Posts

Rubbing noses with a puppy

Pets 101: Making a Pet Portrait

making a pet portraitAnimals and humans always had a special relationship ever since these pets were domesticated. Pets have always been an important part of any family. Just like what parents do when their babies are growing up, family members also document the growth of their pets, from being a puppy or a kitten to becoming a full-grown dog or cat. Each day just seems to be worth remembering.

With humans’ great love for their pets, it has become very common for people to have certain artworks done for their beloved animals. And as the technology advances, so are the ways to create the best artwork possible for these pets. There are a number of styles that are being used and introduced to the public nowadays. Sketches were once the most famous type of artwork or portrait, but people have now found other ways to be creative.

Some families post the portraits of their pets on their fridge while others hang them in their hall or living room. Unfortunately, capturing the pets in their perfect pose is a lot more difficult. Human subjects are basically easier to deal with when it comes to capturing a good pose. These animals do not understand that artists are trying to get them to pose. But what’s good about having pets as the subject of an artwork is that all of their pictures are natural poses. This is because of the fact that a dog or cat will not feel shy or embarrassed to put silly faces or poses when confronted with a camera. Thus, photographers get a much better picture.

There are quite a few points that one needs to consider when taking pictures of one’s pets. Experienced photographers have the ability to create the perfect scenario to capture the best possible shot. But most pet owners are not as experienced as the professionals. Although this seems to be a disadvantage, one thing that could be of benefit is the fact that no one knows one’s pet much better than their owners. Owners know what their pets want, what they like to do, what makes him comfortable and what behavior makes their pets playful. So here are some ideas to help you get the best pet portrait.

Pet Portrait Ideas

Surroundings. Checking the surroundings that would best fit the portrait is very important. Whether it’s inside the house or outside in the garden, the scenery should be considered. If you want to have the picture taken outside in the backyard where the dog is obviously going to enjoy the freedom of running and playing around, it is most likely that you’ll be getting action shots. The catch is, you should be prepared to take a lot of photos, about a hundred of them, in order to get just one perfect shot for the portrait. If one is to take pictures inside the house, then it is more likely that you’ll capture a relaxed and comfortable pose from your pets. You can get the cutest photo when the animals are asleep.

Light. Every photo needs a good lighting. And one advantage of taking the pet’s picture outside is the natural light since it eliminates the red eye.

Pet Portrait Collages

Owners would also like to have the most unique pieces of arts when it comes to their pets. That is why many owners would want to take their pet’s photos to the next level. And you can do so through the use of a collage. This is a technique where papers are cut into small pieces and are used to make a new image. You do not have to be a great artist to do this; creativity is the secret to get hold of a wonderful result.

One of the beautiful aspects about having a collage is the way the papers overlap as they create textures. Any type of paper can be used, whether it is glossy, high quality and the likes. Adding accessories like beads, feathers and yarns would create a more lively image. But if one wants to go wild, a technique called cubomania would be appropriate. This involves the process of cutting small squares and gluing the pieces randomly together. This may not give an actual picture of the pet but the result could be a cool piece of art.

After finishing the art, sealing the surface and letting it dry before framing is a necessary step. One can add varnish in many layers. The more layers there are, the more the picture will pop. But if being fancy is not the kind of thing that you like, using glue is suggested. Avoid over brushing in order to evade permanent clouding. Brushing across once will do.

Pet portraits that are made of collage could make a one-of-a-kind gift. This could create a lifetime memory of one’s pet. Although collage can be used in creating any images,sometimes, its just a different feeling when you create it for someone or something you love. After all, your pets are loved, cared for and treated just like one of the family members. Thus, the creation of their pet portraits is one way of showing love and respect for them.

Running and Biking Dogs

Let’s Exercise – Dogs For Running and Biking

If you are searching for the best running or biking partner, look no further than your canine buddy. When it comes to exercise, you can’t think of a better workout partner than a dog. It is always a good idea to have someone to workout with, because exercising in pair means a lot more motivation and this way you will gain routine in your training program. Your friends, family, and neighbors can make you company sometimes, but your four legged friend will always be more than happy to workout with you whether you are running or biking. Dogs are, without a doubt, the most reliable training partners – they are never tired and they don’t have headaches when it’s time to go out.

Running and Biking DogBefore starting the training program it is recommended to visit a vet for consultation because not every dog breed is suitable for running the distance. Some breeds like retrievers, terriers or shepherds are definitely better for running than others. Pugs and bulldogs are not built as athletes because they overheat quickly. Also, if you live in a cold climate, the best choice for training partner would be some long coated Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky and Seppala Siberian Sled dog. All those breeds are naturally well-equipped for snow and their endurance is quite remarkable. If they can pull sled in freezing winters, they won’t have problems accompanying you on a bike.

As you have to know your potential, you should know the potential of your dog as well. Your training should go progressively, exercise your way up. Keep in mind that your dog doesn’t have sneakers for running but pads which will toughen over time and miles. Instead of retractable leashes, use leather leash (from 3 to 6 foot long) to provide the proper range between you and your dog.

Among dog breeds there are long distance runners and fast sprinters who can push the tempo real hard. If you are more of a marathon person, the breed who can run side by side with you is German Shepherd. Big heart, powerful legs and eagerness to run make this dog a perfect choice for you. Remember to bring right amount of water in a plastic bottle and a little dish, so both of you can stay hydrated. German Shepherds can be used for quick pace and for 10 miles runs. Doberman Pinscher has similar attributes.

Golden Retrievers belong to the group of humble dogs and if properly trained they won’t be distracted by surroundings, which makes them a great company while biking. Another people-oriented, non-aggressive dog is Border Collie, perfect for long and heavily used trails. Breeds that are literally built for speed are Greyhounds, athletic Pit bulls, Beagles, Vizslas, English Setters, Jack Russell Terrier (can be distracted easily by other dogs), German shorthaired pointers, American Staffordshire Terrier (always focused, won’t chase squirrels) and Airedale Terrier. A muscular body and energy make these dogs excellent companions for faster runs – 7 minute miles or more.

Mariah Carey carrying The Russell Terrier

Russell Terrier Owned by Mariah Carey’s : Celebrety Pet of the Week

Mariah Carey with her Russell TerrierMariah Carey’s Jack Russell, called “Jack” ( or Jackson P. Muttley, to give him his full title) can be seen with her wherever she goes. Except when she flies these days. She lost her cool after she was informed her Jack Russell was “too big” and not famous enough to join her in the executive cabin. Mariah was furious at the airlines who won’t let her beloved dog Jack fly first class with her. “They actually won’t let me put him on a first class seat because he’s too big. They would only allow it for a famous dog. Please! He has three websites dedicated to him!”, fumes Mariah. Jack Russells are actually small dogs, and are energetic and devoted companions. Many a heart has been captured by their spirit.

Mariah Carey has certainly been in and out of the spotlight and made plenty of comebacks, but the limelight has still managed to catch her dog, the Jack Russell appropriately named.. Jack. This pampered pooch has made appearances in more than a couple of her music videos and even in her movie, Glitter, which sadly for Jack didn’t do too well. New mom Mariah Carey is trying to lose her post-baby weight, and her Jack Russell Terrier, named Jill E. Beans, is helping out.

Mariah recently tweeted a photo of Jill E. Beans joining her in the pool for some water aerobics last week. She also has four other Jack Russell Terriers: Cha Cha, Squeak E. Beans, JJ, and Jackie Lambchops. (nice names, Mariah!)

Singing Sensation and Pop Diva Mariah Carey has announced that she will become a proud mother this week of a new breed of dog. The multimillion selling artist has broken with tradition and asked for the help of genetic engineers to create the unique pooch. The dog which is a genetically modified cross breed of a chihuahua and a common English garden vole measures four inches from head to tail and is 95% blind. It is currently finishing its final stages of development in a test tube in San Diego, California.

Cats vs Dogs - Which is The Ideal Pet

Cats vs Dogs – Which is The Ideal Pet?

Cats vs Dogs - Which is The Ideal PetCats or dogs? What makes an ideal pet? The truth is that it depends on a person. Recent studies show that people who have pets are much healthier than those who don’t. for that reason, if you can, you should definitely get a pet, just choose the one that best suits your needs.

Choosing a cat as a pet is a big decision. You should consider whether or not it will fit into your life style. Keep in mind that for the next 15 years or so it will be a part of your life and family, which means a lot of great time and fun, but also a lot of obligations.
Both cats and dogs have their pros and cons; it is up to you to decide which one works for you the best.
Some say cats are the best pets, so let’s see why. They are easily litter box trained; sometimes no training is required at all. You just pour the sand in a wide box and that’s it. They’ll remember its location almost immediately, and if they don’t – just show them a few times or dig in the sand a bit to get their attention. They are great if you live in an apartment because they are very clean. When it comes to moulting, brushing and washing it all depends. For instance, short-haired cats don’t require bathing (except for emergencies) because they are able to maintain their own fur. The problem may arise between your furniture and the cat, so if you don’t want the cat to win – get a scratching post!

As you can see, cats are small, quiet, cute and cuddly, but what makes dog ideal?
We all know the saying “Dog is a man’s best friend” and it is – you have a friend, someone to talk to and walk with. Regular walking improves the fitness of dog owners, as well as social interaction since you can make friends with other dog owners. Walks help you forget the stress of the everyday life giving you time to spend with your most loyal friend. He will also fill you with warmth of the unconditional love. Dog owners also have a stronger immune system which helps them fight the disease easily. People with dogs also have lower blood pressure compared to people who don’t, and have a much higher survival rate after a heart attack.

Apart from this, don’t forget that dogs are very entertaining, they can make you laugh, especially if you had a bad day, they are also there for an encouraging hug, if you need one. You’ll be equally happy to spend your free time playing with your pet in a park or simply resting at home, enjoying the company of one another. And the love you give him, the dog will return to you tenfold.

Both dogs and cats give a lot of love and warmth but they also require attention; have certain dietary and other needs so don’t just think about what you like and need, think about whether or not you can provide what they crave. And, have fun with your new pet!

 

Jessica Simpson Maltese Mross Poodle

Maltese Mross Poodle Owned by Jessica Simpson: Celebrety Pet of the Week

Jessica Simpson Maltese Mross PoodleJessica Simpson is the pop singer turned country that the media razzes about weight issues, break-ups and daddy-love. Yet, with all of her “so-called” flaws, the public is enamored with her. One big reason why is that she is as American as apple pie. She’s talented, silly, eats greasy food and owns a cute, lovable dog.

Named after the character Daisy in the “Dukes of Hazzard”, Jessica Simpson’s dog is a Maltese-Poodle mix. This breed of dog is the latest trendy accessory dog of Hollywood “It” girls and wanna-be followers. Maltese-Poodles are small, attractive and easy to carry. They can fit into a large, fashionable purse and be toted all over town. Of course, this is exactly what Jessica likes to do with Daisy.

Daisy is a huge part of Jessica Simpson’s life, as the pop star/actress is frequently seen & photographed carrying around her dog Daisy in a Louis Vuitton dog carrier. Jessica Simpson even claims her dog Daisy is a lesbian because of Daisy’s “relationship” with a female dog named Bella.

Jessica Simpson`s adorable dog, Daisy, was stolen by a coyote right in front of her. The pop singer`s Maltipoo – a cross between Maltese and Poodle was snatched in Simpson`s garden in Calabasas, California, dailymail reports. The 29-year-old singer has had the 5-year-old Maltipoo for many years and seldom leaves home without her. The dog was a present from her ex-husband, Nick Lachey.

Jessica Simpson may be having problems with her weight at the moment due to her admitted addiction to junk food, but her dog is certainly well fed, according to reports. Simpson, star of the much maligned Dukes of Hazard movie, asked a chef in a restaurant to cook her pampered pooch a gourmet meal.

Jessica was in the W Hotel in Arizona to discuss new projects, and while she was there she needed to feed her dog. Rather than opt for some canned dog food, or even some nice tasty chicken, Jessica had the hotel’s top chef cook up a meal for her dog, aptly named Daisy (Jessica’s character in Dukes of Hazard).

Cute cats – a household pet

Cute Cats – A Household Pet

Cute cats – a household petCats are very independent and resourceful animals, as well as gentle, cuddly and cute. But they are also strong and ruthless as hunters.

Here are a few things you should know about this amazing household pet.
Cats are the best pets for neat persons as they are that way themselves. They spend hours on grooming in order to get rid of all the dirt and odors. When it comes to bowel movements, they are also extremely clean as they burry their excrement even after being only three weeks old. You should always keep the kitty litter clean so the cat doesn’t find another place to do its business, especially if you have more than one cat.

A cat can be perfectly happy in an apartment but if you have a possibility, make sure your cat has at least occasional outings so she could enjoy her natural habitat. As cute as they can be, due to their wild side cats can sometimes give your furniture a new pattern, therefore in order to keep your furnishing, make sure your pet has some scratching and climbing space. Whether you’re buying or making a scratching post, have fun with it and use your imagination.
A cat is a carnivore and hunter and you must accept it as such. The selection of cat food is great so choose according to your cat’s size, health, food quality (share of meet, flavor enhancers) and of course your budget and most certainly not because of a cute cat on the commercial. If you feed your cat with the food you have prepared at home, remember that it’s a carnivore and don’t give milk to an adult cat.

Many cat owners ponder about neutering. If you live in a city, there are many reasons for it. Although they are very cute, we most certainly don’t want them breeding uncontrollably. We also want to prevent cat’s offspring from winding up in the wrong hands, stray, and get sick or hurt. This way you can also prevent many diseases caused by unnatural refraining from mating which many un-neutered cats develop. Another way to keep your furniture and apartment clean and odorless is to get your cat neutered. This way, they won’t mark their territory, stray and get into fights with other cats where they can get hurt or even killed.

Cats are, without a doubt, amazing pets. We like to watch them, spoil them and play with them. There is no greater pleasure for cat lovers than spending the night home enjoying the relaxing sound of a purring cat. The relaxing effect on the cat owners is not just an anecdote; there have also been studies that confirm it. They show that pet owners live a happier and healthier life than those who don’t have pets.

Cats are extremely fun, and most of them remain that way for the rest of their life, even though they like to act all serious and calm. Full of life, a bit wild, cats are intriguing and they will turn every house into a home.

Teacup Yorkshire Terrier Owned by Britney Spears: Celebrety Pet of the Week

Britney Spears Teacup Yorkshire TerrierBritney Spears went and adopted a new puppy and, wouldn’t you believe it, she is just the cutest little thing you’ve ever seen. Britney “adopted” the tiny black and brown puppy, which resembles a Yorkshire terrier, no other site is reporting that the dog was adopted and “Hannah” hasn’t mentioned this her own Twitter feed. Spears bought her tiny Yorkie from Barkworks in Thousand Oaks, Calif. The pet store has received a lot of negative criticism in the last few years for getting their dogs from puppy mills. The Animal Legal Defense Fund has a class action suit against the company. Barkworks has an “F” rating from the Better Business Bureau due to the number of sick animals found at their stores.

Britney Spears’s teacup Yorkie, Hannah, was rushed to the animal hospital last week for the third time in less than two months.Her latest visit to the hospital confirmed that she had an inconsistent temperature along with fluid on her lungs. Media reports say the dog is fighting for life. After an additional visit to the veterinarian the dog seemed to be doing alright but then on January 3, the dog was taken back to the vet for a battery of tests, including liver function, and had to be closely monitored after she was found to have ‘an erratic temperature and fluid in the lungs’. Since getting Hannah, Spears has taken her to the vet three times, but not for regular checkups. Apparently, Spears became concerned when Hannah was listless, had a loss of appetite and had trouble breathing.