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HEALTHY FOOD FOR PETS
Pets are loyal buddies. They don’t only provide companionship and friendship, they also provide security and they work as guides for the sick, elderly and the physically-challenged among others. Your pet can only remain healthy and in prime shape when they enjoy a healthy body and a stable mind.
THE AMERICAN CURL CAT
The American Curl is a sweet cat that has an interesting appearance and jovial attitude. This cat is active and will gladly participate in collective activities. Due to their dedication to their owners, the American Curl is a great therapy cat.
Brief History
The American Curl has a colorful history. Their origin is traced back to a single stray kitten that walked into the Lakewood California home of Joe and Grace Ruga in the early 1980s. She had long black fur and little ears that curled backwards. The Rugas noticed that the cat was very calm and timid.
She delivered 4 kittens soon afterwards from an unknown father. Two of the kittens had the same curled ears. Neighbors took note and the Rugas took their cat and her kittens to cat shows in the state. This led to widespread interest in the cat and the American Curl was born. A geneticist indicated that the curled ears were caused by a dominant gene.
In 1983, cat fanciers began to selectively breed the American Curl. In 1986, the new breed was registered by the Cat Fanciers Association. The International Cat Association recognized the breed in 1987. All American Curl cats in the world are descended from the first cat.
Physical Features
The most noticeable feature of the American Curl is their curled ears. While they are born with straight ears, they curl in the first 2 to 10 days after they are born. By the time a kitten is 4 months old, the ears will have permanently curled. They maintain this shape for the rest of their lives. Interestingly, American Curls can move their ears back and forth. When they are alert, the ears face forward. At other times, they face sideways.
The American Curl has a sweet appearance and a stocky, muscular body. Their coats are silky and long. They can have a variety of colors such as brown, white, black, grey and roan. They can also have patterns. Examples of these are tortoiseshell, tiger stripes, patches and smoky patterns.
Average Height:
8 to 12 inches
Average Weight:
5 to 10 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12 to 16 years
Temperament
The American Curl is a sweet cat. They readily greets you with a cheek rub and also takes well to guests and will extend a welcome to them too. They enjoy the company of children and is very sweet towards them. The American Curl is amicable and can live comfortably with dogs that are friendly towards cats. This cat is curious and intelligent and will follow you around the home so as to see what you are up to. The American Curl will also help out whenever required. They are known for being able to jump extremely long distances. As such, they are sometimes described to be flying. This causes the breed to be fondly known as Peter Pan.
Seeing as she is very intelligent, the American Curl can open doorknobs and drawers. After a day of high activity, the American Curl will relax into your lap for a nap.
Special Needs
The American Curl is an active cat that requires specialized training so as to harness its energy in the right way. The American Curl can be taught how to walk on a leash. They can also be taught how to fetch or play catch. Since they like spending time outdoors climbing around, extra care should be taken to ensure they do not get injured or lose their way.
Possible Health Concerns
If maintained properly, the American Curl is a healthy cat breed. They are stronger than most other cat breeds and are not susceptible to many illness or adverse conditions. The only real problem they are prone to is wax buildup in their narrow ear canals. Consult with your vet for treatment.
Exercise
The American Curls require ample exercise perhaps two sessions of exercise each lasting 30 minutes. The cat is also versatile and can handle exercise activities of various types. They enjoy playing with children and active session of exercise by play is ideal for the cat. They can also go on a jog around the block with you. You can train the American Curl to walk on a leash.
Nutrition
American Curls expend a lot of energy on a daily basis so their food should promote energy retention and growth. It should have equal portions of protein and carbohydrates. A bowl of cool, clean water is also an important part of their daily nutrition. American Curl cats are not fussy eaters and will consume wet or dry food with equal enthusiasm.
Grooming
A notable feature of the American Curl is their beautiful, long coats which should be brushed once every week. This is so as to eliminate any dead hair and prevent matting. Their teeth and nails should also be clipped regularly.
The American Curl can fit comfortably in apartments as well as larger houses. They are a loving, affectionate breed and will gladly rub against you or your guests. They are a
CAT HEALTH: A CHECKLIST
All cat owners know cats are independent creatures and do not require a lot of your time. Cats love to sleep and hide in safe places; however, they also want and need attention. They need scratching posts, climbing towers, feeding, grooming and other loving care. Because of their independent nature and desire to be separated from human activity part of the time, many cat owners believe they do not have to interact with their cats on a daily basis. In reality, cats need daily attention from their human family to be at their best.
THE LAGOTTO ROMAGNOLO
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a rare dog breed that originated during the Renaissance period in Italy and were bred to retrieve waterfowl. “Lago” translated, means lake in Italian. This dog breed was also used to sniff out truffles. Most water retrieving dog breeds are thought to have originated from this dog breed.
Brief History
The Lagotto dog breed goes back many centuries. The Lagotto Ramagnolo worked as waterfowl retrievers and were, for many years, used to sniff out truffles in the Italian countryside. This breed is thought to be the best in truffle sniffing. It is part of the Sporting Group, and was made part of the FSS program in 2001. This dog breed was recognized by the UKC in 2006.
Physical Features
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a small-to-medium-sized dog breed. It is powerfully built, and has a rustic, country feel. This dog breed has a distinctive, dense, curly coat with lots of woolly hair. Their eyes are large and round and can be eye hazel to dark brown. Their ears are medium-sized and triangular in shape. They are also known for having a wiry mustache. Their tails are woolly and their coats have tight, ring-shaped curls with a soft undercoat beneath. Curls are everywhere except on their heads, where they have abundant eyebrows, whiskers, and a beard. Color should be an off-white solid color, white with brown and orange patches, brown roan, different shades of brown, with or without white, orange with or without white.
Average Height:
16-19 inches
Average Weight:
24-35 pounds
Life Expectancy:
15-17 years
Temperament
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an affectionate, and easy-to-train dog breed. It is undemanding, and keen, yet very attached to its dog parent. This dog breed is an excellent guard dog, but is not aggressive. They are famous for having wonderful sniffing abilities. The Lagotto are also known for their gentleness, and for being a great companion. They are good with children, and other animals. This is an indoor dog that needs companionship, and lots of TLC. It is very loyal, and energetic. This dog breed enjoys swimming.
Special Needs
The Lagotto Romagnolo needs an active family that enjoys long hikes, swimming, and plenty of outdoor fun. This dog breed is gentle, and positive dog training needs to be geared with that in mind. Socialization should begin during the first four weeks of puppyhood, and continue throughout a dog’s life. This breed needs plenty of mental stimulation, and does well with organized canine sporting activities like agility, trails, dock diving, and obedience.
These dogs do well with detection of medical conditions, and work well as therapy dogs. These are indoor dogs that benefit from lots of TLC. They need plenty of outdoor activity. That said, the Lagotto enjoys hanging out with the family on the couch at home.
Possible Health Concerns
Bloat. This breed is deep- chested, and thus more prone to bloat. Bloat is a life threatening emergency. It is caused by the twisting of the stomach, together with the accumulation of gas, with or without fluid. It is best to never elevate this dog’s water and food bowls. Stress is also a major factor in causing bloat. Never feed your dog a large meal, followed by exercise. At the first signs of dry vomiting, restlessness and discomfort, contact your emergency veterinarian.
Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary developmental disease. HD affects the Lagotto dog breed. HD occurs when the hip joint fails to develop properly. In the Lagotto with HD, the head of the thigh bone does not fall into the hip socket. The imperfect fit results in the joint becoming loose and unstable, and results in osteoarthritis.
Juvenile Epilepsy: This is a recessively inherited disease. In this dog breed, the symptoms occur from 5-9 weeks of age. The dog has seizures of the entire body with loss of consciousness. The seizures go away by 8-13 weeks of age.
The Lagotto Romagnolo dog breed
Exercise
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an energetic dog breed that does well with plenty of regular exercise and canine sporting activities. Keep your Lagotto mentally stimulated when out exercising. Sports like obedience training, field trials, dock diving, tracking, and agility are good options for this dog breed. Swimming at the dog beach and pool at home are also fun activities for the family.
Nutrition
Dogs should be fed the highest-quality food that’s appropriate for their age, activity level and medical conditions. Consult with your veterinarian if you need advice about which food to feed your dog.
The Lagotto Romagnolo
Grooming
The Lagotto Romagnolo has a waterproof coat that is curly. They have a double coat of hair, and shed rarely. Trimming needs to be done regularly on this dog breed. This dog breed is one of the best for allergy sufferers because they rarely shed.
Regular bathing is recommended with natural shampoos and conditioners to promote good skin and coat health. Daily tooth brushing is recommended to prevent gum disease. Twice yearly visits to the veterinarian for dental hygiene maintenance is required. Ears need to be regularly wiped out, and nails trimmed regularly to prevent pain when walking and running.
The Lagotto Romagnolo needs an active family that enjoys long hikes, swimming, and plenty of outdoor fun. This dog breed is gentle, and positive dog training needs to be geared with that in mind. This dog breed needs plenty of socialization, and positive dog training starting during puppyhood.
THE JAPANESE CHIN
The Japanese Chin dog breed
The Japanese Chin, also known as the Japanese Spaniel, is aptly named after its country of possible origin. It is part of the UKC, companion Group, and the AKC, Toy Group. Despite its name, some believe the Japanese Chin actually came from China as a gift from a Chinese emperor. Historically, the breed was very popular with the Japanese nobility.
Brief History
The Japanese Chin’s origin is of question. Some believe this breed came from Korea, while others say that it originated from China. There were Buddhist monks, Chinese emperors, as well as European merchants that were credited for bringing the Japanese Chin to Japan, approximately 500 to 1000 years ago. The Japanese nobles then improved on this small breed. In 1854 the Chin was introduced to the west when Japan opened for trade after 200 years of isolation.
Physical Features
The Japanese Chin is a small, square-shaped and well-balanced dog breed with a large, round head. Japanese Chins have large, warm brown eyes that are often emotive. It has a short, broad, muzzle with a black nose, open nostrils and small v-shaped drop ears. This breed looks aristocratic and has a very unique expression. Its famous tail is plumed and carried over the back. They tend to have very curious and alert facial expressions. Their coats are thick, single, and silky with a heavily coated rump area. The coat color typically ranges from black and white, to black and white with tan characteristics, or red and white. Occasionally they can have tan or red spots over the eye area, inside ears, and on their cheeks.
Average Height:
8-11 inches
Average Weight:
4-11 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-12 years
Temperament
The Japanese Chin has a good memory. This very intelligent dog breed is sensitive and mild-mannered. They typically get along with everyone — dogs, animals and children. They can be initially shy with strangers, but affectionate with immediate family and once they get to know a new person. Above all, the Japanese Chin enjoys being pampered. This breed does not do well if isolated from family during the holidays. The Chin is easy to train, though has bursts of stubbornness at times. The Chin needs to start socialization during the first four weeks of life and positive dog training early on to overcome stubborn habits. Male Chins may have some housebreaking issues, but these are resolved easily with consistency and regular positive training.
Special Needs
The Japanese Chin is a low maintenance dog. That said, the long silky coat needs plenty of care. The Chin does well with all dogs, children, and people. This breed can only benefit from positive dog training classes to help prevent stubbornness. They’re usually independent, loyal and devoted to family. The Chin has some cat-like qualities and may be shy and reserved. This is a sensitive dog breed.
Positive training for the Chin needs to be consistent, yet one needs to take into consideration the sensitivity and intelligence of this breed and not break their spirit with unnecessary harsh reprimands. Dog training needs to mold the needs of this dog breed in a positive way so as not to break his quirkiness. Attentive pet parents are usually recommended. Socialization, as with all dog breeds should start during the first four weeks.
One quirk: Japanese Chins tend to be afraid of thunderstorms. Vets usually recommend “relax and recover shirts” to provide therapeutic pressure to help dogs feel secure and calm during thunderstorms or times of stress. Use of calming essential oils with the use of Calm Paws Calming Disks work well. Thundershirts, another anxiety wrap, also provides gentle, constant pressure to help dogs deal with stress during travel, separation anxiety, storm phobia and other every day stresses that your Chin may have to deal with.
Possible Health Concerns
Luxating Patella: The Japanese Chin may be predisposed to this condition. This occurs when the patella slips out of the trochlear groove and causes lameness. The kneecap ends up being displaced towards the midline of the dog’s body.
GM2 Gangliosidosis: This is a recessive hereditary diseae. This disease was also called Tay Sachs disease or Sandhoff’s disease. It involves lysosomal storage, and is fatal. Symptoms include loss of coordination, head shaking, mental dullness and weakness.
Cardiac Diseases. Inherited cardiac diseases in the Chins like subaortic stenosis and cardiomyopathies are congenital (present at birth). Some symptoms may include heart murmurs resulting in exercise intolerance, and possible congestive heart failure. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Epilepsy results in seizures that can be caused by numerous conditions. Some of these include low blood sugar, brain tumor, heat stroke, nutritional deficiencies, poisons or toxins, and distemper. Inherited epilepsy in the Chin has been showing up a lot in this gene pool. Environmental hazards are also to blame.
Cataracts: This is a condition where the lens of the eye progressively loses transparency. This often results in blindness.
The Japanese Chin dog
Exercise
The Japanese Chin needs regular exercise and lots of fun play time. This dog breed has bursts of energy and does well with frequent short walks, trips to the dog park and playing ball. The more regular the exercise, the better their overall disposition will be. This is not a dog to leave alone all day. The Chin will get agitated and lonely. Plenty of socialization is needed during puppyhood so that this dog breed has no problems with other dogs later on.
Nutrition
A high-quality dog food for the appropriate life stage is recommended for the Chin. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for this small and spirited breed. Assess your dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that they may be prone to. Ask your veterinarian to help you.
The Japanese Chin
Grooming
The Japanese Chin has a very long and silky coat. This breed needs to be brushed every day to remove loose hair and dirt. This also helps to prevent matts and tangles which can be worked through with a slicker brush or metal comb. Using natural spritzes and conditioners will make grooming easier.
Teeth need to be brushed daily with a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Ears need to be cleaned regularly and checked for sensitivity. Trim nails as needed. Your Japanese Chin will need to have a professional dental cleaning twice a year. Consult with your veterinarian for advice. If you’re using a professional groomer, be sure to check references. Chins are a small dog breed that need to be treated gently and enjoy lots of positive reinforcements like healthy dog treats. These can be used to reward your Chin when he behaves during a nail trim.
This dog breed enjoys the comforting scent of people, most especially family, including children. This mild-mannered and sensitive dog breed needs time to adjust to new surroundings.
THE WELSH TERRIER
welsh terrier
The Welsh Terrier, also known as the Old English Terrier, comes from Wales. It is part of the AKC/UKC, Terrier Group. This breed came into existence during the 1700’s and was used in fox hunts and to catch badgers.
Brief History
The Welsh Terrier has fierce jaws and good digging skills. They were most commonly used to dig up badger lairs, but also as companion dogs. The Welsh Terrier first arrived in the U.S during the 19th century. Two older dog breeds — the Old English Black and the Tan Terrier, are believed to be related to the Welsh Terrier.
Physical Features
The Welsh Terrier is a compact and sturdy dog breed. They’re typically medium in size with a slightly rugged look. They also have a rectangular head with a square muzzle and a coarse, wiry coat. Don’t let the size fool you: though compact, their muzzles are quite strong. Welsh Terriers have a black square nose and a docked tail. They have V-shaped ears which are always folded forward. Typically, their legs, underbody and head are tan in color, with a jacket in black or grizzle.
Average Height:
18-21 inches
Average Weight:
20-28 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-14 years
Temperament
The Welsh Terrier is friendly and outgoing. They tend to be on the feisty side with unique quirks. That being said, the Welsh Terrier is notably easy to train and game for new activities. This dog breed is known for showing intelligence and self-restraint. The Welsh Terrier is a friendly and amiable dog breed that enjoys people — especially children — and other animals. Although the Welsh Terrier has a pronounced prey instinct, when positively trained and socialized, is one of the easiest dogs to live with. They are capable of deep companionship and are immensely loyal.
The Welsh Terrier does best with lots of exercise and a fenced and secure garden or backyard. This is a very sensitive dog breed that needs tons of positive reinforcement and does well with lots of attention and affection. Care must be given to ensure that all fencing in backyards and gardens is secure, as they do have a tendency to dig. The Welsh Terrier does well with lots of off-leash running. They enjoy playing Frisbee and ball.
Special Needs
The Welsh Terrier needs an active home. This breed does well with plenty of regular exercise, positive dog training and socialization. The Welsh Terrier breed needs to be socialized from puppyhood and should never be isolated.This breed bonds closely with all family members, including children.
The Welsh Terrier needs to interact with people so as not to become bored and mischievous. Positive training needs to tailor to the specific temperament of this breed. Because of their high-energy, Welsh Terriers typically do best with an experienced dog parent that can be firm, yet kind. Interactive dog toys are a plus for the Welsh Terrier. If excessive barking is a problem, food dispensing dog toys help with boredom.
All family members need to be on the same page with positive dog training methods. Although it may be difficult to not spoil this pup, it’s for the best. The Welsh Terrier should live indoors, but may have housetraining issues if not trained positively beginning at puppyhood.
Possible Health Concerns
Legg-Perthes Disease. This is the deterioration of the top of the femur. It is characterized by a lack of blood supply and destruction of the blood vessels of the bone. It is a hereditary condition in some terrier breeds.
Dental Problems. The Welsh Terrier needs proper dental care, including preventative methods like daily tooth brushing, which will help prevent gum disease, periodontitis and endodontic disease.
Skin Allergies: This dog may be prone to Atopic Dermatitis. This is caused by an abnormal immune system response. There are many allergies which can affect the skin, and are caused by fleas, dog food and other allergens like pollen in the air. Consult with your veterinarian if your dog suffers from intense itching.
Hip Dysplasia is the abnormal development of the hip joint. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease.
Epilepsy is an inherited disease that causes seizures.
Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) This is an inherited disease that affects the eye. It is associated with the disintegration of the zonule fibers that hold the lens in place.
welsh terrier dog
Exercise
The Welsh Terrier is an energetic dog breed that does well with plenty of regular exercise and canine sporting activities like agility, obedience, and dock diving. Herding and Frisbee are also stress-free ways that your dog can have fun. That said, some of the best activities you can have with your dog are unorganized like going out for a jog or a long walk. Plan hikes and vigorous exercise for cool mornings.
Grooming
Clipping should be done every 8-12 weeks. The Welsh Terrier’s coat should be kept longer or unclipped in colder weather. Opting for a professional dog groomer helps with maintaining coat health.
Routine daily grooming will keep the Welsh Terrier’s coat in good condition. This is one of the easiest breeds to groom. A short bristled brush or mitt should be used to maintain a shiny and healthy coat. Twice yearly visits to the veterinarian for dental hygiene maintenance is a must. Ears need to be regularly wiped out, and nails trimmed regularly.
This breed is famously feisty, happy and energetic. They also make for good travel companions because they are so adaptable. They also love adventure. As with all terriers, it’s best to supervise when out and about to make sure that they don’t stray and that all fences are secure. Terriers are well known for digging underneath fences and escaping.
welsh terrier dog breed
Sounds of the Animals Around the World
There are close to 9 million species of animals on the planet. Many of these animals make distinct noises which can be interesting and fun to hear.
HOLIDAY HAZARDS: PROTECT YOUR PETS FROM HOUSE GUESTS, DECORATIONS AND TOXIC FOODS
The Holiday Season is upon us. People are busy this time of year shopping, cooking, entertaining guests, making travel plans and a myriad of other pressing activities. Many times our schedules drift to a panic state by all family members including the four-legged members of the household. There are some cautions that must be put in place to protect the family pets from illness and accidents during these hectic times.
