Articles
Field notes on caring for the pets you love.
Page 32
-
Training a Colt: Everything You Need to Know
Learn how to train a colt with this simple guide. Start with early handling as a foal, including gentle grooming and teaching to wear a head collar. Progress to yearling training with basic commands and manners. Introduce groundwork, voice commands, and long reining as the colt grows. Manage behaviour by setting clear boundaries and correcting unwelcome actions calmly. Prepare for ridden work around age three, with gradual bridle and saddle introduction. Ensure socialisation with other young horses and practice safe training methods. Consider castration for easier handling. Training a colt builds a foundation for a well-behaved adult horse.
Equines -
The Skye Terrier: The Elegant Dog of the Highlands
The Skye Terrier is a small Scottish breed known for its loyalty, intelligence, and elegant appearance. Originally bred on the Isle of Skye to hunt foxes and badgers, it is now a beloved companion with a striking long coat and a calm, affectionate nature. Skye Terriers require regular grooming and daily exercise. They form strong bonds with their families and are well-suited for both town and country living. While they enjoy attention and routine, they are also independent and make excellent watchdogs. Potential owners should consider their grooming needs and strong loyalty to one person. For those seeking a devoted and elegant companion, the Skye Terrier offers lifelong friendship and quiet devotion.
Dogs -
What Fruits Can My Rabbits Eat?
Rabbits can enjoy fruit as an occasional treat, but it should never be a main part of their diet due to high sugar content. Safe options include apples, pears, and bananas, all prepared without seeds or pits. Avoid giving avocados, rhubarb, and unripe or mouldy fruit, as they are toxic. Adult rabbits should have only 1–2 tablespoons of mixed fruit 2–3 times weekly, while small rabbits should have less. Always prioritise hay, leafy greens, and limited pellets in their diet. Watch for signs like diarrhoea or lethargy as indicators of too much fruit, and consult a vet if concerns persist.
Small Mammals -
A Complete Guide to Tetanus in Goats
Tetanus is a life-threatening disease in goats caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. It enters through wounds and leads to severe muscle spasms and death. Prevention is key, focusing on vaccination, wound care, and proper management. Goat owners in the UK should adopt a strong vaccination plan and hygiene practices. Treatment is often ineffective, making preventive measures crucial for goat health.
Goats Livestock -
Keeping Tench: A Complete Guide for a Thriving Pond
Tench are ideal fish for UK garden ponds due to their calm nature and unique look. There are two types: Green Tench and Golden Tench, both suitable for British weather. A pond for tench should be at least 1,000 litres and 60 cm deep, with good filtration and aeration to maintain water quality. Tench enjoy sifting through soft substrates for food and need a balanced diet. Seasonal care includes cleaning the pond in spring, ensuring oxygen levels in summer, reducing feeding in autumn, and keeping part of the pond ice-free in winter. Watch for health issues like low oxygen and white spot disease.
Aquatics -
Understanding Aestivation in Amphibians: A Practical Guide for Keepers
Aestivation in amphibians is a summer dormancy state akin to hibernation, allowing them to survive hot or dry conditions by conserving water and reducing metabolism. Key species include Cranwell’s Horned Frog and African Bullfrog. Recognising aestivation includes noticing a lack of appetite and minimal movement. In captivity, it's important to monitor conditions, maintain humidity, and provide a moist environment to prevent dehydration. Misjudging aestivation as illness can be risky. Understanding this process helps in providing accurate care for these animals.
Exotic -
Harley Rats: Long-Haired Fancy Rats for the Dedicated Keeper
Harley rats are rare fancy rats known for their long, soft coats. They are highly social pets that must live with companions. Their coats require extra grooming, including regular brushing and coat checks. Harley rats have the same housing and dietary needs as other fancy rats but need more cleanliness due to their coats. They are suited for enthusiasts and families with older children ready to commit to their grooming needs. These rats are intelligent, affectionate, and friendly but demand additional care, making them less suitable for first-time owners seeking low-maintenance pets.
Small Mammals -
The Saint Bernard: The Gentle Giant of the Alps
The Saint Bernard is a large, gentle dog breed with a rich history as a lifesaver in the Alps. Known for their size and affectionate nature, they make loyal family companions. Typically weighing between 64 and 120 kilograms, they come in short and long-haired varieties, often white with red, orange, or brindle markings. Saint Bernards are friendly, patient, and good with children, earning them the nickname 'nanny dogs.' They require regular exercise and early training due to their size, and are prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia. Grooming needs include regular brushing and attention to ears and teeth. Ideal for families with space and time, Saint Bernards offer immense love and loyalty, though they are not suited for small homes or long periods alone.
Dogs -
Understanding Lactation in Cats: What Every Owner Should Know
Learn about the natural process of lactation in cats, how it begins after birth, and what to expect during the six to eight weeks of nursing. Understand essential nutrition for a lactating cat, including high-calorie food and constant hydration. Find tips for caring for kittens, monitoring their health, and recognising common problems like mastitis and milk fever. Discover how to support the mother cat with a calm environment and proper nutrition, and get advice on when and how to start weaning the kittens.
Cats -
African Side-Neck Turtle: A Unique and Hardy Aquatic Pet
The African side-neck turtle is a unique freshwater species known for sideways tucking its head under its shell. Popular as pets in the UK, they need a well-maintained aquatic setup with a balanced diet of animal and plant matter. Key care requirements include a 100-litre tank, proper heating and lighting, and minimal handling to reduce stress. These turtles are curious and active, with unique behaviours such as regularly coming to the front of the tank. They can live for 20–30 years with proper care. Be watchful for health issues like shell rot and respiratory infections and consult a vet if needed.
Exotic -
How to House a Stallion Safely and Responsibly
Learn how to house a stallion safely and responsibly. Discover important details about stable design, fencing, and daily care routines to keep stallions healthy and manageable. Understand the specific needs of a stallion, including secure living spaces, regular exercise, and social interaction with other horses. Find out essential safety measures for handlers and comply with UK animal welfare laws. This comprehensive guide ensures you're prepared for the unique challenges of housing a stallion.
Equines -
What Fruit Can My Dog Eat?
Feeding fruit to dogs can add natural vitamins, hydration, and fibre to their diet. However, not all fruits are safe. This guide explains safe fruits like apples, bananas, and blueberries, and how to serve them safely. Avoid canned fruits, grapes, and raisins which are toxic. Offer fruits in moderation: large dogs can have up to 2 tablespoons, medium dogs 1 tablespoon, and small dogs 1–2 teaspoons daily. Dogs with diabetes should avoid high-sugar fruits, and those with pancreatitis need low-fat options. Always check with a vet if your dog has health conditions.
Dogs