Goldfish Tips - Finding Out The Gender of Your Goldfish

Boy or Girl?

How can you tell whether your Goldfish is male or female? You might want to know because you want to breed them, or give them the right name before Jack turns out to be the mother Goldfish! Here are some clues that might help you sort out the Goldfish boys from the Goldfish girls:

* The female Goldfish are slightly bigger than the males and look even heavier in the abdomen when they are full of eggs.

* Male Goldfish develop white spots on their gills and pectoral called "breeding tubercles" during spawning time.

* Males have midline ridges on their undersides beginning from the back of their pelvic fins and ending at their vent opening. This feature can be absent or smaller in females.

* Males have firm abdomen while in females; the area between the pelvic fins and the anal fins is more pliable.

* Male Goldfish have longer and pointed pectorals as well as stiff fin ray, while females have more rounded pectorals and shorter, finer front fin rays.

* Male goldfish have smaller and more oval anal openings and the anal fins are not as thick as that of the female goldfish who has a larger and rounder anal opening with a slight protrude. The anal fin is also thicker.

* The spawning time is the easiest time to distinguish the boys from the girls. The female opening will look larger and more swollen as the eggs begin to ripen. She would look big and heavier. Since fish reproduce through external fertilization, you can make out when a male is ready by the white breeding tubercles and you can actually push out the milt through his ventral opening by running a gentle finger along his sides.

* There is one more obvious, but kind of time taking way to make out which one of your fish is male and female. Find out who is chasing who - the chaser will be the male and the chased and tired out one will be the female! It's the natural tendency on part of the male goldfish to chase and nudge at a female's rear part.

Important Considerations Before Buying a Puppy

You have always wanted a dog. Perhaps you have retired and fancy taking long walks with your new best pal. Or perhaps the kinds have been pestering you to get a puppy and you have finally caved in. But before you rush out to make the kids' wishes come true, there are some important questions to ask yourself to be sure you know what you are getting in to.

What breed of dog best suits your circumstances and different breed of dog have different needs of their own.

You have to strike that balance. For example if you live in a small apartment going out to buy a Saint Bernard puppy probably isn't the smartest move. Instead, say a Jack Russel would be more suitable.

That cute new puppy will need lots of looking after and training. Who will do that? Do you have the time, are you able to take time from work, can your partner and/or kids put the time in.

Tough questions to ask yourself but ask you must and be honest with yourself. Do your circumstances really lend themselves to puppy ownership?

Other considerations to take in to account include grooming and feeding. Long haired breeds take more grooming. Big dogs eat more food. And more food means more expense. Think also of the cost of owning that puppy.

It's not just the cost of feeding either. Other ownership costs can add up. For example bedding, collar, lead, toys and similar.

Another consideration is insurance to cover vet bills. Different breeds of dogs tend to have health issues specific to their breed. Consider the risk here too. Do your research in to this so you are aware of the potential issues which may arise as puppy grows in to an adult dog.

And of course ask yourself, really ask yourself, if you have the commitment which dog ownership demands of you. Do you have the fortitude to take your dog out for a walk before bed time in any weather? Sun, rain or snow, your dog needs exercise.

I suggest taking advice from a local pet store and if possible a vet before you buy that puppy. Listen to what they have to say about what breed of puppy might best suit your circumstances and how best you might prepare your home first.

The pet store or vet may also be able to offer advice on local breeders from whom you might acquire your puppy. I suggest visiting the puppy a time or two at the breeder's premises and ideally seeing puppy with its mother. And before you buy, check any paperwork which may be required. A local kennel club is another source of advice.

Owning a puppy is a very rewarding experience, however please carefully take in to account the important considerations we have taken a quick look at here before you take the plunge.

Reasons You Should Get a Bed for Your Dog

A dog is a man's best friend, we have all heard that. But that best friend of ours deserves a small space of his own. It is not just for comfort but has so many more benefits. The following are some of the benefits.

- Cushioning for joints and bones:

When the dogs get older, a comfortable spot of his own would be very helpful. This is especially beneficial in case of overweight or arthritic dogs. Dog beds would give them extra support and cushioning for joints.

- Private spot:

You can have one or more dog beds. That way the dog has his own spot in the house where they can get privacy. Your dog will love that. We all love privacy; our furry friends deserve a private spot too.

- Protection and security:

The dogs can fall asleep anywhere but is that good for them? They might get cold or fall ill if the spots they sit or sleep on aren't clean. Having dog beds would ensure that they are well protected and secure.

- Insulation:

Now how would you feel if you had to sleep in a cold weather without a blanket? You would freeze, right? The dogs are furry but it's still important that they are warm and comfy. Dog beds provide them with insulation for warmth and comfort. It ensures their good health.

- Injury Prevention:

It's impossible to keep dogs from jumping on furniture when they try and find a good spot for themselves. This can often lead to injuries. If you have a smaller breed you know how delicate they are. If you have a dog bed, you will be able to prevent any kind of injury.

Kinds of dog beds:

Yes, you read that right. There is a variety of dog beds. They can be divided into three kinds.

- Super Support Beds
- Lounging Beds
- Nestling Beds

If you notice your dogs while sleeping, it will give you an idea of what kind of bed is suitable for them. Ever noticed how dogs fall asleep on sofas, beds, and cushions? They yearn for comfort. Some dogs like to curl up, some like to sleep on their tummy, and some like to stretch out. These are the clues that help you decide on the type of bed they need. It's time to give your furry little friend a bed that makes them comfortable and happy. Have you noticed any such clues? Let us know.

Things You Should Never Feed Your Dog

Sadly, there are several household items which we tend to take for granted that are potentially very hazardous to your dog's health. It is especially important to be aware of this because as you know, dogs are very much scavengers and will often eat whatever they can sink their fangs into. I would say that may own dog is more like a mobile garbage disposal. It is also very important to be aware of
these items since their sense of smell is so well developed that your pooch will be able to find what you may think is well hidden.

One of these dangerous household items, it turns out, is simple chocolate. While chocolate has been reported recently to be high in human-friendly antioxidants, it appears to be potentially lethal for our pets, and particularly for our dogs. Cats are mostly unaffected since they do not care for the
taste of chocolate, but dogs tend to be crazy about it. Certain breeds of dogs react indifferently to chocolate. The root of the problem is that chocolate contains various chemicals which are called methylxanthine alkaloids(sometypes have more of these chemicals than others)

Sadly, relatively minuscule amounts of these chemicals are capable of causing such serious problems as constriction of the arteries and an increased heart rate. Large amounts may cause even more dire symptoms and a pound of milk chocolate could possibly kill a sixteen pound dog. If you find that your dog has eaten chocolate then by all means take note of the it's type and try to estimate the amount eaten. Then get on the phone with a veternarian or an emergency facility. Be sure that your
children know how important it is to keep chocolate out of your dog's reach.

If you are not aware that your dog has consumed chocolate, the consequences could be severe. If consumption is not found within 4 to 6 hours without the right treatment, cardiac failure, seizures, coma and death could result, according to veternarian Dr. Jane Bicks. In addition to seemingly innocent chocolate, there are a number of other common household items that may seem safe for our dogs but that can be downright dangerous.

Some mushrooms, for example, can produce abdominal pain, liver andd kidney damage and amenia. So be aware of wild mushrooms when you are out walking your dog in wooded areas. Garlic may seem benign but can cause vomiting, liver damage, anemia and diarrhea so do not give your pet baby
food since it can contain garlic.

Anti-freeze can shut down your dog's kidney and they tend to love the taste. Miscletoe can cause vomiting, abdominal pain and depression. Onions can causeliver damage, anemia and diarrhea. Onion can also sometimes be found in baby food. Cats are actually somewhat more sensitive to
this one so keep out of the reach of both.

Coffee, like cocoa, is especially dangerous, and may cause heart rate increase, diarrhea, seizures, coma, death. Caffeine just does not have the same effect in dogs.

When outside be careful around apple and cherry trees. While the fruit is safe, the leaves and roots are not.

And be very careful about Moth Balls. it's primary chemical naphthalene is extremely toxic to dogs and can result in tremors and seizures. Concerning dog food, you should be looking for dyes and other chemicals, according to Dr. Jane BHA, for instance, which is one of the main synthetic antioxidant preservatives used to prevent food discoloration, has been observed to cause cancer in laboratory rats at certain doses. Small doses are as yet unclear but since dog food is eaten every day caution is advised. Many conventional dog food brands have large quantities of sodium to make them palatable, and this can be quite harmful to a dog. Other ingredients to wary of are dairy, by-products, chemical preservatives and artificial colors.

Big Dog Breeds

with an active, large dog breed can become an exceptionally satisfying experience. However, while a big dog breed can become ideal for countless people; the owners who are potential must be well-known about many different considerations including health issues and lessened life expectancy of countless large dog breeds. We take a look at eight of the most famous big dog breeds and what you require considering if you are considering to buy one...

Newfoundland
Characteristics: Newfoundland dog breed is a strong, large dog that makes a great pet for the family. He was initially utilized as a working dog to pull wood or nets of fisherman for lumberjacks, he is a brilliant swimmer.

Health issues: The Arteria Cruciate Ligament's rupturing can sometimes be found in the breed. Relying on the level of seriousness, this kind of injuries can result in surgery, making having the right dog insurance crucial. Newfoundland dog breed can sometimes suffer more dangerously from Gastric Torsion. This turns out to be a life-threatening condition whereby the stomach stretches because of an increase in gas and can result in the stomach twisting. It is mainly found in large dogs that have deep chest.

Great Dane
Characteristics: The Great Dane dog breed is a regal dog with real beauty that has an aura of nobility due to result of his tall stature of up to 86cm. He is something of a gentle giant and enjoys spending time with his people.

Health issues: While his size was an asset for his original purpose as a hunting dog, it can be harm to his health. Like the Newfoundland as well as suffering from Gastric Torsion, the Great Dane dog breed is also at higher risk of bone cancer than a smaller dog. The signs and symptoms include lameness which, if you notice in your Great Dane, means you ought to take him immediately to your veterinarian.

Irish Wolfhound
Characteristics: This enormous dog 86cm tall in size and made him ideal for his conventional roles of pulling and hunting men off their horses in wars. This shaggy-haired dog has the ability to make a perfect family pet for many thanks to his capability to create deep bonds with his owner and his desire to be involved in every aspect of family life.

Health issues: Owing to the size of Irish wolfhound dog breed, he can also be vulnerable to suffering from bone cancer, hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Other conditions that can affect this breed, they include heart disease caused by the heart muscle getting thin and becoming unable to contract in a proper way.

Bernese Mountain Dog
Characteristics: The Bernese mountain dog belongs to Switzerland whose is very tall up to 68cm in size, makes him ideal for his conventional roles of helping to pull carts and herd cattle. With a sweet-natured disposition and long hair, he is a welcoming and warm family pet.

Health issues: The Bernese mountain dog is a healthy large breed of dog as compare to others, but an owner ought to note the possible conditions which can result from his size. Those conditions include Elbow Dysplasia that is a degenerative disease sometimes found in large dog breeds.

Rottweiler
Characteristics: The Rottweiler dog breed is found in a medium to large size. The breed was originated in Germany, where he was utilized to pull carts and herd cattle for butchers and farmers. He is mentally and physically tough, but needs careful training to respect his owner as 'pack leader'.

Health issues: The Rottweiler is one of the dog breeds most affected by hip dysplasia. This condition can range from mild to serious. Serious cases are very painful and usually need surgery to correct. The dog is also among the breeds who suffer from a congenital heart condition which is also called Aortic Stenosis.

Leonberger
Characteristics: A cross between a Saint Bernard, a Newfoundland and Great Pyrenees it is no surprise that the Leonberger dog breed can be tall up to 80cm. He enjoys remaining around people and requires roughly an hour for exercise every day like many other giant dog breeds.

Health issues: The size of Leonberger increases the risk of getting afflicted by Panosteitis (bone inflammation) and hip dysplasia. It happens when the large bones of the young dogs' legs become inflamed, making it extremely painful for the dog to move or walk around. With Leonberger dog breed as with every other dog, it is crucial to possess the right dog insurance to make sure your dog is covered and you can enjoy spending your time with any large dog breeds.

Golden Retriever
Characteristics: The Gundog was created to flush out, locate or retrieve game that shot down by hunters. He is often greatly trainable, keen to amuse and has a pleasant and a balanced temperament.

Health issues: Some of his minor health issues include sub-aortic stenosis (SAS), hypothyroidism, elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, seizures, and mast cell tumours. You can also find osteosarcoma occasionally in Golden Retriever dog breed. The other big problems of health for the dog include canine hip dysplasia (CHD), lymphoma, skin problems, and hemangiosarcoma. To recognize such conditions early, a veterinarian may advise heart, thyroid, hip, eye, or elbow tests during routine checkups.

German Shorthaired Pointer
Characteristics: This German Shorthaired Pointer is really large hunting dog and is very tall up to 66cms. He has an abundance of stamina and energy. Ideally, he will need exercise for more than two hours a day with a great deal of free running.

Health issues: This dog breed is vulnerable to minor health issues like hypothyroidism, gastric torsion, canine hip dysplasia (CHD), von Willebrand's Disease (vWD), Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD), pannus, and entropion, and major concerns like lymphedema. Other issues which can be occasionally found in the dog breed include ectropion, cardiomyopathy, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). To recognize some of these problems, a veterinarian may advise regular cardiac, hip, thyroid, and eye exams, and tests to verify vWD.

Choosing Toys That Are Safe for Your Cat

To get the food sufficient for sustaining herself and her litter, a feral cat goes through the ritual of stalking, pouncing and killing, in a half-day's time. On the other hand, domestic cats feed on a diet that is commercially made and prepared by their owner, which is as effortless as using an electric can opener with their paw. It is no wonder why your cat weighs a little more than normal. If we confine our feline pets to the indoors, we take away their opportunity to work for a living. Though they may be safer inside, their body and mind tend to be inactive. So, you should decide on how to enhance their lives and environment.

Luckily, it is easier to entertain cats. Most of the things in their surroundings could serve as cat toys. As a matter of fact, in most houses, cats ignore commercial cat toys and they would rather play with items meant to be recycled. These include paper bags, shoe boxes, bottle caps and pens that have dried out. What you consider as garbage may be good to rip to your cat. Some people place appliance boxes at the center of the living room so that their cats can use them when playing hide-and-seek.

As you evaluate household items that are safe for your cat, take notice of the pieces that can be bitten and swallowed, get trapped on the claw and keep retraction, or get stuck in your cat's throat or mouth. Though a lot of cats love to hide inside paper bags, they hate it when their heads get caught in the handles and the paper bag seems to have a life of its own, chasing them no matter how fast they run. To prevent this kind of problem, you just need to cut the handles before letting your cat have access to them.

The most important law on safety is to know your cat. Find out the things that catch his attention. He may have an oral craving for aluminum foil, plastic milk cap rims or paper curling ribbon. If this is the case, it is crucial to properly dispose these items to prevent your cat from having gastrointestinal problems. However, these same things can serve as well-supervised toys that may be played with occasionally by other cats. Before you consider commercial toys as safe to play in your home, they should be carefully inspected. Cats that bat at toys using their paws can play with wands that have fluttering mylar strips. However, if your cat likes to put anything she catches in her mouth, this is not safe for playing.

When you know the habits, as well as play styles of your feline pet by heart, you can carefully select toys for your cat. This will, in turn, offer a mentally challenging surrounding, invigorating exercise and plain, good fun, creating a happier and healthier home companion.

Why Should You Opt For The Best Stroller For Cats?

Cats that have been brought up indoors are exposed to nasty animals and uncontrollable traffic on the roads when they head outside. An unaware cat walking on the roads can face a life threat because of these outside dangers and they need to be protected at all times, but then how can they venture outdoors and experience the glory of nature.

1) Provide stimulating outdoors to pets:

Indoor cats, when they venture outside, love to find a cozy spot under a brush or shrub to protect them from peering eyes. They love to wallow in the beauty of the calm green surroundings. You can broaden and stimulate the sights for your cats by putting them comfortably inside a double cat stroller and keep them closeted inside warmly.

2) Safety and security of cats:

A cat stroller for two cats will definitely aid you in taking your feline pair outdoors for a picnic. In the safety and security of the double cat stroller, you can broaden the horizons for your cat pair and enjoy the outdoor sun. The best stroller for cats is very relaxing for your feline beauties because they can safely peep outside from behind a mesh while they lazily watch everything move around them.

3) Improve the quality of life:

While you lie back and read a book at the poolside your cats can sit snugly in a double cat stroller. The quality of life you spend is going to improve drastically. You can safely carry your pets to the store, mall, garden, and workplace. Just strap them in and start pushing them in the direction you want to take them in an efficient manner.

4) Relaxing atmosphere:

Your cats can now make their "mewing" trips to the vet comfortably and securely in the cat stroller for two cats. The protective and warm atmosphere will let the cats lie back and relax. No more mad chases after the odd mice or small animals which are moving around the park.

5) Best transportation for cats:

Just choose a stroller size and shape that suits you for transport purposes. A collapsible stroller is even better because you can store them easily and fix them into shape only when needed. We promise you are not going to skip that evening walk anymore. Your precious cats are going to be safe from other aggressive animals. Elderly cats who find it tough to move around can also be taken out in the strollers.

6) Balanced, safe and stable ride:

Cats love to relax in the fresh air and the stroller permits free passage of air. The carriage can be parked and transported anywhere. Your back will remain protected and unstrained because you don't have to carry the catty twins anywhere; the stroller is going to do the needful. The balanced and stable ride in the carriage will not disturb your walk rather the soothing movement will lull them to sleep comfortably. Your indoor cat can get harmed by moving transport on the road and it can stay happy and safeguarded inside the stroller.

What Is The Best Fish Tank For a Crayfish?

What is the best fish tank for a pet crayfish? Well, the answer to this question depends on a few things. Do you plan on having other fish live with your pet crayfish? Do you plan on having another pet crayfish all together? Because if you do, a desktop aquarium or 10 gallon fish tank probably won't be ideal. I know from experience. Personally, I'd recommend a 20 gallon fish tank for just one crayfish, nothing smaller.

Crayfish Are Very Dirty

Crayfish are dirty little creatures. They put out a lot of waste. And this waste can make your tank ugly and toxic for other fish, if you have them. With a bigger tank, like a 20 gallon tank, there's more water to take on the load of all of your pet crayfish's waste.

Crayfish Are Aggressive and Territorial

Crayfish will eat and fight just about anything. They are super aggressive and territorial. Having said that, if you plan on having other fish in your tank, you want a tank that is large enough to hold everyone comfortably. Having a bigger tank will reduce the chances that your other fish get eaten by your pet crayfish. They'll have more space to swim. And your pet crayfish will have his little territory all to himself. Remember though, with crayfish, any other fish in your tank may become crayfish food at any given moment. I always suggest putting aggressive fish in the tank and fish that swim near the top. Red tail shark, mollies and hatchet fish can often work well with pet crayfish. They have for me in the past anyway.

Water Changes

With a fish tank that is a minimum of 20 gallons, managing water changes for your crayfish, and other fish, will be much easier. Speaking of, make sure that you change roughly 25% of the water weekly. This will ensure a healthy, clean tank. One that will help keep your other fish remain healthy, as well as your pet crayfish.

If You Get Two Crayfish

If you decide to get two crayfish and put them in one fish tank. Based on my experience, it's only a matter of time before one eats the other. Personally, I think you'll need a tank bigger than 20 gallons for two crayfish. However, if you must have two crayfish, make sure you have separate hideouts for them both. These can be bought online, made out of PVC or found in most pet stores that sell aquariums.

Rabbit Litter Training

You have just gotten your pet rabbit-congratulations!-and have already taken it home to show it off to your family and friends. After setting up the cage and offering it some food and water, the next step is litter training. This is one of the most important and often challenging parts of raising a pet, but once it's mastered, the experience is all the more rewarding. Here, we provide you a step-by-step manual on how to litter train your rabbit; pretty soon, you'll be on your way to becoming the ultimate pet owner.
Before you start...
1. Spay/neuter your rabbit. This is especially important if you own a baby rabbit; after four to six months, your pet's hormones will kick in and soon enough it will begin to mark its territory. To lessen the likelihood of doing so, spaying or neutering your rabbit will help make it easier to be litter-trained.
2. Choose the right type of litter. While there are many types of litter that are marketed out there, many owners tend to make their own for the litter box, which is not only inexpensive, but also safer for their bunnies. Using litter designed for cats or wood shavings can be hazardous to health, as they might cause digestion or respiratory problems. An ideal type of litter is recycled paper products (e.g. newspapers), since they are harmless to the rabbits if ingested. Certain litter brands like Care-fresh or Cellu-Dri arm considered safe for them, too.
3. Clean and dispose frequently. Changing the litter box often will not only keep the cage from smelling, but also encourage your rabbit to use them more. Vinegar is a cheap and convenient tool to use to get rid of odors when cleaning the box and other stains inside the cage.
How to Litter-Train your Pet...
1. Make it comfortable. You want your rabbit to be at ease when being litter-trained while also making sure that it knows that the cage's litter box is where it needs to go to for doing the deed. By making its cage a calm and safe environment, it will help motivate your pet to go there more often.
2. Give enough space for roaming. If you would like your pet bunny to run around the house (with supervision, of course!), then it is essential to begin litter training right away. Start small by restricting your bunny's roaming space to a small part of the room, before increasing it to the rest of it. Make sure to always have multiple litter boxes all over the room, just in case your rabbit decides to litter somewhere other than in the cage.
3. Discipline firmly. Rabbits are naturally habitual animals, and so if you are not firm in disciplining when it marks its territory, then it will be very difficult to break the cycle for future littering sessions. Give a gentle, but stern "no" every time it starts to litter in a place other than where its designated to, and move it quickly to a nearby litter box (whether in the cage or the room) to reinforce where it should do its business.
4. Reward your pet. Positive reinforcement is just as important to litter training your rabbit as reprimanding it when it goes wrong. Treat your pet with something small, like a piece of fruit or its favorite play-thing when it correctly disposes in the litter box. Of course, you don't have to do this every time that it works, especially after more than several times, but during its initial stages it is highly suggested.
5. Be patient. Like with babies and other pets, rabbits take time to be properly litter trained. Slip-ups will happen, and it is a matter of being calm and correcting your pet's behavior as soon as they occur that will help the process go more smoothly. Having patience is key to being a good pet owner, and it will no doubt build a solid and trusting relationship with your rabbit.
Now you've gotten the basics down, it is now time to get started! Overall, taking both the prerequisites and the steps themselves when it comes to litter training your rabbit will give you a clear, solid standard on how to go about it. Pretty soon, you can play and enjoy spending time with you adorable furry friend... without the mess!

Just How Smart Is a Cat?

Of all the pet animals, the cat is perhaps the fastest learner due to its ability to get and retain information to find a solution to problems. When an adult cat is placed in a room which it has never seen before, every corner and nook is inspected with the help of its instincts. According to behaviorists, this necessity to carry out "basic research" gives the cat important, life-surviving information about his environment. So, the saying "curiosity killed the cat" is a misnomer, since it actually gives the cat its reputation for having 9 lives.

The highlight of a cat's intellect is his ability to utilize the information retained to address problems. Cats have the skill to form "learning sets", which used to be done only by primates. For instance, when trained cats pulled boxes on wheels, this revealed that they could combine that skill and their insight to solve other problems.

As an example, a cat pulled a box to a certain place, then used it as a stool to get a reward he wants - like food on a string hanging from the ceiling. Though no one knows their range of cognitive capabilities, cats continue to surprise their owners with their remarkable abilities.

Just like humans, cats learn by observing, imitating, trying, as well as committing errors. There are countless stories about cats opening doors by turning doorknobs, ringing doorbells, turning off lights, opening cupboards, plus using the toilet based on their observation of owners doing the same thing. A lot of cat behaviorists and also child psychologists agree that an adult cat's intelligence is equivalent to that of a toddler who is 2 to 3 years old. At this age, children are very clever and manipulative, so it is not surprising that cats are better trainers than their owners are to them.

Though the cat is considered as the smartest among all domestic animals, cat owners should understand the limitations of their pet's thought processes, since attributing human motivations to the pet cat can affect the patient, and systematic approach is needed to treat behavioral problems.

For instance, cats cannot remember the past or make future plans. So, it is useless for an owner to scold a pet cat for something it did moments ago or when caught in the act, since the cat cannot make a connection between an action and punishment. Its actions are not influenced by revenge for what an owner said or did in the past. These can be blamed on the stress brought about by its owner's actions.

The behavioral problems of cats are triggered by humans, and when cats are not provided with the necessary things to naturally behave like a cat, this can have a negative impact on their human owners.

Is Talking to My Cats Like Talking to Myself?

There are three cats in my family and they are like my children now that everyone else has left. More and more I find myself talking to them as if they understand every word. There are times when it crosses my mind that maybe I am really talking out loud to myself. They seem to understand, however, and their attitude towards me is one of selecting times when they demand cuddles and usually when I settle the three of them settle on top of me.

Help! What is going on here? Has my brain deteriorated down to their level or are they reaching up to mine?

Cats have been a part of my life from a very young age. My gran had one named Sarg and he lived till he was about 20 years of age which was way past when she died. He was probably the first pet in my life and we were all attached to him.

When in my teens I found a little black kitten in the backyard that had obviously crawled out from under dad's shed. Taking it into the house it was then that the fleas emerged in their hundreds. Wow! None the less we kept him and I called him 'Fella'. Well he was black and the name suited him. A couple of days later his brother turned up and he was named 'Find'.

My cousin adopted the last one and the two of them were eventually both mine. Fella had a personality that was so adorable and when I went away the phone would be held to his ear so he could hear my voice. He purred his little heart out when that happened.

Over the years, other cats have come and gone and they have all contributed greatly to my life. For the last 30 or so years I took to breeding kittens and that was a great joy as so many benefited from the little beauties. The mothers are adorable and they are now the 3 that are with me as there are no litters produced now.

One would have to say that the understanding between us is rather great. They know there are times when I need privacy from them and they stick to themselves. When I go out they are always waiting to welcome me home again. While there have always been a dog in the family that is no longer the case and won't be again because the cats are much better.

Dogs are gorgeous but they smell. You can always tell homes where they reside and they jump around and demand walks and things that frankly I am a little past that. Being a retired person who spends much of the day writing or painting the companionship and love from my cats is enough to satisfy my needs. Probably that's why they understand when my voice is heard. They don't need to know what is said only that they hear it, just as Fella did.

Norma Holt has knowledge that enables her to understand many issues. Political, social and behavioural problems are usually on her list for discussion as well as anything to do with the Spirit of the Universe and the environment. She has many web sites for readers to venture onto and is happy to hear from any of her readers.

Physical Activities For Dogs

Everyone wants their pets to be fit and healthy. As wonderful as dogs can be, they are famous for missing the point. Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole. There are many games and exercises that can contribute to the fitness of your pets. These activities will not only make them fit, but will also bring an excitement in both of yours lives.

Walk With The Dog - Instead of walking your dog, have your dog walk you. Go wherever your dog goes. It can be great exercise for you as well. You can also go for runs, which can increase your as well as the dog's stamina.

Tracking Clues - Not all dogs are tracking breeds, but just about any dog can participate in the sport of tracking, a competitive event for dogs and handlers. A scent trail is laid out hours before competition. Numerous clues are left for the dog to follow through and something as a reward is placed at the end of the trails.

Playing With Other Dogs - The best form of activity is the one where dogs can naturally move their body. Playing with fellow dogs can be one of them. They'll not only exercise but also enjoy the time.

Teaching Fun Behaviours - Mental exercises are always the best. You can teach your dog exercises like high-fiving or bowing or command by hand. After obedience commands have been taught, cognitive challenges tend to drop off.

Dancing With Your Dog - A dance routine can really cheer you and your dog up. This can energize you and your dog as you both dance away to your favourite tunes.

Indoor Agility - You can set up a makeshift agility course in your house with things like chairs and broom poles (jumps), a mat (for a makeshift pause table), cones or boxes (weave poles), and blankets over the space between the couch and the coffee table (tunnel). Or you can buy an indoor agility set. Either way, it is very useful.

Hide and seek - You can have great fun playing hide and seek with your dog. Put your dog in stay until you can hide and then call him to find you. It can also enhance the dog's mental abilities.

Stairs - One of the most effective exercise for your dog indoors. Make it go up and down the stairs to burn those extra calories.