My Pet Parrot

Parrot Supplies - What You Need to Know About Toy Safety

2009-06-04T06:05:00.000-07:00

By MattCarver

Toys can be an important part of your parrot's emotional life. Just think about it, they stand around in their cage all day with nothing to do. A bored parrot can develop some very bad habits that can be destructive to him and his surroundings. Having the right toys might not cure everything but it will go a long way toward keeping your parrot busy and out of trouble.

Parrots love to chew. If you have had your bird for any time at all this is no surprise. So, to give them something to chew on beside their perch, try a variety of wooden toys. They come in all shapes and sizes and are usually strung together with some kind of thin rope or chain that can be hung in the cage. Make sure the wood has been dyed in a natural dye and look for any rough spots that develop where a toenail could get caught and break off.

A popular toy on the market is the acrylic toy. It is virtually impossible for your parrot to destroy it. But the downside is that they don't provide for the natural chewing and destruction that the wooden toys offer. My recommendation is to get a variety of toys and rotate them in the cage. Puzzle toys are also very popular. These have a variety of treats hidden in them. This will make your bird work some to get at the treats thus providing some good exercise while it has some fun.

Make sure that any toy you buy for your parrot is safe for it to use while unsupervised. We all know that while our birds are unattended they can get into all kinds of trouble. Doesn't that sound familiar parents? Toys with unnatural materials can be torn apart and ingested. Toys such as stuffed animals or toys made from PVC plastic should always be avoided. These are also very good at collecting unwanted dirt and dust.

Here are a few tips to help you decide on the best and safest toys for your bird so he doesn't end up hurting himself. Avoid toys that have "jingle bells" on them. They may sound good and keep your bird entertained but they can easily catch a toe or beak (especially smaller birds) in them causing injury. Avoid flimsy plastic toys that will easily break or toys that have very small parts on the inside like a clapper in a small bell.

Make sure you get the proper size toy for your particular parrot. Any parrot can break a toy designed for a smaller bird. Ring toys are especially dangerous if they are mismatched. Also the rings and links that are used to attach toys to the cage are a big problem. Each year many injuries are attributed to the use of these. The only type of link you should be using are the stainless steel quick link that can be found at any good hardware store. Never use snap hooks or key rings.

About the Author:

Matt Carver is an author and parrot enthusiast. Learn more about parrot supplies and many other parrot care tips by downloading a copy of his latest book on Parrot Care.

Parrot Diet - Fresh Food, Snacks and Table Food

2009-05-01T05:16:00.000-07:00

By Matt Carver

Like everybody else your parrot deserves fresh food whether it's seed, pellet or cooked. But it's not always easy to know if the seed or pellet food you get at the pet store is always as fresh as it should be. Next time you get some seed, place a teaspoon of it between two damp paper towels. In a couple of days check it to see how has sprouted. If most has you've got good fresh seed. If only some of it has it's not so fresh. If none sprouted find a new pet store.

If your supplier sells seeds or pellets in large open bins I'd find another store. Store employees or customers may run their hands through it and contaminated it. Worse yet the food may have been picked over by rodents. You want the food you buy to be in airtight sealed bags - seed or pellet.

Your parrot likes a treat now and then just as you do. The trick is to give them something health as well as enjoyable. Store bought snacks are usually high in calories and low in nutritional value. Doesn't that sound familiar? There are some healthier alternatives if you look for them.

Millet spray is a favorite of many smaller birds like budgies and cockatiels. Give to them in the late afternoon after eating its other regular food - kind of like dessert twice a week. You can thread it through the bars of the cage so your bird has to work at it to eat it. Here is a word of caution. Don't buy a spiral millet holder. They have been known to cause injury or even death.

Many of the foods we eat every day can be very nutritious for your parrot. But be careful. If you're going to feed your parrot table food, here are some things you need to be aware of. He can eat just about anything you can - but not everything. What he can't eat is very important to know. Some of the foods we like to eat are in fact toxic for your bird. Salty and sugary foods are unhealthy for them so avoid all junk food.

There are other foods that also must be avoided. They include avocado, rhubarb, chocolate (no candy bars!), raw onion, any salty or sugary foods (it may be fun to watch him eat that pretzel but it is definitely a no no) and alcohol. These foods are toxic or even deadly and must be avoided.

About the Author:

Matt Carver is an author and parrot enthusiast. Learn more about a good parrot diet and many other parrot care tips by visiting http://www.parrotcaretips.com.

Basic Guide to Caring for Your Small Dog

2009-05-01T02:31:00.000-07:00

By Elias Maseko

Caring for the small dog is pretty similar to caring for a larger pet. Having said that, there are certain points they need to be made aware of when looking after a small dog. Just think about some of the everyday events that may need to be looked at when considering certain needs.

Feeding time:

Of course eating is the most obvious daily activity but the average kibble available from the grocery may be over-sized for your dog. Make sure that your dog gets a kibble which suits his tiny mouth and you could get these along with the premium brand of dog foods. But if you feed your dog with canned food, this should not present a problem.

Where they will stay - safely:

A few staple needs for any dog include exercise, some confidential outdoor venue for potty and a protected area for security. Not necessarily when it comes to smaller dogs because a fence that adequately holds a bigger dog may have gaps large enough for a small dog to fit between or under, allowing him to escape. An important safety concern is that no fence would protect your tiny pet from the prying eyes of hawks flying overhead as they are famous for stooping down to snatch away the Lilliputians and smaller puppies. A simple answer to this problem is to construct an enclosed play area which should stop this from happening.

Training to obey commands:

Though teaching larger dogs is as easy or as hard as their tinier counterparts, according to pet experts, it is common to find the diminutive canines are thoroughly smothered to be taught any discipline. Small dogs don't think any differently to their larger cousins and believe they are part of the pack where you are their leader but if you show signs of weakness they will start ruling you. Getting them house trained is just as important too even though their mess might not be as great, this is still an important issue that must be dealt with. To make the dog obey your commands, dog experts recommend that the dog must be made to work for you. If you can train your dog to perform small tricks and other normal things like fetching a stick for example you can then provide them with a small treat afterwards.

Dog grooming:

Small dogs have some particular requirements when it comes to grooming you need to bear in mind. These diminutive pets usually require more frequent nail trimming than larger dogs, because they typically spend less time on rough surfaces wearing them down. You'll also need to brush his or her teeth twice a week if you're feeding a soft canned food diet. As you can see, small dog care largely follows the same route as care for any other sized dog. While each requirement may seem small and insignificant, but when you do it with earnestness, it can make a huge difference in the way you keep a dog.

About the Author:

Dog Breeding supplies more accurate information, check out this link: Dog Breeding Instructions.

The West Highland White Terrier Change of Fate, from Below to the Top

2009-04-29T07:32:00.000-07:00

By Jack Richardson

Full of spunk and dauntlessly courageous; these and more are what makes the West Highland White Terrier an absolute charmer and enthusiastic little gamer. This dog is widely recognized for having a short, brilliant white hair, compact little body and fearless spirit. Tagged as well as "Westie", this little diminutive charmer has a wide base of admirers and the number continue to rise by the day.

It's a out of the question how Westies are being hailed as one of the top favorite breeds today but looking back almost hundreds of years ago, they were surprisingly not so pampered and not so favored like today. In Scotland before, the place of origin of the Westie, believe it or not they were treated as despicable and meaningless pets of the peasants and of the poor. In the hands of sadistic humans, they were abandoned, left to fend for themselves, and even killed.

With the good spirits of the Malcolm family, however, the pet was saved, flourished, and in time gained recognition for its unique and favorable usefulness as vermin catcher. The Malcolms are an influential family and through this rank they managed to catch the interest of other people to look at Westies in a different and most loving way. Col. Edward Donald Malcolm, the main instigator of the change, formerly developed several colored terriers but it is the white colored one that made the most importance for it is utterly recognizable among other animals being hunted, the bushes, mountains, and rocks.

Having been breed from other Scottish terriers such as the Skye, Cairn, and Dandie Dinmont, the Westie of today is nothing but pure blooded terrier. In 1905, the first Highland terrier club was formed in the overseeing of Col. Malcolm. A year later, The Kennel Club cited the club as an official member and gave it the name The West Highland White Terrier Club; in 1908, the American version of the club was included in the AKC.

The Westie indicates a typical terrier temperament as it is fearlessly game, hardy despite its size, trusting of new people and children, active, confident, and adores companionship. They also love playing and chasing around and has the tendency to run after cats and other smaller animals but this is just a form of entertainment for them. The Westie has no problem getting along with other dogs for it doesn't typically pick a fight, isn't pugnacious and is inherently self-assured.

In appearance, the West Highland White terrier looks adorably hairy in 2 inches long of thick, soft, and sparkling fur. The hair on top of its head is typically trimmed to show its well- rounded head; daily brushing and regular trimming are necessary to bring out its best feature. They typically stand robust in 10- 12 inches of height and have a fur that is soft and dense under and rough at the outer.

Adding to its already cute appearance, this dog is quite the showman, too, for it is tractable in training and obedience which makes him a winner at every dog show competition. In terms of health, this dog needs a dose of regular walks so as to avoid the development of negative behaviors. Aside from that, this dog also needs a regular chance at playing, running around, and frolicking in order to keep his physical and mental health in check.

The Westie has come very far from its underdog days and is actually enjoying quite a handful of recognitions and a steady flow of admiring owners today. West Highland White Terriers clubs exists in almost every country now and this furthermore proves the Westie's change of fate. Thanks to the effort and faith of some people for this breed, we experience the companionship or the very least, the sight of a sinewy, luminous, and lively West Highland White terrier today.

About the Author:

Jack Richardson has years of experience in West Highland White Terrier breeding, grooming, and training. Get more helpful tips and information from him by visiting his website about West Highland White Terriers.

The Dangers of Poor Parrot Diet

2009-04-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

By Matt Carver

The main cause of any number of parrot problems stems from poor nutrition. A poor diet can drastically reduce a parrot's life span. Some of these birds can live to be over 60 years old. But a bad diet can force to live of pain and misery with health problems including liver disease, respiratory problems, feather and skin disorders and other issues.

Tap water is not all that great either. It can contain all kinds of harmful chemicals depending on where you live. It might not be all that good for you either. Use bottled or filtered water. Make sure your parrot's water dish is clean. Refresh the water at least twice a day - in the morning and afternoon are good times. Clean it any time you see it getting cloudy or otherwise dirty.

For food, remember that a diet exclusively made up of seed is not the best for your parrot. In the wild, parrots eat whatever is available during any given season. This results in them getting a natural variety of foods in their diet. Parrots need a mixture of fresh leafy greens and fruits as well as seed.

Neither seed nor widely available pellet food has enough vitamin A for your bird. As a result, vitamin A deficiency has become quite common. To combat this you need to feed them plenty of leafy greens, green vegetables and fruits.

Pellet food has become very popular over the years. Undoubtedly that's because of the claims made by the manufacturers about how easy it is to give your parrot a balanced diet. Just give them these nutritional pellets. Well, be a little skeptical. It just isn't that easy. In fact there is some evidence that suggests a long term diet of only pellet food can cause other problems.

The best way to go is a cooked food base diet that is supplemented with seed or pellet food. Most owners would agree this is more work but, the benefits in terms of your bird's health outweigh the extra effort required. This diet is comprised of cooked beans, brown or whole-grain rice, quinoa, amaranth, couscous and other grains. As always check with your veterinarian for the specific needs of your bird.

About the Author:

Matt Carver is an author and parrot enthusiast. Learn more about what makes up a good parrot diet and many other parrot care tips by downloading a copy of his latest book on Parrot Care.

Offer Your Dog An Active Lifestyle

2009-04-28T08:49:00.000-07:00

By Daniel Waser

Of all the creatures which man can rely upon, dogs are the ones deemed as his best friend. Still, eating the remote controlling or chewing your sofa is one of those nasty things that they're just fond of doing. It is because they have that characteristic of being dynamic, but they are at home with a TV addicted couch potato. A dog is more likely to feel depressed if he is matched with an keeper who has a different lifestyle and this can sometimes create a tense in a human relationship.

If you bring a dog into your home, the activity level that the dog requires to remain physically and emotionally healthy should be one of your priorities. Getting the kind of exercise that they've always been avoiding to deal with is the mere thought that some lazy adults would think of if they tend to have a dog that needs a frequent walking twice a day.

Lazy individuals are not likely to change their habits enough to make a good fit between them and active dogs. Since lazy owners are more likely to slack off during walking sessions, the dog is not likely to get the essential benefits of having a frequent outdoor time thus the dog will be the one to suffer.

Giving your dog enough physical exercise is not equivalent to giving him the amount of daily activity that he needs. You should give your dog his required time to walk, run, jump and relax for each day. You might as well go to the park for a walk with your dog on a leash or even just around your block. You don't have to put your dog on a leash to let him enjoy the freedom of running and playing if you have a home with a fenced yard.

If you are one of those older adults who are concerned about having limited mobility, then you might as well go for a dog that won't demand you of too much activity everyday. Active dogs may find individuals who are fond of going outside to have fun or relax after a day's work to be ideal owners that are suitable for them. It is more likely that the end of each day's actions make both the keeper and the dog excited, since they will both relish the fun and freedom of running together or chasing each other around the park.

Bigger dogs tend to be more physically active. Those dogs with the heritage of being working or hunting dogs can be sited as examples of these dogs. They have an innate desire to be busy and work off energy. Dogs such as Irish Setter, Doberman, Beagle, German Shepherd and Greyhound are built for movement and agility, so they naturally want daily exercise.

Size can fool you as the exceedingly large dogs like the St. Bernard and Bull Mastiff, who can easily outweigh their keepers, are low physical activity dogs. Rescuing a missing skier or other things related to that might have been the main activity that a St. Bernard does according to the movies, what you don't know is that to sleep in front of the fireplace is the physical activity that ordinarily takes up most of the dog's time.

Small dogs like Poodles, Pekinese and Chihuahuas can live in small places and forgo the daily long walk in the park, however, getting active around your house is not something that you can avoid from these dogs since they have those nervous temperaments. It is already taken that some of their natural actions may appear to be pointless such as running to and fro around your house, meddling with your guests or bouncing either at them or at you, but as soon as the energy burst is all used up, they just tend to calm down. When those little dogs go find their way to your lap or on their sumptuous pillow, that's the time for them to recharge by getting that hard-earned nap.

There are a lot of things that you need to think about just before you decide on buying a dog. By taking time to make a profile of the dog that best fits your living space, character, and individual physical activity level, you'll have a better match for a lasting relationship.

About the Author:

If you'd like to discover more about dog training and how to train your dog to be well behaved, play safe and respect your every command, then get our site about the best dog training book today and see how anybody, including you and your dog, can learn to live in perfect harmony. And don't forget to get our free dog training tips.

Ailments that Are Common in Dogs

2009-04-27T01:42:00.000-07:00

By Lin Arunee

As a pet, dogs are very important. To some people their dog is part of the family and dogs are generally considered to be our best friend. When it comes to ourselves and family members, our health is vital to us and so we visit the doctor regularly.Your family pet is no different and should be treated as such. If he is to avoid the ailments that are common in dogs then regular trips to the vet is necessary. If it comes down to emergency visits to the vet, that will end up costing quite a lot more than regular checkups.

Dogs require regular shots in order to remain in good health. These shots prevent diseases and also lengthen the life span of your pet. If a dog is not vaccinated for the many canine ailments out there, they are at a high risk to contract them.

Dogs are always prone to picking up certain infestations. One such is ear mites. They can be annoying and unpleasant for the dog. The treatment is easy to administer and if you go to the vets he can prescribe the medication necessary and within a few days the problem will be dealt with.

Fleas and Ticks are also very common. They should be treated right away and again, your vet will be able to tell you how bad the situation is and then provide the necessary treatment.

One illness that is common to dogs is worms. By themselves they are not really an illness, but if left untreated your dog can become very ill and possibly even die from certain types of worm. Regular treatment is a must for this. Your vet can advise on the best medication.

The dental health of your pet is also very important. Vets will often clean your dogs teeth for you and show you how to do it properly. Have your vet check your dogs teeth regularly to avoid bacteria from spreading.

As we said at the beginning because there are numerous ailments common to dogs, you must take the responsibility and take care of him. He cannot do this without you. Try to prevent a problem before it occurs. Look after your pet and give him the regular medical check ups that he needs. He can then look forward to a happy and healthy life.

Illnesses that are common in dogs may seem only minor, but sometimes they can lead to more serious things if they are not treated in time. Vets are the exact same as doctors, their job is to try and diagnose these problems before they can become serious.

About the Author:

Lin Arunee has been an avid dog owner and dog admirer for numerous years. For some excellent information read her article on best dog food for dogs. There are some interesting revelations. Before you shop for pet items checkout her online store for some great bargains.

The Smartest Dog in the World, Border Collie

2009-04-26T02:26:00.000-07:00

By James Howard

Your question as to which breed is the smartest of all, ends with the existence of the Border Collie. This dog may not be famous for being diminutively adorable and lusciously furred but it still manages to be one of the most favored pets of many homes and farms around the world. Additionally, it doesn't only bests the intellect section but the herding ability section as well for this dog is being considered as the best sheep herding dog in the world.

This breed originated in the borders of Scotland-England and Wales-England from the dog herding breeds. It is said that the first Border Collie or Collie first appeared during the late 1900's and that the modern Collies today root back to a dog named Old Hemp. Old Hemp was born in September 1893 and possesses an extraordinary strength and ability in working and it is where the present day Collies got their working ethics.

The coat of this breed appears as either solid or single-colored and a combination of different kinds of colors. The most common combination is black and white but there are also the: black tricolor which are a combination of black, tan, white or sable white; red tricolor- a combination of red, tan and white; and red/chocolate and white. There are Collies who appear to be mottled, patterned or simply single- colored with blue, lilac, red merle, blue merle, brindle or "Australian red"/gold.

This breed is recognized as the best sheep herder for the fact that it works in farms excellently and intelligently. It has a natural ability to guide, stir and control over sheep or other livestock herds. When it works, the Collie is dedicated, intent and works closely with its owner.

Although known for being the best sheep dog in the world for centuries, the Border Collie today is being popularly adopted as a family pet. This household companion is protective of its master and his family and tends to be affectionate towards people they are familiar with. This creature strives best and does great with a family that are active and who has lots of time to share with this him; without proper attention and enough activities, this dog tends to acquire a negative behavior.

The energy, agility and endurance of the Collie is obviously endless and so it needs exercises comprised of running, chasing or frolicking. At times they can be well-behaved but sometimes they are overly hyper but this is their normal state. Because a Collie is a natural herder, it needs to expel the same amount of energy in order for it to be happy and not fidgety or moody.

Because it is naturally hyper, it is right only to have them placed in a family who are active as well. In an inactive environment, the Collie tends to develop a negative and disturbing behavior that affects him mentally and physically. Without proper exercise, this dog will dig and chew obsessively, become agitated, and even slam itself against the wall.

If a Collie starts to act like this, it is obvious that they are not as safe to children anymore. They also tend to be overly sensitive to motion and will likely desire to control it; people walking, other animals and cars passing by are likely to be obsessed at. Border Collies are superb pets but only those who understand intimately the needs and characteristics of this breed will see and enjoy the benefits of the world's most intelligent dog.

About the Author:

Border Collies are without a doubt the most intelligent breed in the world. Know the right way to train, groom, and breed a Border Collie from expert breeder and author James Howard. Go to his website today and get the best Border Collie information.

Review: Dove Cresswell's Online Dog Training

2009-04-26T02:18:00.000-07:00

By Craig Clemins

Dove Cresswell is a highly experienced dog trainer who has trained dogs for roles in numerous big budget movies. She knows exactly how to get fast results and shows you how to as well in her self titled "Dove Cresswell's Online Dog Training" program. One of the things that sets Dove Cresswell's guide apart from the rest is that you can watch the training procedures, straight from your PC screen.

Online Dog Training is delivered in high quality audio and video meaning that you get to see and hear exactly how Dove trains dogs. Subjects such as house training, crate training, obedience training, dog tricks, walking with a leash and much more are all covered in this course. Information is specifically designed for both small dogs and large dogs.

This course doesn't take you through ridiculous amount of useless technical information; it gets straight to the point and lets you know what needs to be done to make your dog's training go smoothly. The thing about having these lessons in the video and audio formats is that you can visually and audibly learn how to use commands and see how the interaction between you and your dog should be. This gives you a big advantage over simply using books to train your dog.

Dove Cresswell's Online Dog Training also comes with additional information to help you with your dog. With these bonuses you will learn how to teach the dog to fetch, play soccer, and play hide and seek. You will also get information about dog toys, treats, food and playing dog sports. All of this additional information will teach you how to not only train your dog for behavioral reasons but will help you give your dog advanced skills.

This course is interesting and informative as well as being effective for the training of your dog. You will be able to go through the courses at your own pace. The Online Dog Training course gives you everything you need to housetrain your pet, and shows you step by step how it should be done.

For those who are too busy to read books, this online video course will give you great information quickly. If you just want to try out the course before you buy it, you will find that the Dove Cresswell course offers one free sample course you can try before actually buying the program.

About the Author:

To find out more about Dove Cresswell, read this more in depth, more comprehensive Online Dog Training review today.

The African Grey Parrot: An Introduction

2009-04-26T01:43:00.000-07:00

By Dee LeClerc

The African grey parrot offers intelligence and bonding habits that many other parrot species don't. The African grey will form a bond with you, talk to you, be playful with you, get angry with you, and love you to pieces! What else could you want from a family pet?

This bird is known by scientists as the Psittacus erithacus--genus and species. It has that one species only; but there are two subspecies. The first of these is named after the species, so it's known as Psittacus erithacus erithacus, more commonly called the Congo African grey. The second is the Psittacus erithacus timneh, or the Timneh African grey. The Congo greys come from the central and western sections of Africa, and they are the larger of the two going at from 14 to 21 ounces. The Timneh grays are indigenous to Sierra Leone and the Ivory Coast area, and they weigh a few ounces less. Avian experts are debating whether the greys found on Principe Island constitute a third subspecies, tentatively called P.e. Princeps, but many believe the Princeps is a variation of the Congo greys.

The greys all have in common a white or gray patch of skin around their eyes and black feet. They all have the wonderfully smooth and soft-looking grey plumage. The Congos are a lighter shade, their beaks are solid black, and their tail feathers are dark red at maturity. The Timnehs have a two-toned beak, and their darker grey feathers contain hints of taupe and maroon.

In their natural habitat, the rainforest areas, these birds live in flocks, and they usually bond in a monogamous fashion with their mate until death or separation ends their relationship. They mostly eat fruit and nuts, which they find at the tops of trees. They are very watchful in their native setting--to avoid being some predator's lunch!--and they are successful at keeping themselves pretty safe because they are among the most intelligent of all birds.

So what can be expected when you decide to make one of these marvelous birds a part of your family? You can expect the African grey to be just like a child. As a rule they will act like a two year old child, but will have the intelligence of a child who is five. It is a native instinct for the parent to bond with a mate, and so, they will become particularly attached to their human owner as a result.

It will be your job to introduce your bird into your family and prove to him that he can trust you. Your strong bonding relationship with him will determine how he interacts with everyone else in the family. You will discover that your African grey is very sensitive to your feelings, probably because of the observation skills necessary to these birds in their native habitat. Your feathered friend will even be able to discern when you are feeling down and blue and will want to communicate with you.

If there is a lot of anger and unhappiness in your home, or if there is a lot of shouting and noise, your African grey will not respond to you. He will not like having his beak tapped on. Greys like to live in flocks; therefore, they are accustomed to being treated as equals. Nonetheless, your bird may truly enjoy being in the spotlight!

Bringing one of these birds into your family is akin to bringing home a child to raise. Actually, African greys remain as youngsters for about five years, and they take another five years after that to reach full maturity, so you really are bringing home a child! The life span of a grey is about 40-50 years.

Knowing the proper technique to use on how to get your bird to play with you is important. Convincing the parrot to rock or bob along with you is one way to interact with him in a playful way. Remember to initially move slowly around him because he must build up his trust in you. Some people report that when they purchase a new toy for their bird, they play with it for awhile initially, showing lots of enthusiasm so that the bird will want to play with it as well. Many experts recommend that you keep them close to you throughout the time you spend at home. If you are in the family room, kitchen, or even the bathroom, move his cage or perch close to you so that he can watch what you're doing. He will get enjoyment watching what you are doing, and he enjoys it if you praise him.

Perhaps the most enjoyable activity is teaching them to speak or imitate other sounds. These feathered creatures are famous for imitating everything they hear. They can mimic the human voice, and enjoy imitating other animals, as well as sound effects in its surroundings.

The African grey parrot makes a wonderful addition to any family. You are going to love having this bird!

About the Author:

Author Dee LeClerc makes her home with a lovable African Grey parrot named Perky and Smeagol the Quaker Parrot. Head over to http://www.anafricangrey.ca to learn more.

Choosing The Right Type Of Dog Cage

2009-04-25T04:17:00.000-07:00

By Donald Mihajlov

Many dog owners choose to let their animals romp freely through the house while others choose to place their pets in a cage during certain times. This is done as a training or control measurement instead of tying or putting the dog outside for hours, leaving them to bark uncontrollably and annoying everyone. There are many different types of dog cages, in a wide array materials, colors and prices.

Dog cages come in a wide array of colors, shapes, sizes and budgets to suit almost anyone's needs. For the larger dogs, a steel cage is recommended due to its strength and long life. There are many places where you can get a dog cage at great savings. Check the largest retail pet store outlet in your area as you will find many great bargains.

Training schools for dogs can be quite costly and if you choose to enroll your pet in one, perhaps do so only for a short time. Cages are an excellent way to place rules and restrictions on your pet. If your pet becomes unruly and disobedient, simply place it in the cage for a time out.

Transporting a pet becomes a much easier task when placed in a cage, especially if you are going to a place where there will be lots of animals. If your pet is a little leery of new surroundings or does not like to go to the vet and shows signs of anguish then placing it inside a cage will help it to feel more secure and unobtainable from other animals.

Depending on what type of cage you choose, make sure to toss in some toys, blankets, and bones as a way to make the animal relax and feel comfort within the cage. Dog cages can also be purchased online through various sites, so do a Google search for them and check for one that suits you both in taste and budget.

About the Author:

Donald C. Mihajlov is the author of 'How to Train Your Dog Or Puppy' and Owner of Dog Cages Usa. For other free resources training your dog, go to Dog Training Resources.

Keeping Your Beloved Dog Healthy

2009-04-24T01:30:00.000-07:00

By Brett Graham

Learning how to take care of a new pet can often seem overwhelming. As a new dog owner, you're suddenly responsible for ensuring that your pet stays healthy. Here are a some important dog care tips to help you take care of your pet.

" The Veterinarian Is Your Friend

Part of your responsibility as a pet owner is to understand when you should call the vet. When your dog's health is at stake, don't take a "wait and see" approach. This can sometimes work out fine, but chances are you'll require professional help if your dog is seriously ill. Depending on your dog's ailment, there are a variety of ways that a vet can help.

There are a number of situations when you must call your vet:

a) Make sure to call the vet if your dog has been in an accident. Get him to the closet emergency animal hospital if you can't reach your vet.

b) Call your vet right away if you think your dog might have ingested something poisonous or inedible.

c) If your pet appears to be in distress, call your vet right away.

d) Take your dog to the vet if you notice sudden weight loss or gain.

e) Coughing, seizures, and vomiting are signs that you need to call the vet immediately.

" Learn to Prevent Health Problems

Taking your dog to the vet should be your last resort. Instead, prevent major illnesses and injuries through good pet care.

Keep in mind that healthy food and physical activity are the key to your pet's long life. Make sure your dog eats a healthy diet, receives dog vitamins and gets plenty of exercise to stay strong and healthy. Keep an eye on what your dog eats, and clean the crate or dog house frequently to reduce the risk of bacterial illness. Make sure your dog has a constant supply of clean water.

Make sure to keep your dog on a leash or tether (or in a fenced yard). Playing in traffic is most certainly harmful to his health. He'll be exposed to the risk of accidents and injuries if he is left to wander loose.

Wash your dog often. Fleas and ticks can make your dog very uncomfortable, and they often harbor disease.

Keeping your dog healthy involves more than the few tips provided here. While this is an excellent start, it's always a good idea to ask your vet for specific tips and pointers for your dog. As your pet grows, you'll learn the best strategies for keeping your pooch safe and healthy. Above all, remember that it's always better to be safe than sorry.

About the Author:

An excellent source in the field of dog vitamins and health, DogVitaminFacts.com provides free information to help dog owners keep their dog healthy and happy. Visit the site, at DogVitaminFacts.com, to learn more about enhancing your dogs health.

Dog Training School: Ideas for Selecting Effective Pet Training in Your Community

2009-04-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

By Ed Perry

Virtually every dog owner wants a pet that obediently follows all your commands and instructions. Finding a successful dog training school where he can be trained to be obedient by a professional trainer is one of the best ways of reaching that terribly evasive goal.

Although with some coaching and patience you might train your dog yourself, for many dog owners, just sending your dog to a dog training school can be the best option.

By sending your pet to a professional, you can be free from the time and effort of learning ways to train and then spending the hours, days and months required to see great results.

Pet training exists to help dog owners with problem pets who may assume they run the household rather than you. Though this training can be pricey sometimes, having a well-behaved pet is all a frustrated owner wishes to hear to gladly open up their wallet.

One of the great ways to pick a good training school is to ask for recommendations from others who have used various schools|a training school|training facility with successful results.

By finding a co-worker at work, a neighbor or a friend who's had a good experience will undoubtedly make your decision a lot easier to make.

It would be a brilliant idea to take a look at the facilities and talk to the trainer to better grasp their training philosophy. You should usually ask the trainer about their experience and how long they have been successful at training dogs.

If you're going to pay good money for getting your pet trained, you must confirm your cash is going to the most experienced and successful trainer possible. Look to see that the trainer uses a training style and philosophy that coincides with your own ideology and expectancies. Be clear as to precisely what training you would like your dog to learn.

Don't forget that younger dogs sometimes are easier to train, so the younger you get them trained the better. You should take your time to get a dog training school. Find a place where your pet will be handled with care and gentleness and where behavior correction is done reasonably with lots of patience. By finding the best trainer, you will ensure that your pet will come back from training well-behaved and responsive to your instructions.

About the Author:

For online instruction on topics like canine leash training or dog digging tips, go to DiscountDogTrainingCollars.com

Little Known Secrets to Crate Training Dogs

2009-04-22T09:24:00.000-07:00

By Craig Clemins

Behavior problems can sometimes cause dog owners to mistreat their dogs, and even abandon them altogether. Crate training has helped change this. Crate training now lets you train your dog in a safe and secure place and has proven to be a very successful way to house train dogs.

Crates can be of great use when you are traveling and also for when you are house training your dog. They have many benefits, some of which I will outline below.

Debate over whether crates should be used for cog training is evident, most commonly between veterinarians and dog trainers. Many vets disapprove of crate training dogs while many professional dog trainers swear by it.

Veterinarians question whether or not a dog is being inhumanely treated when it is enclosed in a crate. The fact is that crates have numerous benefits that lead to you having a better bond with your dog. Furthermore, when dogs are trained properly they have a sense of safety and security when they are inside their crates.

Some more advantages to using crates include being able to relax when you're not at home knowing that your furniture and household items are safe from destruction, knowing you won't return home to a new accident on the carpet, and knowing that you dog feels safe when you are not there. Additionally, crates are very practical for trips in the car with family.

One thing worth mentioning about crates is that they are not designed to keep your dogs in all day. In cases where this is unavoidable, such as during long travel trips, it's a good idea to exercise your dog every few hours. You should also give them a chance to go to the toilet every few hours.

Crate training works fantastically for some dogs, but it's not right for others. No two dogs are the same and as such you should see what works best for your dog.

The best time for a dog to actually be trained to the crate would be as puppies. And if it seems that no amount of firmness or conditioning will help you to train your dog, then it is better to discontinue the use of this product as continuing in this manner will be worse for your dog.

About the Author:

Craig Clemins is an expert dog trainer who has owned dogs over 20 years. Learn more about How to House Train a Dog today by visiting http://www.dog-solutions.com.

Finding Other Dog Lovers is Just a Twitter Away

2009-04-22T06:06:00.000-07:00

By Anya Dee

The best thing about Twitter is you can find people with similar interests. Life coaches, photographers, artists and media wizards are all on Twitter and searching for connections. On Twitter you "follow" and can be "followed", sharing updates. It's fun to see what everyone else is up to in 140-characters or less.

I did a search for dog-lovers and found a long list of people who care about all things dog. Twitter is a great networking tool to find free advice on breeding, caring for, and training your dog. Here are some of the most helpful Twitterers:

@ EcoPup: Boasts Eco-friendly clothing and accessories for your pawsitively posh pets!

@ Dogfessions: Its Nikki Moustaki, author, TV/Radio personality, dog trainer, pet industry expert. She also runs www.dogfessions.com and www.dogvice.com.

@Petigreeworld: On Twitter to educate, inspire and create a world of entertainment for you, your lifestyle and your trusted pet. Can be found at www.petigreeworld.com

@Bluebeagle2: Just a cute beagle who checks in.

@TheHusky: The life and times of Misty The Siberian Husky.

@TheDogExpert: Sheryl Matthys, The Dog Expert, Dog Trainer, CEO of www.leashesandlovers.com. Lots of fun tips on behavior.

@dogdiaries: Its a social community for dog lovers. Check them out at www.dogdiaries.com/au.

@sylviedog: Chicagoan Sylvie whose hobbies include sleeping, eating cookies and yelling at Mugsy. www.sylviedog.blogspot.com.

@iPuppyCam: all about puppies!! Gotta love it! www.ipuppycam.com.

@Woofcp. Pet gifts. www.bigpawdesigns.com.

This list are some of my favorites, but there are many more who contribute great information. If you get a chance, do your own search and find out what's going on in the world of dogs on Twitter.

About the Author:

For some of the best dog enthusiasts on Twitter, check out this list.

Separation Anxiety in Dogs - How to Deal With It

2009-04-21T09:48:00.000-07:00

By Craig Clemins

Separation Anxiety is a problem many dogs suffer from. Separation Anxiety is when a dog's owner leaves home, perhaps to go to work or some other appointment, and the dogs thinks that their owner will not return.

In nature, dogs live in packs. When dogs live with humans, they see their family as their pack. This can at times be a positive thing (when the dog see you as the master), or a negative thing when your dog believe he is the chief.

Dogs are very affectionate animals and in many cases they tend to worry when you are not around. They very commonly question if you will return at all when you leave - when they start to think in this way they get frantic, they might get angry and sometimes start getting destructive.

Separation anxiety can come about for a number of different reasons. Perhaps you have recently changed your schedule, or a family member has passed away. It can also happen when you shift houses. Dogs that have at some stage lived in shelters or on the streets are most likely to suffer from separation anxiety. These types of dogs have lived tough which has made them quite highly strung, and at times this can make them unpredictable and even dangerous.

A dog that suffers from separation anxiety may at times become very destructive, angry and even aggressive. Dog owners can sometimes return home to find here furniture and possession have been ripped to shreds. It's also very common for dogs to use the entire house as a bathroom. These behaviors usually only get worse if nothing is done to fix the problem.

One of the most important things you can do for you dog when it is suffering from separation anxiety is to be patient and understanding of the condition. Never punish a dog if it has destroyed your belongings as this will only make the situation worse. Your dog will start to believe even more deeply that you don't love him and that next time you leave you'll be gone for good.

Patience is very important to the training of your dog when he is experiencing separation anxiety, you must learn commands that you can use to calm him, you must also change your routine so that he learns that the activities you normally do does not mean you are actually leaving for good. Such as when you jingle your keys, go out the door and then five minutes later come back.

Through practicing the techniques mentioned above, you will slowly be able to teach your dog that when you leave, it doesn't mean that you're leaving for good. Using a crate as a place of comfort and protection may also help your dog to feel safe. Lastly, its always a good idea to praise your dog and reward it for good behavior.

About the Author:

Craig Clemins is a dog enthusiast and experienced dog trainer. Craig rates Secrets to Dog Training as the number one guide to overcoming separation anxiety. To find out more about Secrets to Dog Training and to get more information on a whole range of dog related issues, visit http://www.dog-solutions.com.

Book Review: Daniel Steven's - Secrets to Dog Training

2009-04-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

By Craig Clemins

If you're looking for a thorough and detailed dog training guide that actually gets good results, look no further than Secrets to Dog Training by Daniel Stevens. This guide (previously known as "Sit, Stay, Fetch") is a top selling dog training guide that provides comprehensive explanation of how to train and care for your dog. Secrets to Dog Training also goes into great detail explaining what you can do to combat the most common dog behavior problems such as digging, barking, biting, jumping up and many more.

"Secrets to Dog Training" is equally effective for both puppies and older dogs - it has specifically designed sections for both. In addition to setting right a raft of behavior problems, you will also build a stronger understanding of your dog which will allow you to have a much more satisfying relationship with your dog.

This guide covers such a broad spectrum of topics that you have a solution for every imaginable situation. Basic dog training is covered, as is dog whispering - and advanced form of dog training. Because this guide is laid out in such a step by step way, you can effectively train your dog in the exact same way a professional trainer would (this usually costs around $4000 or more) for a fraction of the price (this guide sells for $37.00)

In addition to getting a top quality dog training guide, by purchasing Secrets to Dog Training you also receive a number of high quality bonuses. Some of those include: A dog foods recipe book (with over 180 recipes), a report answers the top 20 consultations, a book titled Secrets to becoming the Alpha Dog, a dog grooming guide, a tricks guide and much more.

In addition to mountains of outstanding training techniques, you will also have unlimited information and support provided to you by Daniel Stevens support team. They can help you to develop plans, and strategies to ensure that your dog not only receives the best training money can buy, but also that they provide human resources that can help you with immediate answers to questions about your dog and this program.

If you are trying to train your dog, and you actually want to go it on your own, then the best thing you can do is get a copy of the Daniel Stevens book.

About the Author:

To find our more about Secrets to Dog Training or to get more suggestions around how to effectively train your dog, visit http://www.dog-solutions.com today.

5 Things to Avoid During Dog Training

2009-04-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

By Craig Clemins

You may encounter a number of major challenges during dog training. Knowing what they are allows you to avoid them and make better progress. The number one danger new dog trainers face, is expecting too much from their dogs too soon.

Dogs are intelligent animals and it's easy to expect too much of them from day one. Don't expect your dog to behave as well as the others in the park if you haven't taken the time it takes to train it properly. Results like this just won't happen. This expectation sets you and your dog up for failure.

The second mistake that is very common amongst dog owners is to lose control and yell or even hit the dog. Physical abuse of dogs is extremely detrimental (not to mention illegal) and hampers training big time. Yelling is also counter productive to getting good results. Make a mental note never to yell or abuse your dog and you will get good training results much more quickly.

Mistake number 3 is that many dog owners allow their dogs (knowingly or unknowingly) to become the leader of the house. This is not only a danger to others but also to themselves. Assert yourself as the clear leader from day 1.

The fourth big mistake dog owners make is giving up. Dogs are intelligent animals and are capable of learning so much. Dogs love being challenged and love to learn. Furthermore, challenging dogs mentally is actually very healthy for them. Don't give up on your dog just because it can't perform your command to perfection after a couple of days.

The 5th and final common mistake that many dog owners tend to make is to become too inconsistent. Consistency in training is very important so make sure you always use the same commands and are as repetitive as possible.

Hopefully now that you know the top 5 dog training mistakes, you will be able to avoid them.

About the Author:

Get more Dog Training Advice today, and read an eye opening review to discover why "Secrets to Dog Training" is the top rated dog training guide.

3 Dog Training Myths That You Must Know.

2009-04-19T05:06:00.000-07:00

By Rachel Kears

Number 1 - When a dog chews somethings it is because he is really bored or just trying to be spiteful.

Not true. Although it's not straightforward. Chewing is definitely one of the most common undesirable behaviors. However, dogs chew is part of their nature but they also need to chew on things to maintain healthy teeth and gums and good jaw strength.

This is especially important when puppies are teething. What you need to do is redirect any chewing away from things you dont want your dog to chew, to things that are safe for him to chew.

Myth 2. Your Dog will only understand you if you talk to and communicate with him in 'doggy' language.

Not True again, it's a funny one for me to understand, but it does seem a lot of people believe in it. Dogs are not stupid, they realize you are not a dog and there is no reason to try and make them believe that you are. You do however, need to understand and be able to read their body language, so you know if a yelp is because of pain or whether they are acting up.

Although you do need to be 'alpha' over your dog. In the wild dogs went around in packs with a clear leader who kept everyone else in line. You have to be that dog or otherwise your dog will keep playing up.

Number 3 - Dog Training only happens when you are actually training your dog.

Not true. Your dogs life is a training ground and he is picking up cues all of the time whether they be verbal or non verbal.

When your phone rings and you rush up to answer it, your dog will feel that and subsequently understand that it's OK to do the same.

If you feel nervous when somebody passes you on the street walking a big dog you are training your dog to be nervous when big dogs around. Be sure to spend good quality time with your dog and be consistent in your behavior.

About the Author:

Want To Know More Vital Tips On How To Train A Dog Or Training Puppies? Whether your most urgent training need is crate training puppies or something else, read the reviews of the best dog training systems at dogtrainingrevolution.com. You owe it to yourself and your dog. Visit www.dogtrainingrevolution now.

The Celebrity of the Dog World, Chihuahua

2009-04-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

By Eve Howard

From the pages of glossy magazines to the arms of true-blooded fashionistas, from lucrative advertisements to million dollar films; these and more are the spectacular little spots for the trendy and socialite of a dog, Chihuahua. Whether in Hollywood, mansions, or trendy little apartments, this dog has dominated the social scene. If you have this breed then you're in!

Needless it may be to introduce a Chihuahua but this dog is an ever present tiny creature that possesses among its many titles the term "purse dog"; clearly, this term must be directed toward its portable size and fashion symbolism. A Chihuahua, innately, has a big, round, and sparkly eyes, a small fragile body, and two classifications of coats, the long coat and the smooth coat. Outwardly, this dog is never without an expensive or designer's bling bling and clothing; and these favors are just additional evidence to the pampering and wealth that this breed enjoys.

The long coated Chihuahua is the one which possesses a longer, curly or flat, and soft hair while the smooth coated Chihuahua falls on the side of smooth, shiny, soft, and snuggly fitting pelt. These coats come in varying colors like black and brown and the style and distribution of these colors come as solid, marked, and splashed. Grooming a Chihuahua is heavenly as well for, with its small body and limited fur, it only requires minimal cleaning, occasional maintenance, and for the long coated Chihuahua, once in a while coat brushing.

The name Chihuahua came from Chihuahua, Mexico- a region of Mexico where this breed was said to have been first sighted. Tracing back its origin, it is unclear really but conclusions have it as, the breed coming from the Fennec Fox, a small dog that has big eyes and big ears as well, just like the present day Chihuahuas, only bigger in body size. However, what's clear is the fact that even during the reign of the Aztecs, the Chihuahuas have been the favored pets of the royalties and of the upper class people of this kingdom and had been used in religious rituals.

There are many diminutive breeds in the world as we know of today but the Chihuahua owns the recognition as the smallest breed there is. In the US, it is cited as the oldest breed in the country. More over, this breed does not only own the oldest and smallest titles, it is also endowed to have the longest life span for all sizes of dogs; the Chihuahua, we can therefore say, definitely lives up to the saying "small but terrible".

Each Chihuahua is different from each other and truth is, each one has a unique personality and this disables generalization for the breed. Although small in size, this dog is deeply and devotedly protective and loyal to its master. It can be a great watch dog for it is fearless in suspecting and warding off possible intruders.

The smallest breed, which stands 6 to 9 inches in height, is also very capable of possessing a hyper energy, prim manners, a fearless disposition, and human-like expressions. They might not be the brightest of all the dog breeds, too, but they are in their own way intelligent and devoted. Training them requires patience, unconditional love, firmness, and positive encouragements so they can learn and be trained properly.

A Chihuahua is also conducive for city dwelling for it strives in small spaces; it performs indoor activities such as playing with toys and gentle frolics with the master. If your neighborhood has a limited space for daily walks, this dog will survive just fine; however, for every breed of dog, it is always best if they can get a dose of strolls once in a while. The Chihuahua is clearly suited for a classy and fabulous living and with its handy size and homebody demeanor; you can unarguably bring them in an urban type of lifestyle.

About the Author:

Be an awesome Chihuahua breeder like Eve Howard. Learn how to take care, train, breed, and groom your incredible Chihuahua. Just go to her website and get countless of Chihuahua information.

3 Secrets to Dog Training

2009-04-17T03:54:00.000-07:00

By Craig Clemins

It seems that every week there's a new and amazing dog training method being taught. It's sometimes mind boggling to know where to begin. Over the years I have discovered what I believe are the Secrets to Dog Training, find out more about these in this brief article.

You might be surprised to learn that the underlying features of almost all dog training methods are the same. One thing that they all have in common is the effective use of positive reinforcement.

Secret number 1:

Dogs are at the peak of their learning potential when they are young, so train them as much as possible while they are still puppies! It's the easiest way to get quick results. Older dogs can learn new tricks but it will just take a little bit more time and practice.

Secret Number 2:

The best way to train your dog is to be firm but fair. Get to know your dog and build up a bonding relationship with him. Treat your dog with love and affection and your results will most likely be more effective than ever.

Secret Number 3:

Don't wait for a problem to arise. Teach your dog from a young age what is good behaviour so that you never need to correct bad behaviour! This is a great way to avoid unneeded behaviour problems.

If you want to get best results when training your dog, stick to the basics. Follow these three rules and be persistent, consistent and understanding. No dog can learn something perfectly the first time, in most cases, after a little persistence, dogs can learn a wide array of tricks and general obedience lessons.

About the Author:

Get more Dog Training Advice and read a tell all review of the number one dog training guide, Secrets to Dog Training.

Choosing The Perfect Dog Food Bowl And Water Dish

2009-04-16T06:43:00.000-07:00

By Leo Stanley

Believe it or not, the dog bowls and dishes you consider for your dog are highly important. There are enormous differences between, say, ceramic dog bowls and stainless steel dog bowls. Depending on your pup's individual personality, he may respond differently to different styles of bowls. You always need to consider your dog's personality as well as its breed and preferences when thinking about just what kind of food and water bowls to buy it.

Of course, the preferences of the owner factor in as well, for safety reasons. For example, ceramic dog food bowls are easier to chip. Those chips can attract and hold germs. That can be bad for your dog. It could lead to any number of infections, and you definitely do not want that to happen. As such, quite a few owners prefer a stainless steel dog water dish and food bowl. These bowls are easier to clean. They are resistant to scratches and chips as well.

Naturally, the size and breed of your dog will factor into your decision as well. Obviously, a little dog will do better will a small dog dish. Large dog bowls are better for bigger breeds, like labs, St. Barnard's, Great Danes, mastiffs, and other dogs like that. They are also good if you have two or more dogs.

If, for instance, you want to make things more comfortable for a big dog, you might consider a dog bowl stand, so that the dishes are elevated. This keeps the dog from having to bend his neck quite so much.

Also, using an elevated dog bowl is a great way to ensure that there will be no fighting between two dogs. If you have a small dog and a large dog, you may want to get an elevated dog dish so the little dog will not eat all of the food and the large dog can get some! Also, if you have cats, using these types of dog bowls is a great way to ensure that the cats will not be able to steal any bites of the dogs food!

Of course, you might have to try out a couple of bowls made from different materials. You will want to see what your dog likes best as well. Even a big dog might prefer a small bowl, for instance. Likewise, a small dog might like a larger one.

It is not uncommon for dogs who get along to be wary of sharing their food bowls. This is another instance where a dog food stand can be extremely beneficial. If you are averse to that, just make sure you have a set of bowls for each dog. Still, though, having the bowls on a stand can also prevent any kitty cats from getting into the puppy chow.

You can now see why it is so important to consider so many different things when you are picking out dog dishes for your beloved family member. You want him or her to be happy, after all. Your dog needs to be happy with the size, shape, and make of his or her dishes. That way, eating and drinking will be pleasurable experiences.

About the Author:

Author Leo Stanley writes for Remmeer.com, an online retailer offering a wide variety of dog dishes, as well as other unique dog gifts.

Secrets to Stop a Dog Whining

2009-04-16T04:27:00.000-07:00

By Craig Clemins

Lots of dogs whine for lots of different reasons. The first thing you need to do before being able to solve the problem is to understand the cause of the whining.

A couple of reasons dogs whine are that they are not feeling well, or that they are lacking attention. The whining is simply a form of telling you that's something's not right. Whining due to feeling lonely or in need of attention can be simply cured by spending some time playing with your dog. Dogs that aren't feeling well for other reasons should be taken to a vet promptly.

Dogs also whine at times when they are left at home alone. If your dog is whining when you're not there, it is probably due to separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is something that can be fixed relatively easily. All you need to do is to teach your dog that when you leave the house, you will always return. Start by leaving the house for one or two minutes at a time, slowly work this up to 10 minutes and then half an hour once your dog gets accustomed.

When using this method to teach your dog that you will always return, ensure you make no big deal about leaving or returning. Don't get too excited when you return, only start giving your dog attention after you've been home for ten minutes or so. This way your dog learns that leaving is no big deal, and in fact, it's a normal occurrence.

If you are trying the 5 or 10 minute training, where you leave a return after being gone this short period, you may add more time to this absence, increasing the time to 15 to 20 minutes, then 30 to 40 minutes then finally a few hours. Eventually your dog will not really pay attention to the fact that you have returned home and it won't be such a big deal for her.

Another approach to stop your dog whining is to using negative reinforcement. This method is rather controversial however as it involves ignoring your dog which can be dangerous if he has a real problem. Firstly, tell your dog in a firm way to stop whining. If your dog doesn't stop, start making some loud unpleasant noise that your dog will associate with the whining. In time your dog will learn that whining is unpleasant and will stop.

Even if your dog's whining is driving you crazy, never resort to physical punishment. Abuse is not an effective form of training and it's also against the law. It can have many harmful effects on your dog, more than just the pain of the abuse. The best way to get lasting results when training your dog is to treat it with love and firm but fair respect.

About the Author:

Craig Clemins is a dog enthusiast who is very experienced in solving all types of dog behaviour problems. Craig rates Secrets to Dog Training as the number one dog training guide, read his Secrets to Dog Training Review now or visit http://www.dog-solutions.com for more information.

Crate Training A Dog From The Beginning

2009-04-15T03:12:00.000-07:00

By Craig Vic

When pen guiding a dog the age doesnt really matter until they become old enough for it. It is usually good to train a dog in the early stages but it can not bar one from the training. Despite the age, pet training is compulsory for every dog, but all this said, not each dog will make it to be petted.

A fully grown up dog, may find it difficult to be caged, but if this is the case, then one can opt to baby gating in a confined kitchen area.

Crating an elderly dog is delicate and must be handled with utmost care. Older dogs do not have the flexibility and the level of control that they used to in young age. First and foremost, the dog has to be made comfortable in open cages with motivators like toys and food.

With constant supervision, the dog is to be made used to the confined space for longer hours. Once we are satisfied with his level of comfort we can close the door, still staying inside, just to make him feel comfortable.

We have to be prepared with accidents and must not do much ado about it. Clean it and move on " that should be the idea. We must make sure not to frighten the dog and must escort him to the potty area, if that is the requirement.

Keep in mind that they are old enough, and they too need love, understanding and much patience at this time. If in case they do not get acquainted to pet training and they are usually having accidents give them once-over which might come in handy. Due to their age they may be incurring various medical issues which may be affecting their bladder and or bowels.

Patience and understanding plays a key role while crate training a dog, puppy or an adult dog. No matter about the age as and when the dog becomes older it get on harder.

The dogs must be assured of love and care no matter what and that they please us in return. Its a two way process.

About the Author:

Learn more about how to train your dog by visiting this website about stopping dog barking.

Discover Dog Training Tips You Must Know Before Training Your Dog

2009-04-15T01:56:00.000-07:00

By Sandy Kleiman

Training your dog is the first step in strengthening the bond between you and your dog and getting full enjoyment out of your relationship with your pup. Obedience training is important regardless of what type of dog you own. Without proper training you run the risk of having your dog display bad behaviors and not act like the "good boy" you are hoping for!

It's important that you remember that with any dog training program you want to approach it as though you are a teacher to your dog. You don't want to be a ruthless enforcer just as much as you don't want to let your dog think that he or she is in charge! Remember - you are teaching your pooch how to behave and become a well-behaved dog that will make any dog owner jealous.

If you have ever debated between training your pooch on your own or hiring a professional dog trainer, it's an easy answer. There's no better person than you to train your dog and grow the relationship between the two of you.

You need to enter your dog training with a mapped out plan. We included a link for you at the bottom of this article with full details on a couple programs you can use at home. In the meantime, here are a couple of tips you can use when training your pup.

The first thing to always keep in mind is that you want your dog to be in the right frame of mind before you start any "training session". Make sure they have gone to the washroom so they aren't distracted. You also shouldn't start training right after they have ate - it's easy to get sleepy after eating.

You are hoping to eliminate any distractions that might get in the way of your training.

Another tip is to have a little play time before you jump into training. This makes your dog relaxed and more receptive towards you.

And as you might have expected, doggie treats are a part of any training program! Your dog loves to be rewarded when he or she does something right. Don't go overboard and give 3 dozen treats each time - save them for when your pooch has truly earned it so he or she knows what they did right.

It's normal for your dog to run off every now and then during your training. Don't go in a frenzy and chase after them. Simply call him back using an authoritative tone to call him back and keep working on your training when you have his attention again.

One important thing to keep in mind is to not become frustrated if your dog seems to be clueless about what you are expecting from them. If you simply get upset with your dog you aren't helping the matter. Instead you need to learn how to better communicate with your pup.

During your training there are going to be some times where you actually have to show him what you want him to do. It might be a tad on the frustrating side, but over time it will get a whole lot easier - I promise!

If you have decided to train your dog on your own, pat yourself on the back! It's an incredibly rewarding experience that will pay huge benefits in the long run. You (and your dog) will be happy you decided to do it on your own. Good luck!

About the Author:

Go to http://www.easyathomedogtraining.com to get an "at-home" training your dog program that will cut your training your dog time in half! It's a powerful dog behavior training program that makes training your dog both exciting and simple!

What's The Best Way To Train A Dog? Some Must-Know Tips

2009-04-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

By Sandy Kleiman

Being able to train your dog on your own is one of the most rewarding experiences any dog owner can have. Not only will you get your dog to be the "good boy" (or girl) you want, but you will also strengthen the bond between you and your pooch.

Before starting any dog training program, keep in mind that you want to be a teacher to your dog. You don't want to be a crazy dictator but you also need to remember that you are the one in charge. You are teaching your pup to be a better behaved dog and be the pooch that everyone admires!

One of the most common questions we receive is whether you should train your dog on your own or hire a professional trainer. Thankfully for us it's an easy question - you should! It's a great way to improve your relationship for the long run.

Effective dog training requires a battleplan. I included a link at the bottom of this article so you can get a full dog-training program you can use at home, but for now here are a few tips to keep in mind when starting to work with your pooch.

Before you start any training session, make sure your dog is in the proper mindset. Take him or her for a walk so that your dog can go to the washroom. You also don't want to try to train them right after they have had a meal. Just like humans dogs can get sleepy after they have filled their belly.

You are hoping to eliminate any distractions that might get in the way of your training.

Another tip is to have a little play time before you jump into training. This makes your dog relaxed and more receptive towards you.

You should also have some treats for your dog ready to go. It's important to reward him so he knows the type of behavior your are looking for. Just make sure you aren't giving out too many - you don't want to confuse him!

If your dog runs off during a training session, don't chase after it. Simply use an authoritative voice and call him back; then reissue the command you are working on when your dog returns.

Don't let yourself get frustrated if your dog appears to be lost at times. Sometimes they just won't understand what you are trying to teach them at first - however getting mad won't solve the problem. You should look to improve the way you communicate with your dog instead.

You may have to help him out and physically show him what you want him to do. There are times that it might be frustrating, but this will get a whole lot easier over time. It will pay off in the long run!

If you have decided to train your dog on your own, pat yourself on the back! It's an incredibly rewarding experience that will pay huge benefits in the long run. You (and your dog) will be happy you decided to do it on your own. Good luck!

About the Author:

Go to http://www.easyathomedogtraining.com to receive an "at-home" dog training program that will cut your dog training time in half! It's a powerful dog behavior training program that makes dog training both exciting and simple!

Taking a Road Trip with Your Dog

2009-04-14T08:12:00.000-07:00

By Anya Dee

Oh how I wish it were warmerisnt it APRIL?!? Thankfully despite the cold weather, I have a dog who could care less. Blizzard, monsoon or hurricane, Janey just wants to be outside. So I invested in a few warm sweaters and a good jacket and away we go. One thing I plan on doing this summer (hint hint Mother Nature!) is taking a few road trips.

My old way of traveling was to wait until the night before a trip and grab whatever I can, hoping to remember what to bring. The next time, I will have a plan to stick to prior to leaving. I am starting my planning about a month before the trip.

Get an ID tag for your dog. Make sure it includes your dogs name, your name, and contact information. You may also want to put your vets number on the tag. I like having a secondary phone number just in case.

Get a doggie first aid kit. You never know what will happen, especially if youre traveling on the highway and have to let your dog out at various rest stops. They can pick up ticks, step on things that irritate paws or get scratched.

Depending on where youre going, you may want to visit the veterinarian. Ask about specific vaccines. I go for the Lyme disease one because I will be hiking with my dog. Make sure you have your dog on heartworm preventative meds because hiking areas are over-populated with mosquitoes. I youre going to stay at a hotel, consider getting flea protection too.

Be sure to bring an air-tight container with your dog's food. You don't want to have to switch foods while traveling because your brand isn't available. Pack bowls and paper towels. A good rule is to bring a few gallons of water for the road. If you let your dog out on the way, you can be sure to have water for your animal. Put together your dog's necessities such as the collar, leash, brus, toys, towels, plastic bags for clean up and medicines. An old blanket can serve as a resting spot for your dog if you go camping.

Decide what you're going to do about meals while on the road. You could do fast-food, or you could just bring a big cooler and plenty of ice. I like the later. That way I can find a picnic table and everyone can eat together outside, weather permitting. With a dog, depending on the age, plan on stopping every 4ish hours to let the dog stretch, get some water, and relieve himself.

** According to the ASPCA, on a warm day the inside of your vehicle can heat up to 160 in minutes? NEVER leave a pet in a car, even with the windows open, in warm weather! **

There are so many great places to explore in the summertime with your dog. Thats why I cant wait until it gets warmer. I love state parks and camp grounds to hang at for a few days. Taking your family on a road trip can be a lot of fun and with a little planning, you shouldnt have much to worry about.

About the Author:

Click here for helpful information about dogs.

The Shocking Truth About Dog Food You Absolutely Must Know

2009-04-14T07:51:00.000-07:00

By Linda McNaughton

If you are a dog lover, it's important you understand the dangers of using commercial dog food. With the number of dog food recalls that have happened in the recent future it's no surprise more and more people are starting to research the food they are putting in their dog's dish. Much of the dog food you find in the stores has been linked to all sorts of disease and illnesses - obviously you don't want to put your pup's health at risk.

These recalls weren't just small isolated cases - some of them were widespread and affected thousands of households.

Many pet owners lost their dogs - someone they considered members of their families - over tainted dog food incidents. Many dog lovers will never trust the commercialized dog food industry ever again.

The problem isn't just with dog food that has been recalled - it extends far beyond this. Commercial dog food is produced in a way that would make most people cringe. Since it's all about cutting costs for the companies they put in all sorts of fillers that have been linked to all sorts of health problems.

It's no mystery that there has been a huge trend in healthy eating. As humans we are becoming more aware of the benefits of eating a healthy diet and eating nutritious food to keep our bodies well fueled.

Yet, do we consider what foods we purchase for our dogs to eat? Are we simply buying certain dog food based on what we think our pets like the best to eat? You owe it to your pooch to pay close attention to what you are putting in it's precious tummy.

Some of the ingredients in commercial dog food have no place in a dog's system. They are unreliable and extremely unhealthy.

As an example, corn gluten is a by-product that is found in dog foods. This is used because it is an incredibly cheap filler. However, not only is it an extremely poor source of protein, but it is one of the most common causes of allergies in dogs.

Chicken by-product meal is also used in the dog food industry. This is made up of parts of the chickens feet, necks, intestines, etc. They use this as a source of protein as well, yet this it is of such low grade that it does nothing for your dog. It also has the potential to be toxic or tainted.

Soybean meal is an ingredient that is used in order to provide a source of protein. It's cheap and is found in many dog foods. The problem is that soybean is the number one cause of allergies in dogs. It annoys me that they would include an ingredient that they know so many dogs will have a reaction to.

There are other ingredients to consider, but I think you have gotten the gist of why some of the major brands of dog food that are on the supermarket shelves should be avoided.

When you do your research about feeding your dog the right foods, you will be amazed at the changes you see. Your dogs mood, energy levels, skin, bathroom habits and even their behavior will improve. It's amazing what a change in diet will do.

Now, this article isn't meant to make you think that there is no commercial dog food that is ok for your dog. You just need to know exactly what to look for to make sure your pup is getting the nutrition it needs. There's a link at the bottom of this article where you can get more information.

It's easy to find a diet for your dog that doesn't include any of the nasty ingredients that you find in most of the commercial dog foods in the stores. The benefits to your dog are simple - a healthier, happier, and longer life!

About the Author:

Click Here for information on the dog foods you must avoid and how to keep your dog in its finest shape. It's important to know how to find healthy dog food to make sure your dog lives a healthy, happy and long life!

Want To Save Your Dog's Life? The Truth About Dog Food!

2009-04-13T00:41:00.000-07:00

By Lynn Halladay

What you don't know could turn out to be bad for your dog! While most of us don't pay a lot of attention to what we're feeding out pets, we really shouldn't be trusting manufacturers to label things accurately and follow regulations. There aren't actually very many rules about what can be used in dog food, and what you don't know could make your dog very sick.

Not Fit To Eat

Dog food can contain a lot of things we wouldn't be happy about eating, including bones, nervous tissue, organs, skin, ligaments, hair and meat from animals with diseases. The bodies of euthanized pets and zoo animals have been used, too.

Most of the "good" meat that makes its way into dog and cat food has long since been processed so heavily that all its nutritive value is gone. If you see ingredients on your dog's food bag like "animal meal" or "poultry broth", you shouldn't imagine the sort of thing you'd eat.

Animal meals are what's left after all the meat and fat have been processed out of a carcass - any carcass at all. The remainder is ground and dried, producing a "meal" that's similar in texture to ground grains. The broths in dog food are similarly unpleasant, made up of processed carcasses from all kinds of animals, in all kinds of condition.

Not Illegal

Unfortunately, none of the disgusting or unhealthy ingredients in dog food are illegal. While we have reasonably strict rules about what can be part of human food and those laws are well enforced, pets don't have that protection. Rules about pet food ingredients are much looser and more poorly enforced.

That means that almost anything could end up in your dog's food, and that the labels on the package that claim it's "healthy and balanced" have little to no meaning. All that those words mean, in a legal sense, is that those foods contain a particular percentage of fat, protein, and added minerals and vitamins.

Additives

All of us have probably heard about the recent recalls due to melamine contamination. What you might not know is that this isn't the only additive in pet food that might cause illness or death. There are a number of preservatives used in pet food that cause real problems in humans who work with them, and could cause liver and kidney failure or cancer in your dog over time.

Not Only Cheap Brands

It's not just cheap pet food that's the problem, either. There's no regulation on high end or organic foods, as well. While these pet food may be of higher quality, we have no way of knowing whether they use the same ingredients as their cheaper relatives or not. That can make it hard to find a food that's good for your dog, even if it's one recommended by your vet.

Solutions

You have a number of choices when it comes to improving your pet's food. First is to learn how to read the labels. Ingredients that come first are there in bigger percentages, so look for named meats far up on the list instead of generic terms.

You can also learn about the additives and preservatives that can hurt your pets, and look for the foods with the lowest percentage of grains. There are also a number of excellent recipes out there that can help dedicated pet owners make their own foods. Just be sure to do something, since most foods are actually dangerous.

About the Author:

Click Here to find out which dog foods have been proven to be harmful to a dog's health. Find out what the best dog food is to make sure your pooch is in perfect health.

How To Build a Birdhouse some Tips

2009-02-24T11:24:00.001-08:00

By Robert Randolph

Woodworking involves projects of all kinds. One of the most common projects that many hobby woodworkers get started with is the creation of a birdhouse or bird feeder. Even the most inexperienced person can make a birdhouse that will draw many feathered friends to your yard. There are a few things that you should keep in mind though before you start cutting and hammering. Some planning is required to execute the best birdhouse on the block.

The first thing that you need to consider is what kind of bird you wish to attract to your birdhouse. It's a good idea to dig up some information on that species of bird in order to research their nesting habits. It might play an important role in the proper construction to know certain points regarding different types of birds. Things like nesting and whether or not they are seasonal are good things to look at.

Knowing what kind of bird you want to design your house for makes it easier to know which measurements you need. Having a door that is too small will pose a problem. A door that is much too big can also be a problem because it allows other birds to fit inside. Some birds are very territorial and do not want to share their dwellings with others. Determine this type of thing before you go ahead with your building.

It's extremely crucial that you do not hang your finished birdhouse anywhere that a predator may reach it. Cats are very adept at climbing so the birdhouse should securely hang from a branch or post not easily accessible to that type of predator. People can be predators too. Take care not to post your birdhouse somewhere that it may come into contact with pesticide sprays or children that can access and disturb it.

Using the most durable wood possible is a must. Weak wood is prone to breaking down faster or becoming rotten due to rain. Select a tough wood and treat the outside of the house with a varnish to give it additional resistance to rain and weather damage. The last thing you want is for your birdhouse to develop mould on the interior. There is a chance baby birds may be hatched inside. All necessary precautions should be taken.

Always measure the wood out to the exact measurements. It's simply not enough to estimate distances like that. If a measurement falls short it could result in gaps where wind and water can leak in. Drainage holes should always be drilled into the bottom to prevent the birdhouse from flooding. That would be an unfortunate mishap which could result in baby birds drowning. Do not let this be a possibility.

Building a birdhouse allows you to get creative without being put under too much pressure. Take it slow and be sure not to overlook anything. Helpful guides can be purchased or found online. Join a woodworking group for added skill assistance as well as professional instruction if you feel it may be beneficial to you.

About the Author:

Robert Randolph has a website with beautiful decorative birdhouses. Click here to view his selection of Birdhouses.

How to Build Your Own Birdhouse

2009-02-23T06:44:00.001-08:00

By Robert Randolph

Bird house making is really easy as long as you love what you are doing. It is also an effective way to make your house - as well as you - feel chirpy and bright in the morning. Believe it or not, nothing beats having birds outside your homes. The following are tips and advice to make the dream bird house that you always imagined you would have. Also included are the ways and methods of appropriately setting up the bird houses.

First things first, the point of bird houses is to bring in birds. Attracting them however is just half of the story, it is making them return as much as they possibly could, that is the challenge. Hopefully, the following guidelines will work.

Have a roof that is hinged

Providing a roof that is hinged on the sides is an effective way for you to make house cleaning a lot easier especially during the spring. Spring cleaning during the early weeks of March is a good idea. As much as possible, use hinges that are rust proof. Remember that animals such as raccoons are able to open an eye and a hook.

Place appropriate ventilation

Drill four drain holes that measure about one fourth inch in every bird house's bottom. Also, add two five eighth hole ventilations on the top of each house's side.

Place a roof

Provide a bird house roof that has at least an overhang of two inches in the bird house's front in order to protect the hole's entrance from rain that is driven by wind as well as to prevent animals like cats from reaching inside. Also, the sides of the bird house should be enclosed towards the floor in order to keep the rain from having to seep inside the bird house nest.

Try to recess the bird house floor about one fourth of an inch from the bird house's bottom in order to prevent it from rotting as caused by the moisture.

Bird house perches

Believe it or not, putting perches on the bird house is a no-no. The birds that do appreciate and do perch are the starlings and the sparrows. For bird houses of song birds, keep the holes of the entrance about an inch and three eights inch small in order to keep the house sparrows and starlings out. Of course, the exception are the purple martins.

How should the bird houses be spaced?

If there are other bird houses or boxes near, they should therefore be spaced appropriately about twenty five feet far from each other. Houses for bluebirds meanwhile require about three hundred feet. The space is important in order to reduce any conflicts. Another reason for this is because a lot of birds are actually territorial and so protecting the area around the bird's nest is important. The exception to this are mergansers, wood ducks and goldeneye. Putting their bird houses close to each other is okay.

Purple martins meanwhile prefer to live in bird colonies and so apartment bird houses is their specific preference and not single family bird houses.

What kind of material is best for bird houses?

The best to use is wood. As much as possible, avoid lumber that is treated with pressure because once wet, it excretes vapors that poisons birds. Using preservatives like stain or paint could be used on the box's outside, especially the back. Using the chemical preservative creosote should also be avoided.

Try not to use cartons of milk, can tins, metal. These materials could overheat and destroy the bird eggs as well as the bird younglings. An exception however are the commercial martin aluminum bird houses.

Be careful with uninvited guests such as mice, wasps, bees or squirrels. Once found, remove them as soon as possible. Be careful though as such animals could sting and hurt you.

All in all, making a bird houses is not simply hammering and pasting one material to another. It requires as delicate a care as creating an actual house or room for a human being.

About the Author:

Robert Randolph has a website with beautiful decorative birdhouses. Click here to view his selection of Birdhouses.

Bird Feeders Online

2009-02-18T10:56:00.001-08:00

By Charlie Reese

Bird Feeder Plans

When I decided to make a bird feeder this spring, I ran into trouble. It wasn't that I had any problem making one, but that I had trouble deciding on the design to begin with. There were no shortage of designs, you see, and all the bird feeder plans looked quite useful. When I had first decided on finding plans for a bird feeder, I had thought that I would use the one that birds would find most attractive.

I figured that the most pragmatic design would be the best. When I talked to a few birdwatchers, however, I found that almost any bird feeder plan would work. It was a matter of finding something that I liked the look of. The birds would come no matter what.

The bird feeder plan than I first made was actually very simple. Physically, it was a tube with a small hole in it to dispense seeds. It was small enough that it would discourage squirrels and it was hung on a wire to make it more difficult for them to get to. Other than that, it was nothing more than a small grain silo for birds. It was unadorned and undecorated and, quite frankly, boring.

The reason that I picked out the bird feeder plans I did was quite simple: I'm practical. When I first try a project, I come up with the easiest version that is possible. Then, if it works well, I can try a more complicated project next time.

Rather than finding new bird feeder plans, however, I decided to revisit the old ones. I came back to my original birdseed feeder and worked it over. I added wooden decorations to it, a nice paint job, and a few extra holes so that multiple birds could feed at once. By the time I was done, it was looking good.

Since then, I have constructed many different bird feeders and birdhouses. Some of the birdhouses I have made have actually been quite pretty. One of them was so nice, in fact, that I couldn't bear to leave it outside. The weather is pretty harsh there and I figured that it would get battered and weatherworn within a season. Instead, I keep it in my house. Of course it doesn't get to shelter any birds in there, but I can still admire my own craftsmanship. Sometimes vanity is a good thing. It keeps me making new and interesting projects.

About the Author:

Charlie Reese likes giving pet and psychic advice on his free psychic website weekly.

The Sites with Decorative Birdhouses

2009-02-13T14:03:00.001-08:00

By Robert Randolph

Decorative bird houses are for those who want more than just an A-frame wood structure with a hole in it. They are made with more than just run-of-the-mill in mind. Decorative bird houses are often painted bright colors using a variety of different designs, hence their name. As pretty as they are, remember that some birds avoid those bright colors because it makes them a target to predators. Decorative bird houses come in many different styles, shapes, and colors. Heck, if you make your own you can design and paint it any way you want.

Feeders are necessary, too. Hanging or free standing bird feeders ensure a steady source of food for birds, which makes your backyard bird house prime real estate for little birds flying about. Of course, it is possible for feeders to spread parasites and disease so you will want to occasionally remove nests after rearing and clean and spray nest boxes and feeders with a mix of 90% water and 10% chlorine bleach.

Birdhouses range in style from gazebo and Victorian styles to barns and space shuttles; really, just about anything you can imagine can serve as a resting place for birds. Birdhouses protect birds and when coupled with well-stocked feeders and a variety of seeds and insects from your garden, they will find a safe haven in your backyard. In return, they bring your garden to life with flashes of color, wonderful songs and comical antics.

Store bought decorative birdhouses are very affordable and you will be the talk of the neighbors if you choose an interesting theme. If you want to save money and you are creative then you can try to build your own. Decorative bird houses are a must for any garden or lawn irrespective of its size and are a wonderful way to enjoy wild birds and add color to your yard at the same time. Even if birds do not move in right away a decorative bird house can add a lot of visual interest in the yard as soon as you set it up.

Everyone should have at least one decorative birdhouse in their home. These are an attention grabber and start conversation.

About the Author:

If you like bird houses, Robert Randolph has a selection of beautiful decorative birdhouses. Click here to view his selection of Bird Houses.

Buying A Parrot Cage

2009-02-13T07:59:00.001-08:00

By Dominic

Buying a cage for your Parrot or large bird is not something you do, just off the top of your head. A cage is a very important part of the health and happiness of your parrot. Choosing the right one will mean all the difference between having a parrot that is happy and healthy and having a Parrot is not. The kind of cage you decide to buy will depend in part on the breed of your bird.

Breeds that are larger will need a much larger cage bird cage then those Parrots that are smaller in size. Our recommendation is that you buy a bird cage that will at least be double the size of the bird's wingspan. You won't go wrong with buying a bird cage that is large and bigger than what you think you need. Most bird lovers make the mistake of buying the Parrot cage that is too small because they think they will save themselves some money. In the long run, they will spend more money because they will eventually realize that the size of the cage they bought is too small and will need to buy a new one.

Parrot owners actually recommend that you buy a bird cage as large as you can find. Some bird shops will recommend a cage size that is too small, because they know that you are price shopping. Don't fall into that bird trap. If you want your bird be happy and comfortable then buy something that is bigger than what you think you will need. Knowing that you bought a large enough bird cage will give you some peace of mind.

One critical component to consider when buying a Parrot cage is to make sure that the bars are not spread out too far apart. If the bars are spread too far apart, the bird can get its head stuck between the bars. Also, make sure that the bars have no paint on them. Some large Parrots are capable of chipped the paint off and eating it.

What shape of Parrot Cage should you consider purchasing?

Most Parrot lovers think that the shape of the cage is for aesthetic purposes, it is not. The shape of the Parrot cage will depend on the kind of Parrot that you have. For example, if you have a small Parrot, they usually like to fly from side to side within the cage. So the length of the cage is more important than the height and needs to be a strong consideration. Larger Parrots tend to like to climb around, so having a taller bird cage would work better for them.

Finally, make sure you buy a cage that is easy to clean and has a slide out tray underneath. This will allow you to change the cage at least once or twice a week. A clean cage will leave you with a happy bird and a happy Parrot owner.

About the Author:

Before Purchasing a Parrot Cage, make sure you check our deals on a Parrot Bird Cage and come see our Parrot Bird Cages

How To Attract Birds to your Back Yard

2009-02-11T05:05:00.001-08:00

By Robert Randolph

Birds can be attracted to your home simply by offering them food, water, shelter and a place to raise their young. Trees and shrubs that yield fruit, berries, seeds, nuts and cones will provide food. Native plants and dense undergrowth left to thrive in chosen areas of your property will provide shelter, protection and natural nesting and roosting sites. Nesting boxes can also be secured to trees and posts to attract several species of birds and give them a place to raise their young. Birdbaths, pools and water features can be built to supply water, and feeders strategically placed around the yard will furnish supplementary food for the birds when natural sources diminish.

The first thing you will want to do to attract birds to your yard is to find out which species of birds live in your area and which birds migrate through the area where you live. If you live in the Northwest and want to attract the Northern Cardinal to your yard you will find it an impossible task because this species of bird lives in the eastern part of the United States. You can begin to discover which birds live in your area by observing the birds you see around you everyday. These birds you are able to observe yourself is a start but don't assume that they are the extent of the local bird population. Check with your local Audubon Society or wildlife club for a rundown of birds you may attract and information on what dates they arrive from their seasonal migrations.

The next thing you will want to do is to supply the habitat necessary to support the birds you want to attract. This is critical if you want birds to not only visit your backyard but stay and breed in your area. Natural wildlife habitat is disappearing at an alarming rate in the world and is the number one threat to wildlife today. You can surround yourself with beautiful native plants that will attract wildlife and allow you to observe an amazing array of wildlife everyday. You will want to consult with your state's native plant society, natural resources agency or local county agriculture department to determine which species of plants naturally grow locally where you live.

These native plants provide the most natural source of food for your birds but you can also supplement these natural food sources with bird feeders. This is a great way to observe the birds up close. There are many different types of bird feeders you can build or purchase and I suggest you use a variety to attract the greatest variety of birds.

All wildlife species need water for drinking and in some cases bathing as well. If birds are unable to bathe, their feathers become dirty making flight difficult. Birdbaths are the easiest way to provide a water supply in your yard. The addition of a pond or water feature however is the best way to provide water for wildlife because it will create habitat not only for birds but for several other species as well. This could be anything from a container water garden to a pond covering several acres. Small water features designed for your backyard have become very popular lately and provide a great wildlife habitat.

Birdhouses or nest boxes are an important part of attracting birds to your yard. Birds need a safe place to breed and raise their young. If they find that safe place they will return year after year. It is important to provide proper birdhouses and locate them in the proper locations to attract each individual species. I find that building my own birdhouses is the best way to provide the best quality birdhouse at the most reasonable price.

About the Author:

Robert Randolph is the owner of a website that sells a lot of unique decorative birdhouses. Click here to check out his selection of bird houses.

How to Find Decorative Birdhouses that Meet Your Requirements

2009-02-11T03:20:00.001-08:00

By Robert Randolph

The nesting season is an important time for birds. Its springtime and birds must now turn to nesting. They turn their full attention and energy to nesting during springtime. It is a stressful experience for a bird to move to a new location. They need to adjust to new sights, sounds and foods. While birds are amazingly resilient, there are a number of things you can do to help minimize the stresses of a new home.

It is important that the birdhouse be set up even before you purchase your bird. No matter how simple, elaborate or decorative, the most important features are safety, the location of the birdhouse and the dimensions and shape of the birdhouse and entrance. A good birdhouse must have the following features:

Ventilation holes in the top and drainage holes in the bottom Absence of a perch by the entrance - perches encourage predators such as cats Easy to clean - birdhouses should be thoroughly cleaned once a year to remove last year's nest materials and to prevent nest parasites.

One of the great ways to bring your yard to life with flashes of color, nature's music and amusement is to provide your birds with their own private nesting area. You can add a birdhouse to your yard or garden where birds can nest safely without fearing natural predators. A birdhouse also provides shelter and warmth during heavy winds and at times of ferocious storms.

If we can have fancy houses, then why not birds? So, be creative, while choosing a birdhouse. Birdhouses range in style from gazebo and Victorian styles to barns and space shuttles. The design is your choice. You might like to build or purchase a birdhouse that will reflect your personal character. Birds aren't really interested in architectural design, but want a birdhouse that will provide safety, security and easy access.

Bird population is diminishing in today's world due to the use of chemicals that are polluting their natural habitat and food supply. Birdhouses protect birds and coupled with well-stocked feeders and a variety of seeds and insects from your garden, they will find a safe haven in your backyard. In return, they bring your garden to life with flashes of color, wonderful songs and comical antics.

A birdhouse should be well built, durable, waterproof, cool in summer, warm in winter and easily accessible to birds. Be sure you allow for cleaning when assembling your birdhouse. If you're planning to purchase one, look for cracks in the wood, knots and other defects that will allow water to get inside. If you're building the house, use your imagination to create a unique birdhouse that will add a touch of charm to your yard or garden. Nowadays, many varieties of birdhouses are available in the market ranging from plain and simple to the elaborate and decorative.

At Indipets, we look forward to sharing our yard with wildlife throughout the seasons particularly birds, who bring color, song, and life to our homes. Whether it's a family of Bluebirds, a group of Gold Finches or a scarlet red Cardinal nibbling on the sunflower seeds we've put out especially for him, birds delight and fascinate us all year long. Just put up a few houses, fill your feeders and soon you'll have a yard full of feathered friends.

About the Author:

Robert Randolph is the owner of a website that sells all types of decorative birdhouses. If you are looking to buy a decorative bird house visit his site.

Finding the Right Materials for your Decorative Birdhouse

2009-02-10T06:50:00.001-08:00

By Robert Randolph

If you have gone to your local pet store, you would have discovered that there really are a lot of different decorative bird house designs made up of a similarly dizzyingly variety of materials ranging from metal to colorful plastics to wood. However, if you would like to build your own birdhouse instead of buying a ready-made one, the best material to choose to construct your birdhouse is wood because it is easy to cut, it has naturally attractive designs, it is weather-proof and most importantly it doesn't stand out like a sore thumb in the middle of your backyard.

Let's dwell a little on the properties of wood as a material for your decorative bird house construction.

First, wood has good insulating properties. Choose wood that is at least three quarter inches thick to maximize its insulation benefits so that your nesting birds will be nesting in a comfortable temperature in your birdhouse.

Second, although wood is naturally durable, some woods are better then others at resisting decay. Since your birdhouse will be going through rain and shine everyday, you should pick a wood that is more decay resistant so that it will be longer lasting. Ideal material choices for wooden bird house will be cedar, redwood or bald cypress.

If you have an existing birdhouse that is made up of pine or plywood, you can coat it with a water-based exterior latex paint. Be sure to only coat the exterior of the birdhouse and not the interior or the birdhouse entrance. Usually, coating the exterior with a dull, earth-tone color will be sufficient to keep the boards from rotting.

Why do we recommend painting the birdhouse exterior with a dull, earth-tone color ? Well, a earth-tone color will not absorb heat as much as a darker or more striking color. Different colors absorbs different amounts of heat. Darker colors tend to absorb more heat and as a result, it becomes warmer. Light, earth-tone colors reflect more light and so the surface feels cooler. Another reason why we recommend painting your birdhouse a dull, earth-tone color because it is less likely to attract predators to your birdhouse.

Regardless of the colors that you chose for your birdhouse, you should never use paints that contain lead or use any harmful chemicals like varnish on the wood surfaces of the birdhouse. Wood surfaces, due to their inherent properties, will tend to break down and chip off after being exposed to the natural weather elements. If the birds accidentally ingest one of the wood chips that is covered with toxic paints or have been treated with harmful chemicals, the bird may die of poisoning. If you do need to treat the wood, use non-petroleum based, naturally occurring oils like linseed oil. Petroleum based liquids tend to stick on the bird's feathers, causing them to be wet and sticky and as a result, it will make it very difficult for the birds to make a quick escape when a predator is near.

Next, to put everything together, you can either glue the wood pieces together or you can nail them together. If you want the birdhouse to last longer, glue the wood pieces first then nail them. However, one thing to note is that, none of your nails should not be sticking out. Nails exposed to the rain will gradually become rusty. When birds accidentally cut themselves on the exposed nail, it will be seriously injured. Moreover, when humans accidentally get cut by the nails, they may also get an infection from the rust.

For the interior of the birdhouse, you should consider placing some rough sawn wood to act as a "ladder" to make it easier for the nesting birds to get in and out of your birdhouse. Most birdhouse are quite small in size and since wood has a smooth texture, sometimes it is hard for the birds to get out of the birdhouse. You can also consider making small notches on the inside of the front face of the birdhouse which can also make the birdhouse more bird-friendly.

About the Author:

Robert Randolph is the owner of a website that sells all types of decorative birdhouses. If you are looking to buy a decorative bird house visit his site.

How To Buy The Perfect Parrot Cage

2009-02-09T09:25:00.001-08:00

By Dominic

Buying a cage for your Parrot or large bird is not something you do, just off the top of your head. A cage is a very important part of the health and happiness of your parrot. Choosing the right one will mean all the difference between having a parrot that is happy and healthy and having a Parrot is not. The kind of cage you decide to buy will depend in part on the breed of your bird.

For instance, breeds that are larger will of course need a much larger cage then those Parrots that are smaller in size. Our recommendation to our customers is that you buy a cage that will at least be double the size of their wingspan. You can't go wrong with buying the cage that is too large or bigger than what you need. Most people make the mistake of buying the cage that is too small because they think they will save themselves some money. In the long run they will spend more money. After realizing that the cage is too small and will end up buying them much larger cage.

Parrot owners actually recommend that you buy a bird cage as large as you can find. Some bird shops will recommend a cage size that is too small, because they know that you are price shopping. Don't fall into that bird trap. If you want your bird be happy and comfortable then buy something that is bigger than what you think you will need. Knowing that you bought a large enough bird cage will give you some peace of mind.

One critical component to consider when buying a Parrot cage is to make sure that the bars are not spread out too far apart. If the bars are spread too far apart, the bird can get its head stuck between the bars. Also, make sure that the bars have no paint on them. Some large Parrots are capable of chipped the paint off and eating it.

What shape of Parrot Cage should you consider purchasing?

Although some people think that the shape of the cage is for aesthetic purposes, it is not. The shape of the cage will depend on the kind of parrot that you have. For instance, if you have a small Parrot, they usually like to fly from side to side. So the length of the cage is more important than the height. Larger Parrots tend to like to climb, so having a taller cage would work better for them.

Lastly, make sure you buy a Parrot cage that is easy to clean and has a slide out tray underneath. This will allow you to change and clean the cage at least twice a week and it won't be a hassle. A clean bird cage will leave you a happier and healthier Parrot couple.

About the Author:

If you are considering purchasing a Parrot Cage, make sure you check our deals on a Parrot Bird Cage and come see our Parrot Bird Cages

Is a Bat a Nocturnal Animal

2009-02-03T01:29:00.001-08:00

By Richard Guzman

Andrew's class has an oral report due next week. They have been studying nocturnal animals. Nocturnal animals sleep during the day and stay awake at night. His assignment is to pick a nocturnal animal and share what he learned with the class. He is the only student in the class who hasn't picked one.

Andrew's friend "The Brain" slept over last night. After everyone was asleep, they snuck out to look for nocturnal animals. Andrew was bored. To entertain himself he thought it would be fun to hang upside down on a tree branch. That wasn't such a bright idea. The branch broke and so did his arm.

Although, he was restricted from some activities and even some chores he still had to do his oral report. I know it sounds unbelievable but his report is due Monday and he still hasn't picked a nocturnal animal.

He convinced his mother to let him go over to friends' house. His friend was going to help him pick a nocturnal animal and help him research it on the computer. The funniest thing happened as soon as he got to his friends' house. His friends' Mom was still puzzled. She wanted to know why he was hanging upside down in a tree at night like a bat. Andrew finally realized what nocturnal animal his report was going to be about! A bat!

Jake and Andrew looked for websites that had information about bats. Andrew learned many interesting and fascinating facts about them. He learned that a bat was a mammal, just like we are. He also found it cool how insect eating bats move around in the dark, a process called echolocation. This means when a bat sends out a high pitched sound a sound bounces off objects around them and comes back to their ears. Also, when a bat rests he hangs upside down. I bet he doesn't break very many branches and arms. Andrew is so excited that his report is really coming together. When he got home he practiced his oral report in front of the family. He decided to take his sisters' advice and add pictures. Today the reports were due. Andrew was picked to go first and he was fantastic!Looking back, he realized that he should have gone about picking a nocturnal animal differently. All the worrying was for nothing.

In the future Andrew will relax! Andrew admits he gets overwhelmed easily. The teacher doesn't even finish her sentence and he becomes nervous. As soon as he hears the word "project" his stomach does flip flops and whatever she says after that is "blocked out". Andrew agrees this sounds pretty accurate. Perhaps, it would be in his best interest to research the topic on the computer first. Andrew agrees 100%. He said utilizing the computer should never be his last priority. He was really surprised how many websites were just a few clicks away from the topic he needed information on. For example; Google, Yahoo, and Ask.com are very helpful and simple to use to find out information. Andrew, realizes that on any of the above websites, he simply has to type a sentence or the main words of your topic. It is unbelievable how fast the results are displayed...in seconds.

Andrew, thought about it and using a computer is so much easier than sneaking out and getting injured. Andrew said he did not look at the big picture when he made his careless decision. He also believes that this experience has taught him to stop and think before making any hasty decisions in the future. Andrew, knows if he has any other questions to just ask a family member someone will be more than happy to help him with his dilemma.

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The bird

2009-02-01T07:35:00.001-08:00

By Robet Jay

Living in the country we have come to expect seeing different species of animals. Deer occasionally grace our presence. Of course, once we are seen by them they quickly disappear. One day as I was looking out a back window there were 7 or so wild turkey. After flying away, they have not returned. Many different birds come to our three feeders. Sunflower seed is spread on the ground for the doves and squirrels. Cardinals and smaller birds also search for food on the ground but the smaller ones mostly enjoy the feeders with their perches. We started throwing it on the ground to keep squirrels from eating the plastic off our original bird feeders. Now we have "squirrel proof" feeders that do a good job of keeping them from the food contained within.

Living in the country there is plenty of land for all God's creatures. A wooded area begins within thirty feet of the rear of our house providing food and protection for wildlife living there.

What we didn't expect happened early one morning in the summer. With me being a sound sleeper, I could not imagine what my wife was saying at 2 in the morning. My glasses with thick lenses were on a table beside the bed, where I had left them before I laid down to sleep. A ceiling fan was on chasing the heat away. Barely awake I could see something attached to the fan, circling with the fan blades. Once, the object made oblong path around the fan. Soon, by wife had turned on the light, my glasses were on and we saw a bird following the path of the fan blades. I quickly closed the bedroom door to keep the critter from the rest of the house.

With the light on we realized it was a bat! Why didn't our cats alert us? The first task was to get rid of the bat. It was indeed following the path of the fan blades. Taking the screen off the windows we tried, lamely I might add, to divert its course with pillows and out the window. This was not working. I had folded the curtains over the top. Once, when the bat landed on the top of the curtains, he "walked" up the inside of the folds of the curtain. A fascinating site this would have been under different circumstances.

Obviously, this method was not working. A towel might work. My wife opened the door with the bat still following the flight of the fan blades. Returning with old towels, my wife and I started making attempts to again divert the bat outside the window, his freedom and ours. I didn't realize how high our ceiling was, although they are only 8 feet or so. The bat was evading our feeble attempts. I jumped, with the length of the towel spread out, and missed. Another attempt, nothing! Finally, my wife said, "you caught him." Now what do I do? Do I take him, still wrapped up, to the outside? Do I open the towel and hope he flies away? I opted for throwing the towel out the window and hoping he flew away.

With the windows now closed we opened the bedroom door to our two cats' right there wondering why we had locked them out! Lying back down, it was difficult to return to slumber land.

The next morning I went outside to retrieve the towel, wondering what I would do if the bat was still wrapped inside. Fortunately, he was gone. We are still wondering how he came into the house and chose our bedroom.

About the Author:

Funny commercial is a good way of spending your time. Get the latest information on various products all over the world and smile.

Experiments on animals I don't understand

2009-01-21T17:53:00.001-08:00

By Albert Hennet

It's well-known for now that by injecting fetal pig embryos with phosphorescent dyes the adult pigs will have green skin and glow in the dark. All I can say about this is: Yeah, what an excellent research! It is even difficult for me to count the number of times I needed to find my home pig in the midnight and I had to struggle to find my glasses and turn on a light. This will sure be a huge time saver for me, I can tell you, now that I can get a pig that will shine as bright as day.

My question for the scientists is whether they bothered to consult the Lord God Almighty before they did this. Forgive me if I'm wrong, but doesn't Old Jehovah still own the patent for creating new life? I don't know, maybe it expired. It's a good thing that they were able to do this before they did another wasteful project like curing cancer. Cancer's been around forever, but this is the first time we've ever had glow in the dark pork and I would rather have that over cancer any darn day. Wouldn't you?

There is a real purpose for the scientists to make these unique porcines. And that purpose is to ... find their pigs in the dark, I guess. Okay, that's not the reason they gave. They said it was so that they could track medicines that could be used in human beings because pigs are often used for animal research since they are so close to human beings. I know you ladies will claim that this is only true for the half of the human race, but it really is all of us.

So, that's why the scientists say they did it, but let's face fact here: The real reason is that it's just plain fun. Wouldn't you want a pet that glowed in the dark? I sure would. And we all know that pigs make wonderful pets. Look at George Clooney. He has a Vietnamese pot bellied pig and he just loves the thing. Sure they get a might heavy as they get older, but most of us do and I would personally love a huge fat pet that made me feel skinny by comparison.

Then let's take this a step further. Say that for some reason you do get tired of your huge green glowing friend? Glowing pork chops. Mmm, mmm. That would be sort of like a candle light meal, only you wouldn't be eating your meal by candle light but by the light of the meat itself. Imagine how much more romantic that would be.

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Funny Images, videos and stories - improve your mood and smile. No time to be sad.

A Healthy Eclectus Parrot

2009-01-06T09:52:00.001-08:00

By John Savage

As the owner of an Eclectus parrot, you must be able to read the signs which tell you that your parrot is not feeling too well. You owe it to them to be able to do this.

The sign of a healthy parrot is that they are lively, sociable and alert, but if your bird is not showing these traits it is most likely that he is feeling unwell. If he seems in any way to be behaving differently, then this is a warning sign that he might be in pain, and needing urgent attention.

To tell if your Eclectus is healthy you need to look at its eyes and nose. There should be a dry nose and bright eyes, but if the nose is runny or the eyes are moist or watery then that is an unhealthy sign.

A healthy Eclectus parrot eats and drinks well. Pay attention to your Eclectus parrot. He should have a very healthy appetite. It is wise to remember that an Eclectus parrot is prone to becoming overweight, simply because he enjoys eating. Therefore, if he isn't eating, there is a problem.

The vent of a healthy parrot is always clean and dry, so if, on inspection you discover that it is not clean and dry, I would say that this is a cause for some concern, and would suggest a visit to the vet's.

A healthy Eclectus parrot grooms himself, and has smooth feathers. Overall, your parrot should have a smooth appearance. Grooming is very important to these birds, and if your Eclectus parrot appears to be disheveled, this is an indication of a problem. You may also notice that he is feather plucking, meaning that he is pulling his own feathers out. Even if the parrot is grooming himself, his feathers may not have a healthy look to them, and again, you should consult with a veterinarian.

A healthy Eclectus parrot has legs, feet, and a beak that are in good physical shape. You should check daily for dry and cracked feet, legs, and beaks. Also, make sure that you clip your bird's nails regularly, as this makes life much easier for him and for you.

You should note that most health problems that an Eclectus parrot develops stems from a diet that isn't sufficient. Often, a change in the diet to include all of the nutrients and minerals that the bird needs is all that is needed to correct the health problem.

However, having said that, let me make it clear that you should always seek the advice of a trained veterinarian if you are at all concerned about your parrots health. They have a trained eye for detecting when all is not well, and you would not be acting as a responsible Eclectus owner if you ignored them.

About the Author:

Did you find this article interesting? then pleasetake a look at parrot care where you will find more helpful advice

Eclectus Parrot Myths

2008-11-26T08:09:00.000-08:00

By John Savage

Ask anybody who has decided to own an Eclectus parrot and they will probably tell you that when they started to discuss this with other people they heard many a story which in time has proved to be untrue about these birds. Just so you are forewarned I want to outline some of these stories to you Now.

If you have thought about owning an Eclectus parrot, then you may well have read or heard many good things about these birds and you may have wondered to yourself is this too good to be true? I can assure you that the good things you hear are true, because these are delightful pets to own.

How long will an Eclectus parrot live for? Some people say only eight to ten years, but this is only true of an uncared for bird. A healthy parrot can live anywhere up to fifty years.

In the early days people used to think that these birds were rather dull and uninteresting, but this was because they were not being fed properly. A well nourished bird is both lively and interesting.

Don't be misled by the myth that Eclectus parrots are an unhealthy breed. This is just not true as long as you play your part and see to it that they have the correct quantities of the right food. If you do this then they will seldom get ill.

Still today, some owners of Eclectus parrots do not realise that these bird require much more than just bird seed and pellets. They need a balanced diet of fruits, grains, vegetables as well as seeds.

Now and again you will hear it said that these birds have a behaviour problem, but once again, this is usually due to them not getting the right nutrition. Feed them right and you will not have any problems with behaviour.

Are Eclectus parrots good talkers? Yes they certainly are. Do not believe any stories you may hear to the contrary because these are great little talkers, as long as you play your part by giving them the time and attention that they need. Do this, and you will discover what a wide vocabulary they have, and what good singers they are!

In the future, if you hear negative things about Eclectus parrots, make it a point to find out for sure whether the information is true. The greatest source of information is a breeder with years of experience.

About the Author:

Did you find this article helpful? If you did then take a look at Eclectus Parrot Care

Why an African Parrot Makes a Great Pet

2008-11-21T03:07:00.000-08:00

I have found that the best part of having a parrot as a pet is that you will have a pet for life. Since the African parrot has a life span of 50-70 years – seriously thats as good as any life of us human beings.

Your African Grey Parrot may even out live you so it may be wise for you to make provisions for him/her in case that happens but remember if you are lucky to have one of these special birds you may have a companion forever. So once again there may be no more tears after the pet dies,no more missing it so sorely after it dies.

From time immemorial, the African parrot has been considered as a hot favorite the world over as a pet. Initially these parrots were caught in the African forests; but then after the species had dwindled to a handful of the birds, ingenious people in Africa started their business rearing them like we would the sheep, specifically for selling to people from all over the world.

The African Parrot is a Universally Adaptable Pet

I Have found that there is no place in the world, where an African parrot will not fit in. However, I do know that in homes where there are too many cats or dogs,children and much too much open space, the African parrot will most likely not be a good choice. You may wonder why,well its because the African Grey parrot is well known for its bonding, while this in its self is a most wonderful trait it can be problematic in the case of small children and other animals both for their own safety and that of the children.

To know the sex of your parrot you may have to have a very keen sense of observation or develop one. So we know that the males are largerand that they have round eyes and their white patches are quite large too; the females on the other hand are tiny, have elliptical eyes and her whites around the eyes are quite smaller than that of the male.

For all the many plus points, these wonderful life long companions and good pets will usually come at the cost of about $500-1000. Now, if you are interested, you could push the bargain for a discount. However, it is unlikely and very rare that this bird will ever be found free.

So therefore you may like to visit the pet markets of Africa if and when you are ever in their vicinity you might end up with a friend and companion for life – an African parrot one of lifes joys may just fall into your waiting arms to be loved and valued forever. I hope you enjoy your African Grey.