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Aggressive Iguana Behavior

An iguana is a fascinating lizard pet that when handled properly and gently from the time they are received, are not aggressive at all. When an iguana does show aggression he shows signs of fight or flight syndrome and will hide away or try to fight.

Like every other living being, aggression shows signs of extreme discomfort to the point that the living thing believe it has no other choice but to fight or flight. It's simply a defense mechanism and in some animals, it is mating behavior. The iguana is also included in this group in that the male iguana will show aggression around certain hormones but that will be discussed later on in the article.

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.
Article Source: http://www.richmondpetlovers.com

Pit Bulls Are Worthy Pets

The pit bull is probably the most misrepresented breed of dog there ever is. People generally think of pit bulls as overaggressive mutts that attack people without even the slightest provocation and have the capacity to maul them to death, dogs that are good only for engaging in dog fights. This image of the pit bull is nowhere near to being accurate; they are very much maligned by the public in general.

Pit bulls are actually very different from the way they are often portrayed. Sure, they look strong and scary, being well muscled and stocky for their size, with their barrel chests and brick-shaped heads, their thick necks and their powerful jaws. Pit bulls, however, are very sociable and affectionate dogs, especially if they are properly trained. Pit bull lovers value these dogs not just for their strength and courage, but also for their caring and protective nature.

With proper training and socialization, even pit bulls can be the gentlest of dogs. Their affectionate and caring nature makes them perfect companions and housemates. And because they have a high tolerance for pain and rough play, pit bulls can be great playmates to small children.

If pit bulls are so great, how come there are stories of them attacking other dogs and people? While there are stories of pit bulls being aggressive enough to hurt animals and people, those incidences are in truth few and far between. More often than not, the media just blew the story out of proportion or did not get the facts right. There are times when the dog involved is not a pit bull at all and only looks like one.

A pit bull that shows aggressiveness towards other dogs and other animals is a dog that has not been socialized properly. A pit bull that attacks people is a dog that has been abused to the point that he has become mentally unstable. When a pit bull, or any other dog for that matter, goes berserk, it is the fault of the human owner, and not the dog himself.

It is true, however, that not all people can own a pit bull for a pet. To be the master of a pit bull, one has to be prepared to meet the demanding responsibilities of owning such a pet. To be the master of a pit bull, you have to be a person who really is capable of loving one. If you are looking into owning a pit bull just because you want to impress people, forget it. You will only end up doing the dog a huge disservice.

A pit bull is an athletic dog that requires a lot of exercise. It would be great if you have a big yard where he can run around to his heartas content. However, if you live in an apartment, it is still okay to own a pit bull if you really want one, as long as you take him out for long walks every day. Long walks with your pit bull would be good for your health too.

You need to have your house or your property secured and fenced if you decide to own a pit bull. Pit bulls can be willful and mischievous; he will try to jump the fence or slip through the door if he can. Also, if you have a malicious neighbor who has an irrational fear towards pit bulls, having your house or property secured will keep your dog from being hurt by your neighbors or from being stolen.

Caring for a pit bull can be pretty expensive. Before you get a pit bull, be sure you can afford his upkeep. You will need to give him proper dog food, fit him with a good leash and collar, take him to the vet for regular checkups, feed him with heartworm medicine every once in a while, build a dog house for him, and other such things. Dog food alone can amount to around $800 a year. If you do not have that much money to set aside for caring for a pit bull, shelve your plan for a while until you can afford having one around.

Pit bulls also need to be trained. Training a dog takes the entirety of his lifetime, not just in the early years. A pit bull also needs to be controlled all the time, simply because other people are afraid of such dogs. If you do not exert the proper control on your pit bull, you might end up with him being taken away from you. It is a heartbreaking experience that you would not want to have.

Lastly, but most importantly, you must love your pit bull. Pit bulls are very caring and loving dogs that are very loyal to their masters. If you love your pit bull, he will love you too.
Article Source: http://www.articles4sites.com

Top 20 Dog Breeds to Own as a Pet

While there is a countless number of dog breeds available, especially now with “designer” dog breeds becoming popular, there are some dog breeds that are considered the best dogs for families to own as a pet. Below are what many feel are the top 20 dog breeds to own as a pet, and why these dogs are so popular and loved.

The Top 20 Dog Breeds to Own as a Pet

• Collie
• Boxer
• Bichon Frise
• Labrador Retriever
• Basset Hound
• Whippet
• Pomeranian
• Irish Setter
• Golden Retriever
• Great Pyrenees
• Cairn Terrier
• Shih tzu
• Poodle
• Airedale
• Beagle
• Pug
• Newfoundland
• West Highland White Terrier
• Schnauzer
• Pembroke Welsh Corgie

In this article, several qualities have been taken into consideration to determine the top 20 dog breeds for pet ownership. Qualities such as temperament, intelligence and activity levels have been evaluated to determine which dog breeds are the best for families.

When determining which of the top 20 dog breeds to own as a pet, there is a good reason why the above listed breeds are usually chosen by families. Even if you do not have a large family, when seeking a dog to have as a pet you want one that has certain traits. Your pet should be friendly, yet loyal and protective. Your pet should also be tolerant and patient. All of the top 20 dog breeds listed above have each of these qualities.

Some of these dogs such as the Bichon, Basset Hound, Shih tzu, Cairn Terrier, Collie, Pomeranians and Pugs are the best dog breeds for families with younger children because they are more tolerant of the “accidental” poor behaviors of children like the occasional rough petting or tug. Of course, good and bad dogs can be found in almost any dog breeds, so if you do have young children you should take your dog ownership seriously and be a responsible pet owner and parent, and never leave your children unattended with your pets.

For people looking for calm dog breeds to own as a pet, there are plenty to choose from in the top 20 dog breeds listed above. The Basset Hound, Shih tzu, Collie, Boston Terrier and Pugs are all playful in their own right, but are also well-known for being calm dog breeds and are perfect for those families that are looking for a dog that is a little less demanding.

Dog ownership can be very rewarding provided you find the right dog breed for you and your family. The best way for you to find the right dog breed is to thoroughly research each of the breeds that you are interested in, and learn as much as you can about them. Dog ownership should be taken very seriously. Even if you find a dog breed within this list of top 20 breeds and you conclude that the dog is not a good fit for you and your family, then you should find another dog to adopt. However, once you take the time to ensure that you are getting the best dog for your family, you will enjoy many years as a happy and proud dog owner.
Article Source: http://www.urarticles.com

All Natural Dog Food-One Of The Best Purchases You Can Make For A Healthy Happy Dog

Our dogs truly tend to be a part of our family along with, in some cases, provide us with more smiles as compared to any other member of the family. No other pet is similar to a dog. They are dedicated to us and are worthy of to be treated exactly the same way, so why not supply them with good health by providing them all natural dog food?

Your run-of-the-mill dog food makes use of all kinds of chemical preservatives along the lines of BHA and BHT to be able to keep the dog food "fresh". In addition they list "meat by-products" or "meat meal" as the major source of protein in their product. In truth, both will be made up of pieces of animals which can barely qualify as "meat".

Meat by-products from chicken consists of intestine, feet, head, lungs, brain, blood, plus entrails. "Meat meal" may consist of boiled-down flesh from livestock, road kill, zoo animals, or even other cats and dogs. Livestock that is used has sometimes been classified as "4-D" livestock, standing for "dead", "diseased", "dying", and also "disabled". For what reason might anyone wish to feed these things to a member of their family?

Feeding your dog all natural dog food will be the best and easiest way to provide them with a long as well as healthy life. These products utilise natural, holistic things that help with your dogs digestive system, stop allergic reactions, along with keep your dogs systems in very good condition. All natural dog foods utilize human-grade meats, vegetables, along with grains of which provide your pet dog with all of the actual protein and vitamins and minerals he or she requires.

Conventional dog foods, to put it simply, simply do not really meet the standards your dog needs to be healthy. They might even affect your pet's health. Regular brands may well claim to make use of high quality meats and grains, for the most part are generally made up of "fillers" and also low quality grains that may be considered not fit for human consumption.

A great many dogs become obese any time their conventional foods do not supply the particular vitamins and minerals they require every mealtime, which means they wind up consuming a lot more. Dogs can be known to experience vomiting plus looseness of the bowels as well as accumulate allergic reactions due to the fact they are unable to digest the "fillers" in their food.

All Natural dog foods is certainly a little bit more costly, however in the end you certainly will save money on trips to the vet as well as on pharmaceuticals for your dog.
Article Source: http://www.largedirectory.info

Here's Why Do Dog's Bark Like They Do

Thousands of years ago, humans began the process of domesticating the dog and shaping what "being a dog" really means. Through careful selection and breeding, an astonishing variety of dog breeds have been created. Desirable traits have been selected for in various breeds that are of a benefit to humans. There are some traits, however, that quickly become undesirable when expressed too frequently. Barking is an example of a natural behaviour that is encouraged in terms of guarding behaviour, but becomes a problem when the behaviour is produced in excess. A recent health insurance investigation revealed that the sound of a continually barking dog was cited as the most disruptive and stress inducing noise for humans.

Why Do Dogs Bark?

Barking, in addition to whining, howling and growling, is a dog's natural means of communication. Barking is characterized by a series of short, sharp sounds, that tend to vary little in tone or pitch. A dog's bark can signify territorial protection, exertion of dominance, or expression of some need. Typically, barking is "a means of communication triggered by a state of excitement." Being a natural trait, barking is not considered a behavioural problem, until it is produced in excess.

Causes of Problem Barking

Problem barking has a variety of origins. Genetics does influence a dog's tendency to bark. Certain breeds belonging to the terrier family are prone to more frequent barking than breeds such as Greyhounds or Basenjis. Generally, however, excess barking can exist in any breed of dog. The key to solving the problem of inappropriate barking is to determine what external stimulus is triggering the behaviour. Improper confinement can be a major cause of problem barkers.

Improper confinement can include leaving a dog alone in a locked room, or in a dog crate (a tool used for housebreaking and other behavioural modifications). Other improper confinements can include restricted tethering outdoors, or even an enclosed yard without proper shelter from the elements. Such confinement can cause frustration in a dog and cause it to bark excessively. Closely associated with improper confinement is lack of exercise as a cause of excess barking. When a dog is not provided with adequate exercise, pent-up energy is released through barking.

Environmental sounds can also trigger barking. These sounds include such things as the barking of other dogs, the sound of passing cars, strange voices, thunder, and mechanical noises such as the ringing of the phone. Noises can initiate barking at different times of the day. A dog may not bark at accustomed sounds during the day, but at night may be incited to a volley of barking, much to the chagrin of the neighbours, by the slightest of noises. Other causes of problem barking can include separation anxiety, or the temperament of the dog: an over-aggressive animal may bark at the smallest provocation. A strongly territorial dog may bark at any stranger, invited or uninvited, entering your property.

Solutions to Excess Barking

Excess barking can be a serious behavioural problem and can mean the termination of the relationship with your dog or the dog itself if left untreated. The following text includes information on how to solve your dog's problem barking as recommended by the veterinary profession.

The first step in solving problem barking, is to determine if your dog is barking in response to inadequate shelter or improper confinement. If this is the case, the dog must be provided with a comfortable amount of space or supplied with a doghouse if outdoor shelter is inadequate. Increasing the amount of exercise given to your dog may also help.

In the event your dog is barking in response to environmental noises, or the barking is simply due to its temperament, behavioural modification methods should be used. These methods can include reconditioning using a verbal reprimand such as "No!", and leash correction. It should be noted however, that you should never yell at your dog, as loud noises may encourage your pet to bark more. Also keep in mind the punishment should be applied while the barking is occurring, in order for your dog to associate the unwanted behaviour with the punishment. Also remember to reward your dog when it stops barking.

Indirect intervention methods can also be applied. These techniques can range from spraying your dog with water while it is barking, to using noise producing devices such as "Dog Stop" or "Barker Breaker," which emit loud or high frequency sounds that interrupt and deter barking. These devices can be controlled by the owner, or triggered by the dog's barking. In the event your dog is resistant to these behavioural modifications, more drastic action can be taken in the form of bark activated shock collars. This device is particularly effective when barking occurs in the owner's absence. Shock collars, however, are recommended only after other control measures have failed. A final resort, when all other behavioural modification methods have been tried, and particularly when the dog's life is in question, is a vocal cordectomy (debarking). This surgical procedure involves removal of all or part of the vocal cords.

The key to solving the problem of excess barking in your dog begins with an understanding of what is causing this behaviour. Once you have determined a cause, you have a greater chance of choosing the most effective solution (e.g., more exercise) or behavioural modification. Modifying such an instinctive and natural behaviour as barking can be difficult, and may require considerable patience, time, and hard work. Solutions, however, are possible, and worth the effort.
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Choosing The Right Dog Breed For Your Family

Before you take the giant step of purchasing a dog, one key factor to think about is what breed is best for your family? Seeing as you may have your new member of the family for a period of time to come, you have got to be sure it's the one for youThere are countless different breeds to select from, but which one is best for you? There are a huge amount of crucial elements that you have to look at. If you have children, you want a dog breed that's's friendly around youngsters.
If you have small kids, a medium / big breed dog would suit their high energy level. Good breeds types for these children are Golden Retrievers, labs, Collies, Old English Sheepdogs. Basically, herding and sporting dogs are the best dogs for families with little 'uns as they have got a giant amount of energy. Collies and Old English sheepdogs were herding dogs. They have a desire to be protecting of youngsters, as if they were safeguarding sheep in the herd! Families with older youngsters can have their pick of the breeds. Virtually any dog breed will do well. Small or toy breeds are amazing for older families with some space,eg residence dwellers.
All youngsters need a dog as their pal as they're growing up. You had one did not you? Some dogs, as an example, which are far more watchdogs, may not be as warm around children.
Do the research on some of the more assertive dogs to realise what behavior you may expect. If anyone in the family has allergies, a good breed for sufferers is the Poodle. These dogs don't shed, are hypoallergenic and they're bred in three sizes, tiny, medium and huge. A breed to fit any home. One vital person to check with on this subject is your Vet ( or potential vet ). The Vet saw many breeds, if not most, and can offer you some fantastic recommendation about which dogs will slot in best with your people. The hunting dog is commonly known as a great companion.
The Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, English Setter, Cocker Spaniel and Irish Setter are hunting dogs that need exercise. If you will not be hunting with the dog, then they'll need to have some space to ramble. If any one in the family has allergies, a good breed for sufferers is the Poodle. These dogs don't shed, are hypoallergenic and they're bred in three sizes, little, medium and gigantic. A breed to fit any home. Smaller dogs, toy breeds, are fun dogs. These dogs are better suited for smaller locations. The Chihuahua, Poodle and Pug are some illustrations of the toy dog breed.
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Flying With Pets - How Can You Keep Your Pet Safe And Healthy On Airline Flights?

If you have plans to fly with your pet, you are part of a growing trend that has been increasing for the last number of years. Most airlines will charge a nominal fee to allow your small pet to accompany you, if it will fit into a FAA approved pet carrier that is small enough to stow under your seat. The following important info can help you keep your pet safe, healthy, and happy on airplane flights.

When you book a flight, it is a good idea to make reservations for yourself and your pet as early as you can. You must inform the airline that you want to bring your pet with you. It is extremely important to tell them, as they will only allow a limited number of pets on each flight. Some airlines don't allow pets at all, particularly on international flights. Always confirm your flight the day before you're trip. If you're traveling internationally you need to confirm your trip seventy-two hours before you fly.

Before you fly into the wide blue yonder with your furry travel companion, you need to take him or her a checkup at the vet, to make sure he or she is healthy enough to travel. You will need to take its health certificate with you, showing that your pet's up-to-date on all vaccinations, including rabies. When traveling, your pet must wear its current vaccination tag. As well, your pet must meet health regulations of the country you'll be traveling to. Bring a copy of your pet's medical records along that lists its chronic medical conditions, allergies, and medications.

If you haven't done this already, you should have your pet micro-chipped. That way, if your pet is lost and taken to an animal shelter or vet, where its chip can be scanned, both can be reunited. Keep in mind your pet's identification tag will have both your home address and phone number on it. That won't be of much help if your pet gets lost when you are on vacation. It may be a good idea to get another tag made up that has your destination address and phone number on it. What happens if you pet isn't found until after you've returned from your holidays? It makes sense that you should leave both your home I.D. tag on your pet as well as attaching the new tag. That way you'll have all the bases covered and stand a better chance of being reunited with your pet.

You should bring a photo of you pet with you when you travel. It will help you to prove you're the rightful owner if any problems of ownership arise. Also, the photo can be used to make up a number of flyers that can be posted in the area where your pet was lost.

Flying with a pet that is too large to fit in a FAA approved pet carrier isn't advisable as it will have to be stowed in the cargo hold. Putting your pet in the cargo hold can be very traumatic and dangerous to your pet's health. It would make a lot more sense to leave your pet with friends, or a reliable pet sitting service when you're on vacation.

The American Veterinary Medical Association advises against tranquilizing or sedating your pet when flying, particularly dogs. Dogs regulate the temperature of their bodies by panting, so if they are sedated, they may not be able to pant. If this should happen, it can leave them defenseless against any fluctuation of temperature and air pressure that occurs in the cargo holds of every flight. Keep in mind that pets don't like flying, or being stuffed into a cramped kennel and left alone in a dark and desolate cargo compartment. It has to be terrifying for them.

There are a number of websites that give additional valuable information regarding traveling with your pet. Two outstanding sites are the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) at aspca.org, and the Federal Government's Department of Agriculture at aphis.usda.gov, which has an excellent article entitled, Traveling With Your Pet.

If you are considering purchasing a travel carrier for your small pet, you may want to look at the popular, FAA approved pet carrier, Sherpa On Wheels. This Cadillac of pet carriers can be a comfortable, luxurious home for your pet when flying. It has the convenience of front and top entries, mesh vent panels, wheels that are recessed, as well as a detachable pull handle and shoulder strap. It can be seen at SherpaPet.com.
Article Source: http://www.globetrekkerarticles.com

Fish Tank Preservation For Beginners

Keeping an aquarium good and the H2O fresh is vital to the wellness and lifespan of your fish. Rather then spend your time and money on ornaments it's a better idea to invest in a good filter and im plement a cleaning schedule as that is more beneficial to your fish. You'll get a lot more out of your aquarium and your fish if you maintain it good as a good surroundings is fitter for your fish!

Of course you'll want to exchange out the water in your fish tank periodically. If the water in your fish tank is starting to look murky and cloudy, it's probably time to transfer out the water. A huge blunder you want to avoid is changing out all the water entirely. Regrettably this can and usually does send your fish into shock so avoid that if possible. Again never change all the H2O out at the same time instead switch about half of the H2O and just make sure that it is the same temperature as the H2O already in the fish tank. If you really want to save yourself some tiema dn elbow grease just invest in a really good H2O filter for your aquarium.

If you really want to keep your fish tank in top condition you'll want to implement some kind of cleaning schedule for your fish tank. Consistently cleaning your fish tank will keep your aquarium looking it's best as well as keep the water clear and fresh for your fish. Another advantage of having a regular upkeep schedule is that the actual cleaning process takes a lot less longer since your fish tank will never really get too dirty. Some things that can affect how quickly your water becomes dirty are the number of fish in your aquarium and overfeeding your fish.

Maintaining your fish tank clean is only have the battle though. A clogged or dirty H2O filter is basically useless so you want to make sure you routinely check your water filter also. The size of your tank should determine which water filter you use for your fish tank and luckily there is a wide variety to choose from.Sure bigger aquariums can be spectacular to look at but they also require a pretty powerful water filter to keep it clear and that costs money. Remember the H2O filter keeps your water good by removing all the waste that your fish dispose of daily so of course you want to keep that thing fresh.

Fish tanks are great to have and great to look at but it's important to note that they also require a lot of maintenance. A regular maintenance schedule and a good water filter should go a long way in helping you get the most out of your fish tank for years to come!
Article Source: http://articlesite.co.uk

Protect Your Four-Legged Family Members with Pet Health Insurance

With over 74.8 million dogs and 88.3 million cats living in households in the United States, it's clear that our furry friends are much more than just "friends" - they are beloved members of our families. Routine examinations, shots, tick and flea prevention, and heart worm protection are the typical standard responsibilities of pet owners, but are you prepared if your dog or cat gets sick or hurt in an accident?

Today's veterinary medicine is extremely sophisticated; many procedures and treatments are readily available to help your pet live a long and healthy life. Unfortunately, this advanced technology comes with a price that you may not be able to afford in the event of an emergency. Pet insurance can help alleviate any economic considerations that you would face when determining the best course of treatment for your loyal companion.

How Long Has Pet Insurance Been Around?

Pet insurance actually began in Sweden in 1924 when the first policy was written for a dog. It wasn't until 1982, however, that a pet insurance policy was written in the US for a very famous TV dog (pat yourself on the back if you guessed it was for Lassie). Since then, the number of pet policies in the US has grown at a rate of 18% between 2003 and 2008. Although pet insurance policies continue to gain popularity in the US, it is far more prevalent in Europe. Almost 20% of pet owners in the UK and 49% of pet owners in Sweden have some type of pet insurance.

How Much Does It Cost?

Just as there are different types of medical insurance for us, the same goes for our pets, so it's important to shop around when looking for policies. For cats, the average monthly cost of insurance ranges from $15-$18 per month depending on age, while dog insurance typically ranges from $22-$28 per month depending on age and breed. Most policies have deductibles starting at $50, and co-pays are also required for routine care. In most cases, pet insurance reimburses the owner after the pet has received care and the owner submits a claim to the insurance company.

What Does Pet Insurance Cover?

Although each pet insurance provider and policy is different, pets are generally covered for routine care (annual examinations, vaccinations, spay/neuter procedure, etc.), major medical expenses (serious injuries and illnesses, surgeries, hospital stays, etc), as well as cancer (chemotherapy, radiation, and post-treatment medications). It's important to know that insurance typically does not cover pre-existing conditions, hereditary/breed defects, elective procedures, dog food, and grooming costs.

How Do I Choose the Right Policy?

There are many considerations to make when choosing an insurance company that is right for your pet. First and foremost, read the fine print of each and every policy that you research very carefully. If your pet has a pre-existing condition or a hereditary issue, you need to make sure this isn't excluded in the policy (there are some companies out there that will cover these situations). Different types of breeds may be charged higher premiums with certain insurance companies, and there may be age limits on coverage. It's also very important to understand exactly what types of events and illnesses the policy will cover. You don't want to find yourself in a situation where your pet gets sick only to find out that your insurance company won't pay for it.

Last, but certainly not least, take a look at your budget. Along with the monthly or annual premium, you'll need to know what the deductibles and co-pays cost in order to select a policy that you can afford.

Where Can I Find Pet Insurance?

There are many companies in the US that offer pet insurance, so here are some of the major providers to get you started:

- Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI): This is the nation's oldest pet insurance company and largest, with 71% of the market share. VPI provides a wide range of policies.

- Embrace Pet Insurance: This is one of the few companies that offers coverage for pre-existing conditions and breed-specific genetic conditions.

- PetCare Pet Insurance: Since 1998, PetCare has been offering policies in both the US and Canada and offers a variety of pet insurance products such as QuickCare and ShelterCare.

- Pet Assure: This company is not insurance, but rather a program that offers medical discounts within a network of veterinarians and pet health providers. It is open to all pets of all ages with any medical condition.

Pet owners often don't anticipate the high costs associated with an unexpected illness or injury. Whether or not you're thinking about getting a pet, or you already have one, set aside some time to look at your budget and compare insurance plans. Planning for the future by insuring your cat or dog can save you the heart-wrenching pain of not being able to pay for treatment down the road.
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Having Leopard Geckos As House Pets

What kind of pet you are looking for? Have you ever thought about a gecko? You will find different kind of geckos but there is only one which is perfect as a house pet.

If you have seen pictures of leopard geckos, you are probably aware of what beautiful reptiles they are. Because of the work of breeders, leopard geckos come in an astonishing array of colours and patterns, from tangerine orange all the way to black and white striped, and many of these are quite striking creatures. I have been breeding reptiles for years and years now, and let me tell you: leopard geckos are some of my very favourite. This is not just because of their striking appearance, however. It is because they make such great pets.

Many people complain that reptiles are lousy pets. They feel that snakes and lizards are bad tempered, unaffectionate, dull, and boring company. For many of these creatures, this is true. They are simply not very easy to socialize, and are at best indifferent to humans. But the leopard gecko is different. Leopard geckos, if they are brought up among humans for their whole lives, are friendly, affectionate creatures who are really quite easy to get along with for anyone. They are pretty easy to care for as long as you remember a few basic facts about them. All leopard geckos must receive adequate, but not excessive warmth. Leopard geckos also must be fed daily with insects, and the like, and have enough space to move around. Finally, leopard geckos must not be left all by themselves. They technically can survive by themselves, but as a leopard gecko breeder, I can tell you that they are much happier when they have company. Really, leopard geckos do best when raised in groups of two or more, but even human companionship will help keep your pet happy. And a happy pet is a healthy pet.

If you are thinking of getting leopard geckos, there are a few things that you must consider first. They are not cute in the traditional sense, and so if your idea of a perfect pet is something soft that you can pet at your convenience, then the leopard gecko is right out. Although they are fairly affectionate lizards, if you are looking for some creature that will be overjoyed every single time that you enter the room, ditch the leopard geckos in favour of a nice golden retriever. But, if you are a lizard person, you probably already know it. If your idea of a nice pet is an interesting pet, then leopard geckos might be just the thing for you. I hope you already made your choice; you will never find a friendlier house pet than a gecko.
Article Source: http://articles.rssorange.com

EFFECTIVE METHODS OF TRAINING YOUR DOG

Training your dog is something that each and every owner of a pet has to associate with. You have to use time doing what requires to be done and carrying it out efficiently. Pet owners who do not train their animals effectively will have to go through difficulty down the road with misconduct and distressed neighbors. It is worthwhile to get the dog training through as soon as feasible.

But how?

How can you successfully bring into play dog training? There are a number of techniques out there and you can make an effort to try all of them. You have these choices for the reason that every person has a distinct notion or apprehension in relation to which is the top technique obtainable. You will probably employ more than one technique before you can come across something that suits you fine. Even as all these techniques work, you are the person who should execute them successfully as the owner of the pet. Read on for a few opinions to mull over on the topic of dog training.

One alternative that you have is consenting to a proficient person to do the job for you. This is to a certain extent a helpful manner in particular when you are not at home or capable to give over the time and stamina required to train the dog correctly. It can be expensive however you can in addition find dog trainers who will do it for a lot less than others.

A different technique that can be thought about in dog training is that of making use of training collars. These do the job in a range of methods. A few work by sending out a sound that is painful to the dog, if he does anything wrong. Others function by giving off a small electrical shock to the dog if he goes out of line. These techniques, both of them, are certainly of use.

And, both of these techniques are absolutely safe and sound for your pet as dog training gadgets. Of course, you can make use of your own techniques of dog training as well. One way to keep the dog inspired when doing the right thing is to give them an award. Dog training does not have to be hard when you give consent to others to assist you to come across the right way to get the job done.
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How To Become A Top Dog Breeder

Many people want to become good dog breeders. Dog breeding and doing it properly is an expensive hobby. There is the picking up of a good bitch, waiting for her to become old enough before breeding, choosing the best dog for her to mate with, and undertaking all the health checks she needs, and ensure that the dog you need also passes through the same health checks. There are potential extra expenses during pregnancy, you have to pay a stud fee (or return a puppy), you have the time at your disposal, and can incur the expense of whelping. The puppies are to be kept for a minimum of 8 weeks before sending them to their homes.
There is the need to advertise and look for good homes before sending them to their homes. As a breeder, you also need to see that the dogs have had their shots before going. You may be and ardent dog lover and want to better a particular breed of dogs. You may devote your time and energy to bettering a particular breed of dogs. Often this requires breeding dogs of a particular bloodline, thus creating particular traits that will be passed down through future generations. There is the requirement to have one or two un-neutered female dogs. If you have two or three adult dogs, you may not even need to register your kennel.
A good dog breeder does not want to use dogs with major blemishes. The breeder may show the dogs to endeavor to have a championship before breeding them. This increases the value of the dog's future puppies. It also leads to the breeder networking with the people who know the most about the breed. The dog may not get a championship but a few wins and the dog exhibitors will take you more seriously. If one of the exhibitors has a dog with characteristics that will even out any of the flaws that your dog has, then you can breed show quality puppies.
If, as a dog breeder, you want to breed dogs for many years, you may want to choose a kennel name. The kennel name has to be registered with the corresponding Kennel Club. It may be a good idea to get a kennel permit. The permit will eventually be needed as you may require a few puppies to continue the bloodline. There is the requirement to get the permit before you are attached to your puppies. When you are breeding your dog for the first time, you should seek out a male dog that belongs to a practiced dog breeder. When the dog has bred, you need to take it to the veterinarian. You need to ask the vet about the birthing procedure. When the delivery time comes near prepare a quiet spot for your dog to deliver. These steps ensure that you are a successful dog breeder and you take care of your dog and ensure that the best dogs only breed to carry on the bloodline.
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Is A Pet Rabbit Right For Me?

Rabbits have been commonly kept as pets in Western nations from the 1800s. Rabbits can adjust well to an indoor life, and can even be litter box trained. Like all pets, rabbits need a significant amount of care and attention.

People often buy rabbits from a breeder. Such a breeder who has a litter of young rabbits offered for sale can be found in the newspaper classified ads listed under "Pets" or "Livestock." Some can be found through rabbit breeders' club publications or through rabbit-related magazines, which often include a breeder listing. With the advent of the Internet, many breeders promote their stock online.

Finding a local rabbit breeder is generally preferred to shipping rabbits over long distances, as it can be stressful for the animal. Many pet shops nearly always carry smaller breeds of rabbit such as the Netherland dwarf, the Holland lop, and the Mini-Rex. These breeds, although smaller than 'normal' rabbits, still live long and healthy lives. A point to note is that often smaller breeds of rabbits are prone to tooth problems such as malocclusion.

Rabbit rescue organizations or a local humane society are increasingly common places to find adult rabbits, who may already be spayed or neutered and docile from handling. Though most rescued rabbits are healthy, some may require special care for health conditions or behavioral problems resulting from prior maltreatment.

Training and Play

Pet rabbits can be taught to urinate and defecate in a litter box or on a newspaper in a specific corner of a room. The litter box may also be placed inside the rabbit's cage or the rabbit can be trained to treat the cage itself as the litter box. Litter training becomes much easier once a rabbit is spayed or neutered.

Rabbits cannot learn voice commands like a dog, but can recognize different patterns of the voice. For instance, If a rabbit is disobeying, for example biting, just make a high pitched noise, or an extremely bass noise and the meaning will be conveyed. Rabbits can be taught their names, although they recognize the pattern of the noises more then the words. Rabbits are clever, and enjoy games and toys.

It is possible to permit a rabbit to run loose in the house if rooms have been rabbit-proofed (i.e. unsafe chewable items such as electric cords are removed from the pet's reach). Rabbits have a tendency to chew on items in their space, particularly wires, although they can be taught not to chew.

It is important that if a rabbit is allowed to wander in a house that it be impossible for the rabbit to chew or get into hazardous or valuable items. They do not enjoy the same comprehension as a dog or a cat, and often don't understand if punished physically; rather they will become scared or confused if some kind of punishment is used, as they do not see the damage they have done. If all this is taken into consideration, rabbits make excellent house pets.

Companionship

Other rabbits

Unneutered rabbits often fight when paired with an additional rabbit of the same gender. Usually fighting is a result of sexual mounting, which is engaged in by rabbits of both sexes upon other rabbits of either sex; this behavior stresses the rabbit being mounted and can make it aggressive toward its cagemate. Unneutered rabbits of opposite sexes will procreate rapidly, so a pet owner should not leave them together, even if they do not fight.
Because of these problems, it used to be preferred to keep rabbits caged individually.

Nonetheless, it is becoming common to spay and neuter pet rabbits allowing male and female rabbits to live together. Fighting can result even from pairing altered rabbits. Keeping rabbits in pairs can curbbehavioral problems (such as general aggression, biting or withdrawal) which may arise if rabbits are kept single.

Pairs of bonded and desexed rabbits, usually one of each gender to a pair, can often be adopted from animal shelters. These have usually already had all their major expenses taken care of (desexing) and they will rarely fight or harass each other, taking the trouble out of bonding two separate rabbits.

Guinea pigs

A number of books commend keeping rabbits and guinea pigs together to meet their social needs. While some people have seen success with this method, the current consensus is that rabbits should never be kept in the same cage with guinea pigs. A rabbit can easily pester or injure a guinea pig; this can lead to acute distress or even death for the guinea pig. It may be unintentional or due to being startled, since the rabbit is larger and stronger so can seriously injure a guinea pig.

They also have differing dietary requirements, so it is therefore preferable that rabbits and guinea pigs are fed independently. Guinea pigs require additional Vitamin C in their diets that rabbits don't and a lack of Vitamin C may lead to scurvy.

Additionally, guinea pigs characteristically display very little interest in social activities necessary for the rabbit's well-being, such as grooming; this limits the intended benefit of housing the guinea pig and rabbit together in the first place.

Dogs and cats

It is normally recommended that dogs must never be left alone with rabbits as their predatory instincts (or zealous play) could lead to the dog attacking the rabbit without warning. Cats, on the other hand, can become close and safe potential companions if properly introduced to the rabbit and they are of at least roughly corresponding size. In fact, when the cat is introduced in a home with a resident rabbit, the rabbit sometimes will show aggression to confirm his territory and the cat, which does not have such concerns, will typically yield the point to the resident.

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Small Pet Supplies: What You Need For Your New Pet

Many people have found that pets have been a part of their lives for as long as they can remember, typically dogs and cats. Small pet supplies made specifically for these pets are needed in order to take care of them properly. Other commonly purchased small animals are hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, reptiles and rabbits. If you are new to these kinds of animals, it is amazing to find that there are numerous small pet supplies made just for them. You can find them in online and physical stores by doing a search in the categories of cages, grooming supplies, toys or food.
For guinea pigs, rabbits, rats and hamsters, their cages and habitats range from small pet litter boxes to tiny hammocks or light bedding. Usually for rabbits, cages are provided with a litter bed and racks for drinking & feeding. They vary in sizes and colors. Guinea pigs and hamsters have more accessories in their homes, besides the essentials there are small tubes and tunnels for their daily activities. There are even uniquely designed habitats that include a theme and ready made activity areas. There are also complex habitats that feature more room for your pet to move in. At play time with your pets, you can provide a play pen for them. Crates and carriers are also available when you decide to take these little pets for a walk. There are good wooden toys for hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats that they enjoy chewing and playing with.
Birds, whether small or large, and ferrets require larger cages/aviaries. You need to keep in mind that these pets are able to escape easily so their habitat needs to be designed to keep them from this. Their homes need to have ramps, equipment or containers for water and food, and ramps or perches. Both of these pets require bedding for them to nestle or sleep in, and when it comes to birds, for them to nest in especially when expecting. For a bird, you can buy sprays to stop them from plucking their feathers as they can develop this habit. Medications can even be found at the retail sites of these small pet supplies places, but you should consult a veterinarian before using them.
When purchasing small pet supplies for a reptile cage or habitat, the first thing that you must take into consideration is safety. The usual beddings for their cages are made of bark, mulch, and sand. Cage lining should also be a consideration for such pets. The general tip is to make the cage as similar as possible to their natural habitats. Also consider lighting and temperature for your reptile pets. Various tools for these can be found in the market. Food for your reptile pets ranges from processed to natural foods, just be sure to know what benefits them the most.
Fish on the other hand have a variety of water tanks to choose from. Aerators vary and are dependent on the type of tank you are using.
Depending on the specific type of pet you have, you can find different types of food. This can range from healthy organic types to the normal processed variety. You can find something designed for the age of your pet, too. Small pet supplies designed for maintenance are important too, as keeping a clean habitat will ultimately aid in keeping your pet healthy.

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