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Archive for January, 2008

Snakes as Pets

Tuesday, January 8th, 2008

Snakes can make fascinating and entertaining pets, but they’re not quite the ideal pet for everyone. They require special care and requirements, and should only be kept by those willing to commit to their care.

Choosing the type of snake is your first step. Some snakes are more dangerous than others, and the types of snakes range from common, harmless garter snakes to large and dangerous pythons.

It’s important to research types of snakes before making a decision. Take into consideration its special needs and requirements, as well as the danger in handling the type of snake.

Regardless of the type of snake, you will need to house it in a secure enclosure with no gaps or open areas through which the snake can escape. A glass structure, like a large fish tank may be ideal. Just be sure the lid is firmly secured and not able to be lifted easily from the inside.

Snakes do not eat vegetation, but must feed on prey. The most common food for snakes (though it does depend on the type) is mice or rats. It is actually preferable to have the prey pre-killed in order to prevent injury to the snake. A live rodent can harm a snake, so pre-killing is recommended. It may be convenient to keep a supply of frozen food for your pet snake.

Speak with the pet store or pet dealer/breeder before purchasing a snak”Snakes can make fascinating and entertaining pets, but they’re not quite the ideal pet for everyone. They require special care and requirements, and should only be kept by those willing to commit to their care.

Choosing the type of snake is your first step. Some snakes are more dangerous than others, and the types of snakes range from common, harmless garter snakes to large and dangerous pythons.

It’s important to research types of snakes before making a decision. Take into consideration its special needs and requirements, as well as the danger in handling the type of snake.

Regardless of the type of snake, you will need to house it in a secure enclosure with no gaps or open areas through which the snake can escape. A glass structure, like a large fish tank may be ideal. Just be sure the lid is firmly secured and not able to be lifted easily from the inside.

Snakes do not eat vegetation, but must feed on prey. The most common food for snakes (though it does depend on the type) is mice or rats. It is actually preferable to have the prey pre-killed in order to prevent injury to the snake. A live rodent can harm a snake, so pre-killing is recommended. It may be convenient to keep a supply of frozen food for your pet snake.

Speak with the pet store or pet dealer/breeder before purchasing a snake. If possible, the snake should have been bred in captivity. Snakes caught from the wild tend to be less tame and more prone to disease. Also, snakes caught from the wild will generally be more difficult to feed in captivity.

For new snake owners, or those who may be inexperienced with snakes, choosing the right type of snake is key. Corn snakes, king snakes or ball snakes are the best choice for new owners, as they tend to be more gentle, and their needs are not as difficult as some of the other species of snake. They are also relatively smaller than other types of snake, ranging from four to five feet in length as adults.

The life-span of snakes, especially the easier care species listed in the paragraph above, range from twenty to forty years. Snakes are not a low-maintenance pet. They require a good deal of special care, and their long life span requires an additional commitment to long term care.

As with any pet, the decision to own a pet snake should not be taken lightly. Careful research and evaluation of your commitment to taking care of the pet should be done. Snakes can make very rewarding and entertaining pets. Just be sure you’re up to the challenge.”
e. If possible, the snake should have been bred in captivity. Snakes caught from the wild tend to be less tame and more prone to disease. Also, snakes caught from the wild will generally be more difficult to feed in captivity.

For new snake owners, or those who may be inexperienced with snakes, choosing the right type of snake is key. Corn snakes, king snakes or ball snakes are the best choice for new owners, as they tend to be more gentle, and their needs are not as difficult as some of the other species of snake. They are also relatively smaller than other types of snake, ranging from four to five feet in length as adults.

The life-span of snakes, especially the easier care species listed in the paragraph above, range from twenty to forty years. Snakes are not a low-maintenance pet. They require a good deal of special care, and their long life span requires an additional commitment to long term care.

As with any pet, the decision to own a pet snake should not be taken lightly. Careful research and evaluation of your commitment to taking care of the pet should be done. Snakes can make very rewarding and entertaining pets. Just be sure you’re up to the challenge.

Advice for keeping your pet healthy

Tuesday, January 8th, 2008

People who love and care for their pets understand the pain and worry people go through if their pets get sick- it raises concerns about proper care, balanced nutrition and health. There are some good pet health indicators which a person can monitor to keep a check on good health. These indicators are easy to identify. In the case of dogs and cats look for:
Coat- shiny and full.
Digestion- regular consistent motions.
Muscle and bone- no evidence of weakness or guarding against painful movement.
Activity- high level of activity.
Teeth- no tartar formation or cavities

Taking your pet to a veterinary surgeon for a regular check up is a good idea, especially for aging animals. However, if you identify any change or irregular behaviour in your pet it is wise to get it checked over. People can worry about how to take good care of their pet, and a daily routine will help with this. Just like children, your pets need care and consideration. An example of a regular routine for dogs should include:  Toilet training (for young animals)  A long daily walk. Bathing to maintain a fresh coat and reduce strong odours. Regular brushing, dependant on the breed. Play These activities will also strengthen the bond with your animal and make it easier to examine should you have any health concerns.

An essential part of pet health is diet. Giving your animal the correct food and nutrients is fundamental to its well being. Consistency too is important, although occasional variation in meals can make food more appealing and enjoyable. Many shops offer a diverse range of pet foods to promote pet health- a couple to look out for is Hills pet food and Royal Canin as they provide for the balanced nutrition every dog needs.

It is also worth noting that many pet shops and pet supply centres stock medicines for pet prescriptions (and non-prescription pet medication). If your animal should ever be taken ill it is a comfort to know that pet meds are easily available. Online stores tend to have the largest and most varied ranges – but look out for reputable brands such as Frontline and Drontal. They also supply different foods, medicines, toys, collars, beds, bowls and grooming brushes. Everything can be ordered from the comfort of your own home, with just a few clicks of the mouse.

However, don’t rule out high street shops completely. Good pet shops are great places to share ideas and get advice, and if your pet needs a full makeover or just a bit of trimming here and there you can always take them to a pet parlour.