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Adopting a new pet can be a fun experience, but there are many things that you have to keep in mind during this process. The first thing you have to consider is where you are going to adopt your pet from. If you adopt from a rescue organization found in websites like http://www.ebayclassifieds.com/ you will likely have more freedom over what procedures you have to have done on your pet. However if you adopt from an animal shelter you will more than likely be required to have your pet spayed or neutered.

Once you have decided where you are adopting from, you get to pick your pet. This can be fun, but also very hard because you will likely want to take all of the animals home with you. Spend plenty of time and make sure you choose a pet that will fit well in your household. Once you have chosen your pet, you will have to get your home ready for your pet.

If you are bringing home an indoor pet, you will want to make sure you have a litter box or toilet area set up for them, and if you are bringing home an outdoor pet you will need to set up a fence or other way of keeping your pet safe. You will also want to provide them with a house or shelter to keep them warm and dry.

There are so many other little things you have to consider too. You want to make sure you have plenty of food, toys and other things to make your pet’s first days at home comfortable for them. Before long, you and your pet will feel more comfortable with each other and you will find out what other items you need to help make their lives as rich as you can make them.

Toothpaste

Every good cleaning begins with a good toothpaste. Human toothpaste can be harmful to your pet. Pet toothpaste is formulated with enzymes to help further remove food and plaque. Flavors like malt, vanilla-mint, and beef bring fun to brushing time. Your vet can help choose the right one.

Toothbrush

When choosing a toothbrush for your pet, consider the size of their teeth. Brushes come in double-ended, glove-styled, and varied angles to suit your pet’s needs. A few things to consider are comfort of style, ease of use, as well as the personality of your pet. A calm, careful approach, along with praise and reassurance goes a long way. Soon, brushing Fido or Fifi’s teeth will be as easy as looking up a pet store on Canada 411.

Washcloth

A wet washcloth is useful to wipe down teeth before brushing. Having a washcloth handy also helps wipe any excess toothpaste or saliva.

Finger Cot

A finger cot can also prove useful when a toothbrush just doesn’t seem to work. If your pet’s toothbrush doesn’t seem to be the ideal instrument for teeth cleaning, a plastic finger cot tipped with a brush surface might do the trick. By taking your pet in to the vet for the first dental cleaning, you will be able to see first hand the best approach to pet dental care at home.

No matter how roomy your apartment may seem to you and others who live there, a large dog will take up a lot of that room. In addition, most large dogs need a place where they can run, jump, and be more physically active than a few daily walks allow them to be. Medium-size dogs, such as those in the terrier range, or small dogs, such as toy poodles are better suited for apartment living.

Cats always make good apartment pets. They are usually quiet, and even the more vocal ones such as Siamese aren’t really that loud, and, of course, don’t require walking. And, even larger cats such as Burmese or other breeds don’t take up as much room as medium-size or large dog.

Birds can often be a good choice as apartment pets, if they are not unusually vocal. A screeching macaw, parrot, cockatoo, or other bird may have the propensity to disturb others; songbirds such as parakeets, canaries, love birds and similar species may be the more logical choice. It’s important to ask the management HOA personnel upfront about their policy regarding pets.

No matter which pet you choose, management HOA personnel may require a substantial damage deposit as well as payment for repairs caused by pets clawing, chewing on, or otherwise damaging walls, window treatments, door sills, baseboards and other things in the apartment. This will be something you will need to consider.

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The past few years has seen the emergence of feeding dogs and cats a raw food diet. It is also known as BARF, an acronym for bones and raw food. Advocates of the diet say that it is as close to a wild diet as a domesticated pet is going to receive. However, is a raw diet a good thing? Or is it a fad?

The first thing to look at with the raw diets is how closely they mimic the food found in the wild. Just because we have domesticated cats and dogs does not mean we have domesticated their digestive systems. So on first glance, a raw diet is beneficial. But each species needs to be fed a specific type of raw diet. Dogs are omnivorous, and cats are obligate carnivores.

Commercial pet foods, while not always having the best ingredients, still adhere to a set of guidelines and provide specific nutrients your pet needs. However, a cat is not designed to digest grains, whereas a dog can. Feeding a cat food that is laden with grains is the cause of a stinky litter box. It is a fact that raw diets eliminate smell almost entirely. Dogs also should be fed a diet that is higher in meat than grains, but they can still consume corn and rice.

Ultimately a raw diet is beneficial to pets and is not a fad, but there are nutrients that are lacking in a straight raw meat diet. Research before feeding, and ensure that the necessary vitamins and minerals are supplemented.

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A pet can make a house a home.  It’s human nature to care and nurture and its proven thats it’s also good for the soul to keep pets, particularly if you live alone.  But what if you live in an apartment?  A dog can be difficult unless you have the time and physical fitness to excercise one properly and what if cat hair makes you sneeze or you want a pet to suit your quirky personality?

Choosing an exotic pet may not be an impossibility and in some cases they are clean and easy to look after.  Here are a few suggestions.

• Hermit Crabs.  These little fellas have their own characters and you can have great fun painting shells of different sizes in non-toxic paints to give them fancy, colourful new homes!
• Frogs are gaining popularity as a great kids pet. These amphibians may not give you cuddles but will give you many years of joyful entertainment.  Easy to care for and most pet stores will advise you on the tank they need and of course access to water.  They do eat insects tho so be prepared to handle the odd mealworm!
• Tarantulas.  These are only for the serious exotic pet enthusiast.  They take a lot of commitment and care to keep them in good health.  But for commited spider owners their are years of fascination, interaction with a truly exotic pet which some say display signs of love!

So from the tamest to the almost terryfing there is an exotic pet that you can choose to live happily in your apartment for many years to come!

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Pet lovers renting apartments have to be careful to make sure, not only that the apartment they rent allows pets, but that their lifestyle is conducive to pet ownership. Some people simply don’t have enough time to care for a dog or cat. However, if you are a pet lover in this situation fear not, there are alternatives to these traditional pets.

Owning a more exotic pet, one that requires less day to day care could be the solution. There also are apartments for rent that allow exotic pets, but may not be as welcoming to domestic pets, such as cats and dogs. Let’s explore some of the choices.

COCKATIELS: This exotic and colorful bird requires little care, can stay in the cage while you are at work, and yet it can learn to talk. Following a healthy diet, having play time and interaction with people, a cockatiel can live more than 20 years.

IGUANAS: Iguanas require an aquarium with light and warmth. They like to climb on small branches, and eat iguana food, with a smattering of fresh fruits and vegetables.

SCORPIONS: A scorpion may be just the right choice. It requires little care, an aquarium, and it eats bugs. There are courses available to learn exotic pet care.

FERRETS: Playful and fun to watch, a ferret will sleep most of the day and is most active in the early evening, perhaps the perfect pet for an apartment owner with a full time job.

With so many types of exotic pets to choose from, having an apartment does not mean giving up one’s love for animals.

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Pet owners need to stay up to date on food recalls and be aware of the potential health problems that contaminated products pose to animals. Here are answers to common questions when your pet has been exposed to tainted food.

Why is my pet’s food being recalled?
The FDA tests samples of pet food and will issue a recall if substances like melamine are found.

What is melamine?
Melamine is used as an industrial binding agent and as fertilizer in some parts of the world. It has been known to cause severe kidney damage in children and pets that have ingested melamine-tainted food. In 2007, a massive recall was initiated after melamine was found in wheat gluten imported from China. Pets that ate the tainted food suffered serious illnesses and even death.

What if my pet gets sick from recalled pet food?
Contact your veterinarian immediately. You may also consider contacting a class action attorney Los Angeles or other cities offer to discuss potential settlements.

How can I be sure my pet is getting the best quality food?
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends only high quality, premium pet food because these brands are extensively researched and specially formulated.

Is it safer to feed my pet homemade food?
Recalls are very rare and, as long as you are choosing a premium product, you may never run into a problem. Homemade diets are an option, but will require time, effort and money to ensure your pet is getting adequate nutrition. Consult with your veterinarian or an animal nutritionist before beginning a homemade food plan.

There are many different types of bark collars available in the market which uses different mechanisms to train the dog and prevent it from barking unnecessarily. Among them are the ultrasound bark collars which get activated when the dog barks and emits ultrasonic sound waves which are audible to dogs and irritates the dog for few seconds. There are other collars which when gets activated gives a small jolt of electric shock to the dog. The dogs are sensitive to Citronella, they find its smell very irritating, this is made use of in few bark collars where Citronella solution is stored in the collar and when activated a tiny amount will be sprayed near the nose and causes irritation to the dog and gradually fades away.

By taking the dog out for walks in the locality, it gets a chance to socialize with the other dogs in the locality and it helps the dog develop socializing skills and also helps it overcome its aggressiveness and timidity. And more important is the exercise the dog gets while walking. The pets seldom get a chance for physical activity when at home and the physical activity in necessary to maintain good health.

These Golden Retrievers have got their name because of their coats which are generally in different shades of cream and gold. The Golden Retrievers have a thick coat and they shed all around the year, which is one of the problems faced by its owners and this problem can be overcome by brushing the dog everyday for few minutes thereby preventing the hairs from falling all over the household.

These dogs have dark, round attractive eyes, broad head and a straight muzzle. The male Golden Retrievers reach up to the weight of 70lbs whereas the females weigh around 60lbs and these dogs can grow up to heights of 21 to 24 inches. The golden retrievers grow very fast and they can attain half of their weight within months.

These dogs are comfortable growing in both small and large living spaces but care should be taken that these dogs get enough exercise as they can easily gain weight and grow fat. The Golden retrievers are very social and it is advisable to pay attention to it for at least a hour or two per day

Even though getting a veterinary pet insurance policy seems to be a unnecessary expense for many of the pet owners  it is found that more than 25 billion USD was spent by the Americans on pet healthcare in the year 2006 alone and it is gradually increasing according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.  The average veterinary pet insurance costs for a dog per month will be roughly around 340 USD. Getting an insurance cover for the pet does not mean that all the medical expenses are taken care of by the insurance as one still has to pay for the deductibles.

It is found that the pet food contains huge amounts of BHTs, BHAs and Ethoxyquin which are responsible for producing the odor and also release certain gases which in turn make the packed pet food unfit for human and even animal consumption.

Even these pet foods sometimes contain traces of animal wastes and pathogens from the diseased meat. The Ethoxyquin used in these animal foods as preservative is in fact a potent herbicide and which is capable of causing damage to the liver and kidneys in the humans who are in prolonged contact with it. It is also found to be carcinogenic in humans. This chemical also has a range of harmful effects on the animals which include immunodeficiency syndromes, cancer of stomach, spleen and liver and many more which answers the rise in health issues in pets which are fed commercial pet foods.  Also the use of sweetening agents like sucrose and cornstarch causes a lot of stress on the pancreas which can cause diabetes and other ailments. Choosing the right food for the pets, preferably natural will help it lead a healthy life in these conditions homemade pet foods seems to be the safest bet.

Feeding the pets with healthy homemade foods will reduce their exposure to various unhealthy preservatives, chemicals and additives which may affect their health.  The homemade pet foods helps the pets have a healthy and a long life and reduces the frequency of visits to the vet as well.

When introducing strange pets, one must introduce them slowly. Cats surely will not like each other at first and they’ll show it by hissing and growling. No matter how nice or mild-mannered a cat might be with its owner, putting it with a strange cat is like adding oil to water; they won’t readily mix, especially if both animals are adults.

Bring the strange cat in and, while not putting them near each other, put the animal down in the room. Make sure they see each other and watch them closely. Do not leave the room. At first, they may just sniff or look at each other, but it won’t be uncommon for one of them to lay its ears back and begin growling.

Keep the door to a ‘safe’ room open so the strange cat can run somewhere to hide. It will venture out, slowly at first, and check out everything in the home, keeping an eye on the other cat.

If either of the cats begin growling or show a desire to fight, remove the one that’s aggressive, and be consistent to do this every time it happens. Cats are smart. It will eventually learn to avoid the behavior that gets it tossed out, since it likely wants to be around you.

The cats may never like each other, but they will learn to get along in the house, eventually. One cat will learn the other is the alpha cat and act accordingly. Give it time – they’ll be okay. Just don’t try to rush the process.

Feeding your cat will likely be easy. You will more than likely be purchasing a premade cat food that simply needs to be scooped into a clean bowl daily or twice daily depending on your feeding schedule. For a special treat you may consider a moist food a couple of times a week for your cat. Other than the food all you have to do is make sure your cat has clean water readily available.

Another chore is keeping your cat’s litter box clean and fresh. You will have to change the litter frequently and keep it scooped out in between changes. From time to time you may want to completely empty it and then wash the litter pan out.

Brushing your cat may be a difficult job, or it may be easy. This all depends on the length of hair that your cat has. Cats do not often need a bath, but they may if they get into something messy or start to smell bad. You may also have to bathe them if they wind up with a flea problem.

As you can see, it’s not a difficult job to take care of your cat, but it will take some time and care. Following these easy steps will help your cat to be healthy and happy and live a long and wonderful life with you and your family.

Barking can be a real issue with dogs. You want them to protect your house and family, but sometimes it gets to be too much. For example, your dog might bark when someone knocks at the door, but they refuse to stop barking even after you tell them to be quiet since the person is a friend. Avoid yelling at a dog when it barks. In the dog’s excited state, it could perceive that you are playing the barking game, too. This will just excite the dog more. Instead, train the dog to stop barking by praising the dog once it quiets, or shake coins in a metal can to distract the dog when it’s barking, then praise it immediately when it quiets.

If your dog is chewing something it shouldn’t, then slip it a doggy chew toy and praise the dog when it chews that rather than the original item. It won’t understand if you yell or hit, so avoid those actions. You want to reward the dog and teach it by using positive reinforcement rather than negative reinforcement.

No matter how serious the case is, you will likely want to get your sensitive cat on a diet that won’t upset her stomach. Even in the minor cases it is likely not comfortable for the cat to feel an upset stomach on a regular basis.

One of the options for helping your cat with this is to change her over to an all natural dye free food. These are often sold at vet’s offices or at pet supply stores. These are very similar to other foods that you would buy for your cat, but they don’t have the artificial colors and other additives in them. This is a great choice because it is easy for you as an owner. This may cost a bit more than buying regular grocery store cat food, but the overall savings in time and headaches is well worth it for you and your feline friend.

Another option is to start making your cat’s food at home. You can look online to find many great recipes for foods that you can cook for your cat. Some of these may take some time and effort to prepare, but you can create a diet for your cat that will be unmatched by any prepackaged food you can buy at the store.

Whatever you choose to do, make sure you do something and quickly. You don’t want your cat to suffer from the pain and discomfort of an upset stomach, and you want to save yourself from having to clean up additional messes that can be caused by the cat vomiting or having loose stools from her stomach issues.

Below are some of the ways animals help with healing.

Building Relationships

When someone becomes addicted to a substance or gaming, often the first thing to go is their relationships with others. Addicts become withdrawn and only need the “love” of their addiction. During the healing process, an addict needs to discover how to nurture relationships again. This is where the help of a pet comes in. Pets can help a human to learn how to nurture and provide unconditional love. Pets tend to give a lot of love, so introducing a pet into rehab is very comforting to an addict. The pet is always around, which helps the addict to remember there are people who love and care about him outside of rehab.

Assuming Adult Responsibility

Another basic human function that is gone when an addict chooses the addiction is adult responsibility. Again, a job, family, or school are not nearly as important to an addict as their addiction. Pets in rehab help the addict re-discover how to care for something else. This is a great way to reintroduce responsibility and overcoming the selfishness that was introduced with addiction.

Pets have a wonderful way of helping addicts heal and recover their lives. Many rehabilitation programs actually recommend pets be a part of the recovery process.

First, don’t try to hide from the pain. Many people rush out and try to get a new animal to fill the hole that their pet left behind. This will not work. You may learn to love another animal again, but you will never fill that empty gap that your old pet did. Spend some time mourning the loss of your dead pet before you consider bringing another one into the home.

When the procedure takes place, do not feel pressured to be there for it, or to be away from your pet during it. Some people want to be there for the last moments of their pet’s life, but others will be happier remembering their pet as the happy carefree animal they were, not the dying creature that sits before them now. Do what feels right in your own heart.

There are no words that can ease your pain, but talking about the procedure, and more importantly, talking about the great life your pet lived with your family and friends can help. If you have the chance to sit around and talk about the funny things your pet used to do, or the great memories you had with your pet, you and your family can begin the mourning process and will be able to think back on the life of your pet with happiness.

It’s not just places to stay with your dog, though. You’ll want things to do during the day, and you’ll want to be sure that you can get hold of a veterinarian if you need one. In addition, if your dog needs a special kind of food or medication, you’ll need to bring it with you but also make sure you can find it where you’re going to be, just in case you need it. There are so many options for animal friendly places and things to do anymore, and you can use Canada 411 to help you find them. Then, you and your dog can have all kinds of adventures.

There are trails to hike and streams to fish, and you’ll want to be sure to pack snacks for you and your dog, as well as plenty of water. Because animals are small, they can dehydrate very quickly. If you don’t bring enough water, you could put your dog (and yourself) in danger if you get lost or if you just take longer than expected to get back from your adventures. Being prepared is a great way to have fun with your pet.

Many humane societies and animal shelters would love to have more events to encourage adoption, however most are operating either on a meager governmental budget or strictly on donations. This means they may not have the staffing to get out in the community and encourage adoption.

If you are an interested volunteer, get in touch with the shelter in your community and see if they would be willing to let you host an adoption event.  In many cases they would be thrilled that someone is taking an interest in helping find homes for dogs and cats that may otherwise be put to sleep due to overcrowding.

Once you have their okay, you need to find a location. If there is a large local event like a fair or craft show, this can be a great place to hold it. You will already have a large number of people gathered, and by having the animals on hand, you will be able to help visitors find a pet that would enrich their lives.

This is a very low-cost way of helping with the pet population. You will only need to purchase a banner to attract potential owners to your selection of animals. At the end of the day, hopefully you found homes for many of these pets, and who knows, you may have met your new pet yourself.

Many of the friendliest cats are mixed breeds. I have certainly met more friendly tabby cats than I have Persians or Himalayans. If you are considering bringing a cat into your home you want one that will mesh well with your lifestyle. If you have a family with children you want to be especially careful in choosing a cat that won’t hurt your children, but also one that will enrich your lives as well.

If you want more control over the type of pet you will end up with, you may consider adopting an adult cat. Many rescue organizations and no-kill shelters take time to get to know the cats they have, this helps prospective owners choose a cat that will work well with their family.

Kittens can be a lot of fun, but it is hard to know what that cute little kitten is going to be like when he or she becomes an adult. There are a few things you can do to help determine what an adult cat will be like. First, choose a kitten that is active, curious and playful. The shy little kitten may be sweet, but will be more likely to be a withdrawn, loner of an adult cat. When you get your kitten home, spend lots of time with it, and introduce it to many new people. If you cat gets used to new people as a kitten, she won’t be so scared of them when she grows up. Finally, play with your cat anytime you have the opportunity. Encouraging play will encourage the cat to be more social and seek out love and affection from others as well.

1.       Establish a relationship with a vet. Just like you would get a doctor for your children, you need a good vet for your pet. Establish a relationship with a veterinarian you trust and that your pet likes. Get the proper check ups and vaccinations on a regular basis. Ask your vet to give you a list of regular maintenance for your pet.

2.       Get proper nutrition. Make sure your pet is eating healthy food. Read the labels on the pet food you buy and make sure it is free of preservatives or harmful chemicals. Your pet will live longer and healthier with good food.

3.       Get the right amount of exercise. Along with good food, your pet also needs to exercise. For example, if you have a dog, make sure you take him out on a walk at least once a day. Or, you could even play fetch in the back yard.

4.       Love your pet. Pets, like humans, need love – and lots of it. Be sure to cuddle with your pet and let him know how much you love and need him.

Being a pet owner is a great thing. It’s fun and exciting! It’s also nice to have the companionship that a pet brings to your home. Make sure you have your pet with you for years to come by taking good care of him now. Get the proper care and give him the right nutrition and your pet will live a long and healthy life.

1.       Have you done your homework? You need to know which kind of dog you want before you go to any pet adoption agency. Decide if you want small and furry or big and playful. The kind of dog you want for your family is important to know beforehand.

2.        What about your working hours? If both parents work and the children are in school, then you may want to reconsider getting a dog. Dogs need lots of care and attention, especially in the beginning stages. You’ll need to be around for housetraining and getting the dog used to be in your home.

3.       Do you have young children? Let’s face it, getting a dog is like adding another child to your home. If you already have a couple of younger children, under the age of 12, you may want to wait a couple of years to get a dog. When the kids are better able to help care for the dog, it might be a little easier on your family.

4.       Do you have enough money? Make sure you plan for the new dog in your budget. You’re going to have to get the right food, visit the vet, get vaccinations, and get medical supplies when your dog is sick. All of these things can add up.

If you’ve thought about all that getting a dog involves, then it may be time to head to the pet adoption agency.

There are so many different pet costumes that it’s easy to dress the family dog to match or complement your child’s costume. For example, your son can be dressed up like a cowboy, and so can the pet. If you want to make it really cute, though, dress the dog up like the cowboy and the kid up like the horse the cowboy rode in on. If you have a small or medium-sized dog, this will be hilarious!

Is your child going as a pirate? Then, dress the dog up like one, too. Capt. Hook and Smee — the two main pirate characters in the movie “Peter Pan” — is a good idea. The pet costume for Smee is very simple — a red stocking cap, light blue-green and white striped shirt and pants to match. All of these can be purchased or made in your dog’s size so that he will not trip or be hindered by them.

When your little cowboys or pirates (human and canine) set out to trick-or-treat, don’t be surprised if they bring home a double batch of goodies. Caution your child, though, to make sure he doesn’t share his candy with his pet, as chocolate and other types of candy are dangerous for dogs. You’ll be along anyway, so you can make sure everyone is safe.

For safety’s sake, however, it’s best to have the child and pet to wait until they are back home before enjoying their goodies. This way, you can inspect the candy closely while the dog is occupied enjoying his regular treats and a good drink of water after his night of trick-or-treating.

1.       Vaccinations save lives. Just like in humans, vaccinations can protect our pets from dangerous diseases. Over the years, vaccinations have indeed saved the lives of pets.

2.       Protect other pets. If you have an unvaccinated pet, the chances of your pet getting sick from another pet is very likely. Other unvaccinated pets can pass dangerous diseases to your pet.

3.       Safety for humans. Yes, pet vaccinations help protect humans as well. For example, if a dog isn’t vaccinated for rabies, he could provide a fatal bite to a human. It’s in the best interest of pets and humans to get the right vaccinations.

If you are concerned about pet vaccinations, talk to your veterinarian. Make a list of all the questions you have concerning vaccinations and then make an appointment with the vet. Likely, the vet will be able to ease your mind and help answer any questions you will have about vaccinations. The vet can also help you set up a good schedule for vaccinations. You don’t want to get vaccinations too often or too frequently, so setting up a schedule is a great idea.

Pets are just like humans and need the proper medical attention to stay healthy. If you have a pet, find out what kinds of vaccinations are available. Don’t wait another minute to get your pet the proper medical care that he needs. If you give him the right care, along with the correct vaccinations, you’ll have a healthy and vibrant pet for many years to come. Go ahead and do some research and then decide for yourself.

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Choosing a good dog toy for your pet dog might seem like an easy task, but it isn’t always. You need to consider toys that will keep your dog entertained – even when you aren’t  home – and keep him safe. There are a lot of toys out there on the market so it can be hard to know what one to choose. Below, take a look at some of the toys we recommend.

1.       Kongs. Kongs are one of the best dog toys on the market. They are durable and dogs really enjoy playing with them. They come in many different sizes for all types of dogs. Kongs are rubbery toys with holes in the ends. You can stuff the toy with any goodies you may want. This keeps your dog occupied for hours! You can put goodies like biscuits or kibble inside these toys.

2.       Puzzle balls.  Puzzle balls help stimulate your dog’s mental capabilities. Like the Kong, you can fill the puzzle balls with treats. The ball keeps moving and the pieces of the puzzle eventually fall out of the ball and give your dog something else to play with. Don’t worry, the pieces that come out are completely safe for your dog.

3.       Stuffed toys. If you have a dog that likes to tear things apart, then this isn’t the toy for him. However, if you have a dog that doesn’t like to tear things apart, then stuffed toys are great. A well-constructed stuffed toy will last for years. Look for a toy with fewer seems – these tend to be higher quality.

Dogs, like humans, like toys. Go ahead and invest in some great toys for your dog. Your dog will be happy and you’ll be happy when you see how much fun your dog is having. As always, toys should never replace human interaction – they just help your dog to stay entertained.

1.       Birds. Birds are by far the most popular kind of exotic pets. Parrots, cockatoos, and the such are great pets and very colorful. If you love birds with vibrant personalities, then you’re going to love exotic birds.

2.       Rodents. Hamsters, guinea pigs, and gerbils are actually considered exotic pets. You may be surprised to know that since these animals are sold in most pet stores, but they are indeed considered exotic animals. Plus, these pets are great for families with small children.

3.       Mammals. Some mammals are also exotic animals. If you are looking for a pet like a ferret, fox, or even a wolf, then these exotic pets fall under the mammal category. Be careful if you choose this type of exotic animal, as they can be quite dangerous since they are native in the wild.

4.       Reptiles. Along with birds, reptiles are the most popular type of exotic animal. You’ll find snakes, turtles, and frogs in this category. Some type of snakes are illegal in the US, so make sure you are following local laws and regulations if you choose to go this route.

Exotic animals can make great pets. Be sure to do your research and get the right food and equipment to properly care for exotic animals.

1.       Hamsters. Hamsters are small, so they don’t take up much room. Once the hamster gets used to you, they will be very friendly. Just be careful with little hands, as a child who wants to love the pet may accidently squeeze too hard and harm the hamster.

2.       Guinea pig. Like hamsters, guinea pigs make great pets. They are small, but aren’t as fragile as a hamster. They are very even tempered and will socialize well with kids. They do require some care, but nothing that you shouldn’t be able to handle.

3.       Rats. This might sound kind of gross to mom, but rats make great pets for kids as well. Pets actually do better with another pet rat with them, so consider buying two. Don’t worry, rats are actually very friendly pets.

4.       Fish. Fish, like the goldfish or a Beta, are great pets. They require little maintenance and are fun for kids.

As with all pets, make sure you know how to properly care for the pet before you bring it home from the pet store. Get the right cage and equipment and your pet will live a long and healthy life. Make sure you have the right food and ask around for the best diets and care for your new pet. Nothing can be more devastating than getting your new pet home and then having him die because you didn’t know how to care for him properly.

Pets are great in any home. They teach children responsibility and they make great companions. Consider one of the pets mentioned here for your next family pet.

1.       Has your stopped eating? A sure sign that something is wrong with your pet is when he stops eating and drinking. If you notice that your pet has stopped eating, take him to the vet immediately.

2.       Is your pet restless? When your pet is restless, this is a sign of distress. This could indicate that your pet is in pain.

3.       Is your pet acting abnormally? You know your pet better than anyone else. If you are noticing changes in behavior, even if it might not be that out of the ordinary, it’s best to get your pet checked out.

4.       What are the other symptoms? If you suspect that something is wrong with your pet, but you aren’t sure if you should rush to the vet, go ahead and record the symptoms. Keep track of your pet’s behavior for a day or two so you can tell the vet exactly how your pet has been reacting.

5.       If possible, check your pet’s heart rate. An unusually high heart rate is definitely a sign that something is wrong with your pet.

Having a sick pet is absolutely heart breaking. It’s hard to know how to help your pet and how to ease the pain. Do your best to comfort your pet and get help as soon as you can. It won’t be long until you are both feeling better. Once you see your pet acting normally and happy, you’ll be glad you took the time to care for your sick pet.

Making an Effective Flyer

You will have an easier time finding your pet when you make attention-grabbing flyers that offer the right type of information. When choosing a color for your flyer, pick one that really stands out. Bright colors such as orange and yellow will attract the attention of more people. As more people get informed, you have a better chance of finding your pet.

You will also need to include specific information about your pet. Include your pet’s name, its breed and the date that it went missing. Having this information will help people know what to look for.

If you plan to offer a reward, then you should post this information on your missing pet poster. This will entice people to keep an eye out for your pet by promising to reward them for their time and kindness.

Getting Results From Your Flyer

Losing a pet can be a dramatic situation that involves the whole family. Luckily, flyers offer a good way to let your community know that you have lost your pet. Many pets are returned to their families through this simple, inexpensive method of communication. Before you give up on your family’s best friend, be sure to make a flyer that will help your dog or cat find its way home with a little human assistance.

1.       Be prepared for accidents. Your pet is in a new environment and that means there will be more accidents. If you are getting a dog, this is especially true as a dog will mark his territory. Have some pet cleaning supplies on hand and be patient those first few days.

2.       Be patient with the pet. Your new pet will need to adjust to your rules and schedule. Be patient as he gets used to being in your family and begins to understand what is acceptable behavior.

3.       Start practicing good behavior now. While you do need to be patient with your new pet, you also need to set clear ground rules. Begin from day one letting your new pet know what is appropriate and what is not in terms of behavior. Start setting the patterns you would like to see later, now.

4.       Change his name. If you are giving your pet a new name, be sure to use it from the beginning and use it consistently. It may take your pet a few days to respond to his new name.

Most importantly, when you are adopting a new pet, be sure to give him lots of love and attention.

1.       Realize that it’s OK to grieve. You can cry, hurt, scream, and yell. Whatever it takes to feel your grief is totally and completely acceptable. Plus, it’s normal. Don’t let anyone tell you that you shouldn’t feel sadness or anger at the loss of your pet.

2.       Recognize that it’s not your fault. Many pet owners will feel intense guilt when their pet dies. Remember, it’s not your fault and there is nothing you could have done to stop the death. Dying is a part of life and it’s just one of those things that happen.

3.       Talk to other people. If you need to, talk to someone about your grief. Call up friends or family members and talk about your pet and how you are feeling. If the grief is really intense, don’t be afraid to ask for professional counseling.

4.       Don’t get a pet right away. Your initial reaction may be to fill the void from the loss of your pet with another pet. Try to avoid this if possible. You need time to remember and grieve for your lost pet and taking on the responsibility of a new pet may be just too much to handle.

Losing a pet is never an easy thing to do. Recognize that pain will be there and it’s just fine to grieve. In time, you will heal. Don’t be ashamed of your grief and be sure to get the help that you need.

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If you are looking to get a dog for your family, then you may be wondering what kind is best for you. If a dog is in your near future, then you’ll definitely want to check out the information below. Here, we’ll share the top dog breeds for families. Take a look and then choose which breed is best for you.

1.       Golden retriever. This dog is a great choice for families that are active and enjoy being outside. The golden retriever is fiercely loyal and will stay true to your family members. They are fun and can play for a long time.

2.       Pembroke Welsh corgi. This dog is about 25 pounds and is a very popular dog for family. The Pembroke Welsh corgi will need exercise every day, so make sure you take this dog for a walk or let him play with the kids. If you have small children, under 6 or 7, you may want to reconsider this breed of dog. Pembroke Welsh corgis tend to be a bit possessive, so they are better with older children.

3.       West Highland white terrier. This dog is very playful and loveable. Like the Pembroke Welsh corgi, the white terrier will need exercise be happy. This is a great watch dog and will be faithful to your family.

4.       Irish setter. This is a beautiful dog with a lovely red coat. The Irish setter is always ready to please and is eager to be a big part of the family.

5.       Schnauzer. Many families like the Schnauzer as a pet. This dog will keep everyone in the house safe, but he will require a lot of upkeep. Regular grooming and lots of exercise are absolute musts for this breed.

Many families enjoy these breeds of dogs, so see if one of these will be a great addition to your family.

1.       Canaries. A canary is one of the most popular bird choices. They are known for their exceptional vocal skills and stunning colors. Most canaries are green or yellow, but you can also find orange and even brown birds. Canary birds, if they are male, are singers. If your canary doesn’t sing, it’s a girl.

2.       Finches. A finch is another popular bird. Finches tend to be a little more of a hands off type of bird, so don’t handle them a lot to keep them happy. Finches move quickly and are very fun to watch. They are often cattering and do great in a social setting. If you really want your finch to thrive, get two or more birds and put them in the same cage.

3.       Parakeets. The parakeet is fairly inexpensive, so many people choose this pet because of the great price. You’ll find most parakeets are green or blue, but you may find other colors at the pet store as well. Parakeets are very gentle and will bond with humans rather quickly.

4.       Cockatiels. If you want a parrot, but aren’t ready for that kind of commitment, then try a cockatiel. These birds are often known as “small parrots.” They are very loving and love to be petted. Cockatiels can learn to talk, but their real talent lies in whistling.

If you’re ready to add a bird to the family, consider these choices here. It won’t be long until you have a lovely new companion in your home.

There are several options for pet owners needing quick funds to pay for the medical expense. These individuals may choose to borrow money from a friend or family member, which sometimes ultimately leads to the demise of the relationship due to stress from financial burden. They can also choose a vet which offers payment plans, but sometimes these plans have high interest rates which can add expenses to the already costly bill. One great option is to apply for a payday loan, through a site such as paydayone.com, where users can fill out a short application online and receive approval in minutes. The funds are then deposited into a bank account by the next business day, and can be used immediately. Depending on the situation, there are several options for loans available, and the fees and interest rates vary depending on the loan type received. When needing quick funds to pay for an animal’s medical expense, a payday loan can provide peace of mind, knowing that the money is available to make sure the beloved pet receives proper care.

1.       Corn snakes. Corn snakes are the best kind of snake to keep as a pet. They are also very popular. Corn snakes don’t grow to be very long. In fact, they rarely get over six feet long. They have a very easy temperament and can be tamed. The best part is that corn snakes will actually eat frozen mice, so you don’t have to worry about feeding live rats to this snake.

2.       California Kingsnake. This is the most popular type of kingsnake. Adult kingsnakes will only get to be about four feet long, so you don’t have to worry about this snake getting too big. They are easily tamed and eat well. They also do really well in captivity.

3.       Gopher snakes. Some people like the gopher snake as a pet. Like the pets mentioned above, the gopher snake rarely get very big, averaging about six feet long. They do very well in a 4 foot by 2 foot cage and are generally very good eaters.

4.       Ball python. If you’ve got your heart set on a python, then the ball python is a good choice. They get to be about 5 feet long, which is plenty long for a pet snake. If you take good care of the snake, he will do quite well in captivity. Most ball pythons will live for at least 25 years. One thing that’s a little difficult about ball pythons is that they can be finicky eaters.

Believe it or not, snakes actually make great pets. Choose one of the above to see how fun snakes can be.

Pets are wonderful companions. When your child is feeling lonely or needs a friend, the family pet can fill the void. Pets need to be loved and played with, so your child will feel like there’s someone who needs them regularly. This can be especially helpful with younger children.

Pets also teach responsibility. Animals need to be taken care of. They need to be fed, given water, walked, and played with. You can a unique opportunity to teach your children responsibility when you have a family pet. Make it your child’s job to make sure the job is walked every day or that the fish is fed. You don’t have to do the work all alone! Enlist your children to teach them responsibility.

Pets can also encourage physical activity. If you have a dog as a family pet, then that dog is going to want to jump, run, and play. This is a great way to get your kids involved in physical activity and away from the video games. You can encourage your children to take the dog in the back yard and run around for a few minutes.

Pets can also help heal. If you have a child who is sick or an elderly parent living with you, watch to see how your family pet helps with the healing process. Animals have a unique way of bonding with humans. That bond has been proven to help heal.

If you are thinking about getting a family pet, consider the benefits mentioned here. Get a pet and help your children grow up with the fun of having an animal in the house.

1.       Watch your dog’s behavior. When you let your dog out to relieve himself, watch his particular behaviors. This will help you recognize the signs when your dog needs to be let out. Doing this one thing can significantly help reduce indoor accidents.

2.       When it’s time for your dog to go, take him directly to the place you have designated as the spot for relieving himself. Stay there until your dog has finished his business. This lets your dog know that this one spot is the only acceptable place to relieve himself.

3.       Be consistent. It’s the same as when you are potty training a child. Be persistent and keep at it. You don’t win the battle if you give up half way through.

4.       Be patient. Along with being consistent, you’re going to have to be patient. Make sure you have realistic expectations and give yourself and your dog a break when things don’t go exactly as planned.

5.       Implement rewards. One of the best tools for getting your dog house broken is to give him rewards, like a treat, for good behavior. When your dog relieves himself in the designated spot, give him a treat. When he lets you know it’s time to go outside, give him a treat. This will encourage the right behavior.

House training a dog is never easy, but it’s not impossible. Just keep at it!

Perhaps one of the biggest healing properties that a pet can bring is the cure for loneliness. More often than not, it’s not the cancer or the heart attack that prevents an elderly person from getting healthy – it’s loneliness. When a spouse dies, the other spouse is left alone and not sure how to care for their lives now. A pet comes in and fills that void that was once there by the spouse. Love is one of the best medicines in the world. Loving and caring for a pet can help heal heartache.

Pets also have the ability to calm and relax. When a patient is getting ready for a surgery, the pet can often calm nerves and relax the patient enough for surgery. The pet can take the patient’s mind off of the worry and anxiety that might be present.

Pets have a way with bonding with human beings. It’s this bond that helps facilitate the healing process and why pets are so often used as part of therapy in today’s world. The innocence and the love that radiates from an animal is truly one of the aspects that make them so special. Humans want to be a part of their world and pets want to be a part of the human’s world. Bonding with pets has a very powerful and real connection that can help heal emotional and physical problems.

1.       Dog. A dog tops our list of best pets. Your child is already running around the house, playing with other kids around the neighborhood, and having fun! Why not add a companion to the fun? Dogs are create for playing and having fun with. Many children develop very strong bonds with puts. There’s a reason why the saying, “man’s best friend” is true.

2.       Goldfish. For first time pet owners, you may want to ease yourself into the responsibility with goldfish. Goldfish can live for many years in cold water with very little care. Just remember to be careful about feeding your goldfish. Too much food, or the wrong type of food, will send your fish to a premature death.

3.       Cat. If a dog is on the list, then surely a cat will also make the list. Cats are warm and fluffy and generally very calm. Some cats tend to act a bit aloof, so they don’t require the same amount of attention that dogs do.

4.       Hamster. These small and furry animals are virtually harmless. They require some care, but it’s not more than most children can handle. If your family is gone a lot during the day for work and school, then hamsters are ideal. They are nocturnal animals, so they sleep during the day.

Pets are so great for children. They provide companionship and teach children responsibility. Now may be the perfect time to get your family a pet. Think about your family situation and then consider one of the pets mentioned above.

1.       Know about nutrition. Most categories for dog food will include: natural commercial diets, veterinary diets, premium dog food, generic food, and raw diets. Know the facts about all of these different nutrition options before you make your choice.

2.       Decide if you are going with wet or dry food. Make a decision based on the needs of your dog and then start doing some research on the best food companies.

3.       Read the labels. Just like you would when shopping for your own food, you need to read the labels. The label will give you information about the contents in the bag. You’ll want to look for companies that are exceeding the AAFCO guidelines  – that’s the American Feed Control Officials. Look for high-quality ingredients that are a human grade. You’ll want to steer clear of any foods that have chemical preservatives, and fillers like corn, soy, or wheat.

4.       Get recommendations. Perhaps one of the best ways to buy the right dog food is to ask others. Ask pet owners in your neighborhood what kinds of brands they prefer. You can tell by looking at a dog if the food is good for them or not, so go ahead and ask around for recommendations.

Getting your dog the proper nutrition is vital. Do some research, get recommendations, and then start taking good care of your dog.

1.        Dog. A dog is an obvious choice. After all, dog is man’s best friend! Dogs provide great companionship and help someone who is older to feel the need for responsibility. In order for pets to have health benefits for elderly people, the pet needs to be the kind that is walked, fed, and has adequate care. That’s why a dog is a great choice.

2.       Cat. Right up there with a dog, a cat is also a great choice. Cats need care and attention, but not quite as much as a dog would. Plus, cats are very warm and cuddly.

3.       Bird. Birds are only a good choice if you don’t mind the noise. If constant noises bother you, don’t get a bird. However, if you have a desire to teach a bird to talk or you don’t mind the noise, then a parrot is an excellent choice. Just be careful what you say around it, as parrots will pick up speech patterns.

4.       Bunny. A bunny is an excellent choice to have as a pet in the elderly years. Like the dog and the cat, they are great companions and require some care. However, a bunny doesn’t need the constant attention that a dog or a cat may need.

Getting a pet in your elderly years is a great idea. Consider these ideas and then head to the pet store!

1.       Ask for recommendations. You don’t want to choose a vet just because he was the first one listed in the phone book. Go ahead and ask friends and family who they take their beloved pet to for care.

2.       Call for a visit. You can call several veterinarian offices and ask to schedule a visit. Go ahead and look around and take a tour of the office to see if the environment is a good fit for you.

3.       Ask about qualifications. You’ll want to find out if the vet graduated from an accredited school and if he belongs to any professional organizations. You’ll also want to find out if he is affiliated with the humane society and if he offers referral services should your pet need them.

4.       Ask lots of questions. And then listen closely to the answers. You’ll want to make sure you ask specific questions about your pet’s care. Listen to the answers the vet and his staff give you and see if you are satisfied with their expertise.

5.       Make an appointment for your pet. You can also make an appointment to take your pet into the office to get acquainted with the doctor and the staff. This is a good way to see if your pet is going to be comfortable with this vet.

Choosing a veterinarian isn’t an easy experience, but it doesn’t have to be unpleasant. Go ahead and keep these tips in mind and then choose the best care for your pet.

Shelties might be mistaken for the popular Border Collie breed that was made famous by the television show Lassie. The Sheltie and the Border Collie have more in common than just similar looks. Both Collies and Shelties are excitable herding dogs that need plenty of activity and exercise. The main difference between the breeds is size. Shelties hale from the Shetland Islands. And just as there location would seemingly indicate, Shelties are a small breed.

The breed has been recognized by the English Kennel Club since the first decade of the 20th Century. Shelties generally weight between 10 to 30 pounds and are ideal for as either show dogs or pets. As a pet, Shelties are extremely loyal and crave attention. This intelligent breed needs plenty of human contact and activity. Luckily, the Sheltie is easy and willing to be trained. As a natural herder the breed enjoys work, so it is natural for Shelties to learn and perform tricks.

While the Sheltie is an ideal dog for a family with the time and willingness to provide their pet with plenty of activity, it might not be an ideal breed for more passive owners. Sheltie ranked as one of the most intelligent breeds according to research by Dr. Stanley Coren. It ranked 6th out of the more than 100 breeds tested. Coren found that Shelties could learn activities in less than five repetitions. The Sheltie was also eager to please. The breed would perform the trick 95 percent of the time that it was asked to repeat it during trials.

The active and intelligent Sheltie might be an ideal pet in a loving household.

Rendall and Bourke decided to standout in swinging London by purchasing a lion cub from Harrods. The famous London department store prided itself on carrying exotic fair and carrying a lion cub was part of the store’s stated mission of carrying anything that its customers would want. Harrods acquired the lion from a failing zoo, and after a night where he escaped his cage and damaged a section of the store the staff at Harrods was eager to place the big cat elsewhere. Rendall and Bourke stepped in and soon the one year old lion was on the London social scene.

The duo named the lion Christian, and Christian soon became the center of their lives. They enlisted friends to assist in his care and worked to integrate the lion into the world of London in 1969.

Despite their efforts Christian soon became too large to stay in an urban environment. Rendall and Bourke, who worked in a furniture store, also found that the cost of feeding a full grown lion was prohibitive. They decided to work with Kenyan based naturalist George Adamson to train Christian to return to the wild.

Adamson had be featured on the documentary Born Free. He had trained other lions to be released into the wild. Christian adapted slowly to his training, but he eventually became the only lion from his original training group to be released. While this story was spectacular enough, the reunion between Christian and his owners proved that the union between animals and humans defies conventional wisdom.

Byrne owned different snakes include a pet boa constrictor. The 34-year-old had been used to handling snakes, but his last time proved to be one time to many. While showing his boa constrictor to a friend, the snake wrapped around his neck and started to strangle him. After a few minutes he turned red and passed out. His friend called police, but by the time that officers responded he was passed out with the snake still wrapped around his neck. Byrne had no pulse when officers responded to the scene.

It took another round of responders to coax the snake off of Byrne, but the time that paramedics were able to attend to him it was too lake. Byrne was killed by his six-foot boa constrictor. Byrne is just the latest in a long line of pet owners who were dealt a lethal blow by associating with dangerous animals.

Although it is legal to own boa constrictors in the United States and in the state of Nebraska the danger of owning a creature that has displayed the ability to kill people was displayed by this case. Byrne was an experienced snake owner, and his ownership of the boa constrictor proved to be his undoing. Even the boa constrictor was deadly enough to kill a full grown man. The lesson should have been passed on to other individuals, but far deadlier animals are still owned and traded.

Man conquered animals long before, but even though being attacked by a snake or a large predator is almost inconceivable in an urban environment some people still choose to live with dangerous pets.

The 37 year old Pennsylvanian was cleaning the cage of her black bear when the fatal attack occurred. She had learned to trust the bear and turned her back to the animal when the tragic attack occurred. The bear turned on Walz, and she was discovered by a police after the fatal attack. It is believed that Walz entered the cage with the intent to clean it. She threw food at the animal to distract it and then turned around to clean the cage. Despite her good intentions to take care of her pet, the decision turned out to be fatal.

The black bear met its own demise soon after when a neighbor discovered that it had turned on Walz. He shot and killed the bear before calling for medical attention for his neighbor. His efforts proved to be too little to late. Walz succumbed to her injuries. This attack occurred even though she was experienced and licensed to work with exotic animals.

Walz had owned the black bear for almost nine years before it turned on her. She also owned and cared for a Bengal tiger and a lion. Despite seemingly owning more dangerous and exotic animals, the native bear proved to be her undoing. Despite the best efforts of this pet lover she was unable to tame wild animals. Her case is just one of many to show that keeping dangerous animals as pets provides an amble opportunity to risk the lives of the owners. Even experienced owners such as Walz proved to be easy fodder once their pets turned on them.

Have humans become so advanced that even the most dangerous animals are pets?

Some people have taken on the philosophy that any animal can be domesticated. For Ohio resident Alexandra Hall the belief that predators could be converted into pet proved to be more than a mistake. It proved to be her undoing.

Hall was bitten in her Cincinnati home in 2004 by a poisonous snake that she kept as a pet. The bite was fatal. Hall was known as an animal lover by her neighbors. She had a variety of animals at her home including dozens of other snakes, lizards and other reptiles. While it was known that she had many different animals in her home, her neighbors did not know that Hall housed poison snakes in her home.

An urutu pit viper is believed to be the snake that delivered the fatal blow to Hall. She died from a poisonous bite, but the urturu pit viper was not the only venomous snake that she housed. Hall had as many as nine poisonous snakes at her home. The poisonous snakes were housed in protective plastic residences. Other animals seemed to have a free pass to roam around her home.

After her death police and other human services found dozens of different reptiles hiding under piles of clothes and other clutter in her home. Non-venomous snakes lived under boxes. And the larger reptiles roamed the house as if they were cats and dogs.

Hall might not be the only person to own poisonous snakes as pets, but her cause is one of the latest in a series of people who owned pets that went back to there natural instincts during moments of weakness. Even though owning a rare and deadly snake might seem exotic, the case of Alexandra Hall proved that the situation could turn deadly in a manner of minutes.

For people who complain that their pets never interact with them the only pet that can talk back is often ignored. Birds have the ability to learn to speak simple words and phrases. While Polley want a cracker might be the standard quote presented in most cartoons, for people wanted someone or some bird to greet them upon arriving at home a parakeet, cockatiel or a parrot might be the best choice as a pet.

The best way to get a bird to talk is to get a bird that already talks. While it might not be the preferred choice there is no guarantee that a bird has the ability to talk. Purchasing a bird that already talks might cost a fortune. For many pet owners the prohibitive cost is not the only obstacle. Getting a bird to speak is a process that requires a lot of dedication and luck.

For pet owners seeking a bird that talks the best option might be to seek out one of the most able species. African Grey parrots are not only one of the most longest living species, but they are also one of the most intelligent. African Grey parrots are not only one of the most expensive birds, they are also one of the most expensive. For owners seeking a less expensive prospect other birds such as budgies or parakeets might fit the bill.

These birds are less expensive, but they might require more training than one of the more expensive species. Getting a bird to talk might take as much luck as skill. But for some pet owners the results are worth the patience.

For parents seeking out an inexpensive and safe exotic pet for their children then a bearded dragon might provide a fun and reliable companion. The ominous sounding lizard might look tough, but the dragons are ideal lizards to own as pets.

Native to Australia, bearded dragons are omnivorous eating only small insects and plants. Despite their appetites, bearded dragons never grow too large to become unmanageable. Dragons are known for their large triangular heads that are adored by pointed ridges on the sides. The natural attractiveness of this feature adds to the list of reasons to adopt a dragon as an interesting addition to any household.

While there are several reasons to own a bearded dragon, responsible owners need to understand how to take care of the lizard before making a decision to buy one. Dragons require a balanced diet that calls for copious amounts of chopped up green vegetables. Dragons also love to eat insects such as crickets, meal worms and wax worms. It is recommended that the insects should be gut loaded before feeding them to the dragon. Gut loading means feeding the insects a healthy meal before giving them to the dragon. An adult bearded dragon should be given insects at least once every other day. Without a properly maintained diet bearded dragons can suffer from malnutrition or develop potentially fatal ailments.

While a healthy and balanced diet is the most important part of caring for the lizard, providing the dragon with calcium and vitamin D3 supplement is also important. Without D3 and calcium added to their diet, bearded dragons can develop metabolic bone disease, which can prove fatal. The easiest way to feed the supplement to the dragon is to purchase a power that is sprinkled onto food. Adult dragons require the supplement about once a week with younger dragons needing it more often.

The first question that must be answered is what care does the animal require? Older children can and should be expected to take part in the care of a pet. For younger or immature children it is doubtful that care of the animal can be put in the hands of unreliable children. Do parents really want to add the responsibility of another mouth to feed and take care of? Some animals are very high maintenance and require specialized diets and a lot of exercise. Rather than add another animal that needs so much care that it invades other responsibilities parents need to base their pet decisions on something more than the pleas of children or how the animal looks in the store window. A sugar glider might be the cutest pet on the planet, but to expect a young child to take care of it would be a foolhardy at best decision. Pets should not be impulse purchases. The cute baby bunny bought on Easter grows up, and so does that little baby alligator purchased at a swap meet.

The second question that must be answered is how does the animal interact with the child? Is it safe? Does the animal like to be handled? If looking for an animal to cuddle with a fish or a bird is probably not the best choice. The personality of the animal has to match with the personality of the child otherwise even the cutest combination can turn volatile.

The inexpensive and unquestionably cute animals might seem like the perfect companion for the youngest members of the family. While hamsters and gerbils can eventually become trusted and easily handled pets, the process takes time and can involve plenty of missteps. Patience is required to get hamsters and gerbils to get used to being handled. And even if the animals are used to being held and snuggled, the handlers must be both gentle and able to tell the signs of when the animal is becoming frustrated.

Young children are not the best at being patience or showing restraint when handling animals. Both are also very adapt at escaping and are very difficult to get back after escaping from the grasp of a child. A gerbil or hamster might be lost for good if given the opportunity. These creatures are also nocturnal. When the kids are up and about during the day, their pet hamsters and gerbils will have little interest in interacting. And during the night the pets might be a loud distraction to keep kids awake. While “you get what you pay for” might be a cliché, it plays out with hamsters and gerbils.

The pets are inexpensive and easy to care for. They do not eat as much as dogs or cats, and their veterinarian bills are not as expensive. For all of these positives, these pets are difficult for young children to understand and play with. The cute pet might turn into an escapee or prove to be too temperamental for kids.

Rats might be some of the most hated creatures on the planet. In urban areas there are campaigns to rid cities of the rodents, which are portrayed as disease carries and nasty houseguests. Wild rat might create fearsome problems in cities. Rats are often blamed for the spread of disease, rats are thought to have spread the Black Death during the Middle Ages. Like any creature, properly cared for animals do not carry disease and rats are not naturally dirty or disease carries.

Rats also enjoy several characteristics that make them better than expected pets. Rats are highly sociable and very trainable. Rats form strong bonds with their owners and seem to enjoy being handled by people. Since rats are larger than hamsters or gerbils they are easier to handle and better pets for younger children.

Rats are similar to care for as their rodent cousins. They require a wire cage, water dispenser and toys to exercise with. A rodent wheel is ideal for a rat. Rats are also easy to feed. Pellet food can be purchased at most pet stores and a balance diet can give rats the nutrients necessary to be healthy and energetic pets. Although rats naturally bond with people, some pet experts recommend housing them with other rats.

When left alone for long stretches rats can become lonely and require companionship. While putting too rats together solves this problem it can quickly cause another problem if the rats are not the same sex. Rats quickly reproduce, and two rats will become six or more rats in a manner of weeks if owners are not careful.

The only drawback of rats might be appearance. The naked tail of rats might seem ugly to adults, but kids often find it to be an attractive feature. Rats might not seem like it, but they can be made into loyal pets.

Many animals are naturally inclined to live in packs or herds with a particular social order. The leader of a pack has been dubbed the “alpha” male. There may be an”alpha” female as well, depending on the species. Among wolves, the alpha male is the strongest, and maintains his position of authority by defeating all challengers in combat. Other males usually know better than to challenge the alpha male unless there is a very good possibility of defeating him and taking over the job. People who do not understand the nature of dogs may make some serious mistakes in training a puppy.

Don’t Treat a Puppy Exactly as You Would a Human Baby

If you think you can train a dog with only affection, and no discipline, you are in for disappointment. A puppy requires a lot of physical affection, but also needs boundaries. You have to be the alpha in the household, or the dog will assume that role, and make your life miserable. A dog owner must give commands and consistently insist that they be obeyed. Compliance may also be rewarded with treats and affection.

There are specific exercises you can use to teach your dog to submit to you as the alpha leader in the family. If you start with a puppy, and do it right, you will not have to retrain a dog that has assumed he is the alpha animal. Teach him to be submissive by handling him. He needs to know that he can trust you, and that it is safe to allow you to give him a belly rub. If you thought belly rubs were only a treat for a dog, you were only half right. A belly rub is a sign that the dog accepts you as the boss. You can get some more specific information about training dogs in books, and websites such as http://www.canismajor.com/dog/alpha1.html.

Place a large bucket (up to five gallons) near the aquarium for the water to drain into. Then fill the siphon hose with tap water and submerge both ends in the aquarium without letting any air in. Holding your thumb over the small end to prevent leakage, move it into the bucket, pointing upward, so that air cannot enter the hose as water drains from the tank. Remove your thumb, being careful not to let water spray outside of the bucket. The large end of the hose can then be moved around the bottom of the aquarium to suck waste out of the gravel. The large diameter should be sufficient to keep gravel from being suctioned out of the tank with the waste.

Before the bucket gets too full to lift, remove the siphon hose and empty the bucket into the garden or toilet. Refill the tank with spring water or tap water that has been treated to remove chlorine. If the water is too cold, heat part of it and mix well to match the temperature in the aquarium. This is a good way to change between 20 and 30 percent of the water at once. If you do not have a hose with a large diameter end, you may control the flow of water in a regular hose by pinching it, in order to keep from sucking up gravel.

Bettas are Territorial

The males are very territorial, and will attack any time they meet another male. For this reason, you may never keep two males in the same container. If you want a group of fish in an aquarium, bettas are not a good choice. In fact, male bettas are so aggressive, if you place them in containers next to each other, or even by a mirror, they will try to attack. It is best to place male bettas where they cannot see other males at all. If you have more than one female in a tank, they should have lots of hiding places, even though they are not as violent as males.

How to Care for Bettas

These fish are easy to care for. You must feed them once a day, or once every two days, and then only a small amount, and change their water regularly. This is one reason for their popularity; another reason is their brilliant colors. The males have the longest fins and brightest colors. Their name is often mispronounced. The first part should sound like the English word “bet”.

Allowing Cats to Roam Freely is Irresponsible

A twenty-something young lady who thought her male cat’s nighttime wandering was “cute”, was devastated when she found his body in the gutter where he had been run over by a car. It would have been much wiser to take him to a vet to get neutered, then to keep him inside. If you get a kitten from a friend, it is your responsibility to have it neutered or spayed, or you’ll be trying to give away kittens yourself, much sooner than you might expect.

Medical Care is Your Duty

If you adopt a pet, you are ensuring that it has its required vaccinations and is neutered or spayed. Thinking you can save the cost of these procedures by getting a kitten from a friend is inappropriate. However you get a cat, accept the responsibility for whatever costs may be involved, first of all for shots and birth control, and then for any veterinary care that may be required later. As far as unwanted, abused pets are concerned, you can be a part of the solution, not an unwitting contributor to the problem.

Play with Your Cat

Cats have distinct personalities, and you can help your cat develop by positively interacting, and playing with it. A cat that bonds to you will be easier to care for and will give you much more joy than one that ignores you because you did not take the time to become well acquainted to begin with.

Being natural diggers, hamsters will not give up pushing against any part that seems to have the slightest range of motion, until it comes loose, and then goodbye hamster. Rodents teeth are constantly growing, and they will chew on anything that will fit between their teeth, until it gives way. If you have a metal cage, doors need to be secured with latches that cannot be chewed, such as small metal padlocks.

Catching an Escapee

If your hamster does escape, there are things you can do to get it back in its cage. First of all, be sure there are no food sources in your home that it can rely on instead of the dish in the cage. A hamster or gerbil can live for months in a house (assuming you don;t have a cat) if it has a way to get food and water. If their only food source is in the cage, leave the door open, and if you;re really luck, the wayward rodent will return. Then all you have to do is catch it there and close and lock the door.

You can also track them by their droppings. If you have doors that can be kept closed tightly, with no gap underneath, you may at least be able to keep missing animals in one room, if the doors are secure at the time the critter gets out. Hamsters that are used to being handled are also easier to catch, so play with your pets regularly.

If you don’t have time to walk a dog every day, or even to feed fish, a reptile might be your ideal pet. Corn snakes, named because the patterns on their skin resemble maize, are low maintenance, if you have the right equipment.

First of all, you need to keep any snake in a secure cage, with latches that cannot fail. Snakes will not try to escape as aggressively as hamsters or other mammals, but you do need to be sure that their enclosures are not going to fail to keep them inside. A snake can go places in a house or apartment that many other pets cannot fit, and finding and extracting them from inside walls and ducts may be practically impossible.

A corn snake needs a water container in its enclosure, as well as a basking lamp and shelter. Reptiles regulate their body temperature by moving in and out of sunlight. You can set the lamp on a timer so that it automatically comes on in the morning and goes off at night. The snake can choose to lie under the warming rays of the lamp, or in the shade of a tunnel or pile of bark, depending on whether it needs to be warmed or cooled.

Corn Snake Diet

One especially nice thing about snakes is that they don’t need to be fed every day. Eating once every week or two is sufficient for most corn snakes. They eat frozen rats or mice. You keep the food in the freezer, then thaw one to room temperature when it is feeding time. Snakes kept as pets are not normally given live rodents, because a desperate mouse or rat might injure a snake that is not accustomed to hunting aggressively.

When your corn snake is not hungry or molting, you may enjoy holding it. A snake doesn’t require being handled, but will allow you to do so.

If they are properly provided for, fish can live year-round in a pond in the back yard, and will be a wonderful asset to your property. If you live in an area where it gets cold in winter, there are certain steps you need to take in order for your fish to thrive.

One solution is to keep them in an indoor tank for the winter. If you prefer to leave them outdoors, a few items need to be taken care of. Goldfish can live under ice, but a pond should not be allowed to freeze completely. A pond heater can be used to maintain a portion of surface area that is free of ice. Some people use a stock heater, which ranchers use to keep water for livestock from freezing during cold weather. A stock heater may be more expensive, but also more dependable, and increased durability may mean an increase in cost-effectiveness.

Keeping the pond clean is still important, and if leaves from deciduous trees fall in your pond, you will need to remove them. You can make that task easier by covering the pond with a large piece of nylon or polyester netting before the leaves fall, eliminating the need to painstakingly scoop leaves out of the water with a hand net.

Avoid Frost Damage to Equipment

You may need to turn off the water circulation system, whether it is a waterfall, fountain or stream, during the cold months. You should take pumps indoors, or at least be sure they are completely drained, so they will not be damaged by freezing water. Since water expands as it freezes, this could cause some expensive problems. Stopping water circulation in cold weather does not endanger the fish because they are less active at this time of year. Fish do not need to eat as much during the winter months, so you will not normally need to feed them.

A puppy is like a baby, requiring almost constant attention. It cannot be left home alone all day. It must be fed and housebroken, and will need several hours of interaction with a human or another animal each day. To keep an animal and deprive it of this attention is abuse, and must not be allowed.

Abdication of Responsibility

Regular feeding and exercise is a must. When children beg for a dog, and promise that they will take it for a walk every day, and clean up after it, parents probably know their children well enough to know whether this promise will be kept. If not, the responsibility falls on the parent. Even adult children have been known to dump the care of a dog on their parents. They start out giving the dog everything that is required, then move into an apartment where animals are not allowed, or just decide that other parts of their lives outrank the dog in priority, so the dog is given to the parents. Of course the parents then bond with the dog, and it becomes a part of the family, and things turn out well, though not as planned.

When you take full responsibility for the needs of a dog, never missing the daily feeding and play, it will bring great joy into your life. Veterinary care, and pet-sitting or boarding for when you travel (if you can’t take a dog with you) are essential, and you won’t mind the burden of arranging and paying for these services because you love your dog.

A popular feature of many modern gardens is a backyard pond stocked with beautiful fish. If you have the time and resources to set up and maintain such a pond, it can be a source of great enjoyment to you and your visitors.

Some Required Features of a Successful Pond

A pond can be made of concrete, but a vinyl or fiberglass pond that is premade and placed in a hole and leveled will do. Be sure your pond is deep enough to keep fish safe from predators such as cats and raccoons. If the pond is at least four feet across, and three feet deep in the center, the fish will have a place to swim out of reach of danger. You must also provide for motion of the water. A pump with a fountain, waterfall or stream will serve to keep the water circulating and dissolving oxygen from the atmosphere. Water plants, such as lily pads and water hibiscus add beauty and give the fish places to hide, as well as an additional source of food and oxygen. If you live in an area where freezing temperatures occur, you will need a heater for winter. It doesn’t have to prevent ice entirely, but just keep one area from icing over, to protect the fish.

Stocking Your Pond

You may buy expensive koi, or you may use “feeder” goldfish. In Japanese, the word “koi” simply means “carp”, and includes fancy fish as well as wild carp. Feeder fish are sold as food for turtles and other fish, and often only cost a few cents. They can grow surprisingly large over several years in an outdoor tank. A small (less than two inches) goldfish that could have been fed to a cichlid, but is instead released into a backyard pond may be six inches long after several years. Tropical fish that require constant tropical temperatures are not a good choice for an outdoor pond.

Floating Plastic Breeders

These are compartments made of clear hard plastic, with narrow slits that allow tank water to circulate, without allowing fish to get through. Air compartments at each end allow them to float in your aquarium. A set of bars with wider openings is placed near the bottom of the breeder to allow newborn fry to get away from the mother. A lid keeps adult fish from jumping into or out of the breeder. Just place a pregnant female in the breeder, and as the young are born, they move through the grate to the bottom, where they are safe from the mother. When the mother has finished giving birth, you may place her back in the tank with the rest of the adult fish, and the babies remain in the breeder tank until they are big enough to not be threatened by the other fish.

Care of Baby Fish

You can get special food that is small enough for tiny fry to eat, until they are able to eat the same food as the other fish in the tank. By protecting and feeding fry, you can maintain a population of fish without having to purchase replacements for those that die. You can even give fish to your friends.