What To Know Before Boarding Your Dog

Dog boarding is a safe way to make sure your pet pooch is looked after when you decide to take a vacation. Ordinary kennels serve a purpose but if there's no one to take care of your dog then you have little choice in the matter.

Dog boarding services make things easier for pet owners by ensuring that dogs are well-looked after, bathed, groomed and fed. For a fee, you can rest easy knowing that your beloved pet is in safe hands. Be wary of unknown boarding services, however, and always make sure they're licensed and have been in the business for at least a few years.

A physical visit to a boarding home will allay any fears you have about the welfare of a pet. Look for well-kept grounds, clean and large kennels, cordial staff and toys for stimulation. Dogs, more than cats, have difficulty staying away from their masters and you want to make sure that they don't pine while you're away. Upscale homes have a range of facilities to keep dogs occupied as well as luxurious pet beds and spa treatments. They're expensive though so consider them only if you can afford to.

Aside from a tour of the place, ask questions regarding activities. Overcrowded boarding homes are a disaster because the ratio of pets and staff is severely unbalanced. The home you choose should let dogs out for walks at least twice a day or more and not only for a few minutes. Pets that are used to the outdoors may have difficulty adjusting to the strict schedule and this is something you want to clarify with the authorities.

Illness and injuries come with the territory of having a pet and dogs are surprisingly susceptible to sickness despite their large frames. If your dog falls ill or gets injured, you want to make sure it's well cared for. Some homes may have in-house vets and those that don't usually tie up with veterinary hospitals. If your dog is overly suspicious of strangers, you should consider asking if it can be taken to your vet for treatment.

Interaction between animals is healthy if they get along. But if your dog is not up to date on his vaccines, is timid or aggressive, it can be risky. Ask the authorities whether interaction is allowed and if so, whether it's monitored. Experienced dog handlers can prevent pets from getting into squabbles and reputed boarding homes usually staff them.

Dogs aren't fussy eaters by nature but yours may have food allergies or need to be put on a special diet. Speak with the service about this and ask if provisions can be made to cater to its diet. Also enquire about additional charges.

As for cost, much depends on how reputable the home is and the facilities and luxuries provided. Get estimates of at least three boarding homes after taking a thorough tour of each.

Before leaving your pet in the care of a boarding home, write down a list of to-do's mentioned above. Personal items like snacks and toys may be permitted but you might now be allowed to take too many. Don't forget to give the authorities your contact details and make notes of any instructions or specifications regarding your pet. Stress the importance of being notified in case something unfortunate happens.

Dog boarding kennels in Perth make things easier for pet owners by ensuring that dogs are well looked after, bathed, groomed and fed. So if you are interested in learning more about the same, visit this website before giving it a second thought.

Animal Self-Medication: Do Wild Animals Heal Themselves?

What do wild animals do when they get sick? Unlike domestic pets, animals in the wild have no access to the range of treatments provided by owners or vets. Do wild animals know how to heal themselves?

Growing scientific evidence indicates that animals do indeed have knowledge of natural medicines. In fact, they have access to the world's largest pharmacy: nature itself. Zoologists and botanists are only just beginning to understand how wild animals use plant medicines to prevent and cure illness.

There's a name for it

The emerging science of Zoopharmacognosy studies how animals use leaves, roots, seeds and minerals to treat a variety of ailments. Indigenous cultures have had knowledge of animal self-medication for centuries; many folk remedies have come from noticing which plants animals eat when they are sick. But it is only in the last 30 years that zoopharmacognosy has been scientifically studied. Biologists witnessing animals eating foods not part of their usual diet, realized the animals were self-medicating with natural remedies.

When a pregnant African elephant was observed for over a year, a discovery was made. The elephant kept regular dietary habits throughout her long pregnancy but the routine changed abruptly towards the end of her term. Heavily pregnant, the elephant set off in search of a shrub that grew 17 miles from her usual food source. The elephant chewed and ate the leaves and bark of the bush, then gave birth a few days later. The elephant, it seemed, had sought out this plant specifically to induce her labor. The same plant (a member of the borage family) also happens to be brewed by Kenyan women to make a labor-inducing tea.

Chimps take their medicine

Not only do many animals know which plant they require, they also know exactly which part of the plant they should use, and how they should ingest it. Chimpanzees in Tanzania have been observed using plants in different ways. The Aspilia shrub produces bristly leaves, which the chimps carefully fold up then roll around their mouths before swallowing whole. The prickly leaves 'scour' parasitical worms from the chimps intestinal lining.

The same chimps also peel the stems and eat the pith of the Vernonia plant (also known as Bitter leaf). In bio-chemical research, Vernonia was found to have anti-parasitic and anti-microbial properties. Both Vernonia and Aspilia have long been used in Tanzanian folk medicine for stomach upsets and fevers.

It is only the sick chimpanzees that eat the plants. The chimps often grimace as they chew the Vernonia pith, indicating that they are not doing this for fun; healthy animals would find the bitter taste unpalatable.

Nature's pharmacy for all

Wild animals won't seek out a remedy unless they need it. Scientists studying baboons at the Awash Falls in Ethiopia noted that although the tree Balanites aegyptiaca (Desert date) grew all around the falls, only the baboons living below the falls ate the tree's fruit. These baboons were exposed to a parasitic worm found in water-snails. Balanites fruit is known to repel the snails. Baboons living above the falls were not in contact with the water-snails and therefore had no need of the medicinal fruit.

Many animals eat minerals like clay or charcoal for their curative properties. Colobus monkeys on the island of Zanzibar have been observed stealing and eating charcoal from human bonfires. The charcoal counteracts toxic phenols produced by the mango and almond leaves which make up their diet.

Some species of South American parrot and macaw are known to eat soil with a high kaolin content. The parrots' diet contains toxins because of the fruit seeds they eat. (Even the humble apple seed contains cyanide.) The kaolin clay absorbs the toxins and carries them out of the birds' digestive systems, leaving the parrots unharmed by the poisons. Kaolin has been used for centuries in many cultures as a remedy for human gastrointestinal upset.

Survival of the medicated

So, how do animals know how to heal themselves? Some scientists believe that evolution has given animals the innate ability to choose the correct herbal medicines. In terms of natural selection, animals who could find medicinal substances in the wild were more likely to survive. Other observations have shown that, particularly among primates, medicinal skills appear to be taught and learned. Adult females are often seen batting their infant's hand from a particular leaf or stem as if to say "No, not that one."

Wild animals don't rely on industrially produced synthetic drugs to cure their illnesses; the medicines they require are available in their natural environment. While animals in the wild instinctively know how to heal themselves, humans have all but forgotten this knowledge because of our lost connection with nature. Since wild animals have begun to be observed actively taking care of their own wellbeing, it raises questions of how we approach healthcare with natural remedies, not just for ourselves but for our companion and farm animals too.

Gary Le Mon is a Board Certified Master Herbalist specializing in natural home remedies for dogs and cats. Please visit Natural-Wonder-Pets.com for free and useful information on 100% natural, herbal, veterinary/naturopathic remedies you can use to heal your furry friends. See also Herbs for Cats and Dogs

Chincilla Care - Take the Right Step Forward

Now that you have a cute little Chinchilla in your home, make sure that you take good care of it. These little animals are very active and need extra attention, unlike the case of other pets like cats or dogs. Chinchilla care should begin with providing your new guest with proper accommodation. A good cage should be therefore, your topmost priority. Best thing is to go in for a cage with multiple levels, since these Chinchillas are known to jump around a lot and need ample space to play. Remember, to ensure that the cage is kept cool enough for Chinchillas hate heat. A nice, cozy bed is another thing that your little pet will need. It is always advisable that you use pine or cedar shavings as bedding, as they are a healthy option and won't cause skin problems.

If you have a Chinchilla at home, you are bound to cuddle it. While there is nothing wrong with cuddling them, you need to be careful enough to slide your hand under their belly while doing so. No tight squeezes for they are very slender built. The next most important aspect to remember as part of the Chinchilla care routine is their food. You just need to visit your local pet food store to get the stuff. It is preferable that you talk to an experienced vet for they can help you with preparing the right menu for your beloved pet. Now that you have taken care of food, changing drinking water on a daily basis is the next most important thing to take care off. Make sure that you are sterilizing the bottle whenever you are changing water. Remember, harmful bacteria and viruses present in unclean water can wreak havoc with their health.

Hygiene is a word that you need to remember whenever you are dealing with Chinchillas. First and foremost is the upkeep of the cage. Use hot water with a little soap to keep them clean. A dust bath for a few minutes once or twice a week should also be high on your agenda, for otherwise oils can build up on the coats of your little Chinchilla. Providing ample opportunity to exercise is one more important thing that you need to remember. An exercise wheel inside the cage would make an excellent companion to your pet. These little creatures are very active animals and you can also let them out of the cage for a while daily.

A lot of thought should go into Chinchilla care. Make sure that you provide these active animals with all the necessary comfort which will ensure that they make for excellent pets.

Pets Help People Heal

Pets help people too when they are given the chance to do so. Many people are not aware that a lot of animals, mainly pets, are able to help people to heal in different ways. In many parts of the world we are discovering that pets are just 'not pets'. They are much more. They are a part of the family and the unit in whole.
Dogs have become the biggest helper of people. Many of which have come into the workforce without complaint. They are always willing to help no matter what job or challenge awaits them. Working dogs do not have to be any one specific breed as many would think. I have known some kindly mutts who were good enough to take time out of their busy day to help a child in need of a friend or a senior citizen just wanting to relax and be with an animal companion.
Some dogs have gone into our nations' armed forces. They help the men and women protect our land while in other countries. Many have come back with medals of honor and were able to retire upon their return.
Other dogs have taken to the streets helping their fellow officers when in need. They have become 'heroes' in their own right. They have also worked with the fire departments serving as a mascot and at times helping in rescue efforts.
Having a great 'sniffer', their nose of course, is a big deal in their world. They have helped track a lot of people who were under snow from avalanches. They have also helped find those who were in a building collapse or just plain 'stuck' somewhere. They are able to find those who may be lost. They also help us in our school systems. They are able to smell things that we cannot and therefore are good for tracking a lot of different things.
Dogs in the medical field have been trained to help the blind, to know when someone is going to have a seizure or any kind of medical emergency which may require assistance, and they have even been said to be able to sniff out cancer. Along with dogs, cats and birds have also helped out when it comes to senior citizens, the disabled and the mentally and/or physically handicapped.
This said, other animals have also come into the healing path. Some people have even been more relaxed and happier just by being able to see and watch animals that are in the wild. In theory, it doesn't really matter the kind of animal, the breed or the color. They can all help us heal in different ways within our world today

How to Tell When You Need Horse Wormers

Worms are a very common parasite in your horse's system, which is why it is crucial to give your horse a worming treatment with horse wormers on a regular basis. Most horses will have a small population of worms within them all of the time which they can tolerate easily, but it is when the worm population grows when the health of your horse in is danger. How can you tell if your horse is suffering from an infestation of worms?
Here are a few simple tips for getting proper confirmation: 
Check Your Horse's Stool
When you take a look at the droppings your horse leaves behind, they should mostly consist of hay. However, if there are worms present in the system they will climb to the top of the
pile and lay there. This makes them very easy to spot. Appearance Clues
If your horse is suffering from an infestation of worms you will also see a difference in its appearance. Its coat will start to look more dull and drab and patches will develop. 
Another appearance change is that your horse's stomach will start to look large and bulging while the rest of its body appears slimmer. This is usually a sure sign that your horse is having a problem with worms. 
Also, take a look at your horse's gums; they might appear pale which is a result of poor blood circulation and another symptom of a worm infection. 
Behavioural Clues 
There will also be a few changes in behaviour which should give you some clues that your horse is suffering from worms. Your horse will show a lack of energy and will start to act lethargic and slow. You might also see it eating a lot more than usual, because the worms will be taking away all of the food nutrients and it is trying to compensate. This is a sure sign that you need to purchase horse wormers right away. 
The worms will make your horse's bottom itchy as well, so watch to see if it is rubbing itself on things or looking bothered and uncomfortable. 
If you determine that your horse has worms from these symptoms, it is important to get them treated by a vet right away. Worms can make your horse very sick if they are left untreated. You will need to find yourself the appropriate horse wormers for sale and administer the appropriate dose to your horse along the schedule recommended by your veterinarian.
A regular programme of equine wormers will prevent your horse from becoming re-infested with worms again. Make sure that you always give the correct dose and that you use weigh tape in order to get an accurate measure of your horse's weight. It is also important to rotate your horse to a different paddock so that the other can be cleaned to break the cycle of re-infection. 
Taking care of the heath of your horse is very important. There are just a few symptoms to look out for when determining whether or not your horse has a serious worm problem and needs horse wormersA

Do Dogs and Cats Needs Their Teeth Cleaned? YES!

One of the more frequent conversations I have with pet owners before or during a teeth cleaning procedure (or dental treatment procedure) is about having to extract teeth. Usually it goes something like this:

Doctor: "Pet owner, your pet has multiple teeth with end stage periodontal disease. Unfortunately, there is nothing I can do to fix this, so I need to extract X number of teeth"
Pet Owner: "Oh no! Why so many? Do you have to? How is he going to eat? Will he be in pain?"
Doctor: "Yes, there may be some discomfort, but actually the teeth that are diseased are already causing pain. We will treat the discomfort of extractions with medicine at home after the procedure. He will eat fine, but you may need to soften the food for a week or two. We have to take out the teeth because the disease has progressed too far and there's nothing else we can do."

You may wonder why I'm writing an article about this. I'm hoping to explain a little bit about the mouths of dogs and cats, and the reason why we have to perform extractions, so that it may not be a big shock if your pet needs teeth extracted.
I have heard comments about "vets who likes to extract teeth." Actually, that's not the case; most of us prefer not to. If there are no teeth to extract that would mean that there isn't disease present and your pet is healthier. Extracting teeth is sometimes hard work. Most animal professionals prefer to prevent extractions. The fact of the matter is that most animal patients haven't had the dental care needed to prevent extractions, and by the time I perform a dental treatment procedure it is too late.

Let's think about how we take care of our own teeth. When we are children we are taught how to brush our teeth well before the permanent teeth develop. Then we continue that oral hygiene regimen, usually twice daily, often floss daily, and visit out dentist once or twice a year. We have very clean teeth and periodontal disease is avoided. Humans need all their teeth to chew because we grind our food and cannot swallow it whole, so proper oral hygiene is important to prevent tooth loss. We only have 32 teeth (28 if you've had your wisdom teeth removed), so it's necessary to keep them all healthy.

Now let's contrast what happens with our pets. Most pet owners don't realize that their dog or cat has baby teeth and lose them. Sometimes dogs will not lose all of their baby teeth, and if your vet doesn't notice this, (or if your pet isn't taken in to the vet) those extra baby teeth can cause problems. Most pets will have all of their permanent teeth present by 6 months of age. Dogs have 42 teeth (that's a lot!) and cats have 30 teeth. After 6 months of age tooth brushing should begin, but many pet owners don't do this because they've never had instruction or been told to, and many pets resist it. So if a pet is lucky, they get their teeth brushed occasionally, like when they go to the groomer. It's inevitable that plaque and tartar will accumulate and cause gingivitis. Plaque, tartar and gingivitis wouldn't be a big problem if the pet was given a professional, anesthetized dental cleaning once it started to accumulate. But for a number of reasons this doesn't always happen, so eventually that plaque causes gum and bone damage and loosening of the teeth. Now we have end stage periodontal disease, which requires extractions.

Luckily dogs and cats don't need teeth to eat. They don't grind their food like we do, and we can prepare food for them that's in small bites and soft enough to just swallow whole. In fact, many dogs and cats who have no teeth at all still eat dry food! It's not a terrible thing to extract bad teeth, in fact it usually makes the pet feel quite a bit better. Many clients tell me that after having diseased teeth removed their dog is more active, acting like a puppy again, and is eating better.

Pet owners need to understand that tooth extractions are an unfortunate fact of dental treatment procedures for most pets. However, extractions can be avoided if pet owners will take the necessary steps to try to prevent dental disease. These preventative steps include regular visits for dental health evaluations, regular (daily) tooth brushing, and regular anesthetized dental cleanings.

Author Sarah Bashaw can be reached at El Dorado Animal Hospital, a full service, state-of-the-art veterinary clinic designed with client comfort and patient care in mind.

Canine Eyes

"An animal's eyes have the power to speak a great language", Martin Buber. Not all people love dogs or not even close to liking them. But some change their minds after some close encounters with the canine kinds. After all, they would not be called as man's best friend for nothing. There must have been things or events consistently happening to different kinds of people from all over the world (and under) that has made this adage so socially accepted.

There was once a story of a mother who hates it when dogs come near her. Belonging to a family who adores dogs, she tolerates her coexistence with them but takes no particular liking on owning them herself. She got married to a guy who shares her sentiment (could be the reason why they got married in the first place!). But their furry friend just wouldn't let go until their hearts are softened. It happened when their eldest daughter cajoled them into giving her permission to adopt a dog on her apartment where she was staying. On one of their visits to her apartment, the dog, though they were strangers to him, couldn't be as sweeter and as playful to the couple as to their daughter. They were so touched by the closeness of the two (the dog and their daughter) that they decided to extend their stay and try liking this mysterious dog as well. To their astonishment, it wasn't so bad after all. With his chocolate brown eyes that always seem to want to play and with all his sweetness, he won their hearts. All it took was constant staring at those eyes and alas, they started adoring him as well. 

The idea that the eyes are indeed the windows of the soul couldn't be truer than in this case. Dogs may not have souls but they act as though they do have one. What's worse is when a person acts as though he has no soul when he has one! This is one of the reasons why there are those who prefer dogs as their companions rather than getting a wife or a husband or maybe adopt a child. When they need silence, the comfort they get just by walking along side with their dogs or blankly staring at the wall, sitting on the sofa beside their dogs (as seen on movies), is incomparable. It so soothes their minds that they wouldn't exchange their dogs for a possibly nagging wife. Sometimes, just looking at the eyes of their pet dogs give them the comfort they need, for their eyes never lie (they don't know how anyway). For whatever language the eyes of the dogs speak of, they indeed bring comfort to those who need it, and that's as invaluable as a priceless gold.

Pet Boots and Shoes

Why dogs need pet boots and shoes 
In the winter time, especially in snowy areas, cities often put down chemical de-icers as well as salt on pavement. If you walk your dog on this pavement, his paws will become covered with this salt and chemicals. This causes problems for many dogs. Their paws can chafe and crack. You can use emollients on their paws to help them heal.
You can also use paw wax to help toughen the paws. And you need to wash your dog's paws when he walks on pavements where these chemicals are found. Do not let your dog lick his paws after he has been walking on pavement in the winter until they have been washed. These chemicals can be dangerous for your dog. You can also put pet boots or shoes on your dog when you walk him so you can keep his paws free of these chemicals. Boots and shoes will keep the salt and chemicals off your dog's paws so they won't crack and they will prevent your dog from ingesting the chemicals. 
In the summer, dogs who walk on hot pavement can appreciate wearing boots or shoes to keep their paws from getting too hot. Rain boots can also be a good idea if you want to keep your dog's paws dry. 
Senior dogs with arthritis or other mobility problems can often have trouble walking because they can't get enough traction on the floor. This is especially true if you have hardwood floors. If you put pet boots or shoes on your dog's paws, especially on his rear paws, it will often provide the traction he needs so he can walk again.
Some hunting dogs wear boots or shoes if they will be hunting in tough terrain that could injure their paws.  Of course, there are many boots and shoes that are made for fashion reasons. You can always buy them for your dog just because they look good.

Choosing boots and shoes 
Pet boots and shoes usually come in small, medium, and large sizes. You should choose the size that's appropriate for your dog. Some boots and shoes have Gore-tex or other gripping soles. These boots and shoes would be especially good for dogs that need good traction.
There are several good brands of dog boots and shoes. You can find them online or in pet stores. Brands include Guardian Gear, UltraPaws, and Muttluks. Some dog boots and shoes come in four-packs and some come in two-packs. Boots and shoes tend to be rather expensive but they do last a while.
Your dog may have trouble walking in the boots or shoes at first or try to remove them but most dogs quickly adjust to them. Elderly dogs should adapt and become more mobile as soon as they realize they can get their footing again.

Trimming Your Dachshund's Nails

I hear it time and again, "I won't trim my dachshund's nails because I can't handle the possibility of hurting him." With a little knowledge and patience, it will be a much less scary process for both of you. Your dog will pick up on your emotions, so the more nervous you are, the more nervous your dog will be. So take a breath, relax, and read this article.
  One grooming step that all dogs need is to have their nails trimmed regularly. This should be started right away when they are just weeks old. That is the responsibility of the breeder to get them used to the process. Depending on when the breeder will let their puppies go home, their nails should have been trimmed at least two or three times already. If you have found a good breeder, they will be handling their puppies all of the time anyway, so they should be well socialized and not afraid of having their nails trimmed. If your dog has not been properly socialized and is skittish when you try to trim their nails, you can slowly get them used to being handled for a trim. When you are sitting or lying with your dog, touch and hold their feet, one at a time, just so they can get used to you handling their paws. This process can go on for weeks before they are comfortable. When you start trimming your dachshund's nails, just take the tips off so there is very little chance of cutting too short. 
 You will need to make some plans before you decide to trim your dachshund's nails. One of these is what kind of trimmer to use. I do not recommend the use of a guillotine type trimmer as these are trickier to use and the nails can catch if your dog decides to move their foot at the wrong time.
The trimmer I like to use is the basic bypass trimmer, not a guillotine type. There are wide varieties to choose from, so pick the one you feel most comfortable with. Nail grinders are available, but they can be loud and it takes longer this way. It does leave a nice smooth surface; however, I would only recommend this for experienced groomers. 
 You should also buy some styptic powder while you are getting your trimmer. Even professional groomers and veterinarians will sometimes get the nail trimmed too short and the nail can start to bleed. The styptic powder will act as a clotting agent and will stop the bleeding fast. To use the powder, pinch some styptic in between your pointer finger and your thumb, gently grab your dog's foot with your other hand, and push the powder onto the bleeding nail and hold it there for 15 to 30 seconds. This should successfully stop the bleeding. If it still bleeds through, put more powder on the nail until it does stop bleeding. 
 If you have someone who can help you hold your dog while you do the trimming, that would be great. Since the dachshund's legs are short and do not stretch or bend as easily as other breeds, I recommend that your partner holds your dog vertically against their chest while supporting their but. Definitely use two hands! That way their paws are out front and easier to access. 
 Start by gently but firmly holding your dog's paw. Pushing softly on the pad of each toe will set the nail out further to give you better access to the nail. If your dog has white nails, you should be able to see where the quick is and trim the nail just a bit longer than the quick. If your dog has dark nails, you will want to start out a little further and trim off small bits until you get close enough that you can just barely see a lighter color on the inside of the nail. That means you are getting close to the quick. You should also be able to see how your dog's nail starts to curve just after the quick ends. That is a good guide on where to start trimming. Most dogs will still have their dew claws on their front feet, occasionally; a dog will have them on their back feet also. Do not forget to trim these dew claws every time. These claws can easily curve around and dig into your dog's leg if they get too long. 
If you go into this with confidence and patience, you will have a much better experience and your dog will be more comfortable and easier to handle. After just a few times, you will wonder why you were so worried in the first place.

Simple Tips To Help You Choose The Right Kittens For Sale

Twenty years is a very long time and very few people can live with the same person or animal for so long. Twenty years, what am I talking about? This is the expected lifespan of a cat. While these animals are not loved by many people, kittens for sale happens to be so sweet and cuddly and this happens to be the reason why many people make the wrong decision when choosing a lifelong partner. The deception only becomes clear after a few months when these furry little creatures begin to grow and their owners learn about their own little ways and personal behavior. Never be deceived by the way a kitten looks and some of the things you think about when purchasing puppies for sale comes into play when you are thinking to buy a kitten. 
Kittens for sale and how to choose the right one 
When buying a kitten, many people focus on one thing and one thing alone and that is how adorable and fluffy the kitten is. While this method can be used, if you are going to choose a kitten based on its outward appearance, you will need to do some things in order for you to maintain that beauty. A Moggy, for instance, requires daily brushing and grooming to keep them looking beautiful and it is advised that you only invest in one of these cats if you have the time to brush them on a daily basis. While you can choose kittens for sale base on their look, it is strongly advised that you do not because you cannot tell what traits they will have simply by looking on them. 
Once you have overlooked a kitten's outward appearance, you need to think about the environment that you will have the cat living in. Did you know that aggression in cats oftentimes come from the environment that they live in? Hard to believe but true; a gentle, friendly cat can inherit its genes from its mother or father but in most cases, these cats are the way they are because they grow around soft gentle people. When looking for kittens for sale, it is best to go with ones that have been in a situation where over four people have had a hand in their life thus far. 
This tip is recommended because kittens need to interact with a number of people in order for them to be friendly. If the kitten that you are buying has only been socialized with one or two humans, it will be very hard breaking it otherwise because the first two to seven weeks are the most crucial period in every cat's life. During this period, kittens learn most of their traits that will take them through the duration of their life.
When choosing kittens for sale, it is crucial that you take your household and lifestyle into consideration. Kittens that are confident and very outgoing will settle well in busy households and large families. Take your other family members into consideration as well and if you have children and other pets, keep in mind that it will take some time for the kittens to get use to them; therefore, you will need to be patient and gentle with your new kittens.

Canine Addison's Disease

Did you just get back from the veterinarian with a diagnosis that your dog has Canine Addison's disease? Did you say, "What in the world is that?" Maybe he even explained, but you're still unsure of what this diagnosis means to you and your pet. In this article you will see that, while dangerous, this condition can be treated and your pet can enjoy a long and healthy life.
Canine Addison's disease, also known as canine hypoadrenocorticism, is a condition in which the adrenal gland does not produce sufficient amounts of hormones. This is seen especially in case of dogs. Glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids are the two types of hormones deficient with Addison's disease. Glucocorticoids (cortisol) regulates numerous systems in the body and deals with stress. Potassium and sodium are regulated by mineralocorticoids (aldosterone).

Some of the common signs and symptoms of this disease include 
- anorexia or weight loss 
- diarrhea or constipation. 
- more water consumption and urination.
- lack of appetite and lethargy. 
- low blood pressure, slow heart beat. 
- vomiting and muscle weakness. 
- hyperpigmentation. 


Symptoms way worsen during different times, but when left undiagnosed and improperly treated, it causes a severe health crisis. Primary confirmation of the Addison's disease is done by laboratory analysis which includes a complete blood count, serum cortisol concentration and serum chemistry profile. Common hematological findings with the disease includes lymphocytosis and eosinophilia. Addison's disease can be diagnosed by a series of blood tests. Adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test will give a definitive diagnosis for the disease. This test measures the levels of cortisol in two blood samples, before and after stimulation.
Electrolyte levels are to be monitored through the course of treatment. Treatment includes replacement of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid steroids. Supplementation of drugs include prednisone or prednisolone (glcocorticoid) and Percorten-V or Florinef (mineralocorticoid). Dogs with this disease are more prone to urinary tract infections which includes small volume urination, blood in the urine is not very common. 
The most concerned complications of Addison's disease include an Addisonian crisis. This may be due to environmental or emotional crisis. During this condition, the dog has to be hospitalized and given high doses of intravenous fluids and glucocorticoids to prevent dehydration and collapse. With the proper management and medication dogs with this disease can have a normal lifespan.

Dog Collar Vs Dog Harness: Which Is Best?

There are a lot of opinions flying around about which is the best method of controlling and training your dog. The dog collar, the dog harness and the halter are just some of the methods debated on. This is not intended to advise against one or the other but to point out a couple of things that should be taken into consideration before deciding.
To begin with, one benefit of the harness over the collar is that it is much harder for a dog to slip out of a harness than it is to slip a collar.
On the subject of walking and training your dog, some people swear by the harness for smaller dogs as they find they have much more control and can even lift the dog off the ground without harming the dogs fragile neck and spine. It should be kept in mind, however, that even though a harness may seem more gentle on a dog as it is not focusing all the stress on the neck, there have been reports of harnesses having a detrimental effect on some dogs, such as widening the chest, bolding the legs, and dislocations on some breeds of dogs, although these reports appear to be in the minority and seem to refer particularly to small dogs that pull. 
Larger dogs, particularly those that tend to pull constantly, can be harder to control with a harness than with a collar, and can end up taking the owner for a walk rather than the other way round, according to some large breed dog handlers. For this reason some long time large breed dog owners prefer to stick with the collar, however, there is the opinion that using a collar on a strong and constant puller can have detrimental effects on the dog's trachea, neck and spine. 
Another alternative is the halter harness. This finds favour with some owners of large pulling dogs, as it controls the head and, just as in leading a horse, controlling the head helps greatly in controlling the whole animal. 
There are other forms of collars, such as the choker, but I feel that you need to be extremely well informed and careful when using one of these. 
Whatever method you choose, your decision should be based on sound advice from professionals who have the welfare of your dog in mind. 
One more thing to bear in mind; whatever conclusion you may arrive at regarding the best way to train and walk your dog, it is hard to argue against using a dog harness when taking your dog in a car. You wear a seat belt to stop you flying through the windscreen in the event of a crash. Your dog will also become a living projectile in the same crash. Doesn't he deserve the same protection you have? 
To sum up: Whether you choose the collar or the harness, it is my opinion that thoughtful, gentle, yet thorough training in the early stages of your dogs life will lead to a happy and well-behaved dog that will not need drastic measures to be taken to control him in later life. 
I personally use a harness because I don't think I would like someone to throw a rope around my neck and yank me here and there.

For the Sake of Your Bunny, Make Yours an Indoor Pet!

There is a common misconception that pet rabbits belong in an enclosure outdoors, rather than indoors and this often results in neglected, aggressive and ultimately, a rabbit with a much shorter lifespan. If you want to purchase a rabbit for yourself or your child but insist on leaving it outdoors, this is a very good sign that a rabbit may not the best choice for you. There are several reasons for this.
When an animal rescue team receives a call from Animal Control or an individual concerned about rabbit neglect, over 90% of those calls are to save an outdoor bunny. We are expected to remove a rabbit the owner no longer can take care of properly and since it has lived outdoors for the duration of its life, it is usually too aggressive to place in a home or overcrowded shelter. It is wild in the sense it has not had much human interaction simply because it is too easy to ignore or neglect an animal you rarely see (except when you trudge outside to feed it). On the other hand, it is not truly wild because it cannot do anything a wild rabbit could do. It can't run for cover from predators, forage or instinctively protect itself the way a wild rabbit can do. 
It is impossible to discuss rabbits in any environment without mentioning child owners* because they are often the ones expected to care for what is not a starter pet. A bite from a rabbit that has been left outdoors with little stimulation or interaction, constantly fearful of nearby prey is often a biting rabbit. If it is a large rabbit (generally more than 6 pounds), a bite on small fingers very often requires stitches or medical attention. This is dangerous for everyone involved and sadly, the only recourse is to euthanize the aggressive rabbit. This is unfortunate because the bunny was often purchased by a parent who did very little research on rabbit ownership, but gave in to a child's pleas for a cute and cuddly bunny. This is very common when the animal was the result of an Easter purchase, as it tends to be an impulse buy as a result of watching too many candy commercials!* 
There are simply too many outdoor problems that can crop up that are easily missed because of the location of the cage. If the rabbit is outdoors and the adult or child grows bored with it, this is when we see frozen water dishes in the winter, forgotten feedings and other issues. In cold climates, water freezes within minutes and a rabbit will not get enough liquid from snow that made its way into the enclosure. In fact, if snow does actually make it into the hutch, that is a telltale sign there is not adequate protection from the elements. Any veterinarian can recount a multitude of stories of rabbits dying from renal failure or dehydration/hypothermia due to lack of fresh water. 
Never is the saying, "when a parent considers a pet for a young child, they should do so with the understanding it will eventually be mom and dad's responsibility to care for it", more true than when the pet is an outdoor rabbit. 
Rabbit owners who choose to leave their rabbit outdoors often know very little about their pet and by the time it is very ill, it is often too late to get proper medical care. Because a rabbit is a prey animal, its instinct is to hunker down and suffer silently so predators can't sense the injured or ill animal. A rabbit is always cognizant of its precarious place on the food chain. When in a physical crisis, buns will seek cover to hide from predators, hunch up in a ball and often grind their teeth in response to the pain (this is often excruciating if it is an intestinal blockage) and wait for the crisis to pass.
If the bunny is indoors, subtle signs of pain can be noted because an indoor rabbit is noticed by its owner more often due to simple logistics. Medical care can be given before it is too late. If you are used to walking by the rabbit cage and seeing your bun excitedly hop over to see you (as mine does), it is going to catch your attention pretty quickly if one day you find the poor fellow hunched over in the corner of the cage. How is this level of rabbit behavior noticeable with a rabbit in the backyard in a hutch? 
A rabbit does not need to come into direct contact with a predator to perish. When a cat, dog, hawk or fox is in the area, a bunny in an elevated hutch will often thrash about to get away from the predator, often fatally injuring himself in the process. If the thrashing about does not kill her, unrelenting fear (perceived or real) night after night will often cause shock set in and the rabbit will literally die from fear. Signs of shock in a rabbit are the following: Pale gums, very cool ears, glassy or closed eyes, weak pulse, increased rate of breathing and increased heart rate. Immediate transport to a vet clinic is crucial but almost always too late. An indoor rabbit will rarely encounter these traumas. 
Well meaning outdoor rabbit owners are uneducated if they believe an outdoor hutch is mimicking a natural living experience. However, if you simply will not bring your rabbit indoors, please make certain it is not in one of the standard hutches pet stores sell, as these are never large enough. One of our volunteers at the rabbit rescue took 3 abandoned rabbits and could not bring them indoors. She put them in the shed (think plenty of space) and with plenty of hay, ample hiding spaces and the own company of each other, these rabbits had long and happy lives. Her creativity and determination to keep them safe was commendable and she ALWAYS brought them indoors during the New England winter months or during heat waves. It wasn't ideal (they belong indoors all year), but she did not have a choice, as the poor bunnies were abandoned and she was saving them. 
That brings me to another crucial point. If you still insist on keeping your rabbit outdoors, be absolutely certain it is not alone without a companion. Rabbits are very smart and social creatures. Leaving it alone outside without interaction is truly a cruel fate. If they sense predators or get cold in cold weather, at least they can huddle together. However, if you do not have a shed-size shelter for your buns to feel safe, why do this to the animal in the first place? Keep the little guy indoors already!
Rabbits are easily litterbox trained and often do well with cats. My very large rabbit sleeps with both of my cats and in the two years I have enjoyed Bonsai, I have yet to see him urinate outside his litterbox. His room is odor free and to be honest, cats and dogs can be often be considerably dirtier. When he was rescued, he was left in a hutch by the owner who moved and left him to die. A neighbor called to report animal abandonment when the individual moved out and the bunny was left. It is important to note that animal cruelty is a felony in many states.
He was aggressive, bit the rescue workers and lunged at everyone (who could blame him?). His water bowl was completely dry. It was understood it would be most likely euthanized due to trauma, severe head tilt and maggots. The animal was in a horrible state and the beginning stages of shock. 
I took him home and a vet donated his time and medical care. Within the week he was following me around, nuzzling me or lounging on my living room sofa with a carrot. He has never come close to biting or lunging at me from day one. He chases visitors around until they pet him and can't get enough attention. He absolutely loves people and like clockwork, turns his head down for his nightly kiss on the forehead. Then, Bonsai turns and happily hops away, mission accomplished. In short, he was shown he is noticed. He matters enough to be made to feel safe. 
The common assertion, "Rabbits belong outdoors" is simply incorrect if your bunny is meant to be a pet.

Exotic Hedgehogs As Pets

Hedgehogs as pets can be entertaining and endearing, but if you want to make the most of caring for one of these fascinating rodents, you should inform yourself of their living requirements.
Feral hedgehogs can and do cover several miles in a single night in search of a good meal. You pet hedgehog will not have to worry about catching its food, but without the opportunity for exercise, it can easily grow obese for its species and develop health complications. For this reason, you should invest in some stimulating features and toys. An activity wheel will keep your hedgehog going for hours each night, providing it with a much-needed workout. Despite its modest size, a hedgehog will need a spacious environment, which means at least two square meters of cage space. If it is social, you may want to let it wander around a room or two of your home, under proper supervision, of course. Its cage should be its castle, and at least two square meters will be required to house all its needs and facilities efficiently. 
Hedgehogs identify strange substances and items by tasting them. This habit can take on dangerous proportions when it involves cleansing chemicals or electric wires. If you allow your hedgehog some time out of its cage, do keep an eye on the situation, if you have cats, dogs or other pets that might threaten it. Although a hedgehog has excellent armor against potential predators, it might experience some anxiety. If you want different types of pets to get along, you will need to invest some time towards integrating them. Do not let the hedgehog roam through the whole house at once. This type of pet is quite gifted at sheltering out of sight, and may cost you hours of searching from room to room. 
Your hedgehog will need a well-ventilated living area to get rid of the smell of its droppings and for this a wire cage is best. Bear in mind, though, that in the wild, hedgehogs often retreat to a hole or some form of shelter for their daytime sleep. You should provide it with a box, a tiny sleeping bag or some blanket to let it creep out of sight. The bottom of the cage should be solid, to avoid injury. Set aside some space to accommodate a litter box as well. 
If you plan and prepare ahead of time for the arrival of your prickly animal companion, you will be making the most of keeping hedgehogs as pets.

The Best Self-Assessment Practices Before You Adopt A Sugar Glider

The thought of going out to adopt a sugar glider can be quite entertaining and is an economically brighter alternative for those who cannot afford to make a purchase. However it is important to consider whether you are truly able to make the required commitment once this tiny and playful pet enters your home. The truth is, the average working person maintains a hectic daily schedule which consists of frequent travel and office work away from home and their pet, with minimal downtime afterwards. Bills are at the forefront of our conscious and mandatory expenses threaten to draw us away from spending time on other hobbies which we would rather be involved with. The nagging difficulties of life tend to drive people into making certain decisions on impulse which they anticipate will provide pleasure or escapism. Poor decisions include someone making a quick choice to rush out and adopt a glider without making educated long-term decisions which will be instrumental in providing happiness, health and longevity to this special pet. Bare in mind, before you make an adoption of this exotic mammal there are a number of things you should consider which differ from owning the average pet. You must take into account your lifestyle in comparison to the unique needs of the glider.
If you are strapped for time during the day as most 9 to 5 workers tend to be, realize that the sugar glider is a nocturnal mammal by nature. As you arrive home from work in the evening it will most likely have just awoken from it's sleep and anxious to meet you for some playtime. This contrast between your daytime schedule and it's nighttime one does have a disadvantage though. As it is active during nighttime, your glider may create some noise as it plays inside it's cage and cause distractions while you are trying to sleep at night. Your solution is to train and adjust your gliding possum towards remaining awake during day and sleep at night instead, which is perfectly fine to do and will not cause it any harm. Ideally, most people would like to carry their glider around in a pocket or pouch as their company throughout the day, but unfortunately the average work schedule and environment does not allow for adequate bonding and pet care. It is advised that you remove all work and life distractions to reserve bonding time with your pet in a calm setting. The process of bonding between this mammal is an essential part of it's development in the long term, therefore you should place quality time at the highest priority as it's owner. 
Once your adoption begins and your new pet enters the home, it does not take a lot to provide the ideal environment for it's health and happiness. For most owners you will likely have the ideal home setting already, a quality which is great for the average residential person looking to bring a glider into their lives. This furry little creature gets along great with other people and non-threatening animals so if you have pets and children in the home already, it may not be a large concern. The glider is nocturnal so if you work during the day prepare to meet your pet for playtime as it wakes from it's daily sleep schedule. As for bathroom cycles of this animal, they are similar to humans in having to go after a long sleep and a few times daily. This cycle makes it predictable to know when to put your glider down by itself in the proper area so it can relieve itself. With these facts in mind about the particular nature and lifestyle of this exotic pet, you can now determine whether your home and it's needs are an adequate match. 
If you are a financially-conscious person at heart and can refrain from overindulgence on your pet, the sugar glider is the right choice for you. This tiny animal is relatively cost-efficient to raise considering that it does not consume large portions, occupies a cage as a living space and does not require regular visits to the veterinarian or spa. Like any other bad habit, some people cannot resist the urge to splurge on their pets with expensive gifts, food and accessories. This is especially apparent with a cute and exotic pet like the gliding possum. Some owners who are misinformed about how to raise this animal end up burning the bank by purchasing things that are unnecessary and exceed the optimal requirements. Don't end up with empty pockets like the person who rushed out and adopted their glider only to spoil it silly without studying it's minimal lifestyle requirements. 
Your self awareness and commitment in life is a big factor in determining whether you are the right person to adopt a sugar glider. Before you take action towards adoption, look yourself in the mirror and identify any flaws about yourself which could jeopardize the ability to properly care for your potential pet in the long run. Objectivity of self is of primary importance, since it is ultimately your choice what type environment and care your glider pet will be subjected to in it's life. Make sure that if you choose to adopt, it ends up in a loving and caring home which will promote the longest and happiest life it truly deserves.

3 Easy Steps to Eliminate Cat Fleas

Lots of people are very concerned about flea problems. This could place them out of the thought of sharing their house with domestic pets. Although with the appropriate cat flea therapy process in place you do not need to worry about pest infestations.
There are lots of products and solutions and solutions available nowadays to cope with pest infestations and permit you to delight in family pet ownership with fleas getting in the way.
Why you should Stop Fleas and other insects 
Fleas and other insects are terrible tiny blood-suckers which could make life miserable for kittens and cats and animal owners. They're really small and hard to find and thus pest infestations can be cultivated before you'll realize there's a dilemma. For this reason you need to create a positive method to preventing fleas and other insects. Simply because you cannot see them does not necessarily mean they aren't affecting your household pets and house. Take a look at 3 simple steps to avoiding fleas and other insects in your house. 
Step One - Frontline Feline Flea Treatment method 
You need to take care of your domestic pets from fleas and other insects all year-long. Frontline is a great products having an established good reputation for flea protection. With Frontline flea treatment for cats and kittens you'll be able to easily and quickly take care of your domestic pets and get rid of any fleas and other insects that try to feed from them. 
Frontline is a powerful way to cope with grownup fleas because it will eliminate them immediately as soon as they have attempted to feed from domestic pets. What this means is when dogs and cats pick up new fleas and other insects they are often killed just before they've got an opportunity to get down and invade the areas. 
Step Two - House Pet Flea Treatment method 
You should also handle any fleas and other insects that could have previously started out reproduction in your house. Fleas and other insects will reproduce in almost any comfortable, darker locations for example inside the interlace of carpets and rugs or beneath boards. Since several modern-day residences are centrally heated up what this means is they can survive in the cooler months. 
There are several exceptional Pest Growth Regulator (IGR) pet flea treatment method products and solutions readily available. They perform to interrupt the life span period of fleas and other insects to avoid them from multiplying and infesting your house. You may use these IGR products and solutions twice yearly (they will work for Six months) to maintain your house free of fleas. 
Step Three - Cleaning Program 
Flea pest infestations don't necessarily mean your house is not clean. Nonetheless a number of changes in your cleaning up program will help manage fleas and other insects and help with effective flea cure for cats. 
• Fleas go into carpets and rugs, bed linen and delicate decorating in areas exactly where domestic pets rest. Which means you can help manage fleas by cleaning bed linen and pillow case covers regularly.
• It's also wise to vacuum cleaner area rugs, floor coverings and couch pillows just about every 2 or 3 days at the same time. 
• This will work to grab mature fleas and also will trigger eggs to hatch out making sure that while you do perform treatment options they'll be more productive.

All About the Siamese Cat

The Siamese cat is one of the best known cat breeds in the United States and around the world. It is not a breed that is native to the US. It originates from Thailand, which was called Siam until June 23, 1939.
The first documented Siamese cat to reach the shores of the United States was a gift to President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878.
This breed is very graceful and quite slender. Oval shaped feet sit at the end of their slim legs. The distinctive markings on the coat are known as points. These shaded patches are found on the muzzle, ears, tail, and feet. Breeders have produced several variations of the points. Some of these are the Blue Point, Seal Point, Chocolate Point, and Lilac Point. These names refer to the color of the markings and other fur. When Siamese kittens are born, they are completely white. They will remain white for several months before their points start becoming visible. To determine the color points before they are visible on the fur you can look at the pads of the paws. Gray pads indicate Blue Point, light brown pads indicate Chocolate Point, and pink pads mean you have a Lilac Point on your hands.
The Siamese breed is known for being slightly more demanding than some other breeds. They are very intelligent cats and attempt to impose their will on their owners. Some Siamese cats are extremely noisy and mischievous. A Siamese in heat can produce quite a concert.
Despite their demanding personalities, Siamese cats yearn for interaction and companionship. They do not do well with being alone for long periods of time. This is why you will often see Siamese in pairs. If you own this breed you can expect to be in the constant company of your feline friend. Whoever first said that people don't own cats because cats own people might have been referring to a Siamese. This will become more obvious as your reading and relaxation times are interrupted by someone wanting to be petted.
They have a love for high places and a curiosity that can get them into precarious predicaments. If you cannot find your Siamese kitty, you should check on top of cabinets or shelves and inside of cupboards and closets. 
Even though they can produce a lot of noise, the Siamese isn't particularly fond of external noise. Loud noises like vacuum cleaners and washing machines tend to send these cats for hiding. Even a roll of foil can be enough to induce a panicked run for cover.

The Feline Diet - Why Adult Cats Should Not Drink Milk

It's true that cats love milk. Most cats will drink it if you let them. And who hasn't shared a little milk with their feline friend now and then? So, what's the problem?
Cow's milk is not a natural food for any cat. Even kittens, who naturally drink nothing but milk for the first few weeks of their lives, specifically need milk that is higher in protein, certain fats, and other nutrients, than the stuff we get from dairy cows. In other words, the only milk they need is the milk that their mothers provide.
Once kittens are weaned (at 8-12 weeks of age), they often lose their ability to digest milk. Many adult cats are lactose intolerant, and can develop an upset tummy and diarrhea from drinking cow's milk. 
There are other problems with cow's milk, as well. Much of the milk we can buy at the store comes from cows that have been injected with a growth hormone, called rBGH. This hormone causes changes in the milk itself, including elevated levels of another hormone, IGF-1, which is known to promote cancerous tumors. Milk from rBGH-treated cows is also different in the types and amounts of fatty acids and proteins it contains.
rBGH also causes higher rates of painful mastitis (inflammation of the udder) that must be treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. This increases the chances of chemical residues in the milk that could harm your cat. While there are laws preventing dairies from selling milk with illegal levels of certain drugs, inspections are often inadequate. Other drugs are not even tested for. Chemically contaminated milk can still end up in your refrigerator.
Even without rBGH, cow's milk is full of hormones, including estrogens, which are linked to many health problems. Milking cows are kept pregnant 11 months of the year; and all those pregnancy hormones flow right into the milk. Milk may also contain traces of pesticides and other contaminants of the food the cows are fed. 
Unlike the milk produced by nursing queens (mother cats), which kittens drink in its natural raw state, store-bought milk is pasteurized. Pasteurization is necessary to kill harmful bacteria that are rampant in high-production dairy facilities. But it also destroys much of milk's natural vitamins A, C and some B vitamins; it makes calcium less absorbable; and it deforms (denatures) proteins and enzymes. Such altered proteins may cause allergies. Additionally, casein, the major protein in milk, may itself cause allergies. Dairy products are one of the top allergens in cats (the other most common allergens are chicken, beef, fish, wheat, and corn). 
So, even though she may love it (don't we all love to eat things that aren't very good for us?), cow's milk is definitely not a good choice for your cat.

Discus Basics for a Beginner

Discus fish, king of all the aquarium tropical fish, is a breed of exotic fishes and is highly popularized as aquarium fish. Discus is a native of shallow streams and lakes running off the Amazon river and its tributaries. In the wild, these fishes dwell close to the shore, among the submerged tree roots. They feature a laterally compressed, disc-shaped body which gives the fish its name 'discus'. The sides of the fish comprises of lovely patterns in green, blue, red and brown.

Today, there are several varieties of this fish for sale at local aquarium stores. Their interactive nature has endeared them to people, making them one of the hottest options as an aquarium fish. These fishes relate to people, and even eagerly rush to greet their owners. They are observed to follow movements occurring in the room, even movements on television. However, these boisterous fishes are highly sensitive creatures and require substantial amount of care while keeping them in an aquarium. Discus care plays a significant role in keeping the fish happy and healthy. Setting up a discus aquarium and proper fish care need not be a costly investment. However, one has to invest a considerable amount of time for fish care, which is a factor that has to be kept in mind before purchasing this fish. For those of you who are pondering as to how to take care of discus fish, below are some basic care tips.

How to Take Care of Discus Fish:

Discus fish care requires diligence on the part of the pet owner. As a pet owner one will have to gather as much information about the fish and its unique living conditions as possible, so as to attain a thriving ecosystem. Understanding their feeding habits, breeding patterns and other needs will help to maintain them properly. One does not want these lively aquarium fish to perish due to lack of knowledge. Some simple discus care guidelines that need to be followed are:

Water Condition: This is an important aspect of proper discus fish care. It is important to recreate the natural environment of the fish, in order to pacify their desires. Absence of appropriate environmental conditions will result in sick and aggressive discus fish. They may even die.

Water Hardness: The parameters of the local tap water needs to be investigated. Hard tap water needs to be mixed with softened water, so as to attain the desired water for the fish. Softening can be done by using a reverse osmosis filter. Water conditions that the fish is accustomed to will reduce the chances of the fish from suffering an osmotic shock.

Water pH: The softened water will adjust the pH to the desired level easily. The recommended pH for fish should be between 6.5-7.5 for display purposes, and between 5.5-6.5 for breeding purposes. Adding peat is a great way to lower the pH gradually, however, it's advisable to have someone well versed with water chemistry to do the job.

Water Temperature: As compared to other tropical fishes, discus aquarium fish requires higher temperature. This factor has to be kept in mind while selecting aquarium plants. In order to change the water temperature, all one has to do is adjust the heater's dial in the aquarium. The temperature level should be checked twice a day, with the help of a digital thermometer. Conventional thermometers are not precise, thus not recommended. For discus fish display, the temperature range is 27.5 to 29C and 30 to 33C for the breeding time.

Water Changes: Water changes are to be carried out on a weekly basis, so as to ensure the health of the discus fish. A water change replaces the stale water with fresh water, thereby discarding the impurities from the aquarium. However, the discus fish does not like changes, so one should only change 25% of the tank volume at a time. One should also clean the bottom of the tank as well as suck up the debris without disturbing the fish to a great extent. Being noisy while cleaning the tank will stress the fish out (sounds are amplified in water).

Chlorine and Chloramine: Local water supplied to most of the regions in the US, are fine for discus fishes. However, in certain areas chloramines (blend of chlorine and ammonia) are added to the water, which is deleterious for the fish. The presence of chloramine can be tested via a tester available at the local aquarium shop. One can use a dechlorinating water conditioner to free the water of chlorine and chloramines.

Food and Nutrition: Discus fishes have small stomachs which can hold only small amount of food. Omega one flake food comprising salmon as the main ingredient is good for the fish and results into greater growth and color development. Frozen brine shrimp, frozen worms and heart food also make a good food sources for the fish. Generally, fishes need to be fed once in a day, however, these fishes exhibit voracious feeding patterns and have to be fed at least thrice a day.

Filtration: Some use chemical filtration media for holding harmful substances, which are discarded during water change. Some even use carbon filtration media to remove the medications or toxins. This carbon filtration media should only be used for a short duration before removal. The power filters used in the aquarium should be furnished with adequate amount of biological filter media. This can be done by purchasing the biological filter media sold for canister filters. This will convert the market power filter (which lacks enough biological filter media) into a suitable discus aquarium filter media. If the Discus fish is fed on beef-heart, one needs to make sure the leftovers are discarded.

These were some basic discus fish care tips. Besides the above mentioned points, one should also note that the discus fishes are social creatures and need to be kept in groups. One should not introduce a lone discus into a tank filled with various other types of fishes. Lone discus fish will survive without their community, however, it will not be happy. After taking care of discus fish for a while, one can even try out breeding discus fish. However, before one gets into breeding them, one needs to master the art of maintaining the right environmental water conditions for the fish. Though discus fish care requires diligence, it is an overall rewarding experience. Hope this article on how to take care of discus fish was helpful and informative! Take care!

Raising Finch Birds

Raising finch birds can be the easiest thing you'll ever do, but it can also be the hardest. It all depends on how you've prepared yourself for the set-up. If you've done your reading and research even before you've taken your new pet home, then you will have been able to make the necessary preparations for them. Not only that, you will have also equipped yourself to handle any potential emergency or problem that you may possibly come across. This is how important preparation is! It can totally alter your experience with these birds!
If you've always wanted to keep finch birds, maybe for future breeding purposes, or simply for household pets, then you can start your education now. We have some invaluable tips on how to raise them right! Read up and learn a thing for too, so your birds go to a happy and healthy home.
Tips for Your Finch Birds
1. Understand the nature of the kind that you get- Finches are social animals, so they naturally look for companions. It would make no sense to buy a single bird. He or she would feel lonely, and probably die in a matter of weeks. Keep your finch happy and engaged by making sure that you get a pair, or even multiple finches.
2. Find out what your pets like to eat- research will tell you what most finch birds eat, but you can also use your powers of observation to see if they prefer one type of food over the other. While you're at it, please don't forget to give them enough water. Lack of either may kill them.
3. Find a way for your pet to get some exercise- a fat or obese finch would not be ideal for breeding. Not only that, in the same way that humans suffer from being fat or obese, finches may also encounter complications from having the same condition. A great way to get your finch birds moving would be to provide them with a spacious cage. Perches and swings are also great additions so they can get some exercise. Lastly, clever placement of their food and water containers may force them to move from one end of the cage to the other to get either.