike regarding barking and resolving it:

     

    • After getting your dog’s attention, practice basic commands, like sit and down in order to shift their focus.

     

    • Avoid leaving a lonely dog alone for long periods of time if possible.

     

    • Avoid punishments like shock collars. They are not only painful and unkind – many dogs will learn to test them and eventually work around them.

     

    • Consult your veterinarian and/or trainer if you continue to face barking issues despite your best efforts.

     

    • Do not encourage your dog to bark at sounds, such as pedestrians or dogs passing by your home, birds outside the window, children playing in the street and car doors slamming, by saying “Who’s there?” or getting up and looking out the windows.

     

    • DO NOT let your dog bark constantly outside, regardless of the reason. You can hardly train them to stop barking by yelling at them across the yard. Plus, it is one of the fastest ways to turn neighbors into enemies and send an invitation to your local police.

     

    • Do not punish your dog for barking at certain sounds, like car doors slamming and kids playing in the street, but then encourage him to bark at other sounds, like people at the door. You must be consistent!

     

    • Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise so there is not as much pent-up energy to burn by barking.

     

    • Never comfort, pet, hug or feed your dog when she is barking for attention or out of anxiety – that would be rewarding the behavior, thus encouraging it.

     

    • Never tie your dog’s muzzle closed with rope, cord, rubber bands or anything else. Doing this is dangerous, painful and inhumane.

     

    • Never use a muzzle or Husher to keep your dog quiet for long periods of time or when you’re not actively supervising him. Dogs can’t eat, drink or pant to cool themselves while wearing muzzles, so making your dog wear one for long periods of time would be inhumane.

     

    • Shouting at your dog to stop barking does not help. It may actually cause them to bark even more.

     

    • Train your dog to Speak and Be Quiet.

     

    • Try to get their attention with a clap or whistle. Once they are quiet, redirect their attention to something productive and rewarding – like a toy or treat.

     

    • Unless a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist advises you to do otherwise, never use punishment procedures if your dog is barking out of fear or anxiety. This could make them feel worse and, as a result, its barking might increase.

    Hey you, new dog owner. Now that you have a new puppy, this is the best time to train them the best way possible. So take a look at this: House and Crate Training 101: How To Crate Train Your Dog.

     

     

    Training A Dog yourself

    Now that we already are equipped with the knowledge about barking and their types, here are some easy steps in training our dog not to bark. They are simple and need not be professionals to be able to pull it off. All you need is patience:

     

    • Reward Silence – When your dog is barking, distracts it and wait for it to quiet down. Once it is quiet, provide a reward.

     

    • Don’t Let Him Greet Visitors – His excitement about visitors, delivery guys and other guests is largely due to their importance to him. If he routinely gets to greet people at the door then their visits matter. Deny him access to the doorway and ask your guests to ignore him when they arrive. Removing the importance visitors have for him can help reduce his eagerness to bark.

     

    • Provide More Exercise – A properly exercised dog is easier to train and also more relaxed. This helps solve barking issues. An exercised dog naps; an unexercised dog looks for something to do.

     

    • Deny Access to Barking Stations – If they have barking stations (by a window or door or the fence outside) deny them access. Managing the environment prevents them from seeing things that trigger their barking – such as dogs, animals or people.

     

    • Ignore Attention Seeking Barking – If they bark to get your attention and you respond, you’ve lost. If you are their focus when they are barking, ignore them. They will move on to another strategy soon enough.

     

    • Ignore Attention Seeking Barking – If he barks to get your attention and you respond, you’ve lost. If you are his focus when he’s barking, ignore him. He’ll move on to another strategy soon enough.

     

    • Provide Him with Something to Do – Dogs were originally bred for specific purposes. Without their jobs, they become bored, and a bored dog is more likely to bark. Provide him with interactive toys for entertainment.

     

    • Use Training Tools – Make things easy on yourself by using training products. These provide quick results without harming your dog. Use dog crates, as it makes it easy to manage their environment. Crates solve a lot of training problems, including barking, chewing, digging, and more.

     

    • Teach Him Speak and Be Quiet – Teach him to speak and hush on command. Once he grasps these you’ll be able to communicate with him when he begins barking too much. Then simply reward him for following your “Be Quiet” instruction.

     

    Please feel encouraged to say hello – we’ll be happy to help with any questions you might have, and if you’d like to comment on our site, products or service, we’d love to hear from you!



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  • Homeward Pet | It’s not too late! Order your 2024 Calendar today.

    Homeward Pet | It’s not too late! Order your 2024 Calendar today.


    It’s not too late! Order your 2024 Calendar today.

    2024 Calendar BackStart 2024 off right with your own Homeward Pet Calendar.

    Thank you for your interest in purchasing a Homeward Pet calendar. These 13 month calendars feature animals from our supporters. The calendar also highlights key events and programs, as well as many ways for you to get involved throughout the coming year. 

    Only $10 each if picked up at the shelter. For an additional $5, we will ship your calendar to you, within 1 week of purchase. If you elect to pick up your calendar from the shelter, it will be ready 48 hours after purchase. Think stocking stuffers or small gifts for your day to day connections.

    Proceeds from calendars benefit the animals at Homeward Pet. 

     

     

    Thank you to photographers Adriana Ardelean (Lens Moments), Christine Moody (TriMood Photography), Holly Cook (Holly Cook Photography),Julie Austin (Julie Austin Photography), Michelle Tresemer (Pup Shoot Dog Photography) and Marika Moffit (Soul Dog Creative).

    Get yours today!



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  • Owning A Domestic Cat 101: Cat Food And The Health Of Your Feline


    Before you decide to take on any kind of pet you need to understand that different breeds of cat are susceptible to different health issues. Even if it seems like you have a healthy cat in the beginning it is possible that they will be diagnosed with some sort of disease or health related issue as they get older.

     

    You need to make sure that you read the label on the food that you are getting for your cat. Although it may seem strange because your cat is a pet, their nutrition is still just as important as yours is which is why you should read the ingredients so that you are aware of what is in the food you are giving your cat. You also need to pay attention to what formula of cat food that you are purchasing. They have food for adult cats, kittens, aging cats, cats on diets, and everything in between. You don’t want to be feeding your kitten the wrong kind of food.

     

     

    The Basics Of Cat Feeding

    After picking up the right food for your cat, there is a matter of where to feed your cat, when to feed your cat, and how much to feed them. If you have never owned a cat before this can be quite a tricky process to figure out all on your own. First and foremost, you need to find a place that is ideal for your cat to eat at.

     

    Think about it from your cat’s perspective, you really wouldn’t want to eat while adults and kids are running all around you and being loud. This is why you need to find a place that is quiet and accessible for your cat to have their food and water bowl. Once you decide on a particular place, don’t keep changing it around because cats don’t always deal well with that type of change.

     

    Keep in mind that your cat might make a bit of a mess when they are drinking and eating so it may not be wise to put the food and water in an area that is going to be ruined by the mess. You also need to make sure that you are keeping the bowls clean and changing the water out on a regular basis in order to avoid your cat getting sick.

     

    If you are not a cat owner yet, or you are becoming one for the first time and want to be prepared for the commitment, you might find very useful the following entry: Owning A Domestic Cat 101: Important Tips, And What Supplies To Get. In this previous chapter we explain What you need to check before getting a new cat, how to deal with your new kitten, and more.

     

     

    How To Feed A Cat

    As far as when you should feed your cat, it is good to get your cat into the habit of eating at a particular time each day. Just as humans eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner at certain times, so should your cat. Of course this might not be quite so easy if you are away from the house during the day, but there is a solution. If the cat is eating dry cat food you can simply put the entire day’s ration into the food bowl and your cat can eat from it throughout the day.

     

    If you aren’t sure you want to put it all in, you can choose to be half of it in the bowl. It’s really up to you and your schedule as to what a regular and convenient feeding schedule will be, but it is wise to get a regular pattern started. Listed below will give you some ideas as to how to coordinate your feeding schedule:

     

    • At 4-6 weeks: 1/2 to 1 oz – 3 to 4 times per day.

     

    • At 7 weeks to 6 months: 1 to 3 oz – 3 to 4 times per day.

     

    • At 7 months to 1 year:  3 oz – 2 times per day or you can leave 6 oz in their bowl all day.

     

    You can also look on the package of cat food that you buy for what they suggest you feed your cat.

     

    Just as there are certain things that you need to keep in mind when feeding your cat, there are also certain thing that you shouldn’t do when feeding your cat:

     

    You shouldn’t give your cat bones; this is a good rule for any pet whether they are a cat or a dog. Chicken bones, pork bones, and fish bones are a big no because they can cause quite a bit of damage to your cats tummy and throat that could lead to a trip to the veterinarian or worse.

     

    Again a good tip for any animal, don’t give your cat leftovers from the table. Although you think that you are doing them a favor by giving them a treat, you could be making a bigger problem when your cat begins to avoid their cat food.

     

    Cats can’t eat two foods in particular, the first being chocolate and the second being onions. Both of these foods are considered a toxic food to your cat.

     

    Despite what you may have seen on television or in the movies, cats do not need to drink milk. What more, if you give milk to your cat you might find yourself cleaning up after an icky mess since it can cause diarrhea.

     

    The last tip is not to feed your cat any other animal’s food. They need the nutrients that are in their cat food and dog food won’t quite give them what they need.

     

    As time goes on and you have your cat, you will find out what foods or pet foods your cat can tolerate.

     

     

    How Do I Know If My Cat Is Fat?

    Cats are very similar to people in many ways. Just as it is important to watch what is going into your cat’s tummy, you also need to keep an eye on how much is going into your cat’s tummy. When people eat too much food, over time they become overweight.

     

    Cats are the same, if they become used to eating however much they want, when they want, it is a sure bet that you will have a pretty fat cat on your hands after a while. This is especially true as your cat gets older and less active. If you aren’t sure if your cat is fat or not, there are a few telling signs that you can look for that are pretty similar as to when you can tell if a person is overweight.

     

    A double chin is always a telling sign of a weight problem. If you find that your cat has a bunch of fat underneath their chin, they might have a weight problem.

     

    A big stomach is another sign, if their stomach is hanging, they might have a weight problem.

     

    Another is whether or not you can feel your cat’s ribs. On a healthy cat you should be able to feel their rib cage, if you cannot feel your cat’s rib cage then your cat is definitely overweight.

     

    Just as people think that their weight might not be a big deal, many cat owners might not feel it too distressing that their cat is a little overweight. The reality is that being overweight can cause many health problems in your cat. The more weight your cat has on their body, the more weight and pressure they have to carry around on a daily basis. This is why it is so important to pay attention to what and how much your cat is eating. If you do find that your cat is overweight you should probably speak to your veterinarian about it and look into buying a specially formulated cat food for overweight cats.

     

    Are you still looking for the perfect feline companion for you and your family? Choosing a cat is a serious matter you need to pay attention to when you’ve taken the decision to be a proud cat owner. Different cat breeds have different needs and personality traits you must be aware of before bringing home a new kitten. Take a look at this: Owning A Domestic Cat 101: Selecting A New Cat Or Kitten. This article will help you realize what kind of cat is best for you.

     

     

    Your Cat Needs To Have Some Physical Activity

    Whether you have an overweight cat or not, it’s important to make sure that your cat gets the exercise they need. If your cat isn’t overweight then the exercise will help keep them active and avoid such a predicament, but if your cat is overweight then the exercise will help them to trim off a few pounds.

     

    The great thing is that exercising with your cat doesn’t have to be a tedious activity; it can be a lot of fun. Below are a few ideas that will help you get an exercise program started with your cat:

     

    • Try to get your cat to run around some time.
    • Take a walk with your cat.
    • Get your cat some new toys that will encourage him to exercise and jump around.
    • Strategically place toys and treats all around the house to encourage your cat to walk around.
    • Switch up the games that you play with your cat so he doesn’t get bored.
    • Even if you are away during the day, leave approved toys out for your cat to play with.
    • Sometimes it helps your cat’s activity level if they have another feline companion to play with while you are away.

     

    Important Note:

     

    Just because you like to switch your food around because something was cheaper at the store, or a new product looked better, doesn’t mean that your cat should jump around from one cat food to another. Once your cat becomes used to a certain type of food, switching to another brand because it was on sale doesn’t always agree with their stomachs.

     

    If it happens that you want to switch your cat’s food then you need to do it slowly. Do not just decide to replace cat food A with cat food B the next day, if so you might find you have a cat with a very upset stomach. In order to switch your cat’s food without all of the digestion trouble you will need to put just a bit more into each meal, this process can take a few weeks before the switch is complete.

     

     

    Trying To Feed Your Kitten

    Dealing with a kitten is completely different than feeding a grown cat. A kitten is essentially a baby in every way and needs the right amount of nutrition in order to go from being a kitten to a healthy grown cat. Kittens are just like babies in that they need to eat right in order to have strong bones, muscles, and a nervous system. You can’t feed a kitten the same things that a full grown cat eats; they need their own special food until they are old enough to move onto the next step

     

    It’s always smart to consult with your doctor before you start a regular feeding routine for your kitten, but you do need to recognize that because they have such high energy, they need the proper food to fuel their bodies. You will find that your kitten will nibble throughout the day because they have a smaller stomach than a full grown cat.

     

    Just as with human babies, there are going to be times that your kitten doesn’t seem particularly interested in food such as when they are teething or have lost a baby tooth. In the same instance your kitten may eat a little more during growth spurts and such. Even when you kitten begins to look and act like an adult cat, don’t rush out and buy adult cat food, they need to stick with the kitten cat food until they are a year old because of their need for a lot of calories.

     

    There might also come instances that you need to consult with your veterinarian about your cat’s food needs such as if your female feline becomes pregnant or if your cat has health problems that are related to what they eat.

     

     

    The Health Of Your Feline

    Before you decide to take on any kind of pet you need to understand that different breeds of cat are susceptible to different health issues. Even if it seems like you have a healthy cat in the beginning it is possible that they will be diagnosed with some sort of disease or health related issue as they get older.

     

    There are also certain that you need to do a little bit of research in order to be aware of the benefits and side effects. Also there are precautions that you can take as a cat owner in order to protect your cats health and well being.

     

    Make sure that all harmful plants are removed from the area in which your cat lives. Some plants can be poisonous when a cat chews on them.

     

    Cats can suffer from diabetes. Some might find it strange that humans and cats can share the same illnesses, but it is quite common for a cat to be diagnosed with diabetes. If you suspect this from your cat you should definitely call your veterinarian for further measures.

     

    If there is anything that sparks your concern such as if you cat acts listless, has yucky stuff coming from their eyes or nose, or if they look like they aren’t eating, even though you know they are, you should trust your instincts and contact your veterinarian with your concerns.

     

    Do not let your cat play with yarn or string. All can be fun and games until your cat swallows it and then it becomes a serious matter. If such an instance occurs you need to contact your veterinarian, but it might help to know that white petroleum jelly might help to coat the stomach so that the string or yarn can get out of your cat’s tummy with little harm.

    Taking care of a pet is a serious matter, as a pet owner you must be informed of what is best for your beloved companion. In this entry you will find useful resources: The Best Homemade Pet Food According To Our Pet Food Advisor. Here you will learn about pet nutrition and homemade natural pet food.

     

     

    What To Expect From A Healthy Cat

    If you aren’t sure what to expect with your cat here are a few bits of information that will help prepare you as your cat grows from a kitten to a full grown cat. Within the first month your kitten will begin getting its baby teeth. At two months old a kitten can be fully weaned from their mother who is why it is important not to purchase a kitten until they are six to eight weeks old.

     

    Between six and twelve weeks you will need to take your kitten into the veterinarian for their vaccinations, other shots, and regular checkups to make sure the kitten is doing well. At three months you can look forward to taking your kitten to the veterinarian for their rabies shot in certain states.

     

    After that, anywhere between three and seven months your kitten will begin to get their permanent teeth. The next step will depend largely on whether or not you have a male or female kitten. For females the time to spay is anywhere between six and eight months.

     

    For Males you are looking to neuter them between eight to twelve months. Between four and twelve months you will need to get your kitten in for their rabies shot. Between six months and two years old, your cat will need various booster shots to keep them current with regulations and for health reasons. Once your kitten hits the twelve month mark, they stop being a kitten and become a grown cat.

     

    Just as with humans, there are certain viruses that can attack a cat’s system if they are not properly protected. Even if your cat never goes outside, they still interact with whoever comes into your home and whatever germs that they are carrying. It is really easier to take your cat to the veterinarian for their vaccinations instead of dealing with all of the bills that come from a sick cat. Ask your doctor about any vaccinations that your cat may need and have them explain them to you if you have any concerns.

     

     

    Spaying Or Neutering Your Cat

    Another major decision when having a cat is the question of whether or not you are going to have your cat spayed or neutered. For those who plan on breeding their cats, this is not a major concern, but for those who don’t have any plans on breeding should strongly consider these options in order to avoid a lot of complications down the road.

     

    Not only are you protecting your cat from contributing to a litter of kittens that weren’t exactly in the cards, but you might avoid a lot of behaviors that occur when a male or female is fertile. AWhen a male or female cat is not spayed or neutered they may demonstrate such behaviors as urination, spraying their spent, and having to deal with a female’s heat cycles.

     

    Spaying refers to a female cat in which the cat’s reproductive organs are removed in order to eliminate any chance of having kittens. By spaying your female cat you will have a more relaxed, active, and happy cat. Neutering refers to the removal of a male cat’s reproductive organs. Again, they will not be able to reproduce but you will find that they are not as aggressive as when they are unneutered.

     

     

    Are We Going To The Vet?

    Part of having a cat involves keeping an eye on their general health and well being. This is why it’s important to have a good veterinarian that you can go to when you have any questions or concerns. You need to be able to ask questions and receive helpful answers; after all you need to keep in mind that your cat’s health is at stake.

     

    After many question and answer sessions with your veterinarian as you become accustomed to your cat, you will begin to be able to decipher when something is wrong with your cat. It won’t hurt if you make it a regular habit to check out your cat for any indicators that they may have a health problem. Below are the main characteristics you need to look for:

     

    • Eyes: a healthy cat has bright and clear eyes. If you notice any irritation such as discoloration or discharge, you might want to ask your veterinarian.

     

    • Ears: a healthy cat has clean ears that don’t stink or have anything icky coming out of them. If you notice that there is any discharge or discoloration your cat might have ear mites. Refer to your veterinarian for questions or how to clean their ears.

     

    • Mouth: a healthy cat has pink and healthy looking gums. Indicators that there might be a problem are stinky breath, swollen gums, or sores.

     

    • Body and Fur: a healthy cat has a thick and lustrous coat. If your cat’s coat is not shiny and thick, there might be a health problem that you should check into such as lumps, ticks, dandruff, and fleas.

     

    • Nose: a healthy cat should have a clean nose.

     

    If there is any cause for concern you should speak to your veterinarian immediately. Even if you keep your cat clean, well fed, and vaccinated there is a good chance that your cat is going to be sick at one time or another in their life. This is similar to people, no matter how hard you try, eventually you get sick.

     

    As with people, there are things that you need to look for in your cat to recognize if they are sick or not. Below is a list of symptoms that might trigger some concern:

     

    • Unexplained weight loss.
    • It’s hard for your cat to breathe.
    • Your cat is constantly throwing up.
    • Really bad diarrhea.
    • The cat doesn’t want to eat or drink.
    • Abnormal inactivity.
    • Lumps on the body.
    • Blood in urine or not urinating at all.
    • Abnormal behaviors.
    • Sneezing and hacking.
    • Abnormal aggressiveness.
    • They aren’t using the litter box.

     

    If any of these behaviors catch your attention you should take your cat to the veterinarian.

     

     

    Be Careful With Parasites!

    No matter how clean you keep your cat there is always the chance that some little parasite is going to call your cat’s body its home. If you are keeping a good eye on the health and well being of your cat, you might be able to determine when one of these pesky parasites are moving in.

     

    Ticks or Lice: Ticks and lice can be a very annoying problem for you and your cat. In order to determine if your cat is suffering from ticks and lice; you need to check your cat’s body. You can decipher a tick because you will either see the parasite or will feel it like a bump on your cat’s skin. You can actually remove these yourself if you know what you are doing. You just have to pull the tick out with tweezers, but don’t break the body while doing so.

     

    After the tick is removed you should clean the area with an antiseptic. Lice are much easier to remove; you might notice your cat scratching a lot and find that these pests are the cause, just use a spray or powder to send these parasites packing.

     

    Fleas: Fleas are a common problem with cats. Again, you can find these parasites with a quick examination of your cat’s body, this can even be done while grooming your cat. Fleas are not something that you can get rid of on your own; you will need your veterinarian’s assistance for this.

     

    You may also need to look over your cat’s environment to see if there is a particular reason they contracted the flea infestation. Make sure that after you have treated your cat that you do a thorough cleaning of your cat, wash beds, vacuum, and use other flea killing products to help clear these pests out of your home and away from your cat.

     

    Ear Mites: Ear mites have been mentioned earlier in this book because they are quite common in cats and can lead to many other health problems. This is why it is recommended to clean your cat’s ears on a monthly basis. If your cat’s ears begin to look a bit questionable and are not pink and clean, but waxy and icky smelling, your cat might have ear mites. You should take this concern to your veterinarian and have your cat treated right away.

     

    Mange: Mange can be transmitted by a variety of different mites, but you should be wary because this is something that humans can be affected by as well. If your cat begins to lose fur in patches, bleeds, or has issues around the ears, nose, and ears, your cat might have mange. You need to get your cat to your veterinarian right away if this is a concern for your feline friend.

    Please feel encouraged to say hello – we’ll be happy to help with any questions you might have, and if you’d like to comment on our site, products or service, we’d love to hear from you!



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