Unfortunately, there are a number of household items which we tend to take for granted that are potentially very dangerous to your dog’s health. It is especially important to be aware of this because as you know, dogs are essentially scavengers and will often eat just about anything they can sink their fangs into. Things you should never feed your dog »»
On January 31, Mylon L. Stockton, 36, of Noblesville, Indiana, was ordered to pay a total of $90,000 for violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Stockton’s co-defendant, Mark A. Borinsky, 39, of North Port, Florida, has been fined $10,000 after pleading guilty to a similar offense. Both defendants were placed on probation for one year after being sentenced by U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore in Tampa, Florida. Two sentenced for violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act »»
U.S. Representative Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) introduced legislation today that would protect the wild horses roaming our public lands from certain slaughter. New Legislation Introduced to Protect Wild Horses »»
A century after the American Bison Society, organized in 1905 when only a few hundred buffalo remained, began working to save the species from extinction, bison are an environmental success story. Numbers are up to about 400,000 across North America, mostly on private ranches. bison roam freely on the range »»
The mountain goat (Oreamnos americanus) is the single North American representative of a widespread group of goat-like ungulates. Little was known about the mountain goat (Oreamnos americanus) until almost 1900 »»
Hamsters are mammals that fall into the class of rodents, thesame family group as mice and rats. Rodent actually means “to gnaw” in Latin – so you can have a pretty good idea what hamsters are inclined to do. Rodents (hamsters included) all have incisor teeth which grow throughout their lives.
Here are some interesting questions and answers about these furry pocket pals, the hamster. Hamster facts »»
The American Beaver (Castor canadensis) is a large semi-aquatic rodent native to Canada, much of the United States, parts of northern Mexico, and the most southern province of Argentina, Tierra del Fuego. American Beaver (Castor canadensis) »»
Pronghorns, commonly called Antelope in the american west, are true American natives, found nowhere else in the world. They have roamed the plains and deserts of North America for at least the last million years in substantially the same form. Pronghorn (Antelopes) »»
With complex inheritance disorders, also known as polygenic disorders, a number of liability genes must combine to cross a threshold and produce an affected individual. Most polygenic disorders have no tests for carriers, but they do have phenotypic tests that can identify affected individuals. Polygenic disorders are those caused by more than one pair of genes. »»
Any trait or disorder that has a hereditary component is called genetic. Congenital disorders are those present at birth. Some congenital disorders are hereditary, and others are not. Those occurring spontaneously may be caused by environmental exposures to infections, or compounds such as drugs or toxins. Genetic disorders will sometimes only be evident much later in life, even though the genetic coding for the disorder is present at birth. Understanding basic genetic concepts »»
Most breeds have closed gene pools, meaning that breeding individuals must have confirmed pedigrees of ancestry from the existing breed. No new genes can be introduced into the breed, and genes can be lost to the gene pool by selective breeding (or not breeding) of individuals. The problem with limited genetic diversity in purebred populations stems from the effects of deleterious genes. The process of maintaining healthy lines with genetic diversity »»
Mating based on phenotype is called assortative mating. Mating like to like is positive assortative mating. Mating like to unlike (i.e., bringing a new trait in or correcting a fault) is negative assortative mating.
Congenital defects in dogs are caused from a variety of reasons. Som congeital defects, such as hip dysplasia and congenital heart defects, are more common in some dog breeds than others. Congenital defects in dog breeds »»
Genetic tests vary on what they are able to identify, and therefore how they can be used in managing genetic disease. Some tests measure the phenotype, or what can be seen in the animal. This may not directly relate to the genotype, or the genes regulating the defect. Genetic tests vary on what they are able to identify »»
MARATHON KEY, FLORIDA — A picture of the once world renowned “Taco Bell” spokesdog was taken at a seedy bar, The Lusty Manatee, in Florida last week. Reporters from Food and Style Magazine in town covering Marathon Key’s 14th Annual “Festival Of Transpierced Cocktail Servers,” were shocked to discover the once beloved “Yoquiero” drinking heavily and living in a shack. Taco Bell Dog Found in Bar »»
Every year 5 million dog bite reports are filed. Over $1 billion are paid in losses. While it’s not always a top concern for many dog owners, it’s definitely in your best interest to be aware of the legal implications of owning a pet. Your Dog and the Law »»
Dogs don’t come perfect out of the package, and raising a dog, whether you bring it home as a puppy or an adult, is much like raising a child. Below I’d like to share five common mistakes new dog owners make.
Below, I’ve compiled a list of five famous dogs you must bring home for your littlest children! (Good news…you won’t have to clean up after these champions!)
There is no doubt about it; the media has great influence over pet popularity, particularly those of the canine persuasion. In itself, this isn’t a terrible thing, but when it comes to choosing a pet for your family, Hollywood can spell disaster! Puppy Dogs in Pictures – How Hollywood influences the dogs we bring home »»
The big day has finally arrived, a new member of the family will be joining your ranks. When you bring the little one home, you want to know you have made the right decision, are they going to fit in well with the other family members, will they be kind to everyone, will they be too rambunctious or too big? Of course by little one I am referring to a new dog in the family.
There is a right and a wrong way to pick a puppy. The process is a little like dating. The few who find fulfillment in love are those who use their hearts and their heads. There is a special kind of nirvana when a person connects with their canine soul mate. They weren’t fooling when they called dog “man’s best friend.” But such unions don’t happen randomly. A little careful preparation will go a long way. And to simplify your search, we have five suggestions. Five tips to track down your canine soulmate »»
The local Animal Protective League is joining a nationwide effort to find homes for nearly 1,000 dogs and puppies taken from a puppy mill in Parkersburg, W.Va. Over 1,000 dogs seized from West Virginia puppy mill »»
Symptoms range from NONE to almost dead. The classic signs that make us very suspcious of kidney disease, though, are: excessive drinking and urination, weight loss, muscle loss, lack of appetite, loss of mental acuity, and very dilute or water like urine. Diagnosis and treatment of renal failure in dogs and cats »»
Coccidia are tiny single-celled parasites that live in the wall of your dog’s intestine. They are found more often in puppies, but they can also infect older dogs and cats. Dogs become infected by swallowing soil that contains coccidia or other substances in the environment that may contain dog feces. Coccidia in dogs »»
Kidney disease is the number one cause of death in older cats and dogs. Here are the common causes of renal failure. The causes of kidney disease include: Causes of kidney disease in dogs and cats »»
It is fairly common for a dog to become infected with an internal or external parasite at some point in its lifetime. Parasites can affect your dog in a variety of ways, ranging from simple irritation to causing life-threatening conditions if left untreated. Some parasites can infect and transmit diseases to people. Parasites that infect dogs »»
New Brunswick veterinarians will soon no longer perform so-called cosmetic surgeries on animals, including docking the tails of dogs or cropping their ears to make them stand at point. New Brunswick vets ban cosmetic surgery on dogs »»
Now known as the American Pit Bull Terrier, this dog breed has been recognized and registered by the United Kennel Club since 1898. American Pitbull Terrier Dog Breed »»
The American English Coonhound is derived from a combination of English Coonhounds brought to the New World by wealthy English land owners and Virginia Hounds, which had arrived with earlier settlers and were more adept at traversing rough terrain and harsher weather. American English Coonhound »»
The Airedale originated in England as an all-around working dog, hunting small game and guarding homes. It’s easier to list what an Airedale can’t do than what they can. With a high activity level, the breed needs intense and regular exercise. Airedale Terrier Dog Breed »»
Allergy sufferers who are sensitive to dogs may know pet dander is the main culprit causing their allergic reaction and may worsen hay fever allergy symptoms. Below is a list of dog breeds that are considered hypoallergenic. Hypoallergenic dog breeds »»
Dog breeds are generally organized into ten groups, each with subsections according to breed type and origin. Dog Breed Groups »»
Tight on space in a condo or apartment, limited by weight restrictions, or just enjoy a smaller dog companion? Search our list of small dog breeds to find a dog that is just your size. Don’t be fooled by their small stature though, pint sized doesn’t mean small personality. Small Dog Breeds »»
The Havanese or Bichon Habanero, is a member of the bichon family of small companion-dog breeds, which are neither spaniels nor terriers. Native to Cuba, the Havanese likely arrived via trading ships. Havanese Dog Breed »»
Most of the dogs in the Sporting dog breed class were bred to hunt birds and other small animals. This is an energetic group of dogs who will require plenty of exercise and activity to keep them occupied. Naturally active and alert, Sporting dogs make likeable, well-rounded companions. Sporting dog breed class »»
Toy dog breeds will always be popular with city dwellers and people without much living space. They make ideal apartment dogs and terrific lap warmers on cool nights. Small breeds may be found in every dog Group, not just the Toy Group, but those in this dog group were bred specifically for a smaller size than their standard counterpart. Toy Dog Breeds »»
The dog breeds in the Non-Sporting Breed Group are a varied collection in terms of size, coat, personality and overall appearance. As the name of this class implies, they were not bred for a particular sport or function, but were bred primarily as companion animals for humans. This group of dogs has a wide array of personality traits, sizes, colors, and shapes. Non-Sporting Dog Breeds »»
Cocker Spaniels are medium to high-maintenance with grooming, medical, and emotional needs, so they make a perfect pet for someone who is a natural caregiver. But they are all about their people. All they want to do is hang out with you and will make you feel very loved. Cocker Spaniels are medium to high-maintenance with grooming, medical, and emotional needs »»
You need to be strong pack leader to be an effective Chihuahua guardian. They need to respect you. They are not ornaments; they are canines, with personalities as large as a Rottweiler, and hearts as big as any canine breed. Yet, Chihuahuas are the 2nd most surrendered and euthanized breed! Chihuahuas require a great deal of care »»
The number one reason a boxer has trouble finding a forever home is that people say they’re too wild. Boxers never grow up or slow down! Boxers also do not do well in extreme heat or cold. The Boxer is not a breed that enjoys being outside all day and night. Boxers never grow up or slow down! »»
Boston Terriers are incredibly smart. People tend to think that because they look silly, they aren’t bright. But they learn very quickly and are extremely easy to train. However, they are not for everyone, and often are especially not suited for families with small children. Boston Terriers Must be Housedogs »»
The Border Collie is also referred to as the ‘Scotch Sheep Dog’ in reference to its place of origin. Those who share their homes with Border Collies and Border Collie mixes often describe them as highly energetic, intelligent, sensitive and demanding of attention and activity. What do you need to know before you adopt a Border Collie »»
Beagles are wonderful dogs! They are friendly, loving, smart, curious, and happy…and most definitely pack animals. Whether their pack consists of other dogs, or just their single human, they want to be with them. What you need to know about beagles »»
Bassets hounds are very stubborn. If you want a dog that is going to sit, stay and come on command, you do not want a basset hound. They go with their noses. Bassets will also train you to do what they want. The Top Six Myths about Basset Hounds »»
Here is a list of the ten dumbest dog breeds based on seven basic indicators of intelligence in dogs. Top 10 dumbest dog breeds »»
Here is a list of the top 100 smartest dog breeds based on degrees of Intelligence. Top 100 smartest dog breeds »»
The Afaird is a cross between an Afghan Hound and a Briard. It is not recognized by any of the dog registries at this time. Afaird Dog Breed »»
The Affen Tzu is created by crossing the purebred Affenpinscher with the purebred Shih- Tzu. It is considered a hybrid dog, meaning it is not purebred, however the lineage is known. Affen Tzu hybrid dog »»
The Affenpinscher is a typical Terrier type dog. They are usually very lively and bursting with self confidence. This is a wonderful breed with a typical Terrier type character, but if he is not socialised and trained early, the Affenpinscher can quickly be ruling the household and everything in it. Affenpinscher dog breed profile »»
The Affen Spaniel is created by crossing the purebred Affenpinscher with the purebred Cocker Spaniel. It is considered a hybrid dog, meaning it is not purebred, however the lineage is known. Affen Spaniel hybrid dog »»