Write A Letter Soliciting Financial Support

Letters soliciting financial support are usually short and to the point.

Writing a letter soliciting financial support is an effective method for fund-raising, because it is inexpensive. Targeting the letter to the right recipients is essential, however. People support different causes, and deciding whom to contact is as critical as the quality of the letter. Letters soliciting financial support should tell a poignant story about a need or cause. It should also clearly illustrate how the potential donor's contribution will make a difference.

Instructions

1. Identify the cause in the first paragraph of the letter. A letter soliciting financial support for animal shelters might begin by describing a growing problem with stray dogs and cats, and the need to find good homes for them. A letter seeking financial support for nonprofit adult day care centers might open with a discussion about the plight of aging baby boomers and their special needs.

2. Personalize the letter in the second paragraph, if possible. Find ways to tie the recipient to the cause. This creates an emotional bond that could lead to success. For example, you may know that the recipient has participated in animal rights issues, or has supported programs for the elderly. This is why having a targeted mailing list is important, as it allows you to reach people who understand the cause and may contribute.

3. Ask for a specific monetary donation in the third paragraph, or a range of donations. Describe exactly how the money will help; for instance, ask for a $500 donation paying for two months of free adult day care for a widow who otherwise would remain home alone. Or request a $100 donation paying for the neutering of stray dogs and cats, to control overpopulation problems.

4. Close the letter by discussing why you or your organization is qualified to seek the financial support, and why the recipient should trust you. Cite reasons such as a nonprofit status, endorsement by local officials or a personal track record.

Tags: financial support, soliciting financial support, adult care, dogs cats, donation paying, letter soliciting

About Karankawa Shelters

The Karankawa were a tribe or band of Indians living in Texas around the Gulf of Mexico. Though they were first reported in the 1500s, but the end of the 19th century the tribe was completely extinct. Today historians are fascinated by these people and their lives, in particular the shelters and places where they lived.

Types

The Karankawa Indians had two different types of shelters they lived in depending on the situation. During the colder months they simply leaned several tree branches together and slept underneath the branches. When they settled down in the warmer months they made sturdier shelters to protect the family. Heavier branches were secured into the ground and they covered the whole shelter with leaves or woven mats of grass. When time permitted they would use deer skins to cover the outside.

Geography

The Karankawa were always found in what's now modern day Texas, near the Gulf of Mexico and they never ventured outside this area. At times they could be found around Galveston although they sometimes moved towards Corpus Christi or San Antonio Bay. As the weather changed and the temperatures dropped, they moved to warmer weather. They would often leave their permanent shelters behind when they moved, only to return when the warm weather returned.

Features

Karankawa shelters are easily identified by the round shape they took on as well as the domed shape of the roof. Tree branches were bent roughly by hand to create a rounded shape and then woven together to create the shelter. The outside was covered with grass, leaves or deer hides to protect the occupants from rain, wind and other environmental hazards. They were durable and sturdy, capable of standing for several months at a time even when left unattended.

Function

Shelters were used by the Karankawa people for sleeping and little else. During the summer months they were constantly on the move, hunting and gathering their food. The only time they went inside was at night. In the winter months the family gathered together inside their shelter to stay warm and escape the cold air outside. The shelters were never meant to provide anything more than a place to rest. They were even known to leave behind their homes when they moved on.

Size

The Karankawa were a tall breed of people, with some explorers claiming they were over seven foot tall. Historians believe they were at least six foot tall in most cases, including the women. The shelters they lived in were often as tall as they were, if not taller. They were also quite wide, as several people slept inside at one time. The shelters were usually 6 to 7 feet wide on all sides to make room for an entire family.

Tags: Karankawa were, months they, they lived, they moved, they were, branches were, foot tall

Train Military Dogs

This MWD walks in formation with his handler.

Military working dogs (MWDs) are elite canines, responsible for saving hundreds of thousands of lives a year. They keep our military personnel safe by sniffing for explosives and drugs, acting as guard and protector and performing the duties of mascot, sentry and friend. The dogs that serve as MWDs are carefully chosen, socialized, and trained, as are their trainers and handlers. Military working dog handlers are experts in their field with years of experience and knowledge, and they pour time, energy, and thousands of dollars into selecting and training a MWD.

Instructions

Training a Military Dog

1. Find and choose the proper dog. The dog will need to be a dog with guardian or working linage, most likely a German Shepherd, Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, or Belgian Malinois. The dog must possess the ability and drive to play, and be quite energetic. These dogs often appear high strung.

2. This dog is being drilled in a down-stay.

Teach the dog obedience. Basic and advanced obedience comprise the foundation for all other training. His obedience must be instant, unwavering, and unquestioning. He needs to be drilled in sit, down, stay, heel, drop it and come. His obedience training not only reinforces his submission, but could save his life in the field.

3. This dog is being taught to jump obstacles in his path.

Expose the dog to a variety of tasks, people, places and things. Acclimate him to everything he may ever come across in the field. This includes massive, boisterous crowds, urban environment, other animals and difficult footing. Subject him to loud noises, unfamiliar places, and obstacles, such as jumps, logs, tunnels and crevices.

4. This dog carefully watches a threat to his handler.

Train the dog in his specialty. This could be narcotic or explosives detection, patrol work, protection work or tracking/sentry work. Any kind of detection work is trained by linking whatever you want found to something the dog considers desirable, such as a toy, treat, or playtime. Protection work is often innate and instinctual, and must be carefully groomed and controlled by an experienced handler.

5. This Rottweiler is being put through attention training.

Continue working with the dog. A MWD always has new skills to learn, and training him is a life-long process.

Tags: field This, Military working, This being

Find A New Pet

Finding the right pet is an important decision, and takes time and patience.

Bringing home a new pet is an exciting experience. However, if you don't know where to look for a new pet, it can seem or overwhelming. Just know that wherever you live, there are plenty of options for you to explore, and you're sure to be able to find the perfect pet to fit in with your family, your lifestyle and your personality.

Instructions

1. Decide what type of pet you're interested in. Would you prefer a dog, a cat, a hamster or another kind of domesticated animal? Or would you prefer a more exotic pet, such as a parrot or a reptile?

2. Look online for local rescue organizations; most rescue groups list available animals on their websites. And some pet supply stores such as Petsmart and Petco work with local rescue groups and feature adoptable cats and dogs in their stores.

If you're looking for a specific breed of cat or dog, look for a breed-specific rescue. And rescues aren't just for dogs and cats; there are rescue organizations for horses, parrots, reptiles and rabbits, too.

3. Look in your local newspaper. Chances are you'll be able to find ads from local breeders or individuals looking to sell a pet for personal reasons.

4. Visit breeders, pet stores and rescues to view and interact with the pets you're interested in before purchasing your new pet. You want to be sure that your new pet will fit in with your lifestyle and be a good addition to your family.You might also want to visit with someone who owns the type of pet you're interested in and learn firsthand what living with this type of animal will be like.

Tags: able find, local rescue, rescue groups, rescue organizations, type interested, with your

Grow A Peach Tree In Minnesota

Peach blossom

Stone fruits, or fruits with hard pits like cherries, peaches and nectarines, all have difficulty growing in Minnesota. However, if you are intent on growing a peach tree in Minnesota, it is possible, just very difficult, according to the University of Minnesota. Does this Spark an idea?

Significance

Minnesota is located far to the north and often experiences frost during spring. Since stone fruit trees blossom early in the spring, this common spring frost kills the blossoms and effectively kills the fruit.

Considerations

According to the University of Minnesota, you could potentially grow a peach tree if you plant it in a container. While you can leave the tree outdoors during the summer, you will need to move it to a temperature controlled space, like a garage, during the winter.

Types

If you decide to grow a peach tree in Minnesota, the University of Minnesota recommends you use a hardier cultivar. These include Madison, Harrow Beauty and smaller varieties like Honeybabe.

Tags: University Minnesota, grow peach tree, peach tree

Sell Puppies On Petfinder

Petfinder is a website on which homeless pets across the United States are listed for adoption. Petfinder is not designed as a site for breeders to sell puppies, but is used by registered animal rescues and animal shelters to list puppies available for adoption. Individuals can list on the Petfinder Classifieds, but these classifieds are available to those who have taken in a stray and wish to find it a new home. Petfinder does not accept any ad "encouraging or supporting the breeding of animals." Petfinder requires individuals to charge an adoption fee, but also will not post ads that appear to be selling animals for profit.

Instructions

Individual

1. Register on Petfinder.com as the first step to posting a classified ad.

2. Follow the prompts in the Petfinder system. You will be asked what type of ad you are placing, as well as the pet's name, type, predominant breed, secondary breed, size at maturity, age and gender. You will also be asked if the pet is good with other dogs, cats and children, whether the puppy has been spayed/neutered and house trained or if it has any special needs.

3. Write a description of the puppy for which you are seeking a new home in the designated box. This is where you will list the adoption fee for the puppy. The adoption fee generally includes the cost of any veterinary care the puppy has received as well as any additional expenses you may have incurred in caring for the dog.

4. Upload a photo to accompany your ad, following the prompts on the Petfinder website.

Shelter/Rescue Organizations

5. Join Petfinder as a shelter/rescue operator. This is the first step toward listing animals in your organization's care on Petfinder.

6. Submit your organization's 501(c)3 or state tax-exempt non-profit paperwork to Petfinder. If you do not have official non-profit status, Petfinder will accept a copy of your adoption contract. Municipal shelters do not have to submit this paperwork.

7. Submit a letter of reference from your veterinarian, confirming that the veterinarian provides medical care for the pets in your organization's care. Municipal shelters do not have to submit this paperwork.

8. Log in to your Petfinder account and begin making your puppies available for adoption once you receive your email notification and log-in information from Petfinder. This generally occurs within two days of the time Petfinder receives all of the required paperwork.

Tags: your organization, available adoption, first step, have submit, have submit this

Government Grants For Animal Shelters

Government Grants for Animal Shelters

Animal shelters are not just a warm place for abandoned, abused or stray animals to temporarily call home. Shelters also reach out to their communities to raise awareness on topics including animal abuse and the importance of spaying or neutering pets. Most shelters operate on a nonprofit basis, meaning they need to find creative ways to find funds to run programs and keep buildings maintained. Luckily, there are numerous government grants that can help animal shelters stay afloat.

Meachem Foundation Memorial Grant

Established in 1969, this grant gives shelters the financial stability to expand or make improvements. According to the American Humane Association, the grant funds such projects as kennel or cattery renovation, veterinary care equipment, spay/neuter equipment and any equipment that will be used to improve the welfare of animals. The AHA's website explains that the money can be awarded in any amount up to $4,000. The grant application is available for download on the AHA website.

Second Chance Fund

The Second Chance Fund awards animal welfare organizations up to $2,000 to help care for animals that have been abused or neglected, according to the AHA website. This grant essentially gives money to animal welfare organizations dedicated to finding animal victims a permanent home. In other words, the object of this grant is to give neglected animals a second chance at life.

Foreclosure Pets Grant

The AHA provides the Foreclosure Pets Grant to shelters as resources are available. As a result, the grant is not a set amount of money, instead if fluctuates. The grant's purpose is to help shelters care for pets who have been surrendered when their owners lose their homes.

Tags: Animal Shelters, animal welfare, animal welfare organizations, Chance Fund, Foreclosure Pets, Foreclosure Pets Grant, Government Grants Animal

Are Service Dogs Deductible On Taxes

Your service animal could be used to increase your medical care deduction.

Many visually and physically impaired persons would benefit from the use of a service dog but the costs associated with owning and training a service animal can make that option seem out of reach. However, these costs can be used in your favor if you choose to take advantage of the medical care expense deduction available to most American citizens. Many of the costs incurred by owning a service animal can be added to your overall deduction when filing your personal income taxes.

Medical Care Expenses

Costs associated with a service dog are deductible on an individual's personal taxes as part of their medical care expense tax deduction. Medical care expenses also include dental treatment, fertility enhancement and contact lenses, among other things. An individual can claim the total of his medical care expenses as a deduction that exceeds 7.5 percent of his adjusted gross income (AGI). For example, if a person's AGI is $100,000 in a given year and deductible medical care expenses are $10,000, then $2,500 of that total can be added to your overall deduction on your income taxes.

Service Dog Costs

The Internal Revenue Service allows a service dog owner to write off the total of all costs associated with buying, training and maintaining the service dog that helps an owner with a visual, mental or physical disability. Estimates on the total costs of producing a fully trained service dog range from $42,000 to $50,000. Most of these costs are associated with training, which can exceed $15,000 per dog. Some nonprofit service dog organizations provide these animals to needy owners free of charge, in which case the owner cannot claim a deduction on training costs. Maintenance costs for food and veterinarian visits are deductible each year.

Other Animals

IRS Publication 502, "Medical and Dental Expenses," states that an owner of any service animal, not just a dog, can deduct the costs of maintaining his service animal from his personal taxes. Federal law and most states recognize a wide array of service animals other than dogs, including horses and capuchin monkeys. Service animals are not pets under the regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and policies restricting pets from some areas or businesses, such as restaurants, cannot bar a service animal of any kind from entering the establishment.

Claiming a Deduction

Deductions for medical care expenses are claimed by including the total costs of all applicable charges in Box 1 of Schedule A of IRS Form 1040. In Box 2, you must write the amount of your adjusted gross income for the year; Box 3 asks you to multiply that total by 7.5. If Box 3 is less than Box 1, record the difference in Box 4. Attach Schedule A with your Form 1040 to claim the medical care expense deduction.

Tags: service animal, associated with, care expense, care expense deduction, costs associated with

Learning To Sew Dogs' Clothes

Create an outfit that matches your dog's personality.

Most cities are home to plenty of boutiques filled with pet clothing. While you may covet the designs offered by retailers, these novelty items are often expensive. Avoid spending money and explore your creativity by making your own dog clothes. Learning outfit your dog will provide plenty of bonding time for the two of you and will result in custom-tailored outfits certain to please you both.

Instructions

1. Go window-shopping. Wander around your town's shopping center and peruse dog-clothing stores. Take notes on ideas for styles you want to try.

2. Measure your dog's dimensions and write them down in your notepad. Use a measuring tape to learn the number of inches from your pet's head to its tail, as well as around its shoulders, ankles, rib cage, neck and hips.

3. Take a measurement of the distance between your dog's front and back legs. Refer to these measurements each time you sew a new outfit for your dog.

4. Spread your fabric on a flat work surface.

5. Mark your dog's dimensions using a measuring tape and a fabric marker. For example, to make a dog dress mark a rectangular shape, the length of which matches the measurement of your dog's body from head to tail. The width should match the circumference of your dog's neck on one side of the rectangle and its hips on the other.

6. Cut out the rectangular shape. Turn it inside out and use a sewing machine to connect the lengths.

7. Turn this tube right side out. Cut two circular holes in the front of the dress for your dog's legs to pass through. In the process, refer to your measurements of the size of your dog's legs, as well as the distance between them.

8. Apply these basic principles of dog clothing construction to any type of outfit you wish to create. Once you have learned the basics and have noted your dog's measurements, you can create endless possibilities.

Tags: distance between, head tail, measuring tape, outfit your, rectangular shape, your dimensions

Build An Animal Shelter

Build an Animal Shelter

Building an animal shelter takes extensive planning and fundraising. Even if you have personal funds to donate to the shelter, it still takes extensive planning, because everything must be in place before you can open for business. Part of the plan includes determining what type of animals you want to help--whether it is only dogs, only cats or a variety of animals. If you choose to help a variety of animals, including exotics, you must review local and federal laws. Some states have bans on animals, such as ferrets and snakes.

Instructions

1. Create a business plan for the shelter. The business plan should include how you plan to raise funds, whether through fundraising or coupling the shelter with a retail outlet, and adoption fees. The business plan, in addition to standard items in a business plan, should also include how many animals you can house at one time and how you will feed and care for the animals (i.e. fundraising, private funds).

2. Register the business as a nonprofit incorporation with your state. Obtain all licenses and permits that may be required for your state (in addition to typical business permits and licenses). Apply for a 501(c)3 exemption from the Internal Revenue Service.

3. Purchase property for the shelter. Check local zoning regulations for the type of property before you purchase. Depending on local laws, you may need to purchase property that is zoned agricultural or commercial intensive.

4. Build an office building. The office building should contain a customer service area, bathrooms, a break room for employees and volunteers, a "meet and greet" room where adopters can interact with the animals, and a set of kennels to hold animals while they are waiting to be met.

5. Build kennels and housing for the animals. Dogs need large kennels. The kennels should be large enough for the dog to move around in--no less than 3 feet by 8 feet. Kennels should also have a dog house built into the back of the kennel, unless the kennels are located inside. If you are going to be working with exotics, build animal-specific housing. Ferrets should have their own habitat and should be kept separate from snakes and birds. Birds need their own cages--one bird per cage.

6. Purchase food storage, including refrigerators, freezers and plastic storage bins. Purchase food and water bowls for each kennel or cage. Purchase blankets, pillows and toys for the animals. Even if the animals are staying short-term in the shelter, all animals need something to play with, and interact with, since human interaction is most likely minimal.

7. Find volunteers to help care for the animals. If your shelter is going to have a training facility, hire a paid trainer or find a volunteer. Research veterinarians. If you are working with exotics, make sure at least one of the vets is certified in that area (i.e. an avian certified veterinarian if you will be working with exotic birds).

Tags: business plan, working with, Build Animal, Build Animal Shelter, business plan should

See If A Dog Has A Micro Chip

Microchip identification numbers are connected to the dog owner's contact information.

A microchip is a tiny chip that is implanted underneath a dog's skin. The dog's owner registers his microchip with a pet recovery center. The brand of microchip determines which pet recovery center is used. Microchips are considered a permanent form of identification and do not need to be replaced. If you find a dog, you can check to see whether or not it has a microchip. If it does, you can help return the pet to its owner.

Instructions

1. Put the dog in a standing position.

2. Turn on the microchip scanner.

3. Press and hold down the microchip scanner's "Scan" button. Point the scanner at the dog, focusing on the area between the dog's shoulder blades.

4. Slowly scan up and down the dog's back. Start at the side of the dog that is closest to you and move toward the other side. The microchip scanner will beep and display the micro chip identification number if a chip is found.

Tags: microchip scanner, recovery center

Rescue A Shih Tzu In Pennsylvania

Rescue a Shih Tzu in Pennsylvania

It is difficult to believe that people neglect and mistreat small dogs like Shih Tzus, but it does happen. Many of these small dogs are taken from puppy mills where they had one litter of puppies after another in poor living conditions. When you find your Shih Tzu to rescue, it may have matted fur and be very frightened. However, with your help your rescue dog will adjust to its new home and look beautiful again in no time.

Instructions

1. Create a poster telling people that you want to rescue a Shih Tzu, and then ask area veterinarians, Shih Tzu breeders, pet stores and other stores with bulletin boards if you may post it. Breeders occasionally have adult dogs for available or pups whelped that do not meet the standards of the breed. The Additional Resources section below contains a link to a Pennsylvania breeders' directory.

2. Place your Shih Tzu rescue wanted ad in your local "Pennysaver" or "Shopper" weekly telling readers that you want a Shih Tzu. You can place ads for free on Petfinder Classifieds, your area Craigslist and Free Pet Classifieds (see Resources below).

3. Visit Pennsylvania animal shelters once a week or more often to rescue a Shih Tzu. Some shelters euthanize or sell pets to research when they are not adopted quickly enough. You may want to focus on those shelters, although any dog living at a shelter desires a loving home. Most shelters have websites that you can check, but small dogs are usually adopted quickly, so it is better to check in person. Some sites list a volunteer email address. You can contact this person for personal updates if the volunteer is willing to help you. A link to a comprehensive list of Pennsylvania shelters is included below.

4. Volunteer with a Pennsylvania Shih Tzu rescue. Most have applications for potential adopters to fill out. You could also ask about fostering a dog for them. Remember to ask about their adoption days at local shopping centers and pet stores. Rescues bring several of their available dogs together for families to meet in order to encourage adoptions (see Resources below).

5. Tell people on your email contact lists, friends and co-workers, that you want a Shih Tzu. You never know who might be looking for a new home for a pet. Remember to keep a list of those you have notified so you can check back periodically. People are busy, and your name can be misplaced in the pile. Ask for email addresses when possible--it is easier to check back with people that way.

Tags: Shih rescue, small dogs, that want, your Shih rescue, adopted quickly, check back

Settle Your New Dog On His First Night Home

There are several ways to make your dog comfortable the first night at home.

Bringing a new dog into your family can be an exciting time. The first few days are full of new experiences for both your dog and your family. For your new dog, the first night in a new home can be scary and possibly result in a sleepless night for all involved. There are several ways to smooth the path, however, and hopefully ensure a good night for the entire family.

Instructions

1. Place a dog crate in a warm, quiet area of your home. Avoid any area with drafts, including items like ceiling fans. Many people place the crate in a bedroom near the bed so the dog can be easily soothed during the night.

2. Place a stuffed animal in the crate. If possible, the stuffed animal should come from the home or location where you got your dog. If your dog is a puppy and was living with his mother and litter mates, a stuffed animal that has the smell of those animals will be a huge comfort to him. Anything that smells familiar, however, will ease the transition.

3. Lead the dog into the crate and close the door of the crate.

4. Place a sheet over the front of the crate, covering the door. Make sure the sides of the crate are not covered for air flow purposes.

5. Leave a small light on near the crate so your dog can see during the night. Since the surroundings are unfamiliar, the light will help your dog clearly see things and ease any anxiety.

Tags: stuffed animal, during night, first night home, night home, several ways, There several

Startup Grants For Nonprofit Animal Rescue

Rescue groups improve the lives of abused and neglected animals.

Animal rescue groups work to rescue unwanted, abandoned and abused animals from the streets or from irresponsible breeders and owners. They coordinate the fostering, medical care, training (when necessary) and adoption process so the rescued animals find caring permanent homes. Starting an animal rescue group requires a commitment to caring for animals, strong management and the funds to sustain the mission.

American Humane Association

The American Humane Association is dedicated to protecting the welfare of both animals and children. They administer a number of grants that benefit nonprofit rescue groups, including the Meacham Foundation Memorial Grant, which offers funds for capital campaigns, building improvements and equipment purchases. Rescue groups needing funds to defray the cost of critical medical care to abused and neglected animals can also apply for the Second Chance Fund.

Maddie's Fund

Maddie's Fund specifically targets no-kill shelters in medium- to large-sized cities that would like to create an umbrella coalition but do not have the startup funds to do so. The organization offers a series of grants that include the Community Shelter Data Grant, Business Plan for Saving Lives, Strategic Plan for Saving Lives and the Pet Evaluation Matrix. Although the funds are intended to assist animal shelter coalitions, any animal rescue or shelter group can apply on behalf of its coalition.

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

The ASPCA provides grants to groups and shelters throughout the United States, with a special focus on issues such as anti-cruelty efforts, disaster recovery and preparedness and spay/neuter programs. Awards range from $500 to $5,000. The majority of the ASPCA grants support ASPCA partner organizations, but a number are also available to qualified organizations throughout the country.

The DJ & T Foundation

Established by longtime animal rights activist and former "The Price is Right" host Bob Barker, the DJ & T Foundation supports "the establishment of on-site or mobile surgical units, spay/neuter transport vehicles, and equipment for new and established clinics." They also offer reimbursement vouchers to pet owners otherwise unable to afford to spay or neuter their dogs.

The Ralph and Virginia Mullin Foundation

Based in Tucson, Arizona, the Ralph and Virginia Mullin Foundation offers small grants to shelters and animal welfare groups. They also provide limited funds to organizations working toward a 501(c)(3) designation and incorporation.

The William and Charlotte Parks Foundation for Animal Welfare

The William and Charlotte Parks Foundation for Animal Welfare offers grants to individual scholars doing research related to animals, humane programs, shelters and other organizations that benefit animals. Funds may be used for construction and general operating costs.

Tags: spay neuter, abused neglected, abused neglected animals, American Humane, American Humane Association, Animal Welfare, Charlotte Parks

Pit Bull Skin Problems

Pit bulls are prone to skin problems that are not common to other dogs. Owners of pit bulls often complain of recurring problems such as rashes, hives, and persistent itching and scratching. Those conditions can range from mild scratching problems to more severe cases in which vigorous scratching leads to hematomas that require surgery. The so-called "blue breed" of pit bulls is known to have especially troublesome skin problems, caused by a tendency toward an auto-immune problem.

Theories

The "blue" breed, as well as those pit bulls that have chocolate-colored and cream-colored skin, have been reported to be more likely to have skin problems. There seems to be no provable cause for this phenomenon, although many people point to the pigment in the skin as being a factor. According to many dog breeders such as those at the Dalton Blue Pit Kennel in Georgia, this tendency is common in blue types of all breeds of dogs, yet cannot be attributed to a specific reason.

Types of Skin Problems

According to the ASPCA, the most common skin problem among pit bulls is seasonal allergies. Whether or not the allergies are associated with common airborne allergens or perhaps annual changes in skin growth, such as shedding in summer, is not known. Yet the phenomenon has been documented by several pit bull owners. The allergy causes the dogs to scratch themselves, often to the point of removing skin and causing infections. That can lead to more serious conditions if left untreated.

Other Types of Skin Problems

Short-haired dogs such as pit bull s often have a tendency to develop dry skin. Pit bulls will consequently develop what are known as hot spots, which are areas of their skin that will become inflamed and extremely itchy. The dog will scratch those areas continually until they remove the skin entirely, leaving raw tissue or sores exposed to the air. This also can lead to further health problems.

More Skin Problems

Due to the sensitivity of the skin on pit bulls, they can be especially sensitive to insect bites such as bee stings, ant bites, and fleas. They are also more sensitive to chemicals, and many owners have reported having to change not only soaps and other products that come into direct contact with the dog, but other household products that contain certain chemicals that can irritate the skin of the pit bull. There does not seem to be a consistency in the types of chemicals that are most irritating to the dog.

Conclusions

Because the pit bull breeds seem to have more adverse reactions to skin irritants than many other breeds, veterinarians often recommend keeping a steady supply of skin softener or other skin cream that can be applied to the dog on a regular basis. Many owners have recommended Skin So Soft as an effective skin treatment for its moisturizing and medicating effects. Any product that is to be applied to the pit bull skin should be tested first in a small area before full application.

Tags: Skin Problems, blue breed, chemicals that, owners have, products that, skin bulls

What Happens When You Adopt An Animal From Wwf

The WWF has offices in 100 countries and has nearly 5 million members.

The WWF (World Wildlife Fund) was founded in 1961 and works with governments, nonprofits and nongovernmental organizations to protect endangered animals and their habitat. As of 2011, the WWF operates more than 1,300 conservation projects internationally. The symbolic adoption of animals has become a key component of the WWF's fundraising efforts.

Symbolic Adoption

The WWF has more than 100 species available for symbolic adoption. When a donor adopts an animal, he typically receives a package that includes a photo of the animal, information about the species, an "adoption certificate" and a plush toy. This makes adoptions a popular gift option, especially for children. Many individuals, especially adults, opt not to receive the plush toy because it saves the WWF money and frees more resources for its work.

Why Symbolic

When a consumer makes a symbolic adoption, she does not receive an actual animal. In most cases, that would be illegal and unethical. Most of the species are endangered, and most consumers would not have the means or knowledge to care for the animal properly. The adoption money also does not go to care for a specific animal. The cost of adoption, which is usually less than $100, would not be enough to care for an animal for a year, nor would it be enough to track and monitor a specific animal.

Habitat and Protection

What the money is used for is protecting the species in question. This means protecting the animals' habitat as well as working with other organizations, lobbying groups, local and national governments and international organizations such as the World Bank to protect endangered species legally. In addition to loss of habitat, hunting and poaching are a serious threat to many species. Among its many programs, the WWF has established a network that reaches out to and educates indigenous tribes in places such as the Congo and the Amazon about endangered species and conservation.

Value

The symbolic adoption program allows the WWF to offer donations as a tangible gift. At the same time, the program raises awareness of the plight of endangered species and provides information about the animals themselves. While symbolic adoption doesn't involve the adoption of a particular animal, it does have the effect of helping to preserve endangered species around the world.

Tags: symbolic adoption, endangered species, care animal, information about, more than, protect endangered, specific animal

Become A Pet Rescuer

Animal shelters need more pet rescuers.

Unfortunately there is no shortage of dogs, cats, rabbits or even parrots, lizards and snakes that are in need of rescuing. Becoming a pet rescuer will help fill a need in the community and give some pets a chance for a new life. However, pet rescue work is also physically, emotionally and financially draining. Starting out as a pet rescuer with established organizations will give you the experience you want but with the support of others working toward the same goals.

Instructions

1. Contact a local nonprofit pet rescue organization and sign up to be a volunteer. Choose an organization that takes in the type of pet that most interests you. Most pet rescue organizations are volunteer based and will have several opportunities for you such as fostering pets, fundraising or helping with public adoption events. Petfinder has a list of pet rescues located around the country.

2. Visit your local animal shelter and ask to become a volunteer or apply for an entry-level paid position. Volunteers and kennel attendants at animal shelters help in the daily care of rescued pets. Some shelters also have volunteer foster care programs where you can take pets into your home until they become adopted.

3. Start your own nonprofit pet rescue organization. Once you have experience as a pet rescuer working with established organizations, you may want to start your own organization to fill a need. To do this you will need to establish your organization as a nonprofit 501(c)(3), develop a board to govern the organization, raise funds, and establish a volunteer based. The connections you made in the community working with other nonprofit pet rescues and animal shelters will help you establish your own pet rescue.

Tags: establish your, established organizations, fill need, nonprofit rescue, nonprofit rescue organization, rescue organization

Highway Maintenance Safety

Highway maintenance requires safety awareness and planning.

Highway maintenance can involve a number of hazards to workers. Some of these include passing traffic, injuries and even death. Safety has to be a number one priority and standards for safe work environment must be enforced.

Potential Hazards

Workers are often in danger of being struck by a passing vehicle if working in heavy traffic.

While road construction is at its highest level, approximately 20% of the nation's major highways are being worked on. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration estimates that there is an injury in a work zone every nine minutes (see references 1, p. 1). Heavy traffic, machinery mishaps and other factors can put workers at risk.

Function

Road maintenance workers must wear appropriate high visibility clothing.

OSHA requires that all workers doing highway maintenance must complete safety training. This involves standards and techniques for working around heavy traffic and strategies to reduce their chances of being struck by a vehicle. Learning where to set up equipment and wearing the appropriate high visibility clothing are also discussed (see references one, page five).

Preparation

Proper placement of barriers can help to protect workers.

OSHA mandates that a hazard assessment be completed before work begins (see references one, page 5). Workers must attend an orientation session for that particular site detailing placement of signs, barriers, the emergency action plan and traffic control (see references one, page 6).

Prevention/Solution

High visibility clothing helps workers be seen better by oncoming traffic. Different classes are used based on the job assignment. Class one is florescent orange and for a worker in a low-speed zone who can fully focus on oncoming traffic. Class two clothing is florescent yellow and used in rough weather, for traffic going 25 to 50 miles an hour. Type three clothing is for fluorescent yellow, used in traffic over 50 in miles an hour and when utilizing heavy equipment (see references one, page 7).

Tags: references page, visibility clothing, appropriate high, appropriate high visibility, being struck, high visibility

Chronic Pancreatitis In A Maltese

The maltese may be more prone to intestinal inflamation than other breeds.

Malteses are small dogs covered with long white hair. They are generally known to be both lively and affectionate, and are primarily kept as companion animals. Studies show that the breed has a high incidence rate of chronic pancreatitis.

Medical Definition

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. This swelling is caused by the leaking of digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas into the pancreatic tissue.

Symptoms

The symptoms of chronic pancreatitis are often less-severe manifestations of the symptoms that occur with acute pancreatitis. These may include loss of appetite, noticeable lethargy, weight loss, vomiting and low body temperature.

Complications

Serious complications as the result of chronic pancreatitis are rare, but may include damage to the internal organs and the development of chronic diabetes.

Risk Factors

Dogs who are allowed to consume table scraps, who are given a high-fat or low-protein diet, or who are overweight for their breed standards are significantly more prone to pancreatitis and its resulting complications. The use of steroids as well as a number of other prescription drugs has also been tentatively linked to cases of pancreatitis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Traditionally a conclusive diagnosis is made through blood-count analysis; pancreatic biopsy and radiography may be used in some cases as well. Treatment is usually twofold: pain management through prescription pain relievers, and combating dehydration and electrolyte imbalance with fluids.

Tags: chronic pancreatitis, more prone

Set Up A Fishing Pole

Check out fishing stores in your area for advanced fishing equipment.

There's nothing like the anticipation of sitting at the end of a pier, fishing pole in hand, watching and waiting for your bobber to go under and a fish to bite your line. While there are many different types of fishing, such as fly- and deep-sea fishing, the simplest kind is freshwater, a great recreational sport. All it requires is a fishing rod, tackle, bait and place to catch fish. The following steps will show you the basic fishing equipment needed to set up a fishing pole for freshwater fishing.

Instructions

Setup Fishing Equipment

1. Attach your chosen reel to your fishing rod. Place the reel into the reel seat and tighten it. Be sure not to overdo it.

2. Spool the test line onto your fishing rod and reel. You can also purchase a reel that has the test line prespooled.

3. Thread the test line up through the holes in your fishing rod. Make sure you get a lot of slack in your line after threading it, so that you can easily attach the rest of the fishing equipment.

4. Slip your bobber stop onto the test line. The most popular bobber is a rubber stop that looks like a grain of rice with a hole at each end that the test line is threaded through. The bobber stop is necessary to keep the bobber from sliding past the depth that you choose.

5. Thread a small bead directly under the bobber stop. The small bead is necessary to keep the bobber stop from sliding down into the bobber when a fish is hooked and pulls on the test line.

6. Slide your slip bobber up the test line.

7. Thread the test line through the eye of the hook to attach it to your test line.

8. Clip two small split-shot sinkers to your test line using a pair of pliers. Clip them about 10 inches above the hook and an inch or two apart from each other.

9. Put your choice of bait on the hook and you're ready to start freshwater fishing. You can use an earthworm, a bee-moth, a minnow or a cricket. Keep in mind that your choices for bait are not limited to the ones mentioned.

Tags: test line, bobber stop, your fishing, your test line, fishing equipment, fishing pole

File A Civil Suit In California

Civil cases, the most common type of suit filed in California, include cases about personal injuries, contract disagreements, landlord-tenant disagreements, adoptions and divorce, and other civil issues. If damage has been done to someone, that person has the right to claim money damages. The parties involved may also seek non-monetary action such as an injunction or a restraining order. Every so often, a civil suit causes enough people to question the same law at once that a class action lawsuit is filed on their behalf.

Instructions

1. Travel to your local courthouse and pick up a copy of Form #CM-010. This form might be available online, depending on your location.

2. Fill out the information needed on the form. Name, address, and complaint are the most common things to appear on the form.

3. Type a complaint, or ask your attorney do so, providing the reasons the civil suit is being brought before the courts. The complaint needs to detail the reasons the defendant was wrong, and mention what you expect them to do to remain accountable.

4. Take a summons to the defendant, saying they have to respond to the complaint. Your attorney may suggest using a process server, but this you can do yourself if you don't want to spend the money. The defendant has to respond with a written answer within a set amount of time. The answer has to say whether the defendant is innocent or guilty, give a defense, make a statement opposing the plaintiff and request that the court support them.

5. Take the complaint and Form #CM-010 to your county court so they can get filed and processed. Pay the filing fee. The filing fee varies based on what county you live in.

6. Wait for the court to send you notice in the mail with your court date. Depending on your location within California, this could take weeks, or several months. Heavily populated areas generally have longer wait times.

Tags: Form CM-010, most common, your location

Tax Breaks For Farmers Raising Livestock

The IRS allows you to deduct certain farming expenses.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) allows numerous tax deductions for farmers, including deductions related to raising livestock. You may qualify for deductions directly related to your livestock expenses, such as breeding fees and certain feed purchases, along with general farming business expenses, such as labor and repair costs. You may also qualify for a deduction for limited operating losses, but the IRS does not allow you to deduct personal expenses. IRS deduction rules can change yearly.

Operating Expenses

The IRS allows you to deduct numerous farm operating expenses. For example, you may qualify for a tax deduction for your breeding fees and feed costs. You can typically deduct certain worker costs, such as regular or contract wages for your farm operation. However, you cannot deduct wages for labor associated with construction of new farm buildings. You may qualify for a deduction for the cost of repairing farm equipment, such as trucks or tractors, and can deduct property taxes paid on farm assets, such as land, equipment, farm buildings and livestock. If you have farm mortgages, you can typically deduct the interest you pay on the loans. IRS rules differ, depending on the type of operating expense, and deduction limits may apply.

Capital Expenses

In most cases you cannot deduct costs related to capital expenses, such as improvements made to buildings or the purchase of land, equipment or vehicles. The IRS does not typically allow deductions for livestock purchases or costs associated with activities such as drilling wells or installing fences. However, expenses associated with reforestation or conservation of water or soil on your farm may be deductible. If you are just starting a farm, the IRS allows you to deduct a limited amount of your startup costs.

Operating Losses

While the IRS allows you to deduct limited operating losses, rules can differ depending on the type of activity that incurs the loss. You can typically deduct limited losses associated with at-risk activities. These can include money you borrow for your farm operation for which you are held personally responsible. You may also qualify for losses associated with passive activities, typically involving rental of farm assets, such as land or equipment. The IRS imposes different deduction limits on at-risk and passive activities.

Personal Expenses

If you live on your farm, you must separate your business expenses from your personal and family costs. The IRS does not allow you to deduct personal expenses. You may incur certain costs as part of both your personal life and farm operation, such as for electricity, water and gasoline. For example, you may use 75 percent of your fuel purchases for your farm operation and only 25 percent in your home. In such a case, you can only claim 75 percent of your fuel expenses on your farm tax return.

Tags: your farm, associated with, allows deduct, farm operation, deduct limited

Pit Bull Kennels In California

Pit Bull Kennels in California

Being a responsible pit bull owner means buying a pit bull from reputable breeders and kennels. If you are in California looking for a pit bull, first try checking out local kennels for a dog to adopt. Adopting through a local kennel can save you money on shipping for your dog, and most reputable kennels come with guarantees on the dogs as well as pedigree information and accreditation.

Blazebully Kennels

Jean Francois is the owner/operator of Blazebully Kennels, located in Southern California. This kennel specializes in American blue pit bull terriers that come from the best pedigrees. The dogs at Blazebully Kennels are UKC and ABKC registered. These dogs are bred for size and temperament to ensure that they are well-behaved around children and other animals.

Blazebully Kennels

Murrieta, CA

(619) 459-4896

blazebullykennel.com/

Finest Kennels

Finest Kennels is a pit bull terrier kennel that specializes in blue nose pit bull puppies. The main objective of Finest Kennels is to create dogs not for size, but rather for optimal health. The puppies produced by Finest Kennels are guaranteed to be of good health and good temperament so that they can be family dogs. There are a total of eight kennels in their possession, as well as plenty of exercise and play materials for the dogs and a whelping box for pregnant females. Dogs purchased from Finest Kennels are all UKC registered. Some dogs include an additional ADBA registration.

Finest Kennels

Moreno Valley, CA

(951) 385-1109

finestkennels.com/pitbullsfinest-htmlpages/home.htm

Iron Man Pitbulls

This kennel is run by Travis and Diane Cross and is located in Southern California in Los Angeles County. This kennel specializes in blue-nosed pit bull puppies in all coat colors. These dogs are bred to be strong, healthy and of an even temperament. The kennels are double-walled to keep dogs from fighting through the fence. The dogs sold from this kennel are all UKC registered.

Iron Man Pittbulls

Los Angeles County, CA

(951) 398-7115

tcross2@earthlink.net

ironmanpitbulls.com/index.php

Leprechaun Kennels

Leprechaun Kennels has had a history with pit bulls for over 30 years. This kennel is located in northern California and carries many different types of pit bulls. The dogs at Leprechaun Kennels are bred for both size and temperament. This means that you can use a dog from this kennel as a show dog or just a family dog that will be good with children.

Leprechaun Kennels

San Francisco Bay area, CA

(925) 457-0559

leprechaunkennels@yahoo.com

leprechaunkennels.com/index.html

Ruckus Kennels

At Ruckus Kennels, a great amount of care and thought is put into the breeding and handling of pit bulls in their care. The dogs at Ruckus Kennels are all DNA-profiled, health-tested, have up-to-date shots and deworming and are microchipped. Most dogs are both AKC and UKC registered.

Ruckus Kennels

P.O. Box 1170

Jamul, CA 91935

(559) 994-9245

ruckuskennels.com/

Tags: Finest Kennels, Blazebully Kennels, Leprechaun Kennels, Ruckus Kennels, Angeles County

Deductions On An Estate Income Tax Return

The federal estate tax can take huge chunk of money out of an estate, with the estate tax rate currently at 45 percent. Fortunately, you can claim some deductions that will result in a lower tax liability.

Generally

Technically, an estate pays a federal "estate" tax and not an "income" tax, but people often use the terms interchangeably. The estate tax applies only to certain estates that are large enough. As of 2009, the estate tax only applies to estates worth at least $3.5 million, but as of 2011, that threshold is reduced to $1 million. Claiming deductions on an estate tax return can save a lot of tax money by reducing the taxable estate.

Types

Before you claim any deductions, you first have to calculate the "gross estate" which is basically the total property value of the estate, including cash, property, investment accounts and life insurance proceeds. You then calculate the "taxable estate" by reducing the gross estate by the total amount of deductions that you claim. Estate tax deductions include: funeral expenses paid out of the estate, person debts owed at the time of the deceased's death, a marital deduction, charitable contributions and state death taxes paid by the estate.

Personal Debts

When a person dies, that person most likely owes some money to one or more creditors. These personal debts of the deceased must be paid out of the gross estate, which is why the federal government allows the estate to claim a deduction on all amounts used to pay off the debts.

Marital Deduction

You can also claim a marital deduction equal to the amount of money and property that passes to the deceased's surviving spouse. For example, if husband dies and has a gross estate worth $4 million, but he bequeaths his entire estate to his surviving wife, then husband's estate will not have to pay any estate taxes because the entire amount is deducted.

Charitable Contributions

You can also claim a deduction equal to the fair market value of all property donated to a qualified charitable organization, such as a church, university, or thrift store. So in the example above, if husband instead gave $2 million to his alma mater, and the remaining $2 million to his surviving wife, his estate would again avoid taxation.

State Death Taxes

Finally, you can deduct state death taxes paid out of the estate. State death taxes are similar to the federal estate tax, just on a state level. Not all states, however, impose a death tax, but some do, and if your state does, you can deduct the amount actually paid.

Tags: gross estate, death taxes, federal estate, paid estate, also claim

Treat Hip Problems In A German Shepherd

A majority of German Shepherds regularly experience painful hip discomfort.

German Shepherds are well known for their beautiful physique and friendly manner, but they're also well known for contracting severe hip problems like canine hip dysplasia. According to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, hip dysplasia is an abnormal formation of the hip joint and can occur in more than 50 percent of large breed dogs. Dogs that become lame after exercise or refuse to partake in exercise activities altogether usually suffer from some sort of hip ailment. Knowing treat your German Shepherd's hip problem is essential if you want to keep your dog as healthy as possible.

Instructions

1. Regularly allow your dog to partake in mild exercise activities, like walking or swimming. Mild exercise activities are beneficial at treating hip problems in German Shepherds by improving muscle tone and performance, building strength and relieving stress on joints.

2. Feed your German Shepherd nutritional foods to keep her at an ideal weight. Dogs that are overweight and suffer hip problems tend to experience more pain in the hips. Talk with your veterinarian about the best foods to feed your German Shepherd to keep her healthy and help her lose weight.

3. Give your dog anti-inflammatory pain medications or joint supplements to reduce hip pain. Follow the directions on the medication label thoroughly to prevent misuse of the medicine. You can purchase pain medications and joint supplements from your veterinarian's office.

4. Allow a professional veterinarian to perform surgery on your German Shepherd. According to Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, depending on your pet's age, physical condition and degree of hip pain/lameness, several surgical treatment options are available to relieve your dog of hip problems.

5. Practice giving your dog physical therapy or massages on a daily basis to relax muscles and improve your dog's aching joints. Using your fingers, gently knead the muscles around your dog's hips. Repeat the process multiple times each day to achieve success.

Tags: German Shepherd, your German, your German Shepherd, exercise activities, German Shepherds

Rescue A Rabbit

Photo: Dani Simmonds

On occasion, a family's pet rabbit might escape from its home, or in some instances, a family might decide they can no longer keep their pet rabbit and simply abandon the rabbit. Domestic rabbits can't survive well out on their own; they need protection from the elements, from other animals, from cars, from disease and from starvation--as all domestic pets do. If you come across a loose pet rabbit, here are some ways to rescue the rabbit and bring it to safety.

Instructions

1. Obtain a rabbit cage if possible, and make sure it has a solid, rather than a wire floor (wire is uncomfortable for a rabbit). If it's at the last minute and you don't have a cage, a cardboard box will have to work. Bring some food to entice the rabbit because the rabbit will not likely walk in freely. Raw carrot tops, raw broccoli and Italian parsley are all foods that are safe and appealing to rabbits. It will likely be at night (when rabbits tend to come out), so bring a flashlight along as well.

2. Get as close to the rabbit as you can with the vegetables in your hand and have the cage door open with more food inside. Wait for the rabbit to hopefully walk in. If the rabbit won't go in freely, try to lift up the rabbit and place him in the cage or box.

3. Once the rabbit is settled in and calmer, stroke the top of her head lightly. They prefer this to other parts of their body.

4. Check Petfinder.com, AdoptaPet.com and your local Craigslist to see if a rabbit was lost in your neighborhood. You can also post a free announcement in the lost and found sections of these websites. Include the general area where you live along with the closest cross streets. Put up signs around your immediate neighborhood as well (you don't have to go out of your immediate vicinity, since odds are the rabbit wouldn't have traveled that far). If someone calls to claim the rabbit, make sure they provide an accurate description and give you their address; you want to make sure it's the actual owner because you don't want the rabbit getting into the wrong hands. If nobody claims the rabbit within a few days, move on to Step 5.

5. Place free ads on Petfinder.com and your local Craigslist, but be sure to charge an adoption fee to ensure that the rabbit is wanted as a pet and goes to a good home; this will help weed out any unscrupulous people who may want the rabbit for the wrong reason, such as for food or selling to a lab for research.

6. Search online for a rabbit rescue or humane society in your area and contact them. If they can't take in the rabbit, ask if they have any other suggestions. Your other alternative would be a city animal shelter (animal control), but check how long they generally keep rabbits. City animal shelters euthanize rabbits if they run out of space or a certain amount of time elapses and they're not adopted. Holding periods vary from shelter to shelter.

7. If you will be keeping the rabbit for a few days or until a home is found, feed rabbit pellets and hay. Place a dish containing the pellets and a water dish close to the cage door, so that you don't have to reach in far and frighten the rabbit. Rabbits enjoy shredding regular paper or newspaper and playing with cardboard paper towel or toilet paper rolls, especially when stuffed with hay.

Tags: make sure, cage door, have cage, local Craigslist, want rabbit, will likely, your immediate

A Natural Cure For Cat Cystitis

Find a natural cure for cat cystitis.

Cat cystitis, a condition of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, is caused by the irritation and inflammation of your cat's urinary bladder. This disease causes small crystals to form in the urinary tract wall, thereby creating pain, frequent urination and blood in the urine. If your cat suffers from cystitis, there are natural cures that can alleviate the problem.

Cantharis

Cantharis is made from the Lytta Vesicatoria beetle that is found in Asia, Spain and France. It will remove the pain during urination caused by cystitis. This herb is most effective when there is blood in the urine. It comes in pellet-shaped tablets that are readily disolved in your cat's mouth if she will not swallow them.

Chimaphila

Chimaphila, also known as Spotted Wintergreen, was originally used by some North American Indians to cure different ailments, including urinary disorders. It contains hydroquinones which can disinfect the urinary tract. Chimaphila is especially effective in the treatment of inflammation of the urinary system.

Nux Vomica

Nux Vomica is made from the seeds of a tree that is found in Thailand, China, and India. It controls spasms and constrictions which makes it a good natural cure for cystitis in cats. Also, it aids in controlling the frequent urination associated with cystitis.

Uva Ursi

Uva Ursi is an effective antiseptic and disinfectant. It's antiseptic properties kill bacteria and promote regular urination. Also, it flushes germs out of your cat's urethra before they can move upward into the tubes of the bladder.

Golden Rod

Golden Rod is a perennial that is mostly found in North America. It is a natural cure choice for urinary problems, including cystitis in cats. It works by reducing urinary inflammation and reducing spasms in the urinary tract. Also, it helps to increase the flow of urine, thereby washing out bacteria from the urinary tract.

Tags: urinary tract, natural cure, blood urine, cystitis cats, frequent urination

Start A No Kill Animal Shelter

Legal skills

Start-up funds

Space to house animals

Veterinary contacts

Instructions

1. Determine the scope of your shelter. Will you house multiple types of animals or devote your efforts to one specific type? While caring for many types of animals may sound like a wonderful goal, remember you will need separate spaces to house cats and dogs.

2. Initiate the process of making your shelter a nonprofit organization. Nonprofit status will enable the shelter to receive donations of cash, goods (such as pet food) and services, including veterinary care. Unless you have legal skills and experience in the nonprofit world, you will want to hire a lawyer to help you navigate the regulations both the federal and state authorities have in regard to nonprofit organizations. Expect the process to take six to 18 months and to cost a minimum of $1,000 (exclusive of legal fees.)

3. Locate a space to house the animals. You will need to take zoning regulations into consideration as well as the specifics relating to a safe, comfortable home for animals. Think realistically about space requirements for animals---how many animals can you care for? What accommodations will you make for quarantining sick and newborn animals from the general population? Where will you store food, litter (if caring for cats) and bedding supplies? If you shelter dogs, where can they exercise?

4. Begin building a network of supporters. Through personal contacts, online animal lover forums, and any existing local networks such as animal rescue, begin finding people interested in supporting you through donated goods, services or cash. You will want to have a good relationship with at least one veterinary clinic willing to provide services to your shelter for a discount. Also, your shelter will need people to feed and clean up after the animals as well as provide them with loving attention.

5. Launch your fundraising campaign. You will either need to wait until your organization has official nonprofit status or find an existing nonprofit with similar goals to yours willing to serve as an umbrella organization under whose aegis you can seek foundation grant money and/or offer individual donors the opportunity to write-off donations to you on their taxes. Finding potential donors who support your goals requires a period of researching foundations as well as creating a public profile to gain support from individual animal lovers.

6. Create an adoption policy and adoption form. What criteria will you use to determine what constitutes a worthy adopter for your animals? What will you require of people who want to take an animal home, and what guarantees or safeguards will your shelter offer in return?

7. Open your shelter with a publicity campaign designed to bring in people who will genuinely love and care for animals. Although you want to make people aware your shelter exists, many shelters prefer not to publicize their exact location but give it discreetly to interested adopters who have made telephone contact. If you do not have money for advertisement, put up flyers at veterinary offices and pet supply stores.

Tags: your shelter, will need, house animals, types animals, will want

Make A Neopets Pet Page

Make a Neopets Pet Page

Neopets is a website that has become extremely popular with kids and even a few adults recently. The main plot of the website is that you get to create you own virtual pet that lives in its own virtual world with other Neopets. You can play games with your Neopet, feed it, buy it clothes using Neopoints or Neocash, and even take care of it when it is sick. In Neopets, not only do you get to have your own profile that you can customize, you can also create what is called a pet page for your Neopet.

Instructions

1. Go online to the Neopets site and log in to your account. On your "logged in" screen, click on the picture of your active pet. You will see a list of your pets.

2. Select the pet for which you'd like to create a pet page. Click the arrow located to the right of it. You will see several choices.

3. Click the option that reads "Edit Petpage," You will be taken to the pet page, which will have some pre-coded HTML. If you do not like the default page pre-view show on the page, visit the NeoEditor website to create a new page layout.

4. Click the "Generate Code" menu button and copy the generated code to re-use on your Neopets homepage.

5. Replace the prewritten code on your pet page with the code that you previously saved from online. You can also create you own HTML code. Once you are finished, click the "Save Changes" button and your Neopets homepage will be created.

Tags: also create, create page, Make Neopets, Make Neopets Page, Neopets homepage, Neopets Page

Become A State Trooper In California

Become a State Trooper in California

"Safety, Service and Security" is the motto of the California Highway Patrol. This proud division of the State of California monitors and protects the highways, is involved with K-9 training and use, and acts as a liaison in the public school systems.

Instructions

1. Submit an application to become a California State Trooper. You can find applications at any California Highway Patrol office. You can get more information regarding the application process by calling 1-888-4A-CHP JOB.

2. Take a written 125-question multiple choice exam. You will be tested at a 12th grade level on comprehension, reading and spelling. You must pass this test to continue with the California State Trooper qualifications.

3. Measure your physical ability by taking an endurance test. The sections of this test are upper body and trunk strength, 500 yard run, 100 yard sprint and side step run. You must pass the physical ability exam to move on to the next portion of the test.

4. Have a personal interview with a licensed psychologist and then take a written exam after a successful background check is performed.

5. Meet with the Qualifications Appraisal Panel to determine whether you have the coping skills and capabilities to deal with issues that a California State Trooper faces.

6. Undergo a polygraph test and a full medical exam as the final steps to qualify as a California Highway Patrol Officer. After successfully passing these last two steps you will be assigned to the training academy to begin your career.

Tags: State Trooper, California Highway, California Highway Patrol, California State, California State Trooper

Surrender Your Cat To A Rescue In Wisconsin

Surrender your cat to an animal rescue as a last resort.

Before you decide to surrender your cat, Dane County Humane Society in Madison, Wisconsin, recommends that you explore other alternatives. If the cause is behavioral, consult a feline behavior specialist. If someone in your house has allergies, try speaking to a doctor, creating a cat-free zone, cleaning the house frequently and bathing the cat weekly. If your landlord doesn't allow pets, try finding pet-friendly housing instead. If you really can't take care of your cat anymore, ask if anyone you know and trust can adopt her. Failing all those solutions, surrender your cat to an animal rescue.

Instructions

1. Find animal rescue organizations in Wisconsin. Some websites such as Midwest Pet Finder and AnimalShelter.org keep databases of animal shelters in Wisconsin.

2. Find out more about the organizations by calling them or going to their websites to find out about their treatment of cats available for adoption there, whether they euthanize cats that don't get adopted and their adoption success rate.

3. Choose an organization, check that it has space for your cat and schedule an appointment with them to surrender your cat.

4. Collect all the paperwork detailing the cat's medical history, such as vaccinations and tests for feline health conditions.

5. Groom the cat and trim its nails before you bring it in.

6. Bring the cat's medical records, your photo ID and the cat to the animal rescue organization. As of July 2010, Wisconsin Humane Society requires you to pay $35 to surrender a cat unless you can prove you can't afford the fee. Some animal rescue organizations spend more on animal care than they charge, so consider donating even more than that.

Tags: animal rescue, animal rescue organizations, Humane Society, rescue organizations, surrender your

Get Wifi For An Emulator

An emulator allows you to play a variety of different video games on your computer. When you're playing a Nintendo DS, you can use the built-in Wi-Fi feature to link up with other players and trade game items. DeSmuME is a Nintendo DS feature that allows you to use the Wi-Fi feature in the emulator. However, to legally play a game on an emulator, you must also own a physical copy of the game. You must have Internet access on your computer for this to work.

Instructions

1. Open your Internet browser, and navigate to the DeSmuME website.

2. Click "Download" to download the emulator to your computer.

3. Open the DeSmuME emulator on your computer.

4. Click the "Config" button, and select "Wi-Fi Settings." Tick the "Infrastructure" box. Select the drop-down menu for "Bridge Network Adapter," and select your network card on your computer that is connected to your network. Click "OK" to save the changes.

5. Select "Config" and choose "Emulator Settings." Tick the box next to "Use external BIOS images." Select "ARM9 BIOS image," and then choose the "biosnds9.bin" file found in the "Wi-Fi folder with your DeSmuME emulator.

6. Select the "ARM7 BIOS image." Select "biosnds7.bin" and select "Open." Untick the "Emulate SWIs with BIOS image" and "Patch DelayLoop SWI" boxes.

7. Click on the "Firmware Image" box, and select the "firmware.bin" file in your Wi-Fi folder. Tick the box "Boot from firmware." Click "OK."

8. Click the "Open ROM" button, and select a ROM game you would like to play. Click the "Open" button.

9. Select "Wi-Fi Settings" in the game. You will find this under the main menu when you load the game. Select "Search for Access Point." The game will then find a network to which you can connect the Wi-Fi. Select the network to connect your game to Wi-Fi. If it doesn't connect the first time, open and close the game. Repeat this process until it connects. You must do this every time you start the game in the emulator.

Tags: your computer, BIOS image, button select, Click Open, Click Open button, DeSmuME emulator, emulator your

What Is The Cruelty Of Animal Testing

Rabbits are sometimes used in animal testing.

Animal testing is frequently regarded as an unnecessary cruelty by animal rights' activists. There are a number of reasons people consider animal testing to be cruel.

Cages

Although researchers keep their animals exercised and fed, they are still kept in cages or pens that are much smaller than their natural habitat would be.

Pain

Animals are often tested in ways that cause them direct physical pain, despite being given palliative medication to relieve the pain. According to Do Something, almost half a million animals were involved in painful tests during 2002.

Irritants

A good deal of animal testing is cosmetic, which means that animals are injected with irritating chemicals or have cosmetic items applied to their skin. The effects of this type of testing can be disfiguring or fatal.

Significance

More than a million animals were used for various types of testing in both 2005 and 2006, according to the Humane Society of the United States' most recent report.

Euthanization

Once animals have been used for a period of testing, they are normally euthanized, according to Do Something's 11 Facts about Animal Testing. Killing animals after a lifetime of captivity and testing is seen as cruel.

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Make A Flyer

Starting a business is expensive and one of the biggest costs is advertising. You need to find ways to advertise without it involving a lot of money. Flyers are one way to do it. You can make the flyers and deliver them yourself, or you may want to hire one of the kids in the neighborhood to deliver them at a nominal fee.

Instructions

1. Select paper for your flyers, which you can find at any office supply store, such as Office Max or Staples. Decide on a color, preferably something that will stand out so people will remember the flyer.

2. Decide on a date for your opening before you send the flyers out. Include this date on the flyer and if you're offering specials for the opening day or for the first week of your opening include these details, as well. Coupons are a great way to get people's attention.

3. Prepare all the information. Start with an interesting title that will capture people's attention. Alternatively, you can have the coupon at the top to grab people's interest. Add an incentive for keeping the flyer, such as a 10% discount for the first 100 people who come in with the flyer.

4. Deliver the flyers in plenty of time for your grand opening, but not too far in advance that people forget about it. A week in advance should be plenty of notice.

5. Collect the flyers from people who bring it in with them. If they use it for a discount, you can write it off as a business expense. Additionally, it lets you know how well the promotion did by the number of people it drew to your store.

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Colorado State Laws On Birth Certificate

Copies of Colorado birth certificates can only be obtained by designated people.

Colorado laws govern how long there is to file a birth certificate, who can see the original birth certificate of an adopted child, who can obtain copies of birth certificates, and what the requirements are for getting a copy of a birth certificate.

Registering a birth

Information on a live birth must be filed with the local or state registrar within 10 days. The information can be submitted electronically with the Office of State Registrar. In the event the baby dies during the birth and a certificate of fetal death needs to be filed, the time limit for filing is five days.

Adoption and Birth Certificates

Several Colorado laws control birth certificate records for finalized adoptions. If the adoption was finalized before July 1, 1951, records of the original birth are sealed without a court order. In adoptions finalized between July 1, 1951 and June 30, 1967, records are open to the adoptee. In adoptions finalized between July 1, 1967 and August 31, 1999, records are sealed without a court order. For adoptions finalized Sept. 1, 1999 or later, records are open to an adult adoptee. If you are adopted or are seeking the amended birth certificate of a child adopted by yourself, you have the option of requesting that the words "issued pursuant to adoption" do or do not appear on the certified copy of the amended birth certificate.

Proof of Identity and Relationship

To get a certified copy of a birth certificate, you must submit the application form (which can be downloaded from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website), the fee, proof of identity and proof of relationship to the person whose birth certificate you seek if you are not the person named on the certificate. Copies can be obtained by the person named on the certificate, parents, grandparents or great-grandparents, stepparents, siblings, spouse, adult children or grandchildren, stepchildren, legal guardians, or legal representatives with proof of client relationship, the Consular Corps or genealogists with appropriate credentials who represent family members.

Acceptable Proof of Identity

Acceptable proof of identity must be submitted. The following forms of ID are sufficient by themselves: photo driver license or photo ID card; school, university or college ID card; passport; alien registration card; employment authorization card; military or tribal ID card; or certificate of naturalization or U.S. citizenship. If those are not available, you need to submit two from the following list: work identification/paycheck Stub/W-2; motor vehicle registration or title; probation documents or Department of Correction ID card; Social Security card; marriage license; divorce decree; voter registration card; DD-214; hospital birth worksheet; hunting, fishing, pilot or trade license; weapon permit; birth certificate of the applicant; Selective Service card; and any expired document (no more than 6 months expired) from the first list.

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Create A New Dog Registration

Create a New Dog Registration

Registering your dog with the American Kennel Club (AKC) signifies your dog as a purebred member of its breed. This allows your dog to participate in AKC events. If you decide to breed your dog, AKC registration is important to ensure the puppies can be registered with the AKC as well. You can create a new dog registration via mailed forms or online at the AKC's website.

Instructions

1. Ask your dog's breeder to fill out the sex, color, markings, registration type and transfer date on the dog registration application. The breeder must sign the application as well. Most breeders will have this prepared when you go to pick up a new puppy.

2. Fill out the name of your dog, payment information for the registration fee and any additional options you choose, and your name and address on the application. Sign the application in the designated spot.

3. Mail the registration to the AKC at the address printed at the bottom of the registration form.

4. Download a supplemental transfer statement at akc.org/pdfs/masterform.cfm if you purchased or acquired your purebred dog from someone other than the breeder. Mail this form with your registration application.

5. Get all previous owners to sign the supplemental transfer statement and mail it to the AKC at the address indicated on the form.

6. Include your dog's pedigree with the registration application if your dog did not come with papers and its parents were not registered. The AKC will allow registration for dogs whose pedigrees show the animal's parents as AKC-stock dogs as long as there is not a break in AKC lineage.

7. Apply for enrollment in the AKC's Purebred Alternative Listing/Indefinite Listing Privilege (PAL/ILP) program if your dog is not eligible for normal AKC registration because it did not receive papers from the breeder or because of incomplete paperwork. Rescue dogs and dogs registered with other organizations that make them ineligible for AKC registration are also eligible for the PAL/ILP program. Download an application at akc.org/pdfs/masterform.cfm. Fill the application out and mail it to the address indicated on the form.

8. Register your dog online at www.apps.akc.org/dogreg/index.cfm if you prefer to avoid mailing hard copies of the required applications and forms.

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Community Education Projects For Pet Owners

Volunteering with your well-behaved pet can show others be a responsible pet owner.

Pet ownership is a responsibility most people don't take lightly. Often, pet owners want to share with the world their enthusiasm for animals and their passion for humane treatment of animals. By volunteering, organizing events and even promoting events through social media forums, pet owners can help educate their communities on the responsibilities that come with owning a pet and what they can do to keep themselves and their pets safe.

Animal Shelters

Volunteer at a shelter. Bring your dog, if you have one, and walk or run the shelter dogs around to get them exercise. You can also greet potential adopters with your well-behaved pet and show them what a good human-pet relationship could be. As well, you can let people know how important it is to commit to an animal once it is adopted. Share great experiences you have had as a pet owner.

Service Animals

Train and certify your pet to be a service pet. Many animals, including dogs, cats and birds, can help children in school by sitting with them while they read, for instance. Animals also brighten the days of the elderly and others in residential facilities. By doing this, you can demonstrate how powerful pets are to human happiness and help others at the same time.

Fundraisers

Plan and carry out fundraisers for local animal-rescue organizations. Use your animal as a poster animal on fliers and other media and bring your animal to whatever event you help coordinate. Present information about pet overpopulation, the plight of shelter animals and ways people can help.

Social Media and Networking

Use social media to promote the message of organizations with which you are affiliated. Did you have a great experience at the local dog training club? Have you witnessed the passion and hard work your local animal-shelter workers put into their jobs? Facebook, twitter and email are great ways to let people know how you feel and promote causes dear to your heart. Talk about your own experience and refer people to official websites.

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Learn About Buying A Chihuahua

Maya the Chihuahua

Chihuahuas (also called Chis) are adorable and tiny. They are also neurotic and headstrong. No one should consider buying one of these precocious little dogs without doing research first. Owning a Chihuahua is major commitment because this dog is extremely loyal to the person who raises him.

Instructions

1. Consider the shape of the Chihuahua’s head. There are apple-heads and deer-heads. An apple-head Chi is the dog with the rounded dome shaped head (the typical Taco Bell Chihuahua look). The deer-head Chi has a flatter shaped head. Both are normal.

2. Check out the size and color of the Chihuahua’s parents. Chis typically range from 2 to 10 pounds. The average Chi (the Taco Bell dog) weighs about four pounds. For show, a Chi must be under six pounds. Chis come in many colors. Fawn is the color of the Taco Bell dog. They also come in blond and black with tan markings. You can also buy a short-haired (called a smoothcoat) Chihuahua or a long-haired (called a longcoat) Chihuahua.

3. Chihuahuas are high-risk dogs. They tend to have health problems. Chi’s typically have low blood sugar and you need to leave food for them to nibble on all day. This is not your ‘feed once a day’ type of dog. Failure to do this could lead to the death of your little Chihuahua.

4. Commit to living with this dog for life. Chihuahuas are extremely loyal dogs. They bond with their owner and that person becomes the center of the universe for the Chi. If you don’t have the time to spend with your Chi, then consider getting another type of dog. It is very sad to see this loyal little dog left alone in a cage while its owner works a full-time job. A Chihuahua is a dog for a person who spends a lot of time at home.

5. Keep a Chi away from children. If you have a house full of children, then buying a Chihuahua is not for you. Chis are naturally sensitive to loud noises and don’t care for the exuberance of children. Likewise, Chihuahuas are notorious for barking at every little thing. This can be annoying at times, but they make wonderful watchdogs. They will notify you when anything is out of order long before you will have heard a sound.

6. Prepare comfortable bedding for your new Chihuahua. Chis are burrowers; they love to burrow under any form of cover they can find. This can be quite comical to watch, as they use their nose and paws to arrange a blanket just perfectly over top of them. Many Chi owners allow their dogs to sleep under the covers with them (this is the Chi’s favorite spot in the world, under the covers at its owners feet).

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Become A Humane Society Police Officer

Humane Society police officers, also known as animal control officers, work to protect stray, unwanted and abused animals. Officers provide animals with a place to live while they wait to be adopted or reunited with their owners and educate the public about the importance of responsible animal ownership. They also assist in situations in which dangerous animals need to be captured and investigate claims of animal mistreatment.

Instructions

1. Complete your associate's degree. Take courses in criminal justice, animal behavior and veterinary science. These assets will increase your chances of being hired by human resource managers and increase your professional credibility.

2. Sign up for and attend training courses that are available through the National Animal Control Association. They offer several different types of certification, which cover animal euthanasia, animal capture techniques and animal behavior. The courses also focus on stress management, animal control and self-defense.

3. Contact your local Humane Society animal shelter and ask to volunteer in a shelter to gain experience. This will give you hands-on experience.

4. Apply for a job as a Humane Society police officer. Current job opportunities are available on the National Animal Control Association website (see Resources).

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Create Virtual Pets

Virtual pets are pets that exist in an electronic form. These pets can be dogs, cats, or a variety of other animals, and offer some of the benefits of a real pet without the costs. If you'd like to have your own virtual pet, there are several websites that allow you to create or choose a pet you like and care for it. They are free to use and here's something else to keep in mind --- your virtual pets won't make a real-life mess.

Instructions

1. Sign up for Neopets. Neopets lets you choose from a multitude of different pets and adds a community aspect to the experience --- you can play games with or against others using your virtual pet. Winning games earns you virtual currency, which you can use to buy upgrades for your Neopet.

2. Register for AdoptMe. You can create a pet, such as a dog, cat or horse, which you can feed and care for online. Your pet will also have a profile page and blog created on its behalf, which you can update to your liking. AdoptMe also includes some community features, allowing you to join groups, chat with other pets and more.

3. Join FooPets. The difference between FooPets and the previous two options is the amount of realism you'll see in the pet you create. A FooPet exists in a 3D window where it can walk around and play. Using your mouse, you can rub your pet's head and see it respond happily. Your pet can also meow or bark, so make sure to adjust your volume accordingly.

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Buy A Pet Wolf

Most people buy dogs, cats or fish when they want a pet. Some want a pet that is a little more unique and get a snake or tarantula. But owning an exotic animal like a wolf as a pet can be an entirely different experience and one for which you must be fully prepared. Here are some things to remember when buying a pet wolf.

Instructions

1. Do your research. Before buying a wolf as a pet, educate yourself about all its special needs and requirements. Know how much space the wolf needs to live in, what kind of dietary needs it has and any illnesses or diseases it may be prone to.

2. Check local laws and regulations. Depending on where you live, there may be laws restricting what kind of exotic animals can be kept as pets. If you live in a suburb or well-populated area, you may not be permitted to have a wolf as a pet or you might be required to have special accommodations in your home for sanitation and safety reasons. These laws are in place for your safety and the safety of your neighbors and must be obeyed.

3. Locate a proper veterinarian. A regular veterinarian may not be able to adequately treat a wolf or advise you on its basic health needs. Many small animal veterinarians refuse to treat large or exotic animals because they are not properly trained to do so. Have access to a veterinarian who specializes in exotic and large animals who can treat your pet wolf properly.

4. Find a good breeder. A reputable breeder is as important when buying an exotic animal as it is when buying a dog or cat. Look online and compare breeders until you find one that has a good reputation. Visit the facilities to guarantee they are clean, spacious and well-maintained and that the stock is healthy and well cared for.

5. Know what a healthy wolf looks like. Prior to visiting breeding facilities and selecting a wolf pup, learn what signs of good health you should look for. A little research about wolves and talking to your veterinarian can help you determine what a healthy pup looks like and what kind of behavior is indicative of health and vitality.

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