Things to Know About Hamsters As Pets for Children

If your child has been begging you for a hamster, chances are you're considering giving in, or you wouldn't be reading this. Before purchasing hamsters as pets for children, there are a few things adults should consider.

First, if you purchase an animal, you should accept that while the pet belongs to your child, you'll also be a primary caregiver. You'll have to assist your child with cleaning the hamster's cage, feeding it regularly, providing it with fresh drinking water, and taking it to the vet if it becomes necessary to do so.

Keeping hamsters as pets can be a lot of fun, but there is also some work involved. Be sure that your child understands that pet ownership is a responsibility, not a right. You should also help your child to understand a few basic facts about keeping hamsters as pets.

Hamsters are Nocturnal

Hamsters sleep during the day and play at night. This means that your child's pet may not always want to play when he wants to play. Ask your child how he would feel if you woke him up at 3AM to play jump rope, and then explain that this is how the hamster feels when it is bothered many times during the day. You may want to set a regular time during the evening for your child to play with his hamster.

Hamsters can Bite if Provoked

Hamsters as pets are generally safe animals, but if they are provoked, scared, or treated poorly they can bite. Remind your child about the necessity of treating the hamster gently at all times to help them avoid a painful hamster bite.

Hamsters are Delicate Animals

Hamsters are not suitable pets for very small children. They are small and fragile, and their bone structure is extremely delicate. They can be easily injured if they are squeezed or dropped; an easy accident when they're around an overzealous child. If your small child wants a pet, choose a sturdier animal, such as a fish or hermit crab.

Hamsters Need Regular Maintenance

Hamsters as pets do require some maintenance. You may need to remind your child to clean out the hamster's cage, change its bedding, and give it regular food and water. Your child's hamster will also need to be handled regularly. Be sure that the hamster has plenty of toys and cage accessories for play and exercise, to prevent annoying chewing behavior.

By teaching your child about responsible pet care, you're providing them with skills they can use for a lifetime. Hamsters are an excellent animal for older children to keep as pets; they're friendly, active, and require just the right amount of responsibility.

My name is Kevin Highfill. Please visit my site at http://www.online4pets.com/ to discover more information about hamsters as pets.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Dog From a Pets Guide

Many factors need to be considered by a family, before bringing home a new pet.

Some are as followed:

GENDER - SIZE - HAIR:

What about the gender of the dog? Are you interested in a male or female? Will you breed the dog once it is grown? If a breeding program is not in its future, consider neutering the dog. Are you interested in a large or a small dog? Often, potential owners don't consider the frame size and weight of the puppy when it becomes an adult. Also think about the grooming needs of a long-haired dog versus a short-haired one.

VETERINARY CARE:

The dog will also need regular veterinary care. All these costs can add up, especially if you're on a limited budget. What type of dog do you want? Purebred or mixed breed? Research the traits of the breed that interests you. Be aware that some breeds have specific benefits or problems. In addition, some purebreds can be very expensive. Perhaps adopting from your local animal shelter is an option.

TIME:

Another important factor is your family's lifestyle. Do you work all day? How much free time do you have? Remember, a new puppy will require four or more feedings a day and will need to go out just as often. Do you spend a lot of time traveling or entertaining? Do you have small children or other animals at home? Are you physically able to handle a dog? What about your location? Do you own a home or rent an apartment? Will your landlord allow pets? Do you live in the city or in a rural area? Is there enough fenced-in yard space for the dog to properly exercise?

DOG ROLE IN YOUR FAMILY:

Think about the role your new dog will play in your family. Will it be used as for:

a) My son/daughter/children

Trust me; this will be YOUR dog! After the 'honeymoon period', the kids may only play with the dog, occasionally. They may groan and grumble about any dog-related responsibilities, doing them, begrudgingly, only after significant prodding from you. As children's interests and activities change, over the years, their level of involvement with the dog will most likely be, inconsistent, at best. Additionally, your children, especially, young children, will need to be 'trained' in how to behave with the dog and will need to be supervised when with the dog.

b) Protection

I know some may disagree but, it is my opinion, that the only time is it a good idea to get a dog for the purpose of protection is in professional or agricultural situations and only when the owner/trainer is humane and knowledgeable of dog behavior and dominant dog training/handling. In all other situations - probably 99.9% - an alarm system, security fence, or other measures are much more appropriate and effective.

c) To breed puppies

If you've read the third paragraph of this piece and still feel this way, there is probably little I can offer to change your mind. But, just in case, let me restate the case a little more thoroughly. The breeding of dogs is a responsibility not to be taken lightly. If it is not your intention to remain responsible for all of your puppies for their entire lives, including being willing to take back and care for those who may find themselves homeless, do not enter into this endeavor. If you are planning on breeding for profit, understand that there are much easier, more profitable and ethical ways to make a buck. Dogs are living beings and dog breeding requires a significant investment of time, money, labor, knowledge, both academic and practical, patience, and emotional fortitude, to be done responsibly and humanely. Please visit a few of the shelter and rescue websites, or your local shelter, and witness the problem yourself. View the faces of the homeless dogs and talk to the volunteers and staff who, all too often, must take that 'final walk' with them.

BUYING STRATEGY:

Once you've decided on the type of dog you want and where you will purchase it, do not buy a puppy on the first visit. Instead, potential owners leave, think about the decision, and then go back. Avoid the temptation of buying two or more puppies. A single puppy will bond to its owner better and will be easier to train.

Depending on the breed, the best time to purchase a puppy is between 7-9 weeks of age. As soon as possible have the puppy examined by a veterinarian. If possible, ask the seller if you can have the puppy checked by a veterinarian before you purchase it.

Visit Our Pets Health Guide Specialists on our Dogs Forum [http://www.petshophome.com] and discuss with our growing members about your pet on our Pets Forum [http://www.petshophome.com] to learn more about your pet.

Pets, Your Kids, and Things To Consider

Kids and Pets are a great combination. Many adults fondly remember their first childhood pet, and it can set them up for a lifetime of animal companionship. Yet pets can also present certain dangers to children, who may not know enough to keep themselves safe. For this reason, it is important that you monitor the interactions of kids and pets. Here are some things to think about:

Pets and Infants:

If you welcome a baby into a family that already has pets, be sure you introduce your pets to the infant slowly over time. It is important that they become familiar with this new family member under your constant supervision. As the child grows older, realize that he or she won't have a full grasp on what the pet really is, whether it is a cat or dog or anything else. This means they may not respect the pet's space the same way adults do, something you should watch for and prevent. Additionally, try to keep any pets that are naturally aggressive from interacting too closely with an infant or smaller child.

Teach Proper Bite Prevention:

One of the greatest dangers that pets pose to children, most notably dogs, is pose to children "biting." Teach your child the signs that a dog is being aggressive or moody and let them know that they should not play with them in these situations. Be sure your child knows to react to a biting dog by curling up and protecting their hands and face while calling for help. If you are worried about dog bites, supervise your kids' interactions with dogs and teach your child to use your dog's stop-commands such as "stop" or "sit."

Keep Toys Separate:

Remember that your child's toys will not be safe for your pets to play with and vice versa. Especially when your kids are young, you should keep their toys separate.

Good Pets for Kids:

Pets and Your Kids If you're buying a new pet and have young children, you should take all of their abilities and needs into consideration. Children under twelve or so will not be able to take on much responsibility for a pet such as a cat or dog, but can manage very well with pets like goldfish for example. A guinea pig is a good pet for young kids since it is gentle and easily handled. You shouldn't let a child shoulder the responsibility for a pet alone though, it is up to you to make sure the pet is receiving the proper care.

Interacting Alone:

Once a child is older than four or five and has demonstrated adequate understanding of the behavior of family pets, it is alright to let them interact without close supervision. This is only if the animal has demonstrated a good demeanor as well. It is up to you to make sure the dog is trained not to jump up, bite, or be aggressive with children. When first allowing them to play together, try games that don't require much physical contact, but rather ease your children into more intimate play with your pets.

Isaac MaCalister writes many educational items for Hartz. His expertise ranges Hartz flea control, staying in shape with your pooch, and much more. To read all of the helpful tips he has to offer, head over to their website!

Things You Should Consider Before Adopting a Pet

You're thinking about adopting a pet and you are excited about it. You don't know many things about pets, only that they are cute and loving companions. So you go and get Flippy or Daisy and you bring them home. Then you realize that you don't know much about pets and start asking questions. Too late! Questions should be asked before bringing a pet at home. Pet ownership is for a lifetime!

Many people don't have a clue about the responsibilities related with pet ownership. They may have good intentions but they soon realize that having a pet at home is not as easy as they thought it would be and this revelation can often lead to tragedy.

Most people, either children or adults want a pet because they find it "cute" They watch movies, TV shows with adorable baby animals, which by the way are already trained and their desire for a pet is getting bigger. Usually their desire is directed to a puppy or a kitten, (often a specific breed) and finally they bring it at home. Everyone is happy and wants to take the furry little thing in their lap, cuddle it and play with it.

When the issue comes to who's going to take care of it, then the excitement wears off since nobody wants to do it.

People who never had a pet don't have the slightest idea of how it is to take care of one. They think it's easy, put some food and water in their bowls twice a day and that's it. Their new furry friend will be playful and happy whenever they want. After all, how much trouble can a loving little thing cause?

Surprise, surprise!

A pet in your house is like a child in your house. In fact at some point your child grows up and doesn't need your care any more, they become independent and leave your house to live on their own. The same thing won't happen with your pet. Your pet will always be a child that will require your attention and care as long as it is with you. So, there are a lot of things to consider before taking the serious decision of adopting a pet.

Getting a pet is not like buying a car. It's a living creature so if you don't get along it is not easy to get rid of it of change it for something else. When you adopt a pet you become the animal's "parent" as long as it lives. You must keep in mind that, a dog for example has an average life expectancy of 14-15 years. So, for the next 14-15 years or so, it will be your responsibility!

It's like having a baby at home. You can't send it back because it doesn't meet your expectations or because it's different than what you thought it would be. Or can you? I hope not. The same kind of responsibility must be in your minds when you are thinking of getting a pet.

A pet is not a video game. You don't just shut it down when you're finished playing with it and expect it to just sit waiting for you until you decide to come back. Puppies are like young children. They need a lot of sleep but when they are not asleep they are wondering around the house looking for fun! A puppy who's just started growing teeth will find a lot of fun and pleasure in chewing your favourite shoes or slippers. At this point many people start losing their patience and instead of finding a way to divert the puppy's attention to something else, they get rid of it in an animal shelter, or worse they abandon it in the streets. The only crime of the puppy was in fact that it was a puppy! Puppies are not destructive and naughty just because they want to make you furious. It's just what they do. If you are considering of getting one you must rearrange your home first, so the puppy will not have access to things you don't want to be destroyed. Another good idea is buying a lot of chew toys. You can be sure that the puppy will choose them instead of your shoes.

Another important issue to consider is which breed you are fond of and would like to obtain. Every breed has special characteristics and even though you'd love to get a puppy of a certain breed, this may not be the right one for you. There are certain things to consider, for instance will it be easy to train, will it be a shy dog or a hyperactive that will require many walks during the day, will there be any health problems with the breed you chose, etc. You may adore a Labrador or a German Shepherd but if you live in a small apartment, maybe you should reconsider. Large dogs require space to run and play and they'll feel depressed in a confined space. Also some large breeds develop back or hip problems that will require extra health care especially when they are getting older.

Pets also cost money to raise and maintain, just like children do. You must buy pet food, pay several bills to the vet when your beloved friend needs vaccines or medical care, monthly expenses such as heartworm and flea control and maybe grooming bills. You must also remember that you'll have extra costs when you leave for vacation and leave the animal in a pet hotel. My point is, if you're not fully aware of the cost of having an animal, maybe you should reconsider. Of course they worth every penny you'll spend for them and they'll pay you back with their unconditioned love, but still you should know all about it.

Another thing you must consider is neutering-spaying your pet. If you don't plan on breeding it, you must go to a vet and have it neutered-spayed. There are a lot of people who don't like depriving sex from their pet. Don't think like them! It is a fact that if you don't get your pet neutered while being young there will be many problems in the future and most important, health problems. If you don't spay your female dog, it's quite possible to develop cancer in its uterus in later life.

Many male or female dogs become short-tempered and anxious because they are not allowed to mate and this is against their nature.

Some people think that they can solve this problem if they allow their dog to mate at least once. Some others like the idea of having a puppy of their dog before being spayed. I strongly disagree with these tactics. First it is very irresponsible to allow pets to reproduce without control. Overpopulation in pets is a very serious problem. Every year 10-12 million pets are euthanized by shelters because they can't find homes for them. Why would anyone of you want to add to this number? Second, dogs should be neutered-spayed before they sexually mature in order to avoid health problems in the future. If you think I'm lying, just ask a vet..

To make a long story short, if you plan to obtain a pet, be responsible and have it neutered-spayed. You may think that you'll earn money by selling the puppies, if you have a purebred. You must know though that there are no guarantees that you'll sell all the puppies and even if you do, you must consider that, for every puppy you sell, there's one waiting in a shelter somewhere and may die without being adopted.

The dog breeding business, has its responsible professionals but also its lousy ones. There are several puppy mills where the poor animals live in awful, unsanitary and crowded conditions. Many breeders just don't care even a little bit about their health. These breeders mate males and females from the same litter and this can cause several health problems later in the life of the dog. For example many Dalmatians suffer from deafness due to inbreeding.

So, why are you looking so badly for a purebred and you doing not consider getting a mixed breed? They are also very cute and much healthier but still, they are not people's first choice.

Why not adopt a pet from the Humane Society or your local SPCA? At least you can give them a chance even if what you really want is a specific breed. There are several advantages if you adopt an adult dog from a shelter or from one of the many breed-specific rescue operations. You can be sure that you've done a good deed by adopting a pet this way and you've saved it from being euthanized.

Some more useful thoughts...

-Don't ever consider giving a pet as a gift to someone, especially not a child. (Unless the child is yours and you clearly know that you'll be the pet's caregiver) Whoever is going to obtain a pet must do it on his own will and he must have considered everything about raising it.

-Don't bring live chicks or bunnies to your children as Easter gifts. It's cruel, they are small breathing creatures. Chicks grow into chicken, so unless you have a farm you shouldn't even think about buying one.

-Do learn what pet ownership is all about. You must have an idea about the cost, in terms of time and money. Also, a good thing to know is how getting a pet is going to change your style of life.

With all that I've mentioned above you must think that I'm not encouraging pet ownership. On the contrary, I LOVE animals, I have six dogs and two cats and I'm in a position to know what is this all about and speak about the responsibilities that pet owners should face. After all, I'm a pet owner myself. Having a pet is happiness but also means a lot of responsibilities and compromises in your private life. All I'm saying is that you should know all about it before making your decision. Pets may be very cute and sweet but trust me, they hide a lot of surprises, surprises you must be ready to deal with!

Choosing a Pet? Things to Consider Before Choosing a Pet

First, lets think about why we are thinking about choosing a pet. Is it because the children have been bugging your forever to get a new puppy or kitten? This is something most know but I feel I have to say it again just for the few that have not had the experience. Your children begging you to choose a pet is not, in itself, a good reason for getting one. Children need to be old enough and mature enough to care for the pet puppy as an example.

Consider whether you have time for a pet. They look to you for their food, water, veterinary treatments and love. If your children cannot or will not care for the pet, do you have time to do it. Did you know that in over half of households the female spouse or family member ends up taking care of the family dog or pet.

Now this is pretty much common sense but you should think about whether you are allowed to have a pet where you currently reside. Check the regulations if your are a tenant. If pets are allowed are you prepared for the extra amount of deposit money that will be required. Are you prepared for the carpet cleaning necessary when you move? These an other questions should be considered if you are a renter.

How many years are you willing to commit to this new pet? A pet can be a lifelong commitment depending on how old you are when you choose a puppy or other young pet. Personally I had a Dachshund that was with us for 17 years. Cats can live from 10 to 20 years subject to certain medical issues. Other pets like horses, turtles, parrots and other types of birds can live quite a bit longer even 30 to 40 years.

None of us have a crystal ball so we do not really know when we will get married, get divorced, relocate sometimes to another country, have children or maybe have grandma move in with us, you know, the one that hates animals. Do your best to look into the future to where a pet will fit in. Once adopted your pet becomes part of the family or to him, the pack. Later separation is hard on everyone.

If you should decide to choose a puppy or any type of young pet please know that younger animals require a lot more time to learn the ropes than adult dogs do. Plus, younger animals, especially dogs, do not appreciate being left alone. This is one way separation anxiety develops.

Younger animals need to be taught how to behave in the family or the pack. This cannot completely be done if the house is empty all day. Just as with children, traits developed at the younger ages are traits that stay with them most if not all of their lives. Proper training and interaction at the younger age will pay great dividends immediately and in later years.

Believe it or not there are many more considerations when choosing a pet. Those I will touch on in a different article. For now let me leave you by strongly suggesting that you make the decision about choosing a new pet a family decision.

Bill Beavers is with http://www.CarryMyDog.com and looks forward to your visit to this informative website. We know you will benefit from the information you will find there. You will find top quality dog crates, pet carriers, pet strollers, dog harnesses, pet playpens and much more. Deep discounts on many products. http://www.carrymydog.com is a valid starting place for improving your pet's quality of life and simplifying yours. All the best...

Five Things to Consider When Choosing an Exotic Pet

Owning a pet can be a great extension to your family situation, whether it be a kitten, dog or something else. Some people like the thought of owning a pet which is a little bit out of the ordinary like a snake, gerbil or Madagasca hissing cockroach. Exotic pets like those three examples come in all shapes, sizes and habitats. If you would like to own an exotic pet then you need to look at these five things to consider when choosing an exotic pet.

!. What kind of pet owner are you?

You may be a person who likes a pet you can interact with and pick up, hold and cuddle. Or you may be a person who likes to just watch and observe a pet without much physical contact.

2. What are the needs of the pet?

Exotic pets need a whole range of different habitats and space requirements depending on the pet type. Therefore you have to consider if they would comfortably fit in your home space. These pets have varying degrees of expense to cater for their needs, so choose a pet which you can afford. Some exotic pets may not be able to live in your area and so this needs to be checked out when considering a purchase.

3. Does this pet fit into your lifestyle?

You need to ask yourself this question to every pet you are considering having taken account the above details. You can write a list of possible choices, of which there are many, and put a tick or cross by them depending on your thoughts. You will end up with a short list.

4. Is the pet suitable for small children?

You need to look at you family make up and decide if the pet is actually suitable for all members especially small children. You need to take note of the pets which are dangerous, the pets that are interactive or not very interactive and so on. Write the information beside the pet choices on your short list.

If you have very young children then a good exotic pet starter could be a tank full of fish and other dwellers. These creatures are great to observe as the swim around and make use of any fish tank accessory which may be around for them. And they require a minimum amount of care for them to be healthy and happy, which could be a good thing as young children seem to take up lots of your time. And you do not need to spend huge amounts on the tank, although if you are keen then there are plenty of fish and fish related products you can purchase.

5. Have you found out enough information?

You need to find out as much information as possible with regards to your likely short listed candidate or candidates. You can get information and advice from the internet, your local veterinarian and legal, knowledgeable dealer. You need to know what to expect from the creature and if your local vet ia able to deal with it or them. The vet and pet dealer should be able to give you good advice.

After considering the above points, have you narrowed your choice of exotic pet to one?

Maybe you are still unsure of whether you really want to go for exotic pet type or the standard cat or dog. Take a look at this to help in your decision making.

Whatever your choice I am sure you are interested in getting a safe pet for your family situation

Things You Must Never Feed Your Pet Bird

This articles offers certain foods that you, being a bird owner, should never feed to your pet bird. If you have questions concerning a particular type of bird seed or fruit, consult your veterinarian. Buy your bird seed from a reputable producer like ABBA or Kaytee and read about the native diets of your bird species and supply a diet that features bird seed, fruit, and vegetables that closely resembles the natural food source of your particular bird species.

Before purchasing a bird as a pet, read and collect information on certain things to do and not to do. There are many species of bird that, if cared for properly, will be lifetime companions and family members.

Every responsible bird owner should know that there are certain foods and specific ingredients that must never be fed to a pet bird. Here is a list of six (6) food items that should never be fed to a bird or caution must be taken in the preparation of the food.

1. Chocolate, unfortunately, is not for the birds. That wonderful candy bar will mean disastrous consequences for your bird. Chocolate is incredibly harmful to a bird's digestive system. Initially, chocolate will cause vomiting and diarrhea. It can then impact the central nervous system resulting in seizures and eventual death. Chocolate and food containing chocolate ought to remain well out of reach of your feathered friend.

2. Though fruits are without a doubt good for birds, there are types that should by no means be given to birds. These include apples, apricots, cherries, peaches and pears. The reason is rather stunning. These fruits contain minute amounts of cyanide within their seeds which is an incredibly dangerous and a likely lethal substance even in trace quantities. Birds can eat portions of these types of fruit so long as it is cut away from the seeds or core. Also, always clean fruit prior to giving to your pets, children or yourself. Damaging chemicals present in pesticides are often detrimental to small animals such as birds.

Avocado is one fruit that should never be given to your pet bird. Skin of the avocado may cause cardiac distress and heart failure in certain bird species. Better safe than sorry with the avocado so don't even bother letting them try it.

3. Certain types of vegetables are often harmful. Onions may cause acute digestive problems and mushroom, which is really not a vegetable but a fungus, can lead to respiratory distress, kidney failure and death. While some veterinarians and pet owners are worried about giving pet birds particular vegetables like potatoes and tomatoes, these vegetables are not unsafe if they are cleaned and sliced prior to offering it to your pet. Remember, check with your veterinarian when you have concerns about any food source, including fruits, vegetables and bird seed.

4. Even if you like to have a few, never ask your pet bird if he or she wish to join you for a drink. Alcohol depresses a birds organs which, in some cases, is fatal. Caffeine is incredibly harmful to birds also. It causes cardiac malfunction in birds and, in some cases, can cause arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, hyperactivity, and increased heartbeat. Keep alcoholic and caffeinated drinks well from reach and out of areas where your bird can access them. Aside from water, natural fruit or vegetable juice is good. It can provide additional nutrition your bird needs.

5. Salt or products containing salt should never be given to birds. Like in humans, excess salt often leads to dehydration, kidney dysfunction, thirst and death. Due to their small size, it does not require a great deal of salt to have negative affects.

6. Finally, never offer your pet bird dry or raw beans. Dry or uncooked beans contain a poison called hemaglutin. Hemaglutin is no longer a concern after the beans are cooked so if you desire to offer beans to your bird, cook them first.

These are 6 food items that you need to avoid feeding your feathered friend. Knowing and avoiding these and other damaging food items will help ensure they will live for a long time. Pet birds can be very expensive. Don't take a chance with your birds health by feeding it food that can be dangerous. So what should you feed your pet bird to keep it healthy and happy? To play it safe, provide a good quality seed and pellet diet and supplement with approved fruits and vegetables if desired. This way you will keep the bird healthy and happy.

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