What is gut-loading?

You have been thinking about bringing a reptile into your home for a while now and you want to make sure you understand what is needed to keep your pet healthy. You’ve heard that gut-loading can be a way to help make this happen. What exactly does this term mean?

Gut-loading refers to a process that can enrich the diet of reptiles that eat live foods. This refers to the food items you are offering your pet, as this is where your companion will get her nutrients from. The idea behind gut-loading is to maximize the nutrient content by feeding live food the items that are specifically designed to nourish your pet. This allows your pet’s food to pass these nutrients on to her when mealtime comes around to keep her in the best shape she can be in. Your local veterinarian Glen Ellyn, IL can offer additional suggestions.

Picking Up Your Guinea Pig

Your guinea pig is pretty sturdy but you could injure him if you pick him up incorrectly. He could die if you drop him. Before picking up your guinea pig, check that he is comfortable with you. Talk or sing to him softly while sitting close to his enclosure. Drape your hand inside for exploration and try to hand feed him. Once you are sure your guinea pig is comfortable, act efficiently and with purpose. Use one hand under his chest behind the front legs and as you lift him, use the other hand to scoop up his rear end. Pull him close to your chest so he can’t wriggle away. Be prepared to place him on a safe surface rather than falling. Never pick up your guinea pig by a limb or the scruff of the neck. Supervise your guinea pig when he is outside his enclosure. For more information, contact your veterinarian Portage, MI.

Grooming Needs Of Pet Ferrets

Did you know that your pet ferret needs to have his nails trimmed regularly to prevent injury or snagging? The frequency of nail trimming generally depends on the rate by which the nails are growing, but can be at least 2-4 times a month.

A ferret’s ears should also be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent the build up of ear wax. Too much ear wax can increase your pet’s risk for ear infections. If you notice that the ferret’s ear wax appears black and crumbly, have your pet checked for ear mites at a vet clinic.

A once a month bathing is enough for a pet ferret unless otherwise directed by your vets Michigan City, IN especially if the animal is suffering from a skin problem. Bathing too often should be avoided as it can strip oils from the skin and increases the ferret’s risk to developing skin problems.

Housing Needs Of Gerbils

Did you know that the tank enclosure of gerbils is referred to as a “gerbilarium”? Gerbils thrive in spacious enclosures so they have plenty of room to play around and dig. A large tank or aquarium fitted with a cage on top is just right for the purpose. Just be sure that the wire lid is secure because gerbils are accomplished escape artists and they are great jumpers, too! To comfortably accommodate a pair of gerbils, the minimum standard dimension of the gerbilarium is 40-75 centimeters by 30 centimeters (height). The walls of the tank keeps bedding from being kicked out when gerbils dig. However, there is a lack of ventilation as the walls prevent proper air circulation. A wire lid can help though when it comes to improving ventilation inside the tank. The tank should be kept out of direct sunlight because the temperature inside can easily soar which can be extremely dangerous to the gerbils.

Pet gerbils can also suffer from health issues thus they will benefit from regular visits to a vet clinic Cy-Fair.

Getting to know your sugar glider

 

Sharing your life with a sugar glider can be a great way to get to know a furry friend and create a close relationship with her. This can lead to a long, enjoyable friendship.

To do this, you will need to establish a regular schedule in order to offer your pet care. Take the time to think about activities you can take part in together and be sure to enjoy your interactions. The more you are with your pet, the more situations you will likely see her in. This will help you get a better view of her habits, preferences, and care needs so you can tailor her life in your home to help keep her content. Be sure to stay by her side often, even after her needs are met, as she is a very social creature who needs lots of attention. For additional information, please contact your local veterinarian Pasadena, MD or click here.

 

What to feed your cockatiel

Caring for a cockatiel means that you are taking the time to figure out what your pet needs day in and day out to stay happy and healthy. What should you offer her for food to help her stay strong?

Your cockatiel will need you to be able to offer her different food items to meet her needs. This variety will offer her different nutrients to help her meet her dietary requirements. A cockatiel’s diet typically consists of a seed mix, commercially made pellets, and fresh produce. Your pet’s veterinarian will likely want you to keep her portion sizes controlled so your pet is eating a healthy amount, and he will want you to keep an eye on what your pet picks out of her dish as well as what she leaves behind. Your reputed vet clinic Cameron Park, CA can help you care for your pet. Click here for additional information.

What Causes Arthritis In Dogs

Arthritis in dogs is often an age-related condition. It can occur when the cartilage in the joint deteriorates and wears down exposing the bone underneath. Affected dogs suffer from pain and mobility problems. There are many reasons why the joint cartilage deteriorates. These include:

•  Congenital conditions that affect the joints. Common examples include hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia.

•  Joint degeneration occurs with age.

•  Carrying excess weight can put unnecessary pressure on the weight-supporting joints of the body which can accelerate the degeneration of the joint.

•  Injury of the joint or ligament supporting the joint that causes abnormal conformation and movement of the joint.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis. The treatment regimen is aimed at pain alleviation and slowing the progress of the problem by supporting joint health. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is a common medication prescribed for pain relief. But these should not be given to dogs without consulting a veterinarian Carolina Forest, SC because of its potential side effects. Joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown to help slow down the deterioration of the joint and support joint health. Learn more here.