Rabu, 20 Mei 2009

Canary Bird

A canary is a domesticated songbird famous for producing complex and often pleasing trilling songs. Typically, only male canaries sing, although hens have been known to produce songs, and the genetics of a hen play a role in the quality of song produced by her offspring, even if she does not sing herself. Canaries can be found in homes all over the world, and in a few regions, canaries have escaped to form feral colonies.

These birds are in the finch family, and they are a domesticated form of the wild canary, a song bird which was first discovered on the Canary Islands in the 1600s. Sailors started to tame the birds and keep them as pets, and when they were introduced to the mainland, they proved to be a big hit. Initially, canaries were rare and extremely expensive, because breeders only sold males, but once females became more widely available, the birds became much more accessible, although they continued to be especially popular among the nobility, as numerous portraits from the 1600s attest.

Canaries are divided into categories based on their song, type, and color. Song canaries are split into rollers and choppers. Roller canaries sing with their beaks shut, producing a melodious extended trill, while choppers have more abrupt songs, created with their beaks open. Canaries bred for a specific type display various physical traits, while color canaries are bred for unusual color variations. Beyond the classic yellow, canaries can be orange, white, greenish, brown, red, and striped, with unusually colored canaries often commanding a high price.

Canaries proved to be hardy birds after domestication, living up to 15 years in captivity, and they also breed readily, making it easy to maintain stocks of canaries and to breed for especially desirable traits. The modern domesticated canary is markedly different from its wild ancestor, with domestic canaries tending to be larger, and producing much more beautiful songs, as well as coming in a range of colors. Many people enjoy keeping canaries, appreciating their sweet songs and cheerful demeanors.

As a general rule, it is best to keep at least two canaries, if not a group. A lone canary will not always sing, because he has no incentive to do so, since there are no females around. A group of canaries, on the other hand, will be quite vocal, producing a wide assortment of songs and displaying a range of personality types. Many pet stores sell canaries, along with supplies like cages, seed, and toys.

Kamis, 14 Mei 2009

How to Care Bulldog

Bulldogs can easily overheat. Never leave them in a closed area or car
where this could become an issue. If they are overheated, immerse the
dog in a cold bath or with a hose, and call the Vet ASAP.

Because of their skin wrinkles, they can get chafing and heat rash in
the warmer months/areas. Take care to powder their folds, wrinkles,
and under their take if you notice any signs of this.

Sometimes their feet get lesions between the toes, and it?s believed
this is an anatomical issue. They are more common on the forefeet.
They say if you notice swelling or sores, to mix a teaspoon full of
sea salt in warm water and stand the affect foot in the mix for a few
minutes daily. You can also help to prevent this by trimming the hair
from between their toes weekly.

Eczema is a common problem with Bulldogs. It can be caused by stress,
rich diet, insect bites, and hormonal problems. If this occurs, please
take the dog to a Vet. A recommended diet in case of eczema is lamb
meat mixed with boiled rice. Keep brushes, combs, and bedding clean.

Now, let?s talk about Hereditary and Congenital problems a Bulldog may
face. Since I have a listing of over 36 of them, I?ll point you to the
webpage. Most, if not all of these issues need a Vet. Consult, as
there?s nothing you can really do at home to cure/fix them.
http://www.bulldoginformation.com/bulldogs-hereditary-defects.html#demodectic

The History of the Breed

Bulldogs were bread for Bullbaiting, a sport popular among many in the
Middle Ages. In this sport, the dog was required to perform ?pinning
and holding.? (For example? grabbing a bull by the nose, grabbing a
hold, and not letting go.) They said it made the bull?s flesh
tenderer, and in some places, it was illegal to sell bull meat, which
had not been ?baited? the day before. The sport became more popular in
England in the 13th to the 18th centuries, becoming a national sport.
Dogs during this time became bread esp. for the purpose of this sport,
hence the English Bulldog. They bread a dog with the bulk of his
weight near his head so that when the bull shook there was less change
of his neck being broken. It?s the reason the nose is so upturned as
well, to let the dog breathe easy while it held its grip. This process
continued until 1802, at which point a bill was discussed banning the
practice. However, it was thrown out of the House of Commons. In 1835,
it was finally made illegal by an Act of Parliament.

Sites/Merchandise/and More
http://www.dogweb.nl/shopping/bulldog/ (Merchandise)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bulldogx-l/ (A Yahoo MSG Board group about Bulldogs)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Bulldoggers/ (Same idea, different group)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bulldogfx/ (Ditto ? English Bulldog Specific)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BulldogForum/ (Areas of discussion will
include (but are not limited to) ethical breeding practices, public
awareness, health screening, genetic testing, nutrition, traditional
and alternative therapies, and training through positive
reinforcement.)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bullyforum/ (Ditto ? English Bulldog Specific)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/The-Holistic-Bulldogger/ (Holistic Bulldog ideas)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/englishbulldoglovers2/ (Ditto ? English
Bulldog Specific)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/thebulldogbunch/ (Ditto ? Bulldogs)
http://www.k9gifts.com/merchandise/bulldog.html (Merchandise)
http://mostlybulldogstuff.com/baubles.html (Merchandise)
http://www.cafepress.com/vivyland (Merchandise)
http://popartpet.com/cafescripts/cafe_search.php?name=english&mode=1 (Merchandise)
http://www.98dogs.com/bulmer.html (Merchandise)

http://www.bulldoginformation.com/bull-baiting.html (Great Website
FULL of information)

English Bulldog

The English Bulldog is a magnificent breed. An English Bulldog Puppy is so cute and cuddly. English Bulldog Puppies love attention. In fact, the English Bulldog Puppy is gentle, friendly and loving. The English Bulldog Puppy gets along well with other animals and is particularly fond of children. He is revered for his loving disposition. The English Bulldog loves companionship making him the perfect family pet.

The appeal of the English Bulldog rest solely on their face. That is what bulldoggers love the most. Most people are drawn to the breed because of its unusual appearance and then by its magnificent character. With a mug that is ferocious, sour and comical all wrapped up in the same package, the bulldog will adore you while still at times tend to follow his own lead rather than yours.

The popular view of the English Bulldog is one of ferocious tenacity, rather it is, in fact, an affectionate, gentle and loyal breed. The English Bulldog is bold and courageous. Thick set and low in stature. The English Bulldog is broad and powerful, conveying an impression of determination, strength and dignity. Just the name "Bulldog" conjures up an image of a real tough dog, especially when you put a picture of the dog with the name. Yet in spite of that face and sturdy body, the Bulldog is a sweetie - a real softie with no hard feelings toward anyone. English Bulldog Breeders have worked hard through the years to eliminate the ferocious side of the Bulldog's temperament while maintaining his looks and determination. Today's Bulldog is fierce looking on the outside and a marshmallow on the inside.

With love and the proper training the English Bulldog Puppy will grow up to a calm adult dog. Bulldogs enjoy leisurely walks through the neighborhood meeting everyone. English Bulldogs will cheerfully adopt anyone and everyone. The English Bulldog meets no stranger. Your Bully is your best companion. Being a friend may be the most important job your English Bulldog has. When you stop and think about the Bully's role, that's not such a bad job description. The English Bulldogs are very content to be your low-maintenance buddy. He will never be a great guard dog because the Bulldog prefers a snooze on the couch. Bullodgs are predisposed for lounging around. After a long day at work, rest assured that your Bully pal will be waiting for you to snuggle alongside. So if you want a companion to hang out with after a hard day's work, then the English Bulldog may just be the type of pet you are looking for.

Rabu, 13 Mei 2009

Ceylon cat


Ceylon cat
Ceylon cat photo copyright www.zivotinjsko carstvo.com See note at base.

I had never heard of the Ceylon cat until recently. This is a rare cat in respect of the world cat fancy but seems to be much better known in Italy, where it is a breed recognized by the FIAF - Italian Federation of Feline Associations.

First things first. Ceylon is now Sri Lanka. Ceylon became Sri Lanka in 1972.


This map shows where Sir Lanka is. Published under a Wikimedia license. author, Vardion - see Wikipedia license.

A cat called the Ceylon cat would imply that this cat was "discovered" by the cat fancy in the west before 1972, some time ago. The 1960s was the decade when the most cat breeds were created in the 20th century (15). However, it seems that Dr. Paolo Pellegatta, an Italian, visited Sri Lanka in 1984 and liked the cat he saw so much he brought the cat back to Italy. The 1980s were also a productive period for the commencement of cat breeds when 12, now widely recognized breeds, were started.

I have no knowledge of the background of the cat brought back except that the cat is described as a "natural breed that has developed spontaneously on the island of Sri Lanka". At first I thought that this meant that the cat is a feral cat, semi-feral cat or a domestic cat on Sri Lanka. On that basis, is possible to say that this was a naturally occurring "cat breed"? I don't think a mixed breed cat (moggie) that is unrecognized by any cat association can be a cat breed. I think it is more sensible, to be honest, to simply say that a mixed breed cat that had certain characteristics was imported from Sri Lanka.

However, I think that I may be simply wrong as one source of information (http://www.agraria.org/gatti/ceylon.htm) says that imported Ceylon cats from Sri Lanka need an a certificate of origin and authenticity from what seems to be a cat association in Italy, Cat Club Amatori of Ceylon or CLUB AMATORI DEL GATTO DI CEYLON. This would seem to say that the imported cats are a cat breed in Sri Lanka.

The Ceylon cat is quite small (medium small) and looks elegant and fine boned; a nice natural looking cat in fact. I am not sure how much of the appearance is due to the breeding program. This cat breed is nicely balanced not extreme in any way, which is pleasing for me to see. It seems that the wise intention is to preserve the traditional appearance of this cat.

This cat is registered with the World Cat Federation (WCF). The WCF Ceylon Cat breed standard says that this cat is small to medium sized. The head is rounded, short and broad with pronounced cheek bones. The ears should be large and set high on the head. The eyes should be large and set wide apart. The coat should be fine close lying and silky in texture. The acceptable ticking colors are black, blue, red, cream, tortioiseshell and blue tortie.

As a matter of interest it is said that the imported cat was kept in an air conditioned room or area that reproduced the same temperature and humidity as Sri Lanka, a very hot and humid country (I presume to ease the introduction to a new environment). It would seem that other cats of a similar type were also imported from Sri Lanka to Italy and a breeding program commenced. The program progressed and a breed standard drafted in 1988.

As to coat type the classic Ceylon cat has a dark ticked coat with banding on the legs and tail and classic "M" tabby pattern on the forehead as shown in the heading photograph. In this conformation the cat is called the "Manilla", I believe. The standard however allows a wide range of colors and patterns as I understand it (including the pointed pattern - i.e. Siamese appearance). The Abyssinian cat is the bearer of the best known ticked coat, which is a special kind of tabby cat coat.

Siberian Cat

The breed originates in Russia (link to a Google map), where he/she is as ordinary and ubiquitous as the "moggie" mixed breed cat. On exporting this breed to the West (in 1990) she has been bred as a pure-bred cat and registered by the CFA in 2000 (very recently in cat history terms). The history of this cat in Russia, though, is very long, going back 1000 years according to the CFA. To me she looks a little like the Maine Coon, medium/long hair (I guess for protection against the Siberian weather) and a "distinguished" and classic cat face.

There is obviously a difference to the Maine Coon, which is hard to describe, but you can see it when you study the photographs on this website. According to Kathy Wade (a breeder based in America, Croshka Siberians) there was an exchange of breeds between the Russians and the Americans arranged by Elizabeth Terrell of Starpoint Cattery (a Himalayan cat breeder).

The Russians got the Himalayan and the Yanks got a Siberian. I can see why there was a formal exchange of breeds. In 1990 the communist party was still (just it seems) in charge in the USSR (as it was then). The break-up of the communist party took place in about 1991. There were heavy restrictions and bureaucracy in those days on anything leaving the country. Also, at this time a certain David Boehm also imported Siberian cats from the USSR to the US.


Siberian Cat
Siberian cat - photo copyright © Helmi Flick


Siberian cat - brief time line
Early-at least 13th century Early recognition of this cat breed. Pets to monks in Russia
post Communist era People started to arrange and attend cat shows
1989 The Soviet Felinological Federation began
1990s This cat breed exported to USA and Europe
2000 Accepted for registration by CFA
Early 2002 This breed exported to UK
2006 Championship status CFA
Current TICA and GCCF recognized


Character + Health

I like the naturalness of this cat and the appearance of the cat indicates that she is well suited to the Russian climate. In short, she looks like a Siberian cat. The Maine Coon has that natural outdoor cat look as well. A cat that has survived without domestication (or minimal domestication) and who has "come in from the cold" to live with humans.

She is agile, a great jumper and is another one of those cats that is "dog like". Bengals can be dog like for example as they like to play "fetch". So, if your wife likes cats and you like dogs, compromise and adopt a Siberian.


Siberian cat
Siberian Cat copyright © Helmi Flick



This cat breed is larger than the average domestic cat (see a weight comparison chart), friendly, good with pets and children, and has no outstanding propensities to ill health found with some breeds (e.g. Modern Siamese).



Siberian cat health
A short discussion on the health issues affecting this cat breed. There aren't many but nearly all domestic cats have some health issues.



She is a balanced and healthy cat by all accounts. And fairly playful and active. This breed of cat is still rare in the West. Dani and Rick of Cattery Yeri Shaes live with a Siberian (amongst other lovely cats) and Dani as you probably know by now is a great cat photographer so you've got some fine pictures of this cat breed accompanying this article (see the thumbnails above).

This really is a handsome cat, I think you'll agree. You will love Dani's photographs. I had a cat called "Missie" who had a bit of Norwegian Forest cat in her and she could jump massive distances vertically. The Norwegian Forest cat is a similar looking breed. Interestingly the Siberian cat is also called the "Siberian Forest Cat".


Siberian cat
Siberian cat - photo ©Helmi Flick

Hypoallergenic?

She may be good with people with an allergy to cats. This is claimed by Kathy Wade. Kathy runs a very good and informative website, which is top on a Google search. I don't know her, but I would expect her to run her cattery well too. Visit her site and make some enquiries www.siberiancat.net . It would seem that in tests carried out in the USA fur samples had less Fel D1 flakes (cat dander, the allergen that produces the allergic reaction in some people).

It isn't just Kathy who says that this cat breed is at least to a degree hypoallergenic. There is however no scientific evidence to support the claims of breeders and keepers of this cat who claim this (except for the above as far as I am aware).

Minggu, 10 Mei 2009

Persian Cat

Persian cat with extreme flat face and health probems

Persian cat with extreme flat face and health probems

9th April 2009 - Some 20 minutes ago I was watching prime time news in the UK on Channel 5. I was surprised to see that Persian cat inbreeding is on prime time news as a major news story. I have been mentioning this is for what seems like ages, since the the early days of building this website. I have made numerous posts and written several articles about this particularly in response, recently, to the well publicized story about companion dog inbreeding. The BBC had made a film about inbreeding in purebred dogs which had major, almost catastrophic repercussions in the dog world. It jeopardized the biggest and oldest dog show in the world, Crufts, and the Kennel Club, who run Crufts were forced, ultimately, to rewrite breed standards for a number of dog breeds. This was in response to a loss of sponsorship for Crufts.

It was really only a matter of time before the cat world was dragged into this debate by the media. But as I said, I am surprised it has hit prime time news. Channel 5 used Persian cat inbreeding of the flat face (ultra type breeding) as an example of what is wrong. The point made in the case of the Persian is that the flat face causes breathing difficulties and tear duct overflow (the tears run down the face because the duct is bent and blocked due to the flat face). The cat is breed like this for appearance sake only. The Persian needs to be "round" and cobby. In the USA the breed standard states clearly that the face should be flat (the elements of the face should be in a vertical line it says).

The story about Persian cat inbreeding on prime time news also referred to general ill health brought about by inbreeding and it reported that half of purebred Persians has a genetically inherited kidney disease. This was a reference to Polycystic Kidney Disease. They may have exaggerated the percentage a bit but it is very high indeed (about 40%). Perhaps the percentage is rising.

The point made by this news story is that inbreeding for appearance (to fix and exaggerate "type" - the breed standard appearance) can and frequently does lead to health issues, which is morally wrong. And in any event the average cat keeper wants a healthy cat for numerous reasons, one of which is to minimize vet's bills.

Golden Retriever Puppy Training

Golden Retrievers are an outstanding human companion dog - they display a long list of traits which us dog lovers admire and value.

The Golden Retriever is much loved all around the world for their gentle affectionate nature, high intelligence, absolute loyalty and attractive good looks. They are one of the few dog breeds who truly build a strong and lasting bond with their human family.

Golden Retriever puppy training is an essential, fun and rewarding experience for you and your dog. You'll find that your Golden Retriever puppy may be a bit unruly and excitable early on but with some puppy socialization and training will develop into a wonderful trustworthy companion.

golden retriever picture

Golden Retriever Breed Information

The Golden Retriever is a relatively modern sporting dog breed. Fortunately for us dog lovers the Golden Retriever was developed in Scotland in the late 1800's by Dudley Majoribanks. They were initially bred to be superior hunters - to this day they still love to retrieve.

Since then the Golden Retriever has been known as a Golden, Yellow Retriever or simply as a Goldie.

The Golden Retriever has a lovely warm gentle expression, is athletic, muscular and has a smooth fluid gait. They love to greet you with their head held high and tail wagging furiously.

One of the most distinctive features of the Goldie is their beautiful rich golden coat. It is a thick double coat which is weatherproof - they do shed!

Goldies are a powerful well proportioned dog, males grow to 56-61cm tall at the withers and weigh in at between 29-34kg. Females are a centimeter or two shorter and a couple of kilos lighter.

The easy to handle and very trainable nature of the Golden Retriever has seen them utilized in many "canine jobs". Their love of human company and patience has made them ideally suited as guide dogs for the blind, service dogs and also as narcotic detection dogs.

Golden Retriever Pictures

Golden Retriever Temperament

Anyone who has had the pleasure of living with a properly socialized and trained Goldie will agree that their temperament is what makes them so special.

Golden Retrievers absolutely crave and thrive on human attention. They are happiest when involved in all family activities - they are not an outside dog. Therefore if you are away from home for long periods a Golden Retriever puppy is probably not the right option for you. Separation Anxiety can be a problem with Goldies that are left alone and bored for hours on end.

Golden Retriever puppies grow to be confident, friendly to all people and animals, well mannered, patient, inquisitive, adaptable and stable. Basically they are a great asset to any responsible dog loving household.

Goldies love to swim, retrieve a ball and enjoy all types of dog sports and training. They appreciate the physical and mental stimulation which activities like agility, flyball, tracking and obedience training provides.

Golden Retriever Health Problems

Golden Retriever breeders play a crucial role in the future of the breed. A concientious and reputable Golden Retriever breeder will do all they can to protect the health of the breed going forward. All of their breeding stock will be screened accordingly and all litters will be carefully planned.

It's an unfortunate fact that there are many unscrupulous and opportunistic Golden Retriever breeders out there cashing in on the vast popularity and money making potential of the breed. They have little or no regard for the mental and physical wellbeing of the Golden Retriever puppies they produce. This has led to a disturbing increase in Golden Retriever puppies with unstable temperaments.

Golden Retrievers are still a pretty sturdy and healthy breed but there are a few problems to look out for:

  • Hip Dysplasia is a common problem in Golden Retrievers - as it is with many of the larger dog breeds. It's an inherited defect which means that the hip joint is unsound. Your Golden Retriever breeder should be able to show you hip clearance x-rays of all of their breeding stock.
  • Elbow Dysplasia is also prevalent in Goldies - similar to Hip Dysplasia.
  • Eye Disease can be a problem in your Goldie. Hereditary cataracts are fairly common and Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (CPRA) is also common. Once again checking the parents and grand parents of your puppy is your best guide.
  • Hereditary Heart Disease and epilepsy are other health problems that Goldies can be susceptible to.

So if you want a healthy, well socialized Golden Retriever puppy the best place to start is by locating a good Golden Retriever breeder - they are your valuable ally.

Golden Retriever Training
Golden Retriever Puppy Training Is Tiring Stuff!

Golden Retriever Puppy Training

Golden Retriever puppies require proper socialization and at least basic obedience training in order to reach their full potential. The good news is that Goldies are willing and very capable students who are very trainable.

Golden Retriever puppy training is most effective when using positive, reward based dog training methods with plenty of encouragement and praise. You'll find that your Goldie is eager to please when training and won't benefit from any harsh punishment or force.

From puppy house training (potty training), crate training right through to all the basic obedience commands (sit, down, stay, heel, come etc.) your Goldie will catch on quickly. All they require from you is some clear guidance, consistency and repetition.

Golden Retriever


In a dog's world, Golden Retrievers are simply the fatal attraction. They are a preferred dog breed, making great pets, hunting dogs, obedience competitors, show dogs, and even a combination of all these traits. No matter what your intent may be to own a Golden Retriever, you'll have an excellent dog that will live up to it's potential and then some.

Golden Retrievers are calm, well mannered, and extremely affectionate. They are easy to train as well, very intelligent, and great for those who need a companion. Golden's are also loyal to their owners, lovable, and great with children of all ages. They also make great watchdogs as well, as they will bark loud and let you know when a stranger is near.

Like other dogs, Golden Retrievers will shed their hair throughout the year and more in the spring - no matter how many times you brush them a day. They also like to be in and near the water, similar to Labs. If you have any type of water on or near your property, your Golden Retriever will be in it, and tend to be either wet or muddy quite a bit - which can tend to get frustrating.

If you are always on the go or never at home, you shouldn't get a Golden Retriever. If you prefer cats over dogs, you should look into another breed. Golden Retrievers crave attention and admiration, and normally don't do too well if you leave them at home by themselves for long periods of time. Golden's need attention, and desire to be around you at all times. If you spend a lot of time at home on the other hand, or have kids, a Golden Retriever will be a perfect addition to your family.

A lot of people out there prefer to get a puppy and raise it themselves. This way, the puppy will grow up with the skills they have taught him. This is a great idea and very rewarding, although it can consume a lot of your time and tend to be very frustrating at times. Those who don't have a lot of time to spare or tend to get easily frustrated, shouldn't get a puppy. Instead, they should look towards an older Golden Retriever who has already been house broken and trained.

Golden Retrievers are an excellent breed, and they can provide you with the companion you have been looking for. They can participate in several activities with you as well, such as hiking, camping, and walking. Golden's love the outdoors, and they love just getting out there and doing things with you and your family. If you include your Golden Retriever in family activities - you'll have a friend for life who will quickly grow on you over the years

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