Debate continues unabated about whether or not crate training dogs is healthy or harmful.'Crating' involves placing a pet in a cage, usually plastic or metal of roughly the size of the dog, for a period of time during the day or night.Proponents argue that crating gives the dog a sense of 'property', a place it can call its own. In this little home within the home, the dog feels safe surrounded by familiar smells and objects. Here, the dog can retreat from fearful noises or boisterous children.

Those who favor crate training assert that potty training is much easier when combined with use of a crate. Dogs, they say, will naturally avoid soiling their 'den' and 'hold it' until they're released to go outside.Opponents counter that locking the dog into a cage barely large enough to turn around in suppresses its natural desire to roam. It removes the dog's ability to explore its environment at will and to soak up stimulating sights and smells.Those against the use of crates point to the frequent instances when puppies will play in their own waste and simply soil themselves worse. Locking the dog away, they say, is more for the convenience of the owner than the well-being of the dog.

As with any debate of this kind, there are no doubt good and bad points on both sides. Objective studies on the issue are sparse and equally divided. Provided certain 'rules' are observed, there's probably no harm, and possibly some good, to be had from crate training.

Even proponents recognize that excessive lengths of forced crate time is bad for the dog. Any dog locked up in a small space is not getting needed exercise and may be restrained from eliminating for longer than is healthy. So, keep the crate time to no more than two hours maximum.Opponents worry that crated dogs can injure themselves through a natural desire to escape or rowdiness inside the cage. Make sure that the collar won't snag. Check to ensure there are no sharp edges on the crate, and that construction is strong enough to withstand the dog's normal jostling and pushing on the walls. Above all, make sure it can't tip over.Advocates assert that crate trained animals will do better on car, train or plane trips. They're used to the confinement and they have a familiar-smelling environment with them during a time of stress. For owners who have to take their pets on long trips, there may be some value in this view.

It is useful to leave pets alone when you want to make any critics to them.Apart from short trips to the grocery store or vet or to a neighbor's house, animals fare better in familiar territory. But, if you must take them, be especially careful to do so in a well-constructed crate. Make sure no objects can fall into, not just out of, the cage.Though the debate isn't likely to be settled anytime soon, exercising common sense is the best way to judge the actual net effect - good or bad - on your particular pet. Try leaving the door open after a few weeks of training and see whether they seek or avoid the crate. Let the dog weigh in on the question.

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Written by Kate Thomas using tags: China, metal

The rat is a special symbol in the Chinese tradition. Let's find out why the Chinese New year rat symbol is reckoned to be so special.

People in general wouldn't like to be linked up with a rat beyond the Chinese traditions. That's because for most westerners, the rat is a tiny, dirty and shady creature that stays in the filthy places. However, great Chinese thinkers draw a different conclusion for the image of this rat.

Intelligence is an important the attributes of the rat. The Chinese philosophers have observed that the rat is not only hardworking but also extremely innovative creatures who love absolutely like to control things. It has been realized that rat people go for perfection. These are but a few of their characteristic traits that have been analyzed.

As per the Chinese culture, for decades now each year has a particular animal suggested to it. A lot of study and historical background as to what animal should be assigned to which year. But as the Chinese people observe the lunar calendar, there are twelve animals that work every twelfth year in rotation as used by the Chinese.

The Chinese history records that the rat has a unique position in the ancient culture. History says that the twelve animals that are part of the cycle were made to participate in a race. All along the ox was leading the race. But little did he know that the rat was on his back and so when he neared the finishing point, the rat jumped of his back and crossed the finishing line first!

Thus, it seems that the whole animal history begins with the symbol of the rat. Hence, after the completion of every twelfth year, a cycle gets over and a whole new cycle begins with the year of the rat.

Hence, we see that the rat is well-known for his innovative character and intelligence. This shrewd animal can burrow into any kind of problem and find a path to succeed in its aim. Hence, it is appreciated for its sharpness and intelligent personality.

Based on the personality analysis given by the Chinese philosophers, one would actually not mind to be associated with the Chinese concept of the rat's personality characters. However, it is understandable why there is discomfort in accepting it because of the west has its own perception of the animal.

Another interesting feature about the animals of the 12 year cycle is the compatibility problems. How the Chinese philosophers came up with these connections is unclear but they have drawn conclusions as to which animal sign is compatible with another and which is likely to have confrontations.

It's amazing to know that the rat has great compatibility with the monkey. But where do the philosophers get this conviction is still unknown. However, these beliefs exist in China. From the ancient era, the year of the rat is believed to be the sign of protection and wealth.

The chinese new-year rat is an integral part of traditional New Years celebrations. If you want to know more about Chinese new year greetings please follow the links.

Written by John Chan using tags: animals, Asia, China, chinese, culture, family, festival, Home, new year, party, Pets, society