This is my hammock setup: Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) Double Nest Hammock. Homemade Hammock Underquilt - insulation and fabric sourced from Walmart. Homemade 11' x 12" Silnylon Tarp. Black Diamond Treking Poles hold up one side. The other side is staked to the ground. The hammock is hung using ENO adjustable slap straps. Mont-Bell Super Stretch 800 Down #3 sleeping bag used as an overquilt. I do wear a knit hat and a fleece jacket while I sleep. This system sleeps warm down to 30 F. At temps below that you freeze your buns off, literally.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Caring For Your Baby Ferret
Baby ferrets are cute and cuddly, like most baby pets, but it is important to remember that they require lots of care and attention. Before you purchase a baby ferret, you should have prior knowledge as to what to expect in terms of care - housing, diet, and toys. This knowledge will help both you and your ferret to get the most out of your companionship.
Pet ferrets should always be neutered and de-scented as soon as possible. When ferrets go into heat, it can last for months. Prolonged exposure to these hormones can have a devastating effect on the female ferret and can ultimately lead to death. If a ferret does get impregnated, gestation will last for about 42 days. During this time, the female - or jill - will sleep longer than usual. When the jill goes into labor, never touch her or her kits unless it is an emergency. Doing so will risk the lives of the kits and she may end up attacking you as well. The jill can become quite hostile as she may think that you are attempting to harm her kits.
Ferrets will begin to open their eyes and develop their color by the time they are 20 days old. When they reach the age of 6 weeks, they are ready to leave their mothers. At this time, you should start to prepare them for their first veterinarian visit to have them vaccinated, de-scented, and neutered. They can be weaned onto adult food at this age as well. Like their adult counterparts, baby ferrets require a diet high in animal proteins and fats, and low in carbohydrates and fiber. The levels of protein should be approximately 35% and the fat should be about 20%. The animal protein and fat should mostly be in the form of eggs and poultry. Do not give your baby ferrets any treats until you are ready to begin house-training. And when you do start, avoid giving your ferret any dairy items or sugary foods. Dairy does not agree with a ferret's digestive system and can cause diarrhea. Too much sugar can permanently damage a ferret's pancreas. Definitely stay away from raisins as they are extremely high in sugar content.
When it comes to choosing a house for your baby ferret, the same requirements apply as with adult ferrets. Ferrets need plenty of room to sleep, play, and defacate. A dark and comfortable corner should be designated as a sleeping area. Line the bottom with layers of soft towels or clothing. Do not line the cage with wood chips as these are dangerous to your ferret's health and can cause respiratory problems. Avoid putting anything in the cage that your ferret can chew on and swallow. This will lead to severe health problems, such as intestinal blockages, that will eventually require surgery. You will need to ferret proof your home as well. Ferrets are very curious and adventurous animals. If there is something that can be chewed, shredded, or investigated, you can be sure that your ferret will find it. You should always allow your pet to roam around, play, and exercise, but make sure to remove anything that can pose a potential hazard.
Now you are ready to bring your new addition home. With lots of love and attention, your ferret will be sure to thrive and give you years of entertainment and companionship.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Monday, August 16, 2010
Ferret Hammocks
As any ferret owner can attest, ferrets love to nap and are particularly fond of cozy, somewhat enclosed spots for sleeping. Ferret hammocks provide the perfect sleeping spot, as relaxing as any human hammock, and can also serve as one more climbing toy for ferrets to play on.
Ferret hammocks are readily available, both online and in local pet stores, and come in a variety of sizes, price ranges, and materials. A basic ferret hammock can cost as little as $5, while more complicated ones run closer to $20. Some have simple clips to hook to the top of the cage, while others have their own standing frames, much like some human hammocks. While different ferrets have distinct preferences for materials, in general ferret hammocks made from fleece seem to be the most popular.
The most basic ferret hammocks are a single layer of material that is clipped or tied to the top of the cage. Since ferrets like to sleep in dark, enclosed space, though, sleep sacks, which are like hammocks crossed with sleeping bags, are quite popular. These sleep sacks have two layers of fabric, with the top layer folding over to form a sort of envelope or pouch in which the ferrets can nest.
Patterns are even available online, for knitting, crocheting, or sewing a ferret hammock. It's not unusual to make a basic homemade ferret hammock from an old shirt or towel, with no sewing whatsoever.
Whatever type of ferret hammock you choose, your ferret is sure to enjoy this new addition to its cage.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
The Secrets You Wish Steve Irwin Had Told You About Pet Cages
Ok, if Steve Irwin had offered you advice about pets cages, what do you think it would have been? In the first instance, I think he would have told you to consider the specific animal, because they all have different characteristics and they all have different requirements.
Obviously a pets cage needs to fit in your house ok, so that always needs to be a consideration. By the same token though, the animal the pets cage houses also needs to be comfortable as well. Beyond the aspects of comfort, the animal needs to have enough to keep it occupied. Some animals need more stimulus than others, but the critical think hear is understanding. Do some research before you get the pet and find out what it's ideal requirements are, then go from there.
You might have restrictions on room perhaps, but that doesn't mean that you cannot use some imagination to make the pets habitat as interesting as possible. Some animals like to run around a lot, so exercise facilities would be great. Others are just plain inquisitive and like to chew and gnaw, so their requirements would be a little different. Remember that chewing animals sometimes need to be protected from themselves, so make sure that whatever they do chew is safe for them.
You also want to ensure that your pets are prevented from escaping. Fun though it might be for them initially, they are in peril if people do not realise that they are out and about. Sometimes, smaller pets can have more than one in a cage. So how many should you have? It depends on the size of the cage of course, but the answer again is to do some research and find out what the animal's requirements are.
I have heard, for example, that you can access software that tells you how many rats you should house per square foot! I expect that if you looked hard enough, you could find similar assistance for other creatures. Don't forget cleaning either. Pets cages will need rigorous cleaning, so please make sure that the cage you get is up to rough treatment from you as well as the animal in question.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Why Ferrets Make Good Pets, Even If They Stink!
Yes, ferrets reek! But ferrets make good pets and I would still recommend owning one of these fascinating animals. There is a reason why they are fast becoming a popular pet and I'm here to tell you why. But first, I want to address the "reek" factor of ferrets. They do come from the weasel family and carry a musk that might not be to everyone's liking. But, unless you're planning to breed ferrets, a quick spay or neuter by your veterinarian will control the odor. On a side note, spaying or neutering your ferret is done mostly for health reasons, not odor control. So whether you like the smell or not, get your pet spayed or neutered.
Ferrets are good looking creatures, and that's why you first noticed them right? They're cute - especially the ones that have a raccoon mask. But what sets ferrets apart from other animals is their infectious, and I mean infectious, personalities. Ferrets are quintessential charmers. They're playful, curious, and intelligent. But don't be fooled by their charms. They are also professional thieves, conmen, and hold multiple violations, such as breaking and entering and destruction of property. Don't worry, they mean all good.
Besides having all the fun, ferrets do need to be taken care of properly. They need a big airy ferret cage, ferret food, litter box, play toys, playtime and a little bit of firm discipline. You should also be prepared to clean the litter box daily and provide fresh food and water everyday. Your home needs to be fully "ferret proofed", meaning your home needs to be checked for escape routes, dangerous wires and chewable objects.
Luckily, ferrets are fairly simple to care for. Ferrets are professional sleepers and can snooze up to 20 hours a day; which is perfect for anyone with a busy schedule. You do need to set up some playtime everyday though. Ferrets need daily mental and physical stimulation.
If you have kids or other pets, please use caution. Ferrets tend to play rough. They'll jump, claw and nip at you to entice you to play a game of hide and seek and this maybe a little too much for a toddler. Ferrets are natural born hunters. Actually, they're natural born rodent killers. All the way to present time, ferrets are used for hunting vermin. They have an amazing ability to smell and go into the smallest holes to get what they want. So if you do have any pet rats, birds, mice, hamsters, or rabbits, I would use caution when introducing them to your ferret. I have seen many times that they can be friends, but if your rodent ends up missing one day, don't say that I didn't warn you.
Ferrets make the ultimate pets, but they are a reflection of what owners can provide for them. It is no coincidence that there are many ferrets in shelters looking for a good home, so please make it your responsibility to prepare yourself before bringing home one of these fascinating creatures into your world.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Large Metal Chinchilla Cages Are Best, Avoid Plastic Ones - Here's Why!
Large Metal Chinchilla Cages are superior to plastic ones for several reasons:
You Pet likes to Chew
Plastic can be gnawed away at. This is undesirable for two main reasons. Aesthetically, it will spoil the cage. More seriously for your pet, it can be a health hazard. Your pet may swallow a chunk of plastic. It may also gnaw away the plastic such that a sharp edge is formed, which your pet may one day cut itself against. It's really not worth the risk to your pet's health to take a chance on a plastic cage. And do you really want to have a cage with bits and pieces gnawed away on display?
Hygiene
Large Metal Chinchilla Cages are much more easier to clean as waste tends not to stick to metal like it does with plastic. If you can't properly clean your pet's cage then it provides fertile breeding ground for bacteria, which can harm both your pet and even yourself. Not good, especially if you have children around who may pick up the bacteria when they next approach your pet's cage for entertainment from their furry friend. It's far more easier to wipe down and clean metal cages. And metal doesn't stain like plastic can either, again providing another aesthetic benefit on top of a health benefit.
Why a Large Cage?
The only thing not covered above is why the cage should be large. The answer to that is because in their natural mountain habitat, chinchillas love to run around and climb, therefore they need a cage that enables them to replicate their natural habitat as far as possible. To this end you should select a cage that is both long and high to accommodate your pet's need to run and climb. Also, to provide companionship, people often buy a pair of chinchillas together, or introduce one later one. Large metal chinchilla cages also allow for this scenario, and are the superior choice for your pet over their plastic counterparts.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Chinchilla Habitat
If you're planning to purchase chinchillas, you should be sure that you create the right habitat for your pets. It's important that, before you do go out and purchase one of your own chinchillas as a pet, you learn more details about what they like and dislike. Invest some time researching a chinchilla's habitat in the wild. This will help to set-up a home for your pet where they'll be comfortable living.
A good number of domestic chinchillas' forefathers resided within the Andes Mountain area of Chile and South America. If in the rough outdoors these critters tend to create their homes in burrows on rocky crevices around the sides of mountains. Which means it is important that you produce this sort of home for them.
When you do bring a chinchilla into your home, just remember to get a proper house (cage) in which it should be kept. It is very important that you decide on a cage with a good amount of height to it, furnishing them with plenty of space to climb around and play when in the cage.
You may think that its possible to save money by purchasing a good sized bird cage, that would normally house a parrot, is a good idea. It just is not because there will not plenty of living space allowing this wonderful pet the ability to maneuver and jump inside of. Although it is difficult to think, these types of pets are capable at jumping as much as 1.5 meters straight into mid-air. Therefore, you are generally far better off spending a bit more on a caged surrounding made to develop an ideal habitat for your chinchilla.
Besides making sure that you have a home wherein they have got risers which they will be able to climb, chinchillas need to have alternative activities that will keep them content. Consider integrating some types of toys except for those composed of plastic material to keep them amused. You will need to keep in mind that chinchillas like to gnaw stuff and typically the plastic-type toys may contain chemicals that may turn out to be toxic and hazardous to their health. Alternatively there are numerous other objects like wooden toys (all-natural ones are usually better) and also paper tubes should be well suited for your chinchilla play around with. And don't forget, have a look at supplying chew sticks for them.
In terms of just what ones own pet chinchilla needs to eat, the process of understanding additional information about how this animal lives in the wild will let you to make the decision what should be included in their diet regime. When out in their wild habitat most chinchillas are likely to ingest various plants, seeds and insects. For that reason if you want your pet to remain in good health and not have potential digestive tract infections then a hay based diet should be used. Also, make certain you supply them with plenty of water each day.
Another thing you have to think about when creating an ideal chinchilla habitat for one's pet is to bear in mind that these types of pets tend to be most active at night. So make sure that you house them in a location that they cannot disturb you or other members of your family while trying to sleep.
Charlie Carson
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Setting Up a Nursery at Home
Are you a mom-to-be who is setting up a nursery? Why not look online to help you shop for your baby's bedding and doctor? There are so many themes out there, you can find hundreds if not thousands of them online.
Instead of going to a store and being limited to what stock they can physically house, you can shop the world of baby bedding online. Literally, you can see more stock than would ever be possible for one store to contain. No store can have all designs and brands.
Online sites will have a huge selection to choose from. It can be tricky to narrow it down though, especially if you don't know what would be best for your needs. It's even harder to pick from a huge pool of possibilities than from a small pool, especially if there isn't much on the site to help you decide.
Bedding manufacturers are creating crib bedding collections more and more, with new collections being added seemingly daily. It is flooding the market. Plus there are so many accessories to match, you can be overwhelmed. Take full advantage of the widespread availability of things to choose from on the web. Not only will you have a great selection to view from the comfort of your home, but you'll find that prices are typically more competitive than they are in retail outlets.
Go online to buy a baby quilt and sheets, and you'll find you can also pick up the matching light switch cover, lamp, lampshade, mobile, music box, diaper stacker, curtains, rug, pillows, and so on. It's really amazing how integrated you can make a baby's room with a single theme, now that manufacturers are offering matching items. If you aren't sure if you are having a boy or girl, pick something that is in a neutral color scheme.
There are plenty of designers in the baby bedding market these days. You are sure to be able to find attractive, reasonably priced, high quality pieces that will make you happy if you look.
Some consumers want to buy retail directly from a store instead. Try a bedding retailer. Check to see if they offer crib bedding or have a children's section. You can also try in a baby store, in the linens and furniture section. You'll find something in your budget that is very cute.
Try the mall too. You never know what you may come across at the mall, and if one store doesn't work out there are plenty of others.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Much a Do Hammock by Chaz
Make a great hammock for your backyard or hiking trip. Supplies: 3.5 yards of fabric 10 - 20 feet of rope 2 - 2.5 inch metal rings
Friday, July 23, 2010
How to Train Your Ferret
Have you always wondered why for other ferret owners it is so easy to command their pets? Now, you can be one of them. Ferrets are smart creatures and instruction activities are not that hard, but you only need to have spare time and patience for your ferret. This is the reason why ferrets can be trained so easy. Here you have some more useful information about the easier ways to train your pet.
Tolerance and Reliability
Training an animal require stability. This is extremely true for those ferrets who are about to learn new actions from their individual friends. Always have in your mind the thing that training is not always a piece of cake. You need to provide your pet sufficient time and endurance for him to learn what you want it to teach him. Expect to be pushed until the limits but you do not have to shout at them or punish them in any way. Set yourself a limit and your pet some time off from the training if you feel like blowing up. Reliability is also a big prerequisite for them to retain the knowledge that you are imparting. Without giving them training patters, they will never remember what those commands are for. Positive reinforcement is an effective and easier tool. Like dogs, they need treats to assure them that they are behaving as they should do and to assure you that he is impelled to learn new things. By any means do not allow them to associate your commands from fear. Do not you ever shout at him.
Learning his Name
Repeating the pets name every time you call him is a vital step to educate him for other commands and tricks. If your ferret does not know his own name, it is more difficult for you to teach him new tricks. Once you see him, approach him, call him by name and give him a treat every time he responds. Continue doing this often so he can learn that you are calling him and especially if there are other ferrets in the family.
The More, the Merrier
If you have an army of other ferrets and your new ferret wants some introduction, set a time limit so he can get used to those other ferrets. Let the newcomer adjust to his ambiance and to his new friends. You will know when he starts to mingle with the rest of your ferrets and have fun with his newfound friends. They need guidance and regular monitoring especially for their first time together. It is usual for them to do a bit of hissing and quarreling as this is standard for all other creatures in the creature kingdom. Once they are used to it they are going to be playmates and further separation will cause them stress.
Clicker Teaching
An additional efficient way to teach your furry friend is the use of a clicker. This is a kind of toy used by animal trainers to obtain the desired reaction from their pets. Clickers make a variety of sounds and ferrets can easily connect to those noises. Clickers are available in pet stores and online stores.
The Earlier, the Better
It is given rule that the younger the animal is the easier is for him to learn new tricks. You can keep repeating the tricks and rewarding them with treats if they behave how you have thought them, make sure that they keep in mind your command every time you say it. Do not be indolent because that wood not help you in any way and it will erase whatever reliability is required for your pet to learn new things. 10 minutes of daily education is fine as long as it is repetitive and constant than an hour of training once a week. You will only discard your energy, time and effort if you prolong the practice sessions for more than 10 minutes.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Ferret Care - A 3-Step Guide For Beginners
One of the main concerns of ferret owners is ferret care. In fact, browsing online would bring you sites and resources that have something to do with ferret owning and ferret care sheets. It has been proven that some ferret owners tend to seek advice not from professionals but through other owners and friends. This may not be such a bad idea but an expert's opinion is definitely advised for starting owners. So, how do we really care for our ferrets? Here's a list of pointers:
1. Ferret nutrition and diets. These are considered basics. In feeding your pets, what matters is the type of foods as well as the nutrients that come with it. For baby ferrets, you can opt to give them special kit or growth foods. On the other hand, once they reached their sixth week, you may also try giving them foods that are similar to the ones you give to adult ferrets.
Cat food is often utilized in terms of ferret care and nutrition. However it is best not to compare your ferret's needs with that of kittens or dogs. Surely, these commercially-prepared items consist of vitamins and nutrients meant for animal needs. On the other hand, cats and ferrets have different dietary requirements.
2. Ferret shelters and cages are also part of total ferret care. If choosing for diamonds bring us the top C's which are clarity, carat and color, ferret cages have the following elements. We have the space, security and sanitation.
Go for cages that are spacious and have large doors. Think of giving your pets the easiest access to their nest boxes or litter trays. Provide additional support by placing tiles or cabinet liners to your ferret's cage floors.
Cleaning your ferret's cage is definitely a must. Besides, ferret care is all about the general condition and maintenance of everything that would help our pets lead better lives. Make sure that litter trays and basins are clean. You may also need to teach your pets how to use the litter box.
3. Toys and accessories are truly secondary items, but ferret care also includes these provisions in general. Be cautious when shopping for these supplies. Consider the toy's materials and small parts. Specialty stores usually have an array of items good for ferrets, which is why checking out these shops is greatly advised.
The given list is often referred to by beginners, with hopes of increasing their knowledge about ferrets. Ferret care may be an overwhelming idea but making time to learn them is beneficial in the process. There are other resource sites where you can get great tips, all you need to do is constantly search and digest what's best for your ferret.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Guinea Pig Cage Ideas For Cubes & Coroplast
Guinea pig cage ideas can be both fun to create, and tedious at the same time. Making sure your cavy has the right amount space to run, sleep, eat is an important aspect of designing a cage. With the famous Cubes & Coroplast (C&C) cages you can customize your desired cage to your available space and still meet the needs of your guinea pigs. C&C cages are of equal or lesser cost of most store-bought cages and hutches, and usually several times more spacious.
Cubes & Coroplast are the best foundation when it comes to creating guinea pig cage ideas. The endless possibilities even with limited space is what makes C&C cages such a great cage idea and choice. Below are few quick ideas for you to consider when building your cavy's cage.
Make a Separate Litter Box
Many C&C cage owners build a separate litter box with the left over coroplast, and place a hay rack over it. This is an excellent guinea pig cage idea because hay gets everywhere very easily. Placing a litter box with your choice of wood bedding or carefresh below hay will keep the cage much cleaner.
If you are patient and really want to challenge your little buddies, try litter training. This can make clean up much easier and make the cage look much cleaner than without this training.
Storage Below The Cage
Make a two-story C&C cage and place the cage part on the 2nd story it the first story on the ground. This way you can store all the food, and other important items you use for or with taking care of your cavy. It's a fast and easy way to grab and go when you're caring for your cavies. Storing hay, food, grooming items, and nearly anything you can consider is a good idea.
Two-Story Cage
Running out of space horizontally? Then a two-story guinea pig cage is for you. Adding a second level adds excellent exercise to your cavy's day. However, be sure that your still offer a clear path around the perimeter of the first floor of the cage. A cavy requires a clear, uninterrupted path when they choose to do laps in the cage for exercise. That is why it is suggested to have a ramp that begins in the middle of the cage that leads upwards, rather than a ramp that is located on the perimeter. Just a guinea pig cage idea you should consider. Placing a small hand-held vacuum cleaner can help to quickly pickup your pet's waste.
Hay Feeders
Place two grids together and create a hay feeder that can be placed anywhere in the cage. This a guinea pig cage idea that is typical for most owners as you can make a hay feeder out of left over grids from your initial C&C materials purchase.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Duo Aerial Fabric Hammock
Duo Fabric Hammock Act performed by Alex Walker & Cathy Gauch of Aircat Aerial Arts www.aircat.net
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Understanding Your Chinchilla's Habitat
Chinchillas originated from South America, more particularly in the Andes Mountains. In their natural habitat, these rodents can jump high, even reaching more than a meter. Their agility serves them well in the mountains as it allows them to survive threats present in the environment. Some of the animals that prey on them in the natural Chinchilla habitat are snakes, birds of prey, and canine. To protect themselves against these predators, Chins have the ability to release fur. They also spray urine in order to ward off any attacks.
In their natural habitat, Chins feed on plants and at times, small insects. This is the primary reason why most captive Chins are given diet based on hay. Giving other foods may cause irritation on the digestive system of these animals. Also, groups of Chins are referred to as 'herds' in their natural habitats.
Since Chinchillas have become popular pets in past years, the cage has also been considered as a Chinchilla habitat. When choosing a cage, the height and width should be prioritized. A spacious cage is ideal for Chins due to their hyperactive nature. Cages that have ledges and shelves are also recommended since these items can enable the creatures to play, jump, and run around the cage. The ledges and shelves should also be sturdy enough to carry the weight of the animals. The wires of the cages should not be made out of plastic, since Chins are fond of chewing on them. Plastic can be poisonous and potentially harm or kill Chins who chomp on them.
A bedroom should never be considered as a Chinchilla habitat. Chins are usually asleep during the day and active at night. Their nocturnal disposition will only cause troubles to their pet owners who insist on keeping them on their bedrooms. Chins usually run around their cages at night, and any person will have a hard time sleeping when they have these active animals running and jumping throughout the night.
Playtime is important to Chins. Once a day, pet owners should take them out of their cages and allow them to roam around. This should be done at night, when they have the energy to perform their hyperactive stunts. The Chinchilla habitat should have ramps where these creatures can run around and climb.
Chins are very hyperactive that they are difficult to control when they are in their cages. These rodents are very curious, which makes them easy to teach with various tricks. Chins learn through habits. The more frequent that they perform a task, the more likely that they will learn a trick. Giving treats such as wooden toys and raisins will also increase the likelihood that they will learn whatever tricks taught to them.
Aside from enough food, there should also be enough water in the Chinchilla habitat. The food bowl should be sturdy enough since Chins may run over them. Pet owners should also look closely into the eating habits of their Chins since the food they eat may have an effect o on their digestive system.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Tips to Bring Your Ferret Home
Now that you have decided that you want to keep a ferret as a pet, there are several important tips to remember before you take your new friend home. Your ferret will need a suitable home to live in. Although ferrets love to run, play, and explore, it will spend most of the day inside its cage. You need to ensure that the cage provides three essential things for your ferret: a comfortable place to sleep, a private place to do its 'business', and ample room to play.
An ideal ferret cage will consist of multiple levels, with shelves and ladders to climb. You should purchase a cage with a wood bottom, not mesh as this will hurt your ferret's feet. Under no circumstances should you house your ferret in a glass aquarium as this does not provide enough circulation and moisture will build up. Too much moisture can cause bacterial and fungal infections on the skin and can affect the respiratory system. This can ultimately lead to death.
When you are lining the cage, do not use wood chips as, again, this could lead to respiratory problems. Instead, use a clean towel or old clothing; something that is soft and comfortable to sleep on. Ferrets also love to sleep in suspended hammocks. Make the sleeping area as comfortable and dark as possible as ferrets sleep a majority of the day; on average from 15 to 20 hours.
Be extremely cautious when you are choosing toys for your ferret. Avoid anything that is made from soft, spongy, or easily ripped material. If your ferret manages to shred materials and swallow them, this can seriously harm the intestines, resulting in the need for surgery. Some great suggestions for toys include long tubes, slides, and wheels. Anything that is stimulating and fun will keep your ferret entertained for long periods of time. Such things as balls with bells or rattles are also good suggestions.
Ferrets are members of the weasel family, which means that they are carnivores and require a diet that is high in animal protein and fat. They should not eat a lot of foods that are high in carbohydrates and fiber. Ferrets have extremely high metabolisms and must eat every 3 to 4 hours. Keep a constant supply of food and fresh water available. A water dish is preferable to a water bottle as ferrets like to wash their faces in the dish as well. Hard food is preferable to soft food as the soft food will go bad if left out for too long.
All pets require regular visits to the local veterinarian as well as regular vaccinations, and ferrets are no different. When they mature and reach adulthood, ferrets will begin to emit a strong odor. It is recommended that you bring them to the vet to have them de-scented and neutered. Always follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding ferret care. This will ensure that your pet will live a long and healthy life.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
The Habitat of Chinchillas
Chinchilla Habitat
If you try to trace the origin of the chinchillas, you will most probably get the results of the Andes Mountain region, South America, and Chile. Burrows and rock crevices serve as the natural habitat of these creatures who can jump as high as 1.5 meters. Their agility serves as their weapon in surviving in elevated areas.
Threats from predators including birds of prey, skunks, felines, canines and snakes are often encountered by chinchillas. Various defense mechanisms are employed by chinchillas as a means of protecting themselves from potential predators. Spraying urine and releasing fur are some of the protective strategies.
Chinchillas who live in their natural habitat often feed on small insects, seeds and plants. Chinchillas who have had domesticated training are advised to apply a hay-based diet. Other types of diet may cause the chinchilla's digestive system to be irritated.
The groups that chinchillas form in their natural habitat are called 'herds'. Chinchillas are also known for their ability to reproduce at any part of the year.
Chinchillas that are domesticated should be kept in a cage. Height is the primary factor that should be considered in choosing a cage for the chinchilla. So your chinchilla can play and climb, you may also consider choosing cages with shelves and ledges. It is also advisable to construct the sides out of wires. Aside from their poisonous nature, wood bases are also not advisable because they might give the chinchilla an opportunity to chew out and escape.
Keeping your chinchilla near or inside your bedroom is also not advisable. Their nocturnal nature makes the chinchillas active and alert during nighttime. Their alertness and energy during nighttime may hinder you and your family from getting a good night's sleep.
The exercise and supervised run of the chinchillas should be neglected. At least once a day, bring your chinchillas outside of their cages for such purpose. Since they are nocturnal, they would still have the energy to play even during nighttime. Running and jumping between several ramps are natural and expected tendencies of chinchillas. You should also ensure the strength and stability of the wheels because the tiny feet of the chinchillas may get caught in the mesh.
You should prepare yourself that even when they are already in their cage, chinchillas cannot be totally controlled or contained. They are naturally inquisitive and curious. You can provide them with various activities and toys to gratify their curiosity and to keep them busy in their cages.
An ideal habitat for a chinchilla would not be complete without toys. However, plastic toys are not recommended. Your chinchillas may end up chewing on these toys, which would be harmful for your pets. In addition, it is also difficult to stop your chinchillas from chewing. Instead of plastic toys, you may provide your pet with wooden toys, paper tubes, and chew sticks.
Plenty of drinking water should also be provided in the cage of the chinchilla. A food bowl should also be placed. You should also carefully monitor the eating habits of your chinchilla because of the possible infections on their digestive tract.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Sugar Glider Care
You need to keep your Sugar Gliders cage area clean for the both of you. Numerous things cause odors that you may smell, and the most common is from the break down of urine & feces. When the fecal matter breaks down, ammonia is created. Another odor is caused by toys or other objects that you have in the cage area. The final odor would be that of a typical Sugar Glider marking odor.
To control odor, you can do several things. The most obvious is to change the bedding frequently. Some types of bedding will not require changing as often as others. The best way to maintain bedding is to completely change the bedding at least one a week while spot cleaning on a daily basis, more often if you have more than one Sugar Glider. It helps to use bedding that absorbs the scent. DO NOT use chemically treated materials since the Sugar Glider may chew or carry these items in their mouth and can ingest the toxins into their system.
There are different types of air freshener on the market to help keep your air clean. Some just make the air smell better by adding a fragrance to the air thus covering up the odor. Some actually neutralize the smell in the air. An Enzymatic odor remover from your local pet store will neutralize any odors in the cage. You can spray this on the cage, branches, or anything else that your pet might come in contact with.
Try different things, but the best way to make sure that everyone is happy is to make sure there is adequate air flow, change their bedding often, and use something to neutralize the odors. Check to see if what you buy is harmful or toxic to animals before you spray it in the air you and yours Sugar Glider will breathe.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Swing Into Summer With A New Hammock
You can buy a hammock for under $20.00 including shipping or you can buy one that cost $200.00 or more. To help ensure that you have a relaxing lazy afternoon it is important that you choose a hammock that is well balanced, comfortable and is the correct size.
Most well made hammocks are made of rope, woven like a fishnet and held apart at the head and foot with a wooden spreader made of quality oak, which is hand finished with polyurethane. Hammock rope should be strong, durable, soft-spun polyester, that resists rot and mildew. Some hammocks that cost less are made of fabric. Fabric hammocks use a large rectangle cloth made of cotton and polyester. Rope hammocks have a long established look and provide better ventilation than fabric hammocks.
A comfortable hammock is long and wide, especially if two people share. Choose a hammock with a tight weave rather than one with a loose weave. A tighter weave will give you better support particularly if it has a double woven edge. A smooth surface is very important, hammocks should not feel rough or scratchy.
Bring you hammocks indoors at night or if it rains. After a soaking rain most hammocks needed several hours drying time. Some brands need even more drying time because they tend to trap water. If you have two well positioned trees, you can suspend a hammock between them. No trees? Then you will need a stand that will cost you $100.00 or more. Most stands work with just about any brand hammock.
Vista Largo, Cloud Watcher, Pawleys Island and Coastal are the more preferred hammock brands. As for style, you can find the traditional hammock, hammock chairs or a swing rocker. There is even a very wide hammock that will fit an entire family. A travel hammock that is ultra light is a backpackers dream come true. Some weigh as little as 12 ounces. Travel hammocks dry fast, compresses to just about nothing and will hold 250 lbs of weight. The durable nylon blend is mildew resistant and stuffs quickly away in a furnished sack. Choose a hammock now and relax outside in a cool summer breeze.
Welcome to my http://fabric-hammock.blogspot.com/
Welcome to my http://fabric-hammock.blogspot.com/ Here you will learn about …. tips and how to find information.
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