Britt Profile

When Should I Set Up a Quarantine Tank for My Fish?

If you are new to fishkeeping, you have likely noticed that there is a lot more involved in setting up a healthy, thriving aquarium than most people realize! From the ideal tank setup to managing water levels, there is much to learn – including the basics of fish health. One topic that is often overlooked but can be incredibly important in terms of your tank health is the use of a quarantine tank. But what is a quarantine tank, and when should it be used? In this post, we will look at how a quarantine tank can improve the overall health of your existing aquarium, including how to set up, maintain, and disinfect your quarantine fish tank. What is a Quarantine Tank? Before we dig into the finer details, let’s start at the beginning – what is a quarantine tank? Quarantine fish tanks are smaller tanks set up to help limit the potential spread of illness or disease. They do this by effectively quarantining the sick (or potentially sick) fish separate from the main tank or aquarium. Think of the tank like a human hospital. If a person is suspected of possibly having an infectious disease, steps are taken to prevent that disease from spreading to anyone else. This includes removing the person from the general public, limiting access to them, and maintaining a clean and sterile environment. In the same way, your quarantine tank isn’t going to be set up as a fancy, decorative area. Instead, the focus is put on eliminating anything that could increase the transmission of disease. For this reason, they are often free from decorations and aquarium gravel or other forms of substrate. This allows you to create a clean and stress-free area for your fish – especially if they are being treated for or recovering from an illness.

Can I Take My Rabbit on a Road Trip Safely?

As pet parents and animal lovers, we often talk about the joys of road-tripping with cats and dogs, but what about the many other pets we call family? What if you share your heart (and home) with a rabbit? Great news! Whether you’re planning a family vacation and want to include your bunny in the fun, or you’re moving across the country and need to figure out how to transport a rabbit to your new home, taking your furry family member on the road IS possible. To help you plan for your next big trip, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about taking a road trip with a rabbit, including the safest way to travel with your rabbit, tips for the most enjoyable trip for both you and your rabbit, and when it’s best to leave your rabbit at home with a friend, family member, or trusted pet sitter. Let’s get started…Is it Stressful for Rabbits to Travel? One of the most important questions we must ask ourselves whenever we consider travelling with a pet is whether travel will bring more stress than it’s worth. If your rabbit is going to be stressed and anxious the entire time, they won’t be able to enjoy spending this time with you. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Instead, we each need to learn to read our rabbit’s body language and recognize when they are uncomfortable in a situation. The most common signs of stress in rabbits include: Ears flattened to their backA rigid, crouched postureThumping of hind legs TremblingRestlessnessLethargy or lower-than-normal energy levelsLoss of appetite or increased appetite Change in bathroom habitsLoudly grinding their teethWide and bulging eyes Rapid, shallow breathingMaking frustrated grunting noisesSudden, unexplained aggressive behaviorHiding or acting withdrawn Reluctance to be touched or heldLoss of interest in their favorite activities Self-mutilation habits (excessive licking, biting, etc.)For your first rabbit travel experience, start small. Introduce them first to the vehicle in your driveway, waiting to turn on the engine until they are comfortable with it off. You can then work up to a longer trip by starting with the engine going but sitting in the driveway, moving slightly up and down the driveway, and then taking a short trip around the block. Throughout the conditioning process, pay careful attention to your rabbit. If you notice any of the above signs of stress, slow down and avoid moving on to the next step. This may mean, in time, acknowledging that your rabbit isn’t comfortable travelling despite your best efforts – and that’s okay! Many rabbits are happier relaxing at home and being spoiled by a loved one while you are on vacation.

Do Birds Make a Good Pet for Children?

Are you a bird lover and look forward to sharing that love with your child? Has your child recently been asking to add a bird to the family? If so, there are a few critical factors that you need to consider… While a pet can be a great way to teach responsibility and respect for animals, not every pet is ideal for children – especially young children! At this early age, kids are still learning how to navigate the world around them. They are often loud and unpredictable, creating an uncomfortable situation for a new pet who doesn’t know or understand what to expect. This can lead to injuries to your child or your new pet. This brings us back to the question of the day – Do birds make good pets for children? The answer isn’t as black and white as you may have hoped… Do Pet Birds Cuddle? One of the things we often love about spending time with a pet is the love and affection that they share. Most people think of cuddly cats and dogs when they think of snuggling up with a pet. But these furry companions aren’t the only pets that enjoy curling up with their people. In fact, some bird species thrive on physical affection. But this isn’t true for all birds. If you’re looking for a cuddly bird, you will need to research the options available. Parrots are well known for their affectionate personalities. When they bond with their person, they enjoy throwing their love by spending time with you, sleeping on you, preening you, and, of course, cuddling you. However, don’t overlook the significant commitment that comes with raising a parrot! The Scarlet Macaw, for example, often lives 50-75 years, but there are reports of Macaws living longer than 100 years. They also grow considerably larger than many pet birds, requiring more space for a proper habitat.Other birds that are also known to be cuddly include: Lovebirds Canaries CockatoosCockatielsConuresParakeetsDoves

Can I Make a Homemade Rabbit Cage?

Whether you are planning to bring home your first rabbit or changing things up with a new habitat for your bunny, choosing, planning out, and designing a cage can be a fun experience. But it can also be a costly one… One way to give your rabbit the best possible habitat without breaking the bank is to take on a rabbit cage DIY project – making alterations to a store-bought cage or building one yourself from scratch.To help you get started, I have compiled a basic guide to setting up your own homemade rabbit cage, including some basic rabbit habitat information, a few commonly asked questions about a rabbit’s ideal environment, and step-by-step instructions to build your own DIY rabbit cage.Can Rabbits Be Kept Without a Cage?One of the first supplies most people purchase before bringing home a rabbit is a cage, but is a traditional cage necessary? As rabbit lovers and experts have learned more about the basic needs of their furry friends, new approaches to raising a rabbit have emerged. In fact, most of the standard rabbit cages you will see in your local pet stores are too small to provide the space needed for a happy, healthy life.Free roaming refers to giving your rabbit access to your home or apartment so they can wander freely, even if you aren’t present. This is similar to how most people raise a dog or cat.One way to do this effectively while still maintaining a clean and sanitary home is by litter training your rabbit. Just like cats, rabbits can be trained to do their business in a designated box or area. This keeps the mess contained, making it easier to clean up. But, of course, it requires putting the work into training and being prepared to deal with any accidents that may occur during that process.Additionally, you must consider rabbit-proofing your home to prevent unwanted or potentially dangerous bad habits like chewing on your furniture or, even worse, chewing electrical cords.This all takes time, money, and patience. If you aren’t prepared to take on this level of commitment to maintaining a safe, free-roaming environment, it is in the best interest of everyone involved (including you and your rabbit) to keep your rabbit safely contained in a suitable cage or pen.

Do I Need Gravel in My Fish Tank or Aquarium?

Are you newer to fish keeping or considering setting up your first aquarium? If so, you likely already have many questions - there is much to consider! However, unlike adopting a dog or a cat, most pet stores will sell fish without offering too much information about how to set up the best tank or aquarium for their long-term health and well-being. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or confused, you’re not alone. When I decided to set up my first fish aquarium, I had very little information to go on. Until that point in my life, the only fish I cared for were goldfish in a less-than-ideal goldfish bowl setup. Of course, at that time, I didn’t know better. However, having researched and learned more about their needs and the ideal environment, I was committed to creating the best environment for my new fish friends. The problem was, I wasn’t sure what that meant… One product that I saw everywhere I looked was aquarium gravel, but I quickly realized that not all gravel is created equal. Even more perplexing, not all aquariums had gravel or SHOULD have gravel. To help you navigate the many options available and get started with your aquarium on the right foot, I wanted to share some vital information about the use of gravel in fish tanks and aquariums, including the answer to whether you need gravel in your fish tank, the best gravel substrate to use, and some basic care tips for maintaining the gravel in your tank moving forward. What is Aquarium Gravel?Aquarium gravel refers to the small rocks or pebbles at the bottom of a fish tank or aquarium. They can vary significantly in size and color. Colourful gravel, as you often see in beginner fish tank sets or children’s fish tanks, can add a fun element to the visual appearance of the tank. However, many experts warn that the bright colors, while appealing to children, may be distracting or upsetting for the fish. For this reason, these experts often recommend a more neutral color or natural-looking gravel option. How much truth is in that statement is still unknown. What we do know is that many of the more ornamental and popular fish, like goldfish, don’t appear to be bothered by the vibrant stones. But we do know that the quality of your gravel, regardless of its appearance, is important. Cheaply made and mass-produced aquarium gravels often flake off bits of paint over time, adding toxins and particles to the water that could make your fish sick. When choosing aquarium gravel, try to avoid the cheapest products available. Instead, look for a well-known and trusted brand. Rinse off the gravel before using it, removing any flakes that may have come off during transport. Finally, as you’re cleaning your fish tank or aquarium, pay attention to signs of wear that may indicate it’s time to replace your substrate.

Can I Convert My Freshwater Aquarium Into a Saltwater Aquarium?

Freshwater aquariums are often the starting point for those new to fishkeeping. It’s a lower-cost entry point and generally more forgiving than saltwater aquariums as you learn the ins and outs of maintaining your tank. But what if you started with a freshwater aquarium but are now ready to switch? Must you purchase everything from scratch to set up a new aquarium? It’s a question that we hear often. The good news is that you CAN convert a freshwater aquarium into a saltwater aquarium with some planning, preparation, and a few key steps. This article will discuss the pros and cons of having a saltwater aquarium and some other essential information to help you decide if this is right for you and your fishkeeping journey. If you are ready to make the change, we’ve also included a step-by-step guide to switch your tank over properly. Let’s get started… Can You Put Saltwater Fish in a Freshwater Aquarium? If the reason you are considering changing to a saltwater aquarium is a love of the bright, colorful fish, you may be wondering if you can simply place the new fish in your current aquarium setup. Spoiler alert: Don’t do that! Saltwater fish have adapted and evolved to thrive in environments with a high salt concentration. This means changes in their bodies at a cellular level and how their bodies process water to eliminate the excess salt. When placed in freshwater, they cannot adjust to the new environment. As they take in the water, their cells absorb it through osmosis, causing them to swell. Ultimately, this is a fatal mistake. If you want your saltwater fish to survive, let alone thrive, you must ensure that they are in a saltwater environment.

What Are the Benefits of Snuffle Mats for Dogs?

Our Snuffle Mat of Choice: The Pet Parents Forager MatsI would be lying if I pretended that we don’t have a collection of different snuffle mats here at the house, including an assortment of sizes, colors, and styles. The truth is that we love the option to feed our dogs with snuffle mats, and that has led us to try many different options – including several that we love and a few that fell short of our expectations. However, one mat has stood out above the others in terms of its quality, washability, and functionality, and that’s the Pet Parents Forager Mat.With our girl Daviana being older, her eyesight is starting to fail. Feeding her in a snuffle mat is an excellent way to challenge her mind without risking her hitting her nose off a hard puzzle feeder that she can’t see to solve. Unfortunately, it also means that she tends to rub her nose around on the material even more than our younger boys, and with some of the felt snuffle mats, that can leave her nose raw and painful.The soft material of the Forager mats is very forgiving as she sniffs about. Meanwhile, the non-slip back ensures that it stays put so that she doesn’t have to worry about it sliding (and her slipping with it).Our favorite part about this particular mat is its convenience for travel as we often spend our time in campsites across the province. The mat rolls up easily with a strap to hold it in place, making it easy to bring wherever the road takes us. When feeding the pups in the tent or the vehicle on a rainy day, it helps to keep our space clean – even when you have a slobbery dog. Indiana has been known to make quite the mess with his food and water, but this mat just soaks it up and keeps everything contained. Throw it in the wash when we get home, and we’re ready to go.Our boys are speed eaters, and offering meals in this mat has slowed them down considerably.Final Thoughts: The Benefits of Snuffle Mats for DogsWhether you’re searching for an easy solution to slow down the speed eater in your life or simply looking for a way to offer mental enrichment with your dog’s meal, a snuffle mat is a great solution. They tap into your dog’s natural desire to forage for their food, challenging their mind and encouraging them to use their strong sense of smell. It’s a great way to take your dog’s meal to the next level!

Survey Reveals the Most Common Pet-Related Myths Pet Parents Believe

With the growing wealth of online information, the answers to all your questions are just a click away – but how much of that information can be trusted? There have always been myths and misconceptions within the pet industry, but experts warn that this misinformation is bigger than ever.A recent study conducted by OnePoll with Stella & Chewy’s, a well-respected pet food brand, revealed that a startling 92% of pet parents still believe myths about their pets.These common myths include everything from basic pet anatomy, overall health and wellness, dietary needs and concerns, and basic pet care. While some of these myths are harmless, just a funny misunderstanding, others can have a significant impact on your pet’s health and well-being. In fact, of the 2000 survey participants, nearly half reported that knowing how to best care for their pet with the conflicting information available can be difficult.For example, it has long been stated that a cold, wet nose on a dog means that they are in good health, with 38% believing this outdated information. The truth is that your dog’s nose likely only feels wet because your dog recently licked it. While this can improve their sense of smell, it’s not a reliable indicator of your dog’s health.Some other pet care myths addressed by the survey include:42% of cat parents believe their cat can see in complete darkness. They CAN see in very low light conditions, but not in a complete absence of light.41% of cat parents believe that cats always land on their feet. The hard truth is that your cat is more likely to land on their feet, but it can be impacted by many critical factors, including their overall health. Conditions that affect their balance or mobility may prevent them from landing safely.29% of cat parents believe that cats enjoy milk. Cat’s milk (which can be purchased at many pet stores) is a great option, but many cats are actually lactose intolerant.68% of dog parents believe a wagging tail is always a sign of happiness. This body language is essential for dog lovers to understand because, depending on how your dog’s tail is wagging and other body language indicators, it could mean your dog is overly alert or stressed.In addition to exploring these basic pet care myths, the survey then drilled down into even more diet and nutrition-focused questions.More than a quarter of the dog parents surveyed believed homemade pet foods are always healthier than store-bought diets. But this fails to address the importance of proper nutritional balance and the fact that many homemade meals created by well-meaning pet parents may lead to nutritional deficiencies. Of the cat parents surveyed, 30% believed it wasn’t safe for their cats to eat any human food. But some human foods are not only safe; they could also help support your cat’s health or address specific health conditions. For example, pumpkin has been found to improve digestion and even manage hairballs naturally.

Can My Cat Get an Ear Infection?

I’ve you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Can my cat get an ear infection?” – You’re not alone! As loving cat parents, we strive to provide our feline friends with the best possible quality of life, including staying informed about their health.Yes, ear infections in cats can indeed occur, and they can cause our cats a lot of discomfort and distress. If left untreated, they can even lead to permanent hearing problems.In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of feline ear infections, shedding light on the possible causes, common symptoms to watch out for, and how to best protect your cat’s delicate ears. You’ll walk away feeling empowered to ensure your cat can enjoy a cozy, comfortable, and infection-free life.What is the Most Common Ear Infection in Cats?The good news is that ear infections are far less common in cats than dogs. But this doesn’t mean they don’t occur or shouldn’t be taken seriously. The types of ear infections a cat may suffer from can be sorted into three categories based on the location in the ear where they occur. This includes outer ear infections, middle ear infections, and inner ear infections.The most common type of outer ear infection is ear mites. These tiny parasites live on the skin's surface and inside the ear canal. These microscopic pests are uncomfortable and irritating, often causing cats to scratch at their ears until the outer ear is inflamed. They also leave behind debris that can build up within the ear, adding to the irritation.Inner ear infections are often the result of a bacterial infection. There are several different causes that can lead to the introduction of bacteria to your dog’s ears, including a less serious outer ear infection left untreated. These infections are far less common but are the most damaging if left unaddressed, as they can permanently alter your cat’s hearing.

How Can You Prevent Bloat in Dogs?

The most valuable tool as pet parents to keep our dogs happy and healthy is knowledge – both knowledge about how to improve their lives but also about the potential risks they may face along the way. One serious condition that every dog parent should be familiar with is Gastric Dilation-Volvulus (GDV), otherwise known as bloat. This potentially life-threatening condition can strike quickly and unexpectedly, requiring us to be familiar with the early warning signs and when an emergency vet visit is needed. In this article, we’ll dig into the nitty-gritty of bloat in dogs, including the possible causes, symptoms to watch out for, and steps you can take to prevent bloat in dogs. Let’s get started… What Is Bloat in Dogs? GDV, or bloat, is a condition where a dog’s stomach expands after it fills with food, fluid (like water), or gas. As it grows, the stomach either rotates or twists, blocking the entrance and exit, preventing your dog from digesting any food. Additionally, this condition causes blood flow to the stomach and other vital organs to be restricted, which can cause your dog’s health to deteriorate rapidly, making it a life-threatening medical emergency. What Are the Main Causes of Bloat in Dogs? While there has been considerable research into gastric dilatation-volvulus and its causes, the exact cause remains unknown. What experts do understand is that there are multiple factors that we can consider when determining if our pup is at risk. By understanding these potential risk factors, we can take steps to reduce the risk and keep our dogs safe. Some of the leading potential causes and risk factors of bloat in dogs include the following: Eating too quickly Eating too large of a meal in one sitting Genetic predisposition BreedAge Exercise right after eating However, even if you do your best to avoid all controllable risk factors, that doesn’t guarantee that your dog will never suffer from GDV. Always watch for the warning signs and be prepared to react accordingly.

Beenie Von Weenie Crowned Fastest Wiener Dog in the West

Hold your horses (or your dogs); there’s a new legend racing its way across the finish line. The 26th Annual Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals were held July 15th at the Los Alamitos Race Course. This event brings together Dachshunds from all over to race for the title of the “Fastest Wiener Dog in the West.” When picturing the horizontally gifted Dachshund, most people aren’t picturing race dogs like they do with Greyhounds. But Dachshund racing isn’t a new sport. Records show that it started in the 1970s in Australia. The sport didn’t take off in North America until it was featured in a 1993 Miller Lite commercial. Today, the United States is the most prevalent location for wiener dog racing (although it still happens in other countries around the world). It is often seen as a publicity event or fundraiser, drawing in record attendance numbers and offering entertainment for dog lovers of all ages. But what was the Dachshund initially bred for? The breed can trace its roots to Germany, where they were first bred to track and hunt badgers. This explains their unique size and stature. Their short legs allow them to burrow into the dens of their prey, while their long body gives them the ability to move through the underground burrows with ease. The breed’s original creators would never have pictured their little hunting machine tearing down the racetracks. The race held in California involved smaller groups of Dachshunds racing in short 50-yard trial heats. From approximately 100 competitors, a winner was crowned, and that winner was a 2-year-old chocolate-colored doxie named Beenie Von Weenie! “Racing from post number two, Beenie Von Weenie flew to a big lead early on, drifted outside to bump Cannonball Charlie and Rowdy, then barked at Penny G in mid-run before focusing on the finish line to win the title by a long ear and tail,” stated race organizers in a press release about the event. Beenie Von Weenie and his proud owner Nicolee Leonard took home the title of “Fastest Wiener Dog in the West,” along with a new doghouse, $1000, and a trophy to proudly display at home.

Why is Mental Enrichment Important for My Dog?

While physical exercise and a balanced diet are essential elements of a healthy, happy life for your dog, there’s another aspect of their well-being that often goes unnoticed – mental enrichment. Like us, our dogs require mental stimulation to lead fulfilling lives and avoid unnecessary boredom. But you may be asking, why is mental enrichment important for my dog? In this article, we will look at the different types of enrichment dogs need for a balanced, happy life and how you, as a devoted and loving dog parent, can meet all your dog’s needs. What is Mental Enrichment for Dogs? Have you ever been in a situation where you were so bored that your mind was wandering, and you thought you were going crazy? This is because your mind isn’t being challenged. It’s a struggle that your dog can experience too. The difference is that your dog can’t tell you that they are bored and need to do something to exercise their mind. Instead, we need to be proactive and incorporate mental puzzles and challenges into their daily routine to keep them entertained and occupied. These enrichment activities tap into their instincts and innate behaviors, allowing them to engage in behaviors often discouraged as domesticated pets, like chewing, digging, chasing, scavenging, and hunting. By giving them a safe outlet for these behaviors, we allow them to fulfill their needs while also discouraging them from bad habits like chewing our shoes or digging up the garden. Why is Mental Stimulation Important for Animals? Exercising your dog’s mind can help improve their quality of life in several ways. First, it’s critical for preventing boredom. Many behavior issues can be traced back to a bored dog looking for ways to entertain themselves or relieve pent-up energy. Eliminate the boredom, and, in many cases, you can eliminate the problem behavior. Another great reason to include mental stimulation in your dog’s daily routine is that it helps to keep their mind sharp. As dogs age, many will experience cognitive decline and may develop doggy dementia. The best way to slow the impact of aging on your dog’s mind is to start offering mental exercises regularly at a young age and continue it as your pup gets older. Finally, experts have discovered that mental enrichment can wear your dog out even faster than physical activity. Have you ever heard the phrase, “A tired dog is a good dog?” By offering mental stimulation, you make it easier for your dog to settle down and relax. This is great for those dealing with issues like reactivity, stress, or separation anxiety.