5 Accessories Every Dog Owner Must Have

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Having a dog you love to be with is one of the best things in the world.

A dog can bring so much happiness into your life. For some dogs, the feeling of being part of a family can’t be beaten.

There are times when a dog needs to find a good home, and if you plan to take on this responsibility yourself, then there will be many things that need to be taken care of.

You will likely encounter issues deciding what accessories you will need to keep your new dog or puppy safe and comfortable. To help you out, here we go through FIVE accessories every dog owner must invest in:

1. A Comfy Bed

If your new dog is a bed hog, there’s no better way to ensure that they get their fair share of sleep than with a comfy bed of his or her own.

A comfy bed can be used as anything from a couch to a bed, but if you’re looking for something to last, a crate mat is the way to go. They’re made from vinyl and come in various sizes, so you can choose one that best fits your dog’s size. The mat also has an adhesive underside for easy installation onto your crate or under another mattress if needed.

2. Pee Pads

Pee pads are a great way to give your dog a sense of privacy, but they aren’t just for potty training. They can be used for other reasons, for instance if your dog is anxious about leaving the house or getting into the car. Purchase pee pads for your dog, as they have numerous benefits:

— Provide an area for your dog to relieve himself.
— Help prevent accidents by keeping dogs from urinating in places they shouldn’t be.
— Keeps floors clean by eliminating tracking dirt and debris.
— Keeps you from having to clean up after an accident on the carpet.

3. A Sturdy Leash

In the summer dogs love to play in the yard and run around the neighborhood. In the winter months, they will be more likely to stay indoors. But regardless of where you live, having a sturdy leash is essential for walking your dog in any season or weather.

A good rule of thumb is to always buy a leash that is at least two-times as long as your dog’s body length. If he/she is small and very short-legged, you may want to go with three times his/her height, or maybe even four times his/her height as an extra precaution.

4. A Convenient Flea & Tick Collar

The best way to prevent fleas and ticks from infesting your dog is by keeping them at bay. A convenient flea and tick collar is a must-have for any pet owner.

A flea and tick collar can be used as a preventive measure or as a treatment when your dog has already been exposed to these pests. Some collars treat existing infestations as well as prevent future ones from happening.

The convenience of using one of these collars is that you don’t need to do anything else apart from putting the collar on your pet’s neck once a month (more frequently if needed). The collar will then release an insecticide into the environment, killing any bugs it comes into contact with.

5. Chew Toys

Chew toys can be made of anything from rubber to antlers. They are an excellent way for your dog to chew on something that is not food but yet helps keep their minds busy. A chew toys should be big enough so that your dog can’t swallow it whole, yet small enough so that your dog can get his or her mouth around it.

You should also ensure that the toy has no small parts that a dog could possibly choke on. If you have a dog who likes to chew on bones, make sure they are tough enough so they won’t break apart while being chewed on.

By And Large

We love to get the latest and greatest in gadgets, but sometimes it’s best to keep it simple. These five accessories are the most valuable and practical for our canine companions.

How to Train Your Dog With Positive Reinforcement

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What does dog training mean to you? Is it following strict discipline, giving punishments, or applying tough love? If so, then you need to stop! There are other ways to train your dog. Positive reinforcement is one of those.

It does not involve retribution or yelling. Instead, it is gentle and shows effective results. It is this kind of training that shapes the dog’s behavior and intensifies the bond with your furry friend. What better way to bond with your pup than through your pup’s training? Keep on reading to find out more in detail!

What does positive reinforcement mean?

Positive reinforcement training is an easy method of training, teaching your pup how to behave in different situations. The way it works is that the expert trainer will teach the dog the behaviors with positive encouragement and motivation whenever negative and/or aggravating behavior is displayed.

By implementing this technique, you are stimulating the behavior you want to encourage, such as walking, sitting, etc. With regular practice and time, your furry friend will act in the manner you want in the future.

How is positive reinforcement a must-have for dog training?

If you are unsure how this method of positive reinforcement could benefit your dog, then stay with us for the duration of this article to learn more.

Make understanding easy with short yet direct commands…

Of course, a dog cannot understand a whole sentence in the same way that a human can. Hence, it is vital to choose direct and short commands while providing training. Some practical and quick commands include: Sit or Stay Down, Off, Watch, Up, Come, Walk or Heel, Leave It, Drop or Give, etc.

Rewarding is important for good behavior…

One point to remember is that positive reinforcement works best when it is reproducible, predictable, and constant. Hence, rewarding the dog when there is any positive response is essential.

However, rewards should only be given within a matter of seconds. Otherwise the dog will not understand the similarity or the relation between the two. These rewards include physical touch, edible treats, verbal praise, toys, etc.

For editable treats, you can choose bully sticks. Many have questioned whether or not bully sticks are harmful or have some adverse effect on health. You should educate yourself as to what are bully sticks made of and how they might improve your dog’s digestive system.

This chewable treat is usually made from beef muscle and is usually a single ingredient that can be digested easily. In addition, you can also choose blueberry, cucumber, bell pepper, banana, apple, carrot, etc., as possible treats.

Add a fun element to training…

Training can be a serious undertaking, but adding a pinch of fun does not harm anything. We advise limiting your training time-frame — a session should not exceed ten minutes. Make them listen to you, hold their attention, but make it fun also.

Keep an eye on their physical signals. If you find them distracted, not listening, or not showing any eagerness to get treats, it is better to skip that session and commence training them another time.

Unquestionably, always end the training on a positive note. The result will be that your dog will consider the training a fun time and they will understand that they will get good praise in return.

Combine positive reinforcement with clicker training…

When clicker training blends well with the positive reinforcement, then effective results are ensured. The simple theory is that when the clicker sound is familiar for the dog, it is delivered quicker than verbal signals.

As we have mentioned above, when the dog starts behaving in the way that you want, give a treat to help him or her connect the click with positive reinforcement. You can easily get training clickers at pet stores or online… and yes, they are cost-effective.

Let Your Dog Reap Benefits With Positive Reinforcement

With positive reinforcement you can train your dog without any pain or harshness. To summarize:

— Do not punish
— Overlook the unwanted demands and behaviors
— Reward the dog for the positive behavior
— Very Important: Remain consistent and patient

Always remember that a consistent and dependable environment is essential to making a young dog comfortable and happy in your home. It not only makes them feel stable, but safe and secure as well. Positive reinforcement will help make them obedient, agreeable, and responsive to your commands.

Important Factors to Consider Before Bringing Home a Dog

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Are you thinking about getting a dog? If so, there are a few things you need to consider before bringing your new furry friend home. Dogs require a lot of time and attention, and they can be quite expensive to care for. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most important factors to consider before bringing home a dog. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right dog for your lifestyle and needs. So if you’re ready to become a dog parent, keep reading!

Why Do You Want a Dog?

This is probably the most important question you need to ask yourself before getting a dog. Are you looking for a companion? A walking buddy? A cuddly friend? It’s important to know what you’re looking for in a dog because different breeds have different temperaments and energy levels. For example, if you live in a small apartment, you might want to consider a small breed dog that doesn’t need a lot of exercises. On the other hand, if you’re an active person who loves to hike and run, you might want a high-energy breed like a Labrador Retriever.

One of the most important things to consider before getting a dog is whether or not you have the time to care for one. Dogs need to be exercised, brushed, and trained on a regular basis. They also need to be taken out for potty breaks several times a day. If you work long hours or travel frequently, it might be best to wait until you have more time to devote to a dog.

Another important consideration is whether or not you have the financial resources to care for a dog. Dogs need food, toys, and perhaps some routine vet care. They also might require occasional grooming, which can be expensive. If you are not able to afford the upfront and ongoing costs of dog ownership, it might be best to wait until you are in a better financial position.

When you are ready to start looking for a dog, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, consider what size of dog would be best for your home and lifestyle. Smaller dogs may be easier to care for, but they also require more frequent potty breaks. If you live in a small space, such as an apartment, you might want to consider a smaller dog breed.

Next, think about what energy level would be best for you and your family. Some dogs need a lot of exercise, while others are content with short walks around the block. If you have young children, you might want a calmer dog who is not as likely to jump and play roughly.

Also, Grooming requirements should be considered. Some dogs need to be groomed daily, while others only require occasional brushing. Dogs with long coats may require professional grooming every few months, which can be expensive.

If you want to avoid the expenses, dry shampoo for dogs and a dog brush can make your dog look clean without taking him or her to a professional groomer every time.

Dry shampooing is not only more convenient, but also less expensive in the long run. A dog brush can help you to remove the shedding hair from your dog and keep your house clean.

Finally, consider what kind of coat type you prefer. Some dogs shed very little, while others shed quite a bit. If you are allergic to dog hair, you might want to choose a breed that sheds less. You will also need to decide how often you are willing to groom your dog. Some dogs require daily brushing, while others only need to be brushed once a week.

Once you have considered all of these factors, you are ready to start looking for your new furry friend! When choosing a dog, be sure to visit a variety of shelters and rescues to find the perfect match for you and your family. With a little patience and research, you will be sure to find the perfect dog for your home.

All About Grooming Shears

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Some people may not be comfortable with grooming their own dog, and that’s okay. Those owners will choose to go to a professional groomer. But for pet owners that are on a tighter budget or just want to experience that close bond with their dog, they will choose to do the grooming themselves. For those owners, it is important to have a good pair of grooming shears.

What are Grooming Shears?

Grooming shears are one of the most important tools that a groomer or a pet owner will use. A good pair of grooming shears will impact the speed and quality of the cut. Grooming shears come in many different designs, different edge types, handle types, shank types, materials, and other characteristics.

Types of Grooming Shears

Different types of grooming shears include:

Straight Shears: These shears are used to set patterns, handle shaping, and for finishing the overall cut.
Curved Shears: Curved shears are used to fine tune the shaping and provide angulations for certain areas. The larger the shear is, the more pronounced the curve is. Larger shears are better for larger dogs.
Thinning Shears: Thinning shears have a cutting edge on one of the blades and teeth on the other blade. These blades are used for more natural looks.

Edge Types

Serrated: Serrated shears have tiny grooves on one of the blades. These grooves hold hair in place and helps with overall efficiency.
Hollow Ground: Hollow ground shears have a sharper edge for smoother and more proficient cutting.

Handle Types

Opposing Grip: Opposing grip is considered the standard design.
Offset: Offset was designed to reduce hand fatigue.
Swivel Thumb: The thumb ring will move freely and follow the groomer’s hand while cutting.

Shank Types

Short: Shorter shanks allow the blades to open wider with less hand movement.
Bent: Bent shanks allow for an easier groom and won’t flatten the coat.

Materials

Carbon Steel: Carbon steel is made of an alloy of hardened steel which is made from iron and carbon. Always keep these dry and oiled.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is also an alloy of hardened steel, but it includes chromium. Chromium helps keep away rust and corrosion.
Ice: These shears are subjected to temperatures below zero in order to obtain hardness longer.

Additional Characteristic: Length

Rockwell Hardness Rating: The Rockwell Hardness Rating is a scale to measure how hard the grooming shears are. The harder the shears, the better the shears can hold an edge. However, the shears will have more brittle metal.

There’s a lot more to grooming shears than meets the eye. Most pet owners probably don’t even think of all these elements when dropping their pets off at the groomer’s. They should, as all of these elements will affect your pet’s cut.

Author Bio: Emma Anderson has been involved with dog grooming for the past 15 years and now wants to share her experience and knowledge with others.

Do You Need Culver City Pest Control?

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Culver City is a glitz and glam town with a rich moviemaking history. Pests are something that Culver City doesn’t want to be associated with when someone thinks of their city. If you see any pests popping up in your home in Culver City or anywhere else in the area, get in touch with a professional.

Why Pest Control is Important for Culver City

Culver City pest control should be an investment for the city due to its reputation in film. Additionally, Culver City is known for its buzzing nightlife, and no one wants to go to a club or restaurant inhabited by pests. Residents of Culver City will want to keep their homes beautiful. Having a professional on speed dial is an excellent way to do so.

What to Look for in Pest Control

Clients who want good quality Culver City pest control should know the following points to make that happen.

— Make sure the pest control service has its stock in the latest technology in pest control.
— You may want to invest in a company that does both residential and commercial projects.
— Ask how long they have been in the business. You want the staff to be qualified and experienced.
— Check that they are licensed and insured.
— Look for services that provide free estimates
— If the pests aren’t taken care of, the service should guarantee to come back at no additional cost.

Look at Reviews

Once you’ve found a reputable pest control company that ticks all the boxes, go to their website and look them up on Google. Please read up on their reviews. See if their past clientele were happy with their services. If the reviews don’t look good, cut your losses and move on to the next company on your list. You may follow this process a few times before finding a good match. It will be worth your time to avoid throwing your money away on a less-than-stellar service. If that’s the case, you may even still have a pest problem after going through all of that.

Pests come in all shapes, sizes, and may even have interesting quirks. Pests are sneaky, and they could even avoid your detection for a while. Don’t let them win. Keep Culver City beautiful by investing in its well-being and being aware of when pest control is needed. Once you find your ideal pest control company, you may even want to utilize their services regularly.

Author bio: Louis started American Rat Control Inc. because he realized there were not very many options in the pest control industry for expert rodent control and removal. During his 37+ years in rodent control & construction he developed processes and techniques to quickly identify rodent entry points on a structure and how to seal them up to last while looking good.

5 Dog Gadgets That Improve Your Dog’s Health

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Want to pamper your pup with a healthy gadget? There are a lot of gadgets on the market that claim to improve your dog’s health. But which ones are worth your money? Here are five dog gadgets that are backed by “science” and will improve your pup’s health (inspired by dogaspet.com):

1. Waterbottle for you and your dog

Keeping your dog hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for their health. But if you’re constantly stopping to offer them water while on a walk, it can cut into your workout. The solution? Invest in a water bottle that has a built-in bowl for your pup to drink from. That way they can stay hydrated while you stay on track.

Asobubottle has a great water bottle/bowl combo that’s perfect for on the go. It also is the perfect gift for dog lovers.

2. A food dispenser toy

A food dispenser toy is a great way to provide your dog with mental stimulation. These toys challenge your dog to figure out how to get the food out, which helps keep their brain active and healthy. Most food dispenser toys are made of durable plastic or rubber and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Make sure to find a toy that is made of quality materials. Otherwise it might not stand up to your dog’s chewing. Kong is a popular brand that makes high-quality food dispenser toys. You can stuff the Kong with your dog’s favorite treats and then watch them have a blast trying to get the food out.

Some even have multiple compartments, which can make the challenge even more difficult for your dog. If you’re looking for a way to keep your dog entertained and engaged, a food dispenser toy is a great option.

3. An automatic ball thrower

If you have a fetch-loving dog, an automatic ball thrower can be a great way to keep your pet entertained. These devices are designed to launch balls a short distance, and many models come with adjustable settings so that you can control the distance and angle of the throw.

Some newer models even come with built-in sensors that will pause the machine if a person or animal enters the range of the device. This is a great safety feature if you have small children or other pets in your home. Fetch-loving dogs will never get bored with an automatic ball thrower. And you’ll never have to throw another ball again!

Automatic ball throwers can provide hours of fun for dogs of all ages, and they can also help to build up your pet’s muscles as they run back and forth to retrieve the ball. Whether you choose a basic model or a more advanced one, an automatic ball thrower can be a great way to keep your furry friend happy and active.

4. A water fountain for dogs

If you have a dog, then you know how important it is to keep them hydrated. Dogs require a lot of water to stay healthy, and even a small amount of dehydration can cause serious health problems. That’s where a water fountain comes in. This gadget gives your dog fresh, filtered water and can even add flavorings to make it more appealing.

Plus, the constant flow of water encourages dogs to drink more. As a result, a water fountain can be a great way to keep your dog healthy and hydrated. If you’re looking for a way to get your dog to drink more water, then a water fountain is worth considering.

5. A dog massage brush

As any pet owner knows, keeping a dog healthy and happy is a top priority. A Dog Massage Brush is a great way to help your furry friend relax and de-stress. A brush helps to promote circulation and relieve muscles, and it can also reduce shedding by up to 90%. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your dog and give them some extra attention.

Whether you’re using it during grooming time or just for a special treat, a Dog Massage Brush is a gadget that both you and your dog will love. With its many benefits, it’s no wonder that a brush is one of the most popular dog grooming tools on the market. If you’re looking for a way to make your dog feel relaxed and pampered, a Dog Massage Brush is the perfect solution.

Conclusion

There are a lot of gadgets on the market that claim to improve your dog’s health. But which ones are worth your money? The five gadgets listed above are all backed by “science” and could actually improve your pup’s health. So, if you’re looking for ways to keep your dog healthy and happy, consider investing in one, or all, of these great products.

How to Ensure Great Dental Hygiene for Your K9 Companion

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All dogs have an instinct to chew, and responsible pet owners will want to take care of their furry companion’s teeth, while encouraging the natural, healthy chewing process. However, navigating the array of dental hygiene products for dogs on the market can be a challenge because of the huge number of choices available.

Why do dogs chew?

Dogs are natural hunters and scavengers, and therefore in the wild, they would chew to break down their prey. However, domesticated dogs chew for a variety of different reasons, depending on their age, environment, and mental health.

Puppies and adolescent dogs may chew because of teething and the discomfort this brings, whereas other reasons could be things like boredom or distress. Further reading on the reasons why dogs chew can be found on the Blue Cross web page.

What are the benefits of chewing?

There are several health benefits of chewing, which include:

— A hormone release underpins the natural desire for dogs to chew. When dogs chew, they release both dopamine and serotonin chemicals, which both support balanced mental health and minimise stress.

— Chewing is a boredom buster, therefore providing focus and stimulation for the K9.

— Chewing can ease the pain of teething for puppies and adolescent dogs.

— The process of chewing keeps a dog’s teeth clean, as the saliva flushes the mouth and therefore helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

— Chewing will exercise the dog’s jaw, keeping the jaw and teeth strong.

What are the best chews for dogs?

Chews are available in two types: natural dog chews or man-made. There are many options on the market within both categories. However, the main considerations when choosing between the two types are as follows:

— Consider the digestibility of the selected chew. Most chews will eventually break down and the pooch will ingest some element, so ensure that the content is safe.

— Consider the additives of man-made chews. Some man-made chews contain glue, food colorings, sugar and other additives, which can upset the dog’s stomach.

To avoid such undesirable elements, choose natural dog chews that are rich in nutrients and do not contain potentially harmful additives. In addition to avoiding any preservatives, natural dog chews are often also sustainable and eco-friendly, too.

What other consequences should dog owners consider when selecting dog chews?

The first thing to consider is safety. Dogs should never be left unsupervised with anything that could be a potential choking hazard. The size of any dog chew should be checked to ensure that the dog can hold the chew with their paws and that it’s not too small so that it could be wholly ingested, causing a blockage.

Should high-calorie dog chews be provided, K9’s can gain weight and therefore their daily food intake would need to be adjusted to accommodate the chews.

How To Choose The Best Type Of Leash For Your Dog

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Most pet owners in Marin County often overlook the importance of a dog leash. It’s an important tool that guarantees the utmost safety for you and your dog.

Having a good dog leash can prevent your pet from jumping on people and other animals around you. It can even help steer your dog clear from splashing int the mud. Moreover, it can keep you from running behind your pet, providing a secure way to control your dog.

There are different types of dog leashes, different materials, and sizes. With so many options available, it can be a little overwhelming to pick the right one. However, to make it easier for you, we will discuss some of the tips that will help you pick the right leash for your four-legged friend. So, let’s get started…

Choose The Right Type

First of all, you need to choose the right type of leash for your pet. Here are some of the options to consider:

Elastic dog leash — An elastic leash is one of the most popular options. It can be easily stretched to fit the dog in case you are not close to getting him the right size.

Nylon — Another good option are nylon dog leashes. They work great for any dog breed, and they are inexpensive and durable.

Retractable leash — If your dog is well-behaved and calm, buying a retractable leash can be a great choice.

However, you can visit the best pet stores in Marin County to find the leash that best suits your four-legged friend. Make sure to consider strength, lock, and weight limit before you buy one.

Choose The Right Length

Choosing the right leash length is another major factor to consider. The length of the leash also depends on the size of your dog.

For example, longer leashes are good for big-sized dogs and provide enough space when you are taking them on walks. Short leashes, on the other hand, are easier to walk with and don’t get in the way while walking and can provide more control.

No matter which size you purchase, make sure it is comfortable for you and your dog, as well as the proper size for your pet.

Don’t Compromise On The Quality

When going for a walk with your dog, you don’t want the leash to tear apart so that you end up running after him. Thus, it is crucial to go for the best quality material available. The dog leash you buy should be durable enough to withstand all the wear and tear.

Consult Your Vet

The best way to help yourself find the right leash for your dog is to consult with your vet. Based on your dog’s health and behavior, your vet will recommend to you the best leash options.

In addition, if you have a leash in mind, you can ask him or her whether or not it will be a good fit for your pet.

Summing Up

When it comes to choosing the right leash for your pet, there are several factors you must take into consideration. Look at the overall quality of the product and the safety features it offers.

To sum up, consider the tips mentioned above before making a final purchase decision.

Why Do Dogs Respond to Baby Talk?

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Most of us can’t resist using baby talk with our dogs, no matter the breed. One minute we are having a normal conversation, then we start talking to our dogs, instantaneously our voice tone changes; we start talking higher-pitched. According to some psychologists, Baby talk has been proven to be a way of maintaining proximity and remaining “in-touch,” giving warnings, encouragement, affection, and reassurance even without direct physical contact.

Because touch and physical contact is a critical means of attachment, protection, and caregiving for mammals, it is advantageous to be able to approximate the effect of touch through the voice. There are patterns with the same impact on children in cultures worldwide, and you may recognize that it has the same effect on your cute Cocker Spaniel.

What Do Dogs Associate With Baby Talk?

— Good behavior
— A sign of love and affection
— Fun activity time such as going on a walk or playing a game

Because most of the times we use baby talk is to reward our dogs or when we are taking them on a walk, our dogs learn quickly to associate baby talk with good things, and anything else is uncomfortable or bad.

What To Do To Get Your Dog’s Attention

Dogs very much appreciate baby talk and a high-pitched voice. So now you don’t have to feel hurt whenever someone mocks you for how you talk to your furry family member.

In order for your high-pitched voice to make a difference to your dog, you will need to use dog-related content. You must ensure that what you are saying to your dog is relevant; if you do it right, you can instantly get your dog’s attention. If you start telling your dog about your favorite movie, you will put them to sleep right in their tracks before you can even finish.

This isn’t just for dogs; this goes for every animal. Animals don’t like to listen to you if you aren’t talking about something that relates to or benefits them individually. Each dog can be different, so take that into consideration before looking at Poodles or Cockapoo puppies for sale. The goal is to find a puppy that suites your lifestyle specifically.

Even talking to your dog in your normal voice, saying “let’s go on a walk,” will put your dog to sleep even though it is something dogs love to do; this is because the tone used will determine whether your dog is excited or not. If you talk to your dog by saying the same thing but in a high-pitched voice, it will add some excitement, and you better be ready to go on a walk.

Don’t Always Talk Like a Baby!

Most times, we know that using baby talk is a good thing because it makes your dog happy and bouncy, and that is the response you subconsciously expect, which is why you talk in that manner in the first place. But always speaking with a high-pitched voice can also cause a dog to feel pressurized if they are still trying to get used to the environment.

To reduce stress, you may need to talk in a quiet, soothing tone to help your dog feel more secure and comfortable.

Conclusion

The next time someone makes fun of you for talking baby talk, let them know that science is on your side. By using your voice, you can manage your dog’s behavior. Even science thinks that using baby talk appears to work. Your dog loves when you use baby talk because it’s a sign of excitement for both of you. If you are happy, your dog will be satisfied. Dogs are generally very happy animals, but if you are having a bad day, don’t let your dog have one too, get up and do something exciting with him or her.