How Barefoot Running Shoes Protect Your Feet the Right Way

There are a lot of innovations in the shoe industry today including bare foot sandals. Runners became aware of these new shoes and most of them wanted to try them out. It is healthier to use compared to traditional running shoes and it is more natural. This shoe provides the feeling of running barefooted anywhere you go. It can also be a good type of exercise for your feet. The only thing is that there are some tips that must be considered to avoid any injury.First, look for a minimalist running shoes that you want. Asphalt and hard concrete are some of the type of road that runners. It is a big concern for runners so they do not practice without any shoes on. There are harmful things on the streets so you need to still have protection to prevent injury. If you want to try out barefoot running, you can find some shoes on the market that can provide this feature. It is best to look at the brand carefully and only choose a trustworthy seller.Second, do not overdo it at first. Everything must be taken slowly so do not rush in learning to use it. You need to practice in wearing these shoes if you really wanted to use them the right way. You can experience strains while practicing how to use them because you will be focusing on using your natural springs. Your body needs to adjust to the new running style that you will use so you need a couple of sessions in practicing.Third is to be safe. Practicing in using these shoes requires a healthy and physically fit body. You must not continue practicing if you are suffering from any kind of health problem. Stop practicing once you noticed that your body is not feeling well to avoid injuries.There are a couple of benefits that barefoot shoes provide to its users. It can help you run naturally allowing your body to use its natural spring and prevent any restrictions on your movement. Your body can easily move as well and it will give you a natural stride and movement while you run. When running, less energy is used if you are wearing barefoot shoes. Less energy spent while running is better so barefoot shoes are also a better alternative for regular running shoes.It is better than regular shoes because it provides health benefits to the body. Movement restriction is removed so the needed energy is also lessened making it possible for you to run longer and faster on the field. It is now considered as one of the best athletic shoes used worldwide. Different athletes worldwide are now using it because of its benefits.


By Jake Morales, About the Author:


Hair Styling Tips

In order to create a hair style that involves cutting and trimming of the hair, a hair styling shear must be used.A hair styling expert or professional can help aid an individual who wants to achieve a new look.A hair styling expert should know what a person needs in order to have a fresh and updated new look. Different factors like face shape,attitude or lifestyle are considered by the hair stylist when choosing the correct hairstyle. Choosing the right stylist to create the new hairstyle should be at par with the desired outcome because majority of them have specific expertise. Some are more particular on curly and wavy hair and some are experts on hair color or treatments.One of the best way to get a good hairstyle is to have clean hair. A clean hair which uses a good shampoo and conditioner would be easier to style. Not only would it keep the hair bouncy but would not collect oil deposits on the scalp that could create frizz making it harder to control.These kinds of shears takes longer time to erode and cause any problems because of the good quality of steel used in making them. The market offers numerous hair products, but choosing the right one for a specific hair type is important. Curly and wavy hair needs products that would amplify its natural shape so using a wrong product would make the hair loose and harder to manage. Seeking advice from professional stylist and even promo ladies at the department store could make finding the right product easier.The hair's natural state should be considered in creating a new hair style. The perfect hairstyle could only be achieved if done on the right hair type. Doing a short bob on a curly and wavy hair would not look as good as doing it on a straight hair type. Curly hair looks better on longer hair styles because it would look less poofy and the body would look better.Because of the blade formation of a left handed shear, the cutting line is clearer. Having the hair color treated or straightened can be an option, but should be done with professional help for it involves harsh chemicals that would damage the hair if not done right.


By Jane Lewis, About the Author:


Five Snake Care Tips for Beginners

If you're looking for an unusual, eye-catching pet, it's hard to go wrong with a snake. They're exotic enough to catch people's interest, yet hardy enough to require minimal care. Nevertheless, uninformed first-time owners tend to make some basic mistakes, some of which can be quite costly. Here are some simple tips that can help ensure the health of the snake and prevent a lot of aggravation as well.
  1. First, take note of how large your snake can grow to be. Most North American varieties only grown to be about four feet long, which is a reasonable size. Don't let a pet store employee talk you into buying a Burmese python, since these critters can grow to be over thirty feet long, and will require huge cages and tremendous amounts of food. (And before you ask... No, most zoos will not accept these as donations.) 
  2. Don't scrimp on cage size. A cage that is too small can be very stressful and unhealthy to your pet. Pet store clerks will sometimes try to sell you caging that is inadequate in size, so don't fall into this trap. For adequate comfort, the combined length and width of the cage should at least match the snake's length. Snakes can grow fairly quickly, so don't forget to take that into account as well!
  3. Do find out how docile that particular specimen is. Most non-venomous North American snakes are fairly docile, but if you're a first-time keeper, you should probably make sure that your prospective pet can be handled easily.
  4. Make sure that you select a pet with a hearty appetite. Ball pythons, for example, make great pets--but they are notoriously finicky eaters. Corn snakes make great starter pets because they are exceedingly docile and aren't picky about what they eat.
  5. Snakes--indeed, any reptile--can potentially spread salmonella. The risk involved is very small, but one should still play safe. This is especially true when young children or people with compromised immune systems are involved. Do read up on reptile hygiene and salmonella before purchasing your pet.

Obviously, these tips only constitute some basic advice. I recommend that all prospective owners should read up on snake care in general, as well as the specific needs of the species that they plan to purchase. A little bit of basic research can prevent a great deal of aggravation in the future.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6030

How to Save Your Dog's Life in a Dog Attack

Have you ever heard of stories of people going on their daily walk with their dog and they're viciously attacked by another dog. It's frightening to think of and you don't believe this will ever happen to you. This doesn't mean one could never be too prepared for situations like this. When it comes to dog fights, the worst thing is to watch helplessly as your dog gets mauled by another dog or vice verse. Please read on if you don't ever want to encounter this situation but want to take preemptive actions to make sure you're prepared for the horror of dog on dog aggression.
In some states, dogs attacking each other is not illegal. Hundreds of dogs and owners are attacked every year and many dogs at fault for the attacked are allowed back on the streets.
Can you imagine your dog being attacked by a huge dog and you feel there is nothing you can do? Your pet is part of your family and you protect your family. The the last thing you want to do is get between two dogs on the verge of killing each other. You can however, be prepared for situations like this.
Keep in mind that when a dog's aggression is interrupted, it will usually direct it's aggression on something else, so please be careful!
Avoid Using Mace or Pepper Spray, Use This Instead...
Instead of using pepper spray, which will cause long term damages, (don't want to risk spraying your own dog) use white vinegar. Carrying a water pistol filled with vinegar will give you enough time to get your dog out of there immediately. White vinegar will profusely sting when it touches the eyes and nostrils. This will startle the other dog, giving you some time for your and your four legged friend to for safety.
If your near a hose or fire extinguisher, aim at the attacker and get your pet out of there fast!
If both dogs are fighting and there are other people around to help you, have someone help you pull on both their hind legs to get them apart. If the other dog has his mouth on your dog, find the nearest object and do your best to jam the it (preferably a long rod or thick stick) in their mouth to break your dog free.
Keep in mind that dog attacks are completely frightening. The best thing for you is to have a clear head so you can do your best to save your dog.
It's true, some breeds are a little more prone to aggressiveness than others, but it really depends on the upbringing of the dog. If the dog's environment is filthy, unlivable, lacks care and affection, than the dog is going to grow to be aggressive.
Unfortunately some dogs who grew up in a loving home and great environment somehow get triggered to attack. That's why you never know when you and your dog may get attacked by another dog when walking down the street. It's better to be safe and prepared for the safety of yourself and your dog.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

How To Setup A Freshwater Tropical Fish Tank

This is an 11 step guide to setting up a freshwater aquarium in your home.
Equipment you will need:
Aquarium
Aquarium gravel
Aquarium filter
Replacement filter media
Heater
Other decorations (such as plants)
Chemical test kits
Fish food
Aquarium vacuum
Fish net
Glass Scrubber
5-gallon bucket
Pasta strainer
STEP 1: Realize the responsibility involved.
A tropical fish tank is just like having a dog or a cat when it comes to the amount of effort on your part. In order to have a successful fish tank you will have to work at it. Once a week, or at most once every two weeks, you will need to perform some kind of maintenance on the tank. Most of the time you will be performing water changes. You will also have to feed your tropical fish at least once a day. If you are up to the challenge, please proceed!

STEP 2: Decide on an aquarium size.
It's a good idea to have in mind what kind of tropical fish you want to keep before you purchase an aquarium. Some tropical fish only grow to be an inch or two, whereas other types of tropical fish can grow 12 or 13 inches in length! Knowing what kind of tropical fish you want will help you decide the size of the tank they will need. If this is your first time with an aquarium, I would recommend going with a 10 or 20 gallon aquarium for now.

STEP 3: Decide on the aquarium's location.
Place your aquarium in an area where the light and temperature of the tank won't be affected by external sources such as windows and heater vents. You will want to place your aquarium on a stand that will be able to hold its total weight. A good rule of thumb for determining the total weight of a full aquarium is 10 pounds per gallon of water. For example, a 55-gallon tank will weigh approximately 550 pounds when filled with water!

STEP 4: Buy your aquarium and equipment.
Now is the time to decide on the type of filtration you will want to use. You will also need to purchase a heater capable of heating the tank size you have. Buy the gravel, plants, a power strip and other decorations. A good rule of thumb for the amount of gravel that you will need is 1 to 1.5 pounds of gravel per gallon of water.

STEP 5: Set up your aquarium and stand.
Wash out your tank with water only! Do not use soap or detergents. Soap residue left behind will be harmful for your tropical fish. If you are going to use an under gravel filter (not recommended) now would be the time to set it up as well.

STEP 6: Wash Gravel, plants and decorations.
Be sure to wash the gravel thoroughly before adding it to your tank. An easy way to do this is to put some of the rocks in a pasta strainer and wash them out in your bathtub. Then place the clean gravel in a clean 5-gallon bucket for transport to the aquarium. After adding the gravel you can place your plants and decorations.

STEP 7: Add water to the aquarium.
To avoid messing up your gravel and plants, you can place a plate or saucer in the middle of your aquarium and direct the water flow onto the plate. Use room temperature water when filling. To remove the chlorine and chloramine, use something like Tetra AquaSafe for Aquariums. Don't completely fill up the aquarium until you are sure of the layout of your decorations. Otherwise, when you place your arm in to move stuff around water is going to spill over. Doh!

STEP 8: Set up equipment.
Install your heater but don't plug it in until the thermostat in the heater has adjusted to the water temperature. This usually takes about 15 minutes or so. Hook up your filter and any other equipment you have, then top off the aquarium water to just under the hood lip. Place your hood and light on the aquarium and then check your power cords to be sure that they are free of water. I would also recommend using a drip loop on all of the power cords to be extra cautious. Plug all of the equipment into a power strip and then "turn on" the aquarium.

STEP 9. Wait, wait, wait and then wait some more.
I know, you want to add some tropical fish. But, in order to do this right you must wait until your aquarium has cycled before adding any fish. There are ways of speeding up this process. Check out the nitrogen cycle page to learn more. If you must use fish to cycle, try to get a hardier species like the zebra danio or cherry barb.

STEP 10. Add tropical fish.
Only add one or two fish at a time. Adding a couple tropical fish at a time gives your filtration system the time needed to take on the increased biological load that the new fish introduce. When you bring the fish home let the bag float in the tank for about 15 minutes so that the fish can become acclimated to the temperature and pH of the aquarium water. After 5 minutes of floating the bag you should add some of the aquarium water to the bag so that the fish can become acclimated to the pH level in the aquarium. This will help reduce the amount of stress imposed on the tropical fish. Stressed tropical fish often leads to dead tropical fish! Don't feed your tropical fish on the first day. They probably wouldn't eat any food on the first day anyway. Let them get acquainted with their new home.

STEP 11. Get ready for regular maintenance.
Be prepared to spend some time once every week or two to clean your tank. Performing regular water changes will reduce the nitrate levels and keep your tropical fish happy and healthy.

For more tropical fish and aquarium information, please visit http://www.fishlore.com/

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/26254

Aggressive Iguana Behavior

An iguana is a fascinating lizard pet that when handled properly and gently from the time they are received, are not aggressive at all. When an iguana does show aggression he shows signs of fight or flight syndrome and will hide away or try to fight. Like every other living being, aggression shows signs of extreme discomfort to the point that the living thing believe it has no other choice but to fight or flight. It's simply a defense mechanism and in some animals, it is mating behavior. The iguana is also included in this group in that the male iguana will show aggression around certain hormones but that will be discussed later on in the article.
Handling an Iguana, The handling of an iguana plays a pivotal role in the aggression levels of and care should be taken when handling them from the time they are first brought into a home. There is a very incredible thing about an iguana that too few people know about and that is the third eye they have on the back of the head. This third eye plays a part in your pet's aggression at times because when you reach for your lizard from the back, he perceives it to be a threat as all he sees from this eye is shadows. Approach the iguana from the front and speak softly as harsh treatment does not affect iguanas in a positive way, in fact it has no effect on them except to provoke aggression. To avoid aggression in your iguana, always try to pick it up or pet it from the front.
Females and The Iguana Aggression, Although it may sound strange, female handlers and owners of a male iguana can display signs of aggression during the female menstrual cycle. Sounds crazy but its true. This is believed to be because of a specific pheromone that is emitted by the female during this time. This 'scent' that the iguana sense and cause the aggression can be abated with a replacement mate in his environment such as a small stuffed toy or even a rubber glove will calm him and he will be less aggressive. Iguanas that show aggression can be taught to be feel comfortable by you with some patience and as stated earlier, approaching it from the front. When the iguana allows you to pick it up, always let it sit on your forearm or back of the hand so it is in a position that it feels safe.If you want to learn more about Iguana's please visit our site which is free to the public. You'll find the best tips on everything to do with Iguana's

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/466568

Giving Your Cat Insulin Injections

If you have experience with feline diabetes you know how hard it can be to watch your furry family member suffer through weakness, vet appointments, diet changes and, possibly the most challenging of all, insulin injections. Knowledge of proper cat insulin injection techniques can make your life and your cat's life easier. If you have any questions or concerns talk to your vet.
Prepare the Insulin
· Start by filling the insulin syringe slightly more than your cat's dose
· Tap the insulin syringe to remove air bubbles
· Slowly push the plunger until you have the correct dosage of insulin in the syringe
Prepare Your Cat
Create a routine to make your cat comfortable. At first he will likely try to get away, but eventually he should become familiar with the process, and you may even be able to train him to come when it is time for his insulin injection. Start by giving him lots of attention and affection, and maybe even a small treat. It is probably best to keep the insulin syringe out of your hands at first, so that he does not get scared. When you are ready to give your cat insulin, get on his level - don't come at him from above or he will feel threatened. Now it is time to find the injection site.
Injection sites
The scruff (top of the neck) is the most commonly used injection site for insulin for cats, however it may not be the best. The amount of skin and muscle in this area can slow absorption of the insulin, and can be more painful for the cat.
Other options for injection are the flank (between the ribs and the legs), the side or underside of the belly, and the side of the chest. Absorption tends to be quickest when given in the side or underside of the belly.
Insulin Injection
Each cat is different, and the proper type, dose and frequency of insulin for cats need to be determined by a veterinarian. Once you know the proper insulin dosing and have determined the best place for injection, place your thumb and index finger approximately an inch apart and pinch the skin to create a "tent". Make sure you are not grabbing any muscle.
The insulin injection should go into the hollow space under the "tent" of skin. It should not go into the skin itself, or into the muscle. If your cat is long-haired make sure that you can see the skin and that you are not giving him a "fur shot".
When you are giving the insulin injection (http://www.bigmountaindrugs.com/Products.aspx?id=29)be confident, smooth and fast. It is the puncture part that hurts, so go quickly through that part; you can slow down a bit while you inject the fluid.
Above all, be gentle and kind when giving your cat insulin, especially at first, and praise him when it is all done.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

How To Handle a Dog Emergency

Any emergency is stressful and scary, and one involving that furry little four-legged member of your family is no exception. The toughest of dog owners can be instantly rendered helpless, if something’s wrong with their dogs. Have you ever thought about what you need to do should your dog – or another dog – ever suffer a serious, life-threatening injury? What if they have a severe allergy to an insect bite or a bee sting? It’s great to know your vet’s phone number, but what if something happens during off hours? What if you don’t know where the closest emergency animal clinic is located?  
Be Prepared,  The key to getting through a veterinary emergency is preparation. You may think you have that covered with a dog first aid kit and having the phone number to your vet handy, but what if there isn’t enough time to move your dog? You need to be well-versed in some of the more common dog emergencies just in case a situation ever arises. And hey, if a situation never arises, you’ll still feel more confident knowing that you have the ability to deal with one. 
Caring For Your Dog’s Wounds., Did you know that you shouldn’t use hydrogen peroxide on a bleeding wound? Nope. It slows clotting to the area, which means your dog could actually lose more blood than he would if you didn’t use the peroxide at all. In fact, the best way to treat a deep, severely bleeding wound is to apply a clean cloth and hold it in place for five minutes, then tape the cloth to the wound. That original cloth should never be removed – that also slows clotting – and should instead be layered with more clean cloths if blood soaks through. 
Treating Your Poisoned Dog, Did you know that certain varieties of toads, salamanders, newts, and other amphibians are poisonous if licked? Hey, guess who loves to hold little woodland critters in his mouth! Your dog. If you notice your pup drooling, whining, and wiping at his mouth after a trip into the forest, get him to a clean water source and rinse his mouth thoroughly. While the poison can be fatal if left in the mouth, it’s fairly easy to cleanse from the tongue and glands.
Now imagine all of the scenarios that can happen to your dog, from fractured limbs to choking and everything in between. Do you really want to risk not knowing how to handle them? You don’t have to anymore, since I’ve written “Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Dog” to help you learn how to cope with nearly any emergency as well as have the basis for handling all of the everyday and lifelong problems and situations you’ll face with your dog. From choosing dog toys to dog cancer and everything in between, it’s all in the book… as well as how to create the most effective dog first aid kit and handle the most common emergencies. Listen, even the most experienced dog owner needs a little help and advice now and then. Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Dog is that constant source of help and advice.
If you a looking for an informative dog health book then you can't go past "Secrets to a Happy and Healthy Dog."
Russ Richer is a Dog Lover who has done extensive research into Dog Care and Training. For free reports, articles, and newsletter visit www.dogdaypets.com/newsletter.html . To learn more on Dog Health and Training, visit : www.dogdaypets.com/megapak.html You may use this article in your newsletter or website, however, you must not change it in any way and all links must be active. 

Source : http://www.amazines.com/dog_health_related.html

My Dog Doesn't Understand Me

You’ve probably had a day or two when you felt like your dog just wasn’t paying any attention to you at all, right? You talked, you yelled, you shouted, maybe you jumped up and down and waved your arms, but she just wasn’t interested in anything you had to say to her in any tone of voice. You’re not alone.
  1. Your dog isn’t human. Unless you believe in dog psychics, there’s really no way for you to read your dog’s mind and figure out exactly what she’s thinking. The good news is that, like many dog owners, the problems you’re having can probably be traced to one simple thing: you’re trying to communicate with your dog from a human standpoint, and your dog isn’t a human. Sure, you know that, but lots of humans try to relate with their dogs in the ways that they think are rational as humans. The problem is that dogs are driven in every act and every moment by very strong instincts. Deciphering those instincts and leveraging them to build a productive relationship is like finding the keys to the city.
  2. Your dog doesn't speak English.Take the word “no,” for example. Does your dog speak English? Not understand English? What’s meaningful to her is your tone of voice, not the word itself. Now let’s think about that – we’re taking up excess time trying to teach our dog a word she’ll never speak and that probably doesn’t mean much to her anyway. Sure, it’s meaningful to us, but that’s only one side of the equation. What about something that’s meaningful to both human and dog?
  3. You know what a growl means, and your dog knows what a growl means. If you think that mutually meaningful language doesn’t exist, you’re not thinking creatively enough. What does it say to you when a dog growls at you? Anything from “get away from my food” to “back off, dude,” right? Yet in every case, a dog’s growl typically means that she is not happy with whatever you’ve done. And you’ve seen dogs react to other dogs’ growls, right? So you know what a growl means, and your dog knows what a growl means. Where’s the disconnect? Growl at your dog! No, seriously. The next time your dog starts to step outside her bounds or doing something you don’t like, growl at her. A nice, strong, guttural dog growl that would put the alpha wolf in a pack to shame. While you’re growling, look directly into your dog’s eyes. You’re almost guaranteed that she’ll back off.
  4. Use Your Dog’s Instincts When Training. See that? You worked with her instinct and the information hardwired into her brain, and the result was instantaneous. Why spend tons of time trying to work against that instinct and end up frustrated, angry, and still miscommunications? This approach works in everything from basic dog discipline to full-on dog obedience training. You just need to figure out how to apply it in each of those situations. I’d like to help you learn to apply it, and that’s why I created the multimedia presentation Instinct vs. Man. It addresses day-to-day life with your dog as well as specific topics like playtime, training, and territory. Beyond that, you’ll get some great insight into why your dog thinks the way she does and how it affects her actions and reactions. You’ll understand why those months of dog training stopped working after a few weeks and how to get her back into the routine and acting like the fun, upbeat dog you love.  
Russ Richer is a Dog Lover who has done extensive research into Dog Care and Training. For free reports, articles, and newsletter visit www.dogdaypets.com/newsletter.html . To learn more on Dog Health and Training, visit : www.dogdaypets.com/megapak.html You may use this article in your newsletter or website, however, you must not change it in any way and all links must be active. 
    Source : http://www.amazines.com/dog_training_related.html

    Housing a Bearded Dragon

    Sixteen BridesBearded Dragons need a large enough habitat to allow for a variety of distances from the heat source. A glass aquarium is recommended for security, ease of maintenance, and pet viewing. To avoid the expense of multiple habitats as your pet grows to adulthood, consider using a partition that can be easily adjusted. This way, throughout the life of the pet, you can use a single large aquarium, 55-70 gallons. The white melamine is a material that keeps the cage very bright which is important for stimulating a dragon's appetite. The light (and the UVB) stays inside the cage rather than escaping through the glass sides of an aquarium. Glass fronts will allow the dragon to check out their world and interact with you.

    Where to place the cage?
    Find a place, on a stable stand or table, where you feel comfortable and where you can watch anytime your little fellow, against a wall. Try to house your dragon somewhere interesting for him or her, but away from high traffic areas and out of direct sunlight. Do not hide the cage away in a seldom frequented place. Bearded Dragons have a big curiosity. They like to be somewhere where they can watch anytime to their human fellow doing their funny things.
    The cage need to be organized with a basking light at one end of the tank, another end should be kept as a cooling area; a hide area of branches and potted non-toxic plants, or a hide box in the tank is also necessary; a rock or log for the basking area. Try to improve the animal environment and remember that the more you do to arrange a Beardie's environment to provide security, the quicker the animal will adjust to its new home and family. Animals that are housed correctly and stress free will remain healthy, eat well, be happier, remain active and alert.
    The first days in his new habitat can cause a lot of stress to the Dragon, and because of this they could refuse to eat for some days. To help them accommodate you should:
    - Use the first weeks to only watch the dragon and learn the behaviors and feeding habits. Read books on Beardies. Your children will want to play with their new friend. Do not allow anybody to pick up the dragon at this moment. 

    - For a while you can cover the cage with some milky white panes which won't let the Dragon see to many things outside.
    Housing Young Beardies
    Babies and small juveniles can be temporally housed in a 10 - 20 gallon aquarium. Young Beardies less than 10 inches in length need to be housed in a 20 gal long aquarium. This will last them for a few months only though as they grow quickly. You can use Profile Extended Storage Bins. The milky white sides of the bins prevent the dragon from becoming terrified in new surroundings and not eating for the first few days, which can become a serious problem.
    It is important to judge the correct size of the enclosure. While the dragon is small, it's helpful to keep cage furniture to a minimum, so that they can find their food easily. Crickets can hide in deeply grooved logs or under the furniture making it difficult for a baby dragon to locate food. The dragon won't find them, so will not be able to eat, and the crickets will come out at night and nibble on beardies, who sleep quite soundly, stressing them (this could be serious).
    On the other hand, a tank that is too small won't afford the proper temperature gradients the dragon requires.
    As the dragon grows they will need to be moved to bigger cages. The dragon having a bigger size, a tank too small won't afford the proper temperature gradients the dragon requires, the dragon can no longer get away from the heat and it can cook and die.
    Housing Adult Bearded Dragons
    Adult Dragons should be housed in nothing smaller than a 40gal breeder tank, but it is recommended that you house a single adult Beardie in a 55 to 60 gallon aquarium. Dragons need branches or rocks to climb on and a hiding place. Any cage furniture should be carefully secured so it can't fall and injure the Beardie.
    Florian Ross is a small lizard expert and a freelancer who developed comprehensive guides to help people succeed with their bearded dragon pet and have your bearded dragon lizard live two times longer. His guides on Bearded Dragons are considered the definitive guides on raising Bearded Dragons.
    Find out more tips on raising Bearded Dragons Lizards and having them live 2 times longer, with his popular ebook about Bearded Dragons or get a free sample of Florian's bearded dragons caresheet
    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Florian_Ross


    Source: http://EzineArticles.com/576232

    Box Turtle Care

    Hawks MountainCongratulations, you have a new box turtle. But how do you take care of your precious new friend? Taking care of a box turtle can take some work, but there are simple steps to ensure that your box turtle is happy in his new home. First you must decide housing for the turtle. Will you keep it indoors or outdoors? If you decide to keep the turtle outside, make sure that the area is similar to the turtle's natural habitat. There should be plenty of sun since box turtles are reptiles, but also shade in case the turtle becomes overheated under the constant heat of the sun. Provide water for your turtle so that it is deep enough for swimming. The home should have weed-like plants and insects for consumption. An outdoor setting is probably the home a turtle would choose. However, an indoor home properly made will keep your box turtle just as happy and safe. If you build your turtle a home indoors, use a container like those made by Rubbermaid. The best option is to have a large, dark container that the turtle cannot see through. A turtle can become perplexed and frightened looking out of a clear container. One of my box turtles constantly tried to climb through the wall of his clear container, so I had to move him. The container should be large and filled a few inches deep with a substrate such as "Bed-a-Beast." Then provide a hiding place for the turtle such as a hollow log. You should make a pool for the turtle since that is where a turtle usually poops. I used the plastic lid of a container for food. Make sure that the pool is not too deep. Every day, keep the entire tank moist by spraying the surfaces of the home. Inside the home of the turtle, keep the temperature fairly warm in the lighted area- about 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Use UV-B light to keep the turtle healthy and active all day. Another option is to take your turtle outside to soak in the sun for about an hour a day. The natural sunlight is tremendously healthy for your turtle, although he may not enjoy it at first. Just remember, you know what's best for your turtle. Keep an area away from the light so that the turtle can rest there when he's had enough light. This is why it is important to have a container that is large enough for two distinct areas. The food a turtle eats is obviously very important to its health. A person must watch his or her own diet. It is your responsibility, however, to feed your turtle healthy foods. A turtle will eat almost anything, from fruits and vegetables to insects and worms. Another factor you should consider is providing edible materials with high calcium levels such as boiled eggshells or a cuttlebone that you can buy at any pet store. One final hint to feeding your turtle- have fun with it. Be creative in feeding your turtle from day to day because you do not want to create an addiction to one food by feeding it the same thing each day. Keep the turtle's diet balanced with half plant and half meat.
    I have a few final hints below on how to take care of your new box turtle.
    1. If your turtle does not eat, try soaking the food in water first. Or, if you are constantly there watching your turtle, he may never come eat the food. Unfortunately, you can easily frighten turtles, so leave your turtle alone to eat peacefully. 
    2. Change the water in an indoors home every day to keep it clean since that is the most likely place a turtle will defecate. When coaxing a turtle to do this, use warm water to help him. 
    3. If a turtle burrows deep into the substrate and does not come up for a few days, don't worry. This is completely natural since turtles enjoy being in tight spaces. However, make sure that your turtle gets enough food. 
    4. Feed your turtle on a rock because this will help him scratch away extra-long toenails.
    Just follow the easy tips above, and you will be an expert caretaker for your new turtle. Do not neglect your turtle since it is helpless without you. Be responsible and enjoy your friendship.
    Joshua Park is a college student studying biology. He enjoys sports, comedic movies, and music. To learn more about box turtles or to read other articles this author has written, please visit [http://www.true-money.com] by clicking the link.

      Source: http://EzineArticles.com/625197


     

    Table of Contents

    Four Common Skin Problems Dog

    Dogs are susceptible to various skin problems -- which can be frustrating for owners who want to see Fido comfortable and happy. Does your dog have a skin problem, and if so, how do you fix it? That depends on the symptoms you see. Of course, the most common sign of a possible skin problem in your dog is constant, excessive itching. Other symptoms include fur loss, either localized in a certain location or spread across the dog’s entire body. More severe cases may involve redness in the skin, changes in skin pigmentation or even open sores that your dog constantly licks.  No particular symptom necessarily proves your four-footed friend has a certain type of skin disorder, and you’ll need to investigate other areas before you draw conclusions. While it’s common and helpful for veterinarians to diagnose skin problems, it’s also essential for dog owners like you to familiarize yourself with typical canine skin problems, so you can react quickly and keep his discomfort to a minimum. Fleas, Lice and Tick,One of the most common problems in dogs is the presence of fleas, lice and ticks, which are parasites that live on the surface of the skin and feed on the dog’s blood. These parasites’ saliva causes skin irritation and results in intense scratching. Lice and ticks can be detected visually when you check your dog’s fur, while fleas are hard to spot with the naked eye. However, fleas cause red pimple marks on the skin and also can be spotted through the black, gritty trail of “dirt” they leave on a dog’s belly.  While you can remove ticks and lice with tweezers -- applying alcohol to relax the tick’s grip before doing so -- you can also adopt more general methods. For instance, you can give your dog a dip with special tick shampoo to eliminate ticks. Flea sprays or flea powder can also be applied to the dog to kill parasites. But all these require persistence and it may be a while before you see results. One of the best methods to keep your dog comfortable is to prevent ticks from living off your dog in the first place through the use of a spot-on product, such as FrontLine or BioSpot. To apply these chemicals, you drip a small amount onto the back of your dog’s neck once a month. The chemical spreads throughout the dog’s skin and kills parasites -- including the eggs and larvae. When regularly treated, your dog becomes an unattractive host.
    Mange,Mange is a skin problem caused by mites that burrow underneath the dog’s skin, causing intense and even agonizing itching. Bald spots or inflamed red skin are common symptoms of mange. Two types of mange exist in dogs: sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange, depending on the kind of mite involved.
    Most dogs carry the mites involved in demodectic mange or demodex. However, these mites usually do not cause itching except when they suddenly multiply into huge numbers. This may happen in young puppies, or in dogs with decreased natural body defenses, sometimes from stress.
    On the other hand, Sacroptic mange or scabies causes intense itching in the dog as the mites burrow under the skin and even lay their eggs there. This causes large red spots on the dog’s skin, and sometimes fur loss on the ears and elbows. Scabies can infect humans as well and cause itchiness, although infection in humans usually disappears by itself after a while. However, it is still important for people to seek treatment if they get infected.
    Treatment for mange requires patience and time, as eliminating them or lowering the mite population takes a while to take effect. The best way to kill the mites is to soak your dog in a lime and sulfur medicated dip for 10 to 15 minutes a few times in a week. The dip should not be washed off, but left to dry on your dog’s skin and fur. During this time, it’s best to watch your dog closely and prevent him from licking himself dry. As a further precaution, you can feed him a raw egg to line his stomach before dipping him in the solution. This way, even if he does lick himself, the solution won’t be absorbed on an empty stomach.
    When fighting mange, it’s also important to support your dog with the highest quality diet you can find, to improve his immune system. Healing from mange will take a lot of his internal resources. You might consider looking into the raw diet for dogs and avoiding any corn or rice-based products for the time being. 

    Source : http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_2.shtml

    Tips on Buying Guitars

    There are so many guitar models on the market today. So many types including electric, acoustic, acoustic electric, nylon string, and steel string guitars. How does one make a selection? Here are a few tips to help you choose one that meets your needs. 
    1. It depends on how much you can afford,  With such a wealth of guitars available, a working person shouldn't have a problem finding one that fits their budget. But this doesn't mean that you should settle for anything. As the old adage goes, you usually get what you pay for. Usually the more money you invest, the greater the returns. You're going to be spending a lot of time practicing so choose an instrument that you can enjoy. An instrument that you can look forward to playing. 
    2. What style of music will you be playing?,  The style of music to be played should influence your choice of guitar. For instance if you plan on playing rock you should buy an electric guitar, since Rock music is better suited to be played on that type of guitar. If Jazz and blues is your thing you may prefer a semi-acoustic guitar from the start. An acoustic nylon string guitar may be better suited to classical music and smooth Jazz. 
    3. Child or adult., Are you a parent looking to buy a guitar for your child? Consider buying a 1/2 size or 3/4 size guitar. Your child doesn't have the reach that an adult has, so these smaller guitars are better suited. Regular size guitars will be more difficult to play and can cause a lack of interest. You may also want to look into buying an electric guitar for your child if you can afford it. They have a small neck and very light thin strings and are therefore easier to play. If money is an issue a second hand electric guitar may be the answer. 
    4. Wood type and its relation to tone. Although there are no rules for choosing guitar woods, there is a guide that you can follow. Generally, darker woods produce a brighter tone while darker woods produces a deeper, richer tone. Medium tone wood like mahogany produce a very even smooth sound spectrum. You should compare various wood colors. The best thing to do is to listen to the tones that a guitar produces before deciding. 
    5. Pay attention to the guitar's features. Your guitar must have certain important features. Don't simply focus on looks. For example, your guitar should have die-cast machine heads (or tuning gears). With this feature, you will be able to tune your instrument more accurately and your guitar will stay in tune longer. A solid top is also very important. A solid top usually consists of 2 solid matched pieces glued together side by side. This is of better quality than a laminated top where various woods are glued together on top of each other. With a solid top the guitar's tone will be more even and accurate and you can expect a sustaining vibration throughout the guitar's body. 
    6. Buy a guitar that feels good to you. You're the one who will be playing that guitar. So you'd better buy one that feels comfortable to you, whether you're sitting or standing. For instance, if the strings are too far from the fretboard, playing will be difficult. An expensive guitar that is not comfortable is a waste. Spend time with the guitar before deciding. 
    7. The bottom line is sound. If it sounds good, buy it. No two guitars can ever be the same. It's never about looks. It's about the sound that is generated through the use of the right type of wood and through superior craftsmanship.
    You should be able to find a guitar easily online. You can order one that suits your needs today. Some of the best guitar prices can be found on the Internet. You even get free shipping to your door. 

    Source : http://www.articlecity.com/articles/hobbies/215.shtml

    Pokemon coloring sheets are the delight for fans of these magnificent characters

    Pokemon coloring pages helps you a greater Pikachu invitation, which are free and easily printable. In case you are in need, click on the image of Pokemon, according to your need enlarge its image and then print it. It's free, it's printable and you can print as many as your guests are to be invited, like 4, 5 or 6 and the number can be even more? These Pokemon party invitations feature Pikachu and a few of his friends and its printouts appear very lovely and sharp. Click on the invite above to view it full size and then print. Enjoy!Pokemon coloring page that relates to Magmar is exclusively spare for you and you can get it printed to color – to print any of images just click on the one you like best - and it will open full size - then press CONTROL and the letter P on your computer or laptop keyboard and it will print for you. There are many Pokemons but Arbok is one of the scary ones! Here is a coloring page of him - so grab your crayons and enjoy! To print these Pokemon party invites just click on the invitation you like best to enlarge it (I like the first big Pikachu one!).

    Unfortunately, New Zealand is not the only place this happens.

    Like many other species, the main danger for these animals has quite a bit to do with the encroachment of humans on their natural habitat of grasslands and large expanses of land. Grazing lands, shelters and safe migratory routes to water and food for these beautiful animals are being more and more threatened every year.

    Why wild horses are in danger

    The ground begins to faintly rumble under your feet as your stand on a hillside admiring the beautiful mountain scenery. You wonder were this powerful feeling could possibly be coming from. Faster than you can associate what the source may be, the rumble gets closer and louder and even more vibrant through the masses of earth and wild grass you stand on.
    From over the hill stampedes a great herd of wild horses in a flash of wild colors. A hundred feet pounding in close unison, source this rumble as these majestic, historical animals prance and pound by.
    Sadly, there are several issues plaguing the survival of this type of horse. Primarily, culling of large groups of these horses is the main source of their demise, followed by habitat destruction, horses being stolen and sold for profit and an ever demanding need by these animals for food and water.
    While researching for this article, a new release from Horsetalk.co.nz posted in early October stuck out from the numerous other search results. This story states that : "...Hundreds of wild horses in Western Australian with strong Arabian bloodlines may be lost in a cull, a campaigner for the animals fears... There are more than 5000 wild horses living over the area from Bililuna to Balgo, mostly around Lake Gregory, a 100km-wide freshwater lake formed from the Sturt Creek, which has its origins in the Northern Territory..."
    Source: Horsetalk.co.nz: Hundreds of part-Arab wild horses under cull threat,http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/new s/2009/10/073.shtml

    Read more: http://www.articlesbase.com/nature-articles/why-wild-horses-are-in-danger-1532724.html#ixzz1S6HxoIuV

    Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives


    China Makes Great Efforts to The Protection of Sea Turtles

    Sea turtle is the general term for the marine turtle, which belongs to reptiles. It has been living on earth about 2.5 billion years. Sea turtle has a strong living conditions and experience, so it is known as “living fossil”.

    Human Interpretation

    Here is another good example of how we humans assume our dogs have the same emotions and feelings as we have and put our own interpretations into a dogs reactions. This is a YouTube clip of Bonnie Hunt and her interpretation of this baby crawling over to the dog. Notice the emotion the clip draws from the human.

    Speaking Dog

    One of the most common mistakes owners can make with their dogs is to misread what the dog is saying into something completely different. We humans do it all of the time. The dog's body language says one thing, and we interpret it into something completely different basing our assumption on what we ourselves are feeling. When in reality dogs see and read the world much different than we humans. If we humans better understood our dogs we could prevent many dog bites and other behavioral issues.

    Preventing Pet Arthritis

    Pet arthritis is very much possible to occur. Animals also suffer this kind of illness and it is very common specifically among cats and dogs. These two household pets are exposed to some high endurance activities like running, jumping, and playing which can lead to the wearing and tearing of their cartilages.
    When this happens, arthritis comes in. Come to think of it, humans are not the only ones straining their joints everyday. Also, when you pet cat or dog is already old, expect it to be prone to arthritis. So, does exposing your pet on an active lifestyle help in preventing this illness?
    Actually, pets become more up close to the illness if they take the lead in an active lifestyle. Possible signs that your pet may start to have arthritis is when it is lively before and now, it becomes lazy and doesn’t even want to move a paw. Your will also notice that your cat or dog agility skills are lowered as compared before. Change of mood is another a sign.

    Here are three easy ways to prevent pet arthritis:
    1. Visit the veterinarian, The signs of pet arthritis mentioned above are just a few signs that can contribute to distinguishing whether your pet is suffering from the illness. However, there are times too that it does not lead to arthritis. 
    2. Treat the arthritis, The illness itself can be treated without surgery. There are prescribed drugs that can be taken in by pets as advised by veterinarians.
    3. Change your pet’s living environmentHaving a pet is just like having a child run around your home. To somehow help prevent you pet from suffering from arthritis; make your household a safe place to stay in. Accident prone areas like slippery floors contribute to a much better lifestyle of your pet.
    Pet Article courtesy of http://pet-articles.blogspot.com

    Did You Know Pharaohs Had Pet Dogs?

    If you ask a cat (or a dedicated cat person), you're likely to be summarily informed there's nothing at all mysterious about dogs. Cats have, however, been known to prevaricate for reasons known only to cats. That's not to say that cat people share the same proclivity.

    Tips For Dog Toys

    Toys are fun both for our dogs and us. Lucky for us there are endless choices. But did you know how important toys are for your dogs - puppies especially.  Toys play a great role in the emotional and mental development of puppies.

    What you Need to Know about Cat Food

    Cat Food Info #1 Cats Need Protein in their Cat Food
    The cat food you feed to your cat should always be rich in protein. This generally should come from meat, poultry or fish. Many cat food brands advertise chicken, beef, and tuna flavored cat food because they know that cats need protein and cat owners are looking for quality cat food. However, you need to make sure the cat food you buy has a sufficient amount of cat food regardless of what flavor it is.


    Cat Food Info #2 Cat Food with Taurine
    Also check the cat food you typically buy for an amino acid called taurine. This particular amino acid is very important in the overall health of your cat, and your cat will eat as much food as it has to in order to supplement this particular amino acid. So, if you are buying cheap cat food that does not have the proper nutrients your cat will eat a lot. If you buy a nutrient rich cat food then your cat will eat little and save you more money while still getting proper nutrition.
    Cat Food Info #3 Canned Cat Food or Dry Cat Food?
    Many people do not know whether they should buy canned or dry cat food, or whether it even matters. Because of this, many people simply buy the cat food that is most affordable or convenient for them. This is actually a mistake. Cats should be fed a mixture of cat food. The dry cat food should be given for free feeding, especially if you are away on vacation or out for the day. Canned cat food should be supplemented at other times as well because it has water in the food and significantly more protein than the carbohydrate rich dry cat food. Not to mention the same food over and over might bore your cat and cause him to stop eating that cat food altogether.
    Cat Food Info #4 Avoid Cat Food Fillers
    Cats need to eat a cat food that is rich in protein, so make sure the amount of fillers is kept to a minimum. Carbohydrates are not essential for a cat's existence, so don't buy cat food that is full of them. Instead, read labels and buy cat food that is not filled with fillers and other by products.

    Source: http://www.articlecircle.com/

    Loving Your Hobbies More

    With the advent of technology that makes almost every chore less time consuming, more and more time may now be devoted to enjoying your hobbies. More people can now take on one or several recreational activities like photography, stamp collection, embroidery, handicrafts, etc.

    The Flora & Fauna Of French Polynesia

    French Polynesia is thought of as a real floral paradise, because of the huge number of species due to the diversity of the climate and physical conditions of islands and atolls. There are nearly one thousand native species augmented by the hundreds of species imported by Europeans during the last few centuries.