October 23rd, 2007
Cats are particularly good at seeing in the dark and that is why they are such good hunters.
Cats’ eyes are considerably larger and more round than those of a human in proportion to the rest of their body and this size and shape allows them to see things in conditions where there is very little light.
That is why they can easily wander around at night and capture their prey. If you are unlucky they might bring it back to show you in the form of bugs, birds, mice and all sorts of other creatures, that you really don’t want to share your bed with in the middle of the night.
Cats will bring their capture in to show you when they are looking for some form of positive recognition and even though you might not want to see what they have caught, they should be congratulated for what they have done where possible.
Cat’s eyesight only allows them to see clearly for a few feet but fortunately they have a keen sense of smell that can help them become aware of approaching danger.
Cats are also very sensitive to vibration and can “feel” someone’s presence before they can see them.
As cats get older they will tend to be less aware and will need additional care so that they don’t get in trouble with dogs and other animals that they haven’t noticed approaching them.
Cats are unable to rotate their eyes as much as humans and many other animals but they are a lot more flexible and can rotate their head a lot more and that more than makes up for any lack of movement in their eyes.
Cats are generally more attuned to movement and can find their prey a lot easier in the dark than when there is too much sunlight.
Taking care to look after your cats eyes is in your, and your cats, best interest.
About the author:
Paul Alexander helps run an online pet information business that provides pet owners with the means to create a permanent record of the life of their pet. He is also a long time pet owner and has published many articles on pet related issues. For more information visit www.PetsLife.co.uk
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October 23rd, 2007
The Curly Coated Retriever is a very unique and interesting breed. From it’s history to its use in today’s society here is a brief overview of the breed.
The breed dates back ( or more correctly there is mention of the breed ) to the mid 15th Century. Shakespeare even mentions two “ Water Spaniels” in his writing. It was known as a meat dog, which is a dog that could find and retrieve game that was left behind by other dogs during a hunt. The dog was often owned by gamekeepers or poachers.
The breed is very hard to track down as to when it actually became known as the modern day Curly. In the 1800’s there where many number of curly-coated breeds, such as, the Water Spaniel, Wetterhoun, and Tweed Water Spaniel, any of these could be the actual ancestors of the modern day Curly. Actually some individuals claim that the Poodle and Curly-Coated where crossed to get the best qualities from both breeds into the Curly.
In 1860 the first Curly was exhibited in London. The Kennel Club in 1864 split retrievers into two different classes. They where Retrievers-Curly Coat and Retrievers-Wavy Coated class.
The breed was significantly reduced in numbers during the World Wars. In 1919 only 5 where registered, aprrox 40 in the late 1930’s and by the end of 1943 only 13. After the World Wars the breed started making a come back with 90 registrations by the end of 1947.
The breed showed up n the United States somewhere around 1907, however the first registered Curly did not appear until 1924. Here again the World War has a impact on the Curly as registered number of Curly’s was low. Just a personal observation on this, since these where hunting dogs and many men where in the service at this time, that would seem to explain the drop in numbers as most men at the time avid hunters and they where away fighting in the War.
The breed finally established itself firmly in 1929 and the Curly Coated Retriever Club of America was formed. However the Curly is still a rare breed in the United States.
Here is some more general information on the breed:
AKC ideal height is 25 to 27 inches for male and 23 to 25 inches for female.
The coat is made up of small, tight, waterproof curls. However the face has no curls, the hair grows naturally straight.
Is an even tempered dog, that shows an intense loyalty, and will protect family. Curly’s can be hard headed.
It is important to brush and comb coat while Curly is shedding and bath at the same time. They do not require extensive grooming.
They are easily trained. However they do have a tremendous independence streak which can at times make training a little more difficult.. They do tend to mature slowly.
The Curly is a hunting dog and does require regular exercise.
Also keep in mind Curlys do shed.
Most Curlys love the water and are great natural swimmers.
All in all the Curly will be a great addition to your family.
Article Supplied by:
Dog Gone Good Stuff which was founded because of the need for a place that caters specifically to dogs and their owners specific needs. Please feel free to visit Dog Gone Good Stuff for all your dogs needs. Web address www.doggonegoodstuff.com
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