Saturday, February 28, 2009

Crossing the River with Dogs: Problem Solving for College Students (Key Curriculum Press)

Crossing the River with Dogs: Problem Solving for College Students has been adapted from the popular high school text to provide an accessible and coherent college-level course in mathematical problem solving for adults. Focusing entirely on problem solving and using issues relevant to college students for examples, the authors continue their approach of explaining classic as well as non-traditional strategies through dialogs among fictitious students. This text is appropriate for a problem solving, liberal arts mathematics, mathematics for elementary teachers, or developmental mathematics course.
Customer Review: Worth every cent
I am a first year teacher, teaching high school math topics (Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calc, etc) and I find the problems in this book to be amazing! I have a study skills class that is required for all 10th graders. The classes have students who are in Pre-Algebra up to students taking Algebra 2 honors. I find the problems in this book to be an even playing field for all levels! The problems require the students to think and problem solve using various strategies explained throughout the book. I've recommended it to every teacher I know, and they've all agreed that this book is a must have! No matter what you teach, you can always find a handful of problems that will have the students becoming more advanced problem solvers. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Customer Review: Great text!
This book is a great text book. My professor loves it and I really like it too. The way it makes you think is so different than other concepts in the math realm. This book makes you think and I recommed incorporating Sodoku puzzles into your curriculum if you teach a problem solving class. I'm only a student, but they really make you think.


Dog collars are one of the most common things a pet owner buys for his or her pet. Most people purchase a normal collar for their pet but there are many more options available today which would delight not only the buyer but also the dog.

Dog collars are of many different kinds, depending on the material used. These include cotton, nylon, leather, suede, metallic, handmade, woven, velvet, foam, and even gold, silver and platinum. They are designed in beautiful patterns such as polka dots, python prints, crocodile prints, animal prints, valentine, tuxedo style, denim, bandana, mink, crystal, bone, bows, Victorian, neon, glitter, mink, and others. Some collars are also being fitted with devices like speakers, RFID, GPS, reflectors, adjustable buckles, and other attachments.

Most people would not hesitate to spend a fortune to please their canine friends. Many manufacturers are taking this opportunity to design exquisite collars that would delight even the choosiest of pet owners and their friends. Some of the fanciest collars are those made of gold, silver, platinum or other expensive metals, embedded with precious and semi-precious gemstones like rubies, sapphires, and Swarovski crystals.

Some are also personalized with beautifully decorated beads that spell the pets name, or slide-on letters encrusted with gemstones. Some collars are also attached with attractive charms shaped like hearts, bones or the pets name, decorated with gemstones. Prices of these can start from $20 and may go up to $300 or more. Some manufacturers also allow the buyer to design the collar. This can also be done even online, over the manufacturers website. Dog collars are also provided with attractive buckles. Fancy dog collars are also available in wholesale quantities of 12 or 24.

Dog Collars provides detailed information on Dog Collars, Personalized Dog Collars, Small Dog Collars, Fancy Dog Collars and more. Dog Collars is affiliated with Designer Dog Clothes.

dog bed

Dapper Dog Pet Costume

Debonair Doggie! Man's Best Friend, or Favorite Feline, Gets a Suave Look in This Dashing Tuxedo and Top Hat, Just for Pets!


Labrador Retriever

A lab can be a very gentle and calm companion, but if you look at his history the lab was bred as a retrieving dog. He likes to have work and purpose, and physical exercise is important for his mental health. A lab is a great dog to take into the woods. His thick coat will keep him warm, and when in the water his strong tail acts as a rudder. Labs are also great with children, and make a great all-around dog package.

English Setter

The English Setter was bred as a hunting dog, and loves to run and retrieve. He is patient and intelligent, making him a good choice for families with older children as well. English Setters love mental challenges, and would have great fun with agility courses or simply going on a daily run with you.

The Standard Poodle

No, not the little yappy fellow, but the original deal. The standard poodle weighs in at around 45-55 pounds and is a sturdy and intelligent dog who thrives on owner interaction. Poodles have fairly high energy and love to exercise. The breed was actually once used for retrieving ducks, and thus they love any water sports. Poodles are also good with older children and are friendly with strangers as well.

Of course, there are many other breeds who would do well in your active lifestyle. Don't forget to check out the pound either; where many athletic mixed breeds are just waiting for a new home. Good luck finding your new canine companion, and may you stay happy and fit.

Article by Nancy Cope of Pampered Dog Gifts - the place to shop for dog gift baskets and designer dog beds.

dog breed

Friday, February 27, 2009

The Plague Dogs: A Novel

"Thousands and thousands of people will love this book!"
THE BOSTON GLOBE
A lyrical, engrossing tale, by the author of WATERSHIP DOWN, Richard Adams creates a lyrical and engrossing tale, a remarkable journey into the hearts and minds of two canine heroes, Snitter and Rowf, fugitives from the horrors of an animal research center who escape into the isolation--and terror--of the wilderness.

From the Paperback edition.
Customer Review: First book I ever threw away!
The Plague Dogs: A Novel I could not stand the pain of reading this book. I know, things like this happen to our animals. After reading the ending of the book, I was so angry that I went to the wastebasket and threw the book away. I wish, the ending had been more clear.
Customer Review: Just Short of Greek Tragedy....
This book has an awful lot going for it and a couple of detractors. First, the good stuff - In the style of Classic Tragedy you see the main characters facing difficult life decisions with ethical implications all around and along the way, you the reader, begin to discover the pull of emotions that shape so many of the choices we have to make. The sense of "fate" building up a tragic climax permeates the whole stuff of the book. - This is a book about the beauty of friendship in the face of incredible odds. The dogs are "humanized" of course and hence their friendship is much more human than doggy.. but the contrast with the Tod reminds us that friendship empowers a quality of life that transcends any of the troubles that beset us all. - This book is also about humans... perhaps more than dogs... you begin to wonder if there are any noble ones around... but hang in there.. Cons - the descriptive prose begins to tire after a while. I know the landscape was beautiful but it is a bit much. - the ending is a bit weak in my thinking... the author enters into a dialog with a representative reader and then uses a literary device of inserting himself as the topic of conversation between two characters. It was a kind of narcissism which was distracting. It knocked it down from five stars in my estimation. All in all, very good book and well worth the reading. You will like it I assure you.


As dog lovers we should check out who is teaching our dogs just as a parent would check out who is teaching their children. Dogs and puppies need to be taught manners and boundary lines just as children do. A well-behaved child is a joy to be around, and so is a well-behaved dog. Now that Christmas is over and your new puppy is ready for training, here are a few tips on choosing a great dog trainer.

One note to remember about dog trainers: they are not regulated through any agency; that is why you must be very careful in your choice. A person could be a painter, carpenter or plumber one week, and a dog trainer the next. Do your research and check veterinary references.

The title certified trainer is not very meaningful unless the trainer is certified through a dog training organization which either 1) trains dogs for service work, 2) gives a credit equivalent to a college degree, or 3) is a Pet Dog Training organization like APDT or IACP. But there are also many good dog trainers that were self-taught. The best ones and those on the right track have gone on to further their knowledge by going to seminars, lectures and continuing- education classes. Find out what education a trainer has had and check education records.

There are many companies that have on-line certifications; this consists only of a short, written course; and, for a fee, they will send you a certification. But this type of certification is actually meaningless. Dog trainers must be taught by an instructor that has years of practical and behavioral experience, preferably with a reputable school or service organization that teaches dogs to provide service for impaired individuals; this enables the trainer to understand behavioral and environmental problems, as well as learning obedience training.

There are many behavior disorders that stem from medical problems. A competent dog trainer knows to rule out medical causes first, and can then distinguish between environmental problems and behavior problems, such as barking, chewing and digging. A really good trainer will have breed knowledge, in order to explain to the owner why their dog might exhibit certain behaviors that have been bred into them for hundreds of years - for example: why a Border Collie might constantly nip your children, or why a Jack Russell might seem to be digging a hole to China. This is basic breed knowledge.

Here are ten basic questions to ask when selecting a trainer:

1. Ask for their educational background: schools, names and phone numbers, so you can check records.

2. Dog trainers should have at the very least 4 veterinary references with phone numbers and locations.

3. Qualified trainers should be a member of a pet professional organization such as the Association of Pet Dog Trainers or the International Association of Canine Professionals. These are two organizations are long standing and reputable.

4. Ask if you can watch the instructor teach a class. Ask the students how they feel about the trainer. Ask if the exercises are easy to follow and what is expected from the dog each week.

5. Ask what they do to continue their education.

6. Ask if any physical punishment is used. and which type of collars they train with.

7. How many years of dog training do they have as a professional (not as a hobby trainer or sport trainer)?

8. What experience do they have with fearful dogs, rescue dogs, high anxiety, aggressive, dogs with excessive energy or those with obsessive compulsive disorders?

9. Are they strictly obedience trainers or do they have behavioral experience? The trainer should have experience in both behavioral and obedience modification.

10. What type of certification do they have? Where did they get it? Can you check the records of their certification?

Susie Aga, Atlanta Dog Trainer

Susie is a Certified Canine Behavior & Training Specialist and a member in good standing with the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. She has four rescue dogs and donates much of her time and services to Rescue Organizations. Susie hosts The Animal Hour Radio Show which can be heard through her site, and is Turner Brocasting's Featured Pet Expert.

Dog

The Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook: Over 100 "Tail Wagging" Recipes

When it comes to dog biscuits, there s a lot out there, but not one as concerned with your pet s health and happiness as ours! While most of the competition goes for novelty, the Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook stands alone in featuring tail-waggingly tasty 100% organic ingredients. Written by an expert who runs the Bubba Rose Biscuit Company, it contains more than 100 all-natural recipes double what most other dog cookbooks have. That s sure to appeal to owners eager to feed their dog homemade after the recent commercial pet food scare. The wholesome doggie dishes (all tried, true and taste tested) include a Luck of the Irish Wolfhound dog treat with such ingredients as oat flour and spinach leaves, and a beef-based Grillin and Chillin hot dog!
Customer Review: Great Organic Dog Treat Cookbook
I found some recipes in Bark magazine that were from The Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook. The Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook: Over 100 "Tail Wagging" Recipes My Boston pup, Boss, liked them so much that I ordered the book from Amazon.com. So far, I have tried 15 recipes. Boss' favorites are: Thatsa One Spicy Meatball, The Classic, Lil' Taste O' Pie, Muddy Paws, Red Hot Puppermints (breath), Apple Cinnamon Muttins, Ice Cubes Just Got A Lot Better, Because I Carob 'Bout You, Cheesecake Brownies, Jerky Turkey and Dragon Slayers (breath). Luckily I have a dog that will eat just about anything. I tried the Blueberry Muttins, but he wasn't too crazy about the blueberries. When I gave him the first one, he picked all the blueberries out and left them on the rug. Eventually he ate the whole thing. All treats are made with organic ingredients. The Red Hot Puppermints require beet powder, which at our organic grocery store cost over $35 a pound. The little bag I bought was over $6. They also include explanations of the benefits of some of the ingredients: natural food colorings, avoid the onions, broth vs. gravy, preparing the beef, substitutions - just do it, oils, fish for dogs, parsley packs a punch, liver - it's time to love it, benefits of molasses, benefits of barley flour, the goodness of garlic, lickin' their chops for chicken, rosemary for more than seasoning, nuts - the good, the bad and the ugly, flaxseeds, spinach - leaf & green, broccoli - it's hard to beat, carob, out of the patch and into the bowl (pumpkin), ginger, white chocolate in moderation, an apple a day, oats & oat bran, peanut butter, peppermint, apple cider vinegar, berry, berry yummy, yogurt? you bet!, zucchini's zogood, a taste of the tropics (coconut), carrots for breakfast, the "eyes" have it (pupeyes), flying treats (yams), herbs for life, grain-free flours, gobbling up turkey, home on the range (buffalo) and salmon. If this has piqued your interest, you might want to think about ordering the book. It's well worth the price. The organic ingredients can be a littly pricy, but I'm glad to know that my puppy is getting something that's not full of fillers, sugar or salt.
Customer Review: Good ideas but incorrect recipes
I was bought this book as a gift and have made 4 of the recipes so far. I like the ideas this book gives and the fact that it is all organic. It's also been great at letting me know what is good/bad for dogs. However, the one area that I think they've totally got it wrong is in putting the recipe instructions together. Of the 4 that I have made so far, only one of them was able to be made by following the recipe directly. The other 3 all had issues with quantities. When I mixed the recommended amounts for the dough I invariably ended up with a goopy mess! I ended up having to add far more flour than the recipe called for to get something that could be rolled out - as I was instructed to do. I'm a keen baker so I am not doubting my baking skills - I think the authors simply did not test their own recipes for accuracy. Also - some of the instructions on creating treats here would result in treats that would be large for a great dane - let along a normal sized dog. It's bewildering - I can't understand how this got to print with so many problems with the instructions! If you buy it be prepared to modify the recipes to make them work!


Think about it first.

1) Why do you want a dog? It may be that you have recently lost a dog to illness or old age and she has left a blank space that you need to fill. If your children are now grown up and moved away, it may be that you need a new companion, who will also ensure that you get out and take plenty of exercise.

Perhaps you would like a big dog, to help you feel more secure in your home.These factors will help you to decide what breed of dog will be most suitable and also whether it should be an adult dog or a puppy.

2) You need to decide which breed of dog will suit your situation. There is such an enormous choice among all the different breeds. Will it be a large hound or a small terrier, a German Shepherd or a Bichon Frise? Will the size of the dog and the size of your home be compatible? You may decide not to get a pure bred dog but may find the ideal companion at the local Rescue Centre. This would certainly save you a lot of money.

3) If you decide to get a rescue dog, be aware that it may come with problems from a previous unsuitable owner. On the other hand, such a dog may be so grateful for a happy, loving home that it will turn out to be the ideal companion.

Dog breeders can vary from the superb to the criminal. Some are little more than puppy farms, with unhygienic quarters and indiscriminate breeding. Refer to your local breed society to find a reputable breeder and be sure to check the pedigree of the parents and the Kennel Club registration.

4) Who will train the dog and how? Will you take your dog to training classes, or employ a professional trainer? Are there other members of the family who could share in this necessary exercise. Perhaps you can do it yourself, with the aid of one of the excellent training courses which are available online.You must be prepared to devote time and patience to training your dog, to get the very best from your relationship.

5) Who will take most responsibility for the dog's welfare? Will it all fall on you? You need to consider feeding, exercise, training and possibly grooming. Can you depend on promises of help from the kids and other members of the family, once the novelty has worn off?

If, on the other hand, you are now living alone, the trust and demands of a new dog in your life could be the very best thing to lighten your days!

6) Separation anxiety can be a big problem for a new puppy or an adult dog. He has suddenly been plunged into a new, strange environment and, in the case of a puppy, been taken away from his mother and siblings.

If the dog is then left alone in the home for long periods of the day, look out! He will be frightened and then bored and may resort to chewing and other destructive behavior, or keep up endless barking or whining, much to the annoyance of neighbors. And you may return home to a disaster zone!

7) Food. In the wild, your dog was a meat eater. Making sure that he gets a suitable diet, with all the correct nutrition is vital to his health and well-being. Just feeding him leftovers from your dinner table is not sufficient. Did you know that garlic and onions can be toxic to dogs?

Several vets and other authoritative sources have issued serious warnings that some commercial dog foods are potentially lethal, as they contain substances which are banned from human consumption. Visit the link at the bottom of this page for the full report.

8) Consider the cost of owning a dog. For a start, buying a pure bred dog with a good pedigree can be pretty expensive. He will need an initial health check with the vet and possibly you may want to have him micro-chipped. Whilst you are at the vet's, you may want to get an idea of his normal fees, which should send you looking for pet insurance.

Once you've covered all that, there is the continuing cost of food, toys, collars, leashes, training and possibly a crate or kennel.

Get the right dog and he's worth every penny!

http://allabout-dogs.co.uk covers all aspects of dog ownership, including dog training, dog breeds, dog health, dog food and dog supplies

dog grooming

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Dog Talk Socks

These thin, flat knit, lightweight socks are made with 75% Sensura polyester to wick away perspiration and 25% stretch nylon for perfect fit and firm support. Also, the natural anti-bacterial yarn properties help inhibit bacterial growth. Made in the USA. Comes in one size that fits Women's shoe size 6-11 and Men's shoe size 5-10.


Although we love our dogs, we don't always love how they smell. If you know or suspect your canine companion has picked up some unpleasant odors, Louise Louis of http://www.ToyBreeds.com offers you some tips on how to restore a fragrant home (and dog).

1. Dry him thoroughly after removing the bad odor.

Many dogs love to swim in whatever water is available. Use towels or a hair dryer on the lowest-heat setting until he's totally dry.

If you need more than water to get him clean, try Listerine or other brand of mouthwash. Put some on a washcloth and clean your dog's coat, then rinse or shampoo off. If that isn't working, add some baking soda to the mix.

2. Check for sticky objects in his coat.

Many dogs get feces or other smelly things stuck in their fur. Especially check his paws and around his anus. It's a good idea to shave his hair in a circle around his anus to minimize that possibility.

3. If his breath is bad, give him Greenies.

These are one of the great dog products and available in any pet store. If your dog is otherwise healthy and just has doggy breath, they'll do the trick.

4. Bathe him regularly especially if he spends much time outside.

Use a gentle shampoo made for dogs and wash him about every six weeks or so. Follow with a nice conditioner or make your own using a little baking soda in lukewarm water.

5. Make sure his diet isn't the problem.

Feed him a balanced, premium dog food that smells good to you and make sure his dog food hasn't spoiled or developed mold. Dog food packaging should indicate its expiration date. Always check at the store before you buy it.

6. Check his ears.

Ear infections are a common cause of bad smells. Make sure he doesn't have any discharges, bad odors or strange colors or insects in his ears. Infections need to be treated by a vet right away.

7. Clean your home and his possessions.

Doggy odors can linger in carpets. You must use an enzyme cleaner like Nature's Miracle if he has a potty accident.

To restore a nice smell in your home, sprinkle baking soda on the carpet and leave overnight before vacuuming in the morning. Also you can use a little baking soda with your laundry power when you wash his bedding and his clothing. Many people like to put a little white vinegar in the rinse water.

P.S. Older dogs and unneutered males tend to smell more strongly.

Louise Louis is a certified canine specialist and creator of the popular website on small dogs, http://www.ToyBreeds.com

dog supplies

The Cruelest Miles: The Heroic Story of Dogs And Men in a Race Against an Epidemic

In 1925, a deadly diphtheria epidemic swept through icebound Nome, Alaska. The life-saving serum was a thousand miles away, and a blizzard was brewing. Airplanes could not fly in such conditions: only the dogs could do it. Racing against death, twenty dog teams relayed the serum across the Alaskan wilderness as newspapers nationwide headlined the drama, enthralling an entire generation. The heroic dash to Nome inspired the annual Iditarod Dog Sled Race in Alaska and immortalized Balto, the lead dog whose arrival in Nome over a snow-blown trail was an American legend in the making. His bronze statue still stands in New York City's Central Park, in dedication to the "Endurance, Fidelity and Intelligence" of the dogs that saved Nome. This is their story, the greatest dog story never fully told, until now. 2 maps, 48 illustrations.
Customer Review: Unrealized potential
A history book needs to flow, and though this is tough in a tale such as this, the two sister-writers leave much to be desired. I read the first 100 pages, then needed a six month break before I could pour over the rest. It was a tedious task. Great idea for a story, but the writing could have been better. There were typos, which surprised me. Naturally there's the wholly unnecessary PC diatribes that they sprinkle in and the themes are choppy & disorganized at times. The book could have been 50-100 pages shorter -- and probably better. Overall though, a great topic and a worthwhile, if unfulfilled, effort.
Customer Review: Excellent reading
My wife and I recently enjoyed a 2 week vacation in Alaska and have been fastinated with mushing after visiting a few musher camps during our visit. This is an excellent read for anyone interested in mushing or Alaska.


Almost every home, car, office, and job site has a first aid kit and attendant to attend the needs of the humans. Dog shows and trials have veterinarian hospitals listed for emergencies. But what about the pet which ends up hurt at home, in the car, or at the park? Ambulances and first aid attendants take care of our human needs until we can reach proper medical care. But who takes care of our pets?

We as conscientious owners can be somewhat prepared to help our pet by at least having a first aid kit prepared specifically for pet needs. Another way we can help our pet is by taking a pet First Aid course. Many local veterinarians offer First Aid courses. Some dog clubs also arrange for veterinarians to come teach classes to the group. Also, check with the local SPCA as some branches offer courses and are heavily involved in the community.

Taking a First Aid course will give you some confidence when assessing the medical situation involving your pet. You will also learn some basic skills to use at home for small emergencies and how to prepare yourself and your pet to enable you to transport it to a veterinary hospital in the event of a serious situation. Taking a First Aid course is never a substitute for professional care. If you ever have doubt about a pets health or injury you should never hesitate to contact a professional.

Here is a list of some articles that should be included in a First Aid Kit for your pet. They should be kept in a handy sealed container in the home or in the car. Don't forget to take it with you when traveling.

  • Gauze pads (based on the size of your dog)
  • Gauze rolls -not only to bandage but to possibly muzzle your dog
  • Cotton balls
  • Q-tips
  • Blunt nose scissors -to cut away long hair and tape
  • Tweezers
  • Thermometer
  • Adhesive tape -athletic type is the best
  • Sterile water
  • Alcohol (99% solution)
  • Hibitane soap (4% solution)
  • Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) -to induce vomiting or cleaning wounds
  • An old sock -to protect bandaged feet
  • Cohesive flexible bandage -great for wrapping a wound and not having it pull hair like adhesive bandages
  • Veterinary ointment for small wounds and burns
  • Eye drops or ointment
  • Ear cleanser and dryer
  • Spoon or syringe for administering fluids
  • Towel or blanket -serves many purposes: controlling temperature, transporting the pet, controlling the pet
  • Zip lock bags -to contain urine or fecal matter -to keep bleeding paws from staining your clothes, etc.
  • Quarters
  • Your veterinarians name and phone number written down on a sheet with
  • Your name and your dog's name written down as well. Any medications your dog usually takes.

Other useful items to include are Maalox, Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismal and buffered aspirin. Never administer without first consulting with your veterinarian for the dosage and proper usage based on the needs and size of your dog.

Watch the expiry dates and replace when necessary for optimum effect of the medicines. And most importantly, remember self diagnosis is your worst doctor. When in doubt always consult with your local veterinarian.

Terrie Simpson has been involved in the dog world for over 28 years and has achieved numerous awards with her Springer Spaniels in tracking and obedience. She is a contributing writer for the K9 Kourier (http://www.k9kourier.com) and recommends K9 KlearUp for dog's with skin & coat problems (http://www.k9klearup.com).

dog names

Monday, February 23, 2009

How to Run a Dog Business: Putting Your Career Where Your Heart Is

The demand for skilled dog trainers, dog walkers, dog sitters and dog daycare operators has never been greater. To succeed in one of these fields, youll need more than dog expertiseyoull need business savvy as well. Written for the non-business person, Veronica Boutelle, the industrys top consultant, gives you the information you need to start, operate, and prosper in your chosen field.
Customer Review: Good starter book
I'm currently reading the book titled How to Run a Dog Business, etc. As an aspiring dog trainer, I thought it would give me a bit more detail, but so far it is helpful, but not as extensive or comprehesive as I hoped.
Customer Review: Good Book
This is another good book that I would recommend to those getting into this business. Good info and Ideas.


A lot of dog owners are worried about whether their dog will be taken care of during dog training lessons. If you are worried about this there are many options. You can participate in your dogs training whilst with a professional dog trainer or you can perform your own lessons at home. By using these methods you can guarantee the quality of your dogs lessons. However you should keep the basics of dog training, if you are interested to provide training for your dog. Video presentations and several books on dog training are available in the public library for your reference. These books and references are the best alternatives of dog training for your dog, if you cannot afford a professional trainer.

The three commands of dog training basics are "sit, stay and come". When your dog obeys your commands, you should provide some extra snacks as a reward. Your pet dog will start executing more commands with interest for extra snacks provided by you. Dog training should be done in a calm area so that the dog on SITTING can concentrate on the commands of the owner. While giving commands to your dog, you have to attract the dog with some delicacies in your hand. With the delicacy in hand, give commands frequently to the dog to execute so that the dog can be trained to the words and commands spoken by its owner. Make sure to provide some rewards to your dog after he sits during the learning session. You can pat the dog gently or can give some snacks as a reward.

One of the difficult commands to be taught to your dog is to stay, as it is difficult for it to obey. The basic command has to be blended with the command "come". You should understand the dog's keenness from its eye and you should start walking. If you find that the dog is also walking with you, then ask the dog to stay back even if you continue to walk. The dog always has a tendency to follow your foot steps. In order to make the dog to understand the command, keep on repeating the word several times until he reacts to the command. Dog training is not easy as it needs lot of time and effort to make it understand the commands. You can add more and more commands after training one of these commands. The dog has to stay back when you ask him to stay or stop and then the dog has to come along with you when provided with a 'come' command. The dog usually learns the command quickly with the use of hand indication. The whole process of dog training requires patience and it is important to keep in mind that you should not get irritated or disturbed, if your dog takes more time to learn. You can provide some delicacies with affection as a reward, when your dog understands and executes your commands.

Trainers Require Patience during Dog Training

Never strain the dog with rigorous sessions of training which might lead to fatigue of both dog and the owner. The tiredness may not give the desired results. The dog may become nervous, if the owners raise their voice or in a bad mood during training session because dogs consider the owners as masters. Only tolerance and reliability will give you the desired results. Through this article you can understand the dog training basics.

Did you find this useful? If so, check out: http://www.dogobediencetraining.com.au - A leading website on dog training methods.

dog collars

My Dog May Be a Genius

Have you ever encountered an underwater marching band, a pig in a bathing suit, a pet orangutan, or a witch in a hardware store? Have you ever sat with a skunk in a courtroom, shopped for a dinosaur, or conversed with a Bupple, a Wosstrus, a Violinnet, or a Celloon? You will have, once you've read this exuberant collaboration from Jack Prelutsky and his "partner in crime"* James Stevenson.

The "reigning czars of silliness"* have once again teamed up to bring readers an irresistible collection of poems that will have tongues twisting, imaginations soaring, and sides aching with laughter. The result is genius, indeed.

*Publishers Weekly (starred review)


Customer Review: Love it!!
These poems are so clever and fun- and funny! Our almost 4 year old loves them, and I love reading them. I bought another copy for our nephew who is just learning to read. These remind me of the Shel Silverstein poems I read as a kid- and loved- but seem a bit more appropriate for a very young audience. I love introducing poetry and this is a great way to do it. I HIGHLY recommend this book (and others by him- we have a few now).
Customer Review: Hilarious and superbly written - terrific poems for kids and adults
We got this book at a school book fair and it's by far the best discovery in ages.. These kids' poems are hilarious and superbly well-written, with all the craft and subtlety of Edward Lear or Ogden Nash, but they're immediately accessible to kids and to adults. You may think poetry's not your thing, but your child will love the pieces in this book which make great bedtime reading as well. My daughter memorized one - "A Letter from Camp" - last year for a school event and she got laughs like a standup comic - it was such a hit that kids and other teachers asked her to do it over and over again. Light verse may seem like a lost art, but the poems here couldn't be better - five stars plus and hats off to a terrific poet, Jack Prelutsky, the best poet for children in a long, long time...


Arrf, Woof, Bow-wow! Ever wonder what these dog sounds mean? Do you think your dog might be trying to say something really important to you? Well now you may be able to find out. The Japanese toy company Takara claims that their new dog translator called Bow-Lingual can actually translate dog sounds into human words and phrases.

The device comes in two parts: a radio microphone that attaches to the dog's collar, and a receiver held by the owner that is said to translate the dog's barks. The translater is capable of translating the growls, grunts, and whines into phrases such as "I'm hungry," "walk me," and "I'm tired." The phrases as well as illustrations are displayed on the receivers LCD screen. Although the phrases are far from complex sentences, they do a reasonable job in describing what the dog wants or thinks.

In addition to translating what your dog is saying at any given moment, Bow-Lingual is equipped with a Data Analysis Mode, which allows the owner to track changes in the dogs perceived emotions over time. The doggy translator also includes a Body Language Translation Mode, a Training Mode and a Medical Reference Mode. It uses 5 "AAA" batteries, and the first set is usually included.

So how does Bow-Lingual turn bow-wow into human talk? Well, the device uses what is known as an animal Emotion Analysis System. This basically means that it has a large database of dog sounds which have been translated into human language by dog experts. So, when the dog makes a particular sound, the device matches the sound with the closest one it its database and spits out the human equivalent. Thus, the accuracy of the device is largely dependent on the experts prior ability to properly assign words and phrases to dog barks. And this, of course, is far from a perfect science.

The device originally sold for over $150, but now can be bought for around $40 - $50. At this price it is probably worth experimenting with if you are at all curious about what your furry best friend is trying to tell you.

Bradley James is a senior editor at SciNet.cc, a website containing many helpful consumer electronics review articles. For more information on Bow Lingual translating technology, please visit our Bow Lingual webpage.

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Saturday, February 21, 2009

Bebini Denim Collared Dog & Cat Bib Overall

Our new line of European babywear boasts boutique quality and style. These chambray overalls are designed with light blue stitching and dog/cat embroidery by the hemline. The coordinating cotton top features a peter pan chambray collar with matching stitching and back snaps for easy dressing. Machine wash warm.


Professional dog grooming can run hundreds sometimes even thousands of dollars and many times is reserved only for the very wealthy or very pampered pet dog. But you don't have to pay a fortune to keep your cherished pet primed and ready for a celebrity photo shoot.

Keeping your dog clean-shaven and show quality can be easier than you think provided your dog has the proper temperament for the job. Depending on your dog size it will probably be better to perform the grooming outdoors. It will be necessary to make them as comfortable as possible and keep them still by using your body to hold them.

The first step will be to bathe your dog then brush and remove any mats by hand. The most matted and nodded areas of the four are typically under the body, around the ears, behind the legs, and under the tail. Scissors with blunt or curved tips will be required to snip away before a little at a time to remove extremely matted areas. This will take time and patience as you will have to be careful not to injure your dog skin by pulling too hard, or piercing it with the scissors.

Be absolutely sure that their hair is completely clean and dry before you start clipping. Always use professional quality clippers when grooming. Commercial clippers will come with all of the tools and guards required to perform the perfect grooming.

Start clipping at the top of the head and around the ears. Always move the Clippers in the same direction as the for two ovoid tangling and hangups. Do not rush this process, it will take time to develop your skill. Move slowly and with long steady strokes being careful not to snag or pull the skin causing injury. Clean your trimmer blades often with a stiff brush dissembling them if necessary to ensure smooth operation. Apply light oil to the blades several times during the clipping process.

Do not allow the Clippers to overheat or the blades to burn your dog skin. Check the temperature every few minutes by pressing the blade against your arm. If they are too hot take a break and return to it later. After shaving the entire upper body moved down the legs and to the paws which will require some more time and patience. Be sure to have assistance for this part of the grooming as to keep their legs and paws still and avoid injury.

Once the clipping has been completed it is time to remove all the extra bits of hair from their skin, ears, and face. A second gentle bathing will be required as their skin will be extremely sensitive, and small bits of hair can cause severe irritation. With a little time and loving care, grooming can be a supremely enjoyable experience for you and your dog.

For more interesting, entertaining, and heartfelt articles about dogs and many other kinds of pets, visit Thought Search Articles.

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