There are more than 150 breeds of dogs all over the world. Each breed has a distinct set of characteristics and features, and lives well in particular environments. They say that pets eventually reflect the personality of their owner, with their inherent characteristics remaining intact.

Choosing the right dog for you will entail a little reflection on what kind of lifestyle you have, what kin ...

What do "spay" and "neuter" really mean?

Female dogs and cats are spayed by removing their reproductive organs, and male dogs and cats are neutered by removing their testicles. In both cases the operation is performed while the pet is under anesthesia. Depending on your pet's age, size, and health, he or she will stay at your veterinarian's office for a few hours or a few days. Depending upon the procedure, your pet may need stitches removed after a few days. Your veterinarian can fully explain spay and neuter procedures to you and discuss with you the best age at which to sterilize your pet.

Spaying or Neutering Is Good for Your Pet ...

Most people ask their regular veterinarian to spay or neuter their pets. If you have trouble affording the procedures, try these steps:

1. Call your local animal shelter. It may operate a clinic or know of a local clinic that offers subsidized services. It may also offer vouchers to have your pet spayed or neutered at a lower cost by local cooperating private veterinarians. You can find the name and number of your local shelter in the Yellow Pages of your phone book under "animal shelter," "humane society," or "animal control," or by calling Information.

2. Call SPAY/USA. SPAY/USA is a national spay/neuter referral network that may be able to direct you to subsidized spay/neuter clinics in your area. SPAY/USA can be reached at 1-800-248-SPAY (1-800-248-7729) or you can visit their website. ...

MYTH: My pet will get fat and lazy.

FACT: The truth is that most pets get fat and lazy because their owners feed them too much and don't give them enough exercise.

MYTH: It's better to have one litter first.

FACT: Medical evidence indicates just the opposite. In fact, the evidence shows that females spayed before their first heat are typically healthier. Many veterinarians now sterilize dogs and cats as young as eight weeks of age. Check with your veterinarian about the appropriate time for these procedures.

MYTH: My children should experience the miracle of birth.

FACT: Even if children are able to see a pet give birth—which is unlikely, since it usually occurs at night and in seclusion—the lesson they will really learn is that animals can be created and discarded as it suits adults. Instead, it should be explained to children that the real miracle is life and that preventing the birth of some pets can save the lives of others.

MYTH: But my pet is a purebred. ...

Paul Krebaum, a chemist for the Molex Corporation in Lisle, Illinois, has developed a foolproof odor remover. This odor remover works on anything including decomposing organic matter, fecal matter, urine and skunk spray. This odor remover is made from simple household ingredients:1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide ¼ cup of baking soda 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap.Mix the three ingredients together ...