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Nitrogen Cycle Ammonia Nitrite Nitrate Plants In the natural ecosystem habitats of most common tropical fish, the presence of toxic levels of nitrogen-containing compounds is relatively rare. In an aquarium environment, however, there is often overfeeding and overcrowding in a small, contained space. These fully closed environments are conducive to nitrogen pollution that can sicken or even kill your aquarium fish. These are the basic compounds and processes that make up the nitrogen cycle....

It never fails: after giving your puppy a bath so he looks and smells lovely, he runs outside and rolls in poop. Dogs and puppies live through their noses, and as many dog owners can tell you, pungent scents can prompt rolling behavior. Think of it as a scent ecstasy, similar to what cats experience when exposed to catnip. When a dog finds what he considers an attractive odor, he rolls to rub his shoulders, back, and neck into the offering....

Dogs are naturally companion animals, and most enjoy receiving attention. There are specific breeds that seek constant companionship, snuggling, and seem to need affection to thrive. While the following dog breeds are known for their cuddly tendencies, every dog has an individual personality—despite its breed—and some may not want showers of affection. Here are 10 dog breeds known for cuddling and snuggling tendencies. Tip Be respectful of your dog’s space, and only offer a cuddle if your dog is relaxed and seeking attention....

Gouramis are a diverse family of medium- to large-sized fish. Most can be kept in community aquariums, but some species do not play well with others, while some are too timid to be kept with larger species of fish. This reference covers the basic attributes of the popular Gourami species, so you can consider which one would be a good fit for you. Links within each species go to a more detailed profile of that particular fish....

Breeding your hamster is not a decision to make without careful consideration, and you absolutely must know what you will do with any babies that result. Most pet stores have established suppliers already, and there is no shortage of available hamsters. You should also consider the temperament and health of the hamsters you are breeding; even the most friendly and well-trained dwarf Russian hamsters can get a bit testy when they’re ready to nest....

Your dog may be your best friend, but even if your dog is very friendly, there are people out there who may be afraid of it. In fact, it’s estimated that 1 in 3 adults with an animal-related phobia suffer from cynophobia, which is the fear of dogs. What should you do if you and your dog encounter such a person? Are there things you can do to make this person more comfortable in the presence of your dog?...

Characteristics Breed History Training and Care Health Problems Diet and Nutrition Where to Adopt or Buy Breed Overview Further Research Frequently Asked Questions The Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds in the world. This immense dog is big-boned and muscular with a noble, kind, and loyal disposition. Mastiffs are very gentle companions and family protectors that lack aggression, making them lovely family pets. These courageous yet well-mannered dogs can do well in most households....

Losing a horse is heartbreaking and it’s especially so if all it would have taken is a little knowledge to prevent the loss. Losing a horse to tree poisoning is devastating, partially because we see trees as part of our horse’s natural surroundings. Anything in your horse’s pastures is fair game for tasting. If there is plenty of other food, such as grass or hay available, your horse probably won’t touch any of the trees within its reach....

For centuries, dogs have assisted humans with farm work. There are a lot of dog breeds that adjust well to living in a rural countryside setting. But some dogs have been bred specifically to thrive doing farm work, whether herding livestock, protecting the farm and its inhabitants, exterminating vermin, or helping with other tasks. Here are 10 dog breeds that are considered a good match for farm life. Breed Characteristics These breeds tend to be intelligent, hardy, and athletic dogs that enjoy the great outdoors....

Your dog’s environment is filled with potential toxins that can sicken or even kill your dog. Although you do your best to keep poisonous substances away from your dog, toxin exposure is still possible. By knowing what to look for, you may be able to save your pet from the effect of poisoning. Some common symptoms to watch for include foaming at the mouth, lethargy, shaking or unusual movements, upset stomach, unusual swelling, pale gums, or behavioral changes....

The Belgian Malinois is related to both the Belgian Tervuren and Belgian Sheepdog and is the short-coated version of these sheepherding canines. The breeds are so closely related that it’s not unusual to have a long-coated puppy in a litter of other short-coated puppies. As an adult, the Malinois looks like a medium-size, short-coated light-colored German Shepherd, and the typical rich fawn to mahogany coat color is combined with black ears and a black mask that covers the face....

Characteristics Breed History Training and Care Health Problems Diet and Nutrition Where to Adopt or Buy Breed Overview Further Research The Briard dog is a large herding breed from France with either floppy or pointed ears, a sturdy body, wavy fur, and shaggy facial hair. These quick and fearless dogs are well-known for their athleticism when it comes to herding, but it’s their smart and friendly personalities that have made them such a well-loved breed....

What Is Cystitis? Symptoms Causes Diagnosing Treatment Prognosis Prevention Cystitis is not only a painful condition, it can also be dangerous. Cats that struggle to urinate or have blood in their urine need immediate veterinary attention. An acute case of cystitis will likely require antibiotics, and long-term chronic cases can often be managed with a special diet. What Is Cystitis? Cystitis refers to inflammation of the urinary tract. It is also known as Feline Idiopathic or Interstitial Cystitis (FIC), Pandora Syndrome, Feline Urologic Syndrome (FUS), Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), or Feline Idiopathic Lower Urinary Tract Disease (iFLUTD)....

While perfectly clean, clear water for fish is the ideal situation for most aquarium owners, sometimes other circumstances arise that need to be treated. A common occurrence is bacterial bloom: Also known as bacterial blossom, bacterial bloom can create cloudy or milky water in your aquarium that can be so severe that it becomes difficult to see the fish. This condition most often is seen in a newly started aquarium, but can also occur in a tank in which there is has been an increase in the nutrients in the water, particularly nitrates and phosphates....

Before you bring your new equine companion home, you’ll want to learn about the basics of good horse care. Learn how to feed, house, and care for your horse or pony. Discover how pony care differs from horse care, what good health looks like and when to call the vet. At the very least a horse needs: Pasture free from hazards such as holes, rusty farm machinery and loose wire fences....

Sometimes, a dog requires surgery on its leg. This can be due to an injury or because the dog is born with a malformation. Surgeries of any kind that occur on the leg of a dog will require special care after the procedure and it is important for a dog owner to know what to expect, avoid, and watch for. Types of Leg Surgeries in Dogs A dog may need one of several different types of leg surgeries at some point in its life....

Playing and chewing are natural canine behaviors. Though some dogs will play or chew more than others, dog toys are essential items for all dogs. In fact, behavior problems can develop when dogs do not have the proper outlets to follow their instincts. Dog toy options are nearly endless, so choosing toys for your dog can be overwhelming. Some owners end up with a heap of toys gathering dust because the toys they chose simply do not interest their dogs....

Being able to neck rein—or steer your horse with one hand is a useful skill. Neck reining makes things like opening gates without dismounting, carrying something, or swishing away flies while trail riding easier. Neck reining is also a fun, safe, and easy thing you can teach your horse even if you are not an advanced rider. What You Need Your horse, saddle and bridled—the type of bit does not matter....

Very young puppies almost never need a reducing diet, but adolescent youngsters that get pudgy may benefit from diet tips for fat puppies. Growing puppies shouldn’t have nutrition restricted without guidance by your veterinarian or you could risk other health problems as a result. But there are some simple and safe things you can do. Helping Fat Puppies Slim Down Simply eliminating or reducing treats and increasing play sessions can help make moderately overweight pups lose weight....

Characteristics Breed History Training and Care Health Problems Diet and Nutrition Where to Adopt or Buy Breed Overview Further Research The Sloughi dog is a medium-to-large hound breed native to North Africa that is known for its long legs, slim build, short fur, and fast running ability. These agile dogs are similar in appearance to the Greyhound (hence the breed’s nicknames, Berber Greyhounds or Arabian Greyhounds). Sloughis are notoriously affectionate toward their human family members and nobody else, which is why this breed has gained a bit of a reputation for being aloof....