If you are interested in showing your purebred cat talk to you local vet Ellicott City, MD. Your vet may know of other cat owners who are also showing. He also may know of local shows that you can participate in as a beginner. If you want to show your cat in a Cat Fanciers’ Association licensed show then you should visit their website or attend one of their shows to learn more. For starters, it is recommended that you order a copy of the CFA show rules and the show standard for your breed. In these books you will find information about entry eligibility, procedures and your roles and responsibilities. The CFA strongly encourages you to attend a show as a spectator first in order to have a better idea of what to expect. Visit the CatTalk Almanac’s website for show schedules, locations, and entry fees. Click here for more details.

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You love your dog, and want to make sure that you care for all the different aspects of his health. Since his oral hygiene is an essential portion of this, you’ve decided that you should start brushing your pet’s teeth regularly. How should you begin?

Starting to brush your pet’s teeth will likely be a long process, but one that is worthwhile. Keep in mind that this will be a new experience for your pet, so it will take some time to get used to it. Help him get used to you having contact with his mouth, and let him become familiar with his toothbrush and toothpaste. Be sure to utilize items specifically made for canine use. Start with short brushing sessions, and work your way up to longer opportunities. Your local Union City, CA vet clinic can help you care for your pet. Please click here for additional information.

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If you own a gerbil then you’re probably aware of how often you have to clean your gerbil’s cage and change out his bedding. If you’re not sure how often to clean his cage, just ask your vet Souderton, PA. He can help you determine when to clean the cage and how often to change the bedding. He may also warn you about possible urine scald in gerbils. Urine scald occurs when gerbils are left to sit in their own wet bedding for long periods of time. Their bodies tend to soak up the wet or the urine, which can cause irritation, inflammation, and even burns on the underside and private areas of your gerbil. If this happens, call your vet. He will most likely prescribe a topical cream to soothe the skin and relieve pain. It’s recommended that a gerbil’s cage be cleaned at least once a week or more often if you have multiple gerbils.

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If you notice that your guinea pig has fresh or dry blood on his nose, give your veterinarian Souderton, PA a call as this could mean your piggy had a nose bleed or has injured himself in some way. Nosebleeds in guinea pigs are rare, but not uncommon. A nosebleed could signal an infection or a possible tumor or growth in the nasal cavity. However, some experts also believe that a nosebleed could be a symptom of a lack of vitamin C in the guinea pig’s diet. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to vitamin K deficiency which may cause a hemorrhage. It’s important to note if your guinea pig has any other abnormalities or symptoms besides a nosebleed as this could help your vet determine a cause for the nosebleed. X-rays may be conducted to rule out tumors. Antibiotics may be prescribed for possible infection. Follow your vet’s instructions and keep him updated on your guinea pig’s progress. Click here f ... Read more »

Although it may come as a surprise, tarantula spiders are susceptible to stress just like other animals and humans. If you think your spider may be suffering from stress give your veterinarian Perkasie, PA a call to schedule a check-up. Signs of stress in your tarantula may include your spider running or flicking their hairs when annoyed. They may strike out at whatever is causing the stress or fear as well. Sometimes the tarantula may even sit in the corner of his habitat with his legs all tucked in. If your tarantula has any of these symptoms give your vet a call to find out what you should do to help your spider. Some of the ways you can reduce your spider’s stress is to reduce the noise level around her. You should also make sure you keep her tank in a dark place at all times. For more information, click here.

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Have you ever been told that playing tug-of-war with your canine friend may cause aggression? Some people believe that playing with a rope or a rope toy with your pup in a tug-of-war fashion can create aggressive behaviors. Your veterinary clinic Perkasie, PA staff will most likely tell you this is a common misunderstanding that may have developed when dog owners noticed their dog growling possessively while playing tug-of-war. However, some experts believe that it is in fact a “healthy display” of a canine’s natural instinct to protect his territory. Others also believe that a good game of tug-of-war is a great way to exercise your dog both physically as well as mentally. In addition, spending time playing with your dog is another way of building a strong bond or relationship with your dog. As a general rule of thumb, the game should stop immediately if your dog’s teeth should ever touch your flesh. Visit this website ... Read more »

If you own a guinea pig then you may have heard your little guy sneeze or even cough on occasion. If you’re concerned that your guinea pig may be catching a cold, please call your vet Perkasie, PA. It is not unusual for your guinea pig to sneeze; however, if he is sneezing excessively then there may be cause for alarm. It’s important to note if your guinea pig has any other symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, or a persistent cough. Your vet will need to know if other symptoms are present in order to accurately diagnose your guinea pig’s illness. You should also take note of what kind of bedding you’re using for your guinea pig as he may be allergic or it may be dusty. Also take note of any air fresheners or deodorizers that are in your home as these could cause your guinea pig’s sneezing as well. Click here to know more.

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