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Almost all puppies exhibit some kind of behavior problems that you have to deal with at one time or other. Some dogs might take longer to be toilet trained while some might have a terrible chewing habit that leaves all your favorite objects in tatters. But sometimes, your puppy might have some behavior problems that are so severe which cannot be dealt with by yourself and need the assistance of a professional dog trainer. If your dog shows such sever problems, it is better to consult a professional as soon as possible.

I personally had to face some serious behaviour problem with my adopted pooch. Most often shelter puppies are abandoned once or even multiple times and some are even abused by their owners. This is one of the reasons for the behavior problems arising in adopted puppies.

Though I didnt have any problems initially with my pooch, suddenly one day the puppy started to have dog behavior problems. She didnt want me to leave the apartment at all. Most probably she thought that I was never coming back.

The minute I tried to leave the apartment she would start to act out. She would go literally crazy, raising hell, peeing on the floor and running through anything on her path. Most probably she thought that I was not going to come back and this problem became a very serious issue. After unsuccessfully trying some tips that I found on dog training, I finally had to visit a professional dog trainer.

I tried a few dog training tips, but they didn’t work out that well. For a while, I would leave for only five minutes at a time, But I was unable to get her to adjust to me being gone for longer. Finally, I called a professional dog trainer.

I repeated the same phrase every time I left to come right back in. I slowly increased the time I was out of the apartment till I reached an hour. Though it took me several weeks and tested my patience to no end, finally I was able to make my pooch trust me and now she is one of the best behaved dogs in my neighbourhood.

Are you sick of getting your child pestering you to get a pet? Well it looks like most parents will run into this pet issue at least once in their parenthood. While your child may think it is fun and cute to own a pet, you as a parent can take this chance to teach them how to be a responsible person. For starters, it is best to start out with a pet animal that is easy to maintain and smaller in size. Dogs and cats tend to be harder to maintain, but never the less it still depends on your child’s likes and dislikes of certain animals (and even allergies).

If you want to get a small pet for your child, then you might want to look into gerbils. They are animals that live in the desert. Clean and easy to upkeep, this is the ideal pet animal for small children. These creatures like to interact with their kind, so it is also a great idea to buy them in pairs. Just make sure that if you are choosing a male and female gerbils, you are prepared to take care of their little offsprings!

You’ll need a large tank with wood shaviings in it for the little creatures to burrow in. Buy some digging toys as well as it complements the creatures’ digging habits. Gerbils can take vegetables like lettuce their lifespan is usually about three years. You can purchase at pet stores quite inexpensively.

Another alterative to gerbils are the guinea pigs. They are also small creatures and easy to upkeep. Again, buy them in pairs if you like as these creatures like to interact with each other. For their living habitat, you will need to get a large tank and then litter the area inside with grass and sand. Guinea pigs like to dig around as well though they tend to be more timid. For dietary needs, guinea pigs take food that has high fiber. Their lifespan is usually about six years.

For slighter larger pets, but still small enough for your child, mice can be a good option as well. Take note though getting female mice are better as male mice tend to fight among themselves if left unattennded in their cage. Get a wire-mesh type of cage with plenty of breathing space as their living quarters. You can add tunnels and related tunnelling toys for the mice to play with. Get them things that they can chew on as it is a particular habit of theirs to chew on things.

These little creatures are harder to maintain though as compared to the previous two. But at the same time, it also gives your child a good exercise in learning responsibility while they are young.

Is crate training a good way to train your dog? There are plenty of people on both sides of this question; crating, as you may know is a method of dog training which involves keeping your dog in a small cage for short periods of time. The cage, or crate as it is called is typically metal or plastic and is just large enough for the dog to turn around in, but no larger.

On the pro-crating side, people who use crate training say that it is a place which a dog can call its own ” a refuge from unpleasant sounds and the rambunctious behavior of children. As mentioned above, they also argue in favor of crating a dog as part of the housebreaking process, averring that this trains a dog to wait until they are taken outside to eliminate.

There are of course crate training detractors as well. Their view is that restricting a dog’s movement by keeping it in a cage which offers barely enough room to turn around robs dogs of the opportunity to act on their natural inclination to roam and explore its surroundings.

Those on the negative side of the debate say that crate training can be counterproductive to housebreaking your pet, pointing out that puppies especially will be unable to hold themselves back from eliminating for as long as they may be in the cage and come to think of indoors as an acceptable place for this activity, which makes housebreaking the dog more difficult.

Now of course both sides make some valid points and no one doubts the good intentions of either camp. Studies done on the subject have yet to yield anything close to a definitive answer. The general consensus, however is that as long as it is done with care and common sense there is little to no harm and indeed there is some good which can come from crate training.

Of course, common sense has to be exercised. Keeping your pet in a cage for many hours on end is not healthy for your dog. Four hours is the maximum length of time you should crate your dog. Keeping your dog cooped up longer than this is a serious strain on their ability to hold back from eliminating and of course, most dogs are far too active to be happy sitting still for this long.

Care also needs to be taken to prevent injury to your dog while in the crate. The cage should be examined to make sure that there are no sharp edges or anywhere that your dog’s collar can snag on the crate. Any cage you keep your dog in should be sturdy enough that it won’t tip or break even under vigorous jostling.

One benefit that fans of crate training point out is that these animals deal better with travel, since they’ve become accustomed to confined spaces and have familiar smells to comfort them in their cage.

Another school of thought holds that pets should be left at home while their owners travel anyway. However, if it is necessary to travel with your pet, use a well built crate which prevents any foreign objects getting in, as well as falling out.

While this is an argument which is unlikely to be settled anytime soon, both sides make good points. Pet owners should decide for themselves ” but why not let your dog have a vote too? Try crating them for a few weeks, then leaving the crate open. Your dog will let you know how they feel about things by avoiding the crate or actively seeking it out.

The snake called the spitting cobra is one of the most peculiar species as it not only has a venomous bite but it also sprays venom into the eyes of its prey and aggressors. Contact of this venom with your eyes can be very painful and even temporarily blinding, therefore, if you get cobra venom in your eyes, irrigate them immediately in order to prevent permanent tissue damage.

The King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is also remarkable in this large family of snakes (elapidae) bexause it feeds almost entirely on other snakes with mice and small birds also falling prey to its poison.

The King Cobra sets another record in terms of size: it can get to nearly twenty feet long, which makes it the largest venomous snake in the world. The most recent discovery of a new cobra species was made in 2003, when a specimen was identified at a London Zoo as part of an illegal shipment of exotic pets.

DNA studies revealed that this new species of snake is similar to the red spitting cobra but has different genes. It seems to originate from an area between Sudan and Egypt and it has been called the ‘Nubian Spitting Cobra’.

Although they are highly dangerous when threatened cobras will rarely attack if you keep your distance from them, although the spit can travel very accurately for two meters. Compared to the strike of a rattlesnake, the cobra is rather slow in its attack and besides that, many bites prove to be non-venomous.

According to a study conducted on Malaysian cobra snake victims only 55% of the bites involved venom release and the same statistics indicate a mortality rate of 10% for people bitten, since the toxins injected into the blood of the prey destroy the nerves (neurotoxin) , which induces respiratory failure half an hour after being bitten, giving you 30 minutes to get help.

Their colouration varies from light green-grey to black, althugh juveniles are yellow and black banded.This snake is widespread throughout south-eastern Asia.

Horse Racing Photography is a fascinating hobby. If you attend some of the top horse racing meetings it is always great to capture some of the moments on film. Some of the photographs taken and released are amazing and make excellent framed prints.

Horse racing photography is best achieved with a digital camera but you must bear in mind that you would be better off with equipment that will work with movies and still photographs. Another way to take fantastic photographs of horse racing is to mount a camera on a pair of binoculars. This way you will get some fantastic photographs.

Although getting up at the crack of dawn might not appeal this really can be the best time to get the best photographs. Taking photographs of horses training at this time of day always produces good, aesthetic results. If attending the horse races you will also need to leave the relative comfort of the grandstand to get the photographs you want.

If you are interested in horse racing photography don’t rush out and buy all the latest, most expensive equipment before you have dipped your preverbial toe in the water. Lets face it you might not get the hang of it or be bored after week one.

If you do decide you like photography then you can upgrade your equipment. Always remember that owners and race courses alike will pay good money for interesting and different horse racing photography.

If there is such a breed that has been a household companion of many upper crust families and enjoyed a rather enviable lifestyle for centuries then that is no other than, the Maltese. As early as 500 B.C., Greece, this breed has been popular to enjoy a steady flow of adoration and acceptance from many famed noble people. In fact, there are many historical records that prove this trend.

Centuries old poems and paintings had been unearthed depicting and illustrating this pearly white haired creature, and all artifacts evidenced a well-adored Maltese. One account, at the time of Queen Elizabeth I, even described this breed as tiny as a squirrel and are being fashionably held by ladies in their bosoms, in to their beds, and arms during carriage rides. These accounts are indelible proofs to the title “the aristocrat of dogs” of the Maltese.

Like a true epitome of class and glamor, the Maltese exhibits a snobbish and meticulously clean image. And as if that is not enough proof, the Maltese also possesses an extremely long, shiny and pearly white hair that drapes its tiny frame from head to foot; this indefinitely adds up to its already stylish appearance. Record has it as well that one gentleman in the 16th century paid $2000 for a Maltese, now that’s a bulky amount of money given the dollar’s value at the time!

The breed arguably originated from either Malta or the Sicilian town of Melita and these differing theories had been a long occurring debate from different parties. There is evidence that proves the reliability of both theories; and both records dictate the same time of existence of the breed in both places! Additionally, the adjective word Maltese is a Semantic word meaning “malat”, which is the root word of both Malta and Melita; now we know why the confusion.

In appearance, Maltese is of pure white color although there are those that are colored cream and light lemon. It lightly weights 3 to 7 lbs and its coat is long and silky and an undercoat is non existent. Maltese’s hair is not prone to irritable shedding and so this breed makes it to the hypoallergenic dogs list.

Maltese, just like a truly aristocrat being, thrive on love and affection and needs a constant and time consuming hair brushing, cleaning, and grooming. Their hairs are prone to tear stain, a dark staining on the hairs around their eyes due to constantly watery eyes brought about by their large tear ducts. To prevent and remove this stain, moisten a finely-toothed metal comb with lukewarm water and carefully comb the stained areas.

This breed, all throughout the centuries, had been known by different names including Melitaie Dog, Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta, Majestic Creature, Maltese Lion Dog, Maltese Terrier, Spaniel Gentle, and so much more! The things that never changed, however, are this dog’s ferocity, extreme liveliness, playfulness, and tireless energy. These levels of life and spirit of Maltese are known to remain as is even as they become older.

Just like a true classy creature, the Maltese rather enjoys being calm and relaxed and therefore a vigorous activity is never recommended. This breed is happy to romp, play, and chase in a confined space like living rooms and small areas. These elegant attributes of the Maltese makes them suitable for an urban type of living meaning townhouses and apartments.

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.

Some owners, for instance, will prefer a stainless steel dog food bowl and dog water dish, as opposed to a ceramic or rubber one. Stainless steel is much easier to keep clean. As well, it does not chip and it is difficult to scratch. Chips and deep scratches can hold germs. That can lead to an infection for your pooch, and you certainly do not want that.

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.

Large dogs can also benefit from a raised dog bowl. When you use a bowl like that, your big dog will not have to bend down that far to eat and drink. This will greatly reduce neck strain. It can also reduce the risk of other muscle and bone related problems.

Something like that is also great to keep your dogs from fighting over the food. This is especially true if your dogs are different sizes, such as if you have a terrier and a mastiff. The large dog gets his or her own high bowl, while the smaller dog’s is closer to the ground.

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.

Sometimes, even though they love each other, one dog might not want to share food with the other one. Again, this is another case where a raised dog bowl can really come in handy. However, it does not even need to be that extreme. You could simply purchase two water dishes and two food dishes. In that case, you may want to position them apart from one another. Remember, an elevated bowl can also keep any kitties from sneaking bites of dog food.

As you can see, you need to make sure that you pick the right bowl for your dog. After all, this incredible animal is part of your family and having the right dishes will make their food and drinks taste better and look better!

Equestrian sport dates back to Greek Times, approximately 2000 years ago when they started using dressage to train their horses for war. I became really interested in this sport when Princess Anne, HRH of Great Britain competed. I have continued to follow the success of her daughter Zara Phillips.

Military training for the war horses continued to play a major part in the development of equestrian sport with three day events held to test their strength and stamina. The event consisted of Cross Country, Dressage and Show Jumping.

The Equestrian events as we really know them today have been brought about by the sports inclusion in the Olympic Games in 1921.

One of the most famous people who certainly put this sport on the map not just because of her skill but also because she was a member of the British Royal Family is HRH Princess Anne. Princess Anne, was born in August 1950 and is tenth in line to the British Throne. She is the only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

Princess Annes family is full of equestrian champions. Her former husband Mark Phillips won badminton in 1971 and 1972 and was part of the equestrian team in 1972 which won a Gold Medal for Great Britain in Munich. Mark Phillips is also the father of Zara Phillips who is still currently an outstanding equestrian competitor.

15th May 1981 is the date of birth of Zara Phillips who was to become one of the most famous and outstanding horsewomen of all times. Zara is the daughter of Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips and grandaughter to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Her equestrian skills are really unsurpassed and she won an individual gold medal on her horse Toytown at the World Equestrian Event in Germany. She also helped secure a silver medal for the British Team. Zara was honoured with an MBE in 2007 for her services to the equestrian sport.

Equestrian showjumping,dressage and cross country never looks that difficult on the television but that is far from the case. Showjumping is designed to test control,accuracy and athleticism. Dressage the basic moves of walking, trotting and cantering. Controlled of course not just in any old fashion. Cross Country reveals bravery,jumping,speed and stamina.

RETURNING FROM A RIDE: There is always the temptation on your horses part, to run back to the barn at the end of a ride. He will be tempted to trot instead of walk; canter instead of trot; or run instead of canter. Be careful or you will be allowing him to learn or to think you are teaching him to run home. If you persist in this permissiveness you may eventually have a runaway horse each time his head turns toward home.

When you do return home; come down to a walk well away from the barn and let him cool down well as you near the barn. If you are cantering in and he wants to go faster, break down the gait to a trot and if needed down to a walk even if a long way from the barn. If he won’t walk calmly but wants to jig and go sideways or tries breaking into a faster gait — you need to spend some time in the paddocks and school him to walk and trot when you tell him too. If you still have trouble; get help from an outside equestrian or a trainer.

NUTRITION: Nutrition is a powerful factor in the life of a horse, just as it is our own. Often a problem horse can just be suffering from some nutritional deficiency. Often a horse that is “cribbing” that is chewing on his stall or on the fence has a nutritional deficiency. This should be handled quickly as the swallowed wood splinters have obvious danger to your horse. Horses need vitamins, roughage of course, minerals, protein, oils, carbohydrates, enzymes and trace elements in their diets to be at their best in health, behavior and attitude… and sometimes even if they are getting the correct food they may not be digesting it to get the proper use of the nutrients… just like us.

Look at the teeth to detect age and condition of the horse. Horse newspapers have lots of ads and some advice. There are auctions for horses too; once you find out about them you can get on the mailing list and visit a few before you buy. Classified ads are a very good sources of horses for sale.

Here’s another one. Some horses raise their head and clamp their teeth and will not accept the bit. I have seen people strike the horse about the face or swing the bridle and hit him — this only teaches him that the bridle is a mean, scary piece of equipment and that he’d better raise his head up out of your reach for his own protection.

The solution to bit shyness takes a while; it will take a little patience, some sweet talk and some sweet syrup on your fingers. Play around with his mouth with your fingers and let him wear the bit awhile when he is in his stall to eat and drink. Put it on him sometimes while you are grooming him too. Make sure that the bit is adjusted correctly for tightness in his mouth and that it is the right size and style. And especially be certain that when you ride him that you are not always holding tension on the reins, using them when you should be only giving body language directions, sawing them back and forth from left to right or in any way being rough on his mouth.

Happy Trails and best wishes to a lot of good horsin’ around for all you readers who want horses. Horses can bring out the best and the worst of a person and give you endless hours of pleasure, exercise and frustration. But most horse owners and lovers wouldn’t have it any other way.

Take your horse about 50 feet from the trailer and do some groundwork which keeps the horse in constant motion. Move the front, hindquarter, ask for some backing up. You can even do some lunging. Then calmly walk your horse up to the trailer. Two notes about actually getting the horse into the trailer.

This hardworking, industrious Australian-bred dog, known also as Halls Heeler, Queensland Heeler, Australian Heeler, and Australian Cattle Dog was originally bred for droving cattle. It is nimble, dependable, extremely fit and well-built. The Blue Heeler is not the type of pet that is meant to be kept on a leash in your backyard, because it is a working, herding breed.

It is one of the most brainy breeds and consequently is easily bored if not provided with plenty of something to get busy with. Blue Heelers love to be in the thick of things! They prefer frolicking rather than curling around inside the house.

Blue Heelers are extremely loyal, protective, and at all times alert. They are brave and adept, and can be obedience trained to an overly high level. The Blue Heeler makes for an excellent guard dog because of these stellar, clever qualities.

The prowess and fluidity of the Blue Heeler is conspicuous in the way it carries itself. Proportion, balance and symmetry are all important in the form of the model Australian Cattle Dog, standards requiring that they show no hint of helplessness or frailty. This includes even Blue Heelers who are purely companions and do not work: they still retain artful, tough musculature and a compact, powerful stance.

Most Australian Cattle Dogs have a mottling of black, grey and white hairs, giving it the nickname Blue Heeler. The stringy, compact frame sports hard muscles and a well-packed coat covered in coarse, slightly oily hair. They also have naturally long, white-tipped tails that hang low and fine, woolly winter undercoats.

One of the most apparent physical features of the Australian Cattle Dog is a patch over one or both eyes, called a mask. It may be referred to as a single or half mask”covering one eye”or a double or full mask if it covers both eyes. If a Heeler does not possess this distinctive marking, it is called or dubbed plain-faced.

Like the nature of most working dogs, Blue Heelers are tremendously energetic, and have attentive, observant, and sharp minds. They are also dominant, territorial and very intelligent, so their masters must be committed to training them and establishing at the outset that they are the boss. Owners who are able to give them clear, firm instructions and stimulating goals will find them very easy to train.

The Australian Cattle Dog is a first-rate herder, matchless in their exceptional resilience and stamina, and their skill in quietly but determinedly working the stock. This distinct toughness and ability to drive cattle across great distances, even in harsh, dusty and hot conditions, tells us something about the Blue Heelers unique fortitude. We can be quite sure that the capable, trustworthy Blue Heeler is a worthwhile investment and choice when picking out a hardworking dog.