The Most Important Thing to Know About Reptiles

By Gary Kurz

The sudden popularity of reptiles and amphibians as pets, in particular exotics, has created a host of problems for those who want to keep them. Legislation regarding type, size, breeding restrictions and cage requirements have been swiftly passed at many levels of government to ensure that the general public and local fauna are not put at risk by the accidental introduction of non-indigenous species. Meeting these requirements can mean unexpected expense and frustration.

Husbandry can be problematic for potential owners as well. When one keeps a dog or cat, a general understanding of their needs exists and people are usually prepared to meet those needs. Reptiles and amphibians are not as easily cared for as conventional pets. For one thing they have a wide spectrum of environmental needs. One may require a constant supply of vitamin D via exposure to sunlight, while another is completely nocturnal and sun-reclusive. Not meeting these needs can result in needless suffering, big veterinarian expenses or loss of the animal.

Sustenance can pose even more of a challenge. One must be able to meet the dietary needs of the animal they plan to keep. For instance, most people are not aware that snakes are carnivorous without exception. The cute, colorful animal at the pet store will not eat fruit or vegetables. Depending on the species, you will have to provide mammals, fish, other reptiles and amphibians or insects. Even if you opt for pre-killed frozen food, many find this a repulsive task.

Then there are the vermin that may come with the animal. Snakes are prone to mites, lizards and turtles to burrowing parasites, amphibians to fungus. Then there is mouth rot, rickets and eye caps, just to name a few of the scores of ailments that can occur.

There is much to consider before choosing a reptile or amphibian as a pet. Responsible husbandry should start with knowing the facts before you acquire an animal. If you want to be happy with the creature you choose and provide quality care, impulse should yield to knowledge. Don't just jump at the first animal that catches your eye; research their needs and peculiarities to ensure it is a good fit.

Libraries and the internet are excellent resources for arming yourself with necessary knowledge, but joining a local herpetological group or society will pay even bigger dividends. Even if the nearest herpetological society is a two-hour drive from where you live, it is worth the once a month trip to attend meetings. There you will meet others who already have the knowledge and experience you are trying to acquire. Most, if not all, will be willing to spend time with you before or after the meeting to answer your questions and give you pointers.

You will benefit from the different speakers who will be headlined at the meetings and be added to the mailing list for the society to receive relevant herpetological news. Through your networking you will develop friendships and associations with other members that can benefit you in many ways.

Finally, for very meager annual dues, you will be a member of a group of people who come from all walks of life, who all work together for the society's common cause, which is educating the public on herpetological interests. As a co-founder of the Everglades Herpetological Society, I made friends with many well-known zoologists and other scientists, policemen, college professors, authors, professional football players and a host of others. Our common interest in herpetology bridged all cultural and societal gaps and great friendship developed.

Best of all, my attendance at meetings and associations with other members gave me a free education in the care and breeding of reptiles. As a result of my membership, in less than a decade I went from being a complete novice to someone others sought out for expert advice on Florida reptiles and amphibians.

The bottom line is this; if you want to have a pleasant, successful experience with keeping reptiles and amphibians, know first what you are doing. To "know", you need to be around those who have already been where you want to be. You will find them at your local herpetological society. Find it. Join it.

The author is a retired Coast Guard Officer with over 32 years of service. He is a co-founder of the Everglades Herpetological Society of Miami and a field expert on Florida herpes. His most popular book, "Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates" delivers hope and comfort to those who have lost a precious pet in a very gentle, yet convincing way. Visit at http://www.coldnosesbook.com for more information and tips.

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Cat Health Problems May be Connected With Dental Disease

By Dr. R.J. Peters

Just as humans can develop health problems because of infections of the mouth, our beloved pets can, too.

Middle aged and older cats are more susceptible than young ones, because their teeth have had longer to deteriorate, especially if they have not had proper care or adequate nutrition.

Although many veterinarians and other pet care experts recommend feeding primarily dry kibble style foods, presumably to keep the teeth "brushed," so to speak, it is a complete myth.

One look at a cat's teeth will tell you why.

There are no flat molar teeth, which you will see with omnivores... animals whose diets include the widest variety of food items. No, a cat's teeth all have sharp edges, and some are pointed, like spikes or claws. Those are the "fangs," technically known as incisors. The primary use of cat teeth is shredding and tearing... not grinding. That's because cats are "obligate carnivores," that is, they are "obligated" by Nature to be meat eaters. Not kibble eaters, not grain eaters, not even canned food eaters.

Just watch a cat eating dry food. A lot of it is swallowed whole. Some of it is crunched, maybe once, and they swallow the particles when each kibble bit shatters. It simply does not scrape the teeth.

Soft, or canned food is too soft and is best used as a treat item. For one thing, it's cooked. It does nothing for dental health, and some products may even be deficient in some nutrients found only in a raw diet.

Humans have created pet foods as a convenience to themselves, and not always as the best quality for their pets. It's pretty messy to cut up carcasses for Precious and Fluffy, who are supposed to be domesticated, cultured kitties, lying around the house, cool, calm and collected. It just isn't "civilized" to be tearing into small animals like little barbarians. The whole idea assaults OUR sensibilities, not theirs.

So, if Nature created their digestive systems to require that kind of diet, why have we been trying to tame it out of them? It's because we can't stand it.

But the fact remains that Fluffy still has to eat some real meat to meet feline dietary requirements, which, because of the way he was created, are not even his idea.

If you can't stand to feed your kitties some raw meat now and then, along with raw bones to give them something to really chew on to strengthen their jaw muscles and that really do clean their teeth, then you need to resort to alternatives.

These alternatives involve YOU cleaning their teeth for them. You have to brush their teeth! Ask a vet to show you how. (Don't use a human tooth brush, unless you use a small one with softer bristles, and NEVER use human tooth paste.)

You also can obtain products that help, such as chewy toys for cats, and some chewy treats made specifically for this purpose.

And lastly, it doesn't hurt to provide some kitty vitamins to be sure their nutritional needs are met if you just can't do the raw meat thing.

Dr. R.J. Peters has an extensive background in health care and animal care. For more info on cat health care, and to get personalized answers to your questions, stop by: http://www.theproblemcat.com/faq.html

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Birdcages - How To Know What You Need

By Terry Edwards

Have you been thinking of getting a pet bird, but have no idea what type of birdcage you need? Well, here is some help in discovering what kind of birdcage you need, as well as some other helpful items to put in it.

Keeping your pet parrot, canary, parakeet or other exotic bird happy is a priority for every pet owner. Without the right type and size of birdcage, this will be tough to accomplish.

When you begin looking for a birdcage you will find a wide variety of choices to pick from. But, most can be classed as either large birdcages or small birdcages.

So, which size do you need? Well, without knowing what kind of bird you have, it's impossible to say. But you can easily find out by looking online or talking with the pet store.

One tip to always keep in mind is that when it comes to pet birds, whether it's a parrot or a parakeet, size matters. Get a large birdcage. They will love the extra space!

What kind of material should your cage be made out of? Wood is the best choice, but acrylic birdcages are a nice all-around cage for any bird you may have.

Other things to look for include a bird cage cover to use at night. Get some toys to put in the cage also. Birds enjoy play time just like we do.

Have a food and water dish of course and put in a ladder as well.

Take your time when looking for a birdcage and shop around. Have a budget in mind and most importantly, have some fun with it. Birds make for great gets and having a nice large birdcage will make them very happy for years to come.

By the way, you can find out much more about Birdcages as well as more information on everything to do with bird cages on our website at http://www.BirdCages.InfoFromA-z.com

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Is Having A Ferret As Pet A Good Idea Or Should You Stick With Cats And Dogs?

By Graham Grant

So you have decided to have a ferret as a pet. This is not an unusual decision as ferrets make great pets and a lot of owners can attest to this. Pets have been domesticated for the past 2000 years after all, and were introduced to the North Americas as pets as long as 300 years ago. They can be trained just like cats and dogs and make for great and joyous companions for the right kind of household and family.

Like any other pets ferrets require the same kind of attention like exercise, proper social training - just like cats they can be taught to use the litter tray - and veterinary care.

Some jurisdictions do not allow ferrets to be kept as pets as in the case of New Zealand. The argument against ferrets held by such jurisdictions lies in the fact that ferrets do have fairly sharp teeth. But this is something that can easily be circumvented using proper training. Indeed ferrets can nip, but only in self defence if, for example, they are cornered. This is just a natural survival instinct that all animals and even humans have in circumstances where a threat is sensed.

Ferrets are like small children, very playful and exuberant so if you have both it is a good idea to closely supervise them when in close contact, but this goes without saying even if they are in contact with any other pets. For older children ferrets do, in fact, make really great pets!

Here are also some interesting and useful facts you should take into account should you decide on a ferret as your pet:

Ferrets are great sleepers and can sleep for 18 hours a day. But they will most likely be wakeful at the times you are used to feed them or interact with them.

They can be found napping in places you would least expect, so check very carefully behind that cushion before you sit down in front of the tv or to read a book.

As mentioned they are very jolly pets to have and will play with another ferret (if you bought more than one) without much supervision amusing themselves and you.

Their lifespan is typically 6 to 8 years and sometime up to 12 years. With the right care (see end of article) there is no reason why their typical lifespan can't be extended even more.

They are kind of blind but make up for it by having a strong sense of smell and hearing.

They belong to the weasel family and are related to mink, skunks, otters and badgers. But be aware they are the only member of this family (also known as Mustilidae) that are possible to keep and be domesticated.

Ferrets make for the ideal pet if you are looking for an alternative to having a dog or a cat. Like them they can easily be domesticated to become a member of your extended family. And unlike cats and dogs, you will not have to worry about annoying your neighbours with loud dog barks or their garden (and yours) being used as a toilet.

Graham Grant keeps a blog detailing the best information for anyone who keeps or would consider keeping a Ferret as a pet. To Learn more as well as learning how to double your ferret life expectancy visit: All About Ferrets

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Horsemanship 101

By David Beart

Taking care of a horse can be a fun and rewarding experience. Just like any domesticated animal or pet, they rely on us for their well-being.

The first basic step in caring for your horse is to provide adequate feed, water, and forage. Grain comes in a variety of forms, such as pellets or textured. The compressed brand being granulated into pellets, and textured grain (also called sweet feed), allows you to visible see the oats, corn, and molasses. The preference is yours, but keep in mind your horse may prefer, perform, and thrive better on one versus the other. The amount of grain that you feed your horse will depend on his performance level, general health, and nutritional needs.

The type of hay that you provide is also your choice. There are several varieties, such as timothy, orchard grass, coastal, alfalfa, as well as any mixture of the two. The amount fed will vary on type of hay and quality, as well as your animal’s specific needs. Availability of hay is generally local, so contact your supplier. Be advised that horses need a lot of water, and their buckets will need to be cleaned regularly. Many horses have the habit of dunking their hay and grain into their water while eating (similar to dunking doughnuts into your coffee).

Keep in mind it as harmful to your animal to overfeed as it is to underfeed, so consult your veterinarian if you need help in managing your horse’s weight.

After your horse has eaten, you will surely need to clean his stall. Daily cleaning is recommended. There are several bedding types that you can utilize, including sawdust, shavings, and straw. Sawdust is very easy to use. The wet spots and manure can be easily removed while sifting out the bedding that is still clean. Pay attention to your bedding, some allergy sensitive horses can develop problems if the sawdust is too dry. Some horses develop hives from straw, so it is best to see what type of bedding is best for your horse.

Coat conditioning is enjoyable to the horse, as well as good for him. Basic brushes you will need to brush your horse area curry comb, which loosens old hair and dirt as well as brings the natural oils to the surface. A stiff brush to flick away the loosened particles, and a soft finishing brush for the face will also be necessary. A woman’s hairbrush or comb for the mane and tail works wonderfully. A good way to keep the mane and tail clean, long, and tangle free is to braid them. The mane can be braided into several sections, as well as one braid for the tail. Wash and redo them periodically. Horses do not need full bathes unless they are extremely sweaty or muddy. In such circumstances, dish soap works just as well as more expensive horse shampoos. Toweling a sweaty horse down after a workout is actually more beneficial, especially in cold weather. It also brings oils to the surface, leaving your horse with a naturally glossy sheen.

Hoof care is an essential element of horse care. A horse generally needs his hooves trimmed every six to eight weeks. Shoes are optional, but a good way to look at it is this: Wouldn’t you rather wear sneakers than walk or run on stones barefoot? Your horse feels the same way. Clean the hoof daily if possible. Use a hoof pick to remove all debris and stones, since bruises can lead to an abscess.

It is important to remember that some horses will not be amiable to grooming or hoof care right away. They may also get scared if you clean their stalls while they are in them. Move slowly around the horse as not to startle them. Talk in a soothing voice; reassure them that you will not harm them. Take your time with the animal until he learns to trust you.

David Beart is the owner of the Professors House . Our site covers horse care household finances, family forums recipes and other household issues.

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What Are The Best Dog Treats For Dental Health?

By Brigitte Smith

One of the most important obligations of a dog owner is to care for your dog’s teeth. Many pet owners unfortunately neglect this very crucial task. Taking care of a dog may seem like a lot of fun – and it is! But you do you need to know how to take care of your dog, and this definitely includes their teeth. Dogs’ teeth get plaque just like people’s do. Pet dog health is not just their body and what they eat but also their teeth. So finding out as much as you can about taking care of your dogs teeth will help you out considerably.

So what are the best dog treats for dental health? This article will answer that question as well as touching on good dog health care that you can utilise to ensure that your dog’s teeth don’t go bad.

When it comes to dog health care, and specifically dog dental care, you need to feed your dog hard, and/or crunchy dog food. If you’re feeding raw bones, you’re well on the way. But what if you’re not keen on feeding your dog raw bones? Not to worry, there are plenty of other things you can do for the health of your dog’s teeth and gums, that will assist in getting rid of that plaque build up that is so bad for the teeth and gums. How about some raw veges, or raw apple and so on? Soft food is okay, of course, but you should make sure that your dog eats something hard and/or crunchy at least once a day.

You may also want to brush your dog’s teeth at least twice a week. This is not a very pleasant thing to do but it will help with the pet dog health for their teeth. Use salt on the toothbrush, or buy a specialized dog tooth paste if you prefer. There is also another option to brushing your dog’s teeth - you can give hard dog treats or “dental chews” that will help them just as much as brushing their teeth would.

So what are the best dog treats for dental health? There are a lot of experts that are saying that Gourmet Dental Treats for Dogs are tasty, dogs love them, and they’re great for your dog’s teeth! They contain only natural ingredients and also boast calcium and phosphorus for healthy teeth and bones. You can’t do much better than that.

Healthy Happy Dogs is a resource containing a wealth of information on keeping your dog healthy. Healthy dog treats are just one of the items your dog will love you for, and dog treats for dental health are among the best!

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Setting Up An Aquarium - A Guide To Starting A New Aquarium Or Fish Tank

By Joshua Mcguigan

The first decision you have to make in setting up your first aquarium, is what size fish tank you want. I recommend at the very least a 10 gallon tank, although larger will be easier for a beginner. The stuff at the bottom of the tank is called substrate. You will probably either want gravel or sand. This is mostly a matter of what you think looks better. You will need some kind of filtration. For a smaller tank I recommend a hang on back type power filter. You will also need a heater. The general rule of thumb is 5 watts per gallon, but that can be a bit more than you need if you are in a warmer climate.

The lighting that comes with your fish tank is sufficient unless you want to grow plants. Planted fish tanks are very nice, but they can be tough to keep up for a beginner. I recommend you start with a fish only tank, and move on to planted tanks later if you are interested in them.

Before you fill your tank you need to rinse your substrate, and dechlorinate your water. Once that is done, setup the tank with the substrate, filter, heater, and lights and let it run like that for about 24 hours to test for leaks or equipment malfunctions. Once that is done you can start cycling your tank. This can be done either with fish, or you can do a fishless cycle. A fishless cycle is done by adding an artificial source of ammonia into the tank to start the nitrogen cycle. Once you see the cycle has finished, you can slowly stock the tank. A general guideline on how many fish you can keep is one inch of fish per gallon of water. Remember, that refers to the fully grown size of the fish, so plan for the future.

http://www.yourfirstaquarium.com

http://www.yourfirstaquarium.com/beginner_aquarium_guide.html

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Box Turtle Care

By Joshua Park

Congratulations, you have a new box turtle. But how do you take care of your precious new friend? Taking care of a box turtle can take some work, but there are simple steps to ensure that your box turtle is happy in his new home.

First you must decide housing for the turtle. Will you keep it indoors or outdoors? If you decide to keep the turtle outside, make sure that the area is similar to the turtle’s natural habitat. There should be plenty of sun since box turtles are reptiles, but also shade in case the turtle becomes overheated under the constant heat of the sun. Provide water for your turtle so that it is deep enough for swimming. The home should have weed-like plants and insects for consumption. An outdoor setting is probably the home a turtle would choose. However, an indoor home properly made will keep your box turtle just as happy and safe.

If you build your turtle a home indoors, use a container like those made by Rubbermaid. The best option is to have a large, dark container that the turtle cannot see through. A turtle can become perplexed and frightened looking out of a clear container. One of my box turtles constantly tried to climb through the wall of his clear container, so I had to move him. The container should be large and filled a few inches deep with a substrate such as “Bed-a-Beast.” Then provide a hiding place for the turtle such as a hollow log. You should make a pool for the turtle since that is where a turtle usually poops. I used the plastic lid of a container for food. Make sure that the pool is not too deep. Every day, keep the entire tank moist by spraying the surfaces of the home.

Inside the home of the turtle, keep the temperature fairly warm in the lighted area- about 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Use UV-B light to keep the turtle healthy and active all day. Another option is to take your turtle outside to soak in the sun for about an hour a day. The natural sunlight is tremendously healthy for your turtle, although he may not enjoy it at first. Just remember, you know what’s best for your turtle. Keep an area away from the light so that the turtle can rest there when he’s had enough light. This is why it is important to have a container that is large enough for two distinct areas.

The food a turtle eats is obviously very important to its health. A person must watch his or her own diet. It is your responsibility, however, to feed your turtle healthy foods. A turtle will eat almost anything, from fruits and vegetables to insects and worms. Another factor you should consider is providing edible materials with high calcium levels such as boiled eggshells or a cuttlebone that you can buy at any pet store. One final hint to feeding your turtle- have fun with it. Be creative in feeding your turtle from day to day because you do not want to create an addiction to one food by feeding it the same thing each day. Keep the turtle’s diet balanced with half plant and half meat.

I have a few final hints below on how to take care of your new box turtle.

1. If your turtle does not eat, try soaking the food in water first. Or, if you are constantly there watching your turtle, he may never come eat the food. Unfortunately, you can easily frighten turtles, so leave your turtle alone to eat peacefully.

2. Change the water in an indoors home every day to keep it clean since that is the most likely place a turtle will defecate. When coaxing a turtle to do this, use warm water to help him.

3. If a turtle burrows deep into the substrate and does not come up for a few days, don’t worry. This is completely natural since turtles enjoy being in tight spaces. However, make sure that your turtle gets enough food.

4. Feed your turtle on a rock because this will help him scratch away extra-long toenails.

Just follow the easy tips above, and you will be an expert caretaker for your new turtle. Do not neglect your turtle since it is helpless without you. Be responsible and enjoy your friendship.

To learn more about box turtles or to read other articles this author has written, please visit http://www.true-money.com/ by clicking the link.

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The Essential Components of a Proper Iguana Cage

By Ash Adt

1) Size – The first thing you want to know about is how big the iguana cage has to be. Some people have the misconception that the cage will limit the size of the iguana. This is not true. An iguana under ideal conditions will grow up to 6 feet long. This means that you will need to have a huge iguana cage in order to accommodate your pet. In fact, some people provide a whole room instead of an iguana cage for their pets!

Of course, if you are not yet ready to provide this space for your iguana, you could choose to delay until your iguana grows to its full size. However, the iguana cage that you provide should be large enough to contain the activities of your iguana. It should not cramp the animal in any way. If you choose to wait until your iguana has grown to full size, you should at least prepare and make plans for the time when you are going to need a bigger iguana cage.

2) Temperature – an iguana is cold blooded. This means that they need to regulate their body temperatures by making use of the environment. What are the implications of this? This means that you need to provide different temperatures in the iguana cage. This is so that the iguana can move from different spots to properly regulate its body temperature. You should also try to include a source of heat without light which will be used during the night time.

3) Humidity – iguanas require high levels of humidity to live comfortably. They are easily dehydrated because of the fact that iguanas aren't really inclined to drink much. This is because the native habitats of iguanas have high humidity and this keeps them from being dehydrated. Dehydration can lead to kidney failure. This means that not having enough humidity can shorten the life of your iguana. Another reason to keep your iguana cage humid is the fact that humidity helps loosen skin. This means that an iguana will have an easier time shedding skin if it is kept in a humid environment. If you wan to keep your iguana healthy, you should provide an iguana cage that has a humidity of 65 to 75 percent of the air.

4) Lighting – iguanas need a source of UVA and UVB light. Of course, the best source that you can make use of is the sun. This does not mean that you should place your iguana cage in a sunlit area. The glass or plastic of iguana cages filter out the UV light much needed by iguanas for production of vitamin D3. This vitamin helps in calcium consumption. This means that you need to let your iguana bask in direct sunlight as much as possible. This helps in developing strong bones and preventing Metabolic Bone disease which is a very common cause of death among iguanas in captivity.

Other than the sun, your iguana cage should also include an artificial source of UVA and UVB light. This is in order to make up for days when the sunlight is not enough for your iguana.

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How To Choose a Vet

By Paul Horowitz

Your pet’s veterinarian is second best friend, next to you, and an important partner in protecting their well being. This article will help you to

• Choose the perfect vet for you and your pet.

• Evaluate your current level of veterinarian care.

Evaluating veterinary services is an important part of every pet owner’s role. Whether you are a brand new pet-parent or a seasoned owner, take the time to carefully evaluate your vet, both before making a selection and on an ongoing basis.

Remember, every pet is unique, every owner is unique, and every pet-owner relationship is special. It is important that you evaluate your vet on a pet-by-pet basis; a vet who was perfect for your previous pet, may not meet the needs for the current one. Similarly, owners of multiple pets may find that separate vets are in order to keep the entire brood healthy and happy.

Luckily, there are plenty of veterinary services to choose from; the right one for you is just waiting to be found. At the end of this article you will find a checklist for making your decision.

Qualities of Your Ideal Vet

The ideal vet for you and your pet is someone who will become your partner in caring for your little friend. Your vet should be friendly, compassionate, and caring. They should be confident in their treatment of your pet, willing to answer all of your questions, and exhibit a genuine love of animals.

Be sure to ask your vet about their education, their specializations, and whether they have any pets of their own.

Emergency Services

Emergency services are not offered by every vet and not necessarily a top priority for every pet owner, but when an emergency does occur it can be nice to see a familiar face. If your vet does not provide emergency services, ask about what you should do in the event of an emergency and how you can best prepare yourself and your pet.

1) Collect a List of Possibilities

• Ask friends for referrals. Be sure to ask what they like about their vet and what they wish they could change.

• Ask at your local pet store. Pet store owners and employees are an un-tapped resource, but they talk to pet owners all day and often have several of their own.

• Look through the phone book.

2) Make an Initial Call

• Did they answer the phone quickly?

• Were you placed on hold and, if so, were you attended to in a reasonable amount of time?

• Was the receptionist friendly and informative?

• What are their general rates for a check-up?

• How many vets are on staff? Will you be assigned to a specific one?

• Do they offer evening and weekend hours?

• Do they provide emergency services?

After this first call you should be able to narrow your list significantly.

3) Visit on Your Own

• Schedule a visit or drop by to see the office and meet the staff.

• Do you find the waiting area comfortable?

• Is the staff friendly and helpful?

• Does the overall image evoke your trust?

• Is the location accessible for you and your pet?

After this visit you should be able to narrow your list down to two or three clinics.

4) Visit with your pet

• How comfortable is your pet in the office?

• Are there many other animals in the waiting room?

• Do they have separate waiting rooms for cats, dogs, and small pets?

• Does the staff respond well to your pet, and does your pet respond well in return.

• Does the vet seem comfortable and confident handling your pet?

There are few animals that enjoy visiting the vet, so don’t be too concerned if your pet doesn’t appear to like any of the clinics on your list.

For the best advice on pet supplies and information, look to Pet Insurance Comparison at http://www.pet--insure.co.uk/index.htm to find out more information.

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Pet Friendly Travel Tips

By Lesley Komlos

An increasing number of places throughout Australia, and even worldwide, have accommodations which cater for pets as well as people. Although they are increasing, when preparing to take a pet friendly holiday with your dog, it is always wise to plan ahead. Most accommodation destinations urge travelers taking a pet friendly holiday to book ahead. The facilities for dogs can vary greatly between each venue so determining exactly what is provided will make your pet friendly holiday a more relaxing experience for both you and your pet.

Driving to your selected pet friendly holiday destination is another area where it is wise to take some care. Many times there have been dogs traveling loose in the car or even on the driver’s lap when a sudden stop or an accident has caused the pet to sustain injuries due to traveling unrestrained in the car. There are several harnesses and carriers made specially for pet friendly traveling, which can lessen the risk of injury. When traveling in your car with your dog on a pet friendly holiday it is also important to take plenty of water for your pet to drink and never to leave your pet in a closed car.

Once you travel to your pet friendly holiday destination, it is important to ensure that you follow the conditions set out by the venue. These are likely to include keeping your dog on a leash whilst out and about, cleaning up after your dog, keeping your dogs quiet to avoid disturbing other guests & there may be designated areas to stay away from with your dog. Many pet friendly holiday destinations now allow dogs to be inside. There may be provisos to this, such as not leaving your dog alone in the room 7 keeping them off the furniture.

To make your pet friendly travel as comfortable as possible, it is always a good idea to take any special bedding and toys that your pet may be used to. Also, ensure that your dog has an ID tag with your name and phone number in case you were to be accidentally separated.
Planning ahead for your pet friendly travel will result in a great time for both you and your dog and as the accommodation for pet friendly holidays increase, more of us will be taking our four-legged friends along.


Basics to remember:

• Make sure you bring enough water for your pet to drink on the trip. Packing your pet’s favorite foods is also a good idea as it may not always be readily obtainable at your holiday destination.

• Use your leash to keep your dog with you whenever you leave your car.

• Make sure you use wither a purpose built pet carrier or pet harness while driving.

• Update your pet’s identification tags in case you and your dog become separated whilst away from home.

• Pets should never be left in closed cars.

• Always supervise your pet when initiating contact with strangers, particularly children.

• Make sure your pet has been treated for fleas and ticks prior to traveling

• Clean up after your dog at all times.

For more information, articles and great pet resources, visit http://www.PetTravelGuide.com.au a comprehensive guide to traveling with pets.

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Picking a Puppy - Things to Think About Before Purchasing a Dog

By Michelle Wrighton

I am a dog lover not a Dog expert, but from a number of years research, reading books, speaking to dog breeders and dog owners I believe that the following will assist you in your selection. I will make NO attempt to suggest suitable breeds, my aim is to help the prospective buyer understand that just because you like the look of a particular breed DOES NOT make it a suitable because there are many variables that need to be considered other than just the appearance of the breed.

Owning a dog is a LIFELONG commitment and there are a number of things that you should think about BEFORE you start looking to make sure you choose the breed of dog that is the right one for you. There may be MANY breeds that are not suitable for your lifestyle, and if you put a little thought into the decision you may save yourself a lot of heartache, not to mention the effects that a wrong decision may have on the poor dog. I believe that if more people thought before they bought we would not have anywhere near the number of abandoned dogs that we do. So, ask yourself these questions…

WHY DO YOU WANT A DOG?

You need to think about the reasons that you are considering getting a dog. Do you want a companion only, a lap dog, a friend for the kids or a guard dog? What do you want to do with the dog - show, obedience training, hiking, bring in the cows for milking etc? Not all breeds are suitable for every activity.

HOW MUCH TIME PER WEEK DO YOU HAVE TO DONATE TO A DOG?

Different breeds have different time requirements in regards to exercise, grooming and training, and in a lot of breeds, skimping on time spent on the dog can have disastrous effects, for the dog, for yourself and for your possessions.

HOW BIG IS YOUR YARD AND HOW HIGH ARE YOUR FENCES?

This will determine the size of dog you should be looking at. You need to make sure that your dog is not going to be able to get out of your yard and possibly hit by a car, picked up by the pound/ranger or mauled by another dog. Don't forget that some small breeds of dogs can jump very well. I know of several small Terriers who are able to scale six foot fences, but alternatively, some very large breeds of dogs are not very active and may do well in a small yard.

DO YOU WANT AN INSIDE OR AN OUTSIDE DOG?

This will determine not only the breed, but also the size of the dog you get. If you want an inside dog, consider the size of your house - will a large breed take up every available inch of space? Is a small but very boisterous dog likely to knock over your priceless China collection? Looks and size can be deceiving, many small breeds are not suitable for apartment living due to their activity level, while some of the larger breeds can be excellent for small houses or apartments.

Other breeds need human companionship and are not suitable for leaving outside all the time, neither are breeds that are not suitable for your environment due to coat length, or suceptability to heat exhaustion.

DO YOU OR ARE YOU PLANNING TO HAVE CHILDREN?

Some breeds are not recommended for young children particularly, and this is a very important question to consider. The wrong choice could permanently disfigure your child for life and result in your dog being destroyed. Unfortunately, there will always be exceptions in every breed and quite often children are not aware of the implications of fulling a dogs ears or tail, so I feel that no matter how much you may trust your dog, never leave children unsupervised with ANY dog until they are old enough to effectively command the dog - I would suggest until the early teens - depending on the child. I know many people would probably disagree with me on this point, but I personally do not think that it is worth the risk to either child or dog.

DO YOU HAVE OTHER PETS?

To avoid bloodshed of dearly loved family pets this is a good point to consider when determining which breed of dog is right for you. Some breeds get on very well with other species, but a lot DON'T so ask the breeder before you buy.

WHAT SORT OF CLIMATE DO YOU LIVE IN?

This is an important consideration for the sake of the dog and really is just common sense. Most breeds that originate in cold climates have very thick coats and will suffer terribly in very hot conditions. Likewise, breeds that have very thin coats, or in the case of some breeds that have very little body hair at all, may be particularly susceptible to the cold - they may also be susceptible to sunburn and skin cancers. If you have a climate controlled house or kennel where the dog will spend most of its time, this may not be such a problem.

HOW MUCH MONEY ARE YOU PREPARED TO REGULARLY SPEND?

Some breeds have a higher maintenance level for food, veterinary assistance, medical tests, grooming and equipment. Every dog requires food, worming, nail clipping, some level of grooming, vaccinations, hopefully sterilization unless you plan to show or breed, and every dog is at risk of unexpected illness and injury. I am not suggesting that only rich people should have dogs, but if you don't have or are not prepared to spend a great deal of money, then maybe a long haired breed that requires clipping every six weeks and may be susceptible to ear and eye infections because of the long hair, may not be the most suitable breed for you.

WHAT TEMPERAMENT DO YOU WANT?

As with people, dogs have different temperaments, and although no dog will ever match a breed standard 100%, most characteristics, including temperament tend to appear reliably in pure bred dogs. This includes independence - some breeds are very dependant on human company and affection, while others are very independent.

HOW MUCH EXPERIENCE HAVE YOU HAD WITH DOGS?

Some breeds of dogs are very dominant and are not usually recommended for first time dog owners. This is because unless you are able to establish dominance early in puppy hood you and your dog will forever be at odds with each other (and this is NOT achieved by physical abuse). Being able to establish dominance is dependant on your understanding that dogs are pack animals and have a very strong hierarchy, and it is important to understand 'pack logic' from the dog's point of view. Many interesting books and articles have been written on this topic, and it is a great idea to read a few, regardless of which breed you purchase, as they will help you to understand some of your dogs behaviour.

Once you have thought about the above points and anything else that is relevant to you and your family, you should be able to narrow your choices down by doing a bit of research. Surf through the net looking for individual breed pages and FAQ's, read some books and contact registered Dog Breeders for information.

If you have done all of the above, here are some points when it comes to picking your puppy:

* NEVER BUY ON A WHIM!!!!!!

* NEVER Buy and animal as an unexpected gift or Christmas Present!!!

* DON'T BUY FROM A PET SHOP, PUPPY MILL OR UNREGISTERED BREEDER.

* Telephone the breeders and ask about their breed. Most will be happy to answer any questions you might have, and will advise you of the suitability of their breed to your situation. Don't be afraid to let the breeder know if you do not have a lot of experience with dogs.

* Go and have a look at several different breeds if you are still not sure which one is right for you. This can best be achieved by attending an All Breed dog show. This will help you decide which breed you like, as well as which breeder's dogs you prefer.

* Decide if you want a pet or a show quality pup. This may determine how long you have to wait and how much you will have to pay - show or breeding quality pups usually being fewer in number and more expensive.

* Have a look at the health of the other dog's in the kennel. Are they lively, alert and friendly. (Don't forget, most kennelled dogs will bark at strangers and some breeds will very rarely look friendly, but you can get a general idea - dogs that look down right viscous might not be good parents for a dog that is going to be a family pet).

* Does the kennel look clean and sanitary?

* Do the dogs react happily to the owner/handler or do they cringe away, snap or growl?

* Puppies should be nicely rounded in shape, without being overly fat or skin and bones.

* Most healthy pups will have shiny, alert eyes and healthy looking coats.

* Check that the puppies are not infested with ticks and fleas.

* Ask to see both parents. It is common for breeders to use a stud dog that they do not own, but they may have photos of the dog. Quite often, the bitch will not look in 'show condition' after whelping a litter. The reason for this is that whelping and feeding a litter places huge demands on the bitch, so she may be a little thin (but not skin and bones), and may 'blow' her coat (shed) due to the hormonal changes caused by pregnancy and milk production. She should however, still appear happy, lively, confident, interact well with the owner/breeder and show no signs of illness.

* Ask the breeder if they have any references from people who have bought their puppies in the past.

* Make sure that you see all appropriate paperwork including parents pedigrees, medical certificates for tests such as hip dysplasia if this is relevant to the breed, as well as the puppies pedigree papers and vet certificate confirming worming and vaccinations. Be very sceptical of any breeder who is not willing to show you paperwork - if you are unable to see the papers, the breeder may not actually have them! Many people are not concerned about having 'papers' for their pet, however, you do want to make sure that if you are paying the price for a pure bred dog, then that is what you are getting. Also, if the breed that you are buying are prone to certain medical conditions, you want to make sure that the parents have been 'cleared' by a vet, and the puppies checked (depending on the relevant condition) to ensure that there is the smallest chance possible that the pup you buy will develop the condition.

It is also a good idea to ask to see the membership card for the canine controlling body (Kennel Council) for the state/country that you are in.

REMEMBER: It is ultimately your responsibility to research the breeds you are interested in as well as the individual breeder that you finally purchase from. While it is your right to ask as many questions as possible, it is also the breeders right (and responsibility) to ask you questions as well, so don't be offended if the breeder gives you the third degree!

Finally, if you do not want or cannot afford a pedigree dog from a registered breeder, there are many reputable dog rescue services that you can adopt from rather than obtaining a dog from a pet shop or backyard breeder. You can obtain a dog of any age from a rescue, (pure breed or mixed) and usually the people who run the rescue will be able to give you some information about each dog they have. If you adopt a dog from a rescue, you may well save it from being destroyed, particularly the older or not so 'pretty and cute' dogs which usually don't get adopted quickly. If you would really like to make a difference to a rescue dog, you might also consider giving a dog that has been mistreated and abused a comfortable, loving home for the remainder of its days - you would be amazed at the love and devotion that you will receive in return.

This article was first published by award winning Pet Portrait artist and photographer Michelle Wrighton of http:www.petartist.com.au in 1996 on http://www.dogsites.com.au and may be reproduced with permission as long as this attribution noticed and author links are retained and the article is not altered in anyway.

Michelle Wrighton

Fine Art Pet Portraits, Wildlife Art and Photography

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How to Save Money on the Family Pet

By Jamie Jefferson

When we want the very best for our pets, we can end up sending a lot of money. But it is possible to take good care of your pet without going overboard. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your pet budget.

The first thing you can do: Be frugal with the extra things. Toys and special treats are nice and something your pet deserves, but that doesn't mean you need to go wild buying them. In reality most pets are more content spending time playing with you than playing with a toy, so keep that in mind before buying too many of the extras for your pet. When you do buy extra treats, stock up while they are on sale at a discount store (or buy discount pet supplies by using a coupon code at an online pet store.)

Veterinary bills can be the biggest pet cost. You do not want your pet to suffer, but vet bills can be steep. To save money, you may want to check out veterinary schools, which often offer lower cost services because students are administering them (under the watchful eye of a professional).

You may also want to learn how to do some things on your own, such as administering vaccinations and treating small wounds. You can also look into pet insurance, which can really help to cut costs, too.

If your pet needs medication on a frequent or regular basis, see if you can save by ordering them online. It's a good idea to stick to the reputable, established pet medication merchants and make sure that you are getting the same brand name that your vet offers.

Another way to help reduce your vet bills is through preventative care, which can help keep your pet from needing the vet. Always buy quality pet food that contains the vitamins your pet needs to stay healthy. Keep your pet in your yard or inside the house to prevent him from running away and possibly getting injured. You should also consider spaying or neutering your pet to help protect against unwanted pregnancies. When you spay or neuter your pet, you may also reduce the risk of certain cancers and infections.

Grooming is another thing that can get expensive. You can save money by learning to groom your pet yourself. Purchase quality grooming supplies and take a class or watch an instructional video to learn how to do it properly. It may not be as hard as you think.

Your pet is surely a beloved member of your family. As with any family member, proper care is going to require that you spend money. But there are lots of ways to cut costs on pet care and help keep your pet healthy and happy at the same time.

Jamie Jefferson writes for Susies-Coupons.com and Momscape.com, where you can win free gift certificates for top online stores. Get the latest PetsMart Coupons, too.

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