Dog Beds Now That You Have Your New Pooch Where S He Going To Sleep
July 25th, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World4 Comments
Take my word for it, no matter how much you want your new puppy to sleep with you, this is not the best option. Especially when you’re dealing with a 75-pound behemoth that’s scared of a little thunder. Your king-sized bed suddenly becomes half a twin-size bed. So next to food and a trip to the vet, a good dog bed should be one of your first major purchases. But what kind of dog bed should you get? There are literally hundreds of choices. For instance:
Large dog beds for the type of dog mentioned in the first paragraph
Outdoor beds for the pooch who prefers sleeping under the stars
Fancy designer beds for the pampered pooch that’s probably related to Paris Hilton’s Tinkerbelle
Travel and car beds for the dogs who spend a lot of time on the road
Heated beds for the cold-natured little breeds
Orthopedic beds for the pooches getting up there in age Iron beds for the decorating pooches in your household
Chew-proof beds for…well…you know
And waterproof beds for the little pups who sometimes get a little scared at night…you know what I mean.
But no matter the bed you buy, there are a couple of rules you should be aware of. First, make sure every part of the bed is machine washable. No matter how many times you wash your dog, he’s going to manage to smell up that bed. And if it’s a bed you keep in your own bedroom, the odors that will eventually emanate from that bed will give you nightmares.
Second, get a bed with cedar shavings or a thick foam pad as the padding. This will help immensely with keeping your favorite flea friends from becoming permanent residents of your dog’s bed. Third, make sure you buy the right size dog bed. If possible, take your dog with you when you buy the bed. No matter how cute the bed is, or how well it goes with your home decor, if your dog can’t comfortably lay down in the bed, he won’t use it.
Also, pay close attention to what the bed is made of. Wicker is cute and very stylish. But fleas love it. And for the dog that hasn’t quite gotten over the chewing stage yet, a wicker bed is little more than the world’s largest chew toy. Beanbags are also popular dog beds because most people born in the late 60s still have one stowed away in their basements or attics somewhere (yes you do, admit it). But have you ever seen what’s inside a beanbag? You will find out very quickly if Fido discovers how to operate the zipper that keeps the stuffing in the bag. You would be wise to leave the beanbag in the attic and open your wallet cheapskate.
So now that you’ve done the research, go out and buy your new best friend a great bed. Remember to get the proper size. Get one with cedar shaving or foam as the padding. Make sure all parts of the bed are machine washable. And most importantly, make sure Fido likes the bed or you will have an unwanted visitor in the middle of the night…especially when there’s thunder.
Copyright 2006 Allen Shaw
Intestinal Parasites In Dogs
July 25th, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World5 Comments
Dogs (and cats) often fall victim to several common intestinal parasites known as worms. There are a large number of different types of intestinal worms, but dogs are most commonly affected by tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. These parasites live in the digestive tract (most commonly in the intestines) where they feed on nutrients, robbing the dog of the nutrition it takes in. Worm infestations can cause a variety of undesirable symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and a generally poor appearance.
How do Dogs Get Worms?
There are a number of ways that a dog can wind up with an infestation of any of these types of intestinal parasites. An animal infested with any of these types of worms may pass the worms’ eggs in its feces. This is a strong argument for picking up after your pet as often as possible and not allowing your dog to eat feces (something dogs will do) whenever you can. Tapeworm eggs can be spread by fleas. Fleas eat the eggs (quite a delicacy to a flea) and then pass them to a dog when biting it. Some roundworms will lie dormant in the body of a pregnant dog and activate just before it gives birth. The activated worms make their way into the intestines of the unborn puppies where they will thrive after the pups are born.
Detecting Worms in Dogs
Worm infestations can be difficult to detect. While some worms may be passed in the feces, betraying their presence, it is uncommon. If a dog is displaying symptoms that may indicate the presence of worms, a vet should be consulted. A stool sample will be examined for the presence of worm eggs (these are microscopic) and a medication called a “wormer” will be prescribed. Stool samples are often collected as part of a routine dog physical examination in order to check for the presence of worms. In the case of tapeworms, discarded tapeworm segments may be visible in the dog’s feces or attached to the fur around the anus or under the tail. To the naked eye these may look like small bits of white rice.
Treating Dogs for Worms
When a dog is found to have an infestation of worms, it should be prescribed a wormer immediately by a vet. Depending on the severity of the infestation, the type of worms, and the likelihood of re-infestation, the treatment may need to be repeated one or several times. There are over-the-counter wormers available, but most vets do not recommend them because they are necessarily weaker and may not kill all types of worms and their eggs.
Intestinal worms can cause numerous health problems for dogs, up to and including death in extreme cases. Taking measures to prevent infestation, detect it as quickly as possible, and treat it accordingly can help keep your dog safe from these harmful parasites.
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How Dogs Can Benefit Children
July 24th, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World4 Comments
Thinking of getting a dog? You know your child wants a dog to play with but did you know that the love and companionship of a dog can have long lasting effects going far beyond their ability to entertain and amuse?
The current research into dog assisted therapy has turned the humble pet dog into an emotional, educational and physical resource. Everything from autism to reading ability has been tested with the use of therapy dogs. Excellent programs exist that have demonstrated a link between the interaction with dogs and improved social and reading skills.
It makes sense that even healthy children may experience benefits from owning a dog. What are some ways dogs affect children emotionally, socially and physically?
Can Your Dog Teach Your Child to Read?
A program was started that introduced the concept of children reading to dogs. The idea was that the child would be calmed by the presence of the dog as well as stimulated by the contact without the pressures of reading to a teacher or a peer.
The children loved the experience and the program creators noted that reading skills, including stuttering, improved. While not all reading problems can be corrected with a dog’s company it is certainly a matter of interest to parents.
Owning a Dog Can REDUCE Allergies
Several pediatric experts have disowned the theory that early exposure to pets is a prime cause of allergies in children. In fact, the PAWSitive Interaction organization arranged a summit that included information suggesting exposure to pets by pregnant women and babies born into households with two or more pets actually had less allergies to the pets and other allergens than children not exposed.
Dogs Improve Social and Emotional Well-being
Anyone who has owned a dog can attest to the relaxing effects of owning a pet. Studies have shown that petting an animal can reduce anxiety and tension. The companionship of a dog can also help children build self-esteem and ease social interactions.
Dogs provide non-judgmental company and unwavering loyalty. To young children facing a world in which they are struggling to find their place a dog can help them develop a sense of themselves while also decreasing feelings of loneliness and encouraging empathy.
Physical Benefits for Children with Dogs
While physical therapies and assistance programs commonly incorporate dogs even healthy children can benefit physically from owning a dog.
Dogs demand a certain amount of physical play and care. Children may be more motivated to be physically active when they are with a dog than without.
While dogs cannot be the only answer to serious conditions, owning a dog can surely provide many benefits to your child when wisely selected and trained to compliment the family’s lifestyle and the child’s personality. Having a devoted dog in the home can contribute to a parent’s efforts to raise their child into a caring and balanced adult.
Gone To The Dogs With Adorable Airedales
July 24th, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World7 Comments
My wife and I were brought up in families with dogs. In her case, Corgis with the unfortunate name of Haggis. In my case, Welsh Terriers with the more prosaic name of Taffy. When we married we still wanted dogs, but what sort? The first was a mongrel named Lemon Curd. The second a Dalmatian named Miffy.
By now we had moved to a house in 8 acres and had 3 young children. We had chickens, ducks and goats and hit on the idea of breeding Airedales. As much as anything to give our children an insight into nature’s cycle of life. Our aim was not to make money but to have fun.
My wife bought Troubadour a young male from one breeder and Misty, a young bitch, from another. Both were the offspring of Champions with no evidence of in-breeding. We set about training them, going for walks, playing with them and generally having a great time. My wife had read that it was best not to breed in the first season as this gave the bitch time to develop and mature. So as the second season approached we began our preparations.
After the pair had mated I built a large pen with foot high sides in the utility room. This was to keep the puppies contained but allow Misty to get in and out at will. Lots of newspaper was laid as bedding and we awaited events. The births were all straight forward and Misty had presented us with nine jet-black puppies. We were all excited, especially the children. All the puppies thrived, the Vet came to inoculate and dock them all and before we knew it they were ready to be weaned. Also they were developing their different characters and their coats started to turn brown. Organising the feeding of nine puppies was a challenge and we have many photographs. One very funny one is of a line of nine puppies all with heads down in their bowls and tails in the air.
At about six weeks Misty had had enough and we put them up for sale from 8 weeks. People came to view and that was interesting too. Pretty well all wanted to buy and by 10 weeks they were all gone. We were tired, relieved and also sad. The 8 weeks had simply flown by.
Trouby sired and Misty bore us another two litters with a seasons rest between each. Each litter was of 9 puppies in each. The cycle of events was the same each time and we thought we were becoming experts in the field. Unfortunately Misty was then hit by a car and killed. We did not have the heart to buy another bitch and Trouby enjoyed a long and peaceful widower hood. When he eventually died of old age, the house seemed very empty.
Imagine my surprise when six months later my wife said she had been very naughty and presented me with two young puppies. She named them after two favourite maiden aunts, Bess and Nell and 12 years later, we still have them.
Questions To Ask When Choosing A Dog For Family Life
July 23rd, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World14 Comments
Dog’s come in all shapes and sizes - out of all the dogs you’ve ever met you’ve probably been more attracted to some breeds than others. Perhaps you had a dog when you were growing up and want the same breed for your children. But more needs to be determined than breed or size when choosing a family dog.
How do you choose? What do you need to know? Here are some questions you must ask when choosing a dog for family life:
How old are your children?
If your family is still young, especially if you still have preschoolers, it is prudent to consider whether your family should have a dog right now. Are you planning (or expecting) other children? Dogs require a fair amount of attention and if you have small children not only will you have less time to train or play with a dog, but you may have more difficulty trusting your dog or your children without your constant attention.
If you are still certain that you want a dog and you have the time, consider the training and age of the dog. Perhaps a well trained, older dog would be more suitable.
How much do you know about dogs?
Think taking care of a dog is a no-brainer? Well, if you have children you don’t have the luxury of allowing your dog to train itself or wander the countryside. You must read or ask someone knowledgeable about the needs and training a dog requires.
If you’re not up to the task you’ll have to locate a trainer that will work with your dog as well as train you and your family how to deal with the dog. Many bad habits that dogs pick up come from lack of consistent training rather than the dog being troublesome.
Are you ready for the financial obligation?
To have a healthy dog you must plan for the costs of vet bills, vaccinations, flea and worm medication, grooming and training. Do you travel? Either you will need to arrange for care or pay for a dog sitter or kennel when you’re away. Thinking of buying a large breed? Find out the food costs in advance - if your budget is already tight you may be shocked at the cost of food for large dogs.
Do YOU want a dog?
If your children are young then hopefully you recognize that you or your partner must be willing to handle the burden of day-to-day care such as feeding, walking, training and cleaning. But what if your children are older and capable of more responsibility? You still need to factor in that the dog may live 10-15 years or more (depending on breed). Who will take responsibility for the dog when the children go to college or get married?
Owning a dog has wonderful benefits that you and your children will enjoy. Research continues to show that individuals benefit emotional and physically from owning a pet. But there is more to owning a dog than selecting the prettiest or most popular breed.
Taking the time to do some research on owning dogs and choosing the right one for your children will help you make the best decision for your family’s enjoyment.
Clicks Instead Of Good Boy For Dog Training
July 23rd, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World11 Comments
The first major improvement in dog training since choke chains and spiked collars, click and treat has quickly establishing itself in becoming a big hit in the world of dog training. Currently, there are over 10,000 trainers who are using this training method everyday.
One advantage to using this form of training at home is it’s easy to learn for both the dog and his trainer!
Originally used to train marine mammals, click and treat breaks down the process into two separate steps, information and motivation. The click is the information, the treat is the motivation. While other trainers still work on these two steps, they try to teach them all at once, which can confuse the animal and slow down results.
Most trainers will verbally praise a dog for good behavior, while at the same time motivating the dog to repeat his actions. This can be a good method, however it takes longer for the dog to understand which behaviors and actions caused the praise from the trainer.
With the click and treat method, the processes are easily taught. In normal training, a person would say “good boy” when a welcomed action occurs and proceed with giving a treat. The clicker becomes a substitute for verbal praise and can actually catch the “good boy” behavior quicker than saying it, letting the dog know exactly which behavior he is being rewarded for.
Another way to look at click and treat training is viewing it as a secondary reinforcement, while food, water, physical affection and play (things the dog wants) become primary reinforcement. When you take a dog for a walk, the leash works as a secondary reinforcement. It is obvious to the dog that the leash is not taking him for a walk; the owner is, however, it triggers a reaction in the dog, telling him that the leash will let him know where he will go and where he will not. And if he reacts to the leash with good behavior, his reward will be a nice leisurely walk.
Click and treat works the same way. When a dog hears the clicker, he will know that he performed a good behavior and as long as he keeps hearing a click, there is a treat coming his way. So, the clicker works as a secondary reinforcement, teaching him boundaries and appropriate behavior.
A couple advantages of the click and treat method include;
1) Faster response than verbal praise. The clicker can identify the exact behavior at the time it happens.
2) It takes the place of treats. While motivating the dog to hear clicks, it will also teach him to work without the expectations of having treats given to him each time he does something good.
3) If the trainer is working at a distance from the dog, the clicker will still work, without having to be right next him.
Are you ready to try clicker training?
The first thing you’ll need to do is go to your favorite pet supply store and invest in a clicker. The clicker is nothing fancy and should just cost you under five dollars. While you’re there grab some pocket treats, little bits of dried liver work well.
A good method to use when getting started with click and treat is to stand in front of the animal. Click the clicker and give a treat. Continue doing this for 20-30 minutes, or until the dog becomes startled by the sound of the click. This will familiarize him to the clicking sound, while teaching him that every time he hears it, he has done something good. After he gets the hang of it, begin by adding commands, such as “sit” and “stay.”
Click and treat has proven to be a simple, yet consistent training method with quick results. So for the trainers out there who are looking for a new and innovative way to motivate and praise their animals, get out there, buy a clicker and… click!
Dog Training Tips That Work
July 22nd, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World11 Comments
Dog training, the most simple acts often produce the best results. In any dog pack, the alpha sets the rules and the rest follow. Therefore, by establishing yourslef as the alpha, you can be sure that your obedience training sessions will be that much more productive. The following is a list of 8 simple things you can do to teach your new puppy or unruly dog that you are the alpha in your pack.
1. Never feed your dog from your plate while you’re eating. A dog must learn that your are the alpha and that it can only eat when you are finished with your meal.
2. Never allow your dog on the sofa or on your bed. And if your dog sits on your path, gently shove it out of the way with your foot. By setting boundaries, you will instill in your dog that it must obey the alpha.
3. Never allow your dog to chew on your towels, socks, shoes, or clothing. Use bitter apple to discourage these behaviors.
4. NEVER HIT YOUR DOG FOR MISBEHAVING. Instead use the tone of your voice and a collar/leash to teach and make corrections.
5. Never allow a puppy to chew on your fingers. Otherwise, it will become a habit that will be very hard to break when it becomes an adult. Spray you hands and fingers with bitter apple and then allow the dog to proceed. The dog will learn not to bite your fingers without associating any negative thoughts about you as the alpha.
6. Never leave a hyper dog unexercised. Playing ball before you leave for work and after you return can help alleviate your dog’s pent-up energy.
7. Never keep your dog alone in a yard for days at a times. Without proper socialization your dog will become aggressive towards other dogs as well as other humans. A dog needs contact with its own species in order to learn how to behave in a dog pack equally as well as it must learn to behave in a human pack. A dog left alone for long periods of time will believe itself to be the alpha and try to dictate to its master instead of the other way around.
8. Never allow your dog to jump on you or your guests. Its fun when your dog is a puppy, but it isn’t fun when it becomes a 100lb behemoth. Practice with a collar and leash and set up situations where a neighbor rings your doorbell while your dog awaits their entrance. Make a sharp correction and command your dog to “sit” when as your neighbor enters the house. And, of course, don’t forget to praise the dog as soon as it follows your command. Once the dog knows what to do, try the same thing off leash, but this time use a water spray bottle and spray your dogs face with water as punishment for jumping with a stern vocal correction of “NO”. Proceed to praise your dog once again when your dog obeys your command. This way, it will learn to associate praise with correct action.
By following these steps, you will establish yourself as the alpha. And, you will have a head start in trainig your dog because it will have already learned to respect your authority as its leader.
How To Find A Search And Rescue Dog Training School
July 21st, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World9 Comments
There are many things dogs can be trained to do but, of all the tasks a working dog can perform, search and rescue ranks the highest for needing qualified, professional trainers. A Search and Rescue (SAR) dog’s performance, quite literally, can determine life or death to a human in need.
As shocking as it may sound, there is no set of standards for rescue dog training. Subsequently, rescue clubs, teams, and individuals emerge as trainers, when, in fact, they may know little, or nothing at all, about training a SAR dog. Attending seminars and reading books on the subject are worthwhile endeavors, but they do not constitute being a SAR dog trainer. Sadly, in a large percentage of cases, this is an assumption not only made, but followed, and replicated. In some cases, those touting themselves as SAR dog trainers scarcely have enough knowledge to teach a dog simple parlor tricks, let alone promptly and accurately scenting or tracking skills, where a human life hangs in the balance.
Even when the topical qualifications are in place, this is no substitute for failing to research the validity of those qualifications. You will hear the term “qualified instructor” often from those with police/military backgrounds. While this sounds impressive, keep in mind that there is no “qualification” standard to begin with, so the very title is misleading. Further, there may be a very good reason that the individual is no longer training/handling outside of the police/military venues. That reason may be a desire for work in the private sector, or it could be indicative of poor performance.
Now, I’m not trying to paint a bleak picture; there are a number of incredible SAR dog trainers out there. All of these great instructors hold one thing in common: they can bear your scrutiny with flying colors. If you’re making the huge step towards training your dog for SAR, then you really need to make the right choices. Here are the top things to consider when choosing a SAR dog trainer:
1. Experience. There is no substitute and there is no better gauge of a trainer’s value. Look for trainers who have years of experience in a wide variety of disciplines, not just SAR. Demonstrated ability, in more than a single focus, means that the trainer will be able to administer a wide variety of training methods to accomplish the end goal. Other potential disciplines to look for include: agility, obedience, hunting, or herding. This experience is easily verified by titles such as: Companion Dog (CD, CDX) Agility Dog (AD, MACH, NATCH), Schutzhund (I, II, II) to name a few.
2. Actual SAR experience is a must. SAR dogs perform a number of tasks that your instructor MUST have real-world experience with. They need to be well-versed, from first-hand experience, on how lost or fleeing people will act, how a crime scene needs to be preserved in cadaver searches resulting from criminal acts, etc.
3. The trainer should be well-versed on all breeds and capable of assessing and advising on the limitations and capacity of that breed.
4. Separate marketing from proven performance. If your trainer is good, you can bet he or she will have references. Contact those agencies and inquire about the specific services the trainer was hired for and their thoughts regarding the trainer’s services. Just because they have a polished web site, well-designed brochures, etc., does not mean they’re the best pick, by default. In some cases, a smaller organization may actually yield better references.
The decision for you, and your dog, to become involved in SAR is a big one. Take the time to do your homework. Your success and enjoyment will not only be richer but it may, in fact, save a life!
Flea Control For Home And Pet Owners
July 21st, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World8 Comments
Flea control for dogs and cats liken to the different kind of fleas you will find on both animals. However; similarities are recognized in how fleas (While enjoying their feast of fresh, warm blood), will literally spit out a kind of chemical concoction into the hosts bloodstream. This leads to the blood clotting.
Of course this tasty cocktail of flea punch on the rocks is not exactly what the local vet ordered for your dearly beloved pet. It won’t take long before Fido starts to show the first signs of flea bites.
On a young school kid, these little red spots can look quite cute, but spotted all over your pet’s coat… is another story. Look out for dark colored particles which appear to be almost like miniature pieces of gravel.
They’ll also be the inevitable bouts of frenzied itching and scratching from your pet, resulting in very sore swelling in the most sensitive of areas.
As they say… It’s a dog’s life
So, what can we as pet owners do to ease the aggravation of these pesky uninvited pests? Well, they’re many different ways to skin this cat (excuse the pun).
One place to start is by giving your crib, digs, house or whatever you call your place of abode… a serious once over with the vacuum cleaner. As simple as this may sound, it’s a very crucial step in your flea control efforts.
Concentrate especially on the areas where your pet loves to hang out. Under the stairs, the table, the bed. You know the spots. And don’t forget to spray the bag with the spray you’re using.
This way, all your flea exterminating work won’t go to waste, because they’ll surely try to escape before you empty the bag.
It’s also an idea to seal the bag before deposing of it too. Some pet owners have even gone as far as placing the sealed bag inside another bag and popping it in to the freezer. Result… positively dead fleas! (Not for supper… for the trash bin!)
Your next course of flea control action depends on what kind of approach you’d like to adopt. In other words… chemical methods or natural methods of killing fleas.
Personally, I prefer a mixture of both. I’ve found this to be the best combination for my pet, family and house. There are many variations of flea control on the open market, some better than others.
One can get a little overwhelmed just wondering what’s best for your pet. I would suggest trying natural flea control methods first, as this has advantages all round. For you, your family, house and most of your pet.
It’s also a good learning foundation you’re going to need in the war against fleas in the years to come.
Flea control guarantees?
Several times I have reached the point of being on top of the flea game. Yes! Totally flea free home and pet. But these little critters are resilient and most likely to come marching back at some stage in the future (especially during the hot periods).
So, I wish I could give you a secret method for getting rid of fleas for good, but I’d only be lying to you.
The best policy in the war against fleas; is to always be on the lookout for the early warning signs I mentioned above. Also, keep yourself up to date on the latest flea busting products and services available.
And of course, if ever in doubt, don’t take any risks… Go and see your local vet for expert, qualified advice.
How To Select The Right Pet Bunny Rabbit For Your Household
July 20th, 2008 | Posted by catto | Category: Pet World11 Comments
So you have decided to purchase a pet rabbit, and now you are wondering how do I pick out the right one?
Well, aside from appearance, there are a number of important considerations that you will have to make when you pick out your pet bunny rabbit at the local pet store or other venue. This is important both to ensure that you choose a healthy pet rabbit, and to make sure that you and he are compatible!
Now I’ll explain what you’ll need to think about before heading out to buy your pet rabbit, and what to look for when you’re actually selecting an animal from a local breeder, adoption center or pet store.
Housing: Do You Have Enough Space for a Pet Rabbit?
When it comes to tame pet bunny rabbits, they do much better indoors than outdoors. Living indoors will ensure that your pet bunny rabbit stays healthy and safe and gets to know the members of your family. Rabbits kept in outdoor cages are at risk of being threatened by other animals; foxes, dogs, and raccoons have been known to open cage doors.
Therefore, before you decide to bring home a pet rabbit, make sure that you have plenty of space inside your house for your new animal friend. For most rabbits, plan on buying a cage that is either 30 inches square, or 2 feet by 3 feet. You will also need to make sure that you have enough room inside your home to fit a cage of this size. If you don’t have space for a cage, you will not be able to provide a rabbit with an adequate living situation.
Keep in mind that the cage should not just be placed in any old spot, but should put somewhere where the rabbit can feel connected and close to the family. At the same time, the rabbit cage should be away from heaters, air conditions, loud objects like TVs or radios, and not in direct sunlight. Since you will be letting your rabbit out of his cage for exercise, you will also need to put the cage in an area that can be bunny-proofed. (more on that later…)
Your Time Investment
A lot of people seem to think that because rabbits are relatively small and spend a good deal of time in their cages that they’re easy to take care of. Well, that may be true in some sense, but it’s foolish to bring home a rabbit thinking that it’s not going to be much of a time commitment. If you are not willing to spend time with your pet rabbit, then you probably should not get him. This, of course, applies to all pet animals!
Well, here’s what to expect. You should ensure that you have plenty of time for all the initial and intermediate stages of pet care, which include:
- Rabbit-proofing your house to make sure the little guy won’t get hurt
- Litter box training
- Cleaning up after the inevitable accidents
- Spaying/neutering
You will also need to devote a good deal of time to your rabbit well after you bring him home for the first time. You must:
- Give him exercise (at least a few hours per day out of the cage)
- Give him attention (just like any pet or child, rabbits need to feel love!)
- Buy and provide rabbit toys
- Administer feedings
- Take him to the vet if necessary and for check-ups
Above all, just keep in mind that bringing home a new pet bunny rabbit is not so different from bringing home a new infant. You will need to spend adequate time preparing for the arrival, as well as adjusting to life with the newcomer. Setting aside time for all these necessities will make for a happy, comfortable situation for everyone involved.
Before bringing home a pet rabbit, make sure that you can commit to giving him the quality of lifestyle he deserves throughout his lifetime (5-15 years, depending on the rabbit-s breed and age and health at the time of purchase).
by Andrea Austin,
http://www.rabbits-n-bunnies.com