Pets Make Bad Gifts

Pets Make Bad Gifts

There are many people who think that giving someone a pet as a gift is a good idea, well since the holiday season is upon us, I thought I'd share why giving pets as gifts can be a terrible idea. One that just may backfire tremendously.

First off, you don't know if the person really wants the pet, and if the person does, what if you get the wrong color, breed, etc.

There are just so many reasons as to why pets make bad gifts, but you can always give gift cards and homemade coupons as to you get a guinea pig of your choice, or whatever...

The Best Pets to Own in an Apartment

If you live in an apartment and you're a pet lover, you want to make sure that you check all of your lease agreement before you bring home a new pet. If you know for an absolute fact that you can have pets in your apartment complex, you'll want to ma sure that you abide by whatever rules that are set by the apartment complex. You will also want to make sure that you pick a pet that can live happily in an apartment.

The Best Pets to Own in an Apartment

There are so many dogs that can live in an apartment, as well as fish, pocket pets, reptiles, cats, and more, but you just want to make sure that you pick an animal that can and will be happy in a small space.

For example, you don't want to pick a hyperactive larger dog to squeeze into your apartment. But, that doesn't mean to discount large dogs, just make sure that the breed or mix-breed has traits that qualify for small living spaces and low key temperaments.

Feline Leukemia

Feline Leukemia is a very serious disorder that you want to make sure to prevent in your beloved pet cats. It is a highly preventable disorder if you are familiar with it, but not many people are.

What is Feline Leukemia? What are the Signs and is There Treatment?

If you have pet cats or you are thinking about getting one, make sure that you are aware of the signs of feline leukemia and that you have your cat tested for feline leukemia virus.

Leopard Gecko Dropped His Tail

Leopard geckos have a nice defense mechanism that allows them to drop their tails if they feel threatened. In the wild they drop the tail, which in turn moves and jumps around to trick their predator into grabbing the tail while the gecko scoots away.

Treating a Leopard Gecko Dropped Tail

In captivity, there typically isn't that much fear of predators except for the occassional cat that can get in the cage or escapee gecko, but even still it happens. Although, the tail does grow back, it isn't as lovely as the original tail, which is why you must do your best to prevent a tail drop, but sometimes it happens.

Dog Chocolate Poisoning

We have all heard that dogs should not eat chocolate, but why? I mean, my dog ate a half a bag of Dove dark chocolates, and she didn't die, so it's ok right? Wrong!

Dogs and Chocolate Poisoning

Dogs really should not have ANY chocolate, but not because it will automatically kill them. Dogs can have a small piece every now and then, although it's really not recommended and you really shouldn't do it. I mean you really don't know how your dog's body will react because some dogs are highly allergic to chocolate, whereas others aren't.

Dog Bed

There are many different types of dog beds that you may want to purchase for your favorite dog. And sometimes depending on your dog's needs, there are some dog beds that may better suit your dog.

Choosing a Dog Bed

For example, older dogs usually do better with raised dog beds and heated dog beds, whereas a puppy will be fine with just about anything plush and comfy.

There are many different types of dog beds that you can consider ranging from dog couches, dog pillows, crate mats, and more.

I just suggest that you find something that has a removeable cover for easy cleaning.

Homemade Crested Gecko Diet

Homemade Crested Gecko Diet

Although, the best thing that you can ever feed your crested gecko is the meal replacement- Crested Gecko Diet- you can offer a homemade treat that your geckos will love. You want to avoid baby food at all costs, it's nothing but sugar for them and no real nutritional value. Remember that it is formulated for human children and not reptiles. But, you can offer a fresh fruit smoothie blended with calcium and vitamins. You geckos will love this treat and they will thank your for it.

Mix or Pure Bred Dog?

There are pros and cons for getting a mix breed just like there is for getting a pure breed dog. It is up to you to look at and figure out which will be best for you.

Some of the basic information can be found here:

Should I Get a Mix-Breed or Pure Breed Dog?

But in general, it will be up to you to decide what kind of do will be best for you and your household.

Dog Seizures

Dog Seizures- Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, & More

If your dog has had a seizure in the past, and you are worried that your dog may have a reoccurance you should really talk to your vet. The below link will give you a great start as to finding out information for what causes the seizures, how a vet can diagnose the seizures, and options for treatment. This is a great source of information to get you started. You'll find natural and chemical treatments for dogt seizures, ad well as other information that is vital to helping you and your dog with his seizures.

Great Dog Books to Buy

If you have a dog or you are thinking about getting a dog, the following books are great training aids and health resources for you to consider. Personally, I have them all, hence the review that I wrote one each. I find that each of the books have concepts that I don't necessarily agree with to the extreme in the book, but at the same time I agree with a lot of what is written.

These four books have great advice that you can implement with your own dog in hopes of correcting the little things and behavior kinks. Check out the reviews and decide if the books are really for you or not.

Dog Health Book Review: Hound Health Handbook

Dog Training Book Review: Click & Easy- Clicker Training for Dogs

Dog Training Book Review: Hip Ideas for Hyper Dogs

Dog Training Book Review: The Culture Clash

Cheap Hamster Cages

Being such a small pet, hamsters can get expensive with the cages and accessories, but you don't always have to purchase the most expensive and the biggest. But, then again, you can. You just don't have to always have to spend the top dollar.

Below is a link for cheap hamster cages and hamster cage accessories that you can purchase. You can also find more cages available on this page.

Cheap Hamster Cages and Accessories

Caring for Russian Tortoise

Tortoises are a different type of pet, even for the reptilian family. They are very different. Some species will litterally eat you out of house and home if you are not ready. The Russian Tortoise is one of the smaller pet tortoises, but that doesn't mean that they can be neglected in terms of care of diet. If you want to get a tortoise, much less a Russian tortoise, you want to check out the following link for a basic caresheet for Russian tortoises.

Caring for and Feeding a Russian Tortoise

Mix Breed or Pure Breed

When thinking about bringing a dog into your home, you may be wondering which is better- a mix breed dog or a pure bred dog. Well, there are pros and cons with both. I mean a mix breed dog are hard to pre-determine the dogs disposition in terms of bree, but at the same time pure bred dogs can have more health problems and a shorter lifespan.

So, when picking a dog, it will be up to you to weigh the pros and cons for both and then make your final decision...

Check out the following link for more pros and cons for mix breed dogs and pure breed dogs.

Should I Get a Mix-Breed or Pure Breed Dog?

Dog Food Company Makes Condiments

When looking up Paris topics for the HubLove contest at HubPages, I found this interesting article about how a dog food company in Paris has created this dog condiment. It's rather interesting. It looks and sounds better than the piss-poor dog food sauces that I've seen on the market today. I've tried the American made dog food toppings, and my dogs refused to eat their dog food.

This topping is supposed to be nutritional and dog approved.

You may want to check it out if you have a finicky eater or if you just want to ensure that your dog is getting all his vitamins and minerals.

The below link provides two links where you can purchase the dog food topping. It seems to be on average 8.99 per 14 ounce bottle.

Paris Dog Food Company Makes Condiments

Grooming Pet Cats

Grooming Pet Cats

It is very important that you properly groom your cat, especially if it is a medium or long haird variety. You want to make sure hat the cat's teeth are clean and it is free of matts.

Elderly and Obese Dogs

Two common concerns with dogs are elderly dogs and overweight dogs. Although you can't really help your dog aging, you can prevent obesity.

With elderly dogs, you want to make sure that you change your dog's food to a senior dog food, and you have your vet do regular checkups just to make sure that your aging pup is in good health.

For overweight dogs, you want to consult your vet to find a diet plan for your dog. You want to avoid all tablescraps and limit treats as much as you can. Obesity can lead to other health issues, so you want to prevent an overweight dog before it is too late.

For more information check out the following:

Caring for an Elderly and Aging Dog

Dog Obesity Prevention and Health Risks

Freshwater Fish Tank

If you are goign to start up a freshwater tank, you want to make sure that you have the tank properly set up beforey ou start adding the fish.

It's very important to know how to set up a freshwater fish tank, and what fish will get along in a freshwater fish tank.

Basic Freshwater Aquarium Setup Tips

List of Tropical Fish for Freshwater Aquariums

Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworms

So it's been a while since my last post, so I'm combining to very health subjects that any pet owner should be aware of- fleas/ticks and heartworms.

You should make sure that you apply a flea and tick preventative for your dog in order to prevetn your dog from being infested from fleas, and you shold provide your dog with monthly heartworm prevention. Below you will find the links for more information about comparing the different flea and tick preventions and information about heartworm disease (symptoms, treatment, and prevention).

Canine Heartworms and Heartworm Prevention for Dogs

Frontline, Advantage, Advantix, and Other Flea and Tick Control for Dogs

Underground Pet Fences

Typically used to keep dogs inside your yard, underground pet fences are a great option for those people want to section of parts of their yard so that the dog cannot pass. It's also a great option for those pet lovers who cannot have a backyard fence due to neighborhood regulations.

Underground Pet Fence

The one thing that you want to remember is that although the underground and wireless pet fences keep your dog in the yard, they won't keep dogs out of your yard. So, if you have an un-altered pet, you'll want to avoid putting it in the backyard, so that you don't end up with a litter of your own.



Typically the only thing that will keep other dogs out of your yard is a physical fence.

Dog Collars

It's very important that you have a dog collar that fits. If the dog collar doesn't fit, then your pup can get away from you when on walks.

The collar needs to leave only 2 fingers width between the neck and inside of the collar. If the collar is too large, then your dog can slip out, but if it's too small, he may have trouble breathing.

Choosing a Dog Collar

There are many types of dog collars that you can choose from, ranging from nylon collars to leather collars. You'll find reflective materials and spikes. Youll even find high fashion collars and accessories from brands like Coach and Burberry.

Other types of collars are training collars which include, martingale collars, pinch collars, choke collars, and gentle leaders.

Coach Dog Supplies

The famous Coach brand, has diverged into dog supplies. You'll find leather collars and leashes, dog coats, and dog carriers. These Coach dog supplies come in your favorite Coach Classic designs and are well-crafted and manufactured to hold up to Coach standards.

Coach Dog Supplies & Accessories

You can find decently priced Coach accessories on the link above, as you don't have to spend a fortune to style your dog to your preferences and tastes.

Dog Chew Deterrents

For a dog or puppy who has a favorite object that he liks to chew on,you may want to consider a chew deterrent, especially if it's your new shoes furniture. BUt you need to remember that these taste deterrent sprays are not an end-all solution. You still need to spend the time to train your dog.

Dog Chew Deterrent Sprays

Make sure to supply plenty of toys that your dog can chew on, as boredom is a major component to destructive chewing.

Dog Birthday Parties

When it's your dog's birthday, especially if it's his first birthday, you may want to throw him a birthday party. It's actually all the rage now days. You invite some of your closest friends and family with their pets, back a dog birthday cake, and have dog party favors. It's a cute idea for a nice weekend afternoon.

Make Dinner and Dessert for Your Dog's Birthday

You may even want to make a whole dinner. Who know. I mean the options are pretty much unlimited and up to you.

Choosing a Pit Bull Puppy

When choosing a puppy, you want to take into various traits and characteristics so that you pick the right one for your family. But, there are other characteristics that you'll want to consider when picking a puppy from a breeder. Although, I have stated picking a Pit Bull puppy, you can really use the following tips and tricks to choosing any puppy of any breed.

Tip for Choosing a Pit Bull Puppy

When picking a puppy, you want to talk with the breeder, if you're buying from a breeder, otherwise talk with the shelter representative who has the most interaction with the puppies. I mean it doesn't make sense to talk to the clerk or the cat person when you're interested in a puppy.

But, anyway, you want to ask questions about the health of the pups, general temperament, and if you're not 100% comfortable, you'll want to ask for references.

Game Pit Bull

What is a Game Pit Bull?

Gameness is typically the will and determination of a dog to complete a task under immense pain and stress. No other dog breed has been bred for this, except "pit bull" type dogs. Yes, there are other breeds that have shear determination and will, but not to complete a task under immense pain or stress.

One can argue this point to no end, but I'm sorry, a rottweiler is not game, neither is a Doberman, or a Chihuahua.

Puppy Vaccinations

Pet vaccinations are very important to keeping a healthy pet, of course among other things, but definitely keep in mind that regular vaccinations can prevent a load of illnesses and diseases.

When thinking about gettting a new puppy, you want to consider whether you have the money to not only pay for food but vet care.

Schedule of Puppy Vaccinations and Common Diseases

There's a basic list of core vaccinations that your puppy needs, but you may also want to consider teh extra vaccinations that can prevent lyme disease, Para-Influenza, kennel cough, and Leptospirosis, as depending on where you live, your puppy may be succeptible to these illnesses.

How Do Puppies Learn?

When training a new puppy, you should understand how puppies learn in order to have successful training sessions.

* You want to make each session as pleasant and positive as you can.
* Repeat exercises, as the more you repeat, the more reliant you pup will be at the command.

How Do Puppies Learn?

The characteristics of how puppies learn is also pretty accurate for training older dogs, as well. I mean a canine is a canine, the difference being that puppies are typically more hyper. It can also take puppiese a little longer to catch on to new commands, but of course the all depends on your training method and how often you train.

Adopting a Dog

There are so many reasons why you should adopt a dog or puppy in to your life, but in the end, it's ultimately up to you to decide what's going to be right for your household.

Why Should You Adopt a Dog

Before you adopt a dog, you want to make sure that everyone in the house is prepared to take on the responsibility. You also want to make sure that you understand that you really can find a good dog at a shelter. Animals that you find at animal shelters are not all bad dogs; some are left behind when a family moves or when someone just can't take care of them anymore.

There are so many bad stories that you may hear about adopting a pet, but if you know what you're looking for and how to train the dog, you should be fine.

Don't be afraid of talking to the employees and volunteers at the animal shelter, as they can give you more insight to the dog's personality and characteristics.

Save a life and adopt a pet today

Dog Grooming Tips and Dog Grooming Supplies

Grooming your dog is just as important as watching what he eats. You want to make sure that you have a steady and regular grooming routine so to prevent any ailments caused by poor grooming habits. IE daily teeth brushing to prevent dental disease and regular nail trims to prevent painful and uncomfortable gait.

Dog Brushes and Combs

Dog Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Brushing Your Dog's Teeth

Choosing a Dog Shampoo

Dog Nail Clippers and Trimming Your Dog's Nails

Electric Dog Razors

Potty Training a Puppy

House training a puppy, can be a daunting task. It takes patience and determination... You want to be strong and consistent.

Ok,ok that's enough, but it can be a big task when successfully housetraining a puppy, or older dog. But, that doesn't mean it's impossible.

How to House Train Your Puppy

You want to make sure that you're consistent by setting up schedules. You want your puppy on a feeding schedule, play schedule, training, and pottying.

The next step to successful house training is to find the best method for your dog. Some dogs fair better with other methods than other dogs. I will mention that crate training is a very effective and sucessful means of potty training your dog.

Dog Breed Characteristics

The AKC is probably the kennel club that sets the stage for dog groups and breed charactersitics. They are the dog registry that seems to have the most info and background about breeds that they register.

Well, when training your dog or leaning up on characteristics for a certain breed, you'll want to check out the characteristics for the breed group, not just the breed.

It will definitely help out when searching for the best method of training, and it will help out when trying to uncover why your dog does the things that he does.

If you're really interested in figuring out your dog and his behaviors, check out the following link. I really think that it will help.

Breed Characteristics for the AKC Dog Groups

Choosing a Dog Crate

Crate training is the safest means of house training that you can implement with your new dog or puppy. You just want to make sure that you have the cage appropriately sized for your dog. A cage too small will be cramped and uncomfortable and a cage too large will defeat your ousetraining efforts.

You also want to make sure that you get a cage that is going to be appropriate for your dog. Some dogs do better in plastic travel crates, whereas other dogs may do better in wire crates.

For more information about choosing a dog kennel, check out
How to Choose a Dog Crate

Puppy Temperament Tests

When you're at the breeder's house or at the shelter, you are looking for the perfect dog for you and your family. You want to ensure that you get the right dog for your personality and lifestyle.

By doing this you may want to implement some of the temperament tests that determine dominance, submissiveness, prey drive, and other aspects of a dog's temperament and personality.

Sometimes the shelter or breeder will be able to tell you the basics of a dog's personality before you actually take the dog home, but you want to understand how this works, and how to do it for yourself.

These tests prevent dogs from being returned to the shelter or breeder becuase he jsut didn't fit. It's just not fair... You want the transition for hte dog or puppy to be smooth and long-lasting. Not temporary.

So anyway, check out the following temperament tests.

Puppy Temperament Tests

Breeding Corn Snakes

When breeding any snake, you need to make sure that the snake is healthy and has absolutely no health concerns, as brumation and breeding will make any health concerns worse. You want to make sure that the snake is of proper weight, as females will loose weight while breeding and egg laying.

Before you actually introduce the male and female snakes, make sure that you have all the proper materials for egg incubation and hatchling care. You don't want to get surprised with an early clutch and not have the incubator ready.

For more information, check out:
Breeding Corn Snakes

Help Caring for Pet Reptiles

Reptiles make great pets, so if you've decided that you want a pet reptile or you want to get your child a pet reptile, then you wantto do all the research you can before you actually bring home the new pet.

You don't want to get stuck with Tokay Gecko if you want a pet you can handle, as the majority of Tokays are very aggressive. And, you don't want to bring home an Emeral Tree Boa, if you want a pet for your 5 year old, as they too can be aggressive.

By doing your research first, will prevent you from taking your child's pet back to the pet store. It will also prevent the pet from being neglected because it just wasn't the right pet, but you don't want to give it up.

For more information, I advise the following link,
Help Caring for Pet Reptiles

Dog Training Tips

Dog training is the single most important aspect of raising a dog, well besides regular vaccinations. Basic obedience, alone, is a great way to keep your dog safe; by teaching simple commands like "leave it" and "wait," can really save your dogs life one day. "Leave it" can stop your dog from snatching up medication or another toxin that has either fallen on the floor or that has been left behing; "wait" can stop your dog from progressing further, such as running out into the road or out the door when you're not ready.

Positive training is the most effective form of dog training; but using the clicker and positive reinforcements will teach your dog what behaviors you want him to repeat with certain commands.

Once you tackle basic obedience, you can move onto fun tricks and agility, which will help stimulate your dog's mind and keep him exercised (if you opt for agility).

For more information, check out:
Dog Training Tips, Help, and Techniques

Flat Rock Scorpions

Scorpions make intersting pets. They're a watch and not play with pet. Flat rock scorpions are fairly popular in the pet market, but they aren't the most popular. Either way, you need to make sure that you know how to care for the animal before you bring one home.

To see more, check out
Caring for Flat Rock Scorpions

Caring for Dogs and Puppies

Puppies and dogs are a big responsibility. They require constant care, love, attention, and exercise. They require money to care for them in regards to dog food and vet visits. Dogs are not animals that you can just neglect and throw away.. Well, no animal is, really.

Dogs are supposed to be man's best friend, so make sure that you know how to take care of your best friend. The link below has tons of infor towards raising puppies, dog training, treats, and more.

For more info, check out:
Caring for Dogs and Puppies

All About the American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is the most misunderstood dog breed of its time. I mean what dog can go from America's hero one day and terror the next? Well... Ok tons of other breeds have done it, but usually it's the other way around being a terror before a hero. The APBT did it backwards. Crazy huh? Well, I believe they'll make it full circle one day.

These dogs really are wonderful dogs when the owner takes the time to properly train and socialize them.

Below, you'll find a link about American Pit Bulls that will take you to the in's and out's of the breed. You'll learn about dog fighting and gameness, as well as, famous Pit Bulls and BSL. You'll learn the truths about sever dog attacks in regards to pit-type dogs and Pit Bull myths.

All About the American Pit Bull Terrier

Tough Dog Toys: Destruction of the Dog Toy

I have one of those obnoxious dogs that chew up and destroy every dog toy that you give her. I hate that I can't buy the cute, girly dog toys for her to play with. I have to buy the boyish dog toys and hope that she won't tear them up within a few days.

I've tried dog tires, Yanker's dog toys made of thick canvase, and dog toys made of firehose material.

Of the three the dog toy made of the firehose material was destroyed within two days, the dog tire within four, and the Yanker's toys within a few weeks.

The Yanker's dog toys have lasted the longest, as she enjoyed tossing them around and playing with the squeeker within it. Although, she did chew several holes in the Yanker's toys, they lasted the longest.

I have yet to find a toy that has lasted more than a few weeks. In the link below, I have outlined the trials of the toys, although I have yet to add the firehose dog toy. I will continue to update the hub with more information, in hopes to help out dog owners with dogs who like to destroy dog toys.

To read more of my adventure of dog toys check out
Tough Dog Toys: Destruction of the Dog Toy

Dog GPS Tracking Devices

GPS tracking devices are a great means of tracking, especially for hunting dogs in the field. Although, you shouldn't solely rely on a tracking device, they're a great means of finding your pup if he gets out of the yard.

The downfall is that some tracking devices for pets only reach a certain mileage. Also, they rely in batteries, so you need to keep them charged up, as the last thing you want to happen is to get a location on your dog and the batteries die; it would be very hard to find him if he's traveling on foot, versus at someone's house.

But, nonetheless, the GPS tracking devices can be a worth-while investment.

Dog GPS Tracking Devices

Caring for Small Animals

Small animals are pretty popular pets for younger kids. Think about it small animals, or rather small mammal, pets include a wide variety of pets such as hamsters, gerbils, mice, rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, chinchillas, degus, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, and more. Ther are so many different small animal pets, that it's a wonder that they're not the most popular pet amongst young childrens.

The only concern that I have is for hte parents that show up at the pet store and purchase whatever pet the pet store employee says would be good and with whatever accessories and housing they recommend.

Not all pet store employees know what they're talking about, so I can stress enough, do your research first!

But anyway, if you want more information, check out
Caring for Small Animals: Hamsters, Mice, Rats, & Chinchillas
Best Pets for Small Children

Information About Dog Breeds

When choosing a dog, whether a mix or a pure bred dog, it's best to do your research and fully understand the basic traits and characteristics of the breed so that you know what you're getting into.

Although, not all dogs within a breed have the same traits, by knowing what to expect, you can better your knowledge of the dog's behaviors and why he does the silly things that he does.

Dog Breeds

Caring for Leopard Geckos

Although they are probably the easiest pet reptile to take care of, there are so many simple mistakes you can make. So before you invest in caring for a species that can live an average of 15 to 20 years, you want to make sure that you will be able to provide that to the gecko.

When bringing any new pet into your life, make sure to know and understand the proper husbandry, diet, and overall care for the species.

Leopard geckos come in a variety of colors and patterns, but all must be taken care of the same way. Just because you have a blazing blizzard and your friend has a tangerine, the same care goes into both morphs as they are the same species just a different color.

Anyway, for more information, check out the link below.

Help Caring for Leopard Geckos

Setting up a Leopard Gecko Enclosure

Setting up a leopard gecko enclosure is pretty important for the accurate care of the species in captivity. You want to make sure that you provide the best environment possible to ensure that your new, or potential pet remains healthy and happy in your care.

How to Set Up a Leopard Gecko Enclosure

Breeding & Raising Insects for Reptiles

When you care for multiple reptiles, breeding your own feeder insects can be helpful for your wallet. Depending on your staple insec, you may consider rasing your own feeders.

Good staple insects can include:
Crickets
Mealworms
Silkworms
Discoid Roaches

Treats for your reptile can include:
Butterworms
Waxworms
Phoenix worms

For more information and the nutritional content, check out the link below:

Breeding & Raising Insects for Reptiles

Myths about Pit Bulls

The American Pit Bull Terrier is probably the most talked about dog breed. You here wide and varied stories about the dogs that only do what they've been trained to do. IE train the dog to fight, the dog will fight; train the dog to love, the dog will love. But, then again not all dogs breed and trained to fight will actually fight; those who won't fight are usually thrown on the side of the road after being brutally beaten and left near death.

The myths that surround the American Pit Bull Terrier, are those that really surround all bully breed dogs, but because the American Pit Bull Terrier includes "pit bull" in its name, they tend to get the most heat.

For more information about pit bull myths see below.

The Truth About American Pit Bull Terriers

Litter Box Problems With Cats

Cats are usually pretty clean animals, but sometimes you can run into problems with the litter box. The most common problem, of course, is that the cat isn't using the box.

There can be a number of reasons as to why your cat isn't using the litter box, you need to define the cause in order to figure a solution.

For more information, check out this article: Litter Box Problems With Cats

Feeding Pet Cats

Feeding pet cats can be as simple or complicated as you want. But, with a steady schedule, you can easily make feeding you cat a simple process.

First you want to know the differences between dry food, wet, and homemade, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and which would suit your cat the best.

Once you've determined what type of cat food you'll feed your cat, it's time to pick a brand that will provide your cat with the best, well-balanced diet.

For more details and information, check out the following link.

Feeding Pet Cats: Cat Food, Diet, and Scheduling

Severe Dog Attacks

There are dozens of dog bites a year, and a trickle or to of fatal attacks. But, the media leads you to believe that there are more fatal attacks than there truly are. Plus, they lead you to believe that pit bulls are the only dog breed that attack. I haven't heard of a Great Dane or German Shepherd fatal attack in the media in a while, but that doesn't mean that it doesn't happen.

Plus, even looking at the statistics, you can't assume that just because it says "Pit Bull", "Pit Bull Mix", or whatever that it truly was that dog because the characteristics that lead people to believe a dog is a pit bull type dog are similar characteristics of other big dog breeds. So, it's just not fair.

Yes, these dogs attack. I'm not denying that fact, but they just don't attack as frequently or as often as the media lets you to believe.

For more information, check out the first hub that I've published from my list of hubs for April:

Severe Dog Attacks and Pit Bull- Type Dogs

(Picture at the top is of a Dogo Argentina.)

Articles for HubPages

I have been working on several articles for HubPage.

They include:

Dogs
The Truth About American Pit Bull Terriers
Severe Dog Attacks and Pit Bull- Type Dogs
Tough Dog Toys: The Destruction of the Dog Toy
Caring for Dogs and Puppies
Information About Dog Breeds
Dog Training Tips, Help, and Techniques
All About the American Pit Bull Terrier
Dog GPS Tracking Devices
How to Choose a Dog Crate
New Dog: To Adopt or To Purchase

Reptiles
Help Caring for Pet Reptiles
Help Caring for Leopard Geckos
How to Set Up a Leopard Gecko Enclosure
Breeding & Raising Insects for Reptiles

Other Animals
Caring for Small Animals: Hamsters, Mice, Rats, & Chinchillas

As the articles are completed and published, I will post summaries and links, so look out.

Gadget Guide for Your Reptile's Enclosure

When setting up a reptile's enclosure, you want to make sure to have all the right equipment. You want to make sure to provide the apporpriate heat temperatures, humidity, and lighting.

You want to make sure that your temps aren't too low or too high, or that your humidity levels aren't low or high.

In order to provide for the perfect captive enclosure, there are a few gadgets you may want to invest in.

I want to suggest:

Digital thermometer with a probe

Temperature gun

Under tank heater

Reptile light clamp

For more detail see :Gadget Guide for Your Reptile's Enclosure

Setting up a Natural Enclosure for a Leopard Gecko

It's often assumed that because leopard geckos are desert reptiles, they live naturally on sand, but the truth is that only 20% of the world's deserts are composed of loose sand. So, if you want to create a true natural habitat for a leopard gecko, you'll want to purchase rock tiles. The following link will give you plant advice and general advice for setting up a natural enclosure for a leopard gecko.

Native Habitat of the Leopard Gecko & Setting up a Natural Enclosure

Remember that this is not something for a beginner to take part in. And, no, 2 years isn't enough to create a true natural habitat. But, read the above article and see what you think. Maybe it will help evoke ideas to create your own version.

Gadgets for Pets

Gadgets and techy things are pretty popular among humans, but what about gadgets for your pets?

I'll start general a gadget for cats and dogs:
Gadgets for Pets: Electronic Pet Feeders

A neat gadget for cats:
Gadgets for Cats: The Cat Spa

And, the hub that won me best of the day :-D, gadgets for dogs:
High- Tech Gadgets for Dogs

Check them out and tell me what you think.

Homemade Dog Treat Recipes

We love our dogs. I mean otherwise, we wouldn't have them. So why not spend a little time, heart, and soul, making homemade dog treats for your pup? These recipes are quick and easy, and your dog will thank you for them.

Homemade Dog Treats: High Energy Biscuits- great for high energy dogs, as they boost energy

Homemade Dog Treats: Special Needs- great for bad breath, dry skin, and flea warder

Homemade Dog Treats: Cookies for Allergies- great for dogs with corn and wheat allergies

So, when it's a rainy day or you just don't feel like doing anything, cook up a batch of homemade, healthy dog treats.

Best Pets for Small Children

So here is one of my submissions for the 'pets' topic a few days back. This hub won me best hub of the day. :-D

Best Pets for Small Children

If you have any suggestions of other good pets for children, leave me a comment and let me know your suggestions.

How Do I Convince My Parents I'm Ready for a Puppy?

If you want a dog, and are having problems with your parents, what can you do?

I have a few suggestions for you...

How Do I Convince My Parents I'm Ready for a Puppy?

Prove to your parents that you're responsible enough to take care of a puppy. They're a long commitment, not something that you can throw in the yard when you've had your fill.

Dogs will by far teach you great responsbility, but you must have at least a grain or two to start.

How Much is That Puppy in The Window?

Today's topic is "money."

How Much is That Puppy in The Window?

Once the contest is over, I promise to have a little description with my blogs. I'm just a little busy lately.

Dog's are more than a cute squeeky toy here and dog food there. You have to remember shots, emergencies, and other costs that all come with raising a dog in your family.

Dog Ear Cropping and Tail Docking

I know you've seen dogs out there with cropped ears and docked tails. It's sad, but it happens. Heck, you may be one of those people...

Well, either way, I suggest the reading of one of my "style" HubLove contest entries:
Stylizing Your Dog: The Nip/ Tuck of the Canine Variety

Again, I've been busy with the contest, writting nearly 10 hubs a day. I hve 3 other animal "style" hubs that I'll be posting over the next few days. And, on Saturday, I'll post my choice for top hub of the day in the contest. I can't wait to find out what the topic is. It's not too late to participate. Just create an account with HubPages.

What Dog Breeds Make The Best Pets?

Sorry, I've been away for a few days. I'm trying to keep up the blog thing, really, I am. I've been a little preoccupied with HubPages. They have introduced a new contest which started yesterday and will end on March 15th. If you want to participate the winner received $5,000 worth of electronics. Just click the link about and it'll take you to the home page to which you can sign up and join the fun.

But, with other news. I've created another hub about what dog breeds make the best pets. Honestly, they all do, but that doesn't mean that all dogs are for everyone. So, you may want to check it out HERE

Things to Think About Before Breeding Reptiles

So, you think you want to breed your leopard gecko, ball python, or bearded dragon? Maybe you want to breed your red-eared slider or pacman frog... Either way, are you ready and prepared for the journey you interested in taking?

There's really a lot that you may not have thought about. Housing. Feeding. Money.

Can you afford this adventure- money-wise, time-wise, and space-wise?

My first response to anyone who questions me about breeding is, "do more research."

So, anyway...

Read more
HERE

Common Chinchilla Ailments

Chinchillas, are great at hiding their declining health and any health concerns they may be having. I mean, in the wild it was necessary to be fit and healthy or else be something's dinner. This doesn't change in captivity.

Watch your chinchilla(s) closely for signs of illness, and take him to the vet at the slightly sign of something is wrong.

Learn about common health concerns for chinchillas, so that you know what to look for and how to prevent mishap.

For more information
CLICK HERE

Chinchilla Health & First Aid

If you have or are interested in getting a chinchilla, you want to make ure that you are fluent in all aspects of chinchilla care, ranging from housing, diet, to health care. You will want to make sure that you know how to provide temporary health care when a chinchilla is injured or ill.

So for more information about chinchilla health care and chinchilla first aid, CLICK HERE

How to Train Your Pet Rat

I've always been interested in animal training for just about any animal. I mean how cool is it that you can train wild dolphins to jump through hoops? I think it's pretty neat.

You can train dogs and cats. You can train ferrets to di simple tricks. You can even train rabbits, a little bit.

But how cool is it to train a rat?

I love my rats, and when I brought them home, had intentions of training them. But, well, I got slack, and decided to just let them be rats. Now, I wish I had kept up with their training.

I once attempted to train my chinchillas agility, but that didn't go so well, so I thought rats would be perfect. But, somehow I've misplaced all my agility equipment. I need to dig deep in the house for it. But, anyway, it's cool to train your pet rat.

Training pet rats gives them something to exercise their brain with. It brings you closer to them becuase you're spending more time with them, and they definately won't fight you on that.

So how are you supposed to get started?

By reading:
How to Train Pet Rats

It's free, so don't worry. It's just a short article with tips and tricks to training pet rats.

Molosser Dog Breeds

The Molosser Breed is an old dog breed with possible origins in Europe and Germany. These dogs are generally large muscular dogs. Although, many of these breeds are considered bully breed dogs, not all of them are included in those numbers.

You can include the American Pit Bull Terrier, AmStaff, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Boxer, Rottweiler, Mastiff, Bulldog, and other various mastiff bred dogs.

Being larger dogs, they tend to suffer hip dysplasia and bloat, but as for other common illnesses to Molossers, it would depend on the specific breed in question.

Rodent Immune to Pain

Scientists have found a strange creature that is invulnerable to the pain of acid or of hot pepper. It's a naked mole rat. Living underground in small burrows, they are nearly blind. But, they're sense of touch is quite receptive, which makes the testing quite odd that they not feel the slight dose of acid that their paws were dipped in.

For more information click HERE

Homemade Dog Treats

If you missed the Reduced Calorie dog treats, you won't want to miss these. You dog is bound to love the natural sweetness of the fruits, and you'll be pleased to give your dog a healthy treat... That YOU made.

Fruit and Vegetable dog treats are healthy, providing essential vitamins and minerals. And, trust, me, you dog will love them!

Tips for Getting a Puppy

Before bringing home a new puppy, whether you already have a dog or not, you need to consider everything.

Training.

Housebreaking.

Vet Bills.

Feeding.

Exercise.

Etc.

Who will take on these tasks?

You need to make sure that you are prepared to bring home a new puppy, or dog.

Read Owning A Dog: Tips, Tricks, and Help

Remember that training starts as soon as you bring a new puppy home. So make sure that you are prepared in how to properly train a dog.

Reinforcement Training
Clicker Training
Dog Training Tools

Make sure that you are, also, aware of basic obedience commands:
Basic Obedience Training Part 1
Basic Obedience Training Part 2

Owning a Siberian Husky

Siberian huskies are actually fairly popular in the world of dog breeds. Although, they may not be the most popular, or even on the top ten list, but they are still a highly sought after breed.

The one mistake in husky owners is shaving their pup. Siberian husky's have a double coat, and the upper coat, composed of gaurd hairs, help keep the dog cool in warmer months and warm in the cooler months. So, when you shave this upper coat, you remove the dog's protection to weather. Siberian huskies require little grooming besides teething brushing, nail clipping, and the occassional baths. These dogs tend to keep themselves clean of dirt.

Another common mistake is when these type of dogs are thrown in a backyard with little to no exercise. With their history, Siberian huskies are travelers, and need a good deal of exercise, daily! Otherwise, they will become destructive, mischievious, and may escape their confines in order to roam.

Huskies need to be kept confined on a leash, in your home, or behind a locked gate, as they are historic travelers and tend to fall in this path, with the roaming instinct. But, with proper DAILY exercise and spaying or neutering, you should eliminate this concern.

Read more:

Owning a Siberian Husky

*The photo is of Jeffry Beall's Siberian Husky, Scarlet, and can be seen in it's original form here.

Pet First Aid Kit

Every thought about it? I mean, most parents have first aid kits kept around the house in case of emergencies with the children, but have you ever thought about a pet first aid kit???

Well, think about it... I mean there are so many different things that your pets can get into. Snake bites, spiders, glass, poisons, etc. You want you beloved family members safe from harm, so why wouldn't you want you beloved pets? They're family, too, right?

Well, you can read more about Pet First Aid: HERE

As the article stats, you don't have to go out and purchase a special Pet First Aid Kit, you can make your own- one that is special for your pet. The article gives you an entire listing of items that you may want to include, as well as safe medicines you can give your dogs (and what the medicine is for).

NOTE: Never give your dog human medicines without contacting your vet or an after- hours vet. You don't want to overdose your pet. Plus consider that not all breeds can handle the same medicines, as Collie's have more sensitive stomachs than other breeds.

Blue Eye Koala

A baby koala has surprised its keepers in Australia by peeping out from its mother's pouch with piercing blue eyes.

They think that nine-month-old Frankie could be one of a kind, since koalas almost always have brown eyes.

Keepers at the Dreamworld theme park on the Gold Coast immediately named it after Frank Sinatra - known, of course, as Ol' Blue Eyes.

The Australian Koala Foundation said Frankie was the first blue-eyed koala it has been aware of in its 20-year history.

Michelle Barnes, a supervisor at the Dreamworld park, said: "They spend their first few months in the pouch so it wasn't until he was five or six months old that we first noticed he had blue eyes."

Homemade Rat Foods

Making homemade foods for you pets is all the rage in today's society. With the fears of infected foods, all natural is the new trend. In most cases, this new idea has been geared towards dogs and cats.

But, why not make your own rat foods and treats?

By making your own pet foods, you know what goes into the diet. You know the health benefits of each item. You know the pros of what you're adding to the food.

Below, I have added a few links that will share more nutritional information geared towards pet fancy rats. You will find recipes for foods, treats, and other snacks that you can feed your rat, and not feel guilty. But, with any treat, make sure that it does not encompass more than 10% of your rats diet.

Homemade Rat Diets

Homemade Rat Recipes

Homemade Rat Treats