Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Top 10 Reasons Why It's Fun Being Single

"Marriage may be compared to a cage; the birds outside despair to get in and those within despair to get out." - Michael de Montaigne

Just six months ago, I received two announcements: one is from a dear friend and the other is from my favorite cousin. My friend was so excited that her long time boyfriend proposed to her (finally!), and now they're planning to get married. The wedding would be held at around May next year. On the other hand, my cousin (who seems to be a happy go lucky person) also found her man, and was excited to tie the knot this coming January. Of course, I'm happy for them but also nervous that they are not ready yet.

It makes me wonder if my friends, at one point in their relationship, had been embraced by some dark cloud that lifted them off the ground and made them forget the travails that plague so many married couples. Nothing comes easy. Think of all the fun only single-blessedness can give. If I were to get married now, there are thousands of things I'll miss, among them are the following:

1. Coming home at four in the morning after a night out with my friends without anybody worrying about me. With a hubby, I would have to go back to being Cinderella, unless I wanted to end my marriage.
2. Littering the bathroom with female things without some guy complaining about it.
3. Having all my money to myself.
4. Occupying the whole bed, using all the pillows and never having to share the blanket.
5. Disappearing during weekends without feeling guilty.
6. Thinking about some guy I fancy without feeling guilty.
7. Working overtime and going home in the dead of night without worrying about dinner.
8. Playing with my nephews and sending them back to their parents the moment they throw a tantrum.
9. Using the calendar to remind me of deadlines and not to count my safe days.
10. No pressure in all things.

Maybe I'm just having so much fun now more than ever.

I don't intend to knock marriage or discourage would-be brides and grooms. This piece is more of a warning. Like, look again before closing that door, unless you left something important that you can't come back for. I've seen some married couples acting lovely-dovey in front of people, even though the husband beats up his wife in the privacy of their home. One friend's marriage looks perfect, but in fact her husband is having an extra marital affair.
Maybe I have delusions about finding Mr. Perfect. Perhaps, I am just too much of a cynic. Maybe my two friends are really in love. Or they have grown more mature and found a deeper meaning in life, while I have been left behind.

I look forward to getting married someday, or more precisely, I like the image of me as a mother. I have very strong maternal instincts. Even now, I already feel a lot of love for my future children. And I fervently hope I will have twin daughters. But in the meantime, I think it's best to be realistic. It would be foolish to get into a situation that will cause one a lot of headache in the future.




Cham regularly writes about her life, marital affairs and all other "issues" around her. You can check her blogs through her http://pamcham.wordpress.com.

Sunday, November 27, 2011

How to Have Fun With Your Dog on a Rainy Day

Sometimes it's nice to sit, comfy and dry, in your home and watch the rain replenish the earth's natural resources. If you happen to have an overactive pup in the house, however, you may find it a challenge to keep your four-footed friend indoors when he wants to splash outside. When the weather turns especially rough, and puddles are too deep to accommodate safe play, what can you do to keep your dog happy and entertained when you're stuck indoors?

With children, one can always prepare an emergency "rainy day" play box for just such occasions. Dogs, of course, have no use for coloring books and DVDs, so it's important to be prepared in a way that suits their needs. If you fear storms are capable of preventing you from leaving the house, be sure to have enough food and good drinking water on hand just in case. When it's time to play, keep handy proper indoor toys like a small tugging rope or chew bone. Choose a part of the house that is spacious, where there are few breakable items within reach.

If at all possible, choose rainy days as your dog's grooming day, too. As long as you have your dog in a place where you can check for knots in his fur, it's a good opportunity. Play calming music over the stereo, or switch to a channel on the TV that intrigues your pet (some people have suggested Baby Einstein videos for their music and relaxing imagery).

Rainy weather days need not equal disappointment for you or your pup. Use the time to bond over quiet play or gentle grooming. You may find you don't need to go outside to have fun.




Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on dog supplies and dog food.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Which is the Right Leash for Your Puppy or Dog?

Which is the right leash for your puppy or dog? With so many to choose from, picking a leash for your new puppy or dog can be confusing. There are really only a few things you need to know, and when you know them, selecting a leash for your puppy or dog is really quite simple!

The best general purpose leash is about 4' (120cm) long, and well made. Look for quality stitching, and a material that will not burn or chafe your hands. Leather is excellent quality and very long lasting if cared for properly. I prefer a cotton/synthetic webbing, the softer the better.

A 4' leash will not encourage bad habits. If you follow a pulling dog, that dog will learn to pull. There is no need for a 'training' collar or reprimands. Any flat collar or harness is fine so long as you are consistent and do not follow a pulling dog. Your dog should ideally walk by your side and not stray too far from that position, a longer leash allows your dog too much freedom.

That is not to say that we cannot give our dogs free time to explore on leash, and when we do give the signal, a longer leash is appropriate. A 'flexi' style retractable leash is great in this situation, although a very strong dog may damage a retractable leash. An aggressive dog is probably not safe on a retractable leash unless the leash is very good quality.

If you plan to do any tracking with your dog, then a good quality 30' (10m) leash is a good investment. Again, I prefer a soft cotton webbing although there are lightweight climbing ropes which do not get heavy when wet and will not chafe or burn. Two knots should be tied, one at the end to stop the line from running out and one about 6' from the end let you know when you are about to run out of line.

I also use my 30' tracking line when I am just ambling through the forest and have signalled to my dog that it is ok to explore within that length of line. Just putting that leash on is signal enough.

A 30' tracking line is also excellent for teaching recalls and stays when you are not in a safe off-leash training area.

The fittings on the end of the leash need to be very good quality. A strong snap-style fitting is best, as it is easy to use and generally trouble free. If you and your dog spend a lot of time at the beach, they will rust out and get jammed with sand unfortunately. I had a leash made with a brass diver's snap. Sand does not get caught in the spring and it does not rust, however it does not have a very strong spring and has come undone by accident. I think it's probably better to just wash out a good quality snap with fresh water and apply a little water dispersant (CRC or WD40) after a visit to the beach.

Cotton or synthetic leashes will need to be washed occassionally, which will greatly enhance their life. By the same token, don't store them in direct sunlight. The same is true of leather leashes. An occassional rub down with leather preservative is all that a leather leash requires.

If you have a dog who enjoys biting at the leash then training can be employed to bring this behavior under control. I favour deliberately teaching a dog to play tug with the leash and putting the behavior on cue, that way I develop control over the behavior and can use it as a reward for other behavior.

A quicker solution to biting the leash is to get a 4' metal chain leash, which is not nearly so enjoyable to bite on. Get one with a snap which attaches to a normal flat collar, some come as choker chains. If you are competent with a choker chain (check chain), then go right ahead and use it as such, but most people are not nearly so competent as they might imagine and would be better served learning positive reinforcement training methods. Positive reinforcement traning methods are far less likely to damage your relationship with your dog, your dog's spine and trachea, and your dog's enjoyment of working and walking.




Aidan Bindoff is Editor of http://www.PositivePetzine.com, a free resource for people training their own dog. Each edition features easy-to-use information on a particular behavior or problem behavior. Training methods are based on positive reinforcement techniques.

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Who's Missing from Your Wedding Party? Your Dog!

Man's best friend is enjoying a higher profile when it comes to tying the knot. Although the trend gained steam in the easy-going West, wedding planners all over the country are seeing dogs take on key roles in the ceremony. In short, well-trained tail-waggers are showing up as ring bearers, groomsmen, maids of honor, and even assuming the role that once belonged to good ol' Dad -- giving away the bride. Dogs have become so common in weddings, many professional planners know where to book a dog handler for the day without blinking an eye. (After all, he'll need water, protection from crowds -- and a few trips to the loo.)

Gone to the Dogs?

What fuels the trend to add Fido to the ceremony? Opinions differ, but one is the way that weddings are changing: once they were a purely formal affair, with formal language and dress that hardly seemed to relate to our real lives at all. But many of today's couples are trying to bring more of the things we really say into the ceremony -- sometimes by writing our own vows -- and more of how we really look, which sometimes means bypassing the traditional white dress. And for many of us, our patient pooch is a lot like a child or a two-footed companion. He might have his own furniture, his own shelf full of tasty organic treats, his own set of smart fashion accessories. And whither we go, he goes ... just like any other family member. No wonder many couples don't think twice about bringing him to the altar.

But not every dog makes the perfect bridal party member. No matter how much you might love the mischievous antics of your wayward canine at home, it's only the well-trained, responsive dog that should share your big day. If your dog comes, sits, is good with groups, and can be relied on to hold a "down-stay," he's a candidate. If not, leave him home, or invest in some obedience classes straight away.

You'll also want to clear your pup's presence with the powers-that-be well ahead of time. Yes, it's a little surprising, but with the rising popularity of dogs in weddings, it's a fair bet that your officiant will give you the green light. Many banquet halls at hotels will also say "yes" to a well-behaved pet on your big day, provided you have a handler.

Dressed for Success

Once you've got the go-ahead, the greatest fun in including your dog is dressing him up. Popular choices for pint-sized wedding apparel include adorable jeweled collars, miniature tuxes or bridal gown, and crystal-encrusted combs and barrettes. Diane Meier Delaney of "The New American Wedding" draped her pooch in an ornate floral arrangement that literally took her guests' breath away (but discuss this option thoughtfully with your florist -- avoid poisonous flowers and steer clear of scratchy wires).

Now that you've ordered his attire and your dog's all set to work hard at your wedding, why not plan to treat him? You can purchase adorable cakes and cupcakes designed for occasions that are perfectly safe for your dog: delicious-looking confections made with wheat flour or oatmeal and bananas or honey, dripping with carob and studded with candy dog bones. Or you can make your own -- just search the net for some tested, dog-safe recipes that avoid excess fat and sugar, and pass on canine no-nos like chocolate, grapes, avocados, coffee and certain nuts.




About the Author

Blake Kritzberg is editor of FavorIdeas. Stop by for continually-updated celebrity wedding news, fairy tale wedding favors, wedding attire for dogs and unique wedding favors.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

How to Make a Tennis Ball Tug Toy For Your Dog For Cheap

Does your dog like to play tug of war with you or with another dog? Do you have a bunch of old towels lying around your house that you want to throw away? Dog toys can be expensive and tend to break quickly if your dog is an aggressive chewer. Dogs with high prey drives like Pit Bulls, Border Collies and Jack Russell Terriers tend to LOVE to play the tug of war game!! You can recycle those old towels, instead of putting them into landfill, to make a fun toy for you and your dog to play with!

Supplies

-An old bath towel or tea towel,

-An old tennis ball,

-Scissors OR a drill,

Instructions

STEP 1 - Carefully cut, with the scissors, or drill a large hole through the tennis ball.

STEP 2 - Cut 3 2" strips from the bath towel or tea towel, down the long end.

STEP 3 - Bundle the 3 strips together and tie a knot about 2" down from the end.

STEP 4 - String the strips through the tennis ball & tie another knot as close to the tennis ball as you can. Braid the rest of the length of the towels & when you get about 3" away from the end, knot the strips together to finish the braid.

TADA now you have a finished dog toy! You made it yourself, you made it with items that you recycled from around your house AND you made it for the colossal cost of ZERO dollars!! If you want, you can substitute the bath towel with polar fleece fabric. A great variation on the toy is to make the non-braided end of the toy with extra long dangling ends to give your dog more play stimulation.

Once you get proficient at making this toy, you can make them for friends that own dogs and give them away as gifts OR donate them to shelter dogs, they need toys, too :)




Karen Friesecke is the author of Bloggie Stylish a new blog dedicated to recipes and free projects for dogs. Please visit Tennis Ball Tug Toy Tutorial to see this tutorial, complete with pictures.

Friday, November 18, 2011

Horse Grooming Tools

Every horse should have a grooming kit, his own personal kit stocked with the basic equipment. A basic grooming kit should not cost an arm and a leg however with that said the benefits far outweigh the cost.

Skin infections can be passed from one horse to another, especially with grooming kits, so make sure you have one per horse. So what should a grooming kit consist of?

Here is a list of the basics:

Grooming/body brush

Dandy brush

Hoof Pick

Curry Comb

Mane and Tail Comb

Sponges

Grooming/body brush used to smooth out the coat, removes dirt, sweat and dust

Dandy brush for cleaning mud and heavy dirt

Hoof Pick is used to clean the horses hooves.

Curry Comb used to remove mud and hair from the body.

Mane and Tail Comb used to remove tangles and snarls.

Sponges for the muzzle and dock, a separate sponge for each part!

There are always extras that benefit and belong in a horse grooming kit. Depending what you do with your horse and how often, you may want to invest in some other grooming tools.

If you ride regularly your horse no doubt works up a good sweat. Well take any horse on a long ride, especially an unfit horse and he'd be dripping with sweat. Sweat is no fun job to clean up. The best way is to use water. After you have ridden and unsaddled your horse, fill a bucket with water and using a sponge wash over the sweating area.

Great now you have a wet hairy horse right? You are in need of a sweat scraper; this tool is very useful to get rid of excess water. Trust me, this little procedure makes grooming so much easier once the coat has dried. I usually had no sweat to brush out of the coat.

Another wonderful grooming tool and tactic is the using a detangle spray when grooming your horses tail. Swishing flies all day is a tedious task and most horses will have knots and tangles in their tails which need to be worked out. A horse with a high quality job usually requires detangling spray and grooms fingers.

To cheat you can use the spray and a comb. The spray allows the surface to be coated, the comb slides through the hair and less hair is pulled out. You do not want to pull the tail hairs out! Use the detangling spray to make your job easier, keep it in your grooming kit always.
Lastly another good asset to any grooming kit is fly spray. Both you and your horse will be happier. A quick spray before you ride him keeps the biting, irritating pests at bay.

Grooming tools are forever on the market. Invest in good quality products that will last and spend as much or as little as you want. Only have a basic grooming kit at hand always and use it. Much can be said of a horse owner by the looks of his horse!




Horse Guide.

Get information on buying, owning and caring for your horse, learn about Horse Grooming Tools. Learn about your horses anatomy.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Fishing in Pouring Rain

Sometimes a good down pour is what's needed to turn fish on, and there have been many occasions to prove just that. In my younger years, it didn't bother me, but as I'm getting older the bones can sure feel the dampness afterwards. If dressed appropriately with Gortex rain gear you can reap rewards from Mother Nature's dinner bell!

The timing has to be right! With a lengthy consistent weather window it makes for good 'get out there and fish' weather. When there is a quick weather change, like a downpour, it's enough to get the fish aggressively feeding and the action is phenomenal!

I remember a particular day fishing for Pike in a reservoir. The bite was not good at all and it made for tough fishing. It was muggy and hot and from the distance came the threat of black clouds. It was one of those instances where I watched the whole scenario unfold before my eyes. As the storm approached I thought I would pack it in and get out of the water, but with my trusty Gortex rain gear on board, I braved through it. When the down pour arrived the Pike fishing was absolutely on fire! There was a fish for every cast! Will I ever learn! From experiences like these I welcome rain storms with open arms and 'bails'!

If you notice storms arriving in the distance with lightning and thunder the best thing to do then is 'get out' and wait it out, at least until the lightning is done anyway! It's important to remember that it always works best after days of consistent weather.

A little rain never hurt anyone. Come to think of it, a down pour never hurt anyone either especially when its fish after fish action! Hey, at least we're fishing!




Born In Guelph, Ontario, Nic, his wife Lawney and their son Lorenzo now call Kitchener, Ontario their home.

Even though Nic has thirty years of fishing experience, he still feels that you can never stop learning. His love for Bass fishing has brought him to the Pro Bass Tournament trail. In his first year going professional, Nic has two top ten finishes and was a Classic Qualifier in the C.S.F.L Bassmania Pro Bass circuit, placing eighteenth over all.

But Bass fishing is not Nic's only love. In the Spring his passion turns to downrigging for salmon, where he competes in Salmon Derbies. Already, he has a first place win under his belt. And if that's not enough to keep him busy, you can find him chasing Walleye, Pike, and even Muskie. You name it, Nic will fish for it.

http://www.probassfishing.ca has fulfilled a life long dream for Nic. Not only because of his active tournament angling and multi species fishing, but because he gets to share it.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Golden Retriever Grooming: How to Bathe Your Golden Retriever

You will always want to keep the beautiful golden coat of your dog shiny and healthy looking. This can be achieved by giving him a regular bath. This is part of Golden Retriever grooming. Following these simple steps on how to bathe your Golden Retriever will help keep your dog well groomed and healthy.

The Preparation
Brushing
Before bathing your dog as part of your Retriever grooming process, brush your dog's coat gently and comb out all tangles and knots. Skipping this process will tighten the tangles and knots as it gets wet.

Bathing Area & Tools
Always prepare things you might need on hand before proceeding with the next step. Ensure that you place them within your reach for easy access as you work on your dog's bath.
Your dog may enjoy getting washed outside the house but the water might be too cold for him. A dog tub or your bath tub is a better option when giving bath inside the house.
Use dog shampoo for dog baths. Medicated shampoos are recommended if your Retriever has fleas and psoriasis. Conditioner helps prevent tangle hair on your dog. Let it sit in for few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. A towel will make drying easy.

Bath Condition
Ensure that your water is not frigid cold or piping hot. Warm water should be comfortable for your dog.
Protecting the ears, begin saturating the dog starting at the nose up. Apply your first shampoo. Work up to lather all over his coat. Use enough shampoo to saturate the layers of coat. Once you have covered the whole coat, take a brush gently brush the coat in direction of its growth.
After rinsing, apply your second shampoo and repeat the same brushing procedure.

Bath your dog at least once a week.
Drying Your Dog's Coat
Your Golden Retriever grooming is not complete if you do not follow this most important part of the grooming process.
Dry your pet with a thick, absorbent towel or cloth large enough to cover his entire body. Start at the bottom of his leg working up towards the body and end at the head. Do this in both sides of the dog.

If your dog is not afraid of hair dryers, you can finish this drying process using this tool.
As you end the drying process on your dog's coat, be sure to mist lightly with condition solution the entire Retriever. Brush in the direction of the growth of the coat. Avoid over brushing.
A clean dog means a happy owner. Make your dog's bathing experience an enjoyable one for both of you. Bathing is one way to keep your dog looking good and healthy. Practice good Golden Retriever grooming regularly. You will spend longer and happy years with your faithful friend.




Thomas Williams has been a Golden Retriever parent for many years and wants to share his secrets about Golden Retriever training and care. If you want to learn more valuable information about golden retriever grooming and find out top quality information and help with all aspects of the Golden Retriever, including tips on buying a Golden Retriever, help with training, diet and nutrition and grooming, check out his popular eCourse at => http://www.golden-retriever-pets.com/

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Top Dog Toys - Ten Dog Toys Your Dog Must Have

We priced this list of dog toys at around $90 from online dog toy stores. You can modify this list to fit your dog size and age. Remember a dog should have a variety of textures and sounds in their toy box. Please give your dog new toys when you have the time to observe them with their toys. Make sure that your dog's toys are safe for their playing style. Happy dog toy shopping.

When asked what are the MUST HAVE toys a dog should have, we answer that it all depends. Dogs come in all sizes and with different playing styles, so we cannot to come up with one-size-fits-all list. However, recently a customer said that they were getting a 2 year old, medium size rescue dog. They had no idea of its background or if have ever had any dog toys. This is the MUST HAVE dog toy list for that medium size dog.

Every dog should have a Busy Buddy Twist 'n Treat. This space ship shaped dog treat dispenser twists to make the treat openings larger or smaller. Therefore, you can use a variety of spreadable and dry treats in this dispenser. This interactive dog toy is easy to wash and keep clean because it twists apart. If you find out your dog does not care for treats this makes a fun bouncing spinning dog toy. For medium size dogs, we recommend a medium size Twist and Treat by Premier Pet Products.

Rope toys are versatile and tough. We recommend a large 5-knot dog rope toy, 36 inches long and about 1.25 inches thick. This is a great tug rope, shake rope, and chew rope. Please buy American made white ropes, we like Pearson Industries ropes. Then you do not have to worry about dye chemicals. Watch your dog with this rope; if it pulls threads out of the fringe take it away, or you can try cutting off the fringe.

Now for dog balls, almost every dog loves balls. We suggest the 6-inch Bounce n Play Jolly Ball by Jolly Pets. This ball will not deflate when your dog punctures it with their teeth. This is a great size for chasing. Additionally, get a package of Kyjen IQube replacement balls. These soft balls are tennis ball size and have a squeaker in the middle. They are great for fetch and catch games both inside and outside.

Ty Bow Wow Beanies are quality crinkle toys at a great price. We love them all but, we suggest the Lizzy Lizard. According to customers, this toy is the toughest dog toy they have found.

Giggle Stick dog toys make sounds that many dogs love. Betsy advises the Giggling Flamingo; however, we suggest The Chuckle by Busy Buddy. Rubber surrounds this giggle stick, and so it is an extra durable dog toy. Because we do not know this dog's destruction style, it is best to find toys that are likely to last.

Grunters are great deep noisemakers. Your dog is sure to love Kyjen Pet Product's Furry Marmot. This super furry toy has a protected grunter in its body and a long tail. If your dog loves to shake its toys, it will love that long tail.

How can we pick just one talking-real-sound dog toy? There are so many great ones. Norman, The Sound Loving Dog decided on the Look Who's Talking Loofa Chimp by Multipet. This toy has a screaming Chimp sound and a cawer squeaker too...so it has two great sounds in one toy.

We love Dr Noys' Dog Toys by Kong. These plush dog toys have little or no stuffing, plus they have replaceable squeakers. They even come with extra squeakers. We love them all but are suggesting the Extra Long Snake. This snake is great for tugging, shaking, and squeaking.

Puzzle toys keep dogs busy and are a great way to bond with your dog. The Hide A Squirrel by Kyjen Pet Products is the most popular of these dog toys. The Hide A Squirrel is a plush stump with 3 little squirrels that fit in the holes in the stump. You put them in and your dog takes them out. The little squirrels are favorite toys of many dogs because they have a squeaker in the middle and are easy to carry around and squeak.




November 2002 my life changed with the adoption of Betsy, a darling black and white puppy. Before that time, I sold Antiques on eBay. Betsy is a very independent dog, and she needed lots of dog toys. Trying to order dog toys on line was very frustrating, mainly because the people on the other end were so cranky. I knew selling dog toys should be fun, so we (Betsy and I) decided to change BestFriends General Store to a dog toy business. Dog toys are now my passion. I go to all the major Companion Animal trade shows to find the latest, greatest, and most innovative dog toys. I call myself a dog toy expert...Betsy and Norman call me mom.

Monday, November 7, 2011

Benefits of Exercise During and After Breast Cancer Surgery and Treatment

In 1996, the first Surgeon General's report on physical activity and health was published, including the currently accepted public health recommendations for physical activity for general health, 20 minutes of moderate intensity activity - such as brisk walking - on most days of the week. This recommendation has been adopted by the American Cancer Society and is included in the current recommendations from the American Cancer Society in preventing cancer. Exercise has many proven health benefits for both preventing disease and promoting health and well being. There is substantial evidence that suggests that increasing physical activity, including structured exercise programs, is associated with lower rates of certain cancers. In particular, there is evidence that high levels of physical activity can work to prevent colon cancer. Cancers of the breast, prostate, lung, and uterus have also been linked to exercise-related prevention. In a large scale study of 17, 148 Harvard alumni, men who burned as few as 500 calories a week in exercise - the equivalent of an hour's worth of brisk walking or less than ten minutes of waking a day - had death rates 15-20 percent lower than men who were almost completely sedentary. Men who burned 2,000 calories a week (about four hours of brisk walking per week) had about 35 percent lower cancer mortality. The researchers concluded that the more exercise you get, the lower your risk of premature death from cancer or heart disease. The Harvard study also found that the risk of colon cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., was dramatically reduced by exercise. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men today. In the Harvard study, alumni who expended greater than 4,000 calories per week (equivalent to about eight hours of brisk walking) were at a reduced risk of developing prostate cancer compared to their inactive counterparts. For women, a history of moderate, recreational exercise is associated with reduced risk of breast, uterine, cervical, and ovarian cancers, although not all studies have shown this effect. Findings from a 1993 study suggest that women engaged in moderate to high levels of physical activity may have a reduced risk of endometrial cancer. Currently, scientists are studying the biological impact that exercise has on the risk of cancer.

Some of the methods that are being studied include:

• Maintenance of a healthy body weight and overall amounts of body fat.
• Maintenance of low levels of fat in and around the abdomen.
• Maintenance of the biological system that regulates blood sugar levels.
• Control of some tumor growth factors.
• Suppression of 'prostaglandins' (hormone-like substances that are released in greater quantities by tumor cells).
• Improved immune function, including increased levels of Natural Killer cells.
• Reduced symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety and depression (which may improve immune function and overall physiologic functioning).
• Increased levels of free radical scavengers to assist the body in preventing DNA damage

It is not clear exactly how high amounts of physical activity work to prevent cancer. We know that exercise can help prevent obesity, which is related to some types of cancers. It can also change the body's hormone levels, which might also have a favorable effect. Exercise, by speeding up metabolism, is generally believed to speed up the passage of ingested foods through the colon - thus reducing the amount of time the colon mucosal lining is in contact with possible carcinogens. Additionally, those who engage in a high level of physical activity are much less likely to smoke cigarettes, the single largest contributor to cancer.

Benefits of exercise during treatment

Starting or maintaining an exercise program after cancer diagnosis results in patients who are stronger both mentally and physically, concludes a statistical analysis of 24 studies. Kerry Courneya of the University of Alberta, Canada led the research, which is published in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine. Courneya says "Cancer diagnosis and its' treatments are often associated with negative side effects that diminish the quality of life. Overall, studies have consistently demonstrated that physical exercise following cancer diagnosis has a positive effect on the quality of life." The various studies mention increased stamina, increased functional capacity, strength, self-esteem, improved treatment tolerance, and satisfaction with life, and decreased pain. Psychological changes, including a decrease in total mood disturbances, decrease in depression, and fewer problems sleeping were noted between the exercise and non-exercise groups. It has also been noted that increased physical activity has been associated with less fatigue during and after chemotherapy and radiation. The specific exercise "dose" (frequency, intensity, and duration of sessions) needed to improve physical and psychological functioning in cancer patients probably differs according to specific treatment, cancer type, and individual response to treatment. Some forms of cancer treatment, particularly those that are used to treat childhood cancers, have been found to have long-term negative effects on the heart and lungs. This makes it even more important to exercise regularly, but it may important to do so under medical supervision. Fatigue is the number one side effect of cancer treatment affecting 76% of patients undergoing treatment. Cancer fatigue is not like everyday fatigue that one experiences due to lack of sleep, stress, overextending oneself etc.... This type of fatigue is not usually relieved by rest and can have a negative effect on one's quality of life. There are many things that may lead to fatigue, but one thing is certain; exercise reduces fatigue. Research has demonstrated that beginning or maintaining an exercise program during cancer treatment can have a positive effect on combating fatigue.

Benefits of exercise during recovery from surgery

After cancer surgery exercise plays an invaluable role in helping one return to the strength and fitness level that was maintained prior to surgery. In many cases, due to lack of physical activity prior to surgery, patients are able to reach new heights in strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular conditioning. There are certain postural implications that often arise after mastectomy and lymph node dissection that are often compounded by reconstruction and radiation. After years of working with cancer survivors, we declare with certainty, that most of these issues can be dramatically improved upon if not entirely corrected, through the proper combination of stretching and strengthening. Anytime there is an amputation, it will ultimately result in some type of muscle imbalance. These issues will not correct themselves. Unfortunately, even patients who undergo physical therapy are released long before they are fully recovered, leaving the patient to go it alone in determining how to resume normal activities. In addition, when patients receive radiation to a particular area, there is bound to be some tightness, perhaps even scar tissue, where they received treatment. This can cause tightening in that area, and depending on where it is, can also contribute to many postural deviations. These postural imbalances are notable in most people due to everyday circumstances i.e.; working at a computer all day, holding a phone between your ear and your shoulder, sitting at a desk all day, holding a baby on one hip etc... Not only are they compounded by the surgery and radiation, but they can create a chain reaction, leading to neck, back, hip, knee, and even ankle pain. A thorough postural assessment can determine what areas need to be stretched to relieve tightness and spasm and which need to be strengthened to create a counter balance. Let's not forget about the many benefits of cardiovascular conditioning. Many of you may still be suffering from fatigue long after your treatment has ended. Cardiovascular training, biking, walking, running, etc., will produce endorphins that will give them much needed energy. Unfortunately chemotherapy and radiation can have a detrimental effect on the heart and lungs. The good news is that both can be strengthened through a regular cardiovascular exercise program. Swimming can provide an excellent source of relief for tight muscles without putting excessive strain on them. The buoyancy of the water allows for a wonderful workout that allows you to focus on range of motion for your arms and shoulders. This is highly recommended for breast cancer patients, particularly those who have undergone an axillary node dissection. Swimming should not be limited only to breast cancer patients, however, for it has benefits for everyone. Those clients suffering from arthritis will want to make sure the water is at least eighty-four degrees

Strength Training

Strength training is a very important component of an exercise program, however, without a proper assessment, it can create more problems than it can prevent. Proper attention must be paid to not only your goals, but your bodies' needs. This can be accomplished by conducting a postural evaluation to look for muscle imbalances that may lead to degeneration of the joints over time. It is critical to determine which muscles are shortened, or overly tight, so that proper attention can be paid to stretching those muscles first. This will help you to regain normal range of motion and functioning. If you begin strength training before addressing the muscular imbalance, it can lead to a greater imbalance and degeneration. Done properly however, strength training can lead to an increase in lean muscle mass which will not only give a desirable physical appearance, it can help to prevent obesity and osteoporosis. Obesity is the fastest growing health problem in the United States. Obesity is not only associated with other diseases, it has a huge emotional impact as well. There is distinct connection between obesity and Type II diabetes. This is of particular concern when dealing with cancer patients. Following chemotherapy and certain hormonal therapies, many cancer patients find themselves gaining weight. Many were over their ideal weight to begin with are now struggling with a serious weight problem in addition to their cancer diagnosis. Obesity is not only connected to Type II diabetes, it is also thought to be associated with certain types of cancer, yet another compelling reason to start exercising, eating right, and losing weight.

For those of you who have undergone a lymph node dissection, or radiation to the lymph nodes and vessels, you are now at risk for lymphedema. Lymphedema is the swelling of an area do to damage to, radiation, or removal of lymph nodes and vessels. It is usually a permanent and irreversible condition that is both painful and disfiguring. Having an excess amount of body fat can actually increase your risk for lymphedema because the fatty tissue retains fluid. Both men and women who are undergoing hormonal therapy are at risk for osteoporosis. This risk is magnified if you have also undergone chemotherapy. In addition to osteoporosis, men may also experience a loss in lean muscle tissue over time. The good news is that strength training can help to reduce body fat by increasing lean muscle mass, increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis, and prevent and/or manage Type II diabetes.

In summary, the benefits of strength training:
• Increase lean muscle mass; better physical appearance, higher metabolism, less body fat
• Reduces the risk of Type II diabetes and lymphedema by reducing the amount of body fat
• Reduces the risk of osteoporosis by increasing bone mass

Aerobic (cardiorespiratory) training

Aerobic training is exercise that places a stress on the cardiorespiratory system. Any form of activity can be used; walking, biking, basketball, strength training, etc. All forms of exercise must utilize the cardiorespiratory system to either sustain and recuperate from the activity. Many people who have undergone chemotherapy and radiation may have damage and scarring of the heart and/or lungs. Aerobic exercise can help to strengthen the heart and lungs, minimizing the amount of damage they will sustain. As with strength training, aerobic exercise helps one to maintain their ideal body weight thereby reducing the risk for diabetes, future cancers associated with obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and lymphedema. It is critical to perform a warm-up to prepare the body for physical activity. There are two types of warm-ups; general and specific. A general warm-up consists of movements that are not specific to the activity to be performed. A specific warm-up more closely imitates movements form the actual activity. NASM suggests that the cardiorespiratory portion of a warm-up should be five to ten minutes long at a low-to-moderate intensity. On a scale of 1-10, 1 being bed rest and 10 being all out exertion, aim for a five! If you don't have an exercise machine, climb stairs, march in place, walk around the block, shoot some hoops, etc. If you would like to continue to do your aerobic exercise beyond five to ten minutes, go ahead and increase the intensity. Try pushing yourself to a 6 OR 7 on that scale of 1-10. Remember that this is general advice. If you have a heart condition, high blood pressure, have had a stroke, or any other special consideration, please consult your doctor for specific recommendations. Additionally, if you have had lymph nodes removed or had radiation to lymph nodes or lymphatic vessels, you must not allow yourself to overheat. Overheating will increase your circulation and can lead to the onset of lymphedema. If you already have lymphedema, the same rule applies because it can worsen your condition. If you have not been exercising regularly, begin with 10-20 minutes of aerobic activity three times a week. Gradually increase the time (duration) and number of workouts (frequency) to meet your goals.
Once you have completed your warm-up, it will be time to stretch. Specific stretches will be outlined for each type of cancer and particular surgeries.

In summary, the benefits of aerobic training:

• Increase lean muscle mass; better physical appearance, higher metabolism, less body fat
• Reduces the risk of Type II diabetes and lymphedema by reducing the amount of body fat
• Reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol

Flexibility Training

Flexibility is overlooked by most of us. Lack of flexibility may lead to long-term joint degeneration, overuse injuries, and muscle imbalances. By definition, flexibility is the extensibility (ability to lengthen) of all soft tissues that allow a joint to move within it's full range of motion. Your muscular, skeletal, and nervous system make up your kinetic chain. Your kinetic chain must be aligned properly to prevent patterns of joint dysfunction. When things are not properly aligned, it is known as postural distortion. Postural distortion leads to decreased neuromuscular efficiency and tissue overload. In laymans' terms, injury! Your primary goal needs to be to maintain homeostasis of your kinetic chain. Imagine a chain link fence. Your dog skurries his way underneath the fence for years. You think nothing of it. Gradually the fence becomes distorted; some of the links are squashed together, the metal is buckling, there is a big gap in the bottom, it's structural integrity is weakened. Now imagine the same thing happening to your spine. It may not be noticeable now, but over the course of time it, too, will deteriorate and weaken. Muscle imbalances may be caused by cause a variety of external and internal influences; poor posture, emotional stress, repetitive movements (tennis, golf, bowling, etc.), cumulative trauma, poor training technique and form, lack of core (abdominals and low back) strength, and lack of neuromuscular control. Following surgery and radiation, there is usually a foreseeable amount of scar tissue and, in some cases, adhesions that can bind the joint and inhibit movement. This would fall under the trauma category. Under each type of cancer and their respective surgeries, I will address particular postural and kinetic chain concerns and how to correct them. If these issues are not corrected, you will find yourself stuck in a cumulative injury cycle. When there is a dysfunction in the connective tissues of the kinetic chain, the body views it as an injury. As a result, the body will initiate the repair process.

Remember that although beneficial in many ways, strength training creates trauma to the tissue which will then lead to inflammation. The bodies' protective mechanism will increase muscle tension and cause a muscle spasm. As a result of the spasm, adhesions (knots) begin to form in the soft tissue. The adhesions make the normally elastic soft tissue unable to stretch. The end result is muscle imbalance and altered joint motion. If this is not corrected, the adhesions can begin to form permanent structural changes in the soft tissue.

In summary, benefits of flexibility training:

• Increase range of motion in joint movements
• Injury prevention
• May help to prevent arthritis and other degenerative joint disorders
• Eliminates neck, shoulder, back, hip, knee, ankle, and other associated pains

Functional Fitness Training

Functional fitness is the ability to perform one's activities of daily living free of pain and with a relative degree of ease. Most of us take this one for granted, at least until it's gone! Every day we awake from bed, use the bathroom, take a shower (wash your hair and body), brush your teeth, blow dry your hair, put on your underwear, put on your clothes, put on and tie your shoes, etc. Did it ever occur to you that if you had an injury, or a muscle imbalance, it could become relatively impossible to perform one of these otherwise mundane tasks? Well, it's true! In a perfect world we would sit up straight in our chairs, walk with our shoulders back, not carry a heavy briefcase or bag on one shoulder, bend our knees when we bend to pick something up, and so on and so on. Unfortunately, because we live in a less-than-perfect world, most of us have not practiced these methods of self preservation and are now experiencing the aftermath of our poor decisions; pain. You may have been suffering with chronic neck and back pain for years, or you may be new to this game and just beginning to get aches and pains. In either case, flexibility training is the answer for you. Believe it or not, most of these nagging aches and pains are reversible with proper corrective training. Corrective training is a balance of strength training and flexibility training that is customized to meet your particular needs. Following your personal assessment, you will be able to identify the areas that need stretching as well as those that need strengthening. There are several different types of stretching; self-myofacial release, static stretching, and dynamic stretches. Each of these methods is described below.

Self-myofacial release: Using a foam roller, you apply gentle pressure to an adhesion or "knot" for 20-30 seconds. The force that is applied stimulates a relaxation response. This technique is recommended prior to static stretching, as well as during the cool down.

Static stretching: This is the most popular form of stretching. In this method, you passively take a muscle to the point of tension and hold it there for 15-30 seconds. This will stimulate a relaxation response. This method should be used following self-myofacial release and as part of a cool down.

Dynamic stretching: Dynamic stretching uses the force produced by a muscle, along with the body's momentum, to take a joint to the full available range of motion. Rather than hold a stretch for 15-30 seconds, one can perform a set of ten repetitions of dynamic stretches. This is a more advanced method of stretching that can also be used as a warm-up prior to activity. It is recommended that you have good levels of flexibility, core stability, and balance capabilities prior to engaging in a dynamic stretching program




Andrea Leonard is the Author of "Essential Exercises for Breast Cancer Survivors," and The Cancer Exercise Specialist Handbook/Studyguide, President and Founder of The Cancer Exercise Training Institute, and a national speaker on cancer and exercise. Andrea has been certified as a personal trainer for 19 years. SHe is certified by ACSM, NASM, ACE, NSPA, and Cooper Institute. SHe is a continuing education provider for ACE and NASM. Andrea teaches exercises classes for breast and prostate cancer survivors at Oregon Health Sciences University. Andrea has trained and certified thousands of health and fitness professionals in ten countries and continues to teach the Cancer Exercise Specialist Advanced Qualification Course all across the United States.

http://www.thecancerspecialist.com

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Persian Cats

Owning a Persian cat is really wonderful. This beauty is somewhat a cross between a small dog and a domestic cat. They most definitely have a personality all their own. I know this because I am the owner of 6 Persians. They are just the sweetest animals that our God has created and I love mine very much. 3 of the 6 Persians that I own are from Rescues.

Let me tell my story about Madison. I saw her picture on a Persian cat adoption website and fell in love. I have always wanted a White Persian but they are really hard to find and very expensive. I followed through and filled out the online application and within a week I was invited up to Wisconsin to visit and see this beauty and decide on whether or not I would be a possible new owner. I remember my first thought was how very thin and scared she looked. When I opened her cage she ran under a locker that was along the wall of the room. After a few minutes I could see her peek out at me.

And I just fell in love with this baby. I knew that I had to get this girl into a safe house with nourishment and love. From stress she had already lost a substantial amount of her hair and when I finally convinced her to allow me to pick her up I could feel the vertebrae in her back. And there were a few major knots on her shoulder and along her side that needed to be attended to. Yes with God's help I could make her healthy again!

That was 3 months ago and Madison is like another cat. She has gained over 2 lbs. and her fur is coming back really beautifully. This little girl has quite the personality and she definately keeps in line the other male cats in the house even though she is the smallest.

How does a Persian end up in shelters and on the street? Well that is the biggest heart breaker friends. They are, in my opinion, very cute little kittens at one time that grow into very high maintenance cats that need almost daily brushing of their fur in order to maintain their coats. They overwhelm the unprepared new owner and end up in shelters, shaved and without loving homes.

They are generally one person cats but in the right environment, with the right persons can adjust well to a family that is willing to take on the extra maintenance involved with owning a Persian.

I believe that it is very important for anyone considering a long haired kitten to think really hard about being able to maintain this baby for the next fifteen to 18 years. Thank you for reading my article and I hope to see you on my web site.




Julie Bradley

I have a web site that I have dedicated to Persians and I welcome you to visit. I welcome you to visit my store for links to products and magazines that will guide you to a better understanding of the Persian cat. It is aboutpersiancats.com.

I also show some pictures on [http://askjulie.net]

Julie

http://aboutpersiancats.com

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Naked Wedding

In Chinese culture, a wedding usually consists of a registration of the wedding at a local counsel for a formal and law biding ceremony. Then afterwards, it will follow with a traditional ceremony which usually involve the two families and a wedding diner.

There are the differences between Chinese and western culture for the tie the knot ceremony. Most of the time, the ceremony itself will cost lot of money and has become a burden for a young couple nowadays in this modern world. Wedding dress, wedding diner, honeymoon vacation, wedding photo and all the preparation, all needed money and the amount usually is not small.

Naked wedding has become a trend and it does not mean not wearing anything for your big day. Naked wedding simply means the wedding you are having is as simple as registration only. There was no wedding dresses, ceremony or wedding photo. It is just plain commitment that a couple makes towards their love.

It has become more popular nowadays and can see the drastic changes especially in the Chinese culture as more and more people are doing it. This is unacceptable in the Chinese society in the past but time has change people and thinking. When couples decide to live together, housing is a must. So, there must be a budget for it and usually they will put the house in priority and I certainly agree with it.

There is the term naked wedding transform from; a simple wedding. Do you agree with this new revolution of wedding? Anyhow, I do still think of a simple corset wedding dress is a must. A few snap shots of photo for yourselves in the wedding dress is not too much to ask for and is a memorable experience.




If you dream of a perfect wedding dresses visit http://whitewedding-dresses.com. Here have the sleeve wedding dresses for your selection.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Dachshund Grooming

Grooming is important for the overall health and good looks of dachshunds. Dachshund grooming generally includes brushing out the coat, bathing, and giving special attention to its eyes, feet and skin. Grooming techniques and methods vary according to the different coats of dachshunds - shorthaired, wire-haired and longhaired.

Short-haired coats can be easily groomed with the help of a damp cloth. But fawn and chocolate colored, short-haired dachshunds have greater chances for skin burn if exposed to sunlight. Applying sunscreen with mink oil is effective for short-haired pets with skin problems. It is a big challenge to keep wire-haired dachshunds looking their best. This variety of dachshund is required to strip its coat at least 2 - 3 times a year. They also need a thorough brushing each week.

Grooming a long-haired dachshund also requires some expertise and skill. It is always advisable to seek the assistance of a professional to groom long-haired dachshunds. Long-haired dachshunds have to be blow-dried after bathing. They should be properly brushed, trimmed and clipped to maintain a shiny, longhaired coat. A comb or a brush with soft bristles can be used to untangle knots.

Problems like bald spots, bump, and swelling affecting dachshunds must be immediately brought to the attention of a veterinarian, as these signs may be symptoms of some kind of disease. Special attention must also be given to the ears, nails and teeth.

A soft, moist towel can be used to clean and remove earwax. Nails should be trimmed at least once a week to prevent digging in your garden. Cleaning teeth includes an oral examination, root scaling, root planning, polishing, and supragingival plaque and tartar removal using hand instruments. Proper treatment for worm infestations is also a part of dachshund grooming.

In the US, there are a lot number of dachshund grooming salons offering state of the art facilities for all your pet's grooming needs, from hair cuts and exotic styling to pedicures and skin care.




Dachshund provides detailed information on Dachshunds, Miniature Dachshunds, Dachshund Rescue, Dachshund Puppies and more. Dachshund is affiliated with Yorkshire Terrier Adoption.

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