Thinking of Being a Volunteer at a Dogs’ Home?
Dogs take a lot of looking after. They need a lot of food, fresh water, plenty
of walks and lots of time spent in the company of caring owners. They also live for a lot of years. Those facts can mean that some owners find it
impossible to continue to care for their dogs and end up taking them to be
rehomed through an animal charity.
There are, of course, other dogs that end up in the care of animal charities such as the RSPCA because they have been neglected, abused or abandoned.
The dogs that end up in a dogs’ home are lucky: there they will be cared for, given plenty of exercise, food and warmth plus the care and attention of dedicated staff. Many of those staff are volunteers who willingly give up their time for free to help to care for the dogs.
If you think that you might like to volunteer at a dogs’ home, or perhaps you think that your (mature, responsible) children might benefit from the experience of volunteering at a dogs’ home then you should get in touch with the RSPCA or your local dogs’ home to ask about how you can help.
Spending time with animals is known to relieve stress and working with them can be incredibly rewarding; it teaches compassion and patience and can even influence a decision about what career path to follow.
All dogs’ homes need volunteers to exercise and feed the dogs, but you might also want to consider helping out with fundraising events to help to pay for the other running costs of the charity – such as the cost of the food and shelter. This is perhaps the best way to involve your children in volunteering to help your dogs’ home charity (they would normally need to be at least 16 years old to volunteer with walking dogs). It may also be possible to foster a dog or puppy to help to socialise it in order to make it more likely to be adopted.
If you work, then volunteering at a dogs’ home might be the perfect alternative to having a dog of your own. Working during the day may mean that you are unable to commit to caring for a dog, but if you are a dog lover then you may feel bereft at the idea of not having a dog in your life. If so, volunteering for your local dogs’ home is the perfect solution.
If you decide that you want to volunteer, you will need to be able to commit a certain number of hours on a regular basis – dropping in for an hour now and again won’t be much use because the charity cannot plan for when and how to use your time to best effect. Look on the RSPCA’s website for volunteer positions in your local area, or call them to chat about how you can help.
There are, of course, other dogs that end up in the care of animal charities such as the RSPCA because they have been neglected, abused or abandoned.
The dogs that end up in a dogs’ home are lucky: there they will be cared for, given plenty of exercise, food and warmth plus the care and attention of dedicated staff. Many of those staff are volunteers who willingly give up their time for free to help to care for the dogs.
If you think that you might like to volunteer at a dogs’ home, or perhaps you think that your (mature, responsible) children might benefit from the experience of volunteering at a dogs’ home then you should get in touch with the RSPCA or your local dogs’ home to ask about how you can help.
Spending time with animals is known to relieve stress and working with them can be incredibly rewarding; it teaches compassion and patience and can even influence a decision about what career path to follow.
All dogs’ homes need volunteers to exercise and feed the dogs, but you might also want to consider helping out with fundraising events to help to pay for the other running costs of the charity – such as the cost of the food and shelter. This is perhaps the best way to involve your children in volunteering to help your dogs’ home charity (they would normally need to be at least 16 years old to volunteer with walking dogs). It may also be possible to foster a dog or puppy to help to socialise it in order to make it more likely to be adopted.
If you work, then volunteering at a dogs’ home might be the perfect alternative to having a dog of your own. Working during the day may mean that you are unable to commit to caring for a dog, but if you are a dog lover then you may feel bereft at the idea of not having a dog in your life. If so, volunteering for your local dogs’ home is the perfect solution.
If you decide that you want to volunteer, you will need to be able to commit a certain number of hours on a regular basis – dropping in for an hour now and again won’t be much use because the charity cannot plan for when and how to use your time to best effect. Look on the RSPCA’s website for volunteer positions in your local area, or call them to chat about how you can help.
Can Exotic Pets Make Good Pets for Children?
Think of a first pet for a child and you’ll probably picture hamsters, guinea pigs or gerbils – maybe even a cat or dog. But there are plenty of exotic pets that also make excellent pets for children, though there is greater restriction on what types can be owned by children aged under 18.
Pets are great for children to learn important lessons in life – they learn about pet care, daily responsibility, love and affection, dependency and, ultimately, death. If you feel that your child is ready for a pet and can be trusted to play gently with them and care for them properly (and if you accept that at some point you will probably have to take over the pet care, especially if your child is young) then consider choosing from these exotic pets:
· Snakes. Obviously we’re not talking anacondas or boa constrictors here. But corn snakes or king snakes are perfectly suitable for children. They reach about 5 feet long, though, so you need to make sure that you have room to give them adequately-sized housing. They are pretty easy to care for, needing to be fed and have their tank changed only once a week (though water needs to be given frequently). You would need to teach your child how to monitor the humidity and temperature of the tank and to tell you if there was a problem (and it’s not a bad idea for you to pop in regularly to check for yourself). They eat mice, which you can buy (dead) from pet stores – so this isn’t a pet for the faint-hearted.
· Lizards. As a cold-blooded creature you’ll need to set up a good-sized tank with a UVB lamp to keep the climate at a steady 70 – 80 degrees. Good lizards for children include Leopard Geckos, which are rather tame and allow you to handle them, and Collard Lizards. The most docile lizard (and therefore the easiest to tame) is the Bearded Dragon Lizard – though they tend to die quite easily if you buy them too young – though they don’t do very much and a child might get bored of watching them do nothing but eat and lie still for hours at a time.
· Tortoises. These make very popular pets, though as they often outlive their owner s due to their great longevity you need to make sure that you can commit to owning one for a considerable time. They’re easy to care for and can make very rewarding pets.
Exotic pets are very alluring to many adults and children but be sure that your child is aware of the need to spend a lot of time and energy on providing the right pet care. Be careful, too, if you choose a breed that is known to spread disease like salmonella (e.g. giant African land snails) – but regardless of the breed ensure that your child is aware of the need to wash their hands carefully after handling.
Also do your research before you purchase exotic pets to make sure that you fully understand how to care for them, what equipment you’ll need and where your most local vet is who is able to care for them.
Pets are great for children to learn important lessons in life – they learn about pet care, daily responsibility, love and affection, dependency and, ultimately, death. If you feel that your child is ready for a pet and can be trusted to play gently with them and care for them properly (and if you accept that at some point you will probably have to take over the pet care, especially if your child is young) then consider choosing from these exotic pets:
· Snakes. Obviously we’re not talking anacondas or boa constrictors here. But corn snakes or king snakes are perfectly suitable for children. They reach about 5 feet long, though, so you need to make sure that you have room to give them adequately-sized housing. They are pretty easy to care for, needing to be fed and have their tank changed only once a week (though water needs to be given frequently). You would need to teach your child how to monitor the humidity and temperature of the tank and to tell you if there was a problem (and it’s not a bad idea for you to pop in regularly to check for yourself). They eat mice, which you can buy (dead) from pet stores – so this isn’t a pet for the faint-hearted.
· Lizards. As a cold-blooded creature you’ll need to set up a good-sized tank with a UVB lamp to keep the climate at a steady 70 – 80 degrees. Good lizards for children include Leopard Geckos, which are rather tame and allow you to handle them, and Collard Lizards. The most docile lizard (and therefore the easiest to tame) is the Bearded Dragon Lizard – though they tend to die quite easily if you buy them too young – though they don’t do very much and a child might get bored of watching them do nothing but eat and lie still for hours at a time.
· Tortoises. These make very popular pets, though as they often outlive their owner s due to their great longevity you need to make sure that you can commit to owning one for a considerable time. They’re easy to care for and can make very rewarding pets.
Exotic pets are very alluring to many adults and children but be sure that your child is aware of the need to spend a lot of time and energy on providing the right pet care. Be careful, too, if you choose a breed that is known to spread disease like salmonella (e.g. giant African land snails) – but regardless of the breed ensure that your child is aware of the need to wash their hands carefully after handling.
Also do your research before you purchase exotic pets to make sure that you fully understand how to care for them, what equipment you’ll need and where your most local vet is who is able to care for them.
How to Protect Your Horse in the Heat
We’ve had about a week of hot weather so, naturally, we’re all burnt and not sure how we’ll ever cope with the heat if it continues. That’s a pretty big ‘if’ but still, we’re stocking up on sun cream, hats and summer clothes.
But if you own pets remember that they will be feeling the effects of the higher temperatures too. If you own a horse, you’ll be particularly conscious of the fact that they will be spending much of their time outside during the day and will want to protect them from the heat. Obviously it’s important to make sure that they have unrestricted access to shade (if you’re relying on trees, remember that when the sun is at its hottest it will be directly above and the trees won’t cast much of a shadow – it’s better to ensure that your horse has a lean-to shelter they can go into if they choose.
A bigger problem posed to horses by the warm weather is the increased fly population. However clean you keep your stables flies will congregate in there because of the smell of horse manure.
There are all sorts of flies buzzing around at the moment, some are parasitic and others are just plain annoying, but for the sake of your pet horse you should eliminate their presence as far as possible. This is because bites from parasitic flies (ones that suck blood, like horseflies) can be painful and become infected. Further, they can transmit disease to your horse.
Some horses are particularly sensitive to the presence of flies and if your horse is driven to distraction by them they can be caused to run or buck. They can become agitated and distressed, making them unsafe to ride as well as making them unhappy.
Try to find out what sort of fly is causing the problem as it might help to understand its feeding and breeding habits if you’re going to successfully eradicate the problem. Prevention is better than cure, so being extra-scrupulously clean by thoroughly mucking out and removing old food daily will help to stop flies congregating.
If you already have a fly problem in the stable, place fly traps or those electric, blue ‘zappers’ somewhere high out of the reach of your horse. These are better than using chemical fly sprays. If you feel that nothing will work except fly spray then make sure your stable is completely emptied before using the insecticide and give it a few hours to air out before allowing your horse to re-enter.
Take these simple steps and make your horse’s summer a happy one.
But if you own pets remember that they will be feeling the effects of the higher temperatures too. If you own a horse, you’ll be particularly conscious of the fact that they will be spending much of their time outside during the day and will want to protect them from the heat. Obviously it’s important to make sure that they have unrestricted access to shade (if you’re relying on trees, remember that when the sun is at its hottest it will be directly above and the trees won’t cast much of a shadow – it’s better to ensure that your horse has a lean-to shelter they can go into if they choose.
A bigger problem posed to horses by the warm weather is the increased fly population. However clean you keep your stables flies will congregate in there because of the smell of horse manure.
There are all sorts of flies buzzing around at the moment, some are parasitic and others are just plain annoying, but for the sake of your pet horse you should eliminate their presence as far as possible. This is because bites from parasitic flies (ones that suck blood, like horseflies) can be painful and become infected. Further, they can transmit disease to your horse.
Some horses are particularly sensitive to the presence of flies and if your horse is driven to distraction by them they can be caused to run or buck. They can become agitated and distressed, making them unsafe to ride as well as making them unhappy.
Try to find out what sort of fly is causing the problem as it might help to understand its feeding and breeding habits if you’re going to successfully eradicate the problem. Prevention is better than cure, so being extra-scrupulously clean by thoroughly mucking out and removing old food daily will help to stop flies congregating.
If you already have a fly problem in the stable, place fly traps or those electric, blue ‘zappers’ somewhere high out of the reach of your horse. These are better than using chemical fly sprays. If you feel that nothing will work except fly spray then make sure your stable is completely emptied before using the insecticide and give it a few hours to air out before allowing your horse to re-enter.
Take these simple steps and make your horse’s summer a happy one.
Give your Cat an ‘MOT’
Unlike prey animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits and mice, cats and kittens will let you know pretty quickly if they are ill. That’s good news because it means that you can get them to a vet for treatment before they become very poorly, so their chances of recovery will be good.
However, there are some things that you can do to check your cat’s general health, to spot potential problems before they cause harm. Think of it as being a bit like taking your car for an MOT – you hope nothing’s wrong, but if there is at least it will be spotted so that you can take care of it before any damage is done.
So how do you give a cat an ‘MOT’? Start at the head and work down. Check your cat’s or kitten’s ears to make sure they’re clean and aren’t scabby or itchy. Fleas and mites love to congregate around ears because they’re warm and are hard for cats to dislodge them through scratching. If you notice that your cat has been scratching at their ears a lot or shaking their heads, check them for mites or fleas.
Then check your cat’s or kitten’s eyes, mouth and nose. Cats and kittens don’t much like people looking in their mouths so be careful not to make your cat or kitten distressed and if you can’t manage this task then make sure your vet checks the mouth next time you take your cat there. Check for rotten-looking teeth, sore-looking gums and bad breath. Check for any discharge or redness around the eyes.
Stroke your cat with both hands and check for lumps and bumps, bits that your cat seems to find sore to the touch. Rub their fur, gently, the ‘wrong’ way and check for any flakiness on their skin or evidence of fleas such as bites or flea dirt (little black flecks of dirt).
Also check the appearance of their bottom by checking for any clumps of poo matted into their hair (this can be a sign of diarrhoea), or any signs of soreness or worms.
You should do this check-up every few weeks for your cat. It’s easiest to remember to do it when you’re getting ready to give them their routine treatments for worms and fleas. At any time between those checks, though, if you notice something that looks wrong with your cat then always seek professional advice from your vet.
However, there are some things that you can do to check your cat’s general health, to spot potential problems before they cause harm. Think of it as being a bit like taking your car for an MOT – you hope nothing’s wrong, but if there is at least it will be spotted so that you can take care of it before any damage is done.
So how do you give a cat an ‘MOT’? Start at the head and work down. Check your cat’s or kitten’s ears to make sure they’re clean and aren’t scabby or itchy. Fleas and mites love to congregate around ears because they’re warm and are hard for cats to dislodge them through scratching. If you notice that your cat has been scratching at their ears a lot or shaking their heads, check them for mites or fleas.
Then check your cat’s or kitten’s eyes, mouth and nose. Cats and kittens don’t much like people looking in their mouths so be careful not to make your cat or kitten distressed and if you can’t manage this task then make sure your vet checks the mouth next time you take your cat there. Check for rotten-looking teeth, sore-looking gums and bad breath. Check for any discharge or redness around the eyes.
Stroke your cat with both hands and check for lumps and bumps, bits that your cat seems to find sore to the touch. Rub their fur, gently, the ‘wrong’ way and check for any flakiness on their skin or evidence of fleas such as bites or flea dirt (little black flecks of dirt).
Also check the appearance of their bottom by checking for any clumps of poo matted into their hair (this can be a sign of diarrhoea), or any signs of soreness or worms.
You should do this check-up every few weeks for your cat. It’s easiest to remember to do it when you’re getting ready to give them their routine treatments for worms and fleas. At any time between those checks, though, if you notice something that looks wrong with your cat then always seek professional advice from your vet.
Different Ways to Get Fundraising During the Jubilee Weekend
Over the next few weeks, Britain will be home to two major events that will hopefully inspire us all to be proud to be British: the Queen’s Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympics. It’s a great time to get involved with your local community and join in the celebrations – and if you get your thinking caps on now you could find ways to do some serious fundraising centred around these events.
There are many worthy charities in the UK, and different ones appeal to different people. The British are animal lovers, so what better way to show your patriotism than to think up some fundraising ideas to support an animal charity at the same time as celebrating the Jubilee and/or Olympics?
You could keep up the patriotic theme by choosing fundraising ideas and activities that are typically British in nature. For example:
• Host a street party. These will be happening all over the country anyway, with friends and neighbours getting together to share some party food and drink, hang up some bunting and generally have a good time together. If no-one on your street has already suggested it, then why not speak to your neighbours and invite them to a street party that you are organising. This is a lot to sort out on your own (you’ll need permission from the Local Authority, arrange for tables and enough plates, cups and food etc.) so don’t feel bad about asking your neighbours for any help they can provide. Tell them that you’re hoping to combine the party with fundraising for your animal charity and ask them to make a donation on the day.
• Have a coffee morning. Invite your friends, neighbours and loved ones, or perhaps the mums and dads from your children’s school, to call in for coffee and homemade cake, with a donation on the door.
• Have afternoon tea. Make some scones, get the teapot out and serve finger sandwiches on trays or stands. Again, ask for a donation on the door.
• Have a sports day. You could do this in your local park or in your back garden if it’s big enough. Choose typical school sports day races for adults and children alike (sack races, three-legged races, egg-and-spoon races, wheelbarrow races). Buy some cheap medals or trophies for the winners and ask for donations to enter, all in the name of fundraising.
• Create a quiz. If the weather goes all British on you and summer doesn’t happen (again) then write some good pub quiz-style questions, get your mates round for some drinks and snacks and ask for a donation to enter the quiz, with a bottle of wine for the winning team.
Whatever you choose to do, enjoy yourself and feel good about fundraising for a really good cause.
There are many worthy charities in the UK, and different ones appeal to different people. The British are animal lovers, so what better way to show your patriotism than to think up some fundraising ideas to support an animal charity at the same time as celebrating the Jubilee and/or Olympics?
You could keep up the patriotic theme by choosing fundraising ideas and activities that are typically British in nature. For example:
• Host a street party. These will be happening all over the country anyway, with friends and neighbours getting together to share some party food and drink, hang up some bunting and generally have a good time together. If no-one on your street has already suggested it, then why not speak to your neighbours and invite them to a street party that you are organising. This is a lot to sort out on your own (you’ll need permission from the Local Authority, arrange for tables and enough plates, cups and food etc.) so don’t feel bad about asking your neighbours for any help they can provide. Tell them that you’re hoping to combine the party with fundraising for your animal charity and ask them to make a donation on the day.
• Have a coffee morning. Invite your friends, neighbours and loved ones, or perhaps the mums and dads from your children’s school, to call in for coffee and homemade cake, with a donation on the door.
• Have afternoon tea. Make some scones, get the teapot out and serve finger sandwiches on trays or stands. Again, ask for a donation on the door.
• Have a sports day. You could do this in your local park or in your back garden if it’s big enough. Choose typical school sports day races for adults and children alike (sack races, three-legged races, egg-and-spoon races, wheelbarrow races). Buy some cheap medals or trophies for the winners and ask for donations to enter, all in the name of fundraising.
• Create a quiz. If the weather goes all British on you and summer doesn’t happen (again) then write some good pub quiz-style questions, get your mates round for some drinks and snacks and ask for a donation to enter the quiz, with a bottle of wine for the winning team.
Whatever you choose to do, enjoy yourself and feel good about fundraising for a really good cause.
How to ‘Talk’ to Your Pet Horse
Owning pets such as dogs or cats is comparatively easy when it comes to understanding their needs and emotions. If a cat sits with its back to you or skulks away from you with its ears pressed downwards and its tail to the floor, you know that you’ve done something to annoy it. Perhaps you served it the wrong food or forgot its birthday.
If a dog growls at you, you can be pretty sure it’s not happy about something and might be warning you that if that something continues you’re going to get bitten or barked at. Similarly, if it whimpers you know that it is afraid or hurt. A cat’s meow can mean pretty much anything from ‘I am hungry’ to ‘my tail is stuck in the door’ to ‘I love you’ depending on the cat and the circumstances.
Most cat and dog owners quickly become conversant with their pets’ methods of communication and with a little patience and understanding can work out what, if anything, is wrong (or right).
Horses are rather different in that they communicate in rather different ways to other pets and, since you will naturally spend less time with a horse than you would with a house pet, it can take a little longer to work out what all those little communication noises and nuances mean. Horses normally use more body language than vocal noises to communicate, but their noises can be something you can learn to understand and – like cats, dogs and humans – these will differ between horses.
As a general guide, though, here are some common noises a horse might make and what they may mean:
1. Neigh/Whinny: as any two-year-old child can tell you, a horse says ‘neigh’. But what does it mean? Neighs are deep-sounding throaty affairs whilst whinnies are louder and higher in tone and pitch. Doing either normally means that they are calling for another horse, or for you, their owner.
2. Nickers: this is when the horse’s mouth is closed but the vocal cords produce a sound. Mares use nickers to talk to their foals; all horses use nickers to say hello (to each other or to you, or to someone who has brought them a carrot).
3. Huffs: if the horse blows air through their nose they might be showing interest in something or they might be saying hello to another horse. If the huff is coupled with foot-stamping or nipping it’s a sign of aggression.
4. Screaming: this is something no-one wants to hear. It happens if the horse feels in danger or is involved in fight.
Learn to understand your pet horse and you will get even more enjoyments out of your relationship than you already do.
If a dog growls at you, you can be pretty sure it’s not happy about something and might be warning you that if that something continues you’re going to get bitten or barked at. Similarly, if it whimpers you know that it is afraid or hurt. A cat’s meow can mean pretty much anything from ‘I am hungry’ to ‘my tail is stuck in the door’ to ‘I love you’ depending on the cat and the circumstances.
Most cat and dog owners quickly become conversant with their pets’ methods of communication and with a little patience and understanding can work out what, if anything, is wrong (or right).
Horses are rather different in that they communicate in rather different ways to other pets and, since you will naturally spend less time with a horse than you would with a house pet, it can take a little longer to work out what all those little communication noises and nuances mean. Horses normally use more body language than vocal noises to communicate, but their noises can be something you can learn to understand and – like cats, dogs and humans – these will differ between horses.
As a general guide, though, here are some common noises a horse might make and what they may mean:
1. Neigh/Whinny: as any two-year-old child can tell you, a horse says ‘neigh’. But what does it mean? Neighs are deep-sounding throaty affairs whilst whinnies are louder and higher in tone and pitch. Doing either normally means that they are calling for another horse, or for you, their owner.
2. Nickers: this is when the horse’s mouth is closed but the vocal cords produce a sound. Mares use nickers to talk to their foals; all horses use nickers to say hello (to each other or to you, or to someone who has brought them a carrot).
3. Huffs: if the horse blows air through their nose they might be showing interest in something or they might be saying hello to another horse. If the huff is coupled with foot-stamping or nipping it’s a sign of aggression.
4. Screaming: this is something no-one wants to hear. It happens if the horse feels in danger or is involved in fight.
Learn to understand your pet horse and you will get even more enjoyments out of your relationship than you already do.
How To Choose A Dog From A Rescue Centre
If you’ve decided to welcome a dog into your family and have also decided to choose one who is currently residing in rescue centres then first of all – congratulations! You’ve made a good choice – choosing one of the many rescue dogs for adoption is the right thing to do. There are more dogs in the UK than there are responsible owners and whilst ever people choose to buy dogs from specialist breeders the problem will continue to increase.
But how do you choose from the many dogs housed in rescue centres? The average person looking for rescue dogs for adoption will be a family member looking for a dog who will fit into their lives and home. There are many dogs awaiting adoption who simply won’t fit that mould – they need extra time and specialist attention and training to be cared for properly.
The important thing to remember is that you have to go to the rescue centre with a pretty good idea of what sort of dog you want before you get there. It’s just too easy to see all the dogs in situ and fall for their sad little faces and big puppy eyes and then end up with a dog whose temperament or behaviour just doesn’t fit with your family or home situation.
You can search online for specific breeds that crop up in rescue centres quite frequently – you don’t have to choose a mongrel or mixed-breed dog just because you’re choosing one from a shelter or animal charity. You can also phone round the local rescue centres and ask about specific breeds (or particular sizes or temperaments) and ask for your name and number to be taken in case a suitable dog becomes available.
Check the rescue centre’s ‘return policy’ – a reputable rescue centre will accept the return of a dog at any time during its life for any reason. You shouldn’t expect to get any money back, but it is a good indication of a reputable shelter that they should be willing to accept long-term responsibility for the dogs that they arrange to be re-homed.
As part of the adoption process, you should be able to see the dog you are considering adopting away from the shelter’s enclosures. Dogs can behave very differently inside enclosed spaces than they do outside and with several people present and it’s important that you choose a dog that you know will suit the life you have planned for them.
Check whether the dogs at the rescue centre are tested for temperament and behaviour and whether a history is available for the dog you are interested in (why was the dog taken into the rescue centre? Is there a history of biting? Has the dog lived with children previously and, if so, of what age were those children?).
If you don’t have a particular breed in mind, then at least have a type of behaviour in mind – do you want an energetic dog, a lap dog, a dog that will enjoy playing with the family? Trust your instincts that are based on clear research and consideration and enjoy the benefits of giving a rescue dog a home for life.
But how do you choose from the many dogs housed in rescue centres? The average person looking for rescue dogs for adoption will be a family member looking for a dog who will fit into their lives and home. There are many dogs awaiting adoption who simply won’t fit that mould – they need extra time and specialist attention and training to be cared for properly.
The important thing to remember is that you have to go to the rescue centre with a pretty good idea of what sort of dog you want before you get there. It’s just too easy to see all the dogs in situ and fall for their sad little faces and big puppy eyes and then end up with a dog whose temperament or behaviour just doesn’t fit with your family or home situation.
You can search online for specific breeds that crop up in rescue centres quite frequently – you don’t have to choose a mongrel or mixed-breed dog just because you’re choosing one from a shelter or animal charity. You can also phone round the local rescue centres and ask about specific breeds (or particular sizes or temperaments) and ask for your name and number to be taken in case a suitable dog becomes available.
Check the rescue centre’s ‘return policy’ – a reputable rescue centre will accept the return of a dog at any time during its life for any reason. You shouldn’t expect to get any money back, but it is a good indication of a reputable shelter that they should be willing to accept long-term responsibility for the dogs that they arrange to be re-homed.
As part of the adoption process, you should be able to see the dog you are considering adopting away from the shelter’s enclosures. Dogs can behave very differently inside enclosed spaces than they do outside and with several people present and it’s important that you choose a dog that you know will suit the life you have planned for them.
Check whether the dogs at the rescue centre are tested for temperament and behaviour and whether a history is available for the dog you are interested in (why was the dog taken into the rescue centre? Is there a history of biting? Has the dog lived with children previously and, if so, of what age were those children?).
If you don’t have a particular breed in mind, then at least have a type of behaviour in mind – do you want an energetic dog, a lap dog, a dog that will enjoy playing with the family? Trust your instincts that are based on clear research and consideration and enjoy the benefits of giving a rescue dog a home for life.
Could You Foster a Cat or Kitten?
There are far more cats in the UK than there are people who are willing to care for them. It’s a sad fact that animal charities throughout the UK are constantly required to care for new cats and kittens and take in peoples’ pet cats or kittens for a variety of reasons. Their owners may no longer be able to afford to keep them (e.g. if they have been made redundant, or if the cat has developed an illness that requires long-term veterinary care), or they may have moved home to a house that is unsuitable for their pet cat.
Thankfully, many people do consider turning to cat shelters and cat rescue centres when they are thinking of bringing a cat or kitten into their home, rather than turning automatically to breeders or private owners. In this way, many unwanted or neglected cats and kittens can be given a second chance at a loving home and live to old age, happy and healthy.
But if you’re not able to commit to adopting a cat, there are other ways that you can contribute to cats protection. Have you thought about fostering a cat or kitten – or more than one?
Most cat rescue charities automatically arrange for the cats that come to them to be vaccinated, micro-chipped and neutered to protect the cat from future harm or loss and to prevent further unwanted cats being born. However, few such charities can afford the food, time and space required to care for many cats or kittens in the long-term.
Cat protection and cat rescue charities rely on support from volunteers and members of the public, not only to raise funds to allow them to continue their work but also to foster the animals in their care if there is insufficient space to care for them at the charity’s premises.
Fostering can help these charities immensely. You can choose to foster kittens or cats or a mixture, and would ideally do so until the cat or kitten has been rehomed. The animal charity would advertise these cats/kittens (usually online) with their photographs and description of their temperament and history in the hope of attracting an adoptive family. You could also choose to foster pregnant cats and look after them and the kittens until the kittens are weaned (about six weeks after birth), during which time you would socialise the kittens as well as keep them fed and cared for.
If you think that fostering cats or kittens is something you could do and would like to do, then get in touch with your local cat rescue centre. You will normally need to be interviewed and someone from the charity would need to see your home to make sure it is suitable for caring for the cats/kittens – you don’t need a large house but you need somewhere where the cats/kittens can be cared for safely (perhaps a box room, or a playpen). The charity would provide all food and veterinary care (including vaccinations and treatments) and for the kittens to be neutered.
Thankfully, many people do consider turning to cat shelters and cat rescue centres when they are thinking of bringing a cat or kitten into their home, rather than turning automatically to breeders or private owners. In this way, many unwanted or neglected cats and kittens can be given a second chance at a loving home and live to old age, happy and healthy.
But if you’re not able to commit to adopting a cat, there are other ways that you can contribute to cats protection. Have you thought about fostering a cat or kitten – or more than one?
Most cat rescue charities automatically arrange for the cats that come to them to be vaccinated, micro-chipped and neutered to protect the cat from future harm or loss and to prevent further unwanted cats being born. However, few such charities can afford the food, time and space required to care for many cats or kittens in the long-term.
Cat protection and cat rescue charities rely on support from volunteers and members of the public, not only to raise funds to allow them to continue their work but also to foster the animals in their care if there is insufficient space to care for them at the charity’s premises.
Fostering can help these charities immensely. You can choose to foster kittens or cats or a mixture, and would ideally do so until the cat or kitten has been rehomed. The animal charity would advertise these cats/kittens (usually online) with their photographs and description of their temperament and history in the hope of attracting an adoptive family. You could also choose to foster pregnant cats and look after them and the kittens until the kittens are weaned (about six weeks after birth), during which time you would socialise the kittens as well as keep them fed and cared for.
If you think that fostering cats or kittens is something you could do and would like to do, then get in touch with your local cat rescue centre. You will normally need to be interviewed and someone from the charity would need to see your home to make sure it is suitable for caring for the cats/kittens – you don’t need a large house but you need somewhere where the cats/kittens can be cared for safely (perhaps a box room, or a playpen). The charity would provide all food and veterinary care (including vaccinations and treatments) and for the kittens to be neutered.
Fur Balls and Sharp Claws: The Hazards of Grooming Kittens!
Kittens and cats are notoriously self-reliant and independent (certainly compared to puppies and dogs) and for many cat owners this is what they like about them. But whilst cats’ tongues are specially designed with their tiny barb-like buds to take care of their own fur they can sometimes need a bit of help, particularly if they have long fur or spend much of their time outside.
Grooming your cat can be a nice experience for you both – if your cat is compliant and enjoys the experience. Or it can be highly hazardous and stressful for everyone concerned. The best way to ensure that your cat will enjoy (or at least consent to) being groomed is to start as you mean to go on and begin grooming your kitten as early as possible. Time the grooming carefully so that you do it when your kitten is fed and relaxed so that they will come to associate it with this pleasurable state.
Some cats need nothing more than a good stroke to remove dead hair and keep their coats sleek and shiny. Others need considerably more help, without which their fur can become matted (and require veterinary treatment to sort out) and will probably produce some pretty foul hair balls.
Initially, when getting your kitten accustomed to being groomed, you should groom only their backs and sides and intersperse brushes with stroked and perhaps a treat or two. When they’re happy to let you do that, move on to more sensitive areas like their tummies.
As part of grooming your cat/kitten, you’ll need to check on their teeth and gums and their claws to see whether they need any attention. Many cats like having their feet touched and the pads gently squeezed to reveal the claws – but many don’t and they won’t be shy about letting you know. As with brushing, get them to associate having their feet fussed (or mouth gently opened) with being rewarded with treats and strokes.
Claws are normally kept healthy through natural wear and tear (climbing trees, clawing furniture…) but housecats and inactive cats can need their claws trimming and you should seek veterinary advice as to how to go about this.
Finally, have a look in your cats’ ears regularly to check for any discharge or smells that can be caused by infection. In black cats, ears are usually the best place to spot any ticks or fleas – your cat may shake their head a lot, which can be an indicator of a parasitic problem.
Grooming your cat can be a nice experience for you both – if your cat is compliant and enjoys the experience. Or it can be highly hazardous and stressful for everyone concerned. The best way to ensure that your cat will enjoy (or at least consent to) being groomed is to start as you mean to go on and begin grooming your kitten as early as possible. Time the grooming carefully so that you do it when your kitten is fed and relaxed so that they will come to associate it with this pleasurable state.
Some cats need nothing more than a good stroke to remove dead hair and keep their coats sleek and shiny. Others need considerably more help, without which their fur can become matted (and require veterinary treatment to sort out) and will probably produce some pretty foul hair balls.
Initially, when getting your kitten accustomed to being groomed, you should groom only their backs and sides and intersperse brushes with stroked and perhaps a treat or two. When they’re happy to let you do that, move on to more sensitive areas like their tummies.
As part of grooming your cat/kitten, you’ll need to check on their teeth and gums and their claws to see whether they need any attention. Many cats like having their feet touched and the pads gently squeezed to reveal the claws – but many don’t and they won’t be shy about letting you know. As with brushing, get them to associate having their feet fussed (or mouth gently opened) with being rewarded with treats and strokes.
Claws are normally kept healthy through natural wear and tear (climbing trees, clawing furniture…) but housecats and inactive cats can need their claws trimming and you should seek veterinary advice as to how to go about this.
Finally, have a look in your cats’ ears regularly to check for any discharge or smells that can be caused by infection. In black cats, ears are usually the best place to spot any ticks or fleas – your cat may shake their head a lot, which can be an indicator of a parasitic problem.
Fab Charity Fundraising Ideas For Your School
Schools have an important role to play in educating children about the need for supporting charitable causes – accepting responsibility and taking care of others is a value that is sometimes lacking in society. Schools can raise the profile of helping others by organising fundraising events that the children can get involved with and raise plenty of cash for their chosen charity.
Choosing a charity can be hard – who can decide which charity is most deserving of the proceeds of the fundraising? You could choose a charity that will strike a chord with the pupils, such as those supporting animals or children, or you could select a few charities for the children to vote on – the one with the most votes will be the one to receive the cash raised (or apportion the proceeds according to the proportion of votes). Whatever you choose, it is important to explain the work that the charity does and what sort of help they provide to those who need it most and why.
Then you need some really good fundraising ideas. This is where the children can really get involved. You could play it safe and do something like a school disco, or a ‘non-uniform day’ where each child pays one pound to attend or wear their own clothes, with all proceeds raised going to the charity. But there’s lots of room for creativity in fundraising, so consider these options too:
1. A school fair: get the children and parents involved to make products to sell at the fair; hire a bouncy castle; get local companies involved to support the event and have a lovely day one weekend. This will require staff to volunteer to come in on a Saturday, but hopefully they won’t mind if it’s for a good cause. Or hold it straight after school during the Spring/Summer months. Things that the children and parents could make for sale at the fair include buns and cakes and ‘crackers’ (fill a kitchen-roll inner tube with sweets and wrap up like a cracker).
2. Chocolate Raffle: get the children to bring in a bar of chocolate each and sell raffle tickets to see who will win which bars back. Hold as part of a school fair or at the end of a special assembly that parents have attended.
3. Books: Get the children to write and illustrate books and sell them. What parent will be able to resist? Make the books relevant to the charity for which you are raising funds to make it relevant.
4. Magazines: Get the School Council to create a magazine filled with news and jokes and photos each month and sell to parents (perhaps local businesses or parents who run their own businesses might be interested in paying for advertising space).
5. Recipe books: get the children to come in with their (or their parents’) favourite recipes; get them to write them down in instruction format (an important skill for KS1 anyway) and to illustrate the recipe. Sell the whole booklet to as many parents who wish to buy it!
6. Hold a car wash in the school car park and get the older children and staff to join in to wash as many cars as possible. If your car park is somewhere with little passing trade, then ask at your local supermarket whether you can use part of their car park for the morning – most will be supportive.
Choosing a charity can be hard – who can decide which charity is most deserving of the proceeds of the fundraising? You could choose a charity that will strike a chord with the pupils, such as those supporting animals or children, or you could select a few charities for the children to vote on – the one with the most votes will be the one to receive the cash raised (or apportion the proceeds according to the proportion of votes). Whatever you choose, it is important to explain the work that the charity does and what sort of help they provide to those who need it most and why.
Then you need some really good fundraising ideas. This is where the children can really get involved. You could play it safe and do something like a school disco, or a ‘non-uniform day’ where each child pays one pound to attend or wear their own clothes, with all proceeds raised going to the charity. But there’s lots of room for creativity in fundraising, so consider these options too:
1. A school fair: get the children and parents involved to make products to sell at the fair; hire a bouncy castle; get local companies involved to support the event and have a lovely day one weekend. This will require staff to volunteer to come in on a Saturday, but hopefully they won’t mind if it’s for a good cause. Or hold it straight after school during the Spring/Summer months. Things that the children and parents could make for sale at the fair include buns and cakes and ‘crackers’ (fill a kitchen-roll inner tube with sweets and wrap up like a cracker).
2. Chocolate Raffle: get the children to bring in a bar of chocolate each and sell raffle tickets to see who will win which bars back. Hold as part of a school fair or at the end of a special assembly that parents have attended.
3. Books: Get the children to write and illustrate books and sell them. What parent will be able to resist? Make the books relevant to the charity for which you are raising funds to make it relevant.
4. Magazines: Get the School Council to create a magazine filled with news and jokes and photos each month and sell to parents (perhaps local businesses or parents who run their own businesses might be interested in paying for advertising space).
5. Recipe books: get the children to come in with their (or their parents’) favourite recipes; get them to write them down in instruction format (an important skill for KS1 anyway) and to illustrate the recipe. Sell the whole booklet to as many parents who wish to buy it!
6. Hold a car wash in the school car park and get the older children and staff to join in to wash as many cars as possible. If your car park is somewhere with little passing trade, then ask at your local supermarket whether you can use part of their car park for the morning – most will be supportive.
How to Choose a Dog Friendly Holiday Cottage
If you are considering taking your dog on holiday with you this year, you wouldn’t be alone in doing so. UK pet owners are increasingly looking for pet friendly holiday cottages so that they can take all the members of their family with them when they travel, whether here in the UK or abroad with a pet passport.
It’s hard to know which came first: dog friendly holiday cottages or the holiday makers travelling with dogs. But it’s fair to say that there are now plenty of pet- and dog-friendly holiday cottages available if you choose to take your pet with you.
Thankfully, there are plenty of dog-friendly holiday cottages right here in the UK, or so a brief search of the internet will tell you. There are even comparison sites specialising in pet-friendly holiday cottages. But how do you choose one that’s right for you and your pet? How can you tell if they are genuinely pet friendly, or if they are merely willing to tolerate pets being brought as long as it means that they can rent out their cottage over summer?
There are some ways to tell whether a hotel will be really pet-friendly before you book. For example, look on a satellite street map view of the hotel on the internet and see if it is located next to a busy road, and if there is a good-sized garden or nearby area to let your dog out to play or be walked.
Check out online photos of the inside of the cottage – if it has lots of delicate-looking knick knacks and white carpets then perhaps it won’t be a very comfortable place to stay with your dog, lest you be always on guard for muddy footprints or tail-wag-related breakages. On the other hand, if the cottage is bedecked in sturdy wooden floors (not highly-polished!) or tiles then the accommodation is more likely to be suitable for your dog. If you’re worried, take throws from home to put over the furniture to protect it from hair and mud from your dog if he is prone to jumping up!
It’s not unreasonable for dog-friendly cottages to ask that you don’t allow dogs into the bedroom – if that will be a problem for you then search for another property rather than argue the point.
A good sign of a dog-friendly holiday cottage is one that offers to have food available when you arrive for your dog – you might not want it, since your dog might be a fussy eater, but the thought is encouraging and should make you feel welcome.
It’s hard to know which came first: dog friendly holiday cottages or the holiday makers travelling with dogs. But it’s fair to say that there are now plenty of pet- and dog-friendly holiday cottages available if you choose to take your pet with you.
Thankfully, there are plenty of dog-friendly holiday cottages right here in the UK, or so a brief search of the internet will tell you. There are even comparison sites specialising in pet-friendly holiday cottages. But how do you choose one that’s right for you and your pet? How can you tell if they are genuinely pet friendly, or if they are merely willing to tolerate pets being brought as long as it means that they can rent out their cottage over summer?
There are some ways to tell whether a hotel will be really pet-friendly before you book. For example, look on a satellite street map view of the hotel on the internet and see if it is located next to a busy road, and if there is a good-sized garden or nearby area to let your dog out to play or be walked.
Check out online photos of the inside of the cottage – if it has lots of delicate-looking knick knacks and white carpets then perhaps it won’t be a very comfortable place to stay with your dog, lest you be always on guard for muddy footprints or tail-wag-related breakages. On the other hand, if the cottage is bedecked in sturdy wooden floors (not highly-polished!) or tiles then the accommodation is more likely to be suitable for your dog. If you’re worried, take throws from home to put over the furniture to protect it from hair and mud from your dog if he is prone to jumping up!
It’s not unreasonable for dog-friendly cottages to ask that you don’t allow dogs into the bedroom – if that will be a problem for you then search for another property rather than argue the point.
A good sign of a dog-friendly holiday cottage is one that offers to have food available when you arrive for your dog – you might not want it, since your dog might be a fussy eater, but the thought is encouraging and should make you feel welcome.
Should You Take Your Dog on Holiday?
Traditionally in the UK, people took a fortnight’s holiday abroad and left their dogs in the care of neighbours or at a boarding kennel. Nowadays, it is possible to arrange a pet passport so that you can take your pet with you even if you travel abroad. But many people, particularly those with dogs, prefer to holiday here in the UK and take their dogs with them. This is partly because their dog is very much part of the family, but also because of the ever-rising cost of boarding kennels plus the increasing number of pet friendly cottages and hotels available in the UK.
The existence of dog friendly cottages and pet-friendly hotels means that you can take your pet with you on holiday. The question remains, though, as to whether you should take your pet with you. The answer to that rather depends on your dog as an individual. How old are they? Older dogs tend to travel less well than younger dogs – they need to stop more often for comfort breaks and may find long journeys uncomfortable and even distressing.
Older dogs can also find a change of scene upsetting, particularly if their eyesight is failing – if they are not familiar with the layout of the rooms then they could bump into furniture.
Obviously, if your dog is not in good health then it is unwise to take them away from home and away from near to your trusted vet; your dog might find the journey and unfamiliar routine and surroundings stressful, which might exacerbate any ill health.
If you decide not to take your dog on holiday then the best option would be for someone trusted to stay at your house and care for your dog in your absence. If that is not possible then ask around fellow dog-owners to find out about local boarding kennels that they would recommend. The best way to find a boarding kennel is to trust word-of-mouth recommendations because these will enable you to judge whether the kennels can care properly for your pet.
If you decide to take your dog on holiday then choose a pet-friendly cottage or hotel, but check that it genuinely is pet-friendly and not just pet-tolerant, and that dogs in particular are welcome. Take some things from home to make your dog feel more at ease – like their favourite blanket, ball or toy. Before you travel it’s a good idea to visit your vet and just check that your dog is in tip-top health – and consider getting your dog micro-chipped if he is not already.
The existence of dog friendly cottages and pet-friendly hotels means that you can take your pet with you on holiday. The question remains, though, as to whether you should take your pet with you. The answer to that rather depends on your dog as an individual. How old are they? Older dogs tend to travel less well than younger dogs – they need to stop more often for comfort breaks and may find long journeys uncomfortable and even distressing.
Older dogs can also find a change of scene upsetting, particularly if their eyesight is failing – if they are not familiar with the layout of the rooms then they could bump into furniture.
Obviously, if your dog is not in good health then it is unwise to take them away from home and away from near to your trusted vet; your dog might find the journey and unfamiliar routine and surroundings stressful, which might exacerbate any ill health.
If you decide not to take your dog on holiday then the best option would be for someone trusted to stay at your house and care for your dog in your absence. If that is not possible then ask around fellow dog-owners to find out about local boarding kennels that they would recommend. The best way to find a boarding kennel is to trust word-of-mouth recommendations because these will enable you to judge whether the kennels can care properly for your pet.
If you decide to take your dog on holiday then choose a pet-friendly cottage or hotel, but check that it genuinely is pet-friendly and not just pet-tolerant, and that dogs in particular are welcome. Take some things from home to make your dog feel more at ease – like their favourite blanket, ball or toy. Before you travel it’s a good idea to visit your vet and just check that your dog is in tip-top health – and consider getting your dog micro-chipped if he is not already.
How to Prepare Your Home For a Hamster or Guinea Pig
Hamsters and guinea pigs make great pets, particularly for young children for whom learning to care for and take responsibility for a pet is a great life skill to develop.
If you have decided to buy a hamster or guinea pig for your child, here are some things you need to consider prior to making that purchase.
Hamsters
Hamsters are very small and fragile and are essentially defenceless creatures. This is the first thing your child needs to be told – that their pet is not a toy and can be hurt or even killed if not treated with great care and gentleness.
Everyone needs to take care about things like where they are standing or sitting if the hamster is allowed out of his cage to play. Ensure that your hamster’s cage is suitable in that the bars are spaced narrowly enough to prevent your hamster getting out or getting stuck, and that there is plenty inside the cage to keep your hamster happy and entertained.
Keep your hamster’s food and water bowl clean, and change their bedding regularly. Keeping these items clean will reduce the risk of your pet developing infections – lung infections caused by spores and fungus are very common in hamsters.
Hamsters are small and naturally seek places to hide and burrow – so make sure that there’s nowhere your hamster can go that you wouldn’t want him to (such as under the kitchen units via a gap in the kick-space boards).
Guinea Pigs
The above also applies to your guinea pig, though they are a little larger so are less likely to get into small spaces where they cannot be reached. They are also usually more affectionate than hamsters and children seem to prefer them as pets (though that’s not to say that, with the right socialisation training, hamsters cannot be similarly affectionate).
Guinea pigs need a large cage with enough room to play and somewhere enclosed to sleep. They’ll need a food bowl and water bottle and plenty of regularly-cleaned bedding. Also give him some toys and a chew stick to keep his teeth from overgrowing. He’ll need guinea pig food and fresh fruit and vegetables. If your guinea pig has long fur you’ll also need a brush to groom him with.
If you take these steps when preparing for the arrival of your hamster or guinea pig you will be all set to welcome your new pet to your home. Enjoy!
If you have decided to buy a hamster or guinea pig for your child, here are some things you need to consider prior to making that purchase.
Hamsters
Hamsters are very small and fragile and are essentially defenceless creatures. This is the first thing your child needs to be told – that their pet is not a toy and can be hurt or even killed if not treated with great care and gentleness.
Everyone needs to take care about things like where they are standing or sitting if the hamster is allowed out of his cage to play. Ensure that your hamster’s cage is suitable in that the bars are spaced narrowly enough to prevent your hamster getting out or getting stuck, and that there is plenty inside the cage to keep your hamster happy and entertained.
Keep your hamster’s food and water bowl clean, and change their bedding regularly. Keeping these items clean will reduce the risk of your pet developing infections – lung infections caused by spores and fungus are very common in hamsters.
Hamsters are small and naturally seek places to hide and burrow – so make sure that there’s nowhere your hamster can go that you wouldn’t want him to (such as under the kitchen units via a gap in the kick-space boards).
Guinea Pigs
The above also applies to your guinea pig, though they are a little larger so are less likely to get into small spaces where they cannot be reached. They are also usually more affectionate than hamsters and children seem to prefer them as pets (though that’s not to say that, with the right socialisation training, hamsters cannot be similarly affectionate).
Guinea pigs need a large cage with enough room to play and somewhere enclosed to sleep. They’ll need a food bowl and water bottle and plenty of regularly-cleaned bedding. Also give him some toys and a chew stick to keep his teeth from overgrowing. He’ll need guinea pig food and fresh fruit and vegetables. If your guinea pig has long fur you’ll also need a brush to groom him with.
If you take these steps when preparing for the arrival of your hamster or guinea pig you will be all set to welcome your new pet to your home. Enjoy!
Preparing to Re-Home a Dog
If you have decided to welcome a new dog into your home and have chosen to select a dog in need of re-homing then congratulations – you have made a very kind, very conscientious decision and you won’t regret it. The rewards you’ll get from dog rehoming will be huge and your dog will really appreciate their new, loving home.
How should you prepare your home for the impending arrival of your new best friend? If you were expecting to welcome a new baby to your home you would take all manner of steps to make your house baby-proof, safe and stimulating for the new arrival – and you should take similar measures when you’re due to receive a new dog into your home.
Firstly, make sure that you have everything that dogs need. This will in part depend on how old your dog is, but will probably need to include a water bowl; food bowl; brush suitable to the length and type of your dog’s fur; a collar and lead; name tag; bed with something soft to lie on (old towels are fine) and food (ask the place that your dog is coming from what type of food your dog eats already and try to stick to that – he’ll have enough to get accustomed to with a house move without having to cope with a major change of diet too! You can always introduce new food gradually over the next few weeks).
Next, make sure that the whole family understands the level of responsibility that your new dog will bring. The dog will need to be fed and walked every day, usually early in the morning, and he will also need to be taken to the vet every so often. It might be that one member of the family is expecting to assume all the responsibility (if the dog is to be ‘their’ dog), but if not then it is a good idea to draw up a rota – set days on which each member of the family will be responsible for walking the dog and making sure he’s fed.
The family should also agree on rules. There is no point in one of you deciding that the dog won’t be fed scraps from the table if another member of the family indulges the dog in that way. All agree on the same words to use for different commands, too, so that the dog understands what is expected from him.
Check with the rehoming centre that your dog has been vaccinated, neutered and micro-chipped – all good rehoming centres and charities will guarantee this. If those things have not been done then ensure that it is seen to as soon as possible.
Make the house dog-proof by locking away things that you don’t want to be chewed (like shoes!) or that would be harmful to the dog if chewed. Look at your house from the dog’s perspective (literally – get on your knees!) to see where the potential hazards lie.
Lastly, be prepared for your dog to be unsettled for a few days whilst he gets used to his new home.
How should you prepare your home for the impending arrival of your new best friend? If you were expecting to welcome a new baby to your home you would take all manner of steps to make your house baby-proof, safe and stimulating for the new arrival – and you should take similar measures when you’re due to receive a new dog into your home.
Firstly, make sure that you have everything that dogs need. This will in part depend on how old your dog is, but will probably need to include a water bowl; food bowl; brush suitable to the length and type of your dog’s fur; a collar and lead; name tag; bed with something soft to lie on (old towels are fine) and food (ask the place that your dog is coming from what type of food your dog eats already and try to stick to that – he’ll have enough to get accustomed to with a house move without having to cope with a major change of diet too! You can always introduce new food gradually over the next few weeks).
Next, make sure that the whole family understands the level of responsibility that your new dog will bring. The dog will need to be fed and walked every day, usually early in the morning, and he will also need to be taken to the vet every so often. It might be that one member of the family is expecting to assume all the responsibility (if the dog is to be ‘their’ dog), but if not then it is a good idea to draw up a rota – set days on which each member of the family will be responsible for walking the dog and making sure he’s fed.
The family should also agree on rules. There is no point in one of you deciding that the dog won’t be fed scraps from the table if another member of the family indulges the dog in that way. All agree on the same words to use for different commands, too, so that the dog understands what is expected from him.
Check with the rehoming centre that your dog has been vaccinated, neutered and micro-chipped – all good rehoming centres and charities will guarantee this. If those things have not been done then ensure that it is seen to as soon as possible.
Make the house dog-proof by locking away things that you don’t want to be chewed (like shoes!) or that would be harmful to the dog if chewed. Look at your house from the dog’s perspective (literally – get on your knees!) to see where the potential hazards lie.
Lastly, be prepared for your dog to be unsettled for a few days whilst he gets used to his new home.
Can an Exotic Pet Be Bad For Your Health?
Owning an animal such as a cat or a dog can leave you open to obvious hazards to your health, since dogs and cats live indoors and outdoors and can have, shall we say, questionable hygiene. If you own an exotic pet, you will no doubt have read up on all the relevant pet care issues to ensure that you can adequately care for your snake/lizard/snail etc. But have you considered the possible risks to your health that your exotic pets may pose?
In America, the Centre for Disease Control attributes around 75,000 cases of Salmonellosis (illness caused by the salmonella bug) to ownership of or exposure to reptiles or amphibians. Salmonellosis is unpleasant at best and, at worst, fatal to those with weakened or underdeveloped/immature immune systems (such as the elderly or very young, or people with diseases of their immune system).
The message from the CDC is for owners of reptiles and amphibians (including frogs, newts and salamanders) should be aware of the risk that their pet may be carrying this deadly bacteria – something like 90% of them do carry the bacteria – and that young children are particularly at risk if infection is passed on. So perhaps buying that lizard for your daughter’s fourth birthday isn’t a great idea after all.
The CDC recommends that if you have children living or regularly visiting your home who are under 5 years of age, you should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets. Similarly, although many children find these creatures fascinating, they should not be taken into school as part of a ‘show and tell’.
Advice surrounding salmonella and exotic pets has been around for decades, and incidences of salmonella poisoning tend to increase with the rise in popularity of such pets and then decrease when measures are taken to reduce that risk (e.g. in the 1970s, turtles under 4” were banned for sale, when they became very popular amongst young children to keep as pets and the rate of salmonella poisoning increased substantially).
Salmonella poisoning via exotic pets can be contracted through handling the pet, or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated (e.g. through washing their equipment in the sink, or allowing the pet to walk around outside its cage).
Being aware of the risk will hopefully reduce it so that you can continue to enjoy caring for your exotic pet whilst minimising the risk of infection. Don’t keep a reptile or amphibian in your home if you have a child under 5 or someone living with you whose immune system is compromised for any reason (e.g. due to old age or ill health). When you handle your exotic pet or its equipment, make sure you thoroughly wash your hands afterwards and don’t allow your pet to roam freely in the living room or kitchen. Clean their cage and equipment somewhere other than in the kitchen and use bleach to clean all areas afterwards. Following these steps should negate the risk of infection so that you can enjoy your exotic pet safely.
In America, the Centre for Disease Control attributes around 75,000 cases of Salmonellosis (illness caused by the salmonella bug) to ownership of or exposure to reptiles or amphibians. Salmonellosis is unpleasant at best and, at worst, fatal to those with weakened or underdeveloped/immature immune systems (such as the elderly or very young, or people with diseases of their immune system).
The message from the CDC is for owners of reptiles and amphibians (including frogs, newts and salamanders) should be aware of the risk that their pet may be carrying this deadly bacteria – something like 90% of them do carry the bacteria – and that young children are particularly at risk if infection is passed on. So perhaps buying that lizard for your daughter’s fourth birthday isn’t a great idea after all.
The CDC recommends that if you have children living or regularly visiting your home who are under 5 years of age, you should not keep reptiles or amphibians as pets. Similarly, although many children find these creatures fascinating, they should not be taken into school as part of a ‘show and tell’.
Advice surrounding salmonella and exotic pets has been around for decades, and incidences of salmonella poisoning tend to increase with the rise in popularity of such pets and then decrease when measures are taken to reduce that risk (e.g. in the 1970s, turtles under 4” were banned for sale, when they became very popular amongst young children to keep as pets and the rate of salmonella poisoning increased substantially).
Salmonella poisoning via exotic pets can be contracted through handling the pet, or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated (e.g. through washing their equipment in the sink, or allowing the pet to walk around outside its cage).
Being aware of the risk will hopefully reduce it so that you can continue to enjoy caring for your exotic pet whilst minimising the risk of infection. Don’t keep a reptile or amphibian in your home if you have a child under 5 or someone living with you whose immune system is compromised for any reason (e.g. due to old age or ill health). When you handle your exotic pet or its equipment, make sure you thoroughly wash your hands afterwards and don’t allow your pet to roam freely in the living room or kitchen. Clean their cage and equipment somewhere other than in the kitchen and use bleach to clean all areas afterwards. Following these steps should negate the risk of infection so that you can enjoy your exotic pet safely.
Pet friendly cottages in the UK
European countries and the US have been offering dog friendly holiday cottages for many years, and the UK is starting to catch up. There are numerous search facilities online if you want to find a hotel that is listed as being ‘pet-friendly’ or as offering ‘dog-friendly accommodation’. There are even search sites that find pet-friendly days out and pubs, so you can combine your accommodation with your chosen activities that will ensure that your pet can join in all the fun!
If you don’t want to put your dog or pet in boarding kennels/cattery etc whilst you’re away, or leave them in the care of a friend or neighbour, then you need to make sure that the hotel you’re going to is genuinely pet-friendly and will really make you and your pet feel welcome. It’s the same as when you see a restaurant that advertises itself as ‘child-friendly’ – some are merely ‘child-tolerant’ and often getting word-of-mouth recommendation is the best bet for finding somewhere that practices what it preaches.
Even the friendliest of pet friendly cottages will usually expect pet birds to be kept in cages, and that your dog will be kept on a lead outside your room. Good pet-friendly hotels will provide things like food bowls and water bowls, bedding and towels and toys for your pets. They’ll also be able to recommend local facilities where your pet will be welcome, or walks that your pet dog will enjoy.
Expect to pay a supplement to the basic cost of your room for a pet – perhaps up to £10 per night. This is to cover the cost to the owners of the hotel of things like extra cleaning.
Having a pet friendly holiday cottages or booking dog-friendly accommodation is only part of your task: you also need to make sure that there are grounds or facilities nearby to exercise your pet. Not a problem if you’re in the countryside and in the city there may be enclosed areas for dog exercising/toileting, but check before you book. Some hotels have staff to walk dogs, or to pet-sit, which is helpful if you’re planning on going somewhere for the day that isn’t suitable for your dog or pet to come too.
Some hotels use only some of their rooms for customers with pets (so that they can keep other rooms ‘pet-free’ for people with allergies), and these can book up so if you’re planning on making a trip with your pet then it’s best to book early to avoid disappointment.
If you don’t want to put your dog or pet in boarding kennels/cattery etc whilst you’re away, or leave them in the care of a friend or neighbour, then you need to make sure that the hotel you’re going to is genuinely pet-friendly and will really make you and your pet feel welcome. It’s the same as when you see a restaurant that advertises itself as ‘child-friendly’ – some are merely ‘child-tolerant’ and often getting word-of-mouth recommendation is the best bet for finding somewhere that practices what it preaches.
Even the friendliest of pet friendly cottages will usually expect pet birds to be kept in cages, and that your dog will be kept on a lead outside your room. Good pet-friendly hotels will provide things like food bowls and water bowls, bedding and towels and toys for your pets. They’ll also be able to recommend local facilities where your pet will be welcome, or walks that your pet dog will enjoy.
Expect to pay a supplement to the basic cost of your room for a pet – perhaps up to £10 per night. This is to cover the cost to the owners of the hotel of things like extra cleaning.
Having a pet friendly holiday cottages or booking dog-friendly accommodation is only part of your task: you also need to make sure that there are grounds or facilities nearby to exercise your pet. Not a problem if you’re in the countryside and in the city there may be enclosed areas for dog exercising/toileting, but check before you book. Some hotels have staff to walk dogs, or to pet-sit, which is helpful if you’re planning on going somewhere for the day that isn’t suitable for your dog or pet to come too.
Some hotels use only some of their rooms for customers with pets (so that they can keep other rooms ‘pet-free’ for people with allergies), and these can book up so if you’re planning on making a trip with your pet then it’s best to book early to avoid disappointment.
Why You Should Consider Booking a Pet-Friendly Cottage Holiday
Most people view their pets as family members. The idea of going on holiday without part of the family is something that many pet owners wouldn’t even consider. The alternatives to taking your pet on holiday are a) arranging for someone to come to the house every day to feed them and, for dogs, take them for a walk or b) pay extortionate kennel/cattery/other pet boarding fees so that your pet can stay in a strange environment with other animals and perhaps be very stressed in the process.
For many people, these alternatives aren’t really options. They don’t like the idea that their pet is stuck at home on their own or in a strange environment whilst they (the owners) are off enjoying themselves.
With the advent of pet passports, it’s easier now than in previous years to take your pet abroad with you on holiday, but you might prefer to stay in Britain to minimise the travel time that your pet has to endure, and because in Britain at least you’ll know how to get hold of a local vet if you need one.
Renting a cottage in a part of the country where you can spend your days walking and exploring is an excellent choice if you’re thinking of taking your pet(s) with you. If you own a dog, then what could be better than taking him with you when you go hiking in the Yorkshire Dales or Lake District? Most dog owners enjoy walking (and indeed that might be the reason why they got a dog in the first place) and may well choose a walking holiday as their preference anyway.
There are plenty of dog friendly cottages and pet friendly cottages available to rent for holidays in some really beautiful parts of the country. If you decide to take that option then plan your trip carefully to make the journey as smooth as possible for a relaxing start to your break. Search online – there are plenty of sites that advertise pet-friendly or dog-friendly holiday accommodation and cottages. Check that they are indeed pet-friendly when you book (and check that they will accept your particular type of pet – some might not, for example, welcome birds) and what they offer that makes them pet-friendly. There’s a world of difference between ‘pet-friendly’ and ‘pet-tolerant.’ Check how much extra they charge for your pet and what facilities they have available (do you need to bring your own food dishes, for example). Ask whether they have any particular rules (such as no dogs in the bedrooms).
It might sound obvious, but if you’re going to be driving to your cottage then make sure your pet is comfortable with being in the car. Many dogs enjoy being driven around, but some don’t like it and most cats simply hate it. Consider investing in a pet carrier for the car, and take some short car journeys with your pet so that they get used to the idea that getting in the car does not necessarily result in a trip to the vet’s!
Take plenty of rest- stops on the way there so that your pet can get some exercise (if that’s appropriate) and have something to eat or drink.
For many people, these alternatives aren’t really options. They don’t like the idea that their pet is stuck at home on their own or in a strange environment whilst they (the owners) are off enjoying themselves.
With the advent of pet passports, it’s easier now than in previous years to take your pet abroad with you on holiday, but you might prefer to stay in Britain to minimise the travel time that your pet has to endure, and because in Britain at least you’ll know how to get hold of a local vet if you need one.
Renting a cottage in a part of the country where you can spend your days walking and exploring is an excellent choice if you’re thinking of taking your pet(s) with you. If you own a dog, then what could be better than taking him with you when you go hiking in the Yorkshire Dales or Lake District? Most dog owners enjoy walking (and indeed that might be the reason why they got a dog in the first place) and may well choose a walking holiday as their preference anyway.
There are plenty of dog friendly cottages and pet friendly cottages available to rent for holidays in some really beautiful parts of the country. If you decide to take that option then plan your trip carefully to make the journey as smooth as possible for a relaxing start to your break. Search online – there are plenty of sites that advertise pet-friendly or dog-friendly holiday accommodation and cottages. Check that they are indeed pet-friendly when you book (and check that they will accept your particular type of pet – some might not, for example, welcome birds) and what they offer that makes them pet-friendly. There’s a world of difference between ‘pet-friendly’ and ‘pet-tolerant.’ Check how much extra they charge for your pet and what facilities they have available (do you need to bring your own food dishes, for example). Ask whether they have any particular rules (such as no dogs in the bedrooms).
It might sound obvious, but if you’re going to be driving to your cottage then make sure your pet is comfortable with being in the car. Many dogs enjoy being driven around, but some don’t like it and most cats simply hate it. Consider investing in a pet carrier for the car, and take some short car journeys with your pet so that they get used to the idea that getting in the car does not necessarily result in a trip to the vet’s!
Take plenty of rest- stops on the way there so that your pet can get some exercise (if that’s appropriate) and have something to eat or drink.
Why Should You Adopt a Rescue Dog?
Dogs of all breeds, temperaments and ages end up in rescue centres. Some have been neglected or abandoned. Others have had to be taken in by the rescue centre because their owners can no longer care for them for a number of reasons.
The types of dog who reside in rescue centres can therefore vary enormously. If you decide to re-home a dog, you can choose from a huge number of rescue dogs available for adoption. Don’t write off the idea of choosing a rescue dog for adoption – only a small number of dogs in rescue centres are there because they have behavioural problems or won’t make good pets. Most are simply dogs who need a loving home.
People can find that they are unable to care for their pet dog for any number of reasons – perhaps their financial circumstances have changed (the recession has meant massive job losses, which in turn has meant many pets being given up for re-homing), or their family circumstances have changed (e.g. if the family has had a child, who is allergic to dogs, or a couple has divorced and neither has time or space for the dog) or even that the dog’s owner has died. Some owners simply recognise that they don’t have the time or energy that their dogs need to be cared for properly, or that they can’t afford unexpected medical treatment.
If the dog you fall in love with and want to take home has a history of neglect or mistreatment, you might need to take particularly gentle care of them until their confidence is restored and they feel safe.
If you’re after a particular breed, don’t rule out rescue centre dogs – a significant percentage are purebreds and you can ask your local rescue centre to contact you if they receive a particular breed for re-homing. Rescue centres also have a considerable number of ‘designer dogs’ to choose from.
Rescue dogs are usually toilet trained and don’t spend the night howling like a puppy might when separated from its mother. You know what you’re getting with a rescue centre dog, since their temperament and history will be known by the rescue centre prior to being made available for adoption. Rescue dogs are also said to be very affectionate, loyal and eager to please – they know how lucky they are to have a human who is being kind to them.
Finally, if you re-home a dog from a rescue centre, the dog will already have been neutered and vaccinated and for the nominal fee you pay for re-homing them you’ll really have a bargain.
The types of dog who reside in rescue centres can therefore vary enormously. If you decide to re-home a dog, you can choose from a huge number of rescue dogs available for adoption. Don’t write off the idea of choosing a rescue dog for adoption – only a small number of dogs in rescue centres are there because they have behavioural problems or won’t make good pets. Most are simply dogs who need a loving home.
People can find that they are unable to care for their pet dog for any number of reasons – perhaps their financial circumstances have changed (the recession has meant massive job losses, which in turn has meant many pets being given up for re-homing), or their family circumstances have changed (e.g. if the family has had a child, who is allergic to dogs, or a couple has divorced and neither has time or space for the dog) or even that the dog’s owner has died. Some owners simply recognise that they don’t have the time or energy that their dogs need to be cared for properly, or that they can’t afford unexpected medical treatment.
If the dog you fall in love with and want to take home has a history of neglect or mistreatment, you might need to take particularly gentle care of them until their confidence is restored and they feel safe.
If you’re after a particular breed, don’t rule out rescue centre dogs – a significant percentage are purebreds and you can ask your local rescue centre to contact you if they receive a particular breed for re-homing. Rescue centres also have a considerable number of ‘designer dogs’ to choose from.
Rescue dogs are usually toilet trained and don’t spend the night howling like a puppy might when separated from its mother. You know what you’re getting with a rescue centre dog, since their temperament and history will be known by the rescue centre prior to being made available for adoption. Rescue dogs are also said to be very affectionate, loyal and eager to please – they know how lucky they are to have a human who is being kind to them.
Finally, if you re-home a dog from a rescue centre, the dog will already have been neutered and vaccinated and for the nominal fee you pay for re-homing them you’ll really have a bargain.
What Type of Guinea Pig Should You Choose?
For many people with children, introducing a pet to the home is ideal to help the child learn nurturing skills, responsibility and – ultimately – an understanding of death and grief. Some people opt for family pets like cats and dogs whilst others want to choose a pet that will belong to the child.
Hamsters and guinea pigs make good first pets and many people choose one or the other.
If you opt for a guinea pig, there are several breeds to choose from – which one you opt for can determine the amount of care, time and attention the guinea pig will need (in terms of grooming and so on) and the sort of personality they’re likely to have.
There are thirteen breeds of guinea pig to choose from. Their proper name is ‘cavies’ and they’re all shaped similarly but their breed will determine things like their length and type of hair and their colours.
For example, the American guinea pig is the breed you see most often – they have short hair and a rounded nose; they have lovely personalities and make for good pets for children. The Teddy guinea pig, meanwhile, is growing in popularity – they have short hair but it sticks out all over, though it is soft (they’re called Teddies because they look like teddies!).
If you want a long-haired guinea pig then you should look for a Texel (which has long, curly hair and doesn’t need grooming, though their ringlets need keeping free of tangles) or Peruvian guinea pig (which need grooming every day) or even a Silky (which has quite long, messy hair and don’t need quite as much grooming).
Choose your breed carefully and make sure that you and your child can both commit to caring for it properly (especially if it requires a lot of grooming). Whatever breed you choose, you should make sure you handle and interact with it on a daily basis as they are social animals and need a lot of love and attention. Consider taking out pet insurance to cover the cost of any veterinary treatment as that can be very expensive even for such a small creature.
Hamsters and guinea pigs make good first pets and many people choose one or the other.
If you opt for a guinea pig, there are several breeds to choose from – which one you opt for can determine the amount of care, time and attention the guinea pig will need (in terms of grooming and so on) and the sort of personality they’re likely to have.
There are thirteen breeds of guinea pig to choose from. Their proper name is ‘cavies’ and they’re all shaped similarly but their breed will determine things like their length and type of hair and their colours.
For example, the American guinea pig is the breed you see most often – they have short hair and a rounded nose; they have lovely personalities and make for good pets for children. The Teddy guinea pig, meanwhile, is growing in popularity – they have short hair but it sticks out all over, though it is soft (they’re called Teddies because they look like teddies!).
If you want a long-haired guinea pig then you should look for a Texel (which has long, curly hair and doesn’t need grooming, though their ringlets need keeping free of tangles) or Peruvian guinea pig (which need grooming every day) or even a Silky (which has quite long, messy hair and don’t need quite as much grooming).
Choose your breed carefully and make sure that you and your child can both commit to caring for it properly (especially if it requires a lot of grooming). Whatever breed you choose, you should make sure you handle and interact with it on a daily basis as they are social animals and need a lot of love and attention. Consider taking out pet insurance to cover the cost of any veterinary treatment as that can be very expensive even for such a small creature.
What To Expect From a Pet-Friendly Holiday Cottage
More and more holiday cottages are advertising themselves as ‘pet-friendly’ or ‘dog-friendly’ as they recognise that pet owners (particularly dog owners) want to take their pets with them on holiday. This is particularly true in areas of the country where pets would fit quite naturally into any holiday plans, such as the Norfolk Broads, Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and Pennine areas. Places you would want to spend most of your days walking and enjoying spectacular views.
Most dog-friendly holiday cottages will have rules about caring for your dog whilst you stay there. Some might insist that dogs be kept on a lead in the surrounding fields out of respect for neighbouring farmers’ livestock. Or that visiting dogs not be permitted to climb onto the furniture. If your dog tends to leap on your bed or sofa at home, then unless you want to spend your holiday shouting ‘get down!’ perhaps you should avoid cottages where this is a rule.
Some pet-friendly holiday cottages welcome all types of pet and others have restrictions. For example, some won’t accommodate birds or else insist that any birds brought to the cottage be kept inside their cages. Some dog-friendly holiday cottages will only accept small breeds of dog, and some might insist on seeing an up-to-date record of vaccinations. It is quite normal to be expected to clean up after your pet.
Always check when booking whether there are any particular rules or policies concerning pets (as some will expect that you have read such policies on the cottage’s website) and how much extra will be charged if you bring a pet. Most pet-friendly holiday cottages will charge a small extra fee for pets to stay – this is normally used to cover the cost of the occasional accident caused.
Research your chosen accommodation carefully before you book your holiday. Check online sites that specifically list pet-friendly holiday cottages (there are plenty to choose from) and read the customer reviews, which can be very enlightening. Check what you’ll need to bring for your pet (e.g. is bedding for your pet available at the cottage or do you need to bring your own?) so that you’ll be fully prepared to relax and enjoy yourself when you arrive!
Most dog-friendly holiday cottages will have rules about caring for your dog whilst you stay there. Some might insist that dogs be kept on a lead in the surrounding fields out of respect for neighbouring farmers’ livestock. Or that visiting dogs not be permitted to climb onto the furniture. If your dog tends to leap on your bed or sofa at home, then unless you want to spend your holiday shouting ‘get down!’ perhaps you should avoid cottages where this is a rule.
Some pet-friendly holiday cottages welcome all types of pet and others have restrictions. For example, some won’t accommodate birds or else insist that any birds brought to the cottage be kept inside their cages. Some dog-friendly holiday cottages will only accept small breeds of dog, and some might insist on seeing an up-to-date record of vaccinations. It is quite normal to be expected to clean up after your pet.
Always check when booking whether there are any particular rules or policies concerning pets (as some will expect that you have read such policies on the cottage’s website) and how much extra will be charged if you bring a pet. Most pet-friendly holiday cottages will charge a small extra fee for pets to stay – this is normally used to cover the cost of the occasional accident caused.
Research your chosen accommodation carefully before you book your holiday. Check online sites that specifically list pet-friendly holiday cottages (there are plenty to choose from) and read the customer reviews, which can be very enlightening. Check what you’ll need to bring for your pet (e.g. is bedding for your pet available at the cottage or do you need to bring your own?) so that you’ll be fully prepared to relax and enjoy yourself when you arrive!
What to Do if You Find an Injured Cat
Have you got a cat who regularly visits your house? Maybe they come for a fuss or naughty snack, or just to play with your cats? What would you do if that cat turned up injured?
Cats often get into fights, particularly if they are unneutered males who are injured whilst defending territories. And if they are scratched, bacteria picked up from their opponent’s claws or the surrounding environment can easily lead to infection. They are also frequent victims of road accidents. Their instinct, if injured, is to hide and lay low.
It will be quickly and easily apparent if a cat is injured. They will be hiding under cover, or limping, or they will have an obvious wound. If you think that a cat in your garden is injured, what should you do?
If the cat will let you approach them, then you could use your judgement and lift them into a cat carrier or box, covered with a towel until you can get them to a vet. This is okay if the injury is obvious and not something that would be exacerbated by moving them. If you’re not sure, then don’t touch them.
Instead, call a cat rescue service or charity and seek their advice. Large cats protection and animal charities will often meet the cost of emergency veterinary treatment (if the cat is a stray or its owners cannot be identified) and may ask you to take the cat to your local vet for care.
Or, if the cat cannot be moved, the cat rescue charity will arrange for someone to come and collect the cat, or for a local vet to attend to give treatment.
If you want to, you can phone the charity after the immediate problem is resolved and, if you think you might want to offer the cat a home, enquire as to how the cat is getting on, whether they have been claimed or not.
Meanwhile, keep an eye out for ‘Lost’ posters that might have been put up by the cat’s owners – and give them a call if you think that the cat you have rescued belongs to them.
Cats often get into fights, particularly if they are unneutered males who are injured whilst defending territories. And if they are scratched, bacteria picked up from their opponent’s claws or the surrounding environment can easily lead to infection. They are also frequent victims of road accidents. Their instinct, if injured, is to hide and lay low.
It will be quickly and easily apparent if a cat is injured. They will be hiding under cover, or limping, or they will have an obvious wound. If you think that a cat in your garden is injured, what should you do?
If the cat will let you approach them, then you could use your judgement and lift them into a cat carrier or box, covered with a towel until you can get them to a vet. This is okay if the injury is obvious and not something that would be exacerbated by moving them. If you’re not sure, then don’t touch them.
Instead, call a cat rescue service or charity and seek their advice. Large cats protection and animal charities will often meet the cost of emergency veterinary treatment (if the cat is a stray or its owners cannot be identified) and may ask you to take the cat to your local vet for care.
Or, if the cat cannot be moved, the cat rescue charity will arrange for someone to come and collect the cat, or for a local vet to attend to give treatment.
If you want to, you can phone the charity after the immediate problem is resolved and, if you think you might want to offer the cat a home, enquire as to how the cat is getting on, whether they have been claimed or not.
Meanwhile, keep an eye out for ‘Lost’ posters that might have been put up by the cat’s owners – and give them a call if you think that the cat you have rescued belongs to them.
Tips on Making Your Home Safe for Your New Kitten
Anyone who’s ever had a child will have received plenty of advice from Health Visitors and Midwives on how to baby-proof their home. Keep medicines out of the way, guard against open flames, protect sharp corners and so-on.
However, if you’re thinking of giving a kitten a home, you should give thought to how to kitten-proof your home – and you might find it hard to get advice and support to do so. If you are re-homing a kitten through an animal shelter or charity, you should be visited at home so that someone can check that your home is suitable for your chosen pet. This is an ideal time to ask what you can do to make sure your home is as safe as it can be for your kitten.
If it were a baby you were introducing to the home, you’d be advised to get down to the baby’s level and see the room from their perspective. As silly as you might feel, it’s not a bad idea to do this for your new kitten too.
Look out for threads and strings that could pose a choking or strangulation hazard (anything from dental floss or elastic bands – strangely attractive to cats – to electrical cords) and research the plants and flowers in your home or garden to see whether they are toxic to kittens and cats. Things you might think of as being commonplace (like lilies and daffodils, hydrangeas and poinsettia) are all poisonous to cats.
Take steps like keeping your toilet lid closed, keeping knives and sharp objects tidied away, keep the doors to the washing machine and dryer closed. This latter is particularly important because kittens like to find warm, dark places to curl up and go to sleep in. If you don’t realise they’re in there and put in some more clothes and turn on the machine … Same thing applies to your bins – some kittens will go exploring if they smell something interesting and end up dropping through a swing-lid of a bin. This can be distressing for the kitten; they can be stuck for some time and can be easily injured.
Be careful to store small objects like paperclips, rubbers, coins and counters, medication and office equipment tidied away so that curious paws don’t play with them and that they don’t end up somewhere in your kitten’s digestive system.
Finally, whether or not you keep your kitten/cat indoors all the time, if the weather is very cold or extreme you should keep your kitten/cat inside.
However, if you’re thinking of giving a kitten a home, you should give thought to how to kitten-proof your home – and you might find it hard to get advice and support to do so. If you are re-homing a kitten through an animal shelter or charity, you should be visited at home so that someone can check that your home is suitable for your chosen pet. This is an ideal time to ask what you can do to make sure your home is as safe as it can be for your kitten.
If it were a baby you were introducing to the home, you’d be advised to get down to the baby’s level and see the room from their perspective. As silly as you might feel, it’s not a bad idea to do this for your new kitten too.
Look out for threads and strings that could pose a choking or strangulation hazard (anything from dental floss or elastic bands – strangely attractive to cats – to electrical cords) and research the plants and flowers in your home or garden to see whether they are toxic to kittens and cats. Things you might think of as being commonplace (like lilies and daffodils, hydrangeas and poinsettia) are all poisonous to cats.
Take steps like keeping your toilet lid closed, keeping knives and sharp objects tidied away, keep the doors to the washing machine and dryer closed. This latter is particularly important because kittens like to find warm, dark places to curl up and go to sleep in. If you don’t realise they’re in there and put in some more clothes and turn on the machine … Same thing applies to your bins – some kittens will go exploring if they smell something interesting and end up dropping through a swing-lid of a bin. This can be distressing for the kitten; they can be stuck for some time and can be easily injured.
Be careful to store small objects like paperclips, rubbers, coins and counters, medication and office equipment tidied away so that curious paws don’t play with them and that they don’t end up somewhere in your kitten’s digestive system.
Finally, whether or not you keep your kitten/cat indoors all the time, if the weather is very cold or extreme you should keep your kitten/cat inside.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Pet Horse
If you’re considering buying or adopting a pet horse, how do you choose what type of horse to opt for? If you have experience of horses (which you should have, if you’re thinking of owning one as a pet), you’ll know that they each have distinct personalities and temperaments, and a horse that is perfect for one person might be completely unsuitable for another.
When considering whether to buy a pet horse, bear in mind your level of experience. You shouldn’t buy a horse with no experience behind you – the learning-curve is just too steep and you could inadvertently harm or neglect your horse. If you have some experience, then choose a horse that is calm and perhaps small in stature for you to be able to correctly handle them.
Whilst you might have your heart set on a dappled grey, because that is the kind that you wanted when you were a child, remember that appearances are not everything. Look for temperament before appearance. Research the breed you’re considering to see what level of commitment and care it will need so that you know what you’re getting into.
Make sure that any horse you choose has had medical checks carried out.
And before you take one home, make sure you have everything that you need for your new pets. Be sure that you have enough time and money to look after your horse for the long-term: horses can live for more than 20 years, so spare a thought for how old you will be when your horse is old, will you still be able to care for it?
Do your research on local services – are there vets nearby who can care for your horse; is there a good local farrier, do you need a trainer? Get this information before you bring your horse home – you’ll find it a lot harder to get the information in an emergency situation.
When you’ve done all your research and gathered all your supplies and resources, then you can choose your new horse. Try to see the horse in its own environment so that you can have a good idea of its natural temperament, and try to see it in its stable and field. Also see how he is with other horses, especially if you are planning on stabling your horse with others. Finally, be sure to see how it feels to ride. You wouldn’t buy a car without taking it for a test-drive!
When considering whether to buy a pet horse, bear in mind your level of experience. You shouldn’t buy a horse with no experience behind you – the learning-curve is just too steep and you could inadvertently harm or neglect your horse. If you have some experience, then choose a horse that is calm and perhaps small in stature for you to be able to correctly handle them.
Whilst you might have your heart set on a dappled grey, because that is the kind that you wanted when you were a child, remember that appearances are not everything. Look for temperament before appearance. Research the breed you’re considering to see what level of commitment and care it will need so that you know what you’re getting into.
Make sure that any horse you choose has had medical checks carried out.
And before you take one home, make sure you have everything that you need for your new pets. Be sure that you have enough time and money to look after your horse for the long-term: horses can live for more than 20 years, so spare a thought for how old you will be when your horse is old, will you still be able to care for it?
Do your research on local services – are there vets nearby who can care for your horse; is there a good local farrier, do you need a trainer? Get this information before you bring your horse home – you’ll find it a lot harder to get the information in an emergency situation.
When you’ve done all your research and gathered all your supplies and resources, then you can choose your new horse. Try to see the horse in its own environment so that you can have a good idea of its natural temperament, and try to see it in its stable and field. Also see how he is with other horses, especially if you are planning on stabling your horse with others. Finally, be sure to see how it feels to ride. You wouldn’t buy a car without taking it for a test-drive!
Things to Consider if You’re Thinking of Rehoming Your Dog
We’re a nation of dog lovers, it’s true, and for most people their dog is part of the family. Getting their dog rehomed is normally a matter of last-resort for people who simply cannot continue to look after their dog anymore. Very few people choose to have their dogs rehomed because they don’t love them anymore or can’t be bothered to look after them.
The most common reason for rehoming dogs is that people can no longer afford to keep them and look after them properly. The costs of owning dogs – from food to vet bills – can add up and if a family has lost its income (through a job loss, for instance), it is a cost that many become unable to afford. Sometimes it’s a choice between rehoming their dogs and putting food on the table or paying the mortgage.
Other reasons for rehoming dogs include people moving house to somewhere unsuitable for dogs; people divorcing and neither being able to afford or accommodate their dogs; people having children and no longer having the time or energy to care for their dogs (or being worried that their dog is not child-friendly, or that their child has an allergy to dogs); taking on extra work and no longer having the time to care for their dogs properly.
If any of these circumstances apply to you and you’re thinking of having your dog rehomed, think about whether there are any practical solutions for the problems you’re facing instead. Can you hire a dog-walking service? Can your new landlord be persuaded to let you keep a dog (if you show him that you are a responsible dog owner, that your dog is vaccinated and well-cared for, giving references from previous landlords if possible)? Can you seek treatment for any allergies? Enlist a behaviour expert to help to improve relations between your child and the dog?
If you have faced the difficult decision to rehome your dog, what should you do next? It is not a good idea to advertise that you have a dog to rehome, since you don’t know who will answer that advert. There are unpleasant people out there who will look for free dogs to use in dog fights. You cannot by any means be guaranteed that the person who takes your beloved dog home with them will look after them properly, or will not pass them on to someone unsuitable.
Animal rescue centres can help with dog rehoming and will carefully select new owners. Make sure that you do the best for your dog and take responsibility for where he ends up next by seeking expert advice and support from your local rescue centre or animal charity.
The most common reason for rehoming dogs is that people can no longer afford to keep them and look after them properly. The costs of owning dogs – from food to vet bills – can add up and if a family has lost its income (through a job loss, for instance), it is a cost that many become unable to afford. Sometimes it’s a choice between rehoming their dogs and putting food on the table or paying the mortgage.
Other reasons for rehoming dogs include people moving house to somewhere unsuitable for dogs; people divorcing and neither being able to afford or accommodate their dogs; people having children and no longer having the time or energy to care for their dogs (or being worried that their dog is not child-friendly, or that their child has an allergy to dogs); taking on extra work and no longer having the time to care for their dogs properly.
If any of these circumstances apply to you and you’re thinking of having your dog rehomed, think about whether there are any practical solutions for the problems you’re facing instead. Can you hire a dog-walking service? Can your new landlord be persuaded to let you keep a dog (if you show him that you are a responsible dog owner, that your dog is vaccinated and well-cared for, giving references from previous landlords if possible)? Can you seek treatment for any allergies? Enlist a behaviour expert to help to improve relations between your child and the dog?
If you have faced the difficult decision to rehome your dog, what should you do next? It is not a good idea to advertise that you have a dog to rehome, since you don’t know who will answer that advert. There are unpleasant people out there who will look for free dogs to use in dog fights. You cannot by any means be guaranteed that the person who takes your beloved dog home with them will look after them properly, or will not pass them on to someone unsuitable.
Animal rescue centres can help with dog rehoming and will carefully select new owners. Make sure that you do the best for your dog and take responsibility for where he ends up next by seeking expert advice and support from your local rescue centre or animal charity.
How to Care for an African Land Snail
I have a ‘friend’ (you’ll understand the inverted commas in a moment) who wanted to buy my son a terrarium for his birthday, so that he could do things like watch tadpoles turn into frogs. Nice idea, but when she got to the till, she told me later, she thought ‘I’m just buying him an empty box…’ So in her wisdom, she decided to fill it with a couple of residents. My son’s very own, very first exotic pets.
So my five-year-old son was presented with a pair of Giant African Land Snails complete with all the paraphernalia they could need (see below) and I swiftly became a font of wisdom of exotic pet care.
Although they were rather thrust upon me, I have become rather attached to them and they are very much part of the family now. I am on speaking terms with the friend again, too.
They make really nice pets – very easy to care for, though you need to know what you’re doing – and rather popular with local schools who want something not too fast and creepy to show to the classes studying mini beasts. They live for about 5 or 6 years, and they hibernate over winter (they can look like they’ve died, with a hard substance formed over the entrance to their shell).
If you like the idea of having a Giant African Land Snail as a pet, you will need:
- A plastic or glass tank (with slits for ventilation and a lid) of at least 5 – 10 gallons.
- Soil or compost that the snails can burrow in (you should ‘muck out’ weekly and change fully every three to four weeks)
- Some bits of wood for the snail to hide under
- A mister (a bottle with water that sprays a mist) to keep the atmosphere in the tank and soil moist
- If you don’t want the snail to hibernate, in the colder months put a heating pad under the tank at about 21 – 25C) but remember to keep it humid
- Food – they like lettuce, cucumber, dog biscuits, peppers, apples, grapes, spinach – most vegetables
- A source of calcium (most people put a cuttlefish bone in the tank; you’ll need a new one each week)
- A shallow water dish
They like being handled and are fascinating creatures to watch. Be gentle and make sure they don’t fall as their shells can be easily damaged.
Be warned, if you decide to invest in a Giant African Land Snail, they lay many, many eggs at a time and breed like there’s no tomorrow. You need two to breed (it doesn’t matter if they’re male or female – they can change in order to breed) but if you only have one be warned that they can store the necessary bodily fluids in order to make babies many weeks or months after being separated from their partner. So if you’ve chosen a single snail, beware that the snail might have been in contact with another and may be capable of laying fertile eggs.
If your snail lays eggs, they will be buried in the soil in your tank – be sure to regularly check the bottom of your tank! These snails are actually illegal in the US because of their potential to breed and become a ‘devastating invading species’. They have a point. If yours does lay eggs and you don’t want to keep the offspring, you can freeze the eggs to kill them before putting them in the bin. Do not simply bin them or put them out in the compost heap!!
So my five-year-old son was presented with a pair of Giant African Land Snails complete with all the paraphernalia they could need (see below) and I swiftly became a font of wisdom of exotic pet care.
Although they were rather thrust upon me, I have become rather attached to them and they are very much part of the family now. I am on speaking terms with the friend again, too.
They make really nice pets – very easy to care for, though you need to know what you’re doing – and rather popular with local schools who want something not too fast and creepy to show to the classes studying mini beasts. They live for about 5 or 6 years, and they hibernate over winter (they can look like they’ve died, with a hard substance formed over the entrance to their shell).
If you like the idea of having a Giant African Land Snail as a pet, you will need:
- A plastic or glass tank (with slits for ventilation and a lid) of at least 5 – 10 gallons.
- Soil or compost that the snails can burrow in (you should ‘muck out’ weekly and change fully every three to four weeks)
- Some bits of wood for the snail to hide under
- A mister (a bottle with water that sprays a mist) to keep the atmosphere in the tank and soil moist
- If you don’t want the snail to hibernate, in the colder months put a heating pad under the tank at about 21 – 25C) but remember to keep it humid
- Food – they like lettuce, cucumber, dog biscuits, peppers, apples, grapes, spinach – most vegetables
- A source of calcium (most people put a cuttlefish bone in the tank; you’ll need a new one each week)
- A shallow water dish
They like being handled and are fascinating creatures to watch. Be gentle and make sure they don’t fall as their shells can be easily damaged.
Be warned, if you decide to invest in a Giant African Land Snail, they lay many, many eggs at a time and breed like there’s no tomorrow. You need two to breed (it doesn’t matter if they’re male or female – they can change in order to breed) but if you only have one be warned that they can store the necessary bodily fluids in order to make babies many weeks or months after being separated from their partner. So if you’ve chosen a single snail, beware that the snail might have been in contact with another and may be capable of laying fertile eggs.
If your snail lays eggs, they will be buried in the soil in your tank – be sure to regularly check the bottom of your tank! These snails are actually illegal in the US because of their potential to breed and become a ‘devastating invading species’. They have a point. If yours does lay eggs and you don’t want to keep the offspring, you can freeze the eggs to kill them before putting them in the bin. Do not simply bin them or put them out in the compost heap!!
Fundraising Ideas for Your Chosen Animal Charity
Charities are vital to support the most vulnerable in our society and world – elderly, ill, impoverished, children and animals. The government offers no funding to the sectors that benefit from charitable support – charities depend on donations from the public. Those donations might take the form of one-off gifts, either as a gift to a charity collector on the street, or through a fundraising event. Or they might take the form of regular payments through direct debits of a small amount each month, or bequests or trust funds made or set up in a deceased person’s Will.
If you haven’t made a will already, or are due to amend your existing will, try to remember to include a provision – however big or small fundraising – for a charity of your choice. One advantage of doing so is that any gifts to charity are tax-free. If you own more than the minimal threshold for Inheritance Tax, you might consider leaving the rest to a charity so as to avoid Inheritance Tax altogether (many people prefer this to giving 40% to the Chancellor).
However, there are plenty of things you can do to raise money for charities whilst you’re alive too! There are several fundraising ideas that people have used in the past to gather funds for their chosen charity.
If you decide to try fundraising for a charity, it is best to contact the charity first to see if they have a particular form to complete or to ask for advice on how to prove to people you’ll be asking for money that you are doing so for the benefit of that charity.
Then get thinking of how you can fundraise to the best of your ability given your own resources. Be imaginative to build enthusiasm and encourage people to attend your event and give generously.
You could hold a coffee morning, dinner-dance or auction. But why not try something a little different, perhaps adapted to focus on the nature of your chosen charity? For example, if you are trying to fundraise for an animal charity, why not involve animals? A sponsored dog-walk or cat-groom? If you feel awkward asking for money from people you know, why not ask for donations of pet food – which can be donated to a local shelter, which will always welcome such donations and which will consequently have more money left to pay for other things.
Liaise with local businesses (ideally ones that have a link to your charity-subject, however obscure) and see if they will support your fundraising event, perhaps by donating money or equipment that you can use for your event. If you are raising money for an animal charity, see if you can set up a stall at the entrance of a pet-shop to catch the attention of as many pet-lovers as possible.
Check with your local tourist information office or community centre to see if there are any local events like fetes or fairs at which you could set up a fundraising stall or display.
Or speak to local hotels that advertise themselves as ‘pet-friendly’ – see if they will agree to donate a certain amount per booking with pets (in exchange, you can recommend their service to others).
Be creative and get fundraising!
If you haven’t made a will already, or are due to amend your existing will, try to remember to include a provision – however big or small fundraising – for a charity of your choice. One advantage of doing so is that any gifts to charity are tax-free. If you own more than the minimal threshold for Inheritance Tax, you might consider leaving the rest to a charity so as to avoid Inheritance Tax altogether (many people prefer this to giving 40% to the Chancellor).
However, there are plenty of things you can do to raise money for charities whilst you’re alive too! There are several fundraising ideas that people have used in the past to gather funds for their chosen charity.
If you decide to try fundraising for a charity, it is best to contact the charity first to see if they have a particular form to complete or to ask for advice on how to prove to people you’ll be asking for money that you are doing so for the benefit of that charity.
Then get thinking of how you can fundraise to the best of your ability given your own resources. Be imaginative to build enthusiasm and encourage people to attend your event and give generously.
You could hold a coffee morning, dinner-dance or auction. But why not try something a little different, perhaps adapted to focus on the nature of your chosen charity? For example, if you are trying to fundraise for an animal charity, why not involve animals? A sponsored dog-walk or cat-groom? If you feel awkward asking for money from people you know, why not ask for donations of pet food – which can be donated to a local shelter, which will always welcome such donations and which will consequently have more money left to pay for other things.
Liaise with local businesses (ideally ones that have a link to your charity-subject, however obscure) and see if they will support your fundraising event, perhaps by donating money or equipment that you can use for your event. If you are raising money for an animal charity, see if you can set up a stall at the entrance of a pet-shop to catch the attention of as many pet-lovers as possible.
Check with your local tourist information office or community centre to see if there are any local events like fetes or fairs at which you could set up a fundraising stall or display.
Or speak to local hotels that advertise themselves as ‘pet-friendly’ – see if they will agree to donate a certain amount per booking with pets (in exchange, you can recommend their service to others).
Be creative and get fundraising!
Tips for finding a dog friendly cottage
Dog-friendly cottages in the UK are prolific, particularly in countryside areas where hoteliers know that people who want to enjoy the countryside normally like to have their best friends with them for a good walk. Many holiday cottages are also advertised as being pet friendly accommodation, whilst others remain steadfastly pet-free (handy if you have allergies).
There are several sites that allow you to search for ‘dog-friendly hotels’ or ‘pet-friendly cottages’. They abound in areas like the Lake District, Cornwall, the Yorkshire Dales – anywhere where you would want to spend a good part of your holiday walking in the hills with your best friend. There are also some chain hotels (even the very basic-cost options) that are dog-friendly, so you don’t have to spend a lot to take a holiday with your pet. Many do charge a supplement for your pet to stay, but it’s normally in the region of up to £10 per night.
But a tag-line on a hotel’s website saying that they are ‘dog-friendly’ or ‘pet-friendly’ does not necessarily that they are as welcoming as they profess. Always read reviews and ask for recommendations from other pet-owners, and ask questions of your hosts or the owners of the cottage you are renting.
Ask where your dog can sleep: many hotels/cottages insist that dogs sleep outside in a kennel, which you might not want.
Check whether you’ll need to bring your dog’s food with you, as some hotels offer a range of meals for your pet. If your dog is on a special diet, chances are you will need to bring their food with you, and make sure to tell the hoteliers that your dog is on a diet so that they are careful not to leave other dogs’ food or treats out where your dog could snaffle them.
Ask for a room on the ground floor if possible, so that you can take your dog outside quickly if the need arises.
There are several sites that allow you to search for ‘dog-friendly hotels’ or ‘pet-friendly cottages’. They abound in areas like the Lake District, Cornwall, the Yorkshire Dales – anywhere where you would want to spend a good part of your holiday walking in the hills with your best friend. There are also some chain hotels (even the very basic-cost options) that are dog-friendly, so you don’t have to spend a lot to take a holiday with your pet. Many do charge a supplement for your pet to stay, but it’s normally in the region of up to £10 per night.
But a tag-line on a hotel’s website saying that they are ‘dog-friendly’ or ‘pet-friendly’ does not necessarily that they are as welcoming as they profess. Always read reviews and ask for recommendations from other pet-owners, and ask questions of your hosts or the owners of the cottage you are renting.
Ask where your dog can sleep: many hotels/cottages insist that dogs sleep outside in a kennel, which you might not want.
Check whether you’ll need to bring your dog’s food with you, as some hotels offer a range of meals for your pet. If your dog is on a special diet, chances are you will need to bring their food with you, and make sure to tell the hoteliers that your dog is on a diet so that they are careful not to leave other dogs’ food or treats out where your dog could snaffle them.
Ask for a room on the ground floor if possible, so that you can take your dog outside quickly if the need arises.
What are the best ways to raise money for charities?
Charities exist to plug the gaps where government spending is missing. They couldn’t do all their good work and help as many people and animals as they do without financial support from caring members of the public.
People raise money for charities in many different ways. A large portion of many charities’ income comes from bequests made in peoples’ Wills. When a person writes a Will, they can choose to leave a gift (of an amount of money, or perhaps some property) or a percentage of their estate (the value of everything they leave behind when they die) to a charity or charities of their choice. These are called charitable legacies, and they are free of Inheritance Tax.
The current rate of Inheritance Tax is currently £325,000 and, subject to a few exceptions, anything you own above that amount at the time of your death is taxed at 40%. Some people, usually those who own just above the threshold, say in their Will that if they own over the Inheritance Tax threshold at the time of their death, then anything above that amount will be given to a charity or charities. That way, the charity gets the money rather than the Chancellor.
But there are many ways you can raise money for charity when you are alive too! Some people make a small (or large) monthly donation by direct debit, which really adds up for the charity. Others do one-off fundraising activities. Fundraising ideas could include those which are wild and wacky, like getting people to sponsor them to sit in a bath of baked beans, or to shave their heads. Or they can be arduous and rewarding, such as raising sponsorship for running a race, or climbing a mountain.
One of the easiest and most pleasant fundraising idea, though, is probably a coffee morning with friends, or baking cakes for friends and family to buy, with all money raised being sent to the charity. Coffee mornings work by asking people to come along to your house for the morning, providing them with tea/coffee and cake/biscuits and a gossip, and in return they agree to put some money in the pot (usually an agreed amount of, say £5 each, or you could leave it to their discretion – most people prefer being asked for a set amount, though).
People raise money for charities in many different ways. A large portion of many charities’ income comes from bequests made in peoples’ Wills. When a person writes a Will, they can choose to leave a gift (of an amount of money, or perhaps some property) or a percentage of their estate (the value of everything they leave behind when they die) to a charity or charities of their choice. These are called charitable legacies, and they are free of Inheritance Tax.
The current rate of Inheritance Tax is currently £325,000 and, subject to a few exceptions, anything you own above that amount at the time of your death is taxed at 40%. Some people, usually those who own just above the threshold, say in their Will that if they own over the Inheritance Tax threshold at the time of their death, then anything above that amount will be given to a charity or charities. That way, the charity gets the money rather than the Chancellor.
But there are many ways you can raise money for charity when you are alive too! Some people make a small (or large) monthly donation by direct debit, which really adds up for the charity. Others do one-off fundraising activities. Fundraising ideas could include those which are wild and wacky, like getting people to sponsor them to sit in a bath of baked beans, or to shave their heads. Or they can be arduous and rewarding, such as raising sponsorship for running a race, or climbing a mountain.
One of the easiest and most pleasant fundraising idea, though, is probably a coffee morning with friends, or baking cakes for friends and family to buy, with all money raised being sent to the charity. Coffee mornings work by asking people to come along to your house for the morning, providing them with tea/coffee and cake/biscuits and a gossip, and in return they agree to put some money in the pot (usually an agreed amount of, say £5 each, or you could leave it to their discretion – most people prefer being asked for a set amount, though).
Insuring your horse
Acquiring a horse as a family pet or for recreation or pleasure is a major decision. They require extensive amounts of time and care, not to mention money to maintain their stables, tack, food and bedding supplies. They’re also high maintenance all year round, and it may be difficult to find someone to care for them in your absence if you want to go on holiday.
But all of that is but a drop in the ocean compared to the cost of veterinary bills should your horse become ill or injured. Insurance is a major consideration for horse owners, and it is something that should be dealt with as a priority once you have acquired your horse.
It doesn’t really matter how much you paid for your horse in the beginning (many people acquire horses from others who have become too old to care for them themselves and may pay a nominal sum for them). Once they are yours they are part of your family: and if a member of your family were ill, you would pay whatever it took to get them well or healthy again if they fell ill or were injured, wouldn’t you?
The key factor about having pet insurance, particularly for a large beast like a horse, is that no-one wants to be in a position where they have to put a cost on their pets life. If you don’t have equine insurance, you could one day be faced with choosing whether to pay money you can’t afford, or have your horse put to sleep. Money is obviously finite, and it is entirely possible that you could not afford to pay an astronomical veterinary bill following a fall (especially if the horse needed surgery).
If you did pay a lot for your horse and it dies, if you have insurance then you can recover the monetary value (even if that will not compensate you for the loss of a loved pet).
Premiums for equine insurance that pays out in the event of their death tend to be based on the value of the horse (that is, the amount you paid for it). It is well worth adding insurance to cover medical and surgical costs of care. If you have insurance from an early stage, then the chances are that your premium will be affordable. If you wait until after your horse has had an illness or accident, premiums will be higher. Even so, the premiums you pay will usually be far less, when added together, than the cost of the medical care your horse may require if they are injured or ill. Of course, your horse may be fit as a … well, a horse, in which case you may never have to claim for accident or illness treatment. If so, the premiums you had paid would have been wasted – but they would have provided great peace of mind in the intervening years.
It's important to do your homework before signing on with an insurance company. There are many, and all provide different benefits with varying premiums. Don't jump to the conclusion that the company with the cheapest premium is the best buy.
If you do decide to get cover, then check what your excess will be in the event of a claim being made; check with your local vet whether they are aware of the insurance company’s willingness or otherwise to settle claims (some are quicker to pay out than others) and check whether there are any exemptions (usually, pre-existing conditions are not covered).
But all of that is but a drop in the ocean compared to the cost of veterinary bills should your horse become ill or injured. Insurance is a major consideration for horse owners, and it is something that should be dealt with as a priority once you have acquired your horse.
It doesn’t really matter how much you paid for your horse in the beginning (many people acquire horses from others who have become too old to care for them themselves and may pay a nominal sum for them). Once they are yours they are part of your family: and if a member of your family were ill, you would pay whatever it took to get them well or healthy again if they fell ill or were injured, wouldn’t you?
The key factor about having pet insurance, particularly for a large beast like a horse, is that no-one wants to be in a position where they have to put a cost on their pets life. If you don’t have equine insurance, you could one day be faced with choosing whether to pay money you can’t afford, or have your horse put to sleep. Money is obviously finite, and it is entirely possible that you could not afford to pay an astronomical veterinary bill following a fall (especially if the horse needed surgery).
If you did pay a lot for your horse and it dies, if you have insurance then you can recover the monetary value (even if that will not compensate you for the loss of a loved pet).
Premiums for equine insurance that pays out in the event of their death tend to be based on the value of the horse (that is, the amount you paid for it). It is well worth adding insurance to cover medical and surgical costs of care. If you have insurance from an early stage, then the chances are that your premium will be affordable. If you wait until after your horse has had an illness or accident, premiums will be higher. Even so, the premiums you pay will usually be far less, when added together, than the cost of the medical care your horse may require if they are injured or ill. Of course, your horse may be fit as a … well, a horse, in which case you may never have to claim for accident or illness treatment. If so, the premiums you had paid would have been wasted – but they would have provided great peace of mind in the intervening years.
It's important to do your homework before signing on with an insurance company. There are many, and all provide different benefits with varying premiums. Don't jump to the conclusion that the company with the cheapest premium is the best buy.
If you do decide to get cover, then check what your excess will be in the event of a claim being made; check with your local vet whether they are aware of the insurance company’s willingness or otherwise to settle claims (some are quicker to pay out than others) and check whether there are any exemptions (usually, pre-existing conditions are not covered).
Hamster vs Guinea pig
It is generally a good idea for a child to have a pet, since having a pet teaches them nurturing and responsibility. If you are buying a pet for your child, though, remember that your child will probably not end up caring for the pet (certainly if your child is young) and that it will probably be you who changes it, feeds it, waters it and takes it to the vet. Remember this and don’t punish the pet for what you perceive as your child’s unwillingness to adhere to their promise that they will look after it…
Hamsters and guinea pigs are regarded as ideal pets for children. They’re small, easy to care for, not known for biting, and are hugely entertaining to watch at play. But which should you choose?
Hamsters:
Pros:
- They are small enough to be held in the palm of your hand;
- You can build complex tunnel systems for them using the tubes from inside toilet rolls;
- They are cheaper to buy than guinea pigs (though the cost of their housing and other paraphernalia will be similar);
- They like lots of running round and exercise, and are fun to watch;
- If handled often they can become tame;
- They are clean and tidy creatures;
- They do not demand as much attention as guinea pigs do – but then, if they are not given attention they will not become tame.
Cons:
- They can be too small and fragile for very young children to handle safely;
- They only live for up to three years – meaning that an explanation about death may be on the cards for your child at a young age;
- They can disappear into the smallest cracks or under furniture very quickly and easily – so if you’re letting them out for a play it needs to be in a carefully sealed-off area;
- They can bite;
- They tend to be most active at night (not a good idea to have the cage in the child’s bedroom).
Guinea Pigs
Pros:
- They are bigger than hamsters so are less easy to hurt (though note that they are still fragile creatures and should be handled with great care and under adult supervision for young children);
- They are affectionate and like sitting in laps for cuddles;
- They live for up to five to eight years;
- They seldom bite;
Cons:
- They are a little more expensive than hamsters;
- Male guinea pigs tend to smell;
- They need a friend, so you should always buy two together (make sure they are both female…)
Guinea pigs and hamsters
Both need spacious housing, and eat similar things. They can eat dried food from the pet shop, and/or fresh fruit and vegetables. They will need things to gnaw on to keep their teeth from overgrowing – overgrown teeth can cause massive problems with their general health. They are prey animals, and as such they may not show signs of illness until they are very poorly – by which time it may be too late (or too expensive without insurance) to get treatment for them.
You should not aim to keep either type if you already have rabbits (rabbits can hurt them), cats or dogs.
They will both need a cage, food bowl, water bottle/bowl, and a carrier to take them to the vet. Long-term costs are low, with just food and bedding to top up. Vet bills can be very high, so consider pet insurance, which is only a couple of pounds or so per month.
You should keep the cage in a family room that is often used to avoid the animal getting lonely, and not in the child’s bedroom so that the child isn’t woken at night by nocturnal scrambling.
Children need to be educated that their new pet is an animal and not a toy – if they are too young to understand that, then they are too young to own a pet.
Hamsters and guinea pigs are regarded as ideal pets for children. They’re small, easy to care for, not known for biting, and are hugely entertaining to watch at play. But which should you choose?
Hamsters:
Pros:
- They are small enough to be held in the palm of your hand;
- You can build complex tunnel systems for them using the tubes from inside toilet rolls;
- They are cheaper to buy than guinea pigs (though the cost of their housing and other paraphernalia will be similar);
- They like lots of running round and exercise, and are fun to watch;
- If handled often they can become tame;
- They are clean and tidy creatures;
- They do not demand as much attention as guinea pigs do – but then, if they are not given attention they will not become tame.
Cons:
- They can be too small and fragile for very young children to handle safely;
- They only live for up to three years – meaning that an explanation about death may be on the cards for your child at a young age;
- They can disappear into the smallest cracks or under furniture very quickly and easily – so if you’re letting them out for a play it needs to be in a carefully sealed-off area;
- They can bite;
- They tend to be most active at night (not a good idea to have the cage in the child’s bedroom).
Guinea Pigs
Pros:
- They are bigger than hamsters so are less easy to hurt (though note that they are still fragile creatures and should be handled with great care and under adult supervision for young children);
- They are affectionate and like sitting in laps for cuddles;
- They live for up to five to eight years;
- They seldom bite;
Cons:
- They are a little more expensive than hamsters;
- Male guinea pigs tend to smell;
- They need a friend, so you should always buy two together (make sure they are both female…)
Guinea pigs and hamsters
Both need spacious housing, and eat similar things. They can eat dried food from the pet shop, and/or fresh fruit and vegetables. They will need things to gnaw on to keep their teeth from overgrowing – overgrown teeth can cause massive problems with their general health. They are prey animals, and as such they may not show signs of illness until they are very poorly – by which time it may be too late (or too expensive without insurance) to get treatment for them.
You should not aim to keep either type if you already have rabbits (rabbits can hurt them), cats or dogs.
They will both need a cage, food bowl, water bottle/bowl, and a carrier to take them to the vet. Long-term costs are low, with just food and bedding to top up. Vet bills can be very high, so consider pet insurance, which is only a couple of pounds or so per month.
You should keep the cage in a family room that is often used to avoid the animal getting lonely, and not in the child’s bedroom so that the child isn’t woken at night by nocturnal scrambling.
Children need to be educated that their new pet is an animal and not a toy – if they are too young to understand that, then they are too young to own a pet.
From Kitten to Cat
What could be cuter than a kitten? Few people can resist the charm of their sleek fur, disproportionately large ears and paws, their playfulness, their big eyes… But if you are thinking of getting a kitten to join your family, remember that they will, of course, turn into cats one day and you need to be sure that you want a cat, too.
Kitten-hood lasts up to around a year – by the time kittens are one year old, they have developed to the age of a fifteen year old in human terms. By the time cats are four years old, they are almost middle-aged in human years. How long they will live depends on any number of factors, from health and care to environmental factors such as traffic and other local wildlife. They can live up to twenty human years and longer.
When you are considering bringing a kitten home, the first thing you should know is that they should stay with their mother for at least eight, and preferably 12 weeks before being separated. This will give the kitten time to learn from their cat mother things like how to hunt, feed, wash, use a litter tray or otherwise cover their poo, and without that vital time your kitten may never develop these skills properly.
The sort of issues you will need to consider for kittens are:
- Spaying/neutering (at three to six months)
- First vaccinations (8 and 12 weeks)
- Litter-tray training
- Making sure they are kept inside
- Losing their baby teeth (around four months)
- Flea and worm treatment (from 8 weeks)
- Choosing kitten food (ensuring a good mix of dry and wet food)
- Whether your kitten (and cat) will stay indoors or be allowed outdoors
Cats, on the other hand, have other issues for you to be aware of. The novelty of a playful kitten will wear off and you have to be sure that you can commit to loving an animal who is less interested in playing (and some cats don’t particularly like sitting on your knee or even being stroked much). The initial expenses related to having a kitten can be steep, but remember too that there are on-going expenses that can add up. Do your sums and make sure that you can commit to caring for a cat for up to twenty years or more, bearing in mind the regular cost of:
- Cat food
- Regular vaccinations
- Cat litter
- Flea/worm treatment
- Insurance
- Vet bills (for things not covered by insurance)
Also be aware that some people may be allergic to cats, even if they are not allergic to kittens (and vice versa), so get that checked out before committing to adding a pet kitten/cat to the family.
Kittens and cats make wonderful additions to any home. As long as you know what to expect in terms of long-term commitment and responsibility, you will be able to enjoy your relationship with your newest family member for many years to come!
Kitten-hood lasts up to around a year – by the time kittens are one year old, they have developed to the age of a fifteen year old in human terms. By the time cats are four years old, they are almost middle-aged in human years. How long they will live depends on any number of factors, from health and care to environmental factors such as traffic and other local wildlife. They can live up to twenty human years and longer.
When you are considering bringing a kitten home, the first thing you should know is that they should stay with their mother for at least eight, and preferably 12 weeks before being separated. This will give the kitten time to learn from their cat mother things like how to hunt, feed, wash, use a litter tray or otherwise cover their poo, and without that vital time your kitten may never develop these skills properly.
The sort of issues you will need to consider for kittens are:
- Spaying/neutering (at three to six months)
- First vaccinations (8 and 12 weeks)
- Litter-tray training
- Making sure they are kept inside
- Losing their baby teeth (around four months)
- Flea and worm treatment (from 8 weeks)
- Choosing kitten food (ensuring a good mix of dry and wet food)
- Whether your kitten (and cat) will stay indoors or be allowed outdoors
Cats, on the other hand, have other issues for you to be aware of. The novelty of a playful kitten will wear off and you have to be sure that you can commit to loving an animal who is less interested in playing (and some cats don’t particularly like sitting on your knee or even being stroked much). The initial expenses related to having a kitten can be steep, but remember too that there are on-going expenses that can add up. Do your sums and make sure that you can commit to caring for a cat for up to twenty years or more, bearing in mind the regular cost of:
- Cat food
- Regular vaccinations
- Cat litter
- Flea/worm treatment
- Insurance
- Vet bills (for things not covered by insurance)
Also be aware that some people may be allergic to cats, even if they are not allergic to kittens (and vice versa), so get that checked out before committing to adding a pet kitten/cat to the family.
Kittens and cats make wonderful additions to any home. As long as you know what to expect in terms of long-term commitment and responsibility, you will be able to enjoy your relationship with your newest family member for many years to come!
Finding a dog a new home
When you buy a dog, you should expect to care for that dog as a member of your family for the rest of its life. You should have ensured that the breed is right for your existing family, and that you can afford to keep and maintain your dog in the long-term.
However, situations change. You may have a baby – and your dog may not respond well. You may lose your job, and have to face a choice between your dog going hungry or you going hungry. A member of your family may develop an allergy or asthma that is triggered by the dog’s fur. You may have an illness or accident that mean that you can no longer properly care for or exercise your dog. Or you may have to move to a smaller house and suddenly find yourself with inadequate space for your large dog.
Any of these factors can leave you with the heart-wrenching decision to have to rehome your dog. It’s not something that any dog lover wants to do and people will go to great lengths to avoid it. But if it is necessary, then how do you go about rehoming your best friend?
There are organisations, including the RSPCA, Dog’s Trust and other local dog rescue centres that will take in dogs that need to be rehomed. If your dog is a pedigree, there are also breed-specific rehoming centres across the country.
These organisations will investigate the reasons behind your decision, and may be able to offer advice and suggestions as to how you could keep your dog at home. But if they can’t, then they will do their best to match your dog with a potential new owner. If possible, you should try to keep your dog at home with you whilst a new owner is found, to minimise the disruption to your pet, but in an emergency, the organisation may be able to temporarily care for your dog. Some require a donation for them to dog rehoming.
The benefit of going through an organisation like this is that they will carefully question and vet the potential new owners, to determine whether their home is suitable, that they are committed to caring for the dog and will take it to the vets regularly and so on. They will make sure that the dog’s next home will be suitable and that their new family will be loving and will care for the dog for the rest of its life. This is why it is important that you choose an organisation with an established, good reputation so that they have the appropriate experience and expertise to properly rehome your dog.
Dogs with behavioural problems are very hard to rehome, especially if they are aggressive. Some organisations vow to never put a healthy dog to sleep, whilst others may have to destroy the dog if it cannot be rehomed as resources are so limited.
If you decide to rehome your dog on your own, remember that once the sale is final you cannot have your dog back and nor can you do anything to stop the new owner from selling the dog on to someone else or giving it to someone unsuitable. You may not have the ability to adequately vet a potential new owner in the same way as a dog rescue organisation can. Beware that there are unscrupulous people out there who will use bought dogs in puppy farms, or sell them on for fighting or, abroad, fur.
If you bought your dog from a breeder, most reputable breeders will take them back at any time. Contact your breeder and ask for advice.
Choosing how to rehome your dog should be made with the same, or greater, care than that which was used to choose to bring him home in the first place. Do your research, ask questions and be satisfied that your dog will be happy with their new family.
However, situations change. You may have a baby – and your dog may not respond well. You may lose your job, and have to face a choice between your dog going hungry or you going hungry. A member of your family may develop an allergy or asthma that is triggered by the dog’s fur. You may have an illness or accident that mean that you can no longer properly care for or exercise your dog. Or you may have to move to a smaller house and suddenly find yourself with inadequate space for your large dog.
Any of these factors can leave you with the heart-wrenching decision to have to rehome your dog. It’s not something that any dog lover wants to do and people will go to great lengths to avoid it. But if it is necessary, then how do you go about rehoming your best friend?
There are organisations, including the RSPCA, Dog’s Trust and other local dog rescue centres that will take in dogs that need to be rehomed. If your dog is a pedigree, there are also breed-specific rehoming centres across the country.
These organisations will investigate the reasons behind your decision, and may be able to offer advice and suggestions as to how you could keep your dog at home. But if they can’t, then they will do their best to match your dog with a potential new owner. If possible, you should try to keep your dog at home with you whilst a new owner is found, to minimise the disruption to your pet, but in an emergency, the organisation may be able to temporarily care for your dog. Some require a donation for them to dog rehoming.
The benefit of going through an organisation like this is that they will carefully question and vet the potential new owners, to determine whether their home is suitable, that they are committed to caring for the dog and will take it to the vets regularly and so on. They will make sure that the dog’s next home will be suitable and that their new family will be loving and will care for the dog for the rest of its life. This is why it is important that you choose an organisation with an established, good reputation so that they have the appropriate experience and expertise to properly rehome your dog.
Dogs with behavioural problems are very hard to rehome, especially if they are aggressive. Some organisations vow to never put a healthy dog to sleep, whilst others may have to destroy the dog if it cannot be rehomed as resources are so limited.
If you decide to rehome your dog on your own, remember that once the sale is final you cannot have your dog back and nor can you do anything to stop the new owner from selling the dog on to someone else or giving it to someone unsuitable. You may not have the ability to adequately vet a potential new owner in the same way as a dog rescue organisation can. Beware that there are unscrupulous people out there who will use bought dogs in puppy farms, or sell them on for fighting or, abroad, fur.
If you bought your dog from a breeder, most reputable breeders will take them back at any time. Contact your breeder and ask for advice.
Choosing how to rehome your dog should be made with the same, or greater, care than that which was used to choose to bring him home in the first place. Do your research, ask questions and be satisfied that your dog will be happy with their new family.
Cat rescue: The guide
If a person were to get lost, or injured, then it would be relatively simple to be found and helped. A call to the police, or the ambulance service or local hospital would lead to help being given, and for that person’s family to be reunited with them.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a single place or institution where lost or injured cats can be reported to. The institutions that do exists – such as the RSPCA, the Cats Protection League, local cat shelters and other animal charities – simply do not have the resources to be able to help each and every injured or lost cat on their own. So they all play their part in cat rescue work, and all take in as many lost or injured cats as they can.
But it can mean that it is hard for owners to find their lost cat. If their cat doesn’t come home when expected, they may have to make several phone calls and still not find them. It is a sad fact that sometimes cats are killed (e.g. in road accidents) and the owners never find out.
So how does cat rescue work? What should you do if you lose a cat, or find a cat (healthy, or injured/ill)?
If you find a stray cat, first of all you would need to establish that it is, indeed a stray. Some cats just like to wander, and cadge a free meal where they can by making themselves known to another household near to where they live. Of course, if they are wearing a collar with a nametag and phone number then this will make it easy enough to establish. If you think it is a stray, and they don’t have a collar and tag, then the first task is to take it down to the local vet and have it scanned for microchips – this is an easy way for a cat to be identified and may enable them to be reunited with their owner without further delay.
If there is no microchip, your next job might be to put up posters in the local area advertising that you have found a lost cat. Giving your mobile number where you can be contacted and a brief description of the cat might lead to a very relieved owner giving you a ring. Be careful to keep back some piece of information about the cat (e.g. that they have a white paw, or some distinguishing feature) so that you can be sure that the person who phones to claim the cat is the genuine owner. You can also phone round the local veterinary clinics to ask if anyone has phoned to report their cat missing.
If no-one replies to the posters, you might consider keeping the cat – but be sure to get them checked for disease and vaccinated/spayed/treated for fleas and worms if you do. But if you feel that you cannot keep the cat yourself, then you should call a cat rescue service. This might be the RSPCA, the Cats’ Protection League, and local cat rescue centres. Many of the smaller charities or rescue centres are run by volunteers who may not be able to answer the phone when you call as they may be out – leave a message and someone will phone you back.
Many local cat rescue services may not have enough volunteers to be able to give the cat even a temporary home whilst the owner is traced or a new home is found. This is because there is a shortage of volunteers to foster cats, and it can mean that you may need to phone several places before you can find someone who can care for the cat.
Animal rescue centres will be able to care for the cat if they have space. The cat will be well fed and looked after, treated for any illness or injury. The RSPCA can collect stray cats if you are not able to transport them to one of their centres.
If you have lost a cat, you should phone round your local veterinary clinics, cat rescue centres and cat rescue charities including the RSPCA. Ask each when you should next phone, as if they don’t have information about your cat that day, it might be worth you phoning in a few days’ time. Put up ‘Lost Cat’ posters in your local area, local newspaper and newsagents/post office and consider asking door-to-door as to whether anyone else has seen your cat. If your cat has been injured, they may have gone to hide – ask neighbours if you can look around their gardens/sheds. If there are building works nearby, it is worth asking the foreman to keep an eye (and ear) out for your cat as it is not unknown for cats to get trapped in newly-built houses or amongst foundations.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a single place or institution where lost or injured cats can be reported to. The institutions that do exists – such as the RSPCA, the Cats Protection League, local cat shelters and other animal charities – simply do not have the resources to be able to help each and every injured or lost cat on their own. So they all play their part in cat rescue work, and all take in as many lost or injured cats as they can.
But it can mean that it is hard for owners to find their lost cat. If their cat doesn’t come home when expected, they may have to make several phone calls and still not find them. It is a sad fact that sometimes cats are killed (e.g. in road accidents) and the owners never find out.
So how does cat rescue work? What should you do if you lose a cat, or find a cat (healthy, or injured/ill)?
If you find a stray cat, first of all you would need to establish that it is, indeed a stray. Some cats just like to wander, and cadge a free meal where they can by making themselves known to another household near to where they live. Of course, if they are wearing a collar with a nametag and phone number then this will make it easy enough to establish. If you think it is a stray, and they don’t have a collar and tag, then the first task is to take it down to the local vet and have it scanned for microchips – this is an easy way for a cat to be identified and may enable them to be reunited with their owner without further delay.
If there is no microchip, your next job might be to put up posters in the local area advertising that you have found a lost cat. Giving your mobile number where you can be contacted and a brief description of the cat might lead to a very relieved owner giving you a ring. Be careful to keep back some piece of information about the cat (e.g. that they have a white paw, or some distinguishing feature) so that you can be sure that the person who phones to claim the cat is the genuine owner. You can also phone round the local veterinary clinics to ask if anyone has phoned to report their cat missing.
If no-one replies to the posters, you might consider keeping the cat – but be sure to get them checked for disease and vaccinated/spayed/treated for fleas and worms if you do. But if you feel that you cannot keep the cat yourself, then you should call a cat rescue service. This might be the RSPCA, the Cats’ Protection League, and local cat rescue centres. Many of the smaller charities or rescue centres are run by volunteers who may not be able to answer the phone when you call as they may be out – leave a message and someone will phone you back.
Many local cat rescue services may not have enough volunteers to be able to give the cat even a temporary home whilst the owner is traced or a new home is found. This is because there is a shortage of volunteers to foster cats, and it can mean that you may need to phone several places before you can find someone who can care for the cat.
Animal rescue centres will be able to care for the cat if they have space. The cat will be well fed and looked after, treated for any illness or injury. The RSPCA can collect stray cats if you are not able to transport them to one of their centres.
If you have lost a cat, you should phone round your local veterinary clinics, cat rescue centres and cat rescue charities including the RSPCA. Ask each when you should next phone, as if they don’t have information about your cat that day, it might be worth you phoning in a few days’ time. Put up ‘Lost Cat’ posters in your local area, local newspaper and newsagents/post office and consider asking door-to-door as to whether anyone else has seen your cat. If your cat has been injured, they may have gone to hide – ask neighbours if you can look around their gardens/sheds. If there are building works nearby, it is worth asking the foreman to keep an eye (and ear) out for your cat as it is not unknown for cats to get trapped in newly-built houses or amongst foundations.
Advice on how to take care of an exotic pet
As the popularity of keeping exotic pets increases evermore, people are becoming far better informed on how to care for their exotic pets. There are more specialist pet shops that stock these creatures and staff are usually well-informed and can offer good advice on what you will need for your new pet, how to care for them, and what to do if you notice any problems such as a change in behaviour or apparent sickness.
Such advice can be rather self-interested on the part of the shopkeeper, since their advice may end in you buying more equipment, tonics and so on. So to educate yourself, we have provided some advice on how to take care of your exotic pet, below. If you feel that your pet is not well or is in any distress or discomfort, you should seek the advice of a specialist vet.
Before we start, though, you should be aware that you need some solid reasons for choosing an exotic pet and not just because it is a bit different. You should have already had experience of caring for some kind of special-care pet (e.g. tropical fish), or at the very least have had a variety of well cared-for pets in the past; you need to be fascinated by exotic pets and enthusiastic about owning one (and not just for the novelty value – that will wear off). You also need a healthy respect for what some of these exotic pets are capable, and treat them carefully accordingly. Think about who will care for your pet if you go away – it’s not like having a neighbour pop in and feed the cat, you need someone who knows what they’re doing. Remember that you will need adequate space for your chosen pet – both initially and when it gets older (and larger….). And you need to be aware of all the costs relating to that pet, so that you can be sure that you can commit to caring for it in the long-term.
Once you have decided whether you can and should take on an exotic pet, you need to be aware of certain rules and regulations. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to fail to care for an animal properly – so if you don’t care for your exotic pet in the right way (including giving it suitable housing, diet and a natural environment), or neglect its needs, then you could end up with a fine (up to £20,000), imprisonment (up to a year) and a criminal record. The Act also says that you have to be at least 16 before you can buy a pet.
Specific to exotic animals is the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 makes it illegal to own creatures that are a danger to the public (this was at a time when you could buy a tiger from Harrods). The Act contains a list of such animals, which is often revised and updated, so check it before you buy as otherwise you will need a special license if you inadvertently acquire an animal that is listed.
The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 makes it illegal to release exotic creatures into the wild, so if you find that you can no longer care for your exotic pet you cannot simply set it free.
The sort of practical things you will need if you invest in an exotic pet and pet care are:
Adequate housing
- Terrarium (a specialist tank made of glass or plastic) that is big enough to house your pet even when it is fully-grown.
- Heating pad/lamp (to keep your creature warm, if it is from a hot climate) that goes at one end of the tank – that way, your pet has the choice of where to sit, day and night, and may choose to sit in the cool end or the warm end depending on what it needs. Any heat source that your pet can reach must be covered with a guard to protect against burns.
- Thermostat to keep an eye on the temperature.
- UV lamp (to give Vitamin D)
- Water bottle with misting attachment, to keep the tank humid if appropriate (you’ll need to spray the tank regularly).
- Bark/leaves/branches/sand – whatever is recommended as being closest to your pet’s natural environment (and check for toxicity as some leaves may be poisonous to your pet).
- Sterilising equipment – to clean anything that is going to be put into the pet’s home.
Appropriate Feeding
- Most exotic pets will need to eat live food. That might be locusts, worms, or small mammals like mice or chicks. Read up on your chosen pet to discover its particular needs.
Careful Handling
- Some exotic pets should be merely observed, whilst others can tolerate and even enjoy handling. Read up on your chosen creature and check out advice on its behaviour and temperament and how it responds to handling.
- Be aware that your pet may be nocturnal – so having their tank in your bedroom may not be a good idea.
Cost
- The initial outlay for housing can be quite expensive, but remember to budget for their long-term costs such as live food and any veterinary bills.
- You may need to do some research to find a vet who specialises in exotic pets – most vets will be unfamiliar with the ‘norms’ for exotic pets and could miss something vital.
- Consider pet insurance – this will avoid a situation where you have to choose between your money and your pet’s life.
Do your research, choose carefully, and enjoy a long relationship with your exotic pet!
Such advice can be rather self-interested on the part of the shopkeeper, since their advice may end in you buying more equipment, tonics and so on. So to educate yourself, we have provided some advice on how to take care of your exotic pet, below. If you feel that your pet is not well or is in any distress or discomfort, you should seek the advice of a specialist vet.
Before we start, though, you should be aware that you need some solid reasons for choosing an exotic pet and not just because it is a bit different. You should have already had experience of caring for some kind of special-care pet (e.g. tropical fish), or at the very least have had a variety of well cared-for pets in the past; you need to be fascinated by exotic pets and enthusiastic about owning one (and not just for the novelty value – that will wear off). You also need a healthy respect for what some of these exotic pets are capable, and treat them carefully accordingly. Think about who will care for your pet if you go away – it’s not like having a neighbour pop in and feed the cat, you need someone who knows what they’re doing. Remember that you will need adequate space for your chosen pet – both initially and when it gets older (and larger….). And you need to be aware of all the costs relating to that pet, so that you can be sure that you can commit to caring for it in the long-term.
Once you have decided whether you can and should take on an exotic pet, you need to be aware of certain rules and regulations. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to fail to care for an animal properly – so if you don’t care for your exotic pet in the right way (including giving it suitable housing, diet and a natural environment), or neglect its needs, then you could end up with a fine (up to £20,000), imprisonment (up to a year) and a criminal record. The Act also says that you have to be at least 16 before you can buy a pet.
Specific to exotic animals is the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 makes it illegal to own creatures that are a danger to the public (this was at a time when you could buy a tiger from Harrods). The Act contains a list of such animals, which is often revised and updated, so check it before you buy as otherwise you will need a special license if you inadvertently acquire an animal that is listed.
The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 makes it illegal to release exotic creatures into the wild, so if you find that you can no longer care for your exotic pet you cannot simply set it free.
The sort of practical things you will need if you invest in an exotic pet and pet care are:
Adequate housing
- Terrarium (a specialist tank made of glass or plastic) that is big enough to house your pet even when it is fully-grown.
- Heating pad/lamp (to keep your creature warm, if it is from a hot climate) that goes at one end of the tank – that way, your pet has the choice of where to sit, day and night, and may choose to sit in the cool end or the warm end depending on what it needs. Any heat source that your pet can reach must be covered with a guard to protect against burns.
- Thermostat to keep an eye on the temperature.
- UV lamp (to give Vitamin D)
- Water bottle with misting attachment, to keep the tank humid if appropriate (you’ll need to spray the tank regularly).
- Bark/leaves/branches/sand – whatever is recommended as being closest to your pet’s natural environment (and check for toxicity as some leaves may be poisonous to your pet).
- Sterilising equipment – to clean anything that is going to be put into the pet’s home.
Appropriate Feeding
- Most exotic pets will need to eat live food. That might be locusts, worms, or small mammals like mice or chicks. Read up on your chosen pet to discover its particular needs.
Careful Handling
- Some exotic pets should be merely observed, whilst others can tolerate and even enjoy handling. Read up on your chosen creature and check out advice on its behaviour and temperament and how it responds to handling.
- Be aware that your pet may be nocturnal – so having their tank in your bedroom may not be a good idea.
Cost
- The initial outlay for housing can be quite expensive, but remember to budget for their long-term costs such as live food and any veterinary bills.
- You may need to do some research to find a vet who specialises in exotic pets – most vets will be unfamiliar with the ‘norms’ for exotic pets and could miss something vital.
- Consider pet insurance – this will avoid a situation where you have to choose between your money and your pet’s life.
Do your research, choose carefully, and enjoy a long relationship with your exotic pet!
Adopting a dog from a rescue centre
There are many reasons why some dogs end up at rescue centres. Some have been abused, some have outlived their owners, and others have been abandoned by owners who can no longer afford, or no longer wish, to care for them.
Whilst some people choose a pet dog based on its breed or appearance, and buy from dealers, pet shops or breeders, others gain great satisfaction from choosing to adopt a dog from one of many rescue centres.
Taking in a rescue dog is the same as taking in any dog: it requires great commitment, thought, preparation and dedication on your part. In addition, rescue dogs may come with additional anxieties born out of the treatment they have previously received and may require extra care and attention. Remember that this is a long-term commitment not to be taken lightly.
The RSPCA is just one organisation that cares for dogs until they can be rehoused. Considerable time and effort goes into finding suitable placements for the dogs and they are cared for in the meantime whilst their names remain on a list of dogs who are available to be rehomed. Dogs rehomed via the RSPCA are all spayed/neutered, vaccinated, wormed, treated for fleas, healthy and screened for temperament so that they can be matched to the right new owners. Not all organisations that offer rescue dogs for adoption take these steps, so be sure that you know what you are getting when you agree to adopt a rescue dog.
Before you visit a rescue centre, do your homework in choosing the sorts of breed that you could accommodate. This will help you to resist the temptation of adopting a dog on impulse because you feel sorry for it or because it looks cute. The breed is important because it can determine things like how much exercise it needs, how often it needs to be groomed, and how much it eats (important to note if you’re on a budget). In order to be sure that you have chosen the right dog, consider these points:
- Do you have adequate space at home (and what size/breed of dog will be most suitable for that space?)
- Do you have somewhere nearby to exercise your dog regularly – and do you have the time and energy to do so?
- Will the dog react well to your children (and remember that some dogs like babies but not toddlers and vice versa)
- Will your other pets and the new dog get along – how will you introduce them?
You should also take out pet insurance to cover veterinary bills so that you are never faced with a choice between money and your pet’s life.
Most dogs from rescue centres will be housetrained, which is a benefit that you wouldn’t have by buying a puppy. Remember, though, that their temperament and behaviour may be different in the first few weeks of being rehomed than it is once they have gained some confidence and feel at home – they will feel safe to be playful and happy. You may find that the quiet little dog you adopted becomes a boisterous lolloping creature when you’ve made him feel at home for a while. Whilst this can prove to be a nice surprise, you may want to consider waiting to adopt a dog until any children you have in the home are a bit older, because a dog that seems to be compatible with young children initially may turn out to be not very compatible at all.
Adopting a rescue dog can be very rewarding but you should go in with your eyes open, having done your research, to make sure that your relationship with the newest member of your family is a lasting one.
For more information please see RSPCA.org.uk.
Whilst some people choose a pet dog based on its breed or appearance, and buy from dealers, pet shops or breeders, others gain great satisfaction from choosing to adopt a dog from one of many rescue centres.
Taking in a rescue dog is the same as taking in any dog: it requires great commitment, thought, preparation and dedication on your part. In addition, rescue dogs may come with additional anxieties born out of the treatment they have previously received and may require extra care and attention. Remember that this is a long-term commitment not to be taken lightly.
The RSPCA is just one organisation that cares for dogs until they can be rehoused. Considerable time and effort goes into finding suitable placements for the dogs and they are cared for in the meantime whilst their names remain on a list of dogs who are available to be rehomed. Dogs rehomed via the RSPCA are all spayed/neutered, vaccinated, wormed, treated for fleas, healthy and screened for temperament so that they can be matched to the right new owners. Not all organisations that offer rescue dogs for adoption take these steps, so be sure that you know what you are getting when you agree to adopt a rescue dog.
Before you visit a rescue centre, do your homework in choosing the sorts of breed that you could accommodate. This will help you to resist the temptation of adopting a dog on impulse because you feel sorry for it or because it looks cute. The breed is important because it can determine things like how much exercise it needs, how often it needs to be groomed, and how much it eats (important to note if you’re on a budget). In order to be sure that you have chosen the right dog, consider these points:
- Do you have adequate space at home (and what size/breed of dog will be most suitable for that space?)
- Do you have somewhere nearby to exercise your dog regularly – and do you have the time and energy to do so?
- Will the dog react well to your children (and remember that some dogs like babies but not toddlers and vice versa)
- Will your other pets and the new dog get along – how will you introduce them?
You should also take out pet insurance to cover veterinary bills so that you are never faced with a choice between money and your pet’s life.
Most dogs from rescue centres will be housetrained, which is a benefit that you wouldn’t have by buying a puppy. Remember, though, that their temperament and behaviour may be different in the first few weeks of being rehomed than it is once they have gained some confidence and feel at home – they will feel safe to be playful and happy. You may find that the quiet little dog you adopted becomes a boisterous lolloping creature when you’ve made him feel at home for a while. Whilst this can prove to be a nice surprise, you may want to consider waiting to adopt a dog until any children you have in the home are a bit older, because a dog that seems to be compatible with young children initially may turn out to be not very compatible at all.
Adopting a rescue dog can be very rewarding but you should go in with your eyes open, having done your research, to make sure that your relationship with the newest member of your family is a lasting one.
For more information please see RSPCA.org.uk.
What Do I Do With An Unwanted Cat?
Cats are loving, affectionate animals, but are also fiercely independent. If you find yourself in a position where you can no longer keep your feline companion, or have found a stray that you simply cannot accommodate, knowing your options can help you select the best course of action to help ensure that your cat is taken care of. Your choices range from cat rescue centres to direct adoption. Find a safe, comfortable place for your cats protection.
One method of home transition for an unwanted animal is adoption. Place an ad in the local newspaper and classified websites. Contact your veterinarian and ask them to share the information with customers. Post flyers, and use the power of communication with your friends and family members to get the word out. Select the family carefully, making sure that you are comfortable with the home your pet goes into.
If you purchased your cat from a breeder, check the purchase contract that you signed. In some cases, the contract contains a clause that requires you to return the cat to the breeder if at any time you can no longer care for her. This clause is typically valid for the life of the animal, and is designed for the cats protection.
Contact a cat rescue to locate another home, permanent or foster home, for your cat. Rescue centres have an index of families and centres that can accommodate surrendered animals. These homes may be transitional but they are typically private homes.
The local Humane Society branch is an ideal choice for your cats protection. You can be certain that your local Humane Society will care for your cat. The centre provides veterinary care when necessary. Individuals must pass a stringent screening process to adopt.
One method of home transition for an unwanted animal is adoption. Place an ad in the local newspaper and classified websites. Contact your veterinarian and ask them to share the information with customers. Post flyers, and use the power of communication with your friends and family members to get the word out. Select the family carefully, making sure that you are comfortable with the home your pet goes into.
If you purchased your cat from a breeder, check the purchase contract that you signed. In some cases, the contract contains a clause that requires you to return the cat to the breeder if at any time you can no longer care for her. This clause is typically valid for the life of the animal, and is designed for the cats protection.
Contact a cat rescue to locate another home, permanent or foster home, for your cat. Rescue centres have an index of families and centres that can accommodate surrendered animals. These homes may be transitional but they are typically private homes.
The local Humane Society branch is an ideal choice for your cats protection. You can be certain that your local Humane Society will care for your cat. The centre provides veterinary care when necessary. Individuals must pass a stringent screening process to adopt.
Spend your holidays with your dog
Much travel happens during holidays. If you’re a dog owner, and you travel a lot at holiday times, you can spend holiday time with your dog by checking out pet friendly hotels. When you’re able to patronize a hotel or B&B that offers a dog friendly accommodation, you’re doing something that is moral, enjoyable for you, and healthy for your dog.
Pet friendly hotels and other types of hostelries have been emerging more in recent times because people are more mobile than ever before, but they are also still pet owners. Dog owners often don’t like leaving their beloved pets at home or at a kennel while they travel, especially on holiday. When you’re a dog owner and a traveller who knows that he can find a dog friendly accommodation, you can have a more fulfilling holiday.
Pet friendly hotels are also offering a healthy service. It can be traumatic for pets such as dogs to be left in a kennel or to be away from their beloved master when holiday travel takes the master away from home.
Even if the kennels are well-run, humane places, or even if you make arrangements for another trusted and caring person to take care of your dog when you travel, that dog can suffer emotionally (and possibly develop a trauma-induced health issue) when you’re away for an extensive period. When you find a dog friendly accommodation, you avoid these complications brought on by dogs’ high sensitivity to even slight changes in routine.
If you love your dog as you probably do, make the effort to research pet friendly hotels when next you need to make holiday travel plans. A dog friendly accommodation will let you do what you prefer (take your dog with you on your holiday travels), and it will keep your dog happy and healthy.
Pet friendly hotels and other types of hostelries have been emerging more in recent times because people are more mobile than ever before, but they are also still pet owners. Dog owners often don’t like leaving their beloved pets at home or at a kennel while they travel, especially on holiday. When you’re a dog owner and a traveller who knows that he can find a dog friendly accommodation, you can have a more fulfilling holiday.
Pet friendly hotels are also offering a healthy service. It can be traumatic for pets such as dogs to be left in a kennel or to be away from their beloved master when holiday travel takes the master away from home.
Even if the kennels are well-run, humane places, or even if you make arrangements for another trusted and caring person to take care of your dog when you travel, that dog can suffer emotionally (and possibly develop a trauma-induced health issue) when you’re away for an extensive period. When you find a dog friendly accommodation, you avoid these complications brought on by dogs’ high sensitivity to even slight changes in routine.
If you love your dog as you probably do, make the effort to research pet friendly hotels when next you need to make holiday travel plans. A dog friendly accommodation will let you do what you prefer (take your dog with you on your holiday travels), and it will keep your dog happy and healthy.
Where to bring an unwanted dog
If you want to get a new dog, you have many options. There are many places that you can get your new dog. Rescue centres are a good place to get your new dog. There are many good reasons to look at rescue dogs for adoption.
Rescue dogs have been given up by people who didn't want them. Some of them come from bad situations. Adopting one of these dogs gives them a new chance at life. Most people want puppies, so the older dogs often get overlooked. But adult dogs are often a better choice.
The rescue centres take the abandoned dogs and unwanted dogs and finds them homes. They make sure the dogs are healthy and friendly. They do many things to prepare rescue dogs for adoption. Once everything has been done, they offer up the dogs for adoption. The agency makes sure that the public can easily find a dog to adopt.
If you have a dog that you no longer want, then you need to go to one of these agencies. There are rescue groups that will take your dog to make sure the dog gets a forever home. You can find a breed specific group, or you can find an agency that takes all dogs. Those rescue agencies will take your dog, no matter what. However, they may ask for a small donation.
Taking your dog to one of the rescue centres is your best choice. There are always people who are looking for rescue dogs for adoption. If you want to get a new dog, make one of these centres your first stop. You will find the dog of your dreams.
Rescue dogs have been given up by people who didn't want them. Some of them come from bad situations. Adopting one of these dogs gives them a new chance at life. Most people want puppies, so the older dogs often get overlooked. But adult dogs are often a better choice.
The rescue centres take the abandoned dogs and unwanted dogs and finds them homes. They make sure the dogs are healthy and friendly. They do many things to prepare rescue dogs for adoption. Once everything has been done, they offer up the dogs for adoption. The agency makes sure that the public can easily find a dog to adopt.
If you have a dog that you no longer want, then you need to go to one of these agencies. There are rescue groups that will take your dog to make sure the dog gets a forever home. You can find a breed specific group, or you can find an agency that takes all dogs. Those rescue agencies will take your dog, no matter what. However, they may ask for a small donation.
Taking your dog to one of the rescue centres is your best choice. There are always people who are looking for rescue dogs for adoption. If you want to get a new dog, make one of these centres your first stop. You will find the dog of your dreams.
Learn About Hamsters and Guinea Pigs
There are many people who want to have a pet. However, not everyone can have a pet like a cat or a dog. That doesn't mean that you can't have a pet. You can get smaller animals. There are usually no lease or allergy restrictions against having these animals.
One of the small pets you can get is guinea pigs. They are very social animals. They can recognize you and squeak when they see you. They do need to be socialized to be good pets. They do have specific dietary needs to stay healthy. They need grasses, greens and certain vegetables.
Hamsters are another popular small pet. There are many different kinds of them, some more suitable for young children than others. They are very smart, and can be trained to do tricks. You might want to get more than one so that they have company.
Both of these animals are rodents. That means that their teeth continue to grow. They need to have something to chew on. There are special chew toys that they can be given to keep their teeth ground down. They shouldn't chew on the bars of their cages, for their health.
These animals make very good pets, as long as you know what their needs are. You can get your hamsters or guinea pig from a pet store, but you should check a rescue centre. They will have plenty of animals that you can choose from. These animals make very good pets for people of all ages.
One of the small pets you can get is guinea pigs. They are very social animals. They can recognize you and squeak when they see you. They do need to be socialized to be good pets. They do have specific dietary needs to stay healthy. They need grasses, greens and certain vegetables.
Hamsters are another popular small pet. There are many different kinds of them, some more suitable for young children than others. They are very smart, and can be trained to do tricks. You might want to get more than one so that they have company.
Both of these animals are rodents. That means that their teeth continue to grow. They need to have something to chew on. There are special chew toys that they can be given to keep their teeth ground down. They shouldn't chew on the bars of their cages, for their health.
These animals make very good pets, as long as you know what their needs are. You can get your hamsters or guinea pig from a pet store, but you should check a rescue centre. They will have plenty of animals that you can choose from. These animals make very good pets for people of all ages.
Horses, the Greatest Pets
When people start looking for pets, they think cats or dogs. They don't think about getting a horse. One of these animals can make the greatest pet you can ever get. If you have the space for one, you should seriously consider adopting one.
These animals can live for a very long time. That means you will have your companion with you for many years. They are also very smart. Some people have even trained mini horses to be companion animals for people who are blind. They are also very friendly.
You can get a horse that will just be a pasture animal. That means that it won't be ridden, but just running free in the field. They can be together with other animals. Other people will ride their animals. They are still pets whatever you choose to do with them.
One issue with getting one of these animals is that they can be expensive to get. If you want to get one, you can check with rescue agencies. They have many animals there that are looking for safe and loving homes. Many of them have just been abandoned by previous owners.
Before you adopt a horse from a rescue agency there are things that have to be done. One is that the agency will make sure that your home is safe and appropriate for these pets. They have specific needs, like space and kinds of feed. Once they are sure that your home is OK, you will be able to take your new family member home.
These animals can live for a very long time. That means you will have your companion with you for many years. They are also very smart. Some people have even trained mini horses to be companion animals for people who are blind. They are also very friendly.
You can get a horse that will just be a pasture animal. That means that it won't be ridden, but just running free in the field. They can be together with other animals. Other people will ride their animals. They are still pets whatever you choose to do with them.
One issue with getting one of these animals is that they can be expensive to get. If you want to get one, you can check with rescue agencies. They have many animals there that are looking for safe and loving homes. Many of them have just been abandoned by previous owners.
Before you adopt a horse from a rescue agency there are things that have to be done. One is that the agency will make sure that your home is safe and appropriate for these pets. They have specific needs, like space and kinds of feed. Once they are sure that your home is OK, you will be able to take your new family member home.
Fundraising Ideas: Be creative
Nearly every non-profit organization finds itself in need of fundraising activities from time to time; especially animal rescue and rehoming organizations.
After all, it takes money to house, feed and otherwise care for animals in need, at least until such a time as permanent homes can be found for them. Fortunately, there are a lot of different fundraising ideas that organizations can use to ensure that they can meet the financial demands of the activities they carry out.
Keep reading for a few ideas that you may want to consider using for your own organization or one that you work with.
Contests
Contests are a great way to fundraise that makes it easy to get people interested (and giving to your organization). There are a few different ways that you can go about setting up a contest that will work as an effective fundraiser for your group.
Many find that requiring an entry charge for the contest makes for an effective fundraising event. Another option is to require entrants to find sponsors for their entries (this works best for competitive contests like races). These contests could be nearly anything - pet beauty contests, contests for the best short story about pets are all excellent fundraising ideas.
Take Part In Local Events
One way to raise money for your organization and to get some much needed publicity at the same time is to set up a stand staffed by volunteers at local fairs, parades and other events.
Especially if you'll have pets on hand which are available for adoption, setting up at a local event can be a great fundraising tool.
After all, it takes money to house, feed and otherwise care for animals in need, at least until such a time as permanent homes can be found for them. Fortunately, there are a lot of different fundraising ideas that organizations can use to ensure that they can meet the financial demands of the activities they carry out.
Keep reading for a few ideas that you may want to consider using for your own organization or one that you work with.
Contests
Contests are a great way to fundraise that makes it easy to get people interested (and giving to your organization). There are a few different ways that you can go about setting up a contest that will work as an effective fundraiser for your group.
Many find that requiring an entry charge for the contest makes for an effective fundraising event. Another option is to require entrants to find sponsors for their entries (this works best for competitive contests like races). These contests could be nearly anything - pet beauty contests, contests for the best short story about pets are all excellent fundraising ideas.
Take Part In Local Events
One way to raise money for your organization and to get some much needed publicity at the same time is to set up a stand staffed by volunteers at local fairs, parades and other events.
Especially if you'll have pets on hand which are available for adoption, setting up at a local event can be a great fundraising tool.
Finding Hotels that are Pet and Dog Friendly
Holiday time approaches and your dog is ready to go along with the family. The problem you may encounter is finding dog friendly hotels. Many hotels require extra payments for dogs. With a little research you can find dog friendly hotels.
Your challenge is to find a pet accommodation. Today, there are many hotels that can accommodate your needs. Some have rules to which you must adhere. Perhaps the hotel of your choice accepts only small dogs, or a limited number of dogs. These are points about which you need to enquire.
In most metropolitan areas, finding a dog friendly hotel may be your only choice. Hotel owners have become more acceptable to the public's need to include the family dog and to seek a pet accommodation. This includes hotels that range the spectrum of cost and amenities. Their services are based on the needs of the responsible dog owner or the family.
There is no need to subject your beloved dog to a kennel without the family to give that extra bit of love each day. This will restrict their mobility to some degree and will cause some anxiety about being alone. This can be avoided by simply finding pet friendly hotels that will welcome both you and your dog.
Staying at dog friendly hotels is a privilege that should be protected. It is the responsibility of the dog owner to care for the dog. It is necessary to handle waste in a sanitary manner and to take care that your dog does not destroy hotel property. These offenses will not only cost you more money, but will decrease the availability to others seeking a pet friendly accommodation.
Your challenge is to find a pet accommodation. Today, there are many hotels that can accommodate your needs. Some have rules to which you must adhere. Perhaps the hotel of your choice accepts only small dogs, or a limited number of dogs. These are points about which you need to enquire.
In most metropolitan areas, finding a dog friendly hotel may be your only choice. Hotel owners have become more acceptable to the public's need to include the family dog and to seek a pet accommodation. This includes hotels that range the spectrum of cost and amenities. Their services are based on the needs of the responsible dog owner or the family.
There is no need to subject your beloved dog to a kennel without the family to give that extra bit of love each day. This will restrict their mobility to some degree and will cause some anxiety about being alone. This can be avoided by simply finding pet friendly hotels that will welcome both you and your dog.
Staying at dog friendly hotels is a privilege that should be protected. It is the responsibility of the dog owner to care for the dog. It is necessary to handle waste in a sanitary manner and to take care that your dog does not destroy hotel property. These offenses will not only cost you more money, but will decrease the availability to others seeking a pet friendly accommodation.
Finding Fun Activities for Your Kittens or Cats
Finding fun activities for one's kittens or cats may seem like a very simple thing, but if you're a kitten or cat owner you know that sometimes these adorable but stubborn creatures can get bored. When they are bored (especially the less mature and less well trained kittens) they may do naughty things. These things may include going poo-poo in your potted plants, shredding your shower curtains, or playing with your mice...that is, your computers' mice.
Kittens and cats are playful but wilful creatures. Of course, they love to fantasize that they run the household. This can be part of their charm, but it's important for the real humans to keep them entertained just as it is to keep them nutritionally fed and their litterbox clean. Playful kittens and cats are healthier pets, too.
The times when it's most important to focus on finding fun activities for your kittens or cats are those when the usual routine of the household is disrupted. These times may include: a holiday time; when you're traveling for an extended period; when guests are over; or when there are professionals in your home doing additions or repair work. Kittens, especially, might take to mischief during these routine-disrupting events. When this happens, it can be aggravating and possibly costly for you, and perhaps even dangerous for your pets.
It may be that traveling with your pets is the event that most demands that you find fun activities for them. Kittens and cats can be traumatized by travel because it's highly disruptive to their world, and they feel out of control. What could be among the fun activities that you come up with? They could include: playing "chase" with a laser-light; tossing a small ball or a crumpled up ball of construction paper or an empty cigarette box and letting the felines bat it around; or, yes, even going for a "cat walk" using a cat harness.
Actually, finding fun activities for your cats or kittens is pretty simple. However, you have to be mindful of doing it. Preserve your pets' health and preserve your sanity!
Kittens and cats are playful but wilful creatures. Of course, they love to fantasize that they run the household. This can be part of their charm, but it's important for the real humans to keep them entertained just as it is to keep them nutritionally fed and their litterbox clean. Playful kittens and cats are healthier pets, too.
The times when it's most important to focus on finding fun activities for your kittens or cats are those when the usual routine of the household is disrupted. These times may include: a holiday time; when you're traveling for an extended period; when guests are over; or when there are professionals in your home doing additions or repair work. Kittens, especially, might take to mischief during these routine-disrupting events. When this happens, it can be aggravating and possibly costly for you, and perhaps even dangerous for your pets.
It may be that traveling with your pets is the event that most demands that you find fun activities for them. Kittens and cats can be traumatized by travel because it's highly disruptive to their world, and they feel out of control. What could be among the fun activities that you come up with? They could include: playing "chase" with a laser-light; tossing a small ball or a crumpled up ball of construction paper or an empty cigarette box and letting the felines bat it around; or, yes, even going for a "cat walk" using a cat harness.
Actually, finding fun activities for your cats or kittens is pretty simple. However, you have to be mindful of doing it. Preserve your pets' health and preserve your sanity!
Consider Animal Rescue Groups For Dog Rehoming
While there is certainly no shortage of places where one could choose to adopt a pet dog from, it is certain that some of these places are better than others. Take dog rehoming centers for instance.
Compared to pet stores and commercial dog breeders, it's far better for everyone involved (especially the dogs) to adopt a pet instead of purchasing one.
Most pet shops source their animals from large scale commercial breeders. These breeders often fail to raise their animals in a healthy and humane way and buying a dog from one of these operations encourages animal cruelty and poor breeding practices.
Instead of buying dogs from a pet shop or breeder, it's much more human to do your dog rehoming through an animal rescue organization. The fees that you pay to adopt a dog from these groups generally go to help other animals in need of a permanent home, so you can feel good about both your new pet and the way that you adopted your animal companion.
No matter where you live, there is certain to be an animal rescue group nearby which can help you to find the right dog for your family. Even if you have your heart set on a specific breed, you can generally find what you're looking for if you're willing to be a little bit patient.
Of course, you may just find a different pet who happens to be the right dog for you while you're waiting for a particular type to come along as well.
Compared to pet stores and commercial dog breeders, it's far better for everyone involved (especially the dogs) to adopt a pet instead of purchasing one.
Most pet shops source their animals from large scale commercial breeders. These breeders often fail to raise their animals in a healthy and humane way and buying a dog from one of these operations encourages animal cruelty and poor breeding practices.
Instead of buying dogs from a pet shop or breeder, it's much more human to do your dog rehoming through an animal rescue organization. The fees that you pay to adopt a dog from these groups generally go to help other animals in need of a permanent home, so you can feel good about both your new pet and the way that you adopted your animal companion.
No matter where you live, there is certain to be an animal rescue group nearby which can help you to find the right dog for your family. Even if you have your heart set on a specific breed, you can generally find what you're looking for if you're willing to be a little bit patient.
Of course, you may just find a different pet who happens to be the right dog for you while you're waiting for a particular type to come along as well.
Caring for Your Pet Snake
When it comes to exotic pets, snakes are going to have a particular approach that will need to be adhered to for their pet care. You are going to find that these needs need to be met to ensure that your snake remains healthy.
One of the first things you will need to be sure is that you have a clean and safe enclosure for them. This should be a space that they can curl up in and have air, food and water. In addition to this, there should be a heating source to keep them warm that is place so it doesn’t cause them any harm.
In addition to this, you will need to make sure that you have both a thermometer and a hygrometer. Different exotic pets have different needs when it comes to the readings provided and you will need to ensure you understand what your particular snake needs. Keep in mind that when you are using these for pet care, digital options tend to be more effective.
In addition to this, you will need to make sure that you have a place they can hide. Since snakes tend to be nocturnal, you will find that they will appreciate the darkness that these boxes offer. It will also help them when it comes to feeding to ensure that they remain comfortable as well.
Healthcare for exotic pets is important as well. For this, you will want to make sure that you have a vet that is comfortable handling your breed of snake in place. Along with this, you should have a basic first aid kit in place that will be used for their general pet care, should something happen.
With all this in place, you need to begin looking at both weekly and daily routines to follow. This will range from cleaning your pet, to maintaining their cage. As long as they get the standard level of care they need, you can ensure that you do have a healthy and happy pet snake.
One of the first things you will need to be sure is that you have a clean and safe enclosure for them. This should be a space that they can curl up in and have air, food and water. In addition to this, there should be a heating source to keep them warm that is place so it doesn’t cause them any harm.
In addition to this, you will need to make sure that you have both a thermometer and a hygrometer. Different exotic pets have different needs when it comes to the readings provided and you will need to ensure you understand what your particular snake needs. Keep in mind that when you are using these for pet care, digital options tend to be more effective.
In addition to this, you will need to make sure that you have a place they can hide. Since snakes tend to be nocturnal, you will find that they will appreciate the darkness that these boxes offer. It will also help them when it comes to feeding to ensure that they remain comfortable as well.
Healthcare for exotic pets is important as well. For this, you will want to make sure that you have a vet that is comfortable handling your breed of snake in place. Along with this, you should have a basic first aid kit in place that will be used for their general pet care, should something happen.
With all this in place, you need to begin looking at both weekly and daily routines to follow. This will range from cleaning your pet, to maintaining their cage. As long as they get the standard level of care they need, you can ensure that you do have a healthy and happy pet snake.
What to Feed Your Kittens
Diet plays a very important role in your kitten's health and development. Kittens naturally need to be fed with proper and well-balanced meals to fuel their growth. Keep in mind that a well-balanced diet is more than just emptying a can of cat food into their bowls. A nutritious cat meal will require your attention and your time in preparation.
During the first few weeks of birth, kittens depend solely on their mother's milk for nutrition. Cat owners may only start feeding their felines with kitten food when they are four to eight weeks old to complement the milk. However, if kitten food is not immediately available, you can choose to temporarily feed them with adult cat food softened with water. At eight months, your kitten's stomach should be able to handle eating purely kitten food alone.
When buying kittens from a breeder, make sure to ask about the brand of kitten food they use for feeding. A kitten's digestive system may still be very sensitive and different kitten chow brands may contain varying ingredients and formulations. If you plan to switch brands, do this very gradually to avoid indigestion. Buy one or two cans of your old kitten food and mix them with the new brand at gradually decreasing amounts.
From eight weeks to six months, your kittens will be growing at an incredibly fast rate and will require large amounts of food to fuel the growth. Your kitten's digestive system is still very small so they may need to eat several times in a day. Four small meals a day should be sufficient enough to supply them with all their needed nutrients. Remember to give them unlimited access to clean drinking water as well.
Growth usually slows down when your cats reach six months of age. During this time, they'll become less active as well. At six months, you can now safely cut back your usual meal frequency to 2-3 times a day. Do not start feeding them with adult cat food just yet. Although growth will significantly slow down, your kittens are still not completely ready for adult food formulation.
The best time to start feeding your cats with adult cat food is when they reach a year old. This time, feeding them will become less of a hassle. Cats at this age are now able to feed themselves without your constant attention. You can simply fill their bowls with cat food and they should be good to go. Canned cat food is a very popular choice among pet owners but dry foods may be used in combination with this as well.
One potentially dangerous behaviour that you should always watch out for is overeating. Although most felines eat only when they are hungry, the constant and unregulated presence of food may slowly give rise to this unhealthy habit. If your cat is starting to become overweight, limit their meals to two times a day.
Also be very meticulous about the brand of kitten or cat food that you use. Choose brands that are nutritionally complete and well-balanced. Do your research before selecting a brand or better yet, ask advice from your local vet.
During the first few weeks of birth, kittens depend solely on their mother's milk for nutrition. Cat owners may only start feeding their felines with kitten food when they are four to eight weeks old to complement the milk. However, if kitten food is not immediately available, you can choose to temporarily feed them with adult cat food softened with water. At eight months, your kitten's stomach should be able to handle eating purely kitten food alone.
When buying kittens from a breeder, make sure to ask about the brand of kitten food they use for feeding. A kitten's digestive system may still be very sensitive and different kitten chow brands may contain varying ingredients and formulations. If you plan to switch brands, do this very gradually to avoid indigestion. Buy one or two cans of your old kitten food and mix them with the new brand at gradually decreasing amounts.
From eight weeks to six months, your kittens will be growing at an incredibly fast rate and will require large amounts of food to fuel the growth. Your kitten's digestive system is still very small so they may need to eat several times in a day. Four small meals a day should be sufficient enough to supply them with all their needed nutrients. Remember to give them unlimited access to clean drinking water as well.
Growth usually slows down when your cats reach six months of age. During this time, they'll become less active as well. At six months, you can now safely cut back your usual meal frequency to 2-3 times a day. Do not start feeding them with adult cat food just yet. Although growth will significantly slow down, your kittens are still not completely ready for adult food formulation.
The best time to start feeding your cats with adult cat food is when they reach a year old. This time, feeding them will become less of a hassle. Cats at this age are now able to feed themselves without your constant attention. You can simply fill their bowls with cat food and they should be good to go. Canned cat food is a very popular choice among pet owners but dry foods may be used in combination with this as well.
One potentially dangerous behaviour that you should always watch out for is overeating. Although most felines eat only when they are hungry, the constant and unregulated presence of food may slowly give rise to this unhealthy habit. If your cat is starting to become overweight, limit their meals to two times a day.
Also be very meticulous about the brand of kitten or cat food that you use. Choose brands that are nutritionally complete and well-balanced. Do your research before selecting a brand or better yet, ask advice from your local vet.
What Hamsters and Guinea Pig Eat
Hamsters and guinea pigs are both types of rodents that many individuals have found to be adorable pets in their homes. This comes as no surprise. There are so many appealing attributes in both a hamster and a guinea pig from their round bodies covered in soft fur of various colours to their cute wide eyes, perky ears and small squeaky sounds.
As an owner of these pet rodents, you should know about their diet simply. Food and water are, after all, essential in keeping your pets healthy in mind and body at all stages of their lives. Besides, you can significantly lessen your veterinary care costs for your pets when you keep them as healthy as possible with a healthy diet.
So, what exactly do hamsters and guinea pigs eat? Before we discuss these foods, there are three important things that must be emphasized first and foremost. First, a hamster requires very little food because of their equally small intestinal tract. Experts recommend feeding an adult hamster or guinea pig a maximum of 2 tablespoons of food every 24 hours, less for a smaller hamster.
Second, both pet rodents should be provided with a wide range of foods from fresh grasses and hay to fruits and vegetables. Keep in mind that, in the wild, these animals also eat a varied diet depending on the available food sources in their environment. Plus, a varied diet ensures that these pet rodents are provided with all the necessary macro and micronutrients including Vitamins A, C, D and E as well as calcium, phosphorus and potassium for good health.
Third, hamsters and guinea pigs have certain dietary quirks. A hamster will stuff virtually everything into its cheeks, which is an instinctive habit to collect as much food as possible for the rainy days. A guinea pig will eat a special type of feces called cecotropes, which will then improve digestion.
The most obvious food for these pet rodents is grass preferably on a daily basis. Be careful about choosing the type of grass to feed your hamster and cavy. The grass should be free of pesticides, insecticides and weed killers; it should be as dry as possible; and it must be picked from a place where no other animal has soiled on it. Wet grass and other plants can cause illnesses in both pet rodents.
Hamsters and cavies also like hay especially during the winter months when the grasses are too wet. It contains plenty of fibre, thus, making hay an essential part of your pet rodents' diet. Experts suggest timothy hay for its soft qualities, easy availability and low cost.
Vegetables are better food sources than fruits because the latter may be too sweet and, hence, cause health issues in pet rodents. Still, fruits can be given as treats. The best fruits and vegetables for pet rodents are carrots, broccoli, cabbage, cucumber, celery; kale and kiwi although these should be given in small amounts only for 3 times a week, max. Avoid feeding pet rodents with rhubarb, raw beans, lettuce, peaches, potatoes, coconut and cauliflower.
You can also feed your hamsters and cavies with dried foods and nutritional supplements made especially for them. This way, you can supplement the nutrients they receive from their natural food sources. No matter what you feed your pet rodents, the most important thing is always moderation lest they become obese.
As an owner of these pet rodents, you should know about their diet simply. Food and water are, after all, essential in keeping your pets healthy in mind and body at all stages of their lives. Besides, you can significantly lessen your veterinary care costs for your pets when you keep them as healthy as possible with a healthy diet.
So, what exactly do hamsters and guinea pigs eat? Before we discuss these foods, there are three important things that must be emphasized first and foremost. First, a hamster requires very little food because of their equally small intestinal tract. Experts recommend feeding an adult hamster or guinea pig a maximum of 2 tablespoons of food every 24 hours, less for a smaller hamster.
Second, both pet rodents should be provided with a wide range of foods from fresh grasses and hay to fruits and vegetables. Keep in mind that, in the wild, these animals also eat a varied diet depending on the available food sources in their environment. Plus, a varied diet ensures that these pet rodents are provided with all the necessary macro and micronutrients including Vitamins A, C, D and E as well as calcium, phosphorus and potassium for good health.
Third, hamsters and guinea pigs have certain dietary quirks. A hamster will stuff virtually everything into its cheeks, which is an instinctive habit to collect as much food as possible for the rainy days. A guinea pig will eat a special type of feces called cecotropes, which will then improve digestion.
The most obvious food for these pet rodents is grass preferably on a daily basis. Be careful about choosing the type of grass to feed your hamster and cavy. The grass should be free of pesticides, insecticides and weed killers; it should be as dry as possible; and it must be picked from a place where no other animal has soiled on it. Wet grass and other plants can cause illnesses in both pet rodents.
Hamsters and cavies also like hay especially during the winter months when the grasses are too wet. It contains plenty of fibre, thus, making hay an essential part of your pet rodents' diet. Experts suggest timothy hay for its soft qualities, easy availability and low cost.
Vegetables are better food sources than fruits because the latter may be too sweet and, hence, cause health issues in pet rodents. Still, fruits can be given as treats. The best fruits and vegetables for pet rodents are carrots, broccoli, cabbage, cucumber, celery; kale and kiwi although these should be given in small amounts only for 3 times a week, max. Avoid feeding pet rodents with rhubarb, raw beans, lettuce, peaches, potatoes, coconut and cauliflower.
You can also feed your hamsters and cavies with dried foods and nutritional supplements made especially for them. This way, you can supplement the nutrients they receive from their natural food sources. No matter what you feed your pet rodents, the most important thing is always moderation lest they become obese.
Pet Friendly Holidays
Both man and his pets need a holiday, away from the stresses and pressures of modern life, away from it all, so to speak. Fortunately, pet friendly holidays are now possible thanks in part to dog friendly hotels, apartments and even bed and breakfasts.
Why book pet friendly accommodation, you may ask? Common sense reveals the reasons: Pet-friendly services, amenities and facilities in a luxury hotel or a budget inn means greater convenience for both man and animal. For example, the dog friendly hotel provides for a wide variety of sleeping arrangements for dogs of all breeds including beds, beddings and crates as well as a wide selection of food items from dog food to treats. There may even be a shop for pet clothes!
When looking for accommodations for yourself and your pet, be sure to ask detailed questions and get satisfactory answers before actually booking your room. Just because the website or the reception area of the hotel says that it offers pet friendly accommodation does not necessarily mean it is the best among the dog friendly hotels in the area. Take a physical or virtual tour of the premises; look at their facilities and amenities; and ask questions about their arrangements for guests' pets.
Don't worry about not being able to find pet-friendly establishments in the United Kingdom. The hospitality industry is well aware of the trend of taking pets on vacations and, thus, its major players continue to offer innovations in pet-friendly services, amenities and facilities. A few luxury hotels are even offering lavish accommodations for dogs and cats such as separate suites coupled with professional pet handlers, groomers and tailors.
The level of services offered and facilities provided by dog friendly hotels differ from one establishment to the next. Budget hotels can only offer the most basic amenities like a dog bed so you should bring along dog supplies to last your stay. Luxury hotels can offer plush dog beds, high-end dog treats and even dog spa services to truly pamper spoiled pets.
It should also be noted that hotels with pet-friendly policies and corresponding services will charge extra fees. These charges can cover possible damage to the hotel's premises and property, which is not surprising since even domesticated animals can be rambunctious in unfamiliar surroundings. Don't be surprised, too, if certain charges are added to your bill for specific violations of pet-related rules and regulations in dog friendly hotels.
Now, when you have booked your room in the hotel, your next step is to make the travel arrangements from your home to your chosen vacation spot. Aside from your usual packing of clothes, personal accessories and personal travel documents, you must also pack your pet dog's stuff. Think of its crate, leash and even favorite toys and treats as well as its vaccinations, which mean that you should coordinate with your vet.
Upon arriving at your vacation destination, you can unwind and relax with your pet in tow. This begins your pet friendly accommodation, which started when you first considered the fine selection of dog friendly hotels in the area.
Why book pet friendly accommodation, you may ask? Common sense reveals the reasons: Pet-friendly services, amenities and facilities in a luxury hotel or a budget inn means greater convenience for both man and animal. For example, the dog friendly hotel provides for a wide variety of sleeping arrangements for dogs of all breeds including beds, beddings and crates as well as a wide selection of food items from dog food to treats. There may even be a shop for pet clothes!
When looking for accommodations for yourself and your pet, be sure to ask detailed questions and get satisfactory answers before actually booking your room. Just because the website or the reception area of the hotel says that it offers pet friendly accommodation does not necessarily mean it is the best among the dog friendly hotels in the area. Take a physical or virtual tour of the premises; look at their facilities and amenities; and ask questions about their arrangements for guests' pets.
Don't worry about not being able to find pet-friendly establishments in the United Kingdom. The hospitality industry is well aware of the trend of taking pets on vacations and, thus, its major players continue to offer innovations in pet-friendly services, amenities and facilities. A few luxury hotels are even offering lavish accommodations for dogs and cats such as separate suites coupled with professional pet handlers, groomers and tailors.
The level of services offered and facilities provided by dog friendly hotels differ from one establishment to the next. Budget hotels can only offer the most basic amenities like a dog bed so you should bring along dog supplies to last your stay. Luxury hotels can offer plush dog beds, high-end dog treats and even dog spa services to truly pamper spoiled pets.
It should also be noted that hotels with pet-friendly policies and corresponding services will charge extra fees. These charges can cover possible damage to the hotel's premises and property, which is not surprising since even domesticated animals can be rambunctious in unfamiliar surroundings. Don't be surprised, too, if certain charges are added to your bill for specific violations of pet-related rules and regulations in dog friendly hotels.
Now, when you have booked your room in the hotel, your next step is to make the travel arrangements from your home to your chosen vacation spot. Aside from your usual packing of clothes, personal accessories and personal travel documents, you must also pack your pet dog's stuff. Think of its crate, leash and even favorite toys and treats as well as its vaccinations, which mean that you should coordinate with your vet.
Upon arriving at your vacation destination, you can unwind and relax with your pet in tow. This begins your pet friendly accommodation, which started when you first considered the fine selection of dog friendly hotels in the area.
How To Take Care Of Your Rehomed Dog
Dogs adopted from animal rescue shelters require similar level of care in comparison with their counterparts who grew up in their homes as puppies. However, it should also be noted that these rescued canines may have certain mental and physical issues borne of abuse and neglect from their previous owners. As such, certain accommodations must also be made in dog rehoming to account for their possible issues.
Let's assume that you have already chosen the dog from the animal rescue shelter and you want to take it home now. You must remember certain key point before actually taking your new pet home as well as when it is already in your home. These key points will be the crucial turning points in your new pet's successful integration into your home life.
The most important point is to refrain from hugging and kissing your dog as soon as it is out of its cage in the animal shelter. Yes, hugs and kisses may be a sign of human affection but it is not so for canines because these actions represent dominance and aggression where dogs are concerned. You are, in fact, exposing yourself to becoming the underling in the relationship, which you want to avoid since successful dog rehoming means being the alpha dog of the pack early on.
You should also not go straight home after getting your pet dog from the animal rescue shelter. Walk the dog first in the park and other open spaces for two main reasons. First, you want it to become accustomed to your presence instead of exposing it to other members of the family in a sudden manner. Second, you need to establish the rules of the relationship at the onset where said relationship involves you being the leader/alpha dog and your dog being the follower - not the other way around.
When you have established the most important rule of the relationship, your efforts at dog rehoming will be successful. So, how exactly do you walk your new dog? You must make it heel on the lead without pulling and you should also go through entrances and exits first followed by your dog. You are establishing the rule that you lead and your dog follows.
Once on the doorstep of your home, be sure to enter first but do not unsnap your dog's leash to prevent it from investigating your home on its own. Tell the other members of the family to avoid greeting the dog with hugs and kisses since it's still too early for these actions. Your main goal is to introduce your dog to its new home in a calm manner - the lesser stress and stimulation given to your new pet, the better for your dog rehoming efforts.
Then, lead your dog into its crate or dog bed. Be sure that it is well-equipped with all the essential things that dogs need from comfortable bedding to dog treats and toys. This way, your new pet will associate positive things with being inside a crate in particular and in your home in general. When your new pet is comfortable in its new home, feed it from its own bowl.
Your next step is to lay out the rules of the house including where it will sleep, eat and play. Potty training is obviously your topmost priority followed by obedience training. In the end, you will find that, indeed, dog rehoming is not different from bringing a new puppy home except for the fact that you must deal with an older dog.
Let's assume that you have already chosen the dog from the animal rescue shelter and you want to take it home now. You must remember certain key point before actually taking your new pet home as well as when it is already in your home. These key points will be the crucial turning points in your new pet's successful integration into your home life.
The most important point is to refrain from hugging and kissing your dog as soon as it is out of its cage in the animal shelter. Yes, hugs and kisses may be a sign of human affection but it is not so for canines because these actions represent dominance and aggression where dogs are concerned. You are, in fact, exposing yourself to becoming the underling in the relationship, which you want to avoid since successful dog rehoming means being the alpha dog of the pack early on.
You should also not go straight home after getting your pet dog from the animal rescue shelter. Walk the dog first in the park and other open spaces for two main reasons. First, you want it to become accustomed to your presence instead of exposing it to other members of the family in a sudden manner. Second, you need to establish the rules of the relationship at the onset where said relationship involves you being the leader/alpha dog and your dog being the follower - not the other way around.
When you have established the most important rule of the relationship, your efforts at dog rehoming will be successful. So, how exactly do you walk your new dog? You must make it heel on the lead without pulling and you should also go through entrances and exits first followed by your dog. You are establishing the rule that you lead and your dog follows.
Once on the doorstep of your home, be sure to enter first but do not unsnap your dog's leash to prevent it from investigating your home on its own. Tell the other members of the family to avoid greeting the dog with hugs and kisses since it's still too early for these actions. Your main goal is to introduce your dog to its new home in a calm manner - the lesser stress and stimulation given to your new pet, the better for your dog rehoming efforts.
Then, lead your dog into its crate or dog bed. Be sure that it is well-equipped with all the essential things that dogs need from comfortable bedding to dog treats and toys. This way, your new pet will associate positive things with being inside a crate in particular and in your home in general. When your new pet is comfortable in its new home, feed it from its own bowl.
Your next step is to lay out the rules of the house including where it will sleep, eat and play. Potty training is obviously your topmost priority followed by obedience training. In the end, you will find that, indeed, dog rehoming is not different from bringing a new puppy home except for the fact that you must deal with an older dog.
How To Take Care Of Your Exotic Pet
In many ways, taking care of your exotic pets involve similar activities as the usual pet care for cats and dogs - the more popular kinds of domestic animals. These activities involve providing for food and water, exercise and play, a warm place to stay and plenty of love as well as good veterinary care. After all, both exotic and popular pets need their owners to be responsible, caring and loving.
However, exotic animals require a special level of care simply because of their special needs. Keep in mind that canines and felines can easily be taken care of because of their familiarity with humans but reptiles, birds and spiders, among other kinds of exotic pets, require a certain level of maturity and sense of responsibility over and beyond the usual pet care to thrive in a home environment. As such, these exotic animals are not recommended for young kids because of safety issues for both man and pets.
So, how exactly can you take good care of exotic animals in your home? First, ask a professional animal caretaker, a veterinarian and expert pet owners the best ways to take care of your own exotic pet. You should ask questions like what, when and how to feed, handle and clean your exotic pet as well as what to look out for in terms of behaviour. In fact, you should be well-informed of proper care for exotic pets even before you bring them home in the first place.
Second, you must know the exotic animal's history. Ask questions of the animal shelter staff about the animal's social behaviour, medical history and other information that will be of use while it is in your care at home. Animal shelters usually keep detailed records for each animal in their care including its feeding habits, vaccinations and health issues, all of which your vet can refer to in the future.
Third, aside from gathering information about pet care for exotic animals, you should also find a good veterinarian. You want to avoid frantically searching the Yellow Pages for a nearby veterinarian when your exotic pet suddenly becomes ill. In fact, you will want to schedule an appointment with a good veterinarian as soon as your pet comes home just it can be checked over for any possible health issues.
Fourth, you should follow the recommendations suggested by the abovementioned experts on exotic pets especially when you are still a novice. For example, if the animal shelter staff said that your gerbils eat at a certain time with specific foods, follow the schedule and formulation for the diet. If the gerbils are also fond of certain items in their cages, you can also recreate their familiar environment at home. You are then helping your new pets make a good transition from the animal shelter to your home.
You should also closely observe your new pets in terms of their individual personalities - temperament, habits and quirks, for example. You can then adjust their feeding times, cage conditions and other aspects of caring for them as you see fit. Your attention to their needs and wants will make all the difference in their healthy physical and mental development while in your care. Indeed, exotic pets can be happy additions to your home if and when you know how to properly and lovingly take care of them.
However, exotic animals require a special level of care simply because of their special needs. Keep in mind that canines and felines can easily be taken care of because of their familiarity with humans but reptiles, birds and spiders, among other kinds of exotic pets, require a certain level of maturity and sense of responsibility over and beyond the usual pet care to thrive in a home environment. As such, these exotic animals are not recommended for young kids because of safety issues for both man and pets.
So, how exactly can you take good care of exotic animals in your home? First, ask a professional animal caretaker, a veterinarian and expert pet owners the best ways to take care of your own exotic pet. You should ask questions like what, when and how to feed, handle and clean your exotic pet as well as what to look out for in terms of behaviour. In fact, you should be well-informed of proper care for exotic pets even before you bring them home in the first place.
Second, you must know the exotic animal's history. Ask questions of the animal shelter staff about the animal's social behaviour, medical history and other information that will be of use while it is in your care at home. Animal shelters usually keep detailed records for each animal in their care including its feeding habits, vaccinations and health issues, all of which your vet can refer to in the future.
Third, aside from gathering information about pet care for exotic animals, you should also find a good veterinarian. You want to avoid frantically searching the Yellow Pages for a nearby veterinarian when your exotic pet suddenly becomes ill. In fact, you will want to schedule an appointment with a good veterinarian as soon as your pet comes home just it can be checked over for any possible health issues.
Fourth, you should follow the recommendations suggested by the abovementioned experts on exotic pets especially when you are still a novice. For example, if the animal shelter staff said that your gerbils eat at a certain time with specific foods, follow the schedule and formulation for the diet. If the gerbils are also fond of certain items in their cages, you can also recreate their familiar environment at home. You are then helping your new pets make a good transition from the animal shelter to your home.
You should also closely observe your new pets in terms of their individual personalities - temperament, habits and quirks, for example. You can then adjust their feeding times, cage conditions and other aspects of caring for them as you see fit. Your attention to their needs and wants will make all the difference in their healthy physical and mental development while in your care. Indeed, exotic pets can be happy additions to your home if and when you know how to properly and lovingly take care of them.
How to Deal With a Stray Cat
Cats are naturally curious animals that have a habit of wandering away from their homes. Many of them who roam too far away from familiar territory get lost and become strays. And most of the time, these stray cats end up seeking shelter in someone else's home.
If you see an unfamiliar cat hanging around your property for several days now, the very first thing that you need to do is to check if it is feral or a stray. It's very important that you know how to tell the difference. Stray cats are domesticated cats that have simply lost their way while feral cats are wild, undomesticated and are possibly dangerous. Be very careful when you spot these kinds of animals around your property as feral cats are not used to being around people and may show aggressive behaviour when approached.
If you want to catch the animal, always put your safety and the animal's safety at first priority. Restrain the animal with a piece of cloth or put him in a cage. Check for any identification marks such as a collar, a tag or a microchip. If there are none, then you can go to your local vet to check for any reports of a lost animal and see if the description fits the appearance of your feline visitor. Try to contact possible owners or post posters around town in case someone recognizes the animal before asking help from cat rescue.
If you think the stray cat is in need of special medical attention, contact your local Cats Protection League or an animal rescue organization for assistance. The Cats Protection League and other similar organizations are experts at cat rescue and are dedicated to rehabilitating lost and abused cats.
Although it is completely safe to offer stray cats protection and shelter, make sure that you do not get too attached to the animal while they are under your care. You will eventually be returning them to their original owner so it's best to avoid any kind of emotional attachment from the beginning.
If you wish to make your visitor a temporary home, you can do so by using old boxes and Styrofoam. Tape the box close and cut a small hole at the side for an entrance. Cover the outside of the box with used Styrofoam for insulation and with heavy duty plastic to make it waterproof.
If you still haven't found the animal's owner after a few days of searching, you can opt to adopt the cat yourself or you can contact the Cats Protection League or other similar animal charities to take care of the stray. These organizations will be responsible for finding these animals a suitable home.
Before taking the cat officially in to your home, take them to the vet and have them checked for diseases and existing medical problems. This is to prevent the spread of possible infectious diseases that your new pet may have contracted while in the wild.
So always be open to giving lost cats protection and shelter when they need it. Your simple hospitality can mean a whole lot to these homeless felines.
If you see an unfamiliar cat hanging around your property for several days now, the very first thing that you need to do is to check if it is feral or a stray. It's very important that you know how to tell the difference. Stray cats are domesticated cats that have simply lost their way while feral cats are wild, undomesticated and are possibly dangerous. Be very careful when you spot these kinds of animals around your property as feral cats are not used to being around people and may show aggressive behaviour when approached.
If you want to catch the animal, always put your safety and the animal's safety at first priority. Restrain the animal with a piece of cloth or put him in a cage. Check for any identification marks such as a collar, a tag or a microchip. If there are none, then you can go to your local vet to check for any reports of a lost animal and see if the description fits the appearance of your feline visitor. Try to contact possible owners or post posters around town in case someone recognizes the animal before asking help from cat rescue.
If you think the stray cat is in need of special medical attention, contact your local Cats Protection League or an animal rescue organization for assistance. The Cats Protection League and other similar organizations are experts at cat rescue and are dedicated to rehabilitating lost and abused cats.
Although it is completely safe to offer stray cats protection and shelter, make sure that you do not get too attached to the animal while they are under your care. You will eventually be returning them to their original owner so it's best to avoid any kind of emotional attachment from the beginning.
If you wish to make your visitor a temporary home, you can do so by using old boxes and Styrofoam. Tape the box close and cut a small hole at the side for an entrance. Cover the outside of the box with used Styrofoam for insulation and with heavy duty plastic to make it waterproof.
If you still haven't found the animal's owner after a few days of searching, you can opt to adopt the cat yourself or you can contact the Cats Protection League or other similar animal charities to take care of the stray. These organizations will be responsible for finding these animals a suitable home.
Before taking the cat officially in to your home, take them to the vet and have them checked for diseases and existing medical problems. This is to prevent the spread of possible infectious diseases that your new pet may have contracted while in the wild.
So always be open to giving lost cats protection and shelter when they need it. Your simple hospitality can mean a whole lot to these homeless felines.
How to Choose Your Rescue Dog
Deciding on what type of dog to get will always require a good amount of time and research. This is mostly because there are different kinds of dog breeds fit for different types of owners. So before you go out looking for that potential pet to bring home, here are a few very important factors that you need to consider.
One of the best places that you can turn for pet adoptions today are the animal rescue centres. Rescue centres are organizations that rescue dogs for adoption and find them new homes. Contrary to popular belief, dogs found in rescue centres are not there for bad behavior. These poor animals are mostly abandoned or abused by their previous owners and thus, need new people and new homes that they can call their own.
Choosing what breed of dog to get is never an easy decision. You'll need to take a lot of factors into consideration. There are certain dog breeds that need large areas to move around while there are those that can live well in small apartments. There are breeds that are especially great with children while there are those that may not be very patient around kids. So do your research and try look at breeds that will suit you and your family's lifestyle best.
One other very important factor that you need to keep in mind is the kids. Safety should always be a priority. If you have kids in the house, it's best to look for breeds that are gentle and patient. Breeds such as the Labradors and the Retrievers are especially great around kids.
While visiting rescue centres, never forget to ask about the dog's background and history - such as information about their previous family and the reason why they ended up in the rescue center. Check if they have been trained previously or not. If they have been in the centre for a long time, the caretaker may know a good deal about that dog's personality as well. His or her opinion can come very helpful.
If you have found a potential dog to adopt, give him a visit several times before actually deciding to take him home. This will make the transition so much easier and will also give you enough time to get to know the dog's personality. Bring along a toy every time you visit so you'll know just how active or how passive he can get even before you take him home.
And last but definitely not the least: ask about their current and past medical conditions. Most of the dogs found in rescue centres may have experienced trauma and abuse in the past. They may not be at the best of shape or may have pre-existing medical conditions that require close attention. Have them checked by a vet so you'll know the possible precautionary measures that you need to take.
Getting a dog from a rescue centre gives you the opportunity to open your homes to animals that need care and love the most. So if you have been planning to get a pet for a very long time, chose to rescue dogs for adoption instead.
One of the best places that you can turn for pet adoptions today are the animal rescue centres. Rescue centres are organizations that rescue dogs for adoption and find them new homes. Contrary to popular belief, dogs found in rescue centres are not there for bad behavior. These poor animals are mostly abandoned or abused by their previous owners and thus, need new people and new homes that they can call their own.
Choosing what breed of dog to get is never an easy decision. You'll need to take a lot of factors into consideration. There are certain dog breeds that need large areas to move around while there are those that can live well in small apartments. There are breeds that are especially great with children while there are those that may not be very patient around kids. So do your research and try look at breeds that will suit you and your family's lifestyle best.
One other very important factor that you need to keep in mind is the kids. Safety should always be a priority. If you have kids in the house, it's best to look for breeds that are gentle and patient. Breeds such as the Labradors and the Retrievers are especially great around kids.
While visiting rescue centres, never forget to ask about the dog's background and history - such as information about their previous family and the reason why they ended up in the rescue center. Check if they have been trained previously or not. If they have been in the centre for a long time, the caretaker may know a good deal about that dog's personality as well. His or her opinion can come very helpful.
If you have found a potential dog to adopt, give him a visit several times before actually deciding to take him home. This will make the transition so much easier and will also give you enough time to get to know the dog's personality. Bring along a toy every time you visit so you'll know just how active or how passive he can get even before you take him home.
And last but definitely not the least: ask about their current and past medical conditions. Most of the dogs found in rescue centres may have experienced trauma and abuse in the past. They may not be at the best of shape or may have pre-existing medical conditions that require close attention. Have them checked by a vet so you'll know the possible precautionary measures that you need to take.
Getting a dog from a rescue centre gives you the opportunity to open your homes to animals that need care and love the most. So if you have been planning to get a pet for a very long time, chose to rescue dogs for adoption instead.
How to Choose a Good Saddle for Your Horse
A very commonly asked question, when it comes to choosing saddles, is whether you should consider the horse or the rider? The answer is you should really consider both, perhaps the horse a bit more than the rider but nonetheless both should be comfortable with the device. Generally speaking, you should be able to find an appropriate saddle for your horse designed for your taste.
Appropriate Fit
Horses are great pets but the honest truth is they really do not care what type of saddle you use, whether it is Australian, Western or even and English dressage saddle makes little difference as long as it fits their back well and is in good repair. Saddles vary in gullet width and bar length, and the important thing for you to remember is that these should be compatible with the type of horse you own. For example, Arabian saddles (created for narrower shouldered Arabian horses) are narrower in the gullet and may not fit well on a full size quarter horse.
Appropriate Use
Are you trying to break a horse to ride? Perhaps you are interested in English jumping. Your choice in activities will also have a great deal to do with what type of saddle you purchase. When you are working with a horse that has not been ridden, a lot most people will opt for a western saddle for the extra leg control and the horn to grab in case things go terribly wrong!
Rider Considerations
Each saddle type will come in a variety of seat sizes, from tiny varieties for small children to extremely large seats for full sized adults. Seats are measured in inches, a standard saddle will be approximately 15 inches, this will suit most average size adults however there are saddles in excess of 17 inches for extremely large people. There is a twofold purpose for proper seat size, one for your comfort and two so that your weight is distributed over a wide enough area to prevent pressure points on the horse.
Why Worry?
Only those who have never ridden would wonder what all the fuss is about! An improperly fitted saddle, whether it is on your end or your pets can lead to difficulty staying in the saddle. Some horses will simply take the discomfort and ride as if nothing is wrong, however they may suffer sores or aching muscles later as a result. A less gentile horse will let you know right quick that the saddle or some part of the equipment is not their cup of tea. Snorting, stomping and even bucking can result, none of which is good for you.
Conclusion
Buying the right saddle for your beloved pets is not as difficult as you might imagine. Unless you have a very highbred Arabian or thoroughbred, you likely have a quarter horses or quarter horse mix. These horses will generally take a saddle with full quarter horse bars. If you are in doubt, you can always measure your horse at the withers and compare that figure with the gullet size on a potential saddle. When all else fails have your horse professionally fitted for equipment.
Appropriate Fit
Horses are great pets but the honest truth is they really do not care what type of saddle you use, whether it is Australian, Western or even and English dressage saddle makes little difference as long as it fits their back well and is in good repair. Saddles vary in gullet width and bar length, and the important thing for you to remember is that these should be compatible with the type of horse you own. For example, Arabian saddles (created for narrower shouldered Arabian horses) are narrower in the gullet and may not fit well on a full size quarter horse.
Appropriate Use
Are you trying to break a horse to ride? Perhaps you are interested in English jumping. Your choice in activities will also have a great deal to do with what type of saddle you purchase. When you are working with a horse that has not been ridden, a lot most people will opt for a western saddle for the extra leg control and the horn to grab in case things go terribly wrong!
Rider Considerations
Each saddle type will come in a variety of seat sizes, from tiny varieties for small children to extremely large seats for full sized adults. Seats are measured in inches, a standard saddle will be approximately 15 inches, this will suit most average size adults however there are saddles in excess of 17 inches for extremely large people. There is a twofold purpose for proper seat size, one for your comfort and two so that your weight is distributed over a wide enough area to prevent pressure points on the horse.
Why Worry?
Only those who have never ridden would wonder what all the fuss is about! An improperly fitted saddle, whether it is on your end or your pets can lead to difficulty staying in the saddle. Some horses will simply take the discomfort and ride as if nothing is wrong, however they may suffer sores or aching muscles later as a result. A less gentile horse will let you know right quick that the saddle or some part of the equipment is not their cup of tea. Snorting, stomping and even bucking can result, none of which is good for you.
Conclusion
Buying the right saddle for your beloved pets is not as difficult as you might imagine. Unless you have a very highbred Arabian or thoroughbred, you likely have a quarter horses or quarter horse mix. These horses will generally take a saddle with full quarter horse bars. If you are in doubt, you can always measure your horse at the withers and compare that figure with the gullet size on a potential saddle. When all else fails have your horse professionally fitted for equipment.
Fundraising Ideas for Charities
Fundraising events are activities that aim to generate money for different kinds of causes. This is a very common event hosted by charities and non-profit organizations. There are actually many different types of fundraising events and the success of each activity is largely determined by the number of guests who participate and join. Thus, charities and organizations are always faced with the challenge of coming up with interesting ideas to attract guests and visitors. If you need a little help with those creative juices, here are a few unique fundraising ideas that you can follow.
A Canine Bakery
Set up a little bakery that sells delicious cookies and treats made just for your furry friends. This is something that dog lovers and their pets will surely love to be part of. Setting up a canine bakery is not that hard to do at all. You can easily find plenty of inexpensive but delicious pastry recipes for dogs. Get the fundraisers together and bake the cookies yourself to lessen the cost.
Karaoke Night
Everyone enjoys a good round of Karaoke. You can rent or buy an inexpensive Karaoke machine and set this up in the town gym or any available venue for a night of singing and fun. Your guests can pay a certain amount for a song or they can request someone to do a performance for a donation. Aside from the fundraising, this is also a good and fun way to bring the entire community together for the night.
Donate for a Portrait
A lot of people pay hundreds of dollars to get their portraits done. So why not turn this into a fundraising event instead? Look for artists who are willing to volunteer for this activity. During the event, guests can have their portraits done for any amount. This type of fundraising event will surely attract families, local organizations and even businesses.
Fun Run
A fun run is something that will not only appeal to runners and outdoor lovers but to families and kids as well. Make different categories to separate the young runners from the adults. For a certain fee, participants can get a simple shirt, a certificate or a token. Running for a cause is surely one good way to get into shape.
Collaborate with fast food joints
There are now a surprisingly large number of business establishments that are willing to participate in fund raising activities. One very good idea is to collaborate with famous fast food joints by asking them to give your organization a percentage of the sales that you'll help them generate. Distribute flyers to people around town and ask them to present this to the establishment upon dining.
Family Day Festival
You can invite concessionaires, vendors and even a mini-carnival to set up business within a designated area for a fee. This kind of activity can turn into a pretty big event and may require a permit for operation. However, large fundraising events such as these can generate huge amounts of money as well.
So if you are up for another challenge, try out any of these fundraising ideas today and be ready to make good money for an even better cause.
A Canine Bakery
Set up a little bakery that sells delicious cookies and treats made just for your furry friends. This is something that dog lovers and their pets will surely love to be part of. Setting up a canine bakery is not that hard to do at all. You can easily find plenty of inexpensive but delicious pastry recipes for dogs. Get the fundraisers together and bake the cookies yourself to lessen the cost.
Karaoke Night
Everyone enjoys a good round of Karaoke. You can rent or buy an inexpensive Karaoke machine and set this up in the town gym or any available venue for a night of singing and fun. Your guests can pay a certain amount for a song or they can request someone to do a performance for a donation. Aside from the fundraising, this is also a good and fun way to bring the entire community together for the night.
Donate for a Portrait
A lot of people pay hundreds of dollars to get their portraits done. So why not turn this into a fundraising event instead? Look for artists who are willing to volunteer for this activity. During the event, guests can have their portraits done for any amount. This type of fundraising event will surely attract families, local organizations and even businesses.
Fun Run
A fun run is something that will not only appeal to runners and outdoor lovers but to families and kids as well. Make different categories to separate the young runners from the adults. For a certain fee, participants can get a simple shirt, a certificate or a token. Running for a cause is surely one good way to get into shape.
Collaborate with fast food joints
There are now a surprisingly large number of business establishments that are willing to participate in fund raising activities. One very good idea is to collaborate with famous fast food joints by asking them to give your organization a percentage of the sales that you'll help them generate. Distribute flyers to people around town and ask them to present this to the establishment upon dining.
Family Day Festival
You can invite concessionaires, vendors and even a mini-carnival to set up business within a designated area for a fee. This kind of activity can turn into a pretty big event and may require a permit for operation. However, large fundraising events such as these can generate huge amounts of money as well.
So if you are up for another challenge, try out any of these fundraising ideas today and be ready to make good money for an even better cause.
Finding A Dog Friendly Hotel
If you are thinking of taking your pets on vacation, one of your most important preparations is finding pet friendly hotels for many obvious reasons. For one thing, you want to enjoy a vacation free from the hassles of hiding your dog from the management and staff of a hotel with the strict ‘no pets allowed’ policy. For another thing, your pet will appreciate its own dog-friendly accommodation like a comfortable dog bed, treats and play area that, in turn, will make you one happy camper, too.
Finding a dog-friendly hotel is relatively easy when you know how to look for it. You have so many resources right on your fingertips from the Internet to travel agencies, telephone directories and even from other fellow pet owners who have travelled with their pets in two. The trick is in choosing from among these pet-friendly hotels, motels and other accommodations according to your budget, tastes and preferences.
Since you are already online and reading this article, your first step is to consult pet-related websites. Just type in keywords like ‘dog-friendly accommodation’ and the search engines like Google and Yahoo will present hundreds of thousands of possible choices from luxury hotels to budget motels. You can also join online message boards and forums to ask other pet owners for their recommendations.
Family and friends as well as acquaintances and co-workers will also have great ideas about hotels that offer pet-friendly facilities and amenities. You will be surprised at the honest reviews that will be coming your way from people in your social circle. These reviews are definitely more reliable than those found in the hotel sites since you can be sure that your friends' reviews are not tinged with marketing hype.
Your travel agent will also be of big help in finding pet-friendly hotels. Be sure to tell him about your plans in bringing along your pet so that the proper arrangements can be made. Plus, be sure to ask about any extra charges as well as the necessary travel arrangements like vaccinations, quarantines and sleeping quarters.
When you already have the list of hotels with pet-friendly policies, amenities and facilities, you can then start to choose which one best suits your needs and wants. Look at the pictures of the rooms, facilities and amenities to determine if these are to your liking. Ask questions of the hotel management via e-mail, live online chat or phone call to clarify certain issues.
Keep in mind that pet-friendly hotels will have different levels of quality when it comes to their service, facilities and amenities. It always pays to ask detailed questions so that unpleasant surprises can be significantly lessened on your arrival. For example, you want to be sure that the hotel actually has dog-friendly accommodation instead of just admitting dogs into the premises - there's a huge difference.
When you have chosen the best dog-friendly hotel for your vacation accommodations, you should book a room as soon as possible and be sure to confirm the reservations a few days before your actual travel time. You want the details to be ironed out down to the check-in time for obvious reasons. After all, pet-friendly hotels can only do so much for their clientele - you have to do half the work, too.
Finding a dog-friendly hotel is relatively easy when you know how to look for it. You have so many resources right on your fingertips from the Internet to travel agencies, telephone directories and even from other fellow pet owners who have travelled with their pets in two. The trick is in choosing from among these pet-friendly hotels, motels and other accommodations according to your budget, tastes and preferences.
Since you are already online and reading this article, your first step is to consult pet-related websites. Just type in keywords like ‘dog-friendly accommodation’ and the search engines like Google and Yahoo will present hundreds of thousands of possible choices from luxury hotels to budget motels. You can also join online message boards and forums to ask other pet owners for their recommendations.
Family and friends as well as acquaintances and co-workers will also have great ideas about hotels that offer pet-friendly facilities and amenities. You will be surprised at the honest reviews that will be coming your way from people in your social circle. These reviews are definitely more reliable than those found in the hotel sites since you can be sure that your friends' reviews are not tinged with marketing hype.
Your travel agent will also be of big help in finding pet-friendly hotels. Be sure to tell him about your plans in bringing along your pet so that the proper arrangements can be made. Plus, be sure to ask about any extra charges as well as the necessary travel arrangements like vaccinations, quarantines and sleeping quarters.
When you already have the list of hotels with pet-friendly policies, amenities and facilities, you can then start to choose which one best suits your needs and wants. Look at the pictures of the rooms, facilities and amenities to determine if these are to your liking. Ask questions of the hotel management via e-mail, live online chat or phone call to clarify certain issues.
Keep in mind that pet-friendly hotels will have different levels of quality when it comes to their service, facilities and amenities. It always pays to ask detailed questions so that unpleasant surprises can be significantly lessened on your arrival. For example, you want to be sure that the hotel actually has dog-friendly accommodation instead of just admitting dogs into the premises - there's a huge difference.
When you have chosen the best dog-friendly hotel for your vacation accommodations, you should book a room as soon as possible and be sure to confirm the reservations a few days before your actual travel time. You want the details to be ironed out down to the check-in time for obvious reasons. After all, pet-friendly hotels can only do so much for their clientele - you have to do half the work, too.
Things to consider when travelling with your pet
Dog friendly hotels are the perfect way to ensure that you do not need to leave your beloved pet at home. Your pet is part of the family; therefore, when you go away it is upsetting for both you and the animal when they are left behind. Although kennels are great, your pet would prefer to be with you, and finding pet friendly accommodation is the perfect solution.
Taking your pet with you on vacation may seem daunting, and you will need to be extremely organized. There are several things that you will need to book, plan and research before you travel to ensure that everyone has a great vacation. You need to bear in mind that dog friendly hotels do get booked up well in advance. Therefore, you need to be organized and book the ones that you want as soon as possible.
There are a vast number of different hotels and accommodations that are allowing pets to stay; however, you will typically pay a large deposit. The hotels want to ensure that their furniture and floorings remain in good condition; therefore, the large deposit is required to protect their items. Research is essential, and there are plenty of different websites dedicated to dog friendly hotels.
Travelling with your pet can be fun; however, there are several things that you need to consider before you leave home. You will need to ensure that your pet is fit and healthy to travel, and that you have their relevant documents with you. If your dog is on medication, you need to ensure that you pack enough for the vacation.
Packing for your pet can take as long as another member of the family and sometimes it can be stressful. You need to ensure that you make their stay in the dog friendly hotels as enjoyable as possible. Therefore, packing their bedding, toys, food, bowls and treats are essential for them to feel comfortable. Strange surrounding can be a problem for some dogs, and you do not want them to feel uneasy in the dog friendly hotels.
As well as the overnight items for the pet friendly accommodation, you also need to consider the journey. You will need to ensure that you stop regularly for your dog to go to the toilet, stretch their legs, and have a drink. Just as humans get dehydrated, and uncomfortable whilst travelling, so do dogs.
Your dog will need to be secured into the car whilst travelling, and this can be done with a dog seatbelt. If you have the room, a dog crate in the boot of your vehicle is another option to ensure that the dog remains safe and secure. Dogs jumping around a car can be extremely dangerous for both the dog and the passengers.
If you ensure that you plan the whole vacation well, you and your pet will have an enjoyable time and love the facilities in the dog friendly hotels. There is some incredible pet friendly accommodation chooses, and you will be guaranteed a fantastic vacation. Research is essential to ensure that you choose the right hotels, within your budget, with the perfect elements for you and your pet.
Taking your pet with you on vacation may seem daunting, and you will need to be extremely organized. There are several things that you will need to book, plan and research before you travel to ensure that everyone has a great vacation. You need to bear in mind that dog friendly hotels do get booked up well in advance. Therefore, you need to be organized and book the ones that you want as soon as possible.
There are a vast number of different hotels and accommodations that are allowing pets to stay; however, you will typically pay a large deposit. The hotels want to ensure that their furniture and floorings remain in good condition; therefore, the large deposit is required to protect their items. Research is essential, and there are plenty of different websites dedicated to dog friendly hotels.
Travelling with your pet can be fun; however, there are several things that you need to consider before you leave home. You will need to ensure that your pet is fit and healthy to travel, and that you have their relevant documents with you. If your dog is on medication, you need to ensure that you pack enough for the vacation.
Packing for your pet can take as long as another member of the family and sometimes it can be stressful. You need to ensure that you make their stay in the dog friendly hotels as enjoyable as possible. Therefore, packing their bedding, toys, food, bowls and treats are essential for them to feel comfortable. Strange surrounding can be a problem for some dogs, and you do not want them to feel uneasy in the dog friendly hotels.
As well as the overnight items for the pet friendly accommodation, you also need to consider the journey. You will need to ensure that you stop regularly for your dog to go to the toilet, stretch their legs, and have a drink. Just as humans get dehydrated, and uncomfortable whilst travelling, so do dogs.
Your dog will need to be secured into the car whilst travelling, and this can be done with a dog seatbelt. If you have the room, a dog crate in the boot of your vehicle is another option to ensure that the dog remains safe and secure. Dogs jumping around a car can be extremely dangerous for both the dog and the passengers.
If you ensure that you plan the whole vacation well, you and your pet will have an enjoyable time and love the facilities in the dog friendly hotels. There is some incredible pet friendly accommodation chooses, and you will be guaranteed a fantastic vacation. Research is essential to ensure that you choose the right hotels, within your budget, with the perfect elements for you and your pet.
Where to find dog friendly accommodations
Pet friendly hotels are becoming easier to find as more pet owners have begun to travel with their beloved animals. In the past, the selection of dog friendly accommodation was limited, but this has changed. There is now no excuse to leave your four legged friends at home whilst you go on vacation.
Many pet owners hate leaving their dogs in kennels when they travel and as a result, people would often choose to stay at home. However, with increasing numbers of top quality pet friendly hotels to choose from, more people than ever before are travelling. Locating the right hotel for your needs may seem daunting, however, this style of hotel is becoming easier to find.
Dog friendly accommodations will have different rules and deposits than a standard hotel. You may find that some pet friendly hotels will only accept smaller dogs and many require a larger deposit. Although this may seem extreme, you have to consider that some dogs may damage the furniture and floorings.
Before you book the pet friendly hotels, you will need to ensure that you have researched and understand the requirements. You do not want to book the hotel only to discover that your dog is too large to stay the night. Reading all of the small will ensure that there are no misunderstandings.
Some hotels will require that your dog is kept caged in the room at night, to ensure that they do not climb on the furniture. You will also find that you have to keep your dog on a leash whilst in public areas. These rules are in place in pet friendly hotels to ensure that all the guests have an enjoyable time.
Before you set off on your journey with your pet, you will want to ensure that you have planned every element. Pre booking the pet friendly hotels is essential and you will find that many get booked up well in advance. As soon as you know your route, it is advised to begin researching the different dog friendly accommodation available.
Searching the Internet is the best starting point for any dog owners and you will find that many of the best pet friendly hotels have their own websites. You will be able to read about the facilities and services which are available and reviews from other pet owners. There are plenty of options when you need to choose a hotel for you and your pet.
Planning a road trip is exciting, but you will need to pack for your pet and ensure that you have their food, leash, bowls, toys and bedding. All of these items will guarantee that your pet feels at home and comfortable for the journey and their stay in the hotel.
Your dog may feel apprehensive about travelling and some do not like staying in strange locations, however, if you make it as familiar as possible they will be far calmer. Pet friendly hotels are renowned for their excellent service and friendly manner with pets. If you have any issues or requests, the staff at dog friendly accommodation will be happy to help.
Many pet owners hate leaving their dogs in kennels when they travel and as a result, people would often choose to stay at home. However, with increasing numbers of top quality pet friendly hotels to choose from, more people than ever before are travelling. Locating the right hotel for your needs may seem daunting, however, this style of hotel is becoming easier to find.
Dog friendly accommodations will have different rules and deposits than a standard hotel. You may find that some pet friendly hotels will only accept smaller dogs and many require a larger deposit. Although this may seem extreme, you have to consider that some dogs may damage the furniture and floorings.
Before you book the pet friendly hotels, you will need to ensure that you have researched and understand the requirements. You do not want to book the hotel only to discover that your dog is too large to stay the night. Reading all of the small will ensure that there are no misunderstandings.
Some hotels will require that your dog is kept caged in the room at night, to ensure that they do not climb on the furniture. You will also find that you have to keep your dog on a leash whilst in public areas. These rules are in place in pet friendly hotels to ensure that all the guests have an enjoyable time.
Before you set off on your journey with your pet, you will want to ensure that you have planned every element. Pre booking the pet friendly hotels is essential and you will find that many get booked up well in advance. As soon as you know your route, it is advised to begin researching the different dog friendly accommodation available.
Searching the Internet is the best starting point for any dog owners and you will find that many of the best pet friendly hotels have their own websites. You will be able to read about the facilities and services which are available and reviews from other pet owners. There are plenty of options when you need to choose a hotel for you and your pet.
Planning a road trip is exciting, but you will need to pack for your pet and ensure that you have their food, leash, bowls, toys and bedding. All of these items will guarantee that your pet feels at home and comfortable for the journey and their stay in the hotel.
Your dog may feel apprehensive about travelling and some do not like staying in strange locations, however, if you make it as familiar as possible they will be far calmer. Pet friendly hotels are renowned for their excellent service and friendly manner with pets. If you have any issues or requests, the staff at dog friendly accommodation will be happy to help.
Which exotic pets for your family
Exotic pets are becoming more popular for average households to own and although they are not for everyone, some people love this style of animal. This style of pet is unusual and fascinating and can be an incredible addition to your household. However, the pet care that is needed for exotic animals can be extremely complicated, therefore, research is essential.
There are vast numbers of different, exotic pets that you can choose, and some may be highly unusual. You need to consider what animal you like, and whether you have the space, knowledge and finances to look after it correctly. Exotic pets tend to take far more care than other pets; therefore, you need to be prepared for this before you purchase the animal.
Research is essential when looking to bring home any style of exotic pets, and you need to ensure that you understand what you are taking on. Finding a reputable dealer is essential to guarantee that your new pet is healthy, and allowed to be kept as a pet. There are many restrictions and laws surrounding the keeping of exotic pets in homes.
Lizards, snakes, spiders, insects and fish are some of the typical, exotic pets that people choose to have in their homes. You will need to decide which animal interests you, and whether you can provide the correct pet care for them to be healthy and happy. Many of these animals die, due to the new owners knowing very little about their needs.
Housing, food, climate, surroundings and vet care are all issues that you will need to consider before getting the exotic pets. You will need to ensure that there is a vet in your area that deals with exotic pets and their needs. If your pet is ill, you will want to ensure that you have someone who can treat them.
Many of these animals will have come from hot climates; therefore, you need to ensure that there housing is kept to the correct temperature. The smallest of changes to the exotic pets care and lifestyle can make them incredibly ill. Exotic pets tend to live far longer than domestic animals; therefore, you have to consider if you are prepared for many years with the animal.
If you have other animals and children in the house, you will need to consider how they will react to the new, exotic pet. Some children will find the animal to be horrible, and others may want to be involved. However, there are immense numbers of exotic pets that are simply to be looked at and not touched.
Once you have considered every factor, and ensured that you do not need a license to own the exotic pets, you can begin to look for one. Searching the Internet is a good start and you will be able to find specialist pet stores, which deal with exotic animals. Learning as much as you can about pet care and necessary elements to keeping the exotic pet healthy will ensure they live for many years.
There are vast numbers of different, exotic pets that you can choose, and some may be highly unusual. You need to consider what animal you like, and whether you have the space, knowledge and finances to look after it correctly. Exotic pets tend to take far more care than other pets; therefore, you need to be prepared for this before you purchase the animal.
Research is essential when looking to bring home any style of exotic pets, and you need to ensure that you understand what you are taking on. Finding a reputable dealer is essential to guarantee that your new pet is healthy, and allowed to be kept as a pet. There are many restrictions and laws surrounding the keeping of exotic pets in homes.
Lizards, snakes, spiders, insects and fish are some of the typical, exotic pets that people choose to have in their homes. You will need to decide which animal interests you, and whether you can provide the correct pet care for them to be healthy and happy. Many of these animals die, due to the new owners knowing very little about their needs.
Housing, food, climate, surroundings and vet care are all issues that you will need to consider before getting the exotic pets. You will need to ensure that there is a vet in your area that deals with exotic pets and their needs. If your pet is ill, you will want to ensure that you have someone who can treat them.
Many of these animals will have come from hot climates; therefore, you need to ensure that there housing is kept to the correct temperature. The smallest of changes to the exotic pets care and lifestyle can make them incredibly ill. Exotic pets tend to live far longer than domestic animals; therefore, you have to consider if you are prepared for many years with the animal.
If you have other animals and children in the house, you will need to consider how they will react to the new, exotic pet. Some children will find the animal to be horrible, and others may want to be involved. However, there are immense numbers of exotic pets that are simply to be looked at and not touched.
Once you have considered every factor, and ensured that you do not need a license to own the exotic pets, you can begin to look for one. Searching the Internet is a good start and you will be able to find specialist pet stores, which deal with exotic animals. Learning as much as you can about pet care and necessary elements to keeping the exotic pet healthy will ensure they live for many years.
What pet supplies do you need for Guinea Pigs and Hamsters?
Hamsters are often bought as children's first pets and they are fun and friendly creatures to have in the home. If you look to purchase a pet for your family, you need to consider several different factors. Small animals such as rabbits, hamsters, or a guinea pig are ideal if you have very little space and small children.
When you look at which animal to get for your family, you will need to consider how much time you have for the pet. If you are all out of the home all day, larger animals such as dogs may not be suitable. However, hamsters, guinea pigs and small pets are perfect as they do not need walking, or as much attention as dogs.
There are several pet supplies that you will need to consider when looking to bring home your new hamsters. Although they take remarkably little care, the hamster will still need several different items to ensure that it is healthy and happy. Research is essential when you look at getting any animal and can ensure that you are prepared.
Hamster homes vary in style, size and price; therefore, you need to consider how much space you have for the hamster. You will want to provide as much room as possible for the hamster to run around and exercise. The larger the better as you will be able to fill the cage with toys for the hamster to play with. The cage will need to have separate areas for feeding, sleeping and toilet habits.
Bedding is extremely important and will need to be chosen carefully for the hamsters. You will need to provide soft bedding for the hamster to sleep in and sawdust for the bottom of the cage. Hamsters love to dig and burrow; therefore, you should provide the animal with enough bedding to create their own distinctive place to sleep.
Food is essential, and you will need to ensure that you purchase the correct food for the animal that you own. Many people believe that all small animals eat the same foods; however, this is untrue, and you can make your guinea pig or hamster seriously ill by feeding them the wrong foods. Alongside the shop bought foods, your hamsters and pets will love fresh fruit and vegetables.
Treats are ideal for your hamsters and pets; however, they should not be fed too often as they can cause your pet to get fat. If you want to give your hamsters treats, you should look for healthy alternatives. Feeding them the treats occasionally is great; however, not too often is the key to success.
Toys are essential with any animal, and hamsters love to run and play; therefore, they need toys that keep them active and fit. You may want to consider buying your hamster a wheel for their cage, and blocks to chew are an idea. Hamsters love to chew wood and other items; therefore, providing them with something to chew will keep them entertained for hours.
Your hamster or guinea pig will become part of the family; therefore, they need caring for as any other member would be. If you buy the correct pet supplies, your hamsters will live for many years.
When you look at which animal to get for your family, you will need to consider how much time you have for the pet. If you are all out of the home all day, larger animals such as dogs may not be suitable. However, hamsters, guinea pigs and small pets are perfect as they do not need walking, or as much attention as dogs.
There are several pet supplies that you will need to consider when looking to bring home your new hamsters. Although they take remarkably little care, the hamster will still need several different items to ensure that it is healthy and happy. Research is essential when you look at getting any animal and can ensure that you are prepared.
Hamster homes vary in style, size and price; therefore, you need to consider how much space you have for the hamster. You will want to provide as much room as possible for the hamster to run around and exercise. The larger the better as you will be able to fill the cage with toys for the hamster to play with. The cage will need to have separate areas for feeding, sleeping and toilet habits.
Bedding is extremely important and will need to be chosen carefully for the hamsters. You will need to provide soft bedding for the hamster to sleep in and sawdust for the bottom of the cage. Hamsters love to dig and burrow; therefore, you should provide the animal with enough bedding to create their own distinctive place to sleep.
Food is essential, and you will need to ensure that you purchase the correct food for the animal that you own. Many people believe that all small animals eat the same foods; however, this is untrue, and you can make your guinea pig or hamster seriously ill by feeding them the wrong foods. Alongside the shop bought foods, your hamsters and pets will love fresh fruit and vegetables.
Treats are ideal for your hamsters and pets; however, they should not be fed too often as they can cause your pet to get fat. If you want to give your hamsters treats, you should look for healthy alternatives. Feeding them the treats occasionally is great; however, not too often is the key to success.
Toys are essential with any animal, and hamsters love to run and play; therefore, they need toys that keep them active and fit. You may want to consider buying your hamster a wheel for their cage, and blocks to chew are an idea. Hamsters love to chew wood and other items; therefore, providing them with something to chew will keep them entertained for hours.
Your hamster or guinea pig will become part of the family; therefore, they need caring for as any other member would be. If you buy the correct pet supplies, your hamsters will live for many years.
Reason why you should a shelter dog
Dog rehoming has become a massive issue all over the world and the numbers of dogs that need a new home continue to grow. Many dogs end up in animal shelters through no fault of their own and all they want is a second chance in life. If you are wanted to get a dog, you should consider rehoming one, rather than buying from a breeder.
There are a huge number of reasons why the dogs are in animal shelters and many of them are loving, kind animals. Family separation, death, relocation and financial circumstances are just some of the reasons why dogs need rehoming. In extreme cases people simply have become bored of the dog and do not want it anymore.
People think that there are only mongrels in the shelters available for dog rehoming; however, this is not the case. There are many different breeds including purebred dogs which have found themselves in the animal shelter. No matter what breed of dog you're looking for, you will be able to find one in the shelter.
There are many excellent reasons why you should look at dog rehoming, rather than buying from a breeder. Not only will you be saving yourself vast amounts of money, but also helping a dog that has found themselves in a bad situation. If you adopt a dog that is slightly older, it is highly likely that they will already be house trained and well behaved.
You will not need to spend the time and effort training your new dog once you take them home. Many of the animal shelters will ensure that the dogs are up to date with their vaccinations; they are often sterilized and always healthy. By dog rehoming, you are getting a fantastic new family member at remarkably little cost.
Older dogs are often forgotten about in favor of cute puppies; however, an older dog will be far better for many households. Dog rehoming is a very personal thing, and what you may see in some dogs, other people will not notice. Animal shelters try to make the environment as friendly as possible; however, it can be upsetting for many people.
Many of the dogs that are held within the animal shelters will be put to sleep, due to the sheer numbers that are being taken in every day. Therefore, if you decide to give a dog a second chance, you are performing a wonderful act of kindness. You are allowing a dog to continue its life in a happy and warm environment.
Rescue dogs are very affectionate, and will be more loving and bond far more than other dogs. Dog rehoming is an excellent way to help the animal shelters that are trying to do the best they can. Adopting a dog is a serious commitment, and you need to ensure that you have considered everything. You do not want the dog ending back to the animal shelter.
There are a huge number of reasons why the dogs are in animal shelters and many of them are loving, kind animals. Family separation, death, relocation and financial circumstances are just some of the reasons why dogs need rehoming. In extreme cases people simply have become bored of the dog and do not want it anymore.
People think that there are only mongrels in the shelters available for dog rehoming; however, this is not the case. There are many different breeds including purebred dogs which have found themselves in the animal shelter. No matter what breed of dog you're looking for, you will be able to find one in the shelter.
There are many excellent reasons why you should look at dog rehoming, rather than buying from a breeder. Not only will you be saving yourself vast amounts of money, but also helping a dog that has found themselves in a bad situation. If you adopt a dog that is slightly older, it is highly likely that they will already be house trained and well behaved.
You will not need to spend the time and effort training your new dog once you take them home. Many of the animal shelters will ensure that the dogs are up to date with their vaccinations; they are often sterilized and always healthy. By dog rehoming, you are getting a fantastic new family member at remarkably little cost.
Older dogs are often forgotten about in favor of cute puppies; however, an older dog will be far better for many households. Dog rehoming is a very personal thing, and what you may see in some dogs, other people will not notice. Animal shelters try to make the environment as friendly as possible; however, it can be upsetting for many people.
Many of the dogs that are held within the animal shelters will be put to sleep, due to the sheer numbers that are being taken in every day. Therefore, if you decide to give a dog a second chance, you are performing a wonderful act of kindness. You are allowing a dog to continue its life in a happy and warm environment.
Rescue dogs are very affectionate, and will be more loving and bond far more than other dogs. Dog rehoming is an excellent way to help the animal shelters that are trying to do the best they can. Adopting a dog is a serious commitment, and you need to ensure that you have considered everything. You do not want the dog ending back to the animal shelter.
Pet Supplies for Rabbits
Rabbits are fantastic pets and can make the ideal first pet for small children. However, there are several things that you need to consider before rushing to the pet store. Rabbits are extremely playful animals and love attention. Therefore, you have to consider what they will need to keep them happy and healthy. If you purchase the correct pet supplies for your, it will be a very happy member of the family.
There are many different pet supplies that you can choose for your new rabbit, and you will need to consider where it will sleep, play and eat. Rabbits are traditionally kept outside; however, more people are beginning to bring them indoors. Wherever you want to keep the rabbit, you need to make sure they are comfortable and happy.
Cages and hutches are one of the most important pet supplies that you can purchase for your rabbit. You will need to decide whether you want to have the rabbit outside in the garden, or inside the home in a cage. Whatever style of home you decide upon, you need to ensure that it is large enough for your rabbit to sleep and move about in freely.
Bedding is another critical factor to consider, and rabbits need different materials to sleep, and go to the toilet on. You will need to provide your new pets with sawdust, shredded paper and hay which they will also eat. The bedding inside their sleeping area needs to be thick enough to keep the rabbits warm. However, you do not want to place too much bedding in the home, or they will not be able to move.
Food and water is a necessity that all rabbits need, and you will need to research well to determine what foods they enjoy. In the wild rabbits have a varied diet; however, you will need to supplement your rabbit's diet with shop bought food. Grass and vegetables are a terrific idea; however, they will also need other items to remain healthy.
Toys and chew sticks are necessary for your rabbit, and they will love playing with the variety of toys that you find them. Rabbits love to chew, therefore, if you do not provide something for them to get their teeth into, your furniture, and their hutch may be the target. The toys can vary in several different styles, and what you purchase will depend on your budget.
Grooming brushes and combs are an idea to have if your rabbits have long hair, which will need looking after. These pets love to be handled and adore being brushed; therefore, it is the ideal way for you to bond with your rabbit. If you ensure that you purchase all of the correct pet supplies for your rabbit, they will be truly happy and healthy for several years.
Rabbits are the ideal size for small children to play with and care for themselves; however, you need to ensure that you are keeping an eye on your child. Over feeding, under feeding and being rough to the rabbit can make it unwell. You can find these pets very easily and they are incredibly funny animals to own.
There are many different pet supplies that you can choose for your new rabbit, and you will need to consider where it will sleep, play and eat. Rabbits are traditionally kept outside; however, more people are beginning to bring them indoors. Wherever you want to keep the rabbit, you need to make sure they are comfortable and happy.
Cages and hutches are one of the most important pet supplies that you can purchase for your rabbit. You will need to decide whether you want to have the rabbit outside in the garden, or inside the home in a cage. Whatever style of home you decide upon, you need to ensure that it is large enough for your rabbit to sleep and move about in freely.
Bedding is another critical factor to consider, and rabbits need different materials to sleep, and go to the toilet on. You will need to provide your new pets with sawdust, shredded paper and hay which they will also eat. The bedding inside their sleeping area needs to be thick enough to keep the rabbits warm. However, you do not want to place too much bedding in the home, or they will not be able to move.
Food and water is a necessity that all rabbits need, and you will need to research well to determine what foods they enjoy. In the wild rabbits have a varied diet; however, you will need to supplement your rabbit's diet with shop bought food. Grass and vegetables are a terrific idea; however, they will also need other items to remain healthy.
Toys and chew sticks are necessary for your rabbit, and they will love playing with the variety of toys that you find them. Rabbits love to chew, therefore, if you do not provide something for them to get their teeth into, your furniture, and their hutch may be the target. The toys can vary in several different styles, and what you purchase will depend on your budget.
Grooming brushes and combs are an idea to have if your rabbits have long hair, which will need looking after. These pets love to be handled and adore being brushed; therefore, it is the ideal way for you to bond with your rabbit. If you ensure that you purchase all of the correct pet supplies for your rabbit, they will be truly happy and healthy for several years.
Rabbits are the ideal size for small children to play with and care for themselves; however, you need to ensure that you are keeping an eye on your child. Over feeding, under feeding and being rough to the rabbit can make it unwell. You can find these pets very easily and they are incredibly funny animals to own.
Pet Supplies for Cats and Kittens
Kittens are a fantastic addition to all homes and will give your family a pet to care for and love. However, before you bring your new family member home, there are several things that you need to consider. There are a large number of different items which you will need to purchase to ensure that your new kitten is healthy and happy.
Some of pet supplies that you look for are necessary and others will be bought through choice. Cats and kittens love to play; therefore, cat toys and treats are an important factor to consider. However, before you choose these items, you must look at essential pet supplies. Buying these is vital and will guarantee that your kitten is well looked after.
Cat litter and the tray to place it in is one of the important factors to consider and you will need to ensure that your cat has both. If you do not train kittens to use the litter try from the moment they come home, they will find somewhere else to go to the toilet. Once this becomes a habit it can be difficult to encourage them to go elsewhere.
Scratching posts are an extremely important item to purchase and will ensure that your cats sharpen their claws where they are supposed to. Kittens love to scratch and climb; therefore, buying tall scratching posts allow them to do both. Providing the cats with a suitable place to scratch will deter them from using your furniture.
Food and water needs to be given to the kittens in their own bowls, and the food you choose must be for kittens. Feeding adult cat food to a young kitten is never a fantastic idea and can give them an upset stomach. Kittens have different nutritional requirements than adult cats and they will burn off energy far quicker, therefore, needing more meals throughout the day.
Cat carriers are essential for you to be able to transport your kittens safely and securely. You will need something to bring your kitten home in, and then in the future to take them to the vet. In the early days, your kitten will visit the vet often for their vaccinations and general checkups. Cats will be far happier travelling in cat containers if they have done so from an early age.
A collar and name tag are an essential purchase for your kitten and will ensure that people know that it has a home. House cats do not need a collar; however, if your cat is going to go out and about it is advisable. The collar that you choose should fit well, and the disc should have your contact details displayed.
Beds are an item that are often bought but never used by the kittens, you will find that they love to fall asleep everywhere. Cats are very loving and will want to sleep with you, and sit on the couch, bed, and chairs. You may want to purchase a bed for your cat, but do not be disappointed if the kittens do not use it at all.
Some of pet supplies that you look for are necessary and others will be bought through choice. Cats and kittens love to play; therefore, cat toys and treats are an important factor to consider. However, before you choose these items, you must look at essential pet supplies. Buying these is vital and will guarantee that your kitten is well looked after.
Cat litter and the tray to place it in is one of the important factors to consider and you will need to ensure that your cat has both. If you do not train kittens to use the litter try from the moment they come home, they will find somewhere else to go to the toilet. Once this becomes a habit it can be difficult to encourage them to go elsewhere.
Scratching posts are an extremely important item to purchase and will ensure that your cats sharpen their claws where they are supposed to. Kittens love to scratch and climb; therefore, buying tall scratching posts allow them to do both. Providing the cats with a suitable place to scratch will deter them from using your furniture.
Food and water needs to be given to the kittens in their own bowls, and the food you choose must be for kittens. Feeding adult cat food to a young kitten is never a fantastic idea and can give them an upset stomach. Kittens have different nutritional requirements than adult cats and they will burn off energy far quicker, therefore, needing more meals throughout the day.
Cat carriers are essential for you to be able to transport your kittens safely and securely. You will need something to bring your kitten home in, and then in the future to take them to the vet. In the early days, your kitten will visit the vet often for their vaccinations and general checkups. Cats will be far happier travelling in cat containers if they have done so from an early age.
A collar and name tag are an essential purchase for your kitten and will ensure that people know that it has a home. House cats do not need a collar; however, if your cat is going to go out and about it is advisable. The collar that you choose should fit well, and the disc should have your contact details displayed.
Beds are an item that are often bought but never used by the kittens, you will find that they love to fall asleep everywhere. Cats are very loving and will want to sleep with you, and sit on the couch, bed, and chairs. You may want to purchase a bed for your cat, but do not be disappointed if the kittens do not use it at all.
How to work with horses
Horses are incredible creatures and although they are not typically thought of as pets they are popular to keep. Many little girls want a pony when they are younger and only a small minority of them will achieve this. However, there are many different ways that you can learn to care for and work with horses. Voluntary work in stables and horse yards is an ideal way to work around horses without the expense.
There are several different organizations that offer volunteer work alongside horses. This can be the perfect way for you to spend time with the animal that you love, without the worry of owning one. Horses are a fantastic animal to be near, and you will find that you create a unique bond with them.
Whether you want to work in riding stables, as a groom, or help in a rescue centre there is always plenty of voluntary work on offer. Working with any animal is not the typical hours or routines, and you have to be prepared for hard work. However, working with horses is extremely rewarding, and you will love spending time around the stables.
Initially you will find that you are given a great deal of the messy jobs, and spend time learning about the horses. Once you have proved that you are dedicated to the voluntary work, you will begin to have more enjoyable tasks. You will need to appreciate that horses take a considerable amount of care and attention, and it is not all about riding them.
You will be amazed at the amount that you can learn whilst doing voluntary work, and how fulfilling it is to know that you are helping. If you enjoy spending time with the horses, it should not be about the monetary side of the job. Working with horses is a very low paid job, and is considered to be a job that you do because you love animals.
Working with horses is a very strict routine, and the best way to get tasks done correctly is to ensure they are performed the same every time. Horses are creatures of habit, and like to be feed and ridden at the same time every day. You will have to be committed to being there on time, and ensure that you care for the horse in the right way.
The tasks that you are performing may be done through voluntary work; however, a level of commitment needs to be established. If you are willing to put in the effort and the time, you will find the horses appreciate everything that you do. Although they are animals, they will look forward to you visiting, and the attention that you are giving them.
Whether you had ponies as a child and want to get back into riding, or want to be involved with horses for the first time, there are some terrific opportunities. You performing voluntary work can make all the difference to both the establishment and the horses. Taking time out of your life and giving to someone else is a tremendously gratifying feeling.
There are several different organizations that offer volunteer work alongside horses. This can be the perfect way for you to spend time with the animal that you love, without the worry of owning one. Horses are a fantastic animal to be near, and you will find that you create a unique bond with them.
Whether you want to work in riding stables, as a groom, or help in a rescue centre there is always plenty of voluntary work on offer. Working with any animal is not the typical hours or routines, and you have to be prepared for hard work. However, working with horses is extremely rewarding, and you will love spending time around the stables.
Initially you will find that you are given a great deal of the messy jobs, and spend time learning about the horses. Once you have proved that you are dedicated to the voluntary work, you will begin to have more enjoyable tasks. You will need to appreciate that horses take a considerable amount of care and attention, and it is not all about riding them.
You will be amazed at the amount that you can learn whilst doing voluntary work, and how fulfilling it is to know that you are helping. If you enjoy spending time with the horses, it should not be about the monetary side of the job. Working with horses is a very low paid job, and is considered to be a job that you do because you love animals.
Working with horses is a very strict routine, and the best way to get tasks done correctly is to ensure they are performed the same every time. Horses are creatures of habit, and like to be feed and ridden at the same time every day. You will have to be committed to being there on time, and ensure that you care for the horse in the right way.
The tasks that you are performing may be done through voluntary work; however, a level of commitment needs to be established. If you are willing to put in the effort and the time, you will find the horses appreciate everything that you do. Although they are animals, they will look forward to you visiting, and the attention that you are giving them.
Whether you had ponies as a child and want to get back into riding, or want to be involved with horses for the first time, there are some terrific opportunities. You performing voluntary work can make all the difference to both the establishment and the horses. Taking time out of your life and giving to someone else is a tremendously gratifying feeling.
How to take care of your horse
Pets are incredible to have in your home and can help children to learn a sense of responsibility. The children will also form bonds with the animals, and over time will become strong friends. There are typical animals that people choose to have as pets, and these include cats, dogs, hamsters, birds and rabbits.
However, some people own other animals and a horse is a very popular animal to have. If you are fortunate enough to have a horse, you will need to know the proper care for this animal. Horses are far larger than traditional pets and will require different needs and supplies. Owning horses are an enormous responsibility and not something that should be taken lightly.
You will need several different things to ensure that you can care for the horse in the right way. Horses take a considerable amount of commitment, time, money and effort; therefore, many people do not consider them suitable as pets. However, if you have thought about everything carefully and still want a horse, they make excellent companions.
Providing your horse with everything they need can be costly and time consuming, however, if this is not an issue you will need to research the different things which your pets will need. The horses will need food, water, shelter, exercise, space and veterinary care. Also, you will need to learn how to groom your horse correctly and to spend time with them to allow you to bond.
Space is an issue when you want to own horses, and you have to have enough land for them t o graze, run and exercise in comfort. Unlike other pets, horses need a large area to live in and their stable needs to be large. You will also need somewhere to store their food, equipment and supplies.
Food and water are vital for your horses care and these have to be provided every day. Horses drink a large amount of water, and you need to ensure that you can provide fresh, clean water for them to drink. Although your horse will eat grass, they will also need hay and other food to maintain their weight.
Horses love human attention and will need to be loved and played with as often as possible. As with all pets, horses love affection, and grooming them is a very distinctive way to bond. Taking the time every day to groom your horse and ride them will guarantee that you become extremely close. Horses love to please their owners and once you have a bond it is hard to break.
Your horse will need regular checks at the vet to ensure that they are fit and well. You will need to keep their vaccinations up to date and worm them throughout the year. Vets can provide a broad spectrum of information regarding the best way to care for your horse. They will be able to advise on the horses health and what you can do to ensure you look after your pets well being.
However, some people own other animals and a horse is a very popular animal to have. If you are fortunate enough to have a horse, you will need to know the proper care for this animal. Horses are far larger than traditional pets and will require different needs and supplies. Owning horses are an enormous responsibility and not something that should be taken lightly.
You will need several different things to ensure that you can care for the horse in the right way. Horses take a considerable amount of commitment, time, money and effort; therefore, many people do not consider them suitable as pets. However, if you have thought about everything carefully and still want a horse, they make excellent companions.
Providing your horse with everything they need can be costly and time consuming, however, if this is not an issue you will need to research the different things which your pets will need. The horses will need food, water, shelter, exercise, space and veterinary care. Also, you will need to learn how to groom your horse correctly and to spend time with them to allow you to bond.
Space is an issue when you want to own horses, and you have to have enough land for them t o graze, run and exercise in comfort. Unlike other pets, horses need a large area to live in and their stable needs to be large. You will also need somewhere to store their food, equipment and supplies.
Food and water are vital for your horses care and these have to be provided every day. Horses drink a large amount of water, and you need to ensure that you can provide fresh, clean water for them to drink. Although your horse will eat grass, they will also need hay and other food to maintain their weight.
Horses love human attention and will need to be loved and played with as often as possible. As with all pets, horses love affection, and grooming them is a very distinctive way to bond. Taking the time every day to groom your horse and ride them will guarantee that you become extremely close. Horses love to please their owners and once you have a bond it is hard to break.
Your horse will need regular checks at the vet to ensure that they are fit and well. You will need to keep their vaccinations up to date and worm them throughout the year. Vets can provide a broad spectrum of information regarding the best way to care for your horse. They will be able to advise on the horses health and what you can do to ensure you look after your pets well being.
How to take care of rescue dog
Dog rescue centres are full of dogs looking for new and loving homes; however, you need to understand what you are taking on before you decide to adopt a dog. All dogs can be hard work; however, dogs from the rescue centre can be more challenging than others. In many cases, the workers at the centre will know very little about the dogs, and they may need extra dog care.
Adopting a dog can be extremely rewarding and you will find that the dog shows an immense level of love towards you. However, dogs from the dog rescue centre have to be treated with caution until you know them well. They may have been abused, starved and miss-treated by their previous owner, which can make them wary of humans.
When you visit the dog rescue centre there is likely to be many different dogs to choose, and you have to decide on which one will be the best for your home. You will need to consider if you have other animals, children, go to work and have the time for a dog.
The dog care which is needed, can take a sizeable amount of your time and effort, and you need to decide if you have this in your life. Some people love the idea of adopting dogs; however, in reality do not have the time, money or energy for a dog. Unfortunately, this is how many dogs end up in the dog rescue centre.
However, if you do have the space, time, money, and love for a dog, rescuing one is the perfect solution. Once you have selected the dog that you want to take home, you need to ask many different questions regarding their history. Finding out as much as you can regarding the dog, will enable you to provide the best dog care possible.
The dog will have the necessary veterinary checks before being allowed to go home with you, and you will be notified of any ongoing dog care issues. Some dogs may need medications and ongoing veterinary checks; however, this is part of the love that you are showing them. Many dogs end up in the dog rescue centre through no fault of their own.
Taking any animal home for the first time can be extremely exciting, and daunting at the same time, and you will need to ensure that you are prepared. You will need to stock up on food and pet supplies to ensure that your new family member can fit in to your home. As well as food, you will need to provide your dog with a bed, toys, and collar.
Your new dog may never have seen some of these things before, however, with time they will soon learn that toys are fun and a way to interact with you. Dogs from the dog rescue centre may take longer to settle in to their new home, however, once do you will love spending time together. You will need to give your new dog time to adjust to the fact that they are in a home.
Adopting a dog can be extremely rewarding and you will find that the dog shows an immense level of love towards you. However, dogs from the dog rescue centre have to be treated with caution until you know them well. They may have been abused, starved and miss-treated by their previous owner, which can make them wary of humans.
When you visit the dog rescue centre there is likely to be many different dogs to choose, and you have to decide on which one will be the best for your home. You will need to consider if you have other animals, children, go to work and have the time for a dog.
The dog care which is needed, can take a sizeable amount of your time and effort, and you need to decide if you have this in your life. Some people love the idea of adopting dogs; however, in reality do not have the time, money or energy for a dog. Unfortunately, this is how many dogs end up in the dog rescue centre.
However, if you do have the space, time, money, and love for a dog, rescuing one is the perfect solution. Once you have selected the dog that you want to take home, you need to ask many different questions regarding their history. Finding out as much as you can regarding the dog, will enable you to provide the best dog care possible.
The dog will have the necessary veterinary checks before being allowed to go home with you, and you will be notified of any ongoing dog care issues. Some dogs may need medications and ongoing veterinary checks; however, this is part of the love that you are showing them. Many dogs end up in the dog rescue centre through no fault of their own.
Taking any animal home for the first time can be extremely exciting, and daunting at the same time, and you will need to ensure that you are prepared. You will need to stock up on food and pet supplies to ensure that your new family member can fit in to your home. As well as food, you will need to provide your dog with a bed, toys, and collar.
Your new dog may never have seen some of these things before, however, with time they will soon learn that toys are fun and a way to interact with you. Dogs from the dog rescue centre may take longer to settle in to their new home, however, once do you will love spending time together. You will need to give your new dog time to adjust to the fact that they are in a home.
What pet to get for your small child?
Hamsters were considered as ideal pets for small children for many years; however, due them being nocturnal this feeling has changed. Many parents feel that all children should have some form of pet in the house. Animals can teach children so much, however, choosing the right pet is essential, or they may lose interest extremely quickly.
Taking the time to choose the right pet for your small child will ensure that they love spending time with the animal, and do not bore very quickly. Although dogs and cats are very popular, some parents feel these are far too much responsibility. Therefore, choosing one of the small animals available is an excellent choice.
Guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits are all excellent examples of ideal pets for small children. They are small enough to handle, and take far less care than cats and dogs. These small animals can be kept inside in cages and will allow your child to learn about caring for them in the correct way. Your child will learn the importance of feeding, grooming, petting and hygiene.
You may need to assist very small children with the overall care of the animals that you choose; however, a vast majority of care can be taken on by the child. Deciding if your child is ready for their own pet will be down to the age and maturity of the child. Some children love the responsibility of looking after their own hamsters. However, others lose interest very quickly, and this can be a problem.
Deciding what pet to have for your small child can seem daunting; however, you need to begin by asking your child what they would like. There is no point in getting a guinea pig, when your child has no interest in them at all, and they want hamsters instead. You also need to think about the expense of the pet that you want, and how much it will cost to keep the animal.
There will be times when you have to handle and care for your new pet; therefore, it is essential that you like the animal, as well. If you hate hamsters it will be very difficult for your child to have one, and it may be better to look at a guinea pig or rabbit. You should take the time to research all of the different animals and decide which ones will suit your family the best.
The animals that are purchased for small children the most are hamsters. These cute creatures are inexpensive to purchase and keep. They are small enough to handle, and can be highly amusing for children. However, they do wake up during the night and want to play, therefore, not always ideal, and they can bite when tired.
Another hugely popular option is a guinea pig, and although they are larger they love human attention and cuddles. They will need a larger area to live within, and do take more care than hamsters, however, can be an excellent pet for small children. Whatever animal you choose your child will grow up with a special friend all of their own.
Taking the time to choose the right pet for your small child will ensure that they love spending time with the animal, and do not bore very quickly. Although dogs and cats are very popular, some parents feel these are far too much responsibility. Therefore, choosing one of the small animals available is an excellent choice.
Guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits are all excellent examples of ideal pets for small children. They are small enough to handle, and take far less care than cats and dogs. These small animals can be kept inside in cages and will allow your child to learn about caring for them in the correct way. Your child will learn the importance of feeding, grooming, petting and hygiene.
You may need to assist very small children with the overall care of the animals that you choose; however, a vast majority of care can be taken on by the child. Deciding if your child is ready for their own pet will be down to the age and maturity of the child. Some children love the responsibility of looking after their own hamsters. However, others lose interest very quickly, and this can be a problem.
Deciding what pet to have for your small child can seem daunting; however, you need to begin by asking your child what they would like. There is no point in getting a guinea pig, when your child has no interest in them at all, and they want hamsters instead. You also need to think about the expense of the pet that you want, and how much it will cost to keep the animal.
There will be times when you have to handle and care for your new pet; therefore, it is essential that you like the animal, as well. If you hate hamsters it will be very difficult for your child to have one, and it may be better to look at a guinea pig or rabbit. You should take the time to research all of the different animals and decide which ones will suit your family the best.
The animals that are purchased for small children the most are hamsters. These cute creatures are inexpensive to purchase and keep. They are small enough to handle, and can be highly amusing for children. However, they do wake up during the night and want to play, therefore, not always ideal, and they can bite when tired.
Another hugely popular option is a guinea pig, and although they are larger they love human attention and cuddles. They will need a larger area to live within, and do take more care than hamsters, however, can be an excellent pet for small children. Whatever animal you choose your child will grow up with a special friend all of their own.
Tips to care of your kittens
Kittens are fantastic animals to have at home, but as with any animal they are responsibilities. You have to learn how to care for the animal correctly to ensure that they remain healthy and well. It is very exciting when you decide that the time is right to have a kitten; however, there are several things that you have to remember.
Anyone who sees small kittens will want to take them home as they are adorable; however, you have to consider if your lifestyle and budget can accommodate cats. Owning any animal is a lifetime commitment, which you will need to fully appreciate. Cats can live for many years, and although aren't as needy as dogs, they still require an adequate amount of attention.
There are costs that you have to consider with your kittens from the moment that you bring them home. As well as food, they will require regular vet checkups, vaccinations and worming. You will also need to consider having your cats de-sexed to ensure that they do not breed and cause a problem. There are also treats, toys, collars, beds and carry baskets to pay for.
Once you have considered everything relating to the kittens, and have decided that you want to bring one home you will need to think about the temperament of the cat. As with all animals there are many different backgrounds surrounding the kittens, you have to consider what your household is like, and the personality of the cat that would fit in.
Finding out about the mother's personality and health background is essential if possible. This will help to determine how your new kittens will be, and if they are likely to suffer from any illnesses or diseases. When you go to look at the cats, you need to check that they are healthy and alert. Kitten's eyes should be bright, and they should have clean ears and nose. The kitten's coats should be glossy and free of fleas and mites.
Before you bring the kitten's home, you have to ensure that you have everything in place for their arrival. They are likely to be terribly scared and unsure of where they are, so making them comfortable is essential. The more that you can do to help the cats settle in to their new home the better, and they will become braver in a very short space of time.
As with all baby animals kittens require a specific diet to help them grow and be provided with essential nutrients and vitamins. The kitten's digestive system will not be functioning correctly; therefore, only kitten food should be given. Small and often is the motto with kittens to allow them to thrive and grow up to become great cats. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times for the kitten to drink.
Once the kitten has settled in they will become a part of the family, and before too long be the boss. Cats are extremely independent creatures; however, they can be incredibly loving, gentle and warm. As with all pets the kittens will be a massive part of your household, and you need to ensure that you care for them correctly.
Anyone who sees small kittens will want to take them home as they are adorable; however, you have to consider if your lifestyle and budget can accommodate cats. Owning any animal is a lifetime commitment, which you will need to fully appreciate. Cats can live for many years, and although aren't as needy as dogs, they still require an adequate amount of attention.
There are costs that you have to consider with your kittens from the moment that you bring them home. As well as food, they will require regular vet checkups, vaccinations and worming. You will also need to consider having your cats de-sexed to ensure that they do not breed and cause a problem. There are also treats, toys, collars, beds and carry baskets to pay for.
Once you have considered everything relating to the kittens, and have decided that you want to bring one home you will need to think about the temperament of the cat. As with all animals there are many different backgrounds surrounding the kittens, you have to consider what your household is like, and the personality of the cat that would fit in.
Finding out about the mother's personality and health background is essential if possible. This will help to determine how your new kittens will be, and if they are likely to suffer from any illnesses or diseases. When you go to look at the cats, you need to check that they are healthy and alert. Kitten's eyes should be bright, and they should have clean ears and nose. The kitten's coats should be glossy and free of fleas and mites.
Before you bring the kitten's home, you have to ensure that you have everything in place for their arrival. They are likely to be terribly scared and unsure of where they are, so making them comfortable is essential. The more that you can do to help the cats settle in to their new home the better, and they will become braver in a very short space of time.
As with all baby animals kittens require a specific diet to help them grow and be provided with essential nutrients and vitamins. The kitten's digestive system will not be functioning correctly; therefore, only kitten food should be given. Small and often is the motto with kittens to allow them to thrive and grow up to become great cats. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times for the kitten to drink.
Once the kitten has settled in they will become a part of the family, and before too long be the boss. Cats are extremely independent creatures; however, they can be incredibly loving, gentle and warm. As with all pets the kittens will be a massive part of your household, and you need to ensure that you care for them correctly.
How to Volunteer at an Animal Sanctuary?
Horses are extremely popular animals, and there are very few young ladies that do not want a horse or pony at some point in their life. Unfortunately, more horses are being taken to animal sanctuaries and are very rarely adopted. Therefore, it provides the ideal place to volunteer and spend some time around the horses without the additional cost.
More people look at performing some form of voluntary work, and giving your time is always appreciated. Animal sanctuaries have a great deal to do in a day, and often they are understaffed with exceedingly little money. Therefore, any extra help they can receive for free is always welcomed with open arms. It is also the ideal opportunity to spend time with the horses, and learn more about them.
Teenagers often get bored especially at weekends and during the holidays; therefore, finding them something to do is vital. If they like animals and want to be a part of helping the animals in the sanctuary, volunteering is the best option. You will be amazed how committed they become and how they love the voluntary work.
Volunteering can be an immensely rewarding way to help out and give something back to the local community. You may not have the extra money to donate to the animal charities and sanctuaries; however, giving your time is just as valuable to them. They will appreciate the time and effort that you are giving to the animals.
There is always a vast array of different animals in the sanctuaries, and although dogs and cats are still the most popular animals, horses, small animals and exotic pets are becoming more typical to see. These animals will take more care, time and money to ensure that their wellbeing is maintained. Therefore, they will often need one to one care to ensure that they are healthy and well.
Spending time with the horses in the sanctuary will ensure that they are groomed, fed and given the attention that they need. Many people do not understand that even larger animals need attention, and love human company. Animals do not understand when their lives change for the worse, and it can become extremely confusing for them.
Whilst you are carrying out your voluntary work for the animal sanctuary, they will be able to concentrate on other areas. The more volunteers they have the better the sanctuary will operate, and the more animals will receive the attention. Although all of the animals will receive the correct food, water and health care, it is often the smaller things that they miss out on.
Many of the animals in the sanctuary will miss the company of humans, and this is what so many people do not have the time for. When you are, doing voluntary work you can dedicate your time to walking dogs, stroking and playing with cats or grooming horses. You can be there for all the fun things that the animals crave.
You can be as hands on as you want when you visit the animal sanctuaries, and the more that you are involved in the better. Giving your time to the animal sanctuary is valuable, and both the workers and the animals undoubtedly appreciate the effort.
More people look at performing some form of voluntary work, and giving your time is always appreciated. Animal sanctuaries have a great deal to do in a day, and often they are understaffed with exceedingly little money. Therefore, any extra help they can receive for free is always welcomed with open arms. It is also the ideal opportunity to spend time with the horses, and learn more about them.
Teenagers often get bored especially at weekends and during the holidays; therefore, finding them something to do is vital. If they like animals and want to be a part of helping the animals in the sanctuary, volunteering is the best option. You will be amazed how committed they become and how they love the voluntary work.
Volunteering can be an immensely rewarding way to help out and give something back to the local community. You may not have the extra money to donate to the animal charities and sanctuaries; however, giving your time is just as valuable to them. They will appreciate the time and effort that you are giving to the animals.
There is always a vast array of different animals in the sanctuaries, and although dogs and cats are still the most popular animals, horses, small animals and exotic pets are becoming more typical to see. These animals will take more care, time and money to ensure that their wellbeing is maintained. Therefore, they will often need one to one care to ensure that they are healthy and well.
Spending time with the horses in the sanctuary will ensure that they are groomed, fed and given the attention that they need. Many people do not understand that even larger animals need attention, and love human company. Animals do not understand when their lives change for the worse, and it can become extremely confusing for them.
Whilst you are carrying out your voluntary work for the animal sanctuary, they will be able to concentrate on other areas. The more volunteers they have the better the sanctuary will operate, and the more animals will receive the attention. Although all of the animals will receive the correct food, water and health care, it is often the smaller things that they miss out on.
Many of the animals in the sanctuary will miss the company of humans, and this is what so many people do not have the time for. When you are, doing voluntary work you can dedicate your time to walking dogs, stroking and playing with cats or grooming horses. You can be there for all the fun things that the animals crave.
You can be as hands on as you want when you visit the animal sanctuaries, and the more that you are involved in the better. Giving your time to the animal sanctuary is valuable, and both the workers and the animals undoubtedly appreciate the effort.
How to train your horse
Pets are a massive part of our lives, and they can be anything from snakes to a horse. Although horses were once considered being a work animal rather than a pet, today they are seen more as pets. As with any pet that you own you have to understand fully the commitment that you are taking on, and how they will need training.
You will need to train any animal that you have in your life, for them to understand who is in charge, and how they have to behave. Smaller animals misbehaving can be controlled; however, larger pets such as a horse can become dangerous. If your horse decides to perform unacceptable behavior, you may be placing yourself and others at risk. Therefore, training the horse is essential, and will bring you closer together.
Horses are very large, powerful, intelligent animals that need to be treated with respect. The more respect that you give the horse the better they will respond to being trained. The younger you can begin the training the better, however, at any age the horse can be taken back to basics. Handling horses from an extremely young age is essential, to guarantee that they are used to humans.
Traditionally horses were wild animals and would have been in packs with very little contact with people. However, humans decided that this animal could be tamed, therefore, turning them into pets and work animals. As horses have evolved there are more in captivity than wild, however, as with all animals they never forget their natural instincts.
You need to train your horse with confidence and ensure that they understand what you asking of them. Violence, shouting, and cruelty should never be applied to any animal, including horses whilst training. If you are fortunate enough to have a foal the training will be easier, and they will respond far better.
Horses can be terribly stubborn, and if they do not want to do something, they typically will refuse to. However, if you can build up a bond with your horse, they will perform the task that you are asking of them through respect not fear. You will need to begin with the basics and ensure that your new pets are happy and contented.
The horse should be in excellent health, with healthy teeth, eyesight, hooves and overall body condition. One of the first things that you will need to do is halter break the horse, so that you can maneuver them easier. Once they are used to the halter, you can begin to lead them and teach the horse how to walk, trot and stop on command.
The training involved with a horse can take some time and a great deal of patience, however, the more ground work you are prepared to put in the larger the benefits will be. Every time you do more training with your horse, the greater the bond will be for both animal and owner. Training a horse is a continuous process that can be extremely rewarding.
Horses are perfect pets to own if you understand what you are taking on, and have the knowledge and expertise to provide them with everything they need. You and your horse should enjoy each other's company and the time you spend together will be immensely enjoyable.
You will need to train any animal that you have in your life, for them to understand who is in charge, and how they have to behave. Smaller animals misbehaving can be controlled; however, larger pets such as a horse can become dangerous. If your horse decides to perform unacceptable behavior, you may be placing yourself and others at risk. Therefore, training the horse is essential, and will bring you closer together.
Horses are very large, powerful, intelligent animals that need to be treated with respect. The more respect that you give the horse the better they will respond to being trained. The younger you can begin the training the better, however, at any age the horse can be taken back to basics. Handling horses from an extremely young age is essential, to guarantee that they are used to humans.
Traditionally horses were wild animals and would have been in packs with very little contact with people. However, humans decided that this animal could be tamed, therefore, turning them into pets and work animals. As horses have evolved there are more in captivity than wild, however, as with all animals they never forget their natural instincts.
You need to train your horse with confidence and ensure that they understand what you asking of them. Violence, shouting, and cruelty should never be applied to any animal, including horses whilst training. If you are fortunate enough to have a foal the training will be easier, and they will respond far better.
Horses can be terribly stubborn, and if they do not want to do something, they typically will refuse to. However, if you can build up a bond with your horse, they will perform the task that you are asking of them through respect not fear. You will need to begin with the basics and ensure that your new pets are happy and contented.
The horse should be in excellent health, with healthy teeth, eyesight, hooves and overall body condition. One of the first things that you will need to do is halter break the horse, so that you can maneuver them easier. Once they are used to the halter, you can begin to lead them and teach the horse how to walk, trot and stop on command.
The training involved with a horse can take some time and a great deal of patience, however, the more ground work you are prepared to put in the larger the benefits will be. Every time you do more training with your horse, the greater the bond will be for both animal and owner. Training a horse is a continuous process that can be extremely rewarding.
Horses are perfect pets to own if you understand what you are taking on, and have the knowledge and expertise to provide them with everything they need. You and your horse should enjoy each other's company and the time you spend together will be immensely enjoyable.
How to Prepare Your Home and Settle in Your New Dog
Before you can bring a dog home, it's very important to take all the necessary steps to prepare your home for your new pet. Shelter dogs tend to be shy when they are first brought to a new home, so don't be worried if your dog doesn't seem social or excited. Dog rehoming can take a few weeks or even months, so be ready to spend a lot of time with your new dog to get it used to the new surroundings. You'll also need to get all the essential supplies needed to properly take care of a dog including food and bedding.
Before your dog even comes home, you need to make sure your home is ready to accommodate a new pet. Choose a room where you can place a comfortable bed and where your dog can spend some time adjusting to its new home. Keep in mind that not all shelter dogs are house trained, so you might have to deal with a few accidents in the first few weeks.
Besides getting a space ready, dog rehoming involves getting all the necessary supplies that dogs need to be healthy and happy. Go to a pet store or a supermarket, and stock up on dog food that's appropriate for your new dog's age. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so if you are bringing home a puppy make sure you get the right type of food specifically made for young dogs. You should also purchase a leash, and don't forget to buy a comfortable pet bed.
Take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Dog rehoming includes taking the responsibility for your new pet's health and resolving any issues that the dog might already have. Before you new dog comes into contact with other pets in your home or your children, it's very important to make sure it doesn't have any health conditions that can be contagious. It's also crucial that any health conditions your dog has are addressed, so it can be healthy and happy in its new home.
Shelter dogs often have behavioral problems or come from abusive households. If you find that the dog you are adopting seems to have a few issues, talk with a trainer to determine the best course of action to resolve them. It's common for shelter dogs to take a long time to adjust to new surroundings, so don't get upset if your dog isn't playful or loving right away. You'll have to be patient and caring before a dog can learn that you aren't a threat.
You should also work on creating a care routine before your bring your new pet home. It's common for shelter dogs to feel anxious, so it's important to provide a sense of security and stability through a consistent daily routine. Feed your dog and take it for walks at the same time every day, so it knows what to expect.
Before your dog even comes home, you need to make sure your home is ready to accommodate a new pet. Choose a room where you can place a comfortable bed and where your dog can spend some time adjusting to its new home. Keep in mind that not all shelter dogs are house trained, so you might have to deal with a few accidents in the first few weeks.
Besides getting a space ready, dog rehoming involves getting all the necessary supplies that dogs need to be healthy and happy. Go to a pet store or a supermarket, and stock up on dog food that's appropriate for your new dog's age. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so if you are bringing home a puppy make sure you get the right type of food specifically made for young dogs. You should also purchase a leash, and don't forget to buy a comfortable pet bed.
Take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Dog rehoming includes taking the responsibility for your new pet's health and resolving any issues that the dog might already have. Before you new dog comes into contact with other pets in your home or your children, it's very important to make sure it doesn't have any health conditions that can be contagious. It's also crucial that any health conditions your dog has are addressed, so it can be healthy and happy in its new home.
Shelter dogs often have behavioral problems or come from abusive households. If you find that the dog you are adopting seems to have a few issues, talk with a trainer to determine the best course of action to resolve them. It's common for shelter dogs to take a long time to adjust to new surroundings, so don't get upset if your dog isn't playful or loving right away. You'll have to be patient and caring before a dog can learn that you aren't a threat.
You should also work on creating a care routine before your bring your new pet home. It's common for shelter dogs to feel anxious, so it's important to provide a sense of security and stability through a consistent daily routine. Feed your dog and take it for walks at the same time every day, so it knows what to expect.
Guide for Owning Exotic pets
Exotic pets are becoming extremely common for people to own, unfortunately, a great deal of these people has no correct knowledge how to care for their pets. All animals take a high level of care and attention; however, exotic pets will need additional pet care. You will need to understand what you are aiming to take on, before you bring the exotic pet home.
The term exotic is always evolving, and what was once considered as an unusual pet to own, may now be very traditional. Exotic pets can be rats, spiders, lizards, frogs or a vast array of different animals. There are huge numbers of different reptile species that are becoming typical to own as pets. Unfortunately, people are getting these animals with very little understanding of what they need.
Keeping exotic pets will take you far more time and effort than traditional domestic animals. Although they will not need walking, and typically will not play ball, they need very specific pet care requirements. The correct diet, environment and overall care are needed to ensure that your exotic pets are kept happy and healthy.
Far too often people think that it is trendy to own exotic pets, and will have no consideration for what these animals require. The pet care for exotic animals is far more intense, and things such as their diet and living conditions have to be perfect.
Exotic pets need the exact conditions that they live within in their natural environment. Even the slightest of changes can cause your new pet to become unwell and in some cases die. Therefore, research is essential to guarantee that every element of their new home is perfect. Working with a reputable exotic pet dealer will ensure that you understand what you need.
Before bringing your new pet home, you have to ensure that you understand every element of their pet care needs. Finding a vet that can look at your exotic pets is essential, and somewhere that will stock their foods is important. These things should be found and researched before you buy the animals, to ensure that you can care for them correctly.
You will need to ensure that every member of the household understands the new pet and how to care for them. Exotic pets are a strange choice for some; however, many people love them and treat them very well. Finding a support network and other exotic pet's enthusiast is a terrific way to get help and advice.
When you go to buy your exotic pets, you should ensure that you get them from a reputable and registered pet supplier. There are some people who deal in endangered animals and these people are breaking the law. You have to ensure that the exotic pet that you have is allowed to be owned in a residential situation.
There are strict laws surrounding many exotic animals, and you need to ensure that you understand these laws. If you purchase healthy exotic pets and learn how to care for them correctly, they will survive for many years. Exotic pets may not rush to greet you when you enter the house, and cuddle you when you are sad. However, they can be intensely satisfying and entertaining to own and have in the home.
The term exotic is always evolving, and what was once considered as an unusual pet to own, may now be very traditional. Exotic pets can be rats, spiders, lizards, frogs or a vast array of different animals. There are huge numbers of different reptile species that are becoming typical to own as pets. Unfortunately, people are getting these animals with very little understanding of what they need.
Keeping exotic pets will take you far more time and effort than traditional domestic animals. Although they will not need walking, and typically will not play ball, they need very specific pet care requirements. The correct diet, environment and overall care are needed to ensure that your exotic pets are kept happy and healthy.
Far too often people think that it is trendy to own exotic pets, and will have no consideration for what these animals require. The pet care for exotic animals is far more intense, and things such as their diet and living conditions have to be perfect.
Exotic pets need the exact conditions that they live within in their natural environment. Even the slightest of changes can cause your new pet to become unwell and in some cases die. Therefore, research is essential to guarantee that every element of their new home is perfect. Working with a reputable exotic pet dealer will ensure that you understand what you need.
Before bringing your new pet home, you have to ensure that you understand every element of their pet care needs. Finding a vet that can look at your exotic pets is essential, and somewhere that will stock their foods is important. These things should be found and researched before you buy the animals, to ensure that you can care for them correctly.
You will need to ensure that every member of the household understands the new pet and how to care for them. Exotic pets are a strange choice for some; however, many people love them and treat them very well. Finding a support network and other exotic pet's enthusiast is a terrific way to get help and advice.
When you go to buy your exotic pets, you should ensure that you get them from a reputable and registered pet supplier. There are some people who deal in endangered animals and these people are breaking the law. You have to ensure that the exotic pet that you have is allowed to be owned in a residential situation.
There are strict laws surrounding many exotic animals, and you need to ensure that you understand these laws. If you purchase healthy exotic pets and learn how to care for them correctly, they will survive for many years. Exotic pets may not rush to greet you when you enter the house, and cuddle you when you are sad. However, they can be intensely satisfying and entertaining to own and have in the home.
Are rabbits good house pets?
Rabbits are becoming a very popular option for people who look for smaller animals to keep inside. Traditionally rabbits were kept in the garden in a hutch; however, people who have no gardens can still have a rabbits. These fantastic pets are extremely sociable, loving animals that thrive off human affection. If you research well and understand how to keep them inside, they will be very happy.
House rabbits are not confined to a cage all of the time, and will have a dedicated sleeping area like any other pets. Rabbits are exceedingly active at dusk and dawn and will tend to run around a great deal during this period. If you do not want to be disturbed, shutting them out of your bedroom is advised until they have calmed down. Rabbit tend to sleep a vast amount during the day; however, will soon wake to play if prompted.
If you want a truly loving pet to own, rabbits are ideal and are perfect for all ages in the household. They are the ideal size for young children, and are remarkably playful and active if encouraged. Rabbits are inexpensive pets to purchase and do not take a sizeable amount of care. However, they will still need regular checkups at the vets, vaccinations and the correct food.
If you decide that you want to keep your rabbit inside the home, they will continue to display the behavior of a wild rabbit. Therefore, they will want to burrow and find somewhere safe to sleep, which dark and comfortable. You have to be aware that rabbits will chew, and this can be your furniture, cables, clothing and shoes.
Many people who have rabbits as house pets will place them in a cage when they leave the house, or even overnight in some cases. This is fine, and the rabbit will be happy in the cage as long as it is clean and warm. You will need to ensure that you let the rabbit out for exercise and human contact during the day.
You may be concerned about how messy your house will get with the house rabbit; however, they are no messier than other pets. If you want an animal in your home, you have to realize there will be some form of mess. You have to understand that all pets are a commitment for life, and rabbits can live for many years. Ensuring that you have the time and money for pets is essential before rushing out to purchase them.
There are many different breeds of rabbit available, and you have to decide which one you want as a pet. Rabbits have unique personalities and will fit in with most households, even those with other animals. Depending on the other pets you own, your new rabbit will be able to play with them happily. In some households, even dogs learn to love the new furry creature, and allow them to share their beds.
Taking the time to research the different rabbits available and style of the cage that you will need for a house rabbit will ensure that you are prepared. Rabbits make ideal pets for small children, people with very little outside space, and homes that cannot have dogs and cats.
Guinea pigs, hamsters or rabbits: what pet should you choose?
Hamsters make an ideal first pet for your children to begin to understand how much care an animal will need. All children reach an age where they will want pets, however, choosing one that suits your family's lifestyle can be daunting.
Although your child may state they want a dog or a cat, initially choosing a small pet such as a rabbit, hamster or guinea pig may be preferred. All animals take a great deal of care and attention to ensure that they are kept happy and healthy.
However, smaller pets such as hamsters and guinea pigs can be looked after by children far easier than dogs and cats. Although you will need to oversee the general care of the animal, your child will love the independence that their own pet will bring.
Before you rush out to purchase any of the small animals, you should research the differences between them and decide which is more suitable. All small animals make great pets for children, especially younger children. Adopting a hamster for your child can begin to teach them responsibility and how to care for another living creature.
Guinea pigs make excellent pets for small children due to their fantastic nature, and great personalities, they love being handled and will enjoy the time is spent with them. Many small animals such as hamsters tend to get bored of being played with, and will want to go off and do their own thing.
However, the guinea pig loves the attention and will play for hours with your children ensuring that the bond between them grows. Although hamsters are one of the favorite pets that are chosen for children, they can be quite anti social and will often come out at night.
This is often not a great idea as it is when your child should be asleep. Children often become frustrated with their hamsters, as they tend to sleep all day and become stressed if woken too often. Rabbits are another very popular pet that is chosen when looking for small animals for your children, and can be a huge success.
Unlike hamsters, they are awake during the day and like to be up and about in daylight hours. Although some people keep rabbits as indoor pets, they do tend to make a mess, therefore, are better housed outdoors.
Whatever small animal you decide on, you need to think carefully about your decision and ensure that it is an animal that you like. Hamsters are great, but can bite if they are not handled enough when they are smaller. If you do not have the time yourself to handle and care for them, hamsters may not be the best choice.
Although the guinea pig, hamsters, and rabbit may be being bought for your child, there will be periods of time that they tire of the responsibility. Although children will claim that they will fully care for the new pet, this instant enthusiasm will often diminish. Therefore, you have to ensure that before you rush out to get your new family member that you have thought about it very carefully.
Find out more about Animal Charities
Although your child may state they want a dog or a cat, initially choosing a small pet such as a rabbit, hamster or guinea pig may be preferred. All animals take a great deal of care and attention to ensure that they are kept happy and healthy.
However, smaller pets such as hamsters and guinea pigs can be looked after by children far easier than dogs and cats. Although you will need to oversee the general care of the animal, your child will love the independence that their own pet will bring.
Before you rush out to purchase any of the small animals, you should research the differences between them and decide which is more suitable. All small animals make great pets for children, especially younger children. Adopting a hamster for your child can begin to teach them responsibility and how to care for another living creature.
Guinea pigs make excellent pets for small children due to their fantastic nature, and great personalities, they love being handled and will enjoy the time is spent with them. Many small animals such as hamsters tend to get bored of being played with, and will want to go off and do their own thing.
However, the guinea pig loves the attention and will play for hours with your children ensuring that the bond between them grows. Although hamsters are one of the favorite pets that are chosen for children, they can be quite anti social and will often come out at night.
This is often not a great idea as it is when your child should be asleep. Children often become frustrated with their hamsters, as they tend to sleep all day and become stressed if woken too often. Rabbits are another very popular pet that is chosen when looking for small animals for your children, and can be a huge success.
Unlike hamsters, they are awake during the day and like to be up and about in daylight hours. Although some people keep rabbits as indoor pets, they do tend to make a mess, therefore, are better housed outdoors.
Whatever small animal you decide on, you need to think carefully about your decision and ensure that it is an animal that you like. Hamsters are great, but can bite if they are not handled enough when they are smaller. If you do not have the time yourself to handle and care for them, hamsters may not be the best choice.
Although the guinea pig, hamsters, and rabbit may be being bought for your child, there will be periods of time that they tire of the responsibility. Although children will claim that they will fully care for the new pet, this instant enthusiasm will often diminish. Therefore, you have to ensure that before you rush out to get your new family member that you have thought about it very carefully.
Find out more about Animal Charities