It’s easy to think that with cat food and litter, you’re all set to own a cat. However, there are many other expenses to consider when owning a cat. Your will need to buy toys and beds and perches and scratching posts. Cat condos and play areas are pricey. The expense of medical checkups and vaccinations can add up. And any illnesses and injuries can get very expensive. As your cat becomes older, she will be more susceptible to chronic diseases. She may need more care and may possibly need to take prescription medications to control her medical conditions. If you go out of town frequently, you need to consider paying for cat care while you are away. Consider possible expenses from property damage from your cat’s scratching or breakage. All i ... Read more »

Your dog can have great fun in the yard especially if you give him toys and exercise apparatus to play with. However, your dog depends on you to keep him safe. Check your yard for any hazards such as broken pieces of fencing, nails or loose siding. Pick up any fallen branches that your dog could chew on since he also could choke on small pieces of wood. Check that lawn chemicals, antifreeze and pesticides are stored securely to prevent poisoning. When you use these products, follow the directions carefully especially when your dog can safely walk on the grass. Watch that your dog doesn’t eat treated grass or plants. Better yet, use pet-safe products instead. Don’t leave your dog in the yard alone for long periods of time especially in very hot weather. Ensure he has access to fresh, clean water at a ... Read more »

Swimming is great exercise for your dog and it can keep him cool on hot days. Some dog breeds are naturals in the water while others may need to be coaxed into the water. Choose a nearby pond, stream or swimming pool for your dog to swim in. If your dog’s breed isn’t known for swimming or he is hesitant, consider getting him a lifejacket to keep him afloat. Enter the water with your dog to a shallow depth. Praise your dog and ensure he is comfortable before moving any deeper. Move in deeper as your dog gets comfortable and reaches a depth where he needs to swim. Encourage and praise your dog throughout the process. Keep your sessions short and fun. Supervise your dog at all times when he is in the water. Protect your dog from drowning in unprotected bodies of water. For more inform ... Read more »

There are a number of grooming tasks that you need to perform to keep your cat healthy and happy. Brush your cat often to remove excess hair that could cause uncomfortable mats or even hairballs, if ingested. Check for unusual lumps or signs of parasites. Dental hygiene is essential since decay can cause pain and trouble eating while introducing dangerous bacteria into your cat’s bloodstream. Look for loose teeth and signs of infection that requires attention. Trim your cat’s nails often too dull her weapons to cause less damage while scratching you or inappropriate items. She could also catch long nails in fabrics and hurt and damage her toes. You may need to wipe down your cat with a wet washcloth if she gets particularly sticky or stinky. You may even need to give her a bath on occasion. ... Read more »

Training your dog to come on command gives you a way to get your dog back to you from a distance. It acts to break a previous command such as sitting or staying. Your dog needs to obey the SIT and STAY commands first. Train your dog when he is alert but not overly excited. Command that he sits and stays and start backing away from him. Say your dog’s name followed by the COME command. Bend down to encourage him to come to you quickly and directly. Consider using a long leash or a partner to keep your dog sitting when you are at longer distances. Practice this often and give him a food treat and lots of praise whenever your dog comes to you on command. Never command your dog to come to you to be punished or he could become unreliable. Contact your ht ... Read more »

Snakes can be fun and unique pets but they aren’t the easiest pets to care for. Before you bring home a snake, do your research. Some snakes require very specific care while others are more forgiving as you learn proper snake care. Never adopt a snake from the wild since you are unlikely to meet its needs and it has not been raised among humans so it could lash out and bite you. Develop a relationship with a reputable snake dealer and get suggestions on beginner snakes that are easy to care for. Consider an enclosure that will accommodate your chosen snake at its adult size. Learn about your snake’s dietary needs especially about feeding your snake live food. You will need to learn about humidity, heat and lighting needs. Learn as much as you can so you can take the best care of your snake as possible. For more information, contact yo ... Read more »

Your guinea pig needs a variety of foods to keep him healthy and happy. Start with a high-quality guinea pig pellet. You can buy these from a reputable pet supply dealer. Choose a dealer with high turnover to ensure that the pellets are fresh. Give your guinea pig fresh, leafy greens such as romaine lettuce, spinach or kale. Your pig will also need other crunchy vegetables such as carrots or squash for added nutrition. Small pieces of fruit such as apple slices or strawberries make a welcome treat. Your guinea pig’s body needs vitamin C provided through his diet. Ensure that some of the fresh fruits and vegetables you give him are high in vitamin C. Your guinea pig will also need lots of timothy hay. This hay adds roughage to keep the digestive system working well and that nibbling helps keep the teeth trim. Contact you ... Read more »