Posts

Horses have personalities just like humans. They also establish social structures and hierarchies within their groups. Unfortunately, if horses are allowed out in a pasture or paddock together, conflict may occur. Occasionally there may be a certain individual horse that acts like what we would consider a “bully.” A herd or pasture bully can wreak havoc on the other horses with which it lives. In these situations, you may see injuries to the other horses in the pasture caused by biting, striking, or kicking....

Is it OK to Own a Diamondback Terrapin? Behavior and Temperament Housing Diet Vet Care Purchasing Similar Pets and Breeds Diamondback terrapins are fairly docile turtles that are generally willing to be handled, although they may bite if they feel threatened. It is legal to own terrapins, and they are relatively easy to care for. These reptiles do like the company of other terrapins, though, so it’s best to own more than one if you can provide a spacious enough enclosure....

Characteristics Origin Colors and Markings Tankmates Habitat and Care Diet Breeding Unique Characteristic Further Research A nocturnal schooling fish, striped squirrelfish are an interesting looking, brilliantly colored fish that can be a peaceful addition to your saltwater aquarium. They have characteristic large eyes that help them see in low light and a spiny dorsal fin that make it easily identifiable among other fish. It is so named because it can make a squirrel-like noise with its swim bladder....

If your cat adventures outdoors, a breakaway collar is a must. It’s designed to unclasp if your cat gets stuck on something, and can prevent injury. That’s why a breakaway collar is the first item we recommend buying for a new kitten. “Breakaway collars are the only types of collars that should be considered for cats,” Dr. Chyrle Bonk, DVM, veterinarian and writer in Orofino, Idaho, told The Spruce Pets. “Choose one with a breakaway clasp rather than a piece of elastic to ensure that they are safe and will actually come off if needed....

If you are getting a black kitten or adult cat, naming your cat can be tons of fun since the color black has a multitude of synonyms or references associated with it. For example, you can go down the road of the dark arts and mysticism. Or, simply think of black items in nature or your life that your cat reminds you of. Take a look at some of the best names for black cats and gather inspiration for a name for your new feline friend....

Running can be a great way for dogs to burn off excess energy and stress. Regular running can also help keep a dog fit and at a healthy weight. Plus, running with your dog can strengthen your bond. However, not all dogs are able to keep the same pace. Some breeds are known for their superb speed. These swift canines tend to be large, muscular, long-legged breeds, though there are some very speedy small pups, too....

Catfishes are a very diverse group of species, with many smaller species common in the pet aquarium trade. Catfish are named for their barbels, or “whiskers,” which they use to find food in the substrate. Some species of catfish swim in the aquarium like typical fish, but many dwell at the bottom of the aquarium. One species even swims upside down at the top of the aquarium water. Tip Many species have protective barbs on their dorsal and pectoral fins, so be careful when handling or netting....

Top Mythical Dog Names Tips Female Names Male Names Other Ideas If your dog has a personality as big as the heavens, then it deserves a name equally heavenly. Mythical dog names often have a story to tell. From ancient Greek, Roman, or Norse gods and goddesses to honored heroes, there are many mythical options from long-ago times to choose from, including top contenders Thor, Loki, Zeus, and Aphrodite....

One staple food item at cookouts and tailgates across America are hot dogs. With the various toppings and flavors available these days, it’s no wonder why they are so popular. So what to do about that cute little pup under the table begging for your carefully crafted hot dog? Surely just one nibble wouldn’t hurt? Don’t be so cavalier about sharing your plate, though. Hot dogs are not as safe for your pup as you may initially believe....

Whether you adopt a purebred puppy, a “designer” breed, or the mutt next door, the first thing you’ll notice is the puppy’s coat type, color, and pattern. This coat can change as the dog matures, so it’s a good idea to know what to expect when the dog grows up. The types of dog coats vary between breeds and impact the amount of fur shedding and grooming care that’s necessary....

Having a rabbit as a pet means you need to consider housing for your floppy-eared friend. It’s not enough to put a cage in the backyard. You need a good cage. But what makes a good rabbit cage? Size Counts The size of the cage depends on the breed of rabbit. Some guidelines include: A cage is large enough if it is four times the size of an adult rabbit.A cage is large enough if it measures a square foot per pound of rabbit (for the smaller breeds)....

There may be instances where it is handy to back your horse up, or if you show you may have to demonstrate a rein back to the judge. It’s required in trail classes for negotiating obstacles, and it’s often asked for in pleasure or equitation classes. A rein back is handy for getting out of the way when you’re out on the trail, maneuvering your horse to open gates from the saddle, or grabbing a juicy apple on that abandon apple tree....

Curing live rock in a separate curing setup is the best way to handle it before placing it into a new saltwater aquarium. Unfortunately, this is not always practical for everyone, as you may not have the extra room or equipment to do so. If the only container you have to work with to cure live rock in is the tank you are setting up as your main aquarium, here is a simple way to cure it inside the aquarium, preferably before you add substrate and start aquascaping the rocks....

Once you understand what live rock is and its purpose in a saltwater aquarium, the next step in learning about live rock is how to cure it. However, before going into the details of this process here is our list of suggested guidelines to keep in mind when working with live rock. Guidelines for Working with Live Rock Be patient, take your time and don’t rush it. Don’t overload the system!...

A dog’s paws are equipped with pads to protect your dog, but do the pads themselves need protection? How can you keep your dog’s paw pads healthy, when should you be concerned about your dog’s paw pads, and what can you do to soothe them? Your dog’s paw pads are comprised of various fatty and elastic connective tissues. They are tough and thickened to help protect your dog when walking on rough surfaces, but they are also sensitive enough to alert your dog if a surface is hot or cold....

Do you have tiny white “bugs” swimming in your saltwater aquarium? You are probably seeing copepods or amphipods. These tiny, shrimp-like crustaceans dwell in marine substrate as adults, but during their larval and juvenile stages, they swim freely through the water. Copepods and amphipods most often appear in aquariums after live rock or sand has been added. You can keep and cultivate them for fish food or remove them from your tank....

The gecko tail is an intriguing body part of the animal world. Some species of geckos, including leopard geckos and day geckos, have a defense mechanism that allows them to “drop” their tails when they feel threatened. This tail loss tends to be more common in younger geckos. Fortunately, gecko tail loss is a natural phenomenon, and your pet should come through it just fine. While its tail is growing back, however, there are a few things you can do to ensure it does so healthily....

Goats are finally having a moment on the internet and it’s not just because they’re super cute. They’re pretty weird, too. How? They frolic in little kids’ footie pajamas; they terrify unsuspecting people by screaming like humans (otherwise known as bleating); and they love to climb on top of random objects, like cows. Want to learn more about these adorable, barnyard weirdos? Read on to learn the 10 things you don’t know about goats, but definitely should....

Making plans to leave your dog or cat behind when you travel can sometimes be stressful and confusing. Who will take care of your beloved pet while you’re away? Luckily, dog and cat boarding facilities are abundant, with varied services and cost. Let’s look at your options. Vet Boarding Services Some veterinary hospitals offer in-clinic boarding services. Dogs are typically housed in large cages or kennel runs. Cats generally stay separately from dogs in smaller cages or “kitty condos” (multi-level enclosures)....

If you live with a dog, you’ve probably noticed your dog’s whiskers—stiff, coarse hairs that stick out from the fur around the nose and eyebrows. You may particularly notice them when your dog is expressing emotion or communicating a desire to you (like begging for that last bite of food on your plate). So, why do dogs have whiskers? They are part of an important sensory system that helps dogs navigate their environment....