<?xml version="1.0" encoding="iso-8859-1" ?><rss version="2.0"><channel><title>washingtonpost.com - Pet Set</title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/style/columns/petset?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><description>Pet Set</description><language>en-us</language><ttl>15</ttl><image><title>washingtonpost.com</title><width>140</width><height>20</height><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com</link><url>http://media.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/hp/image/wp_web.gif</url></image><item><title><![CDATA[Four-legged Careers]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A7996-2005Apr21.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A7996-2005Apr21.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Your little guy is one haute dog. He's trotted about town by the finest walkers; he's looked after by top-notch pet sitters; and he gets his locks shorn by the coolest hairdresser  --  er, groomer  --  around. Unfortunately, all of his high-end habits are breaking your bank. How to keep Fido living in high-style without digging into debt? Try offering some of these services yourself by getting schooled on the ins and outs of the pet biz. Here are tips from some pros about how to get started.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Old Town]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A35828-2005Apr7.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A35828-2005Apr7.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[If dogs were city planners, they'd probably dream up a place a lot like Alexandria's Old Town. Here are five examples of why the area is tops for dogs.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Adopt an Abused Animal]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A17359-2005Mar31.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A17359-2005Mar31.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[You've decided to adopt a new furry friend. Sure, a puppy from a breeder or store can be adorable, but you could also adopt a pet that really needs a fresh beginning. Take Tuesday, who swallowed a hair curler. A veterinarian advised immediate surgery, but her owner ignored the advice. Two weeks later, Tuesday, an emaciated and dehydrated dog whose only life sign was eye movement, was surrendered to the Washington Animal Rescue League. Fortunately the story ended on a high note: The league's vet performed emergency surgery, Tuesday regained her strength and happy demeanor, and she was adopted into a safe environment. Here's how to create your own success story.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Loose!]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A45663-2005Mar17.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A45663-2005Mar17.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[You're walking down the street with your pooch, having a fine time, when a loose dog  appears, no owner in sight.  Without knowing if this is a four-legged friend or foe, what should you do to keep you  --  and your pet  --  safe?]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Animal Behaviorists]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A5818-2005Mar3.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A5818-2005Mar3.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Sure, Fido can't talk to you, but actions can speak louder than  words. Is your generally social dog growling at strangers? Has your otherwise healthy cat suddenly stopped using the litter box? If your beloved pet suddenly seems like an unknown beast, you may want to call in an animal behaviorist. Sometimes cheekily referred to as "pet shrinks," these experts don't address problematic antics by training the behavior out of the animal -- or analyzing its dreams. Rather, they seek to identify the root of the issue, like anxieties that may be causing your pet's behavior. How do you make sure you get the help you need? Follow these steps.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Destination: Rockville]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A51830-2005Feb24.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A51830-2005Feb24.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[At first glance, Rockville might not look like pooch paradise. The suburban Maryland town -- so close to DC -- lacks a designated dog park and the chichi pet boutiques of neighboring Bethesda. But look closer, and you'll find plenty of wide-open parkland (such as nearby Lake Frank's bevy of greenery) and miles of quiet neighborhood streets for walks. Rockville also boasts a host of pet-friendly venues, tucked away in a maze of nondescript buildings in the town's "industrial triangle" -- roughly bracketed by Rt. 28, Gude Drive and Rt. 355. From a source for gourmet dinners to a boarding house with TLC, Fido will be glad you sniffed out these spots.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Does Fido Hate Your Date?]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A15761-2005Feb10.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A15761-2005Feb10.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[So far, so good: You've leapt over the initial hurdles -- the awkward exchange of phone numbers, the crucial first date, the bungled first breakfast -- and everyone agrees that your new S.O. is a catch. That is, everyone except your pet. Nothing sobers a romantic moment faster than a huffy tabby or a  barking pooch. But you needn't choose between puppy love and new love. With these tips, your date can win your pet's heart, too.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pet-Proof Your Super Bowl Party]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A62147-2005Feb3.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A62147-2005Feb3.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[The Super Bowl means super parties, whether you go all out with costumes and decorations or just pray you have enough pizza  to last 'til halftime.  But in the quest to host your 'hood's most happening bash, don't forget that big parties aren't always fun and games for your pet. There's the illness brought on by that abandoned plate of nachos, the stress induced by gaggles of noisy guests. Here's how to ensure a good night is had by all -- Bowser included.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Your First Fish Tank]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A43190-2005Jan27.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A43190-2005Jan27.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[My first pet, a wide-eyed goldfish named Maureen that I got when I was 10 years old, lived a short but filthy life. As I carried her to the toilet two weeks after bringing her home, I wondered how other people kept their fish healthy (or at least alive). I had seen those tanks, filled with cheery schools swimming pertly around miniature castles. Was the life aquatic really so hard to weather? Of course, it isn't: Had I known then what I know now about putting together a fish tank, Maureen and I would have been in much better shape.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Should You Declaw?]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A8044-2005Jan13.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A8044-2005Jan13.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Declawing wasn't always such a controversial subject -- many vets used to perform  the surgery as a matter of course (it wasn't unheard of for them to offer a discount-declaw while spaying your cat, for example). These days, it's a different story: Animal-protection advocates have called the procedure barbaric, and at least one California town has banned it entirely. But although declawing has drawn criticism, the American Veterinary Medical Association]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hotlines]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A54803-2005Jan6.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A54803-2005Jan6.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[It's 4 a.m. and Fido has been whimpering for an hour. Or you notice Tabby chowing  down  -- on your potted poinsettia. Whom to call? Of course, your pet's doctor should always be your primary source in case of emergency, but don't rule out these helpful hotlines, which can offer  useful tips until you make it to the vet.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Teacup Pup Primer]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A35604-2004Dec29.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A35604-2004Dec29.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Paris Hilton's Chihuahua, Tinkerbell, is as famous as she is. And Britney Spears's dates to last month's Billboard Music Awards? Her hubby -- and her pup, Bitbit.  Teeny dogs, known as "toys" in the breeding world, are everywhere: The American Kennel Club recognizes 21 breeds, from four-pound Chihuahuas to 14-pound pugs. Craving your own pocket-size pup?  Keep these tips in mind.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[The 411 for Your Jet-Set Pet]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A6328-2004Dec16.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A6328-2004Dec16.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[You think you've got it bad: braving airport traffic and waiting in mile-long security lines, all for the privilege of resting your chin on your knees for a five-hour flight in an economy-class seat.  So imagine how air travel feels for your cat or dog, who has no idea what's going on as he's packed into a crate, loaded into a cargo hold, subjected to very strange (and very loud) noises and -- worst of all -- separated from you. The reality? You probably can't make this a fun experience for him. You can, however, make things go a lot more smoothly by following these tips.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Musts for the First Aid Kit]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A53755-2004Dec9.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A53755-2004Dec9.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[It's easy to lose your head in an emergency.  But even though you can't prevent your dog or  cat from choking on a chew toy or getting into a fight, you can at least be prepared for minor catastrophes with a well-stocked pet first aid kit. Here are a few items worth keeping on hand for everyday situations your four-legged friend might get into. The best part?  Some are probably already in your medicine cabinet. (As always, be sure to call your vet or pet hospital before administering any treatment, especially medication.)]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Are You Two Dog-Worthy?]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A30243-2004Dec2.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A30243-2004Dec2.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[You and your partner share everything: a home, a bed, a Blockbuster membership.  Since things are going so well, you've been thinking it might be time to lavish that love on a dog, too. You're not the only ones: Almost 10 percent of the nation's 65 million pets were originally given as gifts, according to the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association (APPMA). But is your relationship ready for a four-legged friend? If you answer "no" to any of the questions below, you might be better off sticking to stuffed animals this holiday.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Finch 411]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A11863-2004Nov25.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A11863-2004Nov25.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Happy hour destinations as far as the eye can see, street vendors selling everything from egg rolls to pasta -- living in the city definitely has its perks. Unfortunately, abundant apartment space usually isn't one of them. What's an aspiring bird owner to do? Consider a pet finch. Generally pretty quiet, they offer companionship at a fraction of the space, time or cost of a bigger bird.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Puppy Maladies to Watch]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A61318-2004Nov18.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A61318-2004Nov18.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Are your puppy's teeth more crowded than the Red Line at rush hour? Is he doing more back scratching than a K Street lobbyist? It's time to get him to the vet -- he may be suffering from one of the below health conditions, which, though they can surface anytime, are among puppyhood's most prevalent. As always, before making any medical decisions, talk with your vet about your dog's particular needs.     Emily Messner]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Lease a Horse]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A26744-2004Nov4.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A26744-2004Nov4.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[You don't need to be 12 years old to have a "horse phase" -- but the tremendous resources required to go from horse admirer to proud owner make the average pet purchase seem like kid stuff indeed. If you've got an equinophilic itch that a few riding lessons won't scratch but can't pony up the cash for your own Mr. Ed, leasing may be the ticket. Horse leases grant riding privileges and one-on-one time sans the expense of buying the animal. Costs vary dramatically, but a decent starter steed (which might run $5,000 to buy it outright) can often be leased for as little as $200 a month -- and in some cases, you can even "lease to own." Many stables and tack shops advertise horses for lease, and Web sites like <a href="http://www.marylandequestrianfarms.com">www.marylandequestrianfarms.com</a> can refer you to local stables. But as with any legal agreement -- or pet partnership -- you shouldn't go into horse leasing with blinders on.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tarantula 101]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A7831-2004Oct28.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A7831-2004Oct28.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[  Pet tarantulas are nothing like their B-movie counterparts: Their bites are rarely fatal; they're generally more afraid of you than you are of them; and they certainly aren't the size of three-story buildings (try four inches wide, on average). But what makes them less blood-curdling also makes them stellar pets. They're remarkably intelligent and surprisingly docile once you get past those prickly exteriors. Craving a not-so-creepy crawler to call your own? First, make sure you aren't breaking any laws:  The leggy pets are legal in the District, but they're banned in certain Maryland and Virginia counties (like Fairfax). Check with your local animal control officials to get the scoop. Once you've settled that, here's how to get started.]]></description><author></author></item><item><title><![CDATA[Homemade Doggy Treats]]></title><link>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A52969-2004Oct21.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A52969-2004Oct21.html?nav=rss_style/columns/petset</guid><pubDate>Sun, 24 Apr 2005 7:50:54 GMT</pubDate><description><![CDATA[If you love to cook and you love dogs, pretty soon you're cooking for dogs. At least, that's what happened to me. Over 15 years ago, a friend gave me a recipe for "dog stew." My dog loved it, of course, and I never again opened a can of food for him.]]></description><author></author></item></channel></rss>