The Rottweiler is a rather large and powerful dog, descended from Roman military dogs and developed in Germany. Its nobility is only matched by its endurance. And though it is misunderstood as a vicious dog, through careful breeding and proper training, it can serve various functions, including as a family pet.
Physical Characteristics The Rottweiler has a noble and self-assured expression. Its long, robust build and alertness allow it function as a guard dog, cattle herder, and various other tasks requiring agility, endurance, and strength. The Rottweiler is always black with rust to mahogany markings above each eye, on the cheeks, on the side of the muzzle, and on the legs. The dog's coat is also dense, straight, and coarse. Personality and Temperament Mainly chosen for its ability to protect well, the Rottweiler is bold, confident and imposing, sometimes to its detriment. However, it can be shy, especially around strangers. Its ability to sense danger is very keen and if it perceives its human family is being threatened, it will become protective and may attack. Care Jogs, long walks or an energetic game in an enclosed area are forms of mental and physical exercise that should be provided daily. Socialization and obedience lessons are also recommended to curb the dog's aggressiveness and stubbornness. The Rottweiler loves the cold, but is not suited for hot weather. As such, it should only be kept outside in cool climates and provided there is appropriate shelter. Minimal coat care in the form of occasional brushing is all the dog needs to get rid of dead hair. Health The Rottweiler has a lifespan of about 8 to 11 years and is prone to major health problems like canine hip dysplasia (CHD), osteosarcoma, elbow dysplasia, sub-aortic stenosis (SAS) and gastric torsion, as well as minor concerns like allergies and hypothyroidism. Also, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), ectropion, cataract, seizures, von Willebrand's disease (vWD), entropion, and panosteitis are sometimes noticed in Rottweilers. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may run hip, eye, elbow, and cardiac exams. History and Background The origin of the Rottweiler is not known, though many experts theorize that the breed descended from the drover dogs indigenous to ancient Rome. Described as a Mastiff-type, which was a dependable, intelligent and rugged animal, the drover dog began as a herder and was then integrated into the armies of the Roman Empire. With its ability to herd cattle, the drover dog assured the soldier's meat was kept together and readily available during long marches. Campaigns of the Roman army ventured far and wide, but one in particular, which took place in approximately A.D. 74, brought the Rottweiler's progenitor across the Alps and into what is now Germany. For hundreds of years, the dogs served a crucial purpose in the region -- cattle driving. Thanks in part to the dogs, the town das Rote Wil (translated into "the red tile"), and the derivation of the present Rottweil, became a prosperous hub of cattle commerce. This continued for centuries until the mid-19th century, when cattle driving was outlawed and donkey carts replaced dog carts. Because there was hardly a need for the Rottweiler Metzgerhund (or butcher dog), as they came to be known, the breed declined almost to the point of extinction. In 1901, a concerted effort was made to develop the Rottweiler and the first club for the breed was formed. The club was short-lived, but it created the breed's first standard -- an abstract aesthetic ideal. Two more clubs followed and in 1907, one advertised the Rottweiler as an able police dog. In 1921, the two clubs merged to form the Allegmeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub; by that time, nearly 4,000 Rottweilers were registered in various clubs around Germany. The breed gradually grew in popularity and in 1931, the Rottweiler was introduced to the United States and was later recognized by the American Kennel Club. Its intelligence and ability to guard has never been lost on dog fanciers, and through purposeful breeding it has become a mainstay in America, not only as a guard dog, police dog, and military dog, but as family pet.
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The Labrador Retriever has long been regarded as the most suitable pet throughout the world. Specially suited for hunting and often trained to hunt with gun sportsmen, the Lab has rightfully earned the title of a "gun dog." It is a remarkable working companion that is used for various purposes, such as physical assistance and personal protection. However, its loyalty and friendly temperament also make the Lab an outstanding pet.
Physical Characteristics With a strong, heavy built body and square proportions, the Labrador Retriever is classified as a working dog. One of their trademark characteristic features is a strong jaw set in a broad head. These dogs also have strong legs and shoulders, which add to their fast pace. At full adult size, they stand at about 21 to 24 inches in height at the withers (the highest part of the back), with a weight of 50 to 80 pounds. The coat is straight, dense, and short, with the outer coat being a bit coarse, and the undercoat thick and soft. This makes the Labrador all but completely waterproof, with the thick undercoat protecting the skin, and the outer guard coat whisking water away. Labrador Retrievers have a certain distinct elegance, carrying themselves with an upright, proud demeanor, but with a friendly facial expression that invites new acquaintances and endears them to their human families. The Labrador Retriever is generally categorized by lines that are destined for slightly different purposes. The show Labradors are bred for beauty and carriage -- for perfection in appearance, in other words. The hunting Labrador follows the more traditional bloodlines, with usefulness being the key to perfection. The hunting Retriever has the physical characteristics that make it impervious to frigid water, an extraordinary sense of smell, and the agility to bag game with speed, along with companionable devotion to its human counterpart. Champion, or field trial Labradors, are bred for speed, energy, and intelligence, with appearance being the last consideration. Their appearance strays somewhat from the traditional Labrador -- they are quite trimmer, with smaller heads, and it is generally agreed that this line may be a bit too enthusiastic for the average dog owner. They require a much higher degree of exercise, and considerably more space to move around. Not least is the most popular category, the family Labrador. Needless to say, this line is bred for intelligence, gentleness of temperament, tolerance, and a balance of energy with composure. They are as happy with a romp through the park as they are with a quiet evening at the hearth. No matter what differences in lines, all Labrador Retrievers are expected to maintain the characteristics that originally made them working dogs: stamina, energy, strength, and the ability to retrieve dependably, along with balanced structure and vitality. The Labrador Retriever is found in black, chocolate, and yellow, with black being the most popular, and chocolate running a close second. The color of the nose should be the same as the color of the hair, with minimal fading. All other colors are the result of cross breeding and are not accepted as purebred Labrador Retrievers. The eyes should give the impression of intelligence and kindness; colors accepted for the eyes are brown for black and yellow haired Labs, and brown or hazel, for chocolate haired Labs. Personality and Temperament The Labrador Retriever has a strong hunting instinct and loves to roam. They are active, but calm and obedient if trained properly. Swimming and retrieving are the favorite activities of this breed, and they make good hunters on the field, and wonderful swimming companions. Regular exercise is a must to keep them fit. Labrador Retrievers are keen on learning, easy to get along with, affable types that get along well with other animals, children, and just about anyone they meet. This gregarious temperament makes them a top choice for families, but not an especially good choice for guard dog duty. Care A weekly combing is all that is needed for a Labrador Retriever, since their water resistant coat is also designed to be soil and rubbish resistant. While brushing is a luxury rather than a necessity since its coat is designed to naturally care for itself, it does go along way to improving your Lab's natural beauty and overall health. Regular exercise, on the other hand, is of the utmost importance. The Labrador is a high-energy dog that loves to play, and it should be given the opportunity to do this on a daily basis. When possible, Labrador Retrievers should be allowed to swim, as it is one of their favorite activities. Pools, beaches, rivers, lakes; all are sporting fun for a Lab. Just as with a child, you will want to safeguard your young Lab while it is in the water, to make sure it feels safe and has a way of getting out of the water. Over time, and with confidence, it will learn, but young swimmers can panic or tire quickly. One thing that is especially important to keep in mind is that this breed has a tendency to retain weight if it is sedentary too often, or if it is given too many treats. One of the most common health problems for the modern Labrador is obesity. A healthy Labrador should have a trim, hourglass shape. While it may be tempting to treat your Lab pal often, in return for their unconditional affection, it is far better to treat your friend with quality playtime rather than edible treats. This will ensure that you and your Lab will enjoy a long and healthy companionship. Labradors do very well outside with a doghouse, as they are adaptable for outdoor conditions, but they prefer to live indoors, close to people, most of the time. Health Labrador Retrievers have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Some of the general health conditions that afflict Labradors are patellar luxation, canine hip dysplasia (CHD), and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), which is canine elbow and shoulder dysplasia. This breed also occasionally suffers from distichiasis, exercise-induced collapse, diabetes, muscular dystrophy, tricuspid valve dysplasia, and entropion. Minor health concerns include retinal dysplasia, central progressive retinal atrophy (CPRA), hypothyroidism, hot spots, and cataract. Knee, hip, eye, and elbow tests should be included in the usual medical check-ups. History and Background The modern Labrador Retriever is the ancestral result of a popular fishing and retrieving dog from Newfoundland and Labrador, an Atlantic coastal province in Canada; as such, the Labrador carries with it some relationship to the modern Newfoundland water dog. Originally, there were two distinct types under the one classification of Newfoundland dogs: the greater and the lesser, in which size was the main dictate for differentiating the two. The lesser Newfoundland was black in color, smooth coated, and of a medium size, where the greater Newfoundland was considerably larger, and better suited for pulling heavy loads. Not to say that the lesser "Newfie" was incapable of pulling its fair share. Its great agility at fetching fishing lines and nets in the water and delivering them, along with its noteworthy style of affection and playfulness with families at the end of a long work day, made the smaller of the Newfoundland dogs the more popular choice for fishermen working in the waters off the coast of Newfoundland. They also found that the lesser Newfie was useful for serving as the occasional tow barge. The strength and endurance of this breed was never lost to size. Also of great benefit to fishermen were the natural physical traits the lesser and greater Newfoundlands shared. Both are equipped with webbed toes and a two-layered coat, with a top-coat that repels water, and a tail that is broad at the base, serving as a sort of rudder while swimming. Although the Newfoundland dogs suffered a loss of popularity for a time owing to a taxation on dogs in Canada, they had been frequent companions to Britain bound travelers during the 18th and 19th centuries and had, over that time, become a firmly entrenched member of the estate classes. It was the lesser of the Newfoundland breed that rose most in popularity, and in 1903, this trimmer and more energetic Newfoundland had made its way into the English Kennel Club, gaining a name all its own along the way: the Labrador Retriever. There, the breed was refined, particularly for retrieving game for hunters, becoming well regarded for its care in not damaging the game, for its devotion to human, and for its good manners. It was accepted into the American Kennel Club in 1917, and has since grown in popularity over the years, becoming the indisputable leader in canine domestic companions. If you have ever petted a dog, ridden a horse, or had a purring cat asleep on your lap, you know the tremendous sense of well-being that accompanies such interactions. You also know what good social catalysts animals can be — try walking a dog around the block without someone wanting to stop and say hello and give her a pat.
To no one's surprise, we are finding that animals work wonders when they are paired with wounded warriors. We have long known the benefits of dogs who help individuals with physical disabilities. But we are now seeing the transformative effects specially trained dogs can have on members of the military with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or other mental health issues arising from their military experiences. It is also the case that the benefits of these pairings are not a one-way street. There is a strong mutual bond of affection and trust between the military members and their canine partners, and many groups that train them rely on dogs rescued from shelters, thus giving both human and animal a new lease on life. The need for such dogs is growing and the expense associated with their care and training is substantial. Introduced by Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA), H.R. 2847, the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Act of 2013, directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to establish a program to award competitive grants to organizations that train and place service dogs with members of the military and veterans with certain physical and mental health needs, including PTSD. Among other things, the application for a grant must state "the commitment of the organization to humane standards for the animals." This legislation responds to the growing demand for such service dogs amidst mounting evidence of the tremendous benefits — whether increased mobility and independence or improved social interactions, less panic, and reduced stress — experienced by service members who have been partnered with them. If you need more evidence in support of the beneficial bond that can develop between war veterans and their service dogs, watch episode one of the PBS documentary Shelter Me (now available on Netflix, Hulu, iTunes, etc.). The program looks at how shelter pets are helping returning war veterans cope with PTSD. One of the veterans says knowing that his dog has had troubles in her past just like he has makes their relationship even stronger. They are true partners in making better lives for each other. Please contact your U.S. representative and ask that he/she cosponsor H.R. 2847 so that legitimate service dog training programs committed to humane standards will be better able to meet the needs of the many service members and veterans who can benefit from these amazing canine partnerships. BEIJING, March 19, 2014 (AFP) - A Tibetan mastiff puppy has been sold in China for almost $2 million, a report said Wednesday, in what could be the most expensive dog sale ever.
A property developer paid 12 million yuan ($1.9 million) for the one-year-old golden-haired mastiff at a "luxury pet" fair Tuesday in the eastern province of Zhejiang, the Qianjiang Evening News reported. "They have lion's blood and are top-of-the-range mastiff studs," the dog's breeder Zhang Gengyun was quoted as telling the paper, adding that another red-haired canine had sold for 6 million yuan. Enormous and sometimes ferocious, with round manes lending them a passing resemblance to lions, Tibetan mastiffs have become a prized status symbol among China's wealthy, sending prices skyrocketing. The golden-haired animal was 80 centimetres (31 inches) tall, and weighed 90 kilograms (nearly 200 pounds), Zhang said, adding that he was sad to sell the animals. Neither was named in the report. "Pure Tibetan mastiffs are very rare, just like our nationally treasured pandas, so the prices are so high," he said. One red mastiff named "Big Splash" reportedly sold for 10 million yuan ($1.5 million) in 2011, in the most expensive dog sale then recorded. The buyer at the Zhejiang expo was said to be a 56-year-old property developer from Qingdao who hopes to breed dogs himself, according to the report. The newspaper quoted the owner of a mastiff breeding website as saying that last year one animal sold for 27 million yuan at a fair in Beijing. But an industry insider surnamed Xu told the paper that the high prices may be the result of insider agreements among breeders to boost their dogs' worth. "A lot of the sky-high priced deals are just breeders hyping each other up, and no money actually changes hands," Xu said. Owners say the mastiffs, descendants of dogs used for hunting by nomadic tribes in central Asia and Tibet, are fiercely loyal and protective. Many different types of insulin are available for the treatment of diabetes. A relatively new type called “glargine” has, at least in part, been responsible for revolutionizing the treatment of diabetes in cats.
Glargine is very similar to human insulin (the hormone varies slightly from species to species with regards to the location of certain amino acids) but has been modified in such a way as to precipitate (come out of solution) at body pH. This causes it to be released slowly and at a relatively constant rate. It has been called a “peakless” insulin in people. Abnormal peaks and valleys in blood sugar levels define poor diabetic control, so an insulin that maintains steadier blood sugar levels obviously has some value. Despite its popularity in the treatment of diabetic cats, I had never heard of glargine being used to treat diabetes in dogs. However, a study published in the October 15, 2013 issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association now has me excited about the possibility. Researchers treated 10 diabetic dogs with an initial dose of 0.5 units glargine insulin per kilograms body weight injected under the skin twice daily. Five of the subjects had just been diagnosed with diabetes while the other five were poorly regulated while being given either porcine lente insulin or human NPH insulin. In addition to receiving glargine insulin, the dogs in the study were also fed a high fiber diet, which is a standard recommendation for diabetic dogs. The authors found the following: "There was no significant difference between mean minimum and mean maximum blood glucose concentrations or between any of the blood glucose concentrations measured at other time points. This was true at the time of the first follow-up visit as well as when dogs had well-regulated diabetes mellitus. We therefore concluded that, in dogs, glargine insulin is a peakless insulin, which results in a relatively flat blood glucose concentration curve." The rate of hypoglycemia in this study was quite high being seen in “7 of the 10 study dogs and in approximately 10% of the 281 blood glucose concentrations measured.” Therefore, the authors recommend that glargine insulin be started at a dose of 0.3 units per kilogram body weight twice daily. If an individual dog does not achieve adequate regulation at dose, it can always be gradually increased. Lowering the initial dose should decrease the number of hypoglycemic episodes associated with the use of glargine in dogs. The authors concluded that “glargine insulin administered SC [under the skin] twice daily is an effective mode of treatment for dogs with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus and may be used as an alternative to other insulin preparations that have been shown to be effective in treatment of diabetes mellitus in dogs.” Diabetic management is such a balancing act that I wouldn’t recommend switching to glargine if your dog is doing well on another insulin preparation, but it is an intriguing option for newly diagnosed or poorly regulated diabetic dogs. In 2012, over 180 million pets were seen by a veterinarian yet left the vet hospital without treatment for a major disease. They were not treated for their overweight or obese condition. The one single condition that could affect the quality of these pets' future lives was completely ignored.
Why? Because both owners and veterinarians fail to recognize the seriousness of the condition. And neither wants to spend the time and effort necessary for successful treatment. Treatment of the overweight condition would add years to pets' lives and actually be profitable for veterinary practices. Owner and Veterinary Attitudes about the Overweight Condition in Pets A study of Australian and American pet owners found that 70 percent of pet owners underestimated their pets' fitness compared to professional assessment. These results were verified in a recent Canadian study. Worse still was that fewer than 1 percent of the 32 percent of pet owners who did agree that their pets were overweight thought that it was a problem for their pets. Veterinarians fared no better. The above study found that veterinarians only diagnosed a condition of overweight in 2 percent of their cases despite assigning an overweight or obese body condition scores (BCS) to 28 percent of those patients. Veterinarians recorded body weights for just 70 percent of their patients and recorded a BCS for only a scant 28 percent of those same patients. BCS is a far more accurate assessment of fitness and body fat percent than weight is, yet it is widely ignored in general veterinary practice. Why Treatment for Excess Weight in Pets is Important Virtually everyone agrees that the overweight or obese condition is at least a nuisance. But health ramifications are not seriously recognized as evidenced by the above study. Fat is still recognized as an accumulated fuel source and insulation. Even veterinarians have been slow to accept the fact that fat, in both humans and pets, is the largest endocrine organ in the body. Endocrine glands secrete hormones that direct body activity. Most pet owners are familiar with pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands and the diseases associated with those glands. Fat is also an endocrine gland. Scientists have identified over 100 hormones secreted by human fat and over 30 secreted by the fat of cats and dogs. Unfortunately, the majority of the hormones produced by fat promote inflammation. The inflammatory response is the rallying of white blood cells and chemicals to combat an infection that doesn’t exist. The body of an overweight or obese pet is in this protective mode 24/7/365. This is true for even the mild to moderately overweight. This chronic state of inflammation is what is believed to cause diabetes mellitus, certain kidney diseases, respiratory diseases, arthritic conditions, and even cancer. But there is great news. Studies show that even small losses in fat result in immediate decrease of inflammation and it appears to be permanent. A serious weight loss program can ultimately have a major impact on the future health of pets. In fact, the famous twelve year Purina study of golden retrievers (a breed known for obese tendencies) found that puppies and dogs maintained at an ideal BCS lived almost two years longer than their littermates. So why don’t more veterinarians promote weight management? The Veterinary Paradigm The history of a veterinarian’s role has traditionally been that of the healer. To this day, the traditional 15-20 minute appointment schedule is the norm in the majority of veterinary hospitals. Its sole goal is to identify the ailment, design the diagnostic and treatment plan, and move on to the next exam room. This has been the paradigm for our profession for over three decades. Only recently has there been a paradigm shift from concentrating on illness to promoting wellness. But most of these programs focus on vaccines, parasite prevention, and dentistry. The 15-20 minute appointment is still the norm. Nutritional guidance, weight loss and weight management require more than short appointments. Discussing lifestyle changes like counting calories, managing feeding strategies, and implementing activity programs require much longer sessions. Owners of weight loss patients often need on-site support, and phone coaching, and hand-holding between hospital visits. Veterinarians have been slow to integrate a separate appointment system for wellness. What veterinarians are missing is that this can actually be profitable for them. Studies indicate that 60 percent of their patients are in need of these services, yet few veterinarians offer serious programs. Unfortunately, we veterinarians are a thick lot. It is going to take increased pressure from pet parents to impact the veterinary practice paradigm. Pet owners must lead the war on pet obesity. Demand will drive the necessary changes to veterinary practice. Physical Characteristics
The Shih Tzu is a snugly built little animal with a solid, sound structure. It stands from about 8 to 11 inches tall at the withers, and should weigh from 9 to 16 pounds. Its body length is slightly greater than its height, and it should be physically proportional all over, neither too short or too small, but a true miniature breed dog. In movement, it moves with effortless, smooth strides, showing good drive and reach, with the head and tail held high, giving away its ancient royal bloodlines. Its hair is double layered, full, dense, and lush, and grows long and straight, past the feet. The Shih Tzu sheds very little, making it a good choice for people who have light allergies to fur, or for people who just prefer not to clean up a lot of hair. Regular grooming is a requirement with this breed because of this characteristic; the hair will get tangled and matted quickly as it gets longer. The ears and tail are full and long, with the tail hair fluffing it out in a feathery plume that curves over the back. This breed is categorized as brachycephalic, meaning that the muzzle and nose of the Shih Tzu is flat, though not as flat as its cousin, the Pekingese. The eyes are round and wide, but in contrast to some other flat muzzled dogs, the eyes should not bulge or be too prominent. The Shih Tzu should have an innocent, wide-eyed, warm expression giving it an impression of friendliness and trustworthiness, rather than the more ferocious appearance of the Pekingese. Personality and Temperament The Shih Tzu is bred primarily as a domestic and family companion, so its personality should be guided by friendliness, buoyancy, tolerance, and trust. This breed showers affection on its family when it has been treated in kind, and is good and gentle with children. It should be noted that Shih Tzu can get skittish when they are mistreated, and a dog that is introduced to small children at an older age may not be as tolerant with high energy play as it would if it had been raised from the start with young children. Its resilience is impressive, but this trait can translate to stubbornness at times. Still, the ever plucky and sweet Shih Tzu is not only a lively and playful companion, but a mild lapdog as well. It loves to romp and play, delighting everyone with its cheerful attitude, and at the end of the day it is happy to relax with the family, serene and at peace in its little world. Care This breed needs exercise, but not much more than a daily walk around the neighborhood, or a run though the park. It can even be suitably energized with fetching games inside when the weather does not permit outdoor activities. This is a walking dog rather than a jogging dog, but owing to its size, it can also make an enjoyable biking companion, given a comfortable bike basket from which to settle in to catch the wind in its face. Because of its short muzzle, the Shih Tzu cannot tolerate high temperatures. Another consideration regarding its nose is the tendency for water to get into the nostrils. Some owners use water bottles (the sort used for small cage animals) for their Shih Tzu to avoid this problem. This dog gets along better as an indoor dog rather than an outdoor dog. This arrangement is highly recommended, in fact. This is not only to protect your dog from temperatures, but because the hair tends to get dirty and matted as it grows. The plush coat requires combing or brushing on alternate days, everyday if it is kept at show length. It is essential to teach puppies to accept grooming while young so that they look forward to this activity with you. Make no mistake, if you choose to grow the hair long on your Shih Tzu, you will need to commit yourself to an intense grooming schedule; the hair can get out of hand quickly. Some owners who do not plan to show their Shih Tzu, but have the breed for companionship only, will choose to keep their pet in a teddy bear cut, or an abbreviated long style that is easier to manage. Another option is to keep the tail, ears and “beard” long, with the feet fluffy, and the rest of the hair on the body trimmed to an inch or shorter, or to keep the hair on the undercarriage long so that it blends with the legs, giving the hair the appearance of a skirt. Whatever cut is chosen, the hair around the eyes should be kept trimmed to avoid mishaps or gunk build-up, but just long enough to keep dust from blowing into the eyes. Another reason to keep your Shih Tzu inside is that it has a tendency to bark, sometimes for long stretches of time. Even if it is kept indoors, this breed will bark frequently, at anyone, or anything, going by. It gets bored when it is alone, and this explains its behavior to some degree, but keep in mind that the Shih Tzu was bred as a palace watchdog, and it will continue to carry that instinct if it is from a pure line. This quality makes it a particularly good choice for an alarm system, but maybe not a good option for someone who lives in an apartment and is at work all day -- although there are solutions for this type of situation. When the dog is with people it can be distracted from barking as much, but this trait must be expected and appreciated, rather than taken as an annoyance that must be trained out of the Shih Tzu. Rather than punishing the barking behavior, find response words that will work quickly to quiet your dog, or distractions that can be depended on to draw its attention away from what is going on outside the window or door. Health The Shih Tzu has a lifespan of 11 to 16 years. Some of the minor diseases that can affect this breed are renal dysplasia (abnormal growth of tissue), trichiasis (eyelash malformation), entropion, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), otitis externa, patellar luxation, and inguinal (groin) hernia, as well as a major concern like canine hip dysplasia (CHD). This breed is also prone to cataract and dental problems. Eye, hip, and DNA tests can be good for preventive health care, or for management of non-preventive conditions. History and Background The name Shih Tzu Kou, or Shih Tzu, translates to “mini lion,” the moniker given to it in deference to its lion-like appearance. The name is likely based on the word for lion, “shishi.” The lion was highly esteemed in China for its connection with Buddhism, since it had a long tradition as guardian of the temples and palaces. The lion's strength and courage was revered, and it made its way into many of Buddha's teachings. This little dog was bred to reflect that appearance of strength, regality, and beauty, and it took the position as a practical stand in for the lion, acting as companion and guardian of the palace and temple. It is probable that this dog was actually developed in Tibet in the 1600s, where it was considered a holy animal. It is accepted as one of the oldest dog breedson record. The modern Shih Tzu developed in China in the late 19th Century, when the Dowager Empress Cixi ruled the kingdom. Though the Pekingese and Shih Tzu breeds have similar backgrounds, and have often been linked over the years, the two had been long distinguished in Chinese art, where the latter is shown with a pien-ji or topknot, denoted by bumps on the head. It is worth remarking that the topknot is still the style that is used for the Shih Tzu, especially in the show ring. When the Dowager Empress Cixi ruled during the latter part of the Qing dynasty, the Shih Tzu were held in great regard, and were kept as special house pets. She personally oversaw their breeding, and the eunuchs in charge of the palace breeding took great pride in producing the most beautiful and distinct dogs, interbreeding, without the Empress' knowledge, within the groups of Pekingese and Pugs that were also a part of the palace kennel in order to achieve those ideal. Because the dogs were also regarded as protectors of the palace, the instinct for barking at strangers was undoubtedly honed during this time. In fact, the Shih Tzu is still a highly recommended watch dog because of its quick and vocal reaction to strangers. The Empress was very jealous over her dogs and was not wont to share them with foreign dignitaries or friends. Many of the Empress' dogs were lost after her death, causing a big blow to the breed. Later, Shih Tzus were displayed in China as Tibetan Poodles or Lhassa Terriers. In 1935, the breed was shown as the Lhassa Lion Dog, and it was then that it began to gain popularity on a wider scale. In England there was confusion between the Shih Tzu and the Lhasa Apso, but in 1934, after the Apso was displayed, the two breeds were split into their own distinct classes. It was then that the smaller dogs with the shorter-noses and wider-skulls from Peking were given the Shih Tzu name. Just one Pekingese outcrossing was allowed, in 1952, but this cross was not permitted again. The standards for the purity of the bloodline have been strictly upheld since. In the 1960s, the U.S. saw immense growth in the breed’s popularity, paving the way for recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1969. It is among the most lovable of the toy breeds, and its popularity as a domestic companion and show dog continues to rise. We love our dogs and want to provide them with the most nutritious food possible, but deciding which food is best is not easy. Pet food industry marketing often complicates the issue and presents conflicting viewpoints. One type of diet that is becoming increasingly popular, the raw meat-based diet, is also one of the most polarizing topics in veterinary nutrition.
A recent article in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Associationreviews the potential risks and benefits of raw meat-based diets. One of the main points put forth in the article is that there are strong opinions on each side of the argument but little scientific data supporting either side. Advocates cite the following reasons for why feeding a raw meat-based diet is beneficial:
Opponents of raw diets point to the following:
Several professional veterinary organizations recommend against feeding raw meat-based diets, including the American Animal Hospital Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, and Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. The Delta Society’s Pet Partners Program excludes animals eating a raw meat-based diet from participating in their therapy animal programs. These organizations cite the risks to the pet, other animals, and humans as the basis for their decision. Studies show that Salmonella is found in one-fourth to one-half of raw meat-based diets, with a high number of resistant isolates being found. This means many of the antibiotics commonly used to treat infections caused by these bacteria will not work. Salmonella can be found in commercial diets also, but the risk is much lower. Dogs and cats can become ill due to Salmonella, but the greatest risk is to the humans in the household. Many other types of bacteria are also found in raw diets. If bones are included, fractured teeth, penetration of the digestive tract, and gastrointestinal impaction are all possible as well. Many raw meat-based diets have nutritional imbalances which can be harmful to the dog. One study evaluated 200 recipes for healthy dogs and found that 95 percent of the recipes had at least one essential nutrient below the recommended minimum amount. Many had multiple imbalances. Because it is very difficult to formulate a nutritionally-balanced home-prepared diet, a veterinary nutritionist should always be consulted first. Further research is needed to substantiate the risks and benefits of raw diets. Each individual animal and the characteristics of the household should be evaluated (with input from a veterinarian) before deciding whic It used to be that unless you had an identification tag on your cat your chances of finding the cat if he or she went missing were slim to none. With modern technology, however, that’s changing. Although some people may be opposed to microchipping their cats because of religious or moral reasons, having your cat microchipped will help animal shelters and animal control officers reunite you with your cat if ever he or she becomes lost.
WHAT IS A MICROCHIP? Before you decide to microchip your cat or kitten, you should have a full understanding of what a microchip is and what it isn’t. A microchip identification tag is a small computer chip containing information linking you to your cat. The chip is inserted subcutaneously (under the skin) with a needle, a procedure which takes only a few minutes. It is common practice to insert the chip, which is non-toxic and about the size of a grain of rice, between your cat’s shoulder blades. It will not cause your cat discomfort or allergic reactions. Because the chip is skin deep you may be able to feel it occasionally, depending on the size and weight of your cat. Additionally, the chip can migrate with age, though because it is only skin deep it will not migrate into any vital organs. Animal shelters and veterinarians are aware that chips can migrate and as a result will scan a lost cat or dog’s entire body to check for a microchip. WHEN IS MY KITTEN OLD ENOUGH FOR A MICROCHIP? KIttens may be equipped with a microchip as young as five weeks old, though the size and age of the animal being microchipped (in this case a cat) is not what determines the appropriate time to insert the microchip. Rather, it is the health and stability of your kitten. Although the insertion of the microchip is noninvasive and does not require anesthesia, kittens younger than five weeks old are still very fragile and most likely still nursing. In most shelters it's standard practice to wait until the kitten is eight weeks old (or about two pounds) to insert the microchip. DOES THE MICROCHIP USE GPS? It is important to know that a microchip is not a Global Positioning System (GPS) or tracking device. You will not be able to use the microchip to trace your cat if he or she goes missing. Additionally, in order for the microchip to be effective you should make sure your information (phone number, home address, and emergency contact) is up to date. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A MICROCHIP? The main benefit of having a microchip is pretty straight forward — when paired with the right contact information and a microchip, you can be reunited with your cat if she should get lost. And since most microchip companies serve as an intermediary during the reuniting process, your home address and phone number is more secure than if it was placed on a regular ID tag. (Note: If preferable, microchip companies also give you the option of allowing the finder of your lost cat to call you directly.) You can also update your contact information with the microchip company as frequently as you’d like by simply making a phone call or sending an e-mail. In fact, it is recommended that change your contact information every time you change your phone number or address. Most of us don’t want to think of the worst case scenario until it happens. Often we can’t fathom the idea of our cats escaping (even indoor cats!), but there are plenty of reasons it occurs. Whether your cat runs away from the cat sitter, escapes during a party, or bolts after hearing a slew of fireworks, having your cat microchipped can be a lifesaver. he Irish Setter is a member of the Sporting Group. Its distinctive and eye-catching deep red mahogany coat and full, silky hair makes the Setter a favorite with the well-heeled set. Add in the Setter's unbound enthusiasm, superior hunting skills and happy disposition, few can match this breed as an ideal companion pet.
Physical Characteristics The Irish Setter is the result of combining the best traits from several breeds, including the English Setter, the Pointer, the Irish Terrier and the Irish Water Spaniel. Although it began as a red and white breed, the Irish Setter soon came to be favored in deep red. The Setter possesses a moderate, two-layered straight coat that lies close to the body, with longer hair on the ears, chest, belly, legs and tail. The Setter stands from 25 to 27 inches tall at the withers, and is slightly longer than it is tall. The body should be in perfect proportion all around, with a long neck that is accentuated when the Setter is standing at attention, with a graceful, proud composure. Personality and Temperament The Irish Setter is enthusiastic, energetic, and athletic. It requires daily exercise, preferably in wide open enclosed spaces, such as a park. It is active and friendly towards children, other animals, and people. In fact, the Irish Setter hates to be alone and is most well behaved when surrounded by humans. An intelligent dog, the Irish Setter needs tasks to set its mind on so as not to be bored. You may find your Setter getting into trouble if it is forced to look for ways to occupy its mind. This breed is an affable, happy one, with a pleasing personality. Therefore, it is too pleasing to be an effective guard dog. On the other hand, it is excellent at greeting new friends into the home -- neither excessively shy nor aggressive. Care Irish Setters require regular brushing to prevent matting of the coat; even more so in the winter, when the under coat is thicker. Even without a show standard trim, this breed looks its best when it is given an occasional trimming. A thorough round of exercise for at least an hour a day is a must for this breed. Irish Setters cannot bear cold climates, preferring temperate weather. Health An Irish Setter normally has a 12 to 14 year lifespan. Some of its minor health problems include panosteitis, hypothyroidism, megaesophagus, osteosarcoma, and Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD). Hemophilia A, Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD), and epilepsy can be occasionally seen in them. A DNA for PRA, thyroid, hip, eye, and cardiac test is advisable for them. CHD, PRA, and gastric torsion are some of this breed’s major health problems. History and Background Bred as field hunting dogs in Ireland, the Irish Setter took to pointing with great talent and enthusiasm. With a naturally strong olfactory sense, the Setter is able to sniff out marks (birds) from distances, track the location, and then silently freeze in place so the hunter can follow and bag the prey. The first of the rich red setters took notice of dog enthusiasts around the 19th century. Although they were being bred in multiple color combinations, the deep red coloring took precedence, and breeders selected those of ideal coloring for further breeding. These came to be identified as Irish Red Setters. The Red Setters were brought into the United States around the middle of the 19th century, and accepted into the American kennel Club (AKC) in 1878. Over the years the breed gained in popularity, eventually becoming one of the most popular breeds in the 1970s. As hunters, the Irish Setter makes for an excellent companion, but is considered more popular today as a pet. In fact, the Irish Setter is currently at number 67 in the AKC's dog registry. |
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