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Five Snake Care Tips for Beginners
- First, take note of how large your snake can grow to be. Most North American varieties only grown to be about four feet long, which is a reasonable size. Don't let a pet store employee talk you into buying a Burmese python, since these critters can grow to be over thirty feet long, and will require huge cages and tremendous amounts of food. (And before you ask... No, most zoos will not accept these as donations.)
- Don't scrimp on cage size. A cage that is too small can be very stressful and unhealthy to your pet. Pet store clerks will sometimes try to sell you caging that is inadequate in size, so don't fall into this trap. For adequate comfort, the combined length and width of the cage should at least match the snake's length. Snakes can grow fairly quickly, so don't forget to take that into account as well!
- Do find out how docile that particular specimen is. Most non-venomous North American snakes are fairly docile, but if you're a first-time keeper, you should probably make sure that your prospective pet can be handled easily.
- Make sure that you select a pet with a hearty appetite. Ball pythons, for example, make great pets--but they are notoriously finicky eaters. Corn snakes make great starter pets because they are exceedingly docile and aren't picky about what they eat.
- Snakes--indeed, any reptile--can potentially spread salmonella. The risk involved is very small, but one should still play safe. This is especially true when young children or people with compromised immune systems are involved. Do read up on reptile hygiene and salmonella before purchasing your pet.
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6030
How to Save Your Dog's Life in a Dog Attack
In some states, dogs attacking each other is not illegal. Hundreds of dogs and owners are attacked every year and many dogs at fault for the attacked are allowed back on the streets.
Can you imagine your dog being attacked by a huge dog and you feel there is nothing you can do? Your pet is part of your family and you protect your family. The the last thing you want to do is get between two dogs on the verge of killing each other. You can however, be prepared for situations like this.
Keep in mind that when a dog's aggression is interrupted, it will usually direct it's aggression on something else, so please be careful!
Avoid Using Mace or Pepper Spray, Use This Instead...
Instead of using pepper spray, which will cause long term damages, (don't want to risk spraying your own dog) use white vinegar. Carrying a water pistol filled with vinegar will give you enough time to get your dog out of there immediately. White vinegar will profusely sting when it touches the eyes and nostrils. This will startle the other dog, giving you some time for your and your four legged friend to for safety.
If your near a hose or fire extinguisher, aim at the attacker and get your pet out of there fast!
If both dogs are fighting and there are other people around to help you, have someone help you pull on both their hind legs to get them apart. If the other dog has his mouth on your dog, find the nearest object and do your best to jam the it (preferably a long rod or thick stick) in their mouth to break your dog free.
Keep in mind that dog attacks are completely frightening. The best thing for you is to have a clear head so you can do your best to save your dog.
It's true, some breeds are a little more prone to aggressiveness than others, but it really depends on the upbringing of the dog. If the dog's environment is filthy, unlivable, lacks care and affection, than the dog is going to grow to be aggressive.
Unfortunately some dogs who grew up in a loving home and great environment somehow get triggered to attack. That's why you never know when you and your dog may get attacked by another dog when walking down the street. It's better to be safe and prepared for the safety of yourself and your dog.
How To Setup A Freshwater Tropical Fish Tank
Equipment you will need:
Aquarium
Aquarium gravel
Aquarium filter
Replacement filter media
Heater
Other decorations (such as plants)
Chemical test kits
Fish food
Aquarium vacuum
Fish net
Glass Scrubber
5-gallon bucket
Pasta strainer
STEP 1: Realize the responsibility involved.
A tropical fish tank is just like having a dog or a cat when it comes to the amount of effort on your part. In order to have a successful fish tank you will have to work at it. Once a week, or at most once every two weeks, you will need to perform some kind of maintenance on the tank. Most of the time you will be performing water changes. You will also have to feed your tropical fish at least once a day. If you are up to the challenge, please proceed!
STEP 2: Decide on an aquarium size.
It's a good idea to have in mind what kind of tropical fish you want to keep before you purchase an aquarium. Some tropical fish only grow to be an inch or two, whereas other types of tropical fish can grow 12 or 13 inches in length! Knowing what kind of tropical fish you want will help you decide the size of the tank they will need. If this is your first time with an aquarium, I would recommend going with a 10 or 20 gallon aquarium for now.
STEP 3: Decide on the aquarium's location.
Place your aquarium in an area where the light and temperature of the tank won't be affected by external sources such as windows and heater vents. You will want to place your aquarium on a stand that will be able to hold its total weight. A good rule of thumb for determining the total weight of a full aquarium is 10 pounds per gallon of water. For example, a 55-gallon tank will weigh approximately 550 pounds when filled with water!
STEP 4: Buy your aquarium and equipment.
Now is the time to decide on the type of filtration you will want to use. You will also need to purchase a heater capable of heating the tank size you have. Buy the gravel, plants, a power strip and other decorations. A good rule of thumb for the amount of gravel that you will need is 1 to 1.5 pounds of gravel per gallon of water.
STEP 5: Set up your aquarium and stand.
Wash out your tank with water only! Do not use soap or detergents. Soap residue left behind will be harmful for your tropical fish. If you are going to use an under gravel filter (not recommended) now would be the time to set it up as well.
STEP 6: Wash Gravel, plants and decorations.
Be sure to wash the gravel thoroughly before adding it to your tank. An easy way to do this is to put some of the rocks in a pasta strainer and wash them out in your bathtub. Then place the clean gravel in a clean 5-gallon bucket for transport to the aquarium. After adding the gravel you can place your plants and decorations.
STEP 7: Add water to the aquarium.
To avoid messing up your gravel and plants, you can place a plate or saucer in the middle of your aquarium and direct the water flow onto the plate. Use room temperature water when filling. To remove the chlorine and chloramine, use something like Tetra AquaSafe for Aquariums. Don't completely fill up the aquarium until you are sure of the layout of your decorations. Otherwise, when you place your arm in to move stuff around water is going to spill over. Doh!
STEP 8: Set up equipment.
Install your heater but don't plug it in until the thermostat in the heater has adjusted to the water temperature. This usually takes about 15 minutes or so. Hook up your filter and any other equipment you have, then top off the aquarium water to just under the hood lip. Place your hood and light on the aquarium and then check your power cords to be sure that they are free of water. I would also recommend using a drip loop on all of the power cords to be extra cautious. Plug all of the equipment into a power strip and then "turn on" the aquarium.
STEP 9. Wait, wait, wait and then wait some more.
I know, you want to add some tropical fish. But, in order to do this right you must wait until your aquarium has cycled before adding any fish. There are ways of speeding up this process. Check out the nitrogen cycle page to learn more. If you must use fish to cycle, try to get a hardier species like the zebra danio or cherry barb.
STEP 10. Add tropical fish.
Only add one or two fish at a time. Adding a couple tropical fish at a time gives your filtration system the time needed to take on the increased biological load that the new fish introduce. When you bring the fish home let the bag float in the tank for about 15 minutes so that the fish can become acclimated to the temperature and pH of the aquarium water. After 5 minutes of floating the bag you should add some of the aquarium water to the bag so that the fish can become acclimated to the pH level in the aquarium. This will help reduce the amount of stress imposed on the tropical fish. Stressed tropical fish often leads to dead tropical fish! Don't feed your tropical fish on the first day. They probably wouldn't eat any food on the first day anyway. Let them get acquainted with their new home.
STEP 11. Get ready for regular maintenance.
Be prepared to spend some time once every week or two to clean your tank. Performing regular water changes will reduce the nitrate levels and keep your tropical fish happy and healthy.
For more tropical fish and aquarium information, please visit http://www.fishlore.com/
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/26254
Aggressive Iguana Behavior
Handling an Iguana, The handling of an iguana plays a pivotal role in the aggression levels of and care should be taken when handling them from the time they are first brought into a home. There is a very incredible thing about an iguana that too few people know about and that is the third eye they have on the back of the head. This third eye plays a part in your pet's aggression at times because when you reach for your lizard from the back, he perceives it to be a threat as all he sees from this eye is shadows. Approach the iguana from the front and speak softly as harsh treatment does not affect iguanas in a positive way, in fact it has no effect on them except to provoke aggression. To avoid aggression in your iguana, always try to pick it up or pet it from the front.
Females and The Iguana Aggression, Although it may sound strange, female handlers and owners of a male iguana can display signs of aggression during the female menstrual cycle. Sounds crazy but its true. This is believed to be because of a specific pheromone that is emitted by the female during this time. This 'scent' that the iguana sense and cause the aggression can be abated with a replacement mate in his environment such as a small stuffed toy or even a rubber glove will calm him and he will be less aggressive. Iguanas that show aggression can be taught to be feel comfortable by you with some patience and as stated earlier, approaching it from the front. When the iguana allows you to pick it up, always let it sit on your forearm or back of the hand so it is in a position that it feels safe.If you want to learn more about Iguana's please visit our site which is free to the public. You'll find the best tips on everything to do with Iguana's
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/466568
Giving Your Cat Insulin Injections
If you have experience with feline diabetes you know how hard it can be to watch your furry family member suffer through weakness, vet appointments, diet changes and, possibly the most challenging of all, insulin injections. Knowledge of proper cat insulin injection techniques can make your life and your cat's life easier. If you have any questions or concerns talk to your vet.
Prepare the Insulin
· Start by filling the insulin syringe slightly more than your cat's dose
· Tap the insulin syringe to remove air bubbles
· Slowly push the plunger until you have the correct dosage of insulin in the syringe
Prepare Your Cat
Create a routine to make your cat comfortable. At first he will likely try to get away, but eventually he should become familiar with the process, and you may even be able to train him to come when it is time for his insulin injection. Start by giving him lots of attention and affection, and maybe even a small treat. It is probably best to keep the insulin syringe out of your hands at first, so that he does not get scared. When you are ready to give your cat insulin, get on his level - don't come at him from above or he will feel threatened. Now it is time to find the injection site.
Injection sites
The scruff (top of the neck) is the most commonly used injection site for insulin for cats, however it may not be the best. The amount of skin and muscle in this area can slow absorption of the insulin, and can be more painful for the cat.
Other options for injection are the flank (between the ribs and the legs), the side or underside of the belly, and the side of the chest. Absorption tends to be quickest when given in the side or underside of the belly.
Insulin Injection
Each cat is different, and the proper type, dose and frequency of insulin for cats need to be determined by a veterinarian. Once you know the proper insulin dosing and have determined the best place for injection, place your thumb and index finger approximately an inch apart and pinch the skin to create a "tent". Make sure you are not grabbing any muscle.
The insulin injection should go into the hollow space under the "tent" of skin. It should not go into the skin itself, or into the muscle. If your cat is long-haired make sure that you can see the skin and that you are not giving him a "fur shot".
When you are giving the insulin injection (http://www.bigmountaindrugs.com/Products.aspx?id=29)be confident, smooth and fast. It is the puncture part that hurts, so go quickly through that part; you can slow down a bit while you inject the fluid.
Above all, be gentle and kind when giving your cat insulin, especially at first, and praise him when it is all done.
How To Handle a Dog Emergency
If you a looking for an informative dog health book then you can't go past "Secrets to a Happy and Healthy Dog."
Russ Richer is a Dog Lover who has done extensive research into Dog Care and Training. For free reports, articles, and newsletter visit www.dogdaypets.com/newsletter.html . To learn more on Dog Health and Training, visit : www.dogdaypets.com/megapak.html You may use this article in your newsletter or website, however, you must not change it in any way and all links must be active.
Source : http://www.amazines.com/dog_health_related.html
My Dog Doesn't Understand Me
- Your dog isn’t human. Unless you believe in dog psychics, there’s really no way for you to read your dog’s mind and figure out exactly what she’s thinking. The good news is that, like many dog owners, the problems you’re having can probably be traced to one simple thing: you’re trying to communicate with your dog from a human standpoint, and your dog isn’t a human. Sure, you know that, but lots of humans try to relate with their dogs in the ways that they think are rational as humans. The problem is that dogs are driven in every act and every moment by very strong instincts. Deciphering those instincts and leveraging them to build a productive relationship is like finding the keys to the city.
- Your dog doesn't speak English.Take the word “no,” for example. Does your dog speak English? Not understand English? What’s meaningful to her is your tone of voice, not the word itself. Now let’s think about that – we’re taking up excess time trying to teach our dog a word she’ll never speak and that probably doesn’t mean much to her anyway. Sure, it’s meaningful to us, but that’s only one side of the equation. What about something that’s meaningful to both human and dog?
- You know what a growl means, and your dog knows what a growl means. If you think that mutually meaningful language doesn’t exist, you’re not thinking creatively enough. What does it say to you when a dog growls at you? Anything from “get away from my food” to “back off, dude,” right? Yet in every case, a dog’s growl typically means that she is not happy with whatever you’ve done. And you’ve seen dogs react to other dogs’ growls, right? So you know what a growl means, and your dog knows what a growl means. Where’s the disconnect? Growl at your dog! No, seriously. The next time your dog starts to step outside her bounds or doing something you don’t like, growl at her. A nice, strong, guttural dog growl that would put the alpha wolf in a pack to shame. While you’re growling, look directly into your dog’s eyes. You’re almost guaranteed that she’ll back off.
- Use Your Dog’s Instincts When Training. See that? You worked with her instinct and the information hardwired into her brain, and the result was instantaneous. Why spend tons of time trying to work against that instinct and end up frustrated, angry, and still miscommunications? This approach works in everything from basic dog discipline to full-on dog obedience training. You just need to figure out how to apply it in each of those situations. I’d like to help you learn to apply it, and that’s why I created the multimedia presentation Instinct vs. Man. It addresses day-to-day life with your dog as well as specific topics like playtime, training, and territory. Beyond that, you’ll get some great insight into why your dog thinks the way she does and how it affects her actions and reactions. You’ll understand why those months of dog training stopped working after a few weeks and how to get her back into the routine and acting like the fun, upbeat dog you love.
Housing a Bearded Dragon
Where to place the cage?
Find a place, on a stable stand or table, where you feel comfortable and where you can watch anytime your little fellow, against a wall. Try to house your dragon somewhere interesting for him or her, but away from high traffic areas and out of direct sunlight. Do not hide the cage away in a seldom frequented place. Bearded Dragons have a big curiosity. They like to be somewhere where they can watch anytime to their human fellow doing their funny things.
The cage need to be organized with a basking light at one end of the tank, another end should be kept as a cooling area; a hide area of branches and potted non-toxic plants, or a hide box in the tank is also necessary; a rock or log for the basking area. Try to improve the animal environment and remember that the more you do to arrange a Beardie's environment to provide security, the quicker the animal will adjust to its new home and family. Animals that are housed correctly and stress free will remain healthy, eat well, be happier, remain active and alert.
The first days in his new habitat can cause a lot of stress to the Dragon, and because of this they could refuse to eat for some days. To help them accommodate you should:
- Use the first weeks to only watch the dragon and learn the behaviors and feeding habits. Read books on Beardies. Your children will want to play with their new friend. Do not allow anybody to pick up the dragon at this moment.
- For a while you can cover the cage with some milky white panes which won't let the Dragon see to many things outside.
Housing Young Beardies
Babies and small juveniles can be temporally housed in a 10 - 20 gallon aquarium. Young Beardies less than 10 inches in length need to be housed in a 20 gal long aquarium. This will last them for a few months only though as they grow quickly. You can use Profile Extended Storage Bins. The milky white sides of the bins prevent the dragon from becoming terrified in new surroundings and not eating for the first few days, which can become a serious problem.
It is important to judge the correct size of the enclosure. While the dragon is small, it's helpful to keep cage furniture to a minimum, so that they can find their food easily. Crickets can hide in deeply grooved logs or under the furniture making it difficult for a baby dragon to locate food. The dragon won't find them, so will not be able to eat, and the crickets will come out at night and nibble on beardies, who sleep quite soundly, stressing them (this could be serious).
On the other hand, a tank that is too small won't afford the proper temperature gradients the dragon requires.
As the dragon grows they will need to be moved to bigger cages. The dragon having a bigger size, a tank too small won't afford the proper temperature gradients the dragon requires, the dragon can no longer get away from the heat and it can cook and die.
Housing Adult Bearded Dragons
Adult Dragons should be housed in nothing smaller than a 40gal breeder tank, but it is recommended that you house a single adult Beardie in a 55 to 60 gallon aquarium. Dragons need branches or rocks to climb on and a hiding place. Any cage furniture should be carefully secured so it can't fall and injure the Beardie.
Find out more tips on raising Bearded Dragons Lizards and having them live 2 times longer, with his popular ebook about Bearded Dragons or get a free sample of Florian's bearded dragons caresheet
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/576232
Box Turtle Care
I have a few final hints below on how to take care of your new box turtle.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Feed your turtle on a rock because this will help him scratch away extra-long toenails.
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/625197
Four Common Skin Problems Dog
Tips on Buying Guitars
- It depends on how much you can afford, With such a wealth of guitars available, a working person shouldn't have a problem finding one that fits their budget. But this doesn't mean that you should settle for anything. As the old adage goes, you usually get what you pay for. Usually the more money you invest, the greater the returns. You're going to be spending a lot of time practicing so choose an instrument that you can enjoy. An instrument that you can look forward to playing.
- What style of music will you be playing?, The style of music to be played should influence your choice of guitar. For instance if you plan on playing rock you should buy an electric guitar, since Rock music is better suited to be played on that type of guitar. If Jazz and blues is your thing you may prefer a semi-acoustic guitar from the start. An acoustic nylon string guitar may be better suited to classical music and smooth Jazz.
- Child or adult., Are you a parent looking to buy a guitar for your child? Consider buying a 1/2 size or 3/4 size guitar. Your child doesn't have the reach that an adult has, so these smaller guitars are better suited. Regular size guitars will be more difficult to play and can cause a lack of interest. You may also want to look into buying an electric guitar for your child if you can afford it. They have a small neck and very light thin strings and are therefore easier to play. If money is an issue a second hand electric guitar may be the answer.
- Wood type and its relation to tone. Although there are no rules for choosing guitar woods, there is a guide that you can follow. Generally, darker woods produce a brighter tone while darker woods produces a deeper, richer tone. Medium tone wood like mahogany produce a very even smooth sound spectrum. You should compare various wood colors. The best thing to do is to listen to the tones that a guitar produces before deciding.
- Pay attention to the guitar's features. Your guitar must have certain important features. Don't simply focus on looks. For example, your guitar should have die-cast machine heads (or tuning gears). With this feature, you will be able to tune your instrument more accurately and your guitar will stay in tune longer. A solid top is also very important. A solid top usually consists of 2 solid matched pieces glued together side by side. This is of better quality than a laminated top where various woods are glued together on top of each other. With a solid top the guitar's tone will be more even and accurate and you can expect a sustaining vibration throughout the guitar's body.
- Buy a guitar that feels good to you. You're the one who will be playing that guitar. So you'd better buy one that feels comfortable to you, whether you're sitting or standing. For instance, if the strings are too far from the fretboard, playing will be difficult. An expensive guitar that is not comfortable is a waste. Spend time with the guitar before deciding.
- The bottom line is sound. If it sounds good, buy it. No two guitars can ever be the same. It's never about looks. It's about the sound that is generated through the use of the right type of wood and through superior craftsmanship.
Source : http://www.articlecity.com/articles/hobbies/215.shtml
Pokemon coloring sheets are the delight for fans of these magnificent characters
Unfortunately, New Zealand is not the only place this happens.
Why wild horses are in danger
Read more: http://www.articlesbase.com/nature-articles/why-wild-horses-are-in-danger-1532724.html#ixzz1S6HxoIuV
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives
China Makes Great Efforts to The Protection of Sea Turtles
Human Interpretation
Speaking Dog
Preventing Pet Arthritis
When this happens, arthritis comes in. Come to think of it, humans are not the only ones straining their joints everyday. Also, when you pet cat or dog is already old, expect it to be prone to arthritis. So, does exposing your pet on an active lifestyle help in preventing this illness?
Actually, pets become more up close to the illness if they take the lead in an active lifestyle. Possible signs that your pet may start to have arthritis is when it is lively before and now, it becomes lazy and doesn’t even want to move a paw. Your will also notice that your cat or dog agility skills are lowered as compared before. Change of mood is another a sign.
Here are three easy ways to prevent pet arthritis:
- Visit the veterinarian, The signs of pet arthritis mentioned above are just a few signs that can contribute to distinguishing whether your pet is suffering from the illness. However, there are times too that it does not lead to arthritis.
- Treat the arthritis, The illness itself can be treated without surgery. There are prescribed drugs that can be taken in by pets as advised by veterinarians.
- Change your pet’s living environment, Having a pet is just like having a child run around your home. To somehow help prevent you pet from suffering from arthritis; make your household a safe place to stay in. Accident prone areas like slippery floors contribute to a much better lifestyle of your pet.
Did You Know Pharaohs Had Pet Dogs?
Tips For Dog Toys
What you Need to Know about Cat Food
The cat food you feed to your cat should always be rich in protein. This generally should come from meat, poultry or fish. Many cat food brands advertise chicken, beef, and tuna flavored cat food because they know that cats need protein and cat owners are looking for quality cat food. However, you need to make sure the cat food you buy has a sufficient amount of cat food regardless of what flavor it is.
Cat Food Info #2 Cat Food with Taurine
Also check the cat food you typically buy for an amino acid called taurine. This particular amino acid is very important in the overall health of your cat, and your cat will eat as much food as it has to in order to supplement this particular amino acid. So, if you are buying cheap cat food that does not have the proper nutrients your cat will eat a lot. If you buy a nutrient rich cat food then your cat will eat little and save you more money while still getting proper nutrition.
Cat Food Info #3 Canned Cat Food or Dry Cat Food?
Many people do not know whether they should buy canned or dry cat food, or whether it even matters. Because of this, many people simply buy the cat food that is most affordable or convenient for them. This is actually a mistake. Cats should be fed a mixture of cat food. The dry cat food should be given for free feeding, especially if you are away on vacation or out for the day. Canned cat food should be supplemented at other times as well because it has water in the food and significantly more protein than the carbohydrate rich dry cat food. Not to mention the same food over and over might bore your cat and cause him to stop eating that cat food altogether.
Cat Food Info #4 Avoid Cat Food Fillers
Cats need to eat a cat food that is rich in protein, so make sure the amount of fillers is kept to a minimum. Carbohydrates are not essential for a cat's existence, so don't buy cat food that is full of them. Instead, read labels and buy cat food that is not filled with fillers and other by products.
Source: http://www.articlecircle.com/
