ISSUE #2 MAY 2010 FREE TO SUBSCRIBE
BARKING MAD ~ CATS MEOW~ FEATHERED FRIENDS ~ KIDS PAGE PET PAPARAZZI ~ FEATURE ARTICLE ~ PET GOURMET ~ Q & A
Cleo (Tag 520902) is a stunning, beautiful natured two-year-old Domestic Short Hair with a shimmery silvery torbi coat. She is the longest guest at the AWL, but most of this time has been spent in a foster home. This means she has not had the chance to catch someone’s eye. During her time in AWL Outpatients clinic, she made her feelings about dogs clear (she does not approve). She does, however enjoy helping out with office work, especially data entry and spreadsheets, so would make a great colleague for anyone with a home business or office. Cleo is intelligent and energetic and a very sociable girl who will also enjoy curling up at the end of your bed this winter! $70 -> All AWL animals are de sexed, micro chipped, vaccinated, wormed, flea treated, health and sociability checked. In addition to this, our animals have a 10 day health guarantee (covering any illness arising as a result of having been in our care), and a 21 day ‘settling-in warranty’. They also offer the Friends For Life dog training program for new owners. Scott (tag 829029) first came to the AWL shelter as a kitten last year. He is looking for a loving new home . Scott is six months old and can be adopted for $100.
COVER ART “CLEO” By the AWL Gold Coast
Snowy (tag 207680) is a gentle soul . She is deaf and needs a new owner who is prepared to take care of her special needs. She is a five-year-old Aussie Cattle Dog-Bull Terrier cross who can be adopted for $100.
Contributors:
Animal Welfare League Gold Coast The R.S.P.C.A. Ben Greene - Happy Parrots Guide Pet Peoples Place Jessica Proletti - Australian Cavy Sanctuary
Willow (tag 521796) is about 14 months old and is just beautiful – as you can see! She can be adopted for $80.
Jake ( Tag 207319) is an intelligent 8 month old boy with a heritage combination of Kelpie and German Shepherd. Jake may prefer to be the only dog in your life, as he craves attention and just wants to show you how clever and loyal he can be. He also makes a great playmate for children, and loves ball games of all kinds. He can be adopted for $300. Tiara (Tag 88218) is a Five-year-old lovely example of the-ever popular Shih Tzu and came to the AWL as a stray in February. She would be better suited as an inside dog as she is prone to skin allergies from some grasses., where she can share your daily rotine while keeping you company The AWL Qld does not receive Government funding for its welfare work and is therefore reliant on volunteers and the community’s generosity. With the average cost being $400 per animal we rehome, the AWL Qld runs at a large loss when rehoming our animals.
http://www.awlqld.com.au/ Phone: 07 5509 9000
Carolyne McCourtie - Australian Mist Dr Babu Banik - Warm Pets Paul Bryant - Turtle Guide Book. Scott Allan Lipe - Breeder.
Thank you.
Laura Ramirez - Pet Health Suppliments www.petscenemagazine.com.au
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Disclaimer Notice: The information, images and graphic design (artwork) contained on this web site is owned by Pet Scene Magazine and/ or the original authors where applicable. Information contained in any of the articles is not necessarily the direct opinion of Pet Scene Magazine and, where applicable, does not take the place of a consultation with a qualified and competent veterinarian. Veterinarian advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each patient. Pet Scene Magazine tries to provide quality information but we make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained herein.
WELCOME TO PET SCENE MAGAZINE Australia’s hottest resource in the pet industry. We’re going to be doing a lot of exciting things here at Pet Scene Magazine and we are thrilled to bring you on board. Pet Scene is Australia’s own online publication dedicated to bringing you a quality monthly magazine available FREE right across the nation. We pride ourselves on promoting responsible pet ownership, education and community awareness. Jam packed with informative articles and professional advice, Pet Scene Magazine will have you up to date on all the latest news and information for your best friend.
With this ongoing support we look forward to a bright future and many happy, healthy pets throughout our beautiful country. Kristy Hunter Editorial Director
Pet Scene Magazine is a proud supporter of:
We are a family owned business with a long history of volunteering our time to animal welfare and from this came the drive to produce Pet Scene Magazine. With Australia having one of the highest incidences of pet ownership in the world, our goal is to provide a countrywide resource which utilizes today*’s modern technology to reach a wider demographic quickly and efficiently. In keeping our publication Free it is hoped that we can reach as many people as possible with our important message of responsible pet care. But we need your help, so jump on our support page and join the Pet Scene Street Team!
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Pet Scene Magazine will not be held liable for any loss, injury, claim, or damage related to your use of this site whether from errors and omissions in the content or from any other use of this site. This web site is not a substitute for the advice of a competent veterinarian. Some of the articles in this web site contain links to other resources and are not intended to state or imply that Pet Scene Magazine sponsors, is affiliated or associated with or is legally authorized to use any trade name, registered trademark, or copyrighted symbol that may be reflected in the links. Warranty & Indemnity Content and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publishers. While every effort is made to gather information from professionals in good faith, No liability is accepted for issues or damages arising from content or advertising by Pet Scene Magazine. No readers should act on the basis of information contained in this publication without first seeking professional advice that can take into account their individual needs and their particular set of circumstances. This publication is intended to inform and illustrate. The publishers and editors or Pet Scene Magazine give no representation and make no warranties, expressed or implied, in regard to the accuracy, completeness, currency or reliability of any of the material contained within the publication or its associated web site. No correspondence will be entered into in relation to this publication by the publishers, editors or authors. Articles are published in good faith without our knowledge of any copyright infringement. The contents, design and graphics of Pet Scene Magazine are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form in whole or part without the written permission of the publishers.
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Contents: Contributors...................................................................................2 Welcome........................................................................................3 Salamander Key To Human Spinal Research................................6 2010 RSPCA Million Paws Walk Brisbane.....................................8 A Photo Pictorial Pet Gourmet.................................................................................10 Warm Winter Tuna Casserole Kids Corner...................................................................................11 Guinea Pig Winter Awareness......................................................12 Feathered Friends........................................................................13 General Parrot Information and Some Interesting Facts That May Surprise You
Pet Paparazzi...............................................................................14
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Study Says Cribbing In Horses Is Genetic, Not Learnt.................16 Portia De Rossi Joins Feral Cat Cause.......................................18 Ask Mr Beefy Q & A.......................................................................21 Barking Mad..................................................................................22 The Great Dane A Look At Fish Nutrition.................................................................24 Boosting Feline Immune System..................................................26 Naturally and Easily The Cats Meow.............................................................................28 The Australian Mist Cat Keeping Your Pooch Warm In Winter............................................30 Keeping Turtles.............................................................................32
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“
Salamander Key To Human Spinal Research Gainesville, Florida
A federally-funded research program into human spinal injuries involves the study of the amazing regenerative power of salamanders. Salamanders routinely regenerate limbs and other appendages after being injured in ways that would leave mammals paralyzed or even worse. A team of researchers associated with the University of Florida McKnight Brain Institute’s Regeneration Project has begun examining the genes of the Mexican axolotl salamander with a view to finding out why it is capable of such regeneration, and hopefully applying these findings to humans. “The axolotl is the champion of vertebrate regeneration, with the ability to replace whole limbs and even parts of its central nervous system,” said Edward Scott, Ph.D., principal investigator. “These salamanders use many of the same body systems and genes that we do, but they have superior ability to regenerate after major injuries. We think that studying them will tell us a lot about a patient’s natural regenerative capacities after spinal cord injury and nerve cell damage.” The issue of what controls organ regeneration was named among the top 25 major questions facing scientists in the next quarter century by Science magazine in 2005, Scott said. With medical science continually adding years to the human lifespan, the importance of “rebuilding and restoring” old tissues and organs is growing. Even without help, people are capable of a certain degree of regeneration. Humans can re-grow fingertips and even more than half of their liver. But they cannot replace whole limbs and restoring parts of their brain and spinal cord is a daunting challenge.
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“We’ve analyzed genes in common between the axolotl salamander and humans, and found out we share about 90% of our genes in a one-to-one sense,” said S. Randal Voss, director of the Salamander Genome Project at the University of Kentucky. “It could be that small but important changes in the way these genes function in an injury environment affect the repair process, but somehow the salamander is able to use these genes for regeneration, while people are not.” View the latest World Pet News every week at PetPeoplesPlace.com.
Pet Scene Boutique
Your source of luxury Australian pet products. assured quality, freshness and great prices.
Original Source: http://www.petpeoplesplace.com/resources/news/reptiles/salamander-key-to-human-spinal-research. htm
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R.S.P.C.A
Million Paws Walk
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Brisbane 2010
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Pet Gourmet Warm Winter Tuna Casserole Ingredients: 1 can of Tuna Chunks in Brine. 2 cups Frozen Mix vegetables 2 cups spiral Pasta 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley Season with Pepper 1 Tablespoon Butter 2 cups of Low lactose milk 1-2 cups of water. 2 Tablespoons Corn flour Instructions: - Best prepared in a slow cooker, but it can be done on the stove top if preferred. - Put the vegetables, tuna & pasta into the slow cooker and combine. - Pour over the low lactose milk and water to cover the mix. -Season with pepper and parsley. - Add a dollop of butter to bring out the flavours. - Allow to simmer until the pasta is cooked through - Then thicken the remaining liquid with corn flour to form a lovely mornay sauce - Allow to cool until it is just warm before serving. Both Dogs and Cats will love this winter warmer. And it is full of vital omega 3 for health. Storing - This casserole can be divided up and stored in the freezer for reheating when needed. It will be good in the freezer for up to 6 months.
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FUN FACTs * Tarantulas are not dangerous to humans. If you handle them roughly, they may give you a painful bite. But they are safe enough to keep as pets! * If a spider gets into a fight and loses a leg, a new one will soon grow back in it’s place. * Spiders don’t taste with their mouths like humans do. Instead they taste with their feet.
Can you spot all 8 differences ?
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Guinea Pig Winter Awareness
By Jessica Proietti (ACS Brisbane Shelter Manager/Founder/President)
Guinea pigs are very susceptible to changes in the weather and temperature and in particular sudden changes. A guinea pigs health can deteriorate quickly if procedures aren’t put in place to help keep your guinea pig comfortable and safe during these changes. The most comfortable temperature for a guinea pig is between 15-22 degrees. Due to the unpredictable Australian weather guinea pig owners need to provide their guinea pigs with the right environment and diet for them to remain healthy and well throughout weather and seasonal changes. Guinea Pigs can be susceptible to pneumonia, colds and respiratory infections depending on their environment, overall health and diet during the cooler months. Who is most at risk? Old guinea pigs, young guinea pigs, guinea pigs in poor health and pregnant sows although in saying this any guinea pig can still fall prey to the cold. The right environment Chilly cold nights where the frost comes out in the morning is a sure sign that your guinea pig will need to have warmth and insulation in their cage in order to prevent them from falling ill. If you are feeling the cold then your guinea pig will be as well. It is recommended to bring your guinea pig indoors during cold nights or for permanent living which is the safest way to ensure that they do not catch a chill. For guinea pigs housed outdoors or on the family patio their are other things that you can put in place to ensure your guinea pig remains warm.
friend so that they can share body heat to remain warm - providing dry/clean and absorbent bedding for your guinea pig at all times. This can include untreated pine wood shavings, paper kitty litter, fresh hay, fleece/ toweling or shredded newspaper. - placing a cardboard box in the cage and filling it with hay, fleece or towels can also help to provide insulation. - making sure that your guinea pigs cage is not placed where drafts/wind can come through The right diet
Photo taken by Nicole featuring her guinea pig ‘ Charlie ‘ in his bed. Signs and Symptoms
Guinea pigs with a strong immune system are more likely to be able to fight off infection during the cooler months. Making sure your guinea pig receives a correct and high amount of Vitamin C in their diet each day is essential to keeping them healthy. It is recommended to give your guinea pig a cup of fresh food daily alongside their guinea pig mix and constant supply of hay/grass. The nutrition in the fresh food will vary though depending on what your guinea pig is fed.
If your guinea pig develops a respiratory infection or goes off their food this is a medical emergency. Keep your guinea pig warm by bringing them inside and isolating them and providing them with a hot water bottle covered in a towel and it is recommended to see your vet immediately for antibiotics, critical hand-feeding supplements and further treatment for the condition. Guinea pigs can go downhill very quickly once they show an onset of symptoms and if left untreated the condition can quickly become fatal.
Some high Vitamin C recommended fresh foods which can be fed daily to boost your guinea pigs immune system include:
Signs and symptoms that your guinea pig may be developing a respiratory infection include.
- Capsicum
- Rattling/Wheezing/Labored breathing
- Choko
- Refusal to eat or drink or loss of interest in food
- Parsley
- sneezing / coughing
- Broccoli (feed sparingly due to high calcium content)
- weight loss or no feces as a result of not eating
- Brussel Sprouts
- crustiness around the eyes and/or nose
- Dill
Some environmental things you can provide include:
- discharge from the eyes and/or nose
- Dandelion
- sunken eyes
- draping thick blankets over the entire cage at night
- Coriander
- ruffled coat and hunched posture
- Cauliflower
- lethargy
- Chinese Cabbage (Pak-choi)
We hope that you and your guinea pigs have a safe and warm winter!
- placing a big pile of grassy hay in an enclosed end of the guinea pigs cage to provide insulation - purchasing of making warm fleecy beds for your guinea pig to sleep on/in. - making sure that your guinea pig has a
- Cos Lettuce (not ice-berg) - Strawberries - Orange (feed sparingly due to acidity) - Rock melon
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For further information regarding guinea pig winter awareness please contact the Australian Cavy Sanctuary at :
www.australiancavysanctuary.com
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General Parrot Information and Some Interesting Facts That May Surprise You
By Ben Greene Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?General-Parrot-Information-and-Some-Interesting-Facts-That-May-SurpriseYou&id=2339126] General Parrot Information and Some Interesting Facts That May Surprise You
Parrots are the most popular birds to be kept as pets. With their sociable character and utmost intelligence, people can’t help but fall in love with this these wonderful birds. Known as psittacines, they are tropical birds that thrive in the warm and tropical forests around the globe. This article aims to share general parrot info and help you become more familiar with these avian wonders. Psittaciformes are divided into three families: the true parrots or Psittacidae, Cockatoos (Cacatuidae) and the parrots of New Zealand and regions around Australia, the Nestoridae. Parrots can be recognized by their colorful plumage usually green and yellow, bright blue and red sometimes with multitudes of hues, strong bill that curves downwards and short, pudgy legs with two pairs of toes pointing in opposite direction- toward the front and back. These toes come in handy when they eat and pickup objects to play with. I
In the wild, their strong legs enable them to maneuver on tree trunks with ease and these also come in handy in their cages while playing around. Their sizes vary from the 8cm long Buff-faced Pygmy Parrot to the meter-long Hyacinth Macaw. This makes parrots the most variable-sized birds in the animal kingdom. People that plan on adopting a parrot as a pet should be aware that parrot care is a serious matter that requires utmost dedication, patience and time not to mention money. True, the fun that can be had training it to talk and do tricks is one of the best things a human can experience with a pet, but be warned that it’s not all fun and games. Not all parrots are guaranteed to talk and one has to be consistent and have enough patience to keep repeating the words you want to teach it again and again. Before training a parrot, an owner has to first determine whether it’s accustomed to humans or not.
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Forget about trying to teach baby Polly a trick if all he does is try to bite you when you get close. Make sure he feels comfortable and accepts your presence first before attempting to teach him to pick-up things or say a specific word. If you’ve already started to teach him a word, don’t skip to a new one before he knows the current word first. This will only add confusion on his part and frustration on your part.
Ben Greene is a parrot care and training expert. For more detailed parrot info, visit http:// www.happyparrotguide.com.
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Study Says Cribbing in Horses is Genetic, Not Learned Ithaca, New York
New research indicates that “cribbing” behavior in horses is not learned, and probably has a genetic basis.
that colic can develop as a result of persistent cribbing.
Research by Julia D. Albright, MA, DVM, and Cribbing, also referred to “crib biting” her colleagues at Cornell University began in the United Kingdom, is a compulsive with a postal survey of the number and behavior in which the horse grabs a solid breed of cribbing horses, and if the behavior object, arches his neck and sucks in air. It had begun after exposure to another horse has long been thought that the action re- with the habit. Of those surveyed, 4.4% of leases endorphins and therefore causes a horses exhibited the behavior, of which Thorpleasurable sensation. One a horse starts oughbreds were the most likely to be affectcribbing, it will commonly continue to ed. Almost half of all respondents believed do so on a regular basis. Because horses that their horse had learned the behavior that crib will continue to do so even if an from another horse. However, 86% of the object is covered in metal or bitter taste horses that display cribbing were not turned to protect wood, for example, it is a very out in the same pasture as horses who aldifficult behavior to stop. Many vets think ready display the habit. Because of the high prevalence of cribbing in Thoroughbred horses, the paper’s authors concluded that genetic predisposition may be a factor in whether or not a horse develops this behavior. The paper, title “Crib-Biting in US Horses: Breed Predispositions and Owner Perceptions of Aetiology”, was published in the May issue of the Equine Veterinary Journal. View the latest World Pet News every week at ”PetPeoplesPlace.com” Original Source: http://www.petpeoplesplace.com/resources/news/horses/studysays-cribbing-in-horses-genetic-not-learned. htm
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Portia de Rossi Joins F ABC star Portia de Rossi is featuring in a new poster campaign by Alley Cat Allies, the national advocate for stray and feral cats.
major campaign to raise awareness about the millions of Americans who care for stray and feral cats in their communities.
Portia de Rossi is the star of the ABC comedy “Better Off Ted” and is married to talk show host and comedian Ellen DeGeneres. She recently starred as a fifth season series regular on the FX popular original drama series Nip/Tuck and starred as ‘Lindsay Bluth Funke’ in the critically acclaimed Fox comedy Arrested Development. However, she is probably best known as the lawyer “Nelle Porter” in the successful Ally McBeal serial.
“We are delighted to have Portia de Rossi on board to represent the individuals from all walks of life who share
compassion for these cats. Millions of AmeriIn the new ad from Alley cans have opened their Cat Allies, De Rossi dehearts and wallets to clares herself an “Alley stray and feral cats. A Cat Ally”, and a support- national survey by the er of Alley Cat Allies’ respected research orwww.petscenemagazine.com.au
ganization Harris Interactive found that over 40% of Americans have fed a stray cat in their lives, and one out of five has done so in the past year” said Becky Robinson, president of Alley Cat Allies. Robinson noted that many progressive com-
munities across the country have adopted a lifesaving program called Trap-Neuter-Return, in which feral cats are humanely trapped, brought to a veterinarPage 18
Feral Cat Cause
Bethesda, Maryland Picture courtesy Alley Cat Allies View the latest World Pet News every week at PetPeoplesPlace.com.
ian to be neutered and vaccinated and returned to their outdoor home. Trap-Neuter-Return is the best course of action for feral cats because it ends the breeding cycle, stabilizes populations and improves the cats’ health, Robinson said.
ulations and save their lives.”
Original Source: http://www.petpeoplesplace.com/ resources/news/ cats/portia-derossi-joins-feralcat-cause.htm
“I’m very happy to be involved with Alley Cat Allies and their efforts to help stray and feral cats,” said De Rossi. “The Trap-Neuter-Return approach is the only way to help contain the popwww.petscenemagazine.com.au
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To find out more please visit www.australiancavysanctuary.com
Q: Our daughter wants a horse. We know very little about horses should we get her a horse and what is the best way to learn how to properly care for a horse? A: Before commiting to purchasing your own horse I would strongly reccomend taking your daughter to a riding school for six months where she can get some practical hands on experience. This will help her to learn what is involved in looking after and caring for a horse and help you to make an informed descision on wether a horse is right for you. Horses are big and require a large amount of space. They require a lot of time and attention to properly care for them. They are quite expensive to buy and keep. A riding school enables a potential horse owner to experience all of the aspects of keeping a horse and the benifits of horse care, without a large financial commitment. For the suitable owner horses can make a wonderful, fun and loyal pet. As well as promoting physical activity and the skills of riding. Your riding school will also be able to advise you on the most suitable breed for your situation and daughters age. Q: How often should I feed my dog? A: It depends on the age of your dog and it’s activity. Young puppies have small stomachs so they need feeding every few hours. For this same reason they can quickly dehydrate so it is important that they get fluids regularly and water is always available once they start lapping. When they are weaned at six to eight weeks, they should be fed small meals four times a day. At four months, three times a day. At five months twice a day and by around seven months, if they have done most of their growing, one larger meal a day in the evenings with a small meal for breakfast in the mornings. Some smaller breads with small stomachs may still prefer a meal in the mornings and again in the evenings. This is also true during cold weather when your dog may be burning more calories to keep warm. A working dog who is burning up high levels of energy may need more frequent feeds of a higher carbohydrate working dog mix to keep them sustained. www.petscenemagazine.com.au
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Barking Mad
The Great Dane Description: The Great Dane is a majestic, giant dog. The dog can reach 30 to 34 at the shoulder and weigh between 110 and 200 pounds. The bitch, as is usually the case, is smaller, being 28 to 32 tall at the withers and weighing between 100 to 130 pounds. The coat is short and shiny and comes in brindle, fawn, harlequin, blue, black, and mantle. This is a very strong and powerful dog. The Great Dane’s ears are often cropped to make them stand upright, but can be left natural. This breed generally lives under 10 years. It is also known as the German Mastiff and the Deutsche Dogge. History: References to the Great Dane can be found on ancient Greek coins. An even earlier appearance occurs in drawings from 3000BC from Egypt. The Dane’s origins are more reliably traced to the invasion of Germany by the Alans in 407AD. These people brought a strong, mastiff-like dog with them. This dog was superlative in hunting boar and other large and dangerous game. Interbreeding with the English Mastiff and Irish Wolfhound, and possibly the Greyhound resulted in the dog known today as the Great Dane.
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The Great Dane “A Majestic Gentle Giant” By Ursula Temperament: Despite the Great Dane’s large size, it is a good natured and gentle dog and is suited to living in the house with its family. The Dane is very oriented towards people and is kind with children, although it may be too big for a small child to play with comfortably. This dog is loyal to its family and makes a good watchdog. It should be socialized with other dogs and pets while young. Health Issues: A very serious problem with the Great Dane is heart disease. This often shortens the life of this breed considerably. Hip dysplasia is also present, as with most large dogs. Care must be taken to keep the Dane inactive after eating to help prevent stomach torsion, or bloat. Because the Dane grows so quickly, the puppy must be restricted in its activities in order to prevent injury to the bones. Running should not be allowed in young dogs, they should be given daily walks for exercise instead.
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Grooming: Being a short-haired breed, the Great Dane does not require extensive grooming. The dog can be brushed weekly to keep the coat clean and free of dead hair. It is often recommended that the Dane be given a dry shampooing, as giving this giant dog a wet bath can be a project in itself. Make sure the Great Dane’s nails are kept short and if the dog has natural ears, keep them dry and clean.
Living Conditions: Although the Great Dane is a very large dog, it should be kept close to its human family. This dog loves to interact with those it loves and will suffer if kept tied up in the yard. The Dane needs to be exercised every day, it requires long walks and a chance to run freely if this is possible. This dog can live in an apartment as long as its exercise needs are met.
By Scott Allan Lipe
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A Look at fish Nutrition. By Kristy Hunter Fish Nutrition is an area often overlooked. We sprinkle a few fish flakes in the tank each day and think nothing more of it. However if we take the time to better understand where our fish are from? How do they reproduce? And what they eat in the wild? We can better provide for them. This in turn will help your fish live the longest and healthiest lives possible. So how can we ensure that we provide them with the best nutrition? One of the first things that we should take into consideration is what fish would eat in their natural habitats. Many fish in the wild would live primarily on live food such as smaller fish, shrimp, crabs, small invertebrates, snails, larvae and insects. Many also thrive on a diet of algae, leaves, fruit, plant matter and living slime. It is therefore important for us to replace and replicate these natural diets the best way we have available to us. It is important to consider the dietary needs of your fish species. Carnivorous fish feed mostly on other fish, invertebrates and shrimp.
While omnivores need a wider range of foods that include both animal and plant based sources. Variety is the key with these fish. And herbivores feed primarily on plants and algae. You should avoid giving marine macro algae to freshwater fish. There are a number of high-quality vegetable-based flake, gel and pellet foods on the market that make excellent staple diets for herbivores. These commercially prepared foods contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals needed. If your tank contains reclusive bottom dwellers, like the catfish, you should include a food that will sink to the bottom. Offering a wide variety of good food sources is the key to success and offers a lot of enrichment for your fish. You will find that your fish are more engaged and interested.
also many frozen options now available on the market, and while these don’t offer the challenge of a live food, fish will still greatly benefit from their nutritional value. Although Thiamine (B1) is lost when frozen food is thawed in water. Fortunately there are vitamin supplements available to make up for the losses. And if all this seems like too much hard work for you, there are many highquality alternative commercial options available. Some of the common ingredients found in commercial preparations include Algae ( Spirulina, Nannochloropsis, Chlorella, etc.) and seafood ( fish, shrimp, molluscs, krill or fishmeal). These are a rich source of protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids.
Offering your fish live food is an excellent practice that will help to stimulate your fish. Live food options are usually readily available from your local Aquarium specialist or pet shops. Such items include small feeder fish, worms and brine shrimp. When feeding your fish live food one of the risks is that you could introduce disease or parasites into your aquarium. Keeping your feeder fish Quarantined for 30 days prior to feeding is one way to diminish this risk. There are
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Spirulina in particular has been shown to increase growth rates, fertility, colouration and improve the immune system. Seaweed (kelp or nori) is an important source of iodine, folic acid and roughage for your fish. Brewer’s yeast is often added as a source of vitamin B and extra protein. You may also see some preparations include an additive called Astaxanthin; this helps to intensify the colouration of many tropical fish species. One of the best ways of observing and interacting with our fish is through feeding. Hopefully this story has inspired you to take into consideration the natural diets of your fish and
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Boosting Feline Immune System Naturally and Easily Feline immune system function, like that of humans, is the key to overall good health. Just as we do whatever is necessary to keep our immunity working properly, so too should we do what we can to ensure good immune function for our pets. And now, with a range of natural products specially designed to boost the ability to fight disease, that is easier than ever. Immunity is the body’s natural defense network. A properly functioning immune system allows your pet to fight off any number of bacteria, viruses and other invaders which threaten to compromise their health. Feline immune support is particularly important for those cats that do not go outdoors on a regular basis and so do not have the opportunity to avail themselves of plants which can provide natural healing.
By Laura Ramirez
Domestic cats are also exposed to a variety of household toxins and can often suffer from a limited diet when they are fed only packaged foods which often contain artificial colors and preservatives and lack in key nutritional elements. For these pets, feline immune system boosters are particularly helpful as they can fill in the gaps that everyday life leaves behind. Feline immune support takes on an even greater meaning at certain particular stages in a cat’s development. Kittens are particularly vulnerable just after they are weaned as they are no longer protected by their mother’s immune
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system and their own is not fully developed. Pregnant mothers can become compromised as their immunity must work for them and their litter. Equally at risk are older cats whose health is beginning to decline and cats that are under extraordinary stress, which can tax the immune system greatly. In all of these cases, it is extremely important to ensure good feline immune system function and natural supplements which contain immune boosters are the perfect solution. While there are a variety of natural products available today, among the most effective at providing a boosting ability to fight disease are
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those which contain a careful blend of certain herbs and other plant based ingredients. By combining the best that nature has to offer, these products can ensure that your cat is getting the optimum care. Ingredients such as Milk Thistle, Echinacea and Huang Qi can work in concert to help maintain your cat’s overall health and boost to rel=nofollow [http://www. pet-health-supplements. com]feline immune system function. Huang Qi works as a whole body tonic, improving appetite and promoting healthy circulation while supporting feline immune system function. Milk Thistle stimulates bile production and repairs damage to the liver, while Echinacea focuses on the lymphatic system, staving off various forms of cancer and also working to prevent feline immune deficiency. Nothing works as thoroughly to maintain good overall health as daily supplements containing ingredients like these. Your cat’s immunity is the key to good health and long life, so why not do everything you can to ensure that your
cat is able to fight off disease and cancer? Use a comprehensive daily supplement for improving and maintaining immune system health and you and your cat will both reap the benefits, naturally. Laura Ramirez is a passionate researcher of products that help restore health and vitality to pets and people and keep their immune system strong for prevention. To learn more about her findings, go to http://www. pet-health-supplements. com. Article Source: http://EzineArticles. com/?Boosting-Feline-Immune-System-Naturallyand-Easily&id=2702460
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The Australian Mist Cat By Carolyne McCourtie The Australian Mist Cat is a relatively new cat breed. It was first created by Truda Straeda. The Australian mist is a combination of three cat breeds. The Abyssinian, the Burmese and The Domestic Short Hair. This breed is known for it’s even temperament, sense of humor and loving nature. As it is said to have inherited the Burmese ‘laid back’ nature. The Abyssian’s striking fur and the hardiness of the Domestic Short Hair. The Australia Mist Cat is a short haired breed, that comes in Spotted and Marbled varieties with a range of colors meeting the breeds standards. You can find an Australian Mist in Lilac, Brown, Chocolate, Peach and Gold. With
a cat having spots or a marbled pattern within this color range. I in fact have two chocolate spotted which resemble miniature leopards. As pets they are perfect with children and the elderly. They are happy to be handled and do not scratch or bite. As kittens they are playful and are said to become a bit more mature as they get older, though I can vouch with my three year old she is still extremely playful (plays fetch), with age bringing more a sensibility that is not often found in kittens in any breed. This is a cat breed that is expect to live to their mid to late teens with very little health issues (thanks to the Domestic Short Hair in them).
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Green eyes are a distinguishing feature and they can come in any shade of green. There build is quite stocky as they are a medium sized cat with a muscular chest, and they can be voracious eaters, so need to be monitored. They are often heavier than they seem, with a rounded head and big expressive eyes - in that stunning green mentioned previously. Ears tend to range from medium to large and their paws are elegantly oval. Tails are thick, tapering towards the end and often have rings of it’s feature color around it. Now to comment on my cats, to give you a feel for how different they can be within the breed (both have their
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papers) both as I said previously are chocolate spotted, and from a distance it’s easy to confuse them. But one has a more golden undertone, whereas the other has a more cafe au lait undertone. Both with chocolate spots. And one is long, well built yet very very muscular. And the other is soft and squishy to touch and whilst looks smaller than the other is about 1.5kg heavier. Both eat the same amount and exercise the same. One talks a lot, especially when he wants something, the other is quietly watchful. Both are very affectionate. One in an in-your-face way. The other in between periods of reserve. A distinguishing feature too of the Australian Mist cat is that their base coat is not white, it is a very light light cream. So any cat that is said to be Australian Mist and has a base color is not a true Australian Mist cat.
Another lovely trait of this beautiful breed is that you can train them like a dog from a young age (any age in fact). They will sit, come and also play fetch. I am bought a ball as I sit at my office desk, throw it down the stairs and my cat runs after it, brings it back and drops it at my feet...yes I am talking about a cat! This breed is also good with other cats and also people. Nothing really phases them. I have not known two cats that so lack that split personality of friend one minute, foe the next. They’re chilled and very playful. Another distinguishing characteristic is their desire just to be near you, the owner. My two are allowed outside, however they choose to stay close to me. So no ‘secret cats business’ for this breed.
ings that is very easy to care for. And they have personality plus. I definitely have become a big fan! Carolyne McCourtie is an Internet Marketer, Business Coach and Consultant. Who’s passions including helping people, fine wines, good food, the outdoors & exercise and her Australian Mist cats. [http:// www.australianmistcat. com/]Australian Mist Cat [http://www.australianmistcat.com/ australian-mist-cat/ australian-mist-cat-favorite-new-breed]Breeds Of Cats Article Source: [http://EzineArticles. com/?Australian-MistCat---New-AustralianMade-Breed&id=2727890] Australian Mist Cat New ‘Australian Made’ Breed
All in all with the Australian Mist Cat breed, you get a hearty, healthy very easy going cat, with striking mark-
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Keeping Your Pooch Warm in Winter By Babu Banik For most pet lovers trying to envisage a moment of absolute contentment, the image of sitting in the wintry sunshine with their pet animal in their lap would probably come forth unbidden. For any pet lover, the word “warm cuddle” would evince the response “my pet” as the season for warm cuddles with our furry friends is round the corner. It seems that by some divine design our dogs and cats have been specially attired for this season. But nothing puts a bigger dampener on this season of cheer than a bout of cold, cough and sneezes. Some of us have an unfortunate tendency of believing that our pets don’t succumb to the vagaries of winter as easily as we do. The truth is that they need as much care to be able to return that warm cuddle. Following is a list of do’s and don’ts to help you give your pets the cold weather care they deserve. A) Pups are unable to handle extreme weather conditions so make sure they are always well covered. Pay special attention at night time as pups may fall asleep on the bare floor and catch a bad chill. A warm bedding with a cosy blanket should suffice. Its better to serve warm food. Avoid giving cold water, curd, ice creams etc. A warm water sponge is a better alternative to bathing. B) All the vaccination and de-
worming should be up to date as viruses thrive at this time of the year. C) A change of season is the time when the physiological apparatus of the body is under duress and leads to a lowered resistance against common diseases. So make sure the pets is well nourished. Switching to a commercial dry dog food will make things simpler. The food should be calorie rich to generate enough energy to copy with the cold especially so for dogs living at higher altitudes. An increase in fats and proteins is also recommended. D) Protect your pet with woolen clothes as per the individual requirement. In places where it snows, the pet should be kept indoors to avoid unnessasary exposure and to prevent snow related accidents. Specially designed footwear for dog paws should be used when taking out for walks to prevent frostbite. E) Towel or blow-dry your dog if he gets wet from rain or snow. Pay spe-
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Please Check out the Pet Scene Boutique online shop for our great range of quality designer Pure Wool Jumpers and Waterproof Padded Coats. We also have cute Doggy Pyjamas and Bedding Sets. For Puppies & Kittens we have the new Snuggle Puppies & Snuggle Kitties - ideal for keeping your babies warm and secure. We’ve got all your winter needs rugged up! cial attention to paws. Vaseline can be used to remedy dry paws, muzzle and small cracks/cuts. F) Outdoor dogs need extra protection in the form of an elevated, well-covered shelter to protect against the cold breeze. Extreme cold conditions warrant the use of heaters equipped with humidifiers. G) Alter the walk timings to later in the morning and earlier in the evening. Apart from providing them with sunlight it will also keep them away from chilly part of the day. H) Do not clip your pet’s hair at this time of the year as it provides them with natural insulation. Most dogs shed their summer coats before getting a new winter coat. Dry skin is common in indoor pets probably because of use of heaters leading to low humidity. To remedy this frequent brushing and providing them with hair care supplements is advised. I) Ideally bring down the bathing frequency to once in 2 months. J) Dogs are just as likely to get dehydrated in winters as in summers, so always provide them with fresh water. K) People who have never experienced their pet having a cough might confuse it for retching/vomiting. A cough, if left untreated, may develop into pneumonia. There can also be heavy dripping from the nose or a thick nasal/ocular discharge. Causes might include a simple bacterial infection or an influenza virus in unvaccinated dogs. L) Smog might trigger an attack in an asthmatic dog so be well prepared in advance with emergency medicines. Allergies are common with the change in season and can simply be remedied with anti-allergy drugs. M) Vomiting and loose motions could be a simple reaction to the season change or a bacterial infection. It can also indicate the presence of deadly virus such as canine parvovirus or canine distemper. Either ways do not delay the treatment. N) Old dogs should be showered with the kind of care and attention that we would give to our grandparents or any other old person for that matter. Old age can inflict several problems like arthritis, lowered immunity to respiratory infections, heart ailments, etc. The winter cold can exacerbate any such existing problem. If your dog has trouble getting up, sitting down, is limping or gets stiff after exercise, these could be the initial warning signs of osteoarthritis. This is a degenerative joint disease and appropriate medication for pain relief should be provided. Supplements like cod liver oil have proven to be helpful. So here’s wishing all the pets a healthy, warm and a cheery winter. Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Keeping-Your-Pooch-Warm-in-Winters&id=125337] Keeping Your Pooch Warm in Winters
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Keeping Turtles By Paul Bryant Are you considering getting a new family pet? Such a decision is always a big one and you have to put plenty of thought in to it to arrive at the best decision for you and your family. A whole host of issues like health and hygiene, the type and extent of care the pet needs, acceptance by other pets, and the approach of your family and friends towards them have to be carefully deliberated before making a choice. Keeping all this in mind, families with busy lives often look for a pet that is considered low-maintenance as well as low-cost. This is where we would like to introduce you to the wonderful world of turtles.
Like many reptiles, turtles do not need to eat every day which means if you are often away from home for a night then they will get by without you. In fact, some turtles will enter hibernation given the right conditions during winter which gives you an annual ‘break’ from your beloved pet. Going back to food for a second, the best way to feed a turtle is to place the food directly on the turtle dock where you can see how much food is left. You can however place the food in separate container that keeps the main tank clean thus ensuring your turtle lives a long and happy life without you have to spend every week cleaning its aquarium.
Turtles are wonderful pets in many ways. They come with a huge advantage of a longer average life expectancy, and also, they do not require any household training, unlike most other pets. In addition, they do not require a huge amount of time to care for their needs.
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Box terrapins are the most common pets and are also called box turtles. They are small in size and grow to maximum length of six inches. This small size is a positive factor for their choice as a pet, as one can keep more than one of them (better if all females or all males, unless one wishes to breed) without the habitat getting crowded. They are omnivorous, and so eat meat that includes fish, crayfish, earthworms, turkey, and chicken. Also, they eat a lot of vegetables and fruits. The disadvantage of keeping box terrapins as pets is that they require very careful handling and as such are not recommended as pets for little children. At home, one needs to set up a terrapinarium for the pet terrapins. This can be a standard aquarium adapted to give the turtle everything they need. Of course you will need a large enough aquarium for the turtle you choose but thanks to the wide variety of species that come in all different shapes and sizes you can usually find one that suits your space limitations. Do be aware though, that they can be very messy, and so their living area needs regular cleaning. They do spend a lot of time outside in dry land than in water, as they like to bask in the sun.
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If you do not have the temperatures or outside space that is needed then you will need to provide your turtle with a heat lamp for sunbathing and a water heater to keep them toastie warm. This does mean that some specialist equipment is needed but it shouldn’t cost too much and once you have bought it then the ongoing costs of keeping a turtle are very low.
Five things to consider before buying: 1. Turtles can live for up to and beyond 40 years – Can you meet its needs for all this time? 2. Turtles require some specialist equipment, are you prepared to buy these from the start? 3. Turtles can have a nasty bite, do you have children who may get hurt? 4. Have you done your research? Do you know how large your chosen species of turtle will grow? Check before you buy as it is better to buy an aquarium large enough for all of its life then having to keep upgrading. 5. Is there a vet nearby who is able to treat turtles? Not all vets are trained to care for reptiles so check with your local practices before you buy. Overall turtles make fantastic pets and create a lovely centrepiece for the home. Furthermore they will be a conversation starter for anyone who visits your home. Unusual, interesting and fun to watch, the turtle is a low maintenance and low-cost pet that will give you many, many years of enjoyment. For more information on caring for pet turtles please visit: www.turtleguidebook.com
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