Discus Fish Breeding
June 1, 2008
The Discus has been referred to as “The King of the Aquarium”, and though keeping and breeding them is certainly still a challenge for the inexperienced, the later can be very rewarding indeed. It is very common that after you have successfully raised Discus Fish for some time, that you would decide to extend your Discus care to breeding these beautiful fish.
So let’s start with the tank:
The most important factor in discus breeding in the water quality, make sure it is soft, acidic and clean. It is recommended that you have a bare bottom tank as it is easier to clean. In the breeding tank itself, you may either have one or two potted plants or just leave them out. Remember that breeding Discus Fish should be kept at 88 degrees to aid the breeding process.
It is very important to change the water in your Discus Aquarium Fish tank on a regular basis. In a display tank, I recommend around once or twice a week, but for breeding tanks you should up that rate from twice a week to anything up to once a day for the best results when breeding Discus Fish. Some foods that are good for breeding Discus Fish are white worm, adult brine shrimp and chopped up crab sticks or prawns.
Now for the breeding:
Sexing Discus Fish can be difficult so start with a number of potential parents but bear in mind that Discus Fish tend to become a bit territorial when breeding, so it is best to breed a well-established pair, or keep a group of young Discus and allow them to pair themselves. The breeding pair will usually clean a vertical spawning site on which the eggs are then laid and fertilised.
A breeding pair will lay eggs as often as every week, as many as fifteen times and once the babies are born, breeders can observe one of the most unique traits of this fish: the young feed off the mucus produced on the scales of their parents in particular the secretions of the mother Discus Fish. Therefore it is critical not to separate the mother from her small fry.
Finally, through selective breeding a wide variety of body shapes, colors, and patterns can be produced and although Discus Fish may not interact with you like your four-legged friends, they can give you many hours of pleasure and entertainment.
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
This information is only the tip of the iceberg and you can get more of the best secrets to breeding and keeping these cute fish by going now to www.discusfishsecrets.info/
Topics: Discus Fish | No Comments »
Are You Providing Good Dog Dental Care?
June 1, 2008
Having good teeth is not only important to humans it’s also important to your dogs health. They deserve to have good dental care because their teeth are used not just for eating but also for cleaning and grooming themselves.
Just like humans a dog teeth can build up tartar or plaque which can cause gun disease. Gum disease is an infection resulting from increase of soft dental plaque on the outside of the teeth around the gums. The bacteria in dental plaque irritate the gum tissue if plaque is permitted to accumulate, will lead to infection in the bone around the teeth.
What effect does this have on your dog? You will notice the dog will have bad breath and the gums will become irritated, they will start to bleed and the dog will have oral pain, your dog could lose its appetite or drop food from its mouth while eating.
As a dog gets older they will require more dental care so that their teeth remain healthy,
so it is important to know that while they are still young, their teeth should already be properly taken care of.
Your dogs Diet
If you have a young dog start them on good quality dry foods. The crunchy texture helps the removal of plaque which moist foods are unable to. The crunchy feature also helps to stimulate the gums so that gum diseases are also prevented.
It is always best to consult your vet on the type of dental care you should be providing for your dog. Some breeds are more susceptible to dental problem than others and your vet can suggest the right food for them
Products For Dog Dental Care
There are many products on the market now available for your dogs dental health, from specially designed biscuits, chewing bones (such as pigs ears), toothpastes and tooth brushes. By using them it will decrease the chance of your dog getting gum or teeth disease. Always use specially prepared dog toothpaste. Because dogs can’t rinse and spit after a brushing, the dog toothpaste must be safe for pets to swallow! Some human toothpaste contains detergents which can upset your dog’s stomachs, and, in addition, large quantities of ingested fluoride can harm your dog. To go with the toothpaste you can use a regular brush or a finger brush. The finger brush can easily be placed over your finger so that it is easier to brush your dog’s teeth. Consult your vet on what they recommend to be the most suitable for your dog’s teeth. Your dog’s teeth need to be cleaned at least twice a week. Do this and your dog will love you for it.
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
For more articles, books and products on taking care of your dogs health and wellbeing please visit: www.dogsreviewed.com
Topics: Dogs | No Comments »
Things To Consider When Choosing A Turtle As A Pet
June 1, 2008
Many parents are choosing a turtle as a pet for their children. These are great pets especially for young children as they; generally speaking, do not require as much demand on a child’s time that other pets such as a dog may require. However there are several considerations that you need to carefully consider before purchasing a turtle.
One of the important things that you need to consider is whether you want to commit to take care of a turtle for its entire life. Turtles have a long life expectance and will require caring for during that time. In fact many pet turtles can live to be 25 years old. This is a long time to commit to the caring of a pet so make sure that you are willing to do what it takes for its life time.
Secondly consider that turtles are not “people pets.” What this means is that they are not going to wag their tail when you enter a room, they are not going to lick your face, and there will not be any teaching it to do tricks. That does not mean that you can’t take the turtle out of its cage and hold it or talk to it. It just means they simply do not interact with people that way so make sure that this is the type of pet you would like.
There are also safety concerns to bear in mind when you are choosing a turtle as a pet. For example some turtles may spread certain diseases such as salmonella. So you are going to need to take some precautions when it comes to handling the turtle. For example when anyone holds the turtle or cleans its living area you are going to need to wash your hands thoroughly. This is especially important when you have young children in the household as they are more prone to picking up these diseases.
Setting up their environment is also important. They are going to need fresh water daily, food and vitamins. Their bedding also needs to be kept clean. They require attention everyday and cannot be left alone when you go on vacation so you will need to keep that in mind. They also will hibernate anywhere from 10 to 20 weeks a year and you will need to have the right bedding and environment so that they can do so. They also need to have their housing temperature maintained so that they can live comfortably.
Raising a turtle as a pet can be a rewarding experience. Make sure that you understand the commitment that a turtle will require. Once you have decided that you are willing to make that commitment you can go and purchase a turtle. One important thing to remember is to buy a turtle that was born in captivity; wild turtles turned into pets do not fare as well in captivity and are prone to illness and diseases. When choosing a turtle as a pet it is important to know the facts, that way you can make the best decisions for you, your family and your turtle.
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Craig Thornburrow is an acknowledged expert in his field. You can get more free advice on Turtle Equipment and turtle tanks at www.keepingturtles.com
Topics: Turtles | No Comments »
Raising Chickens In Your Backyard
May 30, 2008
Do you have a desire to raise your own chickens in your backyard? The enjoyment you get from watching their antics to eating the fresh eggs is worth the efforts you put forth in getting ready to raise chickens in your backyard.
I am fairly new to raising suburban chickens and when I began I was less than thrilled. It was not in my plans to raise chickens but divine intervention happened…
My husband works for the Department of Agriculture so is frequently in an environment with the opportunity to purchase multiple breeds of animals. In 2005, I attended an auction with him and saw some quail. I am an avid backyard birder, watching and feeding any bird that visits my yard. When I saw these birds I decided I wanted to raise some.
It was in early December and I was on one of my frequent trips for my job. I arrived home and I thought my husband was acting a little strange but being gone a few days what did I know. I was home about an hour when suddenly I heard a rooster crowing. I could tell by the sound that it was very close and had to be in our yard.
I ran out the back door and find a rooster and three hens. These chickens did not resemble quail to me. To make a long story short, I fell in love with the birds. They may be a little larger than what I was expecting but they are still birds.
That was the beginning of my daily learning experiences of raising backyard chickens. If you are thinking about starting a flock of your own, I hope you will be better prepared than I was. Listed here are some necessary items to start off successfully with your backyard chickens.
1. Housing from predators and the elements of weather. It doesn’t have to be fancy but the chickens need a place to roost in the evenings and have protection from other animals. There are a variety of books available with plans for stationary or mobile coops.
2. Food—There are a variety of feeders available for purchase. We designed our own made from pvc pipe to ensure the hens do not scratch the food out on the ground.
3. Water—When I first started tending to my flock I had a round bowl filled with water. The chickens filled it with dirt daily since it sat on the ground. I found it is much easier to have a watering station suspended above the ground.
4. Storage for feed—I found the squirrels and rats love the chicken feed as much as the chickens do. We use a metal trash can to ensure no intruders have access to the feed. Make sure to use metal, we tried a plastic can on wheels at first and the squirrels ate through the lid.
5. Nesting boxes—These are not necessary but if you want an easy way to find your eggs I recommend either making them or purchasing your preference of style from your local farm supply store.
In the beginning it may seem like a lot to get prepared for your chickens but once you start raising your backyard chickens you will reap the benefits that chickens bring to your backyard. Once your flock is established, daily chicken care is minimal.
Today I have one rooster, five hens, and four biddies. I thoroughly enjoy feeding, watching, and tending to my flock. Not a day goes by without a crow from the rooster in the morning and a visit with the hens.
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Carole DeJarnatt lives in Florida and raises a variety of hens, biddies, and a rooster. She shares her learning experiences and helps to educate others on how to get started and the many benefits of raising backyard chickens. Visit her website Fowl Visions where you will learn more about raising chickens and backyard birding. www.fowlvisions.com
Topics: Chickens | No Comments »
Canine Allergic Conjunctivitis
May 30, 2008
Allergic conjunctivitis, as well as sneezing and other evidence of allergy, is increasing in incidence in dogs. This may be related to where they live, or to changes in their immunity due to, for example, diet and exercise.
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, a layer of skin over the inner surface of the lids. Allergy occurs when the immune system over-reacts to a stimulus, mistakenly thinking it is an infection or cancer that it needs to fight off.
A dog with allergic conjunctivitis is likely to have redness, swelling and watering of one or both (usually both) eyes. There may be thickening of the conjunctiva, and if the dog is irritated to the extent that it scratches the eyes, there may be corneal abrasions and other eye damage.
No treatment (”watchful waiting”) is a valid option if symptoms are very mild. If possible, allergen avoidance is important. Bathing the eyes with a cool flannel may relieve some soreness and itching.
More severe allergic conjunctivitis will be treated with anti-inflammatory or antihistamine eye drops and ointments, and if any secondary bacterial infection is suspected, an antibiotic drop may be added. In severe cases a steroid drop will be used if treatment is otherwise unsuccessful.
Allergen testing may be needed to find the cause of the allergy.
Most holistic therapists and vets will look to the diet for a source of allergy. It is worth trying a hypo-allergenic diet. In addition, allergens are often airbourne, so it is worth looking at environmental dust and pollution. Antioxidant supplements can help boost the immunity and reduce allergy.
Herbal Remedies: Burdock, Rosemary and Meadowsweet can all help with allergic conjunctivitis. Burdock (Arctium lappa) helps with detoxification; Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, and Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis) is another antiseptic and disinfectant. The eyes can be bathed in a decoction of fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare), Eyebright (Euphrasia officinallis) or elder flower (Sambucus nigra) to reduce soreness and inflammation.
Homeopathy: Apis mel can be used to rinse sore eyelids; arsen alb is used for more watery eyes.
Relaxation therapy, spiritual healing and general stress reducing measures will aid recovery from allergic conjunctivitis, as well as other ill-health. Healing work on the Brow chakra will particularly benefit the eyes.
Blue lace agate is useful for eye problems when using a crystal healing.
Flower Remedies: Bach remedies will help an underlying emotional problem which may be contributing to reduced immunity and allergy.
Copyright (c) 2008 The Naturally Healthy Pet.com
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Dr Alison Grimston, a holistic doctor and animal healer, has a natural animal therapy website informing the public about animal therapies while connecting and informing animal therapists. www.TheNaturallyHealthyPet.com
Topics: Dogs | No Comments »
Using The Right Fish Tank Equipment
May 30, 2008
Are you new to the fine art of owning fish? Having your own fish aquarium is an exciting hobby that will teach you a lot about nature, but the key to proper fish care is using the right fish tank equipment. In order to keep fish alive and in their optimum health condition, you need to accommodate them by producing an environment that mimics what they are used to as closely as possible. This means that their water condition, temperature and surroundings must all match what they are used to. This also means that using the right fish tank equipment is absolutely vital if you want to keep your fish healthy and give them the quality of life that they deserve.
Using the right fish tank equipment means implementing all of the following pieces of equipment in your aquarium set up:
- A proper filtration system.
- A heater.
- A thermometer.
- Aquarium plants or Airstone.
- The right Décor.
Filtration- is a necessary part of keeping your aquarium properly equipped. Filtration pulls the water through, filtering out impurities, waste and other bits and releasing clean water back into the aquarium. Not only should you have the fight filter in your aquarium, but you have to make sure that you are using the right filter media as well. Most filters use charcoal to purify the water before releasing it back into the aquarium, sans waste and debris.
Heater - Most tropical and salt water fish prefer warmer waters. Goldfish are usually more than happy to be in colder waters, but if you want to keep your tropical fish happy, keep them warm. Most heaters for aquariums are set up so that they only click on when the water needs a boost of warmth. Make sure that you also have a thermometer installed inside your aquarium so that you can make sure that the right temperature is being reached at all times. Different fish species have different temperature requirements, so keep that in mind when setting your heater.
Aquarium Plants and Airstones - These two pieces of equipment are not necessarily vital to the health of your fish, but they are nice and helpful additions. Plants and airstones both introduce oxygen into the water and while fish do not need to breathe the air we breathe, they do need the oxygen in the water in order to survive. Airstones release oxygen into the water by way of bubbles, and plants naturally produce oxygen as part of their normal life cycle. So while not exactly necessary, these props are still worthwhile additions to your aquarium setting.
Décor - Some people would tell you that décor is not a vital part of any aquarium setting, but some fish do require it.
For example, African Cichlids are aggressive fish that take up territories in an aquarium. If you plan to house numerous Cichlids in the same aquarium, giving them different territories and boundaries is a good way to keep them from harming one another. Another less than vital aspect of the aquarium setting, but still worthwhile if you want to create a safe haven for your fish.
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Derek Rogers is a freelance writer who represents a number of UK businesses. For information on fish and fish tanks, he recommends Seapets, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of fish tank equipment.
Topics: Fish | No Comments »
Flea Treatment
May 19, 2008
Cats and dogs can pick up fleas whilst outdoors and as they tend to be outside for quite a significant amount of time each day, they are more than likely going to play host to fleas at some point in their lives. There is very little you can do to prevent this from happening as fleas can be found lurking anywhere just waiting for a suitable host to pass by but there are some things you can do to help prevent fleas from infesting in your home.
How to recognise if a pet has fleas
Probably the first sign you will notice is your cat or dog scratching and/or biting quite vigorously, or the first indication may be when you discover that you yourself have itchy and irritating bite marks on your lower legs and ankles. On closer inspection of your pet you may be able to catch sight of a flea as it runs through your pet’s coat. Other telltale signs include brownish/reddish specks on your pets coat or bedding, which are basically dried blood and other deposits from the flea bites.
Fleas can also transmit tapeworm so if this is a problem for your pet then it can also indicate the presence of fleas. If in doubt, a veterinary surgeon will be able to tell you quickly and easily if a pet has fleas or worms or both and they will be able to recommend appropriate treatments.
Treating your pet
Purchase good quality insecticidal treatments that can deal with the fleas, their larvae and their eggs. It’s important to note that flea collars can be ineffective as they only treat the area around the neck.
Comb or brush your pet daily, particularly after they have been outside and especially in hot weather in order to help dislodge fleas and eggs from your pet’s coat. Keep a bowl of hot water close by when you do this so that you can place any fleas directly into the water, however, fleas are notoriously hard to catch so don’t expect to eradicate all your pets fleas using this method.
Treating your home
One of the problems with flea control is that the flea doesn’t just stay on your pet but will live quite happily for extended periods of time in your carpets, pet bedding and other parts of your home so it is absolutely pointless to treat your pet without treating your home at the same time.
Fleas can be dealt with quite effectively using a good quality insecticide for the home. Again, there is no use dealing with the fleas if you don’t deal with the eggs too. Wash your pets bedding in hot soapy water on a weekly basis to help dispose of any flea eggs.
Flea eggs can fall from your pet and on to the carpet or anywhere in the house for that matter so vacuum the carpets daily and invest in a steam cleaner to clean your carpets from time to time. Better still if you have wooden floors which can easily be cleaned and disinfected regularly.
After grooming your pet, make sure you vacuum the surrounding area immediately afterwards remembering to empty the vacuum cleaner outside in a sealed bag.
When using an insecticidal spray, make sure you treat everywhere that your pet is likely to have been.
When are fleas most likely to be a problem?
In the past, fleas were predominantly a problem during the warmer summer months, however, these days with centrally heated homes and milder temperatures fleas can be a problem all year round. As such, you need to be constantly on the lookout for the presence of fleas and if treatment is conducted immediately, then you are unlikely to have much difficulty in controlling them. However, if you do find that you have an infestation of fleas that you cannot deal with on your own, consult a vet or an expert in pest control for more information and advice.
Topics: Cats, Dogs | No Comments »
Fish Oil For Dogs And Cats Doggone Purrfect!
May 6, 2008
The fatty acids found in fish oil are necessary for the normal function of various systems of the human, dog’s and cat’s body. Our pets can suffer from some of the same poor health conditions as humans. It’s one thing to give a dog or cat food that will allow them to grow and stay alive. However, like with humans, it’s quite another to find the perfect balance to improve immune function, cognition, behavior and prevent cancer. Fish oil for our dogs and pets has many benefits.
Dogs and cats need both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for optimal health. Studies find omega-3 in fish oil may improve cognitive function in older dogs. The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that dogs with heart failure had lower levels of EPA and DHA than their healthy counterparts. Those are two of the major benefits of fish oil that can be given to our dogs and cats.
Dogs given fish oil that are prone to thromboembolisms (obstruction of the pulmonary artery or one of its main branches) may be helped by the anti-clotting effect on platelets.
Ventricular arrhythmias (abnormal rapid heart rhythms originating in the lower chambers of the heart) have been prevented and high blood pressure has been reduced in dogs supplemented with fish oil rich in omega-3.
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) may be useful in reducing inflammation associated with arthritis. Ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and glomerular disease (kidney disease) may respond to the anti-inflammatory effects of certain fatty acids, which have also been shown to be renal protective.
Omega-3 fish oil can benefit dogs by slowing the growth of malassezia, a yeast infection on the skin and ears in both dogs and cats. Researchers suggest that fish oil supplements for dogs may prevent atopy (allergies to inhaled substances such as pollens and molds).
Fish oil for dogs and cats has been shown to reduce the itchiness, redness, swelling and hair loss associated with those dry, raw, hairless patches that bother our pets. In some animals, fatty acids alone can decrease pruritus or inflammation to an acceptable level.
The choice of a fatty acid supplement needs to be based on the specific problem or condition we are trying to treat. For dry skin, dull coat hair, seborrhea and other keratinization, supplements high in linoleic acid are recommended. For allergies and inflammations, supplements high in EPA, DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and GLA (gamma-linoleic acid) are most effective.
Deficiencies in fatty acids occur for many reasons including overcooking that destroys them. Improper storage or less than optimal amounts of antioxidants in dry food may result in rancidity and a subsequent deficiency in fatty acids. Deficiencies also result from disease where certain enzyme functions are deficient; or by the use of fat-restricted diets in overweight dogs. But, fat is needed for energy and to satiate the dog’s appetite.
Fats do not affect canines like they do us when it comes to cholesterol or heart disease. Fat is indeed necessary for good dog nutrition and is important for energy, skin and coat, kidney health, heart and to keep inflammation at bay in the joints.
If we are looking to buy and do the best by our pets, the optimum source for omega-3s is what we want to know. Research is trying to determine the optimal ratios of omega-6 to omega-3. Current recommendations are for ratios of 10:1 to 5:1. The ratios are a guideline; the important EPA and DHA omega-3 essential fatty acids are plentiful in salmon fish oil for your dog or cat. There is no more natural place to get them than salmon. Cod liver oil is quite different, as it is lower in omega-3 and very high in vitamins A and D. Unlike plant based omega-3 supplements, salmon fish oil is readily processed by the dog’s digestive system.
A daily supplement of salmon fish oil is a must for any cat or dog of any age with skin or coat problems caused by allergies. Giving fish oil to a dog or cat fortifies them with antioxidants and traces of vitamins that occur naturally in salmon. Actual concentration of EPA in omega-3 is what’s most important. It is recommended that therapeutic trials with supplements should last 9-12 weeks.
Some pets may develop diarrhea from fatty acid supplements. Often, starting supplementation at a low dose and gradually working up to the therapeutic dose alleviates the problem.
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
We have existed as a company since 1985, but it was a love of dogs, the dogs that have been a part of our life, and the passing of one dog in particular, Rusty, that inspired the creation of www.CalloftheDog.com and www.CalloftheDogShop.com — created to provide the things your dogs and pets need. Visit us for great information and quality dog supplies! Be sure to see our About Us page as well. See our Product Recommendations at www.CalloftheDog.com/fishoildogs.php
Topics: Cats, Dogs | No Comments »
« Previous Entries