What's with Those Poodle Hair Cuts

The Poodle's coat consists of two types of hair. The outer coat should be thick, wiry and curly. The undercoat must be soft and woolly to provide warmth. Puppies, however, are exceptions. Poodle puppy coats are soft and fine with little or no curl, but often with a slight wave.

Country Poodles by Living in Monrovia

As the dog matures into adulthood, the coat develops a thick, curly quality. The best way to judge a puppy's potential adult coat is to look at the parents. If they carry good coats, their puppies will likely possess them too.

Ever since the first hunters trimmed their retrieving dogs to prevent drowning, the Poodle hairstyle has been a favorite topic of conversation among dog people. Initially, Poodles sported either a Continental clip or an English Saddle clip. Now, hundreds of years later, these are still popular as they are required clips for show dogs.

Puppies under one year of age are shown in a simple trim known as a Puppy clip. Only the face, throat, feet and base of tail are clipped. The tail displays the characteristic pompom at its end. The body coat is lightly trimmed to give it a neat unbroken line for a pleasant appearance.

The Continental clip has full hair around the chest and rib cage, with shaved hindquarters and legs. Large pompons are sculpted over each hip above the area of the kidneys (optional) and around the ankles for protection from the cold.

The English Saddle clip permits a short mantle of hair over the hindquarters and fullcoat from the waist to the topknot and ears. The ankle and knee joints are also protected with pompons.

All Poodles are given a topknot of hair over the skull that is brushed out and groomed to stand erect in a rounded pompon. Adult dogs must be shown in either the English Saddle or Continental clip; the only exception being competitors in Stud Dog classes, for which a Sporting clip is permitted. The English Saddle and Continental are the clips of choice for the conformation ring around the world, except in the UK, where the Lion clip is preferred.

Pet Poodles and those not being shown in breed conformation classes at dog shows are usually groomed in styles designed for ease of maintenance. Often the body hair is clipped short, with the legs trimmed a bit longer. Some male Poodles sport tiny mustaches around the muzzles.

The pet style is usually determined by the owner's willingness and capability to maintain the coat in a well-groomed fashion. In addition. Poodles that spend a lot of time outdoors are usually kept shorter because it's easier to keep the coat clean when the hair isn't too long.

About the Author
Written by Daniel Millions
Purchase english bulldogs and other terrier breeds.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/whats-with-those-poodle-hair-cuts-147391.html

Toxic Household Items for Birds

If you have a pet of any kind, safety should always be your number one priority. There are so many things that humans use in their daily lives that are toxic to the animals we protect. No matter what kind of animal you have as a pet, you have to be sure that you are never allowing them to be harmed in any way by something that they might find on the floor or in your home. With birds, this is especially important.

Julius Flying Thru the Doorway by Steven Lesage

For most birds, who spend a lot of their time, if not all of their time, in a cage, most of the items you have in your home won’t be able to hurt them. However, if your bird is allowed to fly around your house (and remember that it is good for all pet birds to spend some time each day outside of their cages) you have to be sure that your home is bird proof. All of your household chemicals and things that they might eat should be put away and put into cupboards that are shut where the bird can’t get. Remember, with birds, high shelves aren’t the option, unless your bird has its wings clipped and cannot fly. If your bird is allowed out in your house, you have to be sure that there is nothing that they could get.

On the other hand, you might think if your bird is always in its cage, you have nothing to worry about. This is true of anything toxic that might be laying around your house, such as bottles of cleaners or other things that an animal could get into, but that your bird can’t because it is in a cage. However, you would be wrong to assume that just because your bird can’t get out of their cage, they are safe.

Air fresheners, carpet sprays, and any other cleaner that can get into the air is going to be possibly toxic to a bird. You should never spray any of these near your birds cage, and you should take care so that the fumes from any of these cleaners don’t drift into the cage. You have to be sure that you remember that a bird is very small, and that it will only take a very small amount to kill a bird. No matter what it is, keep it away from your birds, and your birds will stay safe and healthy. When in doubt, talk to your vet.

Author Resource
Written by David Peterson
For more information on Birds Jinga's Pet Article World.

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Hamsters - Fuzzy Balls Of Fun

As a child, most of us grew up with hamsters or friends who had hamsters. Even our children are fascinated with the small fuzzy creatures. There are many types of hamsters, dwarf, Syrian, Russian, Chinese, and hybrid. The hamster is a burrower so they prefer to have lots of bedding to hide under as well as tubes to create little nests in. The most difficult aspect of hamsters is telling if they are female or male and being wrong. Who has bought two hamsters thinking they were the same gender and ending up with ten hamsters? I certainly have.

Pocket Hamster by Jane Cockman

A lot of biologists and geneticists use hamsters and other rodents to show genetic possibilities. In genetics, we often discuss the genome and how genes are dispersed in relation to eye color, hair color, and other traits. When you have hamsters as pets you are seeing this first hand. I had one gold hamster and one white hamster. When they bred I ended up with several color traits from gold, white, black, white and black to many more. Half the fun for kids is seeing the baby hamsters grow up with different colors. It can be a great science project for school as well as having a wonderful pet.

Hamsters are relatively easy to take care of. You can feed them hamster food, vegetables, and little hamster treats to give them a good life. The bedding should be changed weekly or twice a week depending upon how many hamsters you have. The downside to hamsters is their short lives. Most live only a year or two making it difficult on the younger children.

There are lots of hamster accessories from tubes to wheels. Hamsters like other pets need to have exercise so giving them wheels to run on or having a hamster ball to run around the house in is good for them. The tubing and cages come in a variety of colors to add to a child’s fun. You can create straight pathways to other larger home areas or curve them around to reenter the same cage. Most of the caging is plastic and your hamster will try to chew or claw there way free. You will want to monitor their activity when you clean the cage to make sure they are not producing a hole. Some hamster owners go with a metal wire cage with tiny slits to avoid the chewing escape. Your preference will determine the type of accessories you purchase.

Handling hamsters should be kept to a minimum and you should always wash your hand before and after. Hamsters can have a tendency to bite if they are not handled at least once a day or if they become scared. Be cautious with little children.

Hamsters are a lot of fun for all ages whether you have a budding scientist or just want an easy pet your child can care for. You will want to make sure you feed your hamster properly by not over feeding them while maintaining proper exercise. When your hamsters procreate, you will want to separate out the mother and children from the rest of the crew. A cautionary note before concluding this article: Dwarf hamsters are very susceptible to infections with cedar chips because it can tear holes in their tiny mouths.

Author Resource: Written by David Peterson
For more information on Hamsters, visit Jinga's Pet Article World.

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Litter Box Furniture - Decorate and Disguise at the Same Time

Cat litter box furniture can be a great way to hide your kitty's toileting area. You can find types that offer a variety of capabilities or are decorative in addition to housing the litter pan. Besides disguising the area, these types also provide your pet some much-needed solitude when toileting. A number of styles are discussed below.

Copenhagen Cat Collection by REE-YONG

One choice is cat furniture that incorporates a concealed toileting area. These pieces may include scratching posts, perches, sleeping cubbies and more. This can be a great way to give your cat exercise and fun as well as a 'bathroom.' Several models fit into a corner of a room to maximize your space.

Wooden cabinets are a popular style. These appear like types of furniture, and you can discover one to blend in with any room in your house. These cabinets can offer a variety of features including room for a large pan, two pans, and storage space for supplies like scoops and bags. Especially for someone with limited space, these can be a wonderful means to provide your feline his or her space without having your bathroom taken over. You can discover some designs that are designed so you can place knickknacks on top to further blend in the piece with your decor. One style can actually serve as an end table if you are particularly short on space while another popular model is built like an antique washstand.

Another possibility are litterbox covers. These have various styles such as a kitty house or carpeted perch with a scratching post and are just placed over the pan. These cleverly conceal the spot and help to prevent waste from being kicked onto your floor. You can find these in many styles such as a human house or even a fancy dresser.

You will also find benches which have a door for your pet to access the box, and a lift-off cover for cleaning access. Kitty can use the top as a perch, or you can use the top for temporary storage which would work well in a mudroom spot.

Another decorative option is a unit that is disguised as a plant. The toileting area is housed at the base with a silk plant above.

Cat litter box furniture is an excellent way to conceal unsightly messes and odors. Select the perfect one for your home from the numerous obtainable styles. Your kitty will thank you!

About the Author
Written by Annie Clark
Visit litter box furniture to see a wide selection of styles.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/litter-box-furniture-decorate-and-disguise-at-the-same-time-3245172.html

5 Top Tips for Keeping Happy Goldfish

The goldfish is widely considered one of the lowest maintenance pets available. There is a great deal of truth in this statement: there is no need to take it out on walks in the rain, nor the requirement to fix a fish-flap into your backdoor. Despite the relative ease with which fish can be kept however; there are still a few commonly made mistakes when it comes to looking after these water loving companions. The following points are by no means an exhaustive list of aspects to consider but are most definitely worth bearing in mind if you're planning to invest in an aquatic pal:

Healthy, Colorful Goldfish by Hector Cabrera

1- Chlorine is good for swimming pools...but not good for fish tanks: Although relatively hardy, there are some things which fish struggle to tolerate. Unfortunately one of these things is chlorine and other trace elements, which it just so happens are often present in small quantities in tap water. In order to prevent this chlorine and other contaminants from posing a threat to your goldfish, run the tap for at least 30 seconds before filling the tank. In addition it is advisable to add some de-chlorination solution to the water.

2- Fish are sociable: Research has suggested that gold fish enjoy watching their owners go about their daily lives as much as we take pleasure in watching them do the same. As such: keep your fish tank somewhere visible and relatively light (but out of direct sunlight), this also lessens the risk of forgetting to feed your fish.

3- Don't overfeed your fish: Overfeeding is the single largest cause of premature death in goldfish. They pretty greedy chaps and are unlikely to stop eating just because they're full, so you must make sure that they don't get carried away. Once a day should be the absolute maximum in terms of feeding regularity. I personally have found that once every two days is absolutely perfect: it also saves a little money on fish food!

4- Careful with the water temperature: Goldfish are coldwater fish, that does not however mean you should fill the tank with cold water...confusing, I know. The ideal is in fact a more ambient temperature: a couple of degrees lower than room temperature is perfectly adequate. So remember to add a little warm water to cold water and test to ensure that it isn't icy cold (nor actively warm!).

5- Clean the tank out: Goldfish are relatively dirty animals, then again so would you be if you ate and excreted in the same small space! As such, even if the water in the tank looks clean it may well be rather saturated with none too pleasant micro-organisms. Clean the tank out regularly and make sure to abide by the previous points about de-chlorination and temperature when doing so to keep your fish happy.

Author Resource: Written by Jamie Lyons of DGOS Office Supplies Liverpool in conjunction with OfficeYoo online Office Supplies

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Red Eared Slider Turtles -Tips on Care and Diet

Taking care of Red Eared Turtles takes more than just a container decorated with colorful pebbles and filled with water. These animals have specific housing needs, and require special diets and close monitoring; all this in order to ensure their health and safety, and allow them to live out their maximum lifespans. The following tips about the Red Eared Turtle should help you come to a decision as to whether you are ready to become an owner, or, if you are already one, give you useful advice on how to take better care of your pets.

Red Eared Slider Turtle by Alan Vernon

If you are just in the planning stages of purchasing a red eared turtle, there are a few things you should look out for to make sure that your pet is in perfect condition and not ill before you bring it home. Healthy turtles of this species should be alert, responsive, and bright in appearance. You will know if the turtle is alert and responsive if it pulls its legs back into its shell when you pick it up. Otherwise, Red Eared Slider Turtles that seem to be passive when you do this are most likely to be stressed out or sluggish. They are in great shape and health if they have clear, open, and clean eyes. Their noses should be free from discharge or mucus, which are signs of respiratory sickness.

Red Eared Slider Turtles may appear delicate and cute when they are just hatchlings, and many novice owners may assume that small, plastic containers or tanks would make adequate housing for them. This theory is a mistake; as the turtles grow into their adult size, they will reach up to twelve inches in length. You must, therefore, prepare a suitably sized dwelling place, ideally a large tank or pond. A red eared turtle that has received the right kind of care and monitoring can live for forty years.

One should always remember that it is never wise to try to return a turtle to the wild when it becomes an adult, because it will not be equipped with the skills necessary for self-preservation and survival, especially if it had been kept captive most of its life.

A red eared turtle can excrete a lot of waste material, and you must keep its housing clean, by placing a good filter into its tank, and by feeding it in a separate tank or container.

Red eared slider turtles are omnivorous, although as young turtles, they show a preference for small animals, such as earthworms, shrimp, mealworms, crickets, and krill. These may have to be cut into smaller portions when fed to the hatchlings. If your pet is already an adult, you may offer it larger prey, such as tadpoles. As the turtles mature, you should shift to vegetables for the majority of their diet; for example, collard, dandelion greens, and green beans.

You can determine the sex of your turtles only when they have become mature. You should allot a nesting area on which the females can lay their eggs. Be sure that this area, and the entire place in which the turtles dwell, are escape-proof and free from predators.

These facts about Red Eared Slider Turtles should serve as sound and helpful advice on how to take care of your turtle pets.

About the Author:
Karma Williams is a pet turtle care enthusiast. Discover more about turtles by visiting the Red Eared Slider turtles page of her website. Get your free 10 part Pet Turtle Care mini-course, valued at $49, by visiting her wwwPetTurtleCenter.com website and requesting it.

Article Source: http://www.sooperarticles.com/pets-articles/reptile-amphibian-articles/red-eared-slider-turtles-tips-care-diet-65763.html

Racing Canines

You will find numerous breeds of canines that may be known as sporting canines. Even pit bulls and fighting canines can fit this loose definition. But today's discussion is going to be on a specific form of sporting dog, the racing dog. Most racing canines are greyhounds. Long before the bus line adopted the greyhound's sleek form to epitomize the traveler, greyhounds had been bred for hunting. Numerous types of game are fast, including deer and rabbits. These kinds of game animals required a hunting dog of equal speed to chase them, so came the breeding of greyhounds. Just as the nobility would brag concerning the speed of their horses, so would they brag concerning the speed of their canines on the chase.

Greyhounds at Wheeling Island Racetrack by Grant Lindsay

Now days, some states have started banning greyhound racing whilst other states never permitted it. In those states exactly where greyhound racing has been permitted, individuals would go for a night at the track, comparable to a day or night at the horseracing track. They could line up in the window and bet on the races just like betting at horseracing. You will find even comparable kinds of racing types utilized to assist the novice in handicapping the racing canines.

Many people don't know or care how the greyhound breeders and racers treat the racing canines whilst growing up. They mostly assume that the breeders treat the canines with at least some level of respect and care, simply because the dog is an investment if for no other reason. Some breeders most likely keep puppy-training pads around for the canines within the kennel so that you can make cleaning a bit simpler. The greyhound most likely learns effortlessly to deal with puppy crate training as it's comparable to understanding how you can enter the racing starting gate.

Those states where greyhound racing has been permitted are also likely to have active greyhound rescue groups who actively work to save retired greyhounds and place them in great homes. Many people who have adopted retired greyhounds discover them to become superb pets. The greyhounds have to be given a little time to run each day but other than that, could be indoors, generally without destroying the furniture or producing a total mess. They're smart canines and could be effortlessly trained, even to utilize the puppy potty pads in an emergency.

Regardless of whether the greyhound has learned to utilize puppy pads from its early, pre-racing days or learns to utilize them as part of understanding housebreaking after retiring, the greyhound is an elegant animal. It gives love to its human companions as readily as most all canines and is really a noble dog, regardless of whether running free of charge within the meadow or walking beside human companions down the street.

Author Resource: Written by Grubb Young of Doggy Pads
House training a puppy is hard work. Make the task easier for you and your puppy with Doggy Pads. Eco-friendly disposable puppy training pads will help your puppy train faster. For help with puppy training, visit: http://www.doggypads.com

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What Do Rabbits Eat - An A-Z Guide To What Do Rabbits Eat

If you are part of the amazingly lucky group of people who own rabbits you will know that there is a wealth of information out there on rabbit care and in particular on feeding your rabbit. However, when it comes to feeding, much of it is general e.g.: rabbits can eat fruit.

As bunny lovers, we know that sometimes you need to know about a specific item. So we've put together a list of some of the most common food (and non-food!) items we get asked about.

So, what do rabbits eat? Can they eat apples? Celery? What about carrots, mushrooms or even nuts? Find out below.

Rabbit Eating Italian Style by Niv Singer

Do rabbits eat...

Apples? Yes, in small quantities (see 'Fruit') but not the pips as they are toxic to bunnies.

Bananas? Yes, refer to 'Fruit' for more details.

Basil? Yes, bunnies love basil.

Berries? Yes, refer to 'Fruit' for more details.

Bread? Yes, but only as a super special treat. Some owners may disagree with this but bread can be used as an extra treat for example when toilet training. Just don't let it become a habit as while it is not harmful to buns in small doses it is definitely not on the 'regular food' list.

Broccoli? Yes, but in small amounts. This family of vegetables can produce gases which could upset your bunny's tum.

Bugs? No. Rabbits are vegetarians so don't eat other animals.

Cabbage? Yes, but as with broccoli just in very small amounts.

Carrots? Yes, but in small (1-2 tablespoons) amounts. Carrots are high in natural sugars so are a rabbit 'treat food'. However, the green top part of the carrot can be fed frequently.

Celery? Yes. Just ensure you cut it into 1/2 to 1 inch pieces so that the stringy outside fibres aren't too long as these could cause problems with your bun's digestion.

Cucumber? Yes, but only occasionally and in small amounts.

Flowers? Yes and no depending on the specific flower type. There is a huge variety of flowers and we can't cover all the types here so do some research before ever letting your bun eat flowers as some may be extremely toxic. A few safe ones are: geraniums, marigolds, roses, nasturtiums, sunflowers, daisies and carnations.

Fruit? Yes, rabbits love fruit. It is however a treat food and for adult rabbits only. Limit feeding to 1 tablespoon per 3 pounds of body weight per day. Baby rabbits (under 6 months) should not be given fruits as it may cause diarrhea.

Geraniums? Yes, ask any gardener who also has rabbits! See 'Flowers' for more details.

Grapes? Yes, see 'Fruit' for more details.

Grass? Yes, provided the grass hasn't been sprayed with pesticides or fertilizers. The bulk of a rabbit's diet should be dried grass - see 'Hay' for more details.

Grasshoppers? No. Rabbits are vegetarians so don't eat other animals.

Hay? Absolutely! Fresh hay should always be available and should make up the bulk (70%) of your bun's diet. Hay is high in fibre and low in calories. It is absolutely crucial for a rabbit's digestive system as well as for keeping teeth worn down naturally. Timothy hay (from Timothy grass) is the best kind to feed.

Herbs? Yes, rabbits love fresh herbs (not dried from your store cupboard!) Basil, peppermint, parsley, cilantro/coriander and mint are popular favourites and easy to grow.

Insects? No. Rabbits are vegetarians so don't eat other animals.

Meat? No. Rabbits are vegetarians so don't eat other animals.

Nuts? No. Rabbits may like to eat these but they aren't good for them and shouldn't be part of a rabbit's diet.

Onions? No, never. These are toxic to your bun.

Parsley? Yes, most rabbits love all types of parsley and it can be fed frequently.

Poop? Yes, it's own. Strictly speaking these aren't poops but nutrient-rich droppings called caecotropes which look like little peas.

Pumpkin? Yes, in small amounts as pumpkin is high in starch.

Rhubarb leaves? No, never. These are toxic to your bun.

Spinach? Yes but only as an occasional treat as it is high in oxalates which can affect calcium absorption.

Strawberries? Yes, refer to 'Fruit' for more details.

Sunflowers? Yes, the whole sunflower plant is edible. Chop the leaves, stalks and flower heads into manageable sized pieces. Bunnies especially appreciate the seeds, however these are high in protein so feed sparingly - just 1-2 teaspoons a day for an average sized rabbit.

Sweet corn? No, never. These are toxic to your bun.

Tomatoes? Yes, but only red ones and in small amounts. Never feed the vines or leaves.

Tulips? No, bulb plants are poisonous to rabbits.

Watermelon? Yes, see 'Fruits' for more information.

Worms? No, bunnies are vegetarians.

Zucchini? Yes, but in small amounts as a treat.

About the Author
Written by A. Mitchell
More on what do rabbits eat. Get loads of free information on pet rabbit care at RabbitsForPets.com including a step by step guide to feeding, housing, breeds and much more.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/what-do-rabbits-eat-an-az-guide-to-what-do-rabbits-eat-1933134.html

The Rarest Domestic Cat Breed on Earth

There are many domestic cat breeds. Most people including cat lovers will not have heard of a number of them. They will almost certainly be unaware of this rarest of breeds.

There is little hard fact surrounding the history of the Sokoke Cat. The breed was named after the forest from where she originated on the coast of Kenya. The Sokoke Forest is the largest on the east of Africa and contains much interesting wildlife.

Photo Credit: Jomegat

Close to the forest is the African Savanna, the home of another cat, this time a wild cat called the Serval.

The local people, the Giriama tribe, who live close to the Sokoke Forest have been aware of the Sokoke for a long time and they say this breed of cat has been living in the area for perhaps centuries.

They say that the Sokoke is neither a domestic cat nor a wild cat as the cat's appearance is distinctly different. Living as they have with this cat for so long they are to be believed.

Although the Sokoke is the size of a domestic cat she is rangy and exotic looking having the appearance of a cross between the Serval and a Bengal.

It is feasible to argue that such mating did in fact take place. But there is no hard evidence to substantiate that.

DNA testing of the cat shows no evidence of wild cat genes. The Sokoke is probably a feral domestic cat living in and around the villages of the Grimiama tribe who used the cat as a source of food at one time.

The tribal people called the cat "Khadzonzo". This word means "look like tree bark". This is because the coat color and pattern is reminiscent of tree bark being a modified marbled tabby pattern with "ticked" blotches.

Although well-known to the Kenyans of the area they were undiscovered until 1978 when a plantation owner and artist (and former horse breeder) Jeni Slater found them under a tree on her estate (in fact one of her servants or helpers found the mother cat and kittens).

Jeni's background in breeding alerted her to the fact that the cat she saw was special, different and unusual and a possible new breed of cat.

She took two of the kittens and that in effect was the first step in the establishment of a new and rare breed of cat now registered with FiFe and TICA.

Shortly after the discovery two kittens were shipped to Denmark and breeding began.

In due course the breed was exported to the USA and Canada. There are now breeders in the USA, Norway, Canada and Denmark but they are few and far between in comparison to the more well-known breeds.

You can read more about this rarest of cats at Pictures of Cats Blog and at Pictures of Cats

About the Author
Michael Broad runs these cat sites:
Pictures of Cats Blog and at Pictures of Cats and is a cat lover, animal lover. Both sites are intended to create income no matter how small to fund cat charities.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/the-rarest-domestic-cat-breed-on-earth-265539.html

Why Hermit Crabs Make Great Pets

Hermit crabs have been kept as pets for quite sometime now. However, they have become increasingly popular over the last few years or so. Hermit crab lovers everywhere have made an elaborate hobby of raising hermit crabs. Some just have room for one or two crabbies. Others have a veritable colony of these creatures. This newfound love of hermit crabs as pets is not surprising considering that these crazy crustaceans called hermit crabs make great pets. There are several reasons hermit crabs make great pets. They are fascinating creatures, they are low cost, and there are many options to choose from in regard to their environments and care.

Hermit Crab by Vanessa Pike-Russell

First and foremost, hermit crabs make excellent pets because they are such fascinating creatures. Living in a shell that provides them shelter, they can come out for a peak at the world around them or they can use their large claw as an iron-clad door, to keep the world out. They are active little animals, climbing over anything and everything in their path. If something is in their way, they move it without any trouble. Each hermit crab has his or her own personality, whether they are shy, extremely active, or a fan of wading in their water. Hermit crabs, in my opinion, are some of the most fascinating creatures you can own.

Another reason that hermit crabs make great pets is because they are relatively low-cost pets. If you are looking around for a pet and one of factors you are basing your choice on is cost, a pure bred puppy, a horse, or an exotic bird is not the pet for you. These types of pets can cost thousands of dollars just to purchase, when you begin to think about food, shelter, and vet bills for the upkeep of the pet, the cost sky rockets out of control. These types of pets can become very costly. Hermit crabs cost you anywhere from $4.00 – $20.00 per crab. This is as opposed to pure bred pit bull puppies which can cost you upwards of $1500 dollars or even more. If you are looking for a pet that is small, cheap and won’t get in the way of your life, hermit crabs most definitely be an option for you as a pet.

One other reason hermit crabs are awesome pets is because, if you do have the money to set up an elaborate crab environment, there are many options to choose from. You can choose to have many hermit crabs and create a type of colony. You can also choose several different environments for them. From a large pond container to a 10-gallon aquarium, depending on the number of crabs you have and your budget, you are free to choose what type of home your hermit crab will live in. Also, with the right amount of money to spend, you can get all of the best equipment including substrate, climbing toys for your hermit crab’s exercise, as well as a variety of different foods and treats. You will never run out of different things to do with your crab or to buy for your crab. They can also live up to more than 20 years, so you can have a good friend for a long time.

There are many reasons the pet hermit crab boom is picking up. They are fascinating pets, they are low cost and low maintenance, and there are many options to choose from as far as setting up and maintaining their habitats. Overall, hermit crabs, with all their different little personalities, are terrific pets.

Author Resource: Written by David Peterson
For more information on Hermit Crabs, visit Jinga's Pet Article World.

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Cichlid Care - What You Need to Know

There are over 1,500 different cichlid species in the world that come from the same Cichidae family. They are found in different countries including Africa, the United States, and parts of Asia and South America. Cichlid care is rather easy, since most breeds in this species are known to be hardy fish.

Green Texas Cichlid by Scott Kinmartin

One of the main guidelines to follow, when caring for a cichlid, is to try to replicate their original habitat. When they are in the wild, they care for themselves. However, when in captivity, they depend on their owner for survival. The main objective to cichlid care is to get your aquarium as close as you can to its native home. If you are able to mimic their natural habitat then a lot of the cichlid care will take care of itself and you will also be able to keep cichlid aggression in check this way.

When caring for cichlids, water temperatures are very important. Most breeds of cichlids thrive in water that is kept at a constant 82 degrees. The reason water temperatures are so important in relation to cichlid care is because it can directly affect your fish's metabolism and activity. Cichlids kept in warmer tanks will generally be faster than those kept in cooler tanks and they will most often eat more, as well. A heating element for your aquarium is necessary for a healthy cichlid. You should get an electronic heater so that you can set a temperature and the heater keeps the aquarium at that constant temperature. Also make sure that your aquarium is not in direct sunlight during any part of the day because that will make it very difficult to regulate water temperature. On the same token, make sure that you do not place the aquarium in a part of the house that has drafts since that will cause the digital heating element to work harder than it should need to.

Most cichlids prefer regular water, or alkaline water for their habitat. This is the opposite of other fish species, including goldfish. Goldfish prefer slightly acidic water, and neutral pH. Testing your aquarium water regularly is essential to good cichlid care. Levels of 8 to 9 pH are ideal.

Cichlid care can take a lot of time and devotion. If you are not willing to put forth the effort that it takes, you should not reconsider purchasing this species of fish. However, if you do put in the time, keeping cichlids can be very rewarding. Especially since they are the most vibrant and colorful freshwater fish.

Author Resource: Written by Preston Mane
Discover more specifics of cichlid care on my website. On my site you can also learn about specific species, like the African Cichlid.

Article From Pet Article World

Don't Let Your Puppy Freeze This Winter

Even as the weather starts to cool during the fall season, it is time to start thinking about safety concerns for your little four-legged friend. One thing that some people fail to remember is that their dogs can get cold too. Whether you are taking your pup for a walk or you are going to the pet store together, you will want to make sure that you are making use of a quality dog sweater. With the right dog sweater, you will find that your dog will stay nice and warm, even during the coldest of months. Of course, you will want to make sure that you are not going overboard. The last thing you would want to do is to cause your dog to over heat. If your dog does become overheated, make sure that you are giving him water and that you are taking him to the vet just as quickly as possible.

Pooch Wearing a Sweater by Jon Hurd

When you are selecting the right dog sweater for your dog, you want to think about how often you will be outside in the cold, how long of a duration will you be outside and how much natural fur the dog has. If your dog is already extremely furry, the last thing you would want to do is to throw a heavy-duty sweater on him. In fact, if your dog is extra furry, a lightweight jacket or a thin sweater might work nice. If your dog has little to no fur or he is a short-fur breed, you will want a slightly thicker sweater. This will ensure that your dog stays nice and warm without having to run the risk of overheating.

Shopping for dog sweaters is more than just making sure that you are getting the right kind. You also want to make sure that you are getting the sweater for the right price. There is never a reason to spend more money than you have to, especially since you can buy more dog sweaters if you can find a way to save money. The best way to save as much money as possible is to make sure that you are shopping online. Even though there might be a small shipping fee, the savings you can get are still worth it. In addition, if you buy in bulk, you can save even more. With Internet shopping, you will be able to comparison shop and find the best deals in a fraction of the time it would take you if you were to drive from store to store.

Still though, even with the best dog sweaters in the world, you still want to be extra cautious when it comes to extreme temperatures. You want to make sure that you are doing everything you can to keep your little dog safe. Only you know when it is too cold to venture out or when it is time to come in before anyone freezes. As the owner, make sure that you are allowing your dog to enjoy the outdoors, but only when it is safe to do so.

About the Author
Kelly Marshall is a popular contributor at Oh My Dog Supplies - where you can find dog beds, dog steps, dog sweaters (including knit dog sweaters), and more unique dog gear that you'll never find at your local pet store.

Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=599312&ca=Pets

Stressed Cats: Things That Stress Felines Out

Sure, your cat may not have to worry about money or getting a job, but that does not mean that your pet does not have stress in his or her life. Every living thing, at one point in their life, will be stressed out. As humans, we know that there are different options on how we will deal with our stress. Most people do not realize that there is stress in cats. When a cat is stressed out, this can lead to a number of different behavior issues. Below, we are going to give you the top five things that stress out a cat.

Stressed Out Cat by Greg Westfall

A new family member: Did you know that cats can get stressed when a new family member comes into your home? Whether they are a new baby, an animal or some other person moving in, cats can get stressed.

Holidays: Cats can get stressed during the holidays too? Yes, they can. Cats enjoy having peace and quiet around their home. People have a tendency to hold parties during the holidays, which means a lot of people will be coming into the home. There is going to be loud music and talking, which can cause your cat to get stressed out. In fact, have you noticed that your cat hides out when you have company over? They are usually nowhere to be found during those special occasions. The best thing you can do would be to give your cat his or her own place (a secret hideout) where no one is going to bother them.

Moving homes: When you move your home, this could cause anxiety for your cat. When you do this, your cat will be moving into a new environment, which they do not like doing.

For some cats, they like the big adventure they have in a new house, but others get quite scared. The best thing you could do would be to bring your cats toys, bed, litter box, etc. with you and put it in the room that they will be the most comfortable in.

A change in the routine: when there is a change in your routine, there is a change in your feline's routine. Even something such as a change in your employment can be stressful for the pet.

When you go to work, dangle your keys around beforehand in order to desensitize your feline to the sound of you getting ready each morning to leave. When you finally leave, do not make a big scene. If you make a big deal out of it, then this may cause the pet to get even more anxiety.

Looking out the window: As a cat owner, we know that they love looking out the window. When your cat is gazing out the window, if a strange cat passes by and marks their territory and your cat cannot get to it, then that is going to cause your cat to get even more stressed or even angry.

Cats are wonderful creatures who need to have attention. It is important to pay attention to the behavior changes in your feline.

About the Author
Written by David Peterson
For information on training your cat, visit Jinga's Cat Training Site site. Visit also Jinga's Pet Article World.

Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=592232&ca=Pets

Do-It-Yourself With Dog House Plans

Building a house for your pet doesn’t have to be hard with dog house plans. There are a couple reasons that I would recommend doing this.

Save Money
You could end up saving quite a bit of money by building it yourself. Since you pick out all the materials yourself, you can shop around for the best deal. You can even buy it on the off season and store it until you can actually work outside again. It doesn’t matter since this is all up to you. This means that you are going to have to be somewhat motivated to see the project through, but it’s not really as hard as it seems.

Doghouse and Hound by Alberto Gonzalez

Size
If you have a larger pet, you may want to use dog house plans. It’s not easy, or cheap, to get a large dog house from a store. Even specialty stores don’t always have one big enough. You might run into this problem if you have more than one dog as well. Ever tried to look for a doggie duplex house? I assure you that they are few and far between. When I did find one the price was outrageous. I didn’t buy it. I didn’t think I would get my money’s worth out of it. It was built to last for a year or two maybe (I live where there is lots of snow) and was not insulated. It also wasn’t very cute. If I was going to pay that kind of money I should have at least liked the way it looked, which I didn’t.

Insulation
Many pet houses that you can buy are not insulated. You don’t have to live in cold weather areas to want insulation. Having insulation in any house does double duty; it keeps the house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. If your pet is outside a lot you want to protect them as much as you can, which is why you are getting a dog house. Including insulation would be another great idea as well. It’s not always easy to add in insulation to a pre-made house. It’s usually a lot easier to put it in while you are building. Even construction workers do it this way with people’s houses; it’s just easier to do. Of course it’s easier with our houses to add it in. They are bigger and easier for us to move around in; doing that on a dog house is a different, more difficult, matter. Being able to add insulation while you are constructing it is another reason you might want to use dog house plans.

Attractive
Another reason for using dog house plans is that you are sure to find one that looks attractive without breaking the bank. There are hundreds of plans to choose from so you should be able to find a couple that really suit your tastes and needs. Since you are saving so much money on the construction part, you may find yourself willing to spend a bit and make it look the way you want instead of just functional. Don’t beat yourself up for it, just build it the way you want.

About the Author
Written by Vicky L
These are just a couple reasons for using dog house plans. For more information please check out http://www.woodworkingplansdesign.com/wooden_dog_house_plans.html.

Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=610637&ca=Pets

How to Raise Quail

Looking for an interesting and unique pet? Quails can be not only great pets, but also quite profitable in the long run to have. Quails are unique in their behavior, appearance, and personalities. If this is your first experience with raising quails you’ll want to start out small. A small “flock” and coop are best until you get into the swing of things.

Quail by Eggybird

Before even attempting to hatch your own quails be sure to check local and state laws regarding permits, permissions, and restrictions to raising any type of wild creature such as quails. Without checking these first you could make avoidable mistakes that may wind up being costly.

First things first, if raising quails from eggs you’ll have to be sure to use an incubator. Quail eggs hatch best in an incubator if they are not in the wild. Even after hatching you’ll want to be sure that you are feeding the right food, keeping the temperature at the right amount of heat, and also keep your young quail babies healthy. Most importantly make sure young babies are kept stress free, and in a safe environment as this can be a crucial factor in their health. Also, be aware that quails are social birds, and therefore will require a flock or several buddies in order to be successful.

Next, size and space needed to raise happy quails are actually a lot less than what one might assume. Quails are quite small creatures and therefore do not need as much space as a chicken or duck might need to flourish. Luckily, one can get away with a much smaller coop to house a larger number of quails than one might need for chickens. For instance, a coop that would comfortably house 3 chickens, can comfortably house 8 quails. Coops can be raised or rest on the ground. Many quail breeders favor raised cages because they are easier to keep clean. The droppings fall through to the ground and can be raked up and removed to the compost heap without disturbing the birds. In raised cages, the birds will never be standing in manure and the eggs will remain clean. Make sure to acquire proper housing before even bringing home your young birds.

Lastly, make sure to do any and all research before you get too confused and mixed up. Researching your new flock is crucial to ensure you’ll be on the right track to raising a healthy flock. There are many books, websites, and people available to help you on your goals. Be sure to research feeding, sexual habits, and keys to the perfect environment for your growing flock. Also research local vets that may specialize in helping raise a healthy flock. By having a good vet you’ll lower the risk of unnecessary problems.

By following just a few simple steps, and maintaining a good relationship with your growing flock, you’ll be on your way to having healthy and happy pets. These pets will also be great in the long run for those using them for other purposes, such as harvesting their eggs. This would be a fantastic way to jump start any organic diet!

About the Author
Suzie O’Connor lives in Florida and raises a variety of hens, baby chickens, and a few roosters. She shares her learning experiences and helps to educate others on how to get started and the many benefits of raising backyard chickens. Visit her website ChickenHousesPlus.com

Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=598599&ca=Pets

Horse Vision - How Do Horses View The World?

Finding out how a horse sees his environment helps us understand why horses behave the way they do in many situations. Many times, horse problems are the direct result of the way the horse perceives and reacts to a certain situation and because horses see the world differently than we do, it's important that you understand these differences so you are in a position to make allowances for them.

Reflection in a Horse's Eye by digizen

There is some controversy surrounding the eyes structure of horses. Horses were thought to have ramped retinas, meaning their eyes don't form a true arc making the retina closer to the lens, but now it is believed that this may not be the case. Horses eyes are structured for grazing while being able to see approaching predators at the same time, but this structure becomes a handicap when judging distances and heights. On approaching a jump, you may notice that horses lower their heads then raise them in an effort to appraise the height of the obstacle. When approaching an obstacle, the horse will lose sight of the jump right before takeoff; experienced riders take this into account and allow their horses to raise their heads before jumping.

Horses are also colour blind, they don't see colours like we do and they perceive the world as a mosaic of different light reflections. They do however notice movement instantly and can react accordingly, much to the dismay of the inexperienced rider! Green or inexperienced horses respond to sudden movement by shying or bolting. If something moves suddenly into their peripheral field of vision this will usually cause horses to bolt.

Horses, with their wide field of vision, have only two blind spots: that which is directly in front or behind them. When approaching a horse from the rear you should talk to him to avoid startling him. When riding through tricky terrain it's always a good idea to allow your horse free rein so he can see what's under his feet.

Your horse's eyes are very sensitive to light and this is why young or inexperienced horses seem nervous when you are trying to load them into a horsebox. Their eyes need to adjust to the darker environment of the horsebox so they can see properly. Entering a horsebox is akin to entering a dark cave and your horse's reluctance to do so is what saved its ancestors - caves housed dangerous predators!

Understanding your horse's vision can help you understand why your horse reacts in various situations; a lot of the time inexperienced horse owners mistakenly believe their horse is intentionally acting up when the real reason for their horse's behaviour is related to the his vision and way of seeing the world.

Author Resource: Stal Amani understands the importance of matching the right horse to the right rider. We have a selection of dressage and show jumpers for sale as well as ponies and if you don't find what you're looking for we can help source the perfect horse for you. Stal Amani can sell your horse through an extensive and trusted network. We are sensitive to the fact that you would like your horse to go to the best possible home http://www.stalamani.com

Article From Pet Article World

The Red Zebra Cichlid - A Violent Fish

Originating from the East African Rift Lake, Malawi, Red Zebra Cichlids are also known as Malawi Cichlids. Their fins are long and yellow and, as the name suggests, their body is striped. They may grow up to 6 inches and live for up to 10 years. Males tend to be more attractive than the females.

Red Zebra Cichlid by calwhiz

An aquarium no smaller than 48 gallons is recommended for the Red Zebra Cichlid. They like their water temperature to be between 72F and 82F with a pH level ranging from 8 to 9. They will dine on meat and plants alike and will even make a meal of algae or dried food. They will dig and uproot plants, so the tank should be decorated mostly with rocks; any plants must be well secured. A good way to secure your plants is place a large rock over the roots. The rock must be big enough so that the cichlid cannot move it, but not so big that will crush the roots.

The Red Zebra Cichlid is a relatively violent fish and therefore should not be placed in a tank with just any other breed. A good tank mate choice would be the Jeweled Cichlid. When these fish are spawning, there should be a ratio of one male to every three females. This ensures that the male has an ample selection for a mate and that his violent behavior is not directed at just one female. It is not optimal for there to be violence against any of the female fish, but this way they share the burden. It is the lesser of two evils.

When a female consents to breeding she will lay up to 60 eggs on a flat surface (make sure that you have a flat surface on the floor of your aquarium if you want to encourage breeding). The male will fertilize the eggs and the female will take the fertilized eggs into her mouth until they hatch (also called Mouth Brooding). The male's job is done and he goes his separate way as the female cares for the eggs and eventually the fry.

The female will keep the eggs in her mouth for up to 4 weeks until they hatch and in that time she will not eat anything. Once the fry hatch, she will be nearly starving. Unfortunately, she is so hungry that she will not hesitate to eat her own fry if they do not get away fast enough. You may want to put the fry in a separate aquarium until they are big enough to fend for themselves.

About the Author
Written by Preston Mane
There is a lot more to know about Red Zebra cichlids and you can learn a lot of it on my website. You can also learn about the cichlid Convict there.

Article Source: ArticleSnatch Free Article Directory

Guidelines For Choosing a Dog Halloween Costume

Choosing a Halloween costume for your dog may seem simple enough, but if you have ever dressed your dog up for Halloween before then you know it is anything but simple. There are many things that you have to think about when choosing a costume. The way it looks is just one consideration and it isn't even the most important. You actually have to put some thought into choosing a costume so you can be sure Halloween is a fun experience and does not turn into a living nightmare.

Super Spooky Dogs by istolethetv

Problems with Choosing the Wrong Costume
There are many things that can go wrong if you choose the wrong costume for your dog. One major problem is that your dog's safety could be at risk. Costumes can pose a choking hazard or cause your dog to trip and fall. You also run the risk of a horrible mess if the costume does not allow for your dog to easily go to the bathroom. Other issues you may run into include your dog refusing to wear the costume, a costume that is too restricting or issues with your dog tearing or ruining the costume before you even get out the door. To help avoid problems you will need to consider sizing, design and quality.

Sizing
When buying a costume for your dog you have to get the size right. A wrong sized costume will cause all sorts of issues. You don't want it to be too tight or too loose. You should measure your dog carefully to figure out the right size. The package will usually include measurements so you can be sure that you will get the right size. If possible you should buy from a store where you can take your pet in. Most pet stores will allow you to take your pet in. This way you can try on the costume to ensure a perfect fit.

Design
The design or style of the costume should be considered so you will be sure it will work for your dog. You don't want a costume that has too many pieces or accessories if your dog is not used to dressing up or if he or she is very energetic. You also may want to check the back of the costume and make sure that it will be easy for your dog to use the bathroom without soiling the costume. The design should also be something that will fit your dog well. Not all costumes work for all breeds of dogs. Consider your dog's personality, too. Extremely feisty dogs will do best with simple costumes. If you try to go too elaborate you could end up losing pieces of the costume or having your dog tear it up.

Puggly Cow by istolethetv

Quality
It is never a good idea to skimp on a Halloween costume for your dog. If you have a very docile dog that is well behaved and has no trouble with being dressed up then you may be able to go for a cheaper costume. Generally, though, a dog requires something that is well made and that can stand up to running, jumping and rolling around. You don't want the costume getting torn up or falling apart before you even take your dog out for the night.

Dressing a dog up for Halloween may have once been something only a few people did, but today it is common to see pets out trick or treating with their human friends. Dog Halloween costumes come in a range of styles and you will have fun choosing one for your dog. Just be sure that you choose carefully so you are sure to get a costume that your dog will like and that will last through the night.

About the Author
Kelly Marshall is a popular contributor at Oh My Dog Supplies - where you can find dog beds, dog steps, unique dog Halloween costumes, and more unique dog gear that you'll never find at your local pet store.

Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=595781&ca=Pets

Koi Pond Kits - Everything You Need To Know

The view of koi swimming around a pond, the sound of flowing water and sight of the fish jumping around all has an amazing effect on anyone that owns a koi pond. All this can relax an onlooker and help relieve stress naturally. To avoid the stress brought on by designing and building your own koi pond, you can buy a pond kit for your Koi fish from any major pet store. These kits are easy to set up; plus, will save you a lot of time and money in the long run. They come in a variety of sizes so you can easily find one that will fit comfortably in your yard, be it large or small.

Koi at Feeding Time by Jenn Forman Orth

The most popular koi pond kits include all the essentials you will need to create and run a good pond. A Koi pond kit includes liner, water filtration equipment, tubing, chemicals for water treatment and a pump. The liner can come in two varieties: one which is a pond liner that can be placed in a pre-existing hole, or a firm, hard one that comes in a specific shape.

The advantage of soft pond liners are that they allow you to create a pond according to the shape, size and depth you want. You can even buy kits that allow you to feature a waterfall in your pond. When building a Koi fish pond, make sure it holds approximately five hundred gallons so your fish have enough space to swim around.

Having a beautiful koi pond would be useless without the proper maintenance. Make sure that you have all the necessary equipment and supplies needed for your Koi for their healthy and happy living. Observe them often, particularly when you first purchase them, and ensure that they receive enough (but not too much) food. Feeding your Koi fish excessively, or giving them more food than they eat, can cause problems in your pond, such as excess waste, which leads to too much algae growing in the pond. After feeding your koi, skim out all the surplus food floating on the water surface of your pond with a skimmer. Pond kits usually carry skimmers with other supplies, so you won't have to spend extra money on a separate one.

Look for pond kits that contain all the equipment you may need to take good care of your koi. Try finding a pond liner material for maintaining the water temperature, since too much temperature inconsistency may harm your Koi. Want to decorate your koi pond? You can even find pond kits with ornamental items such as waterfalls, gleaming lights and artificial plants.

Even if you have little or no prior experience with Koi ponds, after reading this article, buying a pond kit will make your job significantly easier. You can easily follow the directions provided with the kit to make sure that you set up your pond appropriately.

Although koi fish are tough, making sure they have good water and proper care will guarantee their survival.

About the Author
Travis Taylor is a Koi fish keeper and breeding enthusiast, and enjoys helping others get started in this amazing hobby by sharing information about Koi Pond Kits. His newest book,"Koi Care Secrets," teaches Koi Fish owners everything they need to know about caring for their pets. http://www.koicareguide.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/koi-pond-kits-everything-you-need-to-know-3357405.html

Elderly Cat Care

Our cats become a part of the family over time. But unlike humans, who are considered elderly at 60 or 65, cats are considered "senior citizens" at the ripe old age of 10. It is important to understand the proper care of cats at all stages of life. A kitten cannot be fed, groomed, medicated, and treated the same way as an elderly cat. Here is a guide to proper Elderly Cat Care.

Elderly Cat by Purrs and Paws of A.R.A.S.

Feeding Time
Most pet supply stores sell specially formulated cat foods that are designed to provide proper health and nutrition to elderly cats. Some formulas assist with proper digestion, since this can often be a problem with older cats. Senior cats cannot assimilate their food in their digestive tracts in the same way that they did when they were youngsters.

Older cats can also have problems with their teeth that cause them to eat less. This is why it is important to maintain good dental hygiene in cats at a young age by either brushing, taking them to the veterinarian for a cleaning, or feeding them snacks that clean their teeth. If your elderly cat eats less, it may be due to a toothache, thus it is sometimes ideal to feed them softer foods, mostly wet, canned foods, so that chewing their dinner won't be as much of an obstacle.

Many cat owners find that their cat's coat becomes dull with age. This is due to poor nutrition. Feed your older cat a diet rich in essential fatty acids to fix this problem. When organisms, including cats, get older, they have an increased production of free radicals in the body. Free radicals contribute to the degeneration of cells in the body. Help build up the immune system of your beloved cat by increasing his or her intake of vitamin C and E.

Finally, you want your cat to remain active in old age. The more energetic activities your cat participates in the better health it will remain in. If you allow your cat to become obese it will lay around the house and have reduced quality of life, as well as a decrease in general health. Watch your pet's eating habits and assure that it is not overeating, or eating as a recreation as some cats do.

Grooming Elderly Cats
Another element of proper Elderly Cat Care is grooming. When cats age, they sometimes stop grooming themselves with the same frequency as they did when they were younger. This can create a matted fur coat that is dirty and smells bad. Bad hygiene will eventually lead to bad health. Because of this, it is important that you groom your elderly cat yourself. Purchase a good cat brush that doesn't just brush the outer coat, but one with bristles that reach down to the skin to pull up old hair.

It sometimes helps to give your cat a bath, even though most cats hate them with a passion. The best way to wash a cat is to place them in the tub and gradually introduce water. You certainly don't want to throw them into the tub with hot water running inside! You may get a deep claw mark in the arm that will never heal and remind you to never do that again. If you apply water gradually to the cat's coat until they are completely wet and then work in some shampoo quickly, you should be able to accomplish that goal.

Vet Visits and Medication
When your cat grows into old age, it may have health complications that require regular medication. You should schedule a regular vet appointment for your elderly cat to assure that you are keeping up with all details of its health regimen. In older age, cats may seem fine but still have complications. Ask your veterinarian to give your cat a blood and urine test to find out if there is anything to be concerned about to head off any future problems. Going back to dental care, most older cats develop gum disease which can lead to health problems down the line. Gum disease can be treated by your veterinarian.

Just as with a human who has to take daily medication, if your cat has been prescribed to take medications on a daily basis it is helpful to keep everything in one place as a reminder. You do not want to miss a day of any crucial medication as the system of your older cat is much more delicate than those of younger cats.

Photo Credit: Deanna

Pet Insurance
Insurance companies are coming to recognize the love that people have for their pets. Thus, there are many new pet insurance products popping up on the market. It is best to enroll your pet into an insurance program at a younger age to assure a more reasonable premium, but you may still be able to enroll your elderly cat into an insurance program where his or medical bills will be partly covered in the case of a medical emergency. Some pet insurance companies will charge anywhere from $20-$50 per month per cat, depending on their particular situation.

The costs of pet surgeries and treatments can be way out of the budget of most households, so having a pet insurance plan to back you up can be a great asset. It will also give you peace of mind about your cat as it ages.

Activities of the Elderly Cat
The activity level of elderly cats vary. Some cats become inactive and spend most of their day sleeping or sitting. But other cats can be just as active in old age as they were in their younger days. These cats may still like to play with you, run, and chase the other cats around the house, but you just need to be understanding that they may not be able to participate in these games for as long as they used to. For example, a game cats love to play is "chase their owner." Instead of letting them chase you up and down the stairs as you did when they were young, maybe you could keep the activity to one level of the house. That way you will not overexert your cat and help prolong his time spent active.

Most cat experts agree that a cat is generally healthy and happy when they are "bright-eyed and bushy-tailed." Another indication of a healthy cat is a lustrous, shiny coat, and a tail that sticks straight up in the air when the cat is walking. Proper elderly cat care is dire if you love your senior cat and want to keep it in good physical health.

About the Author
David Beart is owner of the Professors House, a site dedicated to family, relationships, cat information, and household issues.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/elderly-cat-care-324111.html

Polecat - Ferret - A Comparison

Both the ferret and the polecat belong to the weasel family and look very similar but there are a number of differences that set them apart. Often known as the domesticated polecat, ferret pets are gregarious while polecats prefer to stay alone. Ferrets can be differentiated on the basis of a number of features especially smell. Polecats are known to emanate a distinctive smell that can be attributed to their secretion.

Polecat by John Linwood

Another distinguishing factor between the polecat and the ferret is that the polecat can choose when it wants to get pregnant. The implantation time can be decided by the polecat. Therefore the polecat can decide when the right time is to breed. However the ferret cannot choose to control implantation.

Ferrets have small ears, a sensitive nose, sharp teeth and a long, sinuous body. On the other hand polecats have long and lean bodies with sensitive whiskers, short muzzles and rounded ears. Polecats are not known for their eyesight; unlike the ferret, they make their way around with the help of their nose.

Polecats are purely carnivorous and survive on fish, fish eggs, small birds and reptiles. While ferrets are also known to be carnivorous they enjoy eating sweets like raisins, bananas, and peanut butter.

A Polecat, ferret and cat although similar in many aspects, differ a lot in terms of temperament, dietary habits and mating patterns etc. All of them belong to the same family but basic behavioural patterns like curiosity, tenacity and gregariousness make them completely different from each other.

Ferret by Fahara

Ferrets make great pets and if trained properly they can shower you with all the love and companionship you need. They love sharing their space and do no get territorial. Polecats cannot be domesticated and will not make good pets because they are too solitary and hate sharing their space with other polecats even.

Since they look so similar and have so many similarities it is essential for one to know the common differences between a polecat, ferret and cat if you wish to bring one home. A ferret is indeed a great choice for a pet as they are tiny, playful and extremely lovable.

About the Author
Clint Sidney is a ferret enthusiast who enjoys giving information about Polecat, Ferret. You can learn more about taking care of ferrets the correct way at FerretCareHelp.com.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/polecat-ferret-a-comparison-3244787.html

The History of the Paisley Breed of Dalmations

During the past century, there has always been a strong bond existent between British dog fanciers and the Dalmatian. It is said that these dogs have been known there for the past 200 years, and there has even been exploration of a theory that they are actually partially descended from the early English hunting hounds, the Talbot in particular, so similar are they to these dogs in type, character, and hunting ability.

Soccer Ball Dalmation by Michele Eve Photography

Dave and Sue MacMillan who are located at St. Paul, Minnesota own Paisley Dalmatians. When Paisley Preterit completed his finals in March of 1985, he became the 50th conformation winner owned or bred at Paisley. And through that same month, Paisley's QindaBritt became the 30th compliance Dalmatian to have earned a C.D. degree.

Quite possibly a century or two ago there was some Talbot blood infused into the European dogs who, by their striking appearance, caught the eyes of travelers from Great Britain, then gained their admiration by their intelligence, along with their strong guard dog tendencies, and thus were brought back to Britain with the tourists. There seems no disputing the fact that the Dalmatian has his roots in very ancient times, and that the evolutions in the breed have been numerous.

The Dalmatian is a medium-sized dog, averaging 22" to 24" tall at the shoulder and weighing approximately 50 - 65 pounds. He is most noted for his distinctively spotted coat, which occurs in two colors, black or a chocolate brown, properly termed as "liver". Either color is equally correct and, therefore, simply becomes a matter of personal preference.

Originally bred as a coach dog, he is an active dog, capable of great endurance. His heritage also includes a protectiveness that extends to all of his possessions, including his family.

The Dalmatian is an affectionate dog with a boisterous personality although this behavior is typically reserved for "his" people. With strangers, he presents a dignified and restrained manner until you have passed his inspection and been accepted into his fold. Some Dalmatians "smile" by baring their front teeth. The Dalmatian is easily known by its striking black-spotted pattern design. However, the origin of this interesting color pattern is still unknown.

Its name however, stems from Dalmatian, which is a region located in western Yugoslavia. This dog breed was recognized by the AKC back in the year 1888 and has remained popular ever since.

More Info
To learn more about the Paisley breed of Dalmations, there are many places you can turn online. Begin by keying in search terms like, “Paisley breed” and “paisley dalmations” into your favorite search engines like MSN, DogPile, Google or Yahoo. Check out popular websites, blogs, articles, videos and other links that appear in their listings.

You can also head to sites with all types of affordable products from books to CD / DVDs and more like Barnes and Noble, Amazon and the world’s largest auction house online, eBay. Again, search for your key phrases there and then sit back and relax while their individual engines bring up plenty of listings for you to review.

About the Author
Written by Kelly Marshall from Oh My Dog Supplies - to visit the largest provider of dog car seat covers online, go to http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/dog-supplies/dog-car-seat-covers/

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Green Ringneck Parrots are the Happiest Birds in the World

We have a green ringneck parrot, and Mr. Stan is the happiest bird in the world. If you are feeling down, just walk into the bird room and Mr. Stan will immediately cheer you up.

Green Ringneck Parrot by Damien du Toit

There are lots of different parrots breeds, but I'd like to visit with you about the green ringneck parrots. There are actually two types of green ringneck parrots, the African Ringneck and the Indian Ringneck. The African Ringneck is the smaller of the two breeds, but they both have the happiest personalities of any parrot alive. The African Grey may talk better, the Cockatoo might be better at solving puzzles, the Amazons may be larger and more brightly colored, but no other parrot in the world is as happy as the little green ringneck parrot.

All you have to do to get Mr. Stan squawking and singing is just stick your head in the room. If he doesn't see you because he is playing, just whistle, and the concert begins. He will get all of the other parrots bouncing and squawking within seconds.

We went to Pakistan several years ago for a construction project, and found Mr. Stan in the local bird market. He was so friendly and enthusiastic that we brought him back to America when we came home. Don't try this yourself, the paperwork and expense of traveling with birds is not something that I recommend.

The Indian Ringneck is native to Pakistan and India, and it is common to see flocks in the hundreds. And the wild parrots are just as happy as Mr. Stan is.

At dusk, all of the birds would flock to the trees for the night, and there would be resounding chorus as all the different breeds of birds would start to bed down. But the loveliest chorus was the song from the little green ringnecks.

Parrot breeders have developed some color variations for the ringneck, and you can find them in blue and yellow. They have the same small body and the same enthusiastic personality, just a different color.

So, if you are looking for a parrot to take home, I would encourage you to think about the little green ringneck parrot, the happiest bird in the world.

You can visit http://www.caringforparrot.com to learn more about the green ringneck parrot.

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