Creative Community Service Projects

Involve yourself in community service.

Giving to the community can be a rewarding experience. Get your family and neighbors involved in coming together to make a difference in your community. Typical community service ideas include food drives, clothing drives and car washes. Learn some creative ways in which you can serve your community and have fun at the same time.

Pet Product Donations

Hold a pet product drive.

Set up a donation table for old pet products such as collars, leashes, new and unopened food products, flea treatments, pet beds, carriers, new litter, new litter boxes and toys. Donate the items to needy families who have pets. Needy families may have resources for food and clothing, but their pets may suffer. These families may have to abandon these pets. This community service project will help both the pets and the families while decreasing the number of abandoned animals in shelters.

Children's Music

Give a family the gift of music.

Compile a CD of children's music such as lullaby music, singalongs, Disney soundtracks and educational music. Create several copies, and donate them to needy families with children. You can legally purchase and download these types of songs from various websites and online programs, then burn them on CDs.

Map Making

Create and disperse maps of community sites.

Design and make maps of local parks, bike trails, beaches, museums, historic sites, libraries or other community sites. Print larger copies, then donate them to the organizations and disperse them as brochures.

Handmade Blanket Drive

Create and donate handmade blankets.

Get a group of people in the community together to get together and create blankets for members of the community. This activity can have a creative old-fashioned quilting bee feel. You can make various types of blankets such as quilts, fleece tie blankets, crocheted blankets, knitting blankets and sewed blankets. Create various sizes to fit infant, children, teen, adult twin bed, adult queen bed and adult king beds. Donate them to people in the community during the winter months, as well as to pregnant women or newlyweds.

Neighborhood Newspaper

Create a newspaper for your neighborhood to enjoy.

Create a neighborhood newspaper to disperse to your neighbors. Ask various neighbors to contribute stories, photographs and designs. You can even create your own neighborhood classified ads and advertise neighbors' businesses or crafts. Publish weekly, monthly or even bimonthly. You can write stories about topics such as arts and entertainment in the neighborhood or activities in which neighbors are involved. Disperse the newspapers for free or charge a small fee, such as a quarter or even 10 cents. If you decide to charge, put the money away for neighborhood events and needs.

Tags: families have, community service, community sites, donate them, neighbors involved, people community, your community

Ways To Volunteer To Help Homeless Animals In Wisconsin

Homeless animals risk death by exposure to harsh Wisconsin winters.

Homeless animals in Wisconsin hold a greater risk of premature death as a result of neglect and malnourishment than animals that are housed and cared for. A variety of methods exist to help homeless cats, dogs and other animals in Wisconsin get the homes and care they need to thrive.

Adoption and Fostering

One of the single most effective ways to help a homeless animal in Wisconsin is to adopt one. Adopting a homeless animal helps tensure that the animal has a safe and permanent home and is not exposed to elements and the effects of hunger that many homeless animals face. If adoption is not possible, many animal rescue groups recruit volunteers to take animals in on a temporary basis until permanent homes can be found.

Donations

If taking a homeless animal into your home on a long term or temporary basis is not possible, donations to local animal shelters is another and often tax-deductible means of helping animals in Wisconsin. In addition to monetary donations, animal shelters and rescue groups throughout the state accept donations of pet foods, blankets, flea collars and animal toys throughout the year to help make the lives of the animals they rescue safer and more secure.

Volunteer Your Time

Animal rights groups, animal shelters and animal rescue groups throughout the state work hard to protect the rights of animals and to rescue them from the streets. Volunteering to bathe animals when they are rescued, answer the phones at local animal shelters or update the websites of animal shelters whenever new animals arrive are excellent means of volunteering to help homeless animals. Other means of volunteering include contacting local companies for product donations and volunteering to work at adoption fairs and expos.

Campaign for Animal Rights

Nonprofit groups who specialize in promoting animal rights recruit volunteers for a variety of projects. Individuals who are technically savvy may help by building websites to promote causes related to the animal rights agenda, while others may volunteer to gather signed petitions to legislate changes to Wisconsin laws on animal abuse and neglect. Another important issue that Wisconsin residents can help to promote is the important of spaying and neutering your pets as uncontrolled pet populations are a leading contributor to homeless animals, particularly cats and dogs.

Tags: animal shelters, homeless animal, homeless animals, rescue groups, animal rescue, animal rescue groups

Break A Male Dog From Marking In The House

Break a Male Dog From Marking in the House

Male dogs often mark territory in the house if they are stressed by changes, such as a visiting dog or new pet. Poorly-trained dogs are more likely to mark in the house than well-trained dogs and it's more common for an intact (un-neutered) dog to mark. Marking is not a spiteful or disobedient act; it's a natural urge and an important way for dogs to communicate. However, this doesn't mean you need to tolerate it. Break a male dog from marking by going back to potty-training basics and working on overall obedience training.

Instructions

1. Take your dog to your veterinarian to rule out a medical problem, such as incontinence or marking due to a urinary tract infection. All the training in the world won't break marking behavior if he truly can't help it.

2. Restrict your dog's access to the house when you can't monitor him by using baby gates to keep him to one room (preferably with an easy-to-clean floor) or a crate.

3. Give him plenty of potty breaks outside. Most adult dogs can hold it for 8 to 10 hours while you're at work, but should be let out to urinate as soon as you come home, upon waking up, and after each meal. Don't allow him to mark right next to a door.

4. Keep your dog on a leash when he is with you, even in the house. The more chances he gets to mark, the more he'll self-reinforce the behavior. Just like housebreaking a puppy, you do not want to give him the opportunity to lift his leg inside.

5. Clean up every time he leaves a urine stain. Use a commercial pet-stain remover that eliminates the smell, or white vinegar. Don't use any household product containing ammonia, because this smells like urine to a dog.

6. Scold your dog (but never hit or physically punish him) if you catch him in the act. Even better, if you catch him sidling up to something preparing to lift his leg, shriek and hustle him outside. If he marks out in the yard, praise him.

7. Act consistently and persistently. If your marking male thinks he can mark when you're not around, he'll continue to do it. Monitor his activity and restrict him to a crate when you're away.

8. Work on obedience training. Well-trained dogs rarely if ever mark inside, even if they are intact, because they are secure and understand you are in charge. Take some obedience or leadership classes with your dog to kick-start obedience and good manners.

Tags: Break Male From, dogs more, From Marking, From Marking House, Male From

Find Free Dog Food Samples

Visit manufacturers' websites to sign up for free samples.

Dog food companies often run promotions, giving out free samples or coupons for their brands of food. When new or improved foods hit the market, promotions bring in sales, so manufacturers give away samples of products for consumers to try. Companies are now turning to Facebook as a promotional avenue and offer free samples if you click "like" on the companies' Facebook pages. Dog food manufacturers also give samples and coupons for visiting the their websites and signing up for promotional emails or newsletters.

Instructions

Manufacturers' Websites

1. Type a particular brand of dog food (IAMs, Pedigree, Alpo) in the browser's search window. Click on the dog food manufacturer's main website from the search list.

2. Check the website for a promotions tab. If promotions tab is available click on it, to navigate to the promotions page.

3. Sign up for email offers and newsletters. When free samples or coupons are available the company will send out emails to everyone who has signed up.

Facebook Company Pages

4. Search Facebook for dog food company pages. Click on the pages and look for free dog food promotions.

5. Click "Like" to start receiving promotions and updates from the company posted to your wall.

6. Click on the company pages and enter address information when free samples are listed as available.

Get Free Dog Food Website

7. Go to the "Get Free Dog Food" website (see Resources) and sign up to receive email alerts for free dog food samples.

8. Fill out all required information and click "Submit." A registration email will be sent.

9. Open registration email and click on link provided to complete registration.

10. Click on links provided in emails, fill out required information and submit requests for free dog food. The dog food will either be delivered by mail or a coupon will be issued for the full price of the dog food.

Tags: free samples, samples coupons, company pages, free food, free samples coupons, registration email, required information

Medication For Dogs With Anxiety

Dogs can experience a wide range of anxiety disorders, including storm and noise phobias, separation anxiety, and fear aggression. Medications can be useful in helping to ease the effects of the anxiety and give the owner a chance to work on the issues causing the problems.

Separation Anxiety

One of the most common types of anxiety in dogs is separation anxiety. Dogs get very nervous and upset when left alone, even for short periods of time. A common medication to treat separation anxiety is Clomicalm, which has been approved by the FDA to treat separation anxiety in dogs.

Fear Aggression

Another common type of anxiety is fear aggression. Dogs with fear aggression may lunge and bite when they feel threatened. They may also exhibit aggression around food and toys out of fear that they won't receive their share. This is treated with Prozac (fluoxetine).

Storm and Noise Phobia

Many dogs, especially herding breeds, experience storm and noise anxiety. One common medication used for dogs with these phobias is Elavil (amitriptyline).

Rescue Remedy

Natural medications for anxiety are also available. One of the most common natural treatments is Rescue Remedy, which is one of the Bach Flower Remedies.

Other Natural Medications

Other natural treatments can help calm a dog. Supplementing your dog's diet with a quality holistic vitamin can be helpful. Herbs such as valerian, chamomille and St. John's Wort all have calming properties and can help to ease anxiety in a dog.

Tags: fear aggression, anxiety dogs, anxiety fear, anxiety fear aggression, common medication, most common

Become A Canine Police Officer

A police dog and his handler receive special training.

A canine police officer works with a dog to conduct police operations on a daily basis. A K9 officer and his partner search for drugs, explosives and other contraband. He also must rely on his partner to perform tracking and takedown maneuvers. A basic love of animals is necessary, but special training and experience are also needed to enter this specialty. Once you have become a K9 officer, you must remember to spend every possible moment with your canine partner so the bond between you continually grows.

Instructions

1. Enroll in a community college or four-year university. Work for a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Attend every class and learn as much as you can, remembering that the information taught might one day save your life.

2. Apply for a position at a police academy. Pass your courses, graduate and apply for work with a law enforcement agency. Work as a law enforcement officer for several years to get on-the-job training and to earn seniority.

3. Study dog training and handling throughout your career. Read books, watch videos and take classes from independent dog handlers to learn the basics.

4. Request permission to ride along with K9 officers whenever possible. Watch closely how each officer acts with his canine counterpart. Ask questions, and do not interfere with the handler's duties.

5. Meet with the head of your department's K9 training unit. Volunteer to act as a criminal decoy in training exercises. Pay close attention to the training offered during the sessions to expand your knowledge.

6. Ask the head of the K9 unit at your department to review the qualifications he requires for applicants into the program. Examine your background to determine whether you are lacking in a particular area. Take classes to catch up, if necessary. Apply through the department to enter the K9 training program.

7. Attend the training course. Pay close attention to all of your instructors. Ask questions when necessary. Pass the class and begin working as a canine police officer.

Tags: canine police, close attention, police officer, special training, your department

Signs Of Abused Animals

Unfortunately, some people are abusive toward animals.

It's an unfortunate fact of life that there are people in the world who are abusive toward animals. While many of these animals go through a great deal of trauma, some are never saved. Knowing the signs of an abused animal can be beneficial in many ways, including identifying an animal abuser or recognizing that an animal has special needs due to past abuse.

Open Wounds

Open wounds anywhere on the body can indicate an abused animal. Especially when there are multiple open wounds, multiple healed wounds or another ongoing injury. When these wounds do not appear to be undergoing treatment, this is another sign that the animal is being abused.

Changes in Skin

Any changes to the skin, outside of open wounds, may indicate that an animal is being abused. For example, a dog who has developed scaly skin or a rash may be suffering from abuse, especially when this is combined with other signs. Additional changes in skin include bumps, burns or loss of hair.

Fur

Fur that is dirty or has not been bathed can be present in an abused animal. The animal may have matting of the fur and overgrown nails. The presence of parasites in the fur may also indicate abuse, including ticks or fleas.

Collar

Collars that are too tight can result in neck wounds. They can become embedded in the fur or the skin of the pet, causing serious injury. These conditions can also create secondary bacterial infections due to the open wound.

Physical Condition

The overall physical condition of the animal is a big indicator whether abuse has occurred. For example, emaciation, occasionally to the point of visible bones, is a sign of animal abuse. Weakness, such as being unable to get up or move around, or limping, can also signal an abused animal. Some animals may also suffer from unusual discharge from the eyes or the nose.

Environmental Indications

There are many environmental indications of animal abuse. An animal without food or water for a significant amount of time, or an animal that has been tied up or caged outdoors in extreme weather conditions, either with or without food and water, indicate abuse. Dirty cages or living conditions point to an abusive situation.

Warning

It should be noted that certain behavioral signs do not necessarily mean that a dog has been abused. This can include aggressive behavior, timidness or being fearful. Though this can occur in dogs who are abused, none of these behaviors can be used to conclusively identify an abused dog. In fact, some breeds are known to be more aggressive, timid or fearful, regardless of their environment.

Tags: abused animal, that animal, abusive toward, abusive toward animals, animal abuse, animal being

The Best Dog Food For German Shepherds

A German Shepherd

German Shepherds are a large breed of dog classified as a "herding dog". They are strong, loyal and extremely athletic. All dogs require a high-protein diet, but German Shepherds and other working-class dogs demand an even greater amount of protein. Below are tips on choose the best dog food for your German Shepherd.

Understanding your German Shepherd

Do some homework on your breed. Learn its history and how it developed. German Shepherds come from a working-class stock of high energy, industrious herding dogs. These dogs were bred to move constantly, to be extremely alert and be very protective. All these things still influence the breed today.

Rate your dog

Look at your own dog. Think about how much activity is demanded of it. Rate your dog effectively. Just as a person who does not work out every day does not need to consume a high-calorie, high-energy diet, neither does a house pet need to consume the same amount of food as a true working-class dog. If your dog is exercised with vigor every day, that will influence your food choice. If it is mostly a companion, its dietary needs will be quite different.

Visit your local pet store

Find a local pet or feed store that supplies dog food. Walk the aisles and read the labels. There are many brands that are top quality. Eukanuba, Maxxum, Science Diet and other high-end feeds are often worth their price tags. But the old, tried and true, such as Purina, are still good. You want to look for at least 24 percent protein. Avoid fillers such as ash, or mystery ingredients such as "ground animal meal". You want quality ingredients that you can actually understand: real meat, real vegetable ingredients and extras such as dried brewers yeast.

Visit with your veterinarian

Your veterinarian can often be the best source for solid advice on what to feed your German Shepherd. Be sure and make an appointment to have your dog's health checked and ask for his opinion on what food is best for your dog.

Tags: German Shepherd, German Shepherds, your German, your German Shepherd, need consume

Care For A Cat

Cats are cool creatures. Unlike dogs, they are independent, require no potty training and make no annoying barks. If you have adopted a cat, or a cat has adopted you, there are a few things you need to do to care for your cat.

Instructions

1. Get a covered litter box. The cover will help control odor and keep the cat from urinating over the side. Even if you plan to keep your cat outdoors some of the time, it is healthier for the cat if it can urinate indoors when it needs to. Also, most cats will prefer their litter box to going outdoors. It is cleaner(if you take care of it like you are supposed to) and prevents the cat from catching parasites, such as toxoplasmosis, from digging in the outside dirt.

2. Get some cat litter to put in the litter box. The clumping kind stays cleaner and lasts much longer. Also get a slotted pooper scooper to remove the droppings daily.

3. Take the cat for a veterinary check-up and obtain any needed vaccinations. Also have it spayed or neutered in order to prevent unwanted pregnancies or male spraying. Get some topical flea treatment from your veterinarian. You are supposed to apply it once a month, but once every two months will still do the trick.

4. Get a scratching post with sisal rope. Carpeted scratching posts can make a cat sick if it ingests the carpet. A scratching post will help save your furniture and allow your cat to satisfy its scratching instinct.

5. Get some dry cat food from your veterinarian. Some cats prefer dry food, others wet. Dry food is easier for the owner to dispense, doesn't make any mess, and doesn't have as much smell. Always make sure the cat has a fresh bowl of water every day, especially if it is eating dry cat food.

6. Get some balls or cat toys for your cat to play with. Also get a brush to take care of its fur. Stroke your cat and talk to it to show affection.

Tags: from your, from your veterinarian, scratching post, take care, will help

Buy A Car In New Jersey

Title your New Jersey vehicle within 10 business days.

Although title transfers are generally a simplified process in the state of New Jersey, the registration fees are a bit higher than most other states. The registration period on a new car runs four years, while used cars have to be registered annually. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) offers a registration discount to handicapped owners or those older than 65. If you purchase from a dealership, the dealer will handle your taxes and MVC paperwork.

Instructions

1. Shop for the vehicle you want to buy. Read your local newspaper and go to websites such as eBay Motors, Craigslist or the New Jersey State Auto Auction. Test drive the vehicles you like, and be sure to take the car to a mechanic before purchasing.

2. Discuss payment with the seller. Before paying, make sure the title is free of any liens or that the seller can provide you with lien release paperwork to take to the MVC with your title.

3. Pay the seller. Verify that the seller has signed the back of the New Jersey title before leaving. As the buyer, you are responsible for providing the correct odometer reading, sales price, date of sale, your printed name, address, signature and license number.

4. Contact an insurance agent. Give the vehicle identification number (VIN) listed on the title to the agent. Discuss any questions or policy changes and obtain proof of insurance--have it emailed or faxed if necessary.

5. Go to a local MVC office with your driver's license, title and proof of insurance. Fill out the application for registration (form BA-49), which you can obtain at the MVC, and see an MVC representative.

6. Pay your title, registration fee and sales tax. Receive your two license plates and retain all copies of your paperwork to put in your glove box. Arrange for a ride to return to your car and put the plates on it so that you can drive away legally.

Tags: that seller, with your, your title

Find Pets For Sale

Discover where to look to find a new pet for your family.

It can be difficult to decide where to look for a new pet. Various options are available for adopting a pet, such as pet shops, shelters and breeders, but you must make the decision based on type of animal you are looking for and whether you would like to rescue a pet.

Instructions

1. Visit local pet stores and view the animals for sale. Many pet stores offer various types of cats, dogs, birds, fish, rodents and reptiles. A pet store can also supply you with any pet needs.

2. Find breeders in your area if you want a certain breed of animal. Breeders can guarantee minimal genetic health problems. Many people prefer breeders even though they are more expensive than stores. They know that they are purchasing pets that have been well cared for, and the breeders can offer advice on caring for the new animal.

3. Check the local classified ads. This is a method many people use to find pets at low prices or even free. Pets listed in the classifieds are often older pets or litters of babies who are desperately in need of new homes.

4. Visit the local animal shelters. Pets in animal shelters have either been dropped off by families who can't care for them or they were strays that were brought in to the shelter. Rescuing a pet from an animal shelter is less expensive than pet stores and breeders. Your rescue may help to save an animal's life if it is in a shelter using euthanasia for overcrowding issues.

5. Browse websites on the internet to locate a pet in your area. Many new websites are available which offer people a chance to locate a nearby pet for sale, using information such as type and breed of desired animal and your ZIP code. Searches can be further customized to include the desired age, gender, size and whether the animal gets along with children and other pets.

6. Foster pets in your home if you'd like to test out what it would be like before bringing a pet home. Many shelters allow volunteers to take home the homeless animals and care for them if there are overcrowding issues in the shelter. Oftentimes, volunteers have the option of adopting their foster pet.

Tags: animal shelters, care them, expensive than, expensive than stores, overcrowding issues, than stores

Become A Not For Profit Agency In Missouri

Only certain types of businesses are eligible for a not-for-profit status with the state of Missouri and the IRS. Your business must be organized for charitable, educational, religious, or scientific purposes. Your business cannot pay members, directors, officers, or any other persons anything in excess of reasonable compensation for their services. In addition, not-for-profit businesses aren't allowed to focus a substantial part of their business on influencing legislation or promoting a particular political party. As long as you operate within these guidelines, you're eligible to become a not-for-profit agency in Missouri.

Instructions

1. Choose a name for your business. After picking a name, go to the "search for a business entity" page on the Missouri Secretary of State website and check to see if the name is available for use (see Resources).

2. Draft your mission statement. The mission statement should describe the overall purpose of your business. It can range anywhere from a couple of sentences to a few pages, but it's recommended that you keep it under a quarter of a page.

3. Recruit your initial board members. In Missouri, you must have at least three.

4. Go to the Missouri Secretary of State website and download the form "Articles of Incorporation of a Nonprofit Corporation" (see Resources). Type your information into the form and click to print it. Then mail the form along with the required filing fee to the address given. As of 2010, the filing fee is $25.00.

5. Go to the IRS website and fill out the form to get an Employer Identification Number, otherwise known as an EIN (see Resources). After submitting the form, the EIN will be given to you instantly. Print a copy for your records.

Tags: mission statement, Missouri Secretary, Missouri Secretary State, Secretary State, Secretary State website, State website, Your business

Statute Of Limitations On Cruelty To Animals

Animal cruelty violations cannot be prosecuted when the statute of limitations has expired.

Man has a widespread affinity for his fellow mammals, one that extends to the legal realm with laws forbidding animal cruelty. It's difficult to generalize about animal cruelty statutes as they vary from state to state, but generally, such laws apply to the unnecessary infliction of pain or suffering on an animal. Scientific and medical reasons are exempted from the scope of the law.

Virginia

Regarding animal cruelty, the Virginia statute of limitations is five years. In the case of the unlawful sale of animals, birds and fish, the statute is three years. The latter law stipulates that "any person who offers for sale, sells, offers to purchase, or purchases any wild bird or wild animal, or any part thereof, or any freshwater fish, shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor." The Virginia animal cruelty laws cover general cruelty (including torture), abandonment and neglect.

California

In California, the statute of limitations on a cruelty to animals charge is four years. The California law covers poisoning, abandonment, and improper or abusive confinement of animals. Depending on the offense, animal cruelty laws are classified as either felonies, misdemeanors or both.

Florida

In Florida, the animal cruelty statute of limitations is five years. The law states that an individual is guilty if he "unnecessarily overloads, overdrives, torments, deprives of necessary sustenance or shelter, or unnecessarily mutilates, or kills any animal." The law also includes a provision for organizing dogfights or other animal fighting. Abuse that results in the death of an animal is a felony in Florida.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin animal cruelty law mandates that animals be given proper shelter, food and water. It forbids abusive transport of animals. The statute of limitations is 10 years.

Colorado

Cruelty to animals in Colorado occurs when an individual "knowingly or with criminal negligence overdrives, overloads, overworks, tortures, torments, deprives of necessary sustenance, unnecessarily or cruelly beats, needlessly mutilates, needlessly kills, carries or confines in or upon any vehicle in a cruel or reckless manner, or otherwise mistreats or neglects any animal." Abandoning a dog or cat (but not other animals) also falls under the law. The statute of limitations is eight years.

Maryland

In Maryland, the statute of limitations for cruelty to animals is four years in all cases except where an animal is killed, in which case the statute of limitations is extended to seven years.

States Without Animal Cruelty Laws

Not all jurisdictions in the country have animal cruelty laws on the books. Idaho, North Dakota, South Dakota and Mississippi have no legal prohibitions against cruelty to animals. Many states only enacted their laws since the turn of the 21st century, including Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Washington and New Mexico.

Model Laws

The Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) proposes "model laws" to serve as state guidelines. The ALDF recommends classifying a range of offenses as animal cruelty, including first and second degree animal abuse, animal neglect, animal fighting and animal abandonment, and suggests giving certain authorities, such as firefighters and veterinarians, immunity for reporting incidents of cruelty. The ALDF also suggests creating an online offender registration and community notification program.

Tags: animal cruelty, statute limitations, statute limitations, cruelty laws, animal cruelty

Information About Working At An Animal Shelter

Abused animals depend on workers at the shelter to find them a good home.

Working at an animal shelter is ideal for someone who loves animals, but the work can be physically and emotionally demanding. It means working with abused and abandoned animals and with the people who give them up, which isn't always easy.

Duties

Workers at animal shelters clean cages; feed, bathe and play with animals; keep records; handle the public; answer telephones; and screen people who want to adopt. Shelter workers may assist in vaccinating and euthanizing animals, depending on their experience.

Qualifications

Working at an animal shelter requires lots of patience, sensitivity and strength, as well as a calm, professional attitude, an ability to solve problems and good communication skills.

Training

Working at an animal shelter doesn't require any specialized training, although some experience working with animals is helpful. Some shelters may require a college degree. Training workshops are available through the Humane Society of the United States.

Considerations

Wages are low at animal shelters, and the work may require bending, crawling, kneeling and heavy lifting. Workers are exposed to sick, abandoned or abused animals that can bite or scratch, and shift work may be required on weekends and holidays.

Benefits

Working in an animal shelter is ideal for college students who need a part-time, flexible work schedule, and who are studying to become veterinarians.

Tags: animal shelter, Working animal shelter, animal shelter ideal, animal shelters, shelter ideal, with animals

Identify Horse Abuse

If you believe that a horse at your stable or in your community is being abused, it is important to contact the appropriate authorities to report the situation. Horse abuse occurs in every corner of the world, and can present itself in many different forms. The faster you are able to identify horse abuse, the more lives you will save.

Instructions

1. Know that horse abuse is a serious allegation. What one person considers abusive behavior may only be punishment to someone else, and the law is only capable of handling instances of severe abuse. According to the Humane Society (see Resources below), abuse is defined as "knowingly depriving an animal of food, water, shelter, socialization, or veterinary care or maliciously torturing, maiming, mutilating, or killing an animal." The occasional swat for bad behavior might be unethical, but not illegal.

2. Look for physical signs of horse abuse. These may include open sores, lacerations, swelling, welts, burns or broken bones. Animal abuse is usually considered a pattern of abusive behavior, and a horse that never seems to heal may be a victim.

3. Watch how the horse owner handles his animals. Does he use whips, chains or other instruments to hit the horse? Does he intentionally deprive the animal of food and water? These are all signs of horse abuse, and can prove deadly if allowed to continue.

4. Spend time with the horse. An abused animal will be distrustful of humans, quick to shy away from a gentle hand. Alternatively, the horse might be "mean" when approached by a human, kicking or biting to fend off the attack before it can start. This doesn't mean that the horse is "bad", but that he has learned from experience to expect violence.

5. Know that causing intentional injury to a horse is considered abuse. For example, an owner who kicks her horse in the stomach or whips the horse repeatedly is probably committing abuse. This is especially true if it happens frequently.

6. Ask if the horse has been seen by a veterinarian. Even if an injury is not caused intentionally, the failure to treat the injury is considered abuse.

7. Watch for signs of aggression when the owner rides the horse. Horse abuse is often inflicted when an owner is frustrated during a ride, and takes out his frustration physically. Dismounting to beat a horse, for example, would be considered abuse.

Tags: considered abuse, horse abuse, that horse, abusive behavior, animal food, animal food water, food water

Become An Animal Services Worker

Become an Animal Services Worker

There are two general types of animal services work: animal control and animal protection. In some areas, animal services workers can be responsible for both animal control and animal protection duties. In other areas these are separate jobs performed by different workers.

Instructions

1. Take courses that relate to this position in high school, if possible. Some suggested courses include English, social studies, law, biology and personal development. These courses will help provide you with the foundation you'll need, because in this position you will be working with people and animals.

2. In college take programs such as law and security, animal care, and wildlife management. These programs usually take one to two years and result in a certificate or diploma. Even for jobs that don't require this type of education, it can be preferred and can help you improve your chances of finding a position.

3. Participate in a co-op placement or internship if it is available at your college. With this program, you get to shadow an animal services worker. Although you will not be working with her directly, you will see what she does on a daily basis (depending on where they work or where your placement is), you'll get a feel for the environment and you'll get your foot in the door. When you apply to become an animal services worker, you can use this program as a credential.

4. Apply for a position within a company as an animal services worker. People in this field might work in animal shelters, rescue leagues, stables, grooming shops, pet animal hospitals, or veterinary offices.

5. Enroll yourself in certification and other qualification programs. The National Association or Professional Pet Sitters offers a two-stage, home-study program for those who want to become an animal services worker. Topics range from business management, animal care and animal health issues.

Tags: services worker, animal services worker, animal care, animal control, animal control animal, animal protection

Groom Chihuahuas

Grooming should be part of your Chihuahua's health care program.

Part of proper Chihuahua care is grooming, but grooming isn't just about good looks. It gives you time to bond with your dog as well as provides a chance for you to spot any changes in your dog's physical appearance, such as lumps or growths. You catch serious health problems (such as tumors) early on and prevent problems such as eye infections altogether. Groom your Chihuahua regularly to keep it feeling and looking its best.

Instructions

1. Brush your Chihuahua at least once a week with a soft bristle brush. This will remove any excess or dead fur, reduce shedding and keep your dog's coat healthy and shiny. Brush two to three times a week to avoid tangling if you have a long-haired Chihuahua.

2. Bathe your Chihuahua when needed. Watch for a dirty-looking or greasy coat, or an unpleasant "dog" odor. Give your Chihuahua baths in the sink (this will be easier for you, so you don't have to kneel by the bathtub) with lukewarm water to prevent its tiny body from getting too cold. Use a dog-formula shampoo and conditioner to keep the fur healthy and avoid skin irritation.

3. Trim your Chihuahua's toenails whenever you hear them clicking against the floor. Because they spend most of their time indoors, Chihuahuas do not walk on concrete frequently enough to grind their toenails down. Toenails that get too long can make walking difficult for your Chihuahua, or even cause injury. Use a nail trimmer that is made for small breeds. Trim just below the quick, a bundle of nerves that will hurt and bleed if cut. Look for the dark spot inside white-nailed Chihuahuas and cut just below it. For dogs with dark nails, trim a little at a time off of the end of the nail until you see a circle forming inside the clippings.

4. Clean your Chihuahua's eyes frequently. These dogs are known to tear often and can get stains underneath their eyes. Wet a Q-tip, cotton ball or washcloth with saline solution and wipe away tears. This will prevent staining and infection.

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Prepare Home For Retired Racing Greyhound Dog

Retired racing greyhounds make lovely companion animals.

Retired racing greyhound dogs make companionable indoor dogs. But they are not like other dogs. Most likely, your dog has never seen a staircase, a swimming pool or children. He may look at your house cats as prey, or attempt to catch a squirrel in the back yard. One more thing, you have to make absolutely sure your greyhound cannot get out of the house. If he gets away from you, you won't catch him.

Instructions

1. Greyhounds are called the "45 mph couch potato."

Set up a crate in your family room. Retired racing greyhounds have spent most of their lives (over 20 hours a day) in crates, and they view their crates as "home." A retired racing greyhound's crate is his den, which he views as his "safe place." Your retired racing greyhound will be much happier if you provide him with a crate for sleeping and taking some private time.

2. Adopt a greyhound and make a fast friend.

Line the crate with thick bedding. Greyhounds have thin fur and very little body fat, so their bodies are sensitive to lying on a hard surface. Buy a thick, comfortable liner for the crate as well as blankets on which the greyhound can recline when she is not in her crate.

3. Purchase a Martingale collar. Greyhounds have large necks and small heads, which makes it easy for a greyhound to slip out of a standard collar. The Martingale collar is designed for greyhounds so that it tightens if the dog is slipping out of the collar, but it is much gentler than a choke collar. The Martingale collar is also safe to leave on the dog at all times, whereas a choke collar needs to be removed when the dog is unsupervised for the dog's safety.

4. Leash your dog when you go outside if you don't have a fenced-in yard. Retired racing greyhounds are not street smart, and they are very fast. This is a dangerous combination. Retired racing greyhounds should always be either on a leash or in an enclosed yard. If you have a pool, introduce your dog to it under supervision so she understands the concept.

5. Try to adopt from a small, local greyhound adoption agency instead of a large national one that is connected to the greyhound industry.

Provide a raised food and water bowl. If you are feeding your dog inside the crate, choose a food bowl that comfortably fits inside the crate. The water bowl can remain outside the crate as long as the retired racing greyhound has access to the water bowl twice a day. A raised food bowl is better for avoiding bloat.

6. Supply high quality dog food. Less expensive dog-food brands contain more waste, which causes the dog to have to relieve herself more frequently. Also, most retired racing greyhounds are thin and need quality food to gain weight safely.

7. Purchase a dog sweater. Because greyhounds have thin fur and very little body fat, they need protection from the elements. If the weather is cold enough for you to wear a coat, then your greyhound needs to wear one too.

Tags: racing greyhounds, racing greyhound, Martingale collar, Retired racing, retired racing, Retired racing greyhounds, water bowl

Get Draik Eggs On Neopets

A Draik is a limited edition pet that is found on the Neopets website. These pets are only obtained by using a morphing potion on one of your existing Neopets or by hatching a Draik egg. Draik eggs are pricey and usually cost millions of Neopoints to obtain, however. You can find the eggs in the Trading Post, or lucky players can obtain one at the food shop located in Meridell. One other method of obtaining a Draik egg is by putting together the "Original Treasure Map," although the odds of getting an egg this way are slim. In addition, any account that is three years or older can use the "Almost Abandoned Attic" which is known to occasionally restock Draik eggs.

Instructions

Trading Post

1. Log into your account and go to the Trading Post. The Trading Post is found by going to the "Shops" link at the top of any Neopet site page and selecting the "Trading Post" link from the drop down menu.

2. Click the "Browse Lots" link that is located at the top of the Trading Post main page. This will lead to a search page. Type the words "draik egg" in the search box and select the option for "newest" trades. Click the "Find Those Trades" button.

3. Look through all of the trades until you find the one you wish to make an offer on and click the "Make an Offer" button. Click an item to offer and type in the amount of Neopoints you also wish to offer. The items come from whatever you have in your inventory and the Neopoints must be the amount you have "on hand" at the time.

4. Wait for the other user to accept or decline your offer. If the other player declines, repeat the search process at the Trading Post.

Meridell Food Shop

5. Go to the Meridell food shop to find a Draik egg. You can find the shop by clicking on the "Explore" link located at the top of any Neopet page. This leads to a map of Neopia.

6. Scroll down the page and find the link to Meridell. There is an image of a frog -- or Mortog -- next to the link. Click the link.

7. Locate the food shop on the Meridell main page. It is located on the right side of the screen, directly above the sign that says "Brightvale." Click the shop to go inside. Look through all of the items that the shopkeeper has to offer. If you do not see a Draik egg, refresh the page by clicking on the shopkeeper. Eggs are restocked at random times during the day and getting one is not easy.

8. Once a Draik egg appears, click its image to go to the haggling page. Type your offer into the box and, if you are quick enough, you will get the egg. Keep in mind that there are likely many players making offers on the same Draik egg as they are extremely rare.

Tags: Trading Post, food shop, Look through, main page, page This, page Type, your offer

Get A Pet On Tamagotchi

Tamagotchi is a handheld virtual pet game from Japan. It offers you the chance to raise a pet, and the better you manage its health, mood and behavior, the more it will grow. Your Tamagotchi changes form as it ages, and to ensure it reaches adulthood, you will need to feed it, play with it and discipline it. Hatching a pet is the first step to playing the game.

Instructions

1. Purchase the Tamagotchi game you desire. There are multiple versions, some of which are discontinued and can only be purchased on secondhand markets like eBay.

2. Pull the plastic tab out of the side of the game to turn on the system.

3. Press the "reset" button on the back of the egg. The button is small and you might need to use a pencil or a paper clip.

4. Set the time by pressing the "B" button. Once the clock appears, press the "A" button to set the hours, "B" to set the minutes and "C" to confirm your selection.

5. Wait five minutes for your new pet to hatch.

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Cheats For "Petz Wild Animals Tigerz"

Use cheat codes to help you with tigers in "Petz Wild Animals: Tigerz."

The Nintendo DS game "Petz Wild Animals:Tigerz" lets players take control of two pet tigers. If you are having trouble raising and taking care of the tigers, you can use cheat codes to help you win the game. There are no built-in cheat codes, but you can use a DS Action Replay Max cheat device to access the codes.

Set Up

Insert the Action Replay max cartridge into the back of your Nintendo DS. Turn on the DS and wait for the main menu to load. Select "Game List" and scroll down to find "Petz Wild Animals:Tigerz." If the game is not listed, press the "R" trigger button to enter a new game title. Type in "Petz Wild Animals:Tigerz" and then press "B" to enter new codes.

Master Code

The master code identifies the game and allows all other codes to be inserted. Without this code, you cannot activate the cheats. Type in "Master Code" and enter "YCIP-67585c2c." Select "Yes" for the "Always On" option so you make sure the cheats are activated every time.

Maximum Cash

Press "B" to enter a new code. Title the code "Maximum Cash." Insert "02056360 000f423f" to activate the code. Now you will have $9999 to use within the game. Use it in the shop to purchase Tiger clothes, decor and other items in the game. Save your progress and repeat this code to reset the money values.

Mission Cheats

Get through your tiger missions easily with various cheats. Enter "12056f90 00004680" for unlimited time on missions. The timer will display "0:00:00" but will not end your mission. Enter "220576ee 00000000" for unlimited tries on missions. You will not get game over and the mission will restart every time you fail.

Tags: Animals Tigerz, Petz Wild, Petz Wild Animals, Wild Animals, Wild Animals Tigerz, cheat codes

Cattle Vaccination Protocols

Cattle need vaccinations to prevent disease outbreaks.

Vaccinations are the cheapest health insurance you can get for your your cattle. A strong vaccination program is well worth the time, effort and small outlay of money. If just one cow or calf is prevented from dying from a disease, you will have more than made back your money spent on vaccinations. Schedule vaccinations in the fall when cows can also be pregnancy checked.

Types of Vaccines

Vaccines can come in two versions. Modified live vaccines mean the disease-causing organism is still alive but modified by the vaccine manufacturer to not cause the disease in healthy animals. This type of vaccination is considered to give a superior immune response than the killed vaccine, the other version of vaccines, where the disease-causing organism is dead but still can stimulate the animal's immune system. Modified live vaccines should not be given to pregnant cattle or to calves that are still nursing a cow; instead a killed vaccine should be used.

Blackleg Vaccine

Blackleg is a disease caused by spore-forming Clostridium bacteria. The spores can lie dormant in the soil for years and infect a calf when it eats feed or soil contaminated by the spores. The spores lodge in various organs and muscles in the calf, and when an injury occurs they multiply. The injury does not have to be severe, even slight bruising can cause the spores to become active and multiply. Many times there are no signs of infection, and an infected animal may just be found dead.

Leptospirosis Vaccines

There are many strains of leptospirosis, but only five types cause the majority of illness in cattle. In adult cattle, the disease primarily affects the cows' reproductive organs, causing abortions, infertility and stillbirths. Calves may get ill with fever and blood problems.

Respiratory Viral Diseases Vaccines

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), bovine viral diarrhea (BVD), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) and parainfluenza 3 (PI3) are all viral respiratory and intestinal diseases that commonly affect stressed cattle, such as calves being weaned or sold at auction.

Brucellosis Vaccine

Brucellosis is a contagious disease caused by the bacteria Brucella abortus. It can also infect humans where it causes a condition called undulant fever. Almost 100% of the cattle in the U.S. are free from this disease due to vaccination programs.

Calf Vaccine Protocol

Before weaning, calves should be vaccinated with a seven-way blackleg vaccine, a five-way leptospirosis vaccine, and with a combination vaccine for IBR-BVD-PI3. Heifers should be vaccinated against brucellosis between four to 12 months of age. If pinkeye is a problem in your area, calves should be vaccinated against this prior to the start of the grazing season.

Cow and Bull Vaccine Protocol

Cows and bulls should be vaccinated against IBR-BVD-PI3, BRSV and leptospirosis once a year. In addition, they should also be vaccinated once a year against vibriosis (a genital tract infection).

Other Vaccines

In some areas of the country, cattle may need to be vaccinated against anthrax, scours, Pasteurella, Haemophilus somnus and trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted disease). Check with a local veterinarian to determine if your cattle herd needs these vaccines.

Tags: should vaccinated, vaccinated against, should vaccinated against, calf when, calves should, calves should vaccinated, disease caused

The Average Salary Of An Animal Trainer

Animal training can be a rewarding occupation.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, animal trainer positions will increase 21 percent from 2008 to 2018. Prospects in this field are expected toincrease faster than average for most jobs due to an increase in the companion pet population and services needed to maintain pets.

Gender

According to a November 2010 Payscale survey, 70 percent of animal trainers are female. On average female animal trainers earn $20,347 to $35,375 per year, while male animal trainers earn $44,219 to $51,395 annually.

Employment Type

Self-employed animal trainers earn, on average, at least $30,521 and up to $88, 437 annually, Payscale reports. Traditionally employed animal trainers earn between $19,715 and $48,484 per year.

Experience

Experience often determines earnings potential in the animal training field. Animal trainers with one to four years of experience can earn an average of $19,000 to $50,000 per year. Trainers with 10 to 19 years of experience can earn $30,000 to $80,000 per year, while trainers with 20 years or more can earn up to $85,000 annually.

Location

Average earnings of an animal trainer may vary by location. Typical earnings for animal trainers in Florida, for example, start at $19,000 and cap at about $50,000 annually.

Tags: animal trainers earn, trainers earn, animal trainers, animal trainers, earn annually, earn average

Find A Foster Parent For My Cat

Finding a foster home for Fluffy doesn't need to be difficult.

Giving up a family cat for any reason can be a difficult thing to do. Few people willingly part with their pet, sending them off to an animal shelter, not knowing what its destiny may be. There are many organizations that will help you find a foster home for your pet until a permanent home can be obtained. These organizations are often able to find a foster home for your cat quickly and easily.

Instructions

1. Find a local rescue organization that helps find foster homes for cats. Most towns have an organization or group such as the Humane Society that will help you find a home for your cat. Explain to the Humane Society the type of home you are looking for. If the foster home is only temporary, it is imperative to let the group know beforehand so families will not look into adopting your pet. These groups can be found through your local animal shelter.

2. Compose an email that includes a picture of your cat along with a description of your cat's characteristics and traits. Be sure to include your cat's age and all immunization the cat has had. Send this email to friends and family members, letting them know you are looking for a temporary foster home for your cat. Ask them to pass it along to people they may know who would be willing to care for your cat.

3. Ask you vet whether you can post a flier in her office seeking a foster home. If your vet agrees, create a poster with all your cat's information (as you did in your e-mail), include a photo of your cat and explain that you are looking for a foster home. Create pull-off tabs at the bottom of the flier with your name and contact information. Ask the vet to hang it in the waiting room, if possible.

Tags: foster home, home your, foster home your, find foster, animal shelter

When Did The Barter System Happen

Bartering is still used today as an effective way of exchanging goods and services.

Bartering is a method of exchanging goods and services between individuals or groups of people. It works well when each person or group has something that the other would like. For example, a farmer with a surplus of wheat might trade some with another farmer with a surplus of corn.

Early Bartering and Currency

Humans have used the barter system since the dawn of civilization as a way of exchanging goods they had for goods someone else had. Currency did not come into use until around 1200 B.C., and up until that time the exchange of goods was facilitated through bartering.

The Shift to Modern Currency

As agriculture and more sophisticated societies developed, a greater diversity of goods could be produced and traded. By 1200 B.C. an early form of money was used in China: cowrie shells. The difference between using cowrie shells---or any kind of money---and bartering is that bartering involves a direct exchange of goods. The cowrie shells, on the other hand, represented a particular value. The shells themselves may not have been particularly useful, but the value they represented was. So now, instead of our farmers directly exchanging wheat and corn with each other, the first farmer might give a few cowrie shells to the second farmer. Now the first farmer has the corn he wanted, and the second farmer has cowrie shells that he can use to buy some rice from a third farmer, or cloth from a weaver, or a chair from a furniture make.

Bartering Diminishes

Reliance on the barter system didn't end all at once. Metal coins began to be used in China by around 1000 B.C., and over the next few centuries other civilizations developed their own versions of coins and currency. Still, bartering continued to be useful among those who had goods but no money. Bartering has not gone away. Even today, it is sometimes an effective choice for the exchange of goods and services.

Bartering's Modern Comeback

Bartering often increases during times of economic hardship, such as during the Great Depression, but it is always an option even in the best of times. Sometimes people trade services, such as piano lessons for computer help. Individuals or companies can exchange goods at wholesale values, saving them money over the traditional buy-sell method. Even countries enter into bartering agreements with each other. In one such arrangement, China plans to sell goods and services to Iran in exchange for oil as of the date of publication of this article. The agreement would bypass economic conditions that make the same arrangement difficult to execute with an exchange of money.

Tags: cowrie shells, exchange goods, goods services, exchanging goods, barter system, each other

How Much Do Abortions Cost

How Much Do Abortions Cost?

Abortions are low-cost procedures. The earlier that the abortion is conducted in the pregnancy, the less expensive it is. Most women getting abortions pay about $350, although the amount can be significantly lower--and in some cases, free--at low-cost clinics that specialize in providing abortions to women with limited available means.

Significance

An RU-486 treatment--a chemical abortion that works within the first seven weeks of a pregnancy--is about as expensive as a surgical abortion for the same period of time, but it has a lower risk of complications such as infection and does not require any anesthesia. The majority of the cost of a surgical abortion comes from the administration of the anesthetic, and not the actual surgical procedure. Most abortion patients pay for the procedure in cash, but in most states, the procedure can be paid for through medical insurance or Medicaid.

Function

Cost should not prevent someone from getting an abortion that they want. Nonprofit family organizations such as Planned Parenthood offer subsidized and free abortions to women who lack the means to pay for their own abortion. Some of the most common patients that these clinics take in are young women under 18 who do not have access to incomes of their own and are afraid to speak with their parents about having the procedure.

Features

One method to reduce the cost of a surgical abortion is to request local anesthetic rather than general anesthesia. While this means that the patient will be awake during the procedure, it reduces both the overall cost and the risk of the operation. Most women going through an abortion with local anesthesia report pain similar to severe menstrual cramping during the procedure. After the surgery, most patients are able to deal with the pain using over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Effects

Some insurance companies and individual plans do not cover the cost of an abortion. If there is any uncertainty about whether the company will cover the cost of the procedure, contact an insurance agent to determine whether it is covered. The sooner an abortion procedure is conducted, the less it costs. The cost of an abortion increases by about $100 for every additional week of the pregnancy. Some second-trimester abortions can be as expensive as $3,000.

Potential

There are always options to help finance an abortion. Even if someone lacks insurance, abortion clinics often offer very low cost procedures for women who can prove their limited means. If a clinic offers prices that are too high, they will often be able to refer patients who can't afford it to other clinics that will offer subsidized procedures. Second-trimester abortions increase in both complexity, discomfort, emotional pain and cost. It is far preferable to have the procedure in the first three months of pregnancy.

Tags: surgical abortion, abortion that, Abortions Cost, abortions women, clinics that

Lynx Cat Species Information And Facts

Bobcat

There are four subspecies of the lynx cat, with two, the Iberian lynx and Eurasian lynx, existing in Europe and parts of Asia, while the Canadian lynx and the bobcat are North American creatures.

Geography

The range of the bobcat covers most of the United States while the Canadian lynx resides throughout much of Canada and states such as Alaska, Maine and Montana. The Eurasian lynx is more widespread, existing from Western Europe to northern parts of Asia. The Iberian, or Spanish lynx, is found in Spain and Portugal.

Size

The Canadian lynx and Iberian lynx are similar in size and can weigh up to 40 lbs. and be as long as 42 inches, including the short stubby tail. The bobcat is lighter but longer than its close cousins. The heaviest lynx is a Eurasian lynx subspecies called the Siberian lynx, which can weigh as much as 80 lbs.

Features

The Canadian lynx has very large paws with thick hair that act as snowshoes in its harsh wintry territory. The bobcat has smaller feet and has black hind legs, while the Canadian lynx has beige hind legs. The fur of the Spanish lynx has many spots and is thinner than those of other lynx species. The Eurasian lynx has long, light-colored fur in the winter and shorter, darker-colored fur in the summer.

Decline in Populations

The Canadian lynx depends heavily on the snowshoe hare for a food source and its populations fluctuate up and down in relation to the abundance of these animals. A disease that decimated rabbit populations in Spain and Portugal led to the decline of the Iberian lynx and there are only about 300 left in the wild.

Special Considerations

The bobcat has the ability to live in hot or cold climates and, although an accomplished climber, it feels more at home on the ground, states the San Diego Zoo website. All the lynx species are solid swimmers and the Eurasian lynx is able to navigate across a river if necessary.

Tags: Canadian lynx, Eurasian lynx, Iberian lynx, while Canadian, while Canadian lynx

List Of Charities Catholics Cannot Give To

The Bible teaches that homosexuality is an abomination, according to the Catholic church.

Finding out which charities Catholics cannot donate money to can be a good idea if you believe in Catholicism or if you are interested in the limitations imposed by the religion. The Catholic church holds that the world was created by God in six days, and that the Bible is the word of God. Many different charities are off-limits to Catholics, including homosexual, sexual health, pro-choice and atheist organizations.

Homosexual Charities

Many charities promote homosexual rights, which is contrary to Catholic beliefs. Homosexual charities include the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice and the Point Foundation, which provides financial support for gay and lesbian students. The charities believe that gays and lesbians should have the same rights as anybody else, and therefore undermine the Catholic interpretation of the biblical message that homosexuality is an abomination.

Sexual Health Charities

Charities that promote sexual health generally support the use of contraceptives. The use of contraceptives is never explicitly banned in the Bible, but in Genesis 38:9-10, God kills Onan for spilling his seed on the ground, instead of in his brother's wife. This has been readily interpreted as God's disapproving of contraceptive methods, which can lead to recreational sex. Many charities, such as Planned Parenthood, promote the use of contraceptives to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases such as AIDS. These charities can be regarded as contrary to the messages of the Bible, and therefore should not be supported by Catholics.

Pro-Choice Charities

Pro-choice charities aim to conduct further research into abortion and provide personal and legal support for women considering abortion. These charities believe that a woman has the right to terminate her pregnancy in the early stages if she so wishes. Most Catholics vehemently disagree with abortion, and cite various Bible passages to justify this position. Generally, these relate to passages that state that life is sacred and that God creates children in the womb. In Exodus 21:22-23, God states that men who cause a miscarriage should be punished. This means that Catholics should not support charities such as NARAL Pro-Choice America Foundation.

Atheist Charities

Charities that openly deny the existence of God should not be supported by Catholics. Corinthians 6:14 states, "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness?" This and many other passages from the Bible can be interpreted to mean that Catholics should not be associated with atheists, and should not support an atheistic cause. Charities such as Foundation Beyond Belief are openly non-Christian, and they donate a lot of money and resources to causes around the world. In March 2011, for example, the Foundation Beyond Belief collected over $11,000 to support the Japanese Red Cross in aiding the Japanese earthquake and tsunami recovery. Catholics should not donate to this charity and those that perform similar acts without belief in God.

Tags: Catholics should, believe that, Beyond Belief, Catholic church, charities believe, charities believe that

The Average Salary Of Homeless Shelter Executive Director

A homeless shelter executive director oversees and directs operations of these types of facilities.

An executive director of a homeless shelter is the top executive in the organization and reports directly to the board of directors. This type of facility is typically a nonprofit organization, and the executive director oversees and directs all operations.

National Average Compensation

According to PayScale.com, the national average salary of an executive director for a non-profit organization ranged between $44,352 and $81,759 per year in September 2010. This average includes homeless shelter organizations.

Categorization

Under the category of emergency shelters and food banks, executive director salaries averaged $48,150 per year in September 2010.

Geography

Because this type of occupation is typically employed by a nonprofit organization, salaries do not vary extensively based on geography and cost of living differences. New York City listed an average salary of $46,085 per year, and Los Angeles listed an average salary of $45,210 per year.

Tags: executive director, average salary, average salary year, director oversees, director oversees directs, directs operations, executive director oversees

What Is A White Fox

The Arctic fox is known for its changing fur color

White fox is another name for the Arctic fox, or "Alopex lagopus." The term "white fox" is commonly used when referring to the animal's appearance during the winter, as its winter coat is white. Arctic (or white) foxes live in cold tundra and coastal regions, mainly in Alaska, Northern Canada and the Arctic Circle. They weigh between 6 and 10 pounds and live between 14 and 18 years.

Anatomical Adaptations to Their Environment

Arctic (or white) foxes have several anatomical adaptations that help them thrive in temperatures as low as -58 degrees Fahrenheit, according to National Geographic. The soles of their feet are thickly padded with fur. They have short ears and muzzles, helping to preserve heat. Thick, busy tails and coats provide not only warmth, but also camouflage; they change from brown in the summer to white in the winter.

Behavioral Adaptations to their Environment

Arctic foxes have adopted several behaviors that help them survive the harsh Arctic tundra. They do not hibernate; they instead live in burrows 6 to 12 feet underground, in small groups.

Hunting Style

Arctic foxes are both predators and scavengers. They will hunt small rodents, marine invertebrates, birds and fish. They will also eat eggs, fruit and vegetables, when available, and subsist mainly on the scraps left by polar bears in the winter. In the summer, these little white foxes collect surpluses, and store the extra food in their dens.

Mating and Reproduction

Arctic foxes reach maturity as early as 10 months of age. According to experts at Sea World, gestation lasts between 49 and 57 days, usually giving life to a litter of 5 to 8 pups, though as many as 25 have been documented in a single birthing. Females typically produce 2 litters a year.

Arctic foxes are monogamous, mate for life and live in small families--two females, a male and pups, if any. One of the females is a nonbreeding juvenile, born from the year before, who has stayed behind to help raise the next litter. Both the adult male and female are active in raising the pups, as well.

Conservation

Arctic foxes are hunted for their fur, and killed or driven away for their habit of preying on domestic sheep. When rodent and lemming populations are high, Arctic fox populations also tend to be high. Hunting pressure has decreased in recent years.

Tags: Arctic foxes, white foxes, Arctic white, Arctic white foxes, Environment Arctic, foxes have

Tell A Long Coat Puppy From A Standard Coat In A German Shepherd

Physical characteristics differ between long- and standard-coat German shepherds.

Long-haired German shepherd puppies are differentiated from standard-coat German shepherds by several factors, including the length of their coat. To determine which group a puppy belongs to research its history with the breeder and examine the puppy's physical characteristics.

Instructions

1. Discuss the puppy's heritage with the breeder, and determine if the parents were long-coat or standard-coat German shepherds. It is important to note, however, that the gene capable of producing long-coat German shepherds is recessive. This means that if both parents of the puppy have standard coats but both carry this recessive gene they can produce a long-coat puppy.

2. Examine the length of the German shepherd puppy's coat. Long-coat German shepherds have longer hair than standard-coat German shepherds and it will sometimes part along their backs.

3. Look for tufts of longer hair around the ears, along the backs of the legs and the belly. The hair will also appear silky and smooth, as opposed to wiry. This will indicate that a puppy is a long-coat German shepherd.

4. Research the American Kennel Club (AKC) standards to determine the difference in show standards between a long-coat and standard-coat German shepherd. The AKC does not deem a long-coat German shepherd acceptable as a show dog, due to the fact that it does not have an undercoat which diminishes its weatherproofing. This is viewed as a fault in the breed.

Tags: German shepherds, standard-coat German, German shepherd, standard-coat German shepherds, long-coat German, long-coat German shepherd

Animal Caregiver Grants

Animal caregiver grants are open to organizations that take care of animals in shelters or other facilities.

Since domesticated animals often cannot fend for themselves, grants are available to organizations that take care of the animals in shelters or other care facilities. These grants are generally provided by private funds and organizations, and most of these grants must be used for particular projects. These organizations mainly provide mini-grants, but actual grant amounts will vary. Some grants are open only to members of the foundation or group.

Arthur L. and Elaine V. Johnson Foundation

This program seeks to ensure that German shepherd seeing eye dogs and other animals that are used to assist the disabled, blind or other sight-impaired people obtain adequate care and support. Priority is given to projects that effect some type of long-term transformation within companies, and organizations that offers service animals to disabled individuals at no cost are preferred to those that charge a fee. This program is open to the following organizations: 501(c)(3), 509(a)(2), 509(a)(1) and 509(a)(3). Grants applications are due in July, and grants are awarded on a yearly basis. Grant amounts range from $500 to $180,000.

Arthur L. & Elaine V. Johnson Foundation

1095 East Oakland Court

Gilbert, AZ 85295

480-632-8693

aljfoundation.org

Foundation for Protection of Animals

This foundation seeks to foster responsible pet ownership and work to rescue animals during national disasters. The program offers grants to states looking to create spay and neuter programs to reduce the number of animals in shelters and to assist pet owners. Priority is generally given to projects that seek to rescue cats from shelters and reduce the number of cats being euthanized. Grant amounts range from $500 to $3,000, and are given out four times a year: February, April, July and September.

Foundation for Protection of Animals

P.O. Box 3334

Durango, CO 81301

970-385-6872

whaugen@protectinganimals.net

protectionofanimals.org

Meacham Foundation Memorial Grant

This grant is available through the American Humane Society, and it seeks to raise the standards of care within animal shelters. Shelters can receive up to $4,000 to improve or expand their current facilities. Other projects include environment enrichment activities, veterinary equipment, spay/neuter equipment, animal care equipment and capital campaigns. To be eligible, non-profit organizations must be a 501 (c)(3). Other eligibility requirements include being an American Humane member and having a shelter or care facility for animals. Organizations must be located within the United States. While applications are due in February, it could take up to six months for a final decision to be made on proposals.

American Humane

63 Inverness Drive East

Englewood, CO 80112

800-227-4645

americanhumane.org

Tags: American Humane, animals shelters, organizations that, amounts range, amounts range from, animals shelters other

Raise A Rescue Dog

Raise a rescue dog properly to cultivate a life-long friend.

After you have committed to adopting a rescue dog, you must prepare to give the dog a good home by providing for its needs and training it properly. Rescue organizations care for animals until they locate a good home in which to place the animal. Some rescue organizations specialize in dog rescue. When placing the dog, the rescue organizations emphasize that the dog's new owners must raise the dog with extra care and attention to help the dog overcome past abandonment, abuse or lack of discipline.

Instructions

1. Confine the rescue dog to a small area of the house at first. If the dog has the run of the house, it may frighten or confuse the dog. Start out by keeping the dog in the kitchen (no carpet) until you see that the dog feels comfortable and understands that this area marks its new territory. Slowly allow the dog access to different parts of the house. If the dog needs paper training, keep it in uncarpeted areas of the house until it learns when and where to do its business.

2. Develop a program of obedience training to prevent behavior problems or eliminate bad habits that the dog may bring from its previous life. Consider enrolling the dog in a dog training class to encourage it to socialize with other dogs and strange people. Involve the entire family in the training program to teach the dog that it must obey all members of the family and to accustom family members to the training methods.

3. Maintain consistency with the dog to prevent the dog from becoming confused over conflicting expectations in its new home. Everyone in the family should use the same commands when working with the dog. Ensure that all family members hold to the same standards and expectations for the dog. If you've decided that the dog should not get on the couch, don't let your child sneak the dog up. The dog will feel more secure if it knows its place in the household.

4. Remain calm around the dog. Many rescue dogs have had a stressful life and may react badly to yelling and screaming. Give the dog a sense of security by keeping your voice steady and even when you speak. Try not to raise your voice around the dog. If you need to correct bad behavior, do so with a quick "no."

5. Stay patient. The dog can't tell you what traumas or distress it has had in its life, but many rescue dogs have lived through difficult times. Care for your rescue dog patiently and give the dog time to settle into its new home.

Tags: dogs have, family members, good home, rescue dogs, rescue dogs have, your voice

Use Frontline On Goats

Frontline can protect your goats from fleas and ticks.

Not treating your goat for fleas and ticks can cause illlness as well as skin problems. Applying Frontline to your goats once a month is one way to control fleas and ticks. It kills 100% of fleas within 12 hours of application. It continues to protect your animal for more than a month. It is also proven safe for animals as young as eight weeks of age and is waterproof, for pets that like to swim and bathe. Frontline can be used to help more than just dogs and cats, it can also be used to protect goats from fleas and ticks.

Instructions

1. Clean your goats. This can be as simple as a spraying down of the goat while outside, or a full bath and groom with shampoo specifically made for goats and farm animals. Do not use human shampoo as this can strip oils from the goats skin, causing them to be itchy and dry. This is also a good time to shear your goat if you plan on doing it soon anyways. This is done before the application of frontline so that you do not wash off the medication.

2. Spray the Frontline onto the goats. Make sure that it is the spray version as the spot version tends not to move through goat hair as efficiently as it would through a dog or cat. Spray along the backbone, or center of the back. Spray under the chin, taking care not to get it into the goats mouth. Also spray down the chest in between the two front legs. An average coat will be able to get up to six months treatment from one spray bottle of Frontline.

3. Rub the Frontline into the wool, it does not have to go all the way to the skin. Use gloves to avoid getting it on your hands. Avoid eyes, ears, nose, and mouth of the goat.

4. Apply again in exactly 30 days to keep fleas and ticks away. Avoid bathing your goat for up to three days of application. Frontline can be applied year round if needed, this will vary upon your climate. Check with a veterinarian before using any medications on your animals.

Tags: fleas ticks, your goat, your goats, from fleas, from fleas ticks

How Get An Outside Garbage Can For "The Sims 2"

In the Sims 2, residential lots for your Sims automatically feature an outdoor garbage can. These garbage cans should remain there throughout the course of the game. However, two incidents may occur that will cause you to need to replace the outdoor trash can. One, a meteor may hit the house and the trash can. Even after you repair the house, the trash can may remain dirty and cause your Sims to be in a negative mood. This is a glitch in the game. Two, while in move object mode, you may accidentally move the trash can off the lot. The same troubleshooting process works for both cases.

Instructions

1. Reload your last saved game before the trash can disappeared or became irreparably dirty through a meteor strike. If you do not have a recently saved version of the game, continue to the next step.

2. Save your game under a new name if your trash can has disappeared. Quit your game. Load the new game you just saved. The trash can should have regenerated. If not, continue to the next step.

3. Visit the website daydream.etowns.net. Click on the Sims 2 icon. Click on mods/hacks. Download the Lot Setup Collection mod. Download this mod in the Sims 2 folder hierarchy under the folder called Collections. Unzip it. Open Sims 2 and your saved game with the messed up trash can. Click on the SEDD Lot Set Up icon. Buy a new outdoor trash can.

Tags: continue next, continue next step, house trash, next step, outdoor trash

Get An Alien Baby In Sims 2

There's nothing more precious in the Sims 2 than the sight of a Sim welcoming a green-skinned, black-eyed baby into the world. If you'd like to get into this phenomenon of raising alien families, follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Purchase the Farstar e3 Telescope and place it in your Sim's yard. Have a human male Sim go out a night and stargaze in the telescope.

2. Watch as your Sim stargazes. There is a chance he will be abducted by aliens. If he is, he will return impregnated with an alien baby.

3. Play in Strangetown if you want to produce an alien baby without having a male Sim get abducted and pregnant. You can play the Smith family or create a new female Sim and have her befriend Pollination Technician #9 Smith, who is an alien.

4. Get your Sim's relationship level with Pollination Technician #9 Smith up to 75 on both daily and lifetime scores. Have her relax on the bed and click on Pollination Technician #9 and have him join.

5. Use the "Try for Baby" interaction and listen for the sound of a lullaby tune as they finish their undercover activities. If you hear the tune, your female Sim has been impregnated by Pollination Technician #9.

6. Wait three days as your female Sim goes through her pregnancy. Once she gives birth, there is a 50 percent chance that her baby will be an alien, with green skin and black eyes just like his father.

Tags: Pollination Technician, alien baby, Pollination Technician Smith, Technician Smith, your female

Homeless Shelter Accept Donations

How Does a Homeless Shelter Accept Donations?

Online

Shelters are now utilizing the Internet to accept donations. They put up a website that gives information about their shelter, such as how many people are helped each year, and lists the needs of the shelter which always includes monetary donations. These cash gifts can be used to pay electric bills, food, as well as for items the homeless need. Donating money online is easy--you just click the donate button and type in the amount you are willing to give. You can pay by credit card or PayPal in almost all cases. Your donations are also tax deductible, so print out your receipt.

On Location

Each shelter has a set of hours each week that they accept personal donations. This can be money or other items such as bedding, clothing, diapers, food or personal care items. If you live in the area this is the best way to give to the shelter. You will get to explore the shelter and see firsthand what the needs are. You can also ask for a tax-deductible receipt if you donate clothing and other items, rather than cash. Call the shelter and find out what times they are open to accepting donations.

Off Location

Shelters accept donations off site, such as in boxes around town in popular places. Extra boxes pop up during the holiday seasons of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. You can call the shelter to find out where their drop-off boxes are if you haven't seen any around. You will not be able to get a receipt at these locations and you cannot drop off cash. Mainly these boxes are for toys, clothing, and personal care items. Each week someone from the shelter swings by and picks up the items left in the drop box.

Via Mail

Find the shelter's address on the website or the phone book. You are free to mail anything you want to donate to the shelter--cash, clothing, canned food items, personal care items, and even office supplies. If you want a receipt include a self-addressed stamped envelop for the shelter's convenience. Bear in mind that you are going to pay shipping costs and those will not be included on the tax deductible receipt. You may want to keep your receipt from the post office as proof.

Tags: care items, personal care, personal care items, Homeless Shelter, Homeless Shelter Accept, other items, Shelter Accept

What Is A Game Pitbull

A game pit bull is courageous and determined, not vicious.

The word "game" is often used to describe pit bulls or pit bull temperament. People sometimes mistake this term to mean the dog is aggressive or violent, but that is incorrect -- although a game dog may make an excellent candidate for the illegal dog fighting pits. Entire lines, or families, of pit bulls are said to be game, or game-bred, and often pit bulls that are shown in conformation, such as American Staffordshire terriers, are thought to lack gameness.

Gameness

The term gameness possibly developed in the old-time sport of dog fighting, as a dog's willingness to keep to the task until it is accomplished; in those days, the task was the fight. The way it was determined whether a dog was game was by fighting it. Today, the term refers to the same drive, heart and courageous tenacity, even when speaking of dogs that are not headed to a fight ring. A game pit bull is determined to complete whatever it starts, regardless of the hardships and pain it may encounter on the way.

Reason for Game Pit Bulls

Game-bred pit bulls should be close to the genuine breed standard, which includes extreme gentleness toward humans. There are people who claim to be breeders, who select dogs for aggression and calling it gameness. A knowledgeable breeder of game-bred dogs is intent on improving and continuing the breed's magnificent record as a "can-do" dog, which is loving and gentle to people, especially children, obedient and always giving its best, whether pulling a 1000-pound-load or excelling in some other canine sport. Give a game pit bull a job, and it will work with its whole heart until it gets the job done.

Testing for Gameness

The ultimate test of a pit bull's gameness is the battle, whether a fighting pit or hunting large, aggressive game -- both activities for which it was originally bred. However; most pet owners have no need for a dog with such drive. You can get a glimpse of your pit bull's gameness by noting the way it never gives up when trying to solve a problem. The best way to see your pit bull's gameness is to note its complete devotion to you. The way a pit bull loves you is the best display of its gameness.

Considerations for Pets

A game pit bull may not be the best choice for an inexperienced person or a homebody; the dog needs an outlet for its energy and drive. But it is a wonderful companion for an experienced and active dog owner who is committed to providing proper direction for the dog's drive. Sometimes, this gameness shows itself in less desirable ways, such as the lonely and bored pit bull that continuously finds ways to escape its fenced yard. Combine a determined, energetic working dog and an irresponsible owner, and you have a recipe for disaster, especially if the dog is aggressive to other animals, as many pit bulls are.

Tags: game bull, bull gameness, your bull gameness, your bull

What Are The Treatments For Demodectic Mange In Pugs

Pugs can be susceptible to demodectic mange.

Pugs seem to have a higher rate of incurring demodectic mange than many other breeds. Pug puppies in particular seem to be more susceptible to this skin disorder caused by tiny mites. Demodectic mange can take a localized or generalized form. Either form can be treated in more than one way, but pug owners should be aware that generalized demodectic mange is harder to treat and if not cured in a timely manner can prove fatal to the dog. If you are concerned your dog has generalized demodectic mange, visit your vet for the best treatment option.

Ivermectin

Pugs with demodectic mange must be treated.

Ivermectin is the drug of choice to treat demodectic mange, according to the Pug Rescue Network. A licensed veterinarian must prescribe Ivermectin, which is effective at treating the problem quickly. It can be given to your pug as an injection, but since it must be given on a daily basis, pill is the most common method. Ivermectin is one of the most inexpensive prescription medications used to treat demodectic mange in pugs. Some breeds cannot be given Ivermectin due to sensitivity to the drug. Pugs, however, are not listed in this category and under a veterinarian's supervision can take this drug safely with minimal side effects. The only drawback to oral Ivermectin is that is must be given daily for six months or longer.

Mitaban Dip

Another method used to treat your pug is a Mitaban dip. It is not widely used now due to the messy nature and preparations involved before using the dip, but some veterinarians still prescribe this method of treatment as being best for the dog. Before your dog can be dipped in the solution, its fur should be clipped as short as possible. It is also recommended to allow any open sores or skin eruptions to heal before dipping your dog. An alternative is to first give your dog a bath in a special dog shampoo with benzoyl peroxide. Dogs are dipped once every 14 days until the condition has healed. Most veterinarians can perform these dips at their office and test your dog's skin for any remaining mites to be certain your dog is cured.

Miticide Lotions and Creams

Some vets prefer to prescribe a lotion such as OxyDex, which kills mites, especially for localized demodectic mange. If your pug only has a small spot or two, these lotions may be the easiest treatment for your dog. The ointments can be rubbed on your dog daily and hopefully within a month a follow-up visit to your veterinarian will show that the condition is gone.

Tags: demodectic mange, demodectic mange, generalized demodectic, generalized demodectic mange, given daily

How Do You Complete The Map On "Petz Catz Clan"

"Petz: Catz Clan" is a pet simulation game for the Nintendo DS. In the game you can adopt and befriend cats around your town to unlock places on the map and get more cats and kittens for your home. While most of the town is open at the beginning of the game, the beach and mountain are special areas you need to complete the map. To unlock the beach and mountain areas, befriend certain cats.

Instructions

1. Go to the park and look for the cat with a swimsuit and a cat with a parka.

2. Pet the cats wearing the swimsuit and parka. Give them toys to play with to increase your friendship. When your friendship with the cats is full, a happy face will appear in the upper right hand corner of the lower DS screen. It may take several days in the game to befriend the cats.

3. Go out onto the map, then enter the Park again. Talk to the cat with the swimsuit and the cat with the parka. They will give you a swimsuit and parka.

4. Leave the park and look at your map. The beach and mountain will be open.

Tags: beach mountain, befriend cats, Catz Clan, park look, Petz Catz

Find A Person By Military Service Numbers

With certain information, most branches of the military will provide you with the location of a soldier.

Having a loved one away on active military duty can be emotionally wrenching for both the civilian and the soldier. Getting in touch with your friend or relative who is serving can provide a tremendous amount of relief to both parties. However, it can be difficult to keep track of where a person is stationed, and this can cause undue anguish if you are unable to contact the soldier. Fortunately, most branches of the U.S. military are able to tell you how you can reach the person you are looking for.

Instructions

Go Straight to the Source

1. Contact the branch of military in which your loved one is serving. Currently, the Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force can give you at least some information about the person for which you are searching. The Army no longer provides this service.

2. Provide as much information you can about the person for which you are searching. In addition to their name and service number, useful identifiers include their Social Security number, military rank and last known place of deployment.

3. Call or write to the appropriate branch of military, and give them all the information you have. If the person is in the Navy, there is a fee of $3.50 for using the locator service for civilians and those not in the person's immediate family.

Tags: about person, about person which, branch military, branches military, information about, information about person

Ideas For An Indoor Playroom For Dogs

Your furry friend will keep himself entertained in a puppy-friendly playroom.

Dogs love to play, but their owners can't always keep up with all of that energy. Give your dog a way to stay entertained by creating an indoor dog playroom. By including proper access and flooring, as well as plenty of toys, you can make an area where your dog will be entertained and safe while you're at work or unable to play.

Access

When thinking about where to put the dog's playroom, consider your dog's needs, as well as how often you'll need to use the space. If your dog will need easy access to the outside, set up the room near a doggy door leading to a secured and fenced-in area. If you'll be passing through the space a lot, consider creating the play area in the corner of a room so that it's out of your way as you walk through. If you're able to dedicate an entire room to the dog play area, make sure it has some ventilation and doesn't get too hot. No matter where you place the playroom, always leave your pooch with easy access to food and water.

Flooring

All dogs have accidents now and then, so it's important to make sure that your flooring won't be ruined if this happens in the dog playroom. A vinyl or wood floor that's easy to mop up is usually best. Slick flooring is also easier to sweep up and keep tidy. To keep your pooch comfortable, include a padded bed in the room, too, so he doesn't have to rest on the hard floor.

Toys

Give your dog plenty of ways to pass time in the playroom by providing toys. Lay out an array of toys to keep your friend entertained, including ropes for chewing, plush animals for cuddling and squeaker toys that make noise. Toys can be purchased from a pet shop, or made by hand. For example, make tiny slits in an old sock, fill it with kibble and tie a knot in the end. Your pooch will spend hours trying to free -- and eat -- all the treats.

Entertainment

If your dog is going to be spending a lot of time in the playroom, consider offering entertainment outside of toys. Set up a stereo in the room, out of the dog's reach, and play a classical music radio station. If you're able, set up a TV and play animal shows for your dog to watch. Just ensure the cords and cables are secured so that the dog won't chew on them or pull appliances off of shelves.

Tags: easy access, Give your, keep your, make sure, play area, playroom consider, that your