Horse Facts

In your efforts to become a good horseman, you need to know certain horse facts that will hasten your progress. Horses have the same senses we do, hearing, smell, taste, sight and touch. But, they operate differently than our own. Because the information they get from their senses dictate how horses interact with their environment, it is important to take the time to understand how they work and what to expect from our horses. Let us explore their senses and how they may differ from our own.

A horse can hear keener than we do and since he can move his ears about 180 degrees around, he can better isolate where a sound is coming from. That way, he will know which direction to run in, escaping from whatever he perceives endangers him! For us riders, horses can hear us speak quite well. This horse fact is important. We know we can speak quietly and they will hear us just fine. Horses are conducive to learning voice commands and they are always best received when delivered in a calm, soothing way.

Their sense of smell is also more acute than ours, but not as good as dogs. They can detect smells that we are oblivious to. This is an important horse fact. If you are out riding and your horse stops and acts alarmed even though you cannot see anything, he may be smelling another animal lurking nearby that you are unaware of. Pay attention to his behavior and trust him! Almost always, if you stop, watch and listen, you will eventually see what your horse has been smelling all along.

Like us, horses enjoy a variety of tastes including sweet and salty foods. Molasses and a good salt block will satisfy a horse! But, that is not enough to keep him healthy. It is up to us to provide healthy feed and roughage, all of which will be covered in another article. They can develop a distinct preference for sweets which is not good for them! Giving them sweet treats can create a bad habit of nipping, looking for that treat in your hand or in your pocket. We are all guilty of spoiling those we love, including our equine friends. But, I would encourage you not to do too much of this.

Horses have very sensitive skin and can feel a single fly light on their hair anywhere on their body! That makes it easier for us to train them because they are receptive to the side of our legs on their bellies and the feel of our hands through the reins attached to the bit in his mouth. In fact, sometimes, we must de-sensitize the horse so he does not over react to us as riders. That is why slight pressure from a rider is all that is usually needed to signal a command to a horse, whether that be legs or hands.

Probably the most important horse facts to understand regarding senses is about their sight. They have monocular vision, meaning they see different things out of each eye and only occasionally use binocular vision like we do, seeing the same thing out of both eyes. Their eyes are set out on the sides of their heads which allows them terrific peripheral vision. They have two blind spots, however: directly in front of their forehead and directly behind them. You will often see horses moving their head from side to side to increase their field of vision. They are going from monocular to binocular use of their eyes. Their color detection is poor and they do not have good depth perception. That is why a mud puddle in a tire track could appear to be a bottomless pit to them! They can also visually detect motion better than us. You will notice that on a windy day, horses seem to shy and jump around more. Part of it may be the wind on their skin but also, they see things moving that we do not notice. They are looking for scary things to run from and seem to be ready at any second to do just that! So, recognize that for what it is next time you are riding on a windy day and your horse is acting flighty!

In conclusion, once you understand these horse facts, how horses perceive the world through sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste, you will be better able to predict their behavior. You will also better understand your horse and develop a true compassion for him as your friend and companion.

For more information on horse facts, go to [http://www.HorseFactsGuide.com] or http://www.HorsesEquestrian.com
Lisa B. Blackstone has been involved in the Arabian horse business all of her life. She operated a family owned Arabian horse breeding and training stable called Onyx Arabians for many years. She went back to law school in the early-90s and is now a practicing attorney in the Atlanta, Georgia area. She is an original founder of the Equine Section of the Georgia Bar.
Recently, Lisa launched two websites designed to teach the novice rider about horses and horsemanship. You can visit them at http://www.HorseAndRiderClub.com and http://www.AmericanHorseAssociation.com She continues to ride and to judge Arabian horse shows in the United States and abroad.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Blackstone

Horse Facts

Go to English Bulldog Rescue Centers

English Bulldog Rescue:The reasons for the breeding of English Bulldogs are steeped in controversy. This is a breed that is a far cry physically from a few hundred years ago. The dog is now entirely dependent on people in order to survive and is notorious for health problems. But they also have amazing personalities. No matter what you feel about the breeding of these strange but charming canines, the fact remains is that there are thousands that are abandoned every year, mostly through no fault of their own.

If you have the money and the time, the Bulldog has the love and friendship. That is one reason why dog lovers should consider adopting an English Bulldog rather than some other more boisterous breeds (like the Border Collie or Boxer). There have been several scams regarding Bulldogs on the Internet in recent years. How can you tell a real English Bulldog rescue group's website from a scammers?

The marks of a scam English Bulldog rescue website or online classified ad are distinctive. There are usually a lot of misspellings, bad grammar and ALL WORDS IN CAPITALS LIKE THIS. They will also offer to ship their dogs anywhere in the country, state or the world. No reputable dog rescue will ship their animals. They may drive the dog to your home, but will not ship.

A good English Bulldog rescue website will have far more content about Bulldog information on it than about the dogs they have for adoption. They will also have a long form for you to fill out and no guarantee of getting a dog for you. They will have the last word as to what dog you get - not what dog you can afford. A good dog rescue website never feels like a web catalogue. The adoption process should take a long time and involve a lot of interviews and paperwork.

Expect a good English Bulldog rescue to put you on a waiting list, make you fill out more forms, go to interviews and give your home a pet proofing inspection. They may even ask you for character references. This means the adoption process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few years.

They want to match your expectations of a good pet to what dogs they have.

Although it might seem frustrating to wait, it will be worth your time and effort to be patient for the right dog. There's no sense adopting a Bulldog just to have to give him back in a couple of months. Both you and a good English Bulldog rescue group will want you to find a forever friend. They also should be able to know a lot about the dog's personality and health after living with him, so you won't be in for any nasty surprises.

Bobby Callahan has great experience with many breeds of dogs as an owner, breeder and researcher who is enamored of the working and companion breeds of dogs. The Bulldog [http://www.officialbulldogguide.com/] is known for its excellent character and is a trusted and beloved friend to its human family. The ancient history and general Bulldog information [http://www.officialbulldogguide.com/Bulldog.php] can be found in this article.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bobby_Callahan

Cheap Fish Tanks

For those who are planning on starting a fish aquarium in their home, although you may feel it is difficult to find cheap fish tanks, other than small fish bowls, if the time is taken to search for them; it is fairly easy to find an affordable tank. By going to the right retailers, visiting the right sites, and choosing the right style tank, you can find great affordable pricing on the fish tanks you wish to purchase. Additionally, depending on the size of the tank, how many fish you want to own, and the type of fish you will purchase, there is the possibility to find several cheap fish tanks to consider purchasing for the home.

For starters, you should begin the search for the fish tanks online, rather than going directly to a pet store. This will not only ensure you do not get sold something you will not need, or the most expensive tanks, but it will also ensure you have a wide variety of options to choose from when purchasing the new tank. It is extremely easy to compare rates, compare online retailers, and compare the fish tanks online, without ever leaving your home. You will have a wide variety of tanks to choose from, and depending on the sites you visit and the searches you run, it is also possible to find extremely cheap fish tanks, which are perfectly suited for what the purchaser wishes to do in their home. Shoppers are going to be able to compare various styles of tanks, sizes, and qualities, all from the comfort of their couch when they decide to make the purchase from an online retailer, rather than going directly to a pet store.

Another consideration to make when choosing a fish tank is the material of the tank. For those looking for cheap fish tanks, choosing a glass tank is the way to go. Many individuals debate as to whether they should go with glass or acrylic when they are choosing a new fish tank. Although there is no clear cut answer, and each professional will claim one or the other is a better choice, if you are looking for lower prices on the fish tanks, glass is definitely the option to go with for purchasers who are debating the two options.

When shopping online, glass tanks are going to the cheap fish tanks, rather than acrylic for various reasons. They are cheaper for shipping purposes, and require fewer specialized tools to construct. The acrylic tanks might cost less money for some tank builders to make, but since they are going to cost so much more to ship, they will end up being a pricier option when chosen. Glass is also the perfect option for any size tank the purchaser is considering. So, whether they want a small tank, mid sized tank, or the largest aquarium in their home, glass is the perfect option. They do not scratch easily, maintain clarity, and are easy to maintain and keep clean, as long as the owner keeps on top of the maintenance of the tank.

Another consideration to make when seeking cheap fish tanks for sale is the size. For those who are price conscious, especially those who are new to caring for and maintaining the tanks in the home, starting small, rather than choosing a larger tank, is also advisable. Although the larger tanks are capable of housing more fish, they will cost more money, and are much more difficult to maintain, especially if the individual does not have experience caring for the fish in their home. A smaller tank can be a great option, and if properly placed in the home, can still give off the grandiose look that the home owner is trying to get, when purchasing a new tank.

Although this is not part of the tank purchase process, in order to keep the costs lower, purchasers must also consider the fish they will buy. For starters, choosing cheaper fish is the way to go. The inexpensive fish will allow the owner to learn how to properly care for the fish and how to maintain the tank, before they go off buying the most expensive fish they can find. Therefore, starting with cheaper fish, such as gold fish or cherry barbs, will allow the owner to learn to properly maintain and care for the tank, in order to know what to do when they do decide to purchase expensive, larger fish for their tank.

Another consideration for those who are looking for cheap fish tanks is what to place inside of the tank. Whether you want to place underwater coral, and other design features such as colored stones, castles, and other items in the tank, purchasing these products online is also something that should be done. Just like the tank itself, which is cheaper if purchased online, the items to be placed in the tank are also going to be cheaper when they are purchased online. By visiting various online retailers which sell these supplies, buyers are going to find the lowest prices and they are also going to find the best quality products to place inside of their fish tanks.

Considering all of these factors when choosing the fish tank for a home setting, buyers will be able to find the cheapest options, as well as the best looking tanks to keep in their home. Starting an aquarium can be an extremely expensive undertaking, if the shopper does not take the time to shop around, and visit several online retailers, prior to making the purchase decision. In order to find the lower costs, and to find the cheap fish tanks for their home, shoppers have to take the time to visit several retailers, consider all aspects of the tank, and find the options which are easiest to care for and maintain. All aspects from the materials used, prices in shipping, to the size, must be considered, in order to find the savings shoppers are hoping to get when purchasing the new tanks.

Having had fish tanks for over ten years, enjoying freshwater tropical fish [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org], and especially betta fish, I now blog about my experiences at FreshwaterTropicalFish.org. You can download a free report on tropical fish care [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org/tropical-fish-for-sale/] on my site too.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leslie_Bogaerts

The Complete Gouldian Finch Birdwatching Profile

If you are an experienced Australian birdwatching enthusiast, then undoubtedly you have heard of the Gouldian Finch, even if you have not had the privilege of seeing one in the wild. This spectacular bird has gained a lot of media attention in recent years due to its declining numbers, due to reduced habitat. Many birdwatchers agree that this finch is the most spectacularly coloured bird in Australia. There are a number of organisations that have taken to preserving the habitats of this remarkable creature. Recent research has found that there are only about 2,500 Gouldian Finch's living in the wild.

Description

The little bird gained it's name from John Gould, the discoverer of the bird. Taken by the beauty of the purple chested bird, he named it the Lady Gouldian. With it's characteristic purple plumage, yellow feathered chest and green back, this little bird is hard to be mistaken.

Diet

As a grass-finch, the Gouldian Finch main diet source is from the ripe or semi-ripe seeds of native grasses. Interestingly for a few months during the year the bird changes its diet to cope with the arduous task of raising its young. During these months the birds diet consists mainly of small insects, which provide it with the added nutrients needed during this stressful period.

Habitat Location

It really is a tragedy when one considers the vast habitat that the Gouldian Finch once lived in, contrasted with the small areas that it occupies now. Many birdwatchers initially thought that the numbers of the Gouldian Finch were plummeting in the wild due to individuals capturing the birds for pets. Research has since shown that reduced habitats, and irregular fire patterns are primarily to blame for the reduced habitat. Nowadays the finch can only be found in the wild in the Top End of the Northern Territory of Australia. Mike Jarvis, one of the most respected birdwatching guides in Australia, regularly takes tours through the Mary River district and South of Pine Creek in the dry season, with great success with regular spotting's of this endangered bird. If you are able to explore this region, keep an eye out for the finch in open woodlands near water sources. There is anecdotal evidence that they are often sighted near native spear-grasses.

How To Help The Gouldian Finch

Many kindhearted volunteers regularly monitor local waterholes in the Gouldian Finch's native habitat to keep an eye out for the sightings. The more information that organisations can gather from volunteer birdwatchers on the habitat of the Gouldian Finch, the more that they can help protect that environment. Additionally individuals can take active steps to ensure that the current habitat of the bird is protected, and report any activities that are harming the area.

There have been new spotting's of the Gouldian Finch in the Dampier Peninsula in Western Australia. Research has shown that this is not a population of birds that has moved to the area, but a population that has previously been undiscovered. This breeding population shows the importance of amateur birdwatchers reporting any sightings of the Gouldian Finch, as this area is now a protected area. With ongoing care and public awareness, generations of Australian will be able to enjoy seeing this most remarkable bird in the grasslands of Australia.

For bird watching tours throughout the Northern Territory from one of Australia's most respected bird watching tour operators, go with Experience The Wild bird watching tours. Experience The Wild operates tours throughout Kakadu National Park and the Top End of Australia, and has regular sightings of the Gouldian Finch.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eugene_Lawrence

Dog Rehoming - Some Things to Think About

Dog Rehoming:When you rehome a dog this is a time of joy but if you miss a few vital elements then this can very quickly turn into your biggest nightmare. And if you are having to give up your dog because of situations beyond your control then you want to know they will be safe and you would also like to know how to cope with the sadness and emotions at losing your cherished friend.

Adopting a Dog:

Although many people consider that dogs that need to be re-homed must have something wrong with them, such as a health or behavioural issue, this is very often not the case. A lot of people decide they cannot cope with their pet dog whether because of a change in housing, a new baby, because of a relationship break up, or because the owner suffers ill health, goes into hospital or dies. A lot of dogs come from very loving homes, and are well trained, gentle animals that are just in need of a new home. Often their previous owners haven't mistreated them, and don't want to have to part with them - but circumstances make it impossible for them to keep their faithful friend. One of the benefits that people often overlook when they adopt a dog is that most centres take a detailed description of your circumstances and match you to the ideal dog. Older dogs have more developed personalities, and it can be difficult to know -if you are merely visiting a breeder to see a litter of puppies - whether your chosen puppy is the right one for you. Matching a dog, and a breed, to you and your family is a service that is unique to rehoming centres and can ensure that you get exactly the right dog for you. Older pets can be more tolerant than younger animals, and don't require the constant attention that a young dog or puppy needs.

Although getting a dog from a centre or re-homing facility can cost less than buying a dog elsewhere, don't expect that it is entirely free. Kenneling, veterinary checks, food, and staffing costs for the rescue centre are all costly and you will be expected to pay a contribution that is usually between £70 and £120. This may be more if you are adopting a dog from a pedigree breeder. Re-homed dogs are usually micro chipped, have their full set of injections and may have been neutered. If your dog is not old enough at the time he is re-homed, come with a voucher for neutering later on. Dogs that are rehomed are often potty trained, identify and respond to commands, and require less attention than a new puppy.

When thinking of rehoming a dog or adopting a dog you should consider the following things:

- Is there anything in your tenancy agreement or lease that does not allow you to have a pet?

- Is your home secure enough to keep a dog? For example, does your garden have a fence that would prevent the dog from escaping?

- How long do you spend out of the house each day? If you are away from your home for more than ten hours per day, you will need to employ the services of a dog walker to take your pet for a walk in the middle of the day.

- If you have children it is worth researching the breeds that are more suited to children and choose a dog accordingly.

- Do you, or does anyone in your family, suffer from allergy to dogs? If so it is worth spending some time with the dog before you commit to make sure no one suffers an adverse reaction to him. There are also allergy prescriptions available from your doctor.

Rehoming Your Own Dog:

If you can't look after your dog anymore, it is important to ensure that you get help as soon as possible. If you have an urgent need to re-home your dog ask whether a member of your family or friend will foster him until such time as you can find a permanent home for him. If it is the case that re-homing is the best option in your particular circumstances there are numerous options open to you. Have you asked your friends and family whether they would like to re-home your dog? This may be more difficult if your dog has problem behaviour, especially if that behaviour is aggressive towards people.

Be Responsible:

It is vitally important that you behave responsibly when re-homing your pet. Dumping your dog somewhere, leaving him in an empty house, on someone else's doorstep, giving him to the first person that says they'll take him are all potentially harmful for your dog.

Here are some responsible ways to re-home your dog:

o Place him with a trusted friend or family member
o Find a reputable rescue centre who will take him and re-home him
o Find a reputable shelter that has a 'no-destroy' policy - however make sure that the shelter is well-staffed, not overcrowded and has sufficient facilities and financial resources to be able to look after your dog until a suitable new home can be found for him.
o Advertise for a new owner online, and ensure that you properly vet every applicant for their suitability as a dog owner. Will they have enough time to be able to look after him properly? What type of accommodation do they live in? Do they work long hours? Are they committed to dog ownership and do they fully understand the time and cost implications?

Grab The Only Independent Guide To Dog Rehoming at [http://www.Dog-Rehoming.org.uk] today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J_C_Roberts

Dog Rehoming

Cat Meowing - Understanding Your Cat's Behavior

When you see your cats meowing a lot and the pitch is high, it doesn't mean that it is hungry and it doesn't mean you have to get up and feed it. This will not only ruin your cat's manners but it will also make a cat think that by meowing my human will feed me. This will just make your cat obese and will disrupt its feeding hours.

Cats meowing means a lot of things apart from food demands. Your cat might meow due to a number reasons, for instance, they might have some problem, they might be complaining of some pain, they might need medical attention, they might need to go to their litter boxes, they might be warning you or they might be just wanting to talk to you or to grab your attention.

Let me give you an example here. In February 2011, late after 11pm, I returned home after a one hour visit to my aunt. When I returned, my male blue Persian cat was very hyperactive, he was running here and there and was meowing in a heavy voice. My first thought was maybe he's getting excited to see me after I was away for an hour or maybe he needs food. I went into the kitchen and gave him his food in his bowl and returned to my bedroom and got busy with my computer. The meowing continued and this time my cat kept on pulling my shirt and literally dragged me towards my entrance door. However again I ignored him and took him to his food bowl where I saw that his food was untouched. I, then, reached into my cabinet and grabbed a pouch of his favorite cat food. He even resisted that. After 2 minutes my cat just ran and went under my bed and that was the time I felt strong tremors of an earthquake measuring 7.6 on the recto scale. I grabbed my footwear my cat and ran downstairs. That was the time I got to know that my cat's meowing was actually a warning for me to get out of the house and find a safe place so that I can be saved. However no harm was caused in my city.

After this incident, I figured out that cat's meowing means a lot apart from showing hunger or food demands. If one is sick and tired of useless meowing and is annoyed of this habit, then your cat can be trained well. When your cat is meowing, ignore them. Once they are silent and settled in feed them with a treat. You need to make a schedule of your life in which you can assign a specific time period in which you can play with your cat and spend quality time with it. Ignorance can also lead into excessive meowing. If you notice your cat is meowing and not purring, it means there's some trouble with your cat or there is a warning.

http://WWW.PURRSNGRRS.COM is a web portal. specially designed for pet lovers. This portal has complete information about pets, along with location of different vets and animal shelters present in your area.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Uzair_M_Sardar