animal care : "Cleaning ears
Your dog’s ear is more L-shaped than yours, and debris loves to collect at the corner of the L. To remove this debris, fill your pet’s ear canal with a good ear cleaner. Ear cleaners should be slightly acidic but should NOT sting. Massage the base of the ear for 20-30 seconds to soften and release the debris. Wipe out the loose debris and excess fluid with a cotton ball. Repeat this procedure until you see no more debris. Depending on your pet’s ear condition, you may have to start out doing this twice a day.
Cotton applicator swabs can be used to clean the inside of the earflap and the part of the ear canal you can see. They should NOT be used farther down in the ear canal since that tends to pack debris in the ear canal, rather than removing it.
Some ear problems are so painful, the pet must be anesthetized to do a good job of cleaning the ears. You may find your pet does not like to have her ears cleaned because it is uncomfortable. Talking to her during the process, stopping momentarily to give her a treat if she's doing well (we don't want to reward fussiness!) and doing something fun afterwards may all help.
After the ear is clean, let the dog shake his head and allow some time for the ears to dry. Then you can apply any ear medication that was prescribed."
Sunday, July 8, 2007
animal care |
animal care : "Allergies: Allergies are commonly treated with regular ear cleaning with an ear cleaning solution, antihistamines, and fatty acid supplements. Sometimes corticosteroids are needed. These may be given in an oral or injectable form, or they can be applied topically. Allergy testing and immunotherapy (hyposensitzation) may be the best way to cure the ear problem.
Ear mites: Ear mites can cause a dry, dark, crumbly debris in the ear that resembles coffee grounds. For this condition, ear cleaning followed by an ear medication to kill mites will eliminate the problem, although the treatment may need to be continued over several weeks depending upon the product used.
Yeast: Yeast can cause severe ear problems. We usually observe a brown waxy exudate and a bad odor. Daily cleaning of the ears will help, but often these infections are difficult to treat, and special medications need to be given since antibiotics do not kill yeast. If you suspect a yeast infection in your pet’s ears, consult your veterinarian.
Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections can also have a bad odor and often have a more yellowish exudate. If it's a severe or chronic condition, ear cleaning alone will not take care of the problem and antibiotics will almost always be necessary. Again, consult your veterinarian. Ear infections of the canal, if severe, can spread to the middle and inner ear, so prompt attention to the problem is always best."
Ear mites: Ear mites can cause a dry, dark, crumbly debris in the ear that resembles coffee grounds. For this condition, ear cleaning followed by an ear medication to kill mites will eliminate the problem, although the treatment may need to be continued over several weeks depending upon the product used.
Yeast: Yeast can cause severe ear problems. We usually observe a brown waxy exudate and a bad odor. Daily cleaning of the ears will help, but often these infections are difficult to treat, and special medications need to be given since antibiotics do not kill yeast. If you suspect a yeast infection in your pet’s ears, consult your veterinarian.
Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections can also have a bad odor and often have a more yellowish exudate. If it's a severe or chronic condition, ear cleaning alone will not take care of the problem and antibiotics will almost always be necessary. Again, consult your veterinarian. Ear infections of the canal, if severe, can spread to the middle and inner ear, so prompt attention to the problem is always best."
animal care |
animal care : "Because there are many potential causes of ear problems, we cannot just say it’s a bacterial infection, dispense antibiotics, and it will go away. Often more work is needed. Your veterinarian can use an otoscope to look down into the ear canal and determine the amount of inflammation present, if the tympanic membrane (ear drum) is involved, and if there are any foreign bodies, tumors or other potential causes of the problem. Swabs of the ear can be taken, smeared on a microscope slide, stained and examined for bacteria, yeast and mites. A thorough history and physical exam may help determine if this could be a hormonal, allergic or hereditary problem. If these are suspected, further diagnostic testing would be needed. If a bacterial infection does not respond to the first antibiotic therapy, a culture and sensitivity may need to be performed to select a different antibiotic.
Treatment
The treatment is going to depend on what caused the ear problem and what secondary conditions are there as a result. Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections and antifungals for yeast infections. Glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone are often included in these preparations to reduce the amount of inflammation in the ear. Ear problems caused by a systemic disease such as a hormone abnormality or allergy must include a therapy that treats the whole dog, such as hormonal replacement or allergy testing and hyposensitization (immunotherapy)."
Treatment
The treatment is going to depend on what caused the ear problem and what secondary conditions are there as a result. Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections and antifungals for yeast infections. Glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone are often included in these preparations to reduce the amount of inflammation in the ear. Ear problems caused by a systemic disease such as a hormone abnormality or allergy must include a therapy that treats the whole dog, such as hormonal replacement or allergy testing and hyposensitization (immunotherapy)."
animal care |
animal care : "Allergies: Dogs with allergies, either to food or something they inhale, often have ear problems. As a matter of fact, the ear problem may be the first sign of the allergy. Since the allergy changes the environment within the ear, we sometimes see secondary infections with bacteria or yeast. If we just treat the infection, we are not getting to the root of the problem. We need to treat the allergies too.
Parasites: The ear mite, Otodectes cynotis, is a common cause of ear problems in cats, but less common in dogs. Some dogs are hypersensitive to the mites, however, and the resultant itching can be intense. These dogs may scratch so much they severely traumatize the ear.
Bacteria and Yeast: Numerous types of bacteria and the yeast, Malassezia pachydermatis, cause ear infections. The normal, healthy ear has a good defense against these organisms, but if the ear environment changes due to allergies, hormone abnormalities, or moisture, the bacteria and yeast can greatly multiply and break down these defenses.
Foreign Bodies: Plant awns, those little 'stick-tights' that cling to our clothes and our pets' fur, can sometimes enter the ear canal. Their presence causes irritation, the dog scratches, and before you know it we have a traumatized, infected ear. So when you groom your dog after a walk in the woods, be sure to check the ears, too."
Parasites: The ear mite, Otodectes cynotis, is a common cause of ear problems in cats, but less common in dogs. Some dogs are hypersensitive to the mites, however, and the resultant itching can be intense. These dogs may scratch so much they severely traumatize the ear.
Bacteria and Yeast: Numerous types of bacteria and the yeast, Malassezia pachydermatis, cause ear infections. The normal, healthy ear has a good defense against these organisms, but if the ear environment changes due to allergies, hormone abnormalities, or moisture, the bacteria and yeast can greatly multiply and break down these defenses.
Foreign Bodies: Plant awns, those little 'stick-tights' that cling to our clothes and our pets' fur, can sometimes enter the ear canal. Their presence causes irritation, the dog scratches, and before you know it we have a traumatized, infected ear. So when you groom your dog after a walk in the woods, be sure to check the ears, too."
animal care |
animal care : "Signs of ear disease
Every day we see dogs who have problems with their ears. Signs of these ear problems include:
Odor
Scratching or rubbing of ears and head
Discharge in the ears
Redness or swelling of the ear flap or canal
Shaking of the head or tilting it to one side
Pain around the ears
Changes in behavior such as depression or irritability
Ear disease is one of the most common conditions we see in pets. The medical name for inflammation of the outer ear canal is 'otitis externa'. It is estimated that up to 20% of the dog population is affected by this disease.
Causes of ear disease
Dogs can have ear problems for many different reasons. When we see a dog with ear disease we need to think about the possibility of:
Allergies such as atopy or food allergies
Parasites - ear mites
Microorganisms - bacteria and yeast
Foreign bodies, e.g., plant awns
Trauma
Hormonal abnormalities, e.g., hypothyroidism
The ear environment, e.g., excess moisture and ear anatomy
Hereditary or immune conditions, and tumors "
Every day we see dogs who have problems with their ears. Signs of these ear problems include:
Odor
Scratching or rubbing of ears and head
Discharge in the ears
Redness or swelling of the ear flap or canal
Shaking of the head or tilting it to one side
Pain around the ears
Changes in behavior such as depression or irritability
Ear disease is one of the most common conditions we see in pets. The medical name for inflammation of the outer ear canal is 'otitis externa'. It is estimated that up to 20% of the dog population is affected by this disease.
Causes of ear disease
Dogs can have ear problems for many different reasons. When we see a dog with ear disease we need to think about the possibility of:
Allergies such as atopy or food allergies
Parasites - ear mites
Microorganisms - bacteria and yeast
Foreign bodies, e.g., plant awns
Trauma
Hormonal abnormalities, e.g., hypothyroidism
The ear environment, e.g., excess moisture and ear anatomy
Hereditary or immune conditions, and tumors "
animal care |
animal care : "Important Note About Cedar Bedding: cedar emits volatile compounds which are irritating to the respiratory tract (and may also cause changes in the liver). Pine shavings also release volatile compounds to a lesser but still significant extent. These beddings (particularly cedar) may also cause a skin sensitivity or allergy, and should be avoided. Aspen shavings or some other hardwood shavings are a better, safer option. Antibiotics: several antibiotics cause a fatal toxicity in hamsters. Penicillin, amoxicillin, ampicillin, streptomycin, dihydrostreptomycin, tetracyclines, lincomycin, erythromycin, vancomycin, cephalosporins, and gentamycin should be avoided."
animal care |
animal care : "Skin Diseases: hamsters can be infested with a number of mites, which can be identified by a skin scraping by a vet and treated accordingly. Ringworm (actually a fungal infection) can also occur, and requires treatment by a vet. Allergies and skin infections can also occur. Hair loss is not all that unusual and can be seasonal or happen in older hamsters. If there is flakiness or redness of the skin or any lesions on the skin, or the hamster appears to be itchy and scratching more than usual, a vet should be seen. Hamsters do have scent glands on their flanks which can be dark and sometimes alarm owners. These occur on both sides of the body and do not appear irritated or bother the hamster. Cedar bedding can also cause skin irritation or allergies in addition to lung problems so should be avoided.
Hibernation: if the room temperature is allowed to drop below normal room temperature, hamsters will go into a sort of hibernating state, where they are very still and breathe very slowly. Many owners panic and think their hamster is dying or dead, when might be a matter of the hamster getting too cold (for exapmle if the owners go away for the day and turn the thermostat down in the house). Rewarming the hamster should be sufficient"
Hibernation: if the room temperature is allowed to drop below normal room temperature, hamsters will go into a sort of hibernating state, where they are very still and breathe very slowly. Many owners panic and think their hamster is dying or dead, when might be a matter of the hamster getting too cold (for exapmle if the owners go away for the day and turn the thermostat down in the house). Rewarming the hamster should be sufficient"
animal care |
animal care : "Respiratory Infections: hamsters can get respiratory infections that can lead to pneumonia. Signs include sneezing, discharge from eyes or nose, wheezing and labored breathing. Occasional sneezing is not too worrisome, but if there is any loss of appetite, decreased activity, wheezing or difficulties breathing, immediate veterinary attention should be sought.
Wet Tail: also called proliferative ileitis and regional enteritis. This is a highly contagious disease, and most common in recently weaned hamsters. The cause is uncertain, but a bacteria called Campylobacter jejuni may be involved, and in some cases the disease is associated with stress, crowding, and diet changes. Affected hamsters may die very quickly, exhibiting signs such as diarrhea (causing wetness around the tail), lethargy, loss of appetite, and ruffled coat. Note: not all hamsters with diarrhea have this disease, see below.
Diarrhea: a number of infections can cause diarrhea (including but not limited to wet tail), along with diet changes and treatment with antibiotics. Over feeding vegetables and other fresh foods is a fairly common cause of diarrhea, but in this case there is usually no loss of appetite or decrease in activity. Dehydration is a real concern, so make sure the hamster is drinking if diarrhea occurs, and a veterinarian should be consulted. With diarrhea, withhold fresh foods for a few days and resume only if the diarrhea is completely resolved, and start back onto fresh foods slowly. "
Wet Tail: also called proliferative ileitis and regional enteritis. This is a highly contagious disease, and most common in recently weaned hamsters. The cause is uncertain, but a bacteria called Campylobacter jejuni may be involved, and in some cases the disease is associated with stress, crowding, and diet changes. Affected hamsters may die very quickly, exhibiting signs such as diarrhea (causing wetness around the tail), lethargy, loss of appetite, and ruffled coat. Note: not all hamsters with diarrhea have this disease, see below.
Diarrhea: a number of infections can cause diarrhea (including but not limited to wet tail), along with diet changes and treatment with antibiotics. Over feeding vegetables and other fresh foods is a fairly common cause of diarrhea, but in this case there is usually no loss of appetite or decrease in activity. Dehydration is a real concern, so make sure the hamster is drinking if diarrhea occurs, and a veterinarian should be consulted. With diarrhea, withhold fresh foods for a few days and resume only if the diarrhea is completely resolved, and start back onto fresh foods slowly. "
animal care |
animal care : "Hamsters are pretty hardy pets, but are so small that injuries and illness can quickly become serious. If you notice any signs of illness in your hamster, you need to see a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Signs to look for include loss of appetite, inactivity, huddling in a corner, ruffled or unkempt coat, sneezing, discharge from the nose or eyes, wheezing, wetness around the tail, and diarrhea. Hair loss can be a symptom of skin disease or parasites, and also warrants a trip to the vet.
If a hamster is ill or injured, keep the hamster warm, and encourage it to take some food or water (by dropper if necessary) until a vet can be seen.
Abscesses: these are pockets of infection, which can form from fairly minor breaks in the skin. Pus accumulates under the skin, sometimes forming a sizable lump (which may sometimes begin draining on its own). Abscesses can form from cuts or scratches on the skin and also in the cheek pouches if abrasive food material causes scratches in the lining. If a hamster continually looks like it has food in packed in its cheek pouches, there may be an abscess or an impacted cheek pouch present. Abscesses require veterinary attention for draining, flushing, and treatment with antibiotics. "
If a hamster is ill or injured, keep the hamster warm, and encourage it to take some food or water (by dropper if necessary) until a vet can be seen.
Abscesses: these are pockets of infection, which can form from fairly minor breaks in the skin. Pus accumulates under the skin, sometimes forming a sizable lump (which may sometimes begin draining on its own). Abscesses can form from cuts or scratches on the skin and also in the cheek pouches if abrasive food material causes scratches in the lining. If a hamster continually looks like it has food in packed in its cheek pouches, there may be an abscess or an impacted cheek pouch present. Abscesses require veterinary attention for draining, flushing, and treatment with antibiotics. "
Saturday, July 7, 2007
animal care |
animal care : " Once they mate, the eggs are fertilized internally. The textured shell protects the developing infant from dehydration. Some species give live birth where the egg is held in the females body until they hatch. Other species lay clutches of eggs. The young emerge from the eggs as miniature adults rather than in a larval stage. They are immediately ready to be on their own!
Also, see each individual lizard for their breeding information!
Availability:
Beginner lizards are generally available and inexpensive. You can buy lizards at a pet store or from a breeder and you can collect lizards where allowed.
Wild caught lizards are seasonal due to their breeding times and can be difficult to adapt to captivity. Captive bred lizards, though more expensive, are generally easier to get. Captive bred lizards are generally healthier than wild caught lizards, they adapt easily to cage conditions, and they are relatively parasite free. "
Also, see each individual lizard for their breeding information!
Availability:
Beginner lizards are generally available and inexpensive. You can buy lizards at a pet store or from a breeder and you can collect lizards where allowed.
Wild caught lizards are seasonal due to their breeding times and can be difficult to adapt to captivity. Captive bred lizards, though more expensive, are generally easier to get. Captive bred lizards are generally healthier than wild caught lizards, they adapt easily to cage conditions, and they are relatively parasite free. "
animal care |
animal care : " Social Behaviors:
Lizards don't need companionship unless you are breeding. They don't get lonely and are not by nature social creatures. Most are territorial, owning their own piece of turf.
Occasionally lizards of the same size that don't fight can be put together, but they see other lizards as competition for food so they are unwelcome. Putting two together causes stress and can keep them from feeding properly.
Separate means better quality care for each lizard and better environmental control.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Sexing lizards can be difficult with many species. This can involve either sexing with a probe or using an internal endoscope, and should be done by a professional. A blood test can also be done but they are not always reliable
There are a few distinctions that may be found during breeding with some lizards that can be used as guidelines.
Males usually have brighter coloration on their heads and more ornamentation.
Males often have larger pores along the legs just above the anus and the edges of the anus are more swollen.
Males may be stimulated by a higher temperature and the scent put off by a female.
Males will show themselves off to interest their mate and often appear to become violent, biting and butting the female. Generally the female is not hurt, though sometimes she can be. "
Lizards don't need companionship unless you are breeding. They don't get lonely and are not by nature social creatures. Most are territorial, owning their own piece of turf.
Occasionally lizards of the same size that don't fight can be put together, but they see other lizards as competition for food so they are unwelcome. Putting two together causes stress and can keep them from feeding properly.
Separate means better quality care for each lizard and better environmental control.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Sexing lizards can be difficult with many species. This can involve either sexing with a probe or using an internal endoscope, and should be done by a professional. A blood test can also be done but they are not always reliable
There are a few distinctions that may be found during breeding with some lizards that can be used as guidelines.
Males usually have brighter coloration on their heads and more ornamentation.
Males often have larger pores along the legs just above the anus and the edges of the anus are more swollen.
Males may be stimulated by a higher temperature and the scent put off by a female.
Males will show themselves off to interest their mate and often appear to become violent, biting and butting the female. Generally the female is not hurt, though sometimes she can be. "
animal care |
animal care : "Heating is essential for lizards.
Below a certain temperature the lizard's body simply does not work. Above a certain temperature their bodies will go out of control. Either extreme will kill a lizard, and each type has its own temperature requirements.
Lizards have a temperature sense controlled by a gland located under a special scale on the top of their head called a 'third eye'. The lizard will move from area to area to regulate itself, this is called 'behavior thermoregulation'.
Diet - Feeding Your Lizard:
Lizards are commonly insectivores with some of the larger species being partially or totally vegetarians. Their digestive systems are designed to eat whole animals for a complete diet.
Good food sources include crickets because they contain very little chitin (the shell or indigestible exoskeleton in insects). Mealworms can be offered occasionally, though they are not as good because they have more chitin than meat. This can eventually block the lizards gut if this is the only food they are offered. Soft larvae foods like waxworms and butterworms, pinkies for larger lizards, and occasionally a good quality, meaty dog or cat foodare also good choices.
Bright green and yellow vegetables and various fruits are good, even offered occasionally to the confirmed insectivore lizard. Iceberg lettuce is not recommended due to its lack of vitamins and food value, only providing mostly liquid and some fiber.
It is very difficult to duplicate a lizards natural diet, so in captivity we need to add vitamin and calcium supplements to prevent deficiencies.
Provide your pet lizard with a bowl of fresh water daily, or water that drips on plant leaves for those who need to lick up dew drops. "
Below a certain temperature the lizard's body simply does not work. Above a certain temperature their bodies will go out of control. Either extreme will kill a lizard, and each type has its own temperature requirements.
Lizards have a temperature sense controlled by a gland located under a special scale on the top of their head called a 'third eye'. The lizard will move from area to area to regulate itself, this is called 'behavior thermoregulation'.
Diet - Feeding Your Lizard:
Lizards are commonly insectivores with some of the larger species being partially or totally vegetarians. Their digestive systems are designed to eat whole animals for a complete diet.
Good food sources include crickets because they contain very little chitin (the shell or indigestible exoskeleton in insects). Mealworms can be offered occasionally, though they are not as good because they have more chitin than meat. This can eventually block the lizards gut if this is the only food they are offered. Soft larvae foods like waxworms and butterworms, pinkies for larger lizards, and occasionally a good quality, meaty dog or cat foodare also good choices.
Bright green and yellow vegetables and various fruits are good, even offered occasionally to the confirmed insectivore lizard. Iceberg lettuce is not recommended due to its lack of vitamins and food value, only providing mostly liquid and some fiber.
It is very difficult to duplicate a lizards natural diet, so in captivity we need to add vitamin and calcium supplements to prevent deficiencies.
Provide your pet lizard with a bowl of fresh water daily, or water that drips on plant leaves for those who need to lick up dew drops. "
animal care |
animal care : "Housing:
Understanding your lizard's characteristics will help you determine what type of housing your pet will need to keep it happy and healthy. Your pet's housing is what provides its sense of security.
Keep in mind the lizards size, they need to stretch out to full length and be able to move around.
Keep the decor simple and suitable for the type of lizard you are housing.
The enclosure needs a secure, escape proof top or access opening.
There must to be fresh water for the lizard to drink and occasionally bathe in.
For most lizards that are not nocturnal, you will need full spectrum lighting 10 to 12 hours per day so they can absorb and utilize calcium and vitamin D.
Good ventilation and air circulation are important to prevent excessive humidity. Humidity can cause bacterial and fungal growth, and these can lead to infections.
The material on the floor, the substrate, should be absorbent (like bark or rabbit pellets) or else use a reptile carpet. It is not recommended to use gravel, stones, soil or dirt as they are hard to keep clean. Provide sand in a plastic box for burrowing lizards.
All lizards need a hiding place of some sort. A climbing limb with vining, a bark slab, a piece of splinter-free driftwood, a box or a ceramic log placed on the cool side of the cage, all these can work well as hiding places.
Plants are fine for some lizards, but not so good for large ground dwelling lizards like monitors. "
Understanding your lizard's characteristics will help you determine what type of housing your pet will need to keep it happy and healthy. Your pet's housing is what provides its sense of security.
Keep in mind the lizards size, they need to stretch out to full length and be able to move around.
Keep the decor simple and suitable for the type of lizard you are housing.
The enclosure needs a secure, escape proof top or access opening.
There must to be fresh water for the lizard to drink and occasionally bathe in.
For most lizards that are not nocturnal, you will need full spectrum lighting 10 to 12 hours per day so they can absorb and utilize calcium and vitamin D.
Good ventilation and air circulation are important to prevent excessive humidity. Humidity can cause bacterial and fungal growth, and these can lead to infections.
The material on the floor, the substrate, should be absorbent (like bark or rabbit pellets) or else use a reptile carpet. It is not recommended to use gravel, stones, soil or dirt as they are hard to keep clean. Provide sand in a plastic box for burrowing lizards.
All lizards need a hiding place of some sort. A climbing limb with vining, a bark slab, a piece of splinter-free driftwood, a box or a ceramic log placed on the cool side of the cage, all these can work well as hiding places.
Plants are fine for some lizards, but not so good for large ground dwelling lizards like monitors. "
animal care |
animal care : "Always wash your hands before and after handling!
Lizard Characteristics:
Lizards come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, colors, temperaments, and habits. They range in size from 1' (3cm), like the tiny gekkonids to 11 feet (3.5m) or more in the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard.
Generally speaking small lizards can live 3 to 5 years while large lizards can live upwards of 20 years.
All lizards have two lungs, unlike some snakes which have only one lung, and amphibians which breathe through their skins as well as through lungs. Their skin structure, a thick horny layer, provides them protection from heat, dryness and sunlight. They will molt or shed their skin generally in patches on an ongoing basis, though occasionally some will shed their whole skin at one time.
Lizards thermoregulate their body temperature by following the sun. As 'sunseekers', they seek out warmth for hunting and digesting and choose cool hiding places when they are too hot.
Lizard Movement:
Many lizards are great climbers, even able to walk across walls and ceilings. With muscular wiry legs, they are great jumpers and they use their long tails to orient their direction. The lizards trunk and tail often work together in a lateral body and limb movement for a forward and jumping motion.
Some lizards will use their tail as a means of defense or will practice automony where they simply shed it. The tail will regrow, though usually it will be shorter and not as elegant at the original tail.
There are some lizards are so terrestrial that their bodies are snake-like. They use a wriggling or swimming motion for forward movement. They have very little development in the legs, and there are even some lizards with no legs at all. Ground lizards are often heavy with short legs and short stumpy tails. "
Lizard Characteristics:
Lizards come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, colors, temperaments, and habits. They range in size from 1' (3cm), like the tiny gekkonids to 11 feet (3.5m) or more in the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard.
Generally speaking small lizards can live 3 to 5 years while large lizards can live upwards of 20 years.
All lizards have two lungs, unlike some snakes which have only one lung, and amphibians which breathe through their skins as well as through lungs. Their skin structure, a thick horny layer, provides them protection from heat, dryness and sunlight. They will molt or shed their skin generally in patches on an ongoing basis, though occasionally some will shed their whole skin at one time.
Lizards thermoregulate their body temperature by following the sun. As 'sunseekers', they seek out warmth for hunting and digesting and choose cool hiding places when they are too hot.
Lizard Movement:
Many lizards are great climbers, even able to walk across walls and ceilings. With muscular wiry legs, they are great jumpers and they use their long tails to orient their direction. The lizards trunk and tail often work together in a lateral body and limb movement for a forward and jumping motion.
Some lizards will use their tail as a means of defense or will practice automony where they simply shed it. The tail will regrow, though usually it will be shorter and not as elegant at the original tail.
There are some lizards are so terrestrial that their bodies are snake-like. They use a wriggling or swimming motion for forward movement. They have very little development in the legs, and there are even some lizards with no legs at all. Ground lizards are often heavy with short legs and short stumpy tails. "
animal care |
animal care : "How to Choose Your Lizard:
When deciding which lizard is for you, keep the following basic considerations in mind:
How much do you want to spend?
How much space do you have for it?
What type of disposition do you want in your pet?
How hardy is it and how easy is it to feed?
What color, shape and size do you want and is that lizard readily available?
Many reptiles are protected so check with authorities in your area on laws governing your selection.
Handling Your Lizard:
Handle your lizard only when necessary, generally this is only to move it to a place where it will get some exercise. Be gentle so as not to bruise or hurt it. Never pick it up by the head or tail. The majority of pet lizards are small and incapable of any real harm if they bite. However if you have a lizard that is prone to biting or is large, you can use gloves. Some lizards such as iguanas have sharp claws and can cause deep scratches.
Safe handling is knowing how to grab a lizard:
Small lizards up to about 7 3/4' (20cm). Grasp by placing your hand over the body and restraining the neck area with your thumb and forefinger.
Medium lizards up to about 19 1/2' (50cm). Grasp with one hand on the section of the lizard where you can straddle across its back at the front legs. Use your other hand to take hold of the hips.
Large lizards over 19 1/2' (50cm). Grab firmly around the neck with one hand and around the waist with the other and pull it into your body under your elbow to restrain the legs and tail. Two people may be necessary for large lizards. They can inflict deep bites and deep scratches with their claws! "
When deciding which lizard is for you, keep the following basic considerations in mind:
How much do you want to spend?
How much space do you have for it?
What type of disposition do you want in your pet?
How hardy is it and how easy is it to feed?
What color, shape and size do you want and is that lizard readily available?
Many reptiles are protected so check with authorities in your area on laws governing your selection.
Handling Your Lizard:
Handle your lizard only when necessary, generally this is only to move it to a place where it will get some exercise. Be gentle so as not to bruise or hurt it. Never pick it up by the head or tail. The majority of pet lizards are small and incapable of any real harm if they bite. However if you have a lizard that is prone to biting or is large, you can use gloves. Some lizards such as iguanas have sharp claws and can cause deep scratches.
Safe handling is knowing how to grab a lizard:
Small lizards up to about 7 3/4' (20cm). Grasp by placing your hand over the body and restraining the neck area with your thumb and forefinger.
Medium lizards up to about 19 1/2' (50cm). Grasp with one hand on the section of the lizard where you can straddle across its back at the front legs. Use your other hand to take hold of the hips.
Large lizards over 19 1/2' (50cm). Grab firmly around the neck with one hand and around the waist with the other and pull it into your body under your elbow to restrain the legs and tail. Two people may be necessary for large lizards. They can inflict deep bites and deep scratches with their claws! "
Thursday, July 5, 2007
animal care |
animal care : "The Happy Purr of a Cat
All domestic cats are born with the purring ability. A queen will purr while giving birth. It is unknown whether this is because of happy anticipation, or whether it is a relaxing 'mantra.' Kittens instinctively purr when nursing, and the momcat purrs right back at them. Your adult cat will purr at the drop of a hat whenever you're near, and especially when you are holding or petting him.
Cat purrs will range from a deep rumble to a raspy, broken sound, to a high-pitched trill, depending on the physiology and/or the mood of a cat. A cat will often 'wind-down' when going to sleep, with a long purring sigh that drops melodically from a high to a low pitch. Does your cat's purr sometimes sound like an idling diesel engine? That's because at the lower range of 26 Hertz, the velocities are nearly the same.
The Healing Power of the Purr
Cats are often used as 'therapy animals' in convalescent hospitals, or in retirement residences. It is an accepted fact that cat owners have lower blood pressure, especially in older people. The human-feline bond is never quite so close as when a person is holding and petting a purring, vibrating bundle of fur on her lap, and all is well with the world. You may even find yourself purring in response."
All domestic cats are born with the purring ability. A queen will purr while giving birth. It is unknown whether this is because of happy anticipation, or whether it is a relaxing 'mantra.' Kittens instinctively purr when nursing, and the momcat purrs right back at them. Your adult cat will purr at the drop of a hat whenever you're near, and especially when you are holding or petting him.
Cat purrs will range from a deep rumble to a raspy, broken sound, to a high-pitched trill, depending on the physiology and/or the mood of a cat. A cat will often 'wind-down' when going to sleep, with a long purring sigh that drops melodically from a high to a low pitch. Does your cat's purr sometimes sound like an idling diesel engine? That's because at the lower range of 26 Hertz, the velocities are nearly the same.
The Healing Power of the Purr
Cats are often used as 'therapy animals' in convalescent hospitals, or in retirement residences. It is an accepted fact that cat owners have lower blood pressure, especially in older people. The human-feline bond is never quite so close as when a person is holding and petting a purring, vibrating bundle of fur on her lap, and all is well with the world. You may even find yourself purring in response."
animal care |
animal care : "The Physiology of Purring
There seems to be two schools of thought here.
The most popular one is quoted here:
One study determined that purring involves activation of nerves within the voice box. These nerve signals cause vibration of the vocal cords while the diaphragm serves as a piston pump, pushing air in and out of the vibrating cords, thus creating a musical hum. Veterinarian Neils C. Pederson, author of Feline Husbandry, believes that purring is initiated from within the central nervous system and is a voluntary act. In other words, cats purr only when they want to.²
The other theory is that the sound comes more from vibrating blood vessels than in the voicebox itself. "
There seems to be two schools of thought here.
The most popular one is quoted here:
One study determined that purring involves activation of nerves within the voice box. These nerve signals cause vibration of the vocal cords while the diaphragm serves as a piston pump, pushing air in and out of the vibrating cords, thus creating a musical hum. Veterinarian Neils C. Pederson, author of Feline Husbandry, believes that purring is initiated from within the central nervous system and is a voluntary act. In other words, cats purr only when they want to.²
The other theory is that the sound comes more from vibrating blood vessels than in the voicebox itself. "
animal care |
animal care : "Feed me!
Remember the Dr. Seuss book about the fish who was overfed? Although you probably won't wake up with a gigantic fish on your staircase, overfeeding can lead to health problems. Feed your fish only as much as they can eat in about three minutes, and then feed them that amount one to two times per day. Although they look like they are still hungry, much of the food will fall to the bottom of the tank. When this food is left to decompose it leads to problems with water cleanliness.
Variety is the spice of life, and your fish wants a piece of the action. Think of fish flakes as you would rice: okay as a staple, but awfully boring day in and day out. Just as you would add veggies or meat to your rice dish, add live worms as well as frozen and freeze-dried foods to your fish's diet. But be careful! Fish can get fat, and if you feed Wanda an excess of protein-rich foods such as bloodworms, you'll have a happy but fat fish on your hands. Beware of flake food that is old or has been left open and become damp-it will have less nutritional value. "
Remember the Dr. Seuss book about the fish who was overfed? Although you probably won't wake up with a gigantic fish on your staircase, overfeeding can lead to health problems. Feed your fish only as much as they can eat in about three minutes, and then feed them that amount one to two times per day. Although they look like they are still hungry, much of the food will fall to the bottom of the tank. When this food is left to decompose it leads to problems with water cleanliness.
Variety is the spice of life, and your fish wants a piece of the action. Think of fish flakes as you would rice: okay as a staple, but awfully boring day in and day out. Just as you would add veggies or meat to your rice dish, add live worms as well as frozen and freeze-dried foods to your fish's diet. But be careful! Fish can get fat, and if you feed Wanda an excess of protein-rich foods such as bloodworms, you'll have a happy but fat fish on your hands. Beware of flake food that is old or has been left open and become damp-it will have less nutritional value. "
animal care |
animal care : "Gadgets for the tank
To heat or not to heat? Whether you will want to invest in a heater depends on where you live and what types of fish you have. Generally, goldfish and koi do not need a heater. But you will need a heater for any fish requiring water that is warmer than the natural room temperature. Heaters often fail, so invest in a heater of good quality and monitor the tank daily to avoid cooked or frozen fish.
An air pump is generally deemed a good thing: It helps avoid thermal layering, prevents film from forming on the top of the water (which inhibits the carbon dioxide/oxygen exchange), and it helps the good bacteria to grow. It is also a good idea to include foliage, rocks, or another type of cover. Although this really depends on the fish, most fish will strongly appreciate the chance to get out of sight.
You will need a filter for your tank as well, and a good one usually comprises the three types (biological, mechanical, chemical) available. At the very least, a biological filter is necessary as it helps break down the nitrites and ammonia into the more benign nitrates. All filters need to be cleaned regularly. "
To heat or not to heat? Whether you will want to invest in a heater depends on where you live and what types of fish you have. Generally, goldfish and koi do not need a heater. But you will need a heater for any fish requiring water that is warmer than the natural room temperature. Heaters often fail, so invest in a heater of good quality and monitor the tank daily to avoid cooked or frozen fish.
An air pump is generally deemed a good thing: It helps avoid thermal layering, prevents film from forming on the top of the water (which inhibits the carbon dioxide/oxygen exchange), and it helps the good bacteria to grow. It is also a good idea to include foliage, rocks, or another type of cover. Although this really depends on the fish, most fish will strongly appreciate the chance to get out of sight.
You will need a filter for your tank as well, and a good one usually comprises the three types (biological, mechanical, chemical) available. At the very least, a biological filter is necessary as it helps break down the nitrites and ammonia into the more benign nitrates. All filters need to be cleaned regularly. "
animal care |
animal care : "Remember the goldfish from grade school? You won them at a fair, brought them home to a bowl full of water, loved them with all your heart-and they died. Although fish aren't really hard to care for, if you don't know a few basic facts you can doom the critters before they ever really have a chance. Keeping your scaly pet alive and swimming isn't a fishy matter, so read on for the watery basics.
Relocating
It's a good idea to set up your tank and let it sit for a week before you anticipate putting Wanda into her new home. This gives the water a chance to dechlorinate and gives the 'good' bacteria (we'll talk about this later) a chance to grow. The absolute minimum for tank size is ten gallons; with anything smaller, you will have problems maintaining stable water chemistry and controlling temperature fluctuations.
When Wanda arrives at her new home, she'll be a little apprehensive about the impending switch to new waters. You can ease her fishy qualms by making the transition a gradual one. Float Wanda's bag in the tank for a while to let the temperatures equalize. Then slowly begin adding small amounts of tank water to Wanda's bag; continue for about an hour before you transfer Wanda to her new home. Avoid mixing the old bag water with the new tank water-you can't be sure what kinds of parasites you have brought home in the bag. "
Relocating
It's a good idea to set up your tank and let it sit for a week before you anticipate putting Wanda into her new home. This gives the water a chance to dechlorinate and gives the 'good' bacteria (we'll talk about this later) a chance to grow. The absolute minimum for tank size is ten gallons; with anything smaller, you will have problems maintaining stable water chemistry and controlling temperature fluctuations.
When Wanda arrives at her new home, she'll be a little apprehensive about the impending switch to new waters. You can ease her fishy qualms by making the transition a gradual one. Float Wanda's bag in the tank for a while to let the temperatures equalize. Then slowly begin adding small amounts of tank water to Wanda's bag; continue for about an hour before you transfer Wanda to her new home. Avoid mixing the old bag water with the new tank water-you can't be sure what kinds of parasites you have brought home in the bag. "
Saturday, June 30, 2007
animal care |
animal care : "The first step to having a parasite free pet is to give it a flea bath. Although, since most flea products are too harsh for puppies you should be extremely careful to consult your veterinarian and follow all instructions on a flea products label if your puppy has fleas. A flea bath can also give relieve from itching and irritation, however you should not stop at shampooing your pet as a flea bath does not really protect the animal after having a flea bath.
Although, it is not recommended by most veterinarians, one alternative for keeping fleas away for some time after the treatment is to use a flea dip. However with the use of flea dip also comes the possibility of the dog licking, swallowing or eating the fleas after treatment of a flea dip, since a flea dip remains on the animals coat a good long while. Alternatively, you may choose the option of a flea collar. You should keep in mind that flea collars only work in killing fleas around the face and neck of the dog, and not its whole body. Moreover, some dogs have shown signs of being allergic to flea collars by developing a rash when wearing a flea collar. You should also consider that since they hang loose from your dog's collar that flea medallions can possibly contaminate the dog's drinking water, and thereby make it ill. "
Although, it is not recommended by most veterinarians, one alternative for keeping fleas away for some time after the treatment is to use a flea dip. However with the use of flea dip also comes the possibility of the dog licking, swallowing or eating the fleas after treatment of a flea dip, since a flea dip remains on the animals coat a good long while. Alternatively, you may choose the option of a flea collar. You should keep in mind that flea collars only work in killing fleas around the face and neck of the dog, and not its whole body. Moreover, some dogs have shown signs of being allergic to flea collars by developing a rash when wearing a flea collar. You should also consider that since they hang loose from your dog's collar that flea medallions can possibly contaminate the dog's drinking water, and thereby make it ill. "
animal care |
animal care : "Fleas also known as cat fleas are tiny, irritating parasites that not only feed off your pet's blood, but your own blood as well. It is possible to find that fleas have laid their eggs almost anywhere and everywhere they please inside or outside, for instant, in your carpets, furniture and bedding as well as your front and back yards. Therefore, it is likely that an infestation of fleas and their eggs is very high. To determine if your animal has fleas, you should look for the tell tale signs of fleas on your dog, for instance the excrement of fleas are dark, specks of curly dots which are also called flea dirt.
This flea dirt or excrement are black specks, which are the remains of digested blood that has a reddish brown appearance when wet, and are best found while having your pet lay on a white sheet or cloth while you brush through its coat. On dogs that have a darker coat you will need a magnifying glass to search for flea eggs, as they will give the appearance of dandruff within your pet's coat. "
This flea dirt or excrement are black specks, which are the remains of digested blood that has a reddish brown appearance when wet, and are best found while having your pet lay on a white sheet or cloth while you brush through its coat. On dogs that have a darker coat you will need a magnifying glass to search for flea eggs, as they will give the appearance of dandruff within your pet's coat. "
animal care |
animal care : "Dogs can be the greatest source of love and happiness in our lives. However, they can also be a source of endless frustration. Usually the difference between a well-behaved dog and a chaotic dog is training. Dog training is an art and a science. Thee are many videos and books written on the subject and a lot of good information can also be found online. One of the most basic training commands is 'Sit.' It is also one of the most useful. When I take my dogs into a dog store, so many pets are misbehaving, barking at each other, or trying to show who is boss while we are in line. My dogs, however, are commanded to sit while I wait in line. Usually, people are awed by this. But it really isn't very remarkable. Teaching a dog to sit does not have to be challenging. Below is some advice I found online:
Few things in life are prettier than watching a well-trained dog and one of the basic commands is the sit command. There are several methods of teaching your dog to sit. Two of the most popular are the Click and the Compulsory methods. The Click method is based again on purely positive reinforcement while the Compulsory method uses both positive and negative reinforcements. Let's begin our discussion with the easier of the two, The Click Method. "
Friday, June 29, 2007
animal care |
animal care : "Why does a Labrador have doggy odor?
Like any other animal, dogs will walk, run, and play in areas that might result in their gathering dirt, disease, or odor. The Labrador retriever may begin to produce odor due to a number of factors, such as oily skin, dirt accumulation, ear or anal infections, and dental/plaque buildup. Not only can odor be offensive, it can be a sign of an unhealthy retriever. If a Labrador retriever is not monitored, and the sources of doggy odor are not removed, the Labrador retriever will develop chronic physical problems.
What to do About Doggy Odor?
When a Labrador retriever begins to emit doggy odor, closely inspect the dog from head to tail. Check the retriever's ears for debris, red skin, and odor. If an ear infection is present, it could be the result of the dog's ears not being properly ventilated. Ear infections are common in dogs with ears that are floppy or folded over. If the dog's ears are not properly ventilated, the inside becomes moist and warm, and infection can easily result. "
Like any other animal, dogs will walk, run, and play in areas that might result in their gathering dirt, disease, or odor. The Labrador retriever may begin to produce odor due to a number of factors, such as oily skin, dirt accumulation, ear or anal infections, and dental/plaque buildup. Not only can odor be offensive, it can be a sign of an unhealthy retriever. If a Labrador retriever is not monitored, and the sources of doggy odor are not removed, the Labrador retriever will develop chronic physical problems.
What to do About Doggy Odor?
When a Labrador retriever begins to emit doggy odor, closely inspect the dog from head to tail. Check the retriever's ears for debris, red skin, and odor. If an ear infection is present, it could be the result of the dog's ears not being properly ventilated. Ear infections are common in dogs with ears that are floppy or folded over. If the dog's ears are not properly ventilated, the inside becomes moist and warm, and infection can easily result. "
animal care |
animal care : "There are so many brands, all shapes and sizes of pet food to choose from - it can get so confusing! You are about to learn seven secrets to choosing the absolute best food for your pet.
Secret #1... All pet foods use descriptive words like choice and premium, though few of them actually use premium or choice ingredients. The 'secret' is per the rules of the pet food industry, no pet food can make any references on their label or advertising as to quality or grade of ingredients. The word 'premium' when it's related to pet food DOES NOT mean that the ingredients in the food are premium. With pet foods, premium does not (can not) describe the food nor does it (can it) describe the quality of the food. It is a marketing term and that is all. Per the industries own rules regulations, 'There are no references to ingredient quality or grade' (regulation PF5 d 3). So, words like premium, or choice, or quality are just marketing or sales terms, don't use them to influence your buying decisions.
Secret #2... If I can compare 'people' food to pet food for just a second, we all know there are different qualities of people food. There is White Castle (I love 'em!) and there is Outback Steak House (another favorite). Both restaurants serve meat and potatoes. At White Castle for under $3.00 you get a couple of hamburgers and fries. While at Outback you can get a steak and baked potato for around $16.00. Both serve beef and potato - yet you already realize that there are huge nutritional differences between a fast food hamburger and a steak...right? "
Secret #1... All pet foods use descriptive words like choice and premium, though few of them actually use premium or choice ingredients. The 'secret' is per the rules of the pet food industry, no pet food can make any references on their label or advertising as to quality or grade of ingredients. The word 'premium' when it's related to pet food DOES NOT mean that the ingredients in the food are premium. With pet foods, premium does not (can not) describe the food nor does it (can it) describe the quality of the food. It is a marketing term and that is all. Per the industries own rules regulations, 'There are no references to ingredient quality or grade' (regulation PF5 d 3). So, words like premium, or choice, or quality are just marketing or sales terms, don't use them to influence your buying decisions.
Secret #2... If I can compare 'people' food to pet food for just a second, we all know there are different qualities of people food. There is White Castle (I love 'em!) and there is Outback Steak House (another favorite). Both restaurants serve meat and potatoes. At White Castle for under $3.00 you get a couple of hamburgers and fries. While at Outback you can get a steak and baked potato for around $16.00. Both serve beef and potato - yet you already realize that there are huge nutritional differences between a fast food hamburger and a steak...right? "
animal care |
animal care : "Cat hissing can be very disturbing for many cat owners. Often times their cats will hiss at them just for approaching them. The are many ways to get your cat to stop hissing at everyone that comes by.
Cat behavior problems are the most common reasons cats are given over by their owners to cat shelters. Among these cat behavior problems that are most common are litter box problems and aggression, cat hissing falls into the cat aggression category.
Cats usually hiss because they are either frightened or trying to scare someone off. Cats that are cornered and think they will be attacked will usually hiss. Cats that are trying to be left alone or trying to get rid of someone will also usually hiss.
One cat owner had a cat that sat on the doorstep and constantly hissed at the new boyfriend or anyone else that came near the doorstep. No matter what she tried the cat would continue to hiss at the new boyfriend. It got so bad that many people when they came to her house would just enter in from the garage.
One thing that helped this cat owner is desensitizing and positive reinforcement techniques. Desensitizing is a common behavior modification tool that many people see great success with.
To use desensitization for a hissing cat, slowly approach the cat until it starts to hiss, and then back off. Slowly over the period of a week or two try to decrease the distance you can approach the cat without it hissing at you."
Cat behavior problems are the most common reasons cats are given over by their owners to cat shelters. Among these cat behavior problems that are most common are litter box problems and aggression, cat hissing falls into the cat aggression category.
Cats usually hiss because they are either frightened or trying to scare someone off. Cats that are cornered and think they will be attacked will usually hiss. Cats that are trying to be left alone or trying to get rid of someone will also usually hiss.
One cat owner had a cat that sat on the doorstep and constantly hissed at the new boyfriend or anyone else that came near the doorstep. No matter what she tried the cat would continue to hiss at the new boyfriend. It got so bad that many people when they came to her house would just enter in from the garage.
One thing that helped this cat owner is desensitizing and positive reinforcement techniques. Desensitizing is a common behavior modification tool that many people see great success with.
To use desensitization for a hissing cat, slowly approach the cat until it starts to hiss, and then back off. Slowly over the period of a week or two try to decrease the distance you can approach the cat without it hissing at you."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)