ISSUE #5 AUGUST 2010 FREE TO SUBSCRIBE
BARKING MAD ~ CATS MEOW~ FEATHERED FRIENDS ~ KIDS PAGE PET PAPARAZZI ~ FEATURE ARTICLE ~ PET GOURMET ~ Q & A
Monty ( Tag 828500) is just 11 months young and currently awaiting his new home in the care of an AWL foster family. They describe him as very lively – Monty’s motto is definitely “Carpe Diem”; he is sure to make the most out of every moment!. Monty is more than happy to socialize with other cats and tolerant of dogs. He can be adopted for $100. ->
COVER ART “MONTY” By the AWL Gold Coast
Lilly( tag 521939) Lovely Lilly may only have 3 legs, but it is wonderful to see her do everything any other 4 legged puss can do! Seven year old Lilly is a very affectionate cat and is perfectly content with just a cosy spot to sleep and call her own.! She can be adopted for $100.
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. LULU (tag 208496) Adorable little Lulu is a 6 year old Cattle cross Jack Russell. She has recently lost her doggy mate, and would love to be part of a two dog family, or living at a home where she can be an inside dog, as she loves human company. She can be adopted for $280.
Carolina (tag 83023) is a smart 2 year old Staffy cross who responds quickly to instructions. She can sit for treats and with a little training, we are confident she will bloom into an obedient and agile dog. She can be adopted for $220 .
Corona (Tag 207445) This gentle giant and all round sweetheart is 3 year old German Shepherd. He has a very joyful disposition He can be adopted for $350. 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
Contributors:
Animal Welfare League Gold Coast Anna Hart - Parrot Expert Pet Peoples Place Robert D Hawkins Andrew Gates - Journalist
Robert Benjamin - Devon Rex Steve Challis - Aquaculture Alfred Ngoasheng Samantha Markham - Pug enthusiast David Archer - Alpaca enthusiast.
Thank you. 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
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Contents: Contributors...................................................................................2 Welcome........................................................................................3 A Guide To Pet Products................................................................6
Pet Gourmet.................................................................................10 Parrot Paradise Treats Kids Corner...................................................................................11
Feathered Friends........................................................................12 Parrots Of The World. Pet Paparazzi...............................................................................14
Branding More Painful Than Microchipping in Horses.................16
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Pet Poison Helpline........................................................................18 Report Says Flea and Tick Products Are Safe. How To Get Rid Of Fleas From Your Pet.......................................20 Ask Mr Beefy Q & A.......................................................................21 Barking Mad..................................................................................22 The Pug Siamese Fighting Fish Facts.........................................................24
What is a Feline Bladder Infection................................................26 and What Can Be Done To Cure This Common Condition?
Top 10 Dog Breeds Affected By Periodontal Disease...................28 The Cats Meow.............................................................................30 The Devon Rex Thinking About Alpacas?..............................................................32
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A Guide to Pet Products By Andrew Gates
Facts about pets Australian families who share their homes with pets number among the highest in the world, with 64% of households including pets. In those 7.5 million households, fish top the pet population at over 12 million, followed by birds, at 9 million. At almost 4 million, there are more dogs than either boys or girls under the age of 14 years, and our domestic cat population is approximately two and a half million. If we group horse for pleasure riding, rodents, rabbits, snakes, lizards and others Care and grooming products together, we can add another 2 million pets. Pet Supplies Pet association has been shown to have enormous positive benefits on health and wellbeing of Australians. When you have a pet as a member of your family, you will visit the doctor less frequently and use less medication, have lower cholesterol and lower blood pressure, recover from illness and surgery more rapidly, deal with stress better and be less likely to feel lonely. All in all, it is estimated that pet association saves the Australian health budget almost $4 billion annually. Around 90% of Australian families with pets, consider those pets as fully integrated family members and the primary caregiver who assumes responsibility for the pet in the majority of situations is female. Not surprisingly, expenditure on pets, pet care and pet products in Australia is placed at more than $4 billion annually and provides employment for more than 40,000 people. Of this expenditure, two thirds (66%) is spent on dogs and one quarter (25%) is spent on cats. Dogs therefore get the greater amount of attention in pet world.
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Caring for pets requires time and energy on the part of the caregiver. In today’s busy world, time is a commodity in shorter supply than perhaps it once was. There are a lot of products available to help reduce the amount of time needed for pet care. Search Myshopping.com.au or Pet Scene’s very own online shop for pet care products for your particular animal. There are automatic feeding and watering products that mean your animal can access food and water when they need it and don’t have to depend on you being there to attend to it. Having water readily available for dogs and cats is important because they dehydrate more quickly than humans. Automated pet feeders not only reduce the chore of being there to provide meals for your pets, but add the convenience of timing food releases for animals that may be subject to particular dietary needs. Using an elevated pet feeder can aid your pet’s digestion because the pet doesn’t have to strain and bend over to access the food. Portable watering and feeding products are useful for those who take their pets with them at work or on the move, and include drinking pouches and feedbags for dogs and cats. Page 6
The need to groom your pet depends a lot on your living environment, and whether (or how much) your pet is an indoor or outdoor pet. Grooming could be a daily, weekly or occasionally scheduled activity, and is necessary to keep the animal’s coat healthy and to eradicate fleas and other parasites. It is also important to keep dander in check. Grooming products for pets include products for coat maintenance, nail clipping, dental care, bathing and beauty. There is a huge range of shampoos, face washes, and deodorisers and skin care products as well as styling tools and bows and ribbons for beautification. Grooming tools you may require could include a grooming table, heated blower-dryer, combs, rakes and brushes. As well as nail files and clippers.
Accommodation and transport products As we cram ourselves into smaller and smaller living spaces, we have a need to accommodate our pets in the most comfortable manner. There is a huge range of bedding, mat and cushion products for dogs and cats, as well as cages and aquariums for birds and fish. (Aquariums are also available for hermit crabs and snails). Small ‘housing’ products such as indoor and outdoor kennels and sleeping tents and bags come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit all kinds of living environments. Rugs and shelters are also important for keeping your pets warm during cold weather, and insulated or shaded shelters are important during warmer weather. Pet that suffer from arthritis can benefit from pet warming pads, while animals that have motor disabilities can benefit from special ramps and steps that aid them in their mobility. As a large proportion of pet owners like to travel with their pets in cars or on bicycles, there are a large number of travelling options, including specially designed car seats, harness and soft www.petscenemagazine.com.au
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Continued... yards or on balconies to keep your pet safe while giving them the ability to stretch in the fresh air. Portable soft pens, many of which can be coupled together to enclose a larger area, are ideal for containing a pet indoors or blocking off an entrance.
cages. Some car seats double as a travel suitcase to carry your pet’s travel needs or as a bed for a comfortable night’s sleep. For the cyclist, there is a range of pet bicycle baskets available with different safety and security features. One of the reasons that pets help foster better health is due to the time we spend walking, running or playing with them. Searching Myshopping.com.au or Pet Scene Wholesale for leads and collars will yield a tremendous variety of products. Leads that you can belt around your waist give you ‘hands-free’ control of your dog while you walk or jog freely. Collars not only provide a way to carry your animal’s registration tags, but also provide a unique identity for your pet. If your pet is small or has a disability, you can get a pet stroller or a pocket pouch to walk or carry your pet. Safe and secure enclosures can keep pets from wandering off, while giving them an outdoor experience. Safety pet fences or cat fences are wire mesh enclosures that can be used in backwww.petscenemagazine.com.au
Safety products and toys There are occasions when both pets and humans need to be kept safe from each other and from other dangers in the home and neighbourhood. These can include muzzles and safety restraints, as well as steps and life preservers to use in swimming pools and at beaches. The elderly pet may need special pet stairs or slings to help with mobility, or a brace that acts as a support crutch. There is no shortage of toys for your pet available through Myshopping.com.au and may include scratching posts and tunnels for your cat; Frisbees, balls and bones for your dog, mirrors and balls for your birds, racing tracks for rodents. You can even find the more unusual toys along with training devices; clothPage 8
ing articles and pampering products here on Myshopping.com.au or Pet Scene Wholesale just click and search. Andrew Gates is a writer for [http://www.myshopping.com.au]comparison online shopping service MyShopping.com.au. MyShopping.com.au helps you compare [http://www.myshopping.com.au/ PT--272_Pet_Supplies]pet products and buy online from top-rated online stores. You can also read [http://www.myshopping.com.au/PT--272_ Pet_Supplies]pet products reviews and specifications.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?AGuide-to-Buying-Pet-Products&id=296623] A Guide to Buying Pet Products All Products shown are available from either www.petsceneboutique.weebly.com or www.petscenewholesale.weebly.com
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Pet Gourmet Apple & Cinnamon Doggie Biscuits
1 cup dried apple, 1 teaspoon Cinnamon -- (I usually just shake some in) 1 Tablespoon parsley. 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder 1 cup water 1/2 cup vegetable Oil 5 cups flour 1/2 cup powdered milk 2 large eggs Put the apples in a food processor so that pieces are small. Combine in a bowl all of the ingredients -- can add oil or water if dough is too dry. Using a rolling pin roll out dough to about 5mm thick (can make thinner or thicker). Using a cookie cutter -- cut into shapes -- place on cookie sheets. Bake at 180 degrees for approx 15 -20 minutes (until golden). NOTE: if you substitute corn meal just subtract about 3/4 cup from flour and add Corn Meal KITTY TREATS 1-1/2 cups rolled oats 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup flour 1/2 cup tuna in brine, ( or chicken or beef bouillon) Preheat oven to 180 degrees Mix all ingredients into a dough. Dust hands with flour and form small, 1/2-inch-thick, round “biscuits�. Set on greased cookie sheet. Bake 30 minutes (or until biscuits are slightly browned). Cool 30 minutes before serving.
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Pet Quiz Let’s see how well you know animals! can you unscramble the letters to help you find the correct answers?
1. Puppies like to ________ (LYAP) 2. A _______ Would be a great pet for the city. (HISF) 3. When you take your dog for a walk, you should use a _______ (LSHEA) 4. The area your pet lives in should stay _______ (LCNEA) 5. Animals like to drink plenty of ________ (TAWRE) 6. A ________ Says “Quack Quack” (UKCD) 7. A baby dog is called a ________ ( PPPUY) 8. You can ride a ________ with a saddle. ( SHROE) 9. Dogs like to catch and play with _______ ( ASLBL) 10. A Baby cat is called a __________ (EKTTNI)
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Parrots Of The World
By Anna Hart
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com /?Parrots-Of-The-World&id=480675] Parrots Of The World
within that. Macaws, for example, belong to the Psittacidae family. Macaws are a subfamily group. Among macaws, there are at least 17 members: * Hyacinth * Glaucous Macaw Many parrots of the world have become popular as house pets. To some new owners, their particular parrot is the most beautiful. To other new owners, all the parrots of the world are gorgeous, with flashing colours of red, blue, green, and yellow. Most of the parrots of the world come from warm climates such as West Africa, India, Southeast Asia, Australasia, South and Central America. Parrot Families: All parrots of the world belong to the order Psittaciformes. In that order there are two different families: Cacatuidas and Psittacidae. Cockatoos belong in the first family, while the second includes all the true parrots of the world. Each family of parrots has subfamilies within it, and subspecies
* Lear’s Macaw * Spix’s Macaw * Blue and Yellow Macaw, or Blue and Gold Macaw * Caninde Macaw * Military Macaw * Buffon’s Macaw * Scarlet Macaw * Green-winged Macaw * Red-fronted Macaw * Yellow-collared Macaw * Chestnut-fronted Macaw, or Severe Macaw * Red-bellied Macaw * Illiger’s Macaw * Blue-headed Macaw * Red-shouldered Macaw
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Most Popular: People differ in their opinions of which parrots are more well-liked. Some look at the trendy parrots. Others consider the most prevalent in the pet stores. Some speak of which is more popular in this country or that, but of all the parrots of the world, the 5 most often dubbed popular are these. 1. Parakeets: The common Parakeet, Budgerigar to be more precise, is from Australia, and is often chosen as a pet for children or those who are beginners at bird care, partly due to its low price. Colourful little “Budgies” are hardy, require little space, and are much lower maintenance than larger birds. They are very intelligent, and although content to whistle or sing quietly, some do learn a few words. The name “Budgerigar” comes from the Australian Aboriginal name for the parrot. It means “good eating” but most “Budgie” owners would be horrified to hear you say so. Among the many parrots of the world, this is probably the least expensive in both initial and upkeep costs.
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2. Cockatiels: Another Australian species, these medium sized parrots are known for sophisticated whistling and singing. While they can be taught to speak, many people find that the birds would rather whistle, and mimic random sounds, such as a ringing cell phone. A disadvantage to the cockatiel is that it uses a powdery substance to keep its wings waterproof, so owners often find their fingers dusty after handling the bird. 3. Sun Conures: Among the parrots of the world, Sun Conures are one of the brightest. Their plumage is red, orange, yellow, blue, and green. Sun Conures have been known to talk well, but beware! These parrots often screech and scream rather than talk. Their 12 inch length means they will require a smaller cage than larger parrots, but you and your family may require earplugs. If you train your Sunnie to lower its voice, you will enjoy its antics, as these parrots tend to be playful.
4. Parrotlets: Parrotlets, especially Pacific Parrotlets, are one of the smallest known parrots of the world - about 4 inches in length! They are also one of the most pernicious and spunky of all the parrots of the world. These tiny parrots learn to talk in a voice that sounds like that of a robot. This tiny voice, their size, and the fact that they do not scream, make them ideal for those who need a quiet companion.
How Many Different Parrots Are There?
5. African Greys: African Grey Parrots are probably the most intelligent of the parrots of the world, and indeed, of all birds. These parrots are not as colourful as some. They are mainly grey, as the name implies. They do have a bright red or maroon tail, though, depending on the subspecies. African Greys excel at mimicry, sometimes learning as many as 1-2000 words. They learn other sounds, too, and may quickly learn to imitate a jet engine if you walk through an airport with them. Among the many parrots of the world, these may be the most demanding. Just like your toddler, these birds get bored and want their owners to provide entertainment. If you are looking for an intellectual, loyal, and affectionate parrot, the African Grey is probably a good choice.
People who purchase a parrot, purchase a commitment that is likely to continue throughout their lives and beyond. Most parrot owners are already 20 years old or more, and parrots themselves often have a life expectancy of more than 50 years. Some live to be nearly 100 years old. Added to that long life expectancy, many parrots of the world tend to bond with a single person. If that person breaks the bond in some way, the parrot may die.
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All told, parrots of the world number more than 350 different species and subspecies! Due to loss of habitat, climate changes, hunting, and the trade in live birds as pets, some parrots have become extinct. Others are listed as threatened, or are on the “endangered species” list. Life Expectancy:
Before you ask a parrot to be your companion, think it through carefully. The bird may outlive you. ©2007, Anna Hart. An avid reader and researcher, Anna explores parrot information and offers her gleanings at http://www.parrotsof-the-world.com If you want to read more about pet parrots of the world, you won’t want to miss Anna’s articles. Page 13
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Branding More Painful Than Microchipping In Horses Copenhagen, Denmark Researchers in Denmark have compared the pain caused to a horse when two commonly used identification techniques are applied.
behavioral reactions of 7 adult horses, and levels of inflammation and stress hormones was assessed.
The horses that were branded using a Researchers from the Department of hot iron elicited a much stronger aversive Large Animal Sciences at the Univerreaction that is associated with pain than sity of Copenhagen in Denmark, led those injected with a microchip. Chemiby Casper Lindegaard DVM, PhD, com- cals released by the horse in response pared the effects of hot iron branding to pain or inflammation were also much and microchip transponder injection higher in horses that were branded. Howon horses by measuring the aversive ever, interestingly neither method inbehavioral reactions associated with creased the level of stress hormones. pain. The research is published in the Branding of horses and livestock as a July 2009 issue of the American Jourmeans of identification has occurred since nal of Veterinary Research. In the exthe ancient Egyptians, and other modern periment, four observers scored the techniques include freeze-branding, tattoos, earmarking, and ear tagging.
Original Source: http://www.petpeoplesplace.com/resources/news/horses/branding-more-painful-than-microchipping-forhorses.htm
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Pet Poison Helpline Says Flea As flea and tick season approaches, and many consumers are confused about the safety of spot-on flea and tick products, a pet poison consultation help line has moved to reassure consumers that the products are safe to use.
line. In fact, based on sales and distribution data individually presented to the EPA by various companies, the The help line warned that overall incident rate for flea treatment with a fast-acting topical flea and tick medica- and tick products was caltion can cause itching or brief culated to be approximately irritation and fidgeting at the 16 incidents per 100,000 applications. And the overall Three weeks ago, in response application site, which can to an increase in adverse be alarming to pet owners. A incident rate for cases classified with either a major or reactions to spot-on flea small proportion of treated fatal outcome was about one and tick products, the U.S. animals can also develop a Environmental Protection side-effect called paresthesia, in 200,000 applications. Agency (EPA) announced that some smaller dogs tend to disproportionately suffer with adverse reactions due to over-dosing and misuse, and that it had launched an investigation into how products could be more clearly labeled to avoid misuse. Now, the Pet Poison Helpline has concurred that the incidence of severe and fatal effects resulting from the application of flea and tick products is extremely low as compared to the number of applications that pet owna tingling sensation around “These data demonstrate ers apply each year, and that the application site. While that Spot-On products are when serious events occur, it this is normally a very localgenerally safe when used apis most commonly a result of ized and short-lived side-efpropriately and according to misuse. For example, when fect, it accounts for a large the directions,� said Dr. Lynn dog products are applied to number of the few inciHovda, DVM, DACVIM, direccats or when owners misdents reported to the help tor of veterinary services for read, misuse or miscalculate the dose or product that is appropriate for their animal.
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a & Tick Products Are Safe Minneapolis, Minnesota
Pet Poison Helpline. The Pet Poison Helpline says that the key to ensuring your pet’s safety when using flea and tick products is to select a product specifically for use on your kind of pet - for example always choose a cat product for use on cats - and to be vigilant about following the instructions on the package. Knowing the exact size and weight of your pet is essential for using the correct medication and appropriate dose on your pet. It is also recommended that you consult a veterinarian before using flea and tick products on weak, aged, sick, pregnant or nursing pets. View the latest World Pet News every week at PetPeoplesPlace.com. Original Source: http://www.petpeoplesplace. com/resources/news/general/pet-poisonhelpline-says-flea-tick-products-are.htm
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How To Get Rid Of Fleas From Your Pet By Alfred Ngoasheng Allow me to detail this matter for you as this article is hopefully exactly what you have been looking for. Fleas are among one of the most well known and hated pests in the modern world. Like mice, rats and other pests, fleas can be carriers of disease and live from the blood of their victims. Their bites are painful, causing a red mark that can swell, itch and persist for two weeks. They will attack humans, cats, dogs and birds, making them versatile predators that do not distinguish between their prey. Once an infestation has occurred in your work or home, fleas can be very difficult to remove. As with many other pests, it is much easier to defend against an infestation than to rectify one once it has begun. You may need to resort to super toxic chemicals, such as those found in flea foggers, to remove the pests once they have begun to breed. If you are faced with fleas, knowing how they breed can help you fight their infestation. Like many species, fleas require humidity to breed. If you cut the amount of humidity in the air within your home, the number of larvae that survive to become full fleas is drastically cut. This can be done by buying a dehumidifier and letting the air in your home become dry. While this may be unpleasant
for some, doing this for several weeks will greatly decrease the number of fleas in your home. While you are dehumidifying your home, you can vacuum up a great many fleas. By vacuuming all of the suite in your home and immediately disposing of the vacuum bags, you can also greatly reduce the number of fleas. Using your pets as living flea killers is another option. Medications such as Advantage and Front Line are designed to kill the fleas that your pet is exposed to. This allows you to forbid your pets from being daunted while reducing the number of fleas that can breed. All of these things can be used together to help combat the problem of fleas. However, you should be careful with the use of chemicals and natural flea products. Both the chemicals and natural problems can be toxic to pets and children. When you begin using these, you need to make certain that you take the time to protect your family against he products you use. If you set repellent wards around your home, inform your family and place them where your pets cannot access them.
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If you take the proper precautions, you will be able to make your life a lot more comfortable, as well as protect your family and pets from diseases and discomfort. Find what you were looking for? I hope this article provided good information. To Find out more about how to get rid of fleas from your Pets please visit [http://www.e-reviews-list.com/Fleas.php] Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Fleas---How-toGet-Rid-of-Fleas-From-YourPet&id=1896309] Fleas - How to Get Rid of Fleas From Your Pet
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Q: Our cat catches birds. How can I stop her? A: Unfortunately for the birds it is a natural instinct for felines to prey on birds, even if the cat is well fed. One method to help prevent this from occurring is to put bells on your cats collar. This will alert the birds to the cats presence. Despite this, some cats have a knack of stalking without the bell making any noise. Certainly show your distain when it happens. If your cat continues this behaviour the only solution may be to keep your cat confined to a cat enclosure or cat run, where it can not reach the local wildlife. This is also a great way of allowing your cat to be outdoors without the fear of them getting into trouble with cars, other cats or dogs.
Q: My son wants to keep pet mice, how do we safely house them and what do we feed them? A: Mice may be housed in a container or cage of approximately 50cm x 40cm or bigger of almost any hard to chew materials. But remember porous materials will be harder to clean and keep clean. Mice are active and enjoy exercise so it is a good idea to include items such as a tread mill to provide them with stimulation. The cage should also include an enclosed spot for nesting and sleeping. There is no need to build a nest for the mice, simply place some old sheets of newspaper in enclosure and the mice will do the rest. There are a lot of great commercial mouse houses on the market these days that are easy to clean and transparent so that kids can enjoy watching as the mice move around. Mice are omnivorous, but their preferred foods are cereals, seeds grains. The mouse has a simple digestive tract. A heavy-lactating female may ingest her own body weight in food and water in 24 hrs. Mice are usually fed on a simple commercial pellet mix specially designed for mice available from your local pet shop or produce store. Food is best offered in a hopper, where the mice are less likely to defecate on their food. They also enjoy raw carrots and apple (no seeds) as a treat. And something hard to gnaw on will help to keep their teeth in shape. They should have fresh water available at all times. www.petscenemagazine.com.au
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Barking Mad
The Pug The Pug is a small dog with a big personality. The Pug’s tiny body and stocky legs are instantly recognizable, but it is the disproportionately large eyes and wrinkled face for which he is most known. Unlike some small breeds, which can be aggressive at times, the pug is a very placid, docile and affectionate breed that makes a wonderful family pet. The History of the Pug It is believed that the Pug is one of the oldest breeds of domesticated dog. It is impossible to be precise about the date, but it is thought that Pugs were first bred sometime before 400 B.C., in Asia. Throughout history, the breed has been incredibly popular among nobles and royalty. In the 1700, the Pug was a favorite of the Dutch William of Orange. Legend has it that William’s Pug alerted him to the approach of the Spanish forces, thus saving his life. Consequently, the Pug became the official dog of the House of Orange. As a toy dog, the Pug has principally been a pet of the rich and powerful, rather than a working dog. However, as William of Orange noticed, they make wonderful guard dogs. Although, they are not one of the yappy breeds, the Pug will alert his, or her, owners to the presence of strangers. Size and Physical Appearance Typically, a Pug will reach approximately 12- 14 inches in height and will weigh around 20lbs. However, they can gain weight quickly, as they are not lovers of physical activity and are known for their tendency to overindulge if given the opportunity. A Pug’s laziness and size make it the ideal dog for city and apartment living, but it is important to ensure that a Pug does get daily exercise, whether he, or she, wants it or not. The breed has a variety of coat colors; the most popular being fawn, silver, black and apricot; with any color, the muzzle is always black. Despite their very short fur, the Pug tends to shed heavily, so may not be suitable for allergy sufferers. However, www.petscenemagazine.com.au
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The Pug “The little dog with a big personality.” By Ursula the coat is easy to groom and may only require brushing two or three times per week. Owners should take care to clean the wrinkles on a Pug’s face to avoid the possibility of skin problems. In addition, potential owners should be aware that the Pug’s squashed face will cause him, or her, to grunt and snore when asleep. Personality As already mentioned, the Pug’s personality defies its small stature. They are incredibly affectionate, loyal and friendly towards children and other animals. However, some Pugs can display jealous behavior if their owners are giving another animal or human attention. Despite this, the Pug is not aggressive. Another popular feature of the Pug is its intelligence, which makes the breed easy to train. Owners will notice, however, that a Pug can become bored with repeating the same trick or command over and over again. Therefore, it is wise to vary your dog’s training to ensure that you retain his, or her, attention. Due to the intense attachment that a Pug feels for his, or her, owner, it is not advisable to own one if he, or she, will spend extended periods alone in the home.
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Potential Health Problems The most common medical conditions among Pugs are obesity, skin problems, sensitivity to extremes of temperature, allergies and, perhaps unsurprisingly, breathing difficulties. Nevertheless, the average lifespan of a Pug is between 12 and 15 years. To help keep your Pug healthy, it is wise to give him, or her, regular, but not strenuous, exercise. Despite their peculiar appearance, there is something extremely attractive and charming about the Pug. Moreover, the breed’s character is sure to continue winning hearts for many centuries to come. By Samantha Markham Samantha Markham is a professional freelance writer, she is currently working for an online pet supplier, Remmeer.com. Remmeer.com offers a wonderful array of gifts for your pet Pug or a Pug lover in your life, including wheeled pet carriers and Pug dog breed gifts. Article Source: http://EzineArticles. com/?expert=Samantha_Markham
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Siamese Fighting Fish Facts: There are several species in the genus Betta, but the best known and most spectacular is the Siamese Fighting Fish; Betta splendens; the splendid Betta. This fish comes from Thailand and the old name of Thailand was Siam. Other names for this fish are: Japanese Fighting Fish, Samarai Fighting Fish, Chinese Fighting Fish and Mexican fighting Fish. The Cambodian Fighting Fish is a colour variety of this fish. If you put two males together they will usually fight after going through a display. The display seems to be part of the fish’s method of recognising the sex of the other fish. In a limited space like a small aquarium a fight would usually end with one fish dead. In Thailand fish fights are staged with betting on the outcome. This is a traditional sport which is now illegal in Thailand, although this does not mean that it never occurs. Females can be put together with each other and one male in a reasonable sized aquarium. Usually there is no serious trouble between them although a tank some hiding places is a good idea. The males are usually much more spectacular than the females, having longer fins and more intense colour. Temperature: Fighting fish are a tropical fish; 24 degrees C is a suitable temperature. They can take at least 10 degrees higher than this, but will not be comfortable any lower than about 18 degrees C. In a climate like that of South Australia they need heating in the winter. The usual way
By Steve Challis
based food. In an aquarium, I recommend that a good quality Betta food be used as the basic diet, and this should be varied with the addition of the occasional feeding of live food like mosquito larvae of daphnia. frozen food like blood worms are also good. Water
of heating the tank is with an aquarium heater. A 50w heater is suitable for a small Aquarium. If you have a room that never gets cold then the Fighting Fish can be kept there without an aquarium heater. A room that is only heated by the sun will get cold when the sun is not shining. This is not suitable. Some very small tanks are sold for fighting fish. These are suitable for places with a warm climate. In temperate areas they are not suitable for fighting fish in winter unless they can be kept in a place which does not get cold. Many of these tanks are too small to put a normal aquarium heater in. Breathing: Fighting fish are anabantids. They and their relatives can breathe air as well as water. This means that they can live in much smaller aquariums than most fish. In the wild they sometimes live and even breed in very small bodies of water including the water filled hoof prints of a water buffalo. They are often also found in rice fields. They need to be able to get to the surface or they can drown. Although they can be kept in very small containers this is not an ideal way. Like other fish they are affected by water quality. A small tank is harder to keep clean than a larger one, and usually you cannot put a filter in. Food: The Fighting fish is sometimes described as a carnivore. In my observation, it is an omnivore with a preference for animal
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Rainwater: Rainwater is often used. Some people use it successfully, but not all rainwater is safe for fish. Rain, as it falls from the sky in Rural areas is generally good water. When it comes into contact with the roof and gutters and then stays in the rainwater tank with any leaves etc which have washed in, it picks up contaminants. Some of these are harmless, but others can kill fish. If rainwater is the only type of water available then you will need to use it. Apart from the obvious things like keeping your gutters clear and avoiding spraying near the house or if the wind is towards the house you can add a rainwater conditioner. This will add the salts that rainwater does not have. It will also neutralise some (but not all) of the possible contaminants. Mains Water: If you are in an area with Chlorinated water, a water conditioner will get rid of the Chlorine. In areras which use Chloramine, ther conditioner will still work, but needs to be used at up to five times the normal rate. If the Ph of the water is adjusted to be less than 7.2 the ammonia from the Chloramine should not be dangerous. There are also some water conditioners which remove ammonia as well as Chlorine. I recommend the use of one of these. Filtered Tapwater: Some domestic water filters which have carbon cartridges will remove most of the Chlorine and Chloramine. The filter cartridge needs to be in good condition. If you have a filter it is a good idea to use this water for your fish. However, because the filter may not remove all the Chlorine or Chloramine from the water, it is still a good idea to use a conditioner to be on the safe side. Spring Water: Many types of spring water
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have long fins. They are very vulnerable to fish that nip fins. Some of the fish that can be fin nippers and which I would not recommend as companions for fighting fish are Tiger Barbs, Red Eye Tetras, Serpae Tetras, Some Galaxies and Rosy Barbs.
are suitable for fighting fish without any conditioner or modification. If it is too far from neutral you will need to adjust it. Ph is a measure of acidity or alkalinity. A ph of 7 is neutral. Below 7 is acid and above 7 is alkaline. The ideal Ph for fighters is about 7.1, but they can take moderate variations from this. The Ph of water can change, so it is a good idea to check it regularly. Foods and feeding: Like most fish, fighting fish are omnivores, in the wild they will eat any animal or vegetable food they can find. They prefer animal foods such as mosquito larvae (wrigglers) daphnia, etc. In an aquarium they will eat all normal types of aquarium foods, but seem to do better on a food designed for them. As with almost any animal a variety of food is welcomed by fighting fish. Do not overfeed! Aquariums and Companions: One fighting fish without any other fish can be kept in a quite small tank, provided that it can be kept warm. Fighting fish are usually not an aggressive fish and can be kept in an aquarium with other peaceful fish of a similar size or smaller.
Another way of keeping fighting fish is to use one of the Betta containers. These come under several names, but are similar and allow several male fighters to be kept in one aquarium. Another, similar, way of keeping fighters is to use a breeding tank which floats in an aquarium. Normally these are use for breeding fish such as Guppies, but they can also be used for keeping (but not breeding) Fighting Fish. There are several other options for keeping fighting fish. There are Duo and a Trio Fighting Fish tank, as well as many types of custom ones. The better ones are big enough to put a small heater into one of the compartments. There is often enough conduction of heat between compartments to keep them all warm enough. Transporting fighting fish: Normally fighters are transported in a plastic bag. It is important that there be some air (or Oxygen) above the water in the bag. The bag should not be allowed to get very cold or very hot in transport. It is better that if you are transporting a male fighter that no other fish is in with it.
Types of fighting fish: The wild fighting fish have much shorter fins than the aquarium ones. When they were bred in Thailand for fighting, colour varieties were developed, but fins were not selected for in the modem sense. The long and fancy fins of the present fighting fish are a comparatively recent development. Fighting fish are bred in many places. A lot of the fighting fish sold in Australia are bred in Singapore. Fighting fish come in many colours including blue, red, purple, white, yellow and black. Many different fin types have also been developed, including the crown tail, the half moon the double tail and the delta tail.
These are a few of the many sorts of fish suitable as companions for fighting fish in a reasonable sized aquarium. Like nearly all fish, fighting fish will eat another fish if the fish is small enough to fit in its mouth. Generally a fighting fish can be kept with fish as small as neon tetras without trouble. However, the occasional fighting fish may learn to catch neons. I would suggest that in a confined space fighting fish should be by themselve. I know of at least two cases of a fighting fish which has been put in a bag with neons and has learned to eat them. Having learned, the fish is likely to continue to eat neons in an aquarium. Fish have quite good memories. Fighting fish are slow and
Female fighters are usually about five months old when sold.
Steve Challis has many other fish fact sheets and other articles on http://www. bettatrading.com.au
Life Span: Siamese Fighting Fish are not very long lived. Their normal life span is about two years. The Male fighters normally on sale in shops are typically about nine months old, so if you have had a male fighter for a year, it is already old and could die of old age.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles. com/?Siamese-Fighting-Fish-FactSheet&id=3623937] Siamese Fighting Fish Fact Sheet Check back in October when we will teach you how to breed Siamese Fighting Fish.
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What is a Feline Bladder Infection and What Can Be Done to Cure This Common Condition?
By Robert D Hawkins
immune to this condition and by current estimates about twice as many female cats will fall victim to a feline bladder infection at some point in their lives. What are some of the common symptoms?
For most of us our pets are like our children and keeping them healthy and out of harm’s way is always on our minds. In this regard, one of the conditions your cat is most likely to encounter is a feline bladder infection. A feline bladder infection is one of those conditions that generally starts slow, but can turn into something very serious if allowed to go untreated. It is also one of those conditions that can co-exist in a cats body for a long period of time without any noticeable symptoms. In other cases, the infection may resolve itself without any type of treatment or intervention. What is a feline bladder infection? A feline bladder infection is a bacterial infection of the bladder that can be encouraged by number of different factors including immune system weakness, stress, diabetes, age, or a partial blockage or the urethra caused by a stone. The bacterial itself gains access to the bladder through the urethra, and is most common in female felines due to urethral length. That said, male cats are not
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The symptoms of a feline bladder infection vary depending on severity and your cats personality. For my felines the first sign has always been inappropriate urination. They will start to prefer shoes, paper, laundry baskets, furniture and almost anything else instead of their litter box. Other signs often described from a clinical perspective are foul smelling urine, straining when urinating, irritability, isolationism, tenderness in the bladder area, lethargy, fever, and in some instances blood in the urine. How is a feline bladder infection generally treated? The answer is antibiotics with amoxicillin being a common choice. Your vet will need to run a urine analysis to check for the presence of bacteria. It may save some time to take a urine sample with you if possible. If the urine tests positive for bacteria the appropriate antibiotic will be prescribed to cure the infection. Results should be seen within a few day and the infection should be eradicated in 10 days or less. Your vet will want to do a follow up urine analysis to confirm the successful treatment outcome.
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Can a feline bladder infection be treated without a veterinary visit? It can, but you should watch closely to make sure your cats condition is improving, always keeping in mind that allowing the bacteria to spread can produce a serious, if not life threatening condition engulfing the whole urinary tract. That said, sometimes circumstances simply don’t allow us the luxury of professional assistance and we will be forced to make the best of a bad situation. If this is the case your goal will be to flush the bacteria from the urinary tract by giving your cat plenty of clean fresh water, adding either blueberry or cranberry juice to that water loosen its grip, keep the anal area closely trimmed to prevent reinfection, eliminate any stress for your cats life, keep them
active with play time, keep litter boxes obsessively clean, and implementing a natural homeopathic urinary tract supplement. This seven step approach will bolster immune system function and promote the elimination of bacteria through voiding. R.D. Hawkins is an enthusiastic advocate of alternative natural health products and supplements with over 10 years experience. To learn more about natural remedies for better health visit [http://purchaseremedies. com]Purchase Remedies.com Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-is-a-FelineBladder-Infection-and-WhatCan-Be-Done-to-Cure-This-Common-Condition?&id=4101743] What is a Feline Bladder Infection and What Can Be Done to Cure This Common Condition?
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Top 10 Dog Breeds Affected By Periodontal Disease
Portland, Oregon
To coincide with August’s Pet Dental Month, new findings have been released which reveal the extent of dental problems in the dog population. Banfield’s Applied Research and Knowledge (BARK) team has released new findings to help Pet owners maintain and improve the health of their dogs’ teeth. Banfield’s BARK team conducts ongoing research in the field of veterinary medicine based upon the data from the nearly 115,000 office visits to Banfield hospitals every week. The findings show that periodontal disease is the most common disorder affecting cats and dogs worldwide, and informal estimates put it’s prevalence as high as 85%. Classified by the degree of deviation from healthy teeth and gums, the severity of dental disease is labeled by six stages, which is also supported by BARK findings. These stages range from mild plaque and gingivitis, to gingival recession and degradation of the periodontal ligament, to significant inflammation and loss of teeth. According to their latest findings, certain breeds are more predisposed to periodontal disease than others. The 10 breeds most predisposed to periodontal disease are as follows:
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Toy Poodle
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Yorkshire Terrier
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Maltese
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Pomeranian
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Shetland Sheepdog
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Papillion
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Standard Poodle
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Dachshund
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Havanese
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“All breeds need regular professional cleanings, but with regard to the top breeds at risk, professional dental cleanings and compliance with at-home care of the health of teeth and gums is especially crucial,” said Jeffrey Klausner, DVM, MS, DACVIM, senior vice president and chief medical officer for Banfield. “Although dental disease can occur rapidly at any age, risk factors for developing periodontal disease in dogs can include increasing age, small breed size and neutering. Periodontal disease has also been associated with changes in a pets’ kidneys, liver and cardiac functions - in short, unhealthy teeth can lead to an unhealthy pet in ways pet owners can’t imagine.” Banfield recommend that proper at-home preventive dental care should include feeding your pet a firm, kibbled food specially formulated to reduce tartar accumulation, use of specially-formulated hygiene chews and dental specific water additives. View the latest World Pet News every week at PetPeoplesPlace.com
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The Devon Rex By Robert Benjamin In the 1950s in England, a stray cat gave birth to a litter of kittens with a curly coat. Through crossbreeding and inbreeding, this interesting trait was maintained, resulting in today’s Devon Rex. It was once thought that the same mutation caused this and the Cornish Rex mutation (the fine, curly coat), but genetic testing has shown that this is not
the case, making the Devon Rex a separate and distinct breed of cat. Due to crossbreeding, Devon Rexes come a wide variety of colors including black, white, blue, red, cream, chocolate, lilac, and caramel. They can also have various markings and patterns such as smoke, tabby, tortie, bi-color, tri-color and pointed. The Devon Rex coat can also come in a variety of
coverings. Some Devon Rexes are completed covered in the soft fur and others only have the occasional tuft. Some coats are curlier than others but all are soft and thin. Though Devon Rexes do not shed nearly as much as other breeds that are more densely coated, they do have some hair on them and will, therefore, shed. This makes them more suitable for those with allergies, but they are not a hypoallergenic cat. Devon Rexes, on average, will weigh about six to nine pounds and are muscular. They will live about thirteen years. This outgoing cat is a performer. Devon Rexes like being the center of attention and will engage in many antics
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including jumping to high places, riding on the shoulders of their human companions and stealing food. Despite their antics, Devon Rexes are good family pets and adaptable to most situations. Though active, they do well in apartment settings. Due to the delicate nature of their hair, a Devon Rex should be kept indoors. The sparse coat is insufficient to protect it from sunburn or cold. Grooming is done
infrequently but when done, must be done carefully as the hair will break easily. Although very healthy, Devon Rexes can inherit genetic problems, such as cardiomyopathy, luxating patella, hip dysplasia, and spasticity. There is a website that has great information on Devon Rex and most other breeds of cats. It has details that pertain to a cat breeds health, grooming, living conditions, best food choices and more, the website is called: Dog And Cat Facts, and can be found at this url: http://www.dogandcatfacts.com By Robert W. Benjamin
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Thinking About Alpacas? By Dave Archer Some Basic Questions and
Q: Are alpacas loud? Will my neighbours complain?
Answers: Raising alpacas continues to gain popularity with all sorts of people. Some are attracted by the lifestyle of owning a small ranch. Others see alpacas as an investment opportunity (though we would claim it a business, not an investment!) Those with a particular fancy for spinning and knitting may be attracted by the idea of growing their own source of lovely fibre. Whatever the reason, the choice to raise alpacas is not a easy decision. We’ve put together a set of questions and answers that we hope you find useful.
is that there are a wide variety of colours out there, and some patterns, too. Pure white is very popular with the textile industry, since it can be dyed to almost any colour. Q: Do alpacas spit?
Q: What “breeds” and colours do alpacas come in? A: There are two varieties of alpaca: huacaya and suri. You can see pictures
A: Oh yes. But not as often as you might think, and rarely at people. Spitting is both a defence and a way of communicating. Often, that communication is about who claims the food, or who wants to be “in charge” today. And...just so you know... spit in this case is NOT saliva. It’s genuine stomach juices, often including partially digested hay. It’s a lovely experience. Q: What kind of space do alpacas require?
of each at our website (see the resource box below). Both varieties have very soft fleece, though they look very different. Huacayas are “fluffy” or “crimpy” and often “bouncy” to the touch. Suri fleece has straight fibre often with higher lustre, which hangs down and tends to form “dreadlocks” . Both fibre types are popular in the textile industry, with cria fleeces generally bringing the highest price. Almost all the 130,000 or so alpacas in the United States are Huacaya. Only about 5% or so are Suri. You’ll find eight “basic colours” of fleece in alpacas: white, light, fawn, brown, grey, black, multi-colour, and “indefinite”. What this really means
A: Alpacas have 3-chambered stomachs, so they are highly efficient grazers, more so than almost any other farm animal. Pasturing density of 6 to 7 alpacas per acre is often reasonable, though density varies greatly with condition of the land, climate, and quality of forage. Don’t forget that if you plan to keep breeding stock, you’ll need several fenced pastures to accommodate groups of different sexes, and to allow for pasture rotation. Fencing is required. The good news is that alpacas generally respect fencing. 4’ or 5’ no-climb horse fence is a cost-effective choice. If you don’t have the space for alpacas, consider boarding them at a ranch. Many alpaca owners begin this way.
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A: Though we can’t answer the second question (it depends on your neighbours!), the answer to the first is that alpacas are generally very quiet. They hum quietly, especially when a bit anxious. If they see something truly worrisome, they may sound a warbling call that some describe as a cross between a squeaky toy and a hawk’s cry. Most of the time, such a call means that they’ve seen a housecat out in the pasture... Q: We don’t plan to breed alpacas. Do they make good pasture pets? A: Definitely! Many people feel that the best alpacas for pasture pets are neutered males, often called “fibre boys”. Alpacas are a herd animal, so you’ll need at least 2, preferably 3. Alpacas are not like dogs. They are alert, curious, calm, and may very well come sniffing around when you’re working in the yard. However, they will most likely spend their time with the herd, not with their humans. Q: What do you do with alpaca fleece? A: Alpacas produce fibre that is, bar none, the finest in the world for spinning and weaving. Do you knit? Then you’re probably already aware of the exceptional qualities of alpaca yarn. Many small mills will take fleece, wash it, card it, and spin it, with several plying options. Knitting with yarn from animals you own is very rewarding! Do you spin? You can ask the mill to give you clean fleece or rovings. If a fibre art isn’t your thing, you can sell your fleece to mills, spinners, or even fibre cooperatives. Q: How big are alpacas, anyway? A: Alpacas are camelids, but small ones. Babies, called crias, generally weigh between 12 and 22 pounds at birth. Adults generally weigh between 120 and
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210 pounds. A good-sized adult stands about 36” at the shoulder, and can likely look you in the eye if you’re under 5’3”. This means they are much smaller and can feel less intimidating to some people than their bigger cousins, llamas (which are very nice, too - don’t get me wrong!). When you know how to handle them, alpacas are generally easy to work with, even though they may weigh more than you do. Q: How long do alpacas live? How much of that time are they actively reproductive? A: Alpacas generally live 17 to 22 years, and are usually very healthy for nearly all that time. We currently have a 14-yearold girl at our ranch who is expecting a cria this summer, and often leads the herd in running the perimeter of the pasture! Females may be ready to begin breeding by 18 months of age. Males mature a bit more slowly, and are generally ready to begin breeding at around 30 months. Q: How long are females pregnant, and how long is it after they give birth before they breed again? A: Gestation periods in alpacas range from a low of around 325 to a high of around 360 days, with the average at about 345 days. Single births are the rule. Alpacas are normally re-bred at about 3 weeks after delivery. Q: What are alpaca babies like? A: Very cute. Incredibly cute. Terminally, insanely cute. They are generally up on their feet within 30 minutes or so after birth, and actively nursing within an hour. Though a bit shaky on their legs for the first day, they are up and with the herd very quickly. Weight gain during the first two weeks may be about a pound each day. Aside from some basic postnatal precautions, and some vitamin and vaccine injections, crias generally need little special care. Crias nurse for 6 months, though, so Mom will need extra
calories and protein for nursing. Q: What kind of care do alpacas require? A: A small herd of alpacas is quite easy to care for. Fresh water, good hay, a small daily grain supplement, and some mineral salt should do the trick for feeding. As natural foragers, alpacas will eat almost anything your pasture provides, including (thankfully) blackberry vines. However, some plants are poisonous to camelids. The bookshelf at our website has a reference to a good book on this subject, and you can find more information on line. For shelter, depending on your climate, alpacas need a simple 3-sided covered shelter or a barn. Alpacas are generally shorn once each year, often in early May here in the Pacific Northwest. For some before and after pictures, take a look at the news section of our website. Shearing is a job for a professional, but it is relatively easy to work with an established local ranch to get in on their shearing party. In warm weather, especially in southern climates, heat stress may become a concern. Special cooling arrangements may be required.
Want to know more? You might start by visiting our website. There you’ll find several resources to help you figure out the direction that’s right for you. We also invite you to contact us via the site, and if you’re not too far away, come visit our ranch! If we don’t have what you’re looking for, or we’re too far away to be practical, we may be able to suggest ranches in your area. Good luck! Copyright (c) 2009, Inti’s Gift Alpacas We invite you to visit our website: http:// www.intisgiftalpacas.com , where you’ll find pictures, resources, contact points for more information, and information about animals available at our ranch. Article Source: [http://EzineArticles. com/?Thinking-About-Alpacas?Some-Basic-Questions-and-Answers&id=2380012] Thinking About Alpacas? Some Basic Questions
Like other livestock, alpacas are susceptible to a variety of parasites, internal and external. Your vet will probably have a management plan that you can adopt. Alpaca hooves need regular trimming (every 3 to 6 months, your mileage may vary), but if your alpacas have been trained to know the “foot” command, trimming should not be a problem. Q: How do I take the next step? A: First, figure out your objectives. Breeding? Fibre farming? Pasture pets? Second, determine your timeline: how soon and in what order do you want to reach these objectives? Third, decide on your budget, and decide on whether you will have your own pastures, or will agist (board) your animals at a ranch. Fourth, take your time in finding the animals that will help you achieve your objectives. Don’t be in a rush. Take your time. Talk to people from several breeding farms.
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