Author: Petz

Whether you have a conventional pet like a dog or cat, or an exotic pet like a chinchilla or hedgehog, you don’t want to see it in pain. It’s heartbreaking to watch your pet suffer, so you may be wondering about the potential health issues of exotic animals. Like any other pet, exotic animals are prone to health issues. They are not all at risk for the same issues, though, and can have different levels of risk. Looking for an exotic animal vet? Are Some Exotic Animals More Prone to Health Issues Than Others? Genetics play a large part in…

Today we are looking at a fry pattern, called the Pinfry Jig tied by Steve Cullen. The story of this fly comes from when Steve’s friend was fishing for Grayling. He saw one coming in and out from the river bank and he threw a black Nymph at him. The Grayling took the fly and as soon as it landed, it started regurgitating small fry, prompting the need for this pattern to be made.There are many benefits to using a jig style fly. One of the advantages of this style is that the hook rises high, allowing the fly to…

Dogs are some of the most popular pets in the world, with the number of pet dogs worldwide estimated at 471 million. These furry companions, however, do not come cheap. From puppy toys and classes to vet bills and insurance, dog ownership comes with a hefty price tag, with one study estimating that the lifetime cost of a dog can reach of up to $55,000. The biggest expense of all on a daily basis is making sure your canine companion is fed. In the past, pets were fed scraps from the dining table, with only the upper classes preparing special…

Unforgettable encounters with Mammals: Part I Most birdwatchers enjoy seeing mammals, but the problem with mammals is that they tend to be harder to spot than birds. Only in Africa is it really easy to see a great diversity. I remember the guide on my first Kenyan birding safari saying that “birding groups always see more mammals than those who come just to see animals. They always spend longer in the bush, and see everything of moving, so it’s no wonder they see more.” During my 21-day Kenyan safaris, we thought we found about 600 species of birds and about…

Allergies in cats can have the same symptoms as ours – watery eyes and nose, mild congestion, and sometimes coughing. More often, allergies to cats manifest as itchy skin, redness, and/or swelling of the skin. You may be familiar with the brand name Zyrtec. It’s a common over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medication that many of us take in the midst of pollen season. But can Zyrtec be given to your cat too? Yes, Zyrtec can be given to cats, but it is important to consult your veterinarian before giving Zyrtec to your cat. In this article, we’ll discuss what Zyrtec is,…

Do you find yourself paying attention to your furry friends when they are up to their usual antics? If you’re tempted to Google “how to fix your dog’s bad habits,” you’re not alone – we’ve all been there! But before we dive into the doggy drama, let’s make one thing clear: harsh punishment won’t make it go away. Dogs are masters at hiding their less-than-good behavior, and yelling “bad dog” is as effective as barking at the moon. According to one study, almost 30% of young puppies have to be put down because of undesirable behavior. Sadly the leading dog…

The October 14th live webinar was recorded and is still available for purchase as a video (with some additional references and written materials). Do “ultrasonic” squeaker toys really produce ultrasound? Now that dogs and music learning have been going on for over a decade, what do the review articles say? Which is better for sound masking, a fan or brown noise, and why? What kind of sound can damage your dog’s hearing? Why does music for dogs often sound like “New Age” music? Why are dog training whistles now being advertised as punishments? What sounds can dogs naturally dislike? I…

Celine Celine goes the extra mile to make sure your dog is the best dressed in the park. The French fashion house has unveiled a new collection of upscale dog accessories that will make your four-legged friend the envy of everyone. Celine’s creative director Hedi Slimane originally started designing pet accessories for his dog, Elvis. After unveiling the inaugural line of petwear last year, the house followed up with a fresh seasonal collection. Using Celine’s leather craftsmanship, the range showcases soft suede and smooth calf leather. Some pieces are also made from the iconic Triomphe canvas because, well, pups appreciate…

If you have a pet rabbit, spaying (ovariohysterectomy) or neutering (orchidectomy) her—meaning surgically removing her ability to procreate—is one of the best ways to ensure that it will stay happy and healthy. Find out all the reasons why it’s important to spay or neuter your rabbit by reading the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital of Louisiana article below. Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Your Rabbit Of course, no surgery comes without risk. But when it comes to spaying and neutering, the benefits are many, and the risks are minimal when done by a veterinarian experienced in rabbit anesthesia and surgery!…

Choosing the Right Location for a CampfireIt is very important to choose the perfect location for your campfire to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Follow these guidelines:Choose a flat, level area away from tents, trees, bushes, and other flammable materials.Choose a place protected from strong winds.Use existing fire rings or pans whenever possible.If no fire ring exists, make a temporary fire pit by digging a shallow hole and surrounding it with rocks.Always check the fire restrictions and regulations at your campsite.Choosing the Best Fuel for a Successful CampfireChoosing the right fuel has a big impact on the quality of…