There are many features of alligators that distinguish them from crocodiles and both of them belong to different taxonomic families. Alligators have a broader snout and their eyes are located near the upper side. When light is flashed over the eyes, bigger alligators have a red glow and smaller alligators have a green glow. This can be of help, when searching for alligators in dark. When looking in daylight, it is also observed that alligators have brown eyes and crocodiles have green eyes.
Alligators can eat anything they can find because of the gastroliths (stomach stones) present in their stomach. Young alligators feed on crustaceans, fishes, snails, and insects. As they grow so does their need for larger prey. Bigger alligators feed on turtles, bigger fishes, birds, and, other reptiles and mammals. They even eat deer, razorbacks, small alligators and carcass of animals when they are extremely hungry. Few attacks on humans have also been reported, but the number is on the rise. People get overconfident about this fact and enter alligator habitats without much care, resulting in provoking their aggression. But alligators do not immediately attack humans, like crocodiles.
Alligators are bound to get aggressive and dangerous at times, which can prove fatal to people around. Owners should be prepared as their pet can grow more than twelve feet. Some owners panic when they start getting bigger and longer and decide to free it from the captivity. But this can be extremely dangerous to residents of that locality because by then the animal would loose its natural fear and will attack humans. When decision is taken for adopting an alligator as a pet, the owner should be firm enough to make a lifetime commitment.
On Crocodiles
These reptiles are often underestimated, but they are very strong and fast. Lots of practice should be done before handling a crocodile. In fact, the larger the crocodile, the more the number of people required for handling it. If untrained or inexperienced team handles a crocodile, they are prone to getting serious injuries and might even die on the spot. No amount of training can tame the crocodile. Most of the owners are in delusion in this regard. A lot of hard work and many years of time would have be invested to tame a crocodile.
Crocodiles eat both vertebrates and invertebrates. For example, they eat mammals, reptiles, fishes, crustacean and mollusks. They can live up to minimum of thirty years and can even cross hundred years of age. Owners should be certainly aware of this fact and make preparations in advance because there is larger possibility that the pet outlives the owner. Crocodiles can grow from five feet to six feet and can weigh nearly three thousand pounds. At birth they measure twenty centimeters only. This is also one of the factors, which tempts owners to keep them as pet and when they begin to grow, the owner panics and starts thinking of abandoning them.
2008年8月19日星期二
The Most Common Cat Diseases
Cats get ill even if they are taken care of very well. The cat diseases range from kitty cold to fatal diseases. Some of the most common cat diseases are discussed under:
Upper respiratory infection is very common among the cats and is also known as kitty cold by their owners. The symptoms are very similar to the cold of the humans, accompanied by sneezing and running nose. Even though it seems to be alike, the infections caused in the cats are very different as one species get infected by the other species. But, it can be contagious among the cats. The upper respiratory tract infection can lead to loss of appetite and can affect them from days to weeks. The cats must be made to eat, which can be encouraged by warming their foods and applying a warm, moist cloth to keep the cat’s nose and eyes free from any kind of discharge. If the loss of appetite persists and if the discharge becomes yellowish green in color and thicker, they have to be taken to the veterinarian immediately as it will be a serious problem.
Feline Chlamydia is a kind of bacteria which affects the cats, usually infesting the eye, causing conjunctivitis. The symptoms of feline Chlamydia are anorexia, cough, breathing problem, pneumonia, fever, sneezing, running nose, watery eyes etc. It is best treated with the help of antibiotics. This is also one of the common cat diseases.
Panleukopenia is a cat disease that makes the cat’s white blood cell count to drop drastically. As white blood cells are very important for the cat’s immunity, this condition makes the cats susceptible to many deadly infections. This virus is transmitted through body secretions, mainly via feces and can be carried by water or shoes.
Feline leukemia virus can cause many cat diseases. One among them is leukemia otherwise known as the cancer of the white blood cells. There is no known treatment for this disease and might lead to death after months or years after the incidence of this disease. It is usually transmitted during cat fights. Other reasons for transmission may be through foods shared among them, through water bowls, from mother to the kittens in the womb etc.
Parasites are organisms which feed on other living being for their own survival. Cats are affected by parasites, which feed on their blood. External parasites such as ear mites, fleas etc can be seen on the skin or fur of the cats and in their ears. Internal parasites detection may be bit difficult, but can be known through sighting small rice like debris lingering to the cat’s anus or in the cat’s bedding. Some of the internal parasites are ring worms, hook worms, tape worms etc.
Coccidia is a microscopic parasite which lives in the lining cells of the intestines. The symptom associated with this parasite is diarrhea which if left untreated, can lead to dehydration and even death. Ear mites usually take up residence in the cat’s ear canals causing severe itching.
Upper respiratory infection is very common among the cats and is also known as kitty cold by their owners. The symptoms are very similar to the cold of the humans, accompanied by sneezing and running nose. Even though it seems to be alike, the infections caused in the cats are very different as one species get infected by the other species. But, it can be contagious among the cats. The upper respiratory tract infection can lead to loss of appetite and can affect them from days to weeks. The cats must be made to eat, which can be encouraged by warming their foods and applying a warm, moist cloth to keep the cat’s nose and eyes free from any kind of discharge. If the loss of appetite persists and if the discharge becomes yellowish green in color and thicker, they have to be taken to the veterinarian immediately as it will be a serious problem.
Feline Chlamydia is a kind of bacteria which affects the cats, usually infesting the eye, causing conjunctivitis. The symptoms of feline Chlamydia are anorexia, cough, breathing problem, pneumonia, fever, sneezing, running nose, watery eyes etc. It is best treated with the help of antibiotics. This is also one of the common cat diseases.
Panleukopenia is a cat disease that makes the cat’s white blood cell count to drop drastically. As white blood cells are very important for the cat’s immunity, this condition makes the cats susceptible to many deadly infections. This virus is transmitted through body secretions, mainly via feces and can be carried by water or shoes.
Feline leukemia virus can cause many cat diseases. One among them is leukemia otherwise known as the cancer of the white blood cells. There is no known treatment for this disease and might lead to death after months or years after the incidence of this disease. It is usually transmitted during cat fights. Other reasons for transmission may be through foods shared among them, through water bowls, from mother to the kittens in the womb etc.
Parasites are organisms which feed on other living being for their own survival. Cats are affected by parasites, which feed on their blood. External parasites such as ear mites, fleas etc can be seen on the skin or fur of the cats and in their ears. Internal parasites detection may be bit difficult, but can be known through sighting small rice like debris lingering to the cat’s anus or in the cat’s bedding. Some of the internal parasites are ring worms, hook worms, tape worms etc.
Coccidia is a microscopic parasite which lives in the lining cells of the intestines. The symptom associated with this parasite is diarrhea which if left untreated, can lead to dehydration and even death. Ear mites usually take up residence in the cat’s ear canals causing severe itching.
2008年8月12日星期二
Aquarium Fish Health: White Spot Disease Symptoms And Cures
Fish death is one of the main problems that beginner aquarist and even some expert aquarist face. It’s frustrating to the extent that most quit keeping aquarium fish.
But fish death can be avoided. Most fish deaths are caused as a result of both an internal and external types parasites that compete with the fish in tank.
As a result if you watch your aquarium fish often you should be able to discover when they have been infected by this parasite and be able to treat them to avoid fish death.
Look out for the following White Spot disease behavioral symptoms in your fish.
- Constant lying on the bottom or hanging at the surface.
- Rubbing of the body against rocks
- Gasping at the water surface
- No response to feeding
- General dullness and lethargy
- Hovering in a corner
- Fish swimming with clamps up
The most common of the visible signs is the development of the pin head-size while spots on the body or fins. This ailment is referred to as White Spot disease and is caused by the parasite - Ichthyophthirius Multifillis.
This parasite has a free-swimming stage, which attaches itself to the fish. The most common chemical used in treating infected fishes is Methylene Blue. You could buy a one per cent stock solution from a reputable chemist or aquarium shop and apply at 0.8 to 1.0ml per gallon of water. This amount should be added all at once. Repeat after one or two days.
The fishes must remain in this bath until every while spot has disappeared. A water change after treatment is necessary or else prolonged contact with the chemical may affect the fertility of the fish.
Another tip if you are using a side filter with activated charcoal should remove it to prevent the coal from absorbing the Methylene Blue.
Another tip... during treatment you should use artificial aeration with coarse bubbles near the surface, since a dirty bottom would inactivate the medicament by absorption. A better measure is to remove all dirt from the bottom before treatment.
Methylene Blue is harmless to young fish and unlike the general belief, it does not affect plants if used in weaker concentration.
But fish death can be avoided. Most fish deaths are caused as a result of both an internal and external types parasites that compete with the fish in tank.
As a result if you watch your aquarium fish often you should be able to discover when they have been infected by this parasite and be able to treat them to avoid fish death.
Look out for the following White Spot disease behavioral symptoms in your fish.
- Constant lying on the bottom or hanging at the surface.
- Rubbing of the body against rocks
- Gasping at the water surface
- No response to feeding
- General dullness and lethargy
- Hovering in a corner
- Fish swimming with clamps up
The most common of the visible signs is the development of the pin head-size while spots on the body or fins. This ailment is referred to as White Spot disease and is caused by the parasite - Ichthyophthirius Multifillis.
This parasite has a free-swimming stage, which attaches itself to the fish. The most common chemical used in treating infected fishes is Methylene Blue. You could buy a one per cent stock solution from a reputable chemist or aquarium shop and apply at 0.8 to 1.0ml per gallon of water. This amount should be added all at once. Repeat after one or two days.
The fishes must remain in this bath until every while spot has disappeared. A water change after treatment is necessary or else prolonged contact with the chemical may affect the fertility of the fish.
Another tip if you are using a side filter with activated charcoal should remove it to prevent the coal from absorbing the Methylene Blue.
Another tip... during treatment you should use artificial aeration with coarse bubbles near the surface, since a dirty bottom would inactivate the medicament by absorption. A better measure is to remove all dirt from the bottom before treatment.
Methylene Blue is harmless to young fish and unlike the general belief, it does not affect plants if used in weaker concentration.
2008年8月11日星期一
Top Three Dog Breeds - Large and Small
If you happen to be in the market for a purebred dog, there are over one hundred varieties to choose from. They each have their own traits and temperaments. They also come in large and small sizes.
You may be wondering what the most popular dogs in the United States are. According to the American Kennel Club's registration figures for 2006, the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever and German Shepherd lead the large dog breed category and the Yorkshire Terrier, Daschund and Poodle lead the small dog breed category.
The Labrador Retriever has held the number one spot in popularity since 1991. And if you were familiar with this breed you wouldn't question why. The Lab is a friendly, kind, intelligent, loving, loyal and eager to please pet who loves to play. They belong to the sporting dog group and are considered to be the original water dog, since they have a short double water resistant coat and an otter tail. Their strong legs allow for swimming and running. The Lab is easily trained and has a reliable temperament, making them an excellent choice for children. They are non-aggressive towards humans and other animals. They are also energetic and need a lot of exercise. Exercise will keep them happy and out of trouble.
If you want a people lover pet, then look no further than the Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever is a sturdy, heavily muscled, trustworthy and highly trainable breed. They have a golden colored medium length coat, feathered tail, a broad head, and powerful muzzle. They are gentle with children and need to be around people to be happy. This trait makes them excellent family dogs. They excel at obedience training and love to please their owners. They are highly energetic and need plenty of exercise otherwise they can become destructive. Because they love people so much, they don't make the best guard dogs.
The German Shepherd is also a well muscled animal that will reach up to 80 pounds when mature. They have a double, medium length coat, dark eyes and a long strong muzzle. Their smoothly curved body is longer than it is tall. They are confident, direct, fearless and willing to serve as a companion, a watchdog, herding dog, or guide dog for the blind. They are loyal and courageous and full of life. They are also outgoing and friendly but are suspicious of strangers.
If you're in the market for a feisty little animal the Yorkie is one to fit the bill. The Yorkshire Terrier has a long silky blue and tan coat, parted from the face down the spine. They belong to the toy terrier group, and although small in size, they believe themselves to be much bigger. This spunky terrier thrives on adventure and trouble. They are energetic, loyal, clever and brave. They have a great affection to their owners and, as equally, a great suspicion of others. This, along with their keen sense of hearing, makes them a great watchdog. They make better pets for older children and don't require a great deal of exercise, making them a good pet for apartments or small houses. They are very difficult to housebreak and are quite noisy.
The Daschund is also known as the wiener dog because of its long body. They have crooked legs, loose skin and a barrel shaped body. They make great pets, since they are fun, playful and loyal. They are also courageous, strong willed, clever and smart, but it can be challenging to train them. Although stubborn, the Daschund makes a great watchdog, alerting its owner of intruders by barking.
The Poodle is a good-natured dog that seems to possess almost human like qualities. They trot with their heads held high with a certain air of dignity about them. They are proud, intelligent and active animals. They make great companions, good family dogs and watchdogs. They are affectionate and devoted, if treated well, and can get along with other animals. They are also easy to train. They require human companionship and frequent grooming, making them one of the most expensive breeds to maintain.
The top three dogs in both the large and small dog categories have some wonderful qualities to establish them as good additions to any family. Yet each is distinctive in its own right. It is no wonder they are among the most frequently chosen pets.
You may be wondering what the most popular dogs in the United States are. According to the American Kennel Club's registration figures for 2006, the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever and German Shepherd lead the large dog breed category and the Yorkshire Terrier, Daschund and Poodle lead the small dog breed category.
The Labrador Retriever has held the number one spot in popularity since 1991. And if you were familiar with this breed you wouldn't question why. The Lab is a friendly, kind, intelligent, loving, loyal and eager to please pet who loves to play. They belong to the sporting dog group and are considered to be the original water dog, since they have a short double water resistant coat and an otter tail. Their strong legs allow for swimming and running. The Lab is easily trained and has a reliable temperament, making them an excellent choice for children. They are non-aggressive towards humans and other animals. They are also energetic and need a lot of exercise. Exercise will keep them happy and out of trouble.
If you want a people lover pet, then look no further than the Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever is a sturdy, heavily muscled, trustworthy and highly trainable breed. They have a golden colored medium length coat, feathered tail, a broad head, and powerful muzzle. They are gentle with children and need to be around people to be happy. This trait makes them excellent family dogs. They excel at obedience training and love to please their owners. They are highly energetic and need plenty of exercise otherwise they can become destructive. Because they love people so much, they don't make the best guard dogs.
The German Shepherd is also a well muscled animal that will reach up to 80 pounds when mature. They have a double, medium length coat, dark eyes and a long strong muzzle. Their smoothly curved body is longer than it is tall. They are confident, direct, fearless and willing to serve as a companion, a watchdog, herding dog, or guide dog for the blind. They are loyal and courageous and full of life. They are also outgoing and friendly but are suspicious of strangers.
If you're in the market for a feisty little animal the Yorkie is one to fit the bill. The Yorkshire Terrier has a long silky blue and tan coat, parted from the face down the spine. They belong to the toy terrier group, and although small in size, they believe themselves to be much bigger. This spunky terrier thrives on adventure and trouble. They are energetic, loyal, clever and brave. They have a great affection to their owners and, as equally, a great suspicion of others. This, along with their keen sense of hearing, makes them a great watchdog. They make better pets for older children and don't require a great deal of exercise, making them a good pet for apartments or small houses. They are very difficult to housebreak and are quite noisy.
The Daschund is also known as the wiener dog because of its long body. They have crooked legs, loose skin and a barrel shaped body. They make great pets, since they are fun, playful and loyal. They are also courageous, strong willed, clever and smart, but it can be challenging to train them. Although stubborn, the Daschund makes a great watchdog, alerting its owner of intruders by barking.
The Poodle is a good-natured dog that seems to possess almost human like qualities. They trot with their heads held high with a certain air of dignity about them. They are proud, intelligent and active animals. They make great companions, good family dogs and watchdogs. They are affectionate and devoted, if treated well, and can get along with other animals. They are also easy to train. They require human companionship and frequent grooming, making them one of the most expensive breeds to maintain.
The top three dogs in both the large and small dog categories have some wonderful qualities to establish them as good additions to any family. Yet each is distinctive in its own right. It is no wonder they are among the most frequently chosen pets.
2008年8月7日星期四
Komondor Puppy And Dog Information
The Komondor is a gorgeous sheep dog from Hungary where she was bred to fight off bears and wolves. This is a no nonsense dog that makes a serious watch dog and guard dog. She is not a barker and her ears do not move much so she may not communicate that she is disturbed and about to defend. She is generally good with farm animals but can be very aggressive with people not in her immediate family and other dogs, including your kids friends. She can tend to be a one person dog and needs early extensive socialization. She may be too aggressive for suburban life. Farmers have taken notice of her due to the population explosion of coyotes
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Komondor is 26 to 32 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 80 to 135 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Komondor is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), skin problems and bloat (Gastric Dilation-Volvulus, the second leading killer of dogs, can kill within the hour, this space is too limited for a complete explanation but you should read up on this). Feeding more then once a day and avoiding exercise right after meals may help guard against bloat. 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 Komondor should never be brushed or combed. It can be washed but may take almost a day to dry. She needs to be set up on a grooming schedule with a professional but she may be very aggressive to someone that she does not know. A better solution is for her owner to learn how to groom her from a professional and do it themselves.
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 Komondor can live between 8 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Komondor comes from Hungary where they were used to protect sheep from wolves, bears and dogs. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1937.
Some Registries:
*Komondor 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: 3 to 10 Komondor puppies
Category: Working
Terms To Describe: Strength, dignity, agile, light feet, dignified, suspicious,
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Makes a very good watch dog.
Makes a very good guard dog.
Little to no shedding.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Requires professional grooming.
She can be very lazy.
They need firm obedience training.
Can be a one person dog.
Not a barker.
*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.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Komondor is 26 to 32 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 80 to 135 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Komondor is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), skin problems and bloat (Gastric Dilation-Volvulus, the second leading killer of dogs, can kill within the hour, this space is too limited for a complete explanation but you should read up on this). Feeding more then once a day and avoiding exercise right after meals may help guard against bloat. 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 Komondor should never be brushed or combed. It can be washed but may take almost a day to dry. She needs to be set up on a grooming schedule with a professional but she may be very aggressive to someone that she does not know. A better solution is for her owner to learn how to groom her from a professional and do it themselves.
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 Komondor can live between 8 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Komondor comes from Hungary where they were used to protect sheep from wolves, bears and dogs. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1937.
Some Registries:
*Komondor 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: 3 to 10 Komondor puppies
Category: Working
Terms To Describe: Strength, dignity, agile, light feet, dignified, suspicious,
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Makes a very good watch dog.
Makes a very good guard dog.
Little to no shedding.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Requires professional grooming.
She can be very lazy.
They need firm obedience training.
Can be a one person dog.
Not a barker.
*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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