A recent post from PetsitUSA Blog discussed a ban in the UK that says dogs can't be allowed in the kitchen of a Bed & Breakfast.
My comment: I don't know of too many dogs that have ever tainted human food...but I do know of humans who have tainted dog food!
Growing up, my grandparents had animals in the house all the time...in the kitchen, on the table, on the floor, everywhere! And whatever food we didn't eat, went to the feed the pets. In fact, those dogs and cats were sometimes fed better food then I was...they ate better then I did! And here I am, living to tell about it. So I can understand the health risks of not having dogs in restaurants and in kitchens...but I lived to tell about it...and so have countless others.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Bunnies Don't Bark!
Everyone has something they enjoy that othes may not. In the pet world, I'm always drawn to the bunnies at the pet store and even at local fairs. They really are interesting little creatures. As I hung around them I started to observe their behavior. Observing really wasn’t all that tough-- they really don’t seem to do too much!
Now, I’m not putting down bunnies as pets, or trying to offend bunny owners. In fact, it’s like having a dog that doesn't bark. Actually, bunnies really don’t make much noise at all. They just go about their business, chewing on things, having a grand old time. They are fun to watch hopping about, and because they don’t make any noises, you have to look around at all times to see where the bunny might be hiding....you don't want to accidentally step on one!
In some ways I wonder if owning a bunny is tougher then a dog or cat. Since they really don’t make any noises, it’s hard to know if the bunny is in need of anything. There is no barking, meowing, clawing, or any other obvious forms of communication that we get from our other furry pets.
And since they really don't make noises, how does a bunny tell us when he’s hungry? Or when they need something? Maybe having a bunny is tougher then I thought.
bunny, rabbit
Now, I’m not putting down bunnies as pets, or trying to offend bunny owners. In fact, it’s like having a dog that doesn't bark. Actually, bunnies really don’t make much noise at all. They just go about their business, chewing on things, having a grand old time. They are fun to watch hopping about, and because they don’t make any noises, you have to look around at all times to see where the bunny might be hiding....you don't want to accidentally step on one!
In some ways I wonder if owning a bunny is tougher then a dog or cat. Since they really don’t make any noises, it’s hard to know if the bunny is in need of anything. There is no barking, meowing, clawing, or any other obvious forms of communication that we get from our other furry pets.
And since they really don't make noises, how does a bunny tell us when he’s hungry? Or when they need something? Maybe having a bunny is tougher then I thought.
bunny, rabbit
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Do You Talk To Your Pet?
All About Pets is pet website from the UK and they recently posted a survey asking if you talk to your pet. Not surprisingly, 97% of those taking the survey said yes.
Do animals know you're having a conversation with them? In some ways they do. They get to know certain phrases and certain actions that go with those phrases. Like it or not, humans are creatures of habit, and our furry pets, especially dogs, learn based on repetition, so it's no surprise that they know our habits.
I have conversations with my pets all the time. That doesn't mean they know what the heck I'm talking about, and they aren't going to solve the price of gas problem, but they do become a way for us as humans to vent, and provide therapy in so many ways.
What kind of conversations do you have with your pets?
Do animals know you're having a conversation with them? In some ways they do. They get to know certain phrases and certain actions that go with those phrases. Like it or not, humans are creatures of habit, and our furry pets, especially dogs, learn based on repetition, so it's no surprise that they know our habits.
I have conversations with my pets all the time. That doesn't mean they know what the heck I'm talking about, and they aren't going to solve the price of gas problem, but they do become a way for us as humans to vent, and provide therapy in so many ways.
What kind of conversations do you have with your pets?
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Food Banks For Pets
As people are struggling to pay the bills, many of them are being forced to get rid of their pets. However, there are some food banks out there who are also giving out free pet food.
Some might say that you shouldn't have pets if you can't afford them, but what if you get into a bad rut? Something happens that you didn't expect causing you to fall behind on things. Would you give up your loved ones? Your kids? For many pet lovers, the pets are part of the family.
As this article describes, demand for free pet food samples has risen in this tough economy.
Some might say that you shouldn't have pets if you can't afford them, but what if you get into a bad rut? Something happens that you didn't expect causing you to fall behind on things. Would you give up your loved ones? Your kids? For many pet lovers, the pets are part of the family.
As this article describes, demand for free pet food samples has risen in this tough economy.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Water Bottle Toys
Does your dog like to play with your empty water bottles? Apparently, Fat Cat, Inc. figures if you can't stop them, might as well make it safe. Since dogs can't resist the crunch of the bottles, they've created Water Bottle Crunchers.
Sized for empty plastic bottles 20 oz and smaller, all you have to do is place your plastic bottle in the cruncher. And when it's all crunched out, just take out the old bottle and put in a new one.
The set of two toys above cost $21.95. I haven't actually tried them to see how they handle my toy-destroying dogs, but for that price, I'm not sure if I want to take a risk. However, I admire the invention. If anyone has tried them, let me know what you think.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus)
The various types of Pleco fish (AKA sucker mouths, algae eaters) are becoming more popular in the fresh water aquarium hobby. One favorite is the bristlenose (or bushynose) Pleco, part of the genus Ancistrus sp.
They get their common name from the growths that form on the head of mature males. These fish are thought to be the "workers" of the tank, often cleaning a tank full of algae in relatively short time. They are great community fish and don't grow as large as the common pleco, making them perfect for smaller tanks.
They prefer a temperature in the mid to high 70s, which is common of tropical fish. These hardy fish will eat algae, but their diet should be supplemented with algae wafers, sinking pellets, and even fresh lettuce. They'll also eat common flake food, but need to have greens in their diet.
They are peaceful fish, but sometimes can be a bit territorial towards their own kind, or other bottom dwellers. They prefer a PH in the 6.5 - 7.0 range, but are very adaptable to a slightly higher PH. It is also though this species likes to have a bit of wood in their diet, so having a piece of driftwood is beneficial.
No one is exactly sure how many species are in the genus Ancistrus, and even experts have trouble differentiating the species. So most aquarists just stick with the safe name “Ancistrus sp.” when describing the fish that they are keeping.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Pet Friendly Apartments
It seems as though more and more apartment complexes are becoming “Pet Friendly.” A complex near where we live recently posted signs advertising this fact to everyone who drives by.
A different complex owner recently told me that he tried to fight it for a long time, but finally gave in and started allowing “small” pets. It seemed more and more people were asking him if he allowed pets, and by saying no, his rents were going empty. The reasons to ban pets usually involve the potential mess the pets will make in the apartment, the potential damages, the noise issues, and liability if a pet attacks someone or causes and injury to other in the complex.
But, for that last issue, I’ve recently read where it usually isn’t the landlord’s responsibility if a dog bites someone. As a pet owner you are the one liable. Just leasing premises to a tenant with a dog usually isn’t enough, by itself, to make a landlord legally responsible for a tenant’s dog. A court would have to prove that the landlord had prior knowledge that the animal in question was a danger to the community, which is difficult, if not impossible, in most cases.
As always, do your own research and don’t necessarily quote me on the above, I’m just writing some stuff I’ve read recently. But the good news is, more and more landlords are realizing that in order to give themselves a better chance of getting renters, they probably have to make some concessions and allow pets.
pets, dog, pets in apartment
A different complex owner recently told me that he tried to fight it for a long time, but finally gave in and started allowing “small” pets. It seemed more and more people were asking him if he allowed pets, and by saying no, his rents were going empty. The reasons to ban pets usually involve the potential mess the pets will make in the apartment, the potential damages, the noise issues, and liability if a pet attacks someone or causes and injury to other in the complex.
But, for that last issue, I’ve recently read where it usually isn’t the landlord’s responsibility if a dog bites someone. As a pet owner you are the one liable. Just leasing premises to a tenant with a dog usually isn’t enough, by itself, to make a landlord legally responsible for a tenant’s dog. A court would have to prove that the landlord had prior knowledge that the animal in question was a danger to the community, which is difficult, if not impossible, in most cases.
As always, do your own research and don’t necessarily quote me on the above, I’m just writing some stuff I’ve read recently. But the good news is, more and more landlords are realizing that in order to give themselves a better chance of getting renters, they probably have to make some concessions and allow pets.
pets, dog, pets in apartment
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Potbellied Pigs: An Allergy-free Pet
Ok, I didn't write this myself, but found an interesting article about an allergy free pet alternative. I know....it's a pig....but the article makes me want to get one.
http://www.zootoo.com/petnews/potbelliedpigsanallergyfreepet
http://www.zootoo.com/petnews/potbelliedpigsanallergyfreepet
Monday, June 2, 2008
Wanted: The Dirt on Your Best Friend
Here is a press release I was sent recently about a photo contest. I don't know much about it besides what is written in the release.
MANCHESTER, NH (May 15, 2008)--It's good, clean fun for a great cause: Carpet One Floor & Home announces the start of the 2008 Carpet One Floor & Home Muddiest Buddy Contest. From May 1st to June 15th, animal lovers across the country will have a chance to win $5,000 in Lees® carpet and a one-year supply of Purina brand pet food. The winning pet will be named the official spokes-pet for Lees®, an exclusive carpet brand known for stain repellency and a no-exclusions warranty.
To enter the 2008 Carpet One Floor & Home Muddiest Buddy Contest, pet owners should submit a photo of their pet at his or her dirtiest along with a story about what makes their pet special at www.CarpetOne.com. The filthiest - and most charming - pet will be crowned the nation's "Muddiest Buddy." Additionally, the winning pet's picture and biography will be featured in the 2009 "Paws & Relax" calendar.
For every entry received, Carpet One Floor & Home will make a donation to the Delta Society's "Muddiest Buddy Fund." Delta Society, which is one of Purina's many charitable partners educates and encourages positive interactions and relationships with therapy, companion, and service animals as a way to improve human health and well-being.
"The Muddiest Buddy contest is a lot of fun and it's for a really great cause," said Terri Daniels, Vice President of Carpet One Floor & Home Public Relations. "We are so proud to support the Delta Society's programs and research."
"We are thrilled to work with Carpet One and connect them with Delta Society as part of their Muddiest Buddy contest," says Brenda Bax, Brand Director at Nestlé Purina PetCare. "This contest is a great way to celebrate some of the special moments our pets share with us!"
"This contest is a fantastic way to get people thinking about how much their pets enrich their lives," said Larry Norvell, President & CEO of Delta Society. "Contributions from companies like Carpet One Floor & Home help us continue to bring people and animals together. We're looking forward to a long partnership with Carpet one Floor & Home and the Muddiest Buddy contest."
Entries for the 2008 Carpet One Floor & Home Muddiest Buddy Contest must be received by June 15th, 2008. For more information and complete contest rules, visit any Carpet One Floor & Home location across North America or visit www.CarpetOne.com.
About Carpet One Floor & Home
Carpet One Floor & Home (http://www.carpetone.com/ href="http://www.carpetone.com/" target=_blank>www.CarpetOne.com) is North America's leading floor covering retailer, with more than 1,000 independently owned and operated locations in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Carpet One Floor & Home stores are known for a broad selection of carpet, wood, laminate, ceramic, vinyl, and area rugs, including exclusive brands like Liz Claiborne Home, Good Housekeeping, and Lees.
About Delta Society
Delta Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. The organization was founded 30 years ago by a veterinarian and a psychiatrist to fund the first credible research which showed how companion animals positively affect human health and well-being. Today, Delta Society is a leading international resource on the human-animal bond. A core program is Pet Partners, in which over 10,000 volunteers are trained and registered so they can safely and effectively share the healing power of their pets with hospitalized patients, seniors in assisted living care centers, patients in hospice care, children learning to reading, and so much more. Other programs include the Service Dog Referral Center and the web-based Human-Animal Bond Resource Center. To learn more, visit www.deltasociety.org.
MANCHESTER, NH (May 15, 2008)--It's good, clean fun for a great cause: Carpet One Floor & Home announces the start of the 2008 Carpet One Floor & Home Muddiest Buddy Contest. From May 1st to June 15th, animal lovers across the country will have a chance to win $5,000 in Lees® carpet and a one-year supply of Purina brand pet food. The winning pet will be named the official spokes-pet for Lees®, an exclusive carpet brand known for stain repellency and a no-exclusions warranty.
To enter the 2008 Carpet One Floor & Home Muddiest Buddy Contest, pet owners should submit a photo of their pet at his or her dirtiest along with a story about what makes their pet special at www.CarpetOne.com. The filthiest - and most charming - pet will be crowned the nation's "Muddiest Buddy." Additionally, the winning pet's picture and biography will be featured in the 2009 "Paws & Relax" calendar.
For every entry received, Carpet One Floor & Home will make a donation to the Delta Society's "Muddiest Buddy Fund." Delta Society, which is one of Purina's many charitable partners educates and encourages positive interactions and relationships with therapy, companion, and service animals as a way to improve human health and well-being.
"The Muddiest Buddy contest is a lot of fun and it's for a really great cause," said Terri Daniels, Vice President of Carpet One Floor & Home Public Relations. "We are so proud to support the Delta Society's programs and research."
"We are thrilled to work with Carpet One and connect them with Delta Society as part of their Muddiest Buddy contest," says Brenda Bax, Brand Director at Nestlé Purina PetCare. "This contest is a great way to celebrate some of the special moments our pets share with us!"
"This contest is a fantastic way to get people thinking about how much their pets enrich their lives," said Larry Norvell, President & CEO of Delta Society. "Contributions from companies like Carpet One Floor & Home help us continue to bring people and animals together. We're looking forward to a long partnership with Carpet one Floor & Home and the Muddiest Buddy contest."
Entries for the 2008 Carpet One Floor & Home Muddiest Buddy Contest must be received by June 15th, 2008. For more information and complete contest rules, visit any Carpet One Floor & Home location across North America or visit www.CarpetOne.com.
About Carpet One Floor & Home
Carpet One Floor & Home (http://www.carpetone.com/ href="http://www.carpetone.com/" target=_blank>www.CarpetOne.com) is North America's leading floor covering retailer, with more than 1,000 independently owned and operated locations in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Carpet One Floor & Home stores are known for a broad selection of carpet, wood, laminate, ceramic, vinyl, and area rugs, including exclusive brands like Liz Claiborne Home, Good Housekeeping, and Lees.
About Delta Society
Delta Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. The organization was founded 30 years ago by a veterinarian and a psychiatrist to fund the first credible research which showed how companion animals positively affect human health and well-being. Today, Delta Society is a leading international resource on the human-animal bond. A core program is Pet Partners, in which over 10,000 volunteers are trained and registered so they can safely and effectively share the healing power of their pets with hospitalized patients, seniors in assisted living care centers, patients in hospice care, children learning to reading, and so much more. Other programs include the Service Dog Referral Center and the web-based Human-Animal Bond Resource Center. To learn more, visit www.deltasociety.org.
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