What Is The Behavior Of A New Mother Cat

Mother cats are extremely nurturing to their new kittens.

Mother cats, or queens, display distinct nurturing behaviors with their new kittens. Born blind and unable to stand up, kittens depend on the queen’s maternal instincts to help them do everything necessary for survival during the first weeks of life, according to Pet Place. Most queen behaviors--nursing, cleaning up after elimination and early training--begin before kittens reach one month old. However, some behaviors, including ignoring new kittens, are not normal and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

After Birthing

The mother cat’s focus immediately following the birth of kittens revolves around cleaning and nursing, according to Healthy Cats Care. First, the queen breaks open the sac that surrounds each newborn and licks the kitten clean, which stimulates breathing. Next, as the kittens settle close to nurse, she curls her body around them protectively. In the following days, the queen licks the kittens’ hindquarters to stimulate elimination, which helps ensure that all bodily systems are working properly. She will also clean up after them.

Within a Month

After two to three weeks, a mother cat will start leaving the kittens for short periods. She's training them to get out and follow her, according to Pet Education, although she listens closely to her brood and will return quickly if their cries sound worrisome. By four weeks the queen will be leading her kittens to the litter box, and they will learn use it by watching her.

Moving Kittens

Some cats, especially new mothers, separate and move kittens to different places, according to Healthy Cats Care. If your cat does this, you may see her using her mouth to gently lift them by the scruff of the neck. In the wild, separating kittens was a means of protecting the group from predators, and domesticated cats sometimes do this instinctively. Older cats that have had previous litters tend to do this less often.

Other Behaviors

New mother cats tend to be more nervous or territorial than before they gave birth, according to Vet Info. Some become more aggressive. These are natural behaviors that stem from the queen’s need to protect the kittens. While you should check kittens’ eyes, noses and mouths for signs of infection, handling during the first three weeks should be kept to a minimum while the queen settles into a routine with her kittens.

Ignoring Kittens

A mother cat that ignores her kittens should be watched carefully. She may be suffering from a medical condition that needs attention, according to Vet Info, or her inattentiveness may stem from having been abandoned as a kitten and not knowing what to do. When a queen ignores her kittens, human intervention is necessary to make sure they are fed and socialized properly. Consult your veterinarian on care for kittens if the mother will not nurse them, and what to do if she needs to be treated for illness or infection.

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Animal Care Specialist Training

Animal care specialist begin training when the animal is very young and weaned.

Animal care specialist are animals lovers who have turned their passion into a profession. They provide care for animals, ensuring their safety, health and hygiene. Animal care specialists gain experience working for boarding kennels, pet groomers, veterinary practices, laboratories, pet stores, zoos, aquariums and animal rescue shelters.

Education and Training

Although many employers may request a high school diploma or GED certificate, the only true qualifications for becoming an animal care specialist is a sincere desire to do so. Employers are often willing to provide on-the-job training. The United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition reports that the majority of animal care specialists receive their training through apprenticeship programs and animal care workshops.

Individuals who desire a career as an animal care specialist may choose to broaden their experience by participating in additional educational options. Courses in animal behavior training include instruction regarding pet CPR and emergency first aid, typical animal medical problems, stress, exhaustion and dehydration symptoms of animals and animal diet and nutrition. Course work also covers the performance of the normal duties of an animal care specialist and ethics of an animal care specialist. Many students of animal behavior gain experience working at animal rescue shelters, zoos, veterinary practices, grooming salons, laboratories, boarding kennels, pet stores and caring for farm animals and domestic pets.

Junior and community colleges offer two-year associate degree programs in the veterinary sciences. Universities and colleges present four-year bachelor of veterinary science degrees. Candidates who pursue formal training receive the highest pay, preference in hiring and the best opportunities for advancement.

Requirements

A sincere affection for animals ranks high among the required qualifications an animal care specialist must possess. Candidates should also be in the best possible physical condition. Duties may include long periods of standing, cleaning and lifting heavy cages, controlling and lifting large animals and moving equipment and supplies. Working with animals that are ill, injured or mistreated can create work-related emotional stress. An injured or mistreated animal may become violent. The work presents a high risk of on-the-job injuries. You may have to euthanize animals. Animal care specialist should be compassionate and caring while always presenting a calm, professional demeanor.

Duties

Animal care specials feed, water, exercise and provide basic first aid for animals in their care. They are generally responsible for cleaning cages, pens, corrals and exercise runs. The work is often preformed in unpleasant and dirty conditions in all kinds of weather. Animal care specialist transport animals to veterinary clinics or to training, grooming or testing facilities. Animal care specialist are often required to bath and groom animals, including teeth and foot care.

Salaries

MySalary.com reports that in 2011, animal care specialists or technicians receive an annual median wage of $32,602. Workers in the lowest 10 percent of wage earners report an annual average income of $30,307. Wage earners in the highest 10 percent earn an annual median income of $39,695.

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Rescue A Pug

Pug Puppies

Pugs are lovable and obedient. They make great companions and are one of the best pets to have around children. Having a pug takes on a lot of responsibility however. It can get expensive to take your pet to the veterinarian regularly, but it needs to be done. Pugs tend to get skin problems rather easily and need to be examined for mange or other skin disorders. Pugs also need to be inside pets since they have a hard time breathing when it is above 80 degrees outside.

Instructions

1. Donate your time to a pug rescue club. One of the best ways to help the rescue club is to search shelters that have pugs that they are going to put to sleep if they don't go within the next few days. Sometimes you can get connected with the shelter's workers and they will call you when a pug arrives. In most cases the pug will be an adult instead of a puppy, but there are some cases where an owner doesn't want the litter.

2. Offer office supplies to the Pug rescue organization. The littlest things help any rescue club. You can offer anything such as envelopes, stamps, paper, business cards, or phone cards.

3. Gather used dog supplies. If you had any dogs in the past and don't need the supplies, then you can offer them to the pug rescue organization. Talk with neighbors and friends in order to have them do the same. Pugs will not need large beds, but make sure the beds are clean. If you have other supplies such as food dishes, toys in good condition, shampoo, and new combs or brushes. You can also donate harnesses, but stay away from leashes since pugs don't breathe as well with a leash tugging at their necks.

4. Foster a Pug. If you are able to and have space you can foster a Pug until they get adopted from another person or family. If the pug is too old or has had an abusive past, it could turn on children. Also, older pugs tend to lose their eyesight or get cataracts that prevent them from seeing very well. If the child grabs at them suddenly it could scare the pug and they could bite.

5. Adopt a pug. By adopting a pug you will be offering a new home to a dog that would otherwise be left without a real owner. The pug will adapt to you and your surroundings and will become one of the best pets you ever had.

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Adopt A Star

Adopting a star has become an easy, popular thing to do. Much like adopting a highway, a person pays a fee to "adopt" a star of their own. For the fee, the person receives star charts to help them find their star and a description of the star they've adopted. An adopted star is often given as a gift or a way to remember a loved one.

Instructions

1. Visit your local planetarium to find out about stars that can be adopted by the public. You also could look online, as star adoption registries are common on the Internet.

2. Complete the necessary paperwork and pay the fee. Information such as your name, address and who or what the adopted star is being named for are typical requirements.

There are often a variety of stars to choose from, and different stars require different fees. Typically, the larger the magnitude of the star, the more expensive it is to adopt.

The length of the process depends on how many other star adoptions are waiting to go through and whether you're doing it in person or via the Internet.

3. Receive a map to your star and photographs of it. Many packages also include bonuses, such as facts about star gazing. If you adopted a star through a planetarium, there also might be a discount associated with visits to the institution.

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Cancel A Foopets Account

Cancel your FooPets account (i.e. ClubFoo) by visiting the FooPets website.

FooPets is a paid subscription online gaming website geared towards pre-teens. The site offers virtual pets that are available for adoption and games that can be played to earn money. For whatever reason, you may decide that you no longer want to be subscribed to the site (i.e. ClubFoo) and need to cancel your account. This can be easily done but keep in mind that you'll no longer have access to the FooPets website.

Instructions

1. Visit the FooPets website (see Resources section).

2. Log in to your FooPets account by clicking "Member Log In" in the upper right corner of home page and inputting your email and password.

3. Select "Profile" from the top tabs.

4. Choose "Subscription Information" from the top, right side of the page.

5. Select "Cancel Account" and then, "Submit." You'll be given the option to explain why you're canceling your subscription, but it's not mandatory.

6. Choose "Cancel Account" again to cancel your current subscription selection. You'll be allowed to access the FooPets website until your current month's subscription expires.

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Keep A Pet Rat

Rats can make intelligent, affectionate pets. They are active and social so they require a devoted owner who will give them plenty of attention. Follow these steps to learn keep a pet rat.

Instructions

1. Buy a cage with ample room for your rat. If you buy a small cage, you may need a larger one if the rat grows. The cage should have different levels so your rat can exercise by climbing up and down the ramps.

2. Provide your rat with stimulating toys. Ladders and hammocks make good toys for rats. Many everyday household objects, such as glass jars or old clothes, can provide your rat with hours of enjoyment. Switch the toys in the cage frequently to keep your rat from becoming bored.

3. Fill the cage with rodent litter to absorb the urine and keep the cage smelling fresh. Avoid using cedar or pine shavings; they can cause upper respiratory problems in rats. If you look in a pet store you can find plenty of alternatives, such as litter made from wood pulp fiber.

4. Give your pet rat a nesting box for sleeping. Fill the nesting box with dye-free paper to shred so he can make his own bed.

5. Change the cage frequently so your rat stays comfortable and clean. Give him fresh litter and clean his toys, food dishes and water bottles.

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Introduce Baby Chicks To The Flock

Chickens develop a hierarchy within the flock

Introducing baby chicks to a flock of chickens can be done, though a number of preparations need to be made to ensure that the integration runs as smoothly. Chicks that have been hand reared should not be introduced to the rest of the flock until they are at least six weeks old, and some chicken farmers recommend only introducing chickens of the same size to reduce the risk of the newcomers being bullied. However there are ways of protecting smaller chicks during the process. Avoid introducing new males into a flock that already has a cockerel as this will lead to fighting between males.

Instructions

1. Fence off an area of the chicken's pen to form a separate partition and house the chicks in this area for the first week. Be sure to provide each partition with enough chicken feed and water for the number of birds it inhabits. During this time members of the original flock will generally act aggressively toward the newcomers, although the fence will prevent any fighting or bullying. Over the course of the week the chickens will become used to the presence of the new chicks and any signs of aggression should diminish. If after a week some of the original chickens are still acting aggressively, this is unlikely to change. The owner should then consider removing the aggressive chicken from the flock permanently to introduce the new chicks safely.

2. Introduce the new chicks to the flock during the night by placing them in the communal roosting area and providing them with their own nest area. As the chickens will be roosting at this time, they will be less aware of the new members being added and will be less likely to act aggressively towards them.

3. Protect young chickens by constructing a specialized feeding area with small entrances, meaning that only the baby chicks will be able to enter. This will ensure that the chicks are getting enough food and will also ensure that they have a place of refuge if any bullying from the older birds does occur.

Tags: ensure that, baby chicks, chickens will, chicks flock, this time, will less

Check A Dog'S Avid Chip Registration Online

Check a Dog's Avid Chip Registration Online

The Avid chip is a computer chip programmed with a number and injected under a dog's skin via hypodermic needle. The number programmed into the chip is unique to that dog and is read though the dog's skin (by using a radio signal) to identify that dog in the event of loss or theft. The chip allows a dog to be registered in a database (PetTrac) so that upon identification, the owner is notified immediately. If you found or lost a dog, or simply want to ensure your dog's registration is set up, you can check the registration online anytime.

Instructions

Search for Your Dog

1. Navigate to the Avid chip website (a link to this site is listed under the Resources section of this article).

2. Click the link labeled "Looking for a lost pet?".

3. Fill out the form completely, including your name, your dog's name, your dog's Avid chip number and your contact information. If you have any special instructions regarding your dog (perhaps your dog has a medical condition or you have additional contact phone numbers) be sure to fill out that section of the form as well.

4. Double check the information you entered into the form. If it is correct, click the 'submit' button on the bottom of the page.

5. Wait for the results of your search from Avid Identification Systems, Inc., via phone or email (or both). The results will let you know whether or not your dog has been located and where he can be picked up.

Identify a Dog You Have Found

6. Take the dog to a veterinarian or shelter (call ahead of time to ask if they do Avid chip identification). Make a note of the identification number once it has been read.

7. Navigate to the Avid chip website (a link to this site is listed under the Resources section of this article).

8. Click on the link labeled "Found a lost pet?".

9. Fill out the form as completely as possible. You may not know the dog's name, for example, but as long as the identification number is correct and your contact information is correct, that is all that you really need.

Tags: Avid chip, article Click, article Click link, Avid Chip Registration, Avid chip website, Check Avid, Check Avid Chip

Adopt An Animal At The L A Zoo

You may not be able to bring her home, but even this lioness is available for adoption.

At the Los Angeles Zoo, ADOPT stands for "Animals Depend on People Too". ADOPT is the name of a program that allows animal lovers to assist the zoo with their wildlife conservation efforts through financial sponsorship. All animals in the zoo are available for sponsorship. Depending upon the monetary commitment level you sign up for, adoptive parents receive some or all of the following: a personalized adoption certificate, an animal fact sheet with photo, an ADOPT car decal, website recognition, a color photo by the zoo's photographer, four zoo passes, and a docent-led cart tour for up to 4 people. There are three ways to sign up for this program.

Instructions

1. Browse through the collection of animals housed at the zoo. You may choose from a wide array of mammals, birds, invertebrates, reptiles and amphibians

2. Sign up online, using the ADOPT form provided by the zoo. You will be asked to provide your personal contact information as well as a description of the kind and amount of gift you wish to provide to the zoo.

3. Download a copy of the ADOPT form. This form may be filled out by hand and then returned by mail to: Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles CA 90027-1498. You may also fax the completed form to 323-644-4720.

4. Sign up for the ADOPT program by phone. If you prefer to sign up in person, the zoo may be reached at 323-644-6035.

Tags: ADOPT form

Veterinary Bulletin Board Ideas

Colorful pets for colorful vets' bulletin boards.

A bulletin board in a veterinary waiting room is a natural place to celebrate the pets we love so much. It's not unusual for a client to want to share photos with the vet staff they entrust to care for their furry friends. Bulletin boards can serve multiple purposes in the waiting room: to entertain and inform. Everyone likes to look at adorable pets, and pet owners often are keen to learn about pet care relating to their favorite breeds.

Vet Techs Tips and Tricks

Most animal hospitals have behind-the-scenes vet techs and nurses who are not as recognizable in the office as the veterinarian or front desk personnel. Create a headline that reads "Vet Techs Tips and Tricks" in large text on a bulletin board decorated with paw prints and silhouetted pet shapes. A photo of each vet tech with the tech's name and a list of some of their favorite pet care tips underneath the photo will serve to give a name and face to the support staff and educate the client. Important tips such as "De-Skunk Your Dog" or "Recognize These Poisonous Plants" are sure to be noticed and appreciated.

Adopt Me!

A bulletin board emblazoned with "Adopting a Pet Makes a World of Difference" across the top features a homeless pet that is looking for a loving "forever" home. Photos of other animals in situations around the world, such as overcrowded shelters or homeless animals in poor countries, highlights the responsible choice to adopt, spay and neuter.

Tricks and Treats

This Halloween-themed bulletin board displays the vet hospital's patients in colorful costumes. Spray-on cobwebs, fake insects and other seasonal decorations add to the effect. Ask clients to bring in photos of their pets performing their best tricks, such as rolling over, fetching or sitting pretty. Display photos on one side of the bulletin board under the word "Tricks," and under "Treats," display prizes given in the form of dog show-style ribbons.

Tags: bulletin board, bulletin board, Techs Tips, Techs Tips Tricks, their favorite

Why Is My Adult Dog Losing Teeth

By the time a dog is an adult, he has a full set of adult teeth that should last for the rest of his life. If your adult dog is losing teeth, you need to consult with your veterinarian to find what is causing the tooth loss.

The Facts

Like humans, dogs have two sets of teeth: milk teeth when they are puppies and permanent teeth when they are adults. Milk teeth typically fall out and are replaced by adult teeth by the time a dog is 1 year old. These adult teeth should remain with a dog from then until the dog dies. If an adult dog is losing teeth, it is a sign that there is an underlying health problem. Tooth loss in adult dogs can be caused by metabolic disorders, disease or trauma to the mouth.

Periodontal Disease

The number one cause of tooth loss in adult dogs is the same as the number one cause of tooth loss in adult humans: periodontal disease. Periodontal disease begins when plaque builds on your dog's teeth and works its way under the gums. Once it is there, the bacteria in plaque secretes toxins that damage the gums and the connective tissues that hold teeth in place. If left untreated, a cycle of inflammation and remission begins, with more damage being done with each period of inflammation until finally your adult dog begins loosing teeth.

Hyperparathyroidism

If your adult dog is losing teeth, the cause could be a metabolic disorder like hyperparathyroidism. This disorder causes hyperactivity in one or more of a dog's parathyroid glands. One of the effects this has on a dog's health is the reduction in calcium from teeth and bones. This can lead to loose, mobile teeth, and if it progresses far enough, it could cause tooth loss in an adult dog.

Trauma

If your dog has suffered some kind of trauma to his mouth, then he could lose some teeth. The most common cause of trauma this severe is something hitting your dog hard in the mouth like a thrown ball or a rock. It could also happen if your dog were hit by a car. The force of impact could fracture a tooth. If the break does not run through the entire tooth, it might not fall out right away. Further trauma to the tooth or eventual wearing away of connective tissue could cause the loss of the tooth at a later date.

Other

Other factors can cause your adult dog to lose teeth. If she has been chewing on something hard like a rock or cement, she could snap a tooth. Your dog could develop a benign oral tumor called an epulis. If this tumor grows too large, it could push the tooth it grows from out of place to the point where it is lost.

Tags: loss adult, your adult, adult losing, adult losing teeth, adult teeth

Requirements Of A Police Dog Handler

Police dogs and their handlers trust their lives to one another.

As a special law enforcement officer in charge of trained dogs, K-9 handlers belong to an elite corps. Beyond the classroom, a police dog handler must have years of street experience and must have done well in probationary assignments. Working in a K-9 unit places stress on the officer's family due to long and unpredictable hours. Above all, a bond must exist between handler and dog; it's a partnership in which both often entrust their lives.

Criminal Justice Program

Jobs in K-9 units require a law enforcement degree. Officers can receive basic preparation via enrollment in an online criminal justice program.

Police Officer Employment

Upon completion of a criminal justice education, new officers go to a police academy or attend advanced law enforcement training. Typically, a police dog handler spends at least two to three years as a uniformed (line) officer. From the outset, it's best to apply to an agency with an established K-9 unit and express the intention to become a dog handler in the unit long before the application process.

K-9 Unit Application

Eligibility for K-9 unit jobs requires that officers be on call 24 hours a day and have the ability to travel on a moment's notice. Additionally, they must pass a physical fitness test (U.S. Marine Corps standards). Because of the stiff competition for few openings in K-9 units, applicants ask K-9 officers to accompany them on shifts and play "criminal decoy" roles during training sessions.

Qualities of Police Dog Handlers

Police dog handlers are aggressive problem-solvers, but not trouble-makers. They can think on their feet, make decisions on the fly and manage highly stressful situations. They must also have a natural ability to relate to and communicate with animals. The dog often becomes part of the family.

K-9 Unit Training

Training for police officers and dogs involves the detection of explosives, electronic devices, narcotics and cadavers. Programs cover theoretical and practical training. This includes search and seizure techniques, day and night tactical problem-solving, deployment for felony car stops, live-fire training, building entries, officer safety and more. K-9 law enforcement training takes time and requires that the officer and the dog forge a relationship. New K-9 officers often serve an apprenticeship with an experienced dog handler to practice and hone skills during training.

USPCA Certification

Every year, K-9 units apply for certification in a USPCA trial to affirm credibility as a qualified law enforcement team. A rigorous certification process encompasses workshops, special training sessions and opportunities to network. Citizens and officers must have assurance that K-9 units are effective and safe.

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Remove Pop Up Ads

Advertising on the World Wide Web often comes in the form of banner or pop-up ads. Pop-up ads are web browser advertising windows that launch when you visit a certain website. These can range from annoying to dangerous, with some containing links that, when visited, will infect your computer with spyware or viruses. Luckily, popular web browsers Firefox and Internet Explorer include built-in pop-up blockers.

Instructions

1. Launch Firefox or Internet Explorer.

2. Click on the "Tools" menu in Firefox. From that menu, select "Options." If you're using Internet Explorer, click "Tools" and then "Pop-Up Blocker;" choose "Turn On Pop-Up Blocker" from the menu that appears.

3. Click "Content" in the Firefox "Options" menu. Click on the checkbox that says "Block pop-up windows."

4. Customize the pop-up blocker to allow pop-ups on sites that you trust.Sometimes a site will use a pop-up window to open a link that you've clicked on. If you have all pop-ups blocked, then it will block both good and bad pop-up windows.

In Firefox, click "Exceptions" next to "Block pop-up windows" in the Content tab of the Options menu. Type the URL of the website and click "Allow." Close the Exceptions window and click "OK" on the bottom of the Options window to save your changes.

In Internet Explorer, click "Tools" and "Pop-Up Blocker," then select "Pop-Up Blocker Settings" from the menu options that appear. Enter the web address of the site that you want to allow pop-ups on and click "Add." Close the menu when you are done.

Tags: Internet Explorer, pop-up windows, allow pop-ups, Block pop-up, Block pop-up windows, click Tools, Explorer click Tools

Establish A Pet Rescue

There is no shortage of homeless cats, dogs, birds and even rats and reptiles that are in need of rescue. Every community has a need for a pet rescue, or even dozens of pet rescues, that can help support the efforts of the animal shelters. If you have a talent for helping troubled dogs, or can't pass up a homeless cat, then you may be ready to run a private pet rescue and adoption organization. Beyond having good animal skills you will also need to become part of the animal community to establish a successful pet rescue.

Instructions

1. Get funding from private donations and grants for the care of the pets that will come through your rescue. You will need to pay for food, toys and medical care for each pet. Obtain donations and funding before you take in any pets so that each one receives the care that it needs.

2. Recruit a network of volunteers for your pet rescue. You will need volunteers to act as foster homes for the pets, to help with fundraising, get 501c3 non-profit status and help with all the other details of running a pet rescue.

3. Get a veterinarian or two who will provide for the medical needs of each pet. Working with a vet whom you have an established relationship with will help reduce costs. Your vet may offer discounts and may help your pet rescue build a good reputation.

4. Make contacts within the local animal community to get pets coming to you and adopted out. Contact each animal shelter, humane society and other pet rescues in your area to ask how you can help and let them know what animals you can take in and care for.

5. Develop a website that looks professional. Websites are now an expected part of any business, even for a pet rescue. This is often a potential adopter's first look at your organization, so make sure it looks legitimate and impressive. Include information on some pets that are available for adoption, how people can donate and adoption policies to review.

Tags: pets that, your rescue, your rescue will, animal community, help with, need rescue, rescue will

Get Into The Mobile Dog Grooming Business

Groom dogs in the comfort of their own homes.

If you have a natural talent for grooming dogs and making them look their best, a career as a pet stylist can be a great way to earn a living. Providing this important service to pet owners can be fulfilling, and lucrative as well. One of the best ways to set yourself apart from other dog groomers is to pack your gear into a suitable vehicle and take the grooming experience right to your client's door.

Instructions

1. Obtain the proper business licenses for your venture from your state and municipality. The licensing requirements for dog grooming services vary from location to location, so be sure to contact the local and state governments where you live for the proper forms.

2. Select a vehicle that can accommodate the grooming equipment you need to carry with you on the road. You will need space for a tub or wash basin, as well as room for your grooming equipment. If you have an SUV, van or enclosed truck you may be able to build shelves into the sides of the vehicle. Also make sure you have a generator to provide power for the clippers, electric nail trimmers and other powered equipment.

3. You may need a generator to power your electric grooming equipment.

Purchase any addiional insurance you may need. Contact your insurance company and inform your agent that you plan to use your vehicle for business. Your personal insurance policy may not cover the business use of your vehicle, so it is important to inform the agent of your plans and purchase any additional insurance you may need.

4. Contact a local sign painter and have a vehicle billboard made for your truck, van or SUV. Be sure to use large letters so those driving by will be able to see the name of your business and the phone number.

5. Make up business cards and fliers and display them at places where pet owners congregate such as the local dog park, pet stores and veterinary offices. Get the permission of the business owners before posting any materials. If there is no dog park in your neighborhood, walk around the area and give your cards to anyone walking a dog.

6. Introduce yourself to each person you meet and give that person a business card. Even if the recipients do not need your services, someone they know might need those services.

Tags: grooming equipment, equipment need, insurance need, insurance need Contact, need Contact, your vehicle

Stepparent Adoption Requirements In Indiana

Stepparents can adopt their spouses children.

In Indiana, a stepparent may adopt a stepchild and raise the child as his own. Upon completion of the adoption proceedings the stepparent acquires the same rights and responsibilities regarding the child as if the adoptive parent were the biological father or mother.

Petition for Stepparent Adoption

Title 31 Article 19 section 2 of the Indiana Code controls adoption proceedings. To begin adoption proceedings of your stepchild, you must file a petition in the court within the county where your stepchild resides. Your spouse must either join you in the adoption action or file a written consent with the petition for adoption.

Consent to Adoption

If your stepchild was born in wedlock it is necessary to receive written consent of the adoption from both living birth parents. If the child was born out of wedlock, written consent of the father is only necessary if paternity has been established by a court proceeding or by the signing of the child's birth certificate.

Effect of Adoption on Parents

After the adoption proceedings are complete the biological parent is relieved of all legal duties, obligations and rights to the child. The adoptive stepparent and her spouse now retain all responsibilities of their child. Prior to the final entry of adoption decree, the biological parent relinquishing his rights must still support the child. If there is past due child support after the entry of the final adoption, it must still be paid.

Postadoption Visitation to Birth Parent

Although a stepparent may adopt his stepchild and help to raise her as if she were his own, a biological parent who has consented to the adoption or voluntarily given up rights to the child may be granted visitation if the court determines it is in the child's best interests.

Tags: adoption proceedings, biological parent, written consent, your stepchild, adopt stepchild, born wedlock, child adoptive

Create An Appreciation Certificate

Certificates of appreciation are great for rewarding achievement in your organization or thanking a guest speaker. They are not difficult to make thanks to templates found in word processing programs. Be sure to take a few extra minutes to add a personal touch to let people know you really care.

Instructions

1. Take a second to list the info you want on the certificate. Doing so reduces the possibility of forgetting a key piece of information. This simple step is also helpful if you are printing several certificates for different people. If you are particularly computer savvy you can input the information into a database file like Excel and use it to populate multiple certificate templates.

2. Sketching a thumbnail will give you a visual goal to pursue for the rest of the process. You will determine the information you want to include and how it is to be laid out on the page. Also, don't be afraid to be artistic and design backgrounds and boarders. Later, you can choose the template that comes closest to your sketch.

3. Programs like Microsoft Word have certificate templates. There are also websites on the Internet that house large collections of templates. Browse and see which ones you like so you don't have to keep reinventing the wheel.

4. This step is pretty simple. Just insert the recipient's information into the template. You might also be able to make adjustments to the layout and color. Play around with these functions. You might come up with something better than the original template.

5. Pick your paper carefully. There's just something about the feel of a nice quality piece of paper. It lends a kind of authority to your award. The important characteristic here is the weight or the paper. Paper weight is the weight in pounds of 500 sheets of a given type of paper. Most basic printer papers (letter-sized) have weight of 20 lbs. For certificates and resumes, look for 32 lbs.

You should also double check your printer setting and make sure that it is set to the highest quality possible. Most printers have a default "Economy" setting. This is okay when your priority is saving ink and printing pages as fast as possible, but in this case you want to have the nicest colors and the sharpest text.

6. Presentation matters as well. Make sure you store the certificates carefully to avoid tears and dog-eared corners. It is beast to present to the award in a heavy folder so the recipient can transport it safely.

Tags: certificate templates, information into

What Shots Do Dogs Need Yearly

Annual shots or vaccinations are broken into two categories, core and noncore. Core shots are those that should be given to every dog. Noncore shots are given to dogs based on a determination made by the veterinarian and may depend on geographic concerns and other health or living conditions of the dog.

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is an airborne virus. It most commonly affects the respiratory system although it can attack the skin, brain, eyes and intestines. The most common symptoms include nasal and eye discharge, vomiting, diarrhea and seizures. Yearly shots are strongly recommended.

Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a viral disease spread through contact with infected fecal matter. The virus can survive for months on inanimate objects. Incubation ranges from seven to fourteen days. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, dark and bloody stools and dehydration. Yearly shots are strongly recommended.

Hepatitis

Canine hepatitis affects the liver but may affect other organs, too. It is transmitted through nasal secretions and urine. Symptoms include a sore throat, coughing, cloudy or bluish eyes and progress to include seizures, vomiting and diarrhea. Death can occur rapidly---in as little as two hours from the first sign of symptoms. Yearly shots are strongly recommended.

Rabies

Rabies can be transmitted by a bite from an infected animal. Once bitten, a dog will go through one or more stages. Symptoms will vary from dog to dog but may include anxiety and nervousness, aggression and irritability and paralysis resulting in respiratory failure. After the first year, many veterinarians vaccinate every three years.

Parainfluenza

Parainfluenza is a virus transferred through contact with nasal secretions of infected dogs. Symptoms include a dry hacking cough and generally results in a mild respiratory infection. Yearly shots are suggested.

Tags: Yearly shots, shots strongly, shots strongly recommended, strongly recommended, Symptoms include

Minnesota State Tree Facts

The red pine's branches begin 2/3 of the way up the trunk.

The Minnesota legislature officially adopted the red pine (Pinus resinosa) as the state tree in 1953. Although far less abundant than they were before Minnesota's settlement, red pines still cover many thousands of acres in the state. Does this Spark an idea?

Description

The red pine takes its name from its reddish bark and pale red wood. Branches with glossy green needles appear only on the top third of the tree's straight trunk, which can reach 80 feet.

Growth

Red pines grow about a foot a year for their first 50 years, slowing thereafter. They do not produce cones until they are 15 to 25 years old.

Habitat

The red pine grows best in well-drained, sandy soil. In Minnesota, red pines appear mostly in the coniferous forest biome in the northeastern portion of the state.

Uses

Small red pines make popular Christmas trees. Uses for mature trees include erosion control and structural timber, according to Minnesota's Department of Natural Resources.

Names

Although the red pine is native to North America, many people (particularly in Minnesota) refer to it as the Norway pine, probably because early explorers confused it with the Norway spruce, according to the University of Texas Native Plant Database.

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Create A Free Printable Certificate

Create a free award certificate to celebrate your organization and staff accomplishments.

A free printable certificate can be designed in Word, PowerPoint, Publisher or any similar software using a basic template or a blank page. A certificate should include a landscape page, with a decorative border and award imprint or seal image. The certificate can be personalized with the applicant's name, date of award, specific achievement and organization.

Instructions

1. Do a Google image search for sample certificates. Use a certificate template for text and language choices.

2. Open a PowerPoint presentation, blank Word document or similar software page. Choose a template if available. Change the Page Set-up from Portrait to Landscape. Save the document with the certificate or award name.

3. Choose a color scheme, or accept the one already selected with the template. The color scheme should correspond with your organization's logo or the ceremonial season. For example, a police organization might choose blue and gray shades, while a fall award ceremony might use burgundy and gold tones.

4. Add a border to the certificate. In PowerPoint use a rectangle and expand it to the border, or use a pre-designed border. Insert a picture and clip art into the certificate. You can also cut and paste a border from a free sample certificate or personally design a border.

5. Start designing the certificate at the top of the page. Insert a company image, agency logo or award seal. An image can be used at the top with a certificate seal at the bottom off the certificate next to the signatures.

6. Add a title to the certificate, such as Certificate of Achievement, Community Service Award, Outstanding Citizenship, Honors Award, Star Student or Smile Certificate. Test 20 point or 24 point font. Use bold and italic options. Fit the title across the entire top with a two inch margin on each side.

7. For the body of the text, use an traditional Old English or common Gothic font. Many free fonts are available online such as Canterbury and Cloister Black. The text lines should start under the certificate title.

8. Leave a blank space for the recipients name, a description of the achievement, the name of the award, the date awarded, a statement about gratitude, the signatory's name and a certificate seal.

9. Print the certificate with the recipient's name left blank. Use a colorful calligraphy pen to personalize the certificate, fill in the award date and important signatures.

Tags: award date, certificate seal, color scheme, seal image, similar software, with certificate

Become A Sar K9 Handler

If you love dogs and enjoy working outside, a SAR (search and rescue) K-9 handler position could be the right job for you. A SAR K-9 handler is responsible for training dogs to locate missing people by detecting traces of human scent. The handler and dog work together as a team. A SAR handler's job can be challenging but rewarding.

Instructions

1. Meet the minimum requirements to become a K-9 handler. You must be at least 18 years of age. You must also be in good health because you will be required to work outside in the field for several hours at a time.

2. Own a dog that qualifies to be a SAR K-9 dog. Many search-and-rescue teams will require you to own your own dog, but some teams may provide you with a dog. The K-9 dogs are usually very large dogs, including Dobermans, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers and Labradors.

3. Locate a search-and-rescue team. You can locate a search-and-rescue team by contacting your local law-enforcement divisions, fire departments and rescue squads.

4. Submit an application, pass required screenings and submit to a background check. Your dog must also pass screening tests to make sure it is suitable to be a K-9 rescue dog. Also, your dog must have the skills and personality to be trainable and get along well with other dogs and people.

5. Complete the necessary training sessions. The initial training period is anywhere from 1 to 2 years, and the training sessions are approximately twice a week. The length of training depends upon the team's requirements and the handler's progress with his or her dog.

6. Learn train a dog to find lost people and inform you of their locations.

7. Possess important skills, such as those involving land navigation, scent theory, radio protocols, wilderness survival and first aid.

8. Pass all required tests in order to become a certified search-and-rescue team.

9. Complete the probationary period. After you become a SAR K-9 handler, you must complete a probationary period of at least 4 months. The time may vary depending upon your location.

Tags: search-and-rescue team, become handler must, handler must, must also, probationary period

Homemade Birthday Card For A Baby Boy

Cards can be made with simple cutout shapes and some glue.

Homemade greeting cards are personal and can be less expensive than a store-bought card. You can make a birthday card that sends a personal message to the special baby boy in your life. The card can be simple, or you can create a detailed design. With a few supplies, a touch of creativity and a well-meant wish, you will be on your way to creating a special card that will show your love for the birthday boy.

Instructions

1. Cut a piece of card stock with scissors to the desired size for your greeting card. Your card may be square or rectangular. You can make a flat card with a message on the back or fold it in half so the recipient can open it to find a message.

2. Embellish the front of your card with colorful scrapbook paper, cutout shapes or stickers. You can glue scrapbook paper over the front to make a colorful background. Some ideas for cutouts are a cupcake, a yellow duck or stars. You can also use stickers to make a border around the card.

3. Add a message to your card using sticker letters or printed text off your computer in a fancy font. You can use a simple message such as "Happy Birthday to a Special Baby Boy" or you can get creative and make up a rhyme or include the baby's age.

4. Cut a square or rectangle out of a piece of light-colored scrapbook paper (depending on the shape of your card) an inch smaller than your card on all sides. This will be for the back of the card if it is flat or the inside of the card if it is folded.

5. Write a message to the birthday boy on the cutout piece of paper. Use a bright marker or glitter glue pen if you want to add color. Sign your name below your message.

6. On the inside of the card, or on the back, center your cutout and glue it down.

7. Embellish the inside or back of your card around your message with small cutouts such as stars or ducks, or stickers.

8. Place your finished card in an envelope with the baby's name on the front.

Tags: your card, scrapbook paper, card that, card with, cutout shapes

Greyhound Anxiety

A running greyhound

Greyhound dogs are common pets. Many greyhounds have been raised as racing dogs, and adopted through rescue organizations; others come from puppy mills and pet stores. A dog's background can affect its behavior, but all greyhounds may experience anxiety at times.

Causes

Greyhounds are naturally sensitive, and can be fearful or timid when they haven't been well socialized. With greyhounds that have been adopted from racing kennels, separation anxiety is a common effect of their previous living conditions.

Identification

Anxious greyhounds can become neurotic and have digestive problems. Dogs suffering from separation anxiety can howl, bark, destroy furniture and belongings, or even urinate or defecate in the wrong spot when you're out of the house.

Misconceptions

Though it may seem counterintuitive, do not punish your greyhound for its behaviors. Greyhound anxiety comes from fear, and is best treated with love and kindness.

Treatment of Nervousness

General greyhound anxiety can best be solved with good obedience training, and by providing a safe and comfortable environment for your dog. Give them enough exercise, and let them spend time with other people and dogs to combat loneliness.

Treatment of Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is best treated by providing a safe bed for your greyhound, and by downplaying the importance of your departure. If your dog feels safe and believes you will come back, it will be less likely to engage in destructive behaviors.

Tags: anxiety best, behaviors Greyhound, best treated, have been, providing safe, separation anxiety

Take Care Of Bichons

Bichons are happy dogs known for their comical antics.

Bichon frises are fluffy, white dogs that are known as the clowns of the dog world. They are sturdy little dogs with a naturally happy disposition and curly, predominately white hair, although the color of the hair around the ears or legs may be buff, cream or apricot. A bichon looks like a powder puff when properly groomed. "Bichons also tend to be a good breed for allergy sufferers," the American Kennel Club asserts, but if you suffer from allergies you should consult your doctor before acquiring a bichon.

Instructions

Diet, Grooming & Exercise

1. Feed your bichon a good quality dog food. Most premium brands are available at pet stores, but some grocery stores also carry the better brands. A good quality dog food will list meat as the first ingredient. There should be no fillers such as corn or unidentified sources of fat, such as "animal fat" or "poultry meal." Chemicals or preservatives should not be present in good quality dog food.

2. Groom your bichon on a regular basis. Bichons are high-maintenance dogs. Their hair grows continually, so they must be groomed daily. Brushing will help keep their coats looking fresh and clean between regular grooming appointments. Taking your bichon to a professional groomer is the best way keep it looking good. Trimming the hair into the traditional powder-puff look can be tricky.

3. Exercise your bichon everyday. A daily walk or run in the yard will keep your dog fit and trim. As a small dog, they can live in an apartment if they are taken out to get enough exercise. Play time should include activities that get them moving. Toss a ball or favorite toy and let them fetch it back to you, play tug of war, or just take them for a walk around your neighborhood.

4. Visit your veterinarian. Be sure your bichon has all the necessary vaccinations as directed by your veterinarian. A mostly healthy dog, bichons can have flea allergies, which will cause them to have skin problems. This is best addressed by a veterinarian.

Tags: your bichon, good quality, good quality food, quality food, your veterinarian

Create Facebook Groups

Facebook groups allow you to further connect with friends on your network, creating a close-knit social network within the larger Web site. You can join any group on your network or create your own. From pets to football to computer programming, you can create a group on any topic that interests you.

Instructions

Create a Facebook Group

1. Start by logging in to Facebook using the email address you registered with (see Resources below).

2. Follow the "My Groups" link. You can browse through your current groups or look for new ones to join from this page.

3. Click the "Create a Group"' button if you do not see any groups you want to join. You can create a group for just about anything (see the Facebook Terms of Service for limitations).

4. Fill in the form. Only the group name, description and type are required, but you will want to at least set the privacy level to one you are comfortable with. When you are finished, click the "Create Group" link.

5. Upload a photo that represents your group. The file size limit is 4MB.

6. Choose your officers by clicking the "Officers" tab. Don't forget to make yourself an officer. You can create any position you want.

7. Edit the details of your group at any time on the "Group Info" tab. Keep the basic information up to date.

Promote Your Group

8. Click on "My Groups" when logged in to Facebook. Then click "Edit Group" to invite more members.

9. Go to the "Members" tab. You can choose to invite your Facebook friends to join your group by simply marking the check boxes by their name. You can also invite non-Facebook friends to join your group by adding their email address.

10. Import emails from your Yahoo, Hotmail, AOL, Gmail or MSN address book to quickly invite several friends at once.

11. Turn on your forums from the "Edit Group Profile" page. To gain more members, your group will need to offer something, so get the discussions started.

Tags: your group, Create Facebook, create group, Edit Group, email address, friends join

Maryland Pet Trust Agreement

Pet trusts ensure an animal is taken care of after his owner's death.

On April 14, 2009, Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley signed pet trusts into law, according to the Humane Society. Washington D.C. had this law for several years before Maryland followed suit. This law allows owners to create trusts for their pets to ensure they are cared for if they die.

Pet Trust

According to the Humane Society, this law allows owners to include their pets in estate planning. The owner can make arrangements for permanent guardianship after the owner's death, and name requirements for veterinary care, food and water. This gives pet owners of Maryland a peace of mind that their pets will be taken care of in case they die, and not euthanized. Thirty-nine other states also have pet trust laws.

Arrangements

A statement is made in the owner's will stating he is leaving a certain amount of money and/or property to his pet. A trustee handles the instructions left by the owner. The instructions may include delivering the pet to the person the deceased owner requested to take ownership of the pet after his death. The trustee handles the pet's expenses with the money left by the trust, according to Lippman, Semsker & Salb, LLC.

Remainder Beneficiary

Lippman, Semsker & Salb, LLC recommends naming a beneficiary who will receive the remainder of the trust in case the pet dies before all the money is used. Some owners name a charity as the remainder beneficiary for fear that their pets will not be properly cared for and the beneficiary will have no reason to keep the pet alive.

Maryland Pet Trust Features

Maryland has certain provisions in its pet trust law. According to Lippman, Semsker & Salb, LLC, once the last pet dies that is under the trust, the trust ends. The trust left to the animal can only be used on the animal's behalf, unless the court deems the trust amount excessive. Unless directed by the owner, excess trust will go back to the owner if the pet dies before the owner. Or, if the owner is deceased and then the animal dies, the leftover trust will go to a successor. Also, if the beneficiary is not taking care of the animal per the owner's instruction, another beneficiary may be appointed by the courts.

Trusting the Money

Lippman, Semsker & Salb, LLC recommends considering what kind of pet you have when deciding how much to leave your pet. Also take into consideration how old your pet is, what the animal's life expectancy is, what kind of life you want to provide your animal, and possible future veterinarian care. If you have a certain diet or special toys you want your pet to have, you should leave extra money for that, as well.

Tags: Lippman Semsker, Lippman Semsker Salb, Semsker Salb, their pets, after owner, after owner death, allows owners

Community Service Projects For Teens

Community service projects are a great way for teens to get involved in and give back to their communities. These projects also give teens a deeper understanding of the world around them and a deeper sense of empathy. Service projects are a way to try new things and meet new people too. There's such a wide range of volunteer options that teens can probably find a project that they will actually enjoy.

Teaching and Tutoring

There are many things that teens can teach others. Teens can research and prepare special educational presentations to younger students or help out in simpler ways, like helping with math or science problems or even just reading to them. Teens may also have some things to teach to those who are older. For example, teens might visit a senior center or nursing home to teach seniors basic computer schools or work with an emigrant population on their English.

Drives and Fundraisers

People in need can be helped through a donation drive. Teens could organize a drive to gather clothes for the homeless, run a food drive to benefit those who are hungry or collect books for children of poor families, a local library or a program that that sends reading material to prisoners. Around the holidays, teenagers can collect gifts for families that need a little help to make the holidays special. Many schools, both in America and oversees, are in need of school supplies. All of these drives are not only an opportunity to help people immediately, but also a chance to educate the community about groups that are in need. Teens could also organize a blood drive, though only older teens would be allow to participate themselves.

Fundraisers are another possibility. Charities and community organization welcome additional financial support. Teens could work on behalf of these organization by asking community members for support or by organizing an event, like a charity party or bake sale, to collect money to donate.

Clean Up Town

Although it's not the most glamorous job, there is always cleaning to be done, and its an easy project to schedule and organize. Teens can work to clean up the side of a road, a local riverbed or graffiit.

Tags: Teens could, that need, that teens

Find Labrador Retriever Puppies In Oklahoma

Labrador Retriever puppies sport brown, black and yellow coats.

Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog breed in the United States, the American Kennel Club reports. The dogs are gentle, family friendly, intelligent and easy to please. Originating in Canada, this sporting breed comes in the colors chocolate, yellow and black. If you are looking for a Labrador Retriever puppy in Oklahoma, you may contact either a reputable breeder or a Labrador Retriever rescue organization.

Instructions

1. Access the doggies.com website, which provides a free Labrador Retriever Breeders Directory search engine with listings of dog breeders by ZIP code.

2. Type your ZIP code in the box provided, then click on the "Fetch" button.

3. Write down the contact information for the Labrador Retriever breeders near your ZIP code.

4. Visit potential breeders and make sure that they are reputable, responsible and knowledgeable. You can filter breeders by asking for referrals from a local veterinarian. You can also consult the breeder checklist provided by the American Humane Society to make sure that the breeder meets its minimum requirements.

5. Contact a volunteer at Lab Rescue Oklahoma via email at president@labrescue.net. You can also visit the organization's website at www.labrescue.net. Lab Rescue Oklahoma is a not-for-profit organization that helps facilitate the rescue of Labrador Retrievers throughout Oklahoma. Their website has a catalog, including pictures, of all available dogs.

Tags: Labrador Retriever, Labrador Retrievers, make sure, make sure that, Rescue Oklahoma

What Kind Of Frogs Are Native To Anaheim California

The large American bullfrog is an introduced species in the state.

The city of Anaheim is located in southwest California's Orange County. The natural habitats and wetland areas around the city are home to an abundance of species, including five species of frog. Three of the species found in the area are natural natives, while the other two have been introduced into the state.

American Bullfrog

The American bullfrog is a large species that grows between 4 and 8 inches in length. It lives in all but the driest desert regions of California and in most wetland habitats. The species is also absent from the higher elevation mountain ranges of California. It is an introduced species to the state due to local frog farms that sprang up in the 1920s to supply frog legs for restaurants.

California Red-Legged Frog

The California red-legged frog is a medium-sized species that grows to between 1 and 5 inches in length. It ranges along most of the state's west coast and into parts of central California. It is most common in lowland forests, wetlands and grasslands and is always near water. This reddish-brown colored frog gets its name from the bright red undersides of its rear legs.

California Tree Frog

The California tree frog is a small species that grows to between 1 and 2 inches in length. The frog is gray-brown in color with rough, blotchy skin. It is found in the southwest corner of the state including Orange county. The frog is found close to wetland habitats and desert streams.

Baja California Tree Frog

The Baja California tree frog is a small species that grows to around 2 inches in length. It varies in color from bright reds and yellows to drab grays and greens. The species is found throughout the wetland habitats of southern California except for the most desert-like regions. It is considered a common frog within its range.

African Clawed Frog

The African clawed frog, as the name suggests, is not a native species. It originates from South Africa and was introduced to California during the '50s and '60s when it became illegal to own them as pets. Owners set the pets free into the wild and by 1968 it was clear they were well established there. Orange county is one of the counties in which the species has become settled. The frog grows to between 2 and 5 inches in length, is brown-green in color and has black claws on its inner toes.

Tags: inches length, between inches, between inches length, grows between, grows between inches

Make Millions In Neopets

Since its creation in the late 1990s, Neopets has grown to attract nearly 30 million users. You don't have to pay to play Neopets, but items such as food, books, Neohomes and toys cost Neopoints, Neopets' official currency. As a new user, you may find it difficult to amass Neopoints, but with practice, you can make millions.

Instructions

1. Neopets offers a variety of games. To maximize your earning power, make time to play every one of them. Even if you earn only 100 Neopoints in a game, it will add up if you play 100 games a day.

2. Open an account at the National Neopian, the bank you'll find in the main market in Neopia. This keeps your Neopoints safe from thieves, such as the Pant Devil and ghosts, and you can come back once a day to collect interest on your Neopoints.

3. Make sure your bank account stays at the highest level possible. The more Neopoints you have in the bank, the higher your bank account level. Higher bank account levels earn you a higher rate of interest.

4. Search auctions frequently for paintbrushes. Paintbrushes will often sell at auction for less than their value. When you find a paintbrush up for auction, check its value at the trading post. Bid 15,000 Neopoints less than the trading post value. Whenever you win one, sell it right away at the trading post for 5,000 Neopoints less than the going value, which ensures you a 10,000 Neopoints profit.

5. Collect your daily freebies. When you receive a rare item, sell it for 25,000 Neopoints or more. Freebies include an omelet from the giant omelet on the plains, jelly from the jelly world, a prize from the tombola on Mystery Island, a prize from Coltzan's Shrine in the Lost Desert, fruit machine items from the fruit machine in the Lost Desert and fishing items from the fishing hole in Maraqua.

Tags: bank account, less than, trading post, fruit machine, items from, Lost Desert, Neopoints less

Reasons Not To Adopt A Cat

The house cat is the most popular pet in the world. Cats are lap pets and like to be petted. But be careful when you adopt a cat. It might not be a perfect addition to the family.

Spaying

Not all shelters spay or neuter cats. Adopting a cat that has not been neutered might leave you trying to find homes for a large litter of kittens. Also, neutered cats are often happier.

Kittens

Kittens require attention and supervision. They can be very active and even destructive. Kittens also have a weak immune system and might get sick, and the first years of their lives might be medically expensive.

Personality

Cats are very fickle. You cannot mold or change their personalities. Cats might live for 15 to 20 years, so it is important a cat and its owner get along.

Other Household Pets

If there is a dog, fish or another cat already at home, adopting a cat might not be a wise decision. The adopted cat might not get along with other pets.

Past Abuse

Some adopted cats might have had an abusive or neglected past. They might not adapt to a new home. Cats tend to like routine, not change.

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Uses Of The Computer Chip

The first computer chip was invented in 1958.

The computer chip was invented in 1958 by Jack Kilby, a new hire at Texas Instruments. Kilby was given a project to complete on some of Texas Instruments new miniature-sized electrical circuits. He found the directions given to him by Texas Instruments to be insufficient to complete the project, so he used the materials provided and invented his own version, inventing the first computer chip. Since then, the computer chip has been used in a variety of products, serving many different purposes.

Medical Records for Humans

The VeriChip is implanted beneath the skin on a person's arm.

In 2004, the FDA approved the use of a tiny computer chip, the VeriChip, for the use of keeping medical history in a chip inserted underneath the skin of a person's arm. This chip, no bigger than the size of a grain of rice, would speed up medical personnel's ability to access medical history by running a scan over the area of the chip. According to David Ellis of the Michigan Electronic Medical Records Initiative, the future of medical technology lies in products like the VeriChip to make access to and transfer of medical records simpler and faster. The use of this chip ensures that patients that have to go to various medical facilities won't show up only to find out their medical records never made it to the facility in time for their appointment. As of late 2004, chip implantation was expected to cost $150 to 200 per person. Concerns have been raised about the potential violation of patients' privacy due to the use of the VeriChip.

Cell Phones

A new computer chip increases the energy of a cell phone.

Early 2009 welcomed the creation of a microchip that ran seven times faster than the fastest technology and saved 30 times the amount of electricity. A combined team of computer technologists from the United States and Singapore developed the cutting-edge technology, called PCMOS (pronounced pee-cee-moss). Many computer chips are general purpose micro-processors. These types of chips provide the power for personal computers and laptops. PCMOS is what's known as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). ASIC chips are used for a particular purpose, such as MRI scanners, automobiles, electronic toys and cell phones. According to "Science Blog," the implementation of PCMOS can mean the difference between charging your cell phone once every few weeks and once every few days.

Safety For Dogs

A microchip can assist with the safe return of your lost dog.

Microchips for dogs are used for pet safety and identification. Two companies make the microchip for pet use and have both created universal equipment so scanners from either company can identify a pet with the other company's chip. The microchip, which is the size of a grain of rice, contains an identification code assigned to the dog and inserted underneath the dog's skin between the shoulder blades. The microchip for pets is part of a three-part system: microchip, scanner and database. The scanner uses electromagnetic energy to receive messages from the microchip. The database holds all the pet's information that is entered when he has his microchip inserted and assigned his own identification number.

Tags: computer chip, Texas Instruments, cell phone, chip invented, chip invented 1958

About Donating To Homeless Shelters

About Donating to Homeless Shelters

Homeless shelters welcome donations of money and various items such as food and personal hygiene products, and they are always in need of volunteers as well. The best way to start donating to a local shelter is to give them a call and find out their current and most important needs.

Considerations

Homeless shelters can always use food, toiletries and financial contributions. For anything other than money, it is important to call the shelter ahead of time, because a shelter tends to have limited storage space. Also, often shelters are only staffed part-time, and you'll want to know when you can drop supplies off.

Types

Homeless shelters and other emergency shelters often are looking for children-related items--foods that kids like, new toys and games, books, dolls and stuffed animals. In addition, shelters usually can use bath towels, washcloths, and sheets, as well as personal hygiene products--liquid hand soap, deodorant, disposable razors, toothpaste and toothbrushes, feminine hygiene items and toilet paper. Over-the-counter medical supplies also tend to be in short supply much of the time--pain relievers, cough syrup, and adhesive bandages, among other items. Homeless shelters also love gift cards from grocery stores and gas stations. Items should be new, or at least in very good used condition. Keep in mind that adults require good clothing for work and to apply for jobs, and children need clothes for attending school. Many homeless shelters have websites and keep a wish list there.

Features

Shelters will welcome a variety of canned food--vegetables, fruit, soup, and tuna, in the regular-sized cans rather than institutional size (again, due to lack of storage space). They also typically like donations of rice and pasta, macaroni and cheese, cereal, coffee and peanut butter. It's important to bring food that won't spoil, although many shelters are happy to receive fresh produce if you clear it with them first.

Benefits

Keep in mind that these donations can be declared as tax deductions for charitable contributions. Both monetary gifts and "gifts in kind" are legal tax deductions. You'll need to have a form or paper signed by shelter staff acknowledging the value of your contribution.

Potential

Shelters always can use volunteer assistance. You might be able to prepare or serve meals, do minor household repairs, provide transportation for residents to go to appointments, babysit while parents look for a job, or help out in the office. Sometimes the shelter works hand-in-hand with a food bank where you can volunteer.

Tags: About Donating, About Donating Homeless, Donating Homeless, Donating Homeless Shelters, Homeless shelters, Homeless shelters, Keep mind

California Adoption Requirements

Follow adoption requirements to ease the adoption journey.

Adoption brings a new person into the family. Exciting though it is, the process can also become very complex, bringing unexpected hurdles and challenges. Learning as much as possible about the requirements can smooth the path for the birth parents, the adopted child and the adoptive parents. The state of California provides clear requirements for all three parties involved in the adoption process.

Consent

California adoption law requires the consent of any living birth parents and the person adopting the child. Additionally, the spouse of the person adopting must consent to the adoption. The law provides exceptions for special instances, including when the birth parents have failed to respond to an adoption notice, to support the child, or to communicate with the child, or if the court has removed the birth parent's custodial rights. The child must consent if he has reached age 12.

Who

The adoptive party may adopt any unmarried minor. However, the minor must be at least 10 years younger than the adoptive parent, unless the adoptive parent is a close relative or if the adoptive parent adopts jointly with his spouse. The birth parents may put a child up for adoption, or the agency or government department that has custody of the child may place a child for adoption. (Reference 2)

Expenses and Payments

California law allows the prospective adoptive parents to pay for maternity care and any medical expenses for the birth mother. However, these payments must be written down and presented to the court, and they must not rest on the birth mother's final decision to place her child. The law also places a $500 fee for public adoption agencies and regulates the fees determined by private adoption agencies. The court may waive the public adoption-agency fee when the adoptive parents are unable to afford it or when the court determines that to waive the fee is in the child's best interest. All financial details and decisions must be in writing, as well as the rationales for these decisions.

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What Happens If You Don'T Adopt The Child On Virtual Families

Apple's Virtual Families application allows you to produce or adopt simulated children.

Virtual Families is an Apple application by Last Day of Work and is compatible with Apple products, such as iPod Touch. In this simulation game, you adopt a family, feed and clothe them, and help them build a family of their own. But family members aren't just biological; you're given the chance to adopt children at random points during game play. While it may seem like an added expense to take on an extra child, they may help you in the long run when it comes to winning the game.

The Purpose of Offspring in Virtual Families

In Virtual Families, your goal is to keep your family healthy so that generations upon generations are created. During game play, you win trophies, all of which you aim to obtain before your family---for one reason or another---no longer produces offspring that can start a new generation. Once your married couple can't produce a baby, you can no longer carry on to another generation and have more time to obtain trophies. If you're in this predicament, adopting a child is beneficial. It allows for an offspring when one isn't coming along naturally or with the "baby" shot, a medicinal shot administered to mother or father to increase fertility.

Biological Offspring vs. Adopted Offspring in Game Play

There is no difference between raising an adopted child in Virtual Families as opposed to raising one that came from your adult family members. The only difference is how they're brought about. For instance, by dropping one adult family member over the other adult family member, you initiate a waiting ceremony in which these adult members relocate into the bedroom and wait for baby to appear. If successful, you'll see a baby in mother's arms until the child is 3 years old. If not successful, no baby will appear and the act will end. For adopted children, you receive a "pop-up" on the screen upon opening the application. This screen will inform you that a child has knocked on your door and has asked to join your family. You are then given the option to accept the child or decline the child's offer. Past this stage, raising the child houses the same experience as raising a biological one.

Benefits of Adopting

Adopting the child means you get another chance at carrying on the family. In doing so, this gives you more time to earn the required 100 trophies to win the game, which include collecting certain items that magically appear in your lawn, obtaining copious amounts of money, selling any additional collectibles and buying all upgrades in the home. In addition, adding a child gives you more options when selecting one child to carry on the generation. As some children don't want to have kids when they're older, having more children to choose from when selecting the heir to the house means having a higher probability that one child will, in fact, want children. Wanting children is essential for family members, as it keeps the generation going.

What to Consider before Adopting

Note that the consequences of not adopting a child depends on your situation. You may like to adopt just in case your adult members don't produce babies. If your adult members are older than 40 and have received the baby shot to no avail, adopting the child is ideal as the chance of your adult members producing offspring is slim. However, if you have offspring already or your family is young enough---ages 21 to around 40---to where they will likely produce offspring, you may not see any reason to adopt the child. While there won't be any misfortune, like lowering your food supply and leaving more socks around the house, you lose the higher probability of carrying on the generation.

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Pros And Cons Of Adopting From Animal Shelters

Pros and Cons of Adopting From Animal Shelters

Animal shelters in the United States are filled to capacity with pets that need good homes. Adopting a dog or a cat from a shelter can be a wonderful, kind, rewarding experience. But there are some things to keep in mind when you are considering your next pet.

Pro: You've Saved a Life

Animals shelters are given more animals than they can handle. Except for no-kill shelters, most shelters must eventually destroy animals who are not adopted. Senior dogs and cats in particular are hard to place with new families, because most people want puppies or kittens when they want a new pet. If you get a pet from a shelter, you have saved the life of an innocent animal and given it the chance to live a happy life with a loving family.

Con: There May Be Behavioral Problems

Though they are often the result of inadequate owners and not the pets themselves, cats and especially dogs in animal shelters may be there because of behavioral problems. Scratching, relentless barking and biting may happen with pets from shelters, and whether or not your dog or cat does these things may be impossible to know until you get it home.

Pro: Vaccinations

Animals shelters will almost always immediately give animals all their pertinent shots, such as rabies and distemper. Shelters also often go ahead and spay and neuter animals as well. When you adopt a pet from a shelter, you should get vaccination papers and not have to worry about taking your pet to the vet in the near future.

Con: Health

Even though pets from animal shelters may have all their shots and are currently in good health, you won't really know much else about the health of your pet. Cats in particular may not show any immediate symptoms but will be obviously ill later. Also, even if the animal entered the shelter in the best of health, the experience of being there may give an animal time to get sick or develop socialization problems.

Con: The Shelter May Not Have the Breed You Want

If you are stuck on getting a particular breed of cat or dog, shelters may not have them at the time you visit. You might have to make several trips to find what you want, and you may never find it. Also, many animals at shelters are mixed breeds whose original ancestry cannot even be identified.

Pro: Good Pets Transcend Breed

However, if your objective is to simply get a good-natured pet regardless of breed, animal shelters are full of them, for much less than you would pay for a purebred. The workers at the shelter will be able to give you information about the dog or cat, how it acts, and its temperament. Also, you will have the satisfaction of knowing you are not supporting puppy or kitten mills.

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Foster Care For Dogs In New Jersey

In New Jersey there are various dog foster care services for pet owners.

Foster care for dogs is offered by pet adoption organizations to provides temporary shelter for pets that are in need. Pet owners who cannot temporarily care for their dogs might use the services of pet foster care. Other roles for pet foster care include finding a temporary home for an abused or lost pet and nurturing a sick pet back to health. New Jersey offers dog foster care services with the goal of preparing dogs for permanent homes.

Animal Orphanage

The Animal Orphanage is located in South Jersey. It's a non-profit animal shelter that works to rescue unwanted and neglected dogs. Sometimes the Animal Orphanage doesn't have enough room to house dogs and has to rely on people from the public to provide foster care services for the animals. Foster care providers can be volunteers who are at least 21 years old and are able to take care of a dog until it is brought up to adoption status.

Happy Trails

Happy Trails Foster Care is an organization that provides foster care services for dogs in the Bergen County area. Volunteers who want to foster a dog on a temporary basis should be aware of the time commitment and the attention that each dog needs. Some pets will require a foster home for a few weeks and others could probably use foster care service that lasts over a year. Volunteers must register with Happy Trails and they will be contacted once a dog becomes available.

Unleashed

Unleashed Dog Day Care, Hotel & Spa offers foster care services for dogs in Hoboken. This organization works with Martha Candy Patches Rescue and the Liberty Humane Society in Jersey City to find suitable dogs for their fostering programs. Unleashed Dog Day Care finds homes for at least six dogs a year, and they encourage potential foster pet providers to contact their business if they are interested in adopting a pet.

PAWS

Montclair is home to the Pound Animal Welfare Society (PAWS). This organization focuses its efforts on rescuing and reducing pet populations in the Montclair area. Providing foster care for dogs is one method that this organization uses in order to save animals. PAWS relies on a network of foster homes to care for pets, and pet lovers who are interested in taking on this responsibility can contact PAWS to find out more information about the process.

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Medicaid & Service Dogs

Service dogs help the disabled maintain higher levels of independence.

Nonprofit organizations train service dogs to improve the level of independence possible for people with disabilities. Service dogs also protect their handlers from complications of medical conditions and alleviate the loneliness experienced by people who are mentally ill. Many disabled people who need service dogs cannot afford the high cost of training and caring for the animals. Medicaid provides free or low-cost health insurance to low-income people. Medicaid insures certain groups of people, including the disabled.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a federal health insurance program operated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Each state administers its own Medicaid program and sets operation guidelines, including eligibility and services. Medicaid does not cover costs related to service dogs.

Service Dogs

Service dogs are one of three types of assistance dogs, which include guide dogs for the blind and hearing dogs for the hearing impaired. Service dogs perform tasks for people with disabilities unrelated to hearing or vision. Service dogs train to work with people who have psychiatric disabilities or those who use wheelchairs. Trainers teach the dogs to alert to medical issues like seizures and low blood sugar. The dogs help people with balance problems or autism. Service dogs perform tasks to improve the quality of life for disabled people. Many of the dogs wear harnesses or backpacks.

Expenses

Training organizations acquire service dogs, often Labrador retrievers and golden retrievers, from animal shelters and breeding programs. Volunteers perform much of the work of the organizations; however, the costs to raise and train a service dog can exceed $20,000. The cost to people who need service dogs could be as much as $10,000. The ongoing expenses related to having a service dog include the purchase of special equipment, such as harnesses, veterinary care and food.

Alternative Financial Assistance

Some government agencies and nonprofit organizations provide financial assistance to help with service dogs. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs pays for equipment and veterinary care. The Social Security Administration pays for some guide dog expenses for disabled people who work and receive supplemental security insurance, or SSI. Some state departments of social services provide financial assistance for service or guide dogs. The California Department of Social Services operates a program that provides a small monthly payment to assist with expenses related to service dogs. Local and national private nonprofit organizations, such as the Assistance Dog United Campaign, provide financial assistance for training and acquiring service dogs and training people in the use of the animals.

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Training Tips For Housebreaking A Dog

Housebreaking a dog of any age can be difficult.

Housebreaking a dog---no matter what their age, breed or gender---can be a difficult task, especially if the owner is unprepared. A little research and a basic understanding of what's necessary can go a long way when training a dog to defecate and urinate in a specific area.

Consistency with Location and Method

When housebreaking a dog, it is important to remain consistent with the method chosen as well as the location. If the owner chooses to potty train the dog by taking him outside but then changes her mind and decides to paper train instead, it can result in serious confusion for the dog, which in turn can disrupt the entire housebreaking process.

Bathroom Schedule

Creating a schedule for housebreaking a dog can be extremely beneficial. In general, puppies should be taken out based on their age. According to the Humane Society of the United States, for every one month of a puppy's age, he can control his bladder for the same number of hours. For example, a 2-month-old puppy should be let out at least every two hours, whereas a 5-month-old puppy should be let out at least every five hours.

Morning, Evening, Meal Time and Play Time

Along with consistency, it is important to take the dog out first thing in the morning, as well as just before going to bed. Janet Wall of the Love Your Dog website also adds that it's best to take a dog outside just after eating his meal or following play time.

Visual Cues

Owners should learn to recognize their dog's behavior cues that indicate the need to eliminate. This can include sniffing the ground or circling just before the dog urinates or defecates.

Reacting to an Accident

It is inevitable that every dog will have an accident. However, if the owner does not catch the dog in the act, he should not punish the dog. This is because the dog will not understand why it is being punished, since it was not currently committing the act that caused it to be punished.

Crate Training

Many owners, veterinarians and trainers alike will swear by crate training. By using a crate, the dog learns not to soil in the area where it sleeps and learns to recognize that the home is where its owners sleep and therefore urinating or defecating indoors is unacceptable. Though crate training may not be for every owner, it is important to remember that an owner who chooses to use a crate for training must remember to remain consistent in using the crate.

Housebreaking an Older Dog

There are many tips on housebreak a puppy, and owners should keep in mind that training an older dog is generally the same. For example, an owner who adopts a dog that is a few years old from a shelter should keep in mind that they can use the same potty training methods as if their dog were still a puppy. Remain consistent and give the dog a designated schedule for eliminating. It may be ideal to start out with an hourly break and work up to a few hours or an entire afternoon.

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Train A Whippet Puppy

A whippet is a type of hound that resembles a greyhound, except smaller. Whippets have a sleek, short-haired body and a narrow head. Dog Training and Info Guide states that the whippet is an intelligent breed that is easy to train and work with. If you have recently acquired a whippet puppy, it is important to give it the right training, which helps it become a well-socialized adult.

Instructions

1. Socialize your whippet puppy with new experiences. Whippet puppies need to meet new people and new dogs of all ages in order to be comfortable with them when they get older.

2. Train your whippet puppy to walk on a leash. Do not allow it to pull ahead if it becomes overexcited, and praise it when it walks by your side. If it starts to pull, stand still and wait for it to stop. Whippets have a high prey drive, so do not allow it to get into the habit of chasing things.

3. Establish a routine. Whippet puppies respond very well to a regular routine, and if you put them on a schedule with regards to their walks and their feeding, they can be house-trained quickly. Remember that a puppy should be allowed to go out and relieve itself every 2 hours.

4. Walk the puppy first thing in the morning, immediately after meals, and when it wakes up from naps. This helps prevent accidents and it offers the puppy a routine.

5. Brush your puppy's coat once a week and clip its nails whenever they get too long. This gets the whippet puppy used to having its feet and body handled.

6. Crate your whippet puppy, which helps with house-training and gives your puppy a den-like place to rest. Although the puppy may cry when it is first placed in the crate, be firm. Stay with the puppy when you first start crating and let it know that the crate is a safe, warm place.

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Start A Nonprofit Animal Shelter

If you love animals or support humane animal shelters, you may have considered starting a nonprofit animal shelter, a time-intensive project that will need your dedication and energy. If there are no animal shelters in your area, or the existing shelters are kill centers, it is important to know start a nonprofit animal shelter.

Instructions

Starting a Nonprofit Shelter

1. Review an existing shelter in your community. Visit the shelter and consider how the organization is supported. If it does not have the backing of local residents, business, and community leaders, you may want to rethink starting a shelter.

2. Speak with others who might be interested in becoming a part of the team. Determine each person's strengths and weaknesses, as you will need to focus your talents. For instance, if you focus primarily on the animals, you may need assistance with grant writing, public relations, and fundraising.

3. Decide what type of animal rescue you want to start. Will the shelter support euthanasia or will it be a no-kill shelter? It is important to check your state regulations for any restrictions.

4. Form a board of directors who also have a passion for animal welfare and want to see an improvement in local services and programs. It is often helpful to have people with experience in a variety of backgrounds such as fundraising, law, management, accounting and animal health, as this will allow you to apply your strengths to specific areas of running the shelter and will offset some of the long-term costs.

5. Choose a name for your animal shelter, write your mission, develop the bylaws and articles of incorporation, and formulate a budget. These statements and documents will focus the mission of the shelter, give operational guidance, and determine how your shelter is run and the types of programs offered. This can be a complicated process, and it is beneficial to have assistance from an attorney familiar with nonprofit law.

6. Apply to the IRS for an employer identification number (EIN) for your shelter. You will need this if you plan to pay anyone for services or have employees.

7. File for nonprofit status with your state and then file the same documentation with the IRS. Include any necessary application fees and make sure that you have copies of your check and all paperwork. If the IRS has any problems with your paperwork, you will receive a letter requesting modifications.

8. Wait for the final paperwork from the IRS stating that you have 501(c)(3) status. Processing time could take three to six months, depending on if revisions are required and how many applications are being processed.

9. Develop your nonprofit shelter. Purchase kennels, food, animal care products and other needs. Make time for fundraising, requesting financial and in-kind donations from the community. Make the public aware, and put together a mailing list of potential business and individual donors.

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