The Best Dog Breeds For Autistic Children

Golden retrievers have a kindly temperament.

Autistic disorder (or "classic" autism), according to the CDC, is an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that usually involves "significant language delays, social and communication challenges, and unusual behaviors and interests" in people who manifest the disorder. One way to help autistic children develop social skills and reduce "stimming" (self stimulating behaviors--such as spinning, shouting and hitting) is to pair them with a specially trained dog. According to the Autism Assistance Dog website, the ideal breed of dog for the autistic child is the breed that fits your home situation: if allergies are an issue in your home you should choose a hypoallergenic dog; if your child displays violent tendencies and more severe meltdowns, a larger, solid dog is needed.

Labrador Retriever

Labs are a good breed of dog for autistic children due to their even temperament; they are good-natured and friendly. They are peaceful with other animals and responsive to training. Good training is important with these dogs (as with all assistance dogs), however, as they can be rambunctious and full of energy. It is important that the trainer picks a dog that has a calm temperament and is peaceful.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers have a welcoming bark and a kindly expression, consistent with the breed's cheerful and trustworthy temperament. Retrievers have a robust and solid build--important for children who have violent tendencies. Nineteen-year-old Dale Gardner, as reported by the "Sunday Times," "found faces scary" as a child who suffered from autism and would misread people's facial expressions. When his parents gave him Henry, a golden retriever, his social interactions improved. "Henry had such a calm and friendly face and he never looked angry. I could look at him and it took away the stress of talking to people." Golden retrievers have a lot of energy, however, and must be chosen carefully by breeders and given lots of exercise.

Poodle

Some dog breeds that are not thought of as typical therapeutic breeds can prove to be quick learners with even temperaments. Poodles are chosen by Autism Service Dogs of America as service dogs, as they are "ideal because of their temperament, ability to train and their love of people," says Pris Taylor, executive director of Autism Service Dogs of America. They are also more hypoallergenic than other breeds, according to the Autism Assistance Dog Blog, making them ideal for owners with allergies.

Tags: Autism Assistance, Autism Service, Autism Service Dogs, breed autistic, Dogs America

Starting A Dog Boarding Business

Business Plan

Anyone who is working to open a dog boarding business has to start with a business plan. This will open the door to financing, in the form of small business loans or a loan from a bank or credit union. A well-written business plan will go far in convincing others in the business community that a new dog kennel in town will only benefit the community, dog owners and, most of all the dogs who will be guests. This business plan has to include options for financing and building a kennel from the ground up. It should include information about the types of employees you need, such as a veterinarian, assistants, front desk personnel and a business manager. See the Kennel Start/Start Smart link in the Resources section below.

Marketing

The owner of a new dog boarding business has to advertise and market her kennel. Utilizing online advertising is one option. Another electronic option is to hire a web designer to build a website for the new dog kennel. The business owner should have her website built around the theme of dogs, dog boarding and the loving care each animal will receive. Other options include print advertising, which is affordable for the beginning dog boarding business. Buying print advertising will ensure that a large part of the market is made aware of a new dog kennel in town.

The owner can double the advertising reach with by offering coupons pet owners can bring in to receive discounts on boarding charges and food costs. The kennel owner can extend her reach by adding radio advertising and targeting a specific demographic audience. After a few months, the business owner can hire a freelance writer to design and write a quarterly newsletters for her customers. See the Kennel Start/Marketing link in the Resources section.

Zoning Licensing and Insurance

A new kennel owner will be required to visit his local zoning office to learn about the applicable requirements before he opens his business. He will need to show several locations he is interested in so he can rule out areas which are not zoned for a dog boarding business. Once he has submitted his application, his community's elected officials (county commission, city council or village board) will discuss and vote to allow or deny the pending business.

If approved, the kennel owner will have to file for and pay the required fees for a dog boarding (kennel) license. This will specify how many animals he can board, how much space each animal must have, how many bowls each animal must have and the required amount of free space for the dogs to run and play. The dog boarding business will have to be insured against accidents, injury and death of dogs. Liability insurance through a reputable insurance company can be purchased.

Buying/Stocking Kennel Supplies

The new kennel owner has to construct guest rooms for her canine charges. Unless she wants her guest rooms to resemble an animal shelter, she should have small individual rooms which will be furnished for guests. Each room will need a dog bed (or the dog's favorite blanket from home), toys which will be disinfected between guest uses and food/water bowls. The kennel will have to stock a large supply of dog food, both dry and moist -- the owner should have several brands available in the event a guest has a sensitivity to a particular food. Dogs love chewing on things, so the kennel needs to have a large supply of rawhide chews in several sizes. Kennel staff will be taking each dog outside to run, play and exercise, so the owner has to invest in several dog leashes. In the event a dog gets sick or injured, a well-stocked medical supply is mandatory, along with expert medical care.

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Guide Dog Training Schools

Labradors are a good breed to serve as guide dogs.

The choice of where and train with a new guide dog is an important and highly personal one that requires considerable thought from a visually impaired person. There are guide dog schools that require the client spend up to three weeks training with their new dog, and other programs that bring a previously trained dog to the visually impaired person's home for the client to receive coaching in familiar surroundings.

Guide Dogs of America

Guide Dogs of America provides guide dogs and coaching in their use for blind and visually impaired men and women from both the United States and Canada. The services and dogs that Guide Dogs of America provide are free of charge. The mission of this guide dog organization is to assist the visually impaired so that they can live as full and productive life as possible and achieve their goals with increased mobility and independence.

Freedom Guide Dogs

Freedom Guide Dogs is a non-profit organization, based in Cassville, New York. This organization, which was founded in 1992 by Eric and Sharon Loori, breeds, raises, trains and places guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired. Freedom Guide Dogs use a home-based style of training program, through which they bring a previously trained guide dog to the home of the visually impaired person. Both the dog and its new owner then have the opportunity to train in an environment that is familiar to the visually impaired person. The Looris coach the dog and owner team for between two and three weeks. This program has proven to be successful and the Freedom Guide Dogs organization has in excess of 120 clients in 10 states throughout the Northeast. There is no cost to the client.

Guide Dogs of Texas, Inc

The Guide Dogs of Texas was incorporated in 1989 and have facilities to house up to four clients at one time in their San Antonio training center. Staff and volunteers from the organization provide the clients with meals, housekeeping and companionship during their stay. The organization's a main goal is to provide their clients with a relaxed atmosphere in which they can focus on their dog and the required training.

The Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind

The Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind has operated since 1946 and provides guide dogs free of charge to their visually impaired clients. The typically small classes and individualized instruction offered by the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind attracts clients with special requirements, from both within the United States and from a number of foreign countries. This foundation is supported by donations.

Tags: Guide Dogs, visually impaired, Freedom Guide, Freedom Guide Dogs, impaired person, visually impaired person

Rescue A Yorkshire Terrier

Gracie was rescued from a puppy mill and now lives happily with her adopted family in a loving home.

Yorkshire Terriers are one of the most popular of all dog breeds, and, unfortunately, that means there are more of them than many other breeds in need of rescue. There are dozens of groups in the United States and other countries devoted to saving these tiny waifs from abuse, neglect and abandonment and placing them in loving homes. You can help them in their efforts and, perhaps, find a rescue Yorkie that's just right for you.

Instructions

1. Learn as much as you can about the breed. Because of their small size, averaging about 7 pounds, Yorkshire terriers are classified as a Toy breed. More than 100 years ago, miners in Northern England developed this scrappy little terrier and carried the dogs on their shifts underground to deal with the numerous rats the miners encountered in the tunnels. Over time, their small size, intelligence and devotion to their owners made Yorkies popular as companion dogs, especially with 19th century English society ladies, who carried them everywhere on their arm or in specially designed "doggie purses."

2. Understand that Yorkshire Terrier rescue groups are very selective about placing their dogs with owners who have the right home environment and will care for them properly. Modern Yorkies require frequent grooming because of their fine silky hair (not fur) and delicate skin. They don't shed, making them a good choice for dog lovers with allergies, but their hair never stops growing, so they need to be brushed daily, bathed often and clipped periodically to keep them clean, tangle-free and healthy. They also have a true terrier personality, making them active and playful. They love a short daily walk, but they can also make ideal apartment dogs because they don't require much space to be happy. They may not be ideal around small children because they don't tolerate rough handling, and because they instinctively go after small animals, such as hamsters and pet rats.

3. Apply to join a Yorkshire terrier rescue group in your area. Be aware that these groups screen their volunteers as carefully as they do their adoptive families. As a member of the group, you will have the opportunity to participate in rescues from animal shelters, abusive or neglectful situations, unscrupulous puppy mills and from owners who voluntarily surrender their Yorkies when they can't or won't properly care for them. These groups cooperate with animal control officers, the Humane Society and other animal protection agencies to identify Yorkies in need of rescue. See the Resources section for rescue group networks and applications to join.

4. Consider providing a foster home to keep rescued Yorkies until they can be adopted. This may require some specialized skills and equipment to care for injured, sick and traumatized dogs. Nursing a Yorkie back to health and helping socialize an abused or neglected little dog so he can become a loving pet for the right owner can be a very rewarding experience. Rescue groups are happy to provide training and help in these areas.

5. Realize that becoming a rescuer will almost certainly increase your desire to adopt a Yorkie yourself. You'll have to go through the same screening process as any other prospective adoptive owner, but if you've already qualified as a rescuer, this should be no problem.

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Know A Shih Tzu Dog Is Sick

Shih Tzu is a popular breed of small dog, known for their characteristic overbites, long flowing coats, and distinctive facial features. These dogs make excellent family pets, and are equally as popular in the show-dog circuit. Shih Tzu dogs also have a variety of health problems that are common and specific to the breed. If you know what these problems are, and their symptoms, you will be able to know when your dog is sick and arrange treatment in the early stages of illness or disorder.

Instructions

1. Check for abdominal protrusions, like large, swollen bumps. Shih Tzus are prone to umbilical hernias, where areas of the intestines come through a damaged area of the abdominal wall. Umbilical hernias can be caused by an accident or injury, but many Shih Tzu dogs are born with them. The dog can have an umbilical hernia for some time with no adverse affects, or the hernia could present right away, with pain, bulging or difficulty going to the bathroom. If untreated, the intestines could twist and cause the dog to die.

2. Check for heavy breathing sounds, wheezing or nasal discharge. Because Shih Tzu dogs have a short nose and a more concave facial structure than many dogs, they are more prone to respiratory disorders and distress. In some cases, your dog may have a hereditary condition called Stenotic Nares, where the nostrils are too small for the dog to get adequate oxygen.

3. Pay attention to the dog's movements. If your Shih Tzu is experiencing a loss of mobility and coordination, or appears to be having back pain, the dog could have Intervertebral Disk Disease, or IVDD. IVDD affects certain breeds of dogs more than others, including Shis Tzus. If untreated, IVDD can lead to paralysis.

4. Pay attention to your dog's legs. If your dog repeatedly tries to avoid using one leg, stands with that leg in the air, limps on that leg or drags it, it could be a condition common in Shih Tsu dogs, known as patellar luxation, or a displaced kneecap. Surgery is required to repair this inherited condition.

5. Watch for any deviations in normal behavior. Like any pet, if your dog suffers a change in appetite, bathroom habits, temperament or sleep, your dog could have an illness and should be examined by a veterinarian.

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Common Eye Problems In Shih Tzus

Proper eye care can keep your Shih Tzu healthy.

Having a Shih Tzu as part of your family can require a lot of maintenance. The breed is susceptible to eye problems, and it is very important to keep their eyes clean. There are several common eye problems in the Shih Tzu breed due to their large, sensitive eyes.

Cataracts

Cataracts, which are usually genetic, will not develop until the dog is 8 years old, though they also can occur due to an eye injury. Cataracts can be recognized by a cloudy look over the dog's eye. Cataracts do affect the Shih Tzu's vision and can make your dog become blind if the condition goes untreated. Cataracts are removed by surgery, though scarring can occur from the surgery and could lead to decreased vision.

Corneal Ulcers

A corneal ulcer can result from a Shih Tzu scratching his or her eye. A tear on the eye is usually not visible, but signs of an ulcer include your dog keeping his eye only half open, the dog closing his eye more often than usual, or the Shih Tzu having more tears than usual. The veterinarian will be able to diagnose the corneal ulcer and the treatment will likely consist of daily eye drops that will reduce the swelling and pain.

Infection

The symptoms of an eye infection include swelling, more discharge than usual, redness and sensitivity to light. If the eye infection in your Shih Tzu's eye(s) is not treated, the condition could cause sight problems. A veterinarian will distinguish if your pet has an bacterial/viral eye infection or allergies. If the condition is an eye infection, it is treated with an antibacterial eye drop.

Eyelash Issues

Distichiasis is a condition where an eyelash grows on the inner surface or the edge of the Shih Tzu's eyelid . If the eye lash is not noticeable, signs that there is a problem include your Shih Tzu rubbing her face on pillows, carpet or anything she can to relieve the discomfort. The most common treatment is for a veterinarian to permanently remove the eyelash by electrolysis.

Conjunctivitis

Symptoms for conjunctivitis, or pink eye, include discharge from the eye(s), swelling, noticeable discomfort and a red or pink appearance of the eye. This common eye problem in your Shih Tzu can be caused by several factors, including allergies or objects in the eye. Pink eye can be spread by contact---which is the bacterial form---dog to dog. It can also be airborne---the viral form---which usually occurs in the colder months with humidity. Treatment for this eye infection usually includes a medication to reduce the swelling and fight off the bacteria.

Tags: your Shih, than usual, corneal ulcer, include your, reduce swelling, veterinarian will

Train Your Coonhound Dog

Coonhounds are wonderfully intelligent dogs that are generally quite eager to please. However, coonhounds do have a reputation of being difficult to train. They really aren't, they just require a different approach in how you train them. This often means taking small steps in any training. And since they are eager to please, they will love dog training if they know it pleases you. If you get upset with them, they will lose all possible interest in your efforts.

Instructions

1. Get their nose up. Coonhounds are scent hounds. It is in their DNA to keep that nose to the ground trying to find something interesting to track. There is a saying about coonhounds: "When the nose is open, the ears are shut." This is quite true. Remember this, and you will go far in your dog training. Get that nose up before giving commands.

2. Allow your coonhound to run off any excess energy before beginning any training efforts. Like a young child, if your dog is too hyper, he will not be paying as much attention to you and your desires as you'd like -- maybe not at all.

3. Set your dog up for success. Never set your dog up to fail when training, by asking for something you suspect may be impossible or difficult for the dog. You always want to set up your dog in such a way that you are nearly assured that she will do as asked so you can give her the appropriate praise. Treats make excellent rewards for obedience.

4. Establish your alpha status in a friendly way. Work in a confined space. A dog show bench (which you can make yourself) or a large grooming table work well. Show dogs are very in tune with their handlers. Whether you intend to show your coonhound dog or not, you do want this level of attentiveness. Teach your dog that you can move his legs around, hold his head, look into his mouth at his teeth, etc., all at will. An elevated platform such as the show bench/grooming table is ideal for this, and this simple training creates a fabulous foundation for all other types of training.

5. Begin leash training when your dog is young if at all possible. Place the collar just under the jawline and up on the neck. In this position, you have control. If you allow the leash to drop down, you lose control. Halter-type collars are a good choice for a coonhound as well.

Tags: eager please, grooming table, show bench, that nose, they will

Pick The Best Puppy For You

Choosing your new "best friend" is a big decision.

The decision to become a pet owner is one that requires serious thought. Sharing your life with a furry friend is a long-term commitment and is not a decision that should be taken lightly. Although that puppy may look adorable in the pet store, it may not act as adorable in your home. You must consider several factors before you bring your new puppy home. Choosing wisely will ensure not only your happiness, but your puppy's as well.

Instructions

1. Think about the financial commitment you will need to make. You will need to provide food, shelter and medical care, such as vaccinations and medications, for your dog. Dog supplies, such as toys, leashes, collars and grooming supplies, are also expenses that you have to be able to afford. Your expenses will vary depending on the breed you decide to get.

2. Consider the time you will need to devote to your dog. New puppies require training, and certain breeds are easier to train than others. You will also need to have time to play with your puppy so that it does not get bored.

3. Make a decision on the size of the puppy you want. Remember that a cute puppy will become an adult in no time at all. You need to find out the adult size of the breed and decide if you have adequate space in your home to raise it. The breed's size will also determine how much food the dog will need.

4. Think about the activity level in your home. How will your new pet adjust to its surroundings? Does the dog require a lot of attention, or will it be it content to be alone for a while? Is the dog friendly toward new people? You want to make sure that your dog's personality is a good fit for you.

5. Some breeds require more grooming than others. In general, long-haired dogs shed more and require more frequent grooming than short-haired breeds. Do you have the time available to groom the puppy yourself, or will you need to take it to a groomer? If you decide to have the dog groomed, will you be able to afford the visits?

6. Commit to being a responsible pet owner. This means keeping up with required vaccinations, spaying or neutering the dog, and ensuring that your puppy has everything it needs to enjoy a healthy, happy life.

Tags: will need, your puppy, your home, able afford, breed decide, decide have, grooming than

Solicit A Sponsorship

Ask for donations from corporations or small businesses to help support your event.

Many nonprofits do great work that is needed in the community. While the work that nonprofit organizations do is highly valuable, they often face significant financial hurdles with smaller budgets. However, one way organizations can continue to provide services to the community is to solicit sponsorships from corporations or even local businesses. Such sponsors may provide supplies, printing, food or funding for events. You may ask that sponsors provide gifts to pass out to participants in your event as well.

Instructions

1. Plan ahead of time. Ask for donations three to six months in advance to allow businesses and corporations time to determine if they want to be involved, evaluate their finances and plan their role in your event. It will also allow you to reach out to a number of donors in the event that your first-choice sponsors do not participate.

2. Identify sponsors. While you should reach out to as many potential sponsors as possible, start with sponsors with whom your organization has a positive relationship from past events. Also, include a list of sponsors who are directly related to the mission of your organization or who have a record of donating to organizations like yours. Finally, prioritize sponsors with whom you have a connection. Perhaps you know someone who works at a company or is an alumnus of your alma mater. These relationships will help make you even more successful in finding sponsors for your event.

3. Invite industry leaders and members to attend your event. This will help sponsors reach industry professionals who might become clients later. For example, if you are hosting an event that helps kids learn computer skills, inviting school district administrators or library officials may be attractive to a computer company that provides services to schools and libraries.

4. Determine how you would like sponsors to donate to your event. You can do this by setting sponsorship levels and allowing sponsors to determine how much they would like to donate. This may help to ensure that you receive a minimum donation. Or, if you need supplies or other in-kind donations, note that as well.

5. Create a publicity plan for potential sponsors. Show how you will publicize them during your event. This will be crucial information when trying to solicit their sponsorship. You want to guarantee your sponsors a certain amount of press and advertisement. For example, you may include your sponsor's logo on all printed material, place free ads in your newsletter or allow them to host a booth at your event.

6. Write a sponsorship request letter. Include the name of your organization, the type of event and what kind of sponsorship you are seeking. If you are writing to a corporation or business with a specific type of sponsorship in mind, be direct. For example, if you want Subway to donate sandwiches, say that in your letter.

Include details about when, why and where your event will take place. Tell how many people you expect to attend or participate, as well as past year's numbers if you have held the event before.

7. Follow up with phone calls. Call the sponsors and ask if they have additional questions. Reiterate your advertising plans and highlight potential benefits of reaching the guests who will attend your event.

Tags: your event, your organization, attend your, attend your event, event that

Create A Superpoke! Pet

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SuperPoke! Pets" requires Internet access, since it is played inside an Internet browser.

Playing "SuperPoke! Pets" gives anyone who has Internet access the chance to create and care for virtual "pets" online using social media websites or the official "SuperPoke! Pets" website. Creating a SuperPoke! Pet takes only minutes, is free and requires no extensive computer knowledge and no programming skills. After creating and adopting your virtual SuperPoke! Pet, play with it, feed it and care for it by grooming it and socializing it with other pets in the SuperPoke! Pet virtual world. SuperPoke! Pets is accessible from anywhere in the world, and is kid-friendly.

Instructions

1. Open your computer's default Internet browser (such as Opera, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explorer) and visit the "SuperPoke! Pets" application using its official website (spp.com). Alternatively, "SuperPoke! Pets" is also available as a gaming application on various social networks, including MySpace (myspace.com) and Facebook (facebook.com).

2. Click "Adopt a Pet!" from the main screen.

3. Allow the "SuperPoke! Pets" editor to load completely to begin building your adopted virtual pet.

4. Choose your pet's base body from choices ranging from penguins and turtles to monkeys. Once you select the base of your SuperPoke! Pet, you will then be able to fully customize it, adding accessories and clothing to personalize it.

5. Add hats, shirts and bottoms to your pet by clicking on various outfit choices, or choose "Randomize" on the screen to preview a random fashion look. Click "Finish" to move on to choosing your pet's home.

6. Pick the home you would like your pet to live in by browsing the options available, then click "Finish" give your pet a name.

7. Enter the name of your newly adopted pet, then click "Finish" to complete the adoption process and begin playing with your virtual pet within the world of "SuperPoke! Pets." Once you complete the adoption, you will be able to roam the virtual realm, exploring it freely with your pet.

Tags: SuperPoke Pets, click Finish, complete adoption, Internet access, Internet browser

Open A Pet Hotel

Pet hotels provide a place for your dog or cat to stay when you are traveling. Unlike a simple kennel, a pet hotel is more luxurious, with some of the more expensive suites actually resembling a real home, with couches, beds and chairs. With people spending around $10 billion on their pets annually, starting a pet hotel can be a great way to turn your love for animals into a steady business. It takes careful planning to open a pet hotel, but if you do things right, you'll be a success.

Instructions

1. Determine how luxurious your pet hotel will be. A pet kennel just has crates to house the animals, but a pet hotel should be a step above that. You may want to create some "budget" rooms that are large crates with comfortable amenities in addition to larger rooms. Doing market research in your area will help you determine how much money people are likely to spend on pets. In high-income areas, you may want to have more luxury rooms. You may also want to include pet-grooming services, so that pets can have a day at the spa.

2. Write a business plan. A solid business plan will give you direction for opening a hotel for animals. It can also help you get the funding you need to build your facility.

3. Talk to a bank about funding. You'll need a considerable amount of money to start a pet hotel---funds to cover renting or buying a space, remodeling the space to look like a pet hotel and purchasing supplies, such as food and pet beds. SBA loans are low-interest loans designed for new business owners.

4. Find and set up a location. The location for a pet hotel doesn't have to be in a well-trafficked area, which means that you may be able to save some money. Once you've found a space, you need to create pet rooms throughout the building where pets can stay. Luxury rooms should feel like a real home, while budget rooms should still feel comfortable.

5. Hire employees who are knowledgeable about animals. Your staff should understand animals and enjoy spending time with them. Pet owners want to leave their animals in the hands of someone who obviously loves pets.

6. Advertise for business. Talk to the owners of pet-related stores and service providers in your area---the pet supply shop, the veterinarian, the pet groomer. Offer to exchange referrals and give them business. For example, if you buy all of your supplies from the pet supply shop, they'll have no problem referring their customers to your pet hotel.

Tags: budget rooms, business plan, funding need, real home, rooms should, supply shop, your hotel

Video Surveillance Laws In Ohio

Video surveillance is legal in Ohio but subject to its wiretapping statutes.

Like many states, video surveillance laws in Ohio need to be interpreted through its wiretapping statutes (Oh. Rev. Code 2933.51-2). Specifically, any unauthorized interception of an "oral communication" is prohibited. While there is no specific law against video surveillance, its usage as a means to intercept an "oral communication" (e.g. video recording at close range with an audio track) may be prosecutable as a criminal offense.

One Party Vs. All Party Consent

In several states (e.g. California), taping a conversation where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy is prohibited without the prior consent and knowledge of all parties. On the other hand, in states such as Ohio, recording is legal as long as one party consents to the surveillance and does not intend to use the footage to commit a criminal offense or other injurious act (Oh. Rev. Code 2933.52, Sec. B-4). However, in public places such as government buildings, shopping centers or banks, overt or covert video surveillance is completely legal without regard to consent.

Penalties for Unauthorized Surveillance

Whoever violates the Ohio wiretapping statute may be charged with a fourth-degree felony (Ohio Rev. Code 2933.52, Sec. C). If found guilty, the offender can face from six to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Generally, the minimum term of six months will be handed down unless the offender has previously served time in prison or if "the court finds that the shortest prison term will demean the seriousness of the offender's conduct or will not adequately protect the public from future crime by the offender or others" (Oh. Rev. Code 2929.14, Sec. B).

Exceptions to The Law

Ohio video surveillance laws do not apply to certain people in certain situations. For example, the law does not apply to surveillance conducted by a law enforcement agent who has been granted an applicable interception warrant from a state or federal judge. It also does not apply to a provider of communication services when used "for mechanical or service quality control checks" (Oh. Rev. Code 2933.52, Sec. B-2). In other words, an Internet company that provides webcam services between users is exempt if the surveillance is used to monitor the quality of its transmissions. Video surveillance is also allowable in police, fire and communications systems as long as the footage is used for administrative purposes only and that at least one "facility" (i.e. location in the building) is not subject to electronic monitoring. (Oh. Rev. Code 2933.52, Sec. B-8).

Tags: Code 2933, criminal offense, does apply, oral communication, surveillance laws, video surveillance

Donate Clothing To A Homeless Shelter

According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, there has been a dramatic increase in homelessness in the United States over the past two decades. Up to two million men, women and children are without a home during the year. One way to help the homeless is to donate used or new clothing to a shelter.

Instructions

1. Look through your closet for clothing in good condition that you haven't worn in a while. Admit it, you don't need those items - give them away.

2. Include any clothing that no longer fits instead of saving it in the hope that someday you will wear it. There is a perfect size four who needs those wool pants.

3. Go door to door in your neighborhood and collect socks and gloves without a mate that you can give to a shelter to put into unmatched pairs for residents to wear.

4. Donate any extra coats you have, since these are in especially great demand at shelters.

5. Wash items before you give them away, and check to be sure they are not stained or torn.

6. Include personal items such as sample-size shampoos, soaps and deodorant - stuff 'em in a stocking and put it in the giveaway bag.

7. Contact the shelter you want to help directly to find out if there are specific hours during which it accepts donations.

8. Check with a local religious organization, club or civic group to find out if it collects clothing for shelters. If so, you can leave the items there and have the organization deliver them for you.

9. Look for clothing collection boxes in stores, health clubs and other local businesses.

10. Consider the option of leaving clothes in a drop-off box, such as the ones run by the Goodwill or the Salvation Army. Groups such as these sell the clothes they collect in their own stores to raise money to donate for shelters and other good causes.

Tags: give them, give them away, them away

Adopt A Baby Girl

Many people choose to adopt a baby if they cannot have their own biological child for medical reasons, or if they choose to adopt instead. There are many children who are in need of a home and family to love and take care of them. Learn about the process of adopting a baby girl.

Instructions

1. Research as much as you can about the adoption process. You will need to make some important decisions such as whether you want to adopt the child within the US or abroad. Also research how much the adoption process will cost, and how long will it take depending on the type of adoption you are seeking.

2. Hire a lawyer to guide you through the entire legal procedure of the adoption process. This is important because the requirements and adoption laws for adopting a child are different in each state in the United States, as well as internationally.

3. Select a licensed adoption agency to work with, and fill out an adoption application.

4. Complete an adoption home study, in which a social worker prepares a written evaluation based on the interview he conducts with you, your references, and visits to your home. It generally covers some of the following topics: criminal background, employment, financial position, family life, health problems or disabilities and the home environment.

5. Prepare a dossier for international adoption, which includes the home study documents, birth certificates, marriage certificates and divorce certificates. Your agency can provide you with a full list of documents that will be needed.

6. Select a child you would like to meet and interact with. Your agency worker will work with other agency workers who represent children to find the best fit. Once you're approved to meet the child, you can obtain more confidential information about the child so that you can finalize your decision.

7. Get approved to adopt the child. The child will then be placed in your home and you've become a new parent.

8. Finalize the adoption in a final court hearing, in which the judge reviews all supporting information about the child, her biological parents and the adopting parents. The judge will either approve or disapprove the petition to adopt. If the adoption is approved, an Adoption Decree is issued.

Tags: adoption process, about child, adopt child, adoption process will, choose adopt, home study

Babysit An Orangutan

A good babysitter, one that is asked to return, is respectful of the parents, or in this case, the owner's wishes and schedule of the "baby." An orangutan, depending on the age, requires about as much attention as an infant. They are wild jungle animals, and though they are peaceful in nature, you never know what to expect from an animal that is out of his habitat. Read further and learn what you should expect while watching an orangutan.

Instructions

1. Ask the owner what the daily schedule is for the ape. According to the website Enchanted Learning in the section "All About Orangutans," the orangutans spend some time every day looking for food and making a nest out of foliage to sleep in at night.

2. Find out where the animal's eating and sleeping quarters are located. Orangutans are quite peaceful animals that normally sleep a lot; the amount depends on its age.

3. Ask if the orangutan likes to be held and carried. According to Borneo Orangutan Survival UK, a website that promotes protection to the orangutan, the apes are awkward at walking and like to stay in the trees.

4. Ask if the orangutan needs his food cut up and if he drinks from a bottle. Feed him whatever the owner has left for you. In the wild, the orangutan eats mostly plants, with a preference to fruit. They also will eat small creatures such as birds or rodents. Baby orangutans are taught by their mothers break up food, but an infant orangutan that's a pet probably doesn't have those survival skills.

5. Check if there are activities that you should avoid for fear of disturbing or threatening the orangutan's territory. "Although orangutans are generally passive, aggression toward other orangutans is very common and they can be territorial," says Borneo Orangutan Survival UK. If they are normally passive in their native habitat, that is not saying they are always passive, especially if they aren't in their natural habitat. If the orangutan is territorial toward other orangutans, it could be territorial to humans if it has lived with them for a long time. You don't want the ape see you as a trespasser on his territory.

6. Change diapers or clean up messes as needed.

7. Follow the owner's instructions to the best of your ability. Be gentle and kind to the animal.

Tags: Borneo Orangutan, Borneo Orangutan Survival, Orangutan Survival, other orangutans, toward other, toward other orangutans

The Best Mannered Dogs

There are many mild-mannered dogs that families can bring into their households.

Bringing a dog into your family is a big step, especially if you have young children. It's important to find that right dog who is friendly and active, yet gentle and mild. Fortunately, there are plenty of dog breeds that tend toward the milder side. There are plenty of options, then, for families looking to add well-mannered pooches to their households.

Golden Retrievers

Golden retrievers have long been one of the most popular of family dogs. There's a reason for this: These dogs are usually extremely gentle and mild-mannered around children. They're energetic and playful, too, without getting too wild. Because of this, the editors at DogChannel.com point to golden retrievers as one of the top breeds for families with younger children. In addition to being easy to train, golden retrievers are protective of the children in their homes. These dogs do need some care, though: Because they are energetic, they need regular exercise. They do better, then, in homes that have access to larger back yards.

Irish Setters

The Irish setter was originally bred to be a hunting dog, and it's a job at which these dogs excel. But Irish setters are also surprisingly mild-mannered dogs, making them welcome additions to most households. The editors at PetPlace.com praise Irish Setters for their friendly dispositions and playful, gentle personalities. These dogs thrive in environments in which they are shown loads of affection. They also become quite devoted and protective of any small children in their homes. These dogs, like golden retrievers, also require daily doses of exercise and do best in homes that have access to a fair-sized back yard.

Basset Hound

The slower-moving and gentle Basset hound is the definition of mild-mannered. These pets are the picture of calm, but are also friendly and affectionate, according to the editors of PetFinder.com. These animals, despite their laid-back personalities, do need regular exercise, though. They are also excellent sniffers and trackers, so will enjoy long walks that give them the opportunity to test out their tracking skills. PetFinder editors, though, did warn that small children may try to sit on these dogs' long backs, something that can cause serious injury to the pets.

Tags: golden retrievers, These dogs, children their, children their homes, have access

Help With Rent In New Jersey

New Jersey has several programs in place to help tenants.

Tenants in New Jersey paid an average of $1,154 monthly in rent statewide in the third quarter of 2010, according to NJ.com. Prices peak in the northern and central areas of the state, including the New York suburbs and particularly in Hudson County, where the average was $2,466. With unemployment hovering at about 9 percent, tenants can find themselves unable to keep up with such rent payments. Both the state and the federal government offer assistance, but in most cases it is reserved for very low-income families.

Section 8 Tenant-Based Assistance Program

The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development funds New Jersey's Section 8 assistance through two programs. If you earn 50 percent or less of your county's median income, you can potentially qualify for either the Rental Certificate Program or the Rental Voucher Program. With the Certificate Program, you must dedicate a small percentage of your monthly income to rent, ranging from 10 to 30 percent or $25, whichever is greater. You're limited to certain rental units. With the Voucher Program, you have the choice of selecting your own rental unit and paying more toward your rent. HUD requires that 75 percent of the funds dedicated to New Jersey must go to families who earn 30 percent or less of their area's median income. If Section 8 approves you for assistance, you have 60 days to find and select a rental that meets the federal housing quality standards.

State Rental Assistance Program

The State Rental Assistance Program is similar to Section 8, but New Jersey funds it rather than the federal government. The income requirements are stricter. You cannot earn more than 40 percent of your area's median income. Like the HUD program, 75 percent of the S-RAP funds are reserved for families earning less than 30 percent of the median income. S-RAP limits assistance to no more than five years, and it terminates if you receive Section 8 help instead.

Homelessness Prevention Program

New Jersey's Homelessness Prevention Program may step in if you get so far behind in your rent that you're facing eviction. You'll need proof that you fell behind because of some isolated circumstance, such as the loss of your job, and that you'll be able to pay your rent going forward. Your landlord must also agree to accept the HPP payment for the rent that's past due. HPP will bring your rent current once your landlord has filed an eviction proceeding against you, but it has limited funding and not everyone qualifies. Your court hearing for eviction may come up before HPP can move through the red tape to qualify you.

Tips

Other programs are available in New Jersey for a more narrow slice of the population. If you're already receiving help from Work First New Jersey or if you're receiving Supplemental Security Income, New Jersey's Emergency Assistance program may give you up to three months past-due rent to bring you current. Additionally, each New Jersey county has a Comprehensive Emergency Assistance Program, and the state offers relocation assistance if you lose your home through no fault of your own, like if your landlord has violated a law and is no longer legally permitted to rent your unit to you.

Tags: Assistance Program, median income, your rent, area median, area median income, Certificate Program

Southern California Police Training

Prepare for the rigorous Southern California police academy by enrolling in a pre-employment preparation class.

Southern California police training is challenging and rigorous but very rewarding. Depending on qualifications, entry-level police officers in Southern California can earn as much as $82,000 while protecting their community.

Applying

Enrollment in a Southern California police training academy requires the completion of a job application in the county of your choice. If your application is accepted, the next steps are to pass the physical agility test (PAT) and the written test and to interview with your county's review board. After receiving passing scores on the PAT, written test and interview, you will be enrolled in the police academy associated with your county.

Curriculum

Southern California police training is described by the Ventura County Police Academy as "fast-paced" and "para-military style." Cadets undergo rigorous physical training and learn techniques of weaponless defense, control holds, vehicle pullovers and firearms usage. The Ventura County Police Academy states that trainees also receive instruction on ethics, the California court system, first aid and CPR, report writing, radio communications, police-community relations and criminal law.

Time Frame

Basic training for Southern California police academies typically consists of 8- to 12-hour days for 21 to 40 weeks, depending on the county. Cadets may option to enroll in extended or specified trainings to qualify for higher-paid positions. Cadets are paid for academy attendance but are not officers of the law until graduation.

Tags: Southern California, California police, Southern California police, California police training, County Police, County Police Academy

The Average Life Span Of Rat Terriers

Small dogs often live longer than bigger dogs.

The Rat Terrier was first bred in England during the early 1800s. Soon this dog became popular in the United States, where it was crossbred with many other types of dogs, resulting in the breed we know today. Named for its ability to kill rats, the Rat Terrier is kept by farmers and pet owners alike. Owning this small dog means well over a decade of companionship, as long as you maintain your pet's health.

Life Span of Rat Terrier

A Rat Terrier that is well cared for will live an average of 15 to 18 years. A dog with an exceptional diet, environment and exercise regime may live up to 20 years or more.

Maximizing Rat Terrier Life Span

Make sure you provide your Rat Terrier with a minimum of a half an hour of exercise each day. This can include a run or a walk, but you must ensure that the exercise is vigorous enough to tone the dog's muscles and keep the heart healthy. As long as your dog gets lots of exercise, it can live a long life even in small spaces such as an apartment. However, having a yard will increase the amount of exercise your dog gets and may lengthen its life.

Rat Terrier Size and Life Span

Large and small dogs experience extreme differences in life span. Due to lower weight, 40 percent of dogs that weigh less than 35 pounds live to be older than 10. Meanwhile only 13 percent of dogs weighing over 35 pounds surpass 10 years. A dog weighing 50 pounds will probably live to be around 12 years old. The larger the breed, the sooner the dog will die, and the smaller the breed, the longer it will live.

Large and Small Dogs and Life Span

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Zoology in 2007 finds that larger dogs live shorter lives because of the excess energy that is required to power a large body. It is the weight of the dog and not the height that determines its longevity. The hearts and other organ systems of large dogs are exerted far beyond those of small dogs. For this reason Rat Terriers, which average 15 to 25 pounds, are among the breeds of dogs that can expect their life spans to reach or exceed 15 years.

Tags: Life Span, dogs that, Life Span, percent dogs, will live, your gets

How Much Does It Cost To Use Billboard Advertising

Billboards typically rely on strong visual appeal for message delivery.

With costs typically as high as $2,500 for a single placement, billboard ads are an expensive investment for advertisers. However, as consumers find more ways to avoid other types of traditional advertising like television and radio, advertisers turn to billboard ads, which are hard to avoid. In her December 2010 article "Brighter Summer for Outdoor Advertising," Media Life Magazine writer Toni Fitzgerald indicated that U.S. companies spent $1.44 billion on billboards and other outdoor advertising during the 3rd quarter alone in 2010.

Billboard Basics

Billboard advertising is part of the support media class known as outdoor advertising. Billboards are typically large signs along highways or major roadways in metropolitan areas. They are generally used either to announce that a business is upcoming to travelers on the highway or to flood a busy city or metropolitan area to reach a large number of people multiple times to reinforce a message.

Billboard Costs

Costs of billboards vary greatly based on the economy of the area in which your ads are placed, the billboards' location, and the potential daily estimated traffic (number of exposures). Typical placement ranges from $700 to $2,500 per month, according to Gaebler.com. Billboards are rarely purchased in singular packages in a metropolitan area, though; you often buy signage as a package. Buying space on 10 billboards for one month, at the high end, could cost up to $25,000 per month. Though this sounds expensive, a billboard in Chicago or New York could potentially get hundreds of thousands of daily views based on the number of people going by them in the course of a day. Plus, costs have decreased as technology has developed computer-generated vinyl sheeting for sign creation versus hand-painting that was typical years ago.

Benefits

Billboard advertising does offer some major benefits that distinguish it from other forms of advertising. Repeated exposure opportunities are significant. Someone entering a downtown area daily for work could see your message on a daily basis. Though the total cost seems high, the efficiency of billboard ads is very low in terms of cost per exposure relative to other media. You can select billboards located near your target demographic. Plus, billboards typically do not come down at night, so your message has virtual around-the-clock exposure.

Drawbacks

Billboards do pose some limitations that may get in the way of your business finding good value based on the costs. One limit is inability to target an audience other than knowing what type of people drive through a particular area. Sometimes, you can target specific types of workers entering an area. However, defining a more specific audience is difficult. Creative limitations exist as well. Billboards must have strong visual appeal, as you do not have much time to hit passersby with a lot of words.

Tags: Billboards typically, metropolitan area, number people, strong visual, strong visual appeal, visual appeal

Keep Puppies From Tearing Up Their Training Pads

Teach your canine companion what he cannot destroy during playtime.

Chewing and tearing things apart is an instinctive behavior among puppies. Puppies chew things like training pads and stuffed toys as a means to both explore their environment and gain attention. While training pads often include attracting odors meant to encourage puppies to use the pad for eliminating, many puppies ignore those smells and treat the pads as a toy instead.

Instructions

1. Set up a comfortable dog crate for your puppy. Do not place a puppy pad in the crate or place the pad under the crate to deny the puppy access to the pad. Place the puppy in the crate when you cannot provide supervision.

2. Place several training pads around your home's living areas. Keep the training pads away from the puppy's normal play area and feeding spot. This helps the puppy learn that he has a specific place to eliminate and prevents the puppy from using the pads as a toy.

3. Watch your puppy carefully; place him on a pad when he starts to show signs that he is looking for a place to eliminate. This helps the puppy associate the training pads with eliminating, rather than playing.

4. Keep a dog toy near the puppy at all times to focus tearing and chewing to the toy instead of the training pads.

5. Scold the puppy with a firm "no" when he destroys a pad. Only do this immediately after the destructive behavior and never when you return home to find a torn puppy pad. Scolding the dog without provocation causes the puppy to assume a negative connotation with the most recent activity, regardless of the activity.

6. Replace the training pad with a toy when you find the puppy tearing up or chewing on a pad. Firmly scold the dog with a "no," remove the pad and replace it with a toy. This helps the puppy understand what he can and cannot chew on.

Tags: training pads, helps puppy, This helps, This helps puppy, place eliminate, puppy crate, tearing chewing

Insulate A Barn

Barns in cold areas require some additional insulation to keep the horses warm.

Barns are typically constructed out of steel or wood and often lack insulation. Usually the roof is the only insulated part in a barn. There are several reasons for this, the most important of which is to keep insulation out of reach of horses, as horses are prone to chewing and eating things within reach. In cold areas, however, it's important to keep livestock warm, and insulation might become a necessity. When it comes to insulating a barn, the choices include fiberglass, radiant barrier and foam board. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Install the baffles (available at any home improvement shop) in any areas where it will be necessary to hold insulation in place. The most likely area for installing insulation is where the ceiling joists intersect with roof rafters. Staple the baffles in place in each opening between the rafters.

2. Take note of any electrical outlets or fixtures, and be sure to plan on keeping insulation a safe distance away. Fix 1-inch-by-4-inch pieces of wood around the electrical fixtures to create a box that will act as a retaining wall against the insulation.

3. Lay your plastic sheeting against the backside of the siding or roofing material where you intend to install the insulation. This creates a vapor barrier, which will allow for airflow, and prevent moisture from building up on the siding. Lay the sheets of plastic between the ceiling joists. Use your staple gun to tack the plastic to the sides of the joists.

4. Measure and cut the fiberglass insulation (available at home improvement stores). Insulation should be tucked snugly into the space between ceiling joists, with no gaps next to the ceiling joists or baffles. Do not compact the insulation as this will defeat the insulating effect. Lay the fiberglass insulation long-wise between the joists, and fix it to the baffles using the tools that came with the fiberglass insulation.

5. Cover the fiberglass insulation with rigid paneling to hide and protect it. Place the paneling over the insulated area and use the staple gun to tack it into place. Always follow manufacturer directions in regard to tools and safety when you're doing construction.

Tags: ceiling joists, fiberglass insulation, available home, available home improvement, between ceiling, between ceiling joists, cold areas

Texas Law On Dog Rabies Shots

Texas law requires that dogs are vaccinated before four months of age.

Rabies is a disease that is spread to humans and other mammals through bite or scratch wounds inflicted by infected animals. It is endemic to Texas and all dogs in Texas are required to be vaccinated against rabies. In the event that your dog bites someone, being unable to provide documentation that your dog is vaccinated against rabies could result in fines, quarantine periods or the destruction of your pet.

Definition of Rabies

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, rabies is a virus that effects the brain and central nervous system of mammals. It is transmitted through the contaminated saliva of an infected animal. Texas is home to all of the natural hosts of rabies in the United States--foxes, coyotes, skunks, raccoons and bats--and sees multiple cases of it every year. If your pet is bitten or scratched by one of these animals he could be at risk of contracting the rabies virus and spreading it to other animals or humans.

Texas Rabies Law

The Texas Administrative Code requires that all dogs (including dog-wolf hybrids) must be vaccinated by 16 weeks of age and must be re-vaccinated one year later. Following that, every dog must have its vaccination repeated every one or three years, depending on the type of vaccine used. All dogs that are transported into the state must be up to date on rabies vaccines, and their owners must have the documentation to prove it.

Vaccinations

Rabies vaccines can only be obtained and administered in Texas through a licensed veterinarian. After vaccinating your pet, the vet should provide you with a certificate that indicates the period of time in which your pet is legally considered vaccinated.

There are multiple manufacturers of rabies vaccine approved for use in Texas, and not all of the vaccines are approved for the same amount of time. If your pet bites someone, you will be required to produce this certificate for animal control law enforcement.

Exposure/Symptoms

The most common form of exposure occurs when an infected animal's saliva enters the blood stream of another warm blooded animal through a bite wound, open wound, scratch or mucus membrane (eyes, nose, mouth). Initial rabies symptoms are general lethargy and fever. Advanced symptoms include difficulty swallowing, behavior changes, over-excitability, aggressiveness, paralysis and death. There is no effective treatment for rabies after the symptoms appear.

Response to Possible Exposures

All suspected rabies cases and possible exposures to rabies should be reported to animal control law enforcement. There are varying responses to possible rabies exposure based on the circumstances of each situation. Wild animals that are suspected of having rabies are always euthanized and tested (testing requires brain tissue and that requires the animal be euthanized). Domesticated animals can be euthanized and tested or can be quarantined based on their vaccine status and level of exposure. An animal control officer and your veterinarian can assist you in correctly responding to a possible rabies threat.

Precautions

All warm blooded animals can contract and spread rabies. Be suspicious of any animal behaving in an unusual way, such as nocturnal animals being active in the day time, wild animals that seem friendly or tame or domestic animals that seem overly aggressive. If you or your dog is bitten by an animal, clean the wound immediately and seek medical help as quickly as possible to ensure that you and your pet do not contract this deadly disease.

Tags: animal control, animals that, that your, against rabies, animal control enforcement, animals that seem

Grants For Opening Animal Rescue Shelters

Grants are available to help fund shelters for stray animals.

Animal rescue shelters provide life-saving services to lost pets and stray animals, and give people the ability to adopt abandoned pets. Opening an animal shelter involves a lot of work, as well as considerable costs to get the shelter up and running. Fortunately, there are numerous grants available to keep alive the mission of rescuing stray animals. These grants help make it possible to open a shelter that can provide optimal care for its animal inhabitants.

DJ & T Foundation Grant

For gathering start-up or "seed" funds involved in opening an animal shelter---such as securing a building and establishing utilities---the DJ & T grant is a tremendous resource. Founded by Bob Barker, the famous television game show host, this grant helps animal rescue shelters---especially those that rescue dogs---with capital to open a shelter and get started.

The DJ & T Foundation gives special focus on animal rescue shelters that provide spaying and neutering services to prevent animal overpopulation. Grants are determined by close examination of the application and given depending on need; therefore, financial amounts awarded vary.

Meacham Foundation Memorial Grant

Established in 1969, the Meacham Foundation Memorial grant of $4000 is intended to support the enrichment of an animal shelter's environment. This money can be used to help pay for more space to house more animals and provide more care facilities when opening a shelter.

The Meacham Foundation Memorial Grant is available to registered agency members of the American Humane Association and only for shelters that will be nonprofit.

Second Chance Fund

A serious consideration when opening an animal rescue shelter is the considerable medical cost in caring for sheltered animals. A grant of $2000 for animal rescue shelters, the Second Chance Fund is available through the American Humane Association. This grant is specifically intended to cover medical expenses for animals that have been injured through neglect, abuse or abandonment. The Second Chance Fund is awarded once a year and is limited to American Humane Association member animal rescue shelter organizations.

Tags: American Humane, American Humane Association, animal rescue, Chance Fund, Foundation Memorial

Alabama Gulf Coast Activities

Alabama's Gulf Coast offers many water activities.

Located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, the Alabama gulf coast region offers visitors a range of activities and attractions. The area spans from the Florida border, near Pensacola, and up and over to Mobile, Alabama, according to the Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau. In addition to visiting the area attractions, be sure to visit the local beaches.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Located just blocks from the beach, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is home to more than 290 animals and provides 17 acres of animal habitats for visitors to explore. Animals at the zoo include bears, lions, monkeys and tigers as well as inhabitants of the zoo's reptile house and petting zoo. The museum is open for visitors daily, excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. During the summer months, the zoo presents daily animal shows, which are included in admission to the zoo.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

1204 Gulf Shores Parkway

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251-968-5732

alabamagulfcoastzoo.com

Alligator Alley

Home to more than 200 alligators, Alligator Alley offers visitors to Alabama's Gulf Coast the chance to see alligator feedings and observe the animals in their native habitat, co-mingling with other wildlife including bull frogs, ospreys and turtles. All of the park's alligators have been rescued, either from unsafe situations or after losing their fear of humans. Visitors are not able to interact with the gators, but they are able to view them from elevated boardwalks and platforms. Alligator Alley is open seven days a week, though according to its website visitors should call ahead for daily hours.

Alligator Alley

19950 County Road 71

Summerdale, AL 36580

251-946-2483

gatoralleyfarm.com

Cetacean Cruises

Cetacean Cruises offers several tours of the area's waterways aboard a glass-bottom boat. The one-and-a-half-hour dolphin cruise takes guests into the local bay to see dolphins. According to the Cetacean Cruise website, a pod of 19 to 30 dolphins stays in the area. The boat's crew provides information about the dolphins and answer any questions that guests might have. The two-hour dolphin and nature cruise visits the local dolphin pod and takes guests into a local swamp to view native wildlife, including alligators, boars, egrets, herons, raccoons and snakes. Both tours are given on the Alabama Cruizin', a 40-foot pontoon boat that holds up to 30 passengers

Cetacean Cruses

5991 West Perdido Ave.

Orange Beach, AL 36561

251-550-8000

cetaceancruises.com

Gulf Shores Musuem

Offering free admission, the Gulf Shores Museum provides visitors a chance to view both permanent and rotating exhibits providing insight into Gulf Shores and Alabama's Gulf Coast. Permanent exhibits at the museum include "Portrait of a Fishing Village," telling the story of area residents in the 19th century, "Drawing a Line in the Sand," celebrating Gulf Shore's 50th anniversary, and "Hurricanes: What You Need to Know," offering facts and information about hurricanes. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and is closed on all major holidays.

Gulf Shores Museum

244 West 19th Ave.

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251-968-1473

gulfshoresal.gov

Tags: Alabama Gulf, Gulf Shores, Gulf Coast, Alabama Gulf Coast, Alligator Alley, Alabama Gulf Coast, Cetacean Cruises

Illinois Coonhound Events

Coonhounds are used for hunting.

Coonhounds, a specific breed of hound boasting a powerful sense of scent, gained their name after being used to hunt raccoons. Coonhound events, like those found in Illinois, typically feature a hunt and some type of show. In Illinois, you can locate coonhound events through national organizations, like the American Kennel Club, or regional resources, such as the Illinois State Coonhunters Association.

Professional Kennel Club's World Coonhound Championships

The Professional Kennel Club's World Coonhound Championships were traditionally hosted in Kentucky. In late 2009, however, the event was relocated to Salem, Illinois. The Professional Kennel Club had been considering relocating; when an ice storm paralyzed Kentucky, Illinois stepped up to the plate. Firearms are not allowed at the PKC World Coonhound Championships. The hunt is based solely on which coonhound can chase and capture raccoons the fastest.

American Black & Tan Coonhound Association

American Black & Tan Coonhound Association events are regularly held in Illinois. Events in 2011 include the Oraville Sportmans Club hunt, held in Oraville on March 19; the May 27-28 Pearl City Coon Club event; and the Sorento CHA event scheduled for June 10-11. American Black & Tan Coonhound Association events are intended to encourage black and tan enthusiasts and promote the breed through hunts and shows, while providing a forum for enthusiasts to interact with each other and the breed.

Illinois State Coonhunters Association Events

The Illinois Department of National Resources regulates the Illinois State Coonhunters Association. Its local clubs host competition bench show and night hunts throughout the year. Prestigious events include the Governor's Cup hunt and the Battle of Breeds. In addition, the association often promotes youth hunt events, including a Scholarship Hunt. The association was developed in 1971 with the goal of uniting Illinois coon hunting sportsmen to protect and preserve coon hunting for the benefit of future generations. Its emphasis on youth hunting events reflects this goal.

United Kennel Club Events

One of the most prestigious coonhound events hosted in Illinois is the United Kennel Club World Coonhound Championship Finals (although this is not always located in Illinois). In 2009, the event was held in Elizabeth, Illinois, where 100 coonhound dogs competed for the title of World Champion. The United Kennel Club also hosts additional events in Illinois, including an annual Outstanding UKC Coonhound of the Year Series event; in 2011, this event will be held in Sparta, Illinois on April 30.

Tags: Kennel Club, World Coonhound, American Black, American Black Coonhound, Black Coonhound, Black Coonhound Association, Club World

Keep Pygmy Goats

Pygmy goats are so very cute.

They are very cute. They like having their snouts rubbed and scratched and are as affectionate as a cat (ie. When they want to be). Pygmy goats are comfortable around dogs, cats and horses. They have very cool distinctive pupils that are horizontal rectangles. "That's why some people have likened them to the devil," says Cheryl Daniels of North Hills, Calif. who has two Pygmies, who live harmoniously with the family's horses, cats, and four big dogs.Pygmy goats originated in the Cameroon Valley of western Africa, (their official name are African Pygmy Goats). They were imported into the United States from European zoos about 50 years ago for use in zoos and as a research animal. Private breeders acquired them and they became very popular as pets because of their good-natured personalities, friendliness and hardy constitution. They’re standard at petting zoos.

Instructions

Keep Pygmy Goats

1. You need at least a 20-by-20 foot fenced area for two Pgymy Goats. Fencing should be at least 5 feet high (you must keep stray dogs out; they’ve been known to kill does). You can get non-climb fencing. For kids, you may need to adhere cardboard to the fence to prevent them from squeezing out. Be sure you use good quality hardware.

2. Make a sleeping platform; an old door can serve this purpose.

3. Keep hay feeders off the ground to protect against parasites. Hang on a fence or in a shelter on a metal rack.

4. Always have fresh, clean water available. Elevate the water above the ground for cleanliness. (Make sure a kid cannot fall in; they can’t get out). Automatic waters are convenient, but expensive.

5. Make or buy Grain Mix: 6 parts rolled barley, 4.5 parts rolled oats, 2.5 parts rolled corn, 1.5 parts soybean pellets. Feed pygmy goats quality alfalfa supplement with grain twice a day. (Wethers should not be fed grain after they are weaned due to the high possibility they will develop urinary calculi (stones). Fresh clean water is of course a must.) Goats will not eat feed that falls on the ground (to them it’s dirty).

6. Trim hooves at least every four months.

7. Goats need a yearly booster of Tetanus C & D. Give does and bucks a vaccination of 2cc of Clostridium perfringens types C&D tetanus toxoid (CD&T) yearly. (Ask your vet about pregnant does)

8. De-worm goats more than six-months old once a year.

9. Give your goats something to play on. They like to climb and jump. Wooden cable spools are a lot of fun for them.

10. Groom your goat. Goats really enjoy being groomed, especially in spring when they are shedding their winter coats (I like to have on hand a a dog undercoat rake for combing out their undercoat). Grooming is an excellent bonding activity with your goats.

Tags: parts rolled, Pygmy goats, clean water, cute They, Goats need, Keep Pygmy

Laws For Changing The Name On A Birth Certificate In Florida

The Bureau for Vital Statistics, a division of the Florida Department of Health, maintains and makes certified copies of all birth certificates for the state of Florida. Making changes to a birth certificate is not something the bureau does lightly, and all such changes must follow strict rules.

One Year Old

Until a child reaches age 1, his given name or surname on his birth certificate is subject to change if both of his parents or his legal guardian sign an affidavit requesting the change. If both of the child's parents are named on the certificate but one will not sign an affidavit, then a court order is required to change the name. (see reference 1)

Wedlock

A child born out of wedlock whose parents marry at a later date may have her original birth certificate replaced with a new one that shows the parents' relationship as if they were married at the time of the birth. From that time forward, all certified copies of the birth certificate will reflect the new certificate. A court order will be needed to issue a copy of the old certificate. (see references1)

Father

If an individual is named as the father on a birth certificate, only a court order can remove his name or replace his name with that of another, according to Florida statute 382.016. A court order is also required for changing the surname in connection with changing the individual named as the father. (see references 1)

Paternity Established Elsewhere

If a child is born in Florida but his paternity is established in another state, then the Department of Health will change the child's birth certificate and list the newly established father if the department receives a certified copy of an acknowledgment of paternity or a judgment or judicial order from another state that proves the child's paternity. However, the department will not change the birth certificate if the paternity was established by adoption and the father would not be eligible to adopt in the state of Florida. (see refrences1)

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Sick Dog Remedies

Sick Dog Remedies

The sooner a medical problem is detected in your dog, the more chances that dog has for a full recovery. But you can't afford to go to the vet for minor problems. There are some things you can do when your dog has certain ailments. When in doubt, however, call a vet.

Vomiting

Dogs normally vomit after eating too rich of a diet, from eating too fast or from being ill. If your dog has only vomited once or twice and otherwise acts normal, you can safely ignore it. But if the dog is vomiting several times but otherwise seems normal, you withhold all food (but not water) for 24 hours. The next day, feed boiled chicken and rice instead of the usual food. If this doesn't work, call the vet. If the dog vomits a lot and shows other symptoms such as diarrhea or looking very frightened, call the vet immediately.

Diarrhea

The treatment is similar for vomiting. If the dog only goes a few times in one day and seems fine otherwise, withhold all food for 24 hours and feed a bland diet or just some dog kibble for a day until the stool looks normal again. If the dog has other symptoms or has diarrhea every day, you should go to the vet. Only having loose stools once is normal.

Bee Sting

Get the dog into a quiet spot and try to look at the sting. If it's still there, remove it with tweezers. Then, apply a cool compress to the area of the sting, or apply it as long as the dog will allow. Call the vet to check about giving a child's dose of a human antihistamine such as brand name Benadryl, or a human cortisone cream, to ease symptoms. Don't give the medicine until you get an OK from the vet. If the dog starts vomiting or swells up at the sting site alarmingly, get to the vet.

Poisoning

If your dog has eaten poison or a large chunk of chocolate, you may need to make it vomit immediately. Call your vet or a poison control center to see whether the dog needs to vomit. You can do this by making a mixture of 1 part hydrogen peroxide and 1part water and dosing your dog with it.

Heat Exhaustion

If a dog collapses due to the heat, soak a towel and place it on the dog. If possible, move the dog to a shady place. You still should call the vet in case fluids must be intravenously administered.

Tags: other symptoms, Sick Remedies, withhold food

Find Cheap Hotels In San Antonio Texas

Find Cheap Hotels in San Antonio, Texas

Find Cheap Hotels in San Antonio, Texas. San Antonio, Texas is located in the southern part of the state of Texas. With the San Antonio River rambling through the center of a town filled with fun, family attractions and historical monuments, San Antonio combines nature with urban aesthetic to create its unique, historic presence in the South. Read on to learn more about finding cheap accommodations in this charming city.

Instructions

Know Your Destination

1. Don't lose yourself in the crowd. San Antonio is the 2nd largest city in Texas with 1.2 million people.

2. Amaze your fellow travelers with a fun fact such as San Antonio was named for Saint Anthony of Padua back in 1691. This name was granted thanks to the Spanish dropping into town on the day of this patron's celebratory feast.

3. Bring a sweater. Although temperatures can hit over 100 degrees during the dry San Antonio summers, winter has been known to reach below freezing.

Seek Out Accommodations

4. To book accommodations, contact San Antonio Conventions & Visitors Bureau at (800) 447-3372 or visit their Web site (see Resources below).

5. Feel right at home in one of San Antonio's romantic bed and breakfasts. Starting at a cheap $60 and ranging to more than $100, these intimate digs are perfect Texas accommodations.

6. Save your budget by booking accommodations at a cheap chain motel. San Antonio offers a wide variety of popular chain accommodations that will can you up for about $40 to $60.

7. Treat yourself to a stay along the river. You'll be able to enjoy the historic surroundings of hotels in this area, as well as riverfront views.

Get Around Town

8. Have a blast riding through town on San Antonio's open-air VIA streetcar. With a cheap fare of about $1 a ride (or a month's pass for a steal), this fun mode of transportation will take you all over the city.

9. Join the other tourists on the VIA 7. This bus is specifically designed to take you to the most popular visitor destinations.

10. Take a boat down the San Antonio River. Not for the seasick, this fun mode of transportation is a great way to get up close and personal with the sights.

See the Sights

11. Take a stroll down the River Walk. Located on the San Antonio River, this famous area makes for a relaxing jaunt filled with restaurants, shops, and peaceful river views.

12. Remember the Alamo by taking some pictures at this famous historical site. Once a church, this now museum was the famed fortress used to keep Texas alive during the Texas Revolution.

13. Pet a dolphin at Sea World. Located in Westover Hills in San Antonio, this marine park offers shows and exhibits starring slippery fish and sea life.

Tags: Antonio Texas, Antonio River, Cheap Hotels, Cheap Hotels Antonio, Find Cheap, Find Cheap Hotels, Hotels Antonio

Rehome A Cockatoo

Find a loving new home for your pet cockatoo.

The cockatoo is a well-known pet bird that comes from Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia. The bird species has a long lifespan and is known for its striking crests and curious, loving temperaments. If you have a cockatoo and for whatever reason cannot keep it (such as moving to an apartment that doesn't accept pets), the first thing that you need to do is find a suitable new home for it.

Instructions

1. Contact a cockatoo rescue in your area. Many cockatoo rescue groups focus on providing havens for birds that have been abandoned and abused, and also for those that simply have nowhere else to go. Apart from offering homes for cockatoos, these rescues actively seek out new homes for them, as well. Indicate to the rescue the reason why you need to rehome the cockatoo, whether you do not know deal with the bird's behavior, are moving out or simply do not have enough time to care for it.

2. Post an ad on the Internet. Many websites offer pet classified services, such as Petfinder (www.petfinder.com). Scan a clear photograph of your bird and indicate its age, your general location, any health conditions it may have and its basic temperament. Determine an adoption fee for your bird, as many websites avoid posting free animals (to prevent adoptions from people that are not serious). Apart from Petfinder, another option is Craigslist (www.craigslist.org), which also allows classified postings free of charge.

3. Contact your newspaper classifieds. Many people also browse local newspapers for available pets. Take out a classified ad for your cockatoo and specify your area, how old your cockatoo is and perhaps even what kind of household would be beneficial for its needs. Depending on your specific newspaper, classified ads usually require a small fee but may be worth it, as many people look at them every week.

4. Ask around. As a cockatoo lover, it can never hurt to ask people you know if they know of other people seeking new birds as pets. Doing this can also be effective for seeking appropriate and experienced owners that know the ropes when it comes to caring for these gentle birds.

Tags: your cockatoo, Apart from, cockatoo rescue, simply have, your area, your bird

Help Underprivileged Children

Donating items or time is a way of changing the life of a needy child.

The world is full of children in need and many organizations specialize in helping underprivileged children overcome obstacles. Some organizations ask for donated items, while others need volunteers. Helping a child in need can make a big difference in his or her life.

Instructions

Books for Kids

1. Donate books to children in need. The Books for Kids Foundation works to promote literacy in children who face a variety of disadvantages. The donated books will help to create libraries in locations where kids have few resources. The organization began in 1986, and now has over 50 libraries.

2. Send in a book or money donation. The organization only accepts new books in order to provide needy children with the best materials possible. The organization also takes checks or money orders for donations. The money purchases new books and sets up libraries.

3. Volunteer for the organization. Books for Kids seeks reliable volunteers who can help with the libraries and with special events held throughout the year. Volunteers are also needed to transport and deliver books. Volunteers may also work in schools and other institutions, to promote literacy.

The Real Gift Foundation

4. Volunteer to help homeless kids. The Real Gift Foundation strives to provide help to the children of homeless families. Volunteers will help to feed kids, collect school supplies and participate in educational programs, all geared towards helping children who are without a home.

5. Contact the organization online or send an email. The organization is located in Scottsdale, Arizona and offers many volunteer opportunities available to individuals who live in the area and want to help. Include special skills and other vital information pertaining to the job in any correspondence with them.

6. Donate money or items to help homeless children. People who do not live in the region, but still wish to help, can send money. The organization also provides a wish list, that has all the items needed to help homeless kids. It includes items like non-perishable foods, coloring books and crayons, clothing, and toys.

Tags: Books Kids, help homeless, children need, Gift Foundation, help homeless kids, homeless kids, organization also

List Of Hunting Dogs

Hunting dog

Hounds, gun dogs, feists, terriers and curs comprise the five main categories of hunting dogs. These can be further broken down into subcategories that describe whether the dog uses scent or sight to track prey or by whether they retrieve, point or flush. Breeders often created dogs to fill more than one role and many of these breeds make excellent pets and show dogs in addition to their working abilities.

Scent Hounds

Basset hound

Scent hounds use their talented noses to track prey and are sometimes used to kill game. A popular example of a scent hound, the basset hound was first introduced to the world in 1860's Paris. The basset hound's superior sense of smell and slow reflexes make it a great companion for hunters on foot in search of fox, rabbit or pheasant. A mild and loyal temperament paired with a charming appearance has created a historical disagreement about whether this breed should be a show dog or a hunting dog.

Gun Dogs

Labrador retriever

Small game hunters who use shotguns often find the perfect companion in retrievers, spaniels, setters and pointers. These dogs can locate game, especially birds, and follow specific commands to flush the birds into view on cue. Retrievers can then follow the path of a fallen bird and bring the game back to the hunter. Many of these dogs are adept swimmers with large, gentle muzzles, perfectly suited for retrieving ducks from the water.

Feists and Terriers

Terrier

Feists and terriers hunt squirrels, rodents, birds and other small game befitting their small stature. These dogs can jump up to 4 feet high--an admirable feat considering many breeds average less than 18 inches tall. These dogs can exhibit all manner of coloring and patterns, as they are not often used as show dogs.

Curs

Cur

The title cur often refers to a mixed-breed dog similar to a feist or terrier who weighs more than 30 lbs. and is capable of hunting boar, raccoon or even mountain lions. These dogs have been bred for hunting ability, intelligence and an assertive temperament, and thus can have a varied appearance. Many curs, like the Catahoula cur, often show exceptional talents as herding dogs. Curs such as the blackmouth are popular as pet dogs for large families because of their loyalty and capacity for social bonding.

Tags: These dogs, dogs Curs, more than, show dogs, track prey

Pygmy Hedgehog Diet

Pygmy hedgehog

The African pygmy hedgehog can eat vegetables and meat, but thrives primarily as an insectivore. In the wild this small, four-legged creature forages for insects, slugs, worms and small animals. Activity levels differ between wild and captive hedgehogs and can affect the appropriate diet. As a domestic pet in captivity, the pygmy hedgehog can eat a basic protein diet low in fat.

High-protein Diet

Dry cat food

A captive pygmy hedgehog can eat high-quality cat food that is more readily available and economical than packaged hedgehog food. Some hedgehog food offers lower nutritional value than cat food. Dry cat food high in protein can help minimize dental problems because the solid food allows the hedgehog to exercise its teeth.

Cat food may result in fatty deposits and liver toxicity. Consequences can include a shorter lifespan and health problems such as obesity.

Serve food at room temperature or warmer. Cold or frozen food may lead to stomach or intestinal upset that causes diarrhea.

Supplements

While dry food provides a staple, a pygmy hedgehog should eat a variety of foods to supplement its diet. Benefits of supplements include increased activity levels, food consumption and sociability. Treats can offset a monotonous diet. Treats, which shouldn't be fed more than three or four times a week, include canned cat food with meat, cooked chicken, turkey, lamb, insects, fruits and vegetables. Offer these supplements for a maximum of 15 minutes, then remove.

Servings

Tiny pieces of banana as a treat

Cook chicken, turkey or lamb, then chop in tiny pieces. Serve 1 oz. of meat per day. Boiled or scrambled egg finely chopped also adds variety. An insectivore diet can consist of 1 tsp. of high-quality insects such as four small mealworms or one large mealworm offered live, boiled or dead. Occasionally include butter worms, ants, roaches, waxworms and silkworms. Freeze-dried versions, such as earthworms, are also acceptable and convenient. A natural source of fiber comes from the cricket's shell. Crickets and mealworms have a high fat content. Monitor closely the amount of crickets and mealworms fed to a captive hedgehog to avoid obesity and other health problems.

Vegetables as a supplement include cooked carrots, green beans, peas, endamame, mashed potato, sweet potato, broccoli and tomato. Fruit portions can consist of apple, applesauce, banana, berries and melon. A pygmy hedgehog may or may not find these treats palatable.

Introducing New Foods

Gradually introduce new foods, one at a time, to the pygmy hedgehog. Combining one food with small amounts of cooked meat or vegetables can offer a variety of nutrients. If the pygmy hedgehog does not like eating a new food on its own, he may accept the food as a mixture. Experiment with one new food for a few days before adding a second new food.

Precautions

Because pygmy hedgehogs cannot process lactose found in milk, do not serve milk or chocolate. Choking hazards include nuts, dried fruit and seeds. Grapes and raisins may cause renal failure. Never serve sugary, high fat, spiced or salty foods. Avoid raw meat and meat with bones.

Insects caught outdoors pose serious problems if fed to pygmy hedgehogs: bacterial infections, parasites, viruses. Insects may be exposed to dangerous materials, fertilizers, pesticides and vehicle fluids. Certain insects, such as the firefly, are toxic. Serve insects purchased from a reputable pet store or source that raises healthy insects.

Tags: pygmy hedgehog, pygmy hedgehog, chicken turkey, chicken turkey lamb, food with, health problems

What Foods Make Dogs Sick

Keep your dog on a pet-friendly diet and don't feed her harmful human foods.

There are some foods you enjoy that are quite inviting to the doe-eyed canine sitting at your feet, but don’t be tempted to share. Human treats can be quite dangerous for your dog, causing mild digestive upsets, severe illness and even death. The best cure is prevention, so avoid feeding your pet these foods and pet-proof your kitchen to keep your canine safe.

Grapes

Grapes can be toxic to dogs and cause renal failure, leading to death

Grapes have an unknown toxic substance and can be toxic to dogs, cause kidney problems and, in some cases, death. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center reports that as few as seven grapes can be toxic to your dog. Raisins are more concentrated than grapes and more toxic.

Chocolate

Chocolate, coffee or anything with caffeine contains a stimulant that is dangerous to dogs.

According to nutrition experts at the ASPCA, methylxanthines- found in chocolate, coffee or anything with caffeine-can cause symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, increased urination, seizures and death.

Dark chocolate is more dangerous to your dog than milk chocolate. White chocolate has the lowest level of methylxanthines and baking chocolate contains the highest.

Artificially Sweetened Foods

Don't let your dog pick gum off the street-it has a sweetener that could cause hypoglycemia.

According to PetMD, the popular artificial sweetener, Xylitol, found in many products including candy, gum, baked goods, toothpaste and mouthwash, can cause insulin to release in your dog and lead to liver failure.

Initial signs of toxicity include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination, and symptoms can quickly develop with the sudden lowering of your dog's blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Some dogs develop more severe complications including internal bleeding and death.

Onions

Onions and garlic can kill your dog's red blood cells and make her anemic.

Onions and garlic contain thiolsulfate ion, which can kill the hemoglobin in your dog's red blood cells and cause anemia if h eats a large amount. Onions contain more thiolsulfate than garlic and are proportionally more dangerous to animals. An occasional low dose of garlic, which you might find in treats or dog food, will likely not cause a problem.

Yeast Dough

Yeast dough can rupture your dog's stomach or intestines.

According to the ASPCA, yeast dough can produce gas and swell in your dog's digestive system and lead to the rupture of his stomach or intestines. The risk is far less once the dough is fully cooked-your dog can then have a few small pieces of bread as treats.

Alcohol

Alcohol can intoxicate your dog and cause serious liver damage.

Alcohol can be harmful to your dog. It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, coma and death. It can poison your dog just as it can you, but more rapidly, severely damaging her liver and possibly triggering total liver failure.

Tags: your blood, anything with, blood cells, coffee anything, coffee anything with, dangerous your