How To Keep Your Cat Healthy - Cat Feeding Explained

Cats have a reputation for being finicky eaters, but that is usually a distortion of the truth. Cats have a very keen sense of taste and smell, and they know what they like. If you have fed your cat the same food for years, then change brands, she may boycott the new menu. If you must change her diet, do it over time, mixing just a bit of the new food with plenty of the old favorite. Slowly increase the amount of new food and decrease the old.

Cats are creatures of habit. Your feline friend will feel more calm and comfortable if you feed her at the same time each day. If more than one cat shares your home, be sure that each has a food and water bowl of its own. This lessens competition, territoriality, and ensures that everyone is getting their fair share of nutrition.

Cats have unusual nutritional needs and you should check the labelling of your chosen cat foods to ensure they are included, or consider nutritional supplements. These include:

* Vitamin A

* Niacin

* Essential Fatty Acids

* Taurine

The amount and frequency of food you put out depends on the age, health, and activity level of your cat. Kittens under 12 weeks of age usually need to eat about four times each day. Adult cats benefit from twice-a-day feedings. Read packaging labels or ask your veterinarian for guidelines on how much food your cat should eat each day. Don't panic if your cat skips a meal, but if she doesn't eat for more 48 hours, contact your vet. But, keep in mind that if your cat is allowed to roam outdoors, she may be ruining her appetite at a neighbor's house. Never feed your cat table scraps. They are unhealthy for her, and create annoying begging behaviors.

I would always pick a meat-based cat food over a vegetable-based one. Despite the fact that you will pay more for the meat food, if you are concerned about the health of your cat, this will be a cost worth paying. And because meat-based products are generally of better quality, your cat will be satisfied with less of the quality cat food that she would be with a lesser quality product.

Moist, or canned food is usually a favorite - the moisture amplifies the scent-but make sure your cat also eats dry food regularly. Leave a bowl of dry kibble out for your cat to snack on throughout the day; the crunchy food helps clean her teeth. If you do feed "wet" food, make it available for about 30 minutes, and throw away the uneaten portion. This teaches your cat to "get it while the getting is good." Never leave canned food in a dish all day long; it attracts ants, cockroaches, and creates a bad habit in your cat.

In addition to a bowl of dry kibble, make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water in a clean bowl. If your home is large, or has multiple levels, consider putting out more than one water bowl so that she always has access to water and won't need to try quenching her thirst via an "unsafe" supply.

Most people know that cats are carnivores, or meat eaters, and are puzzled when their cats begin eating houseplants. This could be dangerous - some plants are toxic. A plant-snacking cat may be trying to get required minerals that might be lacking from the commercial food she eats. Give her access to a planter pot of "cat grass" (available at pet supply stores and garden centers), and she'll leave your other plants alone.

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Tips For Fish Feeding The Right Way

Fish seem simple enough to keep as pets. They need a clean tank with fresh or salt water, depending on what type of fish you have, oxygen, and fish food. They do not require trips to the veterinarian for shots, do not need to be walked on a leash when they have to use the restroom, and they do not need to be brushed, clipped, or even trained. They simply swim around and allow us to enjoy their beauty. Things like fish feeding are pretty simple, but not always. If you are getting some swimmers for pets soon, learn about the right and wrong way to feed them.

Some fish eat only every few days, and some eat every few hours. Some are once or twice a day, which is the norm. You have to find out when your fish expect to eat to make fish feeding easy. Sometimes, all you have to do is to put a few pinches of the right food into the tank twice a day and your fish are fed and happy. You can tell if they are getting too much if there is some left in the tank a half an hour after fish feeding, or if they are not getting enough if it disappears too fast and it seems some of the fish are not getting any.

Improper fish feeding can kill your fish in one of two ways. The most obvious way would be if you are not feeding them enough. If you are only feeding the bare minimum, and you notice that your fish are dying off, it could be that you are not giving them enough so that all the fish get what they need. They could be dying off because or problems with the tank water, temperature, or even the accidental addition of a predatory fish to your tank, but feeding can be the issue and an easy one to adjust. Start adding more to each feeding to see if your fish to not return to better health.

Fish feeding can lead to death if you are overfeeding them. Some fish will eat until all of the food is gone, even if they are already full and have already ate all that they need for that day. Fish will die because they have too much food in the tank and they do not stop eating. This is one common problem in homes when one person is not assigned the task of feeding the fish. When fish feeding is wide open, everyone may be feeding them, leading to way too much food being put into the tank throughout the day. Look for sick and dying fish, along with excess food in the bottom of the tank. They will miss some if overfed.

If you are going away, you may worry about fish feeding. The best part about fish is that they can be left alone without too much trouble. There are great fish feeders that you can find in the pet stores or online that you can use for fish feeding when you want to go away. These are cakes that will slowly dissolve in the tank over the course of a predetermined amount of time. The package will tell you how long they are good for in a tank. Most are good for at least a long weekend, meaning you can go away without worrying about having someone come in to care for your pets.

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Choosing the Right Pet Food

With so many choices on the market, it can be very difficult for new pet owners to choose the right pet food. The choices are so many, and each one claims that it is the best for your particular pet. The truth, however, can be rather shocking. It is actually common knowledge now that many of the types of pet foods on the market are not so healthy and can actually harm your pet. You need to learn what the right pet food is for your particular pet.

First, you need to determine if your pet has special dietary needs. For example, long haired indoor cats will need a special formula that helps them naturally control hairballs, while overweight dogs will need a special formula that helps them get back and maintain a healthy weight. The best thing that you can do is talk to your veterinarian and have your pet tested and evaluated to figure out what your new friend may need. The pet food that your veterinarian recommends will deal with the most important issues that your pet may have first, if any.

Your next step is to figure out what type of nutrition that you desire for your pet. You can choose the all-natural varieties, organic varieties, or you can even make your own food for your pet, depending of course on what type of pet that you have. All-natural foods will be made with only the best ingredients, like real meats, vegetables, and there will not be any preservatives, artificial flavors, or other chemicals that can hurt your pet. Organic pet food is made with ingredients that are not treated with any type of pesticides. Making your own foods is typically reserved for cats and dogs because it contains real meats and vegetables that you prepare.

Another thing to consider is the consistency of the food that you want to feed your pet. For most pets, there are a variety of options. For cats and dogs, you can choose moist chunk foods, puree type canned foods, or the dry kibble bagged foods. For other types of pets, like rabbits and birds, you can choose the typical pet food varieties for them, like seed and pellets, but there are also special foods that will contain other ingredients that a specific species will like. For example, birds tend to like nuts and small fruits while rabbits like pieces of fruits, vegetables, and alfalfa sprouts.

Your most influential factor is the price of the foods. There are foods available for nearly any budget. More expensive foods can be just the same formulas that are found in the less expensive formulas. The only major difference is that you are paying extra for the famous brand name. On the other hand, you do have the comfort in knowing that the brand names can often be more trustworthy than the odd pet food brands. Keep in mind that it should not cost more to feed your pet than it costs to feed your family.

For more information on Pet Food, please visit my website http://yourpetfoodguide.com.

Traveling with Pets

Pets have special needs when they travel, so planning ahead is essential. This advice can help you make sure your pet is prepared to travel long distances locally.

Taking your pet on a holiday

Your pet should be wearing a collar with its name and your contact number on it. In Australia we use the microchip system, which is highly effective and recommended. Recently laws have changed and it is illegal to have unchipped animals. If your dog is returned to the rspca or to the local vet, they can scan the microchip and find your contact details. This is really important as your pet may become disorientated or panic and run away or get lost.

Car Sickness

In particular if your pet is a kitten or a puppy they won't have traveled in a car before so its a good idea to get them used to the feeling. To do this take them for short rides. Use this experience to familiarize them with where they sit in the car. If your dog or cat is particularly anxious in the car bring there bed or basket so that they can settle down in there own space in the car. Some people prefer to use carriers for there pets especially on long drives, put something of your pets inside the carrier to reinforce that traveling is a positive experience. Sometimes using a small treat to get them comfortable in the carrier can be helpful.

Don't feed your pet right before leaving. Feed the night before as this will mean your pets stomach is settled. If you travel with your pet regularly and they have persistent carsickness your vet might prescribe motion sickness medication. To combat motion sickness and travel fatigue in your pet remember to give them frequent stops at parks so they can walk around go to the toilet. At these stops it is better to walk your pet on a lead as they might be disorientated and run off.

If you are intending to take your pet on a long plane journey and know it is very anxious then you may be able to speak to your vet about having a tranquilizer prescribed.

Packing for your pets holiday

Before leaving home you need to pack some practical things like a water dish, feed dish, plastic bags, a lead and your pets favorite blanket or perhaps a favorite toy to make the journey a lot more comfortable. If you pet requires any medication remember to carry this. If your move is permanent you can arrange to get a copy of your pets records from your vet so that you can give these to the vet in your new area.

Search for pet friendly accommodation

If you are going on a long journey use the internet to search for pet friendly hotels or camping along the way. This is also a good reason to have your pets health documentation with you, as campgrounds, hotels or kennels will need to see these before they allow your pet to stay.

Traveling to another country Get a current health certificate from your vet

Make sure your pet has all current vaccines, and up to date flea and heartworm prevention

Check airline pet policies- most require a special pet ticket. Some airlines will also give instructions where to deliver your pet as they may not check in with your regular luggage.

Find out what the quarantine policy is for every country/state you will be traveling through

Sites which provide information specifically on quarantine rules.

http://www.petsonthego.com USA, Canada, Mexico

http://www.airpets.co.uk UK, Europe

http://www.pet.net.au Australia, New Zealand

http://www.quarantine.co.uk UK, Europe

Copyright 2006 Paul Nelson

Paul Nelson loves to write articles for Animal lovers, and real Issues facing day to day issues. http://www.vetstop.com

How to Select a Boarding Facility For Your Pet

So you are planning a trip and need to find a clean and safe place to board your furry family members while you are gone. With the proliferation of pet resorts and boarding facilities, how do you choose the right place? Following are some guidelines and questions you should ask when choosing a home-away-from-home for your pet.

First and foremost, you need to ask if they board your particular species of pet. While many places offer lodging accommodations for dogs and cats, finding a place for other species such as birds, rodents or reptiles may be more difficult. Some veterinarians who treat "exotics", as they are known, may also offer boarding for traveling clients. Other places may offer to accept them as part of a "package deal" with dogs and/or cats, but check to make sure that staff there is familiar with the particular species and their needs.

For dogs and cats, the options are broad, and checking the internet or phone book listings will provide a wide array of choices. You might ask for recommendations from friends or family, or check on-line sites such as local CitySearch listings, which provide not only a list of facilities but also reviews from previous clients. Narrow the choice down based on reviews and recommendations as well as the location's accessibility to you. Now that you have a "short list" of options, you should plan to investigate the individual facilities in the same way you might investigate a child's daycare needs, with a lot of questions and legwork.

Being able to tour the facility is important. Call ahead to see if they offer tours, and if so, ask if you need to make an appointment. The better facilities will generally tell you that you are welcome to come in for a tour at almost any time during regular business hours. If they will not offer tours, or require that you make an appointment, these answers might be your first "red flags" that the facility is not up to par. Even first-class facilities may limit tours during certain periods such as holidays or days when they are open limited hours (usually Sundays) for pick-ups...and these refusals will generally be based on the fact that staff is busy caring for pets or facilitating departures.

When you do tour, the first thing you should notice is the smell - or lack thereof. High quality facilities generally have stringent cleaning and sanitation guidelines, so the unpleasant aromas that may be associated with many kennels should be largely absent. Ask about cleaning and sanitation procedures, and observe the overall cleanliness of the facility.

The following list of questions (and your requirements for your own pets and their needs) should help you determine which facilities might best meet your own expectations for your pets' care:

1. Can you bring your pet(s)' own food (particularly important if they are on a special diet or have a sensitive stomach)? What brand of food do they offer?

2. Are they able to administer medications and if so, are there any restrictions?

3. How often are they able to offer feeding and medications and can they accommodate your pet's schedule?

4. How often are they taken out for potty breaks and for how long are they out?

5. Are the accommodations climate-controlled? What size and type of accommodations are offered? Depending on your pet's needs, you may be very interested in a facility that offers larger rooms or enclosures for your furry friend.

6. Do they offer bedding and/or can you bring your pet's own bedding and toys to make them feel more comfortable?

7. Are pets allowed to intermingle with other families and if so, how do they control the interaction to make sure there are no unpleasant encounters?

8. If you have multiple pets, are they allowed to stay together? If so, can they be separated at certain times like feeding if needed?

9. How do they handle pets who appear stressed? Stress in a boarding situation may manifest itself in a number of ways, including not eating well, developing symptoms of vomiting and/or diarrhea, pacing or spinning in an enclosure, etc. Well-run facilities will let you know if your pet is having ongoing difficulties and may offer such things as over-the-counter medications, special treats or hand-feeding to entice eating or similar tactics to help your pets adjust.

10. How do they handle any medical emergencies that may arise? Do they have a veterinarian on-site or on-call for emergencies? How do they communicate with you if these situations arise? Many good facilities will have relationships with local veterinarians, and will do their best to contact you or ask you for a good local contact if they need someone. Often, they will ask you to complete an emergency authorization form in case something happens and they are unable to reach you quickly.

11. What are their vaccination and health requirements? Most good quality facilities will require not only rabies, but also the distemper combo and bordetella to protect against respiratory illness. Vaccination requirements may vary depending on what part of the country you live in and the proliferation of various illnesses in that region. Many facilities will also limit boarding to pets over a certain age (four months is common, and will also require all of the puppy or kitten series of vaccinations) and may limit geriatric pets or pets with serious health conditions for their own safety. Young pets (puppies and kittens), senior pets or pets with serious health problems may be better off boarding at your veterinarian, as they are better able to monitor your fur-kids' ongoing health and may be able to respond to any crisis more quickly.

12. Since studies have shown that pets in a boarding environment do better when they are active and stimulated, ask what extra programs they may offer to make your pet's stay more enjoyable. Are extra playtimes, doggie daycare or other fun activities available? Many first-class facilities offer a variety of choices so that you can select a program that best meets your pet's needs.

13. What are the staffing ratios and how is staff trained? One guideline says that there should be at least one staff member for 25 dogs, and there should be at least some training required of all staff. Ask if anyone on staff has any previous veterinary experience (for example, are there supervisors who have worked as veterinary technicians?) so that someone may be able to spot potential health concerns quickly.

The Pet Care Services Association (PCSA) is a voluntary organization that offers guidelines and a Code of Ethics for boarding facilities. It also offers a Pet Care Technician Certification program for staff. If the facility you are interested in is a member of this organization, it has agreed to follow the practices, ethics and codes of the PCSA, and should provide an added level of security for owners that they have chosen a high quality and caring place for their fur-kids.

Finally, any well-run facility should be staffed by people who understand animals and love what they do. You should be greeted by friendly and helpful staff members, and don't be surprised if they say hello to your pets before they greet you!

Joy Lee is co-owner and general manager of Rover Oaks Pet Resort in Katy, Texas. She is also passionate about animal rescue, and has authored a book, "Rover's Rescues...True Stories of Shelter Dogs and Second Chances", for which a portion of each book sale will be donated to Citizens for Animal Protection in Houston. Visit her website, http://www.joyleebooks.com/, for more information.

Tips on Feeding Your Horse

A horse, unlike any other pet requires you to have a great deal of commitment especially when it comes to financial matters. Spending a substantial amount of money does not end at the point of purchase. Feeding a horse will indeed require you to be well prepared if you want to have a healthy and admirable horse. You need to have comprehensive information and advice on how to feed your pet horse.

Horses feed is largely forage as befits fomenters, under which category a horse falls. This you can provide in form of hay. Pastures also go well with horses but you need to make sure it is of good quality. You should also ensure that you feed your pet horse with much grain especially if it is involved in exercise or races. Grain can be provided in form of oats mixed with molasses. The proportions should however be regulation to ensure that the horse's digestive system is not strained.

Ensure that there is a frequent supply of clean water while feeding your pet horse as water eases on digestion but you should ensure it is not closely located to the forage lest you find full of hay in no time. You should be very keen when you feed your pet horse because there are some that experience certain medical ailments such as allergies from eating certain food. Such horses will require you to have a special diet for them. You can also seek a vet's advice on the same.

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Feeding Your Red Eared Slider Turtle - An Overview of What to Feed Your Pet Slider

When feeding your red eared slider turtle, be sure that you are feeding it the right amount of plant and animal protein material. Baby sliders need to eat larger amounts of protein than adult sliders do because they have a larger carnivorous side to them. Adults, on the other hand, eat mostly plant matter.

While younger sliders may not eat much vegetation, it's a good idea to still offer them some as it's helpful in getting the turtle to recognize it as food. When they become adults, you can then transition to mostly feeding greens and vegetables, in addition to some protein.

You can also offer your slider pellet food. These, small, easy-to-eat foods are generally fairly nutritious and have a decent amount of vitamins and minerals included. They can also be more convenient to feed for pet owners. However, pellets should not be the staple diet of your turtle. In order to ensure your pet is getting all the nutrients it needs to grow and be healthy, animal proteins and vegetables and greens need to be added.

When feeding red eared sliders animal protein, you have several choices. These include: earthworms, waxworms, crickets, silkworms, bloodworms, and feeder fish (such as guppies, danios, and minnows).

Choices for vegetation include: kale, dandelion greens, bok choy, carrots, and dark green leaf lettuce. Avoid feeding iceberg lettuce as it has no nutrition.

If your slider lives in a pond, you can also add aquatic plants to its menu. It would love to snack on submerged plants like frogbit, water hyacinth, water lettuce, anacharis, and duckweed.

Feeding your red eared slider a variety of vegetables and proteins will help your turtle live a long and full life in your care. It will also give you the satisfaction that you're taking care of your pet the best way possible. Don't you owe it to your red eared slider to learn about feeding it the foods it will love to eat?

Lizard Care 101: The Basics About Lizard Pet Care

Having an exotic pet is one thing, but having a lizard for a pet is another. Lizards are complex creatures and certain procedures must be observed. It's not like other reptiles that you can just leave and feed for another week, lizards are far more than that. These are sensitive and delicate creatures and they need special attention. If properly cared for, they make excellent pets.

Take note that there are different types of lizards; hence each lizard has specific needs. For amateur pet owners, you can start with common species such as Blue Tongued skinks, Barded dragon, Anoles and Leopard Geckos. Here are a few tips that might help you develop your lizard pet care skills.

1. Lizard's Quarters

Having a comfortable and clean cage is important for lizards. You must consider security, heating, space, humidity and lighting. Make sure that the area is big enough for it to move around and stretch its legs. Of course, make sure that it is also escape proof, lizards are notoriously fast and slick runner, catching them might be a challenge. For your sake, make sure it's easy enough to open and clean. Cleaning should be made more often and ensure your pet's lifespan. Healthy living starts with living clean. After all, who would want to live in a filthy place? Keeping your pet's quarters clean can assure you that he will live longer as one would expect.

2. Nutrition

Take note that in lizard pet care, different species have different needs. There are lizards that only eat vegetables while there are those who eat insects like crickets and mealworms. It is advised to feed them with calcium or vitamin coated insects to ensure their dietary needs. For vegetarian lizards, you can feed them feed them with green leafy vegetables, green beans, snap peas, and fruits. Make sure what you serve them is fresh or else they wouldn't eat it at all. Never keep your lizard hungry since it has no other source of food.

3. Keep an eye on your lizard

This is where lizard pet care gets serious. Maintenance is the key in keeping your lizard healthy. Make sure that your pet lizard is kept hydrated by serving hit enough water and checking its food bowl from time to time. It must never be empty. Change the water in the water bowl and make sure that it's always fresh. Clean your pet's cage twice a week. It is not advisable to hold your pet by the tail or else it will easily fall off.

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Common Snake Feeding Mistakes

If you are new to owning or raising a pet snake, there is a lot to learn about proper care and feeding. In an effort to help you get up to speed quickly, I'm providing you a short list of some of the most common feeding mistakes and how to avoid them. Some of them seem like common sense, while others are only learned from trial and error or through advice from snake experts.

If you are using frozen feeders to feed your snake, most of the common errors come during the preparation phase of your pet's meal. You need to be able to properly separate and warm the rodents that you will be using. A good reptile food supplier will flash freeze the feeders so that they are easily separated and removed from the container. If you are getting your food in a large frozen block of mice where you have to chip away to get you mice out...find a new supplier. It makes for unnecessary work and cause damage to the feeder, and makes a mess.

Once you have your snake's meal separated out, you need to properly warm them before they are ready to eat. Never try and feed your snake a rodent that isn't thawed all the way through, it is not good for them. The best way is to warm them up in a pot of warm water on the stove. Allow them to warm for several minutes on low temperature until completely thawed. It's not a good idea to boil them, you are trying to thaw them out...not cook them! And do not use the Microwave! Not only is it a bad way to thaw them, but it can go horribly wrong, and you will have one unpleasant mess to clean up. The word 'yuck' is an understatement in this case.

Once you have mastered getting your feeders thawed out, the next place new snake owners often make a mistake in the method that they use to actually feed the snake. Presentation is everything in human food, so too for our reptile friends. You can use your tongs to wave the rodent near the snake so that it can get the scent. If it doesn't take it straight from your tongs don't give up and take it away. You can place it in the opposite end of the feeding enclosure. It may take your snake a bit before it is ready to feed, or it may prefer to 'hunt' its food as opposed to taking it straight from the tongs.

Those are some of the more common mistakes that most new snake owners make when trying to feed their snakes. With a little experience these things will get much easier.

Want to learn more about feeding your snake frozen mice or finding the best suppliers of snake food? Then head on over to snakefoodking.com and use our resources.

Yorkshire Terriers - How To Feed Your Yorkie If She is A Picky Eater

Yorkshire terriers can be very finicky eaters. If your Yorkie is a picky eater you will want to make sure that she is getting the proper nutrition. Here are some things to watch out for when feeding your Yorkshire terrier:

· If you have had your Yorkie since she was a puppy you are already familiar with her eating habits. On the other hand, if you get an adult dog as a pet, you may not know the eating history of your pet.

· Ask your veterinarian about what should be feeding your Yorkie. Your vet will be able to look at your dog's history and determine which foods are best.

· Avoid feeding her canned food exclusively. Soft food will weaken your dog's teeth and lead to tooth loss. Dogs that lose too many teeth have a greater chance of becoming malnourished. If you are using canned food, be sure to mix it with dry food so that your Yorkshire terrier will be able to chew and maintain good dental health.

· Be very careful about giving your dog human food from the table. There are many foods that can make your Yorkie sick, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and allergic reactions. It's nice to give your pets a treat now and then, but resist the urge to share your food with your pet.

· Maintain a strict schedule for feeding your dog. Dogs are like children in that they crave structure and consistency. Decide if you will feed your Yorkie once or twice a day, what time you will give her the food, and then stick to this schedule. Allow a set amount of time for her to eat and then remove the food dish. Fifteen minutes should be long enough for her to eat as much as she wants. Do not leave food out throughout the day. If you have more than one dog, be sure to feed them separately.

These are some tips on feeding your Yorkshire terrier. Training your Yorkie will help to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your pet.

Connie Ragen Green is an official dog lover. To find out more about training small and toy dogs such as Yorkshire Terriers and Maltese visit http://www.YorkshireTerriersAretheBest.com

Feeding Your Ferret - What is the Best Ferret Diet?

The diet you feed your pet ferret is critical to their health. Ferrets are obligate carnivores, meaning they must have a diet high in animal protein and fat. In the wild they would be eating small prey and ingesting all of the body parts. Their food should be 32 to 38% protein from animal rather than vegetable sources.

Ferrets have short digestive tracts and no cecum (a part of the large intestine that processes fiber) and do not digest vegetable matter well.

When purchasing ferret food, carefully read the labels and select a premium food. The better ferret diets will be found online. Ferrets have a rapid two to three hour digestive process. So it is vital that their diet is easily digestible, with high quality, nutritious ingredients.

Ideally, the first listed ingredient for ferret food should be animal proteins such as chicken or poultry by-product meal. Other protein sources like other meat meals, whole eggs, liver meal or fish meal should be listed next. Little or no vegetable proteins should be fed. Soybean or soybean meal, corn or corn gluten meal, or other cereal grains should be avoided. Any food with carbohydrates (grains) listed as primary ingredients should not be fed.

Ferrets have very high metabolisms and need to eat many small meals. They should have fresh food and water available at all times and changed twice a day. Do not allow your pet to go very long without eating as serious health consequences can occur. Serve their food in a large, heavy bowl to avoid tipping. A hanging water bottle will avoid their water from being contaminated with food.

What Not to Feed Your Pet Ferret:

Never feed dog food. It will not be high enough in animal protein and will not contain Taurine. The amino acid, Taurine, is essential for eye and cardiovascular health. Also skip milk or other dairy products as adult ferrets are lactose intolerant.

Ferrets are very fond of fruit and vegetables but they should be fed very sparingly if at all. Vegetable matter can cause intestinal blockages which can even be life threatening.

Other foods ferrets must not eat are chocolate and raisins

Feeding Older Ferrets:

A ferret over four years old may need a food with a somewhat lower protein level to reduce the chance of kidney failure. There are foods formulated especially for older ferrets.

Changing Your Ferret's Diet:

When you change your pet's diet, add a small amount of the new food to their original diet. Increase the new food over a few days or weeks. You can also place the new food together with the old in a sealed container. This will help the new food to smell like the old familiar food. Adding water or heating the food will also help to combine the aromas.

Ferrets can be finicky and refuse to eat anything they were not introduced to when young. Some food contains fish protein which may be less palatable to ferrets. Although it may be challenging to find a diet that is both healthful and readily eaten by your pet, but it is very much worth the effort. You will have a happier, healthier longer-lived ferret companion.

Diedre writes about Ferret Care and Feeding for BestBuddyPets.com

Should I Feed My Carnivorous Pet Companions a Vegan Diet?

On Sunday, we inherited a cat and even though she came with the essentials, on Monday I needed to go and purchase more things for her, including some cat food. I was confronted with meals consisting of "Succulent Salmon With Tender Chicken", "Tasty Tuna With Pilchard Steaks", etc. I didn't really feel that any of these sounded too yummy, but I thought my new inherited cat would probably think otherwise, so I bought them anyway. And she does - she licks the bowl clean after every meal and still meows for more!

However, being a vegan myself, the thought of feeding my cat these meaty meals somewhat irks me...but cats are naturally carnivorous so my first thoughts were that I shouldn't try to exclude animal products from her diet. Also, if I was to feed her a vegan diet, how would I know if she is getting adequate amounts of nutrients? What would I feed her? So I did some research, and was shocked at what I found...

Have you ever wondered why pet foods are labeled "PET FOOD ONLY"? I read the ingredients on the packets of food I was buying my cat and I couldn't see why. A typical packet would list salmon (or chicken or whatever the meat was), gelling agents, permitted food color, and vitamins and minerals, which all seem fairly reasonable...one can assume that these additives are human grade and similar to what is found in foods that we eat. However, the meat that goes into pet food may include slaughterhouse waste products, meat from diseased animals, spoiled supermarket meat, complete with a "delicious" soup of chicken entrails partly dissolved. I personally would not want to eat that, and definitely would not want to give anything like that to my pets!

As you would expect, there are many health risks associated with commercial pet food, including but not limited to liver, eye, kidney, neurologic, heart and skin diseases, birth defects, bleeding disorders, and infectious diseases. A number of veterinarians believe that so-called degenerative diseases like cancer and organ failure are too common, and are linked to the hazardous ingredients of standard meat-based cat and dog foods.

An alternative is to feed my cat a vegan diet. There are a few commercial vegan cat foods available in the US, but in other developed countries the choice is limited, if any. Without commercial vegan cat foods there is only one alternative, and that is to cook my own cat food. This would make it hard to provide a healthy diet for my cat as there are many issues which would need to be addressed. Cats need taurine, which is only found naturally in animals; however it can be synthetically made so a supplement can be included in the cat's diet. Cats also have evolved digestive systems which are only able to break down proteins from animal sources, and not plant proteins, so this would cause problems. There are issues concerning other vitamins and minerals which you would need to consider as well.

Feeding your cat a vegan diet, but also allowing it to go to outside where they would prey on birds and small mammals would enhance their diet naturally but some vegans may disapprove of their cat's carnivorous instincts.

If you are considering transitioning your cat into a vegan diet, you should take them to a vet regularly for check ups, even if your cat seems fine. There are many problems which you might not recognize yourself before your animal is into a progressed stage of such complications. But most of all, have fun preparing your cat's vegan food, work out their likes and dislikes and ensure they are obtaining all the essential nutrients a cat needs. Cats can be fussy eaters, and when you work out what they like stick with it.

Good luck with your vegan cat. We would be most interested in hearing stories about your vegan cats.

Suzette Austin
Cat owner & lover
http://www.vegancookingsecrets.com

3 Facts About Commercial Pet Foods That Could Kill Your Dog

The dark side! Yes, we are now entering the dark side of the pet food world. You may have heard of the term 'natural reared.' This refers to a movement among pet owners that is about raising your dog on fresh and natural ingredients. Done properly, it can save you hundreds in vet bills. Obviously this group is a big proponent of feeding a raw or homemade diet. You would be surprised at some of the very disturbing truths about packaged foods. In this article, I give three of them.

1. The Disturbing Truth About The Ingredients Used

Of course, you, as a concerned pet owner, read the ingredients labels of the foods you purchase. You also know that a good brand uses meats as the first few ingredients. But what you may not have known might really surprise and shock you.

The meats that are used for our pet foods can actually be anything that is below human grade. Even if the bag says they use human graded sources, it does not always mean that the ingredient still qualified as such. If human grade raw meat gets contaminated, it can no longer be sold in stores, but it certainly can be processed into kibble. Your dog or cat could actually be eating meats that came from sick or dead animals (the ones that die before they reach the slaughterhouse).

Yet another disturbing matter is that an estimated 40% of euthanized shelter animals get sent to processing plants to be turned into pet food. No wonder that compost gardeners will tell you that pet stool is poison to a garden!

2. Medicines?

There was a reported case of a baby girl close to a year of age who died from eating cat food. Research found that it was the presence of penicillin in the dry cat food that caused the adverse reaction. Studies found the penicillin level was 600 times higher than what is allowed in human grade foods.

3. The Process Of Drying The Meats

In order to achieve the kibble texture, the meat or rather the carcasses must first be ground. Since money and time are big factors, time is not wasted on removing flea collars, pesticide tags, plastic bags, and whatever else the carcasses come with. All of it is dumped into a huge grinder that grinds it all up. Afterwards, this is cooked for one hour at 280 degrees Fahrenheit. Then it is squeezed to get rid of all moisture and turned into powder. While this process will kill off bacteria as well as beneficial enzymes, it has no effect on sodium Phenobarbital which is used for euthanasia.

Disturbing, is it not? No wonder our pets get upset stomachs by switching foods. It's not because they have sensitive stomachs, but rather because they are not able to digest all those harmful ingredients.

Do your research though. There are a few brands that are good to feed your pets. These are usually found at feed stores and specialty stores.

Want To Feed Homemade Dog Foods?

Recipes will ensure they are getting everything they nutritionally.

www.top5picks.net/homemadedogfood/

What Not To Feed Your Rabbit

You've likely read countless articles on what you should feed your rabbit to ensure its health through nutrition. While what you should feed your rabbit is relatively easy to understand, knowing what not to do isn't always clear. The following information is the "don'ts" of rabbit feeding. Do you know what not to do when feeding your bunny? Read on to find out.

· Don't feed your rabbit too many sugary foods including muesli. While your bunny will enjoy sweet treats occasionally, avoid feeding it too many sugary foods. If your rabbit becomes accustomed to eating sweets and muesli, it will begin to deny the nutritious food. This is called selective eating. Limit your rabbit's intake of sweet treats to once or twice a week and in very small quantities.

· Don't feed your rabbit hay that is brown and moldy. Hay will make up a large part of your rabbit's diet. Remember that the hay needs to be high quality. If it is brown, moldy, or has a smell, refuse to give it your rabbit. This can make your pet very sick. Grass from your garden is a better alternative to moldy hay.

· Don't feed your rabbit treats that are high in carbohydrate. When choosing treats for your diet, strive to make sure that they are nutritional. Treats that are high in carbohydrates will serve only to make your rabbit gain weight. Obese rabbits do not live as long and are prone to health problems. Be very contentious when choosing the type of carbohydrates that your rabbit will consume.

· Don't over feed your rabbit with too many nuggets. Whilst nuggets are an essential part of every rabbit's diet, over feeding is a common problem. As your bunny ages, its nugget intake should be adjusted to reflect his life stage.

· Don't give your rabbit fresh fruits and veggies without washing them first. Protect your bunny from pesticides and other chemicals that can be found on unwashed fruits and vegetables which have been bought from the supermarket. This can make them very sick and in some cases cause death. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before you give them to your pet. Choose fruits and veggies as a nutritional part of a complete diet for your pet, without the risk of pesticides.

Many rabbit owners do not realize the effect that feeding "bad" food to their pets can have. From the overfeeding of sugary foods to feeding too many nuggets, knowing exactly what to feed your rabbit can be difficult. Use the information above to help to determine a healthier, more nutritious feeding plan for your fluffy friend.

Burgess Excel is the UK's Number One Vet approved food for rabbits. To find more about the range of Rabbit Food and Rabbit Treats visit http://www.burgesspetcare.co.uk/products/rabbit.html today.

What to Do When Your Pet Snake Won't Eat

Every owner of a pet snake has to deal with their animal refusing food at one point or another. It is simply something that we all deal with. In this article I'm going to explain a few time tested methods of getting snake's to eat. I don't claim to have come up with them (they are well known by breeders and hobbyist alike), but I can vouch for their effectiveness.

Before we get into the details it is important to realize that snake's aren't mammals. They are reptiles and this means that they have a completely different metabolism at work. A snake is able to go a long time without food. Several months isn't entirely unheard of for a healthy pet snake. Certain species of snakes are more prone to going on a fast (ball pythons) for example which are infamous for going "off feed" during the fall and winter months. It is important to keep an eye on a snake that isn't eating to make sure they maintain their weight and are generally healthy. If you find that your snake is losing a significant amount of weight it is important to get it eating again.

New snakes that won't eat

A new snake home needs time to settle down. A common practice is to put it in a cage and leave it alone for 5 to 7 days. At the end of that time offer the snake some food; if it eats leave it alone for about three days before you begin to handle it. If it doesn't eat leave it alone for another 5 to 7 days and then try again.

Most people don't know this and wouldn't do it if they did. For most people the best approach is to minimize the trauma the snake experiences. Being picked up and draped around someone's neck is a traumatic experience for a snake. Not to mention the people wanting to poke and prod at it.

A great way I've found to ensure a new snake will eat is to not offer it any food for 2 weeks. This gives them time to settle in, get used to me and others and get over the trauma of being moved to a new place. I've never had this method fail with a normal healthy snake that is kept in the right conditions.

An established snake that won't eat

If you have a snake that has been eating regularly but suddenly stopped you'll want to take some steps to help determine why.

Is the temperature and humidity correct?
Even as little as three degree variance in temperatures and humidity can cause a snake to stop eating. It is important to keep these as stable as possible. If you're not sure what are the appropriate ranges search the internet for "snake species care sheets" and you'll find the answer.
Is it fall, or winter?
Like I said above some snakes will just stop eating in the fall and winter. As long as they are maintaining their weight and are generally healthy they will be fine.
Have you made any significant changes to their caging?
Adding new stuff (or removing stuff) to a snake's cage can be traumatic for them. If you've done so in the past couple of weeks let them get used to it before expecting them to eat.
Did you move the snake's cage to another part of the house?
Many snake's will start out in one part of the house, and because people want to display them will be moved to another part of the house. For instance people will often get a special cage setup so they can keep their snake's in the living room. The snake then has to deal with all kinds of odors, lights and noise it wasn't dealing with when it was kept in the upstairs closet.
Did you switch the snake's diet?
To a snake not all rodents are the same. A sudden change in diet while seemingly insignificant to you can cause a snake to stop eating. If you are going to switch your snake to another type of food (for example from mice to rats) have a few "servings" of the old food available if the snake refuses the new food. If you just toss something completely new in with the snake and expect it to eat you may end up waiting a long time.
Is your snake sick?
Like any other living creature when a snake doesn't feel well it usually won't eat. Because of their nature it can be hard to tell if a snake is sick, but if you suspect it is get it to a qualified vet as soon as possible. Let them determine if the snake is sick or not.
Tricks to get a snake to eat

Sometimes you just have to convince a snake to eat. The following are some methods that are known to work.

"Braining"
Not for the faint of heart but splitting open the animals skull and exposing the brain will often get a snake to feed. This should ONLY be done on a pre-killed animal, not one that is alive. First and foremost it is unnecessary cruelty and second of all it's a good way to get yourself bit!
The deli-cup method
This method is for neonate and babies. Place the snake in a small container (about the size of a deli cup) and then drop a pinky in with it and put it in it's cage. You'll often come back to a full snake and an empty cup.
Pre scenting the room
A few hours before you plan to feed the snake put the prey item in the same room. Since I feed frozen/thawed I let the rats and mice defrost in the same room as the snake's are in. It generally takes 3 or 4 hours and by the time they are thawed out the snake's are going crazy from the scent.
Coat it in chicken broth
Sometimes dipping the food into chicken broth will entice a snake to eat. I've personally never had reason to try this one, but many people say it works great so figured I should include it.

There are other more drastic measures that you can use to get a snake to eat. For example there's something called "assist feeding" where you get the snake started and let nature take over. There is also force feeding which is when you make the snake swallow the food all the way. Methods like those while effective are also extremely traumatic for your snake. It is best to leave those to experts instead of trying to do it yourself.

Ultimately as a good steward of your pet you need to determine if the snake needs medical attention because it isn't eating. Thanks for reading and I hope you found this article educational and useful. If you have any questions please stop by my website and fill out a form. Your question will be answered as soon as we can!

Brook Durant is a long time snake "connoisseur" who has owned and interacted with them for most of his life. You can find more information (or get in touch with us) at http://pet-snakes.com

The Dangers of Feeding Raw Dog Food to Your Pet

Before you go and tell everyone that feeding raw dog food to your pooch is dangerous (as suggested by the title), hear me out first: everything we do on a day-to-day basis involves some level of risk. Take flying for example, which is statistically the safest way to travel. Sure, it's a lot safer than driving, but there's always that risk of your plane blowing a turbine or getting blown-up by hijackers.

Same concept goes for making your pet eat raw meat and bones, or even commercial dog food for that matter. Feeding raw dog food to your furry best friend may pose some risk, but that can be eliminated with ease, given you follow the proper procedure in selecting food from clean sources.

Going back to what you came here for, the biggest concern pet owners are usually faced with when it comes to feeding their dogs Biologically Accepted Raw Food, is the risk of infection. To be more specific, Salmonella is what really scares the crap out of pooch owners, since they are typically found in raw meat. Some symptoms of this disease include gastrointestinal upset, which is commonly followed up by a sudden loss in appetite. That in turn will lead to weight loss, which eventually leads to (God forbid) death.

However, the little beasts may not be the only ones at risk here - you and your family may be placed in harm's way when feeding raw dog food to your pets. In case you didn't know, Salmonella doesn't just get contracted through ingesting contaminated food, but through several other ways as well. You sir, can get infected through preparing its food, cleaning their bowls, taking out their litter boxes (pooch poop can be very dangerous), or even by petting them.

Now, this doesn't pose a large threat to middle-aged people with strong immune systems, but it does work more "effectively" against young babies and old people, as they have weaker immune systems.

On the other hand, everything we do involves some level of risk, as I've clearly stated earlier. Feeding raw dog food isn't an exception to the rule, but it's a lot better than feeding your hairy friends commercial dog chow, as it has been known to contain loads of harmful ingredients. Also, there's no need to worry about the hairy beast contracting bacteria of any sort, just so long as you but the raw bones and meat from trustworthy sources.

Tommy Coffler is a pet enthusiast, author and blogger from London. He writes for Raw Dog Food System, a website that aims to help you make sure that you're giving your dog a healthier option for meals.

Leopard Gecko Feeding Tips

Do you want to ensure your lizard is eating right and living healthy? Leopard gecko feeding isn't supposed to be hard but if you are new to the whole business of taking care of these living jewels, you may need some help. So, without further ado, here are some helpful tips for a healthy lizard diet.

Staple Crickets

The leopard gecko feeds on insects, making it an insectivore. Crickets are a staple food for these creatures so you may have to take the time to find some live crickets to keep your pet happy. Live food is the way to go as you'd want to duplicate some of the conditions in the wild to keep your pet active. It won't enjoy food it doesn't have to hunt as much as the ones that give it some sort of a challenge.

Be warned though... crickets have a downside. They do bring about certain problems. The first one would be escaping the lizard. The uneaten crickets will run around the tank and cause unwanted stress and agitation for your pet. They can also bite the lizard and possibly injure it. The second problem it causes comes from the fact that crickets can carry parasites. Anything the cricket eats, the lizard eats, so if the cricket comes into contact with any parasites, your lizard may be in danger as well.

Cricket Tips

It's best to buy crickets from reliable sources. You increase the chance of your crickets carrying parasites if you buy them from unofficial sources. Also, you can powder your crickets with vitamins and supplements to give your lizard some extra diet helpers. Gut loading, the practice of feeding your crickets healthy foods like fruits and vegetables 24 hours before giving them to the lizard, is also recommended.

Try to start small. Around 4 crickets will probably do to start but you'll have to estimate how much your pet can actually eat. If he can finish off the four without a hitch, try increasing it. A diet of 8 crickets a day would still be normal. However, if you find that your pet is having difficulty with the crickets, then try to remove some of the extras. It may take some time but it's worth it to prevent the stress and other problems they can cause.

Alternatives

You can also go for some alternative foods like meal worms or silkworms. These won't scurry around the tank as much as the crickets and you can actually keep them in a bowl so that your pet won't have to chase them. This reduces the chance of any escape but your pet may not be as happy with them... they won't give him as much of a challenge! They can still cause problems if they get out of the bowl as they can burrow through sand or similar material, if you're using such material for substrate.

Treats

Some foods are considered treats in the lizard world. Pinky mice and wax worms are good examples. Just remember that these are meant as treats and not as staple food. Treat them like chocolate... it's nice to have a few bites every once in a while but you can't expect to live a healthy life just on chocolates alone.

Donna Perez is a lizard enthusiast who has vast experience of raising Leopard Geckos. For more information about Leopard Gecko Feed. Visit Leopard Gecko Heaven.

Car Safety Tips - Traveling With Pets

Whether you are heading on vacation or relocating to a new city, extended car travel with your pet can be stressful for both of you - physically and mentally. Car trips with your pet can be a success when approached properly.

For a successful road trip with your pet, you will need to be prepared. In addition to packing special items for your trip, you will need to plan ahead for things like bathroom breaks and meals. However, the effort you extend prior to departure can make your trip more enjoyable for everyone. To keep your pet healthy, happy and safe during your travels together, follow these simple pet car safety tips:

Tips for traveling with pets

Check with your vet - The American Medical Veterinary Association (AMVA) recommends getting your pet a checkup 10 days prior to departure. In addition to confirming your pet is healthy enough to travel and vaccines are up-to-date, you veterinarian can provide you with a copy of your pet's rabies and health certificates. You'll need these to travel with your pet.

Restrain your pet - Restraint is the most important safety rule when traveling with a pet. Loose animals in your car are dangerous, and can cause an accident. In addition to small pets like cats that can get underfoot, pets can suffer eye damage and lung problems from hanging their head out the window. Choose a carrier big enough for your pet to comfortably stand, sit, lie down and turn around. In addition to keeping you and your pet safer, it will provide a feeling of security. If you are a frequent traveler, consider a portable kennel or an additional pet car safety device.

Get your pet in the groove - Prior to your trip, take your pet on a series of short drives. Slowly introducing a petthem to car travel can make the trip less stressful for everyone.

Pack the pet gear - In addition to the necessities, pack some of your pet's favorites items. Toys, blankets and pillows not only can keep your pet entertained and comfortable, but also provide a calming sense of familiarity. Be sure to include these items in your pet's luggage:

• Leash • Food, bottled water and a bowl • Waste scoop, plastic bags, litter with box (if necessary) • Medication and health papers • Toys, blankets and other favorite personal items

Add a temporary ID - If your pet is accidentally lost while traveling, a temporary identification tag can be a lifesaver. In addition to your pet's standard ID tags, place a tag with your cell phone number, destination number and other pertinent travel information on its collar. For added safety, consider microchipping your pet.

Feed before you leave - Pets get motion sickness, too. To prevent an upset stomach, feed your pet about three hours before departure - and never feed them while driving.

Protect your car and your pet - Accidents do happen. Protect your car's interior by covering your pet's area with washable blankets, rubberized floor mats and/or waterproof seat covers.

Take your pet with you - Leaving your pet in your car unattended is never recommended. However, if you must leave them alone, be sure to:

• Keep it short • Lock the doors • Park in the shade, away from distractions • Open windows only wide enough for ventilation • Be aware of the weather conditions that may cause your pet to be too hot, or too cold

Ensure you're insured - Some auto insurance policies offer perks like pet coverage. While it can be beneficial, it may not offer enough coverage, especially for emergency situations. If you don't already have a veterinary insurance policy, consider purchasing one before you depart.

Including your best friend in your travels can be a treat for everyone, but it can be stressful as well. Remember, no matter where you are headed, the key to a successful road trip with your pet is preparation. Keep everyone safer, happier and healthier during your car travels - follow these tips, and plan in advance.

Suzanne Svette is a professional writer and content specialist at Rosetta, one of the top 10 interactive agencies in the U.S.

Is a Snake a Good Idea For a Pet?

People often think of snakes as icky, slimy creatures.  However after the first touch of a real live snake, this false notion is broken in just an instant.  There are a lot of false impressions of what a snake might be like, and it often keeps people from becoming snake owners, even if they think they are quite beautiful creatures.

Snakes are a beautiful and fascinating species, and many people around the world enjoy having them as pets.  They are interesting to watch, and if tame are enjoyable to hold and watch as they curl up around your arm.  Now I must admit, this is not the same as having your warm, cuddly, and hairy friend such as a dog or a cat curl up next to you.  However they each have their own charm and no one says you can't enjoy having both as part of your family.

Pet snakes are great to look at, and they have the benefit of being a fairly easy pet to care and feed.  The initial set up of the snake cage can be a bit of a chore or as I like to think of it as a labor of love.  Once you design and build your snakes enclosure all you have to do is routine maintenance.  Since you don't take your snake outside to go to the bathroom, you need to make sure you keep the cage clean and free from its mess.  It is a small space where your pet snake has to live, eat, and do his business, so keeping it nice and clean for him will improve the living conditions and health of your snake.

Some people have some issues when it comes to feeding their snake for the first time.  Snakes are not vegetarians, and their chose meal is often mice or rodents of some form or another.  That may mean having to feed your snake live mice at some point.  This can be disconcerting for some at first, watching the way nature takes its course.  However, some people often find it easier if they feed their snakes frozen mice.  It takes a bit of the shock factor out of it.  Plus it is also less expensive to use frozen rodents in the long run.

If you can get over the initial obstacles, having a pet snake is a wonderful addition to your family.  There are a wide variety of snake breeds to choose from, and after doing a little research online, you should be able to narrow your choices down to a few different selections.  Make sure you find the right snake for your home and the space that you have available.  Once you get your first pet snake, the next thing you know you'll soon be looking for the next.

Irene Waftler is an avid pet snake enthusiast. Owning snakes for most of her life, she likes to share the tips and lessons she has learned over the years. If you are interested in sources to buy frozen mice or finding suppliers of cheap frozen pinkie mice, she recommends you check out these sites.

Feeding Your Bird Is Important - Pet Birds Need a Balanced Diet Just Like Humans

Feeding your bird is important. Pet birds need a balanced diet just like humans. There is a large variety of freshly packed seeds available to feed your bird.

As well as normal seed, your bird needs specialised seed or pellets. These seeds or pellets are similar to the food that they would get in their natural environment. There is a large variety available in all pet stores, just wander around the pet bird supplies and read the packaging, then decide which is best for your breed of bird. If you choose a high quality seed, this will help considerable to reduce wastage. Seed is only a part of a bird's diet, so for a bird to have a balanced diet, it must be given a vitamin and mineral supplement for the essential dietary ingredients it would find if it was living in the wild. Once or twice a week, you may feed your bird either fresh fruit or vegetables as an additional food source.

Charlie our Quaker Parrot loves his fruit and vegetables. He also likes pasta. You will soon be aware of what your pet bird likes to eat and which food is his favourite. They are just like little kids, they will spit our what they don't want. That is why we put a birdbib on while Charlie is on our shoulders and having a nibble, as he is very messy and it doesn't worry him where he spits his unwanted food.

Whilst we like to give Charlie a wide variety of foods, I have read that feeding your bird the wrong food can be highly dangerous and even fatal. You must not let your bird eat any of them. They are, avocado, chocolate, apple seeds including cherries, peaches, apricots and pears contain trace amounts of cyanide within their seeds. The fruit of the apple and pear is fine but the seeds are poisonous and there may be pesticides present on the fruit's skin so it is important to wash all food, onions, mushrooms, tomato leaves including the green coloured part, stems and vines and the same for potatoes, salt, caffeine including soda, coffee, and tea, dried beans are all not to be fed to your pet bird, cooked beans are considered OK as long as they are thoroughly cooked. Boiled eggs and the shell are a good source of nutrition as well.

After purchasing a Quaker Parrot and getting tired of all the washing that goes with sitting him on our shoulders, I designed and made a bird bib to protect our clothing.

http://www.tweetyenterprises.com

Pet Road Trips - Five Tips For Happiness

Traveling by car with your pet can be fun, relaxing and a great way to include your pet on your holiday or business trip, but it can also be somewhat challenging if you aren't completely prepared and ready for the adventure. The following five tips are essential in preparing your dog, cat or other type of pet for any sort of road trip from short, one day jaunts to complete holidays touring the country.

Scheduling - Its Critical

The last thing you want to worry about when you are traveling is staying on schedule; you want to be spontaneous, free wheeling and ready to take on a new activity in a minute. Unfortunately this will just not work for your dog or cat, they need to have some consistency in their daily routine to feel secure and relaxed. The main points that you need to consider are when you are going to be able to feed you pet and when they will have exercise time and bathroom breaks. Keep in mind that the more consistent you can keep the feeding routine the more accurately you can predict when your pet will need to go for a walk after eating. This can help with keeping your pet comfortable in the vehicle and also avoid a huge number of emergency stops if his or her digestive system gets off balance due to irregular feeding times.

Book Pet-Friendly Hotels in Advance

There are several different online reservation sites that offer search criteria of "pet friendly", allowing you to locate and book reservations for pets in advance. Most pet friendly rooms and hotels are going to have an additional charge for the pet, ranging from under $10.00 per night to over $20.00. Not all pet friendly hotels take all types and sizes of pets, so if you have a large sized dog or have a pet that is not your typical dog or cat be sure to confirm that they can stay in the room ahead of time.

Comfort is Key

Road trips are often not the most comfortable type of travel as the car tends to get crowded, cramped and confining after a few hours on the road. If you are traveling with your pet in the vehicle with you, make sure that they have enough room to sit or lie down comfortably while staying in their safe restraint. For larger pets this may be a special seat belt but for cats and smaller dogs and pets a carrier is really the safest and best option. If the pet is in a seat belt, make sure that it fits correctly and provides the right amount of movement and security. Start the pet with the seat belt on short trips before heading out on your holiday or road trip adventure.

Toys Help Curb Boredom

Bring a few of your pet's favorite toys that they can chew on and play with in the vehicle. Balls, Nylabone chew toys, toys on a string or even a favorite pet safe stuffed toy can be a great way to help the pet avoid the boredom of a long road trip.

Focus On Their Needs

By focusing on what your pet's needs will be on the road trip it is easy to plan and schedule to meet both your requirements as well as your pets. Remember too that safety needs to be first, so always have your pet in some type of safety restraint when they are in the car.

Haley Thomas is an animal lover and communicator and an editor for [http://www.travelingpetgear.com] - a resource for stylish gear and information for pets on-the-go including pet strollers [http://www.travelingpetgear.com], car seats, seat belts, totes, tents, and life jackets.

Holiday Traveling Tips For Pet Owners

The holiday season is quickly approaching...Thanksgiving is gone, and Christmas is right on its heels. For many families, the holiday season means travel. People sometimes have a difficult time trying to find someone to watch their pet maybe all of their friends and neighbors will be out of town as well, and they don't want to take their pup to the kennel...it is a nerve-wracking experience, and most people don't want to subject their precious pet to other dog's diseases and illnesses. So, why not take your pup with you? That way, you will be able to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet this holiday season. Also, your pet is a member of the family, why would you leave them behind?

If you decide to travel by car, there are a few things you will want to consider before you leave. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure you and your pet a safe, easy, and fun traveling experience.

First, for your pet's ultimate safety, you will want to consider purchasing a crate or pet carrier if you do not own one already. Many top-of-the-line pet carriers come with loops for a seat belt to easily attach, thus allowing your pet to be securely fastened in their carrier on the car seat. Make sure you bring a crate that is large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. You don't want your pet to get claustrophobic and start barking- on a car trip, you want your pet to be as comfortable as possible.

Next, make sure you feed your pet a light meal 3 to 4 hours prior to embarking on your road trip. This will give your pet sufficient time to digest the food, yet they will not have an empty stomach. Also, try to keep your pet's normal feeding schedule if possible. However, do not feed your pet while in the car...it is very likely you will have to clean up you pet's carsick mess. It is also best to bring your own water in plastic bottles or gallon jugs. Sometimes water from a different area can upset your pet's stomach because they are not used to the water.

There are several pet items you should be sure to bring: travel papers (some states require authentication of vaccination prior to entering the state's border), food (enough for the duration of your entire trip and then some), water, bowl (s), leash, plastic bags, waste scooper, doggie toys and treats, and any medications and grooming supplies you will need. It also a good idea to bring along a pet first aid kit; it is always better to be on the safe side, especially when traveling. Make sure your pet has I.D. tags that are current and easily readable. You will want to put your pet's name, tour address, and a phone number on the tag as well.

Though the holidays are a busy time, it is well worth taking your pet with you as part of the family. As long as you plan ahead and are prepared, you should be fine as you travel with your best friend. Enjoy your holiday vacation!

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The Wedding is Over and Now You Want a Pet?

What? Are you crazy? You just got back from the honeymoon and already you're talking about getting a pet?

If you cannot be talked out of it, perhaps you will take some time to make a wise decision - together. Actually, perhaps it will be a valuable learning experience for your marriage. Maybe the selection process will give you some quick insights into some of your differences and similarities, and learning these things early on might help you avoid conflicts later on.

So let's get to it.

You have probably established whether or not each of you is a dog person or a cat person. In fact, that may have been part of what attracted you to each other. There do seem to be differences in personalities with persons who choose dogs over cats, and vice versa.

If you have decided that you will add cats to your cozy family, the decision process includes:

1) Do you like long, medium or short-haired cats?

2) Would you prefer bonding with a cuddly kitten, or acquiring a cat that is older and wiser about the world?

3) Do you prefer buying a special breed of cat or a mixture?

4) Will you purchase your cat from a pet store, an individual or a shelter?

5) What do you think about declawing a cat?

6) Will you be devastated if the cat ruins that chair you had in college?

If a dog will be your first family addition:

1) Do you prefer large, medium or small dogs?

2) Does color matter?

3) Will it be one that sheds truckloads of fur, or one that sheds minimally?

4) Are you seeking a specific breed, a trendy mixture or one of unknown parentage?

5) Are you able to train a puppy, or would you like a dog that is already house broken?

6) Do you prefer or loathe dog crates?

7) What happens if the dog chews your favorite underwear?

Would you prefer having more than one animal - his and hers?

What about the care and feeding of your new family member? Who will be responsible for buying the food? For feeding the pet?

Does one of you get sick just thinking about cleaning out a litter box?

Does one have such a strange work schedule that regular walks will be impossible? Or will one be embarrassed walking such a small critter?

If the pet gets sick, which one will be responsible for getting it to the veterinarian's office? Do you have a favorite vet in mind?

Do you prefer buying dry or wet foods? If your pet choice is a dog, what is your opinion of feeding scraps? Is your pet going to be welcome at the table?

What about training a dog? Do you want a dog that will do tricks? Do you want your dog to go to a professional trainer?

Have you considered doggie or kitty daycare? Or having a neighborhood kid who can feed and/or walk your animal so that a regular schedule is achieved?

What about when you go on trips or vacations? Do you prefer taking an animal with you, professional boarding, of finding a friend who will help out?

Have you planned on having children any time soon? If so, that should be factored into your decision for choosing a pet now. Choosing a breed known to be jealous or that can be aggressive with children might not be a good idea.

There is so much more to selecting a pet than just rushing off to the local animal shelter and allowing yourself to fall in love with an orphan animal. Or is there?

Do you prefer taking weeks or months to find the perfect pet? Or would you like to rush off to the mall or to the shelter to just see what happens?

As you answer these questions, and any others that come to mind, you will be learning even more about your new spouse. And you will come to realize that each day decision you make will require both contemplation and concessions. And so a marriage grows.

Marilyn Mackenzie has been writing about home, family, faith and nature for over 40 years. This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.Prye.Com/ which is a site for Wedding Invitations.

After The Pet Food Recalls, What Can You Feed Your Pets To Keep Them Healthy?

My pet food was on the list of pet food recalls last year and now I feel I have to question EVERY product I want to buy for my pets!

Do you ever feel as though your entire grocery list for your pets is off limits? A lot of us who had never worried about safe, clean food got a VERY rude awakening the past several months. Even when we were used to reading labels to make sure we were buying healthy food and treats, we soon learned that was no longer an assurance of safety.

So, what can you do about it?

I've received many e-mails and phone calls asking for simple lists and recipes to make for your pet. While this was a pretty normal reaction to the storm of recalls, few pet owners realized the sacrifice and time that would be required to return to making your own pet food.

Obviously, the decision to make your own pet food depends on the type of pet you own. For example, it's much easier to cook up or mix up food for a cat than for a large St. Bernard. If you are determined to go this route, there are some ingredients that you SHOULD NOT include in a diet for your cat or dog. This list comes from the ASPCA and is based on illnesses and deaths in pets, not on hearsay.

Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets

- Alcoholic beverages

- Avocado

- Chocolate (all forms)

- Coffee (all forms)

- Fatty foods

- Macadamia nuts

- Moldy or spoiled foods

- Onions, onion powder - all forms

- Raisins and grapes

- Salt

- Yeast dough

- Garlic - all forms

- Products sweetened with xylitol - artificial sweetener

Now, if you're concerned about the pet food recalls and want to try a homemade cat chow and dog chow recipe to keep your pets healthy, here's one to get you started.

This simple, healthful chow mixture is easy to make for your dogs or cats. I like this recipe because it includes meat, vegetables and rice. I prefer recipes that do not include large quantities of wheat or white flour as main ingredients because many pets can become sensitized to those ingredients.

Meat, Vegie and Rice Stew

INGREDIENTS

3 pounds minced chicken meat or ground hamburger

2 1/2 cups frozen vegetable blend (no garlic or onions), minced

4 cups rice 6 1/2 cups water

1/2 cup olive oil

DIRECTIONS

Place chicken, vegetables, and rice into a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Stir in water until the mixture is smooth. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.

Everyday Common Sense Precautions

Now that we've dealt with the issue of feeding your pets healthy, safe food, the next most important thing for you to remember is to have a qualified veterinarian examine your pet if anything unusual occurs - whether it's from food or from other products they're exposed to during an average day. Unusual symptoms might include vomiting, lethargy, listlessness, incontinence, loose bowel, or general loss of appetite.

I like to remind pet owners that their companion animals can be affected by products they are using in their homes or cars where the animals live and ride. For example, most people don't realize that air fresheners with synthetic chemicals and fragrances settle to the floor where pets walk in the residue, clean their paws and ingest the toxins.

As a result of the indoor pollution many pets are exposed to, we are seeing an increase in the number of chronic illnesses in our pets just as we see the increase in the general human population.

Learn about toxins that can affect your pet's health, not just about the food they eat. Your pet is counting on you - be their advocate! Look for natural, organic products that are certified by an organization you trust.

Linda Chae is President & Chief Formulator for Chae Organics, Inc. and a pioneer in 'go natural' skin care for consumers. She is committed to clean, safe toxic free products for the whole family, including pets. Her organic pet waterless shampoo [http://www.chaeorganics.biz/component/option,com_virtuemart/page,shop.browse/category_id,26/Itemid,202/] is an easy to use foaming shampoo that requires no water or rinsing. For more information or to order her products, visit www.chaeorganics.biz [http://www.chaeorganics.biz/]

Why You Should Never Feed A Snake Live Food

When it comes to feeding your snake, you need to stick to pre-killed food.

There are a lot of reasons that people prefer to give their snakes live food. One of the most common is they feel that a snake in its natural habitat would eat live food so in captivity they should be given live food as well. I used to agree with them. However, it only took one incident for me to change my mind.

I was feeding my Brazilian rainbow boa like I usually did. I removed the driftwood from her cage but left the plants inside because she preferred to hide in them before she attacked. I put a medium sized rat in the cage as usual. As usual, she attacked quickly. However, she made a fatal error. She managed to get herself bit, and that caused her to puncture her lung. She died a few minutes later.

The main reason you need to stick to pre-killed food is for safety reasons. Yes, 99% of the time your snake will take care of the live food quickly and efficiently. However, it only takes one incident to kill your snake. Feeding your snake live food is simply an unnecessary risk.

There are other benefits to giving your snake pre-killed food. It's more readily available in pet stores. The pre-killed animals are killed humanely and didn't suffer. That's not likely to be the case when putting live prey in with your snake.

If you're worried about your snake not accepting pre-killed food, you're likely unnecessarily worrying. Almost every snake will accept pre-killed food. It may take a few tries to get your snake accustomed to pre-killed food if it had been on a live prey diet previously, but almost every snake can be taught to eat pre-killed food.

The process of feeding your snake pre-killed food is really quite simple:

1) Thaw out your rodent in warm water for 30 minutes. Snakes won't eat it if it's frozen, so make sure it's warm.

2) Dry it off.

3) Put the rodent in the cage.

4) If the snake appears uninterested, grab a pair of tongs and move the rodent around to make it appear alive.

Snakes make great pets and can be companions for years. Why risk unnecessary injury or even death by feeding your snake live prey?

Gary Ruplinger is the owner of BoaTips.com - a comprehensive snake resource site. If you're interested in learning more about pet snakes then be sure to stop by his website. You'll find all the basics to caring for a pet snake, a great snake newsletter, and specific advice on how to care for 20 of the most popular pet snakes. If you have any questions during your visit, make sure you visit the snake forum and participate in discussions about this great yet misunderstood pet.

Tips on Feeding & Caring for Your Pet Chihuahua's Well-Being

Learn How to Care for & Feed Your Pet Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog, but many owners would agree, they have the biggest personality of all the breeds. The name comes from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. In pre-Columbian Indian nations, this little breed was considered sacred, probably contributing to their high level of self-esteem. The two varieties of Chihuahua are long-coat and smooth-coat. Luckily neither type needs trimming and the long-coated variety actually sheds less than the smooth-coat, or short-haired.

Chihuahuas usually weigh less than 6 pounds. They can have a lifespan of 14 to 18 years which makes their owners very happy since the bond between Chihuahua pets and their families will grow into a strong one. This little breed's temperaments are determined by genetic factors or socialization and the manner in which they are trained. They are much happier with other Chihuahuas and their people rather than with other breeds. In fact, they can get so attached to one person that they become overly-protective. A family with children should consider carefully whether a pet Chihuahua is the right choice for them. Sometimes active, playful children provoke aggression in these pets.

Although many refer to these dogs as "barkers," with the proper training they can have quite good manners. They enjoy being petted and, certainly, earn the title "lap dog". Cuddling under covers or blankets is one of their favorite things to do, and lying in the sun is another favorite pastime.

It is possible that the family who adopts a Chihuahua will need the assistance of a veterinarian for breeding purposes, for dental care, and, in some cases, for controlling neurological disorders like seizures. A unusual breed trait is the fact that when they are born, their skulls have not completely fused, so owners will have to watch their pets carefully. It is not unusual for Chihuahuas to have hypoglycemia, which can lead to coma if ignored. A little honey on the tongue will raise the glucose levels in the dogs' systems. They can also have problems with rheumatism, dryness of the eyes and sometimes heart disease.

Their diet should be controlled to ensure that they do not gain too much weight. If possible you should make home made food for your pet Chihuahua. It is easy to do and you'll know they are getting the best food available. Make sure you give them plenty of meat, vegetables and even some whole grains like oats. Make sure they have fresh water at all times.

Being so tiny and so loving, owners often make the mistake of not training these little ones in the same way larger dogs are trained. Pet Chihuahuas can be strong-willed, so it is important to let them know who the "alpha" is, right from the beginning. It is easy to mistakenly think that this breed is not intelligent. They are very smart but they are quite strong-willed. If you are smarter than they are and have more will power you will get along fine. You should think twice before bringing a Chihuahua home, because, once it's there, you will become a Chihuahua pet lover forever.

If you are a pet owner or thinking about becoming one you should go to the website at Natural Pets Health to get more information on natural pets health foods, products & cures. You will also find general information such as the pros & cons of owning along with the caring for & feeding of all types of pets from dogs to snakes to fish to exotics.

Pet Vitamins are Essential for Your Dog's Health

Vitamins for Pets - How Essential Are They?

A vitamin supplement for pets is essential to your pet's wellbeing unless you're already feeding your pet its natural raw diet in precisely the proportions it would eat in the wild. If not, your pet is, to a greater or lesser extent, deficient in vitamins which it needs for optimal health. Certainly, your pet may get by without them, but if you want to ensure a long and healthy life for your pet, your pet needs a vitamin supplement. Vitamins can also be of enormous assistance if your pet already has an illness or health problem of some kind.

Just like humans, almost all pets do benefit from a vitamin supplement. And just as there has been considerable controversy in the medical fraternity over whether humans need extra vitamins, so too do many vets dispute the need for nutritional supplements for pets.

The argument usually goes something like this: "The majority of commercial petfoods contain added vitamins. So even though your pet's diet may be inadequate, the vitamins added to pet food compensates for this."

Wrong! Many human breakfast cereals contain added vitamins - they're sprayed on after the processing. And it has been established that you would ingest more vitamins by eating the packaging than you do by eating the cereal inside. It's a gimmick. A gimmick to get you to buy the cereal and feel comfortable in the "knowledge" that you're getting some vitamins even if you don't eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. But guess what? It doesn't compensate. Even the fruit and vegetables we buy today have very little in them by way of vitamins and minerals, by comparison to what they should ideally contain. Unless you're buying organic fruit and veges direct from the farm and eating them the same day, you're not optimising your vitamin intake from fresh food.

This is why many of us now routinely supplement our diet with vitamin tablets, even when we eat a balanced diet. If we don't, we're likely to be vitamin deficient to some degree. That's why cancer, heart disease, and other degenerative conditions are at an all time high, and are still on the increase. A hundred years ago these conditions were unknown.

It's the same for our pets. In fact, they're generally in a worse position than us in relation to an adequate intake of vitamins. That's because, contrary to what many of the so-called "authorities" will have you believe, the garbage that's sold to us as pet food is causing your pet irreparable harm. So the fact that it may have some "added vitamins" is just a complete gimmick, and absolutely worthless from your pet's health's point of view.

It's vital that you feed your pet something as close to its natural diet as possible, and in most cases that's still not enough. Supplementation is essential.

Your pet's natural diet is exclusively raw food. Is that what you're feeding your pet? Or do you opt for the convenience of commercial pet food some or all of the time? Unless you can replicate what your pet would eat in the wild, you owe it to your pet to give a vitamin supplement. And who can replicate exactly what they'd eat in the wild? In exactly the same proportions?

No one. So you know what that means? You do need to give your pet a vitamin supplement.

For information on vitamins for pets, go to:

http://www.HealthyHappyDogs.com/Vitamins

Vitamins for pets have produced remarkable results in animals with specific health concerns such as allergies or other skin irritations, dull coat, lack of energy, as well as much more serious problems like cataracts, epileptic seizures, tumors and leukemia.

Naturally, you should ALWAYS consult your vet with ALL health concerns, but if your pet does have a serious health problem, ask your vet whether a vitamin supplement could help. And if your pet is already reasonably healthy, keep him/her that way by giving a vitamin supplement. It can't do any harm! And you could well be ensuring that your pet has a longer life practically overflowing with health!

To read some truly amazing stories, go to: http://www.HealthyHappyDogs.com/HPTestimonials or for general information on healthy pet vitamins, go to: http://www.HealthyHappyDogs.com/Vitamins

(c) 2005, Brigitte Smith, Healthy Happy Dogs

Brigitte Smith is a dog lover with a special interest in holistic dog health. Her site, Healthy Happy Dogs, has pages and pages of information on improving your dog's health naturally. Brigitte is the author of several reports, articles, and the Healthy Happy Dogs newsletter

For your special FREE report - "How to Improve Your Dog's Health Within 30 Days - Maybe Even Lengthen Your Dog's Life!", Click Here: http://www.HealthyHappyDogs.com

Pet Selection - 4 Questions to Consider Before You Purchase Or Adopt an Animal

Sharing your life and home with a pet can add a lot of joy and pleasure provided you pick the right pet and are able to provide the care needed. There are several ways to find a pet; you can purchase from a breeder, adopt an animal from a shelter or adopt a pet from a breed specific rescue group. Also, you may be able to adopt a very loving, healthy pet through your veterinarian or if you know a senior citizen whose housing situation requires them to give up their pet. Before you decide what type of animal you want, consider your lifestyle. Animals are not toys. They are sentient beings with emotions and pain receptors. They require routine medical check ups, proper nutrition, and have breed specific needs such as lots of grooming (poodles, etc.) or exercise (most types of terriers, etc.). Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do I make enough money to provide food and medical care for a pet? The average annual cost of feeding a cat is approximately $700 (this can vary tremendously depending on whether you feed your cat dry food or canned food and the quality of the food). The cost of caring for a dog can vary even more because the size of the dog determines the amount of food required. Certain breeds, like poodles require professional grooming which can add another $200-$700 in annual costs. If your pet is healthy, veterinarian fees average $100-150 per year, but the first year may be closed to $300 because more vaccinations are required with young animals and you will need to spay or neuter your pet as they reach sexual maturity-approximately 6 months old. Additionally, you may need to license or register your pet to be in compliance with local laws. It's also good to plan on spending some money on training ($100-500 one time fees), especially with dogs. Like most things, having a pet can have unexpected costs-flea treatment, nail clipping, unexpected medical expenses, pet sitting or boarding fees when you travel, pet toys, treats, and bedding. Your home and furniture are likely to experience a little more wear and tear. If you're the kind of person who cares more about your couch than a cat, think twice.

2. Am I willing to make a long term commitment to an animal? Most dogs and cats live approximately 10-12 years, but many indoor cats can live 20-25 years, and certain breeds of dogs live 15-18 years. No one can see the future, but if you have a condition or circumstance in your life where you cannot care for a pet for at least the next 10 years, do not purchase a pet whose life expectancy exceeds your availability. Let's say you plan on moving to Europe in 5 years when you retire and you want to be free-i.e. no pets or responsibilities. You can often adopt an older pet from a shelter or breed rescue site. Or you can volunteer time at the local animal shelter instead of adopting a pet.

3. Is my home environment stable and suitable for a pet? Just like people, pets flourish in a home that is stable. They like routine feeding times and bed times. Are you able to provide these? If you have a home with any of the following conditions please do not adopt or purchase an animal.

a. Someone in the house with a violent temper.

b. You routinely travel for extended periods of time and no one else lives with you or no other person in the house wants to care for a pet. Cats can often do well in a household where you stay away one night a week, but dogs cannot be left alone for long periods of time.

c. You have very young children--wait until they are able to comprehend why they need to be nice to the animal. This varies from child to child, but once your child is 6-7 years old, it may be a good time to add a pet to your home. Just make sure you obtain the type of pet that is best suited for children.

d. You're being evicted, foreclosure is eminent, or you are going to trail and may have possible jail time.

e. You have a mental of physical disability that requires prolonged hospital stays, or periods where it would be impossible to care for your pet.

f. You have a mental of physical disability and your disease will be aggravated by the extra burden of pet care or an allergic reaction to dander or hair. (Many people flourish by sharing their life with a pet-just make sure someone can care for your pet and that your disease will not be adversely affected).

4. Does your apartment, condo or city allow the type of pet selected? If you rent an apartment, find out what the property management or property owner's pet policies are before you buy or adopt a pet. If you live in a condominium, you'll need to check the pet restrictions. The condo management company or your condo association can provide this information. Lastly, check with the city to find out any breed restrictions (some cities will not allow people to house specific breeds).

If you want a pet and are willing and able to provide proper care, the next step is to consider the type of pet whose needs and nature will mesh well with your lifestyle. There are many books and websites with breed specific information. Sadly, the United States kills 4-10 million companion animals each year. This figure will drop substantially, as people consider the requirements of pet care and breed specific needs before they purchase or adopt an animal.

Kate Garvey is a former Vet Tech and animal rights supporter. She teaches Sound Healing Workshops (throughout the US) and treats clients by appointment in the San Diego area. For more information on how you can use sound for optimal health please visit http://www.InstituteOfSoundHealing.com

Kate is also a freelance writer, published author, and the author of several books; "Aging, Death and Euthanasia-A Guide for People with Pets", "Summer Pet Care Tips", and "The Low Risk Guide for Real Estate Investment."