Pet Ko - Pet Mo - Pet Nating Lahat!!!! (The Pinoy Petlover)

Lucky Hermits

2010-07-29T15:22:00.001+08:00

Hermit crabs are among the more unusual pets, although they do make interesting, easy care companions. They are active and curious, and their unique characteristics and low maintenance requirements make them good pets.

Hermit crabs are not "true crabs." Hermit crabs are decapod crustaceans of the superfamily Paguroide. Hermit crabs are quite commonly seen in the intertidal zone: for example, in tide pools.

Of the approximately 15 terrestrial species in the world, the following are commonly kept as pets: Caribbean hermit crab (Coenobita clypeatus), Australian land hermit crab (Coenobita variabilis), and the Ecuadorian hermit crab (Coenobita compressus). Other species such as Coenobita brevimanus, Coenobita rugosus, Coenobita perlatus or Coenobita cavipes are less common but growing in availability and popularity as pets.

Hermit crabs were once seen as a "throwaway pet" that would live only a few months, but species such as Coenobita clypeatus have a 23 year lifespan if properly treated,[12] and some have lived longer than 32 years.

Land hermit crabs are relatively easy to find (especially here in the Philippines…you can buy them near elementary schools…a lot of peddler sells them to kids for a peso to 5 pesos, depending on size) but you have to be a little choosey. Check to make sure that all the legs are present (3 pairs of walking legs), the shell covering the head and thorax isn't damaged, there are no parasites/small bugs present, and that the crab is lively. Larger crabs may be hardier, and if you already have a crab then it is important to match sizes pretty closely otherwise fighting may occur.

Basic Care:

Hermit crabs are tropical animals and need warm temperatures. Correct temperature and humidity is essential for their health and wellbeing. 70-85°F is the proper temperature range. Heat damage is irreversible, and temperatures that are too low slow down a crab's metabolism. An improper environment can cause your crab to become lethargic and inactive, lose limbs and ultimately, die.

The proper home for your crabs should be one that holds in humidity, but still lets in fresh air. A fish tank usually does nicely. Hermit crabs breathe through gills, so the air needs to be moist or they will suffocate. With warmth and a solid lid on the tank, the water dish should be enough to create humidity. It is also possible to put a sea sponge in a dish of filtered water for extra humidity.

Your substrate should be at least 2-3 times the height of your largest crab, and should be a material the crabs can easily dig and build caves in to relieve stress, hide, and molt.

Please do not disturb your crab during molting. He will need to be alone and if he is bothered, the stress could kill him. Once in a while, a crab's exoskeleton gets a little tight, and like a snake shedding its skin, a crab will shed its exoskeleton and grow a little bit. Don't take the exoskeleton away from the crab! He will need to eat it in order to harden his new exo. This is where the shells come in. When they grow, they need bigger shells. It is important to keep plenty of extra hermit crab shells similar to your crabs' sizes in the tank at all times. Once a month or so, rotate a few undisturbed shells out with different styles of shells.

NEVER buy painted shells! Although companies may claim the paint is safe, the paint can chip off, and if the crabs eat it, it can be toxic. See the Warnings for information on what kinds of shells to a avoid.

In the wild, hermit crabs are omnivores, which mean they eat plants as well as meat. Hermit crabs are also scavengers by nature and will eat almost anything. Beware of commercial food, as it has many preservatives that may harm your little hermit.

Fresh water is needed for drinking. Use filtered water or rainwater so there is no chlorine in it. A larger dish of salt water can be provided for the hermit crabs to get into. Do not use table salt. Saltwater can be found in an aquarium shop that sells saltwater fish.

Shallow, strong and easy to clean dishes are used for food and water containers, and a larger one for saltwater.

Interested of owning a hermit crab? Just drop by on the Lucky Hermits booth on the basement floor of SM Mega Mall in EDSA (near Comic Quest and the Food Court). There are hermit crabs in all shape and sizes. Hey! They can also be seen in the following places:

Robinsons Ermita

- near National Bookstore and Figaro

SM North EDSA

- in front of the Sky Garden entrance

Puppy Loves Kitten

2009-12-24T19:06:00.002+08:00

or is it?

Adopt a Pet today.

2009-12-24T18:53:00.002+08:00

Why buy a pet...try adopting!

Visit PAWS Animal Rehabilitation Center (PARC), located at Aurora Boulevard corner Marcos Highway Loyola Heights Quezon City Philippines and look for that pet that will need your love this holidays and to the rest of the year.

Adoption Fees: Cat: 300 PHP

Dog: 1,000 PHP

Included in the Adoption Fee:
all animals of PAWS are neutered/spayed
vaccinated against rabies
dewormed
groomed
provided with sample pet food from Pedigree

After being adopted:
Animals may be brought back to the shelter to get free basic obedience training.
You may avail of free veterinary consultations and discounts on PARC clinic services (all by appointment). The fee would simply go into ensuring that the adoption and animal rehabilitation programs of PAWS keep rolling like a happy puppy playing in the green pasture on a Saturday afternoon!

10 tips to keep pets safe during the holidays.

2009-12-24T18:47:00.002+08:00

By Dr. Tracy Acosta
McClatchy Newspapers

With the holiday season upon us, the excitement of the period involves celebrations in which family pets are an integral part. However, the holidays hold a few hazards that you will want to be aware of so that you can make this hustle and bustle time fun as well as safe for the whole family.

These recommendations are especially important for those who have a pet around for the holidays for the first time. Hopefully, these tips will help keep all of your pets from getting into too much trouble with Christmas and other holiday decorations.

Realizing it will truly be a challenge to keep their curious noses out of harm's way, I ask that you pass on the following suggestions to anyone who has pets. As the responsible pet owner you must take these precautions to avoid potential dangers.

• If in doubt that something may be a hazard, get down to your pet's level and look at life from the pet's perspective. Pets don't have hands to examine things, so when they find something new, they often pick it up with their mouths to see how it tastes and feels and whether it might be good to eat.

• Christmas trees, both live and artificial, can serve as a huge danger for the curious. For instance, chemicals you may put in the water to keep a tree fresh may harm pets. Make sure that no pet has access to the tree stand and its water.

• Low-hanging ornaments and tinsel are easy targets. If you have pets, I recommend not using tinsel. Hang nonbreakable ornaments on the lower branches, if you hang any at all at your pet's level.

• Secure the tree. I cannot tell you how many cat and dog owners have told me that they arrived home to the horror of finding the Christmas tree knocked over. Secure your tree to an adjacent wall with fishing line.

• Next up for dangerous items, the multiple electrical cords abundant both inside and outside. Keep cords out of reach of pets that may chew on them and risk being electrocuted.

• Candles are another common house hazard. The flickering glow can easily attract any pet, but especially cats. Place candles in appropriate holders out of reach or jumping reach of your pets. Keep fireplaces screened off properly.

• Holiday plants are another common danger. Poinsettias can irritate the lining of your pet's mouth and intestines but are rarely fatal from toxicity. Your pet would have to ingest a huge quantity to cause serious results. Poinsettias are primarily considered an irritant but mistletoe, holly, Jerusalem cherry, amaryllis and other flowering bulbs can be toxic. Place them out of reach.

• Like any other holiday throughout the year, food is another topic to consider. It is quite the norm for us to indulge in large meals and to have an abundance of holiday cookies and candies throughout the house. Remember, you can show your pets that you love them in other ways besides indulging them with inappropriate human goodies. Remind guests to respect your wishes to not offer your pet human food.

• Give pets a space of their own. I highly recommend keeping your pets away from the party, possibly in a quiet bedroom with low music to keep them distracted. This will allow you to enjoy your party and not worry about your pets running out the door or getting food handouts.

• New Year's is a loud and raucous time of parties, fireworks and noisemakers, all of which can be stressful to any pet. Spend time with your pet before the guests arrive or before you go out. Some pets may even need a light sedative to get through the excitement, especially fireworks. Be sure to discuss with your veterinarian which options are best.

By taking a few simple common sense precautions, you can ensure that your beloved pet will enjoy the fun of the holiday season safely, along with the rest of the family.

Dr. Tracy Acosta is a veterinarian at Biloxi Animal Hospital.

The Animals of Cartimar

2009-11-26T13:43:00.001+08:00

Askal on Parade!

2009-11-26T12:59:00.004+08:00

An askal is a mixed-breed (mongrel) dog in the Philippines. The name is a Tagalog-derived contraction of asong kalye (street dog). It is applied to mongrels due to their often stray nature.

BTW...Askals are now being called as ASPINS (Asong Pinoy)

They also rescue pets, livestock from floods

2009-10-08T13:15:00.001+08:00

By Tessa Salazar
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 03:54:00 10/05/2009

Filed Under: Good news, Animals, Ondoy, Food, Disasters (general), Relief & Aid Organisations

MANILA, Philippines—They set out to rescue endangered pets and livestock from the flood—while also helping humans along the way.

For five days now, an international team of animal welfare and animal rights advocates has been braving the floods in neighborhoods devastated by Tropical Storm “Ondoy” (international codename: Ketsana), asking around for abandoned animals and keeping an ear out for a puppy’s whimper, a cat’s scratching, or a pig’s squeal.

Assisted by the Philippine Army, the international team peered into dark living rooms, knocked on shuttered windows. Members of the team made chirping sounds, dog- and cat-calls—or anything that could draw a response from trapped creatures.

As of Sunday, Animal Rescue Pilipinas (ARP) had saved nine dogs (including two puppies), one adult cat and a kitten, and one turtle.

The lucky animals are now in the care of the Philippine Animal Rehabilitation Center (PARC) in Loyola Heights subdivision, Quezon City, where they await either a reunion with their owners or re-adoption.

Right to be rescued

“Humans should be rescued first, but the animals have a right to be rescued as well,” said one of the leaders of the team, veterinarian Nielsen Donato.

The ARP only started to mobilize four days after Ondoy had left the country so as not to interfere with human rescue operations that were launched immediately after the storm, said Donato, a cofounder of the Philippine Association of Wildlife Veterinarians Inc. and president of the Feathered Friends Foundation (FFF).

As of Sunday, ARP members had penetrated flooded areas in Laguna, Bulacan and Tarlac, and the cities of Marikina, Pasig and Taguig. They had also distributed relief goods to some 220 families.

Since most of the pet owners were nowhere to be found, the team members simply gave the animals new names when these were rescued.

Precious finds

Among their precious finds was “Twiggy,” a spotted mongrel, who was stranded for six days atop a table in a barangay outpost. Nearing death at the time she was rescued, Twiggy was now at the PARC recovering from severe dehydration.

Also saved was “Julia,” a light-brown dog small enough to fit in a handbag. She was spotted standing on a rock, shivering and starving.

“Stanley,” a medium-sized mongrel, and “Fiddler,” a German Shepherd, were both rescued from the ill-fated Provident Villages in Marikina City. Both were also treated for severe dehydration.

Apparently overjoyed by the sight of a human, “Lyndon,” a brown mongrel stranded on a rooftop, also at Provident, wagged his tail vigorously when found and jumped onto the outstretched arms of a rescuer.

Two days ago, the team found six pigs that were still in their pens on Acacia Street, Pasig City. Unable to escape and visibly hungry, the pigs were wailing and had begun eating anything that floated by, including garbage.

Too heavy to be moved to safe ground, the team decided to feed them while waiting for the owner to return.

But for many other animals, the effort came too late. Bloated carcasses of pets, some still on leashes or in cages, greeted the team in Marikina, for example.

World Animal Day

“I never imagined this was how we would observe World Animal Day (Oct. 4),” said Anna Hashim-Cabrera, program director for the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), one of the local organizations comprising the ARP.

“We’ve been receiving over a hundred e-mails asking us to attend to trapped animals. A lot of people are concerned now. There’s a bigger clamor for animal rescues,” Cabrera said.

Other Filipino groups on the ARP team include Animal Kingdom Foundation, Animal Welfare Coalition, Compassion and Responsibility for Animals, and the FFF.

International groups also on board are the Humane Society International, World Society for the Protection of Animals, and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).

Each organization was given different assignments depending on its specialization. The ARP gathered experts in animal rescue, shelter care, veterinary medicine, etc.

Urgent case

An urgent case involving both animal and human marked Day 5 of the ARP’s mission Sunday.

On a rubber boat, as though in a scene straight from some jungle adventure, Donato, along with paramedic Brenda Stanton and emergency responder Mike Booth (both of IFAW), attended to a snake bite victim.

Only this time it was in Barangay San Andres in suburban Cainta, Rizal, where floods unleashed by Ondoy nine days ago remained chest-deep.

The victim, a resident named Ariel Odea, was bitten by a reticulated python that sought shelter in his flooded house. Captured alive, the snake was turned over to Donato, who planned to release it far from human habitation.

Dog overboard found four months later

2009-04-08T18:36:00.001+08:00

SYDNEY (AFP) – A pet dog that fell overboard in rough seas off Australia has been reunited with its owners after surviving alone on an island for four months, reports said.

Sophie Tucker, apparently named after a late US entertainer, fell overboard as Jan Griffith and her family sailed through choppy waters off the northeast Queensland coast in November.

The dog was believed to have drowned and Griffith said the family was devastated.

But out of sight of the family, Sophie Tucker was swimming doggedly and finally made it to St Bees Island, five nautical miles away, and began the sort of life popularised by the TV reality show "Survivor."

She was returned to her family last week when Griffith contacted rangers who had captured a dog that had been living off feral goats on the largely uninhabited island, in the faint hope it might be their long-lost pet.

When the Griffiths met the rangers' boat bringing the dog to the mainland they found that it was indeed Sophie Tucker on board.

"We called the dog and she started whimpering and banging the cage and they let her out and she just about flattened us," Griffith told the national AAP news agency.

"She wriggled around like a mad thing."

Griffith said that when the dog was first spotted on the island she had been in poor condition.

"And then all of a sudden she started to look good and it was when the rangers had found baby goat carcasses so she'd started eating baby goats," she said.

Sophie Tucker, a member of the Australian cattle dog breed, had been quick to readjust to the comforts of home, complete with airconditioning, Griffiths said.

"She surprised us all. She was a house dog and look what she's done, she's swum over five nautical miles, she's managed to live off the land all on her own," Griffiths said.

"We wish she could talk, we truly do."

Hamsters again...

2007-10-27T10:16:00.000+08:00

Someone post this ad on my Philippine myth group in Yahoo...but I think it is more appropriate to post it here.

Visit Fluffy the Hamster Site and know more about hamster care.

Well since we started to talk about hamster, here are some more hamster FYI:

Typical hamsters sold in Philippine petshops are called "Golden Hamster", "Teddybear hamster" or Syrian Hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus)

Striped Hamster or Chinese Striped Hamster (Cricetus griseus) are not a true dwarf hamster, but are of a similar size as the other dwarf hamsters.

Dwarf hamsters differ from other species in that they are social and can be kept in pairs or small groups.

The Chinese Dwarf Hamster (Cricetulus griseus) is considered to be one of the "ratlike" hamsters. They have a slightly longer tail, more pointed and longer nose, and tend to be thinner in build than other hamsters. All in all, they do look more ratlike. They are brown, with a dorsal stripe.

The Chinese hamsters all have a dorsal stripe. The Campbells (Phodopus campbelli) is brownish-grey in color, with a white belly. The Siberian or Winter-White (Phodopus sungorus)is grey in color during the summer and turns almost entirely white in the winter--the change being triggered by the length of days, not by temperature. The Roborovsky (Phodopus roborovskii) is similar to the Campbells, but slightly darker, and has white patches above the eyes, resembling eyebrows.

Speaking of Rovorovski, I found some Roborovski hamster in Bioresearch SM Mega Mall branch in EDSA and WOW! Too expensive! Roborovskis (Phodopus roborovskii) are the smallest and fastest of all hamsters which are commonly kept as pets. I think it's best to keep them on aquariums rather than in cages. They have the nasty habit to squeeze out of thight spots.

Remember! Hamsters are solitary and territorial. They should always be housed alone! If you like a sociable hamster, then Dwarf hamsters are for you!

A hamster from someone I used to know...

2007-09-11T08:33:00.002+08:00

Well...this is it, here's a hamster from someone I knew from Canada. The hamster looks like a "golden hamster" variety.

Proper care:

1. Start by talking to your hamster and do not pick him up until you are sure he isn’t frightened of you. Hamsters will bite when they are frightened so be careful. If he shows any signs of being stressed, leave and try stroking him after a while. Cup your hands gently around the hamster to pick him up, or pick him up at the scruff of the neck, the way the mother hamsters will carry her babies when they are still young. It will take about three to four weeks to tame a hamster so be patient. Hamsters need a cage, food, water, a hiding place, toys and soft bedding materials.

2. Hamsters will eat a variety of food such as apples, nuts, chicken, rice, eggs, hamster food, eggs, pasta, and bananas. Make sure you avoid any citrus fruits since they will be harmful to the hamsters. Make sure the hamster has a healthy diet with some fresh vegetables and fruit on every day. Store the store-bought hamster food in airtight containers in a dry dark place to ensure it stays fresh.

3. Fresh water should always be supplied to the hamster. The easiest way to do this is by getting a water bottle especially designed for hamsters. You can also use a bowl with fresh water, but make sure it is a heavy bowl so the hamster can’t tip it over and so you don’t have to refill the water as often. If the bowl tips over the bedding will also get wet and you will have to clean out the cage.

4. Hiding places are also important to the hamster. They love to hide under a log or inside a cardboard box. They will chew on the cardboard so something out of wood will be better. Don’t take the hamster out of the hiding place since he will feel safe to sleep in there and he needs a place of privacy.

Well that's that for the hamster. I still prefer Hamtaro and the rest of the "Ham-Hams".

Be careful on your pets

2007-07-23T17:17:00.000+08:00

In today's news here in the Philippines, a grandmother was killed and her granddaughter was seriously wounded. No not by robbers or intruders, but by their own pet dog! They have this pit bull for a pet and it just happened while their feeding their dog.

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I think Pit bull Associations should warn Pit Bull owners about the danger of having vicious dogs like this. It's not only the responsibility of the owners to take care of their dog but it is also the responsibility of the sellers of these dogs to warn potential buyers the danger. Loving your pet should not stop at feeding and giving water to the pet or hugging and "petting" your pet but a well-informed pet owner is a happy pet owner.

Love your dog

2007-06-14T16:37:00.000+08:00

Stop dog fighting. Dogs are here for us to take care and not to make small gladiators!

Dog Fighting (From Rio's Pitbull Kingdom)

Dog fighting is a sadistic "contest" in which two dogs—specifically bred, conditioned, and trained to fight—are placed in a pit (generally a small arena enclosed by plywood walls) to fight each other, for the spectators' gambling and entertainment. Fights average nearly an hour in length and often last more than two hours. Dogfights end when one of the dogs is no longer willing or able to continue. In addition to these dogfights, there are reports of an increase in disorganized, more spontaneous street fights in urban areas.
The injuries inflicted and sustained by dogs participating in dogfights are frequently severe, even fatal. The American pit bull terriers used in the majority of these fights have been specifically bred and trained for fighting and are unrelenting in their attempts to overcome their opponents. With their extremely powerful jaws, they are able to inflict severe bruising, deep puncture wounds, and broken bones.

Dogs used in these events often die of blood loss, shock, dehydration, exhaustion, or infection hours or even days after the fight. Other animals are often sacrificed as well. Some owners train their dogs for fights using smaller animals such as cats, rabbits, or small dogs. These "bait" animals are often stolen pets or animals obtained through "free to good home" advertisements.

Dogs used for fighting have been bred for many generations to be dangerously aggressive toward other animals. The presence of these dogs in a community increases the risk of attacks not only on other animals but also on people. Children are especially at risk, because their small size may cause a fighting dog to perceive a child as another animal.

Dog Fighting is a Serious Concern

Dog fighting has become a serious issue within our community. Why should you know how to recognize and report suspected dog fighting activities? Because dog fighting is a felony in 47 states and is against the law in all 50 states. It is linked to many other illegal and criminal activities. Law enforcement and animal welfare investigators report:

dog fighters are often involved in illegal gambling, the sale and possession of drugs, as well as illegal weapons.
dog fighters and spectators have a history of violent and criminal behavior toward people.
dog fighting is another entertainment activity for gangs.
dogs trained for fighting have been known to viciously attack innocent people for no apparent reason.
it is not uncommon for dog fighters or spectators to involve their children in dog fighting.
Research shows young children who view this type of violence have a greater acceptance of aggressive attitudes and behavior. These children are taught to believe that it's okay to inflict the cruelties they observe and that dog fighting is an acceptable practice.

Note:

If your neighbor owns a pit bull, it does not necessarily mean that he or she is a dog fighter. Most pit bull dog owners in the community are not involved in dog fighting. They keep pit bulls as pets and companions.

Santa Guinea Pig

2005-12-20T18:04:00.000+08:00

Reuters - Sun Nov 27,11:40 AM ET - A guinea pig wears a Santa Claus costume at an animal show in Moscow November 27, 2005. Moscow's Club of Friends of Guinea Pigs organised an exhibition of their favourite pets on Sunday that included a fashion show and a sprinting contest. REUTERS/Sergei Karpukhin

Gone to the dogs!

2005-12-19T13:11:00.000+08:00

The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail instead of his tongue.
-Anonymous

Don't accept your dog's admiration as conclusive evidence that you are wonderful.
-Ann Landers

If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.
-Will Rogers

There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.
-Ben Williams

A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves
himself.
-Josh Billings

The average dog is a nicer person than the average person.
-Andy Rooney

We give dogs time we can spare, space we can spare and love we can spare. And in return, dogs give us their all. It's the best deal man has ever made.
-M. Acklam

Dogs love their friends and bite their enemies, quite unlike people, who are incapable of pure love and always have to mix love and hate.
-Sigmund Freud

I wonder if other dogs think poodles are members of a weird religious cult.
-Rita Rudner

A dog teaches a boy fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three
times before lying down.
-Robert Benchley

Anybody who doesn't know what soap tastes like never washed a dog.
-Franklin P. Jones

If I have any beliefs about immortality, it is that certain dogs I have
known will go to heaven, and very, very few persons.
-James Thurber

If your dog is fat, you aren't getting enough exercise.
-Unknown

My dog is worried about the economy because Alpo is up to $3.00 a can. That's almost $21.00 in dog money.
-Joe Weinstein

Ever consider what our dogs must think of us? I mean, here we come back from a grocery store with the most amazing haul -- chicken, pork, half a cow. They must think we're the greatest hunters on earth!
-Anne Tyler

Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea.
-Robert A. Heinlein

If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you; that is the principal difference between a dog and a man.
-Mark Twain

You can say any foolish thing to a dog, and the dog will give you a look that says, 'Wow, you're right! I never would've thought of that!'
- Dave Barry

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.
-Roger Caras

If you think dogs can't count, try putting three dog biscuits in your
pocket and then give him only two of them.
-Phil Pastoret

My goal in life is to be as good of a person my dog already thinks I am.

Put an end to animal fighting!!!!

2005-12-08T09:40:00.000+08:00

Urge your representative to end animal fighting
Complete the information at right to take action on the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act.

Sponsored by Rep. Mark Green (R-WI), this bill increases penalties to a felony level for the interstate traffic in animals for dog fighting, cockfighting, and hog-dog fights and the barbaric weapons used in cockfights. This is important because prosecutors are reluctant to spend time and money on misdemeanor cases.

More @ What's At Stake? - Exactly how cruel and gruesome is animal fighting?

Sad truth about pets and disaster

2005-09-29T08:26:00.000+08:00

On the recent events that happened in Luisiana when the hurracane hit the area, there are some sad facts on pets and pet owners as Wayne Pacelle, President & CEOThe Humane Society of the United States, just said: (Maybe it's best to read his letter)

Over the past three days alone, our Disaster Animal Response Teams in
Louisiana have rescued more than 700 animals -- bringing the total
number of animals we've helped save across the region to more than 7,000. While
our work in the areas hit by Katrina and Rita will continue for months, perhaps
years, our disaster teams' efforts have been truly remarkable -- thanks to your
support.

But even as you read this, we know that pets -- animals who, for some
reason, haven't yet made any rescue lists -- remain trapped in their
homes or out on the streets. Many remain stranded or homeless for one tragic
reason:

Their caregivers, when forced to evacuate, were not allowed to take
their pets with them. Government officials and human relief agencies did not
have an emergency plan in place to accommodate people and their pets.

With your help, we can change this for future disasters: Take action NOW and ask your U.S. Representative to support the
Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act (PETS Act) to ensure relief
agencies plan for pets and that a tragedy of this magnitude never happens
again.
Last Thursday, Congressmen Tom Lantos (D-CA), Christopher Shays
(R-CT), Barney Frank (D-MA), Don Young (R-AK), and James Oberstar
(D-MN) introduced the PETS Act to ensure that in future disasters, people
will not be forced to leave behind their household pets and service animals such
as seeing-eye dogs, as they were in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

The PETS Act requires local and state emergency preparedness
authorities to include pets and service animals in their disaster evacuation
plans. Local and state authorities must submit these plans to qualify for grants
from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. With your help, we have a chance
to pass this bill and save pets during future disasters:

1. Take Action and urge your U.S. Representative
to co-sponsor H.R. 3858, the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards
Act, and do everything possible to get it passed SOON. It will only take a
minute using our easy online tools.

2. Spread the Word. Urge your friends and family to contact their
Representatives about this bill. We cannot win unless we have a large, loud
majority urging our legislators to protect pets during future disasters. Click here to spread the word.

When a disaster strikes in the future, The Humane Society of the
United States wants to work hand-in-hand with government responders. Animal
rescue is an enormous task, and we can't do it alone.

As The HSUS and other animal groups continue to search for, rescue, and
shelter animals in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, it's heartening to know
that you're standing with us. Please contact your Representative today and urge him/her to
co-sponsor and unequivocally support the PETS Act so it can be adopted before
Congress adjourns for the year. This law will save the lives of both pets and
the people who love them.

P.S. Our teams are continuing to rescue and shelter animals across
the devastated region. For the latest update on our response to Hurricanes
Katrina and Rita, please click here.
Thank you for your swift action and for all you
do on behalf of animals.

101 THINGS TO THINK ABOUT BEFORE BECOMING A BREEDER OF DALMATIANS

2005-09-10T09:24:00.000+08:00

Want to own a Dalmatian? Well here are some trivia and tips about this wonderful doggie.

History: The name of this dog breed was taken from Dalmatia, part of the former Yugoslavia. Coming from Dalmatia, a region on the Adriatic Sea north of Albania. It was in Britain that the Dalmatian became well established as a dog of the British aristocracy, running alongside their horse-drawn carriages. He has been used as a watchdog, draft dog, shepherd, ratter, bird dog, trail hound, retriever, circus and stage performer and of course as a firehouse mascot. His registration doubled following the 1959 Disney animated film "101 Dalmatians." Dalmatians are "people dogs." They like nothing more than spending quality time with their owners.

Dalmatians have been associated with fire departments for many years. Why? Many years ago, Dalmatians were used to chase rats out of the fire stations and horse stables of London. The dogs also guided the horse-pulled fire wagons through city streets. Some modern firehouses still keep Dalmatians as pets. During World War II, Dalamatians were used to carry secret messages and emergency supply kits.

Dalmatians are also known as English Coach Dogs, Spotted dicks, Carriage Dogs, and Plum Pudding Dogs.

Full-grown Dalmatians usually weigh between 40 and 70 pounds. Male Dalmatians are bigger than female Dalmatians.

George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and painter Pablo Picasso all owned Dalmatians.

Is a Dalmatian right for you?

1. Dalmatians are VERY active. Poorly bred Dalmatians may be hyperactive.

2. Dalmatians are territorial. Poorly bred Dalmatians may be aggressive or fear-aggressive (bite or snap because they are afraid).

3. Dalmatians shed twice a year, six months in the spring and six months in the fall.

4. Dalmatians are family oriented and do not do well as back-yard or kennel dogs.

5. A Dalmatian that spends too much time left to his own devices may become a barker or a digger.

6. Dalmatians have a uric acid anomaly that may lead to the formation of urate stones. They do best on a lower protein, non-beef based food. Many owners feed lamb and rice foods.

7. Dalmatians can be deaf. Responsible breeders will have hearing tested the puppies as well as the parents.

8. A Dalmatian can be unilateral hearing, that is, normal hearing in one ear and deaf in the other. A unilateral Dalmatian is perfectly acceptable as a pet.

9. Dalmatians require early, motivational, consistent training. Puppy kindergarten and basic obedience are highly recommended.

10. Dalmatians can be independent thinkers and even when well-trained may occasionally offer a behavioral challenge.

11. Dalmatians require regular exercise so a fenced back-yard is an absolute necessity.

12. The activity level and size of a Dalmatian may not make it an ideal choice as a companion for toddlers.

13. In general, Dalmatians do well with older, well-behaved children.

14. Dalmatians are very intelligent and quick to figure out ways to get their own way.

15. Dalmatians require early socialization with a wide variety of people and dogs. Homes without children should borrow some for socialization purposes.

Buying a Puppy

16. Read items 1-15 several times.

17. Buy a puppy only from a reputable, responsible breeder.

18. Reputable breeders never sell through pet shops or any third party.

19. Reputable breeders will have proof of hearing testing on both parents and on the puppies.

20. Hearing testing, also called BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) testing requires highly specialized equipment and is usually done at a veterinary school or by a veterinary neurology specialist. (May not be available in all areas.)

21. Reputable breeders will have had the parents hips x-rayed and certified free of hip dysplasia (an often crippling malformation of the hip joint) by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or PennHip. Ask for copies of certification.

22. Some breeders also screen for eye problems, thyroid problems, etc. This indicates a very responsible breeder.

23. Responsible breeders require that pet puppies be spayed or neutered before registration papers are given.

24. Reputable breeders will supply the buyer with detailed information on caring for their new Dalmatian puppy.

25. Reputable breeders will interview the prospective buyer at length.

26. Reputable breeders are usually active in dog shows, obedience trials, therapy dog work, breed rescue, etc.

27. A reputable breeder will require you to notify her if you are unable to keep the puppy and will want to approve any new home.

28. Reputable breeders are always willing to take a puppy back if the owner cannot or will not care for it. This does not imply any return of money.

29. Reputable breeders will always be there to help you with a problem.

30. A puppy from a reputable breeder is usually not significantly more expensive than from a back-yard breeder.

31. Reputable breeders will have given the puppies all preliminary puppy vaccinations and will have had them checked by a vet.

32. Reputable breeders will be willing to answer your questions.

33. Reputable breeders will have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the breed.

34. Reputable breeders will be members of the Dalmatian Club of America, a regional Dalmatian club, or a local all-breed or obedience club.

35. A reputable breeder will outline all details of the sale in a written contract.

36. If you really want a Dalmatian but do not have time to go through puppyhood, consider an adult or a rescue Dalmatian.

Caring for your Dalmatian

37. Take your puppy to the vet as soon as possible after purchase for a thorough exam.

38. Buy a crate for housebreaking and for confining the puppy when you are not able to supervise it.

39. Socialize your new puppy with a variety of people of all ages, sizes, and ethnic backgrounds.

40. Socialize your new puppy with a variety of other dogs.

41. Enroll your puppy in puppy kindergarten and then follow up with basic obedience. Statistics show that well-trained dogs are far less likely to be given up for adoption by their owners.

42. Check out the trainer carefully. A Dalmatian does best with motivational training that relies on praise, treats, and toys.

43. Dalmatians resent harsh training methods and may react negatively.

44. Take the time to housebreak your puppy correctly.

45. Carefully supervise young children when they are playing with the puppy.

46. Rough handling can damage a puppy physically and mentally.

47. Do not play games like tug-of-war that encourage growling or nipping.

48. Feed your puppy a premium quality puppy food not a generic.

49. Follow your breeder's advice on an acceptable brand of food.

50. Follow your breeder's advice on when to switch to an adult food.

51. Always confine your puppy in a securely fenced yard.

52. Always walk your puppy on lead.

53. Never allow your dog to eliminate on someone else's property.

54. Carry plastic bags to pick up any bowel movements.

55. Carry a pocket of treats for rewards.

56. Read some books on puppy training.

57. Spay or neuter your puppy at about six months of age.

58. In addition to being foolproof birth control, spaying and neutering have health benefits.

59. Never leave your dog out at night.

60. Never allow your dog's barking to annoy the neighbors.

61. Never allow your dog to run at large in the neighborhood.

62. Pick up dog droppings in your yard frequently.

63. Be sure your Dalmatian's shots are always up to date and that he has a county or city license.

64. Have your Dalmatian tattooed or microchipped for identification.

65. Make your Dalmatian a part of the family.

66. If you have a problem, contact the breeder or an experienced trainer.

67. Learn to trim your dogs nails and do so at least every other week.

68. Learn to brush your dog's teeth and do so several times a week.

69. Be sure your dog is on heartworm preventive.

Breeding a Dalmatian

70. Unless you have a thorough knowledge of the Dalmatian, Don't Breed!!!

71. All dogs intended for breeding should be BAER hearing tested.

72. Breeding unilateral hearing dogs is not for novices.

73. All dogs intended for breeding should be certified free of hip dysplasia by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or PennHip.

74. All dogs intended for breeding should ideally be checked free of eye disorders, thyroid problems, etc.

75. All dogs intended for breeding should have a thorough vet exam including a full blood panel.

76. All dogs intended for breeding should be checked for brucellosis which can cause the bitch to abort and may render a male sterile.

77. Stone formers should not be bred.

78. Dogs intended for breeding should be evaluated by a knowledgeable, reputable Dalmatian breeder for structural faults.

79. Dogs that have a disqualifying fault under the AKC standard for the Dalmatian should not be bred.

80. Shy or aggressive dogs should not be bred.

81. Breeding will not calm down a hyperactive dog. It will make her/him worse.

82. Be prepared to keep perhaps 10 or 11 puppies until suitable homes can be found even if it takes a year.

83. A bitch is not always willing to be bred and may attack the stud dog or the people handling the breeding.

84. Be prepared to take at least a week off work to be with the bitch when she whelps and to supervise the puppies for at least the first five days.

85. Be prepared for the possibility of an emergency Caesarean section that may cost hundreds of dollars.

86. Puppies can be born dead or deformed.

87. A bitch can have difficulty whelping a puppy and may bite anyone who tries to help.

88. Be prepared for the possibility of a bitch who cannot or will not care for the puppies. You will have to be the substitute mother.

89. Be aware that a bitch can die in whelp.

90. If you want to breed so your children can see the "miracle of birth", you should also plan to explain to the children what happens to puppies when homes can't be found....they are put to death. Taking a casual, irresponsible atitude toward reproduction is not in the best interest of your child and is certainly not in the best interest of the puppies that will be produced.

91. Be prepared to spend hours socializing puppies, feeding puppies, cleaning puppies, and cleaning the puppies' living quarters.

92. Be prepared to euthanize deaf puppies.

93. You will not make money on a litter of puppies. If you do everything right you will be lucky to break even.

94. Novice breeders rarely have buyers waiting for their puppies and it may take a long time to sell all the puppies.

95. You are responsible for the puppies for the rest of their lives. If the owner cannot or will not keep a puppy, you must be willing to take it back.

96. Males that are used at stud may forget their housebreaking and "mark" your furniture.

97. Males that are used at stud may become more aggressive.

98. Males that are not neutered are far more likely to become escape artists.

99. Males that are not neutered are more prone to prostate problems.

100. The owner of the stud dog is just as responsible for the welfare of the puppies as is the owner of the bitch.

Above all,

101. A Dalmatian deserves a responsible owner who realizes he/she is making a lifetime commitment to the welfare of the dog.

Copyright 1996 - 2004 by Kathy McCoubrey.

See more article on Dalmatians @ Dalmatians.US

Taking care of the flea problem

2005-07-23T08:10:00.000+08:00

EKKKKK!!!! Those pesky little jumping insects bothering you and your cat or dog! Now you got a flea problem!

Flea , that pesky parasite is the common name for any of the small wingless insects of the order Siphonaptera. Fleas are external parasites, living off the blood of mammals and birds.
Adult fleas are not only a nuisance to humans and their pets, but can cause medical problems including flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), tapeworms, secondary skin irritations and, in extreme cases, anemia. Although bites are rarely felt, it is the resulting irritation caused by the flea salivary secretions that varies among individuals. Some may witness a severe reaction (general rash or inflammation) resulting in secondary infections caused by scratching the irritated skin area.

Adult fleas are about 1/16 to 1/8-inch long, dark reddish-brown, wingless, hard-bodied (difficult to crush between fingers), have three pairs of legs (hind legs enlarged enabling jumping) and are flattened vertically or side to side (bluegill or sunfish-like) allowing easy movement between the hair, fur or feathers of the host. Fleas are excellent jumpers, leaping vertically up to seven inches and horizontally thirteen inches. (An equivalent hop for a human would be 250 feet vertically and 450 feet horizontally.) They have piercing-sucking mouthparts and spines on the body projecting backward. Also, there is a row of spines on the face known as a genal comb. Spine I (first outer spine) is shorter than Spine II (next inner spine) in dog fleas. Both spines are about the same length in the cat flea. The rabbit flea has a vertical genal comb with blunt spines. The genal comb is absent in both rat fleas. Eggs are smooth, oval and white. Larvae are 1/4-inch long, slender, straw-colored, brown headed, wormlike, bristly-haired creatures (13 body segments), that are legless, have chewing mouthparts, are active, and avoid light. Pupae are enclosed in silken cocoons covered with particles of debris.

These are the essential steps for a successful flea control program:

I. Remove fleas from the outdoor environment.
Fleas tend to like areas that are moist, warm, shady, and where there is organic debris. They will also tend to be where pets spend more of their outdoor time so be sure to concentrate on areas such as patios, under porches, dog houses, etc. Rake away any organic debris such as leaves, straw, grass clippings, etc., to disturb flea habitat and allow any flea and tick product you use outdoors to penetrate.

II.Remove fleas from pets.
There are a number of flea control products for use on pets, including once-a-month topical products, sprays, dips, shampoos, collars, and oral products. With any product applied directly to the pet, please remember that you may see some live fleas on your pet for a short time after spraying, shampooing, dipping, etc. In order for the fleas to die, they must come into contact with the insecticide, and absorb it.

Keep in mind that until all of the fleas in your home have died, you will probably still see some fleas, even on a treated pet, since some immature forms may continue to develop. This is especially true if you had a big flea problem to start with. Persistence is the key here. It is essential to keep following an effective flea control program for a long enough time to get rid of all of the fleas, in all life stages. This may take several months to a year, depending on your particular situation.

The “Pill” (Program™)-This product prevents flea eggs from hatching when administered orally to pets once a month at mealtime. Dogs are fed Program in tablet form, whereas cats are fed a liquid suspension mixed with their food. Different tablet sizes and suspension doses are prescribed according to the weight of the animal. When an adult female flea bites a Program-treated dog or cat, the flea ingests the active ingredient (lufenuron) which then passes into her eggs and prevents them from hatching. Program is dispensed only through veterinarians. A companion product, Sentinel™, contains both the flea control ingredient and heartworm medication all in one dosage.

“Egg-Stopper” Collars- Unlike conventional flea collars, these contain an insect growth regulating ingredient (methoprene or pyriproxyfen) which prevents egg hatch for several months. Thus, the overall effect is much like Program. Pet owners should carefully read the “active ingredients” panel on the package of the collar to verify that methoprene or pyriproxyfen are present. One such brand, the Ovitrol/Ovitrol Plus™ Flea Egg Collar is available through veterinarians. -Retail versions include the Fleatrol™ Flea Egg Collar and Relieve™ Collar, sold in pet stores and discount chains. Once installed, the egg-inhibiting substance releases from the collar and rapidly distributes over the fur of the entire animal, killing flea eggs on contact. This breaks the life cycle and infestations never become established. The methoprene and pyriproxyfen-impregnated collars are virtually 100% effective at preventing new flea eggs from hatching for at least 6 months (essentially season-long) on both dogs and cats.

Spot-Ons- Another effective, convenient treatment method involves applying a few droplets of material between the shoulder blades of the animal. Two veterinarian-supplied products, Advantage™ and Frontline™, control adult fleas on pets for at least 1 month. On dogs, Frontline Top Spot lasts up to 3 months. Another ‘spot-on’ product, available through retail stores, is Biospot™, which contains the egg-inhibiting ingredient pyriproxyfen.

The best way to use any of the above-mentioned products is to initiate treatment before flea season begins, typically in the spring. By doing so you will greatly reduce the chances of developing a serious flea problem later in the summer. Any stray fleas the pet happens to pick up around the home or at the kennel will be unable to lay viable eggs. Breaking the cycle of flea development on the pet also reduces the need to apply insecticides throughout the living areas of the home. (Each of these on-animal products is of negligible hazard to people and pets, and there is seldom any adverse reaction with other petmedications.) Methoprene or pyriproxyfen-based products may need to be supplemented, periodically, with a topical spray or dip to knock down any adult fleas irritating the pet, especially if the animal is flea allergic. This should not be necessary with Advantage and Frontline. In any case, the occasional adult flea spotted on the pet will be unable to reproduce and soon will die off.

III. Control Measures
Flea control is best achieved with a simultaneous, coordinated effort involving strict sanitation, pet treatment and premise treatment (both indoors & outdoors).

Inspection - Before treatment, discuss the pet's habits with family members to determine where resting and sleeping occurs most frequently. Flea activity "hot spots" can be detected by placing white socks over shoes and walking through the residence into suspected areas. Research has demonstrated that these areas will contain the highest amount of eggs, larvae and pupae even after vacuuming. Hot spots for homes with dogs are usually areas where the pet goes in and out of the house, eats, sleeps and spends time with the family at the base of furniture. For cats, check the tops of refrigerators, cabinets, book cases and higher locations.

One can monitor flea populations by placing a shallow pan of water with a little dish detergent (acts as a wetting agent which breaks water surface tension) on the floor. Position a gooseneck lamp with the light on about five to six inches above the liquid surface. Adult fleas will leap toward the light at night, fall into the detergent solution and drown. The Happy Jack and pulvex (Zema) flea trap is a commercial apparatus based on the same principle. Also, an ultralight flea trap with a green light attracts fleas into a sticky tray.

Sanitation - Before vacuuming, collect all items (toys, shoes, clothes, etc.) off the floor, under beds, furniture, in closets, etc., to ensure best access for treatment. Also cover fish tanks, remove bird cages, pet food and water dishes and wash or dry clean any pet bedding. Vacuuming carpet with a beater-bar type vacuum where the pet rests and sleeps will help control flea larvae by removing eggs and dried blood feces (larval food) plus opening up the carpet's nap for more effective insecticide treatment. Vacuuming must be performed on a regular basis every other day to be effective. Flea larvae do not move far from the site of hatching when there is adequate food (dried blood feces from adults). Research indicates larvae spend 83 percent of the time deep in the carpet at the base of fibers frequently becoming entwined within the carpet. At pupation, the larva move up the carpet fiber spinning a camouflaging cocoon around itself. Vacuum especially where lint and pet hairs accumulate along baseboards, around carpet edges, on ventilators, around heat registers, in floor cracks, and under and in furniture where the pet sleeps.

After vacuuming, place the vacuum bag in a large plastic garbage bag and discard in an outdoor trash container. If the cleaner uses a liquid water medium in a plastic pan (rather than a dust bag) discard dirty water far away from the house.

Prevention - Trim lawns and weeds to create a drier, less-ideal environment for flea larvae. Avoid piles of sand and gravel around the home for long periods of time. Fence yards to prevent dogs from roaming freely in heavily infested areas or contacting other infested animals. Discourage nesting or roosting of rodents and birds on or near the premises. Screen or seal vents, chimneys, crevices, etc. where rats, mice, squirrels, raccoons, chipmunks, etc. may use to enter crawlspaces and buildings. Wash or destroy pet bedding, regularly groom pets and vacuum frequently to remove up to 95 percent of the flea eggs, some larvae and adults. Only about 20 percent of the larvae might be removed when vacuuming since they wrap themselves around the bottom strands of carpeting.

So now you and you pet can enjoy a scratch-free life style.
Have a nice day.

Pitbull Care

2005-06-26T10:08:00.000+08:00

Pit Bulls do not require much maintenance.

Pit Bulls always need to be busy and they are constantly on the go. There is nothing more important for a Pit Bull than to be needed. To maintain your Pit Bull's physical and mental health, provide your puppy with much exercise. Walking your dog every day is not enough. Hiking, playing fetch, obedience classes or even search and rescue and other activities may not exhaust your Pit Bull. Energy outlet is vital for a Pit Bull. Exercise your dog everyday. Pit Bulls are high energy dogs that need some way of burning off pent up energy. Even a short ten or fifteen minute walk or game of fetch will help burn off energy that can lead to behavior problems.

Never leave Pit Bulls alone with any other animal. Especially another dog. Even if your dog gets along great 99.9% of the time with other animals the Pit Bull is known for animal aggression and it is possible something will happen. Assume the worst: Never trust your Pit Bull not to fight.
Pit Bull breeds are extremely smart and highly responsive to intense and wise training. However, it is next to impossible to train the instinct to fight another dog out of the Pit Bull. These breeds were meant to be aggressive and imposing over other dogs.

Philippine Petshop List

2005-06-26T09:51:00.001+08:00

Ok guys, here's the basic. Where to go to buy pets!

Well if you are a little short of budget, you can always visit petshops in Cartimar at Pasay City or at the Arranque market in Recto, It's a whole lot on those places, from pigeons to exotic animals like monkeys, phythons or other exotics.

Or you can visit the following:

1. Bio Research: Home and Office 911-1497, 911-1581, 912-0925
Branches are located in: Araneta Center, Cubao,Quezon City

Festival Supermall, Ground LevelCorporate Ave. cor. Civic Drive Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City, MM
850-3958, 850-1097

Ayala Center, Makati City 812-9432, 893-5832

2. Canine Depot
Robinsons Galleria 4th LevelEDSA cor. Ortigas Ave.Quezon City
Products/services include Dog Houses, Trays, Dog Foods, Food for Cats, Fish Flakes, Dog and Cat Shampoo, Feeds, Medicines, and Dog Accessories.

3. Aquapets
Robinsons Place - Manila 3rd LevelM. Adriatico St.Manila
Tel. 536-3195
Products/services include aquariums, fish bowls, fish, fish flakes, aquanic battery air pump, and medicines.

4. Minep's Aquarium Club
351 Tandang Sora Ave.Pasong TamoQuezon City
Tel. 932-8644
Products/services include Wholesaler/ Retailer of All Kinds of Imported or Local Fishes, Aquariums, Aquarium Accessories, Foods, and Medication for Fishes.

5. Pet Haven
Village Centre Acropolis Village187 E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Libis,Quezon City
Tel. 635-6871
Hours open: Open from 9am to 4:30pm, Monday to Saturday
Products/services include veterinary clinic and pet supplies.

6. Under The Sea and Other Creatures
SM City North EDSA 3rd Floor Main Bldg.
North Ave. cor. EDSA,Quezon City
Tel. 925-3525
Hours open: 10:00am to 10:00pm
Products/services include aquatic animals, pets, complete line of animal accessories, pet foods, and supplements.

7. Tetra Pet Shop
Robinsons Galleria 4th LevelEDSA cor. Ortigas Ave.Quezon City
Products/services include Fish, Love Birds, Dogs, Rabbits, Aquariums, Bird Cages, and Pet Foods.

Hey! You can also visit Mr. Dean Francis Alfar's petshop Petty Pets @ ground floor, SM Megamall, building A, next to Julia Vargas entrance and sbarros.

See ya!

View Pet Shops in Manila in a larger map

Russian Dwarf Hamsters

2005-06-26T09:39:00.000+08:00

The Russian Dwarf Hamster, scientifically known as Phodopus sungorus, is a distant relative of the common domestic Golden (or Syrian) Hamster, Mesocricetus auratus. Common names of the species also include Siberian Dwarf Hamster, Winter White Hamster, Djungarian Hamster, Campbell's Dwarf Hamster, and Hairy-Footed Dwarf Hamster. Russian Dwarf Hamsters are most active in the evening, with some activity continued throughout the night. They are, however, more alert during the daytime than Syrian Hamsters, and sporadic activity occurs at any time.

HOUSING
Russian Dwarf hamsters are smaller than Syrian hamsters, so they do quite well with cages and equipment intended for mice. The cage should be lined with pine shavings, NEVER CEDAR! Many individuals are very sensitive to the oil of cedar, and it can cause their deaths. As they love to dig, wire-sided cages can pose a problem with shavings being scattered everywhere.

INTERACTION
In general, Russian Dwarf Hamsters get along very well in family groups of one male and one or two females, or in same-sex groups. Such groups should be established early, however, as putting strange adults together can be very tricky and, if mismanaged, may result in one hamster injuring or killing the other. Their normal defensive action is to sit on their back legs and "box" an attacker -- or a hand -- with their front feet! When they are attacked despite the boxing, they generally flip on their backs where all four feet can kick and, of course, they can bite as well.

FEEDING
In the wild, Russian Dwarf Hamsters subsist on a diet similar to that of other hamsters. The bulk of this diet consists of seeds and other plant materials. The portion of the wild diet that includes insects and other animal matter is not fully known. In captivity, they do well on a diet of pellets intended for the feeding of rats and mice, such as Purina Rodent Chow. A seed-based diet is not recommended for the captive animal, as they will pick and choose the tastiest seeds and leave the rest. This self-selection leads to nutritional deficiencies and reduced lifespan. Seeds, or a premium-style seed/dried-vegetable mix, are much appreciated as a treat, however. They also enjoy fresh vegetables, but greens should be avoided or fed in VERY small quantities only, as they can cause severe digestive upsets. Carrots seem to be relished, as are potatoes.

BREEDING
The natural breeding season of the Russian Dwarf Hamster in the wild is from February through November, but in captivity they can and do breed throughout the year. Breeding age is 50 days. Gestation is 18 days. The average litter size is 3.2, with one report in the literature of a litter of 9. The largest I have ever had was a litter of 8, all of which survived. [Some of them are running in their little wheel as I write this, soon to be sold] I have noticed a very skewed male-female sex ratio, of about 3:1, in many but not all cases.The young hamsters are born with teeth. They quickly grow dark pigment, then fur, then eyes. By the time the fur comes in, they will gnaw at any solid food they can find. One or two days before their eyes open, they will seek it out by smell. As soon as they have functional eyes, they will leave the nest in search of food. If you are using a lab-type cage as I do, at this time some food should be placed in the cage, near the nest, for the babies.Like mice and many other rodents, female hamsters go into estrous within 24 hours of giving birth, so they are often pregnant with one litter while nursing another. This is one of the reasons why rodents can survive the heavy predation they are subject to. The breeder, however, should closely monitor the health of the female, to ensure that she is not losing weight or showing other signs of debilitation due to this. Generally, I give my breeders a one-cycle "vacation" every three litters.The expectant mother hamster should be provided with a clean cage, a supply of tissue for nest-building, and peace and quiet. Do not disturb her until the babies' eyes are open. If it is absolutely necessary to change the cage bedding before that time, do it as follows:Remove the parents from the cage first and wash your hands thoroughly, making sure to rinse well to remove any trace of soap scent. Next, rub the soiled cage bedding all over your hands, to get the hamsters' scent on them. Then, scoop up the entire nest, including the surrounding pine shavings, and put it in a container separate from the parents -- a small box or a soup bowl work well. Clean the cage as usual. Return the nest to its original position. Put in the adults, and IMMEDIATELY sprinkle seeds and hamster treats into the cage. The hamsters will probably pick up the babies, especially if they're still pinkies, and carry them around the cage for a while. This is normal, and within an hour they should have all settled down again.A lot of this depends on the personality of the individual hamster. I have had some where I could lift up one edge of a nursing mother and count day-old babies, and others who stressed out at any disturbance. A severely stressed hamster will abandon or kill her babies, especially if it is her first litter.Unlike the situation with Syrian Hamsters, the male Russian Dwarf Hamster should not be removed from the cage before the babies are born. Not only does this make it difficult to re-introduce him, but he will usually take an active part in rearing the litter! Most males [again, this varies among individuals] keep the babies warm while the female is out of the nest, assist in nest building and maintenance, and many will also retrieve young who have crawled from the nest or been dragged out when the female leaves while they are nursing.

See: Phodopus Sungorus (Russian Dwarf Hamsters)
copyright: (c) 1993 by Jean McGuire

American Presidents and their Dogs

2005-06-19T17:53:00.000+08:00

1789 - 1797 George Washington
The first US President George Washington owned 10 Hounds called Mopsey, Taster, Cloe, Tipler, Forester, Captain, Lady Rover, Vulcan, Sweetlips and Searcher

1801 - 1809 Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson owned a sheep dog and is the President who instituted the first dog license. He actually had a dog hanged once for attacking his sheep. a sheep dog to Washington.

1817 - 1825 James Monroe
James Monroe owned a Spaniel

1861 - 1865 Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln owned at least 2 dogs called Fido and Jip. Fido, suffered a violent death much like his master. Fido was knifed to death in the street by a drunk who became angry when the dog jumped on him with muddy paws.

1869 - 1877 Ulysses S Grant
Ulysses S. Grant brought a Newfoundland dog named Faithful to the White House. Faithful belonged to Jesse Grant, the son of President Grant.

1877 - 1881 Rutherford Hayes
Rutherford Hayes owned an English Mastiff called Duke, two German Shepherd dogs named Hector and Nellie and a Greyhound called Grim.

1885 - 1889 Grover Cleveland
Grover Cleveland was believed to have owned a Poodle.

1889 - 1893 Benjamin Harrison
Benjamin Harrison owned a dog called Dash

1901 - 1909 Theodore Roosevelt
Theodore Roosevelt owned a Pitbull Terrier (Pete), a Chesapeake Retriever (Sailor Boy), a Terrier (Jack), a mongrel (Skip) and a Spaniel called Manchu. Teddy Roosevelt’s bull terrier, Pete, almost caused an international scandal when he ripped off the French ambassador’s pants during a White House function.

1913 - 1921 - Woodrow Wilson
Woodrow Wilson did not own a dog whilst he was President. He was the first to shake hands with a dog which was a war hero. The dog was Stubby, a bullterrier, who captured a German spy in World War I. Woodrow Wilson made the following quote, "If a dog will not come to you after having looked you in the face, you should go home and examine your conscience."

1921 - 1923 Warren Harding
Warren Harding owned an Airedale called Laddie Boy and a Bulldog called Oh Boy. Laddie Boy who had his own chair to sit on at cabinet meetings.

1923 - 1929 Calvin Coolidge
Calvin Coolidge owned at least 12 dogs:Terrier (Peter Pan)Airedale (Laddie Buck/Paul Pry)2 White Collies (Oshkosh/Rob Roy and Prudence Primm)Shetland Sheepdog (Calamity Jane)2 Chows (Tiny Tim and Blackberry)Brown Collie (Ruby Rough)Yellow Collie (Bessie)Bulldog (Boston Beans)Police Dog (King Kole)Bird Dog (Palo Alto),

1929 - 1933 Herbert Hoover
Herbert Hoover owned at least 9 dogs2 Police Dogs (King Tut and Pat)2 Fox Terriers (Big Ben and Sonnie)Scotch Collie (Glen)Eskimo Dog (Yukon)Wolfhound (Patrick)Setter (Eaglehurst Gillette)Elkhound (Weejie)

1933 - 1945 Franklin D Roosevelt
Franklin D. Roosevelt owned at least 7 dogs:German Shepherd (Major)2 Scotch Terriers (Meggie and Fala)Llewellyn Setter (Winks)English Sheepdog (Tiny)Great Dane (President)Mastiff (Blaze)Fala was given to the President by his cousin, Margaret Suckley. Fala the star of an MGM Hollywood movie about the typical day of a dog in the White House. Fala also became an honorary army private. He received this honor by contributing one dollar to the war effort setting a trend for the rest of the US.Fala is depicted in the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. Meggie, the other Terrier, was infamous as she once bit a senator! Manchu was owned by Alice Roosevelt and was a small black Pekingese which she received as a gift from the last Empress of China.

1945 -1953 Harry S Truman
Harry S. Truman owned a mongrel called Feller and an Irish Setter named Mike.
President Harry S. Truman is attributed with the following quotes:
"If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog."
"Children and dogs are as necessary to the welfare of the country as Wall Street and the railroads."

1953 - 1961 Dwight D Eisenhower
Dwight D. Eisenhower owned a Weimaraner named Heidi.

1961 - 1963 John F Kennedy
President John F. Kennedy owned the following dogs:Welsh Terrier - Charlie and PushinkaGerman Shepherd - Clipper Irish Cocker Spaniel - ShannonIrish Wolfhound - Wolf Terrier - White Tips, Blackie and Streaker.
John F. Kennedy was the first president to request that his dogs meet the presidential helicopter when the president arrived at the White House.Soviet Premier Kruschev gave him a dog named Pushinka who was the offspring of the Russian space dog Strelka. Pushinka had 4 puppies of her own puppies who JFK called “pupniks”! Pushinka often made the President laugh by climbing up the ladder to Caroline's tree house. The Prime Minister of Ireland gave JFK the Irish cocker spaniel, Shannon.

1963 - 1969 Lyndon B Johnson
Lyndon B. Johnson owned 7 dogs: Mongrel - (Yuki)5 Beagles - Beagle, Little Beagle, Him and Her and J. EdgarWhite Collie - (Blanco)As president he received as a gift the white collie, Blanco. He always shook hands with the dog whenever he left or returned to the White HouseHis favorite dog, the beagle called Him, was run over and killed on the White House grounds. Edgar Hoover gave him a dog t o replace Him which he named J. Edgar. His mongrel dog, Yuki, was famous for disgracing everyone present in the oval office including the Shah of Iran. His next escapade occurred when he bit a White House police officer in the groin. Despite these indiscretions Yuki was honoured by his picture appearing on the front page of the Wall Street Journal.

1969 - 1974 Richard Nixon
Richard Nixon owned 4 dogs Spaniel (Checkers) Irish Setter (King Timahoe)Terrier (Pasha)Poodle (Vicky)When he entered the White House a member of his staff gave him the Irish setter, King Timahoe, which he named for the little village in Ireland where his mother’s ancestors came from. Richard Nixon.

1974 - 1977 Gerald Ford
Gerald Ford owned a Golden Retriever called Liberty who gave birth to nine puppies at the White House.

1977 - 1981 Jimmy Carter
Jimmy Carter gave a dog as a gift to his daughter Amy. The dog was a mongrel who was called Grits.

1981 - 1989 Ronald Reagan
Ronald Reagan owned two dogs, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel called Rex and a Bouvier des Flandres called Lucky. The President was photographed being dragged across the White House lawn by Lucky in the presence of Margaret Thatcher. An undignified image for the President of the USA. Lucky was sent to live in California leaving just Rex, the little Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at the White House.

1989 - 1993 George H W Bush
George H W Bush owned a Springer Spaniel called Millie and her puppy named Ranger. "Millie", the Springer Spaniel, has been the subject of a book which has sold more copies than the autobiography of George Bush himself.

1993 - 2001 President Bill Clinton
Bill Clinton owned a chocolate Labrador called Buddy
The TV cameras caught him relieving himself on the carpet! Buddy was barely in the White House a month before Newsweek proclaimed, “At last, a friend who can’t testify against him.”

2000 President George W Bush.
President George W Bush's dogs include a Scottish terrier named Barney and an English springer spaniel named Spot. Spot was named after Scott Fletcher, a former Texas Rangers baseball player. President Bush's dog Spot is the only dog to live in the White House during two administrations. Spot was born to Millie, George H.W. Bush's dog, when George H.W. Bush was President. Spot was given to his son George W. Bush who returned the Terrier to the White House for his term of office.

Source: American Presidents Dogs

Top Dog

2005-06-11T11:06:00.000+08:00

If you have many dogs in your house, always remember to look for the top dog of the pack. Always make him the priority on feeding, giving a bath or any activities before the other dogs.

Origin of Dogs

2005-06-05T13:46:00.000+08:00

Dogs are members of the order Carnivora, a group of mammals that originated about 55 million years ago. The current members of Carnivora include animals in the family Canidae. Wolves, jackals, and our dogs, among others animals, make up the family Canidae

The first of the Canidae, called Hesperocyon, lived about 25 to 30 million years ago in North America. Some Canidae migrated to South America where they evolved into foxes. Other Canidae gradually evolved into animals that began the genus Canis. These animals moved westward over the Bering Strait and continued into Eurasia.
The oldest representative of the Canis is Canis cipio; it was discovered in Concud, Spain. It lived about 6 million years ago. The genus continued evolving, producing Canis lupus, or wolf, about 300,000 years ago. The wolf is widely believed to be the forerunner of modern day dogs.

Because humans domesticated dogs about 20,000 years ago, we have no precise knowledge of how this was done. Presumably, young wolves were caught and raised in captivity. Then, humans would breed those animals that had the characteristics they wanted to keep. Over many generations, different types of dogs were developed -- those specialized for hunting, for guarding, and for sheep herding, among others.

Although most modern dog breeds were developed about 100 years ago and a few in the 1700s, these general dog classes -- hunters, guard dogs, and herders, have been known for thousands of years.

Source: The Reader's Digest Illustrated Book of Dogs, 2nd ed., The Reader's Digest Association, Inc., Pleasantville, New York, 1993, pp. 9-10.

Information about different dog breeds

2005-06-05T13:43:00.000+08:00

For some information on different dog breeds, just visit: Dog Breeds

"Luv ko c Bantay"

2005-05-11T10:36:00.000+08:00

Hats off to the Philippine Canine Club Inc. (PCCI) and their president Mr. Byron San Pedro, for the success of the "Dog Walk for a Cause" (Luv ko c Bantay) last May 8 (Sunday), TO PROTEST cruelty against animals, especially dogs. There are about 7,000 dogs join in a simultaneous parade in Iloilo City, Baguio, Batangas, Bohol, Bukidnon, Bulacan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, General Santos, La Union, Laguna, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Tarlac and Cavite.

Titled "Luv ko c Bantay," the event was sanctioned by the Philippine Canine Club, Incorporated. It is in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture Bureau of Animal Industry, Philippine Animal Welfare Society, Boy Scouts of the Philippines, Animal Kingdom Foundation, National Pitbull Terrier Club, Incorporated, Philippine Pitbull Club, American Bulldog Club, United Pitbull Club, Bukidnon Association of Registered Kennels, Iloilo Kennel Club and Kathy's Precious Kennel in Iloilo City.

It's good to have people not only loving their own dogs, but educating everyone to love "Man's best friend". Enought of the "asocenas", it's time for Filipino to respect and to love dogs even the typical "askal".

Hey guys, If you want to contact PCCI, just go to their website: http://dogtracker.slweb.com/PCCI/
Rm. A206 Hillcrest Condominium1616 E.Rodriguez Sr. Blvd.,Corner Hillcrest St., Cubao Q.C.Philippines

Happy Mother's Day

2005-05-08T09:31:00.000+08:00

I have this pair of guinea pigs na alaga ko. Si Kavy ang lalaki (An Abyssinian) and si Ep-Ay (short-haired) yung babae. Unfortunately, Kavy died mga one month ago. I was planning to buy a new hubby for Ep-Ay para naman magka-anak sya. Laking gulat ko when this morning, we found 3 pups (2 short-haired at isang Abyssinian) . Nagannak sya!!!
I was suprise. Matagal pala ang pregnancy period ng mga guinea pigs!

It was a Mother's Day Gift at a legacy ni Kavy sa amin.

John.P