Saturday, March 15, 2008

GPS Collars Can Help You Track YOur Pet and Keep Him Out Of Danger

GPS collars can be used to track your pet should he or she ever get away. This tracking can be exact to about one meter or three feet. The term GPS means Global Positioning System. These days, GPS chips are so small that they can be hidden in any pet collar, or even implanted underneath your pet's skin

Once activated GPS dog collars can send real-time data directly to a portable receiving station in your house or car. In fact, new technology has made it possible for GPS Collars to send information to cell phones and laptop. If your pet has gone far, you can send information about his location in real time to police or fire departments that will find him and keep him safe until you arrive.

Never lose your pet again - get a GPS Collar for him or her. It feels and looks like a regular collar, and is completely safe and harmless to your dog or cat. GPS collars can even be made for birds and specially fit ones can be put on some reptiles.

GPS Collars have other uses as well - for example, when driving or hiking with your dog, the collar can help both of you know where you are. You can put the small GPS cat collar in your pocket and use it to know where you are even without your pet present.

There are too many stories about dogs wandering off into dangerous areas, or cats getting out and fighting with animals much bigger than them. Slowly these stories are being replaced by tales of dogs and cats wearing GPS collars and being rescued before they get in harm's way. Add your pet to the list of animals who were saved by a GPS dog collar or GPS cat collar.

Learn what farmers already know in order to track expensive cattle, and what many parents have learned in order to track their kids, use GPS technology for piece of mind!

GPS chips can provide a pet owner with a sense of security and comfort, but they should never take the place of all other preventative actions one would take to ensure their pet's safety. These GPS chips might augment what you already do, but they should never take the place of your current methods of watching over and protecting your pet.


Thursday, March 13, 2008

Finding Pets Online

When you hear about somebody who wants to find a pet online, what is the first thing that you think about? For some people, the idea of pets and the virtual world online may never cross paths in the same thought. For others, they may have grown up in this new technological era and regularly search the Internet for almost anything that they have ever wanted to purchase. Whether you know it or not, finding pets online and pet classified ads online are not only very common, but actually a beneficial and much improved method when searching for the perfect pet.

When you are searching for pets online, you can discover a lot of information that may otherwise be unavailable to you just by going to your local pet shop or library. Information about pets that would take you days or even weeks to track down in the "real world" can be found in mere moments online. The huge volume of pet information that is available online can be used to help you discover the perfect pet for you or for someone you love.

Many types of pets have special needs and it is important to get as much information as you can before you invest a significant amount of money in a pet that you may have to find another owner because you were not prepared to meet it's needs once you found your ideal pet. For example, somebody who lived in the tropics would probably not have an ideal environment for many pets like Alaskan Malamutes or other animals that live in colder environments.

Many animals, especially among the more exotic pets, may be very fascinating and even very beautiful in their own way but you must be certain that you have the necessary environment to raise your pets properly. All of your efforts will be in vain unless you can take care of your pets once you bring them home. In the case of many exotic pets and global or national championship stock animals, this could be a very expensive loss that is unnecessary with preparation, research and planning for your pets.

Additionally, searching for pets online will allow you to get to know the people who actually sell the pets and in many instances, the animal breeders themselves. Finding a reputable pet shop, dealer or a breeder can be difficult if you do not know where to look. Often times, breeders do not go out of their way to advertise their services. If you are not currently involved in the showcasing of certain breeds or you are not actively involved in the social communities that come with some pets, it may be nearly impossible to find a pet without the Internet.

Whether you are searching for dogs and cats online or looking for a pet that is more exotic in nature, you can find a pet online that will meet all of your needs and furthermore, one that can comfortably adjust to your personal environment as well. Next time you think about getting a pet, think about how to find a pet online and you will likely be very pleased with the improved results.


Is Your Cat Misbehaving? 4 Tips to Understanding Your Cat

Despite their status as the most popular pet in America, cats can still be difficult. With their sometimes aloof attitudes and unwillingness to tell us what they want, figuring out your cat can be tough.

When your cat, whether it's an Abyssinian or a Turkish Van, starts misbehaving, it can cause serious damage. From ripped curtains to urine-stained bed sheets, a cat on the rampage is hard to handle. Unfortunately, many owners give up on cats with behavior problems, but there are steps you can take to help your cat grow through or out of them.

To learn how to stop your cat from misbehaving, keep reading for 4 key tips on how to understand your cat.

1. Take your cat to the vet for a complete physical.

Sometimes a behavior problem can actually be a physical problem. For example, a cat that's urinating in strange places may be suffering from an illness or an infection.

Your vet can also offer suggestions and advice for problems that are behavioral.

2. Check the house for environmental factors.

Sometimes the solution is simpler than you think so check around the house for environmental factors that could be wreaking havoc on your cat's disposition.

For example, litter box problems are typically the source of rampant or improper urination. First, check where you're keeping the litter box - is it next to a loud appliance or in a heavily trafficked area of the house? Just like you, your cat wants a private and quiet place to do its business. You can also try a covered litter box, which most cats, particularly longhaired cat breeds, tend to prefer.

Next, try switching out the litter that you're using. If you're using scented, try unscented and if you're using non-clumping, try clumping. Some cats are just picky about their litter.

Finally, make sure the litter box is being cleaned frequently enough. Just as you wouldn't want to use a dirty toilet, your cat also wants a clean litter box. Also, make sure there is at least one litter box per cat as cats prefer to have their own.

3. Look to your other pets.

Sometimes problems with other animals in the house, like an aggressive older cat or a constantly chasing dog can lead to behavioral problems. Much like the child who acts out after being bullied, your cat may be dealing with those issues in the same way.

Always introduce new animals into the house slowly, keeping them separated from one another, but still able to smell and hear each other. Once they've gotten acquainted, let them co-mingle. If you're trying to deal with an existing problem, try using baby gates to keep your cats or pets separate from one another for a few days. This separation can help reduce anxiety.

4. Consult a professional.

Expensive and sometimes a last resort for many pet-owners, a pet behavior specialist may be able to help you and your cat work through your problems. According to the listings provided by the Association of Companion Animal Behavior Counselors (ACABC), a private behavior 1-hour consultation can cost anywhere from about $50 to $500, but most hover around the $70-$100 range.


Tuesday, March 11, 2008

How to Navigate On-line Pet Classifieds and Protect Yourself

Whether you're looking to purchase a new pet or advertise pets for sale, the Internet is perfect for seeking out information, reputable breeders and potential pet-buyers. However, with the convenience and vast selection that on-line pet classifieds provide, there also comes the need to check references and ask lots of questions. Keep reading for great tips on how to get the most out of advertising pets for sale or purchasing a pet online.

1. Ask for references
Always ask for references. As a pet buyer, you want to make sure that the breeder from whom you're purchasing is reputable and known for placing their animals in good homes. Actually call up the references and ask about the breeder's follow-up, their health screening and the conditions of their breeding business.

If you're a breeder and posting a "pets for sale" online classified, then you also want to make sure that your prospective buyer is the kind of person that will love and properly care for the animal. Feel free to ask them for character references or a veterinary reference if they own other animals.

2. Access the online pet/breed community
The Internet offers animal researchers a wealth of animal information, including access to pet communities with forums, image galleries and lots of breed information.

If you're looking to purchase a new animal (dog, cat, horse, bird, etc) through an online classified ad, try locating an Internet based pet community and joining. Once you're a member, ask questions, request referrals for quality breeders and solicit advice on your particular breed or species. It's like a neighborhood meeting, but specifically tailored to your pet questions.

A good pet classifieds site will also include information about different breeds and animals, as well as access to these valuable communities. For example, FindaPetonline.com is a pet classified site that also hosts a user-based web community and breed profiles.

3. Ask for a picture
If you're trying to buy a dog online (or cat, horse, or bird), always ask for pictures or video. Many quality breeders will be happy to provide remote buyers with short video footage of the prospective puppy playing and interacting with his brood.

If the animal is being sold as a purebred or as having been born from registered parents, ask for scans of the parental registration along with all the paperwork. Feel free to phone up the appropriate club or registration association to confirm the information.

4. Ask questions
If you're trying to sell an animal online through pet classifieds, don't be afraid to ask the prospective buyer questions. You want to make sure your prized horse, puppy, bird or kitten is going to a good home, so don't hesitate to ask about yard size or living conditions.

Buyers, the person selling you the animal should also be willing and ready to answer questions about everything from specific breed requirements to feed suggestions to how they house and care for their animals.

Remember, the Internet is a great opportunity to get in touch with qualified breeders and buyers all over the world, but with that potential comes a certain amount of responsibility. So, get documentation, ask questions, get references and access your online pet community.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065


Safe Traveling For Your Dog, Cat or Bird

Every pet owner is faced with the prospect of having to travel with their dog, cat or bird at some point. Whether it is a few days or a few weeks, there are steps and products you can employ to make this a comfortable - if not fun - time for your pet!

When traveling, the most important thing to do is to take frequent breaks. Always buckle your pet in with a harness if you are not using a crate while driving. The safest and most comfortable place for your pet during car travel is in the back seat. When you have your pet in the back seat, always have some sort of bar barrier between the front and back seat -such as the 10 Bar Euro Auto Pet Barrier - or use a hammock-style barrier. This keeps your pet out of the way when you're driving.

A great option for keeping your pet occupied during travel is some sort of cushioned booster seat, which are available for dogs up to 30 lbs. These booster seats are calming for animals that stress easily during travel. Your dog or cat will be able to watch the surroundings, and be cushioned for comfort. Some great booster seats are the Lookout I or II. An option for cat traveling is the Kittywalk Cozy Cabin. All have a seat belt harness for added safety.

Traveling with a bird can sometimes prove precarious. The best way to prepare your feathered friend is to acclimate your bird to a travel cage a few weeks prior to actually traveling. If you are using a crate, and your bird is calm around it, you can acclimate them to the crate. We recommend a travel cage when traveling by car. It allows your bird to look out and see you at the same time. This will provide comfort to your bird during the stress of travel. Some birds actually end up enjoying traveling - they get to look out the car window and see a whole new collection of sights!

Another thing to remember while traveling with your bird is environmental control. NEVER leave any animal in a car without environment control, regardless of the weather outside.

Unfortunately, when traveling with exotic birds such as parrots, theft is common. Never leave your windows rolled down or your doors unlocked when you have to leave a bird in your car. Get a few duplicate car keys and wear one around your neck while traveling. If you make a pit stop and you have to leave your car out of your sight with your bird inside, lock the doors with the car still running (for environmental control), and use your extra key to open the door when you get back. Only be gone for a minute or two at the most, and always cover your bird when you leave him behind in your car to deter theft.


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