Tator

We had the privilege to raise this beautiful baby until he was old enough to find a new home and had the opportunity to find him a loving forever home with Tiffany and Mike.
Sadly, Tator lost a courageous battle with toxins that caused neurological damage to his little body. He went through unnecessary pain and suffering that could of been prevented if only we, the consumers were aware of the damage flea shampoo can do.
YES, that's right flea shampoo did this to this lil guy.
Tator's Mommy is heart-broken with grief and she wanted me to share Tator's story with all of you, so that maybe we could prevent more unnecessary deaths of our furbabies.
ONE MORE VICTIM IS ONE TOO MANY!

On last Saturday, Tator's Mommy gave Tator a bath using Sergeant's Gold Flea & Tick Shampoo. Shortly after, Tator's Mommy realized their was something terribly wrong. Tator began to twitch and whine. At one point, Tator was unable to stand on his own to go potty, so his Mommy assisted him by holding him up. She took Tator to the Emergency Vet. where Tator was diagnosed with neurological damage due to toxins. The damage was so horrific that it robbed this beautiful 10 month old puppy's sight. Tator was blind. He was only calm when his Mommy would hold him and talk to him.
His Mommy said he fought really hard. He started to get better on Monday, but on Tuesday he took a turn for the worse. The lil fella held on until Thursday, when he finally decided to let go.


After getting this devastating news, I started researching to see if this is a common occurrence and unfortunately it is.
Please visit this site for more information regarding this travesty that is killing one too many our our beloved pets.
www.hartzvictims.org

If you believe your pet might be one of the many victims, there is help and steps you must take. Please visit their help section of their website:
www.hartzvictims.org/need-help/

Tator you were Loved and will be Missed!!!!!

I believe in the Rainbow Bridge!!!!!


If you are experiencing a loss of a beloved pet, you are not alone. Please visit for a full range of support services at the Pet Loss Grief Support Website:
http://petloss.com/

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Chihuahua rescue or Chihuahua adoption

Chihuahua rescues are home to dogs that have been abandoned and need a new home. Instead of putting down dogs, rescues try actively to find them a new home. That is the big difference between a rescue and a shelter. A rescues main interest is to save the Chihuahua's from a certain death at the pound or shelter and find them a new, permanent home.

The goal of the rescues to find a good permanent home and not put down the Chihuahua's means that getting a dog form a rescue is not as simple as it would be getting one from a pound or even a breeder, for that matter. The rescue is interested in people who can offer a good home, not just someone who is interested, so a Chihuahua from a rescue is not going to be the ideal solution for some people.

The Basics Of Chihuahua Rescue Adoption

Usually when a person wishes to get a Chihuahua and chooses to go to a breeder or the pound, all they need is some money. Breeders and pounds are not interested in making sure you will provide a good home and will provide good care for the Chihuahua. A rescue, however, is interested in what you have to offer the dog. They will make sure you have a suitable home and that you can provide the proper care. Many dogs at a rescue have medical needs, so they will make sure you understand about that and that you are willing to care for the dog.

Additionally, since rescues do not put down Chihuahua's they may house a Chihuahua for a long time before it gets adopted, which can be quite expensive. They usually ask for a fee to help cover those expenses when you adopt the dog.

You will have to fill out forms and contracts that pledge your commitment to caring for the Chihuahua you are adopting. They will ask for references and they will check them. This is serious business. The rescue does not want to send the Chihuahua to another bad home where they will not get the care they need.

Is A Rescue Chihuahua For You

Chihuahua's are a good pet for an adult home with no large dogs and limited exposure to children. Large dogs and children can pose a threat to Chihuahua's because they are so small and easily hurt. Children can also cause the dog to be nervous, which is uncomfortable for him. They are extremely loyal dogs and will be a great companion.

Besides all the lovely things about the breed, rescue Chihuahua's have some great benefits just because they are rescued dogs. Many are already housebroken, so that is one less thing you will have to worry about. Most are older Chihuahua's so they will not chew like a pup does. They are already immunized, so you do not have to go through the tension and worry about vaccines and ill side effects. The rescue staff probably can give you a good idea about his temperament, so you can get to know him before even bringing him home.

Tags: Adoption Rescue Chihuahua

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Training dogs is not something that is standard for every dog. Each breed has their own style and temperament that dictates the training approach.  While each dog is unique and has his own personality, the breed of the dog will really tell you how to go about training.  Chihuahua training needs to be done in a positive and authoritative manner, no matter what type of personality your pup has.

It is important to keep in mind throughout Chihuahua training that your pup is very intelligent.  Chihuahua's learn fast and are quite easy to train.  If you are having difficulties it could be your approach that is the problem, not the dog.  In fact, the right approach can make Chihuahua training of any kind easy.

Things To Keep In Mind

There are some main things you have to keep in mind when training Chihuahua's. The main thing is their size.  You never want to use a leash or choke chain on a Chihuahua.  Their treacha can be easily damaged by pulling too tightly against their throat.  If you are wanting to use something, use a harness.   You should also be aware that since Chihuahua's are so smart that they will get bored easily if you do not move swiftly through training exercises.

The Approach

Chihuahua training should be very positive and upbeat.  Chihuahua's do not respond well to scolding or punishment and doing so could easily thorough the whole training process off track.  You should also take the role of being a guide to the dog, not a Drill Sargent.  Chihuahua's have a stubborn nature that will surely surface if you try to force him to do something.  Instead offer the suggestion, let him know what to do and let him follow your lead.  It may seem like a time consuming approach, but remember they learn quick.

Rewards should also be a part of your Chihuahua training.  They really respond well to being rewarded with a treat from god behavior.  Positive reinforcement is a very good tool with any dog, but Chihuahua's especially will work hard if they know there is a treat for doing something.  Just make sure your dog is not training on a full stomach or he may not respond as well.

Your training should be on a regular schedule.  Try also not to spend too long on training sessions for obedience training.  For potty training you must be constant.  Make sure your pup knows you are trying to teach him something and he'll be more likely to respond.

You should have fun while training your Chihuahua.  He should have fun, too, so be sure to follow the guidelines above or else training could be difficult and a bad time for everyone.  Once you understand the basics of Chihuahua training you can move onto the specifics.  

Tags: Chihuahua Training Tips

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Pruritis, or itchiness, is a very common problem in veterinary medicine. Pets who are itchy and scratching their skin constantly are not only bothered themselves, they bother their owners, too!

Yes, fleas can certainly make pets and people itchy and uncomfortable, but don't always assume that your pet's itchiness is the result of fleas.

Fleas bite, and their saliva is very allergenic to susceptible animals. This causes skin redness, itching, biting, scratching, chewing, crusts in the skin, and even a greasy feel and malodor for some pets. In non-allergic pets, fleas don't bother the animal in these classic ways.

Fleas love humidity and warmth. They are a year-round problem in many climates, virtually nonexistent in other climates (arid, cold). Click here to learn more about fleas and how to keep them off of your pet.

If not fleas, what could it be? Your veterinarian is the only one that can answer these questions for your pet, but here are a few of the things that vets look for when a pet is itchy:

• Other allergies not related to fleas -- inhalant (grasses, pollens, etc.), contact (allergic to a shampoo, food dish) or systemic (food allergy).
• Other parasites -- mites.
• Fungal -- not usually an itchy condition, but can cause secondary hair loss and possibly make your pet more prone to secondary bacterial infections.
• Skin infections -- moist skin infections secondary to licking, scratching, even swimming. 
  • Skin infections (i.e. hot spots) are also very itchy and bothersome on their own and are often secondary to problems with allergies and parasites.

  Note of caution: make sure that your pet does indeed have a flea-induced skin problem prior to using any type of flea shampoo or treatment. Flea killers can be dangerous if used improperly, and items such as shampoos can be very drying to the skin, exacerbating an itchy skin problem.

Tags: Itch Chihuahua Hot Spots Fleas

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New owners of Chihuahuas are often full of questions concerning their new pet. One common question is about the amount of tears a Chihuahua will produce. This is very common in such a tiny dog, with large eyes that are so very close to the floor. The same sparkling, saucy eyes that an owner will often fall instantly in love with act like a magnet to every bit of dust and dirt that can be blown or kicked up. Tears are nature’s way of cleansing the eye while keeping it moist. The Chihuahua’s tears should be clear and have the consistency of water. A veterinarian should check out any other discharge or color as soon as possible. While sterile or distilled water can be used to flush an eye that has a foreign object in it, at no time should the owner attempt to use human medication on the eyes without the advice of their veterinarian. Certain components like cortisone and other types of steroidal products that are often ingredients in eye ointments can actually cause more damage than help to eyes in cases of corneal injuries.

Chihuahuas are not normally a finicky eater unless the owner makes them one. Small sized kibble puppy food is given from birth to at least six months, preferably up to one full year. Adult dogs will eat small kibble or “mini chunk” style food and this is the best option an owner has. Although tempting, try to steer clear of soft or canned foods as these can help promote dental problems.

Many Chihuahuas have a condition known as an open fontanel. This occurs when the bones of the head do not fuse together and leave an open or “soft spot” on the top of the head. Although undesirable, dogs with this condition can lead perfectly happy, healthy lives. As a whole, Chihuahuas are hardy little dogs with reports of some specimens living up to eighteen and nineteen years. They make wonderful pets for children as long as the child is taught to be gentle with it, adults, elderly and bed bound people. They give an endless amount of love and loyalty, laughter and enjoyment to all who are “owned” by a Chihuahua. With a heart that belongs in a Bull Mastiff, courage of the fiercest terrier, an endless amount of energy that would make the Energizer Bunny look lethargic and a desire to be held and cuddled as a child would a favorite teddy bear, it is no wonder the Chihuahua has become one of the most consistently popular dogs of our time.

Tags: FAQ New Owners Chihuahua

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The first modern day Chihuahua registered with the American Kennel Club was Midget in 1905. Fanciers of the Chihuahua have grown until it has become one of the most consistently popular breeds. They can be found in two varieties, smooth coated and longhaired. Of the two, the smooth coated has been the most popular but in recent years, the longhaired variety is closing in.

The general appearance of both varieties requires a dog that is compact, graceful, and alert. He should have a “saucy expression” and the courage and temperament often attributed to terrier breeds. The Chihuahua should be well balanced and not weigh more than six pounds. Any dog that weighs more than six pounds will be disqualified from conformation classes at any AKC show.

A Chihuahua’s head should be “apple domed” and appear to be rounded from all angles.

Eyes are to be very large but not protruding of preferably dark or luminous ruby color. The ears are large and stand erect when the dog is at attention but will flare to the sides at a 45-degree angle when at rest. A dog whose ears have been cropped or cannot stand erect will also be disqualified.

The Chihuahua muzzle is moderately short and pointed and should end with a bite that is considered either even or scissored. Overshot or undershot jaws will be heavily penalized. The color allowed for the nose depends on the color of the dog itself. Self-colored noses are allowed in blondes, moles, blues, blacks and chocolates. Pink noses are also permitted in blonde colored dogs.

The neck should be slightly arched and end by gracefully joining lean, sloping shoulders. These shoulders should be broad and set well over straight forelegs. These forelegs should be set well under the shoulders to allow plenty of freedom at the elbows.

The Chihuahua’s feet are very small and dainty with split up but not spread and the pasterns are very fine.

The body of the dog is slightly longer than its height. Its topline is level, ribs well sprung and rounded but not to the point of giving a “Bulldog” or barrel appearance. The tail is moderately long and can be carried like a sickle either up or out. It can also be carried in a loop over the back with just the tip touching. It should never be tucked between the legs.

Hindquarters on a Chihuahua are muscular with wide set hocks that are neither in nor out. They need to be sturdy, firm and well let down allowing for a swift gait in which the foot fall of the rear feet fall in directly behind the those of the front feet. When viewed from front or rear, the feet appear to land towards a centerline as the speed of movement increases. From a profile view, the Chihuahua has a strong driving rear, long reach in the front legs and a high, proud carried head.

Chihuahuas are often feisty with a terrier like temperament with little heed given to their actual size or the size of their opponent. Protective of owners, they often bond to only one or two persons in a household. They can also be snobbish when it comes towards other breeds of dogs, as the Chihuahua is a clannish breed that prefers other Chihuahuas for company.

As for color, any color, solid, marked or splashed is acceptable.

The coat in the smooth variety is soft textured, close and glossy although heavier coats with actual undercoats are permitted. The dogs whose coats are evenly distributed over the body but scanty on the head and ears, with a ruff on the neck are preferred as well as a furry tail.

The longhaired varieties have a soft textured coat that can be flat or even slightly curly. Undercoats are preferred as are fringed ears and a full long tail that is similar to a plume. Judges will also be looking for dogs that have feathering down the legs, on the feet and a large ruff on the neck.

Tags: AKC BREED STANDARD CHIHUAHUA

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The explorer Christopher Columbus wrote a letter to the King of Spain that spoke of a dog he had encountered on the island that is now Cuba. In this letter he described a “small kind of dog that seems mute as it doesn’t bark as usual.” He then went on to tell the king that the dog was domesticated.

The dog Columbus wrote about was an ancestor of the present day Chihuahua called the “Techichi.” Scholars and archeologists have been able to date the Techichi as far back as the Toltec’s occupation of Mexico in the 9th century A.D.

Solid evidence of the Techichis presence during this time period can be found in pictures carved into stones. These stones were originally part of the Pyramids of Choluda built by the Toltecs but appropriated by Franciscan monks to build the Monastery of Huejotzingo around 1530. In these carvings can be found both full body and head pictures of the Techichis that bear a striking resemblance to the present day Chihuahua.

After the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs, the small dog was still highly regarded by the rich. Both the Toltecs and the Aztecs often used the Techichi as a connection in the worship of deities as well as the voyage of the dead into the afterlife. They became popular pets with the rare blue colored being considered as sacred. The red colored ones were used as sacrifices. These sacrifices were burned to ashes with the corpse of the human dead because it was believed the sins of the human could be transferred in the burning to the dog. Once the sins were settled upon the dog, any anger by the Gods towards the human could be averted. The Techichi were also accredited with steering the human’s soul though the dark, vast regions of the underworld while protecting it from evil until the soul reached his or her final resting point.

Although the Chihuahua as we know it was discovered in the Mexican State of Chihuahua around 1850, the greatest concentration of artifacts and stone carvings depicting the small breed are found around Mexico City. Scholars of the Chihuahua believe the Chinese hairless dogs somehow crossed the ancient land bridge that was across the Bering Straight between what is now Alaska and Asia. It is theorized that somehow these two breeds were crossed and produced the tiny Chihuahuas of today.

Tags: Chihuahua History

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