Reasons Why Having a Pet Helps the Rehabilitation Process

The rehabilitation process can be a long and tedious journey that can be overcome only with the right support. Often these support can not only come in the form of people, they can also come as pets! Did you know that having a pet can help you recover quickly, and even in a healthier way? According to a recent study, pets can help people with issues such as:

●       Anxiety - people with anxiety were reported to experience comfort when presented with pets. They reported lesser instances of panic attacks and physical manifestations of anxiety in their day-to-day lives.

●       Developmental Disabilities - people with developmental disabilities such as Autism have difficulties in communication. The non-verbal comfort that pets bring help individuals with Autism feel at ease.

●       Physical Disabilities - people with physical disabilities may find themselves unable to do certain tasks independently. Having a pet can help guide them through walking, assist them in daily chores, and be a loyal companion to them.

●       Mental and Emotional Issues - it seems like pets can understand the feelings that people go through even without saying a word. It is also reported from a recent study that pets can help people recover from mental and emotional instability.

●       Substance Abuse - people who have gone through a phase of addiction may experience physical and emotional symptoms of withdrawal. The presence of a pet serves as a healthy distraction to kick the bad habits out of the way.

The companionship they bring and the comfort they provide in one's presence can contribute to the healing process of a person recovering from drug or alcohol addiction. How does a pet help in the rehabilitation process? Let's find out the ways a furry friend can accompany you in your battle against substance abuse.

How can pets help you in your recovery process?

Pets are great stress-relievers.

Pets are known to make funny antics even if they don't actually mean it. There are luxury rehab facilities that even offer pet therapy services. Pets can brighten someone's day without even trying, which results to a reduction of stress levels to any owner. Often, people who are undergoing the rehabilitation process may experience some stress trying to keep away from bad habits. The stress relief that a pet can bring may serve as a great way to alleviate the burden felt by their owners.

Pets can help you socialize.

Nothing comes close to a good topic such as talking about pets. We often chuckle at the thought of funny stories of other's pets, and it is often the center of the conversation. People feel light-hearted when they talk about their furry (or non-furry) friends, because of their unique characteristics. As a pet owner, you can finally join this conversation and also meet others who can enjoy your stories about your pet.

Pets will get your physically fit.

Although not applicable to other pets, most furry friends will eventually force you to go outdoors. This is especially true for dogs. Dogs are known to be awesome walkers--they love walking outside and exploring the great nature. This, in turn, will force you to go on walking trips with your pet, making it a great opportunity to be physically active. Not only will you be able to de-stress with nature, you'll also enjoy the company of your pet while keeping your body healthy.

Pets can make you feel responsible.

A lot of people say that having a pet is similar to having another "baby" in the household. This is because having one entails a lot of responsibilities--you are tasked to give them food, shelter, and provide them with the right veterinarian checkups in case the need arises. You may be wondering--"how can this extra responsibility help me?" By having a pet rely on you, the less you are likely to go astray and spend your resources on a bad habit.

Pets will bring you joy.

Having a pet is like starting a new relationship. It is a new connection that can be made, without any judgements--a pet won't judge you because of who you have been. They are only concerned with who you are as an owner, and they are always willing to forgive. Their innocence, candor, and unintended humor can bring joy to any owner who wishes to be successful in the rehabilitation process.

Although pets can be helpful, it is also important to know that with the decision to have a pet comes a great responsibility. As you consider this option, do proper research on what kind of pet is best for your lifestyle. Also think about your home and how they will be able to be a part of it. Having a pet isn't just for yourself--it is a mutual benefit that involves you and your new friend.

What is a Dog Automatic Feeder and does it Work?

Technology and automation is creeping up more and more in almost every aspect of our lives and the animal industry is no different.

One of the most useful recent advancements in technology aimed at our pets is the programmable, automatic dog feeder.

WOpet Automatic Cat and Dog Feeder LY-104
$89.99

These devices are not meant to completely replace your care and attention with regards to feeding your dog. They must give a helpful hand to ensure your dog's needs are taken care of if you find yourself out of the house for a full day, or prefer a longer 'hands off' approach to regular stiff feeding times.

Automatic pet feeders are sleek, modern pieces of equipment that do not look like it's in the house and are available in a wide variety of colours and styles, with many practical features for portion control and timing looking.

What is a dog automatic feeder?

Automatic dog feeders are exactly what they look like - pet food dispensers that automatically pour food either through electronic pre-programming or by gravity.

They usually consist of two parts: a glass or air-tight plastic hopper that contains food before it is released, and a plastic, ceramic bowl or stainless steel food that is distributed in and that your dog eat on.

Why use a dog automatic feeder? When are they useful?

Wopet automatic dog feeders will be an incredibly useful addition to anyone unable to commit to regular dog feeds - who could be elderly or disabled, or even just people working away from home, those on a change basis of speed or those who take a short break away from their home without their dog.

They are also a great tool for homeowners looking to control their dog's weight and how much their dog is eating. Electronic dog feeders will allow portion size and scheduled feedings to pre-program you so that your dog will reap the health benefits of eating small, but regular meals.

5 Surprising Ways Dogs Are All Too Human

For thousands of years, humans have turned to dogs for love and companionship. It should come as no surprise then that our favorite furry friends are, in more ways than one, more human than canine.

While you shouldn’t treat your dog as if he were human, we can’t help but note several ways by which they mimic and act like humans. We’ve highlighted five surprising ways below.

1. The grass is greener on the other side

Humans have the tendency to seek out greener pastures in the pursuit of a better life or situation, and in a microcosmic way, so do dogs. When dogs bark their way out of your home and in the blink of an eye, want to be let back in immediately, they, too, are seeking greener pastures and testing the waters, so to speak.

Check if there are no underlying (yet simple) problems present such as insufficient access to food or drinking water, or a lack of attention. By ensuring you satisfy the needs of your furry pal, all his barking and eagerness to go out will be mostly limited to reasons like curiosity and excitement.

2. Jealous behavior

Dogs, just like small children, often present possessive behavior. When your dog sees other dogs or other humans getting preferential treatment – whether it's in the dog park or in your own multi-dog home – dogs will react in a similar manner to children. They will display behavior such as growling, refusing to cooperate, and many will push other dogs out of the way to catch your undivided attention.

To deter such behavior in your dog, a bit of training and practice will go a long way. Teaching your dog basic obedience and keeping to a routine, or even regulating your dog’s resources (rewards or treats) will curb any jealous behavior your dog may demonstrate, whether it is towards a new human or pet housemate.

Feeding your dog right, investing in high-quality dog food and following best practices for giving treats can also help, as studies have shown that nutrition affects your dog’s moods,behavior and stress resistance.

3. Language learning

Dogs are hardwired to obey several key training commands. “Sit,” “kneel,” “roll over,” “come,” and several other key phrases have been used by dog owners the world over to create control, structure, and order for their canine companions. But, a Border Collie in South Carolina, U.S., has shown that dogs have the learning capacity of a three-year-old human.

Chaser, the Border Collie, knows a record number of 1,022 words. Not only does Chaser know the name of 1,022 things and commands, she can also categorize the named objects according to their respective functions and shapes. The knowledge Chaser has displayed regarding human language is greater than any non-primate has been able to display.

So go ahead, with a little patience, you can still teach your furry pal a few more important words and tricks for his own “human” vocabulary.

4. Response to human emotions

In a study published in the Royal Society journal Biology Letters, researchers found that dogs live up to their moniker of being “man’s best friend.” Researchers found that dogs can recognize emotions and display learned behavior using sensory input across all five senses. The research found that dogs can create mental representations of both “positive and negative emotional states.”

Dogs can also react appropriately to positive and negative emotional states. Their ability to read nonverbal, auditory and olfactory cues, combined with emotional cues, enables them to react accordingly, similar to how humans would respond to such nonverbal cues.

5. People watching

Social interactions are central to how humans interact with those in our surrounding environment. Watching those who share our space is part of learning about those around us. At a glance, these non-interactive social cues help us determine who appears nice and who seems mean.

Dogs also appear to display this degree of moral alignment according to one study inthe journal Animal Behaviour. In the study, dogs were more inclined to favor actors who aided their owners, rather than those who displayed negative behavior towards their owners. Similar results have been observed in human infants.

Conclusion

The evolution of dogs as man’s best friend has led to particular characteristics that mirror the tendencies and complexities of human behavior. While this article only highlights five social cues that mimic human behavior, dogs have been noted to display many more. The knowledge gained from scientific research shows that our dogs don’t just resemble us in some ways, they also behave in a similar manner to us.

AUTHOR BIO

Farah Al-Khojai is the Managing Partner of Pet's Delight. A passionate entrepreneur, Farah holds a Bsc in Government from the London School of Economics. She is always on the lookout for new opportunities to develop and grow the pet and equestrian retail and wholesale market in the UAE and beyond, and is proud to be at the helm of the first and the largest pet care provider in the market representing world-class brands including Origen, Applaws, Hunter, Savic, Flamingo, Ruffwear and Rogz.

Dealing with Common Dog Behaviour

All dogs exhibit general canine behaviours patterns. Some dogs exhibit breed-specific behaviours such as extraordinary tracking ability, a heightened sense of territorial, a desire to run or uncanny ability to round of livestock so you find dogs are designed to hunt, chase, kill and eat.

Dogs will be dogs and as much as, the jobs done by dogs have largely disappeared. Have been replaced by careers as pets or participants in a variety of sport or service jobs but canine predatory instincts are alive and well. If you are looking for help treating your dog’s behaviour issue or just curious about why your dog does what he does. Getting and caring for a dog is a big responsibility which is can be a very positive life changing thing but it will have its downsides. This article will help you prepare to care for your dog and see if getting any dog breed is right for you and your lifestyle. 

Development of behaviour varies in individual dogs as well as between breeds. Dogs with a high degree of predatory behaviour are a challenge to train, especially if the family includes small children or other pets. Some behaviour patterns to look out for include: 

- Aggression

- Food guarding

- Barking

- Separation anxiety

- Whining

- Howling

- Biting and Nipping

Read more on this website :www.rangersdog.com/

Born for Speed: 6 Horses that Defined Racing

Any race fan knows the rumble of the track, the anticipation of a winner and the excitement of a neck-to-neck performance. One of the most popular spectator sports of all time, horse racing has become tradition in the United States and all over the world. Through this sport, champion racehorses have been recognized, bred and admired for their record breaking athletic abilities and defined characteristics. It is the passion and progression of this sport that has made it what it is today.

Though racing has been recorded as far back as the Greek Olympic Games, it didn’t become as popular until the Crusades when knights challenged each other on their return home mounted on Arab stallions. This is where the modern style of racing, though still in its infantile stages, began to develop. Even though racing didn’t become a true spectator sport until the rein of Queen Anne in the early 1700’s, it was at this time that multiple horses would race in an organized setting where spectators would go to watch and wager on the horse they though had the best chances of winning.

Soon after, as the popularity for racing grew, so did the breeding of Thoroughbred horses. The Thoroughbred is known for its speed and endurance. It is said that all Thoroughbreds today are descendants of one of three horses, the Godolphin Arabian, Byerley Turk or the Darley Arabian. These three horses are considered the founding sires of today’s Thoroughbred horse.

Since racing weighed heavily on wagering and a lot of money was changing hands, it was decided that a governing body was needed to regulate the sport of racing. This is when the Jockey Club was established in 1750. The Jockey Club had control over all of English racing, wrote the rules of racing and all it entails. Later, in 1894, an American Jockey Club was developed in New York to help regulate the growing popularity of racing in the United States.

Even today, over two centuries since the start of horse racing as an organized sport, researchers and breeders alike are still trying to unveil the secret of a great racehorse. Multiple qualities make up a good racehorse. It is the combination of a strong mind and a solid athletic build and good equestrian supplements

 with the mental desire to win that defines a champion.

It is said that in order for a horse to become a racing champion they need to want to win. No matter how strong the horse’s desire to get ahead and win a race, their success is significantly less likely if they have a poor mental disposition, behavioral problems, or simply a bad attitude. A champion must be receptive to its trainer and willing to accept and overcome obstacles. These qualities show a level of maturity that is critical in training and in racing.

A racehorse must also possess a solid well-balanced body. Their balance and ability to handle a track is critical. Since the horse will be aggressively using their front legs traveling upwards of 40-45 miles per hour around the track, well-formed legs are a necessity. Other physical characteristics of a potential champion include a big heart, clear strong lungs, unrelenting stamina and an ability to handle stress to the finish line. Lastly, the recuperative powers of the horse must be incredible. It is not unusual for a horse to run critical races two weeks apart. They need to be able to recuperate from a race within a short period of time and be ready for the next, possibly more aggressive competition.

Over the years hundreds of champions have been awarded for their athletic abilities on the track. From training to champion these horses possessed the power and stamina to win, setting the stage for others to follow and break records set before them. The six horses highlighted below are just a few great champions that define racing.

Champions of the Past

Man O’ War

Man O’ War, born March 29, 1917, is known for his intensity on the track and considered to be one of the greatest racehorses of all time. This Mahubah-Fair Play colt was bred by August Belmont II, then sold to Samuel Riddle for $5,000 at the Saratoga Yearling sale. After intensive training by Louis Feustel, Man O’ War had his first racing debut in a Maiden race at Belmont which he won without contest. From this incredible debut Man O’ War continued on to win three stake races in the next three weeks.

Man O’ Mar only lost one race during his career against Upset at Sanford Memorial Stakes in 1919. At age three Man O’ War won all of his races, including beating Triple Crown winner Sir. Barton in 1920 at Kenilworth Park. Man O’ War was retired to stud when his owner discovered that he would have to carry over 138 pounds at age four. In his career of 20 wins in 21 starts, Man O’ War broke several records, including earning a total of $249,465, which was a record at that time. Man O’ War died in 1947 and was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 1957.

Secretariat

Secretariat was born in Virginia March 30, 1970. His owner Penny Tweedy (Chenery) knew from the start that Secretariat was not your average horse and began his training with Lucien Laurin. Though Secretariat lost his debut race at age two, he finished first in seven of his nine races that year, including Sanford Stakes, Hopeful Stakes and Laurel Futurity. At the end of his two-year-old season Secretariat was named Horse of the Year.

His three-year-old race record was unstoppable, winning such races as the Marlboro Cup, the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. He set new records at all of these races as well as others during this year, coming in second or third in only three of his 12 races. Secretariat became Triple Crown winner that year. After his retirement Secretariat sired several stake winners until his death October 4, 1989. His earning totaled $1,316,808, a record for the time. He was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 1974.

Seattle Slew

Seattle Slew, born in February 1974 and sold for a small $17,500 to Karen and Mickey Taylor, set records and won championships throughout his entire racing career. Under the direction of trainer Billy Turner, he went undefeated in his two-year-old season, winning the Champagne Stakes and being named Champion Two-Year-Old Colt in 1976.

Seattle Slew continued to be a success in his three and four-year-old seasons. He became Triple Crown Winner in 1977. That year the Marlboro Cup was the first ever race between two Triple Crown winners, which Seattle Slew took over Affirmed. Seattle Slew held a 7-6 record for his three-year-old season and a 7-5 record at age four, setting a new track record at Woodward Stakes. After his retirement, Seattle Slew sired upwards of 100 stake winners, include Slew O’ Gold, Lundaluce and Seattle Song, among others. His total earnings came to $1,208,726 and he was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 1981.

Affirmed

Affirmed, born February 21, 1975, was not only known for his championship speed on the track, but also for being part of one of the greatest rivalries in racing history against Alydar. Affirmed raced against Alydar ten times throughout his career, winning seven of those races. Affirmed’s trainer Lazaro Barrera started Affirmed at a Belmont Park five and a half furlong maiden race in May 1977, which he won. This race started three seasons of first place races and championships.

In his two-year-old season Affirmed won seven of nine races including the Hopeful Stakes, Belmont Futurity and Laurel Futurity. In his three-year-old season Affirmed won eight consecutive races including the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, and set a track record in the Santa Anita Handicap. This is the year Affirmed won the Triple Crown. Affirmed won the Hollywood Gold Cup during his four-year-old season, and a total of five Eclipse awards during his career before retiring to stud. His career earnings totaled $2,393,818. Affirmed was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 1980.

Champions of Today

Smarty Jones

Smarty Jones, born February 28, 2001, is undeniably one of the greatest modern racehorses of today. This Elusive Quality-I’ll Get Along combination is owned by Roy and Pat Chapman who hired trainer John Servis to work him into a successful racehorse. The result is the phenomenon known today as Smarty Jones.

Smarty Jones won eight of nine starts in his racing career. He won his debut at Philadelphia Park then continued on to win Pennsylvania Nursery Stakes in November 2003. The following January Smarty Jones was unstoppable, winning race after race including Rebel Stakes and Arkansas Derby before becoming the first undefeated Kentucky Derby winner since 1977 when Seattle Slew captured the title. Smarty Jones also won the second leg of the Triple Crown, Preakness Stakes. His retirement was announced in August 2004 and was due to a medical condition. Up to that point Smarty Jones had won $7,613,155, making him one of the richest racehorses in American history.

Funny Cide

Funny Cide, a Distorted Humor-Belle’s Good Cide combination, was born April 20, 2000. Funny Cide was purchased by Sackatoga Stable in March 2002 and began training with Barclay Tagg shortly after. Funny Cide made his debut at a Maiden race in September 2002 and won. This victory lead him to two more wins during his two-year-old season at Bertram Bongard Stakes and Sleepy Hollow.

Though during his three-year-old season Funny Cide finished second at Wood Memorial and third at the Louisiana Derby, Belmont Stakes and Haskell Invitational, he found victory in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. Funny Cide was the first horse of New York breeding to win the Kentucky Derby, making New Yorkers proud. Funny Cide also took the lead over American Style at the beginning of his four-year-old season at Gulfstream Park in January 2004. Funny Cide holds the record for the highest earning of any New York bred racehorse in history.

These horses have carved their names in racing history through their determination, power and willingness to do what it takes to become a champion. These horses are merely a few of the well-known champions of our time. They have broken records and set the stage for the future generation of racing champions. It is horses like these that define the sport of racing as it continues to be one of the most widely attended spectator sports in history.

10 Best Budget Hair Straighteners in India

Straight hairs without a frizz are a dream of many girls. But with so many options and latest technological features available in the market, it sometimes becomes a daunting task to pick the best and affordable hair straightener for your hair. 

Below we are listing some of the best budget hair straighteners in India:

1. Panasonic (EH-HW17) Hair Straightener (Rs. 1695)

This is a perfect hair straightener to fit your budget. The company has not resorted to the use of hair-damaging plates to keep this straightener in the low budget segment. This straightener has a standard ceramic plate to protect the hair from damage. This straightener can also be used to get the wavy curls instantly as it comes with an attachment for curls also. The heating speed of this straightener is quite high, and it takes only 30 seconds to heat up.

2. Philips HP8315 (Rs. 1995)

This straightener is a wider variant of the Philips Straightener model no. HP8310. To remove the frizzes, this straightener uses the ion technology. It is very sleek in design. This machine takes only 60 seconds to heat up. It leaves your hair silky and smooth after every use. If you love to style your hairs frequently, we suggest you go for this one, as it takes very less time and gives quick results.

Recommended Read: Best Hair Straighteners in India

3. Inalsa Hair Straightener (Rs. 1695)

This is a trendy hair straightener with ceramic plates and a rotating cord with the capacity of rotating 360 degrees. The major benefit of its rotation power is that it prevents tangling of the hairs. The body of this straightener is full shock-proof and offers very comfortable grip.

4. Remington Ceramic Straight 230 – Model S1005 (Rs. 2499)

This Straightener comes with amazing heat settings, and its temperature can be adjusted anywhere in between 150 to 230 degree Celsius. The heat up time is 30 seconds. It has plate lochs, Swivel Cord and Ceramic Teflon Coating. The cord is also 360 degrees rotating to protect the hairs from tangling. For average hairs, it takes only 12 minutes to make them pin-point straight. After using this straightener, you will get highly lustrous and straight hairs.

5. Panasonic Compact Straightener (Multi-Styling 2-in-1) – (Rs. 1795)

The unique feature of this Straightener is its packing style. This machine comes with a protective cap for the plates of the straightener. Not only it saves the plate from damage, but it also makes the storage of the machine very convenient. The ceramic coated plated easily glides in your hair and gives perfect shine. It requires a standard voltage of 20-240 V and a very low power of 20 W to work. The cord is about 1.7m long, which provides easier handling and de-tangling.

6. IKONIC hair Straightener (Mini) - (Rs. 1500)

The appearance of this machine is quite attractive. The beautiful black and red combination is a feast for the eyes. It is ultra-portable, so you can easily take it with you while traveling. If your hairs are lifeless and you want to add shine to them, use this straightener. The ceramic plates straighten the hair well and add shine. The cord is about 6.5 ft long, but it cannot be rotated.

7. Vega VHSH – 01 Hair Straightener (Rs. 1399)

The look of this straightener is very attractive and is a perfect pick for all the girls. The straightener’s color is pink, and it is very compact and lightweight to carry in the bag. It takes only 25W power and has an LED indicator light. It comes equipped with a dual voltage technology and a swivel cord with 360-degree rotation support. You can style your hairs in 4 different types with the help of this straightener.

8. WAHL 5001 (Rs. 1195)

Wahl is not a new name in the beauty products manufacturing industry. Wahl has created this straightener which is very light in weight and is easy to carry. On its plate, you will find a ceramic tourmaline coating. These plates are highly efficient and are best for providing the extra shine needed. It tames the frizzy hairs like no other. The heating time is 30 seconds only, and it uses only 20 W of power. So it is very economical and quick to use.

9. Remington Pearl Hair Straightener (Rs. 1299)

The Remington T Studio Pearl Ceramic Straightener is a 2” straightener which comes with real crushed pearls. It combines the high technology with the perfect ceramic coating to give salon like results. It comes with digital control of the temperature and can heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The plates with pearl ceramic, Teflon coating glide easily and are damage-free. For even the thickest of hairs, its 2” floating plates are enough to work. It takes only 15 seconds to heat up. It comes packed with a four-year warranty.  

10. Babybliss Hair Straightener - ST87E (Rs. 4000)

The performance of this straightener is superb as it uses Titanium Ceramic plates. These plates heat up quickly and evenly. The plates are equally good for providing it a smooth gliding capability. It glides easily on your hairs and results in silky and healthy tresses. The most amazing feature of this machine is that it gets heated up to 230 degree Celsius in about 5 seconds.

We have prepared this list of budget hair straighteners available in India with the best of our knowledge. You can use any of these above-listed straighteners to get those frizz free, gorgeous looking straight hair.   These straighteners are just perfect to help you stay beautiful and frizz free forever. 

A Little Dog Food and Its Humble Beginnings

Although pet food has been around for ages, not too much is known about how the act of boiling the leftover supper into something a bit digestible translated into commercial canned goods. In the beginning of time, pets did not have the luxury of “real” pet food, store bought and paid for. It was a practice that came much later. Although some pet owners prefer to make their pets food at home, most others prefer the convenience of buying it from the store, opening the can, and putting, readymade, into the dog bowl. It sure saves time. But where did the invention of dog food come from?

In the beginning, dog food was not made on purpose it was mostly mother's experimental dishes that weren't palatable enough for the rest of the family, or the leftover food that nobody cares to eat.

The very first commercial dog food was invented in 1860, and came in the form of a simple dog biscuit. A young electrician and seller of lightning rods, from Ohio named James Spratt was on a sales trip. While sitting at the dock in England and awaiting the ship back to his beloved America, he noticed that a sailor was throwing leftover hardtack to the dogs on the dock. Hardtack is a dry cracker-like biscuit made from flour, water, and—if they could afford it—salt. Sailors could use it as rations and store it for many months without it going bad. Of course, many sailors got pretty bored of it, and sometimes threw it to the dogs once they sailed back to the dock! The poor dogs, skinny and hungry, on the English dock eagerly grabbed at the leftover remains of the hardtack. James Spratt felt sorry for the poor beasts and soon invented his own solution to the problem—bone shaped dog biscuits made from wheat, vegetables, beetroot, and beef blood.

With time, Spratt started a company for the manufacturing and selling of dog biscuits. The company soon thrived, and in 1890 James Spratt returned to American soil and renamed his company “Spratt's Patent Ltd”. The company did so well that later it broadened its production to other feed stocks and even veterinary medicines. Little is known about the genuine scientific-reasoning behind Spratt's biscuits, feeds, and medication, but still, it was a step in the right direction. Later, other American firms began to enter the market with their own variations of Spratt's biscuit for dogs; some of these included the concept of kibble.

These days better, more bona fide companies like Arden Grange, Royal Canine, Whiskas, Felix, and IAMS have stepped forward to make their mark in the history of dog food. Brands, like Arden Grange, for example have a wide variety of dog food to choose from. Some foods are frozen or freeze-dried, dehydrated, fresh or refrigerated, homemade, or vegetarian.

Let's take a closer look at some of these dog food types:

Freeze-dried dog food is packaged in a raw and unprocessed form. The concept with this type of dog food is that it has skipped the processing stage and has more nutritional integrity. Most of these products are freeze-dried or frozen to allow it a longer shelf life.

Dehydrated dog food comes in two kinds, both raw and cooked. This type of food is generally air dried so that the moisture is reduced, hence diminishing bacterial growth of any kind. Dehydrated dog food looks alot like kibble. Adding warm water to the food before feeding your dog allows the food to become more palatable and easily digested.

Fresh or refrigerated dog food is food that has been produced through the pasteurization of fresh ingredients. The ingredients are slightly cooked, sealed into a vacuum pack, and then refrigerated until served.

Homemade dog food is diet food for dogs that often comes in take-away-style buckets or Tupperware-like packages. These diets have cooked meat or raw meat, ground up bones, pureed veggies, taurine supplements, and other vitamins in it. Most homemade dog food is actually made at home and later sold to specialty stores and over the internet. Many pet owners these days prefer homemade dog food because it has less preservative in it.

Vegetarian dog food, as the name suggests, contains no meat whatsoever. This type of dog food usually has ingredients of oatmeal, pea protein, and potatoes instead of meat. Some pet owners prefer to feed their dog vegetarian food for ethical reasons, and others for health reasons or food allergies.

To know more about what your dogs can eat and what cannot, you can visit the site US Bones which will give you a very good idea. You will also get a lot of free tips as well.

Holistic Pet Food for the Modern Pet

When it comes to pets you want to be certain that you feed them the most wholesome food that you can for them to live healthier and longer lives.  As humans we try to not divulge in food which are bad for us, select his/her food that is healthier then the stuff that you choose to feed them and your pet doesn't have to go to the store. 

Holistic pet food, which is becoming very popular in the modern world, is made with ingredients that takes the approach that if food is not healthy enough for you to eat then it's not healthy for your pet.

Harmful Additives

Preservatives and harmful chemicals are used to make the stuff.  When you use modern holistic pet food for your pet it increases by using fresh ingredients, no chemicals and no preservatives. 

Not only are you saving money by choosing pet foods you're decreasing the possibility of veterinarian bills by providing your animal with the a healthy modern lifestyle.

When people constantly feeling ill the things that doctors recommend and are currently struggling with behavior disorders are eating better and exercise and the same thing goes for your pets.  Chemicals and pesticides can cause behavior problems with your animal and to be completely healthy you need to be healthy in mind, body and soul.

This is not only for dogs and cats, but fish and other animals can greatly be effected by the quality of foods you feed them. And they can also become ill, and even die if the quality is poor enough. For those who like to spend on their pets.. what would be the point of buying an expensive modern fish tank if your fish soon falls ill and dies due to contaminants in his food?

And not only does the quality of pets’ food effect their health, but also their mood. Pets have personalities just as people do and they have a much better prospect of becoming a happy pet, if you provide them with a wholesome lifestyle.

Showing Your Pet You Care

Choosing holistic over your pet foods is currently revealing your pet how much you care.  So they can be on your own lives as long as 22, you're showing that you're choosing to keep them healthy.  When you feed yourself people look for foods which are free and it's important that you do the same for your pet.  When you select holistic as well you're saving money.

You can make your holistic pet food to ensure that your dog is healthy with soul, body and mind instead of not knowing what preservatives, pesticides and components that your pet is eating with your other brands. 

You ensure that your pet will have longevity, not place them at risk for disease and behavioural difficulties and you're giving your pet the life that they deserve.

Building a Modern Dog House

Summertime is a fantastic time to start the project, if you are like the dozens of men and women who've been procrastinating about building a modern dog house for your dog.  All dogs need a good shelter from the summer and heat thunderstorms, and a modern dog house is ideal for this reason, among many others. 

If you don't have a clue of how to build a doghouse, don't worry - even as an amateur you’ll have a better idea of how to start after reading this article.

Finding Instructions

The first thing to do is check your local area if you are a beginner.  Several big box home improvement stores, such as Lowe's and Home Depot, offer guides (both in print and online) that you can follow step by step.  Lowe offers onsite help and that includes building a doghouse.  Not to mention that you could save money by buying the building supplies at Lowe's.  Some parts can be obtained at the local junkyard at no cost.  So, here we go!  Stop procrastinating, and follow this guide.  Remember to make use of your resources that are regional and receive a simple doghouse blueprint to follow.

Size of the Dog House

You may be surprised how many folks forget prior to building a doghouse to measure the size of their dog.  So that you will know what size of modern doghouse to construct this is important.   This way the doghouse isn't going to be too large or too small.  If you're building a modern doghouse for a young dog, don't forget to make the house large enough to compensate for the dog's growth.

Dog House Roof

Next, you will need to make certain that the roof of the doghouse is not sloped.   It would probably be best since most dogs will want to lay to soak up some sun, to have a flat roof.  Do not construct any kind of metal or the roof with aluminum, since they easily burn a dog who wants to put on the roof and can heat up very quickly.

Type of Dog

Remember to insulate your dog house based on what kind of dog you have.  If the dog has a great deal like German Shepard or an Alaskan Husky , then the dog house won't need as much insulation.  Then the home will obviously need more insulation if the dog is short haired like a greyhound or a chihuahua.

Air ventilation

Be sure  that air can circulate through the house and that the doghouse is well-ventilated.  Utilizing construction materials will assist the doghouse be ventilated.   To save money, scrap wood can be found by you at a junk yard and a lumber yard.  As this helps tremendously with ventilation make sure the door will always be open, and the addition of a window will help even more.   The dog won't be cramped and a doghouse that is large enough for your dog will assist with ventilation.

Durability of the Dog House

Next, make sure the modern doghouse is tough, durable, and very sturdy.  It has to be durable enough to survive and to keep your dog protected from bad weather.  It also has to be sturdy enough to withstand regular wear and tear out of the dog.  When you assemble the modern doghouse, make sure the floor of the doghouse is constructed a few inches off of the floor.  This is significant because, when it rains, any water will be able not get inside and to flow under the doghouse and flooding the doghouse.  The floor itself also has to be sturdy and very durable.

Placement of the Dog House

Make sure the modern doghouse isn't right out in the open where the summer sun can beat down on it and heat up the little abode.  It is ideal to have a doghouse positioned below a tree shrubbery, porch overhang, or some kind of shade.  Having the modern dog house set in the shade will create relaxing a lot more comfortable for your dog and lessen the possibility of your dog overheating.

Be certain to keep it as straightforward as possible.   If you decide to go ahead and put extras in the modern doghouse, then be sure that they are durable and not easily destroyed that any extras can withstand rain, wind and snow, and the dog decides to chew on them.

In conclusion, building a modern doghouse doesn't need to be overly complicated - actually, it can be simple.  Remember to keep things simple.  Use an contemporary doghouse blueprint or tutorial.  Make sure that you plan and prepare so that you know what to buy and have all the supplies ready.  

You don't need to go all out for building materials.  A lot of the materials could be gotten from supply at a lumberyard from a reduction home improvement store like Lowe's, and even from a junkyard.  Using materials will help you save money.  Building a modern doghouse can be equally wallet-friendly and fun! 

While this may seem like a lot of work, it will be worth it: your modern pet will be sure to appreciate having a modern place to call home.

How Dogs Can Make You Healthy and Happy?

By Top Dog at Rescue Mutts Store

Having a dog teaches us patience, commitment and selflessness. Caring for a dog takes a lot of responsibility and commitment, and it also teaches us to be more patient and less selfish.

You also learn to be less focused on yourself as pets can sometimes test the patience of even the most tolerant people.

Numerous studies have shown that owning a dog benefits a person’s physical and mental well-being. So check them out and then go hug your pup for making your life so much better.

Dogs offer us so much. They are a means of protection, and a vessel of companionship. We often show our gratitude simplistically, providing food and shelter, but sometimes an opportunity arises where we can pay our debt to them. That is why we encourage rescue dogs over store-bought dogs or puppy mills.

Caption: Rescue Mutts Store – Fun stuff for Dog Lovers

Health Benefits of Growing Up with Dogs

Children who had a dog during their first year of life had 31 percent fewer respiratory tract infections than kids who didn't live with a dog, researchers found - Dr. Danielle Fisher, of St. John's Health Center in Santa Monica, Calif., told the Los Angeles Times.

Kids from dog-owning homes also had fewer ear infections -- 44 percent fewer than kids from non dog-owning homes -- and needed fewer antibiotics, researchers found.

Just so much to love about older dogs!

They are simply open books—from the start, you know important things like their full-grown size, personality and grooming requirements. All this information makes it easier to pick the right dog and forge that instant love connection that will last a lifetime.

Just looking at your dog will make you feel happier.

A 2009 study by Miho Nagasawa of Azabu University in Japan found that one’s level of oxytocin (the neurohormone that elicits feelings of happiness) raised intensely after interacting with their dogs. And the only interaction they needed was to stare into their dog’s eyes. Those who looked longer into their dog’s eyes had the bigger dose of oxytocin. Fun fact: A dog’s willingness to meet eyes with humans is one of the things that separates them from wolves.

They help us recover psychologically from a crisis.

Dogs have been proven to help the recovery process of soldiers going through post-traumatic stress disorder. One army veteran, Robert Soliz, a former army specialist who served in Baghdad, found that engaging with dogs in a program called “Paws for Purple Hearts” helped him get his life back to the way it was before he left for war. When he returned, Soliz was so traumatized that he couldn’t show any affection and struggled to even hug his kids. After spending six weeks with a golden retriever, Soliz began to feel more comfortable with his family.

Dogs can strengthen the bonds between humans and make you happier.

A recent study at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University found that people who have strong connections to their pets also have social and relationship benefits. The researchers surveyed 500 18- to 26-year-olds and found that those who had “strong attachment to pets reported feeling more connected to their communities and relationships.” They also found that the more attached a person was to an animal as a teenager and young adult, the more empathetic and confident he or she was.

Rescue Mutts Store is an accessory, fashion, and dog toy store that is stocked with tons of fun stuff for dog lovers everywhere, especially the ones who rescue dogs and give mutts a loving home. Free Shipping Worldwide.