Lisa Podwirny – Page 7

July 8, 2014July 16, 2014

Think You Want a Guard Dog?

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“I think I need a guard dog” is a phrase we’ve heard people say time and time again. The reason for such a phrase is usually legitimate. People want a dog that will protect them or their family in case of, say, a burglary.

We’ll admit that getting a guard dog is not that hard. You can get one quick and easily. But there’s usually a lot more to think about.

Guard Dogs vs. Watch Dogs

First, it’s important to understand the difference between a guard dog and a watchdog. A watchdog’s job is exactly like it sounds – to watch an area, and make an alert if need be. A guard dog is usually larger, and its job is to protect. Guard dogs will bite and attack a potential intruder.

Lisa Podwirny is the owner of Ketchum Mfg. Connect with her on Google+!

What Breeds Make Good Guard Dogs?

Most dogs have a natural instinct to protect. However, there are some breeds that are a much better fit for the job than others. Common guard dog breeds include Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Great Dane, Bullmastiff, Boxer. For families, calmer breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog or Newfoundland can work because of their sheer size.

Do You Really Need a Guard Dog?

Now that you know a little bit about guard dogs and the most well-known breeds, it’s time for the big question:

“Do you really need a guard dog?”

I’d be inclined to say most people do not. Reason number one is that training is intensive and usually dangerous. You need to remember that you’re training a dog to attack. Most people get the idea that their guard dog will automatically “know an intruder” and be fine around everyone else. This is not the case. You know the old scenario where the dog attacks the mailman? It’s realistic. You really don’t want a dog that’s extremely aggressive to strangers. That’s just waiting for something bad to happen.

Reason number two is that a guard dog can only do so much. Most criminals flee a scene because a dog barks – not because they’re scared of the dog. And if a criminal does end up in a scuffle with a guard dog, there’s a chance they can find a way around the problem. Also remember that a dog is, well, only a dog. It isn’t the police.

So, You Must Get One?

Fair enough. After doing a lot of consideration on the subject, you may still be inclined to get a guard dog. Use this article from WikiHow as an introductory guide to training a guard dog.

Lisa Podwirny is the owner of Ketchum Mfg. Connect with her on Google+!

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July 1, 2014July 8, 2014

5 Facts About American Farms (And Why You Should Start Farming)

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Even though we live in an era where young people are flocking to cities and the latest technology rules the world, farming is still extremely important in America. After all, this is where most of the food you eat originates.

Did You Know?

1) According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, less than 1% of the population claims farming as an occupation. There are about 2.2 million farms. These farms are of all different shapes and sizes. Some are large family farms, some are nonfamily farms, some are limited resources farms. While it is often assumed that many farms in the U.S. are corporately controlled, 97% of U.S. farms are family owned and operated.

2) The U.S. is home to over 40 different types of sheep – 47 to be exact.
Breeds include: Suffolk, Dorper, Hampshire, and more. Sheep can be classified in a few different ways. You can classify them by what they’re used for (such as milk or wool), or their type of fibers, their face color, etc.

3) Although farming is often thought to destroy forests some farmers will plant new trees on portions of their farmland because of the positive roles trees play in the environment. Trees can lead to an increased number of habitats for wildlife.

4) Farming is an escape from computers, the Internet, and most technology, right? Incorrect. Computers are used on about 83% of American farms.

5) Cows are capable of producing 7 gallons of milk per day. 7 gallons! That’s about 2,555 gallons per year. Dairy farms pump out 23 billion gallons of milk per year. I guess this is an appropriate time for this saying…”Got milk?”

Why You Should Start Farming

You Own the Produce
The type of food a farm produces will always vary. But just think about this for a second…what if you could go to the store and buy everything your family needs for less than 50 bucks? If your farm produces dairy products, vegetables, grains, etc., you don’t need to worry about buying it! Save that money!

You’re Interacting with Animals
Did you know chickens eat grass like humans eat spaghetti? Or that cows are social animals who have 360-degree vision? Or what about how sheep don’t like walking through water? These are the types of things you’ll find out with farming experience! Human to animal interaction is a fascinating thing!

You’re Helping the World
If you ever read a news article that’s talking about a farm, you’ll almost always find that it mentions the shortage of farmers in the U.S. It may seem like there are farmers everywhere, but there’s always a need for more. If you decide to take up farming, you’re helping your local community greatly, and on a bigger scale, the world. In turn, you’re improving the economy. Over 22 million people in the U.S. are employed on a farm, and over $100 billion in agriculture related business is circulated throughout the U.S. yearly. Farming is a big deal!

You’re Active in the Community
Everything your farm is producing has to go somewhere, doesn’t it? Local farmer’s markets are always increasing in number. When you farm, you’ll become very familiar with the people involved in your local food scene! And farmer’s markets are trendy!

Lisa Podwirny is the owner of Ketchum Mfg. Connect with her on Google+!

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June 25, 2014June 25, 2014

5 Financial Savings Tips for Fido

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Buying a dog is really, really simple. Perhaps you’re moving into a new place by yourself, and you want a new dog to keep you company. Maybe you already have a pet, and you want it to have a friend. Whatever the case, it’s important that you don’t be short sighted. A pet isn’t a huge expense right off the bat, but when you add additional costs, it is. Today, I’ll share some tips for cutting those costs. Here are five ways you can cut the costs of owning a pet:

Adoption

If you’re serious about keeping costs down, adopting a pet is your best option. I’ll use dogs as an example. It’s very common for people to research dogs online and find the perfect one. And the thought of that perfect dog can be hard to let go. But here’s the truth — if your dog comes from a shelter, it won’t be any less lovable. This article from American Humane describes buying vs. adopting perfectly; you’re giving a dog a second chance at finding a home.

Food

Some dog owners will recommend spending more on the better food. It’ll save you money in the long run since your dog will be healthier.

I disagree. I won’t say your dog should only eat the cheapest food around; it’s important for dogs to eat a balanced diet. However, most exquisite dog food is unnecessary, and almost exactly the same as the cheaper stuff. Most of that flashy packaging is just a marketing tactic. Another tip: buy in bulk. It can save you almost twice as much as buying small packages.

You can cut down on treats specifically made for dogs as well as well, since most dogs will be perfectly happy with something healthier. Read more here.

Grooming

Grooming your dog is essential and obviously needs to be done fairly often. However, purchasing grooming tools and learning to do it yourself will save you a lot of money. Plus, you’ll get the satisfaction.

Health

Pets and healthcare in the same sentence = tricky subject. Initially, pet insurance might seem like a great idea. However, the more prone your dog is to health risks, the more insurance will probably cost. Be sure to mull over all the questions before purchasing insurance. For instance — is the peace of mind worth the extra money? Can you save enough and pay medical bills without insurance?

Always remember to stay up to date with check ups, meds, and vaccines to ensure your pet is as healthy as possible. It’ll save you money in the long run.

Vacationing

I’m assuming there’s at least one time a year that you like to get away and vacation. Leaving a dog at a boarding center is expensive! And even if you leave a dog with a friend, pay is usually involved.

Instead, consider taking your dog to a pet-friendly vacation area. There’s a good chance it won’t even cost more!

Lisa Podwirny is the owner of Ketchum Mfg. Connect with her on Google+!

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June 16, 2014June 16, 2014

Why Your Cat Should Wear a Tag & Collar

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According to catcaresociety.org, “most pet owners do not provide their cats with collars and identification tags or microchips.” Many cat owners have this idea that their cat will only stay indoors. And if it should slip out of the house, it’ll easily find its way back home.

If only that was the case. Cats are born with the natural instinct to run around, jump, hide, and hunt. And although your cat may love you, there’s no saying it will ever really come back if it leaves the house unattended.

Using Cat Tags and Collars

One of the most common problems with putting a tag and collar on a cat is that they reject it. That’s why it’s important to ease your cat into the process. Put the collar on and take it off a couple times throughout the day. Once they’re used to the collar, start applying the tags in the same fashion.

Once you have your cat tagged, it opens up the world to their identity. Lets be real – if your cat gets lost in the neighborhood, only few will know who it belongs to. With identification, there’s a much greater chance of your cat being returned home.

So What Should be on the Tag?

While it’s tempting to cram as much information as you can on a tag, it’s truly not necessary. The cat’s name and owner’s phone number is really all you need. A second phone number may be a good idea.

What About Microchips?

A microchip is placed in your pet’s neck to identify it. It’s not a hard thing to implement, and the use of them is quickly becoming a standard routine. But according to the Humane Society, “microchips are not foolproof, and you shouldn’t rely on them exclusively to protect your pet.” It’s always wise to keep a tag and collar on your cat.

Tag Maintenance

Once you buy tags and collars, you can use them forever, right?

Not quite. Pets lose and gain weight fairly easily, so the fit of their collar will need to be changed. Also keep in mind that tags can wear, fade, get scratched, etc. Your phone number or home address could change as well! And if the information on the tags is no longer readable, or incorrect, what’s the point of even having the tags?

Lisa Podwirny is the owner of Ketchum Mfg. Connect with her on Google+!

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June 3, 2014June 16, 2014

5 Tips for Preparing Your Pets for Summer

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The northeast battled an endless & difficult winter this year. And then spring came along… kind of. It was a short season. And lacking that nice weather, to say the least.

Let’s hope for a nicer summer, shall we? It’s time to head outside with the pets. Go on a quest. Head out for a hike. Go for a swim. Take a long run. But before you do any of that, make sure your pets are prepared.

Take It Easy To Start

You know how you walk out of your house on a hot summer day and it feels like you got hit with heat? Your pet feels the same way. Don’t rush into an all-out exercise immediately. Go out for a few minutes one day, a few more the next day, and start exercising after a few days.

On a similar note, having air conditioning in your house is a good idea. You might be fine with a few fans in the spots you hang out most, but your pet probably isn’t.

Watch for Sunburns

Did you know that pets should have sunblock too? Yes – there is such a thing as pet-safe sunblock! About.com has a great article about pet-sunburn-prevention. And just like for humans, being out in the sun for too long isn’t always the greatest idea. Shade is good!

Note: Shaving most of your pet’s hair isn’t always the best idea. It makes your pet more prone to sunburns.

Get Your Pet the Rabies Shot!

Rabies tags are what we’re most known for, so trust us on this one. Summer is the time you really want to keep rabies prevention on your mind. Wildlife that test positive for rabies are out and about, and you certainly want your pet protected. Once your pet has the rabies shot, they will be given a rabies tag by your vet.

Prevent Fleas & Ticks

Mosquitoes. Fleas. Ticks. They’re buzzing around everywhere all summer. And you don’t want your pet to be infested. Make sure your pet is bathed regularly. Make sure the inside and outside of your house is kept clean. And discuss flea/tick collars with your veterinarian.

Keep Water Stocked

H20 is your best friend in the summer. It’s your pets too. Make sure your pet is properly hydrated and has enough water at all times.

Follow these tips and you should be good to go!

Lisa Podwirny is the owner of Ketchum Mfg. Connect with her on Google+!

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