Guinea pigs can easily master a number of tricks once you understand the technique. It’s all about food. You use a treat such as grass or a carrot to lure your guinea pig to do the desired behavior. You say a command and reward with the food. After many repetitions, your pet will perform the command even without the food reward. However, praise your pet and occasionally reward them to reinforce the behavior. One simple trick is to come when called. While your pet is on a flat surface, hold a treat in front of them at a short distance. Wiggle the treat as you say, “Come here”. When they come, give them the treat. Increase the distance and repeat. In begging, hold the treat over your pet’s head and raise it higher with repetitions until your pet is on their hind legs. Remember to keep it fun. For more information, contact your veterinary clinic Atlanta, GA.

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Although dressing up your dog can be fun, clothing is often necessary to protect your pet against the elements. Outerwear comes in a variety of weights so you can choose the proper clothing depending on your dog’s coat and the temperature outside. Sweaters and heavier jackets help conserve your dog’s core temperature in cold weather. A lightweight jacket in a light color can help reflect the sun’s rays and keep your dog cooler in the summer. And of course, a waterproof poncho or jacket will protect your dog from a soaking cold rain and save you the effort of drying off a soaked pooch.  Booties protect your dog’s feet both from scalding sidewalks in summer and the winter cold. They also protect against chemicals used to melt snow and ice and act as a barrier against broken glass, thorns and anything else that can damage your pet’s feet. To learn more, contact your Atlanta, GA vet.< ... Read more »

Guinea pigs are susceptible to overheating so prevention is essential. Be sure your guinea pig’s cage is well ventilated and provides shade. Always keep water bowls and bottles filled with cool water and add a few ice cubes to keep the temperature cool. Use air conditioning or fans to control the room temperature but do not allow the cold air to blow directly at your guinea pig. Groom your guinea pig often to remove excess fur, which can retain heat. Putting a chilled ceramic tile in your guinea pig’s cage gives them a cool place to lie down. Freeze a soda bottle that has been filled with water and place it in the cage. Your guinea pig can lean against it and as the bottle thaws, it will make the air around it cooler. Check on your furry friend often. To learn more, contact your Sandy Springs, GA vet or visit this website Animal Hospital of Sandy Springs and set an appointment.

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Older cats may begin urinating and defecating outside the litter box. Often this inappropriate elimination signals an underlying medical issue. Make an appointment with your Sandy Springs, GA vet to rule out physical problems. Older cats are less likely to tolerate stressors such as changes in routine, additions to the family and moving. Try to keep these changes to a minimum but if they are unavoidable, try to reduce their effect on your older cat. Keep your kitty in a quiet place in your house while packing for moves or redecorating your home. New family members should be introduced gradually. If they are cats, your older resident cat should continue to have their own litter box, bedding and feeding station. Most importantly, praise and cuddle your cat as usual and don’t punish them for acting out. It might take a little longer for your kitty to adjust then when they were younger.

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In spite of the adage, “fighting like cats and dogs”, these two species can often live in harmony. Individual beds give them a place of their own but don’t be surprised if they switch beds or end up sharing one. Cats sleep a lot so a window perch can help kitty find peace from a dog that wants to play when it’s naptime. You need basic obedience training to keep your dog calm and under control should they decide chasing the cat would be fun. Pet gates keep them separated as needed. Choose a litter box with a dog-proof lid. This gives your cat privacy and keeps your dog from snacking on the box contents. Both pets should be fed in separate areas and remember for optimal health, their food is not interchangeable. Most importantly, love them both and have fun. Learn more from your Sandy Springs, GA veterinarian clinic.

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Looking for a hamster? Have you considered checking with your vet Riverside County, CA? Your vet may be able to help you find the right hamster for you and your family. Hamsters are small, intelligent creatures that spend most of their time in a cage sleeping during the day and playing at night. They are a popular choice among pocket pets whether you live in an apartment, a large home or even the White House. That’s right; many presidents throughout history have introduced a variety of pets into the White House including hamsters. John F. Kennedy was the 35^th president of the United States. He began his term in January of 1961 and brought not only his family into the White House, but also a large number of animals including two hamsters named Debbie and Billie. The hamsters most likely belonged to his children as hamsters tend to make great starter pets for older children. If you want to know more, click ... Read more »

When most people think of canines that work in law enforcement they tend to think of the German Shepherd. However; your veterinary clinic Riverside County, CA may tell you that there are numerous dog breeds that can be trained to work with the police. For instance, dogs that can be trained to chase a fleeing suspect and detain him until help arrives include the following breeds: Airedale Terrier, Akita, Basset Hound, Beagle, Belgian Malinois, Belgian Sheepdog, Belgian Tervuren, Bloodhound, Bouvier des Flandres, Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, Dutch Shepherd, German Shepherd, German Shorthaired Pointer, Giant Schnauzer, Labrador Retriever, Rottweiler, and the Beauceron. These particular breeds, along with some not listed, are used around the world in local law enforcement agencies to help fight crime by working alongside police officers in the field. Some of the jobs performed by a police dog include public-order enforcement, illicit-substance detection, tracki ... Read more »