Getting Your First Horse - Your Ultimate Guide

 

Image Credit: Kelly Forrister from Unsplash

Countless people dream about owning a horse, but few of them actually get to have one. There isn’t anything stopping you from being one of those people. Don’t just take the plunge without thinking about it, though. Getting your first horse comes with a lot of responsibility, after all.

Make sure you’re prepared for that before you get them. Thankfully, getting ready for it doesn’t need to be too complicated, and it might just be a matter of knowing a few things beforehand. They’ll help you make sure you can properly take care of your horse.

Knowing a few things ahead of time could be worth it.

Getting Your First Horse: What You Need to Know

There’ll Be Unexpected Surprises

When you’re getting your first horse, you’ll have a particular image in mind for when you have them. While that’s something you’ll want to work toward, it doesn’t mean it’ll always be that way. Instead, there could be a few surprises.

Horses can get injured. They’ll get sick, and more than a few other things could come up. Be prepared for these.

As unexpected as they can be, it doesn’t mean you can’t have plans in place for when they pop up. By having these emergency plans, you’ll make sure there isn’t much to worry about when anything happens. You’ll avoid a lot of stress because of it.

There’s a Lot to Look Out For

When you’re getting your first horse, you’ll naturally need to figure out which one to get. That means comparing quite a few options. Keeping the cost in mind is recommended, but there are more than a few other factors to keep in mind when you’re looking.

Then there’s what you need to keep in mind when you actually have your horse. These could be quite important to their health and happiness.

Sudden changes in weight or behavior are some of the more notable of these. If you notice these, then there could be something up with your horse. Make sure you know what to keep an eye out for from the second you get your horse.

An Equine First Aid Class Could Be Worth It

When your horse experiences any health issues or injuries, it’s natural to take them to the vet. There’ll be plenty of times where you could need to do a few things yourself, too. That’ll especially be the case when the vet is on the way.

An equine first aid class could be worth looking into. It’ll help you learn the basics of looking after your horse when they need a little help.

Countless steps and areas could be included in this. Learning how to use nebulizers for horses is a decent part of this. By taking an equine first aid class, you’ll make sure you can take care of your horse in case of an emergency. It’s a vital part of horse ownership.

A Trainer Could Be Recommended

Speaking of learning, it can always be worth investing in a horse trainer. If you have a young horse, this is especially needed. They’ll help make sure your horse develops healthy and positive habits, as well as obeys your commands. This can help more than you’d think.

At the same time, they can show you how you can actually look after your horse in various ways. There’s no reason not to go for it.

There are countless trainers you can go with, some of which will be better than others. Take the time to research your options to find the best ones for you. Customer reviews are a great start with this.

Tips for Owning Your First Horse

Knowing all of the above helps to put you in a great position going forward. You’ll know all of the fundamentals, and you shouldn’t have a problem covering the basics. That doesn’t mean it’s all you’ll need to know, though.

It’s always worth using a few tips and tricks while you’re at it. These help you make sure your new horse is as happy and healthy as possible. The most helpful of these are:

1. Set Aside Time to Bond - Bonding with your horse is always recommended, as it lets you build an actual relationship with them. This doesn’t come straight away, though, and it’s an area you’ll need to put active effort into. The key to this is consistency. Schedule time to properly bond with your horse outside of riding, feeding, and grooming them. This could take more time than you’d think, so put the time and effort into it.

2. Invest in Good Equipment - You’ll need quite a bit of equipment to look after your horse and ride them. Since you could be on a budget, you’ll be tempted to go for the lowest-cost options you can. That isn’t always the best approach to take, as these could be low quality. By investing in good equipment, you’ll be better off. It’ll last longer, and you and your horse will be more comfortable with it.

3. Find a Community - Getting your first horse can often feel overwhelming, especially if you’re doing it alone. That’s why it’s always worth finding a community. This can help you more than you’d think. You’ll get advice, and you can even make friends with other horse owners. It’ll help you find your footing much faster, and help you start things off the right way.

These help you make sure you’re taking the best possible care of your horse. Since this can be an intimidating prospect when you first get them, it’s always worth using the right tips. You shouldn’t have a problem keeping them happy and healthy.

While there’ll always be work involved in it, you shouldn’t have to be overwhelmed. Take the time to use the right tips for you and your horse.

Mistakes to Avoid

As helpful as each of these tips are, they mightn’t be the only things to know. You don’t just need to know what to do after getting your first horse. You’ll also need to know what not to do. There are countless horse ownership mistakes you should avoid.

While some of these can be relatively minor, many of them can be larger than you’d think. Since nobody wants to make mistakes, it’s worth being aware of the more notable ones ahead of time so you can avoid them. These include:

⮚ Letting Your Horse Move During Mounting - Getting on your horse takes a little bit of effort, but it should be straightforward. One area to keep an eye out for is whether your horse moves when you’re trying to mount them. Don’t let that happen, as it could end up being dangerous. Take the time to make them relax and be still before you get on them.

⮚ Not Leading Them - Bonding with your horse is essential, but that doesn’t mean you should focus on just being their friend. You’ll need to be their leader, too. If you don’t put effort into this, they could just see you as a playmate. They mightn’t do what they’re supposed to because of that. Take the time to position yourself as their leader rather than just a friend.

⮚ Rushing the Process - When you want to get a horse, you could want to get them as quickly as possible. You’ll even want to start riding them as soon as you can. Don’t rush the process, though. This could lead to countless mistakes, and it mightn’t even be the safest thing to do. By being patient, you can make sure they’re properly trained, and you have everything you need to ride them safely.

⮚ Not Getting Help When You Need It - There’ll be plenty of times where you mightn’t be sure what to do with your horse. Don’t settle for guessing with it. Instead, take the time to get whatever help you need with what you’re struggling with. Countless professionals can help you, so feel free to take advantage of that help. It’ll make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.

By knowing about these potential mistakes ahead of time, you should avoid them. That helps keep you and your horse safe, happy, and healthy when you’re with them. With how important this is, there’s no reason not to be aware of them.

Take the time and effort you need to avoid each of them.

Getting Your First Horse: Wrapping Up

Getting your first horse can be an exciting time. It’s not something you should just rush through, though. You’ll have to make sure you’re actually ready to get one and can properly take care of them. This can seem complicated at the best of times.

Thankfully, it doesn’t need to be that way. It’s just a matter of knowing what you’re doing ahead of time. It’ll put you in a great position to actually look after them.

Add in a few tips to use and mistakes to avoid, and there shouldn’t be anything to worry about. You’ll have a great time with your new horse, and you’ll make sure they’re as happy and healthy as possible.

Dog Or Cat: Which Is Right For You?

Are you thinking about bringing a dog or cat home to live with you? If you’re stuck on which one will be the best choice, then we have some key points that you should consider. 

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Independence

First, you should think about the levels of independence for each animal. Dogs are highly sociable and only a few breeds like a high level of independence. As such, you can expect a dog to follow you around your home even as they get older. Depending on the habits they develop as a puppy, they may also want to sleep next to you. Cats are far more independent and most will do their own thing for the majority of the day. Particularly, if you are allowing your cat to roam. If you are keeping your cat indoors, then it might be worth getting two. Particularly, if you are going to be out for most of the day. 

Feeding 

Next, you should consider feeding. Both animals obviously require feeding and both can either have wet or dry pet food. Regardless of whether you have a dog or cat, you should always spend a little time researching the best food. Some provide more quality ingredients compared with others. Some dogs and cats can require specific food depending on their diet requirements. This will usually be due to a health issue that develops overtime. This is something that you should keep in mind if you are worried about the cost of the pet. That brings us neatly to the next factor that you need to consider. 

Cost 

In the vast majority of cases, it is going to be more expensive to have a dog than a cat. However, this is not a given. It is possible that a cat can develop a rare illness or condition that they will need treatment for. If that’s the case, then you will need to claim on the insurance or pay the cost outright. For general costs, you’ll find that a cat is cheaper because they don’t need as much in terms of care and support. Although you will need things like flea treatment medication for both animals. 

Toilet Routines

Finally, you should think about the toilet routines for both animals. In most cases, a cat will use a litterbox. On the plus side, this means that you don’t have to worry about taking them out to do their business. However, you will need to make sure that you are emptying their litter box regularly if you want to avoid it causing a smell around your home. Cats can also be trained to go outside but this is more difficult, particularly if you want to ensure that the animal remains safe. It takes about the same amount of effort to toilet train a dog as it does a cat and you will have at least a few mishaps along the way. 

Ultimately, it’s your choice whether you bring a cat or dog home to live with you. However, keeping these factors in mind will help ensure that you are making an informed decision which makes the most sense with your lifestyle. 

5 Reasons Getting Your Child A Dog Is Good For Development

It's no secret that dogs have been man's best friend for centuries. They provide us with companionship, love, and security. But did you know that dogs can also positively impact your child's development? Here are five reasons why getting your child a dog is good for their development.

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1. Dogs Help Teach Responsibility

One of the most important things you can teach your child is responsibility. And what better way to teach responsibility than by getting them a furry friend that depends on them for food, water, and exercise? Caring for a dog will help your child learn how to be responsible for another living creature. This important lesson will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

2. Dogs Help Promote Exercise & Healthy Habits

Another great reason to get your child a dog is that it will help promote exercise and healthy habits. A dog needs regular exercise, so your child will need to get up and move too. Taking the dog for regular walks or runs is a great way for your child to get some exercise while bonding with their furry friend. And, as an added bonus, it's a great way to get the whole family moving and active!

3. Dogs Help Kids Develop Compassion & Empathy

Kids who grow up with dogs tend to be more compassionate and empathetic than those who don't. This is because dogs provide us with unconditional love and acceptance, which helps teach kids how to love and accept others, even when they're not perfect. This is an important lesson that will help your child as they navigate through life's ups and downs.

4. Dogs Can Help Reduce Stress & Anxiety Levels

Dogs can help reduce stress and anxiety levels in kids, especially during times of transition, such as starting school or moving to a new house. In addition, dogs can provide a sense of security and safety, which can be especially helpful for kids who suffer from anxiety or nightmares. Allowing your child the honor of working with a dog can help your child overcome any fears or anxieties they may have.

5. Dogs Can Help Kids Develop Social Skills

Another great benefit of having a dog is that it can help kids develop social skills. Dogs are natural icebreakers and can help kids feel more comfortable in social situations. In addition, they provide a way for kids to connect with others, which can be invaluable during those awkward pre-teen and teenage years. For example, owning a dog like the Ausmate Australian Cobberdogs will help your child to develop social skills and confidence, as they will need to take their dog out in public and interact with other dog owners.

Dogs make great additions to any family, but they're especially beneficial for families with children. If you're on the fence about whether or not to get your child a dog, hopefully, this article has given you some food for thought. So if you're looking for a furry friend who will love your child unconditionally and help them grow into a happy and successful adult, look no further than man's best friend – the dog!

5 Mistakes to Avoid when Getting a New Pet

White puppy and white kitten playing - Image Courtesy of Pixabay

 

Getting a new pet is a great occasion for any person, couple, or family. Cats and dogs especially are excellent companions that provide comfort. But here are some things to be aware of.

Not Checking the Breeder's Reputation

The pet industry is massive in certain countries like the USA and the UK. Unfortunately, many criminal breeders will take advantage of this and use their animals on breeding farms. As a result, pup after pup and kitten and kitten are churned out, causing severe physical and mental harm to the parents. And leaving many of the babies with issues because they can't get enough nutrition after birth. For your own conscience alone, check the credentials of people offering puppies for sale or other exotic animals at suspiciously low prices and quicker than usual.

Failing to Get a DNA Test

The rise of fashionable pets like Cockapoos, Persian cats, and exotic African Grey parrots means some breeders will use lesser breeds to make their babies look like these. Then they will sell sub-standard cross-breeds to unsuspecting customers. You could then find your Cockapoo ends up being as large as a German Shepherd instead of a medium-sized lapdog. If you are going to part with a substantial amount of cash, then insist on your own DNA testing for the animals. Any reputable breed won't mind you doing this and will even encourage it.

Consider the Cost of Getting a New Pet

It's possible to get a loving pet for free or very cheap. However, food and accessories aren't free. Also, depending on the breed, you may or may not need to have a pet groomed. But if you do, this can cost upwards of $10,000 per year. And some animals need specialized diets to live a healthy life. So always consider the cost of getting a new pet in addition to what you are going to pay a breeder for a particular animal. Otherwise, you might have to make the heartbreaking decision to sell your pet. Or worse, you can't provide the adequate care it needs.

Not Researching the Needs of the Breed

There are many breeds of almost every animal. And the most popular pets are no different. Dogs, cats, and even bunnies have other requirements depending on their species. For instance, large dogs typically need far more exercise in an open space than toy dogs like Yorkies. And some cats need a special diet. For example, Siamese cats need a unique kibble that helps them to eat their food slower than other cats because they regurgitate. They also need a diet high in protein and L-carnitine to maintain their sleek and lean shape.

Thinking It Will be Fine if Left Alone

It's really unfair to get a new animal if you aren't going to be there to help it transition to a new home. This is especially true of kittens and puppies that are conscious of their surroundings and people. However, smaller mammals like rabbits and rats also require some attention, as do exotics like parrots. These are all highly intelligent animals, and they know where they are and when they are alone. Therefore, they require a lot of social interaction to thrive. If you can't be with your new pet for at least two weeks, then reconsider getting them until you can.

Summary

There are some mistakes you can make when getting a new pet. Some of these include buying from a bad breeder, not considering the costs, and not knowing the needs of the animal.

How CBD Dog Treats Help With Anxiety Disorders

If you are one of those people who think that anxiety disorders can only affect humans, I suggest you stop talking until you have done some research on this topic. Psychological disorders are not uniquely human and it is not a good idea to disregard certain symptoms in your pets, just because you believe they cannot suffer from these disorders. If you click this, you’ll see that a lot of animal species can, in fact, become mentally ill.

How To Spot Anxiety In Dogs?

In order to be able to help your canine become more carefree, happier and healthier, you will first have to learn how to spot symptoms of this disorder in the animal. Some signs are rather obvious, but others are so subtle that it takes a keen eye and a responsible and attentive owner to notice them. While communication between us and our dogs is a bit hindered due to their inability to speak, you can rest assured that the little fur balls have their ways of sending you the message that something is wrong.

There are a lot of different types of anxiety disorders and all of them manifest in slightly different, but yet similar ways. You should be on the lookout for signs like fear of staying alone, fear of loud noises and hostile behavior towards other animals and people. Those are the most obvious signs and you will definitely notice them easily, since your canine’s behavior driven by those fears will cause you some troubles.

As I have mentioned above, there are also some more subtle symptoms that you should keep an eye on. Those include excessive barking, frequent urinating, shivering, digging, destroying your furniture, and similar. If you notice that they are excessively chewing or licking themselves, this can also be a symptom of anxiety, because this is the pet’s way of inflicting self-harm.

How To Treat It?

There are a few different ways you can help your dog when it is suffering from anxiety. Those include engaging in certain behavioral trainings, administering products such as the ones found at https://pethempcompany.com/products/cbd-dog-treats-stress-anxiety-relief and, of course, cuddling with them and making them feel safe when they are upset. All of these things usually have to be combined in order for the treatment to be successful.

One of the most popular and highly effective ways of treating anxiety is giving your dog CBD treats. People are increasingly administering these products to their pets because they have noticed a significant improvement in their behavior and their overall quality of life after giving them CBD. In case you still aren’t familiar with Cannabidiol, you’ll find the info you need below.

CBD Treats And Anxiety

These treats are made from the cannabis-derived compound called Cannabidiol. I know what you might be thinking now that cannabis is mentioned, so let me clear the air immediately. This compound isn’t toxic, or psychoactive, so it cannot harm your animal in any way. It has been thoroughly researched and no serious side effects have been discovered by now.

The only thing that you should worry about is giving your pet the right dosage. There are a few symptoms connected to exaggerating with the dosage. Those include vomiting and sleepiness. It’s best that you consult an expert before administering the product, but you will probably be able to determine on your own how much is enough. Start slowly and increase the dosage if you don’t notice any improvements.

Speaking of that, let me now quickly tell you what kinds of improvements you’ll actually be able to notice. Of course, all the signs of anxiety in your dog will slowly keep disappearing after you start giving the pet CBD treats. Cannabidiol is known for being able to soothe our animals and help them feel more at ease. This product will get rid of the fear your pets are feeling without any cause whatsoever and that will lead to them being less anxious.

By reacting with the cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system, CBD treats have a calming impact on the animal’s whole body. After you introduce this product to its daily routine, you’ll quickly see your dog become more relaxed in situations that would have previously caused them to throw a tantrum. In other words, they will become less anxious.

All About Dog Tooth Decay

Dogs are more than just pets. Apart from being great companions, they warn us of impending danger and also protect us from intruders and wild animals. 

Thus it is important to keep them healthy by taking good care of them. Tooth decay is one of the most problematic health issues that they experience.

If the right measures are not taken to prevent or treat  it then it can develop into serious complications that disrupt their normal routine. 

Below are a few things that you should know about the topic. You can also look at this link to get more information.

What are the causes?

As in humans, the number one cause is lack of brushing. Some people rarely brush their dog’s teeth while others don't even know that they are supposed to do so. 

Failure to do so leads to the accumulation of food remains that forms plaques and tartars. This results in bacteria producing enzymes that wear off the teeth enamel and also causes other infections such as gum diseases.

The other cause is poor diet. They should be fed a healthy diet consisting mainly of chewable bones and meat. These do not stick on the tooth surface as much as artificial foods hence minimize plaque formation. 

The chewing action also removes some of the food remains from previous meals thus reducing accumulation. See this link to read more about tooth problems in dogs https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/features/dogs-teeth-toothaches-problems#1 

What are the effects?

These vary depending on the extent of the decay. At the initial stages, the effects include teeth coloration and bad breath. These might go unnoticeable since the dog is still able to go about its daily activities without any pain or difficulty. 

The middle stages are marked by pain as the worn-out tissue exposes sensitive nerves. This might change their eating behaviors, characterized by localized chewing which is one-sided and accompanied by wincing and strange sounds. The final stage is tooth loss and bleeding gums.

How can these be prevented or treated?

The most basic means of prevention is regular brushing to remove the food remains and sticky plaque. This is done using special paste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Others include:

• Healthy diet

As mentioned earlier, the regular diet should be made up of food that does not stick on the surfaces and should also be easily removable by natural mechanisms such as chewing and tongue movement. Bones and chewy meat fall in this category. Opt for natural foodstuffs.

• Regular checkups

They should be taken to oral specialists after regular intervals, for instance, after every six months or a year for dental checkups. This ensures that infections and other issues are treated before they worsen.

• Use supplements

These contain a lot of beneficial properties that help fight bacteria that cause decay. Ozone water and oils, for example, are antibacterial and can also be used to treat mild cases. The water can be used for both drinking and as a mouthwash.

• Chewy toys

Dogs are playful, especially puppies. Thus giving them a toy that incorporates chewing to play with is a good idea. It exercises the jaws and helps remove plaque hence ensuring dental hygiene. Avoid giving the toys to those that are already experiencing adverse effects such as inflammation as they can cause irritation.

• Aloe Vera

The aloe vera extract can be used as a homemade remedy for tooth and gum diseases characterized by pain. It has both medicinal and soothing properties. At times it is mixed with other compounds such as hydrogen peroxide. Only use the extract and not the whole leaf. Piece of advice, the taste is not pleasing hence it should be used in small amounts and after meals.

• Chlorhexidine

This can be found in drugstores. It should be used sparingly and in low concentrations. It comes both as a mouthwash solution used for rinsing and an oral spray. Click here to see how you can tell when your dog is having a toothache and how you can help.

Conclusion

Observing dental hygiene will go a long way in ensuring your dog’s oral health and saving you all those trips and money to the vet. It is as simple as implementing regular brushing and a healthy diet. Minimize the usage of artificial products as some have side effects when used for long. Go for natural ones whenever possible. Also bear in mind that some breeds are more susceptible to tooth decay than others hence require extra care. Watch what they eat.

Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy For Dogs: What It Is And How It Is Treated

As a dog owner, nothing is more frightening than the idea of your little friend developing health issues. While we all want our pets to be safe and healthy, there are some medical issues that we cannot protect them from and they will appear no matter what we do to stop it. One of those issues is hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD), otherwise known as bone inflammation, and as you can see here, it usually affects larger breeds.

When some of those medical issues arise, it is our responsibility to ease our pup’s symptoms, help them overcome the problem and lead a better-quality life. The owners are the ones who need to take proper care of the animal and simply ignoring the symptoms is the worst thing you could do. If you suspect that your pup might be suffering from this condition, then read on to find out what it actually is and how it can be treated.

What Is Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD) And What Causes It?

This is a medical condition that affects the bones of large breed puppies. It is usually developed between the second and the seventh week of their lives and it is closely connected to their fast growth. While this is a condition that is usually simply outgrown by canines, there are instances in which it could lead to permanent damage and deformed legs.

The most common symptoms of this condition include pain and swelling in the joints, loss of appetite, and lameness, as well as fever and diarrhea. While you might not be able to do much about it until the pup grows and beats the disease on its own, you definitely want to ease its symptoms and help it any way you can. There is a new, popular way of treating this, but we will get to that later.

If you want to jump to the new treatment plan immediately, here you go: https://petcbdcommunity.com/cbd-for-dogs-hypertrophic-osteodystrophy/ 

The cause of this medical condition is still not perfectly clear. While some experts think it has to do with a lack of vitamin C, others believe that it might be the dog’s response to vaccination. This lack of evidence makes it almost impossible to think in advance and prevent the development of HOD. All you can do is treat it if it occurs.

If you believe to have noticed some of these symptoms in your little pet, the best thing you can do is take it to the vet. A professional will know how to diagnose the pup properly, as well as tell you what you should do about it. Once again, the worst thing you can do is simply ignore the problem and wait for it to disappear. I suppose you wouldn’t be able to watch your pup suffer like that.

How Is It Treated?

Now we have come to the treatment part. This condition is usually treated with anti-inflammatory medication and there seems to be a perfect product on the market ready to help your little puppy with the symptoms of HOD. I am talking about a compound called Cannabidiol (CBD) and the products derived from it.

Cannabidiol is a compound extracted from the hemp plant, which comes from the family of cannabis. Although the plant is related to cannabis, neither hemp, nor CBD products are psychoactive or toxic for your animal. In other words, the products are perfectly safe for animal consumption and they have proved to be highly effective in the treatment of hypertrophic osteodystrophy and similar conditions. 

The reason CBD is so great in the process of treating HOD is because it has anti-inflammatory properties and it is a perfect pain management tool. As we have already established, when your pup develops HOD, it will feel a lot of pain, swelling, and inflammation in its joints. Those are all the symptoms that can be successfully eased with the help of CBD.

While you might not be able to get rid of this condition immediately, CBD is your best shot at helping your dog by relieving its symptoms and consequently improving its quality of life. I know you definitely want what’s best for your doggie and in this case, the best you can do is ease the pain and inflammation. CBD can help you do that.

Guide to Caring for Your Bearded Dragon

The bearded dragon affectionately referred to as “beardie”, is a reptile and one of the many lizard species. Its name is so-called because just like dragons, it has spiny reptilian scales and a beard of spikes that puffs up under its throat based on its mood. This beard also turns black for different reasons but especially when it is stressed. It is considered one of the best lizard species and among the easiest to care for, therefore, it is usually kept as a pet and in zoos.

Beardies are omnivores and can be found in bushes and tree branches and they like to stay on rocks and trees, basking in the sun. They are mostly native to Australia and can also be found in deserts, eucalyptus woodlands, and shrublands. Their average lifespan is 4 – 10 years and a fully grown one can reach up to 18 to 22 inches, weighing between 10 to 18 ounces. They range in color from red to yellow, white or brown

Beardies are mostly gentle, alert, inquisitive, hardy, and tame. They also exhibit behaviors like waving of their arms as a sign of submission, especially by females. Also, when alarmed or anxious, their spiny beards get extended and can turn black. Many owners of bearded dragons like to watch them for fun while they feed or as they chase crickets. You can check out this article to learn more.

How to Care for Your Beardie

Provide it with a Home

As an owner of a bearded dragon, there is a need to care for it if you want it to live well and live long. You need to set up a home, called a terrarium, for it with a screened lid and a source of heating as they are from warm and dry habitats. To make sure it is comfortable, you should line the bottom of the terrarium with calcium sand or a reptile carpet especially if it is a young one. At least once a week, clean up its wastes and provide a clean and fresh living. You should also add a few branches and rocks for climbing and hiding.

Heating

Beardies are ectotherms which means that they need both hot and cool environments. As a result of this, endeavor to put thermometers at the different ends to measure the temperature. Also, a hygrometer to measure humidity. Its humidity should be between 20 to 30%. The heat source should be over the beardie’s basking spot; the warmest area of the terrarium at around 100 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit while the cooler end should be about 38 to 29 degrees Fahrenheit. Note that the basking light should be turned off at night. Remember that they are active in the day and sleep at night. To view your pet at night, you may need to use a night specific source of light so as not to disturb it.

You can learn more about how to properly light your pet’s space here: https://reptile.guide/bearded-dragon-lighting-guide/.

Feeding

Being omnivores, they eat both plants and insects. A bearded dragon should be fed at least 2 to 3 times daily. You can feed it vegetables such as carrots, leafy greens, and insects like mealworms, wax worms, and crickets. You can also feed it with fruits like apples, melons, and bananas. There are also pet stores that sell bearded dragon foods, you can get some of that for it. Also, make sure to always provide it with water and clean its feeding plates and bowls regularly.

Keeping Your Beardie Healthy

As much as possible, when you newly acquire your pet, try not to hold it for up to three or four days as it needs a chance to get used to its new home. If you keep handling it, it can fall sick. If you notice any symptoms of sickness, you need to take it to the vet. Some signs that your pet is sick include:

⦁ Not eating and drinking water.

⦁ Hiding more than is usual.

⦁ Shedding and discoloration of its scale.

⦁ Discharges from its mouths, eyes, and nose.

⦁ Watery and runny droppings that have continued for more than two days.

⦁ Swollen joints.

Taking care of this creature requires some knowledge. Thankfully you can find several resources online that will provide you with sufficient bearded dragon guidance. Take advantage of these.

Where Can You Get a Beardie?

If you are interested, you can purchase a bearded dragon from reptile expos, pet stores, and breeder websites. Captive-bred specimens are healthier and easily adapt than those caught in the wild, so it is recommended to get those.

Why Dog Owners Are Happier People

Image source Pixabay - CC0 Licence

If you’ve never welcomed a little puppy into your home, you have no comprehension of the joy this little four legged creature can bring into someone’s life. Unlike a cat, a dog will cling to you like glue. They will imprint on every member of the family and become one of the pack. They adore being loved and showing love. Dog owners are happier than non-dog owners because they experience unconditional love from their pooch. But dogs give us so much more than just puppy mutt eyes and a cute little face. Dogs really are a man’s (and woman’s) best friend.

Read on to find out why.

Emotional Intelligence

Dogs have a tendency to read the emotions of their owners. It doesn’t matter whether you enjoy the company of an intelligent breed like a border collie or one renowned for its lack of obedience like a beagle, the chances are your pooch will read you like a book. When you are feeling alert and happy, they’ll bring their favorite toy to you so that you can play. However, if you are a little under the weather or you are feeling a little low, you mutt will snuggle close to you, sit on your lap or curl up at your feet. They know when you need company, a little extra love, and support, and this is their way of providing it. It is this emotional intelligence that forms the great bond between dog and human.

They Want To Please

A dog loves nothing more than hearing the famous two words, ‘Good boy,’ or ‘Good girl.’ It is these two simple words of praise that your canine buddy lives for. They are eager to please us and know their place within the pack. They want to be obedient and are keen to show just how agile, playful and trainable they are. If you find yourself with a pocketful of chicken breast, your mutt will sit, play dead or give paw for the treats they can smell on you. Your pooch will be keen to behave around visitors and will be great company on road trips, outings and walks down to the park.

Walking your dog can provide you with ample opportunity to meet new people, make new friends and get out into the great outdoors and exercise. This can help lift your mood, boost your dopamine levels and leave you feeling less stressed and with lower blood pressure.

Dogs Become Family

While you might welcome a puppy into your life expecting them to be nothing more than a pet, you will be surprised at just how much of an integral part of your family they become. Before you know it, you’ll be commissioning some custom pet pop art to put on your family photo wall, you’ll be making bespoke Christmas cards with your mutt on the front, and you’ll be considering where to go on your vacation taking into account your dog’s wants and needs from a trip. Dogs become one of the family very quickly. Having a puppy really is like having a newborn baby. They need love, feeding and sometimes even rocking to sleep.

If you want to become happier, you can do worse than buying a dog!

5 Considerations For Future Pet Owners

Countless stories tell the tale of the happiness that a pet can bring into your life. For those who are struggling with anxiety, depression and loneliness, adopting a dog or a cat can be a life-changing experience. Many claim that they never rescued their pet from the shelter; it was always their furry friend who rescued them. Pets can bring a lot of love and fun to your home, regardless of your situation. 

But a pet is not a toy. Adopting a dog or a cat comes with heavy responsibilities. You are not only caring for a living creature, but you are also responsible for their behaviors, their actions, and the damage they cause. If you’re in a position where you want to adopt your first pet, you need to make sure that you understand your duties as a pet owner. 

Teach dogs not to chase big cars

#1. Your pet could cause injuries

If you’ve played with a kitten in the past, you probably know that these fierce little cuties have sharp claws and teeth. It’s impossible not to escape with a few scratches when you play with a young cat. But it’s part of the deal; kittens are ultimately babies that are not yet able to control their strength or enthusiasm. The same phenomenon happens with puppies. It’s something you need to be prepared for. However, as your pet grows older, you will soon notice improvements as they realize how strong they are and become more careful during playtime. Typically, it is the time where you can tackle abnormal signs of aggressiveness and help your pet to feel more confident. It is your responsibility not only to keep your dog or cat safe but also everybody else. Indeed, you don’t want a neighbor complaining about an unprovoked dog bite as it can be a painful experience. If the law finds that you didn’t keep your dog on a leash in a public place, or that you didn’t handle your animal’s aggressive behavior adequately, you might be asked to cover medical bills and other compensation for the victim. Additionally, authorities might rule to put your dog down. 

#2. Living next to a road is dangerous

Every pet lover wants a garden for their dog or cat to enjoy some fresh air. But, if you live next to a big road, you need to keep your garden secured so that your pet doesn’t escape. Indeed, even for careful drivers, it can be tricky to react appropriately when a dog suddenly barges onto the road. Defensive drivers are more likely to have life-saving reflexes if they have sufficient time to respond when they see your dog run into traffic. However, your pet may not be that lucky; it could be hit, it could even cause an accident. Make it your number one training lesson to teach your dog not to run after cars. 

Keep your pet on a leash

#3. They can break everything you love

Keeping your dog or cat at home all day while you’re at work can come at a high cost. Indeed, your pet needs entertainment. Left to their own devices, pets are likely to destroy your belongings. Chewing on a sofa or pushing things off the shelf; your beloved furry friend can cost you a lot of money. If you can’t find a local daycare company for your pet while you’re working, it’s a good idea to block access to some rooms during when you’re away and leave them with plenty of toys. 

#4. There’s the matter of the vet bills

Did you know that every year pet owners choose to abandon their animals rather than pay for veterinary bills? Vet care doesn’t come for free, and ultimately, it’s something you can manage with dedicated pet insurance cover. When you adopt a dog or a cat – or any other pet – you are responsible for their health. Vet facilities that offer extensive and emergency services, distinctive experience and high credentials are likely to increase the bill. But don’t you want the best to look after your pet?

#5. Training your pet is hard work

You can’t become a pet owner if you refuse to train your pet. Too many dog owners try to skip the training stage by interpreting their pet’s behaviors in human terms.In reality, humanizing your dog’s actions can cause errors of judgments and communication, which are likely to lead to unpleasant reactions. Training is hard work, but it is necessary if you want to build a safe relationship with your pet in your community. 

Adopting an animal is an exciting and emotional experience. But you can’t just welcome a pet to your family without considering your responsibilities. As a pet owner, you have a duty of care to your pet but also the public. Failure to keep them safe can cause you many troubles. 

Taking a Pet-Stop: Make Sure You Have More Quality Pet Time

Owning a pet is a big responsibility these days, but it can also be one of the most important things in life. More and more households these days are introducing pets into the family home, and this is really improving things for them. As such, it is important for you to make sure you are doing what is right for your animal, and this generally involves spending time with your furry friend.

Pet owners need to make sure they take time out of the stresses of daily life to make time for their pets. However, this is something that can be more difficult to achieve than you might think, and this is certainly something to consider. These are some of the best ideas to make use of when you come to make more quality time for your pet.

Get Out of the House

One of the best places to start with this is getting out of the home. An animal like a dog doesn’t do well being cooped up all day, so you need to get out and take them for a walk. This is a great way of keeping active, and it keeps you healthy and active at the same time. Having a happy and healthy pet is something that makes a big difference to their life and yours. And these are some of the best ways you can achieve this right now. 

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Bring Your Pet on Vacation

Of course, it depends on where you choose to go, but it could well be the case that you will be able to take your pet on vacation with you. This would be ideal if you are going somewhere that allows you to be outdoors a lot. You might need to check about things like pet-friendly hotels, and what the deal is if you are looking to fly. There is accepted etiquette for vacationing with pets, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with this so that you can get the best possible outcome. 

Regular Check-Ups

Another thing to keep in mind is that you need to take care of the health of your pet, specifically, when it comes to their physical well-being. And this means taking them for regular check-ups at the veterinarian and ensuring you keep on top of any health problems. Pets can live long and healthy lives provided they are well looked after and taken care of, and this is something you should be doing on a regular basis as a pet owner. The more regularly you visit the vet, the easier it is to keep on top of problems and identify health issues when they arise.  

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As you can see, there are a lot of things that you can do that are going to help you improve the time you have together with your animal. Taking the steps to do this effectively is so important, and you have to be sure you are doing what is right for them. This sometimes means getting a little more creative with stuff, and you need to make sure you put your animal first as much as you can.

Traveling Long Distance with a Dog

When you own a dog, you always own a dog. You'll have heard the saying ‘a dog isn't just for Christmas', and this couldn't be truer. When you own a dog, they become a part of your family. You'll plan your days around them, and you'll always consider their needs when it comes to taking trips and spending time away from home.

Some people chose to put their dogs in kennels while they are away, or they decide to leave them with family and friends. But, for other families, it wouldn't be a proper family vacation without their furry friend. Of course, sometimes things come up out of the blue, and you have no choice but to pack your pet up into the car and take them on a long trip with you.

This can bring challenges. Some dogs are great in cars. They don’t mind travel and are happy to go along with your travel plans, whatever they might be. Others aren't quite so sure. Many dogs get anxious about even a short car ride so a more extended trip might seem impossible. Either way, here are some tips to make the journey as easy as possible for your whole family.

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Prepare Your Car

You should always take the time to check your car over before any long journey, with or without pets. Perform essential car safety checks like testing the brakes, tires and lights and checking the fluid levels under the hood. The last thing that you want is to find yourself looking for a legal solution for your car accident case because your car wasn't in good enough condition to make the journey. So fix any faults and take it to the garage if you have any doubts. It can also be worth going in for a full service before your trip if your car hasn't had one for more than a year.

If you are traveling with a dog, there are other things that you should check. Make sure that there is enough room for them to lie comfortably when your car is fully packed up. Make sure that they can be secured safely, and that the space in your vehicle can remain well ventilated and cool. 

Pack Home Comforts

Dogs can be a bit like children. Strange things, be it environments, atmospheres, noises, smells, sounds or people, make them anxious. They like stability and familiarity. When things are different, they get nervous, and their behavior can suffer. 

Everything about traveling is different. Even if they are used to being in a car, it won’t be for this long, and they might still have trouble settling when you reach your destination. One of the best ways to make them more comfortable is by keeping as much you can the same. Try to stick to any walking and feeding routines that you have. Pack their bed, their favorite toys and even their usual food bowl and blanket to help them to feel more secure and safe.

Plan Plenty of Stops

Just like you, your dog gets tired of being in the same position. They need toilet stops, they need to stretch their legs, and they need to relieve the boredom of being stuck in a tight space for hours at a time. So, if you are taking a long road trip, plan plenty of stops along your route, or make sure you leave yourself plenty of time so that you can stop as many times as you need to as you go. If you are staying overnight anywhere, make sure the accommodation is pet-friendly before you book, don’t just assume that they will be.

Go for Long Walks

A long walk shortly before you start your journey, with any luck will mean that they curl up and go for a long sleep as soon as you hit the road. Long walks at rest stops can have a similar effect. Try to tire them out as much as you can before loading them into the car.

Build Up Slowly 

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If your dog is a very nervous traveler, you can’t just expect them to be ok with a long road trip straight away. If at all possible, try to build up slowly. Take them on a short drive every day, building up to a longer journey at the weekend. 

Trust Your Instincts 

You know your pet. You know how they behave. You know when they are happy, and you know when there is something wrong. Along the journey, it’s essential that you trust your instincts to help you to keep them happy and safe and give them what they need.