There are many types of mites that infect dogs, cats, and other animals. Mites are microscopic arthropod parasites that, for the most part, infect the skin or mucous membranes. Mites can even be present on birds and reptiles. The most common mites that infect dogs and cats are ear mites, Demodex, scabies,
Read more
You’ve heard of a pocket watch, but what about a pocket pet? That’s right, a pocket pet is a small, furry little pet that can fit straight in your pocket! The pets that fall into this category are animals like rats, hamsters, hedgehogs, gerbils, and their slighter larger counterparts such as chinchillas, or guinea pigs. While these pets may not require daily walks or get excited about belly rubs, they’re still fun and unique animals.
Before you decide to go out and purchase a pocket pet, it’s important that you know what type of living arrangement it needs, what it eats, if it needs exercise, and what type of veterinary care may be necessary. Each of the tiny pets listed above should be cared for just as traditional pets. To learn more about each of these pocket pets, read the articles below.
-
Mites
Category: Pet Health, Pests and Parasites
-
Heartworm
Category: Pet Health, Pests and Parasites
Heartworm has been diagnosed in dogs in all parts of the world and is actually very common. This may be due to the fact that heartworm has a virtual 100% prevalence rate in unprotected dogs living in highly endemic areas. Heartworm, also known as Dirofilaria immitis, is transmitted by mosquitoes. The
Read more -
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV)
Category: Pet Health, Digestive and Oral Health
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) is a life threatening, acute condition that requires immediate medical attention. Certain breeds are more prone to this condition: Boxers, Great Danes, Standard Poodles, Saint Bernards, Irish Setters, Dobermans, Weimaraners and Gordon Setters. These breeds are considered
Read more -
Canine Parvovirus (CPV)
Category: Pet Health, Diseases and Viruses
The Parvovirus is known worldwide and causes disease in many different species of animals. Different strains of virus only infect certain types of animals. For example, the Canine Parvovirus (Parvo) will mainly infect dogs and does not cause disease in cats or humans. Feline Parvovirus, a different strain
Read more -
Cancer
Category: Pet Health, Chronic Conditions
Cancer, by definition, is the uncontrolled growth of cells. Any type of cells in the body can become cancerous. Once these cells grow out of control, they take over areas previously occupied by normal cells; sometimes these tumor cells break off and travel to other areas of the body. Wherever these cells
Read more -
Rats
Category: Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Pocket Pets, Rats
Did you know rats make surprisingly affectionate pets? If you're thinking of bringing home a pet rat, here's what you need to know. Health Rats that are bred especially as pets are safe to keep and should be free of disease. But common conditions may affect your rats from time to time. Your veterinarian
Read more -
Chinchillas
Category: Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Pocket Pets, Chinchillas
Chinchillas are playful, loveable, and amusing pets. If you want yours to remain in your family for long, you should ensure that it has a good diet. Chinchillas require a lot of attention due to their playful nature; therefore, it is best to have supervised playtime with yours if you want to create a
Read more -
Guinea Pigs
Category: Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Pocket Pets, Guinea Pigs
Curious and inquisitive by nature, guinea pigs make great pets. These little bundles of fur are quite social and enjoy spending time with the people who handle, feed, and groom them. As a pet, guinea pigs are relatively low maintenance, rarely aggressive, and fun to own. How to Care Guinea pigs are playful,
Read more -
Hedgehogs
Category: Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Pocket Pets, Hedgehogs
Shy animals that roll into a ball when scared, hedgehogs are covered with spiky quills. They're small, clean, and fun to watch so they're quite popular as pets. Even so, these little guys need lots of activity to stay healthy. Health Hedgehogs can have health problems, including dental diseases, skin
Read more -
Hamsters
Category: Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Pocket Pets, Hamsters
Hamsters are cute and adorable. If you had one growing up, your parents probably took care of it. Taking care of them can be challenging; however, once you master the art, it becomes more manageable by the day. Here is how you can take care of your pet hamster. Bathing and Grooming Hamsters always stay
Read more -
What Your Dog’s Body Language Means
Category: Newsletter Library
-
How to Help Your New Cat Feel Welcomed in Your Home
Category: Newsletter Library, Cats
-
Fleas
Category: Pet Health, Pests and Parasites, Pet Health
A common parasite, fleas are found in almost every area of the world and can be found on dogs, cats, and many other mammals. They survive year to year even in cold climates because they live on pets, in buildings, and on wild animals. There are four stages to the flea life cycle. Eggs are laid by an
Read more -
Hypothyroidism
Category: Pet Health, Chronic Conditions, Pet Health
Hypothyroidism is the natural deficiency of thyroid hormone and is the most common hormone imbalance of dogs. This deficiency is produced by several different mechanisms. The most common cause (at least 95% of cases) is immune destruction of the thyroid gland. It can also be caused by natural atrophy
Read more -
Most Common Digestive Issues in Dogs and How to Relieve Them
Category: Newsletter Library, Nutrition & Food
-
Glaucoma in Cats
Category: Newsletter Library, Cats