New Puppy Care: 0-7 Weeks
In This Article The Neonatal Stage (0-2 Weeks) View 2 More +
Enlarged Liver in Ferrets
Hepatomegaly in Ferrets Hepatomegaly is the medical term used to describe an abnormally enlarged liver. Often occurring due to certain diseases and conditions that can either directly or indirectly affect the liver’s ability to function, the liver may increase in size, taking on a diseased condition of its own. Hepatomegaly usually occurs in middle-aged to older ferrets. Symptoms and Types Depending on the underlying cause, the enlargement may involve the whole liver or only part of it. For example, infections and/or inflammation may lead to generalized symmetrical enlargement of the liver, whereas tumors, hemorrhages, cysts, or rotation of liver lobe may lead to asymmetrical or focal enlargement. That is, only a part of the liver may be enlarged. Symptoms can vary depending on the cause. Enlargement of the abdomen is the most commonly observed symptom. On examination your veterinarian will find an enlarged liver or a palpable mass in the abdominal area. The mass is usually observed behind the rib cage and may even be visible with naked eye. However, it may be difficult to detect an enlarged liver in obese ferrets via physical examination.
Top 10 Cat Breeds for Kids
Recognized by their alert expression and ears that curl into a graceful arc, American Curls are faithful, affectionate companions that adjust easily to other pets, children and new situations, said Cat Fanciers’ Association spokesperson Jodell Raymond. A very people-oriented breed, American Curls love following their owners around the home and love being involved in whatever their people are up to, similarly to dogs.,Looking for the perfect feline friend to add to your bustling household? Take a look at one of these family-friendly breeds, and get some tips on how to teach kids how to care for their pets.)
Seizures in Rabbits
In This Article Summary View 6 More +
How To Load a Horse in a Trailer
In This Article Training to Load a Horse Into a Trailer View 2 More +
Can Chickens Eat Tomatoes?
In moderation, fully ripened, red tomatoes—both large varieties, grape, and cherry tomatoes—can be a safe, tasty treat for chickens, says Sabrina Kong, DVM, of Jules Veterinary Center in Tracy, California, and veterinary consultant at WeLoveDoodles.com. In fact, tomatoes are commonly found as an ingredient in popular treats for chickens, like: ,Red, rich, and refreshing, tomatoes are a tasty summer staple that contain many nutrients for people. But can chickens eat tomatoes too? The quick answer is yes, chickens can have tomatoes, but there are some guidelines to keep in mind when feeding them. We spoke with veterinarians about the health benefits and risks of feeding your flock tomatoes, how much is safe to feed, how to prepare tomatoes for your flock, and more. Before introducing any new food into your chicken’s diet, always check with your veterinarian.
Why Is My Cat Acting Strange After I Come Home From Vacation?
After a relaxing vacation away, you’re probably excited to get home and reunite with your beloved cat. You open the door (and your arms!), expecting a big reaction—but not the one you receive! Your usually sweet, loving cat is aggressive, and you’re left wondering, “What happened since I’ve been gone?” It’s actually pretty common for cats to act strangely or aggressively after their humans return from vacation. They’re sensitive to change and you being gone has not only disrupted their routine but also their bond with you. Experts recommend slowly reintroducing yourself to your cat and easing them back into their regular routine. And next time you go on vacation, take some extra precautions before you leave as well as during your trip to encourage a warm welcome.
Pet Turtles 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Keeping Turtles and Tortoises
Order: Testudines (or Chelonia) Turtles (aquatic, semi-aquatic) Family: Emydidae Size: 3.5-12 inches, depending on the species Lifespan: 20-60+ years Tortoises Family: Testudinidae Size: 4 inches to 6 feet, depending on the species Lifespan: 25-100+ years,Jump to section Fun Turtle Facts Turtle and Tortoise Supply Checklist Habitat Diet Handling Health Choosing a Pet Turtle FAQs About Pet Turtles
Balanced Dog Training vs. Positive Reinforcement
The goal of dog training might seem simple: helping your dog learn how to be a good canine citizen. It might come as a surprise that training your dog isn’t just about instilling manners to produce a polite, happy, confident companion. Sure, knowing how to sit, stay, and come when called are vital, but it’s far more important to preserve your growing bond with your dog by using dog-friendly, science-backed techniques. So, what’s the right way to train your new puppy or rescue dog? The experience of training can vary dramatically depending on who’s on the other end of the leash and the method they’re using. It’s no wonder if you’re confused, since there’s no shortage of advice when it comes to dog training methodologies. First, we need to understand the four types of operant conditioning and what people mean when they say “positive” or “negative” reinforcement. Then we can talk about balanced training and how it compares to positive reinforcement. The Four Types of Operant Conditioning Learning something new begins with the idea that behavior has consequences, both good and bad. With dog training, the learning process involves a form of operant conditioning, where you either reinforce a behavior to increase the likelihood that your dog will repeat it or punish the behavior so your dog won’t do it again. But the terminology associated with operant conditioning, like “positive punishment” and “negative punishment,” can be very misleading. “Punishment” carries negative associations, but in the operant conditioning quadrant, it simply means a behavior will become less likely to happen. The four types of operant conditioning are: Positive reinforcement: A good consequence happens when your dog performs a behavior, which increases the likelihood that they will repeat it. For example, you ask your dog to sit; they do it, then you give them a treat. Negative reinforcement: A bad consequence is removed when a behavior is performed, which also increases the likelihood that a dog will repeat it. For example, a trainer using a shock collar on a dog that jumps will turn off the shock mode when the dog keeps four paws on the ground. Positive punishment: A bad consequence is introduced when a behavior is performed, which will reduce the likelihood that a dog will repeat it. For example, a trainer tells a dog to sit; the dog goes into a down position; and the trainer uses a choke collar to jerk the dog into a seated position. Negative punishment: A good consequence is removed when your dog performs a behavior, which will decrease the likelihood that they’ll do it again. For example, your dog paws at your arm to get you to pet them, and you ignore them instead of giving them attention.
Pet Bird Flight Training
Why train your parrot to fly? There are many good reasons, but the first is to maintain your pet bird’s health. A bird’s form, function and anatomy all evolved for the purpose of flight. Even a parrot’s metabolism, which is higher than that of a mammal’s, supports flight. For a second reason, look no further than the fact that flight training is fun. When you work with your parrot on flight training exercises, you encourage an active, healthy bond between you and your pet bird. Watching your pet bird fly and encouraging it to fly to you is rewarding and entertaining. Like playing a jazz piano, flight training requires attention and adherence to basic principles to develop and keep the harmony, rhythm and timbre from disappearing. Like making music, you and your parrot have to learn and practice the method first. Only after that can you let the melody out to fly on its own.
