Chikadis

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Shih Tzu Breeding: Think about it first!

		Tuesday, 23 September 08 - 12:01 PM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

Just today, I read an interesting article from Superness sharing her experiences on Shih Tzu breeding. She has pointed out that breeding a Shih Tzu, or dogs of any kind, should not be considered a business but more of your passion and love for dogs.

My baby Miqi will be turning one tomorrow. Few months from now, she can conceive babies but I am caught between a yes and a no if I will allow her to be matted. Articles like the one from Totally Shih Tzu can help first time owners like me. 

"So think twice before you breed your Shih Tzu. Breeding is not that easy. If you are not responsible enough to care for your Shih Tzu and her litter, then don’t breed. Always remember that breeding your Shih Tzu entails a huge responsibility. It requires extra time, effort, money, knowledge and care from you. Should you feel incompetent providing what your Shih Tzu requires, just try to keep out and make the best option to have your pet spayed/neutered." - Superness

To read the full article, click here: Totally Shih Tzu

You're a dog lover if...

		Tuesday, 23 September 08 - 09:19 AM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

1. You use the term potty in place of other urination terms.
2. You refer to your dogs as your children.
3. Your dog is in your family photo.
4. You go buy a king sized bed so there is enough room for pooch to sleep comfortably too.
5. You tell your chat partner to hold on while you play tug-of-war with your dog.
6. You get your dog a pet cat.
7. When shopping for a new car, your first requirement is that your dog can easily get into & out of the vehicle & she has her own window.
8. When house hunting, you consider houses with BIG fenced in yards so your dog has somewhere to play.
9. When you don't think it's the least bit strange to stand outside at 4:04AM chirping "Pee Maggie...Pee for mommy", while Maggie tends to play and forget Why she's out there.
10. Whenever your dog barks, you say, "uh-oh -Gotta run -My dog wants her supper and belly rub now."
11. You share ice cream cones with your dog.
12. Your dog eats cat *poop*, but you still let her kiss you.
13. You always look for dog corners on every mall you've been to.
    
14. You always buy something for your dog everytime you shop.
    
15. Your dog is a member of the family.
16. You care more about getting your dog's supper ready on time than yours.
17. You allow your dog to join you in the bath.
18. You don't mind sharing your pillow with your dog.
19. Your bedroom door has a doggie door.
20. Your dog owns more clothing and toys than your neighbor's children.
    
21. You have more pictures of your dog than of any other family member including yourself.
22. You share your popsicles with the dog.
23. You decide to get more dogs so your baby has playmates.
24. Your have gifts for your dogs.
25. You won't visit your family if the dog can't go too.
26. You spend all your free time (after playing with the dog, etc...) online at dog related sites.
27. You won't eat on a restaurant if there's a sign saying 'No pets allowed'
28. You would think twice on having a vacation because your dogs will be left with no one.
29. You think hotels that don't allow dogs are cruel.
    
30. You can stay dirty all day because you and your dog loves to cuddle on the floor and roll.

I am PROUD to say I have checkmarks on almost all of the items listed above. How about you?

Am I famous now?

		Monday, 22 September 08 - 06:16 PM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

I was born today. One of 10. My daddy was very famous. I have lots of half brothers and sisters. My mother is very famous. Since she got famous, she has only had puppies. No more loving hands, no more fun trips... just puppies. She is always sad when they leave her.

I left home today. I didn't want to go, so I hid behind my mama and my three littermates that were left. I didn't like you. But one day they said I would be famous. I wonder; is famous the same as fun and good times? So you picked me up and carried me away, even though you were concerned about me hiding from you. I don't think you liked me.

My new home is far away. I am scared and afraid. My heart says be brave. My ancestors were. Did they go to good homes like mine? I'm hungry because I can't eat too much because it will be bad for my bones. I can't bite or snap when the children are mean to me. I just run and play and pretend I am in a big green field with butterflies and robins and frogs. I can't understand why they kick me. I am quiet, but the man hits and says loud things. The lady doesn't feed me good things like I had with my mother. She just throws dry food on the ground, then goes away before I can get too close for touching and petting. Sometimes my food smells bad but I eat it anyway.

Today I had 10 puppies. They are so wonderful and warm. Am I famous now? I wish I could play with them, but they are so tiny. I am so young and playful that it is hard to lay here in this hole under the house nursing my puppies. They are crying now. I am so hungry. I scratch and worry my fur. I wish someone would throw me some food. I am also very thirsty. I now have eight. Two got cold during the night and I couldn't make them warm again. They are gone. We are all very weak. Maybe if I take them out on the porch, we can get some food.

Today they took us away. It was too much trouble to feed us and someone came to take us away. Someone grabbed my puppies, they were cryin and whimpering. We were put in a truck with boxes in it. Are my babies famous now? I hope so, because I miss them. They are gone.

The place smelled of urine, fear and sickness. Why was I here? I was beautiful, like my ancestors. Now I am hungry, dirty, in pain and unwanted. Maybe the worst is unwanted. No one came though I tried to be good.

Today someone came. They put a rope on my neck and led me to a room that was very clean and had a shiny table. They put me on the table. Someone held me and hugged me. It felt so good!!! Then I felt tired and laid over the last one who cared. I am famous now. Today someone cared.

Christian the lion

		Thursday, 14 August 08 - 11:03 AM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

I’ll bet you've never seen a pet like the one in this Video of the Day. In 1969, two friends, John Rendall and Ace Berg, purchased a lion. At the time, Christian the lion was a 35-pound cub. He had been born in a zoo. The friends raised Christian in their London home. All three hung out in a friend’s furniture shop on the weekends.

Within a year, Christian had grown to 185 lbs. Rendall and Berg realized they couldn’t keep him much longer. But they didn’t know what to do with him. A chance encounter changed that. Two actors from the film Born Free walked into the furniture store.

The actors recommended a conservationist, George Adamson, living in Kenya. Christian was soon in Africa. There he was rehabilitated and released into the wild.

In 1974, Rendall and Berg decided to visit Christian one last time. He was now a wild animal. Adamson told them it was doubtful that Christian could be found. No one had seen him in nine months.

The two flew to Kenya, anyway. On the day they landed, Christian appeared outside Adamson’s camp. Somehow, he knew. He waited outside the camp until Rendall and Berg arrived.

This video was taken during their reunion with Christian. What a story! What a video!

A Dog's Story

		Tuesday, 12 August 08 - 04:12 PM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

When I was a puppy I entertained you with my antics and made you laugh. You called me your child and despite a number of chewed shoes and a couple of murdered throw pillows, I became your best friend. Whenever I was "bad," youd shake your finger at me and ask "How could you?" but then youd relent and roll me over for a bellyrub.

My housebreaking took a little longer than expected, because you were terribly busy, but we worked on that together. I remember those nights of nuzzling you in bed, listening to your confidences and secret dreams, and I believed that life could not be any more perfect. We went for long walks and runs in the park, car rides, stops for ice cream (I only got the cone because "ice cream is bad for dogs," you said), and I took long naps in the sun waiting for you to come home at the end of the day.

Gradually, you began spending more time at work and on your career, and more time searching for a human mate. I waited for you patiently, comforted you through heartbreaks and disappointments, never chided you about bad decisions, and romped with glee at your homecomings, and when you fell in love.

She, now your wife, is not a "dog person" still I welcomed her into our home, tried to show her affection, and obeyed her. I was happy because you were happy. Then the human babies came along and I shared your excitement. I was fascinated by their pinkness, how they smelled, and I wanted to mother them, too. Only she and you worried that I might hurt them, and I spent most of my time banished to another room, or to a dog crate. Oh, how I wanted to love them, but I became a "prisoner of love."

As they began to grow, I became their friend. They clung to my fur and pulled themselves up on wobbly legs, poked fingers in my eyes, investigated my ears and gave me kisses on my nose. I loved everything about them and their touch because your touch was now so infrequent and I would have defended them with my life if need be.

I would sneak into their beds and listen to their worries and secret dreams. Together we waited for the sound of your car in the driveway. There had been a time, when others asked you if you had a dog, that you produced a photo of me from your wallet and told them stories about me. These past few years, you just answered "yes" and changed the subject. I had gone from being "your dog" to "just a dog," and you resented every expenditure on my behalf.

Now you have a new career opportunity in another city, and you and they will be moving to an apartment that does not allow pets. Youve made the right decision for your "family," but there was a time when I was your only family.

I was excited about the car ride until we arrived at the animal shelter. It smelled of dogs and cats, of fear, of hopelessness. You filled out the paperwork and said "I know you will find a good home for her." They shrugged and gave you a pained look. They understand the realities facing a middle-aged dog or cat, even one with "papers." You had to pry your sons fingers loose from my collar as he screamed "No, Daddy! Please dont let them take my dog!" And I worried for him, and what lessons you had just taught him about friendship and loyalty, about love and responsibility, and about respect for all life. You gave me a goodbye pat on the head, avoided my eyes, and politely refused to take my collar and leash with you. You had a deadline to meet and now I have one, too.

After you left, the two nice ladies said you probably knew about your upcoming move months ago and made no attempt to find me another good home. They shook their heads and asked "How could you?"

They are as attentive to us here in the shelter as their busy schedules allow. They feed us, of course, but I lost my appetite days ago. At first, whenever anyone passed my pen, I rushed to the front, hoping it was you that you had changed your mind that this was all a bad dream...or I hoped it would at least be someone who cared, anyone who might save me. When I realized I could not compete with the frolicking for attention of happy puppies, oblivious to their own fate, I retreated to a far corner and waited.

I heard her footsteps as she came for me at the end of the day and I padded along the aisle after her to a separate room. A blissfully quiet room. She placed me on the table, rubbed my ears and told me not to worry. My heart pounded in anticipation of what was to come, but there was also a sense of relief. The prisoner of love had run out of days. As is my nature, I was more concerned about her. The burden which she bears weighs heavily on her and I know that, the same way I knew your every mood.

She gently placed a tourniquet around my foreleg as a tear ran down her cheek. I licked her hand in the same way I used to comfort you so many years ago. She expertly slid the hypodermic needle into my vein. As I felt the sting and the cool liquid coursing through my body, I lay down sleepily, looked into her kind eyes and murmured "How could you?"

Perhaps because she understood my dogspeak, she said "Im so sorry." She hugged me and hurriedly explained it was her job to make sure I went to a better place, where I wouldnt be ignored or abused or abandoned, or have to fend for myself a place of love and light so very different from this earthly place. With my last bit of energy, I tried to convey to her with a thump of my tail that my "How could you?" was not meant for her. It was you, My Beloved Master, I was thinking of. I will think of you and wait for you forever.

May everyone in your life continue to show you so much loyalty.

Written by Jim Willis

 

Just a Dog

		Tuesday, 12 August 08 - 04:10 PM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog," or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog." They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog." Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog."

Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog," but I did not once feel slighted. Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog,"and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably understand phases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise." "Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. "Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person. Because of "just a dog" I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future. So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. "Just
a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day. I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog" but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a human."

Dog Eating Disorders: Is it your dog or is it you?

		Tuesday, 22 July 08 - 11:03 AM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

I usually get stuck into a scene when my pet and I would argue about her eating habits. I am the type of owner that will buy anything just to let my dog eat well. The problem is, my dog is very picky and can sometimes be fed up with the meals I give her.

During my visit to her vet, I usually complain on her poor eating habits. The vet then suggests the proper ways to feed my dog. I follow each step patiently but still there's  no luck. After long hours of trying to get her appetite, I still end up with nothing but disappointments.

I came across this good article this morning about the secrets of why your pet won't it. Being worried for my pet several times helped me to be informed of some important things that I should remember as a pet owner. I want to share this great article to help pet owners like me who experience the same problem.

Here's the article from Melissa Turner, Learn The Secrets Of Why Your Pet Wont Eat:

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Pets can sometimes be finicky when it comes to mealtime; cats are especially known to be picky about their food. Sometimes your pet may have a raring appetite and may beg to be fed...other times, they may simply glance at their dinner and choose to not eat. What is the cause of this inconsistent appetite? Chances are, if you have a pet with problems eating, the cause may not actually be your pet, but you.

If your pet consistently refuses to eat or eats very little, it may be a sign of illness. If your pet used to eat regularly and consistently, and now you have noticed a pattern of refusal to eat, this is cause enough to take your pet to the vet. If you have noticed other symptoms, take your pet to your local veterinary clinic to assess your pet's state of health immediately.

Although people need variety and wide selections and combinations of food, cats and dogs are not built the same way. This is often a mistaken belief that people have when it comes to feeding their pet. If they give their pet different types of food each day, they are teaching their pet that they can have an opinion, thus causing them to possibly not eat and hold out for a food choice they prefer more. Dogs and cats are not built like humans. They can get all of the proper nutrients and vitamins they need from only one particular dog food. Once you realize which food your pet likes best, just stick with it. Your pet will thank you for it!

Another reason that pets may not eat could be a family member who enjoys giving the pet 'people' snacks from the dinner table. If a dog gets pieces of 'people food,' that may very well satisfy their hunger until the next day. So, when you try to feed your pet, they are simply not hungry because they were already fed from the table. Not only can feeding from the table ruin your pet's appetite, it is also bad for them. Again, humans and animals have different nutritional needs, and human food may actually be more harmful to pets than is often realized.

Many dogs have an inherent nature to please their owners. Oftentimes when a pet eats their food, their owners praise them and show their dog that they are happy with them. Though this is fine, it can sometimes encourage dogs to overeat. Similar to humans, overeating can cause discomfort or bloating. If a pet later refuses to eat, they are simply saying they can't hold any more food and they are blocking it out in an attempt to be more comfortable.

Whatever the problem may be, it is always a good idea to visit your veterinary clinic and discuss your pet's eating habits with a professional. Your vet will be able to recommend a certain dog food type, as well as defining the amount of food and how many times a day your pet should be fed. Soon, you and your pet can find something that works for the both of you. Good luck!

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Article Source: Learn The Secrets Of Why Your Pet Wont Eat

Miqi's on http://icanhascheezburger.com/

		Friday, 09 May 08 - 02:33 PM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

Hey everyone, Miqi's officially on I can has cheez burger. See her in this link.  

Chikki

		Tuesday, 25 September 07 - 10:39 AM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

The first time I saw her in the pictures, I knew that i liked her.. 23rd of September at 1:30 pm was one of the most memorable days of my life. At long last, I met her.. I was surprised to see her small body. She looked so fragile and yet charming. I was a bit hesitant to hold her at first but my hands did the moves. I was so nervous to hold her as i might break her into pieces. She was so adorable and I can't wait to get home to feed her. It's really the first time. She was not comfortable at first to sit on my lap. She can't figure out what type of position she'll be doing to balance her body. Few minutes later, she finally found her spot. The trip is a bit exhausting. I myself had a motion sickness during the last minutes of the road. What more can I expect of her. she is about 4.5 inches long and a width of 3 inches. I immediately grabbed my small box and placed a nice towel for her to feel comfortable. After the long hours of trip, she finally saw her new home. She was hesitant to land her feet at the floor until i used both of my lands to place her on a warmer cloth. She sniffed around and tried to familiarize every corner she sees. Few minutes later, she finally felt at home. She rans after me everywhere I go. She also lays upside down and asks me to cuddle with her. She was probably trying to impress her new master. And then the rest is history. I look forward of the long years to come with her. I'm pretty sure those years will be a blast! :)

So I have spots? Now what?!

		Thursday, 12 July 07 - 12:34 AM (GMT +08:00) By Ces Catubay in All about pets

I still miss my kikay... ='( We were able to play a bit this morning with me and dad. It was raining cats and dogs but still we decided to take her to the court to catch up for the lost times. We played semi-wrestling (if there is such a term), walked and just enjoyed the whole time the 3 of us are together. I know dad missed her too. The only thing that stops us to play for long hours is the bad weather. Oh yes, you heard it right! At long last it is raining. After the long and extended summer, rainy season is now officially in. We're still finding some other options where we could play with our dear Chloe as she really can't let the day pass without any bonding moments with us. It's not a burden anymore. Dad and I used to fight because of time management, stress and all that since Chloe came. Now that I have more time for myself, I usually feel the emptiness when she had her permanent house. I miss the old days. Long hours of playing with her as if banging her head on the wall or punching her all the time just to make her tired. I can't do anything. I can't have her cause she's not mine. The consolation is I'm still able to play with her few times a week. I scanned some old pictures and here are some snapshots of my most treasured photos when she was still with me...

 

Outside the office. Chloe tries to get rid of the camera. Poor pup, I love cams! =)

 

Kikay while sleeping with her feet widely spread. Asan ang manners Chloe?

 

 

Her first day in our house. Stariray noh?

 

 

While I was making kulit of Chloe. Yes, I am still sane. =p

 

I still haven't transfered her recent photos from my cam. I'll have them uploaded here soon. Enjoy looking at her in those pictures 'cause you won't believe how big she is now. Hehe! By the way, I found two great sites for dog and cat lovers. I know I'm late with this but just in case you still don't know them, the links are Dogster and Catster. You've gotta check them if you're a pet lover. It's amazing... Bitzi bitz: Tomorrow's the big day. I'll keep you posted...

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