Maryland Rescue Groups For Dogs

Many dogs are in need of help.

Stray and homeless dogs are a serious problem in Maryland and all other states. Dog rescue groups are made up of several volunteers who give their time to help dogs. Some rescues have shelters, while others keep the dogs in foster homes until they are adopted. To continue running, all rescues need donations in the form of money, supplies and time.

Dog Rescue of Maryland

Dog Rescue of Maryland is located in Pasadena and rescues all breeds of dogs. When room is available, they rescue dogs that are in shelters and are in danger of being euthanized. The group houses rescued dogs in foster homes until adoptive homes are found. The adoption fee covers all immunizations and any required medical care as well as sterilization.

Dog Rescue of MD.

P. O. Box 515

Pasadena, MD. 21123

410-320-5010

dogrescuemd.org

All Breed Rescue

All Breed Rescue is funded only by donations and has no shelter facility. All dogs that are rescued by the group are kept in foster homes until adoptive families are found. The group has a strict adoption policy, which includes an application and a meeting with the dog and the entire adoptive family. A home visit is also required, as are possible follow-up visits. Puppies are not given to families with small children, and all animals must be indoor pets. The adoption fee includes vaccinations, deworming, flea treatment and sterilization.

All Breed Rescue

301-775-2777

allbreed.org

K-9 Lifesavers

K-9 Lifesavers is located in Takoma Park and is a nonprofit rescue that removes dogs from high-kill shelters when they are in danger of being euthanized. The rescued dogs stay boarding facilities and foster homes. Adoption requires an application and a home visit. The adoption fee covers any needed veterinary care as well as immunizations, deworming, and sterilization if the dog is older than six months. Dogs that are living in foster homes prior to adoption are also given heart worm preventative and flea and tick treatments. Potential adopters who rent their homes must obtain written permission from the home owner before adoption.

K-9 Lifesavers Dog Rescue

721 Erie Avenue #1

Takoma Park, MD 20912

202-263-1990

k-9lifesavers.org

Tags: foster homes, Breed Rescue, foster homes until, homes until, adoption covers, being euthanized, care well

Fun And Easy Baby Shower Games

Although the main activity at a baby shower is pampering the new mother with all sorts of gifts for her baby, guests also enjoy playing some baby-related games together. Choose games that are easy to set up and explain to guests and that allow guests to get some laughs as they play. Does this Spark an idea?

Quizzes

Quiz games require each guest to fill out answers on a sheet of paper containing a series of questions. Before the guests arrive, print out enough copies of the quiz so everybody gets one. For a baby animal quiz, list a few types of animals and ask guests to fill in the name for each baby. For example, a baby kangaroo is called a joey and a baby camel is a calf. For another type of quiz, scramble the names of baby items and challenge guests to unscramble them. For example, "faprieci" unscrambles to "pacifier."

Ongoing Games

As guests arrive, start a game that they can play throughout the duration of the baby shower. One option is to give each guest a safety pin and tell them that they cannot say "baby" during the baby shower. If somebody says "baby," the first person to point it out gets a safety pin from the offender. Whoever collects the most safety pins by the end of the baby shower wins. In another ongoing game, ask each guest to bring a baby photo. Post them in a central location and put a number by each one. At their leisure, guests should write down their guesses for who each baby is. At the end of the party, reveal the answers and give a prize to whoever has the most correct

Active Games

Get guests moving with active baby shower games. For one game, set up an obstacle course outdoors with cones and other objects to avoid. Give each guest a baby doll and a stroller and time how quickly they can strap the baby in the stroller and navigate the course. Add three seconds to the time for each obstacle they hit. In another active game, play charades with a variety of baby-related words on pieces of paper in a hat. Divide guests into two teams and give each person 30 seconds to get her team members to say the name of the item she drew from the hat.

Baby Food Games

For one game, test guests' sense of sight by having them guess the type of food smeared in each diaper. One version of the game uses baby foods, whereas the other uses melted candy bars. For another baby food game that may appeal more to squeamish guests, have guests close their eyes and taste a spoonful of baby food. Whoever guesses incorrectly is eliminated, and everybody else goes on to the next round. Use mixtures of foods for later rounds if guests are doing too well.

Tags: baby shower, each guest, baby food, each baby, game that

Southern New Jersey Restaurants

Dining in South Jersey can be a treat.

Also known as "South Jersey," Southern New Jersey is a region in the state of New Jersey encompassing Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Salem and Ocean counties. Offering various tourist destinations, South Jersey boasts recreational areas, museums, landmarks, theaters and theme parks. Thanks to its multicultural populace, restaurants serving various cuisines can be found throughout the area. If you are planning a visit, Southern New Jersey has many dining options for you.

The Crab Trap

Serving the community since 1967, The Crab Trap is located in Atlantic County, New Jersey. The Crab Trap was voted "Best Seafood Restaurant" by the Press Readers Poll in 2009. Open daily for lunch and dinner, popular entrees on the menu include the live Maine lobster, bos' n mate and the crispy crabcakes, as well as an array of soup, salad and appetizer options. Also featuring an extensive wine list and many beer and ale choices, The Crab Trap restaurant has banquet facilities available from October through May.

Crab Trap Restaurant

2 Broadway

Somers Point, NJ 08244-1195

609-927-7377‎

thecrabtrap.com

Sapori

Located in Camden County, New Jersey, Sapori is an authentic Italian restaurant that has been rated among the top 1,000 Italian restaurants in the United States by Zagat. Sapori's rustic brick floors and walls and wrought-iron balconies and chandeliers give the restaurant a medieval-style ambiance. The Italian dishes served vary from calamari fritti and gnocchi with duck breast, to chicken stuffed with butternut squash and pork medallions. Sapori restaurant serves lunch Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and dinner is served every day but Tuesday.

Sapori

601 Haddon Ave.

Collingswood, NJ 08108-3703

856-858-2288‎

sapori.info

Surf Taco

Surf Taco restaurant is located in Ocean County, New Jersey, and serves "surf Mex" cuisine in a oceanic-themed interior decor, featuring art collages, a large world map and surf boards. Surf Taco’s menu offers a broad selection of Tex Mex and Island-style cuisine options such as the garlic shrimp burrito, Aloha wrap with teriyaki chicken, fresh-made fruit smoothies, quesadillas and nachos. Surf Taco is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Sunday.

Surf Taco

21 South Hope Chapel Road

Jackson, NJ 08527-5000

732-364-8226‎

surftaco.com

Tags: Crab Trap, Surf Taco, County Jersey, South Jersey, Southern Jersey, lunch dinner

Florida Marital Laws

It's important to be familiar with the marital laws of your state.

For couples who are considering getting married or who are already married in the state of Florida, it's a good idea to familiarize oneself with the state's marital laws. These laws make up Chapter 741 of Florida's law code, which covers Marriage and Domestic Violence.

Licensing Requirements

In order to apply for a marriage license, both applicants must furnish identification and their Social Security numbers. If the applicant has been married before, he or she must provide the date the divorce was finalized or, in the case that it was recent, physical proof of the divorce. The state of Florida doesn't required couples applying for marriage to get a blood test.

As of January 1, 1999 persons who wish to get married in the state of Florida need to complete a 4-hour premarital course or have a three day waiting period applied after submission of the application. The Florida marriage license fee is $61 for couples who complete this course and $93.50 for those who choose not to.

Applicants should contact their Clerk of Court's office where the marriage will be taking place. They can find a list of Clerks of Court offices on the State Library and Archives of Florida website at dlis.dos.state.fl.us

Premarital Preparation Course

According to Statute 741.0305, applicants for a marriage license who complete a premarital preparation course have a license fee reduction of $32.50. The course may include such topics as conflict management, communication, finances, and parenting and children. Marriage license applicants must participate in a course by an instructor recognized as qualified by the state, including a licensed psychologist, clinical social worker, marriage or family therapist, mental health counselor, a qualified representative of a religious institution, or other course providers who are certified. The applicants must pay for the course themselves. After completing the course, the course provider will give the applicants a certification of completion.

Waiting Period

The license is effective three days after applying to get married, unless the couple elects to take a premarital course; in which case the marriage can take place right away. The waiting period is intended as a way for couples to "think things out" and make sure they are sure they want to get married. Some states require a long waiting period between the time you receive your marriage license and when you get married, but in the state of Florida, there is no such waiting period, and you can get married immediately.

Marriage License Expiration

The marriage license issued by the state of Florida is valid for 60 days after it is issued. It must be completed and returned to the Clerk's Office within 10 days after the marriage is performed.

Common Law Marriages

Although there are sixteen U.S. states that do recognize common law marriages, the state of Florida does not.

Same Sex Marriages

According to Statute 741.212, marriages between persons of the same sex aren't recognized for any purpose in the state of Florida. "The term 'marriage' means only a legal union between one man and one woman as husband and wife, and the term 'spouse' applies only to a member of such a union."

Incestuous Marriages

Marriage to anyone who is related to by lineal consanguinity or to one's sister or brother, aunt or uncle, or niece or nephew, is prohibited in the State of Florida, according to Statute 741.21.

Tags: state Florida, waiting period, applicants must, days after, marriage license

Breed Greyhounds For Racing

The greyhound is an ancient breed of dog known for its ability to reach and maintain high speeds while running. The sport of greyhound racing goes back thousands of years as do, presumably, the greyhounds' bloodlines. If you're interested in greyhounds and racing, you might want to breed your own dogs for the track.

Instructions

1. Learn read a pedigree and to recognize top bloodlines. Pups from good lines and track-proven ancestors will sell for more than pups from unknown lines and unraced parents.

2. Go to greyhound races and learn who's who in the sport. Read the race cards and follow the careers of individual dogs that catch your eye, even if you're not interested in buying them. It will help you gain experience in spotting top dogs.

3. Determine your budget. Add together what you are willing to spend on a dam, stud fees, food, flea control and vet fees for the dam and the litter.

4. Buy the best dam you can find within your price range. It's better to sacrifice, if you must, on a lower quality sire with lower fees. The dam you buy may produce more than one litter. You can always change sires with each breeding.

5. Choose a sire to complement your dam. If she is a little too gracile, choose a robust mate. If she's a bit heavy for her height, pick a male who is more slight.

6. Let your veterinarian help you with your first several artificial inseminations. When you're getting started breeding greyhounds, chances are your goal is to just break even by selling the pups. There's no point wasting money on frozen semen if you haven't read your dog's cycle right.

7. Enjoy your experience even if you don't make any money. If your interest in breeding greyhounds stems from a love of the dogs and their sport, you can't lose.

Tags: breeding greyhounds, more than

The Most Affectionate Breeds Of Cat

Certain breeds like to cuddle more than others.

Many people consider cats to be an aloof and independent pet. However, there are a number of cat breeds that are noted for being markedly more affectionate than others. Many of these breeds are already favored among pet owners who enjoy a lot of attention from their animals, but it is worth mentioning that like people, every cat has its own distinct personality, and some individuals are more affectionate than others.

Ragdoll

Ragdolls are big, fluffy and love being held.

Ragdolls are considered a very laid-back and loyal cat breed. Named for their tendency to go limp when picked up, ragdolls tend to greet their owners at the door and enjoy lounging on laps. Often described as gentle and calm, ragdolls are not only affectionate, but also recommended for homes with children. The ragdoll has long fur and is one of the biggest breeds of cat, with some males of the breed growing to 15 pounds.

Manx

Manx cats carry a gene for taillessness. They can have no tail, a partial tail or a nub.

Manx cats are differentiated from other breeds by their lack of a tail. Manx are social, friendly and active, and feature a strong, athletic build. Manx like to explore and are almost never seen just lying around the house. They tend to bond strongly with their owners, making them ideal for someone looking for a constant companion. Very intelligent, Manx cats are able to learn simple commands, and will even play fetch with their owners.

Tonkinese

Tonkinese cats closely resemble Siamese cats in appearance.

Tonkinese cats, known as "Tonks" to their owners, are smart, playful, and get along very well with children.They like to follow their owners around and greet them at the door. Tonks like riding on their owner's shoulders, and, like Manx cats, playing fetch. Owners of Tonkinese cats find them to be very cuddly, tending to seek out human contact. Tonks are closely related to Siamese cats, and resemble them in appearance.

Persian

Persian cats are often admired for their long, beautiful fur.

According to the Cat Fancier's Association, Persians are the number one most favored breed of cat in the United States. Very social, Persian cats love attention. They are gentle and calm, but require a lot of care and special attention because of their long coats, which need to be brushed at least once a day. Persians are less active than many other breeds, making them ideal for pet owners that lead a quiet, laid-back lifestyle.

Tags: their owners, Manx cats, than others, Tonkinese cats, affectionate than, affectionate than others, gentle calm

Avoid Fighting Someone Who Wants To Fight

Often people think that fighting is brave or somehow makes them stronger and more powerful if they're not afraid of backing away from a fight. Actually, the opposite is true. The minute a fight happens, instinct takes over and it has nothing to do with bravery or power. It takes more strength to avoid a fight than to get into one.

Instructions

1. Learn to handle your emotions. The first rule is to think before acting. This will take practice and an entire new set of skills. Human nature is to let emotions rule how a person acts, but it's possible to keep emotions in check. Avoid the temptation to let anger get the best of you.

2. Forget about who's right. When tempers flare it's difficult to reason with someone who wants to fight. Now is not the time to make your case or explain how the other person is overacting. Maybe there will be a time to talk things over later, but maybe the person is a stranger that you'll never see again and in that case, who cares who was right or wrong?

3. Acknowledge that the person is angry. Often people simply need the person they are angry with to recognize their emotion. This doesn't mean that you concede to being wrong or say it's OK for them to be mad. Tell them that you can see they are angry and you've clearly upset them.

4. Be sorry for upsetting the other person. This doesn't mean that you are sorry because you did something wrong. You are sorry for him that he is letting anger get the best of him. But sorry goes a long way in soothing over a touchy situation and can get emotions back down to a safe level to help you avoid a fight.

5. Walk away. Sometimes nothing beats avoidance like walking in the other direction. If the person who wants to fight is coming down the street or a discussion is heating up to an uncomfortable level, simply take a step in the opposite direction and continue walking.

Tags: anger best, avoid fight, doesn mean, doesn mean that, mean that, Often people

Money Making Ideas For 12 Year Olds

Twelve-year olds, or tweens, want to expand their interests and show their maturity but need the safety and security of the family. Many tweens are expanding their social skills so it's a good time to explore safe avenues to earn money.

Significance

A 12-year-old can demonstrate her skills and interests by providing services, learning fiscal responsibility and promote her sense of independence. The goal is to appreciate the cost of the items, in time and effort as well as price.

Year-Round

A responsible child can set up baby-sitting, dog-walking or helper services, such as carrying groceries or yard work. A child with good grades can tutor his peers or with younger children. A child fluent in a foreign language can tutor in that language.

Summer

Summer provides children with more flexible time that doesn't interfere with academics or school functions. They can offer to collect mail and water plants or walk the dogs of family, friends and neighbors on vacation. They also can sell items, such as books, toys and bakery items.

Skills and Talents

Tweens can do basic cooking (such as cupcakes), basic computer support, party help, writing and selling crafts such as sewn stuffed animals. Tweens typically learn a variety of skills during school, and these can be put to use into valuable services.

Home Office Support

Tweens can learn basic office organization by servicing as home office assistants responsible for shredding, organizing files and books, stapling and checking supplies. Demonstrating put together binders and packages using an assembly-line process provides 12-year-olds with valuable skills to create efficiency.

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Golden Doodle Puppy Behavior

Golden doodles are a cross breed, half golden and half poodle.

A golden doodle is a mix between a golden retriever and poodle. This breed originating in the early 1990s. Also referred to as golden poos, goldie poos and groodles, they are an extremely popular breed in North America. Before you adopt or buy a dog it is smart to do some research and get an idea of whether or not you will be able to offer it the kind of home that will best suit it.

Temperament

Golden doodles have a laid back temperament.

Golden doodles make for terrific family dogs. Not only are they friendly, they are also very obedient, intelligent, easy to train, affectionate, and genuinely want to please their owners. Golden doodles are social puppies and remain social as they grow up. They are everybody's friend, from dog to human, with a very easy disposition. It is important when getting a golden doodle puppy that it gets a lot of interaction with people and dogs, as it is more likely to cause trouble if it is kept alone.

Training

The less time they spend alone, the better.

Golden doodles have a special love of learning. Any dog with a love of learning has a higher percentage of being easier to train than breeds that don't. Because they like to be around people and animals so much, enrolling them in a puppy class where they are with other dogs would make their training more enjoyable for them and easier for you.

Living Environment

Dog parks are a great place to take your golden doodle.

Golden doodles require a moderate amount of exercise. That said, they can live happily in a city environment or in the country. As long as they are getting walked, taken to the dog park, and possibly some sort of puppy play group they will be content.

Grooming

The way your dog is groomed is up to you.

Golden doodles require grooming every few weeks. Their coat usually takes after either the poodle in them or the golden, but they typically don't need much more than a brushing. Depending on your taste you could have them groomed regularly, which could be multiple times a year, or you could take care of it yourself when you felt like it.

Tags: Golden doodles, doodles have, doodles require, golden doodle, Golden doodles have

Unique Places To Leave Your Business Card

A business card is one of the most common forms of marketing. Practically every business has a card in some form or another. Traditionally, people hand out business cards at networking events, leave them with friends and family, and place them at checkout counters and on bulletin boards. To be competitive, many businesses need to be creative in where they leave their business cards.

Inside Magazines in Waiting Rooms

Audrey Okaneko, a 17-year veteran in network marketing, suggests leaving your business card inside magazines at the doctor's office. Drawing from this suggestion, the entrepreneur ought to scan articles in various magazines in waiting rooms and identify features likely to be read by potential clients. Placing a business card on the first page of an article that a potential client may read allows the reader to make the connection between the business and its area of expertise. However, before leaving the card, check with the doctor or the receptionist and ask for permission. The doctor's office may need to avoid appearing as if it is referring patients to a business.

Near Products Related to Your Business

In similar fashion as targeting magazine articles, companies should consider leaving business cards near products that relate to the company. An interior designer, for example, could leave her business card near window treatments or fabric samples at craft stores. The idea is that the customer is looking to purchase something related to the business. If that purchase involves some degree of work, such as painting or repairing an automobile, and the customer notices a business card featuring someone who can do the work for them, the customer may be likely to contact that person for help.

Bathrooms and High-Traffic Areas

Places that receive high traffic should be targeted for business card placement. Betternetworker.com suggests leaving cards inside bathrooms or waiting areas at an airport. NextDayFlyers.com suggests contacting a taxi company and asking whether the drivers would be willing to keep a stack of business cards in the cabs while on shift. Here, the idea is to increase the overall scope of exposure of the business card.

At the Competition

Competition can be healthy in business and it need not be adversarial. Entrepreneurs can inspire friendly rivalry between competitors by offering to carry their business cards in return for displaying theirs. This requires confidence in the business and some trust that the competition will actually display the business cards.

Tags: business cards, business card, business card, doctor office, suggests leaving

Get Rid Of Dog Odor In The House

Dogs make wonderful indoor and outdoor companions.

If you have a dog, at some point or another you will have dog odors in the house. These odors may come as a result of your dog having an accident in the house or may just be from its natural smell. It's possible to enjoy your dog's company in the house without sacrificing freshness. Use supplies found in most homes to remove dog odor in your home so you can spend time with your pet in a clean-smelling environment.

Instructions

1. Use a spray bottle to apply cleaning solutions.

Combine the vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spritz this in rooms with dog odor as a natural air freshener.

2. Spray the source of any dog accidents in your home using the vinegar solution. Allow the vinegar and water to sit on the stain for a few minutes.

3. Terry cloth towels are absorbent and work well for clean up.

Blot up the vinegar solution and any dog urine stains and odors. Use absorbent, clean cloths and change cloths frequently. Continue to blot until all liquid has transferred to the cloths.

4. Place small bowls of baking soda in rooms that are affected by dog odor. Set them at a safe height so your dog doesn't try to eat the baking soda. Leave the bowls of baking soda in the affected rooms for up to a week before changing to fresh baking soda.

5. Sprinkle baking soda on carpet and upholstery that has been cleaned with the vinegar solution. Pour a little bit of water and a few drops of dish washing liquid onto the baking soda. Work the ingredients into the fibers of your carpet or upholstery to remove any remaining odor or stain. Allow the paste to dry fully.

6. Remove cleaning agents, dirt and grime with a vacuum.

Vacuum up the dried baking soda paste.

Tags: baking soda, vinegar solution, bowls baking, bowls baking soda, carpet upholstery, spray bottle

Get A Draik In Neopets

Neopets is a virtual pet website where users can create and care for animated pets that live in the online world of Neopia. Users can customize their pets with clothing and accessories, and players must also feed and care for the pets to allow them to thrive. One of the most sought after Neopets is the Draik, a small, winged dragon-like creature. The Draik is rare in Neopia, and obtaining one requires a user to spend a large sum of Neopoints, the game's currency.

Instructions

1. Visit the trading post in Neopia.

2. Search the item list for Draik eggs. The eggs come in five colors: red, green, yellow, purple and blue.

3. Purchase a Draik egg of your choice. The egg will likely cost at least two million Neopoints.

4. Take the egg to the Draik nest (see Resources). The egg will hatch into a Draik.

5. Purchase a Draik Transmogrification potion from the trading post in Mystery Island if you are looking for a cheaper option. Feed the potion to your pet and it will become a Draik. The potion typically costs one million Neopoints.

Tags: million Neopoints, Purchase Draik, trading post

Donate Clothes To Haiti In Illinois

Some relief agencies accept clothing for Haiti.

Haiti, the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere, has been struggling to rebuild from the devastating earthquake that struck the island country in January of 2010. The nation has also had to deal with political violence and a cholera outbreak. Many nonprofit agencies do not have specific clothing drives for Haiti any longer. You still can make an in-kind donation to many relief agencies in Illinois and specify that the clothes be used for Haiti relief. You can also mail your clothing out of state to agencies that work with Haiti.

Instructions

1. Contact Heartland Alliance for Human Needs and Human Rights, phone 312-660-1310. This nonprofit organization, located in Chicago, has both domestic and international programs that provide help for Haiti. Call the agency to arrange to donate your clothing to Haiti.

2. Call the New Life for Haiti program. Life Spring Community Church in Plainfield, Illinois provides resources and does mission work in Haiti. They have different events throughout the year to help the people of Haiti, including clothing drives. The group can be reached at 815-436-7633 or by email, Info@NewLifeForHaiti.org.

3. Email the Concerned Haitian Americans of Illinois, chai.charity@gmail.com.This group focuses on providing education assistance, medical treatment and clothing to residents of Haiti. Although the group primarily accepts monetary donations, you can email the organization about a clothing donation.

4. Contact World Relief Chicago, 773-583-9191, ext. 8569, to arrange to drop off clothing. World Relief Chicago provides assistance to poor countries like Haiti, and they accept in-kind donations.

5. Call or email Food for the Poor. Food for the Poor is located in Florida but they accept clothing for relief efforts in Haiti. Call 954-427-2222 or email gik@foodforthepoor.com to arrange to mail your clothes to the organization, so that they can deliver the clothing to Haiti.

Tags: clothing Haiti, Haiti Call, accept clothing, clothing drives, Food Poor, mail your

Make A Silent Dog Whistle

You can make a whistle from a willow tree branch.

Silent dog whistles, also known as Galton's whistles, are excellent for getting your dog's attention in a crowded area, amid a lot of noise or wind, and without putting in the effort of yelling and chasing them down. Silent dog whistles are designed to emit a high pitch that only dogs can hear. You can train your dog to respond to these high-pitched noises. A dog whistle can be made in much the same way as a willow whistle, with a few alterations made to increase the pitch.

Instructions

1. Find a willow tree branch 8 to 10 inches long and roughly three-fourths of an inch thick.

2. Cut one of the branches at a 45-degree angle. Cut off the sharp end piece squarely.

3. Make a hole in the top of the whistle with your knife, pushing the tip of your knife down into the branch. On the underside, bore out a small hole at an angle the same way as with the top hole. Make this hole no bigger than you could put the tip of a pen through.

4. Cut a line from the end of your mouthpiece along the bark for 6 inches. Cut a circle around the branch where your line ends and remove the bark. You can tap the branch against another piece of wood to help loosen the bark, but keep it in one piece.

5. Cut out a rounded trench in the top half of the whistle. A general rule is the deeper the whistle, the lower pitch the sound will be. Since you want a high-pitched whistle for a dog, this trench should be shallow. Cut no more than one-fourth the depth of the branch. Cut a small shaft the width of your knife blade across your mouthpiece toward the trench. This will be essential in producing the high-pitched sound.

6. Wet the exposed wood and re-apply the bark, creating a chamber for the sound to resonate from. A good dog whistle will make a blowing sound barely audible to human ears, but dogs will hear it loud and clear.

Tags: your knife, Silent whistles, tree branch, whistle with, willow tree, willow tree branch

Rescue A Ferrel Cat

Feral cats live a hard life.

Feral cats exist just about anywhere--in the city or the countryside. A feral cat is either a cat that has never been socialized by humans or a stray cat that has been away from human interaction long enough to have become very timid around them. Feral cats, for the most part, live a hard, dangerous life outdoors. A feral cat's lifespan and quality of life may be greatly increased if it is rescued from the outdoor feral life.

Instructions

1. Rent or purchase a cat trap. These are metal traps used to humanely trap cats and other similar-sized animals. Some animal shelters have them available for renting; otherwise, look for them at large home improvement stores or hardware stores.

2. Prepare and set the cat trap in the morning. If you set it out at night the cat will be trapped in there all night as you sleep. Most traps have a metal plate that responds to pressure, called the trip plate. When the cat walks on it, the door closes behind it. Place an open, very aromatic can of cat food or, as the Feral Cat Coalition suggests, a can of mackerel at the far back in of the cage. This way the cat has to walk all the way in the trap to get it. The Feral Cat Coalition also recommends placing newspaper on the wire floor of the cage to protect the cat's feet.

3. Cover the trap with a towel--this acts both as a disguise and will keep the sun off the cat after it is trapped. Check the trap every hour. If you don't have luck the first day, just keep putting it out each day until you do.

4. Set up a special room just for the cat in your house. Provide a litter box with litter and cat food and water.

5. Contact a veterinarian and tell him or her about your plans. The cat will need vaccinations and flea treatments as soon as possible. You'll need to give the vet a heads up so that he knows to expect you soon. Feral cats require special handling.

6. Bring the trap, with the cat inside, indoors or place the trap in your car if you are going to the vet that day. If it is too late in the day, or you are waiting to do the vet visit at another time place the trap in the designated room. Close the door behind you before you release the feral cat.

7. Allow the cat to get used to the room, and, gradually, you. However, a feral cat may never warm to you. Be prepared for anything. A truly feral cat may vocalize loudly once confined; it may literally climb the walls and may go to other extreme measures to try to leave the room. Be quiet and cautious around the cat. Do not try to touch it until it comes to you. Having plenty of delicious, aromatic cat food on hand to establish the room as a place for feeding may help put the cat more at ease.

Tags: Feral cats, aromatic food, Feral Coalition, live hard, place trap, trap with

Make A Virtual Family Game

Generate a virtual family.

Teach your child about the different members of a family by showing them create a virtual family through a free, online game.called "Make a Family." You will click on a selection of outfits for different family members, including a father and a mother. You also can select babies and older children for the family.

Instructions

1. Click on the links labeled "Father," "Mother," "Babies," "Toys," and "Backgrounds."

2. Double-click on the items found under each link. Examples include a man's suit, a baby and baby clothes and a selection of clothing for children. When you double-click the icons, they will automatically appear on the screen.

3. Click on the icons, move them into place and release your mouse. You will need to add hair, faces and other accessories to each family member. To do this, double-click icons for hair and clothes. Click, drag and release to put the parts on the family member.

4. Print a copy of your family once you have completed it.

Tags: double-click icons, family member, virtual family

Write A Report On Horse Training

Horse Training reports are a cinch with a little research.

Training a horse can be a daunting task, and there are several things that trainers have to take into consideration when training them. While the task of training a horse itself may seem difficult, writing a report on training is not. Reports on horse training can be done with ease, when following the fundamental steps for writing a high quality paper.

Instructions

Research

1. Find sources of information on horse training. The best places to look are books, encyclopedias, magazines, or articles on the Internet.

2. Read each source, and take notes. While reading, it is important to chronicle different tactics used to effectively train a horse.

3. Organize your notes. You will be able to easily access information by organizing your notes efficiently.

Writing the Report

4. Make an outline, using the notes you made while researching. Outlines lay the ground work for a solid product. If the outline is followed, the paper will flow well and be easy to read.

5. Write a strong introduction to set the tone. Once you have the introduction, which typically ranges from one to three paragraphs, you can continue with the body.

6. Follow your outline to support your main idea. All of the notes you have taken will come into effect here, as they comprise the bulk of the report.

7. Finish your report with a solid conclusion. Conclusions tie the introduction and body together, and wrap up all topics covered in the report.

Tags: horse training, your notes

Adopt A Bichon Frise

A Bichon Frise is a small and fluffy white dog whose appearance can resemble a poodle. The breed has a history that dates back to thirteenth century Europe, and Bichon Frises are still loved in modern times because of their playful gentleness. According to some, Bichon Frises also tend to be well-tolerated by people with dog allergies. If you are interested in adopting a Bichon Frise rather than purchasing a puppy outright from a breeder, there are several things you can do to get started.

Instructions

1. Visit PetFinder or another animal shelter search service and check to see whether any Bichon Frises are listed in your geographic area. If so, consider going to see those dogs, but note that they may not be purebreds (see Resources below).

2. Check the websites of any animal shelters in your area and call to ask if there are any Bichon Frises that require a home. Not all animals available for adoption will be listed on the Internet. You may be able to ask to be put on a list to be called if a Bichon Frise comes into custody.

3. Check to see if there is a Bichon Frise rescue organization within your geographic region. Rescue organizations usually work to try to keep specific dog breeds out of shelters, and they often have dogs in their care who require homes, or they may maintain a list of people who are interested in rescuing a dog when one becomes available. Note that rescue organizations tend to be selective, as they want to make sure that each dog goes to the best home possible (see Resources below).

4. Place an ad on your local Craigslist or other service saying that you are interested in adopting a Bichon Frise. Someone who needs to find a new home for a Bichon Frise may see your ad and get in touch (see Resources below).

5. Visit a dog show or Bichon Frise enthusiast group and make your interest known that you would like to rescue a Bichon Frise. People may be able to put you in touch with resources or with individuals who need to find a new home for their pets.

Tags: Bichon Frise, Bichon Frises, Resources below, adopting Bichon, adopting Bichon Frise

Calm A Skittish Barking Dog

Find the cause of your dog's anxious barking.

Excessive barking is generally caused by the dog feeling anxious and unfulfilled, and becoming neurotic as a result. To stop your dog from exhibiting skittish behavior and barking excessively, find and address the reason it is behaving this way, such as illness, lack of exercise or leadership, or separation anxiety.

Instructions

1. Book an appointment with your local veterinarian so that your dog can have a full body checkup, as this will rule out any health problems that could be making the dog uncomfortable.

2. Take the dog for a walk every day to allow it to burn all its excess energy. Wait until the dog is in a calm state before you set off on the walk. Step out of the house before the dog and walk slightly in front of it, to communicate that you are the pack leader, as this can make an anxious dog feel more secure, according to dog psychologist Cesar Millan. Ensure that the dog always enters the house after all other family members. Correct the dog by giving a quick sideways tug on the leash if your dog begins to appear anxious or bark while you are walking.

3. Ignore anxious behavior in the home, but if the dog begins to bark excessively, give a correction, such as touching the dog quickly on the shoulder with your fingertips, as this will break the dog's concentration. Ensure that you act in a calm and assertive manner while giving the correction, otherwise your dog may not listen to you. Avoid shouting at the dog as it may think that you are simply joining in, and will therefore continue to bark. Do not attempt to soothe the dog when it is acting in a skittish manner or when it is barking, as this encourages the dog to practice the behavior because you appear to appreciate it.

4. Treat your dog for acting calmly and being totally relaxed by rewarding it with verbal praise, occasional food treats and by giving it a massage.

5. If your dog normally suffers from separation anxiety, ensure that the dog is in a relaxed state of mind before you leave it alone. Leave several toys for your dog to play with and chew while you are away, and exercise the dog just before you leave to tire it out and encourage it to sleep while you are out.

Tags: before leave, before walk, Ensure that, separation anxiety, this will, with your

Tax Credits To Start A Small Farm

The IRS offers several tax credits to help small farmers start their operations.

If you want to start a small farm, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers several tax credits to help you reduce your liability. The deductions for farm owners are many of the same deductions available to other small business owners. Farmers are also allowed to deduct the cost of farm property in the year of purchase and 50 percent of prepaid farm supplies. Because of cyclical fluctuations in income, farmers are also allowed to average out their current income over the past three years.

Business Expenses

As with all businesses, farm or non-farm, any expenses that concern the operation of the enterprise are deductible. This includes areas of the farmhouse used for business, farm equipment repair, maintenance and fuel expenses. Other deductible expenses include the cost and maintenance of animals, plus seed or materials needed to produce the finished farm product. The IRS generally defines business expenses as those that are accepted and appropriate for your trade or business.

Farm Property Deductions

Section 179 of the IRS code allows a business to fully deduct the cost of property in the year of purchase. The tax credit is limited to $500,000 and applicable to any property that falls under this category except for building structures used to furnish lodging. However, non-lodging commercial facilities like horticultural and livestock structures do qualify under this section.

Income-Averaging Credit

Farmers often make income in one year as a result of efforts made over several years. Because of this elongated time frame, the IRS allows you to average out the income from a current year over the three previous years. This means you can allocate income for the year to a prior year where you declared a loss. However, this averaging is only available to farms that meet the IRS definition of a farmer, which includes anyone operating a nursery or sod farm, anyone raising or harvesting fruit-bearing trees or other crops, raising ornamental trees, raising of animals or one engaged in any fishing activity. If you lease land to a farming business but receive compensation in a share of the business, you may also take the income-averaging credit.

Prepaid Farm Supplies

You can deduct 50 percent of your prepaid farm supplies for feed, seed, fertilizer, small plants and poultry. However, this deductible is limited to 50 percent of your other deductible farm expenses. For example, if you bought $1,500 in feed, $500 in seed, and $4,000 in poultry, but your other deductible farm expenses amounted to $10,000, you can only take a $5,000 deduction for these expenses (half of your other deductible expenses).

Tags: your other, your other deductible, also allowed, credits help, deduct cost

Create Html Email Templates

Creating an HTML email template

An HTML email template can help add visual appeal to a plain text email and can also be more effective when it comes to advertising. There are a couple things to keep in mind, however, when creating an HTML template. Keep graphics to a minimum as too many graphics can cause an email to load very slowly. This can be a problem for users with a slow connection speed or those who have download quotas set by their Internet service providers. Be aware that hackers can embed Trojan horses and computer viruses into HTML emails much easier than in plain text emails.

Instructions

1. Open your favorite HTML editing program, such as Dreamweaver or FrontPage. Click on the "New Page" option.

2. Create the layout for your template by adding text, tables and graphics to the new page. Click the "Save As" button and name your template.

3. Open your email management program, such as Outlook Express, and click "Create Mail." Choose the "Insert" option and click "Text from File." Scroll down to find the HTML template that you just created and click on it.

4. Fill in your email template with current information and send a test email to your own email address to make sure that the email template displays properly.

5. Click the "Save As" option in your email program and save the new email template that you just created. Open the template whenever you want to send an email using HTML.

Tags: email template, your email, Click Save, HTML email template, HTML template

Adopt A Horse

Horses can be adopted from different situations. Whether it is a wild horse from the Bureau of Land Management, from a rescue organization or from a retired racehorse organization, you are helping the horse move on to a better life. Learn adopt a horse by following these steps.

Instructions

1. Choose a horse adoption organization that you are interested in. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) adopts out wild horses. If you are interested in a retired racehorse, there are many organizations around racetrack areas with both Thoroughbred and Quarter horses. Rescue organizations care for horses rescued from poor conditions and are located all across the U.S.

2. Fill out an application for the organization that you choose. Almost every organization requires paperwork and records of what horse gets adopted and where the animal goes. Each organization may ask different questions and ask for certain requirements.

3. Show proof of adequate facilities to care for the adopted horse. Some organizations ask you to describe your facilities and sign an agreement verifying that you plan to keep the horse at that location. Others may send someone to your place to see that the facilities are adequate. You must provide a safe environment for the horse, including a pasture with horse-safe fence, a shelter from inclement weather and clean water and feed buckets.

4. Pick a horse to adopt once your application has been approved. Some organizations help you in this process or even offer a horse that seems to be a good fit for you. Others may have many horses to choose from so you can just pick the animal you want.

5. Pay the adoption fee for the horse. Some adoption agencies have a minimum requirement; others are based on the horse and may be low or high, depending on the condition of the horse. The Bureau of Land Management allows approved applicants to bid on the wild horses, but the fees are generally low.

6. Provide transportation to bring your adopted horse to your facilities. Allow the horse time to adjust to the new home.

Tags: Bureau Land, Bureau Land Management, Land Management, adopted horse, horse Some, horse that, organization that

Adoption Grants For Canadians

Canada has several agencies that offer grants for adoptions.

The need to pair orphaned children with families wanting to adopt is a constant cycle in Canada and many other countries. Interested families must undergo a plethora of paperwork and background checks and pay large sums of money before an adoption can go through. In Canada, there are certain grant options available to these families wanting to adopt, which can help alleviate expensive up-front adoption costs.

Cost of Adoption

A family going through the adoption process can sometimes expect to pay up to $20,000 to $30,000 up front. These up-front costs go toward expenses such as cost of travel, detailed reports and correspondence between Canada and foreign governments, international agency adoption fees and medical exams.

Unlike a loan, a grant is free money that the recipient does not have to pay back, which makes it doubly beneficial to a family who can't afford to go through the adoption process alone but wants to adopt a needing child. Since the pool of children and families in the process is so large, grants typically go to families in greater need, which is based on household income. Like any grant program, adoption grant companies have strict application processes and specific deadlines that must be followed.

Grant Agency Criteria

Canada has several agencies that offer grants to families wanting to adopt a child. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $10,000. The applicant should do research to determine the stipulations placed on adoption grants. This saves both parties time and will keep the applicant from seeking a grant with a company that does not offer grants that fall in line with their circumstances.

Typical grant program categories and circumstances that agencies consider include income need and amount requested; special grants for adoptions involving children with special needs; and the age of the child and whether or not they will be adopted with their siblings.

Notable Canadian Grant Agencies

The two most notable Canadian companies that offer adoption grants are Orphan's Hope: Kids to Canada and Embracing Children Humanitarian Organization, or ECHO. Both organizations depend heavily on volunteers, donations and fundraisers.

Orphan's Hope, founded in 2002, offers up to $10,000 to help parents adopt children from foreign countries in need of a family. Families must qualify for assistance, as the need is typically great. The company does not receive government funding, so it exists mainly by individual and corporate donations. Orphan's Hope says 93 percent of their donations are distributed directly to the needing family.

ECHO, founded in 2004, also specializes in international adoption. Unlike Orphan's Hope, ECHO is completely volunteer driven. The company follows strict guidelines for eligibility for grants to be given out per fiscal year.

Tags: Orphan Hope, families wanting, families wanting adopt, offer grants, that offer, wanting adopt

Help Save Orangutans From Extinction

Only an estimated 60,000 to 70,000 orangutans are left in the wild, and their numbers are rapidly decreasing.

A 2003 "National Geographic News" article reported that the orangutan, which shares 96.4 percent of its DNA with humans, may be extinct in the wild as early as 2023, if the factors contributing to this trend are not changed. Ultimately, the most prominent cause of this trend toward orangutan extinction is human activity, particularly the destruction of the Sumatran and Bornean rain forests, illegal hunting and the illegal pet trade. While most of these issues require local action, everyone can help fight against the extinction of this close cousin of humanity.

Instructions

1. Avoid products made with non-sustainable palm oil. The rise of the palm oil industry in Malaysia and Indonesia has had a disastrous effect on orangutan survival. While sustainable agricultural techniques have counterbalanced this effect in some plantations, many products are still made with palm oil from plantations using non-sustainable techniques. The non-sustainable plantations contribute to the destruction of the orangutan's habitat, as the only way their production can be increased is expansion, destroying more rain forest. Lists of products using non-sustainable palm oil can be found online. (See Resources.)

2. Do not buy ramin wood. Illegal logging is a major problem in Indonesia and Malaysia, which contributes to the destruction of the orangutan habitat. The primary focus of the global market for illegally logged Bornean and Sumatran wood is ramin (Gonystylus), and, according to a 2004 report by the Species Survival Network, 90 percent of the wood logged in Indonesia is logged illegally. While the governments in the region have dedicated themselves to protecting their natural heritages, they face difficulties with enforcement. Often, impoverished villagers will illegally log national parks when the national authorities are not in the area, as a means to earn extra money.

3. Refrain from keeping orangutans as pets. While it is legally acceptable to have captive-born orangutans as pets in many jurisdictions, the keeping of wild-born orangutans as pets is strictly prohibited under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The reason for this prohibition is simple -- the removal of specimens from the wild decreases the wild population and, in turn, the number of wild births of orangutans (keep in mind that a female orangutan will typically only give birth once every seven to nine years), bringing the species closer to extinction. About 1,000 Bornean orangutans are thought to be smuggled into Java and out of Indonesia each year, and it is, as always, difficult to tell where black markets and legitimate markets may intersect.

4. Donate to orangutan causes. Many organizations actively work to save orangutans from extinction. One of the most prominent of these is the Borneo Orangutan Survival (BOS) Foundation, whose Nyaru Menteng rehabilitation site was featured in the BBC series "Orangutan Diary" and the Animal Planet series "Orangutan Island". The Orangutan Foundation International (OFI) is another notable organization working toward helping orangutans survive. Due to the cost of rehabilitating and releasing orangutans, these organizations take donations. You can donate to BOS directly or through any of its sister organizations throughout the world and you can donate to OFI directly. (See Resources.) You can also donate $10 to OFI by texting "ape" or "orangutan" to 20222.

5. Adopt an orangutan. In addition to traditional donations, the BOS also allows individuals to "adopt" an orangutan for a monthly or annual fee. What this entails is that, if you adopt an orangutan, the BOS will keep you informed of developments in that orangutan's rehabilitation.

Tags: orangutans pets, destruction orangutan, destruction orangutan habitat, donate directly, made with, most prominent

Meet Women Outside Of Bars

An attractive couple on a date

The key to finding the right woman is looking in the right places. Attracting women outside of bars takes a different approach. Carousing from bar to bar is the least likely way to meet your ideal woman. Nine times out of 10 women go to bars simply to drink and have a good time. Prepare to explore places you have never been.

Instructions

1. Compile a list of all the places you plan to attend. Diversify the list by adding places that are distinct. YMCA, local sporting events and the park are all good places to meet nice women. Avoid night clubs and places where alcohol is consumed.

2. Make yourself more available to meet women. Keep a positive attitude. Pay close attention to your appearance. Dress suave as often as possible and wear a small amount of cologne more often. Show confidence so that women will take you seriously.

3. Get a gym membership if you don't have one. You might meet women on daily errands such as going to the store or gym. Initiate conversation to show her interest. Keep the small talk to a minimum.

4. Become active in a church. Join the choir or the usher board. Women usually outnumber men in church so this is a good opportunity. Remember this is church, so try not to make it obvious that you are there to meet women.

5. Start taking part in your community. Participate in volunteer services such as the Boys and Girls Club, Salvation Army and Red Cross. Women admire men who devote spare time to community service.

6. Get to know a female neighbor and invite her over to talk or have dinner. Arrange a get together and invite her. Inviting her to a gathering prevents her from feeling awkward. Wait a while before asking her out. Avoid being too forward.

7. Try meeting women at places you've never gone to but have an interest in, or go to places you have not been to in a while.

Tags: meet women, places have

Start A Business In New Jersey

New Jersey ranked second in the 2007 State New Economy Index.

Starting a business in New Jersey offers a number of competitive advantages over surrounding states. New Jersey ranked second in the nation in the 2007 State New Economy Index, which measures a state's support for entrepreneurship and the knowledge economy. Additionally, New Jersey has a lower income tax rate than New York for people with an adjusted gross income of under $500,000 per year. New Jersey also offers a number of financing options for new businesses, such as The Edison Innovation Fund for life science and technology companies.

Instructions

1. Choose a name for your new business. Search the New Jersey State Business Gateway Service website to confirm the name is not already in use. You cannot use a name that is the same or confusingly similar to a name already in use in the state of New Jersey.

2. Decide on a legal structure for your business, such as sole proprietorship, limited liability company or corporation. Consult an attorney and a tax accountant if you are unsure which structure is best for your needs. A sole proprietorship is the easiest to set up but affords you no legal protection and can only consist of one person. A limited liability company or corporation is a separate legal entity and can have multiple owners, but each form has different tax implications. In general, a limited liability company is sufficient if you do not need to issue shares.

3. File certificate of formation paperwork with the state. Include details about your chosen business structure and contact information, along with all other required information. Name a registered agent, who is a New Jersey resident who agrees to receive official documentation on the company's behalf.

Register your business name with your county clerk if you have chosen a sole proprietorship, which does not require a certificate of formation.

4. Apply for a federal employer identification number, known as an EIN. Find the form at the Internal Revenue Service website. Submit the form online or by mail.

5. File a business registration certificate, Form NJ-REG, online at the New Jersey Department of Revenue's website in order to withhold, report and pay state taxes. Include your business information and federal EIN number along with other required information.

6. Research whether your particular business type requires a license and/or permit in New Jersey by searching the New Jersey Business Portal website. Businesses that require permits include child care centers, taxi services and shellfish harvesters.

Tags: your business, liability company, limited liability, limited liability company, sole proprietorship, 2007 State, 2007 State Economy

Average Salary Of A Groomer

Groomers use their expertise to beautify dogs, cats, and other pets.

For pet lovers, the job of a pet groomer may be a dream career. The position lets individuals combine their love of animals with an expertise in bathing, styling, and caring for pets. If you're considering a career in grooming four-legged friends, getting a clear picture of salaries to expect will help you plan your future.

National Averages

Based on a survey of 214 pet groomers, a national average salary ranges from $19,934 to $36,088. The survey, conducted by PayScale, is accurate as of December 2010 and do not incorporate non-cash benefits such as medical insurance. It does, however, include commission income, which ranged from $1,000 to $24,000 per year for the survey's participants.

Experience

Getting into the grooming profession may mean working for a few years before achieving one's ideal salary. According to PayScale, groomers with one to four years experience earn between $20,168 and $31,697 per year. After five to nine years, the top end of this range grows to $35,820. After 10 to 19 years, groomers again see an increase in top average salary to $41,079.

Employer

Based on PayScale's findings, self-employed groomers earn the most, with top salaries around $45,600. For those employed by private companies, the top end of the salary range only stretches to around $36,000. Those working at animal hospital have salaries spanning from $17,200 to $30,000.

Benefits

Taking pet grooming from a hobby to a career means considering not only financial compensation, but non-cash benefits as well. According to PayScale's results, only 28 percent of groomers receive medical benefits from their work. This number decreases to 20 percent and 15 percent when looking at dental and vision coverage, respectively.

Tags: According PayScale, non-cash benefits

Startup Grants For Dog Rescues

Dog rescue groups help families adopt unwanted dogs.

Dog rescue groups seek to place a wide variety of unwanted canines into loving adoptive homes. Groups include city or county animal shelters with few admission restrictions, along with privately run humane societies. Dog foster and adoption groups often have no physical address, but network with local and regional partners to find willing adoptive owners. Breed rescue groups also maintain active adoption networks. New dog rescue groups frequently apply for start-up grants.

Organizational Framework

A solid legal and financial foundation increases your chances of grant awards. Develop a mission statement that outlines your group's short- and long-term goals and implementation framework. A certified public accountant helps your group adopt a financial and organizational structure. An attorney formulates your application for Internal Revenue Service 501c3 tax-exempt status. This professional expertise helps you avoid agonizing delays because of incorrectly prepared documents.

Expert Support

Take advantage of free grant-writing resources from the Foundation Center, an established organization that serves as a clearinghouse for grant-seekers and grant-makers worldwide. Learn write a grant proposal that incorporates objective facts about your dog rescue group while communicating the group's commitment to its mission. Access an online philanthropic reference library, along with an ever-changing list of grant-makers seeking applications from specific types of groups.

Grant-writing Guidelines

A well-written grant proposal establishes an obvious link between the grant-maker's mission and your rescue group's goals. Outline the specific program that the grant monies will be used, along with a realistic budget. For example, the grant might be used to upgrade a shelter; or to purchase a multiple-dog transport vehicle. Discuss how you will implement and evaluate the program. Include a professionally prepared cover letter that reinforces your message.

Grant Sources

Grants are frequently awarded through clearinghouses that accept applications from dog rescue groups and animal shelters. Pet food manufacturers and large pet-product stores often maintain grant programs, as well. Grant dollar amounts are often capped to increase the number of organizations served by the program. Grant applications may only be accepted during certain time periods, and are always subject to funds availability.

Tags: rescue groups, along with, your rescue group, animal shelters, applications from

Puppy Crate Training Secrets

Crate training can help puppies learn which toys they can play with.

Introducing a new puppy into your life can be surprisingly challenging. Crate training is a popular way to housebreak your puppy and teach him the rules of the house. Consider trying a few of these secrets and tips on making crate training as effective and smooth a transition as possible.

Scent markers

One of the first things nearly all new owners complain about with crate training a puppy is the whining and crying when the pup is inside the crate. This behavior can signify separation anxiety. One of the most effective ways to make a pup comfortable in his new den -- the crate -- is to mark it with your scent so he feels close to you. A pillowcase filled with worn t-shirts and dirty socks may sound disgusting, but to your new dog, it is a strong, welcome sign of your presence. Just make sure none of the items you put in the dog's crate are favorite clothing items or irreplaceable, as puppies tend to chew everything.

Treats and toys

Another way to make a puppy comfortable is to instill in his mind positive associations with the crate. Specific toys or treats reserved for use only in the crate create distinct, positive reinforcement that the crate is a desirable place to be. In addition, any anxiety the pup may feel about separation from you can be worked out through chewing on an edible chew toy or playing with a safe stuffed squeaky toy.

Outside

Before crating your puppy, do your best to exhaust him. Go for a walk or play for at least 20 minutes to a half-hour. Let him relieve his bladder and bowels before bringing him into the crate. Since the puppy will be tired, he will be more likely to settle down and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Location

Despite what some trainers recommend, the best place for a dog to sleep is in your room, according to "The Art of Raising a Puppy," by the Monks of New Skete. Proper crate training requires the puppy to sleep in a crate, which means the best place for the crate is in your room, not in the most used areas in your house. The puppy will consider the crate a nice place to rest from the outside world, making him more likely to accept the crate after playtime. Having your puppy sleep in the crate in your room will also keep him from whining and crying at night, as he will be in your "den" with you and will typically adjust to the sleeping arrangement within several days. Perhaps the greatest benefit of crating your puppy in your bedroom is the enhanced bond and trust the dog will share with you. In his mind, the two of you are sharing a "den," and he will consider you a permanent part of his "pack."

Tags: your puppy, your room, best place, crate training, Crate training

Rescue A Maltese In Ohio

The Maltese is a small dog. They make wonderful companions for apartment or condominium dwellers since they do not need a lot of space to exercise. Maltese are good with other small dogs. They can be barkers and are not known to be good with small children. There are Maltese and Maltese mixes that need rescue throughout Ohio.

Instructions

1. Foster a dog for Ohio Maltese Rescue. Ohio Maltese Rescue saves dogs from shelters, puppy mills and families that need to find new homes. The rescue relies upon foster homes to care for the dogs until they are adopted. Foster homes not only provide food and shelter, but also help train the dog and work on any problem behavior the dog may have.

2. Foster a Maltese or Maltese mix for an Ohio-based all-breed rescue group. All-breed rescues take in all sizes of dogs. Many work with foster homes that specialize in one breed or breed mix. Offer to help with Maltese or Maltese mixes. Find a local all-breed dog rescue on www.petfinder.com.

3. Visit your local animal shelter. Approximately twenty five percent of the dogs that enter Ohio animal shelters are purebred. While you may not find a purebred Maltese in the shelter, you could come across a Malt-poo or other "designer" breed that needs a rescue.

4. Contact your veterinarian, groomer and kennel operator. Let them know that you would like to rescue a Maltese. Often families that need to find a home for their pets contact their pet care professionals for help.

5. Watch Craigslist. Ohio has a busy pet community on Craigslist, where people who need to find homes for pets post requests. Carefully respond to the requests. Do not pay a large fee. Most rescue dogs will be offered for a small fee and the people will ask questions to make certain the dog is going to a good home.

Tags: Maltese Maltese, need find, that need, all-breed rescue, families that

The Differences Between Nintendo Ds & Ds Lite Games

Nintendo DS hand-held gaming

The Nintendo DS Lite was released in 2006, just two years after the original Nintendo DS. Nintendo did not create a more powerful DS; it simply made a few changes that improved the console. The game play in both portable consoles remains the same, but there are a few noticeable differences. However, games that were bought for the DS Lite can still be played in the original Nintendo DS portable gaming system.

Size and Weight

A noticeable change between the DS and DS Lite is the size. The DS Lite weighs 21 percent less and is 42 percent lighter than the original model. The smaller size of the DS Lite did not change the size of the screen. Screens on both consoles are the same height and width.

Battery

The smaller DS Lite contains a battery that is more powerful. The DS contains an 850mAh battery, but the DS Lite comes with 1,000mAh battery power. Gamers will now be able to play up to 19 hours instead of 14 hours, and it will take more than 500 charges before the battery life will drop.

Controls

The buttons on the DS Lite do the same work as the original model, but some buttons were changed or moved to different locations. The power control was moved from the bottom left to the right side of the case. Instead of a button, Nintendo also changed the power control into a slider that players push to turn the system on or off. The buttons for Start and Select were reduced in size and moved below the D-pad. In the original DS, they were larger and placed in the top-right of the control buttons.

Screen Color

The screens of the DS Lite are much brighter than those on a DS. Players can go into the control panel to change the brightness of the screen. The DS Lite does not have a backlight, but the colors allow players to use the systems in direct sunlight.

Tags: more powerful, Nintendo Lite, original model, original Nintendo, power control, size Lite

Dallas Agility Training

Agility dogs require significant amounts of training.

Few cities are as agility-friendly as Dallas, Texas. Possessing state-of-the-art training and recreation facilities, the city will help provide your canine athlete with the essential tools to become successful in agility competition.

Training Centers

Dallas has three canine agility centers--Dallas Dog Sports (DDS), Top Dog Dallas and Gold Medal Dog Training Center. Dallas Dog Sports was established in 1995. DDS has three outdoor rings located on 7 acres of land and an indoor facility as well. There is an extensive list of champions that have been trained at DDS. Top Dog Dallas offers beginning and intermediate training classes on an ongoing basis. It includes an indoor and outdoor facility. Gold Medal Dog Training Center offers small class sizes geared toward beginners. In addition to agility, it also offers obedience, flyball and rally-o instruction.

Clubs

Dallas is home to the Dallas Agility Working Group (DAWG), the oldest active agility club in the United States. DAWG offers like-minded individuals the opportunity to train, travel and compete together. It hosts trials, workshops and seminars as well. It has staff trainers and invites guest trainers to host events and clinics. Trials are offered through the American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club and United States Dog Agility Association.

On Your Own

Dallas has stunning resources for do-it-yourself agility training. Possessing the first indoor dog park in the nation, Dallas offers ample training space. Unleashed Indoor Dog Park is a 50,000 square foot facility that offers an agility yard for trainers and owners to use. White Rock Dog Park is also located in Dallas and provides basic obstacles. It's an off-leash park with free admission.

Competition

Dallas Dog Sports and Dallas Agility Workers Group host dozens of trials a year. The smaller clubs in Dallas host at least one trial a year.

Caring for Your Agility Dog

While there are no agility-specific programs to help you care for your canine athlete, there are ample resources via vaccination clinics and spay/neuter clinics. Some veterinarians will offer discounted food to top agility dogs, and handlers/trainers receive discounts at club-sponsored events.

Tags: Dallas Agility, canine athlete, Club United, Dallas offers, Dallas Sports

Post Free Classified Ads Online

Posting ads online is a successful method of attracting attention to your ad.

Listing a classified advertisement on a popular website is a guaranteed method of having as many people as possible see the advertisement. In addition, many websites allow you to post a classified advertisement at no charge. However, posting an ad online may seem confusing. Luckily, most websites walk you through the steps necessary to complete your posting using clear and straightforward language.

Instructions

1. Create the posting. Some websites require you to complete a posting form online, while others provide you with a blank space to write whatever you wish. Make sure to run a spellchecker on your ad to catch any misspellings.

2. Visit the website and select a category for the advertisement. Depending on the website, you can choose from a variety of categories. For example, on eBay Classifieds, if you are posting an ad for a puppy, you can select the dogs and puppies category under pets.

3. Preview the ad and make any necessary changes. This is your opportunity to double-check the ad to ensure all information is included and displayed correctly. If possible, have another set of eyes read the posting before you submit the ad to the website.

4. Submit the ad for publishing. Usually, the ad publishes within a few minutes. In addition, most websites allow you to update a posting after it is online.

Tags: classified advertisement, most websites, websites allow

Advertise A Pet For Adoption

The American Humane Association reports that 3.7 million animals were euthanized in 2008. Effective advertising for pet adoption is one small way to put a dent in this staggering figure. Though the decision to adopt an animal should never be made lightly, several advertising techniques can help a pet get adopted faster.

Instructions

1. Get specific information on the animal. If possible, assess the animal's health, age and temperament. Uncover if the animal is vaccinated and neutered.

The overall health and age could hurt or hinder an animal's chances of adoption, but such information should be revealed to potential families.

2. Make a poster outline. Open a word processor and dedicate the top half to pictures and the bottom half to a short bio. Include your phone number and create a clever email account to receive queries, like "helpsavesparky" or "rescuefido."

Print copies, ideally in color, to post in the city. Save a copy to paste for internet postings.

3. In the poster, highlight his best features. Determine the personality of the animal and mention it in the poster. If he has an affinity for Frisbees, mention it in the poster. Highlight his patient attitude towards children, gentle demeanor or energetic personality.

4. Use the pet's voice. Consider making the bio from the animal's perspective on the poster. For example, write, "I am a young black lab mix who loves car rides and young kids. I have all of my shots and can't wait to join your family on walks and camping trips. I promise to behave around strangers and other dogs, too, though sometimes I get excited around new people."

5. Place importance on the reader. Elizabeth Doyle of Bestfriends.org suggests using a "reverse salesman" approach: explain how the animal would be so lucky to be a part of the reader's home. Subtly imply that few people are interested in taking the dog and the reader needs to take action.

For example, write, "Three-year-old Zoey has been waiting a long time for her forever home. She is convinced she can offer just as much love as a puppy, and hopes others believe her, too."

6. Post pictures. Take plenty of pictures that show the face of the pet. Get down to his level to take the picture. In the flier, write "more pictures available upon request" and save a few on your hard drive.

7. Be vigilant. Online sources, like craiglist.org, fill up quickly with new posts. Repost your adoption listing every other day to maintain interest. Ensure your physical fliers around town are still visible and post new fliers after any bad weather.

In addition to posting on free online sources like petfinder.com, ask to post your flier in veterinary offices, churches, schools, grocery stores, coffee houses and restaurants.

Tags: example write, mention poster, sources like

Apply Online For A Service Dog

A guide dog walking abreast of a blind individual is the most widely identified symbol of a human and service dog relationship. The utilization of service dogs is not limited to the blind. According to the 1990 Americans with Disabilities act, "The ADA defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability." While the review process may require phone conversations and the review of medical records, many organizations with a mission of training service dogs provide a means for members of the public to apply online.

Instructions

1. Visit the Internet home pages of groups that train service dogs or match individuals with service dogs. Organizations may be discovered through Internet searches or by recommendation of support groups or health care providers related to the individual disability.

2. Carefully read the criteria of each service animal group. Some groups only train and supply service dogs to assist individuals with a specific disability. Preference is not discriminatory. Rather, the group specializes in training dogs to perform specific areas of assistance. For example, America's VetDogs matches wounded veterans with service dogs, while Leader Dogs for the Blind assists persons with limited vision.

3. Compile medical information detailing physical limitations. Have medical records, military records and contact information for current rehabilitation programs or doctors on hand. Questions may reference the information.

4. Click to the application section of the website. The correct page may be labeled "Apply" or "Application."

5. Fill out the online questionnaire as thoroughly and as truthfully as possible. In addition to identifying questions and medical history, applications may ask whether the applicant is prepared to care for a dog financially. While the organization may provide the service dog at no expense to the applicant, routine veterinary visits and food are the responsibility of the applicant.

6. Hunt for secondary forms on the website. Fill out supporting forms, such as information releases. This gives an organization permission to contact references or to gather additional information to aid in the application process.

7. Submit the application when it has been completely filled out.

Tags: service dogs, individuals with, medical records, service animal, with service, with service dogs

Get Rid Of What You Don'T Want

Get Rid of What You Don't Want

If you find that your home is cluttered with items you no longer use, not to fret. There still may be use and life left in your discards, and with a little effort, you may even convert some castoffs into cold, hard cash as well as deductions on your next tax return. Use this chart to get started. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Get rid of old clothes. Sell them at a garage sale, yard sale or online. Consign never-worn or designer-brand items less than 2 years old. Sell vintage clothing (made more than 20 years ago) to retro stores. Donate to charities and shelters. Worn out sneakers can go to Nike at nikereuseashoe.com.

2. Get rid of excess wire hangers. If they're in good shape, give them to dry cleaners or charity stores.

3. Donate old eyeglasses. You can give them to the Lion's Club Recycle for Sight program (lionsclubs.org). Drop-off locations include Goodwill, LensCrafters stores and community offices.

4. Give away old towels, blankets and linens. The Humane Society will accept most. Items in decent, usable condition can be donated to shelters for homeless people and battered women.

5. Dump old magazines ... but not in the trash. Donate them to hospitals, nursing homes, veterans services and doctors' offices. Donate needless subscriptions to public libraries and schools. And, of course, you can recycle.

6. Offer others the benefit of your books. Sell them to book resale stores or online, or donate them to charities, schools and shelters.

7. Sell computers, printers and other technology devices online or through classifieds. Or you can donate them to sharetechnology.org and other charitable organizations.

8. Sell old musical instruments to resell stores like Music Go Round, or donate them to school music programs.

9. Sell old sporting goods equipment on eBay or a resell store like Play It Again Sports. You can also donate them to youth sports programs, schools or organizations like Second Swing.

10. Donate rundown vehicles to auto-maintenance vocational schools or charities like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Or try selling them through classifieds, online or print.

Tags: donate them, give them, Sell them, stores Donate, than years

Fundraising Ideas For Pet Sanctuaries

Pet sanctuaries are organizations which care for homeless animals until they find a home, or for animals who are unsuitable for adoption. Pet sanctuaries are non-profit organizations whose main source of income comes from donations. A good way to raise money for a pet sanctuary is to throw a fundraiser. Fundraisers also get the sanctuary's name out in the public eye effectively, raising awareness for the cause.

Sponsored Dog Walk

Hold a sponsored dog walk fundraiser. Arrange a short course for the participants to walk with their dogs and ask each participant to donate a set amount of money to the pet sanctuary. Get in touch with your local animal businesses such as pet stores, groomers and trainers, and ask if they would like to have a stall at your sponsored dog walk. Ask vendors for a donation to the sanctuary in return for allowing them a stall. Give each participant a souvenir for their donation, such as a T-shirt with the sanctuary's name printed on the front.

Pet Carnivals

Throw a pet carnival and charge a small amount, such as $5, for entry at the gate. Allow pet vendors to have stalls at your carnival and charge them for the privilege. Hold fun competitions involving pets and their owners, such as pet dress-up contests, pet talent shows and dog-owner lookalike contests. Have a stage on which to hold these competitions. A pet carnival is fun for all who attend, and will help get the sanctuary's name in the public eye.

Pet Fashion Show

Hold a pet fashion show at the sanctuary. Have all the adoptable animals participate in some way to increase their chances of finding a new home. Charge a reasonable amount for entry, such as $5. Ask the local pet boutiques to donate some outfits in exchange for free advertising at the fashion show.

Sponsored Dog Wash

Find some volunteers at the sanctuary who wouldn't mind getting wet, and hold a sponsored dog wash. Ask around at local bars and restaurants to find an outdoor patio to host it for free. Businesses will get free publicity from the event, so it is worth their while to donate their space. Buy some children's paddling pools in which to wash the dogs, and some dog shampoo. Charge owners a reasonable amount, say $10, for your volunteers to wash their dogs. Owners can relax on the patio and have a drink while their dog is being washed.

Fundraising Gala

Hold a fundraising gala for your current donors and prospective donors. Sell tickets at a moderate price, for example $30 each. Provide a sit-down buffet and drinks. Ask around to see if you can get a discount on catering in exchange for free publicity for the caterers. Have a formal dress code and hold events such as raffles and auctions. Proceeds from any events will benefit the sanctuary.

Tags: sanctuary name, carnival charge, each participant, exchange free, fashion show, free publicity, money sanctuary

Find A Zip Code

Find A Zip Code

Have you ever had to mail a card or letter and discovered that you didn't have the Zip Code? It's really very easy to look it up. Here is find a Zip Code.

Instructions

1. Go to www.usps.com.

2. At the top left of the page, click on the link that says "Find A Zip Code".

3. You are now at the "Zip Code Lookup" page. You can look up a Zip Code in four different ways:

SEARCH BY ADDRESS - If you know the address, city and state, you can input them to get the correct Zip Code. If you don't know the complete address, you can put in a partial one, such as a street name, and the website can also find a Zip Code for you.

SEARCH BY CITY - If you need to know the Zip Code for a city and not a specific address, you can simply input the city and state and get the Zip Code for the entire town. If the city has multiple zips the results will show all of them.

SEARCH BY COMPANY: If you don't have a Zip Code for a business, you can input as much of the address as you have, the city, and then the state, and you will be given the Zip Code.

FIND ALL CITIES IN A ZIP CODE - Some Zip Codes cover more than one city. If you know the Zip Code, input it and the site will return all the cities that are covered under that Zip Code.

4. You can also go to www.google.com.

Type in any address, city and state in the search box and Google will return the Zip Code for that address.

Tags: city state, address city, address city state, Find Code, find Code, have Code

Pet Store Theme Decorating Ideas For A Classroom

The right pet store decorations can enhance math, science and literature lessons. Children often have a natural interest in animals and many will enjoy sharing information about their pets.

Pet Bulletin Board

Create a bulletin board of a pets for sale. Use photographs of common pets and put prices next to them. You may be able to use the bulletin board for math word problems. Spell out the name of each breed next to the animal so that students will correlate the picture with the breed.

Pet Center

If you teach lower elementary school, incorporate a pet play center in the room. Discuss how pet stores care for animals. Supply stuffed animals, brushes, plastic food bowls, and leashes. Watch children's imaginations soar as they play "Pet Store" during free time.

Hang Writing Projects

Let students write about their pets and tell where they obtained them. Many classrooms have clotheslines so you can hang the stories. Students that don't have pets can visit the bulletin board pet store and choose a pet to write about. You can put animal pet wrapping paper or a mural behind the signs.

Decorate with a Real Pet

A classroom pet, either fish or a small gerbil or hamster, will be kept in the same type of habitat it would have in a pet store. Students can help care for the pet and take turns taking it home on weekends when appropriate.

Pet Signs

Students can make signs that might be appropriate for a pet store. Display them on the classroom door. Signs might include, "Do not tap on cages," "Pets may not be taken out without Parents," or "Pet Supplies Available." Brainstorm ideas with the class.

Letter or Number Pictures

Place appropriate pet pictures under letters of the alphabet or use pictures or photographs of pet store animals to reinforce numbers in lower elementary and nursery school classrooms. For example, one collie could be placed underneath the number one and two cats underneath the number two.

Tags: about their, about their pets, bulletin board, lower elementary, their pets

Play With A Pet Squirrel

Allotting time for your pet squirrel to play and exercise is fundamental to its health and happiness in captivity. Squirrels are natural, active explorers and need at least 1 hour a day to roam free in a controlled, domestic setting. Squirrel-proof your home and allow your squirrels their much-deserved playtime.

Instructions

1. Make your home safe for your pet squirrel. Secure all exits and entryways to your home. Keep all possible dangers away from your squirrel; lock up dangerous chemicals and tie up loose electrical wires so your squirrel can't get to them.

2. Open your pet squirrel's cage. Pick up your pet squirrel; support its body and weight with both of your hands.

3. Choose a room to let your pet squirrel roam. Take your pet squirrel to the room and allow it to run, jump and play. Squirrels like to climb and glide from high places; don't be frightened if it becomes excited due to its newfound freedom.

4. Give your pet squirrels toys to play with. Cat trees, ferret and rabbit toys, wheels, bird perches, hammocks and stuffed animals for pets are but a few different toys that your pet squirrel should have. Pet squirrels, being naturally curious and active animals, need as much stimulation as you can afford.

5. Allow your pet squirrel to look out doors or windows. Mesh window and door covers help ensure that your pet squirrel can't escape and provide them with a fun climbing apparatus.

6. Let your pet squirrel glide to you if it desires. Stay relaxed while it jumps.

Tags: your squirrel, your home, that your, that your squirrel, your squirrels

What Does An Assistant Veterinarian Do

Veterinary assistants play an active role in any veterinary practice. With responsibilities ranging from animal care, office administration and client communication, veterinary assistants stay busy managing multiple responsibilities for the practice.

Animal Care

Veterinary assistants perform duties under the supervision of a veterinary technician or veterinarian. Providing most of the hands-on animal care in a veterinary facility, assistants give basic pet care including feeding, grooming, exercising and restraining animals brought in for regular checkups, treatment, boarding or cleaning and grooming service. For animals boarded at the facility, veterinary assistants perform many of the daily responsibilities for animals during their stay.

Facility Maintenance

An important part of animal care is hygiene. At the veterinary facility, assistants are responsible for the sanitizing and preparation of boarding facilities where animals are kept for short or long term stays. Assistants must clean and prepare holding areas where animals are kept while waiting for treatment. They maintain surgery suites and consultation areas for incoming pets arriving to be seen by the veterinarian.

Medical Treatment

Veterinary assistants, also known as veterinary technologists, in facilities such as private clinics and hospitals may administer medications to animals under veterinary supervision. Assistants record animal data including genealogy, diet and weight, and make note of any clinical signs of pain or distress. They might also prepare samples for laboratory examinations and prepare laboratory and surgical equipment. In some facilities, assistants may complete vaccinations or euthanize ill, injured or unwanted animals.

Clerical Duties

Veterinary assistants have clerical responsibilities associated with processing animals and their care. Assistants handle admission and discharge of animals, and file records after they have been updated for animal treatment. Assistants manage screening and processing of mail and generally handle payment for services. General accounting including bank deposits and payroll may also be required duties.

Interpersonal Communication

Assistants are primary communication channels for clients who bring pets in for care. After greeting clients they may also update clients on the status of pets during regular visits or update clients over the phone in cases when the pet requires additional care.

Tags: animal care, Veterinary assistants, animals kept, assistants perform, facility assistants, update clients