Fix Your Dog Or Cat

Unless you are a breeder, neutering or spaying is a humane and ethical element of caring for your pet. It reduces many health risks and ensures that your pet will not contribute to the overpopulation of animal shelters.

Instructions

1. Buy a pet carrier and train your pet to ride in it. If your dog is too large for a carrier, teach him to ride in the backseat of the car. Provide yummy treats after a drive so the pet has positive associations with car rides. This will make trips to the veterinarian's office much easier.

2. Bring your pet to a reputable veterinarian. Word of mouth is the best way to find a good vet. The veterinarian will tell you when your pet is old enough for neutering or spaying. It might be as early as eight weeks.

3. Follow any presurgery instructions the veterinarian provides.

4. Act calmly and lovingly as you bring your pet in for surgery. Your attitude can soothe your furry friend.

5. After the surgery, administer any pain-management medications to your pet according to your vet's instructions.

6. Call your veterinarian's office the following day. A diligent vet will want a post-op update.

7. Monitor your pet closely for the next 24 hours. Contact your vet immediately if you see symptoms of possible complications (vomiting, failure to eat, weakness, bleeding or swelling).

8. If your pet is chewing or licking the incision, ask your veterinarian about getting a special collar to prevent this.

9. Keep your pet indoors for a few days while he or she heals, to reduce the risk of torn sutures or infection. Understand that females will typically take a longer time to mend since an ovariohysterectomy is a more involved surgery than a castration is.

10. Schedule a return visit to your veterinarian when it is time to have the sutures removed.

Tags: your veterinarian, neutering spaying, veterinarian office

Become A Foster Parent For Animals In New Jersey

Fostering is encouraged in New Jersey.

Fostering an animal is a terrific volunteer opportunity, greatly appreciated by animal shelters, which are often overcrowded and overwhelmed. Animal shelters in New Jersey are willing to accept applicants for fostering while some shelters provide all supplies necessary for the temporary home of one of their animals. Many different types of animals can be fostered; the need extends beyond the traditional dogs or cats. Before fostering an animal in any state, consider your family situation and evaluate the available space on your home and land.

Instructions

1. Contact a shelter such as Angel Paws in Colonia or Animal Sanctuary Society, Inc. in Mount Laurel. Inquire into the fostering programs. Ask for specific steps required to become a foster parent to an animal from the shelter.

2. Prepare the home according to the shelter's instructions. If the shelter needs fosters for young animals, be prepared to accept an animal such as a puppy who may destroy your possessions. Prepare a place in the barn to accept larger barn animals, such as horses. New Jersey has a mix of cities and farms, so animals placed for adoption range from small to large animal types.

3. Obtain, fill out and hand in all paperwork associated with fostering in New Jersey. The shelters will be interested in your family and the ages of people living in your household. Shelters test animals before placing them, so if you have certain family members, such as small children, you will not be fostering a nervous animal who does not like loud noises.

4. Welcome representatives from the shelter into your New Jersey home for a home inspection or attend a personal interview with a shelter representative. Placing an animal with a foster family requires consideration of the family as well as the animal, so the shelter will need to understand the type of family dynamic is accepting the animal.

Tags: from shelter, your family

Find A Pet For Sale In Louisiana

Lousiana animal lovers have resources for finding new pets.

Taking on the responsibility of a new pet is a major commitment, so finding the right one is a lengthy and involved process. You don't want to just stroll into a national chain store and buy a pet like you would buy a bag of potato chips. You should do your homework first and invest in a pet with a good background and a reputable seller. Fortunately, the state of Louisiana is home to kennel clubs and breeders associations that will aid you in your search for the perfect pet.

Instructions

1. Contact a local breeder referral club, like the Alexandria Kennel Club in Pineville or the Acadiana Kennel Club, Inc. in Lafayette. These clubs may help you find a reputable breeder.

2. Contact a breeders association like the Louisiana Quarter Horse Breeders Association, or the Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association. Groups like these may refer breeders or even hold sales themselves.

3. Visit an adoption center to give a home to an animal in need. These adoption centers may accept donations or charge adoption fees for taking home your pet, so you will still get the paperwork and vaccinations you need.

4. Ask breeders for references and be critical when visiting them to make sure they are reputable. For example, make sure that your breeder keeps veterinary records, uses premium animal food and keeps the animals in hospitable conditions.

Tags: Breeders Association, Kennel Club, make sure

Be An Animal Advocate

Advocating for dogs is noble work

You can advocate for dogs in a variety of ways. Giving a dog a good home and high quality of life is a basic way many people advocate for dogs. But there are other ways as well. Here are some tips on how you can advocate for dogs.

Instructions

1. Call your local American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) or another animal shelter in your area. Talk to a counselor and find out what the needs of the community are regarding dogs. You will probably be told about neutering, medical care and dog homelessness.

2. Determine how you want to advocate for dogs now that you know their needs. Do you want to donate money for the neutering or medical services of stray dogs? Do you want to work with local lobbyists to create new laws that positively affect dogs in your area? Or do you want to foster care dogs in preparation for them to go into a permanent home? Decide where you can best help.

3. Write down your first task and post it where you can see it. This may sound simple, but it's important for your success.

4. Get to work! Volunteer at your local ASPCA. Write your congressman. Tell your neighbors and friends about your new aim in life. Rescue sick dogs. These are all ways you can advocate for dogs. You can also always adopt a dog.

5. Check your success as an advocate. You should do this after 30 days of your first task. Ask yourself a question: Did you help a dog or dogs with your task? If the answer is “yes,” pat yourself on the back and keep up the good work. If your answer is no, pat yourself on the back for trying and do another task. Failure is a way to hone your skills and find out best how you can help dogs.

Tags: advocate dogs, answer yourself, answer yourself back, best help, first task

Teach A Pet Monkey Tricks

From the days of the organ grinders, monkeys have been trained to do tricks. Whatever the species, pet monkeys are intelligent and capable of being good companions if tamed and trained properly. But they are still wild animals, and special care is needed to make sure the relationship works for both human and monkey.

Instructions

1. Get professional help. Unless you are experienced with monkeys, ask for help from experts on deal with specific situations. An exotic animal like a pet monkey is not like a dog or cat, so you must be sure you are doing the right thing from the moment you acquire the primate.

2. Wait until the monkey is an adult to trick train. Professional handlers say it's best to use their juvenile years for taming, and then begin teaching him to do tricks. Starting too early undermines the training.

3. Start simple. Begin with easy tricks before working up to ones which are more complicated.

4. Make certain the pet money knows exactly what you want her to do. Use the same command each time, and teach only 1 trick at a time. Let her master a trick before moving on to the next one.

5. Reward with food. Use a special treat your pet monkey loves as the reward for doing a trick. Hide the treat and withhold it until he does the trick. If he sees the treat it may only frustrate him and increase your chances of getting bit.

6. Repetition is key. Go over the trick again and again until the pet monkey associates your command with the action you want her to perform.

7. Take breaks. Many monkey experts find training works best when done for 15 minutes several times a day, rather than 1 long session. Otherwise the pet monkey (and you) are likely to get bored.

Tags: until monkey

Virtual Space Tours For Children

Viewing space is an exciting part of learning for a child.

Children may not understand how small the Earth is in comparison to the Universe, but with a virtual tour they can appreciate the wonders of space. A virtual space tour is a program designed by people in the astronomy and physics professions. The tour teaches children about space using interactive tools and fascinating photos.

ThinkQuest

The ThinkQuest virtual tour provides a look into the vast universe, including galaxies, planets and nebulas. Children can view detailed images of an eclipse while reading about what actually occurs during one. There are also informative pages on black holes, Jupiter's red spot and why Mars appears red to viewers on Earth. In addition, the site features space games and short movies for additional entertainment. The tour requires Flash Player to run; however, the web page offers a link for downloading Flash if it is not already installed on the computer.

NASA: JPL Virtual Field Trip

The NASA JPL Virtual Field Trip tour is viewed from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory website. Children can interact with eye-pleasing, cartoon-like pages that offer a robotics station, a simulation of the moon landing and a view of mission control. They can visit the museum section of the tour and the sun zone page that provides fun facts about the large and extremely hot star. The NASA JPL Virtual Field Trip does not currently require a specific player or platform to visit; therefore, children can access it easily.

NASA: Space Shuttle Virtual Tour

Riding along with NASA, children can view what the astronauts of today see while traveling in the shuttle: the way Earth looks as the shuttle leaves the ground and even more as the shuttle leaves the atmosphere. Children can see the gauges and various instruments in front of them and can learn how some of them work. The Space Shuttle Virtual Tour requires Java to run, though Java is a free service available from Java.com.

Tags: Field Trip, NASA Virtual, NASA Virtual Field, Virtual Field, Virtual Field Trip

Become A Pet Dog Trainer In Missouri

Dog trainers in Missouri can help families properly teach their new pet.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that dog trainers receive most of their education through on-the-job training, attending workshops and through coursework on canine behavior and the learning theory of animals. Professional dog training associations like the International Association of Canine Professionals provide educational resources for aspiring trainers, while local training businesses, animal shelters and rescue organizations in Missouri can provide animal lovers with dog handling experience. To find employment, trainers should consider professional resources like the IACP and network with animal welfare groups or established obedience schools.

Instructions

1. Get dog handling experience. Having a general comfort with dogs is an essential part of becoming a dog trainer. If you do not have a personal family pet, volunteer with a local animal shelter or dog rescue facility. The Humane Society of Missouri accepts volunteers to care for rescued dogs and recruits foster homes for dogs transitioning from rescue to adoption. Training is provided to volunteers working with the organization, and training materials for basic animal handling are included.

2. Take a dog obedience trainer course. Check with your local community college or vocational school to see if workshops are available in animal behavior modification. National training courses are also provided through training organizations like the Animal Behavior College. In Missouri, aspiring dog trainers can complete a comprehensive dog training program at the Tom Rose School located in Saint Louis. Training will include coursework in dog obedience, agility, leading training classes and the fundamentals of running your own business.

3. Seek employment as a dog trainer. If you have completed a program like the one offered at the Tom Rose School, contact the program to inquire about dog training opportunities at an entry-level or apprenticeship level. Also post your information on the school site for consideration by local employers. Contact the organizations where you volunteered to inquire about job openings for professional trainers. Consider joining professional organizations like the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the International Association of Canine Professionals for access to job listings and other professional resources (see Resources). Finally, contact local obedience training schools in the state of Missouri to inquire directly about openings at their facilities.

4. Consider certification to enhance your career opportunity. While it is not a requirement in the state of Missouri, certification will enhance your resume and demonstrate your dog training and behavior modification skills. The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers offers a national certifying exam for dog trainers. To download the candidate handbook and learn more about applying to take the test, visit the CCPDT website (see Resources).

Tags: about openings, aspiring trainers, Association Canine, Association Canine Professionals, behavior modification

Find Foster Parents

The Department of Children and Families operates foster family services in every state.

Foster care provides homes for children without families across the United States. According to "The Market for Foster Care: An Empirical Study of the Impact of Foster Care Subsidies," about 800,000 children spend part of their lives with foster parents. However, the system has more children than volunteers for foster parents. You can find foster parents in your area as well as learn more about local adoption programs through government contacts and private agencies.

Instructions

1. Contact your local Department of Children and Families (DCF). Every state has multiple locations. For example, in Florida, DCF splits several regions, then organizes into circuits. You can search for your state's DCF website using search engines or the federal website for Administration for Children and Families.

2. Visit the directory at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website for Administration for Children and Families. This directory provides search options for foster care by state and territory, as well as private and public agencies. Select your state from the menu and then choose what types of foster care you require, then click "Go." The next page lists all the agencies that meet your criteria.

3. Visit foster care agencies on the web to find out information about potential foster parents. Multiple sites offer resources for people trying to find foster parents for their children. For instance, Foster Care and Adoptive Community at Fosterparents.com offers a directory, forum and links to government resources. Partnership for Strong Families also offers a directory and even has a program for people wanting to become foster parents.

4. Contact a foster care specialist in your state to help locate a foster parent. Adoption.com lists foster specialists in every state with phone numbers and addresses. By contacting a specialist, you can request more information on foster parents in your area as well as other ways of providing care to a child, such as through adoption.

Tags: foster parents, Children Families, your state, Administration Children, Administration Children Families

Pet Cheats For The Complete Collection Of The Sims

Players of "The Sims Complete Collection" will be able to have access to all of the features found in "The Sims: Unleashed," the first entry in the series to introduce pets. This expansion also brought new cheats specific to the game that can be used to further exploit your Sims and their world.

Loch Ness Monster

To make the Loch Ness Monster appear while you're picking houses from the neighborhood screen press "Ctrl," "Shift" and "C" at the same time. This will bring up the cheat box. Once it has appeared, enter "nessie" and press "Enter." Your neighborhood will be visited by the legendary sea creature.

Move Lots

If you don't like your neighbors or want to shift large lots together, press "Ctrl," "Shift" and "C" to bring up the cheat menu. Enter "move_lots" and press "Enter." You can now click on lots and shift them around your neighborhood. To save the new layout press "Escape."

Zoning

To add realism to your neighborhood, turn off the zone lines by entering "show_zones off" from the cheat box or "show_zones on" to turn them back. To filter through different neighborhood designs, enter "show_filter 1" through "show_filter 7" to alter your neighborhood.

Money

When you have a pet in "The Sims: Unleashed" you'll need to be able to purchase toys, beds and houses for the animal. To bypass having to earn money, press "Ctrl," "Shift" and "C" to open the cheat box. Enter "rosebud" and press "Enter." You'll be rewarded with 1,000 simoleans; this cheat can be repeated as many times as you wish.

Taking Care of Pets

Rather than having to manage the needs of your pets by hand, force your Sims to do all the work. Enter "autonomy 100" from the cheat box, and your Sims will consistently take care of every need your pets have without your input.

Shifting Objects

If you find your house is not pet-friendly or your pet becomes trapped between several objects stuck in your home, enter "move_objects on" from the cheat menu. With this cheat enabled, you can move any object around the house, including pets and Sims.

Tags: Ctrl Shift, from cheat, press Ctrl, press Ctrl Shift, press Enter, your Sims

Inexpensively Spay Cats

Due to animal overcrowding, thousands of cats get euthanized daily. You can do your part to control the animal population by getting your pets spayed or neutered. Every major city has low-cost options to help pet owners make responsible decisions for their pets.

Instructions

1. Pick up your phone book, and call a few animal shelters in your area. Animal shelters are often extremely underfunded, so they are likely to know the cheapest ways to get your cat spayed.

2. Call a few local veterinarians and ask about low-cost spay clinics. Most cities have pet population problems and have set up spay clinics to help remedy the situation. These are often held a few times each month, so you'll need to know the date, time and place in advance.

3. Call city hall. This often overlooked tip can save you the entire cost of spaying your cat, depending on where you live. Some cities offer full or partial reimbursement of the cost to get your cat spayed, as it relieves them of the cost of dealing with strays.

4. Pick up your local paper. The classified section often contains city and county notices or bulletins for your area. This could be an easy way to find spay clinic announcements, or find out get reimbursed for the spay costs.

Tags: Pick your, spay clinics, your area, your spayed

Information On Baby Tigers

Tigers are endangered.

Roaming through Asian forests are a small number of baby tigers and their parents. Female tigers give birth to as many as seven cubs at a time, who are totally dependent on their mothers for a week after birth until they open their eyes. Females will leave their mothers after about eight months while it takes males almost a year to leave their mothers.

Habitat

Baby tigers follow their mothers for the first three months of life to learn necessary life skills. Until they are eight months to a year they will follow their mothers.

Maturity

Baby tigers reach maturity after leaving their mother. At 3 years old, a female cub is able to reproduce and looks for a mate. A male cub reaches maturity at age 4 and also then looks for a mate. The female always approaches the male first to reproduce with.

Food

Baby tigers eat meat. Deer, wild pigs, monkeys, bears, cattle and leopards are common food for tigers. Mother tigers hunt for the cubs until they are three months old. By the time the cub turns three months old, it has learned skills to hunt small mammals and rodents to eat.

Types

There are six species of tigers. Amur, Bengal, Indochinese, Malay, South China and Sumatran are the main types of tigers. White tigers are a rare species in the Bengal family. All tigers can have a litter of up to seven cubs every two years. However, the mother can only hunt for two or three cubs, so she only allows two or three to survive.

Appearance

Baby tigers are orange-brown or dark yellow with brown, gray and black stripes. Baby tigers also have white bellies. Their stripes help camouflage them for hunting. Over time their stripes will become darker and their size will increase. Most adult tigers are nearly 12 feet long, including their tail.

Tags: their mothers, Baby tigers, three months, Baby tigers, eight months, follow their

How Post Ads For My Kitties

Who wouldn't want to adopt one of these?

There aren't many things that people universally agree upon, but thinking that kittens are cute comes pretty close. However, precious as they are, a home can only handle so many cats before the feeding, shedding, and litterbox cleaning becomes too much. If you find yourself with more kitties than you can take care of, you want to make sure each of them finds a loving home. Animal shelters can sometimes help, but not always. An alternative is to post an ad yourself, which also allows you to personally screen potential adopters.

Instructions

1. Post an ad in the "Pets" section of your city's Craigslist page. Include information about how people should contact you if they are interested.

2. Talk to the manager at your local grocery store about posting an ad on their community bulletin board.

3. Take it to the streets! Advertise your kitties anywhere you are permitted to. Some places to consider are coffee shops, bookstores and cafes.

Tags:

Louisiana Construction Law

Louisiana construction laws are ideal for design-build projects.

The Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code adopts public policy provisions relative to maintaining uniform standards. Louisiana construction law creates conditions for the certification of building enforcement officials, establishes requirements for "uniform performance standards" and encourages "the use of construction materials of the greatest durability."

Construction Contracts

Louisiana state-registered professionals use construction contracts for those areas of a project that require a design, an alteration, some repair and/or maintenance of buildings, highways and other types of structures, including water and sewer lines.

The Indemnity Clause

The indemnity clause is a standard provision within all types of contracts, including agreements for construction projects. Louisiana state law governs provisions within the construction contract that require forms of "motor carrier transportation" and permits provisions that require that require third-parties to provide proof of liability insurance (See Reference 2).

Design-Build

The Louisiana Code permits design-build projects for hurricane recovery plans. According to construction law, a "design-builder is contractually responsible for delivering the project design and construction" and may sublet responsibilities.

State Licensing

The Louisiana Code requires the state to license professionals working on a design-build project. For example, state agencies license engineering and surveying firms through the Louisiana Professional Engineering and Land Surveying Board. They license architectural firms through the Louisiana Board of Architectural Examiners; lastly, they license contractors through the State Licensing Board for Contractors.

Tags: that require, design-build projects, firms through, firms through Louisiana, Louisiana Code, Louisiana construction

Rescue A Bichon In Delaware

The bichon is a small dog with a terrific personality. Bichons do not shed, but they do need daily grooming to keep their coats beautiful and fluffy. They are loving, playful and loyal. They make excellent companions for both humans and other small dogs. Sadly, bichons, just like other dogs, are abandoned in shelters throughout Delaware and surrounding states. Dogs in shelters need to be rescued.

Instructions

1. Foster a bichon or bichon mix for Delaware Valley Bichon Rescue. This is a wonderful opportunity to save lives. Rescue groups rely upon foster homes to care for dogs waiting for new homes. A foster home provides a safe, loving environment. The rescue group takes care of paying veterinarian bills and screening adopters. Delaware Valley Bichon Rescue takes in dogs from Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey and needs foster homes in Delaware.

2. Foster a bichon or bichon mix for a Delaware-based all-breed dog rescue group. All-breed dog rescue groups usually work in a specific geographic area to help save dogs at the local shelter. Most all-breed groups contact purebred dog rescue groups when they come across purebred dogs, but they do need foster homes to help with the mixed breed dogs they take in. Because of the popularity of so-called designer breeds, there are many bichon mixes entering shelters.

3. Visit your local animal shelter. Although it is unlikely that a purebred bichon is in the shelter, there are more bichon mixes in Delaware shelters. Search the PetFinder website by location to find a shelter near your home.

4. Contact your veterinarian, pet sitter or groomer. Families that need to find a new home for their pets will contact their pet care professionals for help. Let your veterinarian office know that you want to help a homeless bichon, and they will let you now of a dog in need.

5. Watch the active Delaware pet community on Craigslist. The Delaware pet community allows someone who needs to find a new home for a pet to post an email. If you see a bichon offered on Craigslist, be aware that rescue dogs do not cost hundreds of dollars. Sadly, breeders regularly violate Craigslist rules by selling dogs.

Tags: foster homes, bichon bichon, bichon mixes, Bichon Rescue, Delaware community, Delaware Valley, Delaware Valley Bichon

Make Big Money With Animals

You can make a good salary working with wild or tamed animals.

There are many different options to make a lot of money while working with animals. You can find a well-paying job while working with small, large, underwater and land animals. You can also work with wild animals, or pets. High-paying animal jobs include selling pet medications and supplies, breeding, training and entertainment. By making money with animals, you can be doing what you love, and making a good salary.

Instructions

1. Responsibly breed dogs or other pets. Breeding animals is a high-paying job, especially with pure-bred dogs. By owning two dogs of the opposite sex that are officially recognized as a pure bred (American Kennel Club), and breeding and taking care of the animals, you can sell the puppies for a high-dollar price.

2. Sell pet supplies and medications. Find a company that you can join to sell pet supplies and apply to be the delivery person. Often times, the pet supplies seller will visit specific homes to help the pet owners with their new products.

3. Start a pet entertainment business. This may be starting a pet photography business by being a photographer who advertises your special care with animals, or running a show with talented animals by taking them to birthday parties or other gathering events. The entertainment business can produce a lot of money, as long as it is done legally.

4. Start an obedience training business. Become well rounded in pet obedience and get an obedience license. Go to local pet stores near you and apply to be their new obedience counselor, or start a private business of your own. Pet obedience school is a pricey program that people are willing to pay for their pets.

5. Work at a zoo or animal specific viewing center, like an aquarium or exotic bird viewing area. These places give you the chance to work with wild animals and learn about their habits and environment. Zoo keepers and specialists make a large salary to work with these amazing and somewhat dangerous animals. You may need a zoology degree to be in this field of work.

Tags: with wild, work with, working with, entertainment business, good salary

Illinois Adoption Law For Related Grandparents

Grandparents with custody of their grandchildren may wish to formally adopt them.

The Illinois Department on Aging reported in 2008 that over 200,000 children were living in Illinois households headed by grandparents. Grandparents who are raising their grandchildren may seek to legalize their custodial relationship through formal adoption.

Custody

To obtain legal custody of a grandchild when the parents do not consent, the grandparent must file a formal petition with the Illinois state courts. The grandparent can sue for custody if neither parent has physical custody of the child. Alternatively, the grandparent can file a custody petition when one parent is deceased, the grandparent is related to the deceased parent and the other parent is absent under certain circumstances.

Consequences

Adoption is a permanent custodial arrangement where the grandparent accepts all parental rights and responsibilities. After the adoption, the natural parents no longer have any legal family relationship with the child.

Procedure

The grandparent adoption process can ensue if both living natural parents give their consent. If the natural parents refuse to consent, the grandparent will have to get a court order. The court must find that both natural parents are unfit and terminate their parental rights before the grandparent can adopt the child.

Tags: natural parents, consent grandparent, parental rights, their grandchildren

Good Places To Have A Baby'S First Birthday Party

Keep things simple for baby's 1st birthday.

It's your baby's first birthday and you are ready to celebrate. The first birthday party is really more for baby's parents and family members than the baby herself, as she won't remember it. Plan on a short party so your baby doesn't become overly tired or overwhelmed. Pick a fun party venue or keep things close to home. Does this Spark an idea?

Home

If your one year old is shy and becomes overwhelmed in new situations, you may want to keep the party at home. A home party will work well if you keep the guest list short, unless you have a large home that can accommodate a large group of guests. Decorate your dining room and living room with party streamers, "Happy Birthday" tablecloths, and balloons. You may want to decorate your baby's high chair as well. Serve finger foods the birthday baby can eat, which will also appeal to older family members. Skip nuts, raw vegetables, and any foods that baby can choke on.

Play Center

A one year old who enjoys getting out in the world may love a party at a local play center. Choose a play center that caters to babies and toddlers and that doesn't have play areas that are dangerous for very small children. You may also want to see if you can hire a party guide from the play center to keep the baby and younger guests entertained while adults can socialize. Try to avoid hiring people who dress up as storybook or television characters, as larger-than-life characters can frighten your baby.

Outdoors

Take the party outside if your baby was born during the warmer months. You can have the party outdoors in your backyard or at a local park. Bring a small fence to keep the party enclosed and reduce the risk of a small party guest wandering off. Plan simple outdoor activities that will keep baby and younger guests occupied, such as blowing soap bubbles, reading a story, or simply having the guests run around and play.

Reception Hall

If baby has a large number of relatives and friends, you may want to rent a local reception hall for his party. You may be able to get space at your church or a local school, either for a small price or for free. Decorate the reception area so it is cozy and comfortable for your baby. You may want to set up a fenced play area full of cushions and baby toys and hire one of baby's older cousins or babysitters to keep an eye on the children during the party.

Tags: your baby, play center, baby younger, baby younger guests, family members, first birthday

Treat Diabetes In Dogs

Dogs with diabetes require special care.

Canine diabetes is a hormonal disorder that most often affects dogs between the ages of 5 and 9. Additionally, the large majority of dogs with diabetes are obese, with unspayed females being at the highest risk. The main symptoms, due to a high concentration of blood glucose (sugar), are excessive water consumption and urination often accompanied by increased appetite. There is no cure; however, the following are some important measures you can take in order to keep your dog's condition under control--so that he or she can live a normal life.

Instructions

1. Administer a daily dose or doses of insulin as prescribed by your veterinarian at the recommended time(s). Some dogs will do better with a single injection and others will need two. Your veterinarian will show you give the injection. Dogs with diabetes almost always require insulin, however, most pet owners find administering it manageable.

2. Monitor how your dog responds to the insulin by testing the urine with strips that you can purchase at a drug store or pet supply store or with AlphaTRACK, a hand-held blood glucose measuring device. The glucose level will determine if the insulin dosage needs to be adjusted. Check with your vet on use the test strip kit or AlphaTRACK and what results to look for. AlphaTRACK also comes with an instructional DVD (see link in Resources below).

3. Keep a record of the test results along with the amount of insulin administered, your dog's eating habits and behavior. This will give both you and your vet a clearer picture for optimum treatment.

4. Feed your dog a higher fiber, premium quality dog food at the same times each day. Lower fats and carbohydrates have also been known to help diabetes. Ask your veterinarian to suggest a feeding schedule, as well as the amounts to feed.

5. Set up a consistent exercise program such as walks or games of fetch at the same time each day. Exercise effects sugar levels and it's not good if levels are up and down. The more your dog exercises, the less insulin his body requires.

6. Ask your veterinarian to recommend vitamin and mineral supplements that are helpful in controlling diabetes. Vitamins B, C and the mineral chromium are often recommended.

7. Bring your dog back to your veterinarian for periodic blood tests so that her condition can be stabilized.

Tags: with diabetes, blood glucose, Dogs with, Dogs with diabetes, your veterinarian, your veterinarian

Administer Rescue Remedy To Pets

Rescue Remedy is a liquid homeopathic solution that alleviates stress and produces a calming effect. Many pet owners find that a little Rescue Remedy can help soothe their furry companions in times of acute crisis -- a trip to the vet, a thunderstorm, moving to a new home or even seizures.

The trick, though, is to get the Rescue Remedy into your pet -- not on the floor, on your clothes or on his fur -- without causing even more stress.

Instructions

1. Add a few drops to the water bowl. Every time you refill your pet's water dish, add three or four drops of Rescue Remedy to the water. This is particularly useful if your pet has a recurring stressful condition like seizures.

2. Turn it into a treat. Most dogs love yogurt, and most cats love the juice from a tuna fish can. Stir two to three drops of Rescue Remedy into your pet's favorite treat and serve at the first rumble of thunder.

3. Serve at mealtime. Once you've prepared your pet's meal, add a few drops to the kibble as a garnish. Your pet won't even know she's being medicated.

4. Administer directly. If the crisis is immediate, and only if your pet will let you, gently squeeze a few drops directly into his mouth between the cheek and gums.

Tags: Rescue Remedy, drops Rescue, drops Rescue Remedy, into your, Remedy into, Remedy into your, Rescue Remedy into

Humane Society Adoption Laws Requiring Micro Chips In Texas

Ferrets are required to have microchip implants in El Paso, Texas, along with dogs and cats.

Many animal shelters and owners already implant microchips their pets. It is considered a safe and easy way to ensure that a pet, if lost, can be found and returned to the owner. In Texas, only the city of El Paso requires pets to have microchips.

Title 7

Title 7 is an El Paso city ordinance that is concerned with animals and was recently revised. Included in the revision, is that cats, dogs and ferrets are required to have microchips implants. The law also requires that these animals be vaccinated and registered.

Time Frame

Residents of El Paso have up to 30 days to register, vaccinate and microchip their pets. Non-residents have up 90 ninety days to comply with the requirements of Title 7, however anyone with a dog, cat or ferret, more than four months old, must vaccinate their pet for rabies if they are within the city limits for more than 10 days.

Reason

According to the City of El Paso, the requirements of Title 7 are for the benefit of everyone involved. Owners receive peace of mind (95 percent success rate), pets undergo a relatively cheap and painless procedure and the city saves money on housing, transporting and searching for pets on behalf of their owners.

Tags: have microchips, more than, required have, requirements Title, their pets

Pros & Cons Of Labradoodles

Labradoodles are a poodle and Labrador retriever mix.

A Labradoodle is a hybrid mix of dog that consists of a Labrador retriever and a poodle. Though a puppy from a Labrador and poodle mix can vary in appearance, the personality and behavior traits are the same. As with any breed, mix or not, there are pros and cons a future owner should consider before purchase.

Pro and Con: Non-Shedding Coat

Allergies are a common reason people do not get pets. Labradoodles are a mix that is considered allergy-friendly because the coat on a Labradoodle does not shed like a traditional dog. A nonshedding coat means that rather than a dog shedding its coat each year on furniture, carpeting and other surrounding areas, the coat must be stripped out using professional grooming tools. This does not mean that you will not find a few pieces of fur here and there around the house -- every dog sheds no matter their breed. This trait tends to be a pro and con within itself. The Labradoodle's coat does not shed excessively nor smell, but it does require professional grooming each year to strip the coat or it can become severely matted, according to Amber Labradoodles.

Pro and Con: Intuition and Companionship

A Labradoodle can sense the emotions of its owner. This can be a pro for you if you are looking for companionship from your dog. Labradoodles can sense anger, sadness and read your body language to see how you are feeling. As intuitive and emotional dogs, Labradoodles require a lot of human contact and attention. Therefore if you are out of the home often or unable to provide your Labradoodle with attention, your Labradoodle will not reach its full potential.

Pro: Retrieving Instinct

Since a Labradoodle is created from a Labrador retriever, it will have a strong instinct for retrieving. That means your Labradoodle will not only love to play fetch or retrieve items for a disabled owner, but can also be a valued hunting dog.

Con: Not Recognized by AKC

The Labradoodle is not a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club, according to PetPlace.com. The AKC registers Labradoodles as a miscellaneous category, because it is a crossbreed of two different dogs. If you intend to breed for profit, a Labradoodle will not make a high profit since it is not considered a purebred.

Tags: Labradoodle will, Labrador retriever, your Labradoodle, does shed, each year, from Labrador

Donate Canned Goods In Sacramento

You don't have to give a lot to make a big difference in someone's life.

Emergency food pantries and charity organizations in Sacramento, California, distribute food and other essential items to tens of thousands of people every month. Hunger and food insecurity is a national crisis that hits urban areas especially hard. The Sacramento Hunger Commission, the Sacramento Food Bank and many churches provide food to needful individuals and families at no cost. These organizations rely almost exclusively on donations from individuals in the community.

Instructions

1. Contact the Sacramento Hunger Commission, the Sacramento Food Bank or local churches for information about donations. Write down the location to drop canned food donations. Note the times when donations are accepted.

2. Request a "wish list" from the organization with which you plan to donate canned goods. Organize a canned goods collection drive or purchase healthy canned goods from the "wish list." Donate healthy foods such as green beans, peas, corn, brown beans, canned juices, fruits such as peaches and pears, apple sauce and soups. Organize canned goods by type.

3. Check expiration dates on foods canned in glass containers with a sealed lid. Check the lids to make sure the seals are not damaged. Gently press on the center of the lid to verify the seal is intact.

4. Ask for a receipt for the value of your donation if you purchase canned goods. Save the receipt for tax purposes. Deduct the value of your charitable donation from your taxes if you plan to itemize deductions on your tax return.

Tags: canned goods, Commission Sacramento, Commission Sacramento Food, Food Bank, Hunger Commission

What Are The Benefits Of Declawing My Kitten

Declawing helps owners deal with their kitten's scratching behavior.

For cats, scratching a wall, chair or door isn't bad behavior -- it helps them remove aged cuticles and mark their territory. Not all cat owners appreciate this natural behavior, however. Declawing, a medical procedure which removes the claws and some of the surrounding toe bones, allows owners to stop their behavior. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, most owners who choose the declawing procedure say it met or exceeded their expectations.

Health Reasons

People with health conditions that weaken their immune system, such as diabetes or AIDS, need their kittens declawed for their health. Their weakened immune systems make them susceptible to life-threatening complications from cat scratches. Declawing allows them to safely live with their kitten at home.

Furniture

Kittens can leave scratch marks on chairs, table legs or other furniture, leaving permanent marks. Although the kitten sees this as a territorial marker, homeowners may find it distressing. Declawing prevents kittens from marking household valuables or furniture.

Adoptability

According to the AVMA and a 1991 veterinarian survey, people are less likely to give up kittens that are declawed. Cat owners may find their kitten's scratching behavior uncontrollable and give them up to a local shelter, where kittens and cats are commonly euthanized. The AVMA believes that giving owners the option to declaw will prevent them from sending kittens to shelters, where they could die.

Health

Kittens may undergo this procedure for medical conditions affecting their nails, such as a nail infection. For example, the nail infection paronychia can make it difficult to walk, affecting their quality of life. Removing the claws helps relieve the pain. Neoplasia, a type of abnormal growth, can also grow under their nails, making claw removal necessary to treat it.

Less Downtime

Kittens recover faster than cats after the declawing surgery. TalktotheVet.com recommends declawing kittens when they are three to five months old to minimize downtime. Kittens are hospitalized overnight, whereas cats over eight months old require at least two days of hospitalization.

Tags: their kitten, with their kitten, affecting their, kitten scratching, kitten scratching behavior, nail infection, scratching behavior

Replace A Lost Dog License In San Diego

If you live within the county of San Diego, all dogs older than 5 months of age must be licensed. Licenses are provided by the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services. The license itself is a metal tag the attaches to the dog's collar. The county's ordinances state that "whenever a license tag is lost or damaged, the dog owner or custodian shall immediately apply for and obtain a replacement license tag."

Instructions

1. Go to the Department of Animal Services section of the county of San Diego's website (see References). Here you can find information on all of the department's services.

2. Hold your mouse pointer over the "Rabies Vaccination, Licensing and Microchips" option to see a pop-up window offering several options. Choose "Online Licensing."

3. Click the link at the bottom that says, "Click here to print a mail-in application." This opens a screen for you to view and then print the form.

4. Fill out the form by hand completely. Circle the "Replace lost tag" option to avoid being charged for the full yearly fee.

5. Mail the form with a check for the replacement fee and a copy of your dog's most recent rabies vaccination certificate to the address on the form.

Tags: Animal Services, county Diego, Department Animal, Department Animal Services

File Bankruptcy In New Jersey

Bills

Bankruptcy is a common way of dealing with debt. Declaring bankruptcy allows people to escape their creditors and still have money to live on. New Jersey has certain specific laws that pertain to bankruptcy that you must know about before declaring and filing bankruptcy here.

Instructions

1. Decide if you want to declare chapter 7 bankpruptcy. There are two forms of bankruptcy. Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is essential a forced liquidation of all your assets. You will sell off everything you own in order to pay your creditors. Once you have paid off your creditors you will no longer own any money.

2. Decide if you want to declare chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a system where you declare bankruptcy and are given a period of time such as three to five years to pay off your creditors. During this time you will have to report to a trustee. The guidelines for declaring bankruptcy vary from state to state and vary from filing to filing. New Jersey has certain specific rules for declaring bankruptcy.

3. Decide which kinds of exemptions you wish to take. New Jersey law allows people declaring bankruptcy to keep certain specific assets. For example someone declaring bankrutpcy in New Jersey may keep a home that has roughly twenty thousand in value in it. They can also keep items such as life insurance policies, alimony, pension benefits, a motor vehicle with roughly three thousand dollars in value, tools that are necessary for work and benefits such as a settlement relating to an injury.

4. Decide if you would like to use the second form of exemptions available to New Jersey residents declaring bankruptcy. You may keep certain items such as burial plot, retiree benefits that you have received from local and state governments, annuity contracts, disability earnings and life insurance proceeds.

5. Hire a lawyer. Make sure that you hire a lawyer who understands the ins and out of New Jersey bankruptcy law. The lawyer should be familiar with local courthouses in each county. A lawyer should hold New Jersey state bar certification. Make sure the lawyer has all the documents you need to file for bankruptcy before submitting any paperwork.

6. File for bankruptcy in court. You must file in local courts to declare bankruptcy. New Jersey has specific courts that deal with bankruptcy. Make sure that you have the right court. Call in advance to find out hours. You will have to pay a filing fee in addition to working with your lawyer. Filing fees vary from county to county in New Jersey so check carefully. Expect to pay roughly a thousand dollars in funds to make the bankruptcy declaration official.

Tags: bankruptcy Chapter, bankruptcy Chapter bankruptcy, declaring bankruptcy, certain specific, Chapter bankruptcy

Wash Your Pet Bunny

Pet bunnies rarely have to be bathed. Rabbits are fastidious about grooming, and with frequent brushing on your part, a bath should not be necessary unless your bunny gets into something messy. Most rabbits do not like to have a bath, and it takes a long time to get a rabbit's fur dry. If you must bathe your bunny, plan to set aside a chunk of time to get the rabbit clean and the bunny's fur dry after the bath.

Instructions

1. Place a thick towel, folded in half, on the bottom of the bathtub.

2. Using a cup, gently and slowly pour water over the rabbit to get its fur wet. Use care not to let the water get into your rabbit's face or onto the rabbit's ears.

3. Use a very small amount of baby shampoo to wash the rabbit's fur. An amount the size of a pea will probably suffice.

4. Rinse the shampoo off the rabbit by pouring warm water over the bunny's fur using the cup. Use care not to let soap get in the rabbit's eyes.

5. Wrap the rabbit in a dry towel and carefully remove the bunny from the tub. Hold the bunny in such a way that it cannot kick, leap or jump from your arms and injure itself.

6. Towel dry the rabbit as much as possible.

7. Use a hairdryer on its lowest setting to dry the rabbit's fur. Your rabbit may not tolerate the hairdryer.

8. Keep the rabbit inside and in a warm location until her fur is completely dry. Occasionally fluff the bunny's fur with a towel and work to towel dry the fur some more.

Tags: time rabbit, water over, your bunny

Post Ads On Classified Sites

A number of classified websites, such as Craigslist, USFreeads and Adpost, allow users to post free ads. Free ads are a cost-effective way of promoting your market offerings to your target audience. You can also place ads to find a particular product or service that you want to purchase, such as a used car model or a secondhand refrigerator.

Instructions

1. Post ads on U.S. Free Ads. Click the top "Register" link on the page to sign up for a new account. Select the "Free Registration" option if you want to post up to two ads. Select a premium account for more ads. Once registered, post your first ad by clicking the "Post Ad" link on homepage. Choose the category and format for your ad. Add a title as well as description. Preview the ad, and if everything's appropriate, then go ahead and post the ad.

2. Post ads on Craigslist. Named after Craig Newmark, the mastermind behind the entire project, Craigslist serves the advertising needs of people from all parts of the world. The website is especially popular in the U.S. and Canada, where people from all walks of life post ads to sell or purchase items or to find a particular service. As of early 2011, Craigslist requires you to verify your account by telephone before you can start posting free ads.

3. Place ads on Ad Post. Select a geographical territory in which you want to promote the ad. Choose an ad category from the given options. The website redirects you to another page where you must register by providing information, such as your email address. Create your ad when registration is over. Select a title as well as description for your ad. Post the ad on the website.

Tags: Choose category, find particular, people from, title well, title well description, well description

Care Of A Racing Greyhound'S Muscle Tear

Racing greyhounds sometimes tear muscles because the sport requires a lot of stress on them. According to the Newtown Veterinary Clinic, greyhound racing has been popularized in the past years. As a result, greyhound medicine and surgery has become highly specialized as well. If you suspect your greyhound has suffered a muscle tear, you should seek veterinary advice.

Symptoms

If a greyhound has suffered a muscle tear, it may not want to walk around, or even to get out of its crate if it has one, because it's too painful. Muscle tears often cause swelling, and severe muscle tears may even cause hemorrhaging. If your greyhound is in severe distress, see the veterinarian immediately.

Treatments

See the veterinarian to determine the extent of your greyhound's muscle tear. If it is mild, you may be able to treat the dog at home using massage techniques and making sure the dog takes time off of conditioning and gets plenty of rest. It may be possible to treat the dog at the veterinarian's office on an outpatient basis, using ultrasonic or electromagnetic therapy, which is noninvasive. However, for many muscle tears surgery is required to repair the damaged muscle tissue.

Recovery

After a muscle tear, your veterinarian may prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications to help your dog deal with the painful symptoms. The muscle may also have to be wrapped for a time to provide extra support.

According to Greyhound Racing Victoria, after any muscle tear, especially when surgery is required, the dog may not be able to perform at the level it did before the injury. If you choose to continue racing the dog, make sure your expectations are realistic. You may want to consider physical therapy for your dog, in order to normalize the muscle.

Tags: muscle tear, your greyhound, greyhound suffered, greyhound suffered muscle, suffered muscle, suffered muscle tear, surgery required

Make A Play Area For Cats

Paper bags provide fun hiding spots in a cat play area.

To keep your cats safe and to prevent them from contracting diseases or harming native wildlife, they should be kept inside your home, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Providing indoor cats with a play area designed to engage their interest keeps them from getting bored and gives them appropriate outlets for their natural instincts. Depending on your needs, taste and resources, you can build a simple or elaborate play area for your cats.

Instructions

1. Pick a space in your home for the cat play area. Cats love to watch wildlife such as birds and insects through a window, so select a spot next to a window. Place a bird feeder outside the window or hang it from a tree outside the window to provide entertainment for your cat.

2. Put a large cat climbing tree next to a window to allow the cat to watch the outdoor scene while climbing and playing on the cat tree. For multiple cats, get a multilevel cat climbing tree that has cubby holes and perches for each cat to sit on. In larger areas, use cat trees of different sizes for multiple cats to climb on.

3. Give your cats a large scratching post as tall as your cat is long so it can stretch out fully while scratching down the post. Depending on your cat's preference, get a post made with sisal rope, cardboard or wood.

4. Place a treat ball in your cat's play area. Treat balls --- filled with dry food or cat treats --- give cats something to play with while getting a food reward.

5. Line a cardboard box with a soft blanket or towel and remove the top flaps. This will give your cat a fun hiding spot or place to nap when it gets tired of playing. Place a pillow inside for extra comfort and softness.

6. Make a cat tunnel by cutting holes in the sides of several cardboard boxes. The holes should be big enough for your cat to walk through. Using a craft knife or scissors, cut the holes and remove the top flaps from each box. Attach the boxes to each other --- matching up the holes in the sides --- with adhesive Velcro stuck to the sides of each box.

7. Provide your cat with toys stuffed with catnip or valerian, as both of these herbs attract cats. To get your cat's attention, hang some of these toys around the cat trees by tying them with string.

8. Place paper shopping bags in the cat play area for your cats to hide in. To keep your cat safe, remove all handles from the paper shopping bags. Open the bags and place them on their sides for your cat to enter and exit easily.

Tags: play area, your cats, area your, area your cats, climbing tree, Depending your, holes sides

Animal Welfare Careers

There are many choices for people who want to work to make animals' lives better. Many people start by working in a shelter while pursuing higher education to become a veterinarian. Others find that they are happy just caring for the animals.

Veterinarian

Veterinarians help animals by treating injuries and illnesses as well as providing preventative care. A doctoral degree is required and admission is very competitive.

Veterinary Technician

Veterinary technicians assist the veterinarian as well as perform the daily tasks of cleaning and feeding of the animals. You can attend a community college to get an associate's degree in veterinary technology.

Shelter Worker

Shelter workers help to care for the many unwanted and stray dogs that people turn in. Some of their duties include feeding the animals and cleaning out their cages.

Animal Welfare Officer

Animal welfare officers are law enforcement officers who work to prevent animal cruelty and neglect. This is a difficult career due to the nature of the animals who have been mistreated.

Animal Advocacy

Animal advocates work for a variety of organizations to improve the quality of life for animals by changing laws or educating the public on animal welfare issues.

Animal Rescue

Animal rescue workers will take animals, such as racing or fighting dogs, away from bad or abusive situations and try to place them into better homes.

Tags: feeding animals

Baby Adoption Tips

Build your family through adoption.

Adopting a baby is one way to build a family. Since adoption is not a traditional method of procreation, many interested parents face additional hardships as they don't have many people to turn to for advice. Thus, it's important to do ample research before beginning the process as well as understand the implications of raising a baby.

Aquire All Medical Records Possible

When completing all of the paperwork for the adoption process once you've been matched up with a baby, attempt to get all of your child's medical records possible. These include the mother's medical records during her pregnancy, which can be acquired through her OB/GYN, as well as the baby's birth records and any pediatric visits. The mother's records will be sealed so you will need her permission to access them. The reason for wanting the birth mother's pregnancy records is to see if there were any complications with the pregnancy or if any illegal substances or toxins were found in her bloodwork; this information could be very illuminating should any medical problems with the baby arise.

Prepare Your Home

Often with adoption, you don't know when you'll actually be bringing your baby home so it's best to be prepared ahead of time. Purchase and set up the crib and changing table, and stock basic bedding, blankets and gender-neutral clothes so that you're ready whenever you receive your blessed miracle. Also, if the baby is a bit older, it's smart to babyproof your home with childsafe locks and outlet plug covers.

Breastfeed

Even if you've never been pregnant or breastfed before, you can still breastfeed your newly adopted baby. It will take work to get going but it's possible. You'll need to use a strong breastpump every few hours to start the production of milk. While you may still need to supplement your child's diet with formula, every bit of breast milk is helpful to your baby and you'll find it to be a bonding experience.

Spend Physical Time with Baby

Bond with your new baby by spending as much time as possible with him. Get him used to your touch and scent by constantly holding him and touching his skin. Make eye contact so he quickly begins to recognize you and who you are to him as his caregiver.

Tags: your baby, medical records, with baby, your child

Cat Genetics When Breeding

Much is considered when breeding cats to produce beautiful, healthy kittens.

Cat genetics aspects considered when breeding a cat may be such things as DNA, color, health, sex, eyes and personality. Many special characteristics are considered in order to breed the perfect feline through the creative skills of many responsible breeders.

Genes

The gene is the building block of inheritance and biological process in that species. Several genes together control a single trait, such as color pigment and individual hairs. Each breed can have the same gene but a different allele. Cats have 19 sets of chromosomes. As they unite in egg and sperm, the two chromosomes form an offspring, with the dominating X or Y chromosome deciding the sex of the breed.

Genotype and Phenotype

The genotype is set from the physical DNA of the parents to be bred, which are the natural inherited genetics. A phenotype is predetermined or created to specific genes for color, size, shape and behavior.

Dominant and Recessive Genetics

Each cat has its own set of dominant and recessive genes, such as black color versus grey. In the offspring of these cats, the dominant feature usually prevails.

Tags: considered when, considered when breeding, when breeding

Train The Fearful And Shy Dog

Shy dog

Dogs become fearful or shy for a number of reasons including genetics, abuse or a lack of early social interaction as puppies. These dogs can become aggressive, resorting to biting as a defense mechanism. Training fearful or shy dogs takes patience, kindness and commitment. Forceful training methods should be avoided; rely instead on positive reinforcement and consistent repetition. Fearful and shy dogs can be taught to use different methods to cope with their stress other than aggression. While most dogs will never completely lose their reticence, many will become better pets after undergoing training.

Instructions

1. Begin basic behavior modification training. In order to be successful in training a fearful or shy dog, you have to learn speak to him and elicit an appropriate response. Conversely, the dog needs to understand what you are trying to accomplish and be receptive to it. The first step is for you and your dog to become comfortable with each other. This is accomplished by getting your dog to relax around you. Sit quietly next to the dog and encourage him to relax. You can facilitate this relaxation by speaking soothingly and calming stroking your dog or even massaging him. Practice this relaxation technique for up to twenty minutes a day. When the dog has been able to relax with you for a period of time, slowly begin adding distractions such as subtle noises, like a soft hand clap, and encourage the dog to remain calm. Don't reprimand the dog for negative responses such as growling or becoming fidgety. However, lavish praise upon him for staying relaxed.

2. Begin conditioning the dog. The next step is to have the dog associate previously fear-provoking stimuli with pleasure. Building on the relaxation techniques you employed in step one, encourage the dog to remain calm and offer a treat while introducing an object of his fear, such as a stranger or another animal. Keep each session short and controlled. Reward the dog with positive reinforcement such as treats and petting if he remains calm and if he reacts negatively, just ignore the bad behavior. The idea here is to teach the dog to respond positively to negative stimulus. Under no circumstances should you reprimand or punish the dog for negative behavior, as this simply reinforces his reaction.

3. Change your location. After you have mastered the behavior modification skills in familiar surroundings, change your location and start over. The added stress of being in an unfamiliar environment will require additional patience on your part. As the dog becomes more confident, change locations once again. Continue this process until the dog is comfortable no matter where you go.

4. Begin obedience training. After you have gained his trust, it is time to begin basic obedience training. The easiest method of training a fearful or shy dog is to catch him performing the act you want. As the dog begins to sit, quietly issue the command you want the dog to associate with this action and reward him. Continue to do this until the dog begins to perform the action on your cue. This process takes a bit longer than traditional training methods. However, in the long run, you will have a happier, more confident and well-behaved pet.

Tags: After have, behavior modification, Continue this, encourage remain, encourage remain calm, more confident, obedience training

Build An Animal Shelter With Wood Pallets

Wood pallets make good animal shelters.

Pallets are an easy and low-cost way to build an animal shelter. Large shelters should not be built using pallets alone due to the lack of structural integrity, but if a smaller shelter is needed, then a handful of pallets and a couple pieces of roofing tin will do the job. Pallets can be acquired for free sometimes on Craigslist or Freecycle.

Instructions

1. Name each of the pallets: Floor, Front, Right, Left , and Rear with a black marker.

2. Level the ground where the shelter will be built using a shovel. Dig away the high spots and fill in the low spots with the soil taken from the high spots. Lay the floor pallet on the ground and check to see if it wobbles by stepping on it. Make leveling adjustments as necessary.

3. Mark the upward facing perimeter of the floor pallet as follows: Front, Left, Right, and Rear.

4. Place the pallet marked "Left" upright on the side of the "Floor" pallet marked "Left", so that the slats of the pallet are running horizontally. The pallet should be flush with the outer side of the floor pallet. Use the framing square to make sure the inner angle of the two pallets is square. Nail the "Left" pallet to the floor pallet with 2-inch nails using a hammer.

5. Place the pallet marked "Right" upright on the side of the "Floor" pallet marked "Right", the same way the pallet marked "Left" was placed. Use the framing square to ensure the angle is square. Nail this pallet to the floor pallet.

6. Hold the pallet marked "Front" up to the ends of the two upright pallets on the side of the floor pallet marked "Front". Measure 2-inches up from the tops of the two pallets already nailed in place using a tape measure and raise the "Front" pallet so it hangs at that height. Nail this pallet to the two upright pallets marked "Right" and "Left". Hammer a nail in every 12-inches.

7. Nail the pallet marked "Rear" to the back of the two side pallets at the same height level as the sides. The 2-inch height difference between the front and rear pallet will ensure proper water drainage off of the roof of the shelter.

8. Climb inside the framed pallets and staple cardboard to the floor and the sides using a heavy duty stapler.

9. Wear gloves and cut the piece of tin in half with tin snips so that, two pieces, 4-feet in length are available. Place these pieces of tin so they are square over the underlying structure. Allow the tin to overhang the side pallets by 2-inches and 1-inch over the front and rear pallets.

10. Measure 6-inches down on each side of the pallets marked "Front" and "Rear" and place a mark in the center. Hammer in a 2-inch nail on each of these marks 1/1-2-inches into the wood so that the nail head is sticking 1/2-inch out of the wood.

11. Hook the rubber stretchable cords to the nail heads on one side of the structure and then over the tin roofing to the nail head on the other side to secure the roof.

12. Cut a door through the pallet marked "Front" to the desired size of the animal, using a wood saw.

Tags: pallet marked, floor pallet, marked Front, marked Left, marked Right, pallet marked Front, pallet marked Left

Motels In Hazleton Pennsylvania

Hazleton, Pennsylvania, is home to numerous motels.

Hazleton, Pennsylvania, is located approximately 30 minutes south of Wilkes-Barre in the eastern portion of the state. The area offers year-round activities including skiing at the nearby Eagle Rock Ski Resort in winter and golfing at Edgewood in the Pines Golf Course during spring and summer months. Travelers can visit the Hazleton Historical Society Museum and view historical local mining artifacts, including mining tools, photographs, and rescue apparatus. Several motels are available in the city of Hazleton, with some also welcoming your pet.

Hazleton Motor Inn

Located off both Interstates 80 and 81, Hazleton Motor Inn offers affordable and comfortable guest rooms with free, high-speed wireless Internet access, cable televisions and available microwaves and refrigerators. The motel welcomes pets in some of its rooms, and offers AAA, CAA and AARP discounts. The Library Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and is conveniently located adjacent to the motel. Nearby attractions include the Laurel Shopping Mall, National Shrine of the Sacred Heart, and the Lattimer Massacre Memorial.

Hazleton Motor Inn

615 East Broad St.

Hazleton, PA 18201

570-459-1451

hazletonmotorinn.com

Ramada Hazleton

The pet-friendly Ramada Hazleton is located in the heart of town and affords easy access to both interstate highways. Guest rooms are provided with complimentary, high-speed, wireless Internet access, cable televisions with HBO, and work desks. Motel amenities include an outdoor, seasonal swimming pool, a fitness center and a daily free continental breakfast. Local attractions include The Downs at Hazleton, Penn State University - Hazleton Campus, Lacawac Sanctuary, and Eckley Miner's Village Museum. Nearby restaurants feature JT Ashley, open for dinner daily, and Jumbo China Buffet.

Ramada Hazleton

1213 North Church St.

Hazleton, PA 18202

570-455-2061

ramada.com

Mount Laurel Motel

Situated minutes from downtown Hazleton and close to Big Boulder Ski Area, Eagle Rock Ski Area, and area golf courses and museums, Mount Laurel Motel provides 34 comfortable guest rooms with a free continental breakfast, served in the motel lobby each morning. Guest rooms are complete with complimentary, high-speed, wireless Internet access, cable televisions and direct-dial telephones. Pets are permitted at the Mount Laurel Motel; however, additional pet fees do apply. Nearby eateries include Bunker's Bar and Restaurant, Checkers Pizza and Church Hill Family Restaurant.

Mount Laurel Motel

1039 South Church St.

Hazleton, PA 18201

877-747-8713

magnusonhotels.com

Tags: Laurel Motel, Mount Laurel, Mount Laurel Motel, access cable, access cable televisions

The Best Small Breed Dog For Families

If you are considering a small dog breed for your family, there are quite a few to choose from. You need a dog that is good with children, and not so small and fragile that they would be injured during play. No matter which breed you choose, select a healthy dog with a good temperament. Just because the breed standard says a dog should act a certain way, it doesn't mean they all do.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the royal dog of England. They stand approximately 12 inches high at the shoulder, and have a medium length coat that does not require much care. This dog was bred for herding, and have a strong herding instinct. They are very intelligent and protective of children, but can sometimes be bossy or nippy. This dog is best for families with children ages 6 or older. They are an overall healthy breed, with few genetic defects. Possible health concerns include seizures, degeneration of nerves in the spine, and eye problems.

Schnauzer

The Schnauzer comes in three sizes. The giant Schnauzer is a large dog and can weigh up to 75 pounds. The standard and miniature are small dogs, weighing up to 33 pounds and 17 pounds, respectively. They have a wiry coat that is normally clipped short on the body, and longer on the legs and face. Schnauzers require frequent grooming to keep their hair short. This dog's distinctive beard and long eyebrows make them instantly recognizable. The tail is usually docked at birth, and in some countries the ears are cropped. Schnauzers are intelligent dogs that are good with children, but they become bored easily. Schnauzers are a healthy breed overall, but can be prone to tumors, epilepsy, diabetes, and hypothyroidism.

Beagle

Beagles are good pets for active families. They get bored easily and need a lot of exercise, but love to take part in family activities. Beagles weigh up to 30 pounds, and have a short coat that does not require much attention. This dog is a prolific digger with a distinctive bark. You may need special fencing to confine them. Beagles should not be left alone for long periods of time, since they can become destructive if they are bored. They can also be a bit stubborn, and may require obedience training.

Pug

Pugs originated in China, where they were used as temple guard dogs. Their curly tails and squashed faces give them a distinct appearance. They are a loyal and affectionate dog that is good with small children. Pugs can weigh up to 22 pounds, and have a short, dense coat that requires brushing. They are best for families that live in temperate climates and do not want a dog that is extremely active. The pug's constricted airway can be a problem in hot climates, or when the dog is overworked or overexcited. They also snore. Pugs are prone to hip and leg disorders, certain types of tumors, seizures, and eye problems.

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Claim Animal Expenses On Your Taxes

In specific cases, animal expenses are tax deductible.

As of 2012, the Internal Revenue Service provided no tax relief for expenses related to household pets, but the uniform tax code does offer deductions for certain animal-related expenses. Most of the allowed deductions are animal expenses that are part of the cost of doing business, but one individual tax deduction is available for service animals.

Farming Operations

Farming operations, such as dairy farms or ranches that raise animals for food consumption can deduct all costs of acquiring, feeding and caring for animals used in the business. Animals used to produce products such as milk are considered assets of the business when purchased, and the original cost of the animal must be expensed over the useful life of the animal, as defined by the IRS. Livestock raised for food consumption is considered inventory, and the original cost of the animal, if purchased, is expensed at the time of sale.

Breeding Operations

Breeding operations are specialty businesses that choose the highest quality of a certain type of animal and breed the animals to produce high-end offspring for sale. The expenses to acquire, feed and care for animals used in a breeding operation are all deductible as operating expenses on the business tax return. Because animals held for breeding are considered assets, the original cost of the breeding stock must be expensed over the useful life of the animal as determined by the IRS. The IRS limits the number of years that a breeder can claim a loss for the breeding business on the tax filing in order to eliminate hobbyist from taking the deductions.

Pet-Related Businesses

If you are a veterinarian or own a business that is pet-related, such as pet boarding, pet sitting or pet grooming, the IRS allows you to deduct all expenses that are ordinary and necessary to your business operation. That includes pet treats, medications, shampoos, collars and any other items needed to conduct your normal business activities.

Service Animals

If you are visually or hearing-impaired or have other disabilities which benefit from the use of a service animal, such as a guide dog, you can include the cost of purchasing, training and caring for the animal with your other itemized deductions on Schedule A in the section for medical expenses. The deduction for medical expenses is limited as of 2012 to the amount over 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income.

Tags: original cost, animal expenses, animals used, considered assets, cost animal

Find A Missing Dog

Put Up a Flier to Help Find a Lost Dog

Losing a dog can be devastating. The uncertainty and frustration of trying to locate a missing or stolen dog can be almost unbearable. Take a deep breath. Know that there are a lot of actions that you can take to make sure that he returns home safely. Don't panic. Although the first few hours are important, many dogs are returned to their homes after being lost for weeks, months or even years.

Instructions

1. Make a thorough search of your property. Sometimes a dog will explore an area under the house or behind the utility shed where you've never seen him go before. There's also the possibility that he's under the couch or behind a closed guest room door. Perhaps he was shut in the closet by mistake.

2. Call your dog's name loudly. Leave out his favorite foods.

3. Canvas your neighborhood. Often dogs don't wander far. Ask any neighborhood children if they saw your dog loose. As you walk, call your dog. Listen after each call for a response. If he's trapped somewhere nearby, he'll try to let you know.

4. Put up postcards. Have a current picture of your dog on each one. Print postcards with your phone number alongside the photo. Be sure to post them in your neighborhood and along the street that backs up to your property.

5. Give your dog a scent to follow back home by putting strongly scented items in the yard or on the porch.

6. File a police or missing dog report.

7. Contact the local animal shelter and any rescue organizations in your area. Fax the pound a copy of the postcard with a good picture of your dog on it. Check back with them often.

8. Place an advertisement in the local paper.

9. Put up postcards at any local veterinary offices, grocery stores, malls, grooming salons, or pet stores.

Tags: picture your, your neighborhood, your property

Facts On Orange Tabby Cats

Facts on Orange Tabby Cats

The tabby cat is not a breed or color, but a pattern that shows up in many breeds. When the tabby color is in the red to cream range, the cat is called an orange or red tabby, also known as a marmalade or ginger cat.

Males versus Females

Orange tabbies are far more likely to be male, with an average ratio of 80 males to 20 females.

Orange Tabby Genetics

The gene for red is carried on the X chromosome. Males have one X chromosome, while females have two. A male needs only one red gene to be an orange tabby. A female must inherit two red genes, one for each of her two X chromosomes.

Tabby Types

Tabbies come in four distinct patterns: Mackerel, which includes the tiger tabby, Classic, a blotchy pattern with a bull's eye on the side, Ticked, a flecked or freckled look, and Spotted, in which ticked fur alternates with solid spots.

Fun Facts

Orange tabby cats often develop black freckles around the nose.

All orange cats are tabbies, but the markings may be so faint that the color appears solid.

The word "tabby" derives from a striped silk cloth made in Attabiyah, a neighborhood of Baghdad.

Famous Orange Tabbies

Winston Churchill's ginger cat, Jock, attended wartime cabinet meetings. Orange tabby film appearances include "Breakfast at Tiffany's," "Star Trek: The Next Generation", "Alien," and "Men in Black." Garfield, the cartoon character, and Morris, the feline face of 9 Lives cat food, are both orange tabbies.

Tags: Facts Orange, Facts Orange Tabby, Orange tabby, Orange Tabby, Orange Tabby Cats

Make Your German Shepherd Gain Weight

A healthy German Shepherd should have ribs you can feel but not see.

German Shepherds are large dogs with fast metabolisms when they are healthy, so it is important to maintain a regular feeding schedule with proper foods to maintain a healthy body weight. They can eat from 15 to 25 lbs. of dry food in a week, depending on their age and size. Feeding under this amount may lead to malnourishment while more may lead to obesity, especially if your German Shepherd does not get enough exercise. A healthy dog may at first seem slightly underweight - their ribs aren't visible, but can be felt, and their belly should be tucked in a bit at the waist

Instructions

1. Determine the cause of your dog being underweight. Take your German Shepherd in for an examination by your veterinarian. It is possible you are just not feeding your dog enough each day, or perhaps you aren't giving them enough of the right kinds of foods. It is also possible they have a disease, infection, or injury that is causing them to lose weight. German Shepherds are prone to several illnesses that can cause a loss of appetite and weight loss.

2. Start a schedule of weekly "weigh-ins" to see if your German Shepherd is gaining weight, losing more weight, or staying at the same weight. This will help you determine if your weight gain plan is working or if you need to alter it. If you continue to see a lack of results, or if your dog continues losing weight even if you change feeding plans, you should take them back to the veterinarian.

3. Provide food several times a day. Some dog owners leave dry food available all day long and supplement that with wet food once or twice a day. If you do this make sure the dry food is high in protein and low in fillers such as ash and cornmeal. You can also give them dry food at several feeding times throughout the day. You may need to feed your German Shepherd three or four times to make sure they are getting enough food.

4. Offer fresh "people" foods with meals or as snacks. This does not mean give them leftovers from the table or scraps from the refrigerator. Give them vegetables, such as carrots and celery, as treats and bland cooked turkey and chicken as part of their meals. Lean meats, roughage, and unprocessed foods can help their digestive systems work properly.

5. Give them regular exercise. Walking, jogging, or swimming are activities that are muscle building and can be done every day. It is important that they are not just gaining weight through eating and getting fat. Building muscle mass is important to maintaining their proper weight and health.

Tags: German Shepherd, your German Shepherd, food several, gaining weight, German Shepherds, give them

Kids' Birthday Parties In Reno Nevada

Some business that host birthday parties will supply the cake.

According to the 2000 Census, Reno, Nevada, the "Biggest Little City in the World," is home to approximately 180,000 people. Its many casinos make it an attractive destination for adults who reside in states where gambling is illegal. Reno, however, is not just an adult playground. There are a variety of businesses in Reno that host birthday parties for kids. Does this Spark an idea?

The Playroom

The Playroom, located in south Reno, is designed for kids up to 8 years old. Features of the locally owned facility include a two-story play structure, dress-up area with costumes and makeup, train table, specially designed and separated infant and toddler areas, and inflatable jump house. There's a designated party room, and reservations must be made in advance to have a birthday party. There are two party packages available: the "Basic Party" and "Ultimate Party." The key difference between the two is that only the "Ultimate Party" includes pizza, juice, and a birthday photo. Ask management for additional party features such as a face-painter, magician, and extra time.

Jump Man Jump

Jump Man Jump, located in southeastern Reno, features 8,000 square feet of giant, inflatable amusements including a Bounce House, jousting ring, and obstacle course. Its three party rooms have capacity of 40 guests, and parties have exclusive use of the entire facility. It's the responsibility of the chaperone to provide food, drinks (besides water), and cake, but Jump Man Jump does provide table settings and picnic tables.

Roller Kingdom

Roller Kingdom, located in the heart of Reno, offers three different birthday packages. The "Kooky-A-Bird Party" includes skating and skate rental, hot dog or slice of pizza, ice cream, soda, a party room for 45 minutes, 2-for-1 passes for each guest, and a special birthday announcement and birthday song. "Wally's Funtastic Party" includes the aforementioned features as well as a glow stick for each guest, $2 in gaming tokens, free drink coupons, and two free passes for the birthday child. "Wizard's Deluxe Pizza Party" has all the features of the other two packages plus an extra slice of pizza and goody bags for each guest, free soda refills, a sheet cake, and $3 in gaming tokens.

Starlite Lanes

Owned by AMF, one of the largest bowling operators in the U.S., Starlite Lanes is located just minutes from downtown Reno. It offers standard and custom birthday packages. Standard birthday packages include bowling shoes, reserved bowling lanes (with bumpers if needed), party supplies, food, and a bowling pin for guests to sign for the birthday child. Customized birthday parties can be planned with the in-house AMF event planner.

Tags: Jump Jump, birthday packages, each guest, Party includes, birthday child, birthday parties, gaming tokens

Adopt A Sea Monkey

Sea monkeys do not look like this.

Sea Monkeys have been the most popular, exaggerated and mysterious pets available for children since the 1960's. The mythological exploits of Sea Monkey communities have been discussed, written about, and memorialized in cartoon for years. While most who adopt a Sea Monkey never really see them build the fabled communities and cities we've heard so much about, they are still a highly sought after pet.

Instructions

1. Determine whether you want a live Sea Monkey or a virtual one. Virtual Sea Monkeys are no muss and no fuss. Real Sea Monkeys will require a fish tank, food, care and cleaning.

2. If adopting a virtual Sea Monkey, visit a website like like the one listed below and sign up for your free virtual Sea Monkey.

3. When adopting a real Sea Monkey, go to a retail store that has Sea Monkey kits and purchase your Sea Monkey. Keep in mind, Sea Monkeys are not monkeys, so don't be surprised when your Sea Monkey package is completely sealed and air-tight. Some Sea Monkey kits include tanks so you don't need anything additional to it up.

4. Read the instructions on your Sea Monkey package for setting up its tank, depositing the creatures into the water and other details.

5. When adopting a Sea Monkey that did not include a tank in its package, purchase a tank, pebbles for the bottom of the tank, and some plants for the tank, then set it up.

6. There will be products available to enhance your Sea Monkeys' short lives. There are toys, foods and treats available at retail locations and through mail order.

Tags: your Monkey, have been, Monkey kits, Monkey package, virtual Monkey, When adopting

Find A Chesapeake Bay Retriever Puppy

The Chesapeake Bay retriever can make an ideal pet for an active family.

If you plan to bring a Chesapeake Bay retriever into your family, it is important to find a responsible breeder from which to purchase a puppy. This will ensure that you do not support puppy mills and irresponsible breeders when you buy your puppy. You may also find Chesapeake Bay retrievers at your local rescue center. According to the American Kennel Club, the Chesapeake is an intelligent breed, members of which require mental stimulation through work. The dog also requires a great deal of exercise and will be most suited to active families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Instructions

1. Attend dog shows. Take the opportunity to interact with breeders and ask any questions you have about the Chesapeake Bay retriever. Look for people who are showing Chesapeakes at the events, as they may breed the dogs themselves or they may be able to provide contact details of a responsible breeder. .

2. Visit the breeder. Once you have found available puppies, arrange a time to see them and the person or people responsible for them. Never agree to purchase a dog before you have seen it in person and are satisfied that the breeder is responsible. Ask to see the puppies' parents to check that they have friendly temperaments and are kept in suitable conditions

3. Look for rescue centers or organizations in your area that specialize in re-homing Chesapeake Bay retrievers; visit to see if any suitable dogs are available. Giving a home to a rescued Chesapeake can be extremely rewarding and a great deal cheaper than buying from a breeder. If you do find a dog, expect to be interviewed by staff or organization member before you are permitted to take it home. This is done to ensure that you can provide a suitable environment for the dog.

4. Contact the American Kennel Club (AKC) if you still have not found a suitable puppy, as the AKC can put you in touch with reputable breeders in your area. Again, expect to be questioned thoroughly by the breeder before you can the puppy home. Take this as a positive sign, as it shows that the breeder cares about the puppies' welfare. Arrange for your veterinarian to give the puppy a general health check before you agree to buy it.

Tags: Chesapeake retriever, American Kennel, American Kennel Club, Chesapeake retrievers, ensure that, great deal

Give Up Your Dog To The Humane Society

Giving up a dog to the Humane Society is one way to find him a new home.

Many people need to give up their dogs for a variety of reasons. In some cases, a person may become ill and cannot take care of their dog any longer or an owner can no longer afford to feed the dog and pay vet bills. Some dogs develop a chronic illness that makes it difficult for the owner to care for then. Some owners need to move to a place that doesn't allow dogs. The Humane Society is a national organization that accepts dogs and other animals that their owners can no longer keep. However, giving up your dog to the Humane Society involves more than just dropping your dog off at the nearest Humane Society location.

Instructions

1. Locate the nearest Humane Society in your area. Check out the Humane Society website for your state.

2. Call the Humane Society to set up an appointment. Most Humane Societies do not allow you to simply walk in to give up your animal. Be prepared to wait a few weeks to get an appointment.

3. Fill out the questionnaire available online. The form asks about age, sex, health and personality of the dog as well as other vital information.

4. Get copies of all the dog's veterinary records. The Humane Society wants to see a history of the dog's health in addition to vaccinations.

5. Groom the dog before the interview. Give the dog a bath and trim his nails.

6. Go to the Humane Society on the day of the appointment with your dog and his medical records. The staff will ask you questions, examine the dog, and assess his temperament.

7. Pay the requested donation. Most Humane Societies request a donation of up to $100 depending on the pet. If money is a problem, pay what you can. Some Humane Society locations accept unopened dog food and other reusable items like grooming tools.

8. Leave your dog with the Humane Society knowing that the staff will do their best to find your dog a good, new home.

Tags: Humane Society, Humane Societies, Humane Society appointment, Most Humane, Most Humane Societies

Attractions In Seguin Texas

The ZDT's Amusement Park is fun for the entire family.

Seguin is one of the oldest towns in Texas and was established in 1838. The Guadalupe River runs through the south side of the city. The scenic lakes in Sequin provide outdoor enthusiasts hours of entertainment boating, water skiing and fishing. There are many things to do and attractions to see in Seguin, including museums and historical statues.

ZDT's Amusement Park

The ZDT's Amusement Park in Seguin offers hours of endless fun for the entire family. The amusement park has go-karts, an indoor jungle playground, a rock climbing wall, video games, slides, parachute drop and an acrobatic trampoline. You can purchase a wristband for unlimited access to all attractions, all day for one price. The amusement park also does birthday parties and lock-ins. Daniellie's Kitchen is a restaurant located on-site and serves burgers, fries, nachos and other foods.

ZDT's Amusement Park

1218 N. Camp St.

Seguin, TX 78155

830-386-0151

zdtamusement.com

Max Starcke Park West

The Max Starcke Park is located along the Guadalupe River and offers many recreational activities. The park has an 18-hole golf course, basketball court, volleyball court and a tennis court. For children the park has a wave pool, the Kids Kingdom Playscape and a little league baseball complex. All throughout the park you will find picnic areas. The many picnic pavilions can be reserved (for a fee) for birthday parties, reunions and special events. Alcohol is permitted in certain areas of the park by permit only and fee applies.

Max Starcke Park West

Seguin, TX 78155

830-401-2480

The Heritage Museum

The Heritage Museum is located in the old Red and White Grocery Store building that was built in 1898. It is a two-story building constructed of red bricks and has a balcony. The museum can be found on the corner of North River Street and East Gonzales Street in Sequin. Admission to the museum is free; however, donations are welcome. For children the museum has ways to explore the history through a treasure hunt, animated stories and trivia. The museum tells the history of Sequin, including themes, cultures, ghosts and legends. Memberships can be purchased to the museum, and a gift shop is also available. All proceeds go towards projects for the museum.

The Heritage Museum

114 North River

Seguin, TX 78155

830-372-0965

theheritagemuseum.org

Tags: Amusement Park, Heritage Museum, Seguin 78155, Starcke Park, amusement park