Monday, November 30, 2015

How Do Mouse Lemurs Communicate

Mouse lemurs are nocturnal creatures who sport extremely large eyes. Only eight species exist, all within the realms of Madagascar and the eastern portion of Africa. One mouse lemur species -- the pygmy mouse lemur -- is a little over 2 inches long, making it the smallest primate in existence. Mouse lemurs communicate through a few different techniques, each one used depending upon the situation.


Smells


One of the mouse lemur primary means of communication -- like many other mammals -- is through smell. Lemurs leave scents as they travel, giving other members of their groups a means of following or finding them. Outside of natural body scents, lemurs mark their territories, mainly by urinating in specific areas. Marking is a lemur ritual during mating, too.


Voice Communication - Infants


The lemur communication arsenal consists of several voice calls; calls for adults differ from those of juveniles. Infants perform a few calls, including purrs and grunts. Alternatively, infants will also give a distress call, usually when they can't find their mother. Infant lemurs will perform a call known as an "elimination call," which signifies they have expelled waste.


Voice Communication -- Adults


Adult mouse lemurs -- like infants -- have a broad range of voice communication. Adults are known to scream, often signifying surprise, much as monkeys or humans do. Lemurs also whistle; the longer ones are thought to be produced when lemurs feel disturbed. A lemur "trill" is a noise that has different meanings depending upon the loudness behind the call. Trills are thought to relate to breeding. Adult lemurs issue gathering calls around dawn. When threatened, lemurs will growl, signifying themselves as a potential threat.


Social Communication


In group settings, several different behaviors exhibit communication. Prior to the mating season, males will commonly become more aggressive and fight -- a response to the upcoming competition where males will have to win females in order to reproduce successfully. Calm social behaviors include huddling in groups and grooming, which are altruistic behaviors that likely increase group camaraderie.

Tags: mouse lemur, depending upon, lemurs will, males will, Voice Communication

California Laws About Rabies Shots

California rabies laws are in place to control the disease in the state.


Rabies vaccinations for pets in the state of California are given in accordance with annual rabies laws and regulations set in place by the California Department of Public Health. The law also stipulates that in addition to having the vaccinations provided by licensed veterinary clinics, local and state agencies must provide rabies clinics to the public. California pet licenses cannot be provided to animals that do not show proof of a current rabies vaccination.


Dog and Cat Vaccination Requirements


Pets that have not been vaccinated for rabies can be impounded.


Dogs owned by California residents that are older than four months need to be vaccinated against rabies at intervals set into law by the state. According to California Rabies Laws and Regulations 121690 item b, rabies vaccinations may be required on an annual basis. At present, California rabies vaccine protocol calls for an initial approved rabies vaccine at four months of age and then one rabies vaccine administered within a 12-month period. Follow up vaccines are then given at three-year intervals. Any dog that gets the initial vaccine when it is older than 1 will begin the three-year cycle after the first administered vaccination. The vaccination requirements for cats is the same.


The rabies vaccine must be given by a licensed veterinarian in a manner stipulated by the California Department of Public Health. Dogs that are not properly vaccinated are typically impounded by local authorities.


Puppy and Kitten Requirements


Puppies under the age of four months are too young to be vaccinated.


In accordance with California Rabies Laws and Regulations, 121690 item c, all puppies that are younger than four months must be restricted to the owner's premises, or kept under physical restraint by their owner until they are old enough to be vaccinated for rabies. The rabies law is the same for kittens. There is no portion of the law that specifically addresses puppies or kittens that are sold or transported while under the age of four months.


Criminal Considerations


Punishment for harboring a subject animal may result in fines or prison.


If it is found that a person has harbored or withheld information regarding an animal known to carry rabies, or that has bitten a person without benefit of a current rabies vaccination, that person can be charged with a misdemeanor in the state. Owners that do not turn over animals in violation of vaccine laws may face prison time or fines. Fines can range from $100 to $1,000 per day.

Tags: four months, rabies vaccine, 121690 item, accordance with, California Department

German Shepherd Mix Training

German shepherd mixed breeds love structured activities like obedience training.


If you've adopted a German shepherd mix, start basic obedience training right away. German shepherds need mental stimulation as much as they need regular physical exercise. German shepherds descend from herding and livestock dogs and are renowned for their intelligence and loyalty to family. Training a German shepherd mix is no different than training a purebred shepherd, since the fundamental approach doesn't change.


Set Training Goals


Approach the training with a few goals in mind. Say you want to train "Sit," "Stay" and "Down". Depending on your shepherd's age (puppies generally have shorter attention spans) schedule several one-on-one sessions each day. Start with five-minute trainings. Dogs, regardless of breeding, learn best in short, frequent and focused lessons.


Train in Spaces Without Distractions


When you begin teaching a new behavior, like "Sit," bring your shepherd mix to an area of the house that has the least amount of distractions: a small laundry room, office or sunroom away from noise, pedestrian traffic or dog toys.


Reward Good Behavior


Use treats, verbal praise or a favorite toy to reward your shepherd for good behavior. If you choose treats bring a handful to reward successful "sits." Stand in front of your dog, put a treat under its nose and raise the hand with the treat toward its forehead, right between the ears and hover it there.


Patience Is the Key


Keep the reward out of reach--about six inches above the dog's head. If your dog jumps, raise the treat higher above its head. Say "Sit" one time--don't repeat it. Now wait. Don't say anything to your dog. Your dog's weight shifts slightly backwards as it looks up at the treat, and it will "Sit" more readily from this position.


Conclusion


When your shepherd sits, reward with the treat, saying "Good dog!" Be upbeat and positive when rewarding, to communicate that they got it right. Shepherds are working dogs and love structured activity. Play to your shepherd's strength and intelligence. Once your dog sits promptly when told, you can advance to more difficult behaviors, such as "Stay" and "Down," but don't move off the basic "Sit" until it is reliably performed.

Tags: your shepherd, German shepherd, above head, German shepherds, love structured, obedience training

Train To Be An Animal Control Officer In Canada

To become an animal control officer in Canada, you must gain experience.


Animal control officers are responsible for enforcing federal, provincial and municipal laws and bylaws concerning the treatment, handling and protection of animals. To train to be an animal control officer in Canada, you must acquire the appropriate education from a post-secondary institution and gain relevant animal handling experience.


Instructions


1. Research the requirements to become an animal control officer in your home province. Each province in Canada has individual requirements for animal control officers. For example, in Ontario, many agencies and municipalities require officers to be qualified Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) investigators before they can apply for job openings.


2. Acquire the appropriate education and training. Although some municipalities and animal control companies require their officers to have a diploma in any given discipline, many municipalities now require their animal control officers to have a diploma or certificate in a law enforcement discipline or a four-year degree in animal science.


3. Gain applicable animal control experience. Before entering the field as an animal control officer, you must gain experience working with animals. Most officers gain this experience volunteering at animal shelters, animal hospitals and humane societies. Municipalities favor candidates with the appropriate education combined with hands-on experience handling and caring for animals.


4. Join your provincial association for animal control or animal shelters. Most provinces have a governing body for animal control officers and animal shelters. These associations oversee and enforce provincial standards and procedures in municipalities and animal shelters. Belonging to your provincial association shows potential employers that you abide by the rules and regulations in your province.

Tags: animal control, animal control officer, animal shelters, control officer, control officers, animal control officers, appropriate education

Friday, November 27, 2015

Create A Virtual Zoo

Zoo Tycoon allows players to create realistic habitats.


Many computer games now allow players to create realistic virtual environments. Zoo Tycoon helps gamers establish a virtual zoo in which financial success or failure depends on the player's ability to provide appropriate habitats for the animals placed in the zoo. Zoo Tycoon is a simulation game in which resembles a real zoo because both animals and zoo guests may do the unexpected.


Instructions


1. Install Zoo Tycoon on your computer. Log in using an account that has administrator privileges. Put the installation disk in the CD or DVD drive of the computer and follow the on-screen prompts. If the installation program does not launch itself, go to the desktop and double-click on the My Computer icon (in Windows 7, click on the start button and choose Computer).


Find the icon for the CD or DVD drive and right-click on it. Choose Autoplay. This will launch the installation program manually.


2. Double click on the Zoo Tycoon icon on your desktop. The installation program creates a shortcut and places it there. You must have the Zoo Tycoon disk in your CD or DVD drive in order for the program to run.


Choose "Play Freeform Game" from the menu that appears. A list of possible zoos will appear. Choose "Basic Grass Map (Small)" and click the "Play" button at the lower right edge of the screen. A beginner zoo will appear on the screen.


3. Click on the construction icon. It is located in the top left corner of the screen. A menu will pop up. Click on the top icon on the right side of the menu to select fences. Click on the tall chain link fence to select it.


Click and drag across any grassy area to draw an L-shaped piece of chain link fence. Place the mouse cursor against one edge of the fence and click and drag to continue the fence line. Repeat until you have created a rectangular enclosure with no gaps. A box will pop up prompting you to name the exhibit you have created. Type "Bears" in the box.


4. Click on the animals icon on the left side of the screen. Second from the top, it shows a panda bear. A menu will pop up. Scroll down the list of animals. About three-fourths down you will see an icon of a large black bear. Click on it to purchase an Asian black bear.


A ghosted image of a bear appears. Move the cursor until the bear is inside the enclosure you built. Click to place the bear inside the enclosure. Click again to place another bear. The bears will begin to move around and guests will begin to enter the zoo to see them.


5. Change the habitat in the enclosure to suit the bears. Click on the construction icon again. A menu will pop up. Choose the button with a bush on it. This will allow you to adjust the terrain inside the enclosure.


Click on the snow terrain choice and click inside the terrain. The bears will release green happy face icons. This tells you that they like the change. Click on the various terrain types and apply them, watching the bears reactions.


For more information about the bears' habitat needs, right click to close the construction menu. Then click on a bear and from the pop up in the lower right corner, click on the zoo keeper icon. A list of requirements will pop up, telling you what the bears need to be happy in your zoo.


6. Repeat Steps 2 through 5 to build more enclosures and place other animals in them.

Tags: inside enclosure, installation program, menu will, bear inside, bear inside enclosure, bears will

The Best Temperament Dog Breeds

An even-tempered dog is a welcome addition to a family.


When a family seeks out a dog as a pet, i.e., primarily for companionship, it will look for qualities of a good family member. Particularly when young children are about, gentleness, friendliness and patience are prized characteristics. Fortunately, many breeds from American Kennel Club classifications possess these traits, giving dog shoppers a wide variety from which to choose.


Toy Breeds


Toy dogs are small canines bred specifically for companionship, thus many breeds of this group are good-tempered. Among the most agreeable toy breeds is the pug. Originating in the Far East, this breed is known for its playful yet stable personality. Pugs are eager to please and are not known for causing trouble. Likewise, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel is known for its gentleness and devotion, although it can express its love with a good deal of vim and vigor. Whether running or napping, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel is content. Other even-tempered toy breeds include the shih-tzu and the Havanese.


Terriers


The original purpose of these breeds was to chase off rats, mice and other pests. But terriers adapt quite well to keeping company. The miniature schnauzer, for example, was bred in Germany to control farm vermin. Today this breed is as comfortable in an apartment as in a barn or on a pasture. Miniature schnauzers learn quickly and respond well to training. Another terrier breed, the soft-coated wheaten terrier, originally was used by poor farmers to police the perimeters for pests. While they need ample exercise, these terriers are loyal companions for adults and children alike.


Working Breeds


Working dogs originally were bred to serve as beasts of burden, guardians of property and searcher-rescuers. Perhaps the most widely known example is the Saint Bernard. The image of this noble beast saving the life of an avalanche victim is factually based, since that was the dog's purpose. The Saint Bernard takes well to obedience training and is a loyal and loving family member. A prospective owner with infants or toddlers, however, does well to remember that a puppy will grow very large, its amiability notwithstanding. The boxer is also illustrative of a well-tempered working dog. It is a natural people pleaser and low-maintainance with respect to grooming.


Sporting Breeds


Sporting dog breeds were developed to assist in the hunting of game fowl. Because these dogs have worked side by side with people for generations, they have grown comfortable among them. Any reader of the LL Bean catalog is familiar with the Labrador retriever. This is the most popular breed in the United States due to its deep desire to please and its training aptitude. Most labs enjoy water, and are happiest in the midst of family. Like the lab, the Welsh springer spaniel thrives among people, and does not like to be alone. It was first bred in Wales during the Renaissance, and is easily taught if training starts early. Welsh springers love exercise, but also require daily grooming. The Sussex spaniel and Irish water dog are additional sporting breeds known for their good nature.


Non-Sporting Breeds


This classification of dogs consists of primarily companion breeds. The Tibetan terrier, looking perfectly suited to weather the harsh climate of its original region, was first bred in Buddhist monasteries. These dogs are very in tune with the emotions of their family members, and always seek to be a comforting presence. The French bulldog performs a similarly soothing role. A typical lap dog, the Frenchie needs minimal exercise and next to no grooming.

Tags: Cavalier King, Cavalier King Charles, Charles spaniel, family member, first bred, King Charles, King Charles spaniel

Thursday, November 26, 2015

How Do Flying Squirrels Use Their Noses

A flying squirrel sniffs its way along a branch.


Flying squirrels glide from one treetop to another in search of food. They can reach heights of up to 90 m, or 295 feet, from the ground. At that height, hunting during the dark nocturnal hours, a flying squirrel needs a powerful nose to detect food on the forest floor. They have adapted their noses to several other purposes as well.


Finding Truffles


Truffles are the part of an underground mushroom that bears fruit. Flying squirrels use their sensitive noses to identify truffles by the truffles' pungent smell. This is advantageous to not only the squirrel, which gets a tasty meal, but also the truffle spores. After the squirrel consumes the truffle, it later excretes its feces with the spores allowing new truffles to grow to whichever new area the squirrel has traveled. The squirrel droppings contain yeast which stimulates truffle growth.


Sensing a Predator


A study funded by the Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research Center revealed that flying squirrels use their noses to avoid predators. The researchers experimented on captive flying squirrels by giving them the choice of various nest boxes. The control boxes were unscented, and the experiment boxes contained the scents of squirrel predators like the corn snake, the king snake and the bobcat. The squirrels avoided the predator-scented boxes. The scientists hypothesized that predator scents could be used as a deterrent for flying squirrels in the future.


Detecting Other Squirrels


The naturalist Lawrence Kilham, in a treatise on the reproductive behavior of white-breasted nuthatches, confirms that flying squirrels mark their territory by urinating. Other squirrels will pick up a competing squirrel's scent with their keen noses and know which places to avoid. Considering all the distance that flying squirrels cover in a night of hunting, due to their gliding abilities, there should be plenty of other trees in the forest where a late-coming squirrel can nest.


Finding Other Food


The flying squirrel, in addition to eating truffles, consumes small insects as well. They also eat the carrion of animals, which emits a strong odor that they use their noses to find. Like any squirrel, flying squirrels enjoy eating acorns. When a flying squirrel lays droppings containing acorns, these acorns can be deposited as far away as 3 km, the amount of ground a flying squirrel is capable of covering in a night. The acorns can then begin the process of regenerating into new trees.

Tags: flying squirrel, that flying, that flying squirrels, their noses, flying squirrels, flying squirrels

Bull Bar Laws

Bull bar, for those unfamiliar with the term, is slang for a frontal protection system usually put onto large off-road vehicles and 4X4s. Bull bars serve to add a layer of armored protection to the front of a vehicle in the same way that cow-catchers do on trains, and are sometimes called cow pushers. However, there are a variety of laws all across Europe (where frontal protection systems are heavily legislated) regarding which types of bull bars may be used and which may not.


Certification


One of the key laws regarding bull bars in the European Union (EC Regulation No 78/2009 ) says that every frontal protection system must be reviewed and certified by the government, both on its own and also in combination with the types of vehicles that it's designed for. For instance, buying a large set of bull bars meant for an industrial truck and putting them on a pickup is illegal---not because the particular system itself is illegal, but because it's installed on the wrong type of vehicle. Certifications are issued for the systems by the government and stamped on the bull bars.


Materials


Modern bull bars are supposed to be made out of non-rigid materials, such as high quality plastics. The goal of these frontal protection systems is not to allow a driver to smash into something and keep going, but rather to provide a flexible shield that prevents damage to the vehicle and to the object the vehicle hits. More rigid bull bars may help protect a vehicle from damage when hitting an animal or another vehicle, but they also lead to increased injuries and fatalities among pedestrians hit by these vehicles. This is one reason that legislation regarding bull bars has tightened down in Europe.


Illegal Manufacture and Sale


In the United Kingdom (which has adopted the European Union's standards for bull bars), there is a very harsh penalty for manufacturers caught making and selling illegal varieties of bull bars. Since May 25, 2007, those caught manufacturing and selling illegal bull bars (those that are disqualified under the European Union's directive for pedestrian protection) face up to 12 months in prison and up to a 20,000 pound fine for their activities.

Tags: bull bars, frontal protection, bull bars, European Union, frontal protection system

Why You Should Adopt A Pet

Why You Should Adopt a Pet


Although it is easy to go to a pet store or breeder and buy a new puppy or kitten, you may be contributing to a larger problem by possibly buying an animal with multiple health issues due to irresponsible breeding and housing practices. By adopting a pet from an animal shelter or rescue, you can not only find a wonderful pet, but help curb the problems in the pet-sales industry.


Overpopulation


Between careless owners who do not spay and neuter their pets and irresponsible backyard breeders and puppy mills, the United States has an overpopulation of dogs and cats. There are too many animals and not enough homes for them. You can help solve the problem by adopting an animal that is in desperate need of a good home. Most shelters and rescues pre-screen animals to ensure that they will make good pets, and can give you information about local veterinarians, pet supply stores, and obedience schools to help you become a knowledgeable pet owner.


Save a Life


Due to overpopulation, between 3 million and 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized every year. Those are often healthy, well-behaved and sometimes purebred animals who simply can no longer be cared for by shelters. Shelters have limited resources and cannot care for all of the homeless pets that come through their doors. By choosing to adopt instead of buying a pet, you can save the life of an animal that would be an excellent pet.


Assist the Shelter


If you choose to adopt an animal from an animal shelter or rescue, you not only save that animal but also free up space and resources for other homeless animals to be taken in.


Match-making


If you adopt from an animal shelter or a rescue group, you will have the added benefit of the counselling involved in making sure you and your potential pet are a good match. Shelters and rescues are committed to finding a perfect "forever" home for each pet. They will talk to you and allow you to interact and get to know your potential pet. If you are adopting a puppy or a purebred, they can give you an idea of what kind of behavior to expect. Additionally, if you have problems after the adoption, you can contact the shelter or rescue and look for solutions or, if the match isn't working out or your personal situation changes, you can even return the pet to the shelter.


A Healthy, Happy Pet


For a relatively low adoption fee, you can adopt an animal from a shelter or rescue that is healthy, fully vaccinated, and maybe even spayed or neutered (some shelters require you to have the pet spayed or neutered, but may give you a voucher to cover some or all of the costs). Additionally, many pets from rescues have spend time in foster homes of experienced pet owners. That means your pet will have been socialized to a family, and that family will know intimate details about your potential pet's personality, habits, and health history. That will help you to adopt a pet that will work well with your home situation and suit your personality.

Tags: shelter rescue, animal shelter, animal shelter rescue, from animal, from animal shelter, your potential, adopt animal

Rescue A Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are known for their lively but gentle dispositions. The breed is short-haired and black, brindle, or seal colored with white patches. They are usually between 15 and 25 pounds. Sometimes a Boston Terrier needs rescue, either because an owner cannot keep the dog or it has been abused or abandoned. If you want to rescue a Boston Terrier you can do so by adopting one or by supporting a rescue group.


Instructions


1. Learn more about the breed. You can find more information on Boston Terriers by using the American Kennel Club link at the end of this article. Decide whether you want a male or female and whether you are willing to adopt an older dog.


2. Use the online resources of Boston Terrier Rescue (link below) to find a rescue and adoption group near you. On their website, click your state on the interactive map. This will take you to a list of rescue organizations in or near your state along with links to each group’s individual website.


3. Fill out the online form to start the process of adopting a Boston Terrier. Many state and regional rescue groups have toll-free numbers for more information. There is usually more than one rescue group serving an area, so you can check around to see who has animals available for adoption. However, these mostly volunteer-run groups have limited resources and prefer that you apply to only one group at a time to minimize duplication of effort.


4. Before you pick up your new pet, be sure to get pet food, a leash and the other things you will need to provide proper care. Because these are purebred dogs and most have their papers, you normally won’t have to neuter or spay the animal as you do when you adopt from a county animal shelter or similar facility.


5. Help in the effort to rescue Boston Terriers by donating time or money. Boston Terrier rescue groups are mostly registered as 501 (c) 3 nonprofits organizations and rely on donations and volunteers not only to place dogs in good homes, but to educate pet owners and provide care for dogs that need medical attention. You can help to rescue other Boston Terriers by becoming a volunteer or by donating to a rescue organization.

Tags: Boston Terrier, Boston Terriers, groups have, more information, rescue group, rescue groups, your state

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Search For Animal Rescues In Ohio

Rescue groups pair potential families with compatible pets.


A lot of research goes into adopting a new pet or finding a new home (rehome) for a current one. Finding an appropriate shelter or rescue group is at the top of the list. Pet rescue groups can range from small, local organizations to nationwide efforts directed at a specific species or breed. Consult well-known databases and recognized animal rescue organizations to locate a pet rescue in Ohio. Broader resources can direct owners and owners-to-be to legitimate rescue groups that suit their needs.


Instructions


Search for Animal Rescues in Ohio


1. Start searching for Ohio Animal Rescues by consulting the most local ASPCA or Humane Society. These organizations are not only animal shelters themselves, but also maintain contacts for local, state, and national rescue organizations. Be specific when identifying the type of rescue sought. If looking to relinquish a pet, make sure to have a detailed history of the animal for rehoming. Potential owners should be prepared to present information to the rescue regarding the species, sex, breed, age, and size they are looking for.


2. Consult online databases of pet rescues. Petfinder is a national, online organization that lists available pets and data for rescues. Input "Ohio" into the "Find Animal Welfare Groups" search option to be presented with a list of currently operating organizations and their available animals.


3. Research the legitimacy of all pet rescues before adopting or relinquishing an animal. Verify the existence of the organization and the methods in which they acquire and adopt out pets. These facts are both important for the welfare of pets and the scrupulousness with which rescue groups handle possible adoption fees and vetting of clients.


4. Use one Ohio rescue group to recommend another. If a rescue does not match the criteria for a pet being sought or for a pet being relinquished, consider asking the rescue for a recommendation for another rescue. This is especially helpful with breed-specific rescues, as purebred animals often change hands between rescues to be placed with the breed-specific organization.

Tags: Animal Rescues, Animal Rescues Ohio, another rescue, rescue group, rescue groups, rescue organizations

Georgia Relative Adoption Law

Gaining the consent of a child's parents can be the most difficult aspect of a relative adoption, because it irrevocably terminates their parental rights.


Relative adoption is sometimes confused with stepparent adoption, but they are actually two different legal processes. In Georgia, a relative is a grandparent, aunt, uncle, brother or sister, either by blood or through marriage. Great aunts, great uncles and great grandparents also qualify. When any such person legally assumes the role of parent and responsibility for a child, it is a relative adoption.


Parental Consent


Georgia recognizes two kinds of parents: legal parents and biological fathers. A legal parent is either the child's biological mother, her husband at the time of the child's birth, or a man who married her after the birth but has recognized the child as his own. A biological father is simply the man who got the mother pregnant. Georgia has a Putative Father Registry that you or your attorney is obligated to check when you petition the court for adoption. A biological father may list his name and personal information with the registry even if he only thinks he may be the child's father. This gives him the right to be notified of the adoption of the child. He then has the choice of either consenting to the adoption, or filing a petition to legitimize the child and claim her as his own.


Absence of Parental Consent


When biological parents do not consent to the adoption of their child, Georgia courts may still approve the adoption if a judge believes it is in the child's best interest and the parent or parents have been absent from his life for at least a year, have failed to support him financially, or simply cannot be located. In such cases, the parents' rights might be involuntarily terminated.


Consent of the Child


A child who is 14 years old or older must consent in writing before a Georgia court will approve an adoption. In most cases, the child must also appear in court for the final adoption hearing and state her consent on the record, to the judge, as well.


Qualifications


Georgia courts will not grant an adoption to anyone who has not resided within the state for at least six months. If you are married, your spouse must adopt the child, also. If you're single, you must be 25 years of age or older, and in all instances, you must be 10 years older than the child or more. For instance, a 25-year-old cannot adopt her 16-year-old brother. Home inspections are not generally required for relative adoptions in Georgia, but judges do have the option of ordering one.

Tags: years older, approve adoption, biological father, child biological, Georgia courts

Dog Hotels In Miami

A dog.


When Miami area pet owners go on vacation, their dogs can now do the same. Dog hotels in Miami offer a full range of luxurious accommodations for pets, including sleeping spaces, plenty of attention and frequent play times. Dog owners who have special needs pets can check with the dog hotel owner to make sure that their pet's needs are properly attended to while they are away on vacation. A dog hotel can ensure a pleasant and worry-free holiday for both owner and dog.


Miami Dog Hotel


The Miami Dog Hotel offers boarding accommodations for dogs of all breeds, from 5 to 12 years of age. It is preferred that dogs are either neutered or spayed prior to their stay at The Miami Dog Hotel. Dogs are cared for according to owner preferences, including type of dog food and medications (with the exception of injections.) Owners may provide any toys, blankets or personal items that the dog would like to have during her stay. Each dog will be housed in a private kennel or run if requested, but in most cases owners prefer that their pet be free to wander, which is honored by the staff. Pets are always fully supervised.


The Miami Dog Hotel


Homestead, FL 33030


(786) 325-1726


miamidoghotel.com


Pet Place Miami


Pet Place Miami is a dog hotel offering both doggie day care and long term boarding. The Pet Place Miami uses "cageless" day care and boarding, meaning that dogs are free to wander around the facilities during their stay. Grooming can be performed on-site, including anesthesia-free dental cleaning. Pets who have up to date vaccinations are welcome, and special needs can be accommodated by the Pet Place Miami staff.


Pet Place Miami


1800 Biscayne Blvd Suite 108


Miami, FL 33032


(305) 572-2433


groomingmiami.com


Doggies Gone Wild Pet Hotel


At the Doggies Gone Wild Pet Hotel, dogs are housed in private air-conditioned rooms, and cages are not used. Private rooms are used only at night as sleep quarters, since dogs interact with other dogs and staff in a large playroom during waking hours. Spa and grooming services including nail trims, haircuts and baths are provided upon request. Dogs of any age or breed are welcome.


Doggies Gone Wild


1675 NW 97 Ave


Miami, FL 33030


(305) 629-6463


doggies-gonewild.com

Tags: Place Miami, Doggies Gone, Doggies Gone Wild, Gone Wild, free wander, Gone Wild Hotel

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Jobs For Kids Ages 11 Through 17

Money means more to kids when they have earned it themselves.


Teens and tweens naturally ask for money for material things and entertainment as they get older. As the need becomes more frequent, their parents may suggest these kids get a job so they can earn their own money. Most jobs available to kids ages 11 through 17 are entrepreneurial, due to minimum age requirements for working for someone else. Working for their own money will give kids a sense of accomplishment and the gratification of a job well done.


Babysitting


Babysitters are often recommended by friends and neighbors.


Babysitting is a job for kids as young as 11. They are best suited as a mother's helper, who is there to entertain the children while the mother is working in another part of the house. Babysitting is not a job for girls alone. Boy babysitters are popular with families of boys. Parents rely on friends and neighbors recommendations. Word of mouth is your best form of advertising. As the babysitter outgrows the job, she could easily pass the business down to her siblings.


Pet-Sitting


Dog walking is an important part of pet-sitting.


Pet-sitting involves caring for people's pets while the owners are on vacation or away for the day. A pet-sitter will be responsible for giving fresh food and water, walking dogs and cleaning out cat litter boxes. Although the pet-sitter does not spend the night, he is there often enough to bring in the mail, water plants and take the garbage to the curb. Create a flyer with your name, prices and references, and pass it out to the families in your neighborhood. Unless your parents are willing to drive you, you want to find customers within walking distance.


Yard Work


Yard work includes mowing the lawn and raking leaves.


Yard work can be a seasonal job or stretched into a yearlong position. Summer is the busiest time for yard work with lawn mowing, edging and trimming bushes. Spring cleanup is needed for flower beds and preparing the yard for summer. Fall is the time for raking leaves, cutting back flowers and planting bulbs for spring. If you live in a northern climate, there may be snow that needs shoveling. Print out a flyer listing your services and prices. Determine if you or your customer will provide the equipment and who will be responsible for the yard waste.


Odd jobs


Know your limitations before accepting a job.


Odd Jobs can mean a variety of things to different customers. Know your limitations. If you cannot lift heavy boxes, don't accept a job to clean out the basement. Make a list of things you could do, and hand it out to neighbors and friends. Odd jobs may include washing the dog, weeding the garden, and painting, sweeping out the garage or helping to serve dinner at a party. Doing odd jobs may be a good match for someone with a busy schedule. Most odd jobs only take a few hours to complete.

Tags: friends neighbors, Know your, Know your limitations, Most jobs, raking leaves

Become A Cop For The Aspca

Become a Cop for the ASPCA


New York State Location


To become an officer for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or ASPCA, you must live in, or be willing to relocate to, New York state. The ASPCA notes, "The ASPCA's HLE (Humane Law Enforcement) division has powers to investigate cruelty in the state of New York only. We do not employ officers for agencies across the nation." The agency's web site also notes, "All ASPCA HLE officers must reside in New York State and be eligible for certification as a New York State Peace Officer. " Although there are humane law enforcement jobs in other states, they are not with the ASPCA.


Submit Resume and Cover Letter


The first step in becoming an officer for the ASPCA is to submit a resume. You may do this whether there are any vacant positions. Your resume will be put on file and reviewed when there is an opening for a humane law enforcement officer. To find out whether there are current openings, visit the ASPCA web site and click on the "Jobs at ASPCA" link. If there are law enforcement officer openings, a form will be provided for you to automatically submit your resume. If there are no openings listed, you may submit your resume by sending an e-mail to hr@aspca.org.


Minimum Requirements


You must meet the minimum requirements for becoming a certified peace officer in New York state, as well as the minimum requirements set forth by the ASPCA before you can become an officer for them. These requirements include that, at the time of the application, you are at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen, a resident of New York state, bond-able and you must possess a New York driver's license. You must also be able to pass a background investigation, which will include a criminal background check. Not all criminal convictions will disqualify you from becoming a cop for the ASPCA, but you must be honest about your background.


Classes and Training


Although the ASPCA will provide the required training for you to become certified as a peace officer in New York state, you can increase your chance of being hired by taking related classes. Many colleges and technical schools offer criminal justice classes that help prepare you to become a cop for the ASPCA, but even more valuable training can be obtained by working as a law enforcement officer for another agency or by volunteering as a reserve law enforcement officer. The ASPCA web site notes that the organization does not require previous training or experience, but does give preference to individuals who have law enforcement experience.

Tags: enforcement officer, York State, ASPCA must, ASPCA site, become officer, certified peace

Monday, November 23, 2015

File A Small Claims Action In Santa Clara County Ca

To file or defend a case in Small Claims Court in Santa Clara County California, a person must be at least 18 years of age or legally emancipated, and mentally competent. Individuals can file a Small Claims Action if their claim is for $7,500 or less. If an individual operates a partnership, a corporation or any other type of entity other than a sole proprietorship, the maximum claim amount can not exceed $5,000. In California, a person cannot file more than 2 claims exceeding $2,500 in Small Claims Court during any calendar year. In other words, if you file 2 claims of $4,000 in one year, all other claims filed the same year must not exceed $2,500.


Instructions


1. Prepare your case. A person is not allowed attorney representation in Small Claims Court. As such it will be up to you to prepare your own case. Gather all written documents pertaining to your case and bring them with you to court. Make extra copies of everything.


2. Get the correct forms either from a small claims court or the Judicial Council's website at courts.ca.gov. The form you will need is Plaintiff's Claim and Order to Defendant (SC - 100). If you are a business with a fictitious business name, file a Fictitious Name Declaration (SC - 103).


3. Fill out, sign and file the form. Santa Clara County has 3 courts where a claim can be filed. To avoid having the case dismissed file in the right court. The right court is the one where the defendant (the person you are suing) resides.


4. Serve the defendant with a copy of the Plaintiff's Claim and Order to Defendant (SC- 100). The defendant has to be served before a hearing date can be set. The court clerk can serve the Plaintiff's Claim and Order to Defendant by sending it certified mail and restricted delivery. Alternatively, someone other than you who is over 18 years old and not a party in the lawsuit can personally give the defendant a copy of the Plaintiff's Claim and Order to Defendant. Finally, a professional process server can serve their papers for a fee. File the Proof of Service (SC - 104) form with the court and you will receive a hearing date.


5. Attend your hearing to make your case before a judge.

Tags: Small Claims, Claim Order, Claim Order Defendant, Order Defendant, Plaintiff Claim, Plaintiff Claim Order, your case

When To Spay A Cat

A contented female cat.


Spaying your cat is essential to keeping the cat population under control. Without spaying, countless unwanted kittens end up in shelters. What's more, a spayed cat will also be more contented, with fewer yearnings to roam outside the home.


When to Spay


Your cat should be spayed before she reaches puberty, ideally at about 6 months old. Cats have been spayed younger with no problems, particularly when adopted from a shelter. Some shelters prefer to spay before adoption in case the new owner fails to have the female cat altered when she is older.


Pregnant Cats


Pregnant cats can be spayed anytime during pregnancy without harm to the mother cat. Prior to the surgery, the veterinarian will ask the owner if the cat is pregnant. If the owner is not sure of the cat's condition, a decision must be made prior to the surgery whether to terminate or continue the pregnancy if she is carrying kittens. When unwanted kittens are present, the veterinarian will remove the kittens with the uterus.


If your cat has kittens and is still nursing, the kittens should be weaned and the mammary tissue should be allowed to reduce before spaying. About a month after weaning the glands should be normal and the female can be spayed. It is possible for her to be impregnated during this time, so precautions should be taken.


Cats in Heat


A cat in heat can be very annoying, and the associated howling and disruptive behavior can make the decision to spay considerably easier. Spaying is somewhat more difficult while the cat is in heat, though, because the tissue and larger blood vessels are swollen. There is no heightened risk for the cat, but the cost may increase due to the extra surgery time required.


Recovery


Some pet clinics will advise owners to have their pet stay overnight after spaying. If the pet is released the day of surgery, she should be confined to a small area to keep her movements to a minimum. It is generally recommended that food and water not be allowed until the next day or later in the night. Any fluid discharge from the incision should be reported to the veterinarian, who will advise the owner of what to do as a follow-up.

Tags: veterinarian will, unwanted kittens, When Spay, will advise

Introduce A Puppy To A New Home

Among the highlights of dog ownership is bringing a puppy home for the first time. While this ranks among the most enjoyable days in any human-dog relationship, puppies sometimes have trouble adapting to a new environment. Fortunately, there are ways to go about introducing a puppy to one's home; ways that help make the puppy feel comfortable and happy in its new home.


Instructions


1. Establish bathroom areas. The first thing one should do upon bringing a new puppy home is having a puppy go to the bathroom in an outside area that will become commonplace. If a puppy does relieve itself in that area, make sure to reward it with positive words and a treat.


2. Let the puppy roam. This is new and unfamiliar territory for a puppy, so having some time to simply walk around and explore will help a puppy become comfortable in its new environment. Make sure to pick up all small objects--anything that can be ingested--and place a puppy's food and water in a predetermined spot. This will help a puppy become accustomed to its food/water situation.


3. After an hour or two of allowing the puppy to become familiar with its surroundings, try having the puppy take a nap in a predetermined locale. This could be a dog bed, large pillow, anywhere a pet owner feels its best for a puppy to nap. A puppy will likely be tired after such a long day, and after roaming and eating, will likely be ready for sleep.


4. Crate a puppy upon first introductions with another dog. This first meeting will allow the dogs to familiarize themselves with one another, minus the risk of a fight or tussle. After a time or two in the crate, let the dogs sniff around sans crate, making sure to monitor closely.


5. Take the puppy for a walk on a leash, particularly if one's home features other dogs. Should this be the case, bring those dogs along as well. This will help the dogs familiarize themselves with one another in a neutral location, where territory issues are less likely to come in play. Try and have someone else accompany the walk, should any physical problems arise between dogs.


6. Once a puppy has become comfortable in its new home, move on to training/house training a new pet. Start with the basics, such as "stay" and "sit," making sure to always reward obeying of commands with positive reinforcement, including petting, positive words and treats. Consult a certified dog trainer for tips on more advanced training.

Tags: puppy become, will help, with another, become comfortable, bringing puppy

Can My Pet Be A Dependent On A Tax Return

Your pet isn't a dependent but may still impact your tax situation.


Pets can be integral parts of the families that love and care for them. A pet can also represent a major expense in terms of food, travel and veterinary care. The Internal Revenue Service administers the tax code, which allows taxpayers to deduct certain costs associated with pets. However, pets do not qualify for the same dependent exemptions that children and human family members do.


Dependent Status


The IRS provides several ways to check if someone who lives with you qualifies as a financial dependent. Dependents can be children or other relatives. Dependent children must be under age 19, or under age 24 for full-time students. Any dependent must be a person who lives with you and receives a significant portion of his financial support from you directly. When you claim a dependent on your tax return you must provide a valid Social Security number, which prohibits pets from qualifying as dependents.


Significance


For each dependent that you claim, the IRS allows you to take a larger tax exemption when you file a tax return. This means that taxpayers who are responsible for more dependents pay tax on a smaller amount of their incomes, while those without dependents pay tax on more of their incomes. If you claim someone as a dependent who is actually financially independent, or if you claim a pet, or a person who does not exist, you will likely incur a fine and be liable for the additional taxes you owe without the dependent.


Pet Businesses


If you own or work for a pet-related business, your pets might have a significant impact on your tax situation. Many business expenses that you pay for yourself are tax deductible. This may include pet care costs if you maintain one or more animals for business purposes, including service animals and animals for breeding purposes. To claim a tax deduction for pet-related business expenses, itemize your deductions rather than taking the standard deduction on your tax return. Deductions are subject to maximum limits but can reduce your taxable income substantially.


Pet Trusts


Another situation where a pet can affect your income taxes is if you are the trustor, trustee or beneficiary of a pet trust. A pet owner can set up a pet trust to ensure that whoever takes possession of a pet after his death or incapacity will receive income to pay for the pet's expenses. Trusts that rely on investments are taxable, and the beneficiary may need to pay taxes on the trust income. However, pet owners can work with their attorneys to structure a pet trust in such a way as to pay the taxes from the trust itself without adding to the beneficiary's tax liability.

Tags: business expenses, impact your, impact your situation, lives with, pet-related business, their incomes

Make An Animal Shelter Into A Nokill Shelter

While all animal shelters work for the common welfare of the pets in our communities, no-kill shelters are a bit different. These shelters go above and beyond the traditional call of duty for an animal shelter, and offer a safe haven to pets for as long as it takes for them to be adopted--if ever. No-kill shelters never euthanize an animal unless it is a danger or is too sick to be treated. Any animal shelter can be a no-kill shelter.


Instructions


Becoming a No-Kill Shelter


1. Expand if necessary. No-kill shelters often need a bit more room than traditional shelters, as they house as many animals as possible up to capacity. Decide how many animals your no-kill shelter will be able to house, and acquire enough space and supplies to accommodate them all. It may be necessary to expand by adding a few rooms to your existing location or changing locations altogether.


2. Add to your medical staff. In a no-kill shelter, the health of each and every animal is even more of a priority, due to the strict requirements surrounding an animal's potential for euthanasia. In traditional shelters, animals may be euthanized to save costs that would otherwise be spent on their medical care. No-kill shelters do not authorize the euthanasia of an animal except for extreme health reasons. Be prepared to address many medical issues with animals, and increase your supplies and staff as necessary.


Consider partnering with veterinary schools or clinics in your neighborhood to combat the need for expanded medical care.


3. Recruit volunteers to help educate potential adoptive families on retention. Animals will have less of a chance of having to return to your or any shelter if the families are made aware of their commitment in advance and are educated in proper care, training and expectations.


Volunteers can also help with the day-to-day chores that go along with dealing with sometimes packed no-kill shelters.

Tags: animal shelter, many animals, medical care, no-kill shelter, No-kill shelters, traditional shelters

Friday, November 20, 2015

Become An Adoption Coordinator

Become an adoption counselor to connect caring parents with the children who need them.


Adoption coordinators serve as the liaison between pregnant women, their unborn children, and would-be adoptive parents. They serve an important role in protecting the overall well-being of children, particularly those who have been abandoned and/or abused. They might counsel single mothers (particularly pregnant teenagers) on adoption options and help to match them up with families wishing to adopt. Depending on their job responsibilities, they may also work with teachers to help spread the word on prevent teenage pregnancy in the first place.


Instructions


1. Determine licensing and certification requirements in your state. Each state has different rules about the requirements governing individuals and/or agencies that can place children or facilitate adoptions. Contact your local state adoption specialist and state licensing specialist (see Resources for a complete listing) for detailed information about the adoption laws in your state.


2. Educate yourself. In most areas, adoption consultants are required to have at least a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, marriage and family counseling, or a related field (see Resources for a listing of colleges offering this coursework). In some cases, a master's degree in social work is required as well; research current job openings in your region to learn more about the local education requirements.


3. Identify adoption agencies in your area. There are several types of adoption agencies you may be able to work for, including public child welfare agencies and private agencies with programs in child welfare, domestic infant placement and international infant placement. Browse your local Yellow pages or perform an Internet search to find adoption agencies (and potential employers) in your area.


4. Look for entry-level work. In many cases, particularly if you have the necessary education but little to no work experience in the adoption industry, you may have to start in a child welfare position and work your way up to the position of adoption coordinator. As a child welfare worker, you might be in charge of such duties as entering abused or neglected children into the foster system, managing foster cases on an ongoing basis, and providing counseling to children and families. Find entry-level jobs by perusing your local newspaper, contacting adoption agencies directly to inquire about job openings, or performing research online (see Resources) into job openings across the country.

Tags: adoption agencies, child welfare, your local, degree social, degree social work, infant placement

How Does Animal Microchipping Work

Finding a lost dog is easier if the dog has been microchipped.


When a beloved pet is lost, its owner can spend countless hours trying to find it. Putting up posters, writing newspaper ads and going to door-to-door looking for a pet can take days, even weeks and not yield results. One way to avoid facing the ordeal of a lost pet is to have your pet micro-chipped. Microchips emit a radio-frequency that allows veterinarians to access information about the animal's owners.


What is a Microchip?


A microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, contains a small radio-frequency transponder encased in a slender bioglass capsule that is placed under an animal's skin. The capsule holds a unique ID number used to retrieve a pet owner's information. Information is retrieved by running a microchip scanner over the microchip and obtaining a radio-frequency that displays the ID number of the pet owner. The ID number is used to locate the pet's owner.


What is a Radio Frequency?


Microchips don't have internal energy sources and stay dormant until they're activated by a scanner. The most common microchip frequencies used are a 125 kHz chip (the most commonly used chip in the United States) and a 134 kHz chip used in most of the rest of the world. The 134 kHz chip has a country code in addition to a unique microchip code. A third frequency, 128 kHz, can't be read by all microchip scanners and isn't used by most veterinarians.


The Procedure


A veterinarian injects the microchip beneath the surface of the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The procedure is short, only taking a few seconds and is similar to an injection. No anesthesia is required and the animal isn't in any danger or pain during or after the procedure.


Why Microchip Your Animal


According to Petfinder.com, more than 10 million dogs and cats are lost every year in the United States; roughly one in three family pets is lost at some point during their life. Reuniting pets with their owners is the goal of animal shelters and veterinarians. Microchipping an animal makes finding pet owners easier. The procedure is simple, pain-free and fast. If a wandering animal is found by someone and taken to animal control or a vet's office, the animal is checked for a microchip. If the animal is microchipped, its owner can easily be located.


Benefits of Microchipping Animals


The benefits of microchipping an animal far outweigh the disadvantages. Microchipping can be done by any veterinarian. Microchips don't fall out or erode and last for the duration of the pet's life. Microchips can be read by any veterinarian or animal control office. Microchipping is relatively inexpensive, about $45 at most veterinarian's offices.

Tags: animal control, animal control office, control office, number used, radio-frequency that, United States, used chip

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Gift For The Loss Of A Pet

Pets are part of the family.


Loss of a pet is a concept non-pet owners may never grasp. The relationship between a human and a pet transcends many other bonds in life and is precious to those who have it. Pets are part of the family and are valued as contributing to happiness, health and everyday life. The loss of a precious pet can be acknowledged with a loving bereavement gift.


Angel Statues


Purchase a statue of an angel holding an animal. This statue can be placed near a pet grave or used for indoor memorabilia. This gift is best suited for Christian pet owners who are comforted by believing their pet has ascended to heaven. Statues can be found online or in stores featuring statues. Some pet stores may carry such statues as well.


Engraved Sculptures


Find a sculpture of an animal which bears a resemblance to the deceased which is equipped with a plaque or front panel for engraving. Inquire in the store as to engraving services, otherwise take the sculpture to an engraving service store. Ask the engravers to place the name of the animal on the front of the sculpture and present the gift to the bereaved as a kind memorial to their animal.


Canvas Art


Obtain a picture of the animal and pay for an artist to create a canvas painting of the animal. Once the painting is finished, it may be framed and presented to the bereaved. This gift may take a few months to complete. The bereaved will appreciate the gift even months after the passing of their beloved pet.


Jewelry


Purchase jewelry, such as necklaces, bracelets or rings, symbolizing the pet. The loss of a dog or cat could merit a paw print necklace. If the animal had a human or common name, jewelry adorned with the name is appropriate. Initial necklaces are popular, as well as charm bracelets. If the owner wears a charm bracelet, purchase a new charm to commemorate the love between the owner and the deceased animal.

Tags: part family, Pets part, Pets part family, This gift

Tax Claims For Pets

The cost of moving a pet may be tax deductible.


The Internal Revenue Service requires many income earners to file tax returns to ensure that they pay the correct amount of tax, but it also allows taxpayers to subtract or deduct expenses when calculating taxable income. The normal costs of owning and caring for a pet are not tax deductible, but certain pet- and animal-related expenses are deducible in special circumstances.


Deductible Moving Expenses


The IRS offers tax breaks to people who are looking for work and take new jobs, including a deduction on moving expenses. The IRS states the costs associated with moving to new job location, including the cost of shipping pets to a new home, are tax deductible. The deduction only applies if the new work location is 50 miles farther from the worker's old home than his previous work location was. For instance, if a worker lives 5 miles from his current work location, his new work location must be at least 55 miles away from the original home to qualify for the deduction.


Service Animals


The IRS lets taxpayers take a tax deduction for medical and dental expenses that exceed 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income. For instance, a taxpayer with $100,000 in adjusted gross income can deduct medical expenses that are greater than $7,500. While the cost of caring for a pet is not usually tax deductible, the IRS says that the cost of buying, training and maintaining a guide dog or other service animal is a tax-deductible medical expense. This means the vision- or hearing-impaired and other physically disabled people may be able to deduct some of the cost of their pets.


Donations to Animal Charities


Money and property donated to certain charitable organizations are eligible for tax deductions. The IRS states that donations to corporations, trusts, community chests, funds or foundations organized to prevent cruelty to animals are deductible. The World Wildlife Fund and Animal Human Society are examples of animal charities.


Considerations


The IRS lets taxpayers deduct many expenses necessary to produce business income. The IRS states that expenses that are "ordinary and necessary" in a trade or business are tax deductible. In some cases, costs related to keeping or feeding animals may be considered ordinary and necessary business expenses. For instance, TurboTax reports that the IRS allowed the owners of a junkyard to deduct the cost of feeding feral cats that helped control pests. Keeping accurate records of expenses can help filers back up claims if they are questioned by the IRS.

Tags: work location, expenses that, adjusted gross, adjusted gross income, gross income, lets taxpayers, ordinary necessary

Obtain Birth Records In Modesto California

Records of births that occurred in Modesto are available through the Stanislaus County Clerk-Recorder's office.


Records of births in Modesto, California are maintained by the Stanislaus County Clerk-Recorder's office. Two types of birth records are available -- informational or certified copies. Informational birth records are available by request to anyone, but may not provide valid documentation of identity. Certified birth records are available to a limited group of people with an interest in them. Those include the registrant (the subject of the birth record), a parent or guardian, spouse, sibling or a grandparent. You can obtain a birth record in Modesto by mail or in person at the county clerk-recorder's office.


Instructions


1. Pick up an application for a certified copy of birth record in person at the Stanislaus County Clerk-Recorder's office. You can also print an application from Stanislaus County's Web site.


2. Select the type of birth record that you are requesting by marking the appropriate box. Check the box to indicate the relationship between the applicant and the registrant if you are requesting an authorized certified copy.


3. Enter your name, signature, mailing address and phone number in the "Applicant Information" section of the application for a birth record.


4. Provide the registrant's full name, gender, date and place of birth and mother and father's full name in the section titled "Registrant Information."


5. Complete the "Certificate of Identity Statement" only if you are requesting an authorized certified birth record. This statement must be signed in the the presence of a notary public.


6. Make a check or money order payable to the Stanislaus County Clerk-Recorder. As of 2011, the fee is $19 for each copy of a birth record.


7. Mail the completed application, payment and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Stanislaus County Clerk or drop it off at the county clerk-recorder's office.

Tags: birth record, Stanislaus County, Stanislaus County Clerk-Recorder, birth records, birth records available, County Clerk-Recorder, records available

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Hotels Near 64 South Water Street In Mobile Alabama

Mobile is located along Alabama's Gulf Coast.


Mobile is one of the largest cities in Alabama and is home to a thriving art and music scene, as well as an array of museums, event venues, restaurants and historic attractions. A handful of hotels are situated in the heart of downtown Mobile, offering easy access to all the city has to offer. These include one motel at 64 South Water Street, and three others just a few blocks away.


Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza


The Renaissance is a high-rise in the center of downtown Mobile and offers views of the Gulf Coast and the city. The hotel is connected by skywalk to the Mobile Arthur Outlaw Convention Center, and is next door to the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, which features interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater. The nearby Museum of Mobile showcases the city's rich history. A number of shops and restaurants are on-site or within a couple of blocks, including The Harbor seafood restaurant, Heroes Sports Bar and Ruth's Chris Steak House.


Hampton Inn & Suites


The Hampton Inn is one of the most affordable hotels in downtown Mobile. The hotel is within walking distance of Battleship Park, a veterans memorial that features the USS Alabama, a World War II battleship, and the USS Drum, a Navy submarine. Also nearby are the Mobile Museum of Art and the Mobile Carnival Museum, which documents the history of the city's lively Mardi Gras celebration. The hotel offers a free daily breakfast, and a number of seafood restaurants and steakhouses are close by, including Ed's Seafood Shed, Callaghan's Irish Social Club and Liquid Sushi.


Holiday Inn


The Holiday Inn is another economical choice in downtown Mobile, and is located in the center of Government Street near the city's government offices. The hotel is just a few blocks from the port and offers discounts for guests boarding Carnival Cruises. The Exploreum and Convention Center are less than a mile away on Water Street. Battleship Park and the Carnival Museum also are close by, as are a range of restaurants, including the on-site steakhouse Lafayette's and the nearby Heroes Sports Bar.


The Battle House


The Battle House was built in 1852, and was originally a gathering place for the city's socialites and a reception hall for luminaries and politicians. The hotel is known for its 10,000-square-foot spa, which features private treatment rooms, a beauty salon and a lavishly appointed "Quiet Room." The hotel is next to the Oakleigh Historic District, a neighborhood of historic mansions, and is within walking distance of the Mobile Carnival Museum, the Convention Center, the Exploreum and shopping and dining venues. Nearby restaurants include Wintzell's Oyster House, Felix's Fish Camp and Fathoms Lounge, which serves small plates and coffee.

Tags: downtown Mobile, Carnival Museum, Convention Center, Gulf Coast, Water Street

How Put My Dog Up For Adoption

If you can't keep your dog, give it a chance to go to a new home by placing it in a no-kill shelter.


Your four-legged friend might be part of your family, and having to give it up can be heartbreaking. If you can no longer afford to keep your dog, or if your lifestyle no longer allows you to have one, it is your responsibility as an owner to find a new home for your dog. According to the Human Society of the United States, between 3 million and 4 million pets are euthanized in the U.S. every year. Find your dog a home yourself or place it in a no-kill shelter to ensure that it won't meet the same fate.


Instructions


Find Your Dog a New Home


1. Take color photos of your dog and attach them to fliers. List your dog's name, age and breed on the fliers, along with your contact information. Mention that your dog needs a new home, and provide a brief description of its health and personality.


2. Place fliers in your area advertising your dog's availability. You can tape them to telephone poles and talk to store managers about posting them on bulletin boards. Post the fliers around your office as well. A coworker or family in your area could be looking for a new dog, and you might find a home that way.


3. Ask your friends and family if they are looking to adopt a dog. Tell them you can no longer keep yours and that it needs a new home. You will feel better if your dog is with someone you know. You also have the option of making a temporary arrangement with one of your friends if you think you can take your dog back in the future.


Turn Your Dog Over to a No-Kill Shelter


4. Look for no-kill shelters in your area. No-kill shelters won't euthanize dogs, regardless of how much time they spend there. Look online for local shelters and visit pet stores such as Petsmart and Petco. Shelters take their dogs to these locations every weekend to be adopted. Talk to directors at these shelters until you find one that can take your dog.


5. Make your dog one last appointment with a veterinarian. Ask for a thorough physical examination, and update your dog's vaccinations. Get your dog's health records from the vet's office so that you can give them, along with proof of vaccination, to the shelter. These papers will be helpful for your dog's new owner, and their availability can make your dog more adoptable.


6. Write a letter describing your dog. Use as much detail as possible. List its habits, its personality, its likes and dislikes, its favorite toys, its daily routine and any health problems it has. Give the letter to the shelter to display on adoption days. This will help potential families get to know your dog and increase its chances of being adopted quickly.


7. Arrange a time to drop your dog off at the animal shelter. In some cases, you can take your dog in on an adoption day and it will be placed up for adoption immediately. Some shelters require a dog to be with them for a week or two for evaluation before they are put up for adoption.

Tags: take your, your area, along with, find home, keep your, needs home

Law Schools In The New York And New Jersey Area

All 18 New York and New Jersey law schools are accredited by the American Bar Association.


Fifteen accredited law schools operate in New York State; New Jersey is home to three law schools. In the 2010 "U.S. News & World Report" law school rankings, Columbia University School of Law ranked highest among New York and New Jersey law schools; it was No. 4 on the list.


New York Law Schools


According to "U.S. News & World Report," among America's top law schools in New York State in 2010 were Columbia University (ranked fourth in the nation), New York University (ranked 6th), Cornell University (ranked 13th), Fordham University (ranked 34th) and Yeshiva University (also known as the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, ranked 52nd). The lowest-ranked law schools operating in New York were Brooklyn Law School (ranked 67th), St. John's University (ranked 72nd), Syracuse University (tied for 86th) and Hofstra University (tied for 86th).


New Jersey Law Schools


Among New Jersey law schools in the "U.S. News & World Report's" 2010 rankings, Seton Hall University School of Law ranked 72nd in the nation, followed by Rutgers University's two law schools (located in Camden and Newark), both ranked 80th. Rutgers' Camden campus had the lowest faculty-to-student ratio among the three New Jersey law schools with a ratio of 11.8:1. Among New York law schools, New York University had the lowest faculty/student ratio with 9.4:1.


Facts and Statistics


CUNY-Queens College School of Law ranked lowest in 2010 in three categories among New York and New Jersey law schools: lowest full-time annual tuition at $10,612, lowest enrollment with 406 students, and smallest library with 291,162 volumes. New York Law School had the highest enrollment with 1,856 full- and part-time students. Yeshiva University School of Law had the lowest proportion of employed students at graduation, 74.5 percent. Tuition costs for full-time students were highest at Cornell University School of Law, at $48,950 per year.


Admission Standards


Columbia University had the lowest applicant acceptance rate, admitting just 15.9 percent of applicants. Syracuse University had the highest applicant acceptance rate, admitting 49.6 percent of applicants. Syracuse also had the lowest LSAT score for a successful candidate for admission, with a score of 150. Hofstra University had the lowest state bar examination pass rate, at 73.6 percent. The highest bar examination pass rate was among graduates of Cornell University Law School, with 95.6 percent of graduates passing the exam. Cornell also had the highest successful applicant LSAT score of 174.

Tags: Jersey schools, School ranked, University ranked, University School, York Jersey, Columbia University

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Tips For Leapster Pet Pals

Whether you're thinking of buying a Leapster Pet Pals game for your child or if he already has one, you can make his gaming experience more educational and easier with a little help. The Leapster gaming system is a handheld gaming system made by Leapfrog and intended for children approximately 4 to 7 years old. You can purchase separate games for the system, including Pet Pals. This game features pets that the gamer must feed through counting exercises and other educational activities.


Play the Tutorials


Before your child gets deep into the game, have her play the tutorials. The Leapster Pet Pals tutorials will teach her perform basic tasks she'll need to complete the game. It will also help her become used to the way the game is setup and the placement of certain objects in the game's world. As your child plays the tutorials, have her pay attention; sometimes forgetting where something is can mean the difference between winning and losing.


Practice


The activities in the Leapster Pet Pals world are educational and include reading, writing, numbers and math. To help your child learn and win, practice the game's educational skills outside of the game. Practice word recognition. Different activities within the game require the gamer to follow a path of words to create a sentence, or choose words that are the same in order to walk the dog or get to the next level. Go over basic counting in everyday activities. This will help your child earn extra medals and honors for his pet within the game. Counting or adding correctly during math activities can lead to higher scores for your child during Pet Pals competition. The goal of the game is to make your pet the top dog, which is achieved through scoring high. The better your child's math and reading skills are, the higher he'll score in each activity. Be available to offer help and make learning fun.


Check Out LeapsterWorld


If you need more tips on any of the Leapster games, including Pet Pals, check out LeapsterWorld, which is a website set up by Leapfrog. The site includes special tips and tricks for a variety of games. As your child plays the game, she'll also receive secret codes that can be used in LeapsterWorld to get special rewards for her pet, like Achievement Certificates and High Score awards, which can increase your child's overall scores in the Pet Pals game.


Choose a Pet You Love


Once you choose a specific pet within the Pet Pals game, you cannot change your pet without losing all your progress. So be sure to have your child choose a pet he'll love from the beginning to avoid problems later.

Tags: your child, Leapster Pals, Pals game, child plays, gaming system, help your, help your child

How Much Do Dog Owners Make For Commercials

The money a dog actor makes typically goes into its care.


Dogs are often found in television commercials, either to sell a dog-related product or as an extra in the background. These dogs are carefully chosen from a pool of dogs that meet the director's requirements. Since dogs do not need the money they earn directly, the owner and agent for the dogs receive the money instead.


Income


The income your dog earns will vary on many different factors. One of the biggest deciding factors is the budget of the particular commercial your dog performs in. A higher-budget commercial pays better than those with a lower budget. The experience of your dog, as well as the amount of time it takes to complete the commercial also plays a role. For the most part, a dog averages between $50 and $400 for a day's work, as of 2011.


Agent Cut


In many cases, a dog owner hires an agent to help find jobs for his dog. The commercial industry can be highly competitive, and it can be difficult to find consistent work for your dog. An agent can help you find the best fit and increase the number of jobs your dog receives. At the time of publication, some agencies charge a flat fee of $25 to $50 to help find your dog a job. However, he may also take a small cut of any money your dog makes.


Dog Maintenance


When you put your dog into show business, even if it is just for a commercial or two, you commit to keeping it healthy and looking good. You will need to keep your dog bathed and groomed well so it is looking its best. You must also train your dog and acclimate it to being around many strangers while remaining calm. This doggy pampering can end up costing you about as much as your dog makes in the commercial if the budget is on the lower end. However, the more experience your dog builds, the more gigs it will get.


Reliability


Because the dog commercial industry is competitive and many dogs only get one commercial in their lifetime, the consistency for income from a commercial is low. Dogs are only paid a flat fee for their work on a commercial. You should not expect to see residuals for each time the commercial airs. While it can be exciting to see your own dog on television and it may be tempting to keep it working, it is important not to rely on your dog's income.

Tags: help find, agent help, agent help find, commercial industry, experience your, your makes

Cheats For Virtual Villagers Lost Children

Virtual Villagers 2 or The Lost Children is a lot like its predecessor in that there are even more perplexing puzzles and challenging scenarios. However, with the new puzzles come new strategies. While some things are the same, mainly the first few puzzles, there are some things totally different, like the addition of a hospital and a sewing hut. Although, you can always count on Last Day of Work to knock one out of the park and they don't disappoint with this one.


Fire


The answer to the first puzzle in the second installment of this franchise is of, course, building a fire. The dry grass is left of the coconut trees, and the wood is in the lower left corner of the village. After both of these are in the pit, you can drag a villager to the pit to start the fire.


Food


Now that you have fire, focus on building up your food supply. If you notice that you are getting kind of low on food, send all of your villagers at the same time to harvest from the coconut tree. You will receive a boost that is greater than the normal harvest.


Plants and Exploration


Remember to keep the kids collecting mushrooms and special items to increase your food and research points. However, do not limit it just to the children. Take an adult exploring and you never know what you can find. There are six plants located around the village. Have the villager look at anything that doesn't look ordinary, and you will know when you have found them when you see the message on the screen. Master all six and you will have the answer to the fifth puzzle.


Esteemed Elder


Also while playing the game, you need to always keep at least one person farming, researching and parenting to build your population to the Master level. After one of your villagers masters a skill, try to change at least one of them to another. After one villager masters three skills, you have an Esteemed Elder, and your solution to the sixth puzzle.


Build a Dam


To keep your tribe happy and fed, you are going to need an alternate food source. The answer to the second puzzle and the lack of food is the dam. You need to build a dam to route water from the stream to a location that looks suitable for farming. Increase your Engineering to level 2 and drag a villager to the pile of rocks in the bottom of the stream. As long as you have enough points, you will see the message.


Play Your Way


There are many different ways that your game can play out depending on the technology that you purchase and when. There is no right way to play this game. Learn from your choices and enjoy your village.

Tags: drag villager, Esteemed Elder, Lost Children, some things, Villagers Lost, Villagers Lost Children

Police Dog Track Criminals

Breed and Genetics


While all dogs have a sense of smell far superior to that of humans, bloodhounds stand out even among canines. The bloodhound's scent ability has been estimated to be between 1,000 and 30,000 times as strong as that of a human being. This makes the bloodhound able to follow a scent trail that is days old and made by the walking path of a human being. These dogs can also distinguish the scent trail of one human being from that of another.


Other scenthounds, such as the Basset Hound, also have outstanding noses, but the shortness of their legs makes them less useful for tracking over long distances. Both dogs are in a family of canines that evolved to hunt by scent rather than sight.


Training


In addition to possessing an extraordinary sense of smell, bloodhounds also typically have extremely stubborn attitudes. This means that in order to take advantage of the bloodhound's abilities, the dog must be extensively trained. This training involves teaching the dog to associate treats and rewards with successful tracking according to instruction. These incentives are used to teach the dogs to use their natural abilities for tracking a person or item based on a scent article (piece of clothing or other item that has been in close contact with the query). In investigations, the dog will be given a scent item in the form of something a suspect has had close contact with or left behind at a crime scene.


The Strength of Dog Evidence


Though numerous scientific studies have proven the validity of bloodhound "testimony," this type of evidence is easily questioned in defense proceedings due to the possibility of misleading or mishandling by dog handlers. For this reason, investigators use dog tracking evidence as only one piece of a comprehensive case, or as a means to discover a likely suspect early in an investigation.


Nearly Undefeatable


The bloodhound's ability to track is nearly impossible to defeat, in spite of several urban legends about do so. In 2006, the popular Discovery Channel science show "Mythbusters" tested such tricks as sprinkling pepper, crossing a stream or river, or hiding in a tree, but found that none of these could deter a trained police tracking hound.

Tags: human being, close contact, close contact with, contact with, scent trail, sense smell

Monday, November 16, 2015

Oklahoma City Boxing Events

Oklahoma City boasts an array of boxing events.


Oklahoma City is the largest urban area in this southern central state, located in the Sandstone Hills region of Oklahoma. Visitors to this city enjoy attractions like the Will Rogers Theater and Oklahoma Museum of Art. After-dark entertainment includes the clubs, bars and restaurants in the Bricktown district, set on the Oklahoma River, and sports like NRA basketball and Oklahoma City boxing events.


The Rumble at Remington


Remington Park, best known as an Oklahoma City venue for racing and casino fans, has expanded its entertainment options to include live boxing contests. The Rumble at Remington III, April 5, 2011, starts at 7 p.m. The evenings' entertainment features live professional boxing matches, as well as ring girls. This boxing venue is located on the first floor of the building and accessed by heading north past the casino lobby. The Casino is next to Remington Park racetrack, less than 1 mile from Lincoln Park and 5 miles from Lake Hefner and Arcadia Lake. Tickets are available on the night of the event from the casino lobby or from online vendors.


Boxing at the Oklahoma City Farmers Market


The Oklahoma City Farmers Market was built in 1928. Farmers sold fresh produce downstairs, while the upstairs area provided entertainments such as dancing and boxing matches. The market became a listed historic building in 1982. Boxing promoters, Burt and Jody McAnally, purchased the market in July 2002 with the intention of refurbishing the neglected building and re-establishing it as a venue for the sport. Live professional boxing matches are now held at least once a month on Thursdays and bookings for upcoming matches extend into 2012. The market is an easily identifiable large white building that occupies most of the block just off Exchange Avenue and is located less than 2 miles from the Oklahoma State Fair Park.


Boxing at the Cox Convention Center Arena


Although it is better known for hosting wrestling matches, professional boxing matches are making a comeback at the Cox Convention Center in downtown Oklahoma City. Oklahoma-based boxing promoter, catBOX Entertainment, announced intentions to host regular fights at this venue. catBOX is the organizer behind past Cox Convention Center events such as the Jan. 5, 2011 bout between Noah Zuhdi, Oklahoma lightweight champion, and Ruben Calderon.

Tags: Oklahoma City, boxing matches, Convention Center, professional boxing, professional boxing matches, boxing events, casino lobby

Esl Activities For Kindergarten Students

Teach kindergartners English with fun games and activities.


English as a Second Language, or ESL, is a term that refers to students who speak a language other than English as their native tongue. For ESL Kindergarten students, games and activities are a creative way to teach them English. Help ESL kids learn English and adapt to new environments with fun activities that promote language acquisition and development.


Role Play


Prepare small note cards with recent vocabulary words or phrases like eating, running and jumping rope. Fold the note cards in half and place them in a sack or a hat. Gather the students together on the floor and divide them into two equal teams. Ask one child from each group to come forward and pick a card from the sack. Whisper the word to each child and ask them to act out the word for their group. The first group to guess the word wins a point. This a fun way to get the children moving and reviewing English words.


Letter Identification


Use colorful, visually stimulating alphabet flashcards for this game. For example, the "A" flashcard may have a picture of an apple or an ant on it to help students remember the letter. Gather students together on the floor and randomly select flashcards from a pile. Hold one card up at a time and reward the student who correctly identifies the letter first with a sticker or other small prize. Ask the children to think of as many words as possible that begin with that letter. This helps students identify letters of the alphabet and learn vocabulary.


Animal Dice


To help students learn animal identification and vocabulary, make a giant dice out of an old tissue box by gluing white paper to each side. Draw different animals on each side and write the name of the animal underneath the drawing. Gather students together in a open area and allow them to take turns rolling the dice. Instruct the children to shout out the name of the animal that lands face-up on the dice and to act like that animal for a minute or two. For example, if the dice lands on the chicken, they yell out "chicken!" and then squawk and cluck around the room.


Fruit Toss


Teach ESL kindergartners vocabulary and sentence structure with a fruit toss game. Ask students to stand up at their desks or in an open area. Toss a piece of plastic fruit to a student and ask her a question about the fruit such as "What is it?" or "What color is it?" The student answers the question then tosses the fruit back to you. Continue the game giving each student a chance to answer a question.

Tags: Gather students, Gather students together, students together, each side, games activities, help students

First Aid Training For Mwd Handlers

German shepherd is the preferred breed for MWD training.


A military working dog (MWD) handler is a member of the military police (MP). Dogs are trained to provide security at military bases, help enforce military regulations and help MPs with combat support tasks. Handlers are trained in administering first aid to their dogs.


Dangers to Dogs


Dogs in combat zones are obviously more at risk of injury, particularly those used to detect bombs and explosives. Typical injuries requiring first aid are heat exhaustion, blood loss, wounds and loss of limbs and hearing caused by explosive devices, shrapnel and bullet wounds. MWDs are prone to particular problems such as parasitic diseases, types of dermatitis and heart worms, but these are treated by military veterinary personnel.


Course Components


The emergency first aid course begins by teaching handlers the basic principles of first aid and incident management. The handler must also learn the contents of a canine first aid kit and prepare one. The rest of the training focuses on dealing with specific incidents, such as asphyxia or choking, bone fractures and torn muscles and poisoning. Handlers must also know treat blood loss and shock as well as manage wounds while getting the dog to the veterinary hospital. Finally, a handler learns use resuscitation techniques on dogs, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).


Training Base


Added to first aid, dog health and kennel hygiene are also components of the basic MWD handler training. All handlers and MWD training for the Department of Defense is carried out at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio Texas, which also co-ordinates the adoption of dogs into the military.

Tags: blood loss, must also

Friday, November 13, 2015

Make A Krawk Neopet

Krawks look like cartoon versions of crocodiles.


Neopets is a website where players, or Neopians, adopt and care for virtual pets. Neopians can adopt a wide range of pets, from gryphon-like Eyries to crocodile-like Krawks. As long as a player has fewer than four Neopets, she can adopt a new one at any time. Unlike other Neopets, Krawks cannot be adopted from the pound or created from scratch. One of the so-called "Restricted" Neopets, Krawks can only be obtained through a special Petpet evolution process. This process is not difficult, but it is extremely expensive.


Instructions


1. Hold the cursor above the "Shops" button, located on the top blue toolbar. Drag the mouse to "Trading Post" and click.


2. Press the "Browse Lots" button, located above the green "Your Trades" box. In the search bar, enter "Krawk." Click the blue mini-toolbar next to the search bar. Select "Identical To My Phrase." Press the "Find Those Trades!" button.


3. Purchase one of the Krawk Petpets listed. If you do not have enough Neopoints to make the purchase, contact the trader and see if he is willing to barter. Once you buy the item, press the "Inventory" button. Click on the picture of the Krawk located in your inventory. Press "Give Pet to X" -- X being the name of one of your Neopets that does not already have a Petpet.


4. Click the photograph of your active Neopet on the left-hand side of the screen. You'll be taken to the "Quick Reference" page. Press the mini-photo of your Neopet who is equipped with the Krawk Petpet. This will bring up a large photo of the Neopet with a photo of the Krawk Petpet in the left-hand corner. Press the photo of the Krawk Petpet.


5. Enter an original name into the "Petpet Name" box. To check if a Neopet already exists with this name, enter it into the "Search Neopets" toolbar in the lower left-hand corner. Press the "Rename Noname" button.


6. Press the "Explore" button on the top blue toolbar. Click on "Krawk Island." Click on "Smugglers Cove," the caves toward the top of the island. After visiting the caves, a special fungus will appear in your inventory. Press the "Inventory" button. Select the fungus. Feed it to your Krawk Petpet. Your Petpet will evolve into a fully grown Krawk Neopet.

Tags: Krawk Petpet, blue toolbar, button located, corner Press, Inventory button, inventory Press