A good bathing technique is essential for keeping your Shih Tzu’s hair in good shape and keeping skin problems at a minimum. A lot of Shih Tzu owners say they have skin problems. This is a problem I have not encountered a lot in my existence with the Shih Tzu. However, it does happen more in some bloodlines. Follow the instructions in this article and you should have no problem in keeping a nice smelling and clean Shih Tzu in your presence at all times.

Gather together everything that is needed before you start to bath your Shih Tzu. This is always handier than having to run here and there gathering up your supplies and tools once the process begins.

The first bath you give your Shih Tzu may be traumatic. It truly is best to delay bathing Shih Tzu puppies until they are at least 3 months old. For the first bath you might try using a small bowl, dishpan or the kitchen sink rather than the bathtub. Always be sure the water is neither too cold or to hot. Shih Tzu puppies react violently sometimes to either extreme. Be careful your Shih Tzu puppy does not jump or wiggle out of your hands. If the temperature of water is “just right,” there will be less chance of the Shih Tzu puppy wiggling out of your hands. Use a mild shampoo especially formulated for dogs that is “tearless.” Regular baby shampoo can be used. I have never had a problem with dry skin when I used baby shampoo. It is just harder to rinse out. Shampoo formulated especially for dogs and puppies is usually easier to rinse out. I do like using Fluffy Puppy shampoo for puppies and even on the faces of my older Shih Tzu because it is tearless.

Pouring water gently over your Shih Tzu puppy in the kitchen sink, a small bowl or dishpan is much less alarming than using a high powered sprayer. Once your Shih Tzu puppy is use to his bath, you can try using the spray attachment which is much better and faster at getting out all the shampoo. You can also use a gallon milk jug (when it is empty and rinsed out of course) to first pour water over the puppy. After being washed, the Shih Tzu puppy must be dried off completely before being allowed outside again.

An older Shih Tzu can be washed in the bathtub using a shower attachment. Place a rubber mat in the bottom of the tub to provide firm footing just as you would for yourself. Your choice of shampoo and conditioner depends upon the type of coat your Shih Tzu has. Avoid using human shampoo on your Shih Tzu. I have used Pantene, but like the baby shampoo, it is harder to rinse out of the hair and I just don’t like the way it leaves the Shih Tzu’s hair looking dull. Many Shih Tzu are allergic to human shampoo. I have found them to be “itchy” after a bath with human shampoo. I switched over completely to shampoos especially formulated for dogs. Some human shampoos have been known to coat each hair and build up after use, which is probably what causes the itching. There are so many really good brands of dog shampoo on the market these days; there is truly no good reason to use human shampoo on your Shih Tzu. In summertime it is a good idea to use a shampoo to fight against fleas.

Be prepared to get splashed as your Shih Tzu gets older in the bath. Either wear grooming aprons made especially for this function or wrap a large towel around you.

If you are afraid you might get water in the ears of your Shih Tzu, plug the ears with cotton before beginning the bath. Getting water in the ears can cause ear infections.

Really wet down the hair of a Shih Tzu good before applying the shampoo. Pour the shampoo down the middle of the Shih Tzu’s back. As it runs down each side work it into the hair with a squeezing movement of the fingers. Do not rub or massage. The coat is more apt to become tangled with rubbing movements. The best way to get the cleanest hair is to gently squeeze the shampoo through the hair really working up a thick, good lather. You will need to pour a little extra shampoo on each leg and foot, the tail, chest and stomach areas. Lift your Shih Tzu up by the front legs to shampoo the stomach and then wash the chest. Wash the head and face last using the tearless shampoo.

If you are bathing a very dirty Shih Tzu, you will need rinse really well and repeat the process, then rinse really good again.

A good human hair dryer works find for the Shih Tzu. Brush the hair while blowing drying in order to make the hair straight.

About The Author

Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies for sale. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our newsletters. We have a variety of colors, the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices.

I recently started the toilet training process with my kitty. She was doing fine at first when I just had the litter box in the toilet. After I cut the first hole in the pan (so she can be introduced to the water in the toilet) she has been pooping on the floor next to the toilet. I don't know what to do and I most definitely do not want to give up! What can I do to stop her from pooping on the floor and get her to poop in the toilet??

Cat lovers know all too well that one of the biggest challenges of owning a cat is trying to figure out how to stop your cat from scratching furniture. Nothing can be more frustrating than watching your lovable kitty scratch and claw your new couch to shreds. What to do?

Understand that scratching and clawing are natural behaviors for your cat and you cannot prevent it from happening, but you can train kitty to scratch only in certain areas.

Cats actually scratch for two reasons. The first reason everybody thinks of is your cat’s need to sharpen their claws. But the second reason, the one that’s not so obvious, is your cat’s desire to leave their territorial mark. This is especially true when you catch your cat scratching and clawing the furniture or carpet in particular.

Cats leave their scent from the sweat glands on and in between the pads of their paws. The scent left behind says, ‘Hey there buster, I am here, and this is my territory.’ Once their scent is on something, such as your furniture or carpet, they often will return to the object and apply their scent again.

Understanding this about your cat’s behavior is valuable information that we can use to our advantage to help train kitty to use a scratching post. If we can get kitty’s scent on the post (a little catnip on the post would do the trick), kitty will likely scratch the post then come back to the post later on to replenish the scent. And since cats scratch most frequently right after they wake up it’s very important that the scratching post is convenient to where they spend much of their time.

However, since your cat has already scratched your furniture, you will have to use an enzyme cleaner to eliminate the cat’s scent or kitty will keep returning to the scratching spot. Then you must spray daily with one of the products designed to keep pets away by leaving an odor they prefer not to be around (but is OK for you and I ) like those Citronella sprays.

Finally, when your cat uses the scratching post, provide lots of positive reinforcement and jump up and down and shout Hooray! Kitty is now using her furniture instead of yours.

Check out all of the cool kitty furniture, visit http://www.yourcatsbehavior.com.
But a word of caution, kitty may end up with nicer stuff than you have!

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http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Glenn

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How to Train a Cat to Use the toilet?

This is a question commonly asked by many cat owners. Not surprising at all as the benefits that come along with it are simply too appealing to be ignored. Having a toilet trained cat means that you don’t have to clean your cat’s litter box any more. There will be no more awful smell polluting the house and the best part of it is that, you probably would never ever need to buy cat litter anymore! A huge saving on your monthly expenses indeed.

Sounds good, but is it difficult to train a cat to use the toilet? 

Ask anyone and all would probably agree that dogs can easily be trained but when it comes to cats, many would think that it’s almost impossible.

Yes, cats are notoriously known as being arrogant, self-centered and basically un-trainable. But, contrary to belief, it is not difficult to train your cat to use the toilet at all.

Here are 5 simple steps that you can use to easily and quickly train your cat to use the toilet:

Step 1

Start by gradually moving your cat’s litter box from where it is now to somewhere closer to the toilet.

Step 2:

Then slowly raise the litter box by putting some newspaper underneath it until it reaches the height of the toilet bowl.

Step 3:

Start inching the box over the toilet seat and when it’s sitting right on spot of the toilet seat; reduce the amount of litter in it.

Step 4:

Replace the litter box with a container fixed onto the toilet bowl.

Step 5:

When your cat is used to this, remove the box and Voila, your cat is toilet trained!

Easy? Yes, and you can pick up more details on this method in “Train Cat Use Toilet“

But before you go get started, there is just one more thing that you need to know that may well determine your success or failure.
The method described above is just one of the many available. You need to know you cat’s personality in order to successfully get him to kick the habit of using the litter box. Use the right tricks and treats and you will see quick results but use the wrong one, you may end up having your cat stop using the litter box as well.

To toilet train your cat in the quickest and most convenient manner possible, make sure you get hold of the step-by-step training manual provided in “Toilet Train My Cat“. Do that right now before you start throwing out your cat’s potty. You’ll be glad you did.

Article Source:

http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ann_Wong

Adam returns to form

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Can You Really Potty Train Your Cat To Sit On The Toilet? | A Cats …

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Toilet Training My Cat On My Toilet? | A Cats Life

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How to Get Started Cat Toilet Training – Cat Toilet Training

Funny Animal Videos Many enlightened cat owners look to herbal treatment for cat health complaints. They are also using herbal treatments to keep their cat fit and healthy so that it can avoid getting these health complaints in the …

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If you’ve been keeping up with my blog posts lately you’ll know I’ve come to adding a few news posts from around the web on this subject. I’ve got a couple more today that are new and updated, so let me know what you think of em…

WOS Radio: Cat Stars Tackle Censorship at Q&A

I use it as my study aid in all my training. I'm still studying. Adrian Lester: Tennessee Williams revisited the play four times. …   Read More…

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I also discovered I shift around a lot in my sleep. While taming Little Wild Man has proven a tricky business, we've had better luck in training him. …   Read More…

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The culture isnt gonna change so ya best jump on board the train or get ran over by it. Well I certainly screwed that comment up. …   Read More…
That’s all the news for today guys, so until next time, thanks for stopping by.

Wall Street's hottest new product is fear. Pimco, Deutsche Bank , and Citigroup are among firms offering clients protection against “long-tail” risks — extreme market moves that Wall Street's financial models fail to anticipate. In what Morgan Stanley strategists say is an indication that more investors are seeking insurance against financial turbulence, they estimate there was as much as a fivefold increase last quarter in trading of credit derivatives that speculate on market volatility. Full Story;

Two decades ago, when Consumer Reports started evaluating treadmills, it built a test machine it called the Johnny Walker. A drum-like steel cylinder studded with green rubber balls, the Johnny Walker spins above the rolling belts of its victims, pummeling them with blows meant to simulate the footsteps of a 170-lb. runner. In the early days, after a few hours of insistent pounding, some treadmills caught fire. Full Story;

With 14.6 million Americans unemployed and plenty of others dissatisfied with their jobs, many are heading back to school for retraining. Full Story;

At the Georgia Tech College of Management (Georgia Tech Full-Time MBA Profile), the job search starts even before students are admitted. The director of MBA career services plays a big role in the admissions process, and students whose job prospects look poor might not get in, says MBA Admissions Director Paula Wilson. “This is a big investment for the student, and an investment for us as well,” she explains. Full Story;

The most promising region in the U.S. for job hunting by newly minted college graduates is the South, and the city with the best mix of job openings, pay, and affordability is Houston, according to Businessweek.com. Full Story;

Baby boomers fretting over their pensions should spare a thought for Constance DeCherney. Like many of her generation, the 27-year-old Web strategist at Planned Parenthood in New York has done little to prepare for retirement. While she became eligible for a 401(k) in 2005, DeCherney only began putting money into it last year. She now contributes 3 percent of her pay, though that's just half of what Planned Parenthood will match, and DeCherney doesn't know how the investments are performing. “Just the idea of (saving for retirement) feels overwhelming,” she says. … Full Story;

(Corrects the name of the Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education in the 29th paragraph.) Full Story;

Until recently, it was a given that President Barack Obama would make good on his campaign pledge to let the Bush-era tax cuts that benefited wealthy Americans expire at the end of this year. Ditto for his promise to maintain the tax cuts for households earning up to $250,000 a year. Full Story;

Mixing art and commerce has always been tricky. It's getting trickier in Australia, where workers can stock their retirement savings accounts with paintings and sculptures. “I grew up with art all around me. It's my life. I love it,” says John Cruthers, a 56-year-old Sydney resident who has amassed more than 100 artworks to help fund his retirement. Full Story;

Annuities. Reverse mortgages. Life insurance pools. Principal-protected notes. The options being offered to senior citizens hoping to ensure a comfortable retirement are dizzying. And in a growing number of cases, that may be the intention as more scammers–often elderly themselves–try to con retirees. Though hard numbers are difficult to come by, many lawyers and advocates for the elderly say more seniors than ever are being lured into investment schemes that are unsuitable for people of their age or are outright swindles. … Full Story;

UGODOG Potty for dogs…… prefect for a litter of puppies – Pet …

Almost as funny as the “litterkwitter” or whatever it is, the cat toilet training system! I’d certainly be all for giving it a try. I have a litter of Havanese cross puppies being born soon in rescue, might have to give one of these to …

The Basic Principles Of Toilet Training A Cat – Starring Ezmerelda …

Ezmerelda is available NOW to anyone in the Utah area. Here is the ad I posted on KSL for her & the link to it. http://www.ksl.com/index.ph… Free.

toilet training a furry cat with frictionless paws: an …

toilet training a furry cat with frictionless paws. About Me. My Photo. gnat: Oh crap. Where did the last 3 months go? View my complete profile …in case the blog updates aren’t frequent enough… Loading… Things I blog about …

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How to Provide First Aid For Your Horse
 by: Michael Colucci

If your horse is in the field, and it suffers a severe cut, you will want to stop the bleeding as soon as possible. You will need to make a call to your vet, and there are steps you also need to take in order to provide first aid to your horse as soon as possible. You will want to stabilize the horse prior to the arrival of the vet.

The first thing you want to do is make sure you have a first aid kit available for the horse in advance. The first aid kit should have all the important constituents necessary for emergencies and small cuts. You always want to make sure that you have first aid readily available. You will want to make sure you have all the important tools you need, and you will want to know how to use them.

A commercially available first aid kit for horses will cost between $39 and $80. You will want to make sure the kit has a thermometer so that you can check the temperature of the horse. All horses should have a standard temperature of 99 to 115 degrees. The first aid kit should also come with a stethoscope so that you can monitor the heart rate of the horse. You can listen clearly to the heartbeat just under the elbow on the left side of the horse.

All first aid kits should have a flashlight, in case you have an emergency in the dark. You will also want to have electrolytes in case the horse becomes dehydrated. Warming up water and adding a small teaspoon of electrolytes can encourage water consumption by your horse. The first aid kit should also have neosporin, iodine, and hydrogen peroxide. Avoid using the hydrogen peroxide on wounds as it will destroy benign tissue.

You will also want to have wire cutters handy in the event the horse gets stuck in a gate or wire. You will also want to use a twitch which can calm your horse and keep him controlled in situations where it will be in great pain. You will also want to make sure you have a knife cutting bandages and other materials. You will want to make sure you don’t injure your horse when handling the knife.

You will want to use the iodine solution to clean out any thick wounds. Any wounds which will be treated by a veterinarian within a hours of the injury should not have medications applied, and should only be flushed with iodine or clean water to prevent them from drying.

About The Author

Michael Colucci is an experienced horse competitor and writes articles for http://www.horsegathering.com – A free site that includes horse articles, buying/selling horse items, event calendar and a horse discussion forum.

Cat Training Book For Cat Toilet Training And Breaking Behaviours.

Cat Training Book For Cat Toilet Training And Breaking Behaviours. Rattan Furniture & Wicker Furniture Indonesia provides rattan furniture, wicker furniture, wicker, wicker furniture indonesia, synthetic rattan furniture, …

Cat Toilet Training | SocietyTraining

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Cat Training Book For Cat Toilet Training And Breaking Cat Behaviors

Is Your Cat Ruining Your Furniture, Home Or Peace Of Mind? Do You Sometimes Wonder Exactly What Your Cat Is Thinking? Learn How To Train Your Cat And Give Both Of You A Better Life! This Cat Training eBook Will Reveal The Training …

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Teaching a cat or kitten how to use the toilet like a human being may seem strange, however many cats all over the world have already mastered this trick, making their owners job of cleaning up after them much easier. Toilet training your cat is very beneficial for many reasons. Cat litter tends to hold odor and if your cat is toilet trained guests will enjoy spending time in your home because they won’t smell a litter box. Your home will naturally be cleaner and more sanitary.

Another benefit is the money you will save on cat litter. When your cat no longer needs cat litter to do his business the savings add up very quickly. For instance, even cheap cat litter is about $5.00 per box. If you have one cat and you like your home to smell nice, you are probably replacing that box about every week.

The monthly cost of cat litter is about $20 or more depending on which brand you buy. After one year you will end up spending over $240 on cat litter. That may not seem like much, but it adds up over the years and that number increases if you have more than one cat.

Before you begin to train your cat how to use the toilet the cat needs to already be litter trained. Toilet training works best for cats over 6 months of age.

You will need:

Litter Pan

Cat Litter

Bowl to sit inside the toilet

Duct Tape

The first step is to put the litter plan right in front of the toilet and leave it there for a few days. The goal is to help your cat become accustomed to using the litter pan by the toilet first. After 5 days you will need to raise the little pan higher up off the floor. You can do this by using a few phone books or a box.

You will want to raise the litter box a few inches each day until the litter box is the same level as the toilet. Secure the litter box with some duct tape to be sure the box is sturdy. The next step is to put the litter box on the toilet and secure it with some tape. Leave the litter box there for one week so your cat will adapt to using the box on top of the toilet.

Once you know that your cat is comfortable take the litter pan off the toilet completely. Place a large bowl or colander inside the toilet bowl. Fasten the bowl with some duct tape to the toilet bowl. Pour cat litter in the bowl. Remove the cat litter box from the home and watch your cat carefully to be sure he or she is using the little bowl inside the toilet. (If your cat has an accident you may need to back up a few steps and start over.) Just watch your cat carefully and bring the littler pan back if your cat is not ready for it to completely gone yet.

Over time you should put less and less litter in the bowl over time until your cat is ready to use the bowl with no litter in the bowl. Your cat will continue to use the toilet with the empty bowl inside. Finally, remove the bowl completely and watch your cat carefully to be sure he is using the toilet.

Avoid behavior problems and safeguard your cat’s health! Get your Cat Care Guide and Behavior Book now at http://www.cats101.info.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Ince

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NEW YORK (Reuters) – The Force was with a man when he robbed a bank wearing a Darth Vader mask and a cape. Full Story;

VANCOUVER (Reuters) – Canada's highest court ruled on Friday that police will have to pay damages to a civil rights lawyer they wrongly accused of conspiring to throw a pie at the prime minister. Full Story;

BERLIN (Reuters) – French fries in Germany could be significantly shorter this year due to the heatwave that has baked Germany and much of Europe this month, the German Farmers' Association (DBV) said on Friday. Full Story;

NEW DELHI (Reuters) – Beef will not be served at any of the catering outlets during the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi in October, organisers have confirmed. Full Story;

LONDON (Reuters) – A Muslim businesswoman has launched Britain's first range of halal make-up, free from alcohol and animal products. Full Story;

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – The “Saw” horror movie franchise is getting a place in the Guiness World Records as the “Most Successful Horror Movie Series,” one of the film's producers, Mark Burg, said on Thursday. Full Story;

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The United States has apologized to Russia for failing to give it prompt notice that a Russian citizen was in U.S. custody and blamed the error on an official hitting the wrong fax button, the U.S. State Department said on Thursday. Full Story;

NEW YORK (Reuters) – It's guitars at 20 paces as New York street musician “The Naked Cowboy” lassoed his Times Square rival “The Naked Cowgirl” with a lawsuit. Full Story;

LONDON (Reuters) – The ashes of Frisky, the cat who starred in the opening credits of soap opera Coronation Street, have sold to a British buyer for 844 pounds, the auctioneers told Reuters. Full Story;

RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) – Goias players and their coach Emerson Leao were involved in a brawl with radio reporters after their team drew 2-2 away to Vitoria in a Brazilian championship match. Full Story;

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Technorati Tags: Cat Toilet Training, Toilet Train My Cat

Is Your Cat Ready For Toilet Training? Here’s 5 Ways You Can Tell.

At the end of a long day, who wants to sift through a messy litter box? Certainly not me. Up until now, the litter-box has been a necessary evil, a small price to pay for our beloved companions. But not anymore. In fact, there’s an underground alternative designed for those of us who are ready to kick the litter habit: toilet training your cat.

Sounds complicated, right? Not at all. Although far from mainstream, cat toilet training is gaining momentum and cat owners across the country are beginning to embrace the trend. But before you toss that box in the trash, there’s a few ways to tell if your cat is ready to take the leap into a litter-free lifestyle. Think Fluffy has what it takes? Read on.

1. Your cat is already litter-box trained.
OK, I know what you’re thinking: “Of course my cat knows how to use the litter-box” But the simple fact is, cats that already know how to use the litter-box can be reconditioned to use the toilet instead. That’s because cat toilet training utilizes your cat’s natural instincts to bury their waste to hide their scent from predators. During the training process your cat will learn to put its waste in water instead of in litter. Once your cat makes this transition toilet training becomes a breeze and – voila! Your cat is successfully potty trained!

2. Your cat is eager to please you.
Does your cat love making you happy? Whether she leaves the occasional “gift” on your doorstep or offers a warm nuzzle while you’re reading, cats who are eager to please are the purr-fect candidates for toilet training. After she learns that using the toilet pleases you, she’ll be happy to oblige!

3. You have trained your cat to do something in the past.
Does your cat come when you call them? Believe it or not, simple actions like responding to a voice command can help lay the groundwork for the toilet training process. After all, if your kitty already knows how to “follow the leader”, toilet training will be a breeze.

4. Your cat is healthy.
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but healthy cats have a much easier time jumping up onto their new throne. Illnesses like arthritis or urinary tract infections can affect their ability to learn how to use the toilet, so sick kitt
1000
ies should stick to the box.

5. You know your cat.
Can you tell when your feline friend is having a rough day? If you’re like many pet owners, you’re probably very in tune with your cat’s feelings. This unique bond works as a positive force during the toilet training process. How? Cats will use body language to tell you if they are comfortable with a particular training step. When you pick up on these signals, both of you can work together to achieve a relaxed training pace. You’ll both feel satisfied when you work as a team!

By: Rebecca Rescate -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Rebecca Rescate is the creator of the CitiKitty Cat Toilet Training Kit. She has helped thousands of cat owners pursue their dream of a litter-free life with their beloved feline. Visit her site to find out more about CitiKitty – www.citikitty.com

Litter Kwetter, toilet train cat, toilet trained cat, cat toilet

During toilet training cats are likely to progress at different paces depending on their differing natures. This isn’ta problem unless their differences are great, in which case some cats might need a little more help. …

Cat Toilet Training

Title: Cat Toilet Training. Word Count: 715. Summary: One of the first things as an owner that wants to toilet train your cat is to know about your cat. The behavior of a cat; the does, and don.

Boris The Cat – Toilet Training Graduation! | Cat Training Help

Here’s some footage of Boris showing off. He’s held on all day, just for the treat when I get home.

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Cats are an interesting animal that must be given respect. You cannot force a cat to comply with your rules like other animals and in fact trying to do so will yield in aggressive cat behavior. If a cat thinks it is cornered or you are trying to force it to do something it doesn’t want to do, it will either run away or go into a defensive position (if it thinks it cannot get away). You don’t want to touch or try to pick up a frightened cat, that would be a mistake you will regret with painful cuts that will ensue when the cat starts to slice you with his claws both hands and feet.

A cat demands respect and there are ways to give it such respect while still demanding that the cat behaves a certain way. You have to approach a cat with diplomacy and tact. A cat that respects you and has a rapport with you tends to listen better but you will have to make the cat think that it’s decisions are his (or her) own. You can find manuals on cat training that will show you a glimpse into the cat world, the cat psychology, so you understand the foundation of how a cat acts and reacts.

Knowing what works and what will become counter productive is key to training a cat to behave. Often a cat becomes aggressive due to being abused in the past, or people scaring it. Cats have a good memory and associate behavior of other people to new people until it has a chance to get to know the new people and realize they mean it no harm. Aggressive behavior is not always there to prove dominance or testosterone, it is more often than not a protective mechanism and it can be deactivated by simply respecting the cats space and giving him a chance to come around.

Patience is a virtue in this situation but you can not just ignore the cat and expect it to come around completely on its own. You want to communicate with the cat, place desirable food close to him but do not chase him into the pantry or force him to come out. Patience and time are needed and putting yourself in front of the cat from a distance will forge a relationship with the cat. In time the cat will come to trust you and will build a relationship with you.

Just because the cat is laying down right in front of you doesn’t necessarily mean it wants or will let you pet it yet. Moving in close slowly like putting your hand near him and gauging his reaction is essential. Once he lets you pet him pet him for a moment then draw back slowly increasing the time you pet him each time. Once a cat fully trusts you then there are additional ways to train him to behave in your space.

The author has created a review site that provides you with the most In-Depth and Complete analysis of the best Cat Training manuals on the Planet.

Please go to: Pet-Whisperer.com

Article Source:

http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Hickmon

You’ve asked a few friends and Chow Chow owners about the temperament and ease of looking after a pet of this breed, and you’ve received many encouraging replies. Now, you feel encouraged to look out only for a Chow Chow. So, where do you go looking for one and how do you go about it? Let’s find out.

First, do not contemplate buying a pet from a pet store or wherever else you cannot easily see the parents of the pup before buying it. It would be in your interests to visit a good kennel where you can request to see the breeds available and then decide.

On this basis, you can make an informed choice of a good pup by just spending a little more on finding out the dog’s background, if he is in conformity with the breed standard and if he is predisposed to any diseases. This information can save you not just a lot of future grief but paying out huge vet bills too.

Characteristics of this breed: Your pet Chow Chow could be either highly energetic or just plain placid. Chow Chows are also known to be hardheaded, obstinate, serious and introverted as also loving, good-natured and loyal.

In your pet, you could also find these traits:

1 He resembles a teddy bear and therefore comes across as cuddly and cute

2 Stands proudly with a confident stature

3 Is a reliable and fearsome watchdog

4 Is inherently clean and easily housebroken

5 Is well mannered and quiet

6 Needs moderate exercise but must be groomed regularly

Though these are the general qualities of a Chow Chow, it is equally true that you can never be sure what your pup will grow up to be like. This is because many purebred pups do not grow up conforming to the standard.

Why not to buy a Chow Chow: On the flip side, there are certain reasons why you might not want to take in a Chow Chow, such as:

1 He is overly suspicious or openly aggressive when unsocialized

2 He has an aggressive streak that extends to other pets too

3 He is very strong-willed and determined and resists being nagged. For this reason, he must be handled by an experienced and confident owner who can be he dominant partner without having to use force

4 He needs regular grooming that includes brushing and combing, particularly if he is the rough coat variety

5 He sheds a lot

6 He will suffer from health-related problems

7 He has such an independent streak in him that it can result stubbornness and disobedience to his master

8 He could also be very jealous of either your new baby or other pets, whether older than him or younger

9 They are also known to kill small animals such as cats and rodents, often leaving a dead mouse at your door more for sport than your safety

10 They are sometimes difficult to train. They are therefore not recommended if you are a first time pet owner or are not in a position or do not want to show your dog who is the boss

Where you can safely buy your Chow Chow: Though there are three avenues of buying purebred pups—the pet shop, the casual or backyard breeder and the hobby breeder, perhaps the worst of them all is the pet shop.

Here, dogs are bred unselectively, often sold in wholesale lots to pet stores. They are kept caged until sold, often unsocialized, unloved and unhappy. So, it’s not surprising that they are just not right for homes, since they lack in temperament, socialization and health.

It stands to reason that if a pup has a bad beginning with a commercial breeder of this caliber, he stands a very slim chance of growing into a healthy, well- adjusted and beautiful pet. So, when you go out to select a pup, think with your head rather than your heart.

If you choose to think with the latter, you will end up buying that sad little pup who’s caged up. But for reasons mentioned above, it will be the wrong choice for you. And in any case, a greedy breeder will continue to breed more and more pups to replace him.

The backyard breeder: Typically, your backyard breeder buys a female of a particular breed from a pet shop on the proprietor’s assurance that a year down the line, he can safely breed her, sell the resulting pups and make back his investment on her.

A match is then made between her and the male down the street, whose owner has the same attitude to his male as the breeder has to his female—to make back his purchase price. Soon, the female gives birth to a litter of pups and though can be registered by the AKC, are of no greater quality than their parents.

This is because neither party cared to go into the physical and genetic history and makeup of each partner. When the litter was born, no care was given to the new mother and her pups and later the breeder was unmindful of giving any care and attention to socializing, training or conditioning the new pups.

Instead, further damage to these pups was done when the breeder weaned them earlier than usual, thereby depriving them of the necessary bonding with their mother, only to be sold as fast as possible so he could make back his investment in the mother.

The serious breeder: Instead of buying from an ignorant and heartless buyer, you should really seek out a committed, and serious breeder or exhibitor.

Such breeders invest many, many hours studying pedigrees and lineage, evaluating and observing their dogs for faults and virtues, and all the time giving them their love, care and attention. When you see these breeders with their dogs at dog shows, you can see the fruits of their labor.

Breeders work very hard grooming and training their pups before they can be sold to good homes. It would therefore be well worth asking him about practical realities of buying a particular breed that you have in mind. So, ask him if the breed you’re considering is high on vet’s bills, how long it takes to look after newborns, how much time he spends with potential buyers, whether it costs much to groom, train and socialize them before they are quality dogs.

The hobby breeder: This breeder breeds dogs as a hobby and not for commercial gain. He is a very responsible breeder whose only interests are to produce the ideal dog of their breed and to show dogs—in fact, his dogs are his pets and show dogs. Often his kennels include the couch or bed. He works hard to breed only the best without any worry about time, research, money and effort spent.

You can depend on him to do the genetic screening for any medical problems in their breed, spay or neuter the dog. Such a breeder is committed to every dog he produces. He sells only by referral.

Where to avoid buying a pup from: If pups are being sold at flea markets, roadside stands, motel rooms and pet shops, these are the worst places to buy from as unscrupulous breeders who produce pups in large numbers sell their litters here for a quick buck.

To them, the only breeding prerequisite is that the sire and dam have AKC papers. They don’t care about the quality, health or temperament of the pup.

Commercial breeders produce in large numbers and sell the weakest of the lot to these roadside sellers at a cheap price.

Locating a good breeder: An experienced and reputable breeder is the best person to give you a good quality puppy. He should be able to show you his stock from which you can choose and can also suggest a dog to suit your needs and lifestyle.

Breeding quality dogs is a tough job, not possible by just anyone at all. It needs hands-on knowledge gleaned by constant exposure to breeders at dog shows.

You can contact these breeders from a catalog brought out by the AKC. The Chow Chow Club Inc., the national Chow breed club, also brings out a magazine titled “Chow Life” which is an excellent source of reputable breeders.

A good breeder doesn’t produce in large numbers, so you will have to wait for a puppy. He will ask you a lot of questions to make sure you are the right person to take a pup from him. In turn, you too must ask him a lot of questions.

What to ask the breeder: When you go to look at puppies, ask him the following questions:

Does he have a pedigree for the puppy?

Have the parents of the pup been X-rayed for Hip Dysplasia?

Does the pup suffer from entropion?

What guarantees does he offer? What happens if your pup doesn’t turn out according to the guarantee? Can he be replaced or will your money be returned?

Are the sire and dam available for you to see?

Does he have the AKC registration papers to show you?

Do his pups come with AKC registration?

Does he own the parents of this pup or at least one of them?

Where were the parents or mother bought?

Which vaccinations has he been given? Is he checked for worms?

What does he eat? What is he allergic to?

Since when has he been breeding Chow Chows?

How many litters does he produce every year?

Does he offer a health guarantee?

Is he affiliated to any regional or national dog clubs?

How much does he charge for this one?

What health tests have been done on BOTH parents of the litter?

What temperament testing and socialization have been done?

What goals do the breeder have with the breeding program and how does the breeder go about to achieve this?

What does the breeder feel are the strengths and weaknesses in the breed and the breeder’s program?

What type of contract does the breeder have for pet or show puppies?

How many champions has he finished?

Is either parent of the puppy a champion? Or his grandparents? If so, are there AKC championship certificates or photographs to prove this?

How to choose your pup: Ensure that you see at least one show quality litter before you buy. Once you have seen a good litter, you will make a better choice, because you will know the difference between these puppies and an ill- bred one.

When you ring to ask about a litter, ask as many questions as you can over the phone. If you find the answers not forthcoming, you know he isn’t knowledgeable and you can reconsider going over to him. Arrange to see about five to 10 litters before buying. First, look at the adults, as well as the puppies.

Reputable breeders do not sell puppies under eight weeks old. They must be free of parasites and should be kept clean and in hygienic surroundings. They should have their first series of shots. Do not pick up a pup from filthy surroundings or it will develop parasite problems.

See if your pup is alert and active but not vicious. He should not have a runny nose nor should his tongue be bluish. Does he have a short wide muzzle, heavy bone and broad chest and big body. Now, set him down and make him walk. If he moves about freely, he’s on.

If you select a quality Chow Chow, it means that he conforms to the standard recognized by the AKC. Ask the breeder to tell you the differences between show puppies and good pet quality puppies.

Understanding the breeder’s lingo: If you can’t understand typical jargon, communicating with your breeder will be very difficult. So, get the lowdown on what he means when he says the following:

Show potential: To be of show quality, your pup must pass a basic orthopedic examination at age 10-12 weeks. He should also have excellent breed type and that something extra that sets him off as different from all the other entrants.

Breeding quality: These pups, though essentially the same as the show type, rarely ever have that something extra that judges are looking for.

Pet quality: Healthy and beautiful, these pups may have a small flaw in them which renders them unfit for breeding or showing, for instance, a bad bite, etc.

Finding a new home for your pet: You were starry-eyed about bringing your Chow Chow home and you never thought you’d have to give him up so easily.

But even if you can’t keep him, you’d still like to do your best by him. So, how about making the right future choices for him?

Bear in mind that your dog is still your responsibility. Even now he depends on you to look after him. So, even if it takes all your time, effort and patience to find him a good home, you deserve to do your best for him.

How to find him a new home: Consider sending your pup to any one of the following:

Animal shelters: Shelters and humane societies are meant to care for unloved and abused animals. They certainly aren’t a place where you can offload your unwanted pets. Though they admit about 100 pets each day, few of them ever leave the shelter to go to a good home. So, where does that leave your pet?

Even if your pet is a purebred, that doesn’t mean he will be the preferred choice of a prospective buyer. Besides, the reputation your Chow Chow enjoys is a deterrent since many people are frightened of Chow Chows. So, some shelters won’t put them up for adoption. Then, if he’s old, he has slimmer chances of being adopted.

“No-kill” shelters and breed rescue services: No one ever wants to see their pet being killed, so they don’t admit many pets. But breed rescue services are small, private groups run by volunteers who are dedicated to a particular breed. Their services are expensive and they are so much in demand that they too cannot accept every dog that comes their way.

But it can help by placing your pet by giving you referrals of people interested in your pet’s breed. Follow this advice if you want success. You can contact the nearest Chow Rescue service if you call the Chow Welfare Hotline at 608-756- 2008 or write to the Chow Chow Club, Inc.’s Welfare Committee.

If you’d like to find out more about Chow Chows, then visit my blog over at http://chow–chow.blogspot.com

About The Author

Phil Stephens is a Chow Chow breeder and author of ‘Chow Chows revealed’. If you’re interested in finding out more about Chow Chows, visit us at http://chow–chow.blogspot.com for all you ever wanted to know about the reclusive Chow Chow.

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That’s all the news for today guys, so until next time, thanks for stopping by.

Technorati Tags: Cat Toilet Training, Toilet Train My Cat

Cats are incredible pets with a unique style all their own. If you have chosen a cat as a pet you probably already understand that discipling and training them requires special effort. You’ll need to some extent to understand and adapt to your pet’s unique personality traits.

Most cat owners realistically are not looking for a circus cat ready to jump through hoops. They’ll be satisfied if the litter box is used well and the furnishings are left intact.

Accordingly, it is good to realize that cats learn through experience. This may require an owner to be patient, in order to build a pattern of cause and effect. This means that if they experience a good thing they are more likely to repeat it. Also, the opposite is true if the encounter was not pleasant. So whatever there’s good behavior (like clawing the pet scratching post instead of your furniture), you’ll want to reinforce that with a good reward.

Whether it’s good or bad behavior, your cat will learn it by this method of immediate response. Delaying a reward or punishment will only confuse her. For example, if a cat is used to being fed every time it pesters you, that will reinforce the behavior. So it is important to evaluate your actions accordingly.

Training a cat to use the litter box is something that must commence when they are young. Keep in mind that cats do enjoy a clean litter box. You need to do your share to make it a pleasant experience. It has been noted that if the box isn’t cleaned regularly, but the rest of the house is cleaned, then your pet may head for the clean areas away from its box, such as the edge of a lovely rug!

With time and careful attention you will come to realize that your pet’s independent nature still allows a wide variety of moods, which can be either aggressive or playful. A cat will normally enjoy some playful interaction, however it can change its mind swiftly and decide it’s had enough. But as a cat owner you already know that, and are just learning to go with the flow!

Mark Clayson is a professional, home business entrepreneur, mentor and speaker. Visit Start Work at Home for more information on starting or developing a home business or his official site to find out more.

Article Source:

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i saw on animal rescue live this bowl thing that you put in your toilet and fill it with cat litter, then theres a different coloured bowl with a hole in it, so theres less cat litter in it, then eventually you take it away completly and the cat just uses the loo! does anybody know what its called or where to get one from?

Technorati Tags: Cat Toilet Training

The top news photos and slideshows on current events – Yahoo! News

The IAF Aerobatic Team flying IAI Tzukit jet aircraft create a “heart” during a ceremony for graduating Israeli Air Force pilots at Hatzerim Air Base, June 28, 2010.

cat training toilet (small) | Cat Training

cat training toilet (small) (http://www.siukeung.com/user/kslee)Duration : 0:0:52.

Cat Toilet Training Made Easy! Your Chance to Win a CitiKitty Cat …

Toilet training your cat. They say it can be done, and CitiKitty has put together a complete Cat Toilet Training Kit to help make it incredibly easy. Now, I haven’t tried this yet myself, but after reading all about the CitiKitty I …

Cat Toilet Training-Latest Cat Articles From I-Love-Cats.com-Cat …

Cat Toilet Training – Latest Cat Articles From I-Love-Cats.com. I-Love-Cats is the place to discuss Cat Toilet Training. One of the first things as an owner that wants to toilet train your cat is to know about your cat.

Hope you enjoy the read as much as I did and please if you have something to say, use the comments form below to let everyone know your thoughts.

Have a great day!

Litter Kwitter – Cat Toilet Training System

Litter Kwitter is the original world famous cat toilet training system. You can teach your cat to use the toilet in 3-easy steps. No more messing around with cat litter, a litter maid, scoop free litter boxes or other automatic cleaning litter boxes – say goodbye to the mess, germs, smell & hassle of the litter tray… forever!

Litter Kwitter starts next to the toilet with a seat device and a red plastic disk full of litter so your cat knows what it is & where to go to use it. Then you put it on the porcelain rim of the toilet, so your cat learns to hop up. Once your cat gets the idea that the toilet is where the action is, you can move to the amber disk. It has a hole in the middle and room for some litter around the edges so that your cat can use it but also starts to learn how to perch on the edge of the seat itself. It doesn’t usually take too long to get the hang of this so then it’s time to use the green disk. It has a bigger hole so that your cat can balance on the seat and, know that everything will end up in the toilet.

Most cats figure it out in about 8 weeks or so, as long as you are patient and understanding. If your cat is older (above 8 years) or not litter trained, it will probably take a bit longer. They have more bad habits to un-learn.
The Litter kwitter is made from the same material as a Firefighter’s Hard Hat – it’s about as hard and stiff as plastic can get. It won’t bend, flex, crack, split or move no matter how large your cat is. It’s so strong that it can cope with a cat weighing up to whopping 30kg (65 lb).

Cats look different but their bodies work the same way as humans in the ‘Yum to Yuk’ process: they eat (Yum!), they get energy from digesting the food (to be able to claw the furniture & chase the balls of paper), and they deposit the waste (Yuk!). Toilets are designed to deal with the waste better than any other device in the house (and definitely better than plastic trays on the floor in the laundry room).

Still not convinced? Think about this: cats use the litter tray, bury the waste (by treading in it) then tread around your home on bench tops, beds, laps and rugs. Yuk! A toilet trained cat treads on a clean toilet seat (it is clean, I hope!), deposits their waste in the water, then treads around your home with clean paws: no more mess, no more germs, no more smells, no more hassle. Enough sa
1000
id.

By: Drew Berry

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Drew Keenan
Cleverlad Pets
www.cleverlad.org

Technorati Tags: Cat Toilet Training, Toilet Train My Cat

Toilet training an exotic shorthair cat?

Could I train an exotic shorthair cat to poop and pee in the toilet? Or that kind of cat breed is too lazy? I plan on getting a male exotic shorthair cat.

Some people get tired of having a cuddly small pet that’s only good for running around and just playing cute. To them that is something that can get tiresome at times, and create a desire to get something more out of the annoying but still lovable pooch. Teaching their current pets tricks and other basic commands to make something better out of them prove to be a very difficult task to carry out; usually because they were babied from birth until maturity, and or aren’t that easy to educate. Now if only they could get a dog breed that is still cute and playful, but has the intelligence coupled with the willingness to learn tricks and basic commands.

Sounds too good to be true for some, but not for me. I know a breed that packs all the cuteness and sweetness with intelligence that this crowd could ever want. This dog would be the Bichon Frise. The Bichon Frise breed, as I’ve said earlier, is of small build – they only weigh 7 to 12 pounds and stand 9 to 11 iches. It has fluffy beautiful fur that usually comes in white – hence earning its name without question. For those that don’t speak French, Bichon Frise when translated into English means “fluffy little dog”. If you’d take a look at this breeds’ pictures posted all over the web, you’d agree.

Aside from being adorable, this pooch is full of energy, in which it uses most of it for playing with its owners. They have the tendency to get carried away sometimes, but usually do so in a non-destructive manner. It loves running around and exploring, just as much as it loves its human master and family. Going out for walks is something that it enjoys, but always keep a leash on it to prevent it from wandering off or getting ran over a moving vehicle. When it’s not doing any physical activities, it would prefer to cuddle up on the lap of the family member that it has bonded with the most.

A very affectionate pet indeed, therefore it’ll require a lot of attention and tender loving care. What really makes the Bichon Frise stand out is its brain – whoever would think that such a small thing could learn so fast. Teaching it the basic commands would be relatively easy, depending on how well you utilize your time and the dog training methods you use. Advance tricks will be very possible for the Bichon Frise, that is if you know exactly how to handle it. The basics of this would be having routines that aren’t boring, short but intense, and full of rewards and praises; which should only be given out for good behavior and obeying commands.

This pet has lots of potential – proof would be many dogs of this breed participating in obedience rings; in some cases they actually win. But don’t expect to have the dog of your dreams right away. High intelligence of the animal doesn’t guarantee the success of training; but rather your patience, effort, and willingness to reach the goals you’ve set for it. Having said all of that, I don’t think people would get easily tired of this dog breed.

About The Author

The author of this article, Alex De La Cruz, is a Dog Expert who has been successful for many years. Because most people think that Arthritis is a humans-only disease Alex now informs dog owners with his http://www.dog-arthritis-guide.com Ebook on how to discover this disease and let their dogs live as pain-free as possible.

Remarks of President-Elect Barack Obama-as prepared for delivery
Election Night
Tuesday, November 4th, 2008
Chicago, Illinois
 
 
If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.
 
It’s the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.
 
It’s the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled – Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America.
 
It’s the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day.
 
It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America. 
 
I just received a very gracious call from Senator McCain.  He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he’s fought even longer and harder for the country he loves.  He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader.  I congratulate him and Governor Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation’s promise in the months ahead.
 
I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the Vice President-elect of the United States, Joe Biden. 
 
I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last sixteen years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation’s next First Lady, Michelle Obama.  Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that’s coming with us to the White House.  And while she’s no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am.  I miss them tonight, and know that my debt to them is beyond measure.
 
To my campaign manager David Plouffe, my chief strategist David Axelrod, and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics – you made this happen, and I am forever grateful for what you’ve sacrificed to get it done.
 
But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to – it belongs to you.
 
I was never the likeliest candidate for this office. We didn’t start with much money or many endorsements.  Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington – it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston. 
 
It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give five dollars and ten dollars and twenty dollars to this cause.  It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation’s apathy; who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep; from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers; from the millions of Americans who volunteered, and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this Earth.  This is your victory.
 
I know you didn’t do this just to win an election and I know you didn’t do it for me.  You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead.  For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime – two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century.  Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us.  There are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they’ll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor’s bills, or save enough for college. There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created; new schools to build and threats to meet and alliances to repair.
 
The road ahead will be long.  Our climb will be steep.  We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America – I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there.  I promise you – we as a people will get there. 
 
There will be setbacks and false starts.  There are many who won’t agree with every decision or policy I make as President, and we know that government can’t solve every problem.  But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face.  I will listen to you, especially when we disagree.  And above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it’s been done in America for two-hundred and twenty-one years – block by block, brick by brick, calloused hand by calloused hand. 
 
What began twenty-one months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek – it is only the chance for us to make that change.  And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were.  It cannot happen without you.
 
So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other.  Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it’s that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers – in this country, we rise or fall as one nation; as one people.
 
Let us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long.  Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House – a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty, and national unity. Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress.  As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, “We are not enemies, but friends…though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection.” And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn – I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too. 
 
And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world – our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand.  To those who would tear this world down – we will defeat you.  To those who seek peace and security – we support you.  And to all those who have wondered if America’s beacon still burns as bright – tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope.
 
For that is the true genius of America – that America can change.  Our union can be perfected.  And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow. 
 
This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations.  But one that’s on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta.  She’s a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing – Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old. 
 
She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn’t vote for two reasons – because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.
 
And tonight, I think about all that she’s seen throughout her century in America – the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can’t, and the people who pressed on with that American creed:  Yes we can. 
 
At a time when women’s voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot.  Yes we can. 
 
When there was despair in the dust bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose.  Yes we can. 
 
When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved.  Yes we can. 
 
She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma, and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that “We Shall Overcome.”  Yes we can. 
 
A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination.  And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change.  Yes we can. 
 
America, we have come so far.  We have seen so much.  But there is so much more to do.  So tonight, let us ask ourselves – if our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see?  What progress will we have made? 
 
This is our chance to answer that call.  This is our moment.  This is our time – to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth – that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people:
 
Yes We Can.  Thank you, God bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.

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