Rabbit Breed Profile - Britannia Petite

Britannia Petite Characteristics and History

The Britannia Petite is believed to originate from wild rabbits which may explain this small rabbit's bad reputation of being quite lively. This breed is not typically recommended as a pet to inexperienced rabbit owners as they require a lot of patience and handling. This little handful has loads of energy that requires a great deal of time and training by a dedicated owner.


FULL ARTICLE:
Britannia Petite

Hutch Burn Treatments for Rabbits

Hutch burn can sometimes be mistaken for treponematosis which forms lesions in the genital area. Treponematosis is caused by the bacteria Treponema paraluis cuniculi (T cuniculi) which is related to Treponema pallidum, the cause of syphilis in humans. However, treponematosis is not transferable to other animals including humans. This disease resembles hutch burn as it also forms sores in the genital and rectal area that can scab over. A veterinarian can perform tests to diagnose if a rabbit is suffering from treponematosis.

FULL ARTICLE:
Hutch Burn in Rabbits

Pregnancy Toxemia in Rabbits

Pregnancy Toxemia in Rabbits - Facts, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

The prognosis for pregnancy toxemia in rabbits is usually slim to none as death can occur within hours of the onset of the disease. However, if caught in the early stages, a veterinarian can administer IV fluids and dextrose. Supportive care which includes the intravenous fluids and keeping the doe warm may help her become stable enough to survive although owners should be aware that survival rates of this disease are quite low.

FULL ARTICLE:
PREGNANCY TOXEMIA

Rabbit Breed Profile - American Sable

American Sable Rabbit Breed History and Facts

The American Sable is known for its docile temperament. Even though this is a larger breed, the Sable makes an amazing pet and is quite easy to handle. Once bred for its fur and meat, the American Sable has made a tremendous comeback over the last 30 years. Due to determined breeders who refused to let this breed die out, future generations can still appreciate the American Sable not only in the show ring but as a loving companion.

FULL ARTICLE:
AMERICAN SABLE

The Badger

Badger Facts

Taxadea Taxus or the American badger has the reputation of being the least social of the badger family. The Eurasian badgers that are found across Europe and Asia will share territories and even their home with other animals. The home of these burrowing animals is known as a sett. A sett is made up of underground tunnels with one found that was over one thousand feet long and could have possibly been more than 100 years old.

FULL ARTICLE:
THE BADGER

The Mongoose

Mongoose Facts

The mongoose is a carnivore and has been introduced to different locations to control rodent populations. However, some areas such as the St. John Islands found that the mongoose was unable to get to the rats that lived in the trees during the day. The mongoose species that were introduced to this area didn't climb the trees and would sleep when the rats foraged on sugarcane plantations at night. The introduction of the mongoose to certain areas like Hawaii has threatened native species especially bird populations.


FULL ARTICLE
THE MONGOOSE

Warbles in Rabbits - Causes and Treatment

Rabbit owners who suspect their rabbit has been invaded by the Cuterebra fly larvae should not try to remove the larva. The sac in which the larva is confined is filled with deadly toxins that if ruptured, can transfer into the rabbit's system leading to severe illness and even death. The warble will need to be removed by an experienced veterinarian who may anesthetize the rabbit before the procedure.

WARBLES

Rabbit Breed Profile - Thuringer

Thuringer History and Facts

The Thuringer is referred to as the "Chamois de Thuringe" in France as the color resembles that of the Chamois antelope. Considered a dual purpose rabbit, this magnificent rabbit is commonly used in fur production. The color is a yellow-ochre with guard hairs that are bluish-black. The very dense coat of this breed is luxurious and has a silky texture. The color shade of the stomach is charcoal which extends to the nose, ears, chest, lower portion of the shoulders, flanks, bottom, tail, and legs. This shading is more predominate on the face area and fades towards the rear of the body.

FULL ARTICLE:
THURINGER

Rabbit Breed Profile - Rhinelander

Rhinelander Rabbit History and Facts

The beginnings of this breed have a vast history with the first of the Rhinelanders being exhibited at a show in 1902. Developed by Josef Heintz in North Rhine-Westphalia, this breed was given the name "Rheinische Schecke" and became a recognized German breed in 1905. The Rhinelander rabbit became a success among exhibiters and breeders with Grand Prize at Germany's Drachenfels Exhibition going to this breed in the early 1920s.

FULL ARTICLE:
RHINELANDER

Duroc Pig - History and Facts

The development of what we know as the Duroc today comes from the breeding of the Jersey Red of New Jersey and the Duroc breed originating from New York. The red hogs known as Jersey Reds are the development of Clark Petit. These hogs were known for their huge size but were long and lacked quality bone structure. The Duroc breed began by Isaac Frink when he purchased some red hogs from Harry Kelsey. Mr. Kelsey was also the owner of Duroc, a famous Thoroughbred stallion. Mr. Frink gave the red hogs the breed name "Durocs" after this famous stallion, making the Duroc the only swine breed named after a horse.

FULL ARTICLE:
Duroc Pig Breed

Eye Problems in Goats

Owners who suspect an eye problem should seek veterinarian treatment for their goat. When these diseases are left untreated, the goat can suffer life-long disorders and perhaps cut short the goat's lifespan.

FULL ARTICLE:
Common Eye Problems in Goats

Adrenal Disease in Ferrets

Pet owners should seek veterinarian care at the first sign of hair loss with their ferret. A common misconception is that adrenal disease only causes minor cosmetic problems such as hair loss. The symptoms can progress leading to a poor quality of life for the ferret and even worse, can be fatal. With proper treatment, a ferret with adrenal disease should re-grow their coat and will have no long-term effects on their quality of life.

FULL ARTICLE
Adrenal Disease in Ferrets

Ferret Dental Care

Ferrets should have a yearly visit with a veterinarian and more often as the ferret ages. A prophylaxis session usually takes less than 30 minutes depending upon the amount of build-up. Ferrets that have been diagnosed with dental disease should be seen by a veterinarian at least twice a year or as recommended by the vet. A happy and health ferret is one that receives proper care which includes regular maintenance of the teeth, gums, and mouth.

FULL ARTICLE:
Ferret Dental Care

Ferret External Parasites - Fleas, Ticks, Mites

If one ferret has external parasites, chances are that every pet in the home will have the parasites. Every pet should be treated to prevent these pests from returning with prevention being the most important factor in avoiding an infestation. Groom your ferret often using a flea comb to remove any parasites that your ferret may have come in contact with. Use a monthly topical medication prescribed by a veterinarian and keep the ferret's environment clean.

FULL ARTICLE:
Ferrets-Treatments for Fleas, Ticks & Mites

Ferret Characteristics

Facts of the Ferret

Domesticated ferrets cannot survive in the wild. The Black-Footed ferrets which are known to live in the wild in certain parts of the United States are extremely endangered. The ferrets we see today in homes and pet stores are quite different from the wild ferret. Many researchers believe that the domesticated ferrets owned today descended from polecats rather than from wild ferrets like the Black-Footed ferret.


FULL ARTICLE:
Characteristics of the Ferret

Care for the Older Ferret

Because older ferrets are prone to more diseases and disorders, owners should seek veterinarian care anytime they suspect a problem. However, owners should have regular vet check-ups for their ferrets especially after the age of 3. Hair loss, diarrhea, skin changes, scratching, and growths are all special concerns that should be seen by an experienced ferret vet. After a ferret has provided years of wonderful companionship to their owners, it is only fitting that the owner provides the best care possible during the ferret's final years.

FULL ARTICLE:
Geriatric Ferret Care

Abscess in Goats - Signs, Causes, & Treatments

Owners should examine their goats on a regular basis, checking for anything out of the ordinary including abscesses. Any goat found with an abscess should be quarantined from other animals until the lesion is fully healed. Any items used on a goat including needles, hoof trimmers, and ear taggers should be sterilized before using on another animal to prevent cross contamination.

FULL ARTICLE:
Abscess in Goats

Rabbit First-Aid Kit

A rabbit first-aid kit should contain those items that may be needed in an emergency. When a rabbit becomes injured, there isn't time to be searching throughout the house to find the items that could possibly prevent an emergency trip to the veterinarian's office. Keep first-aid items in one container such as a tackle box, craft box, or even a shoe box. Store the first-aid kit in an easy to remember place that is easily accessible at a moment's notice.

FULL ARTICLE:
First-Aid Kit for Rabbits

Wildlife of Lake Okeechobee

The more common wildlife to be seen around the lake include the abundance of snakes, both venomous and non-venomous, and their prey, the field rats. Raccoons, opossums, and a variety of turtles including the soft-shell turtle are all familiar wildlife that rely on the lake for survival. Whether visiting Lake Okeechobee for the fishing or just to take in the scenery, remember to bring a camera as there is always some type of wildlife lurking around this magnificent body of water.

FULL ARTICLE:
Lake Okeechobee Wildlife

Plants & Weeds Safe for Goats to Eat

Although you don't want a goat to consume large amounts of poisonous weeds, there are some plants and weeds that are beneficial to a goat's diet.

FULL ARTICLE:
Goat Safe Plants and Weeds

Free and Homemade Ferret Toys

Ferret toys shouldn't have to break the bank. Whether they are items destined for the recycling bin or made by your own hands, your ferret will never know nor care about the cost. A pet ferret only enjoys the search of new and interesting objects to add to their ever expanding stash. It is important that any toy given to a ferret should be ferret-proofed. Small pieces like eyes on stuffed animals should be removed before a ferret is allowed to tote the toy away. Treat ferret toys as you would a child's toy, safety first.


FULL ARTICLE:
FERRET TOYS

Saanen Goat Breed Facts

The Saanens are heavy milk producers, producing on average 1,900 pounds over a 305 day cycle with an Australian Saanen having produced a world record amount of 7,714 pounds over a 365 day period. Each year, this dairy goat averages 3.5 percent butterfat. For years, the Saanens were bred in Switzerland for odor-free goat's milk which is a unique quality over other dairy goat breeds.

FULL ARTICLE:
Saanen Goat Facts

LaMancha Goat Breed Facts

The LaMancha notable for the size of its ears is considered the only American dairy goat. The high amount of milk that this goat produces is desirable because of the high butterfat content in the milk. On average, this breed can produce over 2000 pounds of milk with 3.9 percent butterfat content, and 3.1 percent protein. Breeders describe the LaMancha as a dependable dairy goat that can be milked for two years without rebreeding.

FULL ARTICLE:
LaMancha Goat Facts

Mastitis in Goats

A veterinarian should be consulted any time a goat is showing symptoms of mastitis. Testing should be done not only to confirm mastitis but also the bacteria that have caused the disorder. Home tests are also available such as the California mastitis test (CMT). However, these tests are more reliable for ruling out mastitis rather than diagnosing the disease.

FULL ARTICLE:
Goat Mastitis Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis Virus (CAEV or CAE)

Caprine arthritis encephalitis is an infection found in goats that can lead to joint disease but has also been known to cause encephalitis in kid goats. Swelling of the knee joints is usually the first sign that a goat may be infected with the virus. As the disease worsens, the lungs can become congested and the goat's health will begin to deteriorate. A goat with CAE may contract pneumonia, develop mastitis and lose weight while goat kids may experience paralysis in the hind legs that can progress to the front limbs. Kid goats that have been infected will typically show clinical signs of the disease before the age of 6 months.

FULL ARTCLE ON CAE IN GOATS
CAE in Goats

Facts of the Bandicoot

The bandicoot has many similarities with the rat species however it is quite different. Bandicoots are marsupials and raise their young much like the kangaroo. The pouch where the young suckle commonly opens towards the front on most marsupials including the kangaroo. However, the pouch on the bandicoot opens towards the rear to prevent dirt from entering the pouch, which is also a trait of the koala. A mother bandicoot has eight teats but litters typically will consist of only four young. Because the bandicoot can have another litter before one litter is weaned, the extra teats are needed to care for both litters at once.


FULL ARTICLE:
The Bandicoot

Pudu - Smallest Deer Species

Southern Pudu is found roaming wild in different parts of Chile and Argentina while the Northern Pudu travels areas of Ecuador and Peru. The Pudu are solitary for the most part and are seen throughout these regions during the day and night time hours. These diminutive deer forage on vegetation such as grasses and vines but are known to rise on their hind legs to reach food that is unreachable due to their short stature. Pudu get most of their water from the foods they consume and will go for extended periods of time without drinking water.

Full Article:
The Pudu

Guide to Fish Species in Lake Okeechobee

Bass, Specks, and Shell Crackers are all well known sport fish of Lake Okeechobee.

FULL ARTICLE:
Lake Okeechobee Fish Species

Diarrhea in Rabbits - Causes and Treatments

Rabbits that are experiencing bouts of diarrhea from their diet normally don't require treatment unless the diarrhea doesn't dissipate. It is important to offer plenty of fresh water as diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Because diarrhea is a sign of a more serious and sometimes life-threatening issue, rabbit owners should seek veterinarian care for their rabbit.

FULL ARTICLE
The Seriousness of Diarrhea in Rabbits

The Hedgehog

The name "hedgehog" derives from this animal's foraging capabilities which include rooting like a pig through thick underbrush or hedges. While searching out a meal which includes small insects, snails, and even mice, the hedgehog will make a grunting noise similar to that of a pig.

Full Article:
The World of the Hedgehog

Rabbit Fur Mites - Signs and Treatments

Fur mites are not as severe as those that cause mange or ear canker but can lead to skin discomfort and infestations. Owners who suspect that their rabbit may have mites should seek veterinarian care to find out which mite is infecting the rabbit. Once the parasite has been diagnosed, work with the vet towards the best and safest treatment options for the rabbit.

FULL ARTICLE:

RABBIT FUR MITES

The Florida Key Deer

As human populations continue to develop the environment that the Key deer are known to inhabit, the deer populations will continue to be endangered. Tourists visiting the islands should not try to feed the deer and only revel at their beauty from afar. Refuge areas have been created to help save the Key deer from extinction. However, educating the public including future generations is important to the survival of the remaining Key deer left in the wild.

FULL ARTICLE:

FLORIDA KEY DEER

Characteristics of the Hog Deer

Hog deer are not considered an endangered species however; populations have decreased over the last 20 years due to land development and over-hunting. Populations that were found in the southern Yunnan Province are reportedly on the verge of extinction. This interesting species of deer can live up to 20 years in the wild under the right conditions with some researchers concerned about the future populations of the species in the wild. Conservation of the Hog deer's habitat and public education are important for the survival of this truly unique deer.

FULL ARTICLE:

HOG DEER