The Chincoteague Pony

Chincoteague Pony

"This Pony was first made famous by the book “Misty of Chincoteague” by Marguerite Henry in 1947!

Over 50,000 spectators show up at the Chincoteague Pony Penning Day every year!

These ponies originate hundreds of years ago from the islands of Chincoteague and Assateague, which are barrier islands off the mid Atlantic coastline. These modern ponies are gentle with lots of stamina and are very athletic. In fact, our first president, George Washington, is believed to have kept his own Chincoteague Pony which he would ride over 150 miles a day on! Read More

The Amazing Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier

"My original purpose was to hunt vermin, badgers, and foxes in the old days!

This breed has been purebred since the 1800′s!

The Scottish Terriers, also known as Scotties, are very charming dogs and love to protect their families, growing very attached to them. Once adults, they are rather serious and sedate dogs, however they love to play as puppies. Scottish Terriers are prone to certain predispositions, some genetic disorders, and jaw and skin problems, so it is essential that you find out the ancestral background of your dog before purchasing him… Read More

Featured Pet of the Week: The Green Anole

The Featured Pet for this week is: The Green Anole

I have always thought that anoles were fascinating little lizards. I had the privilege of caring for many of these little guys over the years when I was younger. One really neat feature they have is the ability to change colors (similar to chameleons) to different greens and browns. This can help them blend somewhat with their environment and serve as protection. Males often have very beautiful reddish dewlaps under their chins, which helps distinguish them from the females.

Holding anoles can be a precarious business. Because they are so small (only growing to a maximum size of 7 inches), they can be easily injured if handled incorrectly and/or squeezed too tightly. They will also lose their tails if they are pulled on too hard. However, some people do carefully and successfully handle their pet anoles regularly and with no problems – that is something you as a pet owner will need to decide if you want to hold your anole. Also, all reptiles can (but don’t always) carry salmonella, so if you do decide to hold your pet anole, make sure to use proper sanitation by washing your hands both before and after handling him.

Green anoles are often praised as great first pets due to their hardiness, ease of care, and being relatively inexpensive. This makes them a great pet for a child – they fit both a child’s budget as well as their responsibility level. Anoles are also not generally aggressive and will usually scamper away rather than attack or bite. They usually live 3-5 years, but if given optimum conditions can sometimes live up to 10 years.

I want to emphasize the proper care of anoles. Even though they are inexpensive and easy to care for, they still must be given a proper environment to thrive in, it is very important for their well-being. They are small, so generally one single anole can do very well in even a small 10 gallon terrarium or aquarium. The taller the aquarium, the better, because anoles love to climb and scale their habitats. If keeping more than one anole, you will definitely want to get an even larger habitat, and even larger if keeping several males. On the bottom of the aquarium you will want to put a substrate such as carpet or something such as crushed walnut shells, both of which can be purchased at pet stores. As I mentioned before, they love to climb because they are natural tree-dwellers, so be sure to include wood pieces like driftwood or grapevine for them to climb vertically on.

Lighting and temperature requirements must be taken into consideration as well. Anoles need UVB exposure to keep their metabolism going and to help them synthesize Vitamin D3. And so even though they are more hardy than other lizards, they still must be provided with proper lighting to thrive. Repti-Sun and Repti-Glo are both good lights because they provide both UVB and UVA rays. They also need proper temperatures to regulate their bodies. To achieve this, simply provide a 50 watt daytime bulb in the “basking” area of the terrarium and make sure it is far enough away from the other end of the terrarium so that there is also a cooler area available for them at the other end. You will also want to mist your anoles daily with water.

Feeding is relatively simple and is the main source of on-going expense for your anole. They are insectivores and therefore eat only insects, which includes crickets, mealworms and occasionally wax worms. You do want to make sure your anoles are getting enough calcium, so buy some calcium and vitamin powder to dust the insects in prior to feeding. Anoles are diurnal, so feed them their crickets/mealworms during the daytime. Also make sure to provide fresh water in a clean dish daily.

If you enjoyed these tips on anoles, you can learn much more about anoles as pets by seeing the Green Anole page!

Jasmine is a team member at Animal-World and has contributed many articles and write-ups.

When to Spay or Neuter your Pet

If you have one pet, then you are bound to have more especially if they are outdoor pets and not spayed or neutered. Here are some reasons that you might want to consider the procedure for your cat or dog.

First things first: Spaying refers to removing the ovaries and uterus from your female pet. Neutering refers to removing the testicles from your male pet. Now that we have the terms, it’s time to identify when to have the procedure performed.

One Myth and Several Truths

One common myth is that your male pet will lose all of his aggressiveness when neutered. For many owners, aggressiveness is a problem. Pets can be hard to train and manage with family and/or visitors to the home. This goes beyond a normal bit of playful stubbornness on the part of the family pet. Neutering won’t make your dog a wimp.

Beyond this reason that many don’t have their pets “fixed” here are several reasons to do just that.

1. No unwanted pet litters – Pets who still have their reproductive organs always run the risk of having babies. Instead of just looking after one pet, you’ll have to find homes for several more if your female pet gets pregnant. Unwanted litters can become strays in the neighborhood, leading to pet overpopulation.

2. Less territorial marking – Animals instinctively mark their territory to warn off other animals. This occurs more when they are not spayed or neutered. Females in heat will often mark their territory by urinating all over the place. This strong smelling urine can offend even the toughest noses. Save your carpet or hardwood floors.

3. Better behaved pets – How many times have you sent your dog to obedience school? Spaying and neutering can help that “attitude” calm down so your pet listens more. Pets that often try to escape from the yard to roam free will stay closer to home now.

4. Lower health risks – Cancer can be a problem for pets just like for humans. Male pets have a lower risk of testicular cancer when they are neutered which can prolong their lives. For female pets, spaying can help prevent breast and ovarian cancers from being a problem. Also, the procedure won’t make your pet gain weight. Just like any other pet, with proper diet and exercise they can remain fit and trim into their golden years.

Spay or neuter early. It is safer and less traumatic for your pets. They don’t have the chance to develop disciplinary problems or any of the other issues that lead people to have issues with their pets. It really is the humane way to protect your animal, the community and the environment around you.

The Best Pets for Apartment Dwellers

Just because you live in an apartment doesn’t mean that you are limited in the pets you can own. If you want a cat or dog, it will help to know how to choose one who will love your third floor walk up or that first floor garden unit.

Check your rental agreement

The first place to go is to the rental office. If you are moving to another apartment, checking on their pet policy might want to be your first order of business. For your current apartment, reread your lease. Now that you want a pet, it will be imperative to know if it is even possible where you live.

Some agreements have stipulations even when you are allowed pets so read the fine print. There could be weight limit or size limit. Owning fish may be limited to smaller tanks and not the larger ones you see in doctor’s offices or restaurants.

Don’t forget the cost as well. To own a pet can add another one hundred dollars or more to your monthly rent. Increased cost is most likely due to the possibility of pet stains on rugs and damage to the apartment dwelling itself.

Top Apartment Pets

1. Fish – These are some of the most unobtrusive pets. They amuse themselves by swimming all day and only need to eat at intervals. The size of your fish or the aquarium might be in question but generally fish are allowed as long as the tanks are well maintained.

2. Reptiles and amphibians – Snakes are not the only reptiles. Many apartments will allow them as long as they are non-poisonous and kept in a tank. But, there are also small lizards like newts and salamanders. Don’t forget your friendly neighborhood turtle.

3. Birds – They can sing but don’t let them squawk. Try to stay away from macaws, parakeets in large numbers, cockatoos and other vocal birds. Apartment walls are not thick enough to stop a loud bird from keeping the neighbors up all night.

4. Small furry animals – This would include hamsters, guinea pigs, mice and rabbits. The major hurdle here is the smell. These pets need constant cleaning of their cages. If there is an issue with cleanliness, your landlord may ask them to go.

5. Cats – This furry creature is usually not a problem in most apartments. They keep to themselves and don’t make a lot of noise.

6. Dogs – Large dogs are not a good match for apartments because of the limited space during the day. Even small dogs need to be walked but they often fare better during the day when left alone.

Just because you live in an apartment doesn’t mean that you can’t have a companion of the animal variety. Check with your landlord and then choose a pet to suit your needs.

Bullseye Coral

Bullseye Coral
Caulastrea curvata
"You can take your best shot, but my polyps twist and turn all over the place. Easy care, but good luck with your targeting!"

Being a hardy stony coral, the Bullseye Coral is very attractive!

In it’s natural habitat, the Bullseye Coral Caulastrea curvata can grow to over 16 feet or 5 meters in diameter. They also generate large and low growing colonies. Their growing branches are generally spaced wide apart and form from a common base. The branches on the outer most part of the colonies will curve upwards, giving them their distinctive name of Curved Finger Coral. It is also called the Trumpet Coral, Torch Coral, and Candy Coral… Read more

How to Clip your Cats Claws

It’s a tough job but someone has to do it. Your darling cat needs his or her claws clipped. Here are some practical tips to get the job done.

You don’t have to go to the vet if you need your cat’s claws clipped. You can do it yourself if you dare. Take it slow and easy or your nice kitty could turn into the cat from the dark side.

Why do you trim the claws? Cats like to scratch. When they get tired of the scratching post they may turn to your furniture. Even if they aren’t used to attacking the furniture long claws can get caught in certain fibers and pull them loose.

Also, playtime with your cat is not as much fun when each time they touch you their claws dig in. Regular claw clipping will prevent you from dripping blood and your cat from snagging their claws and hurting themselves.

The Method

To begin, use a nail clipper or one that is specially designed for pet nails. Some people use scissors but there is more chance of cutting the wrong part of the nail if you are new to the whole process.

Prepare your cat. It is best to get him after a meal when he is getting sleepy. He is more relaxed at this point. Try to have a friend or family member help you to hold your cat for the clipping.

Have your helper hold your cat in a towel. The towel should drape around the cat as if you were tying a napkin around his neck for dinner. Hold him firmly around the neck using the towel but don’t choke him. It is also helpful to hold him by the nape of the neck with your hand.

Start with the back legs. Talk soothingly to your cat to keep him calm. If he is still agitated, cover his head with another towel so that he won’t get anxious when he sees you.

Here are a few anatomy tips to help you out. When you hold the cat’s paw and press it down, the claws come out. Cut only the end of the claw.

You may see a pink vein. Don’t cut near it or past it. This is referred to as the “quick” and injuring it will be painful for your pet.

Finish by clipping the front claws. Go as slowly as you need to for your cat to stay calm and comfortable.

Cutting a cat’s claws can seem daunting but it doesn’t have to be if you are prepared.

Skinny Pig

Skinny Pig
Cavia porcellus
"These little guys can be quite mischievous, however they are also very affectionate!

Even though the Skinny Pig is considered hairless, it does have a small amount of hair!

The Skinny pig is a breed of guinea pig that used to be quite rare, but is becoming more and more popular. They are one of two types of hairless guinea pigs. The other type is called the Baldwin Guinea Pig. Although they may not be as pretty to some people, these guinea pigs can actually be quite friendly and many people fall in love with them… Read More

How to Choose an Aquarium for your Fish

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to fish and their aquarium homes. Here are some tips to help you to find the right fit for your little underwater dwellers.

Finding a home for your fish is like the chicken and the egg. Which comes first? Do you fit the aquarium to the fish or the fish to the aquarium?

Getting Started

The best plan of attack is to choose your fish first. This will dictate a lot of the decisions you need to make later and make them a bit easier. Here’s why.

Let’s say that you have a flair for the exotic and want a baby shark. First of all you will need a saltwater tank and that requires a much larger investment and set up than a first-time fish owner may want. Your baby shark wouldn’t be happy in a traditional rectangular fish tank.

So, begin with your fish. Here are a few questions you might want to keep in mind.

Where do I live? – For an apartment, you might not want to invest in a large 50 gallon aquarium full of fish that requires lots of maintenance. If for some reason it cracks, not only your apartment, but several other people’s will be affected.

How much space do I have? – If you only have a small living room or limited space in the bedroom for a tank, choosing a smaller fish that can survive in a limited habitat might be better for you.

How much money do I want to invest? – The more exotic the fish, the more you will spend keeping them alive. Fish are pets and they do need constant care. It might not be as much as a dog, but they do need a clean place to live and stimulation to keep them happy. Your fish can become a chore if you are constantly shelling out money.

Do I have other pets? – Your dog may not care about a few fish but your cat or bird will. They may view it as a moving smorgasbord. Adding fish may not be the best idea.

What’s my schedule? – If you are busy, fish may be a great pet. But, don’t get too fancy. Exotic fish will require more regular care. Can you provide it?

The Tank

Once you have decided which fish would work for you, then you can investigate the recommended aquariums for that species. Here’s what to look for.

Size of Tank – The general rule for starting is one gallon of water per one inch of fish length
Filtered tank – Less cleaning for you and better overall environment for the fish
Cover – Prevents fish from jumping out and hiding behind the couch
Fluorescent lights – Inhibit algae growth and provide light without too much heat
Tank heater – Great for tropical fish who like and need it warm

Now you know where to start. Find your fish and then choose the tank.

Featured Pet of the Week: The Common Goldfish

The Featured Pet of the Week is: The Common Goldfish!

Goldfish are well known fish that are great pets because they are very attractive, have great personalities with their keepers, and are “easy” to keep. This is definitely true, and for this reason the common goldfish, Carassius auratus auratus, is actually a great fish for beginners. Working in a pet store for a number of years, I have had my fair share of caring for goldfish as well as many other fish and animals.

When people would come into the pet store to get goldfish they generally wanted them for one of two purposes, as feeder fish or as pets. Goldfish are often a first pet for children. They are a fun, yet a fairly inexpensive introduction to the world of fish keeping, and pet keeping in general. I would then help them get all set up for their goldfish with an aquarium set-up, food and a care sheet.

Goldfish are quite colorful and can easily be found at almost any pet store. Common goldfish are inexpensive and make a great starter fish. They will eat almost any type of fish food offered to them and get along well with most other community fish. Though they are sometimes put in a goldfish bowl or a smaller aquarium when they are young, they do grow into large fish so will soon need a much larger aquarium. Goldfish can also do well in ponds. This is because they are naturally cold-water fish and don’t need to have strict temperature control like many tropical fish do. Common goldfish will also usually fare well with other pond fish, such as koi.

Goldfish are considered hardy and can survive in many conditions, but they must be provided with a good environment. The Common Goldfish can get quite large, over 12 inches when they are kept in large enough aquariums or ponds and in optimum conditions. Optimal conditions for goldfish are dependent on a lot of oxygen in the water, and good water quality. A habitat that is not optimal can not only stunt their growth, but will also decrease their lifespan. Small goldfish bowls or fish tanks that are too small will not provide optimum conditions and your pets won’t reach their potential full size.

Provide the best environment by keeping pet goldfish in a good-sized aquarium with a heater, proper filtration for good water quality, and other social fish as tank mates. This will keep them healthy for the duration of their lives. Of course, the more fish you plan to keep in your aquarium, the larger you will want it to be.

Goldfish need a lot of oxygen, so you will want to get a tank with a lot of surface area. Surface area helps to increase the amount of oxygen in the tank. Also, goldfish produce a lot of waste (in comparison to other fish), so you will want more water volume per fish to help keep it cleaner. It is recommended to start with at least a 20-gallon tank for your first goldfish, and then to increase it an additional 10 gallons for every additional goldfish. The general rule is that you should provide a minimum of 1 gallon of water for every 1 inch of fish length. But as the goldfish become larger, this rule doesn’t apply as well because larger fish consume more oxygen and produce even more waste.

Goldfish are very social creatures and thrive when living with other fish. Therefore, they do very well with other goldfish and a variety of community fish. They act as scavengers as well, and so if kept in a community tank, there is little need for other scavengers or bottom feeders. One thing to keep watch out for is to make sure they do not have any diseases – such as ich or parasites. Whenever adding new fish to an aquarium, watch for any signs of a problem and treat the aquarium accordingly.

In conclusion, if you would like to get a fish that is easy to care for and hardy, starting with goldfish may be the way to go! To learn more, visit the Common Goldfish page!

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