It’s soft and cuddly. It’s absolutely adorable. It comes in so many colors. It is always there. These are just some of the common qualities between a cocker spaniel and a cloud, primarily the appearance. Its mainly because of their curled up thick coat. These cute little darlings are become extremely common everywhere. They are incredibly friendly and lovable. Their size makes them a viable choice in with the reducing home sizes in the growing cities. They are beautiful in their own right, and so poised, no wonder they are a regular feature at dog shows and the like.

Originally bred as hunting dogs, their name was derived from their use as a preferred choice for hunting the Eurasian Woodcock. It was first bred in the United Kingdom, where they were known as the English Cocker Spaniel. Eventually they were brought in to the USA and there a new breed originated, called the American Cocker Spaniel, where they were trained to hunt the American Woodcock.  Both the breeds have similar coat colors and health issues with a few exceptions. Their existence can be dated to as far back as the 14^th century. From here they were exported to various other countries in time and their popularity began its ascent. Spaniels may be considered related to hounds and originating from Spain, lending it the name. They were often bred as gun dogs. With their strong sense of smell they could not only find prey and instigate them into flight, only to be shot down by the gunmen, but the cocker spaniels sight smell were so sound, that they could also find and retrieve the bird with a soft mouth.

Cocker spaniels were first classified as such, if the Spaniels weighed less than 25kgs. This was until the year 1901, after which the weight range changed and accommodated larger or heavier dogs too. According to the current standards, a typical male grows to a height of 37-41 centimeters, whereas a female could grow as tall as 34 to 39 centimeters, based on their breed. The English Cocker Spaniel tends to be taller than its American counterpart. The English variety has a narrower head and chest, whereas the American has a shorter back and muzzle and a domed head.  An English cocker spaniel weighs from 13 to 15 kilograms and the American breed weighs between 11-14kgs. There have been several instances when a cocker spaniel was awarded the best in show at some of the most prestigious dog shows of the world.

Cocker spaniels come in a variety of colors to satisfy and indulge all preferences. Black, liver, white, red and golden are some of the most common solids. But at the same time, cocker spaniels are available as a blend of these colors as well, such as roans, tans and sometimes even tricolors. All- white cocker spaniels are extremely rare, and are often specially bred, but sometimes a darker parent could also give birth to an all-white cocker spaniel. Cocker spaniels are ranked amongst the most popular breeds, both in the US and the UK, and it only seems to be increasing. Cocker spaniels are also categorized as those with show strains and working strains. Show strains as the name suggests, are bred almost exclusively for the purpose to conform to standards as part of dog shows. The working strain on the other hand is meant only for their working ability. They tend to be larger with flatter heads, shorter ears, and less feathering compared to their show strain counterparts.

Cocker spaniels with their long floppy ears are prone to several defects of the ear canal along with the regular ailments common amongst dogs. The fold of the ear prevents air from entering the ear, making the atmosphere warm and susceptible to growth of unwanted organisms. Ear inflammation, swelling, can cause the ear to get shut. This can be caused due to parasites, microorganisms, foreign bodies, tumors, ear mites, ticks or even fleas that live and fester in a dog’s ear canal. Yeast infections are extremely common, hence adequate care needs to be taken, if you notice inflammation or pus-discharge. A foul odor, unusual shaking or scratching of the head by the dog is also a sure sign of something being wrong. Other common ailments include hip displasia, cancer, and even eye disorders. PRA or progressive retinal atrophy has been documented in many dogs, and affect’s a dog’s eyesight. In severe cases, it could even cause blindness, which could also be caused by glaucoma. Cataracts are also fairly common.

Cocker spaniels with their joyful, friendly demeanor, love the company of humans. They are playful and energetic and are loved by kids especially because of that soft, shiny, huggable coat. Their size and adaptability makes them a favorite choice as pets in most households, as that signifies that they are low maintenance. This does not reduce the rewards that one reaps as a sign of their love, loyalty and gratitude towards you. They can be amazing companions for individuals, and are amazing family dogs. They love to play outdoors and are amazing partners to health fans. one really doesn’t need any other reason to fall irrevocably in love with this breed.

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You are all set to finally have a pet. You’ve made all the necessary arrangements. And of course, you are utterly excited. But sometimes, something or the other always gets in the way. It could be financial constraints or spatial or time issues. And more often than not, the other members of your family do not love pets enough to have them in the house, as a part of their daily life. You try so hard to get them on your side, to get them to see, why you absolutely must have one, but to no avail. The reasons range from it being considered a bad investment, to genuine allergic reactions. In such cases, one must look at other alternatives to satisfy one’s craving of a pet.

When financial constraints, especially the initial investment is a matter of concern, such as in case of dogs, the easiest alternative is to adopt. You can adopt a lonely pup off the streets, and make sure it is well-immunized before getting too close to it, or you can also visit the local dog pound. In fact every few months, most cities host adoption camps for dogs and cats, where for a minimal price you can take home any pet of your choice; as long as you can assure the responsible authorities that you will treat them well.

This is an incredible way of contributing to a social cause that also happens to be close to your heart. You are saving a poor adorable soul from a life of misery or even imminent death and at the same time, you get to call someone your very own, and reap the benefits of a pet. At the same time, as is evident from the lack of services that cater to all the disowned animals on the street, you are doing your city a service by reducing the load on its resources, which are required for proper treatment of these animals.

Another way you can have the sense of being a pet owner, is when you have the option of choosing any animal as a pet of your own, with no legal responsibilities, per se. This is possible, when you start of regular feeding a stray animal in your locality or on your regular travel routes. You could choose a specific dog or a cat or even a cow, depending on which animal you see most often. You can choose one or more animals. The more you choose, the multiple are your rewards.

There is practically nothing else that you need to except provide them with a safe, edible meal regularly, but you can also choose to aid them in their physical well being with the help of a vet. This simple act of kindness will not go unacknowledged in the eyes of the animal or your peers. This will earn you goodwill amongst all, and the love and loyalty that it comes with from these beloved animals is incomparable. If you ever feel lonely, you can turn to them for comfort and security. They might even protect you from other more daunting peer.

Most zoos nowadays give its patrons the option of adopting one of its animals. It goes without saying that this does not involve you taking the said animal home, but just making sure it is well taken care of by providing the necessary stipulated funds. This makes sure that the animals gets its fair share of resources regularly and is in good health. You can adopt animals like lions and tigers to snakes, birds, turtles and deer, based on the availability of the animal in the zoo. You also have the option of choosing the time period during which you wish to assist the zoo financially. It could be monthly or annual.

Volunteering is another great way you can avail the benefits of living with pets. The volunteering can be practiced at zoos, during awareness drives, your neighbors’ or even at some veterinarian’s clinic. The work involved could be menial to daunting but you get to be around animals the whole time. At the zoo, the animals in question are different and depending on the zoos capability, the tasks you manage may or may not involve direct contact. Volunteering at a clinic, while you may not do any actual medical procedure, you learn a lot, meet tons of like minded people, comfort pets in distress and of course enjoy the joy radiating from healed pets. The easiest of the lot, is walking your neighbor’s dog. They might be busy and have insufficient time to spend with them; you can chime in and bask in the pet’s love with no strings attached. One might even be able to treat this as a viable source of income, if you do it well.

The benefits of being around pets for the young to the old have been described and documented many times. And when you can experience the same without much of a commitment, you will understand if you can really take care of them. This saves a lot of efforts, on your part as well as that of the pet. Also, as you learn, you never know, as a young student, you might just consider to make it your profession.

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We all love our pets. And why not, the love, loyalty, companionship and the simplicity they bring to your life is so rare to find in today’s world. They make sure you never feel lonely. They are always right there by your side. They will love you endlessly. They are ever so faithful. And most importantly they will never ever judge you. We are surrounded by people and yet we crave for companionship. We crave for someone who will not be silent spectator in your times of grief but will calm us down; someone who doesn’t need to be reached out to explicitly, but somehow always knows what we need exactly when we need it. One would not be surprised to know that these qualities have been well known and appreciated since time immemorial. It is just the feel-good vibes that resonates from your pets that makes life so much better. Their mere presence, physical or hypothetical can significantly improve the quality of life.

The age old principles of Vastu Shastra, widely credited for lessons on how to live better, are native to the Indian subcontinent. These principles are extensively followed, practiced and preached. There are several clauses dedicated to the contribution of animals. It also mentions the importance of their presence in some form in the larger scheme of things. Not only that, but also the ancient Chinese wisdom of Feng Shui gives significant importance to the presence of animals within the household or even the workplace to ensure peace, joy and stability. Every animal has its own unique qualities, and has a distinct contribution to your way of life. The animals in question range from the meekest to some of the most fearsome. This contribution is not restricted only when they are physically present around you, but also when there is any picture or statue or such symbolic presence.

The fearsome animal, dragon is considered one of the luckiest symbols according to Feng Shui. Since one cannot actually own a pet dragon, their presence even in the form of pictures or miniature statuettes is considered a magnet for attracting good chi or positive vibes which translate to good luck. Having images of a dragon in the house or workplace is known to stimulate the growth in one’s wealth. This mythical creature can adorn your place of work or home in the form of statues, panels, dishes, vases or other objects.

Dogs with their knack to guard your homes are popular pets. But it is a relatively lesser known fact that dogs are equally successful at warding of negative influences from around you. Black dogs especially are favored for this purpose. In the various sciences that talk about good luck, one will find references made about dogs and their power to bring peace, happiness and stability. In times of extreme distress, these specialists preach owning black dogs with white paws for maximum gains.

Goldfish are thought to bring good luck, because they move incessantly. It is believed that their movement pattern is akin to that of healthy chi energy. The gold fish was named so, because it appears like gold. This is yet another sign of their importance to increase wealth in your life. As long as the fish is healthy, it doesn’t matter how many one should keep. But generally, odd numbers attract growth whereas even numbers attract wealth.

One might find it hard to believe but frogs too are considered extremely good omens in Feng Shui. The statuette of a 3 legged frog is extremely common in Chinese shops, usually with a coin in its mouth. This is in concurrence with a Chinese folklore where a frog rescued from a well, brought immense wealth to its savior. This symbolizes the income of wealth from an unidentified source. One should ideally place the statue at the entrance of your house/workplace to ensure consistent inflow of wealth.

The Chinese system of Feng Shui credits several other animals as sources of good luck. Some unusual ones include red bats as a magnet of money and fortune. You might be deemed extremely lucky by these specialists if there are bats living in or around your house, even though you might be afraid of the same. If not, a real bat, even the image of a bat in the house can bring you good luck. Cranes symbolize longevity and good luck, whereas elephants symbolize wealth.

A turtle similarly, symbolizes wealth, more so, if you happen to have a pet turtle. In fact, if a turtle accidently happens to wander into your home, you will be considered one of the luckiest people. If not, even images or statues are just as good. Horses too are known as effective sources of stability and growth at the same time, when present around you, even in the form of images or statues.

If there has been any kind of apprehension regarding having a pet, the fact that they can help you in your personal and professional progress is just another added incentive to clear all doubts. After all, there is nothing else that brings you the benefits of a truly loyal companion and a luck harbinger all wrapped in one.

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Have you ever thought what it would be like to own a lion as a pet. Well then, this is your chance. But there is a catch. This pet will be a miniature version of a lion. It only has an unmistakable similarity in appearance, but it really is a dog. Not just a dog, but one of the cutest dogs you must have ever set your sights on. This breed is absolutely adorable in not half as ferocious as a real lion, which is just another point of attraction. Those cute eyes look like buttons in the middle of that face that resembles the face of a lion, complete with a mane. In fact the Chow Chow  originated in Northern China, where it was known as Songshi Quan, which translates to puffy-lion dog.

Chow Chows are also called Chows. It is one of the oldest breeds in the world believed to be used as a model for the Foo dog. The Foo dog is the traditional stone guardians found in front of most Buddhist temples and palaces. They are said to be descendants of wolves. They were first found in the high steppe regions of Siberia or Mongolia and went on to be used in China, Mongolia and Tibet. Evidence points to existence of dogs that looked like Chow Chows as far back in time as 150BC. They were essential companions to the Mongolian armies in their various invasions in China, Europe and even the Middle East.

Their original purpose was herding, hunting, pulling and guarding. They were then used as general-purpose working dogs with the demise of the aforesaid activities with time. They were also bred for human consumption. Not only that, they were also used as sled dogs and war dogs, because of their ability to pull heavy loads and their large size.  It has been said that breeds like Pomeranians and elkhounds have descended from Chow chows. Interestingly enough, it is believed that Queen Victoria’s pet Chow inspired the creation of the first teddy bears, due to their cute and cuddly appearance. She was so in love with her chow that she would carry it everywhere with her, which apparently went against the royal of code of conduct, which lead to the idea of a teddy bear that looked similar to the pet.

The Chow has a characteristic blue black tongue and a unique shaggy lion-like appearance of their face. This sturdily built dog has a square profile. Their short triangular ears with rounded tips perfectly compliment their lovable appearance. As a consequence of their origin being from the coldest parts of the world, they have a very dense double coat that is rough or smooth, which looks mane-like as it is particularly thicker in the neck region. Chows exist in colors such as red, black, fawn, cinnamon, cream or even blue, although not all of them are acceptable color schemes among show dogs, nor are they all available in all countries. Their deep set, almond shaped eyes have the capacity to make you melt. Their tail too is distinctly curly and thick. Their hind legs tend to be unusually straight that gives them a stilted appearance.

They are fiercely protective of their owners and their property, and are usually discerning of strangers. They might be unusually aggressive or even extremely timid, which gives them cat-like attributes. They are fairly passive in their temperament and so can be conveniently kept as house pets, as they don’t tend to be too active. But at the same time, one must make sure, that the chow gets sufficient physical exercise to avoid lethargy and boredom. It has direct consequences on its health and restlessness. Once a routine is set that involves Daily exercises, the chow will look forward to it, as that could be the only source of activity for it. Ideally they weigh between 45 to 70 pounds and grow to a height of about 17 to 20 inches. Fleas, cancer, glaucoma and hip dysplasia are some of the most common ailments in chows.

They can be extremely stubborn in nature, and can develop attachment to certain things as they grow. It is extremely loyal towards the family members. They are usually calm and well behaved, but they are also not particular fans of training, which is crucial especially in their early years to teach them to value those who love them. In order to avoid aggressiveness and the over protective behavior, it is advisable to expose them to other animals and people as a means of increased social interaction. But some dogs can be easy going enough to seem aloof towards everyone except their owners. They are considered as one of the most high risk dogs, hence, it is better to keep them leashed to avoid unnecessary tussles with cats or small dogs or even strangers, but with training this too can be avoided.

Chows continue to be extremely popular pets among dog owners, mainly due to their cuteness factor. Apart from feeding, training and grooming chows are fairly low maintenance and yet are adored at dog shows. It is no wonder then that they are a favorite choice among several celebrities too from Walt Disney’s wife to Janet Jackson, and Sigmund Freud to Martha Stewart.

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If you have ever loved and lost someone, you know just how painful it can be, even more, when you are the one that’s lost. One tends to lose hope and the sense of purpose. One would imagine that it probably is a lot harder for your dear pet. Many a times, one might see a lost animal that has been abandoned by their owners. The validity of the reasons for such an act is unfathomable. Some might give economic instability. Even though that might seem fair, but one must not gamble on the life of an adorable living being with everything to lose, who will love you unconditionally, no matter what. Some of the more unreasonable excuses include the loss of interest in the idea of owning a pet.

Sometimes, it so happens that some elements of the society with less than noble intentions, deliberately try to hurt your pet or in certain cases even steal them. This is probably in response to some tussle between the victim’s family and the person in question, or to try and sell the pet as a source of secondary income, or in worst case scenarios as a victim of animal cruelty. Apart from attempts at moral policing and improving the safety and security of our pets, sadly, there is not a lot that can be done.

Or when a pet has sufficiently fulfilled the original purpose of their presence, the owner decides to abandon them. Such as the extremely disciplined dogs used the police department used as sniffer dogs or those in welfare homes, used as guide dogs or for companionship, once old or disabled even if temporarily, are struck off service, often conveniently termed as ‘retirement’. Such animals have nowhere to be, and are disturbingly found fending for themselves.

Another situation is when the pet itself feels uncared for. Physical abuse although unacceptable, is fairly common in many homes. Using violence as a form of training, especially, is common among many a pet owners. Sometimes, the pet is yet another accessory for an owner, present in the household just to satisfy a temporary whim. Pets usually tend to adjust to the various kinds of people they are with, but sometimes when things get beyond their capability to bear, they try to break free and run away in the hope of finding a better life, which may or not be an eventuality.

Popular media including books and movies, including the highly successful series of ‘Homeward Bound’ are based on instances when a dearly beloved pet of some family is lost. Such pets could be dogs or cats or any other animal. The movies give relatable accounts of what happens when the pet has been left behind accidentally or deliberately. The pet somehow successfully finds its way back home and into the hearts of those responsible for their being missing. The animated movie ‘Bolt’ is a classic depiction of the love and loyalty that the dog has for the little girl who calls it her own. These pets, in the face of the direst of difficulties, refuse to give up.

Not only in the fictional world, but there have been real stories when a pet has returned home, even after years of being separated from their owners. There was a recent story when a cat came back to its owner after over 10 years, willingly and voluntarily. This was a shock and a surprise not only for the owner, but also those people who believe that cats are selfish and are unattached to their owners emotionally. Dogs that were abandoned or stolen have escaped from captivity and come back home safely, much to the elation of their owners and disappointment of their dog-nappers. These animals have travelled across borders just to be with their owners.

Animals have a certain sense of direction, an inherent quality of rarely being actually lost. It is fairly simple for them to return to the place call home. They have their own mechanism to mark their territory, relay out signals amongst their own kind, etc. More often than not, it is the human interference that makes matters complicated. If the owner shifts base, the pet now can no longer rely on finding their marked territory to find their owner. Animals are extremely instinctive too. They can sense when they are not truly loved or wanted. So if treated badly, there’s a high chance, they will not make attempts to return to their owner, and would prefer staying on the streets.

As a fellow pet lover, one must always be on the look-out to help owners to find their pets. These pets are just as close to them as a family member, and the pain of losing one is as bad as a missing child. It is admittedly easier to recognize a lost dog from their collar. Cats usually don’t have collars, yet the air about a pet cat is fairly different from that of a street cat, as one might call it. Birds are the hardest to find due to their love of the open skies. Yet, one can always try to bring two loved ones back together.

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If you are one of those who is on the constant lookout for something that will help you stand out, be one of the few people to own something so distinctive, so unique and so special that you will probably be identified based on that. If you don’t mind being recognized as the ‘one who owns it’, then this is what you need.  It is something that is not only a highly valued status symbol but also a companion to you. A Siamese cat is a living being that is extremely extraordinary, a beauty in its own right. It is no wonder, then that Siamese cats are popular and extremely common in pet shows, they sometimes have an entire segment of a Cat show dedicated exclusively to them. These shows have been gaining grounds from the US to Hong Kong.

A Siamese cat personifies elegance. With their lithe graceful form, and their proud demeanor, one might think that they live to impress you. That is definitely not the case, it is just how they are. With that slender long neck, the sparkling blue almond shaped eyes, it is no surprise that one look can hold you mesmerized. They have long, elongated body that is distinctive from other cat breeds. The slender tail only adds to its elegance. They have a single coat of short shiny hair that stays flat against their body. Another defining feature is their triangular head. The tip of their ears to the tip of their nose forms a perfect inverted triangle. In fact, their ears too are absolute triangles. The color scheme of their fur is also distinctively patterned. It’s a chic combination of alabaster and a darker shade. They are pure cream or white in color at birth and slowly develop their markings based on the concentration of their body temperatures. They also exist in shades of brown, blackish or grey shades. Cross breeding often lead to a series of color combinations including red and cream. These markings are a consequence of the enzyme melanin that has a typical mechanism of working in Siamese cats.

Siamese cats have been known to be around since a very long time. Some of the first Siamese cats can be traced back to the 14^th Century. They originated from Thailand. They were then shipped across borders to the United Kingdom and also to the United States of America as gifts or as prized possessions the rareness of the breed and their unique appearance marked their foray into the show business. They were so dearly loved that this lead to the eventual formation of the Siamese Cat Club in 1901 in UK. They were compared to the existing breeds of Persian cats in the UK and yet held their own, as they were believed to be valuable enough to be kept only by the royalty. They have always been long-bodied, graceful cats with moderately wedge shaped heads and ears that were comparatively large but proportionate to their head size. Their built ranged from substantial to slender but never overtly extreme on either end of the spectrum.

Similar to most cats, Siamese are also extremely lovable and adored by their owner. They are rarely temperamental. They are affectionate and more intelligent than other breeds are always eager to explore. Their extrovert behavior makes them susceptible to venture out in the day time. They are extremely friendly and compatible with their human counterparts. They have a knack to be demanding, much like their original royal owners. They are active but not hyper. Their level of activity reduces as the day begins to end, especially at night. This is credited to the lack of certain physiological elements that affects their nigh vision. Their playful nature is utterly adored by young and old alike. They are persistent in their demands. They have a distinctly high pitched sound called the ‘Meezer;’ that is akin to the cries of a human baby. They have a high tendency to use their vocal chords far more often than other cat breeds. They also have a typical tendency to live in groups or pairs. They also form a special bond or attachment with a specific human companion, and can be fiercely loyal towards them. This is one reason why they are often considered to have more dog-like characteristics.

Compared to other breeds Siamese cats have a relatively lower lifespan. Breeds derived from Siamese cats too have a median lifespan of about 10-12.5 years. They have an increased tendency towards developing mammary tumors. Neo-plastic and gastrointestinal problems are fairly common among Siamese cats, but there is a low risk of urinary tract diseases. They are also highly prone to vision ailments including reduced night vision and even crossed eyes which along with a kink in the tail were considered undesirable traits in show cats. Their visionary ailments lead to their increased dependence on humans that developed into affection overtime, but their hearing ability is not compromised in spite of them being blue-eyed. It is the beauty and charm of Siamese cats that makes them extremely popular in popular movies and books and also a favorite among celebrities including Ke$ha, James Dean, John Lennon and also once in the White House.

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Any movie buff with a particular partiality towards animals will in all probability be in love with the movie 8 below. And if one were to watch it, so would they fall in love with the movie; if not the movie, then the protagonists for sure. And no, the late Paul Walker is not being talked about here, but the fascinating team of eight absolutely adorable snow dogs. Another movie with this breed in the lead is Snow Dogs where a Miami dentist inherits a pack of snow dogs, which he eventually learns to love and trains them for the annual event.

There is just something so endearing about huskies that one can’t help but feel an instant connection to them. There is a reason so many movies and books have huskies as a central character. These gorgeous furry creatures are not only one of the oldest breeds, but are some of the most fiercely loyal dogs one would come across. Their lovable, playful temperament is loved and appreciated by one and all. The Siberian husky as the name suggests, originated in Siberia and is characterized by its dense coat. It belongs to the Spitz genetic family. The thick furry coat, triangular erect ears and markings are distinctive.

The snow clad mountainous terrains of Northeast Asia was where this breed was first brought in to use as a working dog. They would be used to pull heavy loads of luggage and people through long distances over some of the roughest terrains in the most unpredictable climatic conditions. The ancestors came from some severely harsh and chilling climates in the Siberian Arctic. In spite of the weather, the breed has always been extremely active, energetic and resilient to all environments. The breed was eventually imported to various parts of the world, including Alaska, Canada and the United States. Because of their ability to persevere through the snow, they were originally only used as sled dogs, but as their popularity grew they adapted to be used as family dogs or even in the show business.

The dog will ideally live for 12-14 years weighing 16-27kgs growing up to the height of 51-64cm. to help them adapt to the cold weather, they are born with a thick undercoat and a soft outer coat. Such an arrangement makes it able to survive in Arctic temperatures that could be as low as -60 degree Celsius. What is interesting is that in spite of being ideally suitable for cold climates, their coats can adjust to warmer temperatures with relative ease. The outer coat reflects heat in the summer and can naturally change to adapt to the hot temperatures, although weekly grooming is essential in all seasons. They exist in all shades of black to white with distinctive patterns and combinations, sometimes with a hint of brown or red. They can have eyes ranging from blue to green to brown or amber. Some huskies are known to have eyes of differing colors or part-colored.

The breed name Husky originates from the word Esky, as a derivative of Eskimos, their first human companions. Their uninhibited loyalty and faith in their owners has been well documented in movies based on real life, such as 8 Below, when in spite of being temporarily abandoned in an Arctic storm, they survived and waited for the return of their owner for over 50 days, all by themselves. Their undying love and affectionate nature makes them an all-rounder of sorts. They are prone to display signs of their ancestral behavior. This includes tendency to howl instead of bark. They love to play and run. Because of their inherent traits similar to that of an escape artist, fences as high as 2 meters are recommended.

They are incredibly protective of children, and need constant human companionship. One must make sure to provide them with their daily dose of intense physical activity. Because of their predatory instincts, they might not be accepting of other animals in the house and can become a source of worry in presence of small animals. While at the same time, this trait makes them a formidable form of safety and security against intruders. They tend to need training lessons to differentiate friend from foe and other obedience issues. They are extremely intelligent and are trusting companions. Most of their health issues are genetic such as seizures or ailments related to eye defects. Because of their medium to large size, lack of exercise makes them prone to bone issues such as hip dysplasia. When used as sled dogs gastric and breathing difficulties become increasingly common.

They are cute and cuddly and are extremely attractive for young children, so much so that the Siberian Chukchi people used to have the dogs look after their children. They are gentle in their demeanor, yet have a tendency to be destructive, roam and run away. But with their genetic directional skills, they easily find their way back. If trained well when young, they make great family dogs. They are independent in a way, but still enjoy human interaction. Their outgoing nature is just another addition to the exhaustive list of their qualities, which just makes them even more desirable.

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Let’s say there’s someone who really loves animals, someone who genuinely cares for animals and would find it a privilege to be able to own a pet. But due to some reason is unable to fulfill this wish of theirs. Financial constraints, lack of space, unavailability of time to devote to them or incompatibility with the other members of the household. Sometimes, one’s profession is such, that it demands constant travel. This translates to inability to take proper care of the pet. In cases like these, there is a need for establishments that cater to such people. A place where one can go and live the life they have always dreamed of.

The concept of petting zoos first came into the picture when the London zoo started a children’s zoo with domesticated animals and trained wild animals, which they could play with, touch, pet and even feed. With time this idea grew and spread to other cities around the world. There are places that are still reluctant to accept the idea of opening up their zoos for human contact. The apprehension could be due to the investment that it requires in terms of capital and staff. While at the same time, some might say that there’s a certain risk factor involved for people and animals alike. One cannot expect every person to be genuinely caring towards the animals. Certain people including children find it amusing to try and harm or pester the poor creatures. Similarly, some time an animal might be particularly unpredictable.

But zoos, where this experiment has been successful, vouch for the increased acceptance and popularity of animals as an integral part of one’s well being, compared to where one could only view them from beyond safety enclosures. It is also an effective source of revenue generation as well as increased employment opportunities amongst professionals trained in handling animals. The importance of affinity towards animals was propagated through such an experience. Awareness towards how they should be treated was also generated. Hands on experiences are useful in making professions to do with animals, an evidently viable career option too. It also helped to change the thought amongst people that one must stay away from animals. One needs to be careful but not scared of them. As a result people got an opportunity to experience bonds with animals. One could explore the love that any animal feels for someone who treats it right, whether they are pet, domestic or even wild, in most cases.

The animals that are usually considered for petting zoos are well trained. Domestic animals such as cows and goats are often used. Some wild animals that are harmless are also present. Alpacas, llamas, monkeys, pythons and even kangaroos are often found to be some of the popular choices. Guinea pigs, turtles, birds, miniature donkeys, rabbits and ponies are especially loved by young children. The zoos provide the patrons with relevant food, to ensure the health and well being of the animals is not compromised, and at the same time it is convenient for them. Food often fed to them includes hay, grass or crackers based on the animal in question. This is an exception to the general rule of not feeding zoo animals.

Animal lovers will tell you that the mere petting of an animal can successfully help you release the stress and tension of regular day-to-day life. Even watching them go about their business at leisure soothes the nerves. A genuinely happy animal can transmit similar feelings into those around it. Their lovable and adorable nature makes one feel special in an instant. Scientific studies have proven the benefits of constant interaction and contact with animals. Kids benefit especially from pet animals, and since one may not be able to own one, having a place where they can experience the joys of being a pet owner, even for a short time, can help make the child less aggressive, sharper and a better human being.

While there are innumerable benefits of contact with animals, one needs to be aware if they are allergic to any particular animal. Some people might be prone to allergic reactions to animals such as cats, or animal hair. If so, one must avoid any contact with them, at the risk of fatalities. Apart from that, there is also the risk of transmitting diseases to and from the animals. Hence, it is critical to properly cleanse yourselves before and after coming in contact with them.

Along the lines of petting zoos, cat cafes are now popular in some eastern countries especially Japan. These cafes allow people to interact with cats exclusively at nominal charges. The physiological and psychological benefits of petting cats are well documented, especially among the elderly. The purring sound that they emanate while being petted is deemed to be comforting for most people. Their unassuming, no-fuss temperament is highly appreciated by cat lovers. There is an increasing need of establishments along such lines considering the kind of lifestyle that is becoming common lately. A place where one can rejuvenate among silent, loving, non-judgmental creatures that help you relax without asking for anything in return.

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What do the following have in common- Full House, Air Bud, Famous Five, Homeward Bound and Up? They all had a golden retriever as the dog in them. Who doesn’t laugh at every cute antic of Doug, from Up? Or is awed by the faithful adorable companionship when The Five solve mysteries? That is the power that a golden retriever is blessed with. Its very appearance is appealing to one and all, from the youngest to the oldest. These large sized bundles of joy can credit their allure to their thick glossy coats and the charm that they exude every time they come bounding up to you. Their strong built is rarely a deterrent to its appreciation.

Originally trained to be gundogs, this breed gets their name from the occupation of retrieving hunted prey undamaged that formed a part of their job description. The breed originates from Scotland and has an instinctive love for water. One can often see them running and playing with their owners on beaches. But at the same time, they have the tendency to roam, which means that although they require diligent outdoor exercise (2 or more hours per day), and are well suited for suburban or country environments, one needs to be extra careful to keep them fenced in. Ranging from 21-24 inches in height and 27-34kg in weight, this breed is available in various shades of gold or cream. They are endowed with 2 coats of dense long straight or moderately wavy hair. The inner coat keeps them warm in winters and cool in summers, while the outer coat lies flat against their body and protects them from water.

Its intelligence makes it easy to train and versatile. It can be trained as a guide dog, a hunting dog or even an active member of search and rescue teams because of their talent to sniff out and detect unusual smells. The dog’s cordial and friendly temperament makes it an extremely popular family dog, but the same gentle behavior makes it unsuitable as a professional guard dog. They are not picky when it comes to eating habits and is also playful in nature, which makes it a favorite among the young children. Their loyalty and caring temperament is an added bonus especially as guide dogs.

There are 3 basic varieties in Golden Retrievers based on their size and weight. The British are heavier and stockier in built. The American Golden Retriever is lankier and taller than its British counterparts, but retains the thick coat. The Canadian variety has a thinner and is the tallest amongst all. The Canadians have darker colored coats compared to the other two. In general, the golden retriever’s outer coat sheds in small amounts throughout the year, while the inner coat is soft and helps it to adapt according to the weather. Their coat should not be kept too long, as that could lead to frequent tripping while playing or retrieving game.

Golden Retrievers are the most common breeds in conformation shows. They are scrutinized mainly on their coat color as only certain shades are deemed acceptable at such events. Colors like white, red and black are considered unacceptable. Rich, lustrous golden of various shades or even cream are considered among the ideal coats for a golden retriever. With age the coat tends to lose its luster and fades in color. One might even spot white patches. The coat of the puppies is also lighter than its adult color, although there is not a drastic difference. The color of the nose is also a factor of judgment for Golden Retrievers at dog shows. These events gain formidable audience when it is time for the breed to display their talents. Fetching, running through hoops, jumping over hurdles are just some of the contests. This is fueled by their agile, competitive nature.

This breed has an average lifespan of ten to twelve years. Their kind confident and friendly nature makes them equally amiable towards familiar and non-familiar people and animals alike. They are extremely gentle and trusting, so any form of aggressiveness is unacceptable in dog shows, but at the same time they are not supposed to be feeble, timid or nervous. They are exceptionally calm with a constant eagerness to please others, which makes them susceptible to being overworked if proper care is not taken. They are biddable, eager to learn and have the ability to focus and sit quietly for hours. They have the ability to scramble in and out of boats with unusual ease.

The breed loves to eat. Obesity, kidney failure, hip dyslexia, cataracts and other eye diseases, cancer and other genetic diseases are common in them. Before buying one must know the pedigree. Allergies, skin diseases and excessive shedding are some of the common problems seen in the breed. Regular grooming can reduce shedding and prevent bald patches. One must also make sure to keep them active all year round. A healthy, happy dog has a significantly reduced tendency to most diseases, although in some cases they may be unavoidable due to age and genetics, but a healthy, happy Golden Retriever will surely succeed in keeping you healthy and happy.

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The most common breed in India is the Labrador retriever, lovingly called Labrador or Lab. These adorable creatures with their friendly temperament are considered among the most popular family dogs. It is one of several types of retriever breeds found across the world.  They are known for their absolute loyalty towards their owner and for their adorable behavior. For this reason Labradors are particularly common as family dogs and well loved as pets even though they were originally they were bred as gun dogs. They are known to be extremely talented and of a gentle and stable temperament. They are among the breeds that are not prone to mood swings or volatile disposition. This is why they are one of the most popular breeds of pet dogs in most countries.

Gun dogs were required by huntsmen to spot and retrieve prey, before and after the hunt respectively. They are sharp, intelligent and fairly intuitive, qualities that are sought for this purpose. They are also known for their ability to follow commands. They have an effective sense of direction, which enables them to be good guides. They also have the rare need to please others, which urges them to listen to your every requirement. It is in their nature to be loyal and faithful and loving towards their owner, i.e., they cannot be swayed easily into betrayal when in the field during hunting events. Their playful attitude and natural affinity towards water is the main reason why they were chosen for waterfowl hunting events.

Labradors are also favored for assistance purposes to the disabled and elderly. One can often see them as guide dogs, in company of the blind, helping them to navigate through crowded streets, footpaths and even while crossing roads with heavy traffic. People with mental disabilities, such as autism, also benefit greatly from Labradors when they are used as therapy dogs in such cases. Some hospitals employ Labradors for the sole purpose of petting which has been proven to be an effective source of comfort amongst patients. The shear love and joy that radiates from their calm demeanor is one of the reasons why patients appreciate their company. Not only do Labradors have that, but their keen sense of smell and detection skills prove to be especially helpful for bomb squads and to help the narcotics department to seize illegal substances.

This breed originates from Canada and is known to live a healthy and happy life for about 12-14 years. A female Labrador can have a litter of 5-10 puppies. They can range from 55-62cm in height and 25-36kg is considered the ideal weight.  Although they are generally active in their prime youth, with time they tend to become lethargic if proper care is not taken. They need to be given access to regular physical exercise so that they remain healthy even as they age. They have smooth, short hair. Their straight and dense coat is not as prone to loss of hair as in case of golden retrievers. But at the same time they too need constant and careful grooming to ensure that a healthy, shiny coat persists.

The breed was first known to exist only in yellow and its several shades. From butterscotch to golden, there were several shades in the yellow spectrum seen since the 20^th century. Labradors are equally adorable when in shades of brown and black. The brown is almost chocolate-like in texture that gives them an almost exotic appearance and also rare. Golden being the most commonly seen color, it is closely followed by black. Black Labradors look especially regal and elegant. Not only that, but several believers in lucky charms, consider black Labradors the most effective source of good luck for the owner.

Due to their probable sedentary lifestyle, the breed is fairly prone to related diseases. Obesity is the most common which is aided by their persistent and persuasive affliction for food. Deafness, cancer, hip and elbow dysplasia, muscle trouble and cataracts are some other diseases seen in Labradors. They are supposed to be fun loving, even boisterous to an extent which makes a scheduled and strict training almost a necessity. Their curious and exploratory nature makes them susceptible to getting lost, separating or even stolen. If attracted by people or certain scents for food, activity or the novelty factor, they would even jump fences.

They are extremely trusting, friendly and gullible towards known and unknown humans and other animals alike. This makes them a poor choice as guard dogs. But for the same reason, they are extremely popular as family dogs, especially in households with children and/or elderly, because of their easygoing personality. They are rarely territorial and are not prone to barking for no valid reason.

They are particularly fast and athletic when young, a quality that makes them prone to adorable antics or even accidents. Their agility and other activities are displayed with their almost incessant enthusiasm towards retrieving balls and Frisbees. They can be trained to have undivided single minded focus towards the task at hand, which make dog shows become especially popular when Labradors are being judged. Their adorable personalities and talents are widely loved and appreciated amongst all.

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