Showing posts with label animals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label animals. Show all posts

Dec 15, 2023

How to behave when dealing with an aggressive dog?

December 15, 2023 0 Comments

 When faced with an aggressive dog, it is not always easy to know how to react. When you come across an unfamiliar dog, vigilance is required and it is important to identify the signs of aggression in order to defuse the conflict or to move away from the dog without incidence. When it comes to your own pet, it is essential to anticipate risks and prevent certain situations that may cause aggression, but also to implement new, healthier habits that will help the dog regain trust and a more balanced relationship with its owner. Let's take stock of this.

How to behave when dealing with an aggressive dog


Aggression in dogs: how to understand this phenomenon?

Whether it's your pooch or a dog you come across on a walk, an animal's aggression is not always easy to understand. Nevertheless, behaviorists have been able to identify several forms of canine aggression that may explain its origin.


  • Competitiveness: the dog can be aggressive in the context of access to resources. It can be access to their food, but also to their bed or space, to their toys or to their owner's favours.
  • Pain: An injured or ailing dog can be aggressive. It is usually a defense meant to repel those who try to approach it.
  • Irritation: The dog can be aggressive when provoked or pushed to the limit, intentionally or not. It can be an insistent owner who insists on petting it when the animal does not want it, or for example children who try to play with the dog to the point of annoying it.
  • Fear: A dog that is scared can be aggressive. This form of aggression is often difficult to control, as it is usually sudden and unpredictable (following a sudden noise, fireworks, thunderstorm, etc.). An abandoned dog, left to its own devices, can be aggressive towards those who cross its path, because it feels alone and vulnerable, a fear it cannot control.
  • Predation: hunting dogs are the most affected, but they are not the only ones. These pooches can be aggressive when chasing animal prey or a toy or moving object.
  • Maternal protection: the dog who has just given birth to her puppies is usually very protective of them, sometimes to the point of being aggressive towards those who approach them.
  • Territoriality: Protective dogs, which have a strong guarding and defending instinct, can be aggressive towards any intruder who enters their territory.

Preventing your dog's aggression: how to go about it?

For an owner, it can be confusing to have to deal with aggression from their own pet. In any case, it is possible to adopt certain habits that can help prevent aggressive behavior of the dog.

Understand the animal and learn how to communicate with it

Dogs don't seek conflict. On the contrary, they prefer to avoid them. As a result, as soon as a certain tension sets in, they tend to send clear signals in order to calm the situation. Indeed, the animal may start to bark, growl, curl its lips as if it wanted to smile, lick its nose quickly and repeatedly, or on the contrary yawn, try to flee, retreat, etc.

It is important, before adopting a dog, to understand these signals specific to dogs in order to better interpret them when the time comes. As a pet owner, if your pet starts to back away when you insist on petting him, it's up to you to deduce that your pooch needs peace and quiet and to respect him, otherwise he may be aggressive so that you finally get the message.

It should be noted, however, that while canine language is universal, not all dogs learn to speak it innately. It is therefore important to ensure that the animal is socialized into contact with adult dogs from an early age, especially if it has been weaned early or separated relatively early from its mother and siblings. Throughout your pet's life, it is recommended to allow him to be in regular contact with other dogs who behave well through activities in particular (agility, etc.). In this way, the animal takes a cue from its peers and integrates good behaviour much more easily.

Multiplying Positive Experiences

For the puppy, it is important to allow him to have several positive experiences from an early age with several different species. It is during its first 3 to 12 weeks of life that the little pooch forges the foundations of its character. If he experiences several positive situations, he will be able to better accept changes and new events throughout his life.

Explaining the situation to children

It is imperative that you teach your children, from an early age, to respect the dog. It's natural for toddlers to be attracted to these 'big cuddly toys', but children can be a major source of stress for the animal, to the point of pushing them to be aggressive towards them in spite of themselves.

Even the sweetest of dogs can suddenly become aggressive if a small child starts screaming or crying to the point of startling him, pulling his tail, hair or ears to play, if he disturbs him while sleeping or eating. In short, never leave your children alone with your dog, because an accident can always happen and teach them as early as possible to respect the animal.

Also, teach your children not to approach a stray dog or an animal they don't know. Young children, especially when they already have a pooch at home, are not suspicious, but any animal, even on a leash, can show a sudden and aggressive reaction to those it meets.

How to behave when your dog is aggressive?

If it is your own animal that is being aggressive, you will need to adopt the right behavior in order to prevent the situation from happening again.

Calm the conflict

If you see signs of aggression in your dog, try to communicate your desire to avoid conflict. To do this, talk to him in a soft voice, yawn, turn your head, squint your eyes, etc.

Anticipate difficult situations

You know your pet, so it's up to you to avoid situations that tend to promote aggressive behavior in your dog. Avoid experiencing or being confronted with events or people that may trigger this type of reaction.

Rebalance Your Relationship

It's healthier to rebalance your relationship with your pet. It could be that you've allowed bad habits to develop or haven't been vigilant enough in training your pooch, but you can always make things better.

Here are some tips to rebalance the situation.

  • Always meet your dog's basic needs. You must offer him a quality diet in sufficient quantity every day, dedicate daily time to play, stimulate him physically and intellectually, take him out every day for at least 30 minutes during a real walk (and not just a walk in the garden).
  • Teach him new commands or tricks regularly by applying positive education, based on kindness, consistency, firmness and encouragement. In this way, you will be able to strengthen your relationship and your complicity, but also its obedience.
  • Be the initiator of contacts. It's up to you to decide when to caress, when to go out, when to play, but also when to end them in order to strengthen your role as a dominant. If your dog asks you, ignore him (turn your back to him, don't look at him, don't talk to him, and don't touch him). Wait until they give up and move on to something else to initiate contact and meet their need.
  • Your dog must learn to go in his place, in his bed, at your request. Also, don't let them occupy yours without inviting them (the couch, the bed, etc.).
  • Your dog must wait for your permission before eating and not have a self-service bowl. His ration should be fed in one to two meals a day.
This setting is essential for the animal. Structuring, it reassures him and allows him to feel protected by his master.

How to behave when dealing with an unfamiliar aggressive dog?

If you cross paths with an aggressive dog, its behavior may be different depending on your situation:

  • if you are alone, in pairs or in a group, because an aggressive dog will attack a lonely and tense person more easily;
  • if you have a young child with you, as the child may try to approach the animal or flee, thus stirring up the dog's hunting instinct;
  • If you have another dog with you, as the aggressive animal will tend to impose itself as dominant.
Be careful, however, it should be remembered that a stray or lonely dog is not necessarily an aggressive animal. Some pooches are simply lost or curious, which is why it's important to be vigilant, but don't panic.

But then, how do you behave when faced with an aggressive dog? Here are our tips.

Don't provoke it

If the animal is alone, don't try to provoke it by playing dominant. Always keep your distance. If he is in the company of his owner, do not try to touch him, as he may have an aggressive reaction.

Alternatively, if you venture onto private land or road, the animal can be trained to stand guard.

Observe their attitude to recognize the signs of aggression.

A dominant dog usually stands up straight with his ears pricked up and stares at you. In this way, he shows that he is sure of himself. If he is aggressive, he will try to intimidate you by growling, baring his teeth, barking, etc.

A frightened or stressed animal will tend to prostrate with its ears lowered. They may be aggressive in self-defense, including intimidating you by growling and then trying to bite to scare you. Nevertheless, a more violent reaction is also possible.

Adopt the right behavior.

Here are our tips on how to avoid conflict.

Don't provoke the dog! Don't be aggressive, don't play dominant, don't show him you're scared, don't show your teeth (because for him, you're showing his fangs as a sign of provocation), don't stare at him or look him in the eye.

  • Avoid sudden movements, keep your arms at your sides.
  • Don't turn your back on the dog.
  • Don't yell, don't try to speak to him in a soft voice.
  • Avoid showing your fear and stay calm.
  • Move away from the dog and quietly retreat.

Protect yourself when you need it

If the dog attacks you, try to protect yourself with any object you have on you or that you find around you. The dog is sensitive in the eyes, muzzle or neck, but the object must first and foremost be there to block and prevent the dog from biting you.

If you fall to the ground, roll up into a ball, protecting your face, neck and neck.

How do you approach a dog you don't know?

December 15, 2023 0 Comments

 While walking, you cross paths with a dog you don't know. Whether he is alone or accompanied by his owner, it is important to remain cautious and avoid any bad gestures. While many dogs are very sociable and happy to meet new people, others are more suspicious or fearful and may be aggressive. Here are some tips on how to safely approach an unfamiliar pooch.


How do you approach a dog you don't know?


Approaching an unfamiliar dog: you start by observing its behavior

If you cross paths with an unfamiliar dog, whether alone or accompanied by its owner, you must be vigilant in your approach. To adapt your driving, start by observing the animal.


Recognizing a Sociable Dog

A sociable dog is more confident when it meets people you don't know. It usually tends to move naturally towards them, wagging its tail, without apprehension.

Some pooches may even seek contact and stick to their legs to get pets.


Recognizing a Suspicious Dog

Conversely, a more suspicious dog will be less likely to naturally approach unfamiliar people. If he comes towards them, it will be with his body tense, his tail wagging with rapid beats. In some cases, the dog may try to make itself bigger and more impressive by bristling its coat or pointing its ears forward. They may also lower their head or ears and move away when approaching the stranger, or even try to avoid contact, especially if they are afraid.

Be careful, however, as some pooches may growl or even bark if you try to get closer. It's not necessarily a sign of aggression, but it can be a dog that lacks confidence and is suspicious at first, as some humans may be of other people they meet for the first time.

Don't underestimate these dogs who can react to their fear by fleeing, but also by aggressiveness, which is above all an act of defense. To avoid injury, it's best to be vigilant.


How do you approach an unknown dog? The rules of good behaviour.

If you approach a dog you don't know, it's important to adopt a neutral behavior that the animal won't perceive as a potential threat.

How to behave when dealing with an unfamiliar dog?

To prevent the animal from misinterpreting your gestures, here are three points to respect.

The Gaze

Don't look the dog in the eye, don't try to stare at him, as he may interpret this as a provocation. It's better to be indifferent so that the animal doesn't risk perceiving you as a potential threat.

Contact

Let the dog come to you to allow him to sniff you for a few seconds. You can talk to him gently, but let him feel you without trying to touch him.


The gesture

Be as relaxed as possible, as the animal will perceive your stress and may be aggressive in response. Don't rush things and observe the animal. If he seems to be looking for contact, you can reach out to him gently to stroke him, vertically and with your fingers folded, avoiding his head and back. Prefer a caress under the chin, which is a non-dominant gesture and an area that limits the risk of bites. Avoid cuddling, as hugging an unfamiliar animal can trigger a stress response in the pooch.

If he doesn't look for it, let him evolve around you or continue on his way without insisting.

If the animal seems calm and wants to 'get to know' you, you can crouch down to reassure it. Be careful, however, not to be too abrupt or lean too close to him, he may feel that you are trying to dominate him. Give him space, crouch down at a certain distance so that he can then come to you.

Be careful, as the animal may appear serene but this does not mean that it will not be aggressive. A simple gesture that is too brutal on your part can destabilize him.


Ask your owner for advice.

If the dog you come across is accompanied by its owner, the best thing to do is to ask the owner if you can touch his little companion. Indeed, he will be able to tell you if it is better to avoid contact, especially if the dog is aggressive, or he will be able to give you any instructions to approach him safely.


What should I avoid when approaching an unfamiliar dog?

We have seen the right gestures to favor when approaching a dog that we do not know, but it also seems essential to us to take stock of what not to do, on the contrary. Indeed, we must not forget that our doggies do not perceive things as we humans do. To avoid misinterpretation, here's what to avoid.


You don't pet a dog that's tense, nervous or stressed.

The dog you pass may approach to sniff you, but that doesn't necessarily mean they want to be petted. If he seems nervous or tense, avoid touching him.


You don't pet a dog on 'the top'.

Some dogs don't like to have their head or back touched. Petting them in this way by approaching the hand from above can put them in a position of inferiority, and therefore vulnerability.

It is better to wait until the dog seems to be in favor of contact before touching it, favoring the chin or flanks.

You don't stare a dog straight in the eye.

Staring into the animal's eyes can induce a feeling of unease. The animal may perceive it as an attempt at dominance or intimidation and react aggressively.


We don't run to the dog.

This type of behavior is stressful for the animal. Approaching too quickly is very nerve-wracking. We ourselves would feel uncomfortable if someone we don't know suddenly ran up to us to talk to us or touch us.

Similarly, do not insist if the dog does not want contact. You have to respect your need for peace and quiet.

You don't cuddle the dog.

Leaning over and hugging the dog is a sign of dominance that he can find very difficult to bear. This makes them feel particularly vulnerable, and this position of inferiority can trigger an aggressive reaction.

Fingers and faces are not extended to the dog

Avoid placing your face too close to the dog and do not reach out with your fingers unfolded. It is better to fold your fingers and present the palm or fist, always gently and carefully.


The approach of an unknown dog: beware of children!

It is essential to be very careful if you come across an unfamiliar dog when you are with your children. The little ones are often tempted to run towards these large balls of fur to touch them, but this is a gesture that can be dangerous if the animal is tense, stressed, or not open to contact.


As a parent, teach your children early on not to approach an unfamiliar dog without first asking permission from its owner. It is not a question of frightening your offspring, but of teaching respect for each other and in particular the need for tranquility of an animal. Teach your children how to behave with a dog or any other animal. The doggies you come across are not cuddly toys, take the lead to prevent your small child from becoming aware of it by being bitten or attacked.


What to do if the dog is aggressive?

It is important to know how to behave when faced with an aggressive unfamiliar dog so that you adopt the right attitude so as not to arouse the pet's nervousness.


What not to do when dealing with an aggressive dog

Do not try to threaten him, yell at him, or make loud gestures to scare him away and make him flee, as he will perceive it as a provocation and an attempt at domination. On the contrary, his first move is likely to be an attack to defend himself. Also, don't stare him in the eye.


More often than not, small dogs are the most nervous and aggressive. This behavior is explained by their smallness. To defend themselves, they have to establish themselves as more dangerous than they are, which causes them to growl, bark, or hop to frighten or even bite. And don't underestimate their bite, it can be painful, especially in a young child!


Avoid any power struggle. If you feel like you're being ridiculous in front of a little pooch barking at you vehemently, it's even more foolish to get into conflict out of sheer pride. Move on, because the outcome of the conflict might not even be to your advantage.


Of course, avoid sudden gestures and shouting. You would only put more stress on the animal, making it feel all the more threatened. Keep your hands in your pockets to protect them and don't run away, as this will trigger the dog's hunting instinct and it may then start chasing you.


What to do when dealing with an aggressive dog

Stay calm as much as possible and as neutral as possible. Try to mask your fear so that he doesn't perceive it, as this will increase his feelings of stress and aggressive response. Show respect to the animal to let them know that they have no reason to be afraid of you.


If the animal is guarding territory that you have unknowingly entered, it is best not to continue on your way. Get out without turning your back on it and without rushing. You can also talk to him calmly and gently to soothe him.


You can try to calm the dog down by giving commands firmly but without aggression. 'Lying down! ' or 'Don't move! ' can help you keep it at bay if the pet is being trained.


What to do in the event of an attack?

If the dog attacks you, protect your hands and face. Be careful, by the way! In the event of a bite, do not try to pull the bitten limb out of the bite, as the dog will only tighten its fangs. Instead, try to act slowly and talk calmly to soothe him, this will limit the damage.

Dec 13, 2022

Pet insurance the 4 points to check

December 13, 2022 0 Comments

 Just like humans, animals also need health coverage in case of illness. Many people choose to purchase insurance for their pets to ensure their pet's well-being. Before taking out such insurance, however, certain arrangements must be made. Discover here 4 elements to consider when choosing health coverage for your faithful four-legged friend.



The different formulas of mutuals for animals

To ensure your pet, it is important to browse the different offers of mutuals in order to compare them. The first formula to check is the basic one. This is the simplest offer that any mutual must present. It covers the costs to be paid to the veterinarian following an accident. This formula must allow your four-legged friend to enjoy free care within a given limit. The amount to pay to benefit from this insurance is usually low and costs on average 10 to 15 euros. The repayment ceiling in such a formula is also very low.

In addition, health insurance for animals comes in a mixed formula that allows you to reimburse various veterinary expenses. Diseases and accidents are the two elements that disrupt the life of the animal. The mixed formula covers both risks. In addition, it covers the costs of periodic vaccination of the animal. To do this, the mutual requires a flat rate of 50 euros at most to prevent any infectious or viral disease in your four-legged companion. However, the amount may vary depending on the coverage offered.

You can also inquire about the latest formula which is the high-end option. This takes care of all the guarantees of the previous formulas. In addition, there are other additional benefits. In the event of the death of the insured animal, for example, the mutual insurance company can pay capital to its owner. The same applies to the insurance of the custody of the dog or cat if its owner is sick or hospitalized. The factor to check here is the degree of comfort given to the animal. Due to the multiple advantages of this formula, it is often expensive.

The cost of your pet insurance

As is the case with health insurance, the price of the mutual for a dog or cat varies according to several criteria. The first element to consider is the breed of the animal. Insurance for an ordinary dog, for example, will be cheaper than that for a bulldog. Prices also vary if it is a cat, dog or other pet. The insurance then takes into account the age factor.

Young animals are generally not exposed to pathologies such as osteoarthritis. When it comes to health insurance, an older pet will cost you more than a young one. However, puppies and kittens are restless and more easily exposed to the risk of accidents. It is therefore possible to pay a high flat rate compared to adult animals. The general state of health of the animal is also to be checked to define the cost of its insurance.

We advise you to take stock of these elements in order to better appreciate the cost of insurance to choose for your four-legged friend. Although it is difficult for you to define precisely which package to pay, you will be able to have a rough idea. The monthly fee for the insurance of a cat is between 7 and 20 euros. As for the dog, it is possible to pay from 10 to 25 euros each month.


The professionalism of the mutual concerning the breed of animals

To verify the performance of a mutual, you must take into account the profile of the staff. Pet insurance must have animal health experts. Novices in this field will not be able to develop offers that integrate all aspects related to animal protection. The mutual must therefore have at its side veterinarians and experienced auxiliaries. They will also be able to give advice on keeping animals and the breed of the one you own.

An effective mutual must prioritize the health of your pet. For this reason, it is important to make sure that it offers a fairly short waiting period, if possible less than 7 days. In this way, when the animal is insured, it can already benefit from its insurance from the 8th day at the latest. However, this rule should not be applied to young animals. If your four-legged friend is not yet 3 months old, the insurance must take effect on the date of signing the contract. Otherwise, the insurance will take effect from the day the animal is 3 months old.

Effective insurance must be able to cover all risks related to your pet's health. Your mutual insurance company must offer in its basic offer the care following an accident or illness. In addition, this risk coverage must not be limited to a period. Even as the animal ages, it must enjoy the same guarantees in order to maintain good health.

The content of the coverage of the animal insurance contract

The pet insurance contract covers different risks for your pet. You must therefore study it carefully to make sure that it meets the needs of your four-legged friend. First, check all the diseases that are covered by the mutual. In this section, the insurance contract may cover all or part of the costs incurred with the veterinarian. Consultation and care are the responsibility of the mutual. The same applies in the event of an accident. Pet insurance also covers tests, ultrasound, surgery, and, if possible, hospitalization costs.

In addition, the animal insurance contract covers the costs related to the purchase of medicines for the care of the animal. Damage caused to others must also be covered by the health insurance contract. This option is found in contracts signed for dangerous animals. When the insured dog bites a third person, for example, the responsibility of its owner is engaged. If you have insured your pet with a mutual insurance company, it covers medical expenses. All this, however, depends on the conditions under which the incident occurred.


Take care of your dog's health in winter

December 13, 2022 0 Comments

 The cold weakens the immune system of dogs and makes them more vulnerable to different infectious diseases. They are also at risk of cold snaps during the winter, which can lead to serious health consequences.



It is recommended to pay special attention to these pets during this period and to take the necessary measures to preserve their health. Discover our tips for taking care of your dog in winter.


Get health insurance for your healthcare

Whether in winter or not, the first step to take care of your dog's health is to take out health insurance. Some veterinary care can be particularly expensive. To give you the means to deal with it without affecting your finances, a health insurance contract for pets is the best choice.


Why take out health insurance for your dog's care?

Many dog breeds resist the cold well, thanks to the thickness of their fur. This is not the case for those who have a fine morphology or for small canids. Nevertheless, regardless of the breed of your dog, its immune resistance decreases when temperatures are too low. The slightest exposure to a cold or a microbial germ is likely to cause more or less serious health problems. This requires you to make a consultation with the veterinarian for an average cost that varies between 30 and 40 euros depending on the breed of the dog and the region.

The cost of the acts performed during this consultation will be added to your bill, which can increase your expenses very quickly. Thanks to health insurance for your pet, you can always face these situations with great peace of mind. Your dog's veterinary care will be covered in part or in full by the insurance company. Any expenses you incurred will be reimbursed immediately. This solution helps you amortize your pet's health expenses and have peace of mind.

How do take out health insurance adapted to your dog in winter?

To find the most advantageous offer, the trick is to make a dog insurance quote on different platforms of mutual health for animals and compare them. There are indeed many companies that offer various insurance contracts for pets. Rates, guarantees as well as the terms of support and reimbursement are often variable.

You must then study the offers according to these different criteria in order to choose the one that will best meet the needs of your canid. To take care of your dog's health in winter, choose companies that include a package for preventive veterinary care. Scalable formulas and contracts that cover almost all veterinary costs are also preferred.

Buy dog clothes suitable for winter

In winter, get into the habit of dressing your dog to protect him from the cold. This gesture helps prevent many health problems and promotes the development of your canine companion. Investing in winter-friendly clothing will save you from spending time at the vet and stressing out when your pet is unwell. To protect your companion while having a wide range of choices in terms of style, offer him:


  • Sweaters
  • Jackets
  • winter coats,
  • Beanies
  • Slippers...

These clothes will be useful for traditional walks as well as for short outings outside for the needs of the dog. Young canine companions as well as older ones are even more vulnerable during the winter season. You should not neglect any aspect of their protection. During the coldest periods, your dogs can even stay dressed indoors. These clothes will also help you keep your rooms clean because they retain the hairs that usually scatter.

With dog boots, you protect your companion's paws against frostbite, cuts, and the effects of salt, and snow... Thanks to protective clothing suitable for winter, you also avoid changing your dog's habits by keeping him excessively indoors. This could affect their development and behavior. If it's windy, don't forget to add dog glasses to your clothing collection for the winter season.


Provide protective care after the dog's outings

In winter, you should be particularly attentive to your dog's movements and behaviors during walks. Once at home, it is recommended to practice some protective care to preserve the health of the animal. During your walks, you must prevent your canine companion from licking his paws or slippers if there is snow removal salt on them. This product is toxic and could cause burns, and digestive and neurological disorders.

As soon as you get home, you should rinse your dog's paws with water or clean them with suitable wipes. Then use a towel to dry them and take the opportunity to auscultate his pads. If there are cracks or wounds, apply a repair balm immediately. When returning from walks, dry your canine with a towel or hair dryer if he has a wet coat. Rub its paws, well to prevent the formation of snowballs between its pads. If you notice the presence of ice, give your dog a paw bath with warm water before drying him.

Give your dog a diet adapted to his age and needs

In winter, your dog needs the energy to fight the cold. His food needs will then increase slightly according to his age. You must take care of it to provide it with a suitable diet to strengthen its resistance. The lower the temperatures, the more your companion will need a supplement to supplement his ration. On the other hand, it is necessary to considerably limit the proportions if the dog spends a lot of time indoors.

For an active dog, it is recommended to increase the ratio by 10 to 20% depending on the weather. If the cold is intense, small and older dogs will need to burn more calories to maintain a high body temperature. Cereals are rich in carbohydrates and are easily digested by animals. They thus bring a good energy reserve to your companion without him spending a lot of energy to assimilate them. Cooked rice, green beans, and zucchini are examples of foods recommended for dogs during the winter season.

Limit dog baths in winter

The dogs' bodies produce protective sebum that is deposited on the surface of their epidermis to protect them against cold and bacterial infections. After bathing, water and shampoos destroy this natural barrier. In addition to this, too-low temperatures prevent the animal from warming itself. This is why it is necessary to considerably reduce the frequency at which you give baths to your companion. Instead, the animal should be dressed to protect it from dirt. Also, adopt dry shampoos to clean it.

To maintain its coat and remove dirt, brush your pet regularly. If it is possibly too dirty, only wash the affected area with a moistened washcloth and warm water. This will help him maintain his body temperature to withstand the cold. In addition, stay very attentive to the state of health of your dog. Despite all the precautions you have taken to prevent him from getting sick, he may have a health concern. This may or may not be due to winter. The most important thing is that you quickly notice his symptoms to take him to the vet.



Jul 7, 2021

10 benefits that our pets bring us

July 07, 2021 0 Comments

 Our animals bring us a lot of pleasure and joy on a daily basis, but it turns out that they are also excellent allies in our health ...



They strengthen our immune system.

Pet owners are said to have fewer health problems than those who don't. This is what several American studies have been claiming over the past decade. There is less high blood pressure, less cholesterol, and fewer cardiovascular disorders. In addition, pets also have recognized anti-stress virtues, and stress lowers the immune system.

10 benefits that our pets bring us




They protect our children from diseases.

Living with a dog that spends at least part of its day outdoors could boost a child's immune system in the first year of life. Cats also seem to provide this protection, although the observed effect was weaker. Children living with pets would therefore use antibiotics less often than other children.
Likewise, infants living with companion dogs would be less prone to respiratory infections and their risk of allergies would be reduced by 33%.

They promote the psychological development of our children.


Animals not only affect the health of our children, but they also play a major role in their psychomotor and emotional development.

An animal develops the sense of responsibility of toddlers. Taking care of an animal, feeding it, walking it, petting it, and giving it affection helps children to increase their self-confidence. The animal represents at the same time its confidant, its playmate, its accomplice ... Thus, 36% of the children questioned believe that they have a sense of responsibility thanks to their animal.
The pet is also an element of calm and safety for the little ones. It has a stabilizing effect on their psychological development.


They watch over our hearts.


Petting a cat, dog, or any other furry animal, in general, gives us a feeling of well-being and immediately calms us: breathing slows down, blood pressure drops and heart rate drops, which greatly reduces the risk of developing a disease. Heart disease.

Note, however, that conversely, a poorly educated animal with behavioral disorders will have the opposite effect and will increase the risk of having a heart attack.


They create social ties.


Having a dog would increase the chances of forming new bonds with your neighbors to 86%, as many potential romantic encounters if you are single ... And when you know that people in a relationship are less prone to illnesses than single people, the pet is a real asset for health.

In children too, they play a great social role: children with pets would more easily bond with other children or adults. The animal is a development factor for the child and helps him to socialize, hence their positive influence on autistic children.


They help us keep our line.


Dog owners walk an average of 30 minutes more per week than people who don't. Walking your dog 20 minutes a day, 5 days a week would lose 6 pounds in a year.

It seems, although not yet proven, that even cat owners would exercise more than others. The main reason? The cat, by its behavior, would communicate its energy to us and give us more enthusiasm to exercise!
The animals would also have, thanks to the beneficial effects they have on morale, a regulatory effect on bulimic behaviour.


They help our teens.


Teenage years are never an easy time. Many parents are helpless in front of their teenager (s) who sometimes have incomprehensible or withdrawn behavior. The pet is recognized as a structuring element of the personality of young people. If the teenager does not wish to confide in an adult, he will always find a comforting 'ear' in his pet.
Additionally, one study found that teens with pets exercised more than others.


They soothe us.


Interactions with our animal friends reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

57% of cat owners believe that cat purring may be more effective than medication, hence the opening in recent years in France of several cat bars. This calming effect can be explained scientifically: the over-the-air frequency of purring is said to have a calming effect, much like music, which gave rise to music therapy. It is therefore natural that purring therapy was born, thanks to a veterinarian, Jean-Yves Gaucher.
Likewise, looking at an aquarium has an immediate calming effect, hence their presence in public places and especially in hospitals.

They fight depression.


The animal is undeniable psychological support. It prevents isolation and withdrawal: an animal that sees its master depressed will come and pick it up with a toy and still ask for its daily release.
The fact of being responsible for a living being is extremely rewarding for the individual suffering from depression who can think 'if I am not there, who will take care of my animal' and who thus finds meaning in his life.
In addition, it was noted that the level of anxiety and depression was lower in people over 65 years of age with pets.


They extend our life expectancy and help us heal.



Animals help the sick to heal and the elderly to feel better.
Their presence is thus more and more sought after in retirement homes or specialized centers (Alzheimer's, autism, etc.) and gives rise to the emergence of a new discipline: pet therapy.
Pet therapy consists of using the proximity of a domestic or pet animal, with humans suffering from mental, physical, or social disorders to reduce stress or the consequences of medical treatment. It has existed for many years in Canada.

Jun 27, 2021

10 avantages pour la santé d'avoir un chien, plus exactement pourquoi ils sont si bons pour votre santé mentale?

June 27, 2021 0 Comments

 La plupart d'entre nous aiment les chiens. En fait, 63 % des ménages possèdent un chien, selon l'enquête nationale 2019-2020 sur les propriétaires d'animaux de compagnie menée par l'American Pet Products Association (APPA). Cela a régulièrement augmenté au fil des ans et a été aidé par une augmentation de 30% des adoptions d’animaux de compagnie pendant la pandémie de COVID-19, selon le rapport d’octobre 2020 de l’Insurance Research Council.


Il y a tellement d'avantages à avoir un chien. Les chiens nous donnent un amour inconditionnel et des câlins, et ils aident également notre santé de diverses manières, notamment en nous motivant à faire de l'exercice, en les promenant. Mais saviez-vous que les animaux de compagnie contribuent à améliorer non seulement votre santé physique, mais aussi votre santé mentale ?

Vous avez peut-être entendu parler des animaux de soutien émotionnel, souvent vus apporter réconfort et soutien émotionnel aux propriétaires dans les avions et dans d'autres lieux publics. Ou encore des chiens d'assistance psychiatrique, spécialement dressés pour aider les personnes ayant des problèmes de santé mentale.


La bonne nouvelle est que votre chien de famille peut également offrir de nombreux avantages pour la santé mentale.


Lisez la suite pour découvrir comment les chiens aident à réduire l'anxiété, le stress, la solitude et plus encore.





1.Diminue l'anxiété


«Les chiens procurent un amour inconditionnel et sont un refuge lorsque les gens sont en détresse», déclare Leslie Sinn, DVM, DACVB, de Behaviour Solutions, qui aide les propriétaires d'animaux avec des problèmes de comportement animal. Diverses recherches montrent que les chiens aident les gens à se détendre et à devenir moins anxieux.




2.Avantages pour les enfants atteints de TDAH

Les chiens peuvent avoir une influence calmante. Dans une étude de 2015, les enfants qui ont reçu une thérapie cognitivo-comportementale (TCC) avec intervention assistée par des chiens ont connu une diminution plus importante de la gravité des symptômes du TDAH. Les compétences sociales se sont améliorées et les comportements difficiles ont été réduits.



3. Réduit le stress des étudiants


La vie en dortoir n'est pas qu'une grande fête. Les étudiants universitaires ont toujours vécu un niveau de stress élevé, en raison des exigences liées aux études, au travail et même au manque de sommeil. Inspirés par les programmes «Pet the Stress Away» sur les campus universitaires, des chercheurs de la Washington State University ont étudié 249 étudiants, dont certains ont interagi avec des chats et des chiens. Les résultats ont été extrêmement paw-sitive. Le groupe qui a interagi avec les animaux présentait une diminution significative du cortisol, une hormone du stress. Encore plus intéressant ? Les niveaux de stress ont diminué après seulement 10 minutes.




4. Réduit le stress des enfants



Plusieurs études montrent que les chiens réduisent le niveau de stress chez les enfants. Une étude a montré qu'après avoir été exposé à quelque chose de stressant, des interactions brèves et non structurées avec des chiens diminuaient l'anxiété des enfants. Une autre étude a montré que lorsqu'un chien était présent lors d'un examen physique, les enfants présentaient des diminutions plus importantes de la pression artérielle, de la fréquence cardiaque et de la détresse comportementale. En d'autres termes, ils étaient moins stressés.



5. Réduit le stress pour tout le monde.


Avoir un animal de compagnie nous permet de répondre à l'un de nos besoins les plus fondamentaux : le besoin humain de toucher. Mais ce n'est que le début des avantages de posséder un chien. En plus des recherches montrant que le simple fait de caresser un chien réduit le stress, une étude a montré que câliner, jouer et caresser Rover augmente le niveau de l'ocytocine, l'hormone du bien-être, qui est la même hormone qui aide à lier les mères aux bébés.




6. Diminue l'anxiété des enfants.


« Les animaux ne jugent pas. Je pense que c'est l'une des choses qu'ils font le mieux », déclare Debra Horwitz, DVM, DACVB, de Veterinary Behaviour Consultations. «Par exemple, lorsqu'un enfant apprend à lire et lit à un chien ou à un chat, il peut être plus à l'aise, car personne ne le corrige sur la prononciation», dit-elle. Une étude a mesuré l'effet des enfants lors de la lecture aux chiens. Il a révélé que les niveaux d'anxiété des enfants étaient plus faibles lorsqu'ils lisaient aux chiens que lorsqu'ils ne lisaient pas aux chiens, mesurés par une diminution de la pression artérielle. Les chiens peuvent également aider à réduire l'anxiété des enfants dans d'autres situations. Dans une étude des Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, les niveaux d'anxiété de 643 enfants lors de leur visite annuelle chez le pédiatre ont été analysés. Les résultats ont montré que les niveaux d'anxiété pour les enfants avec des chiens à la maison étaient de 12%, contre 21% pour ceux sans chien.



7. Aide les personnes âgées à se sentir mieux.

En vieillissant, nos amis et notre famille peuvent déménager ou même mourir, les limitations physiques peuvent empêcher les activités et il peut devenir plus difficile de socialiser. C'est pourquoi avoir un animal de compagnie est si important pour les personnes âgées. En fait, une étude a révélé une variété d'avantages pour les personnes âgées vivant dans la communauté qui possédaient des animaux de compagnie : ils fournissaient de la compagnie, donnaient un but et un sens, réduisaient la solitude et augmentaient la socialisation.



8. Réduit la solitude.


En plus d'être votre copain à la maison et en déplacement, votre chien peut même vous aider à vous faire de nouveaux amis. «Les chiens sont des aimants sociaux», explique Sinn. 'Ils peuvent aider n'importe qui à rencontrer des gens, mais ils sont particulièrement utiles avec les personnes qui ont des problèmes à s'engager avec les autres.' Exemple : une étude a montré que les chiens aident les personnes handicapées mentales à avoir des rencontres sociales, car plus de gens leur parlent lorsqu'ils ont des chiens.





9. Améliore l'humeur.

Il est difficile d'être triste quand on traîne avec Rover. Plusieurs études confirment que nous nous sentons mieux lorsque nous sommes avec nos chiens. Un exemple, de l'Université du Missouri-Columbia, montre que les participants qui ont caressé leurs chiens pendant quelques minutes ont ressenti une libération d'hormones stimulant l'humeur, notamment l'ocytocine, la sérotonine et la prolactine.




10. Augmente le bonheur.


N'est-ce pas agréable de rentrer à la maison avec une histoire agitée et un animal de compagnie joyeux? La science confirme que nous ressentons un sentiment de bien-être d'avoir des animaux de compagnie. En fait, une étude a révélé que les propriétaires d'animaux étaient plus satisfaits de leur vie que ceux qui n'en possédaient pas.

Jun 19, 2021

How to keep your cows healthy?

June 19, 2021 0 Comments



Livestock Development Benefits

Livestock and farm animals except for poultry in Western countries contain goats, cows, pigs, donkeys, camels, horses, and sheep, and in other agricultural areas, there are other animals such as bulls, camels, buffaloes, llamas.





Cattle have risen to more than 1/9 of vertebrate biomass in the 21st century and throughout the world cattle of the genus, Boss is the largest livestock group and the most important products that are produced from the beef of the Angus, Hereford, and Shorthorn breeds.


The main dairy products are produced from the Holstein, Ayrshire, Guernsey, Jersey, Brown, Swiss, and Friesian cattle breeds, and the livestock obtain their food first from pastures through grazing.


But recently in agriculture, the cattle diet is supplemented by animal feed that is prepared, and cattle are used to pull things on small farms and in areas where growth is little.


Sheep Since the millennium BC, we have known about 200 breeds of sheep. They are related to goats and are bred to obtain wool and meat, and a few are bred for milk.


Including livestock and sheep are grazing in order to obtain food from eating coarse grasses and soft and short grasses, and goats are raised for meat, milk, leather, wool, and by-products. Breeds of goats are divided into three basic groups. The Okhzi breeds such as the Swiss and the eastern breeds such as the Nubian and the wool breeds such as the Cashmere Angora The goats' food is alfalfa, pasture grass, hay, and forage made from grain.


The mother of horse breeding is Equus caballus, which was first bred in large quantities in Central Asia, and not only as livestock, but was used in riding, racing, and display. Horses are classified according to the place of origin into many breeds such as Clydesdale and Arabian.


It is classified according to its use, such as traction and riding, and according to the external appearance, heavy, horse, and light. Horses' food is pasture, grass, hay, fodder, and grain, especially oats.




Livestock development methods


Among the ways to develop livestock:

the health


Diseases that affect livestock cause a great loss to the livestock sector, and despite the high death rates for livestock, these diseases have an impact on the growth rate, fertility, and production.

Examples of these diseases are smallpox, pneumonia, rinderpest, bovine tuberculosis, anthrax, and other diseases. There are many programs to prevent and confront these diseases.

Among these programs is securing treatment for these diseases and providing it for all diseases and vaccination against these infectious and prevalent diseases. When sick animals appear, quarantine must be applied to them in order to limit the spread of the disease among all animals.

nutrition

Providing food for livestock has an important role for all animals, whether they are developing animals, newly born or reproductive animals, and the diet of livestock should be.

From the scientific side, it contains appropriate amounts of fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, carbohydrates, and minerals, while providing supplements as alternatives to compensate for the deficiency that occurs in the diets of animals such as young lambs and milk for calves.

Some nutritional supplements such as glutamine, arginine, zinc and conjugated linic acid can be added to the diet, in order to achieve certain purposes such as improving fertility, improving pregnancy outcomes, enhancing meat quality, preserving life of newborns, and increasing immunity.

In order for the animal food program to achieve success at the level of economy and productivity, the food program must be balanced between vitamins, proteins, necessary minerals, energy, and water.

This is vital in the animal nutrition program because the consumption of water is of great importance than the consumption of food because the animals' failure to take the appropriate quantities of drinking water every day caused an increase in financial loss.

Because it works to reduce production, therefore, sufficient quantities of water must be provided, and the water is drinkable in order to help in the development of livestock, lack of attention to nutrition is one of the reasons for the lack of livestock in my country.



genetic improvement

Effective ways to exploit genetic diversity and differences have an important role in the genetic improvement of livestock, in order to obtain strains that have the ability to produce and adapt to different environments and to promote reproduction by purifying embryos, freezing and cultivating embryos, and performing some operations that collect the nucleus in order to get the best The index finger and other modern methods.




types of livestock farming


Types of livestock according to livestock production processes in the Kingdom:

Intensive farming for livestock: It is the breeding in which animals are placed in a place with suitable temperatures, and fodder is provided for them, and health care so that the production of animals is fast and healthy. In this type, breeds are chosen for several different types of production, and this species needs an increase in capital and An increase in employment.

Semi-intensive livestock farming: It is a farm where animals are placed and food is provided to them, but animals are allowed to transport or graze on the farm to carry out research, but this is in a closed area on the farm.

Expanded livestock farming: This type of livestock is raised in large areas of land, such as mountains, pastures, or meadows so that the animals can graze and benefit from all the natural resources that exist in these different areas. This type is used with animals that can adapt to what is imposed on them. This species helps in maintaining the ecosystem.

Bedouin livestock breeding: This type enjoys grazing animals such as livestock that are on large areas of the land, and they have a natural diet. This type is the trap of transporting animals to different areas of land, in order to have different resources and access to food. This type is known as semi-nomadic or nomadic and after This type is a good example for peoples in arid regions because it is difficult for them to farm, including some areas in Asia and Africa.

Mobile livestock breeding: In this type, animals are moved to fields with food, but this type depends on the general season, and this type is very important because it increases soil fertility with the help of livestock manure, which contains chemical nutrients beneficial to the soil and plant growth, and in this type is considered Animal food is mixed vegetables and herbs that help in the dispersal of seeds, and currently the use of the mobile livestock farm is less, but it is used in different regions in Africa.

Organic livestock breeding: This type is used to produce livestock in order to obtain high-quality food without the need to use synthetic chemicals such as chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Animals need large areas and their food is natural products.


The importance of livestock

Livestock raising is a vital activity to improve human development and occupies a constantly important place among the main activities of the global economy.

  • Livestock helps in the production of many food products of high quality such as milk, eggs, meat, cheese, etc.
  • Livestock activity is directly or indirectly beneficial to other local economic sectors, including handicrafts, food industries, hospitality, and tourism.
  • Livestock is a human productive economic activity that is considered permanent.
  • Livestock provides job opportunities for many and is a source of income for them.
  • Livestock is a hobby for some people.
  • Contribute to obtaining a profit from the foreign exchange by exporting products that are produced from livestock, and this increases the value of the local currency.
  • Large animals such as horses, donkeys, and cattle are used in special agricultural operations such as cultivating and plowing.



Jun 18, 2021

How does a snake smell? Where is his sense of smell?

June 18, 2021 0 Comments



snakes

The snake is a meat-eating reptile, it has no legs, and it belongs to the serpent family. The body of the snake is cylindrical and covered with shiny scales that keep its body from friction and dryness. Snakes change their skin more than once a year by rubbing their skin with any wooden surface, there are no eyelids The eyes of snakes are covered with transparent scales to protect them, and snakes are cold-blooded, which makes them unable to regulate their internal body temperature, so there are no snakes in cold places.
The number of species of snakes reaches 2,900 worldwide, and the number of venomous species of snakes reaches 375 species. The reticulated python is the longest type of snake, reaching 30 feet or about 9 meters in length, and the Barbados snake is the shortest type of snake, reaching Its length is only 4 inches or about 10 cm only. As for the anaconda snake, it is the heaviest type of snake by weight. Some snakes lay eggs, and most of them give birth.





types of snakes


Python snakes: They include pythons, boas, and anacondas. They are considered one of the largest and heaviest snakes in weight, and they kill their prey by pressing them with the force of their sphincters.
Orchid snakes: These types of snakes kill their prey through the poison inside their body and transmitted through their hollow fangs, and after killing them, the snake begins to devour its prey, and there are many lengths in these types of snakes, some of which are no longer than a few centimeters, and some are up to length To 4 meters, and species of cobra, coral snake, and mamya.
Hannah snakes: This type of snake transmits poison through its fangs for equestrians while chewing. However, there are many harmless types, and some of them are very dangerous, such as the African tree, serpent, and the types of Hannah snakes, the king snake, the water snake, and the garter snake, The black snake.
Snakes: The real snakes, the pit viper, and the rattlesnake are the most dangerous types of snakes.




Snake sense of smell


The snake has a nose that smells through the smells transmitted through the air, while the smells transmitted through moisture are picked up by the snake through the tongue, where the snake has a tongue with two branches and the ability to move very quickly.

And when the snake moves its tongue out of its mouth, it picks up chemical odors from the air and from the ground to transfer them to another organ for smell located in the roof of the mouth and it is called the nasal volar organ or what is known as the Jacobson's organ. The olfactory center in the brain locates and interprets the source of odors.

The Jacobson olfactory organ of the snake was discovered by the Danish physician Ludwig in 1813, but the function of this organ was not determined or understood until nearly 100 years after Ludwig's death, and this organ was also discovered in mammals and amphibians.




The sense of sight when the snake.

Snakes have a very weak sense of vision because of the environment they live in, where snakes live in dark burrows, but there are snakes that have adapted to live by the day, and snakes can see Things, but they are unable to distinguish details, and some types of snakes have two spots on each side. The headworks through infrared rays and each spot consists of two areas separated by a membrane at the end of sensory neurons that allow it to detect prey from a distance, where the snake's head can form an image of the Forms the prey without seeing it, and despite the cobra snake's poor sight, it has the ability to accurately shoot poison at the eyes of hunters and enemies.



Sense of hearing when the snake

Although snakes do not have an external ear, they are not deaf, because they have a hearing device inside the head linked to the jawbones, through which the snake can sense vibrations, and low sounds, carried by air, as these vibrations are transmitted through the jawbones to the bones of the middle ear and then to The inner ear of the snake.

snake feeding


The snake is a carnivore, and the cobra snake kills its prey through its venom, and we find that most snakes swallow the prey as it is, as most large-sized snakes wrap around the prey and choke it and then swallow it like a python, and the digestive enzymes in the snake's stomach analyze the prey and transform it To the energy needed for the snake's body to carry out all the processes and vitality.

It is also known that snakes remain for a long time without food because their metabolism is very slow, and snakes can eat large prey because of the strength of their lower jawbones.

Where the lower jaw of snakes consists of two non-adherent pieces, but the bones of the two pieces are connected by a flexible ligament that enables them to move and diverge with ease if required, and the bones of the jaws of snakes do not have a link with the skull, so they find flexibility in movement with the ability to devour any prey no matter what. was its size.



Snakes and humans


Snakes are associated with many ancient stories and legends, especially in India, where the cobra wraps the face of the Hindu god Shiva in many drawings, and offers her many boats, and is celebrated in a special way and rituals.

In addition, snakes have an important role in the environment, as they rid the environment of mice, and humans raise them as a kind of pet, but the human relationship with snakes is not good at all, due to the danger of many of their species to human life, as there are some species that can poison them It kills humans within minutes, though there are some harmless species.

Although the Indian cobra is a very dangerous venomous snake that humans have been able to use as a means of entertainment and entertainment for the masses, where the Indian magician plays the flute and in front of him is a basket containing the cobra and when he starts playing the cobra begins to get out of the basket and dance, but the cobra is deaf and the movement that it makes It is just a defensive move due to the movement of the magician's hand and the oboe.



The strongest sense of smell among animals


Bear: Although the bear has a small head, equivalent to one-third the size of the human head, it is considered one of the animals that has the strongest sense of smell among animals, as the area responsible for the sense of smell inside the bear’s brain is equal to five times the sense of smell in the human brain, so the sense of smell exceeds when The bear is 2100 times the human sense of smell. The bear's strong sense of smell helps prevent him from being in danger and know the whereabouts of his companions and where the food is. Through his sense of smell, he can know the location of animal carcasses from about 20 miles away.
Shark: The shark is characterized by having a strong sense of smell that makes it smell one drop of blood between 100 liters of water, and makes its sense of smell able to identify its prey from a mile away, due to the large size of the olfactory center in the shark's brain.