The Flea Life Cycle

A basic understanding of the flea life cycle is really useful in planning a flea control strategy and to assess

when things are 'on track' or when additional control measures may be required. The flea life cycle is a basic
insect life cycle which involves four major phases:

Flea eggs are laid onto the pet by adult female fleas. These fall off the pet into the environment where they
hatch out as flea larvae - the highest concentrations of flea eggs are in areas that pets spend the most time such as bedding and rest areas.

Flea larva are a small, white worm-like stage (about 5 mm long) which feed on debris from the dog or cat including flea 'dirt'. Flea dirt or feces is a nutritious meal for larvae because it is high in protein and not completely digested by the adult flea. They are not generally seen as they tend to leave deep in carpet pile or pet bedding.

Once they have matured they spin a cocoon around themselves to form the pupal stage.
Flea pupa are the equivalent of the cocoon stage of a moth. The cocoon is very hard to kill with insecticides and is resistant to vacuuming because the pupae attach themselves firmly to carpet fibers and pets bedding. In the absence of a dog or a cat to feed on (such as when householders go on vacation), the pupal stage may become dormant for a long time up to 150 or so days. This stage can also form a reserve of fleas which can infect the pets long after an effective flea control product has begun to be used. In order to hatch out of the cocoon, pupae need the right stimuli such as vibration and carbon dioxide from a passing pet. When this is present they hatch out and quickly jump onto the animal. In cases such as when the family has been on vacation and the house vacant, huge numbers of hungry immature fleas may hatch out at the same time and attach to pets and even to humans.

Adult fleas first jump onto an animal as immature fleas which feed very quickly, normally within a minute of
attaching to the animal. They will feed voraciously for the first 24 to 48 hours. This extended feeding is
required to give them the protein and energy requirements for mating and laying eggs. Once a female flea has been on the pet for about 36-48 hours she is ready to lay eggs. She will lay about 20 eggs per day onto the pets coat for up to about 100 days that is about 2000 eggs for each and every female!

So what are some important flea control tips that we can learn from an investigation of the flea life cycle?
If you wait until you are seeing many fleas before using an effective flea control product you are asking for
trouble. Every female has laid 20 eggs each per day so by the time you start treatment you already have an
infested environmental. Start an effective flea control product BEFORE you expect to see fleas - before the
weather really warms up!

Do not be surprised if you see fleas on your pets for some weeks (up to 8 weeks) after you first start using an effective flea control product - the pupal stage can exist without taking a blood meal for up to 100 days - so there may be a huge reservoir of pre-emergent fleas just waiting to jump onto your pet. All of the flea stages already in the environment must go through their life cycle and become immature adult fleas which infest your pet before they are killed.

The pupal stage is very resistant to chemicals attack, so concentrating your efforts on using an effective ON
ANIMAL flea control product will be much more effective than trying to control the life stages which are present in the environment.

If your house or yard are full of fleas, do not restrict the movement of your treated pet. If you are aware that
there is a terrible flea problem in a bedroom where your pet sleeps, make sure you continue to let your pet go in there. An effectively treated pet becomes a mobile flea killer. If your pet is not allowed in an infested area then hungry fleas will look for an alternative source of blood - and that will either be you, your family or your friends! However, we also know that flea eggs will congregate where your pet spends most of his/her time - make sure you really concentrate on cleaning and vacuuming these areas.

Make sure that you optimize your use of an effective flea control product. Ensure that you dose your pet
adequately and follow all of the instructions on the product label.

When you are armed with a few of these tips from the knowledge you have gained about the flea life cycle, you should be well placed to get those nasty little pests under control. Good luck in your flea control war!


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Pet Store USA.net Pet Supplies Pet Products Dog Doors

Pet Store USA.net Pet Supplies Pet Products Dog Doors

CEASAR'S TIPS

by Ceasar Milan

Why does your dog bury her treats or toys?
By Cheri Lucas

Does your dog often bury her bones, treats or even her toys in your backyard? Ever find a bone under the pillow on your bed or behind the sofa cushions? Or does she attempt to “faux bury” her cookies in the corner of the carpet like my dog Natasha, to the point of creating a raw spot on the top her nose?

Most behaviors dogs practice today are rooted in their ancient, developmental history. In the early days of canines, food wasn’t always plentiful. After a successful hunt, a dog would bury whatever he didn’t consume to keep it from scavengers and even other members of her pack. When she became hungry again or prey was sparse, she would return to her “stash” to consume the leftovers.

Sometimes the problem was that the hunt was so successful there was too much food to be consumed at one meal. An ancestral urge led the dogs to bury their food for leaner times. The dirt also helped keep the food fresher by keeping it from direct sunlight.

You might wonder why your dog still practices this behavior when you deliver her kibble to her food bowl every day! Old habits die hard and even our domesticated canines still experience the natural instinct to hoard. In fact, many species in the animal kingdom regularly practice hoarding behaviors. Squirrels hide acorns, leopards hang their kill from trees for later consumption, and even humans stock their pantry with canned goods and non-perishables.

Your dog’s modified hoarding instinct is normal. But if her burying urge becomes obsessive, try to limit her toys and treats to one or two items. After all, she can only play with one toy and chew one bone at a time. Make sure she’s getting plenty of daily exercise and structured activities throughout the day to keep him healthy, happy, stimulated, and balanced!


Summer Storm Sensitivity


In many parts of the world, summer storms are frequent this time of year. Many dogs react to the thunderous booms, vivid lighting, howling winds, and even the dropping barometric pressures that are part of a storm. So what do we do as pack leaders to make the experience less traumatic?

First, before we begin with a technique, sit down and reflect how you’ve reacted or felt before during a storm. If you’re not aware of your own energy, ask someone who knows you to describe how you are during a particularly violent storm. With that said, you have to be mindfully aware, and emotionally in tune – dogs pick up on your anticipation, so your energy will directly affect their behavior.

Let’s back up for a second. Thunder is an outcome of nature. Human is the source. The dog is the outcome of the environment and the human. Environment has natural power over a dog – it triggers survival – this means “flight or fight.” But, the human is so powerful that through our awareness, we can overpower nature and influence Mother Nature, which is the dog. The source of balance, then, has to be mindfully aware and emotionally in tune. This is calm assertive and love. With me? Dogs react on nature and environment and whoever is with him. If you stay calm and assertive, then you can learn a technique to deal with dogs that are fearful; in this case, redirecting.

If we think of flight, redirection comes to mind first. If we think fight, or aggression, we need to stop or block it. With flight, this is where the treadmill, activities, and the walk come in. If the weatherman is precise, time your walk for the storms arrival, so that you can go on a longer walk than normal. Have the dog carry a backpack to make it more draining. You want him to be tired! Then, I suggest giving them drops of the homeopathic Rescue Remedy, which combined with the walk or treadmill, will put him to sleep for the storms arrival. The formula then is exercise, which is a natural sedative, combined with a natural remedy for relaxation.

Some people have used cotton in dogs’ ears to lessen the shock of sudden storm sounds. Also, aromatherapy, using scents like lavender can be soothing to fearful dogs.

However, if the dog is already at a level of fear of 5 or above, remember not to feel sorry for him. Take what I call a “paramedic” state of mind. This means calm and assertive and in control. If the dog is afraid and you’re afraid you can’t help him, can you see a positive outcome?

Other ways to help soothe your dog include bathing the dog in warm water, if you have a bathtub and giving him a deep tissue massage, which relieves tension in the body like it does for humans. Stay away from talking to the dog with sensitive words like, “It’s ok. Mommy’s here….” – that’s nurturing the fear. Remember, dogs don’t rationalize. This is when they need us the most. You must remain calm, and if you can, assertive, which helps make dogs feel protected and triggers the DNA concept of direction.


Master the Walk


I often walk about ten dogs at a time, sometimes even off-leash if I'm in a safe area. People are amazed by this, but it's simple: the dogs see me as their pack leader. This is why they follow me wherever I go.

Position matters. Walking in front allows you to be seen as the pack leader. Conversely, if your dog controls you on the walk, he’s the pack leader. You should be the first one out the door and the first one in. Your dog should be beside or behind you during the walk.

Use a short leash. This allows you to have more control. Attaching the leash to the very top of the neck can help you more easily communicate, guide, and correct your dog. If you need additional help, consider the Illusion collar. Always keep your dog's safety in mind when giving corrections.

Set aside time. Dogs, like humans, are diurnal, so taking walks in the morning is ideal. I recommend setting aside thirty minutes to a full hour. The specific needs of each dog differ. Consult your vet and keep an eye on your dog's behavior to see if his needs are being met.

Define exploration time. After your dog has maintained the proper state of mind, reward him by allowing him to relieve himself and sniff around. Then you need to decide when reward time is over. It should always be less than the time spent focused on the walk.

Don't punch out. When you get home, don't stop leading. Have your dog wait patiently while you put away his leash or take off your shoes.

Share food and water.By providing a meal after the walk, you have allowed your dog to "work" for food and water.

Pick up after your dog! Set an example: be a responsible dog guardian.


Insight for Dog Lovers


The more you learn about dog psychology, the better you will be able to connect with your canine companion!

Dogs are not humans. Before they receive love and affection, they need exercise, clear direction, and leadership. Giving them love alone doesn't create balance in their lives. Be a pack leader!

Rehabilitating a dog is not about "fixing" it. It's about you, the owner, creating the intention for what you want, not what you’re feeling. Dogs pick up on feelings of fear, doubt, or worry – and they will move to fill them by attempting to become dominant.

Practice unwavering leadership every day, especially on your walk. The energy you're projecting internally is the message you're sending to your dog.

Dedicate at least 45 minutes of time to the dog’s walk in the morning. Let the dog know you have a consistent pattern that you expect it to follow. Utilize your dog's energy in a positive manner.

Don't expect more from your dog(s) than your own children. Dogs need discipline, too. Give them rules, boundaries, and limitations as well as love.

Avoid nurturing your dog's fears or unstable mind. Imagine a successful scenario and hold it in your mind when dealing with your dog.

You are the source of your dog’s energy. You are the role model.

Challenge the dog's mind - dogs want to know what to do with their lives. Let the dog work for your affection. Once in a calm-submissive state, your love will intensify those qualities in your dog.

Dogs need"on" and "off" time. Engage them fully in structured times together; then they can relax and avoid impatient or destructive behaviors.

Dogs show us how much we can learn - they live in the moment. Try it!


brought to you by: Sylvia Einwechter
http://www.petstoreusa.net/


Feathery Tales | WingedHearts.org

Feathery Tales WingedHearts.org

Some truly amazing and interesting bird facts for my bird lovers friends.





brought to you by: Sylvia Einwechter
http://www.petstoreusa.net

Feeding Birds In The Winter Environment

Pet Store USA.net

Observing the beautiful birds in winter from your terrace or roof is a real excitement. You can hear them twittering, singing dancing, etc. and all this is music to your ears. There are various different varieties of birds that can be viewed from a bird feeding station. You could view them singing and dancing at your back yards and at bird houses. Most of time, people love them to feed all through the colder winter months when these birds do not just want to go around places and want some bird feeding easily.
You can aid bird feeding in winter that would draw in increasingly more birds at your place. If you’re a regular bird watcher and feeder you will love to take record of increase in number of birds visiting your favorite spot. These birds even wait for you if at any time you’re late for winter bird feeding. Even at most times they chirp and call you for their food.
There are a number of factors which influence the variety and species of birds that visit your place. One such factor is how near your place is from some of the trees where there are lots of birds residing. You can get about 25 to 30 different kinds of birds over one winter season everyday if you are engaging in regular bird feeding.
If you want to find out more and more about the birds and winter bird feeding so that you could feed your birds better you could consider many sources for the necessary information. Internet, websites, guides, bird magazines, etc. are the good sources for getting the full knowledge about the feeding of birds in the winter. Here are some of the tips for you that will assist you in bird feeding during winter season and will attract most of the birds.
Always try to install the birdfeeders with many bird seeds. There are different kinds of bird seeds for various species of birds which are readily available in the market. You could select them accordingly for the birds that are visiting your place.
Different bird seeds which are most commonly utilized by the birders are black-oil sunflower seeds, striped sunflower seeds, peanuts, white proso millet and Niger seed or thistle, etc. but these are to be selected according to the birds that are visiting your place. Or else, birds finding them boring will turn off from your place and will find a better place that offers them with their favorite feeding. White proso millet being cheap is one of the most popular among many of the birders. With these feeding tips and more you can make your winter bird feeding experience beautiful and could attract many of the varieties of birds to your place. If you are a bird lover or A Person who loves to care for birds, then you will find something you really like at ButterfliesBirdsAndBlooms.com Visit the website and find out how to attract birds through bird feeding.


brought to you by: Sylvia Einwechter

Pet Store USA.net

Does a Pet's Name Affect His Behavior?

It makes no difference whether it's a conscious desire or an unconscious wish; the names we give our pets can sometimes cause problems.

About a year ago my husband was reading to me from a wonderful book, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. The first agreement,"Being impeccable with your word" discusses how the words with which we communicate can either give us a sense of well being, or can be destructive and dangerous.

Ruiz writes, "If we adopt the first agreement, and become impeccable with our word, any emotional poison will eventually be cleaned from our mind and from our communication in our personal relationships, including with our pet dog or cat."

Since years ago, our white Oriental Shorthair, Moon Raker, had mutilated himself by scratching his neck and chest due to severe allergies, we might have thoughtlessly exhibited some passive-aggressive behavior by calling him Trouble.

After reading that passage, however, my husband paused, his chin in his hand and turned to me, "We need to consider re-naming Trouble," he said.

"We may have inadvertently named him out of frustration. We may have perpetuated his internal conflict. We need to un-do what has turned out to be prophetic."

I thought he was onto something really important. Had we, by accident, altered Trouble's sense of self? Did we damage his self-esteem?

All of us express our emotions to our pets by the words we say, the tone we use, and the names we give them. So it stands to reason that these names can deeply affect them, either negatively or positively.

So what is our bottom-line motivation for the names we choose for our furry companions? I hadn't given it much thought, but after heeding Mr. Ruiz's words, I will be much more careful in the future.

I am thrilled to report our decision to rename Trouble seems to have paid off. His attitude has turned around and he no longer self-mutilates. His outgoing behavior proves that his self esteem has grown considerably.

Have you found there is a relationship between the name you gave your pet and their behavior? Consider the question carefully and leave a comment.

brought to you by: http://www.petstoreusa.net

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Writing About Pets Health Issues

Writing About Pets Health Issues We all love our pets and I am no exception to the many writers, bloggers and pets professionals out there who love to share their experiences with others. However, it is important for us all to remember that our  advice might be taken as absolute and then generalized to cover all circumstances. There will always be readers who will take your advice as 100% undisputable, and you don't want to steer them in a direction that would not be best for their specific pets. For example, a writer may have had a bad experience with the drug Rimadyl when treating one of their pets for arthritis. In this writer's attempt to seek revenge on Rimadyl and/or to warn others of the potential risk and side effects, they may forget that there will be dogs out there that Rimadyl could benefit greatly. Don't get me wrong, I'm not advising the writer not write the article, just write it in such a way that readers are reminded that there will be times when the drug can be very beneficial and that they should always visit with their veterinarian regarding their specific case before any treatment or medication decision is reached. Another example, a writer may have a dog with hip dysplasia, an ailment whose surgical remedy can cost up to $12,000. Once a reader hears this, they may think this is a standard fee and they may instantly decide that they cannot afford to treat their pet for hip dysplasia and consequently not pursue any surgical treatment options at all. However, treatment requirements can vary greatly from situation to situation and it may be that there could have been a surgical procedure for their specific pet that would have cost a lot less. Veterinarian's advice, skills and fees will also vary greatly by case. The writer's vet's fee may have been unusually high. Once again, were not against sharing particular experiences, advice and/or knowledge with others. It is important for individuals to know all sides to any particular health issue affecting their pet. Hearing other's experiences can also be very comforting and helpful when seeking knowledge or making decisions. However, we think it is always good to encourage readers to check several sources and/or to visit with their specific veterinarian regarding potential risks and their overall specific case before making any major decisions. Remind readers that your particular experience may not be the case with all dogs, cats or other pets. In addition, make sure the information on the disease or medication in question comes from very reliable sources and that it is shared by several experts as opposed to just one. Then, when you write about it, use words like "Some experts believe ... " "A few authorities on the subject say ..." This lets readers know that there might be a differing opinion and that maybe they should visit with their specific veterinarian regarding their specific pet. We encourage all you writers out there to continue sharing yours and your pets experience with the world, just remember that what you share may have an impact on a pets life and we want it to be for good rather than bad. By Lisa ... Journal Entry Posted 11-16-04

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ASPCA Guardians

> The sad reality is that an animal is abused every 10 seconds in America.


> The ASPCA Guardians are a group of dedicated friends like you who make monthly gifts that provide a consistent, reliable income stream, allowing the ASPCA to focus more resources on their lifesaving programs, and less on raising the necessary funds.

> Their members like it because it's easy to budget and it feels great to be making a difference for animals every month of the year.

> A donation of $18/month, you can help 10 animals get adopted.

> A donation of $20/month helps keep the ASPCA Disaster Response Trailers stocked.

> A donation of $36/month allows 5 dogs and 5 cats to get spayed & neutered and receive vaccinations.

> In 2008, the ASPCA Mobile Clinic Program spayed and neutered over 23,220 animals—a 63% increase over 2007, thereby impacting the problem of unwanted offspring and pet homelessness.


To donate to the ASPCA, please click here!

I love people who help animals and so should we all!
This video was presented by DogTime Media.

by: Sylvia Einwechter
http://www.petstoreusa.net/

A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years.

Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as
punishment. You have your work, your friends, your
entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do
understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that
I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative,
ask yourself if something might be bothering me.
Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in
the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old.
You too, will grow old.

10 On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please.
Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face
this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there,
because I love you so.

~Take a moment today to thank God for your pets.

Enjoy and take good care of them.

Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience
without God's critters.


We do not have to wait for Heaven, to be surrounded
by hope, love, and joyfulness. It is here on earth and
has four legs!

Brought to you by: Sylvia Einwechter
Pet Store USA

To All Dog Lovers

DOG - To all Dog Lovers

A friend of mine sent this to me and I thought you might like this.

The K9 above is Brutus, a military K9 at

McChord.. He's huge - part Boxer and part

British Bull Mastiff and tops the scales at

200 lbs. His handler took the picture. Brutus

is running toward me because he knows

I have some Milk Bone treats, so he's

slobbering away! I had to duck around a tree

just before he got to me in case he couldn't

stop, but he did. Brutus won the

Congressional Medal of Honor last year

from his tour in Iraq . His handler and four

other soldiers were taken hostage by insurgents.

Brutus and his handler communicate by sign

language and he gave Brutus the signal that

meant 'go away but come back and find me'.

The Iraqis paid no attention to Brutus. He

came back later and quietly tore the throat

out of one guard at one door and another

guard at another door. He then jumped against

one of the doors repeatedly (the guys were

being held in an old warehouse) until it opened.

He went in and untied his handler and they all

escaped. He's the first K9 to receive this honor.

If he knows you're ok, he's a big old lug and

wants to sit in your lap. Enjoys the company

of cats.. K-9 Congressional Medal of Honor

Winner.Thought you'd find this interesting.

Talk about animal intelligence and bonding

with humans!


brought to you by: Sylvia Einwechter
Pet Store USA