Betta Fish Aquariums usually vary in size, ranging from small fish bowls to bigger, full-sized aquariums. To fully comprehend the requirements of a betta, we must look at their natural environment as a basis. Bettas come from the slow moving streams, ponds, and rice paddies of Asia. And those conditions should be replicated in order to effectively rear bettas. So, to mimic those conditions, Betta fish tanks should range from 5 to 10 gal.

You can get a larger aquarium, if you’d like. Your betta will not complain. There really isn’t an upper limit to the aquarium size, if you provide enough hiding places, but too little space will shorten the life span of your betta at best, and at worst will create conditions under which it will simply not survive.

A larger, 5 to 10 gallon tank would be beneficial to both you and the betta, since the temperature in a bigger body of water tends to be more stable and would only change slightly when ambient temperature changes. The bigger tank would also benefit you since that means less frequent water changes. Contrary to popular belief, larger aquariums are much easier to take care of than small ones.

Aquarium Water

With the size of the tank out of the way, we need to settle the other aspects of our betta fish aquarium. The type of water is vital to a betta’s survival. Using distilled water isn’t the best for bettas because of the filtering process that removes most minerals in the water. Tap water is usually sufficient for bettas, provided that you treat the water to remove chlorine and let it sit for over 24 hours before adding it to your tank.

When you first buy the tank, let the water sit for a few weeks to get the biological filter cycle started.

Aquarium Filters

Filtering the water could also be an issue. Bettas are quite used to the tranquil or slow moving water in ponds and rice paddies, which means that using a high flow filter inside your betta fish aquarium is not advised. These types of filters will cause too much turbulence and the betta would find it stressful to come up to the surface to catch a breath (Bettas have a specialized organ called a labyrinth that allows them to breathe air).

Aquarium Heater

When you buy a heater for your aquarium, make sure to also get a thermometer. You will need to monitor the water temperature carefully, because sudden fluctuations can be deadly for your betta. Choosing the right heater will depend on the tank size as well as the temperature of the room where you will keep the aquarium. And even if you buy a high quality heater, you will probably have to replace it every year, so monitor it closely and replace it right away if it stops working.

Aquarium Gravel

You must also obtain a natural looking substrate or gravel to put inside your betta fish aquarium. Taking gravel from your backyard simply isn’t going to be the best reproduction of its natural milieu. You must also sustain the tank’s temperature to closely resemble their native climate of more or less 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Final Thoughts

Building appropriate betta fish aquariums is not that difficult a task. The first thing is to have a tank that is satisfactory in size. Keep in mind though that the suggested size is for one betta fish. If you would like to add a compatible fish, you may have to upgrade your tank’s size so that they can be properly accommodated.

Aside from the proper size of a betta fish aquarium, you must also learn how to maintain the right levels of ammonia, nitrites, and pH. This is important so the water doesn’t become lethal to your betta.

Before actually bringing your betta home, give yourself enough time to test all your equipment – the filter, the heater, etc. Make sure that the water as well as the entire set up is what it needs to be before introducing your fish to it. Number one mistake of new aquarium owners is trying to do too many things at once.

Mischa Hill is a Betta fish enthusiast. His website compares prices on a large selection of betta fish aquariums. Visit his site also for betta fish care tips, price comparisons on betta fish supplies, remedies, books and more. Also, sign up for FREE Mini-Course on Betta fish care.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-to-set-up-a-betta-fish-aquarium-1407566.html

The book Marley & Me deals with the loss of a tail wagging companion and brings to light many important aspects of a human-canine relationship. For anyone who has ever sat down to read this book, the first chapter is one that creates a real choke hold on dog lovers. Marley so captures the essence of the emotional bonding that takes place between a person and a special canine that for most readers it brings about the experience a joyful-cry. Author, John Grogan’s words captured the hearts of readers in such a way that his first book propelled with ease to the top of the best seller’s list in 2005.

Although written for an adult audience, Grogan’s work quickly became popular among young readers. Along with his latest memoir, The Longest Trip Home, Grogan has since authored several books geared for children. Grogan’s highly acclaimed collection of fully illustrated children’s books includes: Bad Dog Marley, Marley Goes to School, and A Very Marley Christmas. Grogan’s books are ones that help an individual cope with the loss of a tail-wagging companion as his works expresses both the joy and sorrow encountered in the privilege of sharing one’s life with a canine.
Because of the special nature of dogs, many classic books that are composed around canines. Included in canine literature are the books: Old Yeller, Lassie, Beautiful Joe, Big Red, Rin Tin Tin, White Fang and The Incredible Journey. Of course no children’s classic canine-book collection would be complete without the novel, A Dog of Flanders. Most of these books have been adapted for film or TV, but the books serve more as a form of literary art, rather than entertainment.

Dogs are such unique creatures that various canine-ality types have been immortalized in cartoonland, with some of our favorites including: Snoopy, Scooby Doo, Blues Clues, Hunckleberry Hound, Underdog, Odie, Droopy Dog, Pluto, Goofy and Quick Draw McGraw. Both the big screen and the little screen have produced its share of celebrity hounds and animated classics such as: Lady and the Tramp, 101 Dalmatians, The Shaggy Dogs, Turner and Hooch, Wishbone and Benji. Clearly, and as exemplified by celebrities like Paris Hilton and Oprah, dogs rule Hollywood.

The emotional bond that develops between humans and canines is like no other human-animal relationship on the planet. In light of the many important roles and services dogs provide, canine attributes deserve special recognition and praise. With all due respect to the other creatures with whom we share this planet, it is the diverse nature, skill set, and intelligence of the canine species that comes into play with so many important aspects of human existence.

With over 400 recognized breeds of dogs around the world, the canine species is the most varied mammal on the planet. The selective breeding of dogs to enhance particular characteristics has created a plethora of new shapes and sizes over the past 150 years. Many of these characteristics were breed for task-orientated purposes, as dogs have historically held positions as herders, guardians and rescue animals. The annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, considered to be America’s most prestigious dog show, judges a wide variety of breeds during the two-day event. More than 2500 dogs, from over 150 breeds are judged closely by eminent American Kennel Club (AKC) judges. One can truly see how varied this species has become during the past century and a half by watching the Westminster.

The dynamic essence of the canine spirit becomes so intertwined with ours that they can be trained as eyes for our blind, ears for our deaf, as well as they can give independence to our physically disabled. Dogs have the natural instincts to become therapists, without obtaining a doctorate’s degree. Where the average pet is not permitted or allowed in our society, service dogs are welcome as they perform a valuable function and duty for their guided human partner.

Dogs have proven to be able to blend their senses with ours on such a profound level that they forget they are a separate entity. Guide dogs act as human extensions rather than just merely a human’s pet. These special creatures have the incredible ability to mirror their partner’s needs, while they give up their individuality to become a reliable source of instincts and survival for humans.

The canine is among the few creatures who serve alongside our police and military officers. The U.S. Military has been using working dogs since World War I. Dogs were used in WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf, Bosnia, Kosovo, Afganistan and Iraq. During Vietnam alone it is estimated these courageous canine heroes saved over 10,000 lives. All branches of our Armed Forces utilize Military Patrol Dogs specialized in drug and bomb/explosive detection. Currently in the Middle East there are approximately 600-700 Military Patrol Dogs being used.

Of all of the tributes there are to our canine companions, one that exemplifies their unique capabilities and special role they have in our lives is the book Dog Heroes of September 11th. This book is one that should grace every dog lovers coffee table, as it is the first major publication to salute the dogs who came to the aid of our nation after the terrorists’ strikes on America. Written by award winning canine journalist, Nona Kilgore Bauer, the book pays tribute to the dog and handler teams that were deployed after the attacks. A portion of the proceeds from the book benefit the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation and its mission to produce certified search and rescue teams to protect our whole nation. This book is a must read, the stories are amazing and truly inspirational.

In trying to access how and why dogs impact our lives, it is important to point out their many varied attributes, from being integrated as life saving heroes to a cuddly tea cup pocket pooch, dogs give us so much of themselves to human existence. Perhaps the most extreme example of human-canine relationships is shown in the annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska. Even the Tour de France takes second place to this test of human-canine endurance, willpower and survival. Where riders in the Tour ride as a team, the dogs of the Iditarod act as a single unit with their musher. The mushers and their team of typically 16 dogs cover 1,161 miles in eight to fifteen days. During this highly competative race, teams frequently race through blizzards causing whiteout conditions and sub-zero weather, along with gale-force winds that can cause wind-chill factors to reach -100 degrees Fahrenheit. To be able to endure this race takes the will power equivalent to that of cancer survivor Lance Armstrong. It is no wonder that humans bond so closely with these tail wagging creatures and their death can have such an emotional impact on us.

It is easy to become attached to our pets and it is difficult to let go of this attachment. One way of viewing the loss of our tail wagging companion is to realize how intertwined their spirit becomes with our soul. Perhaps it is their loving spirit that ascends to a higher dimension that carries our senses and perceptions to a new level. Letting go is just a matter of realizing how blessed we were to have enjoyed their tail wagging companionship for the time that we were able to. Although the pet that we lost will always have a special place in our hearts, carrying the happiness they gave us benefits much more than carrying grief over our loss. What they gave us were sharper instincts and intuition, that is something that we can give back and pass along in an attempt to keep those tails waggin!

Betty Bulldog has been loving and respecting dogs for 25 years. She offers free dog health information for dog lovers at dogZdogZ.com. Also take a free dog training course. Keep those tails waggin! Betty Bulldog http://dogZdogZ.comArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/putting-a-dog-down-easing-the-emotional-pain-1405984.html

You love your kids for countless different reasons.

I love my daughter more than anything but my Blue and Gold Macaw runs a close second.

I sometimes wonder knowing what I know now. Would I do things the same way? If I had a do over.

So one day shortly after sending my daughter off to Florida State University to finish her last two years. I sat down and thought about things from a different perspective and listed the below.

Here are 50 reasons why I believe owning a Blue and Gold Macaw may be a better choice than having a child.

1. Color coordination, they have it down pat. No one does it better than a Blue and Gold Macaw.

2. There is no P.T.A.

3. A Macaw doesn’t want to go to the movies. My Blue and Gold Macaw goes where and when I want.

4. A Macaw doesn’t care what’s on the tube tonight or ever.

5. Your Macaw likes you, mostly.

6. A Macaw doesn’t lie to you.

7. A Macaw actually misses you when you’re gone.

8. A Macaw won’t wake you up any earlier than normal because its Christmas.

9. A Macaw doesn’t expect a Christmas gift.

10. A Macaw doesn’t know its his birthday and won’t remind you of it everyday for a month.

11. You don’t need to take a Macaw to school. You get to be the school.

12. A Macaw doesn’t expect a car for their 18th birthday or ever.

13. No need to save for a Macaws college fund.

14. A Macaw loves to wash and dry his own clothes.

15. A Macaw will shower with you.

16. Macaws are cheaper than kids.

17. Macaws are generally friendlier than kids.

18. Its easier to understand a Macaw than a kid.

19.Macaws don’t need a night light.

20. A Macaw doesn’t want a cell phone or Ipod.

21. Playstation or computer a Macaw doesn’t need one.

22. A Macaw will at least try to eat a vegetable.

23. You never need to help a Blue and Gold Macaw with homework.

24. You never need to meet with a Macaws principal.

25. A Macaw will never annoy you with a text message.

26. A Macaw never expects you to text them back.

27. You get to choose where your Macaw makes his messes.

28. A Macaw doesn’t invite strange birds to dinner.

29. Macaws don’t get into slumber parties.

30. A Macaw enjoys speaking with you. Even if its only a few words.

31. Macaws are really easy to cook for.

32. Macaw toys are cheaper. But may not last longer.

33. What the bird down the street gets doesn’t matter to a Macaw.

34. You can train a Macaw. Or your Macaw can train you. Depends on your outlook.

35. A Macaw doesn’t pout everytime he doesn’t get his way.

36. Macaws make excellent nut crackers.

37. A Macaw will find your jewelery fascinating.

38. If you’re doing something a Macaw will be curious as to what it is.

39. A Macaw doesn’t ask to sleep over somewhere.

40. My Blue and Gold Macaw likes me even if it isn’t his Birthday or Christmas morning.

41. Friends or family that must have quiet won’t visit you often or for long.

42. You just cannot cramp a Blue and Gold Macaws style, he just won’t let you.

43. If a macaw has had broccoli once this week already its ok.

44. Macaws don’t play soccer.

45. Macaws know who the boss is in the family and they don’t care.

46. Macaws don’t need braces on their teeth.

47. Macaws won’t die if they don’t have a new pair of Nike’s.

48. Macaws don’t need a prom dress.

49. You don’t need to give a Macaw away because it met another bird.

50. Blue and Gold Macaws never outgrow their clothes.

I have had my Blue and Gold Macaw (Shadow) 12 years longer than the 19 year old daughter. Over those years I have never had heartbreak nor frustration from Shadow.

He is just a Blue and Gold Macaw and I know this. It is all I ever expect from him. I wish the daughter had been so easy.

Ryleigh Cantrell has owned his Blue And Gold Macaw (Shadow) since 1978. There are two guesses as to the birds name. The two are inseperable. To learn more about Blue And Gold Macaws.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/50-reasons-my-blue-and-gold-macaw-makes-me-happier-than-my-child-1403105.html

Let me state for the record and for my daughter who will find out soon enough when she sees the prints, that darling, I tried desperately to capture the essence of Miss Lovejoy’s kind and mentoring manner in your enchanting performance, but the blocking and stage direction was such that I never saw anything but the back of your head until the curtain call.

Snow White made her screen debut in the 1937 Walt Disney animated feature “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” She was a lovely princess with the infamous, albeit, beautiful Queen, her wicked stepmother. Snow White manages to escape from the Queen’s castle where she worked dressed in rags and as a scullery maid.

White tea is harvested before the leaves are fully open, when the buds have fine white hair covering them. This is much earlier than other teas are harvested. In addition, white tea leaves are not fermented. Rather their leaves are simply steamed and then dried, often right in the fields. This protects white tea’s delicate flavor.

Even if you are already diabetic, you should stop eating foods that contain white flour. Studies show that certain dietary supplements can reverse the effects of alloxan in the animals that were poisoned by it. Vitamin E effectively protected lab rats from the harmful effects of alloxan. The Indian herb Gymnema Sylvestris allowed lab animals to regenerate insulin-producing Beta cells after a few months.

The Black-Shouldered Kite is the Australian relative of the White-Tailed Kite. These kites prefer a diet of small mammals like mice and voles but will also occasionally hunt birds, reptiles and amphibians. Kites search for prey from soaring or hovering flight, then swoop down onto their prey.

The Black-Shouldered Kite is the Australian relative of the White-Tailed Kite. These kites prefer a diet of small mammals like mice and voles but will also occasionally hunt birds, reptiles and amphibians. Kites search for prey from soaring or hovering flight, then swoop down onto their prey.

We know one truism: women hate snakes! No coincidence. This more often true than not generalization is a physical shadow of a spiritual truth. When it comes to that serpent Satan, women go on the warpath! in this end time, Jess in women will be instrumental in crushing the head of that snake Satan.

Baits for wild mice are slightly different than those used for common house mice so you should make an effort to figure out which you have. Use the following two lists to determine the origin of your visitors. Wild mice prefer seeds, oats and unprocessed foods while house mice will eat nearly anything.

Read about breast milk.Also read about samsung blue earth and wealth strategies

Read about ayushveda blogs.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/white-mice-1399554.html

Recommendations are quite useful to the selection process. That is because recommendations arise from previous experience. In a way, recommendations can assure a person that what the other is hinting is true, since he has previously made use of the product. For that reason, people put a lot of weight into suggestions made by other people when making the ultimate decision of which pet clipper he is going to buy.

To help you along the way, here are some models of pet clippers that you might be interested in:

Wahl Kennel Pro

Touted as the most powerful one in the Wahl product line, the Kennel Pro boasts of a professional rotary motor. The motor is dubbed as the “professional power direct drive rotary motor.” This motor is capable of propelling the Kennel Pro to speeds of up to 7,200 strokes per minute. With this motor, no coat or fur is too thick for you. Moreover, there is no need to performance on this motor.

If you are looking for durability, the Kennel Pro delivers. You can smash something hard on it, and it will be resilient to impact damage. The Wahl Kennel Pro is also a silent-operating clipper; you won’t have to worry about the sound scaring the pet whose fur you are currently trimming.

No matter where the power outlet is located at the home, the Wahl Kennel Pro’s long cord, which is around 16 feet, can reach it.

The Kennel Pro is capable of accommodating all blade sets that have been created by Wahl. Also, it comes packed with 4 attachment guide combs to complement your clipping arsenal. The kit even with comes with a grooming styling DVD and a cleaning brush.

Andis Power

This amazingly inexpensive power trimmer has more that meets the eye. Cordless, you can simply bring it around with you. This is very ideal for professionals who are into home service jobs, as well as for dog owners who love to take their dogs on the road. The Andis Power derives its energy from a Ni-MH battery that is rechargeable and definitely long lasting.

Extremely heavy duty, the Andis Power trimmer is best suited for tasks that concentrate on the face, ears, feet, and tail areas. These are difficult places that are otherwise short work for its powerful stainless steel blades.

Wahl Pocket Pro

Designed mostly as a complement for other pet clippers, the Wahl Pocket Pro is small and easily fits into a person’s hand. Because of its size, the Pocket Pro trimmer is used for areas that are difficult to access by normal pet clippers.

Pocket Pro is powered by a single AA alkaline battery, which you can easily purchase in an electronics shop. This trimmer comes packaged with attachment guide combs, an instructional booklet, and lubricating oil.

Pet clippers are very safe to your dog available at http://www.petdepotonline.comArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/recommendations-for-pet-clippers-1397092.html

There is good news because by living in Miami you have some wonderful options. There are quite a few dog trainers who can help you learn the art of obedience training or show you how to deal with certain behavior problems. You will also be able to find quite a few dog training guides through the internet that are produced by professional dog trainers.

Online dog training is especially useful to the people who are living on the fast track and just do not have the few hours to spare going to a trainers once a week.

*Get Some References

A good trainer should be certified, just don’t take him at his word. Go ahead and ask to see his credentials and do a little background check. Also, see if he will give you a list of some former clients he can use as references. Find out what kind of training methods he uses and if the results last a long time.

*Get Something In Writing

Go ahead and ask for a lesson outline. All good trainers have a written agenda about what each lesson is about.

*Can We Meet?

Since training your dog in Miami is what you are after, see if it would be possible to hook up at a few different locations that you and your dog frequent, the beach for example. Although this isn’t a must, it would be a nice added bonus, giving you the added confidence you need to hang out at the regular haunts with your dog.

*This Particular Breed

Even though obedience training isn’t breed specific, if the trainer has worked with your breed of dog – especially if this breed has a reputation for being stubborn – that would just be icing on the cake.

*Get Some Details

Try and get as many details as you can about the methods he will be using for the training. For instance, does he really push for the students to use prong collars? Do you think that you could be comfortable with his training style? If you can’t, there are plenty of other options.

*View It Live

See if there is any way you can come and observe some of the training. Watch how the trainer communicates with the dogs and their handlers. Does it look as though dogs are his passion? Does he act like patience is a virtue? Do the dogs seem responsive to this particular training style?

*What Questions Is He Asking?

You should get a pretty good idea about the type of trainer he is by taking note of what is required by you before you are admitted into his class. Does he seem to be only concerned about the cash? Does he let you know that you will need shot records?

*Gives You The Guarantee

If this trainer should give you “the guarantee” that your dog is going to pick right up on his style of training, then finding another trainer might be in order. No one method is going to work on every single dog. No trainer out there has a success rate of 100%, particularly on strong willed dogs. If he is a top notch trainer he may offer some follow up training if it is truly needed, but 100% guarantee is a caution flag.

There really quite a few options when it comes to training your dog in Miami, and the benefits of a dog that does what you ask is absolutely priceless. Don’t wait any longer.

Gerald has a passion for everything dogs. His goal is to continue to improve on and share his knowledge. Whether you want to learn how to train your dog or about fixing dog behavior problems he is there to help. Start dog training Miami today!Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-training-miami-1394080.html

But many people struggle with understanding the best way to teach their puppy how to go not only where you want but also when you want. After all, having your puppy on a schedule for using the bathroom is almost as important.

The solution in most cases is crate training. This is a relatively easy approach to house training that also provides some other useful benefits puppy owners should appreciate.

Why Crate Train?

First, crate training is intended to take advantage of your dog’s natural impulses. Although dogs have been domesticated, they still have some of those old instincts that helped their ancestors survive and thrive for millions of years. Some of those instincts relate to the concept of having a den.

A den is a safe haven for the animal where he or she can retreat without fear of being harmed. The den was the preferred location for sleeping, rearing young, and other activities. But to keep the den protected, dogs also had to keep it from being too easy to find. Since most predators use their sense of smell pretty well to find prey, the den was not a place for dogs to go to the bathroom. Their urine and feces would attract other animals and would endanger the safety of the den.

Dogs simply don’t go to the bathroom in their den unless out of absolute necessity.

The purpose of the crate is to give your dog a den in the home. This crate becomes his or her sanctuary.

But it also provides you with peace of mind. As long as your puppy is confined to the crate, he or she can’t be out doing damage to the rest of your house or getting into trouble by chewing on electrical cords or eating things that could get lodged in the intestines, for example.

Basically, crate training provides your dog with a safe place to call his or her own. Plus, it keeps him or her safe during the day while also working as an invaluable tool for housebreaking. Now let’s see how you can get started.

Picking the Crate

The first step is to choose the crate you want to use for your pet. Two types are available: the hard plastic models used for airplane travel and the wire types. If you have a big dog, you’ll probably be stuck with the wire type. Otherwise, you can choose whichever you think will be the best choice for your dog.

Keep in mind that the crate should only be big enough for your dog to stand up comfortably, lie down, and turn around. If you give the dog too much room, he or she could use part of the crate for a den and part for a bathroom spot which would defeat the purpose.

To keep costs reasonable, purchase a crate that will be large enough for your full-size dog but use dividers which can also be purchased to restrict the space available to your puppy.

Getting the Puppy Comfortable with the Crate

Next, you have to help your puppy get comfortable inside the crate. Most dogs are not going to immediately love the crate. They won’t like being confined and away from you. But you can make the situation easier by going slowly, using treats and praise to reinforce the desired behavior, and letting the puppy explore the crate on his own.

When you bring home the crate, leave it open so the dog can go into it and sniff it at his leisure. Then you can begin luring your puppy into the crate with treats and praising him for going inside.

After he is doing that well, you can lure him into the crate and close the door. This might cause some crying and whining from your puppy. Let him stay inside the crate for a minute or two then let him out. Do not let him out while he is still crying, however. Otherwise, he will cry every time you try to put him in the crate because he’ll know this behavior will get him released.

Keep expanding the time the puppy is in the crate with the door closed until he begins to feel comfortable. Then you can practice leaving the room, leaving the house, and staying away for longer periods of time. Each time remember to praise your puppy when you release him from the crate but never release him until he has calmed down.

House Breaking & the Crate

To use the crate for house breaking, be sure to give your dog food and water at least an hour before putting her in the crate. Take the puppy to the bathroom, preferably for a walk with a potty break, before she is placed in the crate.

Do not give your puppy food or water in the crate. These things will only make a mess and will cause the puppy to need to urinate or defecate badly.

Keep in mind that young puppies may not be able to “hold it” as long as you would like. For this reason, it’s a good idea to come home at least once during the day to take your puppy to the bathroom. If you can’t, you may want to hire someone to do this for you. Even adult dogs should not be left in crates for longer than 6 to 8 hours a day.

As soon as you let your puppy out of the crate, take him or her to the bathroom immediately. Praise him or her when they do what you want and quickly they will learn the routine.

If an accident does occur in the crate, clean it thoroughly with an enzyme-destroying cleaner so the dog won’t be able to smell the accident and assume that is an appropriate place to use the bathroom. Otherwise you’ll just keep repeating the problem.

Finally, don’t punish your dog for having an accident. You could end up causing them to fear the crate, as well as you.

David Beart is the owner of the PetYak. Our site covers everything from puppy training to feeding and health and wellness.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-and-why-to-crate-train-a-puppy-1392066.html

Parrots are not merely beautifull birds they are messy and they can be quite loud.

The parrots can’t help this. It is what they are by nature. The large birds like macaws can be window rattlers.

Almost all birds will vocalize early in the morning, sunup and again at sundown. They will do what their species does sometimes for a half hour give or take a bit. Some sing some screech and some squawk. Some species call out to locate their flock or be sure where their mates are. Birds will vocalize as warnings when predators are present or they have become alarmed about something. It only makes sense that pet birds will do the same things.

Should your bird become alarmed it is likely to get vocal. He may call out the moment you leave his sight. Or he may get loud in the morning to let you know the suns coming up. These behaviors in a pet bird are normal and to be expected. If the bird is a large parrot they also can be very stressing, irritating and annoying to you and your neighbors particularly if excessive in volume and duration.

Excessive duration, volume and frequency or screaming often indicates the pet bird is having a problem or is stressed out over something and is just not happy. There are many things that can upset a bird especially a captive bird. So finding out why a bird is screaming is the first step. Some things to look for are.

1. Illness or injury?

2. Hunger and or thirst?

3. Are his surroundings new? Did you move? Did you move his cage to another room?

4. Inadequate attention. Have you and others been to busy to give him adequate daily attention?

5. A big change in family members either added or lost? Maybe a new puppy, baby? Did a kid leave for college? Did someone pass away?

6. Fear?

7. Not enough rest or sleep? To much light, or traffic by his cage.

8. Jealousy? Are you neglecting your bird in favor of a new arrival or pet?

9. Boredom? Unhappy birds most often are bored birds.

Assuming their environment has been stable a period of time. It should be relatively easy to discover the cause of the birds screaming. If you can eliminate the first 8 possibilities then boredom is the likely culprit. Most captive birds get bored rather easily. They eat and perch, ring the bell and wait to interact with their owner for a few hours at least, boring!

In the wild birds spend the vast majority of their time seeking food. Very often they must learn to solve a problem just to get to their food. They have a great deal more to do than just to eat and so should captive birds. Foraging consumes most of their waking life. Infact foraging for food is normal activity and should be introduced to all pet birds. A happy bird is a foraging bird.

Making your bird forage for his food will help keep him occupied when the family cannot. With the help of a good supply store and the use of your own ingenuity this isn’t difficult to accomplish. A good supply store will have a number of toys designed just to make your bird forage. You may have to do a bit of training in the beginning but most learn quickly because there is food involved.

Helping your pet to stay busy while doing what he would normally do if not for you is a nearly surefire way to stop a birds screaming and keeping all birds quieter. Your bird may know where the food is but he will need to think and work a little to get to it. Just as nature intended too. Beats the heck out of eating, ringing the bell and perching doesn’t it?

Ryleigh Cantrell has owned his blue and gold Macaw (Shadow) since 1978. There are two guesses as to why the birds name.The two are inseperable. To learn more about blue and gold macaws.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/my-bird-is-screaming-what-to-do-1388697.html

WHAT IS KENNEL COUGH

Think of kennel cough as being like a cold or flu in humans. This respiratory infection in our pets is caused by bacteria and viruses. Here are the bacteria and viruses that cause kennel cough.

• Bordetella Bronchiseptica – This bacteria is thought to be the main culprit in causing kennel cough.
• Canine Parainfluuenza -3 – This is the same virus that causes distemper in dogs.
• Canine Adenovirus Type 2 – This virus causes colds in dogs.

Many kennels require you to have your pet vaccinated prior to boarding your pets as kennel cough is a highly contagious illness that is spread just like colds and flu are spread in humans. This vaccination is referred to as the Bordetella vaccine. Some pet owners do not want to vaccinate so often and have reduced exposure to other dogs and cats to cut down on the chances of their pets getting kennel cough.

SYMPTOMS OF KENNEL COUGH ARE:

• Dry harsh cough
• Gagging and/or vomiting
• Loss of appetite

MORE SEVERE SYMPTOMS ARE:

• Nasal discharge
• Fever
• Cough that produces phlegm
• Depression
• Green mucus

If your dog or cat has developed coughing with green mucus then take it to your vet right away.

KENNEL COUGH HOME REMEDIES:

• Pediatric robitussen is being used for puppies to help soothe throat tissues that have become sore due to the inflammation of the throat that occurs from the infection. Just like we would do for our children cough syrups are being used on pets.
• Honey is being used not only to soothe the throat but also for the antiseptic benefits of the honey. The amount that is being reported used is 1 teaspoon of honey given three times a day. Other people are having trouble getting the dog to take straight honey are mixing it in water and giving a few drops directly into your pet’s mouth every hour or so.
• Peppermint tea is being given at a rate of two drops per hour until the coughing stops. The tea can be made out of peppermint leaves and water.
• Hydrogen Peroxide (3%) is being used not only to disinfect the water bowls but also to put into the drinking water. In this case 3 drops of hydrogen peroxide (3%) is being mixed into 8 ounces of water along with two teaspoons of honey.
• Hydrogen Peroxide (3%) as a tooth brushing solution. This solution is being used at a rate of 3 drops of hydrogen peroxide (3%) into 4 ounces of water and then using the solution with a tooth brush to brush the dog’s teeth. This is reported to stop the coughing and repeated when the cough comes back. Slow gentle brushing is the technique with this one.
• Certain herbal remedies are also being used to expel mucus. One is plantango lanceolata .
• Another herbal remedy being used to clear mucus is Bryonia C6 which is also reported to be able to soothe sore throat tissues.
• Yerba Santa is being used to help out with phlegm. This is being used in making a strong tea and then giving a few drops in water to your dog every hour or so. Some report using 15-25 drops in to an ounce of distilled water and then giving this to your dog every hour or more until the coughing stops.
• Wild Cherry Bark as a tea. Again make a tea out of this and give a few drops with water to your dog every hour or so until the coughing stops.

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Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-long-does-kennel-cough-last-and-some-home-remedies-1382784.html

Ever wonder why actor Mickey Rourke or heiress/model Paris Hilton is rarely seen without a beloved Chihuahua in tow? There’s an amazing amount of charm packed into these tiny packages for the quintessential lap dog has an insatiable need for love and affection. When one considers that this consummate companion can fit neatly into pocket or purse, well it’s just too tempting not to carry it around everywhere.

The world’s smallest breed, the Chihuahua comes in two coats: smooth and short, or long and flat or slightly curly. The long and curly version features a ruffled neck and a plumed tail. Otherwise the dogs are identical and can occur within the same litter. All coat colors and combinations can be seen. The most common being red, fawn, and black and tan. The apple-domed head, coupled with the large bat-like ears are this breed’s most recognized features. Males and Females are both about 6-9 inches and 2-6 lbs.

The Chihuahua a lively, alert little pooch. It is intelligent, and intensely loyal, growing very attached to its owner, even to the point of jealousy.

They are notorious burrowers and love nothing better than to snuggle under pillows, cushions, and best of all, bed covers. It responds well to training particularly if begun early, although it can be difficult to house train this little dog.

When frightened these little fellows may bite or snap but they are in no way an ill tempered dog. Chihuahua’s seem to have acquired the stigma of being “yappy” dogs but in truth most bark simply to announce the arrival of a visitor or when greeting other dogs.

The Chi Chi may be unsuitable for families with Children. They can easily get injured if dropped or sat on. They have a huge self esteem, and will benefit from early training.

Obviously no dog is “maintenance-free” but the Chihuahua comes remarkably close, particularly the short coated variety. The short coat requires only occasional gentle brushing, while the long coat should be brushed daily using a soft bristle brush. Bathe both types about once a month. Check the bat type ears regularly and keep the nails trimmed.

It is quite tempting to carry these little dogs around but the Chihuahua is satisfied with, and will benefit from, a short daily walk. Its diminutive stature makes the Chihuahua ideal for apartment living. They are definitely not considered “outdoor” pets. While they may enjoy a romp in the yard they are more than happy to return to the comfort of the couch or better yet, the bed.

The popularity of this breed has soared over the past decade most likely due in large part to Taco Bell which features a Chihuahua as its media mascot hungering for the well known Mexican fast food.

Its need to love and be loved is a never-ending crusade. Indeed these dogs like nothing better than to be with, or more accurately on, their owners. They make great companions, perhaps being ideally suited to older adults who are often home and have lots of time to lavish them with the attention they crave.

If you’re looking for a big mean dog to patrol the yard or take on 5 mile run then the Chihuahua is not the dog for you. However, any true animal person around one of these little darlings long enough is bound to get hooked on a Chihuahua. Once these little lovers have hold of your heartstrings they will never let go.

Betty Bulldog has been loving and respecting dogs for 25 years. Here is her take on the Chihuahua dog breed. Read about more breeds and take a free dog training and information course at dogZdogZ.com Keep those tails waggin! Betty BulldogArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/ever-wonder-why-paris-is-always-seen-holding-her-chi-chi-1378186.html