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I am a professional dog trainer. I make my living training dogs for clients, helping them solve behavior problems, and teaching their dogs obedience. I want to provide my clients the best service possible and as such I often check out what my competitors are doing in their dog training efforts. I have noticed, of late, that there are many dog trainers advertising ‘treat training’, ‘no pinch collars’, and other such training that they purport as much kinder, gentler, and more humane. The reality is that these types of dog trainers are the least humane and are doing their clients a disservice.

Let me start out by saying that I don’t advocate meanness, cruelty, or pain based dog training. I don’t believe they have a place in our industry. Having said that, I do believe that proper dog training uses two concepts in a correct balance. Those concepts are motivation and corrections. Allow me to give you a brief definition of both:

Motivation- Motivation is providing your dog an incentive to perform a certain behavior and/or a reward for a behavior that has just been completed. This could be verbal and physical praise, a treat, or a toy. I prefer to use praise because I can always have a kind word and a head pat handy and can’t always have a piece of hot dog or liver treat at the ready.

Corrections- Appropriate corrections may be a firm but fair jerk on the leash, a squirt from a spray bottle, or even a low level use of an electric collar. Corrections should not be used to cause pain or ‘beat’ a dog into submission, but to simply act as a deterrent for inappropriate behavior.

As I previously mentioned, there are many so-called professional dog trainers that do not believe in the use of corrections. Their belief is that one should only use motivational techniques to train a dog. Is this really more humane, though? The answer is no, and the reasons are the following:

1- How many of us live consequence free lives? When you arrive late to work is there a consequence? If you get caught speeding do you get fined? If you cheat on your taxes do you get put in jail? Of course! We live in a world that has consequences, both positive and negative, to all of our actions. Why should we treat our dogs any differently? Does it really make sense to say that the only negative consequence for your dog’s misbehavior is the withholding of a treat or praise? It is only fair to teach your dog that when he does something well he gets rewarded and when he misbehaves that there is a deterrent to that behavior.

2- Dogs have a set way to communicate. There is something that I always tell my clients- ‘Try as we may, we will never be able to bring our dog’s level of understanding and reasoning to that of a human level. We can, however, learn to communicate with our dogs on a level that makes sense to them.’ Have you ever seen how dogs communicate and discipline amongst themselves? There are plenty of growls, nips, paws and other such means of correction. Those that say that using corrections is cruel need only to look at how dogs communicate one with another. I am not a dog, however. I am not capable of correcting my dog by growling and biting his neck. I can use a training collar, though, and effectively give my dog a deterrent to disobedience.

3- Treat training can cost your dog his life. Dog training is not just about teaching your dog to sit, heel, lie down, and come when called because it is fun. These obedience behaviors are necessary for your dog to fit into your life and be safe when out in the real world. I have trained several dogs that are replacement dogs for previous pets. These previous pets were in pursuit of a ball, cat, or other distraction when running into the street. Their owners called in vain for the dogs to return only to have their dogs turn a deaf ear and get struck and killed by a passing car. What a horrible end to a pet’s life. Now think about what is going through your dog’s head as he is running after a delicious cat. “Let’s see, do I want to get a treat or would I rather catch the cat? I think I’ll get the cat.” The result can be tragic.

Please don’t do your dog a disservice. Train him with love and fairness, but use both ends of the spectrum. Use both motivation and corrections. Teach your dog that it is fun to obey but also that he must obey and you will find that your dog will be a great companion for years to come.

Ty Brown
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/why-treat-training-is-not-the-most-humane-way-to-train-your-dog-267261.html

When it comes to decor in your home, what kind of shopper are you?

I am a bargain shopper and I love my treasure-trove of great buys which I’ve gathered through the years. Whenever I find a good deal on one of my favorite items, I snap it up and store it.

I have collected plates for all the great dinner parties I am going to throw someday. When I have time I am going to fill the many photo albums that are waiting to display my family pictures. And don’t even remind me of all the beautiful fabric that I have bought and stored around the house. I know that someday I will be snowed in for a month and I will sew and sew until I have used it all up. (Never mind that I live in the South and we rarely even get snowed in for two days!) Am I the only one that does this?

Fringe Benefits

Tassels are on my list of favorite things to collect. I love using them in many decor styles. They can be made from thread, shells, beads, ribbon or feathers. Small ones can be purchased for less than a dollar or you can spend hundreds on elaborate curtain tiebacks. They can give areas of your home a touch of interest with little effort on your part.

Let’s walk through the house and explore interesting places where you can use tassels:

* Enhancing the corners of a duvet cover or comforter

* Looped around the button on a couch or chair arm

* Hooked on a lamp finial

* Creating napkin rings

* Tying back your window treatments

* Hanging from a door knob

* Accenting a drawer pull

* Tied to a bed post

* Dangling from a fan pull

* Sewn to the pinch pleats of your drapes

* Wrapped around the neck of a vase or ginger jar

* Attached to cushions

Even More Tassel Ideas

Large tassels that are made for drapery tiebacks look great hanging from the back of some dining room chairs. Place the cord loop over each post on the chair and let the tassel hang down in the back. If your chairs are fabric you can tack them on with needle and thread.

Small tassels can be attached to a ribbon and used as a bookmark. Place an open book with a tassel on an end table for a decorative accent.

In your guest bathroom use cording and tassels to embellish the towels. A tiny one makes your favorite perfume bottle look even prettier.

It’s always fun decorating with touches that are easy and interesting. Tassels fit the bill perfectly for your home decor. You’ll always find great free ideas for home decor at my site below.

Melisa Verch
http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/home-decor-using-tassels-461297.html

When you’re shivering on a cool, rainy day, isn’t it great to daydream about white, sandy tropical beaches? Unfortunately, beach holidays may result in earaches and otitis externa – also known as ’swimmer’s ear’ or ‘tropical ear’.

Using common sense before and during travel can make your vacation more enjoyable.

What Causes Swimmer’s Ear?

When the human body is functioning at peak efficiency, the ears have a slightly acidic balance and they are able to combat bacterial infections. However, water is usually neutral to slightly alkaline. When you introduce water into your ears, you change their healthy acidic environment. Additionally, if the water is dirty or contaminated, your ears can become a rich breeding ground for infection.

Pre-Travel Preparation

If you have experienced swimmer’s ear in the past, consult your doctor before you travel. Request a duplicate prescription – one copy for your pharmacist and one to take with you (for presenting at border crossings or airport security.)

Pack a set of swimmer’s earplugs. These soft, silicone-based plugs should be gently placed into your ears before you swim or shower. DO NOT USE THEM while participating in any watersports that take you MORE THAN A COUPLE OF FEET BELOW THE WATER’S SURFACE – like scuba diving, cliff jumping, etc. Water pressure at depth will compress the air in your ears. The plugs can become securely lodged, requiring medical intervention for removal – and might even cause permanent damage. Make sure that you clean and dry the plugs meticulously every time you use them.

Pack a hairdryer. This can be used to dry your ears after swimming or showering. Be sure to use the lowest heat setting – and test it carefully on your wrist to verify the temperature before you attempt to ‘blow dry’ your ears.

Other useful articles to pack in your suitcase include: rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol, a small bottle of white vinegar or distilled water, and an eyedropper. NEVER use cotton swabs to dry or clean your ears.

Folk Remedies

Drying your ears after water exposure will help to prevent swimmer’s ear. However, if you are a susceptible individual, consider one of the following treatments once your ears have been dried. The solutions can be dripped carefully into your ears (2-3 drops each) with an eyedropper or the tip of a clean tissue. Let the drops settle in the first ear for 5-10 minutes before you tilt your head to treat the second ear.

50% rubbing alcohol/50% white vinegar mixture

Undiluted white or apple cider vinegar

Vinegar mixed 50% with distilled water

Vinegar mixed 50% with boiled, cooled water

Lemon juice

All of the above solutions are slightly acidic. Rubbing alcohol also assists with drying as it evaporates. In a pinch, you can even use a wedge of lemon. Heat it slightly if possible, then squeeze and dribble a bit of juice into each ear.

Some people report that warm olive oil helps to protect ears from water, and actually reduces earaches.

Extra Precautions

If you have ever had any kind of ear surgery (including tube insertions) or a perforated ear drum, never put liquid into your ears unless approved by your doctor. Please take a copy of this article to your doctor or pharmacist for endorsement before you try any of the remedies mentioned. The information presented here was gathered for my own personal use before a scuba vacation.

I am not a physician. However, I have been stuck on a liveaboard sailboat where I used a 50% isopropyl alcohol/50% white vinegar solution successfully to relieve symptoms until I could get to a doctor. The physician complimented me on my self-treatment, and told me to continue with it (while staying out of the water).

©Copyright Kathy Steinemann: This article is free to publish only if this copyright notice, the byline, and the author’s note below (with active links) are included.

Kathy Steinemann
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/folk-remedies-and-common-sense-treatments-for-swimmers-ear-112073.html

Extra Energy!

Do you always feel tired and sluggish? Well follow these simple tips to keep you bouncing all day long!

Control blood sugar levels.

By eating a healthy balanced diet you can control your blood sugar levels. A chocolate bar might seem like a quick fix when you feel your energy levels dipping but for long term sustained energy you should be eating slow releasing energy foods. Try and cut out the processed food and opt for healthier snacks such as fruit and veg to keep you going through the day. Eat protein and wholegrains at lunch to keep you feeling full for longer so you can keep alert all afternoon.

Exercise regularly.

Aim for at least 30 minutes three times a week to get your heart rate up. Overdoing it will leave your body feeling exhausted but regular moderate exercise will leave you feeling energised and happier.

Breathe deeply.

Make sure you are getting enough oxygen. Take 5 minutes out of your day to meditate and breathe deeply. It will help reduce stress levels.

Restful night’s sleep.

Okay so you might not always be able to get your eight hours in developing a regular sleeping pattern will have you feeling more alert when you awake. You should wake in the morning feeling well rested and ready for the day. If this is not the case then your body is telling you that you need more sleep and you should try and go to bed earlier. Eating late at night or drinking alcohol before bed time can negatively affect our sleep patterns.

Stay hydrated.

You’ve heard it before and you’ll hear it again – 2 litres of water a day for your body to be working at it’s optimum. It sounds a lot but put a bottle of water on you desk and sip it through the day and you’ll be amazed how much you can actually get through. Stick with it for a few days to see the results. Your body will adjust and the loo stops will become less frequent.

Eat breakfast.

During the night your blood sugar levels have dropped and you need something to kick start you in the morning. Even if it’s just a piece of fruit, it’s better to have something than nothing. Studies have also shown that people who eat breakfast are less likely to have weight problems.

Resistance training.

By increasing muscle and decreasing your body fat, you will raise your energy levels. Aim to use free weights a couple of times a week to see a noticeable difference.

Stress management.

Stress is one of the primary causes for exhaustion and fatigue. Though a certain amount of stress is inevitable in today’s society, you can eliminate some of it with better organisation and planning. Exercise is a great way of relieving stress levels and getting healthy at the same time.

Kate Barker
http://www.articlesbase.com/wellness-articles/extra-energy-107262.html

When working to convert your real estate leads into clients, it is important to show appreciation for your leads – nothing will endear you to a homeowner faster. Even if you have been unable to make contact with a particular lead, you should intersperse your normal follow-up with an occasional thank you card or gift just to let your real estate leads know you appreciate their time and consideration.

Too many agents are more worried about getting a check than ensuring their clients’ satisfaction. It doesn’t take much time or money to show that you see more than dollar signs when you meet with your real estate leads. By spending only $200 or less per month, you can show your gratitude in a way homeowners can appreciate.

Use some of these 5 great ideas to show appreciation for your real estate leads (after all – they ARE the ones who will wind up paying your salary!):

1. Free goodies – you probably print up thousands of calendars, magnets, pens, or bottle openers a year with your name and logo on them. Are you just giving them to current clients? I surely hope not. You’ve already got their business and by all means, you should DEFINITELY be showing them appreciation, but the little trinkets with your contact information need to be going out to your real estate leads. Everybody can use a magnet, so don’t be shy about sending free things to ALL your potential customers – better yet, you’ve got a car, use it – rather then spend money on postage, deliver little gift bags to your real estate leads personally.

2. Gift cards – everybody loves a nice gift card, all the more so when it’s a totally unexpected surprise. You can spend $100-200 a month to get gift cards in increments of $5 and send them to 20-40 of your real estate leads that seem to have the most potential. It doesn’t have to be a gift card to anywhere fancy – Blockbuster, Home Depot, a super market, even to an area restaurant – show your real estate leads that you appreciate them even if they HAVEN’T decided to list with you yet – their time is precious and they didn’t HAVE to spend it with you, but they did anyway.

3. Tickets to an event – if you know some of your real estate leads really like baseball, or love the theater, you may want to splurge a bit on a pair of tickets. Find a great local show and buy a few tickets or get tickets to the games of your local baseball team (doesn’t have to be the major leagues) and personally drop them off at your lead’s house. Make sure the tickets are far enough in advance so the lead can schedule around the event. If you feel fairly confident with the lead, make it a condition that you’ll take them to the event! A few hours with the lead and you’ll likely come out of it with a friend and a new client!

4. Stuff for the kids – if you know your real estate leads have kids, use it to your advantage. Put a little gift bag together for the kiddies – nothing too crazy though! Try to stay away from things parents may not want to give their kids, like sweets and candy. Keep it simple – perhaps a children’s book, or a simple toy like a ball or a yo-yo. Again, not something that will break your bank, but just something to show you’re thinking not just of the lead, but their family as well. If they don’t have kids, but do have pets, you may want to look into buying something for Fido – some people treat their pets the same as they would their children!

5. Be crafty – if you’ve got a creative streak, don’t be afraid to throw something together (or go online to get gift ideas). For example, one agent I knew made something she referred as Dishtowel Angels. It basically involved a dishtowel and matching pot holder put together with ribbon and wire to resemble an angel. Something like that, or a gift basket with useful tools, or even a nice flower for planting in the front yard can really warm someone up to you. Using something you put together yourself gives it that extra little touch that shows your real estate leads you care.

Those are just five quick and easy things you can do to show your appreciation and hopefully convince your real estate leads that no other agent can give them the kind of attention you can. Take these ideas and run with them, come up with your own gift ideas – especially once you’ve gotten to know your leads a bit better. Even if you’ve never talked to them before, but you’ve driven by their home and noticed them playing with their dog, or gardening out front – use what you know to come up with the perfect way of thanking your real estate leads. It puts you one step closer to turning them into clients!

Ashley Lichty
http://www.articlesbase.com/marketing-articles/real-estate-leads-101-5-ways-to-show-your-appreciation-137331.html

Are you a hip, trendy, urban mom looking for a unique diaper bag (or just wanna look like one)? Well you’ve come to the right place!

Diaper bag designs have come a long way since the days of old! Gone are the days of those big, bulky, unsightly-looking monstrosities that you had to lug around while carrying a baby in your other arm. In are the sleek, modern new baby bags that are not only stylish but incredibly functional. Designers are constantly launching new lines of product, and stores simply cannot keep up. To get the latest, most unique diaper bag possible you’ve only got one option: the internet. Luckily, there are fantastic online boutiques such as Designer Baby Diaper Bags who offer hundreds of styles and artisans – and all with free shipping too!

A unique diaper bag begins with its overall style. Many trendy moms believe that the smaller and sleeker the bag is, the more stylish it appears. While this may have been true at one time, manufacturers and artisans have been producing incredibly trendy tote and hobo style diaper bags in today’s most popular patterns and colors. These larger bags offer exceptional storage capacity for all of your baby essentials, along with all the bells and whistles: bottle holders, mesh sleeves, removable changing pads and secure pockets for mom’s personal items such as keys, cellphone, and such. From popular designers like Caden Lane all the way down to fashion-pioneering mommy offerings from Posh by Tori, finding a unique diaper bag in the more convenient larger styles isn’t as hard as it used to be.

Still, some moms still love a good shoulder bag. One of the most popular styles, shoulder slung bags come in amazing patterns and the latest seasonal colors to match any outfit or accessory. Good shoulder diaper bags should be large enough to accommodate diapers, wipes, and everything you’ll need at baby changing time… even a diaper clutch. Search for one that still maintains enough room for your other bag staples. Blending style with convenience is key.

For the hip, urban mom, consider a messenger bag. Not only will you be displaying one of the most unique diaper bag styles around, you’ll also be able to open it without having to take it off! Messenger diaper bags are made to hang across your chest via a shoulder strap, taking weight off your shoulders and helping alleviate back pain. All this, plus the convenience of grabbing quick toys, snacks, or whatever else baby might need without having to stop and remove the messenger bag from your body.

And for the super-busy mom who needs both hands for baby, backpack style diaper bags offer a convenient hands-free way of carrying everything your baby could ever need. These fashionable backpacks come in unique diaper bag styles from the most talented and well known artisans like Mia Bossi, Fleurville, Oioi, Skooch, and many more. Whether you’re looking for a sporty bag or a more elegant style, backpack baby bags are made to suit every mommy’s needs.

Aurelia
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/looking-for-a-unique-diaper-bag-706993.html

We are all well aware of how quality baby sleep is an essential basis for his health and development. This is just one of the main reasons getting baby to sleep at night is a MUST in the parenting books. The pleasure in seeing a baby sleep is hardly measurable but having to see and hear him cry all night is torture for a parent.

Here is some professional and personal guidance that I used as aids on my journey to having an independently sleeping baby from 1 year old.

1.  Wind your baby down.
A fuss-free routine will assist in establishing your baby’s sleep pattern and in turn will provide a more content child at night.

• Choose the same time every night to put baby to bed.  If you want your baby to be in bed sleeping by 8pm then begin the routine 20 minutes before eight.
• Dim the lights and set the mood for winding down.  This will let your baby know it is almost time for sleep.
• A quiet atmosphere with little noise
• Rock you baby or cuddle for a while. Do not feed your baby at this time.  Dinner should be finished before bedtime.  Ensure he has been fed before winding down time.
• Take baby to his cot/crib, keeping lights in his room dim. Sing a lullaby, then say goodnight.  If you need to stay in the room with the baby for a while do not talk to him and do not have any eye contact.  Eye contact and vocal sounds from mom and dad arouses your child’s attention.
• For a toddler you can give a bath and or a baby massage, then a story (with cuddles), then off to bed. Sing a lullaby. Then say goodnight.

The above routine, which ever you choose, MUST be adhered to every night, by any person that puts your child to bed.  When you accomplish this, hassle free, parents and baby are halfway to a heavenly sleep every night.

2. Lil’ light, lavender and Music
Lavender essential oil and music are a fabulous combination to relax and sooth the senses.  Your baby is no different.  Simply do the following:

• sprinkle a FEW drops of lavender essential oil on his pillow. Take care to close the bottle tightly and put in away where baby can’t reach it.
• Play Soft, soothing music for him, preferably orchestra music.  Do this before you read the story or sing a lullaby so your baby can begin to relax.
• Put a nightlight in the baby’s room so he doesn’t feel afraid as much when you are not there.  Using an aquarium as a night light is an idea worth looking into.  Your baby can watch the fish as he falls asleep.

3. Baby reverse psychology.
This is for a baby who is old enough to understand a bit of what you are saying to him. It’s a little but it can go a long way.

4.  Afternoon Snooze.
Babies and naptime go hand in hand.  A baby that has a nap in the afternoon is better rested for the remainder of his busy day.  He will eat better, listen better and learn better.  He will have more positive energy and be a lot less cranky. But this tip also enables your child to sleep better at night because his body and brain are not on overload, yet tired enough to fall asleep at the routine time mom and dad put him to bed.

With the above professional advice and personal tips, getting baby to sleep through the night is one step closer.  Remember, consistency is the key to making this task successful.  All participants must adhere to the same above practices and be diligent but gentle and patient.

Michel Jayne
http://www.articlesbase.com/parenting-articles/toddler-sleep-problems-professional-advice-and-personal-tips-745476.html

When you weigh up the cost of living at home during the winter months, when you are retired, I am sure it works out to be more than $9.69 a day? Also it is the most miserable time of the year, except for Christmas and New Year celebrations of course.

Think of everything you have to pay out for heating, electricity, hot water, television, telephone, using you PC etc etc. And there is no doubt that your bills are all higher in the colder months as there is little chance of you wanting to go out. Not to mention have to prepare food for only one or two of you at home which can work out expensive.

Yet for a daily amount you could enjoy the Florida sunshine in a luxury villa and spend time with family or friends whilst your neighbours suffer the harsh winters at home.

Here’s the plan; Ask 7 of your friends to join you on a trip to Florida, given they have the time to spend 7 weeks away from home. Get a quote for a 4 bedroom villa that sleeps 8 people and away you go.

Imagine a 4 bed luxury villa which includes accommodation, heating, electricity, hot water, free phone calls to anywhere in the world WOW, free internet usage, a solar heated swimming pool, oh and most of all NO SNOW. Also cooking meals for 8 people works out much cheaper than having to make a meal just for one or two, economy of scale.

You couldn’t live at home for that price even if you lived in a tent!!

Just think of waking up in a nice warm climate, walking outside in your summer clothes, eating your boiled eggs and toasted bread by the pool, sipping on a long cool drink and watching snow blizzards, on the T.V. of course. Lighting the BBQ for an early evening steak dinner, eating it as you watch the sunset in peaceful tranquil surroundings then sitting by the pool with a glass of wine and unwind the evening away.

Or would you prefer hot drinks and a water bottle to take to bed to keep you warm and some extra large fuel bills to pay.

Go on make that first move and ask all your family and friends who would like to live in Florida for 7 weeks and enjoy the sunshine instead of the snow? I bet they all would! Who knows that might be that many that take you up on the offer that you will need 2 or 3 villas?

Alternatively if you only get 3 others to go with you it would still only work out at $19.38 a day per person.

Stay warm this winter, you know it makes sense!

Philip Howard
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/how-to-enjoy-a-warm-winter-126588.html

Learn How To Get Free Supplies For Newborns

Having a baby can be incredibly expensive. Along with the exorbitant expense of doctors and hospitals, you’ve got to have clothes, blankets, a crib, changing table, and other baby furniture, diapers, formula, high chair, and a car-seat among other things. This can be particularly worrisome if your family has experienced a job loss or a cut in the family income. Let’s be honest, your financial situation is the last thing that you want to be thinking about if you have a new baby on the way. But don’t worry, you can get a lot of free supplies for newborns – if you know where to look.

When we had our first baby, we were very Poor ( with a capital P). And to complicate things, we had no insurance. We were so poor that… oh, never mind, it wasn’t a good joke. Anyway, we needed any kind of free supplies for newborns that we could find. We had no additional cash at all. We were terribly poor. Fortunately, one of the baby formula companies was introducing a new formula and baby bottle and was looking for people to find folk to check the system. They supplied us with two dozen bottles, 400 bags ( to fit into the bottles), and enough formula to last for six months. It seemed to be a much needed and much appreciated gift.

We learned about the program from our gynecologist. So if you are having some money problems, talk to your gynecologist and ask if they know of any offers for free supplies for newborns or some free samples. Often , your OB/GYN doctor always has some form of free supplies for newborns baby product manufacturers. If your physician does not offer them to you, ask them about it.

In addition, many hospitals give new parents a bag of baby products to take home. These goody bags contain free supplies for newborns like formula, newborn diapers, diaper rash creams, baby bath soap, rattles and vouchers for other free items.

Fill out forms in parent magazines as well as online. Take advantage of those free formula offers that can be found in there. Even if you breastfeed your baby, you can use the formula as a supplement and to make baby cereal when your youngster gets a little older.

In addition, make sure the diaper companies know your due date so they can attempt to sway you to use their diaper. Diaper companies will send you free samples. And, if you have checked on diaper prices, they certainly aren’t cheap, so take advantage of it.

You can get free subscriptions to a number of baby magazines. And make sure you take a look at your mailbox regularly for freebies.

In addition to the methods above, visit internet sites of baby-product firms. There’s very intense competition among these manufacturers and they always have great promotional programs for free supplies for newborns.

Are you expecting? Get all kinds of free baby stuff at Free Supplies For Newborns ! You will see a number of different programs offering a variety of free products. And the best part… It Is All Free!

dennis andrews
http://www.articlesbase.com/parenting-articles/are-you-struggling-financially-and-expecting-a-baby-learn-how-to-get-free-supplies-for-newborns-991177.html