Rabbit Proofing Your Home for Your Pet Rabbit

Before letting your pet rabbit loose in your home, you will need to rabbit-proof the area(s) that your rabbit will be roaming. Just as you would child-proof your home, you will need to take some precautions and make preparations for the new addition.

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TIPS FOR RABBIT-PROOFING YOUR HOME

How To Trim Your Dogs' Nails

How To Cut Your Dogs' Claws

Keeping a dogs’ nails trimmed shouldn’t be an intimidating task for either you or your pet. Not only does keeping their nails trimmed keep you and your property safe from unnecessary scratches, it is important for their everyday living to not let the nail grow too long. For most dogs, having overgrown nails can interfere and even be painful when walking.

Trimming the nails of your pet can be as simple as trimming your own nails. Just be aware that dogs have a vein inside the nail called the quick that can bleed when cut into. When grooming the nails you need three basic tools-the clippers, a tissue and a product that is sold to stop bleeding if you do happen to cut into the nail. Two types of these products include Quickstop Powder and a styptic pencil that contains silver nitrate. Both products work well to stop the bleeding of the quick if you should happen to need them.

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TIPS FOR TRIMMING YOUR DOG'S NAILS

PediPaws Dog Nail Trimmer - Product Review

PediPaws dog nail trimmer has become one of the newest dog accessories advertised on television. The product raves that PediPaws "is the revolutionary nail trimmer for your dog or cat." These types of grooming accessories are designed for pet owners who don't want to use conventional nail trimmers. If you are considering buying the PediPaws especially from the commercial or their official website, there are some precautions you should be aware of.

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PediPaws Review

The Gestation Period of Dogs

One of the most frequently asked questions and one of the most searched for on the internet by inexeperienced dog owners is how long does a dog stay pregnant or what is the lenth of gestation. The gestation period in a female dog (or bitch) refers to the time period from the first breeding (or fertilization) until the birth of the puppies. The gestation period of all dogs, regardless of the size or breed, is 58 to 65 days.

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GESTATION OF DOGS

Saliva Gland Infections in Dogs

Canines have four pairs of salivary glands that are used to produce saliva. The parotid, mandibular, sublingual and zygomatic glands each have their own duct that carries saliva into the mouth. The salivary glands are in the tissue beneath the skin in both the upper and lower jaw.

The salivary glands have many important functions. The saliva is used to turn food into soft pieces to slide through the esophagus, to aid in mouth lubrication, to flush away food debris in the oral cavity and to aid in cooling.

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SALIVA GLAND INFECTIONS IN DOGS

Blood Diseases & Disorders in Dogs

Canines can get diseases and disorders such as blood disorders and deficiencies just like humans. Some breeds are more susceptible to certain blood disorders than others and many blood diseases can be inherited.

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BLOOD DISEASES IN DOGS

Dealing With a Dog That Smells - Treatments

Smelly pet questions are fairly common in any veterinarian's office. Dogs in particular can put off odors that can be quite offensive. Some of the foul odors can be obvious like being sprayed by a skunk or from rolling in something unpleasant. Animals have been known to roll themselves in some not so agreeable substances to "camouflage" their own odor. If bathing doesn't make Fido smell like a field of sunflowers there could be an underlying health issue.

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DEALING WITH THE SMELLY DOG

The History of Veterinary Medicine

Modern veterinary medicine often resembles techniques used in human medicine. During the 18th century, many of the "human" surgeons would identify themselves with veterinary work and some even changing practice from humans to animals.

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BRIEF HISTORY OF VETERINARY MEDICINE

Careers in the Animal Field

Having a career in the animal field can be one of the most rewarding jobs an individual can attain. Having a career working with animals not only means helping an animal in need but also dealing with the human side by easing and comforting owners of their loved pets.

The market is filled with enjoyable careers that specialize with the care of our feathered or furry friends. There are many different careers that can be considered if you have ever thought about venturing into the field of animal care.

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FINDING CAREERS IN THE ANIMAL FIELD

Holistic Veterinary Medicine

Conventional veterinary medicine definitely has its needs but many believe, including pet owners, that it has failed in some ways. Our pets are becoming more vulnerable to disease and illnesses. This has led to the search by veterinarians and pet owners for alternative health care for animals. The philosophy is to look at all aspects involving the health and well-being of an animal and to be open in using a variety of treatments.

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HOLISTIC VETERINARY MEDICINE

Limber Tail Syndrome in Dogs

Limber tail syndrome, cold water tail, dead tail, broken wag, broken tail are all common names for an occurrence among sporting breed dogs. While Labrador Retrievers appear to be especially prone to this injury, it has also been seen in different sporting breeds like Pointers, Flatcoats, Setters, Beagles and Foxhounds.

This affliction is described to be when a dog's tail hangs down from the base or is held horizontally out approximately three inches and then drops down. The dog may seem uncomfortable and show some pain.

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LIMBER TAIL SYNDROME

Gastroenteritis in Dogs

Occasional vomiting and/or diarrhea can be common in canines. Severe and/or frequent vomiting and diarrhea is not normal and can be attributed to a life threatening illness or disease. Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestinal linings. When a dog has diarrhea or vomiting that contains blood, this could be a sign of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis or HGE.

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DOG GASTROENTERITIS

Skin Conditions in Cats

The feline skin is made up of flat cells that have membranes composed of protein and fats while the coat of the feline is composed almost entirely of protein. Many cat owners know all too well that felines are prone to skin disorders since skin conditions is the most common health problem affecting cats.

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FELINE SKIN CONDITIONS

Bearded Dragon - Breeding & Egg Care

If you are new to owning a bearded dragon, you should research the many aspects of owning and caring of the species before breeding. Breeding bearded dragons will require knowledge and time especially after the birth. A female can lay up to thirty babies and feeding all of those beardies can be a chore.

The first step on this journey will be sexing your dragons to assure you have a male and female. Before breeding, research the subject and prepare for the egg laying process, care of the eggs and the care of the hatchlings.

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BREEDING BEARDED DRAGONS

Lyme Disease in Dogs - Symptoms & Treatments

Borrelia burgdorferi, it's a big word and also happens to be the scientific name for the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Transmitted to dogs through the bite of a tick, these microscopic bacteria are a specific type called spirochete.

Lyme disease is named for a town in Connecticut where it was believed to be first diagnosed in humans in 1975. At least three known variety of ticks can spread the disease but a majority of the transmissions are from the bite of a small tick known as the black-legged tick or commonly known as the Deer Tick. These tics can be difficult to locate since they can be smaller than the head of a pin. The ticks harbor and transmit the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. Dogs in the northeastern and mid-Atlantic states are more susceptible to Lyme disease. The disease is also found in Australia, Europe, China and Japan.

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CANINE LYME DISEASE

Causes for Fluid in Dogs' Ears

One of the most extraordinary attributes of the canine is its acute sense of hearing. As in humans, the dog's ear and ear canal can build up with fluid from common infections and diseases which not only can be cured, they can be prevented.

There are signs that a dog can have an ear infection. Shaking of the head, scratching of the ears, foul odor or a discharge coming from the ear are all symptoms of an ear infection or fluid build- up in the ear.

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CAUSES FOR FLUID IN A DOG'S EAR

Leopard Gecko Care - Fact Sheet

If having a lizard or something similar as a pet interests you, the leopard gecko are a marvelous choice to consider. They take up little space because of their size which ranges from eight to ten inches. The leopard gecko requires nominal care; they are calm and quiet and are inexpensive to feed. They are extremely safe since they are rarely known to bite and can be easily tamed.

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CARING FOR THE LEOPARD GECKO

The Platypus - Profile & Eating Behaviors

Anyone that has ever had the experience of seeing a platypus can tell you that it is one of the most distinctive and unusual mammals known on earth. Even though this animal is considered a mammal, it lays eggs and feeds the babies in a pouch much like a kangaroo. Because it lays eggs, it is considered a monotreme mammal.

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PLATYPUS FACT SHEET

Veiled Chameleon Care - Fact Sheet

The veiled chameleon is native to the Middle East and has become one of the most commonly bred, sold and owned chameleons of the species. The growing popularity of this chameleon is due largely in part by its' beauty and they are a hardy species in captivity.

Hence the name, the veiled chameleon will change colors depending upon their environment and even their mood. They are not a "handling" pet and should be considered more as a "display" pet as they will stress when being handled and have been known to bite.

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CARING FOR THE VEILED CHAMELEON

Water Dragon Care - Fact Sheet

The water dragon can be held and enjoyed but they do not take kindly to tight hands and should be handled gently and one should never handle a water dragon by the tail. They are easily tamed and are considered non-aggressive. If you are considering purchasing a water dragon, research and familiarize yourself with their needs and daily care. If properly handled and cared for, water dragons can make a wonderful addition to your family.

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CARING FOR THE WATER DRAGON

Panther Chameleon Care - Fact Sheet

From the island of Madagascar comes one of the most brilliant chameleons of the species, the Panther chameleon. Changing color with its environment, the colors of the Panther chameleon are bright and vibrant. They feature bulging, cone-shaped eyes that move independently of each other and a tail that can coil up like a snake.

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CARING FOR THE PANTHER CHAMELEON

Eating Behaviors of Squirrels

Like with all other animals in the wild, the squirrel's eating behavior has a reason and a purpose. That reason is survival. These amazing little varmints can adapt quickly to their environment and can even make a meal of plants and mushrooms that are known to be poisonous to humans.

Primarily herbivorous, squirrels eat a variety of vegetation including the most popular fruits and nuts but have also been known to eat small insects and snack foods from an unattended picnic basket. Depending upon their environment, squirrels are known to store seeds, grains and nuts for the long winter hibernation period. In southern regions, squirrels are active year round as my bird feeders can attest to.

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BEHAVIORS OF SQUIRRELS

The Hunting & Farming of American Alligators

The American alligator can be found in many states including Florida, Louisiana, Georgia and Southern Texas, among others. Known as the largest reptile in North America, it can reach almost eighteen feet in length and weigh up to six hundred pounds.

Alligator hides are used in the leather market to craft items such as handbags, belts, boots and even an alligator-skin bustier was modeled at a New York fashion show. Many parts of the alligator are edible but the tail meat is the most common part found in stores and restaurants. Considered an exotic meat, alligator meat is low in cholesterol and fat with only 110 calories in a four ounce portion. The meat resembles and the taste is compared to that of boneless pork chops. I was hesitant when first trying this Florida delicacy and was pleasantly surprised that the meat did not taste gamey like other hunted game I had encountered previously.

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THE HUNTING AND FARMING OF ALLIGATORS

Tokay Gecko Care - Fact Sheet

If unusual is what you want in a pet then the Tokay gecko could be just what you are looking for. That is if you don't mind being awakened in the wee morning by the screech of "To-kay, To-kay" and prying them from your knuckles when they show their bad side.

These unique creatures are native to Southeast Asia and are nocturnal. While fairly easy to maintain, they do have their disadvantages which include the two I have already pointed out which are noisy nightly "barking" and biting. That old saying "the bark is worse than the bite" holds true with this gecko since the biting can be controlled simply by not handling it. However, the barking cannot be controlled unless you have a space far away from where you slumber.

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CARING FOR THE TOKAY GECKO

Behavior Problems with Horses

Handling the behaviors of a large animal such as the horse takes experience, education and most of all, patience. Each horse has their own personality and just like with humans, some personalities tend to rub us the wrong way.

The key to working with the behavior, good or bad, of any horse is learning the personality of that horse. Patience will be your friend if you take the time to watch, examine and learn how the horse reacts to different experiences in its environment.

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BAD HORSE BEHAVIORS

Breed Profile - The Welsh Pony

Sally was a stocky but beautiful Welsh Pony with a stunning disposition. She could ride comfortably for hours and was a nurturing mother to her foals. Sally had a golden mane and tail but was not highly popular because of her Appaloosa coloring. Sally was the first horse I owned over 25 years ago.

Originating from Wales, the Welsh Pony has a long and historical past. The Welsh breed includes three types: the Welsh Cob, the Welsh Mountain Pony and the Welsh Pony. These ponies are excellent riding and driving horses and are superb jumpers.

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THE WELSH PONY

The American Miniature Horse Association

Once only owned as pets by those in positions of nobility, the miniature horse has become one of the fastest growing breeds in the United States. Miniatures horses are now used as guides for the disabled, for sports like harness racing and as special companions for individuals looking for a unique pet.

Registered miniature horses or "minis" are thirty-four inches or shorter and the average adult weighs between 150-250 pounds. In September of 2001, a miniature horse named Black Beauty was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's smallest horse. At birth, she weighed less than ten pounds and was approximately twelve inches in height. At age five, she was 18.5 inches tall and she lost the title of world's smallest horse in 2007 when "Thumbelina" measured in at 17 inches in height.

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THE AMERICAN MINIATURE HORSE ASSOCIATION

Breed Profile - Miniature Horse

Small stature horses can be dated back to 1650 AD to the Palace of Versailles and have also been found buried with Egyptian pharaohs. Originally only owned by royalty, "midget" horses soon became popular for other uses and today they are the fastest growing breed in popularity in North America.

Legend says that King Henry VIII ordered horses that were under 14 hands to be destroyed. Due to the popular demand of these small equines, he feared the end or slow-down in breeding of larger horses that were needed for soldiers during times of war. Breeders were able to hide enough of the small horses to preserve their blood line which individuals are able to enjoy today.

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THE MINIATURE HORSE

HISTORY OF THE MINIATURE HORSE

Breed Profile - The American Shetland Pony

Standing at an average of forty-six inches, the American Shetland Pony is hardy, sure-footed and usually the choice as a child's first horse. The height limit for registered Shetlands has changed over the years. For the United States the maximum height is forty-six inches and in Canada it is forty-four inches. The height has remained unchanged in Great Britain and is still forty-two inches.

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THE SHETLAND PONY

THE HISTORY OF THE SHETLAND PONY

Breed Profile - Clydesdale Horse

Highly recognizable in the United States as the breed used as the Budweiser horse team, the Clydesdale horse is a heavy draft horse originating from Scotland. The pride of Scotland, these grand horses get their name from the Clyde River from which they are native.

Dating back to the eighteenth century, native mares were bred with imported Flemish stallions to build up the weight and stature of foals. This heavy-duty breed was desired for farming and hauling large loads of local commodities like coal.

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THE CLYDESDALE HORSE

Breed Profile - The Rocky Mountain Horse

The Rocky Mountain Horse is an official breed that differs from other mountain horse breeds. The short history of this rare breed is founded on a stallion named Tobe who was owned by Sam Tuttle of Sprout Springs, Kentucky. The Rocky Mountain Horse did not originate from the Rocky Mountains but Old Tobe is said to be sired from a stud from Colorado.

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THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN HORSE

Poisonous Plants to Horses

Most horses will not graze on bitter toxic plants when their grazing field has other tastier foliage to offer and because of their size, a horse would need to consume a high quantity of some toxic plants and weeds to show major ill effects on their health. There are some toxic plants that should be removed from areas that a horse has access to as these plants can lead to major illnesses and even death.

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PLANTS THAT ARE TOXIC TO HORSES

Barrel Racing - Overview & History

Barrel racing has advanced from a display event from the 1940's to the rodeo competition seen today. Early barrel racing began as a way for the rodeo queen contestants to show off their riding skills which led to small barrel racing associations to women competing in the late 1950's.

The National Barrel Horse Association was organized in 1992 and is the largest barrel racing organization in the world. The association has over 23,000 members from the United States and five other countries including Brazil, Canada, France, Italy and Panama.

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THE HISTORY OF BARREL RACING

Guide to Aquarium Fish

There are a multitude of small freshwater aquarium fish that come in a variety of colors and even shapes. Even Dr. Axelrod from "Tropical Fish Hobbyist" magazine has filled an atlas with thousands of photos of the many freshwater aquarium fish available. This guide is a starter that includes several of the more popular and the more easily available small aquarium fish for hobbyist or those just starting out.

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OVERVIEW OF FRESHWATER AQUARIUM FISH

Breed Profile - The American Quarter Horse

Known to many as the "wonder horse", the American Quarter Horse is successful in every field utilized by horsemen. Originally used as a racing horse, this horse-of-all-trades is thriving as a cow horse used on ranches, as a sport horse in barrel racing, show jumping and dressage and as a faithful companion for pleasure riding.

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OVERVIEW OF THE AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE

Best Horse Breed for Beginners

The beginner horse is not about the breed, it is about the horse and its history. Many horse breeds are described as well tempered or trustworthy but there are always exceptions to the rule. The Shetland pony has been described as an easy natured pony and wonderful for a child's first horse but even these small ponies can have bad days and the scar on my chest can attest to that fact.

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BEST BREED OF HORSE FOR BEGINNERS

Cat Breed Profile - Maine Coon

The Maine Coon Cat is considered the oldest natural breed in North America. When the first professional cat show was held in North America in 1895, the Maine Coon won Best Cat honors. The name Maine Coon Cat is a result of rumors and innuendo that this breed is the result of feral domestic cats and raccoons mating, which is genetically not possible. The closest explanation of their being that could be true is the Maine Coon is the result of shorthaired cats brought to America mating with Angoras or Persians brought to America in the 1800's.

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MAINE COON CAT

Major Feline Diseases - Symptoms & Treatments

It can be heartbreaking when an owner is told that their pet has a disease which is life threatening. While some ailments are treatable, more serious diseases can mean the loss of a life-long companion. Just like with their human counterparts, cats can contract diseases and some can even be prevented with vaccines.

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FELINE DISEASE

Growth Stages of Kittens

Just like with human babies, kitten development can vary from one infant to the other. At birth, a kitten is unable to see or hear and only weighs about three ounces but they are able to smell and touch. It doesn't take a newborn kitten very long to learn how to make enough noise to attract their mother.

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KITTEN DEVELOPMENT

Cat Breed Profile - Persian

The Persian is one of the most striking breeds of cat to own or just to observe. When draped at their favorite lounging spot, they add calmness and beauty to their surroundings. This breed has been stereotyped as a pampered aristocrat with their luxurious fur and nonchalant facial expressions. Known as the Longhair in Britain, European records date back to the early 1500's and they were referred to as Angoras. Some records note them as being French cats because of how they made their way to England from France.

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PERSIAN CATS - HISTORY AND CARE

Website Review - Saltwaterfish.com

Saltwaterfish.com welcomes you to a vibrant home page that is well laid out for navigation. This website offers hundreds of salt water and aquarium species that can be purchased by the public. The company has gone above just offering fish to adorn beautiful aquariums but also provides eels, hermit crab shells, seahorses, and hundreds of other aquarium supplies including vitamins, books, filters and of course, food.

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REVIEW OF SALTWATERFISH.COM WEBSITE

Cat Food Reviews - Breeder's Choice

Breeder's Choice has been providing pet foods for our dogs and cats for 60 years. The company is a third-generation, family-operated business that offers high-quality, natural pet foods.

In 1982, the company started producing a line called AvoDerm. This product is one of the industry's best selling products and the line has since extended to include treats and grooming products. The AvoDerm Natural cat food is made with California avocados and helps promote healthy skin and a beautiful coat. The company believes the avocado which is rich in vitamins and nutrients, works to promote overall health in your pet on the outside as well as the inside.

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REVIEW OF BREEDER'S CHOICE CAT

Personality of the Orange Tabby Cat

Popularized by Morris from the 9-Lives commercials and the ever so comical Garfield, orange tabby cats are not considered a breed but are just a colorization of the tabby cat. But don't tell this to fanciers who love their "orangies" which includes me.

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PERSONALITY TRAITS OF THE ORANGE TABBY CAT

Animal Poison Control Treatments & Prevention

Our environment is surrounded with a variety of poisonous and toxic substances, not just poisonous to us but our pets as well. Most pets are curious and tend to put things in their mouth much like a toddler does when exploring the world around them.

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TREATMENT AND PREVENTION OF ANIMAL POISONINGS

Fly Strike - Myasis - Symptoms & Treatments

Fly strike, fly blown, blowfly strike-these are all common names for the condition known as Myasis. Fly strike is an infestation of fly larvae (maggots) on areas of an animal including the skin and in the body cavities. More common during the warmer months, flies will lay their eggs in dying tissue or near the rear end where urine and feces are located. It is the same concept where we have seen fly larvae feeding on a dead carcass only the larvae are feeding and growing in a live animal.

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SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENTS FOR MYASIS

Free or Low-Cost Pet Spaying & Neutering

Finding a group, business or organization that will spay or neuter your animal for free is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Your options may only consist of acquiring a pet that has already been spayed or neutered or find low-cost services. But when adopting a pet from a shelter that has already been spayed or neutered, there are still the adoption fees so the service isn't actually free. This isn't to say that there are not free services available but it will take some searching and time to find these services in your area. Many of the free programs are only offered to low-income families or just to those who own cats.

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FINDING FREE AND LOW-COST SPAYING & NEUTERING SERVICES

Tyzzer's Disease - Symptoms & Treatments

Tyzzer's disease can affect a wide variety of animals and has been recorded in countries worldwide. The spores from these bacteria alone can survive for years in our environment. This deadly bacterial infection is highly contagious and has killed off colonies of muskrats in the United States and Canada. Tyzzer's disease primarily affects animals that are young, stressed, overcrowded, living in humid climates, infected with parasites, malnourished, living in poor conditions or a combination of these factors.

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TYZZER'S DISEASE

Dog Breed - Black Mouth Cur

Anyone who has watched and maybe even shed a few tears to the movie "Old Yeller" has seen what the Black Mouth Cur is all about. The movie truly depicts the personality and strength of this intelligent dog. The Cur is an all-purpose dog that has shown its ability not only while herding and hunting but also as a loyal companion to their human family. The Cur is a mix of different breeds that were bred to fit the needs of the regions and functions that were required of the dog.

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HISTORY OF THE BLACK MOUTH CUR DOG

How to Cut a Poodle's Hair

The Poodle has many attributes that make it one of the most popular breeds of dogs owned. One of these attributes is the Poodle's glorious coat. The colors can range from black to white with shades in between and grow up to eight inches in length. The technique used for cutting or clipping a Poodle's hair is basically the same as any other long-haired breed, it is the different styles that the Poodle can model that make the breed ever so popular at the local groomers.

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HOW TO CUT A POODLE'S HAIR

Poodle Grooming

Dog grooming was all the rave during the 19th Century and the Poodle was the most popular breed of dog pampered and groomed. The first recorded grooming parlors were founded in France and the Poodle became the national dog of France under the First Republic. Due to its popularity, the breed soon became known as the French Poodle and not very long after, became the most popular breed in North America.

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POODLE GROOMING

Vitamin Supplements for Pets

Individuals who follow a well-balanced, healthy diet normally would not need vitamin supplements. The same applies to our pets. But how do you know if your pet is getting the nutrition it needs? Simple, you don't. Even all natural, top-quality commercial pet foods may lack important nutrients that your pet needs to stay healthy. The American Medical Association recommends that everyone should take a multi-vitamin every day because most individuals do not get the vitamins and nutrients they need from the foods they are consuming. Why should it be any different for our four-legged companions?

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VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS FOR PETS

Basset Hound Grooming

The ancestral lines of the Basset Hound originated in France but this hound's elongated body, short legs, long ears and irresistible wrinkles make this breed loved by hound owners around the world. The Basset has a tough yet smooth coat, long ears and droopy eyes. All of these characteristics require special attention when grooming the Basset Hound.

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GROOMING TIPS FOR THE BASSET HOUND

Silky Terrier Grooming

The Silky Terrier is a breed that was produced by crossing Yorkshire Terriers and Australian Terriers. Developed in Australia in the 19th century, the Silky is sometimes referred to as the Sidney Terrier. The coat of the Silky is prone to tangles and matting which requires regular care and grooming. Daily care consists of combing the silky coat and trimming long hairs but regular bathing and a full groom will keep the coat of the Silky in brilliant form.

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GROOMING TIPS FOR SILKY TERRIERS

Norwegian Elkhound Grooming

The Norwegian Elkhound has been dated back to the stone age. This stocky breed was known to hunt and be faithful companions to legendary nomads. The Elkhound is a hardy breed with a beautiful stand-off coat that protects it from the elements. The most unique attribute of the Norwegian Elkhound is that it has no "doggie" odor which is one of the reasons this has become a popular breed among dog owners.

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GROOMING TIPS FOR THE NORWEGIAN ELKHOUND

Dog Mange - Symptoms & Treatments

Mange is an irritable and sometimes highly contagious skin condition caused by a tiny parasite called a mite. There are two types of mange, Sarcoptes which is caused by the sarcoptic mange mite and Demodex, caused by the demodectic or red mange mite. The skin problems associated with these mites is referred to as mange.

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TREATMENTS FOR DOG MANGE

Shetland Sheepdog Grooming

The Shetland Sheepdog is commonly known as the "Sheltie" and closely resembles the Collie. Originating from the Shetland Islands, the Sheltie is highly intelligent with a gentle nature. Their coat is long and flowing which protects them from the elements. The coat will repel rain, block the dog from the wind and insulate their body from cold weather. In order to keep this luxurious coat in beautiful condition, regular grooming will be required.

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GROOMING TIPS FOR THE SHETLAND SHEEPDOG

Doberman Pinscher Grooming

German resident Herr Louis Dobermann has been attributed to creating the intelligent and faithful companion known as the Doberman Pinscher. His employment of a tax collector and given he was responsible for stray dogs at a local dog pound, gave him a reason and a means to create a breed of dog that would be his protection from would-be robbers. His goal was to have a dog that was intelligent, intimidating but easy to maintain. This "man-made" dog became the Doberman Pinscher that is loved around the world.

The Doberman has a smooth and thick coat that lies close to the body. They are one of the easier breeds of dog to care for when grooming. The Doberman Pinscher needs bathed only when dirty or only once a month which will depend upon its lifestyle. Owners of the Doberman will tell you that a healthy Doberman rarely has a "doggy" odor if kept clean.

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GROOMING TIPS FOR DOBERMAN PINSCHERS

Pomeranian Grooming

An ancient ancestor of the Spitz breed, the Pomeranian's history can be dated back hundreds of years. Queen Victoria established her own breeding kennel in the 1800's and even Marie Antoinette and Mozart were owners of this small breed.

The Pomeranian is a very small dog with a fluffy coat and a feathered tail that distinctly fans forward over the back. The undercoat is short but thick with an outer coat that forms a stand-off of the straight hair. Because of this elegant yet full coat, the Pomeranian requires frequent brushings and sometimes more often during the shedding process which can happen one to two times yearly.

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TIPS FOR GROOMING A POMERANIAN

Canine Kennel Cough Symptoms & Treatments

Highly contagious but also preventable, kennel cough has a variety of causes. The most common cause is the parainfluenza virus working in conjunction with the bacteria known as Bordetella bronchiseptica. Dogs that congregate in large groups such as kennels, dog shows or dog shelters are prone to this ailment thus the name, kennel cough. One coughing dog can spread the virus to hundreds within a group. Dogs that are exposed to other respiratory factors such as second-hand smoke or fumes are known to be more susceptible to this disease.

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SIGNS & TREATMENTS FOR KENNEL COUGH

Caring for Baby Rabbits (Kits)

Just like human babies have special needs for survival, so do baby rabbits. These small wonders need their mother to get them through those critical first four weeks of life in order to have a fighting chance at life. The baby rabbit has minimal needs but those needs are so important for it to make it to adulthood.

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HOW TO CARE FOR BABY RABBITS

How to Litter Box Train a Rabbit

One of the greatest benefits of owning a rabbit is that this amazing animal can be litter box trained much like a cat. Many individuals looking for a house pet are unaware at how intelligent these small creatures are and that they can make wonderful companions. Litter box training a rabbit takes patience, they are much like a toddler-sometimes they catch on quick, sometimes they require a little more persistence.

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LITTER-BOX TRAINING A HOUSE RABBIT

How to Build a Nest Box for Rabbits

Rabbits can be wonderful companions to humans but just like humans, they need their privacy and space. These unique creatures not only enjoy the comfort of a small hiding place, they need a place where they can go to feel safe. Many new pet owners believe that a nest box is only for does that need a place to give birth and raise their young but these boxes play an important role for every rabbit, male and female.

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NESTING BOXES FOR RABBITS

Rabbit Grooming

Rabbit owners know that these unique creatures are magnificent self-groomers. In fact, rabbits spend many hours keeping their coat clean and healthy. However, this constant self-grooming can leave loose hairs anywhere they roam leaving a shedding problem throughout the house with indoor rabbits. Proper and regular brushing and grooming can help remedy shedding problems while creating a bond between you and your rabbit.

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RABBIT GROOMING TIPS

Plants That are Poisonous to Rabbits

Our environment is filled with poisonous substances that are dangerous to humans as well as our pets. Rabbits are notorious for nibbling on articles that aren't necessarily good for their health which includes many common plants that can potentially dangerous, even deadly. While many plants are toxic to animals, rabbits can be more susceptible as it can take the smallest amount of toxins to cause irreversible damage. There are literally hundreds of plants or portions of plants that are poisonous to rabbits but there are a few that are more common.

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TOXIC PLANTS TO RABBITS

Horse Mud Fever - Symptoms & Treatments

Mud fever is a skin condition that is not necessarily caused by mud but by a bacteria living in the mud called Dermatophilus congolensis. But it should be made clear that the bacterium isn't always found in muddy or wet areas. Although not as common, the bacteria that causes mud fever has been found in dry conditions like in Australia where the infection is commonly known as Queensland itch. The bacterium thrives in wet environments and enters the skin of the horse through cuts and abrasions.

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MUD FEVER