Kids are curious by nature, and get very excited to learn about those things that are not apparent, and that they are not able to see. When you ask them what stories they want to listen to, the most common answer would be that they would like to listen to stories of wild animals or some dangerous and exciting stories. Kids have their own world of imagination, and they are excited to add more knowledge to that. Children have the general tendency of sharing information with friends, and as soon as they gather some, they would like to share immediately. So, if you are thinking of teaching your kid about wild animals you better start with the stories about wild animals that will arouse their interests. They would become engrossed and would like to know more about the lions, tigers, wolves etc, after listening to such stories.
The next step that you need to take is show them pictures in books or on the internet and make your kids identify the animals with their names. You have all the information on the internet so show your kids, the origin of animals, their eating habits, behavior, likes and dislikes etc. You will see that your child is getting interested in the topic and then you can also tell your kids how these wild animals such as lions, tigers, wolves, etc are facing dangers these days, in this modern world.
One thing that you need to keep in mind is the age of your child. Your child should be old enough to grasp such things that your telling them. A smaller child might not be able to associate with such things and land up getting scared rather than interested. Thus you'll end up doing more harm than good.
It is always better to educate your child with pictures or with information gathered from the internet or magazines. Show them everything and explain it directly on the computer or books, so that they believe what they see. Children like to see pictures as it makes what your telling them all the more interesting. Explain to your kids all the information and patiently answer any questions that they may have. For sure they'll have plenty!
If you can manage, take your kid to a trip to any national park and learn about the safety tips before entering. This you can do if your child is big enough and will understand and cooperate with you to look out for wild animals. In fact even a zoo is a good idea to look at wild animals. The zoo probably is a safer bet, as the animals are confined to their cages or spaces and children feel more sage. If your kids are old enough to understand the effects of the modern world on lions, tigers and other wild animals, then you can explain that to them as well.
Teaching kids about wild animals can be fun and interesting, you can also explain to them the difference between a wild animal and a pet, that you keep at home.
2008年8月24日星期日
2008年8月19日星期二
Choosing a Home for Your Hermit Crab
Hermit crabs are a fascinating species of animal to keep as a pet. Like any other pet, a land hermit crab must have the proper care, environment and food in order to not only survive, but to thrive. A very important component of hermit crab pet care is environment. If the hermit crab is not in a safe and healthy environment, it is nearly impossible for a hermit crab to stay healthy. There are three main components to the environment a hermit crab should live in: the tank and its furnishings, the substrate, and the temperature and humidity of the environment.
The first part of the environment of a hermit crab is choosing the type of tank and its furnishings. Glass or plastic tanks can be used as homes for hermit crabs. A 10-gallon glass aquarium is definitely a more than adequate location for your hermit crab. Plastic tanks that are obtainable have lids and have become quite common and are usually available on the shelves of your local pet store. Any container that has a mesh or slotted lid does not retain humidity well, and therefore is not as ideal as containers with solid lids. Many pet stores will actually sell you a hermit crab in a small hermit crab kit, including a very small cage. While this small cage is ideal for a temporary home for your crab, it certainly is not appropriate for any type of permanent housing. These cages are far too small and cramped to be a permanent home. As was mentioned before, a 10-gallon size container is appropriate, but the bigger the cage the better. Also take into consideration the number of hermit crabs you will be housing when considering size of the tank.
Besides the size and type of tank you will house your hermit crab in, there are a few things to include in the tank. In addition to the obvious food and water dishes, hermit crabs need "furniture." They are generally very active creatures and love to have toys to climb on. Artificial plants, climbing toys, and small logs are great ideas to place in your hermit crab’s environment. As well as having toys, a hermit crab needs at least one place that he or she can hide away in. A hollowed out and sealed coconut, small cave structure, or other shelters are encouraged.
Another part of the hermit crab’s environment is the substrate. Substrate is the material in the bottom of your hermit crab habitat. There are several different types of substrate to choose from. One type of substrate that is acceptable is fine-grained sand. Another selection you might make is a fine-grained gravel specifically sold for hermit crab substrate. The last option is a material made of coconut fiber, which is completely organic. Any of these types of substrates are completely adequate to lay in the bottom of your hermit crab habitat.
The final piece of the hermit crab environment is the temperature and humidity levels required for a healthy hermit crab. Optimal temperature in the hermit crab habitat is approximately 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is constantly measuring outside of this zone, a heater may be required to keep you crabbie warm. Humidity is another important aspect of crab environment. You can use a humidity indicator to tell what humidity range your tank falls in. Generally, a humidity range of 70%-80% is the healthiest because hermit crabs are used to living in tropical climates.
Whatever combination of these options you choose, the keys to making sure you have a great habitat for your crab to live in is that you have the right tank and tank furniture, substrate, and temperature and humidity levels. Keeping your eye on these variables will give your hermit crab a great environment.
The first part of the environment of a hermit crab is choosing the type of tank and its furnishings. Glass or plastic tanks can be used as homes for hermit crabs. A 10-gallon glass aquarium is definitely a more than adequate location for your hermit crab. Plastic tanks that are obtainable have lids and have become quite common and are usually available on the shelves of your local pet store. Any container that has a mesh or slotted lid does not retain humidity well, and therefore is not as ideal as containers with solid lids. Many pet stores will actually sell you a hermit crab in a small hermit crab kit, including a very small cage. While this small cage is ideal for a temporary home for your crab, it certainly is not appropriate for any type of permanent housing. These cages are far too small and cramped to be a permanent home. As was mentioned before, a 10-gallon size container is appropriate, but the bigger the cage the better. Also take into consideration the number of hermit crabs you will be housing when considering size of the tank.
Besides the size and type of tank you will house your hermit crab in, there are a few things to include in the tank. In addition to the obvious food and water dishes, hermit crabs need "furniture." They are generally very active creatures and love to have toys to climb on. Artificial plants, climbing toys, and small logs are great ideas to place in your hermit crab’s environment. As well as having toys, a hermit crab needs at least one place that he or she can hide away in. A hollowed out and sealed coconut, small cave structure, or other shelters are encouraged.
Another part of the hermit crab’s environment is the substrate. Substrate is the material in the bottom of your hermit crab habitat. There are several different types of substrate to choose from. One type of substrate that is acceptable is fine-grained sand. Another selection you might make is a fine-grained gravel specifically sold for hermit crab substrate. The last option is a material made of coconut fiber, which is completely organic. Any of these types of substrates are completely adequate to lay in the bottom of your hermit crab habitat.
The final piece of the hermit crab environment is the temperature and humidity levels required for a healthy hermit crab. Optimal temperature in the hermit crab habitat is approximately 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is constantly measuring outside of this zone, a heater may be required to keep you crabbie warm. Humidity is another important aspect of crab environment. You can use a humidity indicator to tell what humidity range your tank falls in. Generally, a humidity range of 70%-80% is the healthiest because hermit crabs are used to living in tropical climates.
Whatever combination of these options you choose, the keys to making sure you have a great habitat for your crab to live in is that you have the right tank and tank furniture, substrate, and temperature and humidity levels. Keeping your eye on these variables will give your hermit crab a great environment.
2008年8月12日星期二
The Boston Terrier -- A True American Gentleman
The Boston terrier, one of the few breeds that can claim to be truly American, is a lively, curious and smart companion that’s always ready to play. At one time, Boston terriers were actually the most popular breed in the US. Today, they’re still a clear favorite among the thousands of dog lovers who want a medium-sized, intelligent pet.
Because of its Bull terrier or Bulldog background, the Boston (classed with the non-sporting breeds by the AKC) is alert and keen to learn new tricks and jobs. Bostons like children and will play games with them for hours on end. A well-bred Boston isn’t vicious, but pretty able to take care of himself. Boston fanciers like to call this breed the “American Gentleman,” obviously because of his formal, tux-like markings, but also because his personality is gentlemanly and even as well. The Boston’s friendliness, alertness and courage make him an ideal pet and companion dog. Always alert, he’ll also let you know of any strange sounds in the night.
For many families, the Boston terrier is a terrific choice not only because of his compact size and pleasant temperament, but because of his low-maintenance coat. Smooth and short-coated, the Boston goes easy on your carpets and furniture and does well in smaller spaces. It’s good to remember, though, that Bostons don’t take well to extremes in temperature. They’re inside dogs, as their coat affords little protection. On cold days, you may want to get out some warm booties or a coat for your Boston.
A well-bred Boston terrier will look like the active, intelligent, short-headed and short-tailed dog that he is. The ones that conform to type will have symmetrical white markings, ideally against a brindle color. Black with white markings are also conforming, although brindle is preferred.
Bostons come in a variety of sizes. Naturally, some owners prefer the small ones, while others like a more romping, substantial-sized dog. Either one will make a great pet with very little grooming required, all of which can be done at home. If you think you want a Boston but aren’t quite ready to make the commitment, you can get a hilarious Boston Terrier screensaver from Warner Brother's Must Love Dogs, here: http://www2.warnerbros.com/mustlovedogs/downloads.html
Because of its Bull terrier or Bulldog background, the Boston (classed with the non-sporting breeds by the AKC) is alert and keen to learn new tricks and jobs. Bostons like children and will play games with them for hours on end. A well-bred Boston isn’t vicious, but pretty able to take care of himself. Boston fanciers like to call this breed the “American Gentleman,” obviously because of his formal, tux-like markings, but also because his personality is gentlemanly and even as well. The Boston’s friendliness, alertness and courage make him an ideal pet and companion dog. Always alert, he’ll also let you know of any strange sounds in the night.
For many families, the Boston terrier is a terrific choice not only because of his compact size and pleasant temperament, but because of his low-maintenance coat. Smooth and short-coated, the Boston goes easy on your carpets and furniture and does well in smaller spaces. It’s good to remember, though, that Bostons don’t take well to extremes in temperature. They’re inside dogs, as their coat affords little protection. On cold days, you may want to get out some warm booties or a coat for your Boston.
A well-bred Boston terrier will look like the active, intelligent, short-headed and short-tailed dog that he is. The ones that conform to type will have symmetrical white markings, ideally against a brindle color. Black with white markings are also conforming, although brindle is preferred.
Bostons come in a variety of sizes. Naturally, some owners prefer the small ones, while others like a more romping, substantial-sized dog. Either one will make a great pet with very little grooming required, all of which can be done at home. If you think you want a Boston but aren’t quite ready to make the commitment, you can get a hilarious Boston Terrier screensaver from Warner Brother's Must Love Dogs, here: http://www2.warnerbros.com/mustlovedogs/downloads.html
2008年8月11日星期一
All The Amazing Secrets About Breeding Pitbulls
The fashion of trying to breed pitbulls was extremely famous back in the days when the pitbull was bred for the sole purpose of being tossed into a hole in the earth with another pitbull while hundreds of savage onlookers watched the dogs rip each other to shreds.
It was the one who actually took the care to breed pitbulls that won all the praise and became a leader in the breeding industry. Many people whom did breed pitbulls in those days were in a constant position to always be battling for supreme breeder of the pitbull and especially the champion pitbull fighter.
Understanding Breeding Pitbulls
There are many contributing factors that play a role in a pitbulls personality and general disposition. Despite the belief that people breed pitbulls for the purpose of being mean and extremely aggressive is a gross misunderstanding because they are not bred to fight and they haven't been for a considerable amount of years.
It is the people who own the dogs, not those that breed pitbulls generally that turn the dogs aggressive and mean and as a result the dogs become quite untrustworthy because they have been taught aggression. Again it is important to repeat that those who breed pitbulls are typically not to blame for a pitbull turning on a neighbor or an owner. These people are generally very irresponsible and the people that breed pitbulls didn't pick up on it.
Breeders that breed pitbulls typically watch for those potential owners that may be abusive because they don't want their dogs going out and later coming back that they have viciously attacked a young child or worse. Those who breed pitbulls are extremely responsible people and take the pitbulls reputation to heart due to the very nature of their livelihoods.
While it can't and shouldn't be ignored that these poor dogs were subject to breeding for merely fighting purposes, it also shouldn't be something that intimidates you as your raising and treatment of the dog plays a very large role.
Those who breed pitbulls and raise them always insist that pitbulls are loving dogs and they adore human interaction and human affection. The pitbull actually believes that it is a lap dog and will often try to crawl into the owners lap to smother him or her with kisses however there are also many pitbulls that can develop very severe behavior problems if they are poorly bred, abused and not socialized.
Like every animal care must be taken to ensure it is comfortable and at ease with other humans as well as dogs.
It was the one who actually took the care to breed pitbulls that won all the praise and became a leader in the breeding industry. Many people whom did breed pitbulls in those days were in a constant position to always be battling for supreme breeder of the pitbull and especially the champion pitbull fighter.
Understanding Breeding Pitbulls
There are many contributing factors that play a role in a pitbulls personality and general disposition. Despite the belief that people breed pitbulls for the purpose of being mean and extremely aggressive is a gross misunderstanding because they are not bred to fight and they haven't been for a considerable amount of years.
It is the people who own the dogs, not those that breed pitbulls generally that turn the dogs aggressive and mean and as a result the dogs become quite untrustworthy because they have been taught aggression. Again it is important to repeat that those who breed pitbulls are typically not to blame for a pitbull turning on a neighbor or an owner. These people are generally very irresponsible and the people that breed pitbulls didn't pick up on it.
Breeders that breed pitbulls typically watch for those potential owners that may be abusive because they don't want their dogs going out and later coming back that they have viciously attacked a young child or worse. Those who breed pitbulls are extremely responsible people and take the pitbulls reputation to heart due to the very nature of their livelihoods.
While it can't and shouldn't be ignored that these poor dogs were subject to breeding for merely fighting purposes, it also shouldn't be something that intimidates you as your raising and treatment of the dog plays a very large role.
Those who breed pitbulls and raise them always insist that pitbulls are loving dogs and they adore human interaction and human affection. The pitbull actually believes that it is a lap dog and will often try to crawl into the owners lap to smother him or her with kisses however there are also many pitbulls that can develop very severe behavior problems if they are poorly bred, abused and not socialized.
Like every animal care must be taken to ensure it is comfortable and at ease with other humans as well as dogs.
2008年8月7日星期四
Irish Terrier Puppy And Dog Information
The Irish Terrier is a wonderful medium size dog that can live in an apartment as long as she is allowed frequent long walks. A properly fenced in yard would be ideal for this dog to get her exercise but pay attention to possibly burying a part of the fence into the ground as she is a digger. She wants to sleep inside with her+ family as she is a serious people protector. She is often called a daredevil because when it comes to protecting her family, she is unconcerned with her own well being. Keep her under control when outside as she may leave to experience an adventure. She is good with kids in general but may fight with other dogs. She can not be trusted with other smaller pets. She will require early socializing and obedience training should be started early. She can be a handful but once she is trained, you should have a long lived, healthy, protective dog.
*Good With Children? They are generally good with children, especially older considerate ones. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Irish Terrier is 18 to 19 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 25 to 27 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Irish Terrier is no exception. Although considered to be a very healthy breed, be on the look out for hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), and urinary problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Irish Terrier has a dense and wiry coat which is hard. She rarely sheds and needs to be brushed regularly to delete dead hair. Brushing will also help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
*Life Span. The Irish Terrier can live between 13 and 16 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Irish Terrier comes from Ireland where they were used on the farm to guard possessions, people and livestock. They were utilized in both World Wars as messengers and served bravely. They were recognized by the American Kennel Association in 1885.
Some Registries:
*Irish Terrier Club of America
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 4 to 6 Irish Terrier puppies
Category: Terrier
Terms To Describe: Muscular, good tempered, animated, daredevil, loyal, guarding, rugged, affectionate, courageous, bold,
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Makes a good watch dog.
Makes a good guard dog.
Rarely sheds.
A well mannered dog.
A very healthy breed.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Can be very stubborn.
Can be a chore to housebreak.
May fight with other dogs.
She is a digger.
May take off to explore if not controlled.
She needs obedience training.
*Other Names Known By: Irish Red Terrier, Red Devil, Daredevil
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
*Good With Children? They are generally good with children, especially older considerate ones. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Irish Terrier is 18 to 19 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 25 to 27 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Irish Terrier is no exception. Although considered to be a very healthy breed, be on the look out for hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), and urinary problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Irish Terrier has a dense and wiry coat which is hard. She rarely sheds and needs to be brushed regularly to delete dead hair. Brushing will also help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
*Life Span. The Irish Terrier can live between 13 and 16 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Irish Terrier comes from Ireland where they were used on the farm to guard possessions, people and livestock. They were utilized in both World Wars as messengers and served bravely. They were recognized by the American Kennel Association in 1885.
Some Registries:
*Irish Terrier Club of America
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 4 to 6 Irish Terrier puppies
Category: Terrier
Terms To Describe: Muscular, good tempered, animated, daredevil, loyal, guarding, rugged, affectionate, courageous, bold,
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Makes a good watch dog.
Makes a good guard dog.
Rarely sheds.
A well mannered dog.
A very healthy breed.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Can be very stubborn.
Can be a chore to housebreak.
May fight with other dogs.
She is a digger.
May take off to explore if not controlled.
She needs obedience training.
*Other Names Known By: Irish Red Terrier, Red Devil, Daredevil
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
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