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Recent Pet News, Tips & Info...
The Africanis Dog From the South African Plains to Your Home
Dog breeders do not officially recognize Africanis as a breed. Also known as the Bantu Dog or the Zulu Dog, the breed developed in South Africa and it is basically comprised of similar breeds that are originally from the area. However, dog historians have acquired enough evidence to conclude that, originally, the breed lived in the East and Middle East and migrated to Africa in ancient times. The Zulu Dog is a perfect companion for people, whether we are talking about more traditional activities like hunting or herding, or simply about the pleasure of having a dog companion.
The Afghan Hound Elegance and Distinction
If the old saying that claims that dogs and masters resemble each other is true, then the Afghan hound is surely the dog most likely to be seen in the presence of an aristocrat. Its silky, thick coat will match any of its masters' designer dresses or elegant suits. Distinguished in looks and personality, this is one of the breeds that you can't stop looking at when seeing on the street and that you are very likely to see at a dog show.
The Aidi Dog A Perfect Watchdog
Of Moroccan origin, the Aidi dog evolved as a watchdog for herds of goats and sheep. For this reason, it has heightened senses that are very good at detecting threats and its instincts are perfectly in tune, resulting in a speedy and efficient reaction. These characteristics are also perfect for a hunting dog - so it is also very good at filling that role. Very courageous, this breed has evolved in the Morrocan mountains, protecting itself and its owners from many vicious predators like wildcats, but also from strangers. Also called the Berber (it was commonly used by Berber tribes), this breed is very similar to Pariah dogs - to which it is believed to be related.
Affenpinscher Dogs Cute Fluffy and Funny
When first taking a look at an Affenpinscher dog, most people cannot help but smile: its cute, fluffy, hairy appearance and the constant smile it seems to be wearing will cheer up just about anybody. Also known as the monkey dog, it is very suited for someone who has a sense of humor and for whom the entertainment factor is very important when buying a pet. Most of the time, the Affie (as some will affectionately call him) is in a very good mood and more than willing to put on a show to entertain his masters.
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Pet Tips
Socialize your pet
Insure the Safety of Both Animals and Yourself. To start, make certain that the new animal will be safe. Place the new pet in a pet carrier or some other sturdy structure that prohibits the dog from actually physically contacting the animal but still allows for both animals to see, smell and hear each other. This provides a way for both animals to acclimate to each other in a safe, though possibly a bit stressful, situation. In later steps, gloves might be advisable to avoid scratches from a nervous pet.
Rewards Work Wonders. After the animals have both calmed a bit give them each a small reward, such as a morsel of some favorite food. Be sure to give the dog lots of verbal praise and affection when it is not barking or trying to get to the new animal as this will show the dog that you are accepting of the new pet's presence and you expect him to be also. Repeat this process several times over the course of a week or so, until both animals seem fairly accustomed to the presence of the other and their aggressions seem to have subsided. At this point, you are ready to move on to the next step and tip number three.
Get Help. This step will require an assistant to help with one of the animals. Have the assistant leash the dog and hold him firmly on a very short leash. After instructing the assistant to maintain control of the dog, open the pet carrier and bring the new pet out carefully. Your dog will likely move towards the animal so be sure the assistant has the dog held tightly and be careful not to let the new pet panic and escape your grasp. Gradually bring them closer together and let them calmly adapt to each others presence. Repeat this step several times over the next few days and by the end of the week, these two animals should be like old chums.
Another tip to remember in socializing your pets is that, while the animals most likely won't make an instant attachment to each other, there are those special picture perfect moments that you will want to cherish a lifetime. So keep the camera handy and loaded with film. The candid shots of training at its best provide memories that will last forever. Few things are more fun than looking at a picture of your dog with an iguana riding around the room perched on his back and telling a little white lie that you taught the two of them to do that.
Our final point is remember that just like humans, not everyone is going to get along. There will be days where the dog and the cat are going to feud or the iguana will get cantankerous and slap the dog with his tail for the fun of it. Some animals were just never meant to live in harmony but with a lot of patience and a little direction you can make your household fairly peaceable most of the time. When things go sour, just take it in stride and put the animals in their separate areas for a bit and, given a cooling period, they will be friends again in no time.
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Animal Shelter Facts
Did you know that our website www.animalshelter.org has a pet education section, which contains common pet questions on diseases?
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