Hsin-Yi Cohen All animal lovers in the UK welcomed the new Animal Welfare Act which comes into force early this year. It brings about some of the greatest changes in animal law since the beginning of this century and encompasses all commonly domesticated animals in the British Isles, including pets, farm stock …
Ask any hamster or gerbil owner what their biggest fear is and they will say, “My pet is escaping!” These furry, wriggly little rodents can be master escape artists and the average household presents a minefield of hazards as well as a host of hiding places. Even the plastic “hamster …
Whether it is a tank of tropical fish or a fluffy kitten, deciding to take on a pet will always involve more costs than you expect. While the love and pleasure you gain from a pet is priceless, the economic reality of pet ownership is something you should consider before …
Just as with children, pets should be protected from electrical hazards around the household. This is particularly important with young animals such as kittens and puppies that are insatiably curious and inclined to chew anything they can get in their mouths. Small mammals with continuously growing teeth – such as …
Having a pet will invariably mean accidents and injuries – but this does not always have to result in an expensive trip to the vet. Some common injuries and ailments can be safely treated at home, so here is a selection. Remember, however, that if you are unsure; if the …
Despite all your care and supervision, accidents can still happen and it is important to know what to do if your pet is poisoned. Dogs and cats are particularly prone to poisoning as dogs will chew and eat almost anything (particularly when puppies are teething) and cats are insatiably curious. …
When you come upon a pet that is injured, it is natural to panic and want to rush your pet to the veterinarian. However, it is vital to know how to transport your injured pet safely, to prevent further injury and improve its chances of survival and recovery. Firstly, always …
Even with the best precautions and supervision, accidents can happen and it is crucial every pet owner has a good idea of how to administer basic first aid to their pet, as well as having a well-stocked and pet-relevant first-aid kit on hand. In any instance, always assess the safety …
Heating has to be one of the most important aspects of reptile husbandry. As exotherms, reptiles cannot make heat for themselves but rely on taking heat from their environment to adjust and maintain their internal body temperature. This temperature depends on the species, the time of day and the stage …
With their beautiful plumage, enchanting song and cheeky personalities, birds can make wonderful pets. However, to keep them happy and healthy, it is important that a pet owner understands their behaviour and their needs – and makes sure that the right things in terms of housing, diet, toys, training and …
