Housebreak An Older Dog

If you adopt an older dog that has not been trained, the first thing you need to do is housebreak him. Housebreaking an older dog is really no different from housebreaking a puppy. Dogs are smart, and want to learn to please you, no matter what their age. Here's go about it.

Instructions

1. Bring your dog, on a leash, to the area you want him to use as soon as you get him home. Stay outside with him, in that area, until he goes, before bringing him into the house. Praise him enthusiastically when he eliminates.

2. Take the dog in and out the same door all the time, even if you have two doors that lead to the same general area. Using the same door teaches her that is where she should go when she needs you to let her outside.

3. Limit the amount of space you give to your new older dog until you are confident he is housebroken. Close the doors to some rooms to keep him out.

4. Consider using a crate. Dogs like to den and a crate becomes a den for them. By nature, they do not eliminate in their den. Put the dog in the crate at night and for a few hours during the day when you can't supervise her.

5. Catch the accident before it happens. Most dogs start sniffing around the floor looking for the perfect spot when they have to go. If you see him sniffing the floor, staring at the door, or coming to you like he wants something, take him outside.

6. Tell her she is a good girl and shower her with love and affection every time she goes to the bathroom outside. You might even want to give her a treat to reinforce the behavior quicker.

Tags: same door

Post A Job Ad For Free

Post a job ad on classified websites for free.

Post jobs for free on websites that do not charge fees to list classifieds. Find qualified employees without excessive fees and post your ad to several sites online. Place job ads by creating a free website or on social networking sites.

Instructions

1. Find legitimate websites that allow you to post job ads for free. Visit the Oodle website to post a free job ad. Sign up for an account for free with a valid email address and create a unique password. Post your ad by listing details such as location, category and description. Click the "Post" button to place your job listing on the website.

2. Design your own free website to post a job ad for free. Visit the Wetpaint website to create your own website for free and post your job ad. Enter a name for your site and choose a URL to make your free website. Create an account and you will be directed to the website publishing tools to create your website. Post the job ad in the text creator in the publishing tools and then click "Publish."

3. Post job ads for free on social networking websites, such as Facebook. Create a user account to start posting job ads for free. Use the search tool to find forums to post your job ad for free or create your own. Click on "Groups" on the left side of the menu on the home page. Highlight the "Create New Group" and fill in the required fields. Publish by choosing "Finish and Save" and the group will become available to the public. Post your free job ad on the group forum page.

Tags: your free, create your, free website, post free, create your website, free Visit

Camp In Orange Beach Al

Orange Beach, a city on the Gulf Coast in Alabama, offers white-sand beaches and ample swimming and fishing opportunities in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to miles of beaches, the Orange Beach area is also home to an alligator farm, a nature center, a zoo and scores of seafood restaurants. Nearby, Gulf State Park offers camping and access to more than three miles of beaches as well as the longest pier on the Gulf.

Instructions

1. Reserve a campsite via telephone at Gulf State Park in the city of Gulf Shores, which is adjacent to Orange Beach (see Resources). The park features 496 sites for recreational vehicles and tents with modern bathhouses nearby. Free Internet access is offered outside the campground's activity center. The campground is on the north side of the park about 1-1/2 miles from the gulf beaches and sits along an inland lake. The park does not accept email reservations, nor does it have an online reservation system. Campground reservation phone numbers are: 251-948-6353, 251-948-4704, 251-948-4570 or 1-800-252-7275. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

2. Bring a bathing suit, beach towels and toys for the kids to enjoy the 3-1/2 miles of the Gulf State Park's white-sand beaches. A large concession stand occupies the main beach pavilion and is open seasonally. The beach is open from 7 a.m. to sunset year-round.

3. Explore the park's fishing and sightseeing pier. Built after the previous pier was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, the new pier opened in 2009 and extends 1,540 feet into the Gulf of Mexico. The pier features a concession area, souvenir store and tackle shop. Fishing or sightseeing permits are required to access the pier.

4. Hike back-country trails and scout out wildlife. Beautiful beaches are not the only stunning scenery in the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area. Trails through the Gulf State Park back-country offer hikers the chance to tour marshes, swamps and oak woods. Look for alligators, turtles, lizards, frogs, raccoons, deer and rabbits.

5. Angle for either freshwater fish on the park's 900-acre lake or saltwater fish from the shore or pier.

Tags: Orange Beach, Gulf State, Gulf State Park, State Park, city Gulf

Teen Activities In Sacramento California

The Tower Bridge in Sacramento is one of the city's most distinctive landmarks near the downtown area where most teen activities are.

While Sacramento may not exactly be considered the hub for things to do in California in comparison to the state's other major cities, the ever-growing metropolis and its surrounding areas are increasingly offering new locales and activities for teenagers to take part in, including all ages clubs, late night coffeehouses and a wealth of sports recreation.

All Ages Clubs/Music Venues

Bar Code is an 18 and over bar located near the Arden Fair Mall featuring nightly DJ sets with both known and rising stars in the music arena. Most notably, the club featured a set from Paul Oakenfold and DJ Skribble. With its laid back, yet modernistic interior style, Bar Code offers one of the best environments for those who want to dance. For those younger than 18, a better option might be Club Retro in the Orangevale area, a venue that focuses on live music from local bands. For teens living in the Midtown part of Sacramento, The Refuge is also known for showcasing live acts for teens of all ages.

Bar Code

1890 Arden Way

Sacramento, California 95815

916-492-1959

barcodesac.com

Club Retro

6521 Hazel Avenue

Orangevale, California 95662

916-988-6606

clubretro.net

The Refuge

1723 L Street

Sacramento, California 94207

916-764-5598

myspace.com/therefugesac

Coffeehouses

Sacramento has an ample selection of coffeehouses that stay open late for those who wish to congregate, talk, socialize or just drink coffee. Coffee Garden is one such place, serving everything from pastries to soup to sandwiches. It is also actively involved in the Second Saturday Art Walk for those who display work at the establishment. For teens with musical aspirations, Java Cafe & Brew Pub provides an open mic night on Thursdays. The Naked Lounge is another coffeehouse with a relaxed ambiance and very strong coffee, like the Jack Kerouac featuring four shots of espresso. All in all, the coffeehouse scene in Sacramento is ideal for teens who simply want a place to visit with one another outside of their house.

Coffee Garden

2904 Franklin Boulevard

Sacramento, California 95818

916-457-5507

staff@thecoffeegarden.com

Java Cafe & Brew Pub

11755 Fair Oaks Boulevard

Fair Oaks, California 95628

916-961-2739

Naked Lounge

1500 Q Street

Sacramento, California 95811

916-442-0174

Water Sports

With Folsom Lake, Lake Natomas and the Sacramento River within close proximity to one another, there is never a shortage of water recreation in the city of Sacramento. Boating, fishing, water skiing, and swimming are some of the most fun -- and affordable -- activities teens in Sacramento have access to.

Tags: Sacramento California, Cafe Brew, Club Retro, Coffee Garden, Fair Oaks, Java Cafe

List Of Deductions When Filing A 1040

Deductions are a big break during tax time that allow a person to reduce her taxable income based on certain expenses. The expenses you are allowed to claim are usually large ones. These deductions can greatly increase your tax refund. Deductions claimed must be equal to a fixed percentage of your income as specified by the Internal Revenue Service.

Stipulations

There are some stipulations that apply to making deductions on your tax return. Expenses you claim as deductions must meet 2 percent of your adjusted gross income (AGI) or 7.5 percent for medical and dental costs. These expenses can be deducted in amounts that exceed the percentage of the expenses claimed.

Medical/Dental Expenses

You may deduct medical or dental costs for yourself, your spouse or your dependents. Expenses must be already paid and not be paid for by insurance. Certain medical-related expenses are not covered, such as over-the-counter medications, cosmetic surgery and diet food. The costs claimed must be equal to or exceed 7.5 percent of your AGI.

Theft Loss

The value from loss of property that occurs because of theft is determined by using fair market value (FMV). There are deductions that will be subtracted from the FMV of the items lost. First, $500 will be deducted from the value of the items, then from the sum of that, 10 percent of your AGI is subtracted. The remaining figure is the amount you can use for the amount of the deduction.

Charitable Contributions

Donating items such as clothes, furniture, vehicles and other contributions to charity, qualify as tax deductions. You must have a receipt for the donation or other requested documentation depending on the amount your are claiming for the deduction. Deduction values are calculated by FMV of the goods donated.

Miscellaneous Deductions

Other deductions that qualify are job expenses, specified taxes such as vehicle sales or use tax and property taxes. Mortgage and business-related taxes can also be claimed as deductions. Moving expenses can qualify as a deduction if you moved to live closer to your job or business or for any other related qualifying reason. Student loan interest can be deducted up to $2,500 if you are at least a half-time student, are enrolled in a program that will result in a recognized credential, and meet income requirements. Other qualified expenses beside student loan interest are costs for tuition, room and board and other educational costs.

Tags: percent your, claimed must, claimed must equal, deductions must, deductions that, dental costs

Train A Pug Dog

Train a Pug Dog

Pugs crave the affection and approval of their owners, which, in general, makes them easier to train than some other breeds. Training should begin as soon as you bring your pug puppy home. Start with house training, offering simple commands such as "come," "sit" and "stay" and discouraging misbehavior such as nipping at members of the family or chewing on furniture.

Instructions

Training a Pug

1. Buy a puppy crate that is just large enough for your pug puppy to stand up, turn around and lie down; anything bigger and it may designate a corner of the crate as his toilet. The crate is where the puppy will eat, sleep and stay when it is not interacting with you or your family. After each meal and every few hours, take your pug outside, always to the same spot, and stay there until it has relieved itself. Each time it does, praise him, pet him and perhaps give him a treat.

2. Begin teaching your puppy the "no" command the day it arrives in your house. Puppies are cute, and you may be inclined to be indulgent, but if you do not correct bad behavior now, the pug will continue to do it as an adult. Every time the puppy misbehaves, say "no" in a loud, firm, clear voice. Be consistent so the pug does not become confused but comes to understand that it must obey your commands.

3. Say "sit" and as you speak the command, gently push down on your puppy's rear until it is seated. Then reward the puppy. Give the command "stay," and back away from the puppy. If he has obeyed, give the command "come" Repeat this obedience training lesson several times a day until the pug obeys each command. Always reward the puppy each time it obeys.

Tags: your puppy, reward puppy

Pet Friendly Hotels Near Seaworld San Antonio

Seaworld in San Antonio is an aquatic theme park and aquarium. It has rides, shows and exhibits for adults and kids, and draws many travelers in from surrounding areas. Nearby hotels can be found in abundance, but for those traveling with pets, the selection is somewhat slimmer. There are, though, pet friendly hotels near Seaworld.

The Candlewood Suites

The Candlewood Suites near Seaworld is located between the theme park and Six Flags Fiesta Texas. It is also located near The Alamo, Downtown Riverwalk, the San Antonio Zoo and The Rim Shopping & Entertainment Center. The hotel welcomes pets weighing less than 80 pounds. Guests must sign a pet agreement and pay a nonrefundable fee, according to the length of their stay. Suites here include a workplace, CD player, cable television and wireless Internet access. Amenities include an outdoor pool with nearby barbecue grills, a convenience store, a business cente,r and same-day dry-cleaning services.

The Candlewood Suites

9502 Amelia Pass

San Antonio, TX 78254

210-523-7666

candlewoodsuites.com‎

La Quinta

La Quinta is a budget hotel located near San Antonio Seaworld and only ten minutes from the San Antonio International Airport. It has a pet-friendly policy that does not include additional fees. The 193 guest rooms and 32 suites found here offer free high-speed Internet access, premium cable channels, dataport phones and coffee makers in every room. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and an outdoor pool. Those traveling on business will also enjoy the ample workspaces located in each room.

La Quinta

7134 Northwest Loop 410

San Antonio, TX 78238

210-680-8883

lq.com‎

The Residence Inn

The Residence Inn is another hotel located near San Antonio Sea World that allows pets for a nonrefundable sanitation fee. All guest rooms, which include studios and suites, are non-smoking, and include kitchens and wireless Internet access. An indoor swimming pool with a whirlpool and an onsite fitness center are also available, as is a buffet breakfast and coffee.

The Residence Inn

2838 Cinema Ridge

San Antonio, TX 78238

210-509-3100

marriott.com‎

Tags: Candlewood Suites, Internet access, located near, Antonio 78238, guest rooms

Customize Neopets

Neopets live in the virtual world Neopia. Neopia has its own economy including NeoCash and Neopoints. Users can have up to four Neopets on their account. The initial customization of each Neopet requires you select color, name, habitat and other characteristics. Customizing your Neopet lets you apply clothing that matches its personality. To customise your Neopet further you will need to collect Neopoints by playing games or using the one-time free Neopack. To acquire Neocash you must use your credit card. Customizing your Neopet is a fun process limited by your imagination.

Instructions

Getting Started

1. Log on to Neopets.com. Select "Customise" from the top navigation menu. In the drop-down menu, click "Customise Neopet."

2. Click the "Inventory" link from the customization page if you do not see items in your closet. New members receive a "Newbie Pack." The pack contains free items for your Neopet's closet. You can also select "Inventory" from the customization drop-down menu.

3. Click the "Get My Newbie Pack" button on the Inventory page. This will take you to a page welcoming you and listing the items in your Newbie Pack.

4. Click "Inventory" from the "Customization" menu on the navigation bar. This will take you to your inventory, which lists all your items.

Adding Items to the Closet

5. Move clothing items to the closet by clicking each item. This will open a pop-up window that allows you to make one of several choices.

6. Select "Move to Closet" from the drop-down menu in the items pop-up window. For defense items select "Equip" in the drop-down menu.

7. Return to customization by "Customise" from the top navigation menu. In the drop-down menu, click "Customise Neopet."

View, Sort and Apply Items

8. Click "Closet" in the "Items View" section of the customization window. You can see items your Neopet has on by selecting "Applied."

9. Sort your items by species, zones and rarity. Species shows which items you have for each of your Neopets. Zones shows where the items appear, backgrounds for example. Rarity shows how rare each item is.

10. Click and hold your left mouse button (right-hand operation) and drag an item to your Neopet to try it on.

Release your mouse button to place and view the item on your Neopet.

11. Click "Save Changes!" if you like what your Neopet has on. If you do not click save changes, your work will lose your work.

Removing Items

12. Click "Applied" in the customise Neopet window.

13. Click the item you would like to remove.

14. Click the "Remove" button and the item will return to your closet.

Tags: your Neopet, drop-down menu, items your, Newbie Pack, This will

Tools To Care For A Pygmy Goat

Pygmy goats are herd animals; they should be raised with other goats.

Pygmy goats are hardy, good-natured and very small. The goats often are raised for pleasure as pets, but they also can provide ample milk as dairy goats. Pygmy goats can be raised for profit as well. They can be bred about once a year; they give birth to between one and four kids. Though they are hardy and adaptable, pygmy goat care requires to invest in special tools to care for the animals.

Socialization

Pygmy goats are herd animals. These goats should not be raised as solitary creatures. Fulfill their need for socialization by raising pygmy goats in pairs or a small herd. Pygmy goats also form strong attachments to humans. Spend time with your goats daily to win the devotion of your animal friends.

Pasture

All goats are browsers and grazers, which means they eat roughage like tree bark and shrubs as well as plain grass. Ideally, a pasture for pygmy goats should contain all these plants. Pygmy goats are small enough that their pasture can be an acre large or less. While the exact size of the pasture is not important, the goats should have enough room to run, jump, play, browse and graze.

Fencing and Shelter

Fencing around your goat's pasture should be 4 to 6 feet high. Choose a fencing type, such as hog wire, that is strong enough to keep your goats in and predators out. Provide some kind of shelter for your animals. Pygmy goats must be able to take cover in adverse weather. A small three or four-sided shed with sturdy walls to keep out the wind and a roof to keep them dry and warm is sufficient. Most pygmy goats will even happily make a home out of a large doghouse.

Nutrition

Pygmy goats should have access to fresh, clean water at all times. Provide water buckets in the goats' pasture and shelter. Dump out and replace the water regularly. Feed your pygmy goats good-quality alfalfa hay. Some owners feed hay twice a day while others "free feed," meaning they provide their goats with ample hay all day long. Adult pygmy goats should be fed about a half cup of grain specially designed for goats or grain with 14 to 16-percent protein content. Pregnant or nursing pygmy goats should be given one or two cups of grain per day.

Medical Care

Worms are a common parasite among goats that can be deadly if not treated or prevented. Pygmy goats should be wormed three or four times a year. Worm your pygmy goats as soon as they step foot on your land. Establish a regular worming schedule to keep them parasite-free and healthy. Ensure you have contact information for a veterinarian who can treat pygmy goats. If your pygmy goats need medical attention, don't hesitate to get in contact with your vet.

Tags: goats should, pygmy goats, Pygmy goats, pygmy goats, your pygmy

Pet Hotels In Sacramento California

Sacramento pet hotels

Pet owners typically are concerned about finding an appropriate place to board their pet during their absence. If you live in the Sacramento area, a number of boarding options exist that will keep your beloved pet happy and safe.

Animal Den Pet Resort & Spa

The Animal Den Pet Resort & Spa offers boarding, grooming, day care, training and spa services for dogs, cats, small animals and reptiles. While at the resort, your pet can participate in group play, get a training lesson or enjoy some of the spa services offered. Day care is available as well as special spa packages for pampering your pet. As of 2010, rates for overnight boarding are $20 for dogs, $15 for cats and $8 for small animals or reptiles.

Animal Den Pet Resort & Spa

4060 Power Inn Road

Sacramento, CA 95826

916-456-4720

animaldenpetresort.com

Fulton Avenue Pet Resort

Fulton Avenue Pet Resort offers overnight and monthly boarding, as well as daycare for dogs, cats and other small furry or feathered animals. Accommodations include indoor or outdoor runs, condos and suites for your cat or dog. Play time is factored in to your pet's stay and bathing can be done upon request. As of 2010, overnight rates for boarding are $20 for a condo, $26-$30 for a run and $40 for a suite.

Fulton Avenue Pet Resort

2173 Fulton Avenue

Sacramento, CA 95825

916-972-9498

fultonavenuepetresort.com

Go Fetch Pet Sitting

If you would prefer that your pet be able to remain in the comfort of familiar surroundings while you are away, Go Fetch Pet Sitting is an option. First place winner of the 2009 KCRA "Best Pet Sitting Service", Go Fetch offers to watch your dog, cat or other small pet in the convenience of your home while you are away. The service will prepare meals, walk your dog, apply ointments/administer medications, groom your pet, change litter boxes and perform other daily activities associated with the car of your pet. Additional services can be arranged, such as veterinarian visits. Service is fully licensed and bonded.

Go Fetch Pet Sitting

5960 South Land Park Dr, #305

Sacramento, CA 95822

916-392-6779

gofetchpetsitting.com

Tags: Fulton Avenue, Animal Resort, Avenue Resort, dogs cats, Fetch Sitting, Fulton Avenue Resort

Introduce Dogs To Each Other

Dogs are social animals with their own etiquette rules and community order. It is important to understand and respect these rules when you introduce two dogs who are unfamiliar with each other. Taking a few simple precautions should result in a successful initial meeting where both dogs become acquainted and develop a natural bond with one another.

Instructions

1. Put the dogs in separate rooms from one another, or, if the introduction will happen outside, keep the dogs out of eyesight from one another. Leash one dog yourself and have a friend who is familiar with the other dog leash that one.

2. Ensure that both dogs are in a calm, submissive state prior to the introduction. A dog that is calm and submissive should be able to sit calmly next to its handler with a relaxed body posture. Many dogs become excited when a handler places a leash around its neck. Excitement, however, is not the appropriate state of mind for a dog when it is about to meet a new canine friend.

3. Bring the dogs within a couple of feet of one another while still on leash. Keep the leashes loose. A tightly pulled leash indicates anxiety on the handler's part, and this can transmit similar anxiety to the dogs. If either dog pulls at its leash making it feel tight, then it is not in a calm, submissive state appropriate for meeting a new dog.

4. Allow the leashed dogs to investigate and sniff one another as long as they both remain somewhat calm. If either dog seems overly excited or aggressive, remove the offending dog and bring it back to a calm, submissive state. Signs of aggression include bared teeth, raised hackles, growling, a stiff-legged gait or a prolonged stare.

5. Take both dogs on a 5 to 10 minute walk together. Walking creates a pack mentality between the dogs that allows them to bond with one another.

Tags: calm submissive, both dogs, calm submissive state, submissive state, bond with

Report Animal Abuse

Too many times, people witness animal abuse or neglect and ignore it, feeling like they have no right to get involved with what someone does with an animal. But we all have a stake in the issue. It has been shown that animal abuse often leads to abuse of other people, so reporting animal abuse allows you to help create a less violent society. Read on to learn report animal abuse.

Instructions

1. Identify abuse, neglect and cruelty. Whenever you see an animal, run through a mental checklist. Make sure the animal has food, water and shelter; has a clean pen or area; has no untreated injuries and looks relatively healthy overall. If the animal does not meet these criteria, investigate further.

2. Intervene if necessary. If you see a person actively beating or torturing an animal, step in to help the animal, as long as you feel safe doing so. Animal torture is illegal, so you have the right to stop it.

3. Talk to the animal's owner if you feel comfortable doing so, especially if the animal seems neglected. You might find out that the horse you thought was ill-treated has just been rescued off a feedlot, or the dog with the open wounds is receiving medical attention. You might also find that the people lack the resources to provide the best care to their animal, and need financial assistance.

4. Document abuse and neglect. Include dates, times and the nature of the problem, even if you just suspect abuse or neglect. Photographs and videotape are helpful, though not necessary.

5. Call your local animal control to report most forms of abuse and for neglect. You can find the phone number in the government listing of your phone book, or online. After you provide full details, ask for the animal control officer's name and ask what action will likely be taken.

6. Report animal torture or animal fighting, such as dog or cock fighting, to the police, as these are crimes. Call 911 if the fighting or torture is in progress.

7. Follow up with animal control, especially if you reported directly to them. Talk directly to the investigating officer, if possible. If you are not satisfied with the way she has handled the problem, explain why and request additional action.

Tags: abuse neglect, animal abuse, animal control, find that, have right

Take Care Of Dwarf Rabbits

Take Care of Dwarf Rabbits

House rabbits have the title of the third most popular pet, after dogs and cats, in the United States and the United Kingdom. Rabbits, including dwarf rabbits, can be good pets, but they are also high-maintenance, requiring a lot of care, love and attention, so carefully consider if a house rabbit is the right pet for you before adopting one.

Instructions

1. Set up your dwarf rabbit's new home as a large exercise pen or a large cage (the bigger the better). Provide a litter box, with wood pellets or non-clumping cat litter.

2. Give your dwarf rabbit access to plenty of fresh hay at all times. Dwarf rabbits under 6 months can have unlimited pellets, while those over 6 months should be given 1/4 cup of pellets each day.

3. Give your dwarf rabbit a minimum of 2 cups of vegetables per day. You also can give him a small baby carrot or a small piece of banana or apple daily as a treat.

4. Provide your house rabbit with plenty of toys, such as old phone books and toilet paper rolls (ideal for chewing) and plastic baby keys.

5. Give your rabbit a box that she can hide in, climb on and chew. Boxes are an ideal place to hide when a rabbit is scared, and they are a great source of entertainment.

6. Ensure your rabbit has at least four hours of exercise time out of his cage or pen each day. Make sure phone wires, computer wires and other wires are out of reach before you let your bunny out. Dwarf rabbits, like all rabbits, love to chew.

7. Make an appointment with a rabbit-savvy vet to have your rabbit spayed or neutered.

Tags: dwarf rabbit, Give your, your dwarf, your dwarf rabbit, your rabbit, Care Dwarf, Care Dwarf Rabbits

Volunteer Opportunities With Youth In Minneapolis

Volunteers can help to enrich, empower and sustain communities.

Whether you're a young adult looking to become an active volunteer in your community or you're an adult who's looking to help shape a youth's life through volunteer work, there are several options for you to choose from. There are several different volunteer opportunities and/or programs within Minneapolis that you can become a part of.

Hospitality House Youth Development

Hospitality House Youth Development (HHYD) helps aid, guide and teach Minneapolis inner city youth to live responsibly through their faith and Christian values. The organization also strives to strengthen the bonds that youth have with their families to help in their development. This is a great opportunity for adults to have a direct impact on members' lives. With the help of responsible, spiritual, caring and passionate adults, HHYD enriches and empowers youth to become tomorrow's great leaders. Adults can volunteer to mentor the children in the program, as well as tutor them in school subjects.

Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board

The Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board (MPRB) has many different opportunities for youth and adult volunteers. Once a year, young people can get involved with the Minneapolis Earth Day Watershed Cleanup. This volunteer program allows youth and adults alike to help keep Minneapolis clean by picking up trash from area parks. Youngsters can also get the help of their friends to participate in a One-Time Service Project to weed and plant trees in area parks. The MPRB offers different coaching programs for adults to mentor local youth sports, such as soccer, baseball and softball.

Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities

Youth volunteers can get involved with the Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities by helping with general maintenance. Youngsters can help clean tables, chairs, windows and other areas once a month. Young adults and teenagers can help with painting the chapel. Adults can also work with the youth at Union Gospel Mission by tutoring students and mentoring them on faith and Christian values. Interpreters and childcare professionals can also get involved in the organization.

Minnesota 4-H

The Minnesota 4-H club is another organization that brings youths and adults together. Youth in kindergarten through high school can join the club and participate in projects and community service while learning about teamwork and developing leadership skills. Adults are also needed to supervise and lead 4-H clubs in their communities. The 4-H has staff available to guide adult volunteers as they teach community youth life skills and leadership.

Tags: Gospel Mission, Union Gospel, Union Gospel Mission, adult looking, adult volunteers, Adults also

Spay Or Neuter Your Cat For Free

Spay Or Neuter Your Cat For Free

Having your cat spayed or neutered can be expensive.

For those on a limited income or who just can not afford it there are some resources that can provide you with discount coupons to receive low cost spay and neuter services. There are also many more resources that can provide completely free services to get you cat spayed or neutered.

Instructions

1. Look online at website's like neuterspay.org. Type in your information to find local spay and neuter organizations.

2. Visit the website's that you find and write down the names and phone numbers of the organization's that you are interested in.

3. Call the organizations and find out what there requirements are for free spay and neutering services.

4. Organize and gather any documents that are required (such as proof of income, proof of residency, etc.)

5. On the day of your cats surgery arrive early and bring any paper work that is needed.

Tags: Neuter Your, Neuter Your Free, resources that, resources that provide, spay neuter, Spay Neuter Your, spayed neutered

Report Neglect At A Residential Home

Neglect is a type of indirect abuse that occurs when the individual responsible of caring for someone else fails to do so. Neglect can be done intentionally or unintentionally, but causes emotionally and physically damage to the victim regardless. Many neglect victims are young children and infants who are too young to find help elsewhere. If you have witnessed or suspect it, you should report neglect at a residential home to your state's child protection agency immediately.

Instructions

1. Obtain as much information as you can about the suspected neglect. You will need the first and last name, age and address of each victim. Do the same for the individual you believe is guilty of neglect. Determining the age, employer, work address and any additional information about the individual you wish to report would also be beneficial, though not required.

2. Find your state's child protective agency contact information. You can usually locate this information online through your state's official website. Your local police department can also provide you with the name of the agency and the telephone number to report neglect.

3. Contact the agency by telephone and provide a caseworker with the information you have obtained. While you can do this by mail, this method will cause a delay in the subsequent investigation, which can be detrimental to the victim's safety.

4. Provide the caseworker with your name and telephone number. Your name is kept confidential and no one will know you made the report; however, this information may be needed to assist the agency if it needs more information about the suspected neglect.

5. Provide the caseworker with any documents, photographs or other physical evidence of neglect you may have. This evidence can be used to corroborate your suspicions and speed the investigation. It can also be used against the perpetrator in any criminal charges that arise from the matter.

Tags: caseworker with, information about, your state, about suspected, about suspected neglect, agency telephone, information about suspected

Move A Dog To A New Home

Don't let man's best friend get lost in the shuffle of a move. Relocating your dog to a new home can be a smooth transition for everyone involved if you follow these simple steps.

Instructions

Before the Move

1. Obtain a copy of your dog's veterinary records to give to the vet in the new area.

2. Call the state veterinarian in the capital of the state you're moving to. Find out if you need to provide any paperwork to bring your dog into the state.

3. Call the town or village hall in the new locale. Ask about licensing requirements.

4. Make arrangements for your dog to travel with you in a car or by air. Dogs normally aren't permitted on trains or buses.

When You Move

5. Feed your dog five to six hours before traveling. Give her water two hours before traveling. Medicate the dog if she becomes overexcited while traveling.

6. Bring food and water along. Make frequent stops to walk your dog and let her drink.

7. Keep your dog confined when you get to the new home. A dog can easily escape during the moving process. Let your dog out once all doors and windows are closed, and allow her to become familiar with the house.

8. Use your dog's familiar bowls, bedding and toys. Put them in a location similar to where they used to be.

9. Accompany your dog outside until she's familiar with the area.

10. Try to stick to your dog's regular schedule in the first days after the move.

11. Locate a vet in your area. Make an appointment and take your dog's records in.

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Attend And Hold A Pet Blessing

A blessing over your pet will give everyone peace of mind.

Chances are you've heard the term "pet blessing," but aren't sure what it entails (no pun intended) or what the purpose is. Well, the simplest way to describe a pet blessing is: A spiritual celebration to honor our loyal companions who love us unconditionally. The ceremony is normally held at a house of worship, although it can take place anywhere. If you live in a larger town, you will likely be able to find a pet blessing quicker than two shakes of a Lab's tail--and if you can't find one--you can always hold one of your own.

Instructions

Attend a Pet Blessing

1. Find a ceremony to attend. The Blessing of Pets takes place most often on or near October 4 to commemorate the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi (the Patron Saint of Animals). Some are also held in the spring near Easter. Although Catholic Churches are the most common settings, a variety of other denominations and non-denominational churches, as well as Reform Synagogues, spiritual centers and animal shelters are starting to hold pet blessings. Synagogues hold pet blessings in the spring around Passover or in the fall after the High Holy Days. A good place to find a list of church pet blessings is AmericanCatholic.org (see Resources below). If you can't find your city, contact a local parish.

2. Consider if you would like to bring your pet along or simply bring a photo of your pet. If your pet isn't able to attend (she might be under the weather or something really cool might be on Animal Planet), a photo will work.

3. Bring your dog on a leash and your cat or other pet in a carrier. Make sure your dog or cat has on a collar with current ID.

Hold a Pet Blessing

4. Conduct your own pet blessing if you can't find one in your area. It doesn't require a theology degree to bestow a blessing upon pets. You might even consider making it a neighborhood or community event.

5. Locate pet blessing prayers online or a good resource is "Blessing of the Animals: A Guide to Prayers and Ceremonies Celebrating Pets & Other Creatures" by Diana L. Guerrero.

6. Add your own special touch to the service and adapt it to the time and place. For instance, mention animals in the news that may be in trouble.

7. Obtain candles for the service. Electric might work better around animals, but if you prefer traditional candles, be sure to keep them out of reach.

8. Have live or recorded music to lend to the experience. You might recruit a singer or soloist from a church or synagogue choir.

Tags: find your, Hold Blessing, hold blessings

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Kennels In Texas

Staffordshire Bull Terriers were bred by crossing the English Bulldog with British terriers. Although the dogs have been in existence since the early 1800s, the American Kennel Club did not formally recognize the breed until 1975. Commonly known for their loyalty, love of people and their tenacity, this breed is an excellent watch dog for your family. Several breeders in Texas would be happy to share their love of the SBT with you.

Know Bull Staffords

Owners Sean and Maruzzella Holbeche breed Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Pit Bull Terriers. They have a video and pedigree package available to those interested in owning either type breed.

Knobull Staffords

Sean and Maruzzella Holbeche

PO Box 613

Del Valle, TX 78617

(512) 247-7983

knowbull.com

Ebonyhills Staffordshire Bull Terriers

Owner and breeder Tara Boyle has been breeding and showing SBTs for over 24 years. In addition to puppies, she also has older dogs that are not show perfect, but would make a great family pet. Ebonyhills also breeds French Bull Dogs.

Ebonyhills Staffordshire Bull Terriers

Tara Boyle

P.O. Box 1353

Graham, TX 76450

(940) 549-6529

ebonyhills.net

Mystykal Kennels

Mystykal breeds its SBTs to more closely resemble the SBT of "old," meaning more lean and muscular in the leg. Its website is still under construction, but it does feature current dog and puppy pictures, as well as breed and contact info available.

Mystykal Kennels

P.O. Box 897

Adkins, TX 78101

(210) 264-7418

mystykalkennels.net

Tags: Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Ebonyhills Staffordshire, Ebonyhills Staffordshire Bull, Maruzzella Holbeche, Mystykal Kennels

Rescue A Chihuahua In Colorado

Rescue a Chihuahua in Colorado

Chihuahuas are a very lovable and popular breed of dog. They are small, making them relatively simple to care for. This popularity, however, has its downside. Hundreds of Chihuahuas are abandoned every year, and Colorado has many homeless Chihuahuas.

Instructions

Rescue a Chihuahua in Colorado

1. Prepare your home well in advance of selecting your rescue Chihuahua. They are very small dogs and can squeeze into tight spaces, so remove any hazardous items.

2. Contact local shelters and rescue organizations to let them know of your interest in rescuing a Chihuahua. The Chihuahua Club of America and the Chihuahua and Small Dog Rescue, Inc., are organizations that maintain current listings of available Chihuahua for adoption in Colorado.

3. Visit any Chihuahuas at the rescue center you might be interested in adopting personally. Seeing a dog in person is the best way to determine how well he will fit into your home. Review and sign any required contracts once you have decided which Chihuahua you wish to adopt.

4. Call you vet to schedule an appointment for your new Chihuahua. You vet will check over your new dog to make sure she is free of illness and disease before you take her home.

5. Introduce your new Chihuahua to your family slowly. Allow your current animals to greet him at their own pace. Be sure that family members do not overhandle and place any undue stress on your new Chihuahua.

6. Place you new Chihuahua’s crate in a quiet spot and allow him time to settle in. Give him plenty of toys to play with and a comfortable place to rest.

7. Feed your new dog in an area separate from your other pets for a few days. This will give you a chance to monitor her food and water intake to be sure your new Chihuahua is settling in well.

Tags: your Chihuahua, Chihuahua Colorado, Rescue Chihuahua, Rescue Chihuahua Colorado, your home

Celebrate Be Kind To Animals Week

Families can foster the value of kindness to animals when children are young.

Be Kind to Animals Week is celebrated the first full week of May each year. Launched by the American Humane Association in 1915, the commemorative week has become a springboard for helping companion animals, laboratory animals, farm animals and wild animals. Since animal advocacy begins at home, use the week to launch efforts to help animals close to where you live. Expand the reach and impact of your efforts by branching out to areas farther away from you or integrating these ideas into your daily life.

Instructions

1. Hanging bird feeders provide kids with a way to help wildlife in their own backyard.

Create a wildlife-friendly backyard with seed and nectar feeders, plants that attract butterflies and water sources for wild birds.

2. Baffles and "critter" food redirects squirrels away from raiding bird feeders.

Use humane options to deter or redirect so-called "pests," such as rabbits in your vegetable garden, moles under your lawn, squirrels on your bird feeders and mice in your home.

3. Consumers who buy cruelty-free household products help animals.

Buy cruelty-free personal care and household products. Labels on items from shampoo to cleaners reveal which choices will be animal-friendly. Consumer directories list companies that do not test on animals or include animal ingredients in development or manufacturing.

4. Vegan food choices improve the lives of farm animals.

Eat vegan foods, which do not contain any animal ingredients. Integrate vegetarian foods into your regular diet, even if it is just one meal a day or one day a week. Veggie options in supermarkets and restaurants give people a chance to try new dishes based on vegetables, beans and grains rather than meat, eggs and dairy products.

5. Animal shelters and rescue groups help people save animals' lives.

Adopt a rescued companion animal. If you cannot adopt permanently, provide temporary in-home foster care for a homeless pet awaiting adoption or volunteer in other ways with a local rescue group or animal shelter.

6. Elderly neighbors may need help with companion animal care.

Organize your neighborhood to help animals. Residents can help elderly and disabled neighbors walk dogs, clean litter boxes or transport pets to the vet. If your area has stray free-roaming cats, which may also be called feral cats, coordinate the trap-neuter-return (TNR) of a colony. This effort will help humanely prevent more unwanted litters.

7. Children benefit from positive, personal interactions with animals of all types.

Volunteer at an animal sanctuary. Invite a mature child you know to come along and interact with horses, pigs, cows and turkeys firsthand. Volunteers can help feed the animals, clean living areas and provide human attention for animals in long-term care at sanctuaries.

8. Nonprofit organizations that help animals rely on individual donors for support.

Donate money, supplies or services to an animal-related charity. Hold a benefit rummage sale or bake sale, or ask for donations in lieu of birthday or wedding gifts. You may have a favorite nonprofit locally that you would like to support, or you can search Charity Navigator.

9. Letters-to-the-editor in newspapers are widely read in print and online editions.

Writer letters to your elected officials and to the editors of local newspapers expressing your support for measures that help and protect animals. According to The Sierra Club's Activist Toolkit, letters and faxes are more effective than emails and phone calls.

10. Positive laws and policies for animals depend on civic participation.

Contact your city, county, state and federal government officials about animal issues that are important to you. Your voice as one of their constituents can affect decisions about agency policies, local ordinances and national legislation. Vote for candidates who support initiatives that help animals, and encourage others to get involved in supporting animal-friendly issues.

Tags: help animals, bird feeders, that help, animal ingredients, Animals Week

Select A Labrador Retriever

Originally from Newfoundland, this very popular dog was bred to jump into the water and haul fishermen's nets ashore. Today, besides being good family pets, Labs are hunting dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, guide dogs and police dogs, used for detecting drugs and bombs.

Instructions

1. Choose a Lab if you want a friendly, loyal and affectionate companion. They're not good watchdogs but will bark if there's a reason.

2. Try a Labrador if you're looking for a good family dog. They're excellent with children.

3. Feel confident in adopting a Lab if you have other pets; they get along well with everyone.

4. Anticipate your adult Lab weighing 60 to 70 lbs. and standing about 23 inches at the shoulder.

5. Expect to pay between $200 and $400 for a good-quality dog.

6. Consider adopting a Lab from a rescue group. Most of these dogs are already housebroken and finished with the chewing stage. There's usually nothing wrong with the dog; the owners didn't research the breed and later discovered that they and the dog were incompatible.

7. Remember that Labs tend to be somewhat stubborn, which means that you must be consistent and patient while training them.

8. Note that Labs are enthusiastic puppies and are sometimes mistakenly thought to be hyperactive. The main reason people give up their Labs is that they're too active.

9. Be prepared to spend a fruitful 10 to 12 years with your Lab, as this is the average life expectancy of a Labrador retriever.

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How Is The Bengal Tiger Useful To Its Environment

The Bengal tiger is on the endangered-species list.

The Bengal tiger is the largest member of the cat family, reaching a weight of up to 500 lbs. The distinctive orange, white and black stripes form a different pattern on each tiger -- no two tigers look exactly the same. The purpose of the beautiful coloring is to camouflage them in the wild. Because it's a predator at the top of the food chain, the presence of the Bengal tiger means benefits for much smaller animals that share its environment.

Benefits to Other Animals

The Bengal tiger is a top-of-the-food-chain predator, which means it feeds on large and medium predators. This proves beneficial for maintaining the populations of the smaller animals on which the large and medium animals prey. In addition, the "leftovers" -- the carcasses and meat that remain after the tiger finishes its meal -- are fed upon by the smaller, less-aggressive animals that share the tiger's habitat.

Diet

Bengal tigers can eat up to 60 lbs. of meat a day. The large mammals upon which they feed include wild pigs, buffalo, antelope and deer. Tigers don't run long distances in pursuit of food but instead stalk their prey at dusk or dawn, hiding behind tall grasses until they pounce. The Bengal tiger will often drag its prey to a water source to consume it.

Habitat of the Bengal Tiger

A large population of Bengal tigers live in India, and the animal is strongly associated with that country. In fact the Bengal is sometimes referred to as an "Indian tiger." The cats are also found in Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Burma. There is also a population of Bengal tigers that lives at the mouth of the Ganges River, in the Sundarbans delta. These are the only tigers that have adapted to live in mangroves.

Risk for Extinction

Bengal tigers are in demand for their pelts. Powdered tiger bones also are a sought-after ingredient in Chinese medicine. Poachers have depleted the Bengal tiger population to such an extent that the animal is now on the endangered-species list. According to the World Wildlife Federation, there are only 3,200 tigers left in the wild.

Tags: Bengal tigers, Bengal tiger, Bengal tiger, animals that, animals that share, Bengal Tiger

Train A German Shepherd To Walk With A Horse

Horses and dogs work together well.

Dogs and horses are natural partners, but that does not mean that your dogs do not need training. It takes training to teach a dog like a German Shepherd to walk properly around horses, so if you own both dogs and horses you need to take the time to train the dogs properly. Teaching both horse and dog to be calm around one another is the best way to ensure that all interactions between the two animals will be safe ones.

Instructions

1. Find a partner to help you by walking your horse while you walk beside him with your German Shepherd. Handling a horse and a dog at the same time is too much of a challenge for one person alone.

2. Walk your dog so that he is aligned with the barrel of your horse. This is the safest place for the dog to be when interacting with the horse.

3. Ask your partner to stop your horse, then immediately cue your German Shepherd to stop. Tug lightly on the leash if the dog does not respond. Ask your dog to sit down while the horse is standing still.

4. Have your friend move off with the horse. As the horse moves off, ask your dog to walk along. Keep the dog at a safe distance from the horse. Keeping the dog at least six feet from the side of the horse will keep him out of kicking distance.

5. Ask your friend to walk your horse around a paddock, corral or other contained area. Make sure that the gate is closed so your horse cannot escape and get hurt. Walk the dog around near the horse. Stop and reprimand the dog if he tries to jump on the horse or nip at his heels. It is not necessary to strike the dog -- a sharp "no" and a snap of the lead should be sufficient.

6. Remove the leash from your German Shepherd and allow him to walk around the corral while your friend walks the horse around. Watch the dog closely and reprimand him sharply for any nipping or aggressive behavior. Keep the leash at the ready, and put the dog back on the lead if he misbehaves. Continue to work with your dog until he is able to interact politely and safely with the horse.

7. Ride your horse while your partner walks the German Shepherd next to you. Continue to have your partner walk the dog next to your horse for several days. If the dog remains calm and stops on cue, remove the leash and have your partner remain nearby while the German Shepherd walks alongside your horse s you ride.

Tags: your horse, German Shepherd, your partner, your friend, your German, your German Shepherd, have your

Cities On The Border Of Alabama And Florida

The Alabama-Florida state line makes up most of Alabama's southern border and Florida's northern border. Bordering cities on the Alabama-Florida state line are within an hour of beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. Some of the larger cities on the Alabama-Florida state line -- Dothan, Alabama, and Pensacola, Florida -- have their own regional airports. U.S. Highway 231 and Interstate 10 are the major highways crossing over the Alabama-Florida border.

Pensacola

Pensacola is the most populated city on the Florida side of the Alabama-Florida border with a population of 53,248, according to the 2006 U.S. Census Bureau. The city is also the westernmost municipality in Florida's Panhandle region. Escambia and Pensacola Bays lie to the east and south of the city. Some of Pensacola's largest suburbs include Pensacola Beach, Warrington, Gulf Breeze and Milton. Pensacola is also within 20 minutes of several recreation areas, including Gulf Islands National Seashore and Santa Rosa Island; both recreation areas are on the Gulf of Mexico.

Dothan

The largest city in Alabama on the Alabama-Florida border is Dothan, located near the southeastern corner of the state. The 2009 U.S. Census says Dothan's population is 67,560. The city's downtown area is approximately 15 minutes from the Alabama-Florida border. Dothan's southernmost suburbs -- the nearest to Florida -- include Madrid, Slocomb, Cottonwood and Hodgesville. Dothan is also within 20 minutes west of the Alabama-Georgia border. The city features the Dothan Regional Airport and Fort Rucker, a U.S. Army base less than a half-hour from Dothan.

Florala

Florala, Alabama, is on the Alabama-Florida border in Covington County and has a population of over 1,900 residents. The name of this city is a combination of the words "Florida" and "Alabama." The history of this city dates back to the end of the American Civil War when the area had a thriving timber industry. Florala is also home to Lake Jackson, a 500-acre body of water that straddles the Alabama-Florida state line. Lake Jackson has a 40-acre waterfront park -- Florala State Park -- on the state line; the park has a campground and picnic area.

Flomaton-Century

Flomaton, Alabama, and Century, Florida, are across the Alabama-Florida border from each other. Both cities share the same county name, Escambia. The 2000 U.S. Census reported Flomaton at over 1,500 residents, while Century had approximately 1,700 natives. Century and Flomaton are within 10 minutes of the Escambia River, a 258-mile river that flows from Union Springs, Alabama, to the Gulf of Mexico; the Escambia is called the Conecuh River until it reaches the Flomaton-Century area.

Atmore

Located in southern Alabama, Atmore is on the Alabama-Florida state line in Escambia County. The 2000 U.S. Census had Atmore with a population of 7,676 residents. The Poarch Band of Creek Indians reservation neighbors Atmore and is home to the Wind Creek Casino and Hotel. Atmore is within 10 minutes of Interstate 65. The city hosts the annual Mayfest event at Tom Byrne Park, which is a five-minute drive from Alabama-Florida border; this event has live music and arts & crafts booths.

Tags: Alabama-Florida border, state line, Alabama-Florida state, Alabama-Florida state line, within minutes, Gulf Mexico

Baby Birds Found In The Wild

Baby birds need to be handled with care.

Finding a baby bird alone on the ground is not unusual in spring. While they may appear lost and helpless, most of the times the parents are nearby and still caring for them. Before attempting to rescue any baby bird, a health inspection should be done. Injured baby birds should be taken to a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian. When finding healthy baby birds, the approach to be taken is different depending on the age of the bird.

Finding Hatchlings

Hatchlings are young birds, less than five days old. They are naked or with minimal feather development. Because of their young age, they need feeding every 10 to 15 minutes and they loose body heat quickly. They need to be taken to a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible because they require specialized care.

Finding Nestlings

These are young birds that are not fully feathered -- if their tails are feathered, these are less than a half inch long -- and they need to be put back in their nest. Sometimes nestlings are found on the ground near remains of their nest so a substitute nest has to be prepared for them. An old margarine tub lined with dry grass and the remnants of their nests will do the trick. Placing the bird on this nest and then hanging the nest from its original tree or a nearby tree will keep the baby bird safe. Always observe from a distance if the parents are away from the nest. If after two hours you see no sign of the parents, call a wildlife rehabilitator.

Finding Fledglings

Fledglings are fully feathered mobile birds. Their tail feathers are 3/4 inch or longer. Normally found near or on the ground, they hop around trying to take off in short awkward flights. They are not good candidates for re-nesting because they are too old, but they still need to be reunited with their parents as they rely on them for food. When no predators such as cats or dogs are nearby, the best thing to do is leave them where they are and make sure their parents are close-by. With predators around, place the bird on bushes or on a tree limb nearby. In both cases, if you see no signs of the parents after two hours, call a wildlife rehabilitator.

Finding an Injured Baby Bird

When finding an injured baby, extreme care needs to be taken when handling it. Do not attempt to feed or give water to the bird as this may cause more harm. Only provide water if instructed to do so by a wildlife rehabilitator. Place the baby in a small shoe box with a soft towel in it. The box should be placed on a warm, dark and quiet spot away from pets and humans. A wildlife rehabilitator should be contacted. The state wildlife agency or a wildlife veterinarian should be contacted when unable to reach the wildlife rehabilitator.

Tags: wildlife rehabilitator, after hours, away from, baby bird, because they, bird this

Buy Allergyfree Pets

Buy Allergy-Free Pets

The idea of allergy-free pets might seem too good to be true, but it is actually possible to find pets that rarely cause allergic reactions. Keep in mind that animal dander, the source of many reactions, is a product of animal skin rather than animal hair. This means the length of an animal's fur doesn't necessarily correspond to its ability to provoke allergies.

Instructions

1. Consider the hypoallergenic option. Hypoallergenic pet breeds will still produce allergens, but, due to their coat types, they typically produce low amounts. However, people with severe allergies and asthma can still be affected by a seemingly hypoallergenic pet.

2. Select cat breeds that produce fewer allergens, such as the Norwegian Forest cat. Consider the newer Allerca® breed, in which the gene that causes cats to produce allergens has been bred out. These allergy-free cats are expensive, and you may have to wait months to get one.

3. Notice the different types of fur when you buy a dog. Two coat types produce fewer allergens: single-coated dogs, which do not have a thick undercoat, and hairless dogs. However, even hairless dogs can produce enough dander to bother an allergic person. A popular breed of hairless dog is the American Hairless Terrier.

4. Buy a dog that does not shed. Some breeds, such as Yorkshire Terriers, have the same pH level in their fur as humans. This type of dog produces little to no dander. Poodles also don't shed much.

5. Consider reptiles or fish as your allergy-free pets. Buy these animals if you simply cannot deal with pet hair. These pets do not cause allergic reactions because they have scales rather than skin that can flake.

6. Buy a bird. Allergies to birds are less common than dog or cat allergies. However, note that some people can have an allergic reaction to birds. When a bird preens itself, or ruffles its feathers, the dander is sent into the air and can come into contact with your skin or lungs.

Tags: allergic reactions, cause allergic, cause allergic reactions, coat types, fewer allergens, hairless dogs, produce allergens

Grand Mal Seizures In German Shepherds

German sheperds often are genetically predisposed to epilepsy.

The German shepherd is one breed in a group of dogs that commonly possesses a genetic factor that causes epilepsy. Other dogs in this group include Belgian Tervurens, beagles, dachshunds and keeshonds.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of primary epilepsy in dogs is difficult. Generally, epilepsy is diagnosed when all other causes for seizures have been ruled out. Other causes for seizures are low blood sugar, brain tumors, vaccines and severe worm infestations.

Time Frame

The first seizures in German shepherds suffering from primary, or genetic, epilepsy can occur between 1 year and 5 years of age.

Symptoms-Tonic Stage

A grand mal seizure starts with the tonic stage where the dog falls and becomes unconscious and stops breathing. The tonic stage lasts about 10 to 30 seconds.

Symptoms-Clonic Stage

The clonic stage of a grand mal seizure follows the tonic stage and includes frantic movement of the limbs. This stage can also include salivating, urinating or defecating.

Treatment

Treatment for seizures is recommended when the dog has more then one seizure per month. The most common treatments are antiseizure medications like phenobarbital or primidone.

Tags: tonic stage, causes seizures, grand seizure

Make Horse Expenses Tax Deductible

Horses are expensive, but can be a great tax write-off.

Horses can be a wonderful tax write-off. The amount of money you can spend feeding, housing, and caring for a horses, or horses, can be huge, and depending on the situation, can be counted as a "write-off" on your taxes. But it's important to know what the IRS considers deductible expenses. The government will see if your horses are a "hobby" or a "business."

Instructions

1. Start by researching the IRS website and reading pamphlets about small business. You must familiarize yourself with the rules associated with owning and operating a small business or sole proprietorship. It is also wise to contact a CPA and schedule a consult about running a small business and the tax forms you will be expected to fill out.

2. Claim your horses as a business-as long as you follow certain rules. You must keep all your accounting for your horse business separate from your personal account. Every expense must be accompanied by documentation and a receipt, and any mileage used for business must be noted in a log book. In addition, you must turn a profit within seven years to establish yourself as a viable business to the IRS.

3. Consider becoming an LLC, or limited liability company. LLC's never have to show a profit and limit personal liability, protecting personal assets in the case of legal issues. As an LLC, all business expenses relating to the horses can be written off.

4. Consult with a certified personal accountant who specializes in Equine Tax Law. They are aware of all the rules and regulations for claiming horses as a tax deduction. Check with your local Business Bureau for a listing of CPA's and their contact information. You can also contact local horse farms for a referral and see who they use.

Tags: small business, business must, your horses

What Kind Of Animals Are Reptiles

Many reptiles have scaly skin.

Reptiles come in all shapes, sizes and colors, and live in almost every climate in the world. They share many similar characteristics, while also fitting into distinct subcategories that highlight their unique habits and attributes. For anyone interested in animals, learning about reptiles is essential.

Common Features

Certain characteristics are shared by almost all reptiles, including rough skin often covered by scales, reproduction by egg laying, a cold-blooded metabolism and lungs for breathing. Most reptiles are carnivorous, with a considerably slower digestive rate than mammals. They also have a much lower energy requirement compared to mammals and in some cases can sustain themselves for weeks on one meal.

Alligators and Crocodiles

This category of reptiles is well known for its size, power and ferocious hunting habits. The main differences between alligators and crocodiles are in the shape of their jaws and their preferred habitat. Crocodiles have more pointed snouts and are more suited for saltwater. Alligators have more rounded snouts and prefer freshwater. They both have insatiable appetites and can eat up to half of their body weight in one meal.

Lizards

Lizards vary greatly in size and are closely related to snakes. They have small heads, a long body and equally long tails. They can live in a variety of places, including trees, under ground or in water. Geckos, iguanas and chameleons are examples of more commonly known and researched lizards. Reptiles from the dinosaur era are in many ways very similar in appearance to modern-day lizards.

Turtles and Tortoises

This category of reptiles is known for slow movement and hard shells made of bone that can be used defensively. Turtles spend most of their life in the water, while tortoises are typically land dwellers. They also have different types of feet: Turtles have flippers for swimming while tortoises have stumps for walking. Both enjoy an omnivorous diet of plants, fish, insects, worms and snails.

Snakes

Most snakes have no arms or legs, with the exception of primitive snakes like pythons and boa constrictors, which have nonfunctional nub-like bone remnants under their skin. Snakes tend to be extremely quick and agile, often using venom to paralyze their prey or creatures they perceive to be threats. Commonly known species of snakes include rattlesnakes, gardener snakes, cobras, anacondas, pythons and boa constrictors. Although a fear of snakes is not uncommon, snakes actually can be very useful in keeping rodent and other pest populations under control.

Tags: also have, category reptiles, have more, pythons constrictors, They also, They also have, This category

Goldendoodle Puppy Training

A goldendoodle is half golden retriever.

In the 1990s breeders launched a hybrid breed called goldendoodle, a cross between a standard poodle and golden retriever. Standard goldendoodles grow to about 45 lbs., make excellent family pets and train easily. These are sociable pets: they love people, children and other dogs, but if left alone for extended periods of time, goldendoodles tend to get into mischief. A basic obedience-training program begun in "puppyhood" enhances this animal's strengths and makes living together harmonious.

Positive Reinforcement Training

Goldendoodles are half standard poodle.

While every training situation is different, most professional dog trainers recommend learning the basics of positive-reinforcement training and finding the right pace for your dog. Training a goldendoodle puppy requires you to keep your training lessons short (5 to 10 minutes) to hold its attention. Puppies distract easily, so you want to avoid long training durations so you're using the time to teach a new behavior, rather than rallying your pup's attention.

Operant Conditioning

Positive reinforcement training draws on operant conditioning, which asserts consequences influence behavior. A behavior is strengthened (occurs more frequently) when reinforcements follow, when punishment follows an unwanted behavior, such as jumping, that behavior diminishes.

Punishment

Positive reinforcement (R+) trainers use punishment differently than trainers who implement leash corrections, or tightening a choke collar to indicate displeasure. R+ trainers withdraw attention from the "bad" behavior. For example, goldendoodle puppies tend to jump. Rather than kneeing the dog in the chest to discourage the behavior, quickly turn and step away from it---withdrawing attention from your dog. No attention works as punishment since most dogs jump for the pleasure and reward of your attention. Kneeing or pushing your dog away, while negative attention, is attention nevertheless and reinforces jumping.

Teach an Alternate Behavior

But you don't want to simply turn away from your jumping dog and leave it open-ended; that won't teach the goldendoodle greet politely. After you've stepped away for a few seconds, turn and face your dog. As long as its paws are on the floor, step forward and say, "Sit." Bring a treat to its nose and raise it above your dog's head so it is looking at it. Don't repeat the word "Sit." Now wait.

Reinforce Good Behavior

After a few seconds (or minutes, depending on your dog's attention span) your goldendoodle will sit. As soon as its hind-end hits the floor calmly reward and give your dog lots of attention, but do it calmly. You've just taught your dog an alternate behavior to jumping: A dog can't sit and jump at the same time.

Troubleshooting

If your dog pops up before sitting, walk away, withdraw your attention and try again. Practicing this often will reinforce sitting for attention, rather than jumping, since jumping sends you away. Goldendoodles are smart and will catch on quickly.

Tags: your attention, attention from, away from, from your, golden retriever, Positive reinforcement, rather than

Talk Like A Rapper

Everyone is looking for a way to boost his or her street cred with the least amount of effort. Sure, you could pimp out your car or get some serious bling, but those things cost money. If a person is looking for a cheap and easy way to increase his or her street cred, they just need to talk like a rapper. It also has the added advantage of spicing up that business meeting or PTA luncheon.

Instructions

1. Truncate the words you use. Rappers are busy people with all the music videos and keeping it real, so they don't have the time to waste by enunciating every word. Therefore, "For sure" becomes "Fo sur" or "All right" translates to "Aiht" and so on.

2. Curse for no reason when trying to talk like a rapper. Rappers are so angry that expletives populate their vocabulary in the normal course of speech. Most people utter these words when angry or frustrated, but rappers spew them as if they were paid by the curse word. Therefore, if you want to talk like a rapper, you need to let the expletives fly no matter where you are.

3. Let the words trail off slowly as you say them. For example, instead saying "All right" you would say "Aihttttt." Be sure to extend that last "T" sound for a second or two and then slowly decrease the volume.

4. Give a nickname to everyone you know. A rapper would never have a friend named Bob. If a Rapper were talking to that person, he would name him B-Money or B-Pimp or B-Large--you get the picture. If you want to talk like a rapper, all your friends, family and co-workers need a nickname.

Tags: talk like, like rapper, talk like rapper, street cred, want talk

Make Bean Scarf Coolers To Wrap Around Your Neck

Anyone working in hot conditions would enjoy a neck cooler.

Neckbands filled with dried pinto or kidney beans, can be placed in a freezer, prior to use, for cooling, or in a microwave to heat them up for warming. These neckbands are cheap and easy to make, and would be a welcome gift for anyone you know that has to work in hot conditions, such as foundry workers or military personnel stationed in desert locations.

Instructions

1. Cut a piece of cotton fabric 9-inches wide by 22-inches long.

2. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, with the right side of the fabric facing inwards.

3. Sew along one of the short ends and the long side to make a tube. Leave a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Sew over this line of stitching two or three times to make strong seams.

4. Turn the tube so the ride side of the fabric is facing out.

5. Fill the tube two-thirds full with dried beans.

6. Fold the open end in on itself, by approximately 1/2-inch. Sew this seam up securely.

Tags: fabric facing, side fabric, side fabric facing, with dried

Rescue A Pet From Abuse

Animal abuse is a major issue in the United States, which happens most often in a troubled economy. Animal abuse includes physical abuse, a lack of food and water, medical abuse and inhumane living conditions. The American Humane Association says it is up to you to notice abuse cases and report them. Through hard work and compassion thousands of animals are rescued every year.

Instructions

1. Assess the animals in the neighborhood. Although humane societies and animal shelters work hard to locate abused animals, it is important that citizens notice and report abuse cases as well. Signs of animal abuse include malnutrition, skin infections and hair loss, flea or tick infestations, untreated wounds or injuries, a lack of proper shelter, an animal that is chained incorrectly, no access to food or water and obvious physical abuse.

2. Locate the nearest animal shelter, human society or rescue organization to report the animal abuse. Animal officers will inspect the situation and remove the animal if necessary. When an owner is unwilling to comply with the animal officer, a search warrant can be obtained with the assistance of the police department.

3. Provide a written statement that documents the level of abuse that occurred. The pet rescue association as well as the police can take the abusive owner to court for animal neglect or animal cruelty. In most cases it is better to let professionals handle animal abuse cases instead of an individual citizens getting involved directly.

4. Supply food and water to any animals that have been abandoned or left without nourishment. Professional rescuers will visit the location as soon as possible, but if an individual can safely supply the animal with food and water it is beneficial until help arrives.

5. Realize that animal abuse does occur regularly and involves pets, farm animals and exotic animals. The Stop Animal Cruelty website explains that citizens should contact the local police department to stress the importance of animal cruelty investigations. Contact your state representatives to help enforce animal cruelty laws on a local, state and national level.

Tags: food water, abuse cases, animal abuse, animal cruelty, physical abuse, police department

Grants To Pay For Veterinary Care For Service Dogs

Working service dogs are eligible to receive generous grants for veterinary care.

Service dogs are canines workers that are specially trained to assist human beings -- and society as a whole -- in a number of important and constructive ways. Some service dogs are trained to help the sick and elderly with the struggles of day-to-day life, while others, such as fire-house dogs and drug-sniffing police dogs, help save lives and fight crimes. Whether you are a handicapped individual with a helpful companion or a civil servant leading a brigade of canine crime-fighters, numerous organizations offer grants to pay for veterinary care for your service dogs.

Planet Dog Foundation

The "Planet Dog Foundation" is a non-profit organization that focuses on assisting foundations nationwide that train, care for and support the placement of working service dogs. As of early 2011, the foundation awards cash grants up $7,500 to non-profit organizations for the training, veterinary care and day-to-day expenses of assistance dogs. Such dogs may include service dogs for the blind and disabled, psychiatric service or therapy dogs, or police and fire stations dogs. Eligible applicants must verify an accredited membership to a reputable non-profit animal organization such as Assistance Dogs International, Delta Society or Therapy Dogs International.

International Association of Assistance Dog Partners - IAADP

Membership certainly does have its privileges when it comes to the canines of the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP). The IAADP maintains a fund for members called the Veterinary Care Partnership (VCP) program, which provides financial assistance grants to service-dog owners who are experiencing difficulties affording veterinary care. The VCP program is sponsored in part by donations from recognized major corporations such as Bayer Aspirin, Nestle, Purina and Procter & Gable. Grant applications must be completed by the veterinarian treating your service dog. Qualified applicant must own service dogs that are over 18 months old and not retired from active duty.

Land of Pure Gold

The Land of Pure Gold foundation is a non-profit organization run 100 percent by volunteers and funded by charitable donations. Though the foundation provides grant awards for numerous canine causes, the focus of its Working Dog Cancer Treatment Grant Program is restricted to service dogs suffering from various types of canine cancer. In 2011, the program provides owners of working service dogs with up to $500 for veterinary-prescribed cancer treatments. Working service dogs of all ages and breeds are eligible to apply for this funding. Retired services dogs are not eligible.

Assistance Dog Special Allowance Program (ADSA)

Blind, disabled, hard of hearing or deaf residents of California who own service dogs can apply for ongoing financial grants from the Assistance Dog Special Allowance Program (ADSA). ADSA provides qualified applicants with a monthly cash award of $50 to help care for their canine companions and service providers. The funds can be used at the recipient's discretion for dog food, grooming or veterinary expenses. In order to qualify, you must be a California resident, hard of hearing or disabled, own a registered service dog and receive benefits from a program such as SSI, SSP, IHSS, CAPI or SDI.

Tags: service dogs, service dogs, veterinary care, Allowance Program, Allowance Program ADSA, Assistance Partners, Assistance Partners IAADP

Adopt A Dog In Orange County

Adopting a dog for your family is a generous thing to do.

Adopting a dog is a selfless and humane act of kindness. Many Orange County shelters and pet adoption centers, despite their best efforts to keep dogs healthy, happy and loved, are overrun, understaffed and unable to give dogs the individual attention they need. When you choose to adopt a previously loved -- or unloved -- dog, you are saving a life. The process of adopting an animal differs depending on the Orange County adoption center you choose to visit; most of the animal adoption centers provide an online photo gallery of dogs in need of homes for you to find your perfect four-legged companion.

Instructions

1. Visit the website of any Orange County animal adoption center to view the animals in need of adoption, or visit the adoption center in person to inquire about a specific animal. The Orange County Animal Care website provides a list of all animal adoption shelters in Orange County, and each location's contact information.

2. Visit the pet adoption center to meet the dog you want, or to meet all of the dogs in the shelter so you can find the one you want to adopt.

3. Speak with a shelter employee about adopting a specific dog. Once you make your final decision, you will be assisted in the office of the animal adoption center.

4. Pay the fee for the dog. The cost varies depending on the animal you adopt and typically includes licensing, immunizations, microchipping, and spaying or neutering the dog. Acceptable methods of payment also may vary.

5. Pick up your dog when the shelter notifies you that it's ready. The dog must have its shots and other vet services prior to taking him home.

Tags: Orange County, adoption center, animal adoption, adoption centers, animal adoption center

Train Dogs To Go Potty In One Spot

Use a leash to train dogs to eliminate in one spot.

Training your dog or puppy to go potty in one spot can make daily dog care a lot easier. And in wintertime it can help bring you and your pooch in from the cold faster. It also can save you and your visitors the task of cleaning shoes soiled by an embarrassingly wrong step in your yard. Some lawns benefit from training dogs to go potty in one spot. The high nitrogen content in dog urine can cause lawn burn patches on many types of grasses. Properly training your dog can restrict damage to one area.

Instructions

1. Contain your crate-trained puppy or dog in its crate at bedtime, if you're working with a crate-trained dog. Make sure the animal is comfortable being in the crate and exhibits no signs of distress. The crate should be large enough to accommodate the dog or puppy but not so large that the dog will be tempted to eliminate at one end of it. Sophia Yin, D.V.M., author of "Behave So Your Dog Behaves" suggests restricting access to fresh water until morning if you're working with a puppy.

2. Take your dog outside first thing in the morning on a leash. Bring a few dog treats with you. Walk your dog to the designated elimination spot quickly. Stand still to prevent your dog from wandering around.

3. As soon as your dog begins eliminating, use a verbal cue in an encouraging voice. This cue can be, "Go potty," "Hurry up" or any other phrase or word that you'll use every time you want to remind the dog to eliminate.

4. Immediately after your dog eliminates, feed it a treat while praising it warmly and petting it. Don't allow any time to lapse between when your dog is finished and when you give it the treat and praise. Your reinforcement of your dog's behavior should be immediate in order to be effective, says the Humane Society of the United States.

5. If your dog does not eliminate after you stand outside with it for 10 minutes, take it back inside. Wait 15 minutes before repeating the entire procedure again. Make sure you always walk your dog to the same spot. Repeat as often as necessary. In between attempts offer your dog food, water and playtime according to its regular schedule. Watch the dog carefully. Eating, drinking or playing may make it want to go potty, especially if it is a puppy. If you observe the dog whining, circling, sniffing the floor or panting, take it outside immediately.

6. Prompt your dog to go potty in one spot, after several weeks of practice. When you take it out, say the cue before it begins to eliminate. Quickly offer it a treat as soon as it is finished.

Tags: potty spot, Make sure, working with

What Is The Safest Way To Sell A Wow Account

What Is the Safest Way to Sell a WoW Account?

The popularity of the online MMORPG World of Warcraft has become unquestionable over the last decade. With this being said, the more experienced players have begun to sell their accounts to help out other players. But with the good always comes the bad, and players inevitably find themselves getting ripped off by others. The question, then, is how can you safely sell your World of Warcraft account without getting ripped off?

MMO Account Sites

MMO account sites are generally user-friendly and will give you an instant quote of how much your account is worth and, if you like the pricing, you can instantly accept their offer, and they will send you a PayPal payment to purchase the account from you. The only problem with selling your account like this is you most likely will be getting less than market value.

Reputable sites that do this are GamePal, Buy MMO Accounts, and MMO Bay, which have become leaders in the business of helping sell characters and game stats to consumers over the Internet.

PayPal

PayPal has become a safe and easy way to buy and sell goods over the Internet. The site offers protection by being a segue between you and the consumer and will remedy problems that occur with the transaction. Before the transaction is complete, make sure the purchaser agrees, through email, with everything he is getting in the purchase; in the case he disputes the transaction, you can show PayPal the emails that were exchanged.

Also, get paid before giving the purchaser your account. There is little way to prove it was your account if he has the password; ensuring you have received your payment first means that he can have the password to do as he wishes after the sale is complete.

Tags: your account, getting ripped, over Internet, Safest Sell, Safest Sell Account, Sell Account, What Safest

Find A Veterinarian Who Specializes In Felines

Cats are special animals for many pet owners. Along with love, companionship and loyalty, cats can also give their owners anxiety when health problems occur. While small-animal veterinarians who see both dogs and cats can provide excellent care, veterinarians who specialize in felines may be more knowledgeable. They are more familiar with feline diseases and may be better equipped to help your kitty. You may need to do a little research to find a vet who specializes in cats.

Instructions

Do Your Homework

1. Ask a small-animal veterinarian for recommendations. Most doctors will understand when pet owners want to take their cats to veterinarians who specialize in feline care. And veterinarians typically know other veterinarians.

2. If your feline is purebred, ask a breed club for recommendations. Most breeds have clubs or organizations, such as the International Bengal Cat Society or the Ragamuffin Associated Group. These clubs typically provide information about health and behavior associated with a specific breed. Most breed club members take their cats to veterinarians who specialize in felines.

3. Talk to cat breeders for recommendations. Generally, they are dedicated to the health and well-being of felines, especially their own. Many will be willing to share information.

4. Search online for feline veterinary specialists by visiting the American Association of Feline Practitioners at catvets.com. Enter your zip code into the search tool.

Tags: veterinarians specialize, breed club, care veterinarians, cats veterinarians, cats veterinarians specialize

Come Across Squirrel Monkeys For Sale

Find a squirrel monkey for sale.

Squirrel monkeys for sale are not as complicated to find as many individuals might believe. Squirrel monkeys are available from exotic pet stores, exotic pet breeders, and also third parties that may have owned one but are unable to keep it. Be sure you know the laws and regulations of your city and state before buying a squirrel monkey to keep as a pet. Many states ban monkey ownership entirely.

Instructions

1. Check with your local exotic pet store, if you have one, to see if they sell squirrel monkeys. Talk with the pet store employees about the responsibilities involved in owning a monkey. They are much more complicated pets than dogs or cats.

2. Scour the web for exotic pet stores because they usually have a relatively large selection of squirrel monkeys for sale. When you buy a monkey from stores like this they will ship them to a local affiliate pet store where you can pick them up and receive proper care training. Make sure you check out the legitimacy of the online store before sending them money. Look for reviews from other buyers before purchasing from an online store.

3. Find exotic pet classified ads on the web or in the newspaper. Many times, breeders will advertise on these sites, so you can bypass the middleman of an online or brick-and-mortar pet store. One of the benefits of buying a squirrel monkey from a place like this is that they come from people who have vast amounts of knowledge and experience with these animals because they breed and sell them on a regular basis. Again, do your due diligence and check out a business before sending them money.

4. Place a wanted ad in your local paper or online saying you are seeking to buy a squirrel monkey. Be specific about the type of monkey you want.

Tags: squirrel monkey, because they, before sending, before sending them, buying squirrel, buying squirrel monkey

Buy A Bobcat Animal

These large cats are available for purchase.

Bobcats are large American cats commonly found from Mexico to Canada. Exotic pet traders often post listings for bobcat adults and kittens, but check your local exotic animal laws before purchasing a bobcat.

Bitterroot's Bobcats

A professional bobcat and lynx breeder in the United States, Bitteroot has a yearly breeding schedule for selling bobcat kittens. You can reserve a kitten before the breeding season, and there are many times throughout the year that you can put in an order for a kitten.

Pets 4 You

Bobcats are efficient hunters in the wild.

This website regularly updates with listings of unusual cat breeds, including bobcat hybrids. A bobcat hybrid is a genetic mixture of both a bobcat and a domestic cat. These animals are not considered wild animals, and should bypass laws prohibiting a "normal" bobcat.

Other Exotic Pet Websites and Options

Websites such as Exoticanimalsforsale.net and Domesticsale.com frequently post listings for bobcats for sale. Check online to see if there are big cat breeders near your location, and visit them. Buying a bobcat from a local dealer would save on costly shipping charges.

Tags: post listings

Hamsterz 2 Tips

Hamster

Ubisoft's "Petz: Hamsterz 2" is a virtual pet video game for the Nintendo DS. The game allows players to adopt and care for their own virtual hamster pet. Much like a real hamster, the virtual version requires food, water, supplies and attention to live and thrive in its virtual cage.

Hamster Care

Make sure your hamster has food and water in its cage, and clean the cage often. Pet your hamster, play with it and buy it toys to keep it happy.

Every time your hamster does something it likes, you will earn stars. Stars are the game's currency. Use the stars at the pet shop to buy more food and supplies. You will earn stars for petting and playing with your hamster; you will also earn stars whenever the hamster eats or drinks.

If you see a lightning bolt or a water-drop icon when you pet your hamster, this means that the hamster is not in a good mood, and you should leave it alone for the time being. Try giving your hamster a treat or a new toy to brighten its mood. Do not worry if the hamster has a "?" icon over its head, since this only means it is curious about something, such as a new cage addition.

If you neglect your hamster for too long, it will become ill. Take the hamster to the care center to improve its health. If you are going to leave your hamster alone for a long period of time, take it to the health center in advance so that it will be properly cared for.

Shops and Friends

As you earn stars, you can spend them at the pet shop. Your first purchase should be a cleaner, so you can clean the hamster's cage. You should then restock any food or treats. With the remaining stars, purchase toys or cage additions. Hamsters love to crawl in tubes, and a hamster wheel makes for a good cage addition that will earn you more stars. If you can afford it, you can also purchase two-story cages that give your hamster more room to play. The shop's inventory changes over time, so visit it often to look for new items.

Speak with the other characters in the shop. They will give you additional tips and access to new mini-games. If you speak with a character enough times, you may befriend her. You will be able to take your hamster over to her house or invite her over to yours. Hamsters will earn lots of stars when they play together; however, use moderation when transporting your hamster, since it will become angry if you remove it from the cage too often.

Partners

When hamsters of the same breed and opposite gender meet each other, they may become "partners." Hamsters who partner with each other will cause the female to become pregnant. After a while, it will give birth. If your hamster has a baby, take care of it in the same way you would an adult hamster. Purchase additional toys and equipment to accommodate the new hamster.

Tags: your hamster, earn stars, will earn, cage addition, cage often