Posts Tagged ‘guide’

by danielhedrick

So, you are a Betta fish owner, or are soon to be one. In my experience learning how to care for Betta fish, they have been one of the most exciting and rewarding pets to own. As colorful, beautiful, and interactive as they may be, they will not last long without the proper care being given to them. So whether you are a veteran or a brand-new Betta fish owner this guide serves to clear up misconceptions about these pets and give you solid advice so that your pet can live as long (and happily) as possible. Additionally, I have provided you with several excellent care resources at the bottom of the article.

First of all, let’s talk about keeping a healthy home in order for your pet.
Tank Size/Requirements: When it comes to tank size there are a lot of rumors going around that doom poor, innocent fish to miserable lives in tiny vases and cubes. These rumors stem from the fact that Betta fish live in the rice paddies of eastern Asia. People assume this means that these pets are used to living in puddles, when in fact the rice paddies are often over a foot deep and can span for miles.

When choosing a home for your pet, I recommend opting for the largest tank that is feasible for your living space and budget. I keep my single male Betta in a 10 gallon tank, for example.

Also, always make sure that your tank is filtered and heated to the proper temperature. Whatever size tank you buy, make sure that your heater and filter are powerful enough for it.

How About Food?: Just like everything else involved in learning how to care for Betta fish, you’ve got a lot of options when it comes to food. You’ll notice that some are live foods such as blood worms and brine shrimp. Live foods make great snacks, but are not recommended for a daily diet because they lack many fortifying vitamins and nutrients that a formulated pellet or flake would have. Speaking of flakes and pellets, which one should you choose? I always opt for pellets, even though both of these foods generally offer the same nutritional value. This is because pellets are more uniform in size, and so it is easier to monitor how much you’re feeding your pet than if you were to use flakes.

Signs Of A Sick Betta Fish

Because Betta fish are generally fragile creatures, you want to know what to look out for in case your fish should fall ill. The most common warning signs of a sick fish are…

Discoloration
Lethargy/Extreme laziness
A distended stomach/side bulge
Lack of interest in food
Streaks around the gills (generally red or brown)
White spots on the fins or body
Constant gasping for air at the surface

Most deadly Betta mistakes occur without the owner even knowing what’s going on. While learning how to care for Betta fish can, it doesn’t need to be, you just have to get a hold of the right information. If you’re willing to learn about caring for Betta fish properly, then I’m willing to let you in on the resources I’ve used to raise, maintain, and even breed healthy Bettas.

There are many insurance for pet providers out in the market to lure you to buy insurance for your pet from them these days, the question here is which one is the best for your dog? Everyone would claim to be the best from the rest, however one needs to find out more by doing some homework on them. With this article we aim to help you determine just that!!

Getting dog insurance would be on factors like what would be the needs of your pet, what your budget is and what are you searching for?

In the beginning you need to decide if it is insurance for your pet you need or not. With the help of insurance your pet is in safe hands just in case anything untoward happens to him. Veterinary charges can hit the roof, if you know what we mean, it is here that we say that having pet insurance would mean wonderful for you since the cost of your dogs medication would be brought down. The insurance company would pay for most part of the medical treatment.

Research shows that one in every four dogs would have an accident or an untoward case of illness and hence a visit to the vet would be needed. This could be your dog, God forbid, and then what would you do? Having your pet insured would mean that the pet would have the best and safe medical attention he deserves and the improvements of medicines and health would be seen in no time. Your beloved dog would be fit and fine and you would have peace of mind to see him run around healthy.

Every year, the fees the vet’s charge increase by around fifteen percent to the max, the bills can be more than a hundred dollars in one shot. With pet insurance most of this would be covered by the insurance agency or company and save your pockets from being torn. However, when you choose a reliable pet insurance company, make sure that the source is credible and would provide every need for you dog.

Most dog owners say, since humans have insurance for themselves, why shouldn’t dogs have insurance as well. Dogs are regarded as family members, and for some as children, so don’t you think that your pooch deserves the best for his health and medication?

When you choose the best insurance company for your dog to have pet insurance done, then choose a company which has a large clientele as proof of being the best in the market. You can either pay one time or make small premium payments each month, irrespectively check your bank account that the money is going out properly for the health of your dog and also make the best use of the insurance in force.

Pet insurance would be the best bet to keep your baby safe and sound, you never know when bad health or an accident could strike. So keep them secured and be ready for good times ahead!!

Find More Insure Your Pet Articles

by ♥ Lexus2D ♥

Most consumers never stop to think about how costly medical bills for their animals can truly be, but pet insurance is designed to help alleviate the stress associated with a sick pet. Most individuals simply are not aware that such coverage exists and they don’t understand what it covers or why it is necessary. By learning more about pet insurance, a pet owner can make an informed decision about whether it is appropriate for their situation or not.

There are two types of pet insurance, but the most popular is health coverage and protection from veterinarian bills. Few people realize that animals may need some of the same expensive procedures required by humans and their medical concerns. Pets are likely to encounter more issues with age and the treatment can be remarkably costly. Animal hospitals are not under the same requirements as many health care facilities designed for people, so there is no law mandating that sick pets be treated regardless of health coverage. The unfortunate truth is that owners unable to pay are often not able to have the necessary medical care for their pets. As with any other insurance policy, pet health coverage has a wide variety of options and deductibles. Some companies offer reimbursement and others pay the veterinarian directly, but there are hybrid programs as well.

The other type of pet insurance is life coverage for animals. Although most owners are accustomed to burying their pets in the back yard, environmental regulations prohibit this practice in many areas. As a result, it has become necessary to utilize pet cemeteries and other burial services. Life insurance for pets will allow any final expenses to be paid and will also provide funds to pay off any existing vet bills.

The first impression that many consumers have regarding pet insurance is that it is probably too costly, but the fact of the matter is that not carrying adequate coverage could cost an owner a great deal more. Savings can often be found by increasing the deductibles on the coverage and only using the pet insurance in the event of a true emergency. Another method to save money is to retain coverage for animals when they are as young as possible, as this can greatly reduce the cost of coverage. Perhaps the best way to save a significant amount of money on the premium is to compare multiple quotes online in order to receive the best possible price on the most appropriate pet insurance.

Compare Pet Insurance Quotes online Today. Read more about Pet Insurance

Find More Insure Your Pet Articles

by ♥ Lexus2D ♥

Not so very long ago, the idea of insuring a pet was almost laughable. It was the sort of thing reserved for those who owned posh pooches, the crème de la crème of the pet world. It made sense to insure pedigreed pups and their feline companions when they cost so much. Things have taken a turn, though. Rising vet fees and publicity about the expenses of owning and caring for a pet have prompted many people to invest in insurance for their pets.

Of course, the trick is to find the right pet insurance policy – the one that offers the best cover for your pet at the lowest price for you. The internet makes the process of comparing and choosing the best pet insurance policy far easier and quicker, and allows you to purchase and pay for your choice instantly online. Here are some tips to help you find and choose the best pet insurance.

1. Evaluate your needs and prioritise.

This is always a good first step, but especially so for pet insurance which covers so many different options. Do you need a policy that will cover a lifelong condition like diabetes? Do you have a pedigree pet? Is your pet a breed that has a higher chance of snapping or biting others? In each case, you’ll want to be sure that the insurance you choose covers specific claims. So know what you need before you start searching.

2. Search for “pet insurance reviews” in your favorite search engine.

A search for “pet insurance” will bring up lots of individual insurers. That’s helpful, but it’s not much better than calling around to each insurer. By searching for reviews, you’ll come up with a list of internet sites that allow you to check out and compare many different insurers at once. Some may even compare policies side by side for cost and benefits, and many include reviews from people who have used the firm’s insurance. Some of the criteria you might use for comparison are:

-Premiums – how much does the policy cost per month?
-Voluntary Excess – do you pay an excess for each condition, or an overall excess per annum?
-Benefit Caps – how much will the policy reimburse in total? Is that per condition, per incident or overall?

Other benefits – policies offer a wide variety of other benefits from discounts on pet care products to paying kennel fees if the owner is hospitalized overnight. They may include reimbursement for expenses to find a lost pet or for canceled holiday tickets if your pet becomes ill and you return home early.

3. Narrow your choices and investigate further.

Read any reviews offered by customers on the review site, then check the company’s own web site. Do a further web search to check for any complaints that might be on discussion forums.

4. Apply for the policy that suits you best.

Before you enter any personal information, be sure that you’re on a legitimate web site and that the page on which you enter and submit your information is secure. Most insurers will confirm the acceptance of your policy immediately, and some will even email your policy documents.

More Insure Your Pet Articles

by ♥ Lexus2D ♥

A recent survey estimated that the average dog owner will visit the vet two-three times a year and spend an average of two hundred dollars. Pet owners who have cats will spend a little bit less. That estimate is for the normal routine stuff like sterilization (spaying or neutering), vaccinations, worming, and a heartworm test; you’re normally in and out of the veterinarian’s office in approximately fifteen minutes. It’s hard to imagine what the trip to the veterinarian’s office would cost if your pet was suffering from a really serious medical problem such as benign tumors or a broken leg.      

Approximately three percent of pet owners in the United States have decided that the best way to deal with financing their pets vet bill is to purchase pet health care insurance. Pet health care insurance is similar to human health care insurance. The pet owner pays a monthly premium and when the pet has to go to the veterinarian’s office the insurance company will pay a certain percentage of the bill minus the deductible.      

Before a pet owner purchases a pet health care plan they need to get some estimates/quotes on various plans. Before the pet owner goes online to find a quote they need to grab a pad of paper and write down two things. The first thing they need is a wish list of the type of pet health insurance coverage you would like to get. This list can include things like prescription coverage, low deductibles, dental, annual checkups, spaying and nueturing, declawing and anything else you can think of. It is important to remember that you may not be able to find a pet health insurance plan that will have everything you want, circle the items that you simply can’t live without. The second thing you need to write down is what is the most you can spend each month on your pet’s health insurance plan. Keep this number close by so you don’t splurge on an insurance plan you won’t be able to afford.      

Now do a couple internet searches to find all the names of pet health insurance companies. Go through the list and find all the companies that have health insurance plans that are compatible to your wish list and seem to be in your budget. Try to narrow the list down to the five most likely possibilities.      

Now that you have five health insurance companies that seem like real possibilities go to their quote section on the webpage. Follow the instructions and enter all of your pet’s pertinent information. If the quote is satisfactory its time to proceed to the next step. Call your pet’s veterinarian and ask the clinic will accepts this particular brand of insurance. If the vet clinic you use doesn’t accept insurance from that company move to your next possibility. You’ll probably have a harder time finding another good vet then another pet health insurance company. Now all you really have left to do is to talk to the pet insurance companies representative.

Find More Insure Your Pet Articles

A recent survey estimated that the average dog owner will visit the vet two-three times a year and spend an average of two hundred dollars. Pet owners who have cats will spend a little bit less. That estimate is for the normal routine stuff like sterilization (spaying or neutering), vaccinations, worming, and a heartworm test; you’re normally in and out of the veterinarian’s office in approximately fifteen minutes.  It’s hard to imagine what the trip to the veterinarian’s office would cost if your pet was suffering from a really serious medical problem such as benign tumors or a broken leg.

Approximately three percent of pet owners in the United States have decided that the best way to deal with financing their pets vet bill is to purchase pet health care insurance. Pet health care insurance is similar to human health care insurance. The pet owner pays a monthly premium and when the pet has to go to the veterinarian’s office the insurance company will pay a certain percentage of the bill minus the deductible.

Before a pet owner purchases a pet health care plan they need to get some estimates/quotes on various plans. Before the pet owner goes online to find a quote they need to grab a pad of paper and write down two things. The first thing they need is a wish list of the type of pet health insurance coverage you would like to get. This list can include things like prescription coverage, low deductibles, dental, annual checkups, spaying and nueturing, declawing and anything else you can think of. It is important to remember that you may not be able to find a pet health insurance plan that will have everything you want, circle the items that you simply can’t live without. The second thing you need to write down is what is the most you can spend each month on your pet’s health insurance plan. Keep this number close by so you don’t splurge on an insurance plan you won’t be able to afford.

Now do a couple internet searches to find all the names of pet health insurance companies. Go through the list and find all the companies that have health insurance plans that are compatible to your wish list and seem to be in your budget. Try to narrow the list down to the five most likely possibilities.

Now that you have five health insurance companies that seem like real possibilities go to their quote section on the webpage. Follow the instructions and enter all of your pet’s pertinent information.
If the quote is satisfactory its time to proceed to the next step. Call your pet’s veterinarian and ask the clinic will accepts this particular brand of insurance. If the vet clinic you use doesn’t accept insurance from that company move to your next possibility. You’ll probably have a harder time finding another good vet then another pet health insurance company. Now all you really have left to do is to talk to the pet insurance companies representative.

Related Insure Your Pet Articles

by ♥ Lexus2D ♥

Pet insurance was once considered as a tactics of insurance companies to mint money out of the customer’s pocket, but for a pet owner it could be really beneficial if he is very much concerned about his pet. It may be considerably expensive to treat the pets every time they become ill. If a pet insurance is taken, it can relieve the owner from overburdening caused by undue treatment costs. Pet insurance covers all the medical expenses of the pet that may be due to any kind of ailment it is suffering from generally.

There are wide varieties of insurance coverage provided with relation to the health of the pet and sometimes even the pet is replaced by a new one. The important benefit got out of pet insurance is the medical coverage which is provided by the insurance companies. But care needs to be taken to go through the terms and conditions of insurance company when going for a pet insurance as the insurance policies rely on the health and age of the pet. If the pet is of more age, more surcharges will be charged on it. Some insurance companies may not even provide any insurance for pets whether more than 9 years old. But, again it all depends on the health of the pet.

Keeping Pet Insurance Premiums Low:

It is more or less the same as other insurance policies. Before taking an insurance policy, it is good to look around and research a little bit on the available pet insurance policies. Monthly and annual costs of the insurance should be analyzed well; also the co-payments and deductibles too need to be taken care of. In case of owning more than one pet, the owner can very well ask the insurance company to provide discounts for multiple pets. A clear understanding of the coverage and non coverage clauses of the policy should is a must to avoid any disappointments after taking the pet insurance policy.

In case if the pet insurance does not cover the pet for preventive measures like the rabies injections etc, it is good to check up with the local clinics which may offer such injections free of cost for people who cannot afford to pay for them. Medicines which are not covered under the insurance policy may also be got from a shop which provides medicines and other supplies for the pets at a cheaper rate. Some online medical stores also offer discounts.

By following some preventive measures, the pet owners can keep the cost of the pet insurance policies at bay. If the pets are provided with right kind of food, the chances of their getting any illness are very low. It has been found that certain over fed pets and pets which were fed with table scrap develop obesity which is the main cause to all kinds of illnesses in pets. A due care to the pet’s diet and having their weight checked up from time to time will help them to be healthy avoiding all expenses for treatment of their illnesses.

by danielhedrick

Im writing this for pet lovers who care, and I know, like myself, there are many out there who are very close to their pets. Pets as Ive mentioned before, are always there for you, good friends , that never complain.

If youve read some of my prior publications , I last wrote on my experience with pets, and how many had lived a shorter than normal life , and I offered tips for pet lovers everywhere, with hopes you can learn some critical , simple things for your pets survival, from my own unfortunate experiences.

My last publication touched on my Golden Lab and how important nutrition is for pets everywhere.
My next shock experience with pets was with my Doberman, named Scarlet. No, dont jump to conclusions, not scarlet fever, but yet another good companion I remember well, that needed special care for a very unique illness.

At this point in my life I had moved to northern California, in the coastal Redwood trees.
Now, so what, big deal, but another unique pet lesson learned. Scarlet was great, big hearted, certainly not an attack Doberman as portrayed in many movies, but a very friendly, peaceful companion, actually I was a bit concerned owning a Doberman, but found from many people they are certainly loyal, and only trained to be mean.
One day, I noticed her daily pattern had shifted a bit. Now, I was fortunate, she was free to roam the mountain land without a rope or chain, a free spirit at that.

I watched her closely for a few days, and things started to become more obvious, less food, loss of a few pounds, more sleeping during the day and night, which started to be of real concern.

Well, of course at this point I was more sensitive after my Golden Lab passed away with Cancer, so I didnt wait long to get help, yep, right to the Vet. Well what happened next was a second jolt of unfortunate news.

I learned, after reading all those books on care, preventive steps with animals, and so on, what did I miss. The Vet had taken x rays, blood tests, etc, just like a person at the doctors. It made me realize how similar your pet is to us humans.

I spoke with the Vet., he couldnt get into details until all tests were done the next day, and could pin point the cause. OK, very professional, but I didnt sleep that night, come back tomorrow, and we can confirm the findings, was difficult to accept.

Well, take note, another rare unique experience you might learn from. I did return the next day, and met the Vet, which right away I read the body language, not good. Well this was a new one on me, Scarlet had three yes 3 heart worms which had drilled three holes through her heart. Now I had never heard of Heart Worms, what they were, what to do, etc. Living in South California, I never heard this before, similar to colder regions, where Fleas cant survive. Well, again, here I was, what is the bottom line I asked. I was ready for anything this time around.

I had a few options, which was good, and then difficult, such as put her to sleep was one. Enough said. There was the option to remove the Heart worms, but very dangerous for Scarlet, frankly it was a dose of poison, and she may not recover, or result in a heart attack.

So, where does this Heartworm come from. This was like making a serious family decision. I decided since she had such strong spirit, it wasnt her time, and the Vet reassured me, worst case no suffering. So I went for this option, lets attempt to fix the problem and save her life.

Amazing, but within weeks, she slowly showed signs of recovery. I could read her signs just from her eyes, everything is going to be OK, dont worry.
Gosh, another painful experience with pets, although the right decision was made, Scarlet went on to live past 14 years old, which is abnormal for Dobermans, typically 9 to 12 years.

I had made the right decision this time, but certainly is a tiring experience, the thought I may have possibly avoided the entire episode.
Last, where do these aweful parasites come from. Well as strange as it may be if you dont know, mosquito bites. Possibly from the region, wild animals, etc. Its worth reading up on.
If I had only understood this, and living up north in the forest was different with a new set of rules for Pet Lovers.

Living in a lush Redwood forest sounded great, but in fact was a different environment. There are preventive things that can be done to protect your pets from many unique cases like heartworms, as in this case.
So, from experience, just a few tips for Pet Lovers everywhere.

One, dont assume anything, read up on a few how to guides for a preventive approach caring for your pets.

Second, dont wait to the last minute if you see a pattern shift in your pets daily habits, diet, sleeping, activity in general, but head for your nearest Vet, and get professional advice or help.

Third , I last touched on how important a pets diet is, and overall nutrition. I cant emphasis this enough, just like people, watch the diet, daily activities, exercise, just as you would for yourself.

Take these real life experience tips, and apply them to your pets overall health condition for a safe and healthy life. Enjoy your pets to the fullest. You will feel good about their health, and taking the responsible approach for their future.

I hope these experiences have helped pet lovers out there. At least get some ideas on how to take care of, and at least recognize a pet in distress.

Get information and tips on the types of different supplies you need to care and maintain your exotic pet in this free video clip. Expert: Daniel Keeper Bio: Daniel Keeper is the owner of Zoo Keeper Exotics, located at 183 & Burnet Road in Austin, Texas, 512-453-8800. He has been breeding, and selling a large variety of exotic animals for over 15 years. Filmmaker: Dana Glover
Video Rating: 4 / 5

by Beverly & Pack

Americans and their loved pets move on average every seven years. If you have a pet or pets, remember that they also experience stress, particularly from moving. In many cases, moving can be even more stressful on pets, as the home is their habitat. Pets can also become very frightened when faced with unfamiliar situations. Careful organization and planning can make the moving process easier and less stressful for both you and your pet. Our guide offers tips and advice to help you and your pet through this process.

Pet travel warning

• Never move a sick pet – the move may aggravate his symptoms and be dangerous to his health.

• The Animal Welfare Act makes it illegal to transport puppies and kittens less than eight weeks old by air.

• Pets cannot be moved on a moving van with your household belongings.

• Pets are generally not allowed on trains or buses, unless they’re guide-dogs accompanying blind or otherwise impaired persons.

• Book a direct flight if you are traveling by plane. If your pet is traveling in freight he may be sitting outside with the freight for a long period of time between flights and as the freight is being moved from plane to plane. If the weather is either too hot or too cold your pet will suffer. An insulated crate will certainly help this situation if it cannot be avoided.

Air Transport

You may transport your pet by air either accompanying you or as air freight. Some airlines provide counter-to-counter service so your pet will be carried on and off the plane by an airline employee. Remember, not all airlines accept pets for transportation, so be sure to inquire when you are making your travel arrangements. Also be sure to check about charges and insurance charges for transporting your pet.

It is important that you book your air travel as early as possible. Airlines that accept pets for transportation will have specific regulations and guidelines regardless of whether the pets are accompanied or unaccompanied. For example, you may be required to be at the airport several hours in advance of the flight to check your pet in and your pet may need a special crate. The airline may be able to provide to you a crate for the trip, or you may have to purchase one from the airline.

The airline will have guidelines on the crate types allowed and your local pet supply company will be able to sell you the required crate. You pet should be able to stand and turn around with ease and there should be adequate ventilation. The bottom of the crate should be padded with newspaper or other absorbent material. Add a favorite toy on move day to give a sense of security. Try to get your pet accustomed to the crate at home before the big day.

On move day, feed and water your pet at least 5 hrs before the flight departure time and water again at least 2 hours before departure. Remember to administer any medication or veterinarian-recommended tranquilizers before departure. When you arrive at the airport, exercise your pet and check that you have provided all the necessary information to airline staff regarding your name, correct new address and alternate contact name in case of emergency.

Some airlines allow passengers to bring pets into the cabin with them, provided they fall within a specific size range and stay in a carrier for the duration of the flight.

By road – In a motor vehicle

Unless you are planning a very short road trip, do not feed or water your pet for a couple of hours before leaving. You may decide to put your pet in a crate during the road trip, but be sure he is able to stand and turn around with ease and that there is adequate ventilation. The bottom of the crate should be padded with newspaper, towels or other absorbent and cushioning material. Adding a favorite toy will help give a sense of security. Exercise your pet regularly during the road trip, but always use a leash because your furry friend can easily get lost or hit by a car if he wanders off.

Do not let your pet hang his head out the window while the car is moving. While many dogs love to do this, it can cause sore eyes, ears or throat. And, never let the windows down so far that your pet can jump out.

Warning

Never leave a pet in a hot car during the summer or in a cold car in the winter. Temperatures inside a car with closed windows escalate dramatically when it’s parked in the sun. Even if it’s pleasant outside, it takes only a few moments to reach over 100 degrees inside the car – which can be fatal for small occupants. If you absolutely have to leave your pet briefly, and the day is hot, park in the shade, lock the car doors and crack the windows open several inches to provide cross-ventilation. Check on him regularly. If the day is very hot, it is best not to leave your pet in the car at all.

Pet’s travel bag

Don’t forget to pack a travel bag for your pet! Following is a list of items you may wish to include;

• Food and can opener

• Food and water dishes

• Any medication your pets needs

• Treats

• Favorite toys

• Leash

• Grooming brush

• Bags to clean up after your pet

• Newspapers

• Cleaner and paper towel

Whatever mode of transport you use for your pet, make sure you are in compliance with state and local regulations for animals in your destination city, along with current copies of.

• ID tags

• Health records

Pets ID tags

The state where you are moving may have different laws regarding animals and their entry across state lines. It is important that you understand the requirements so that you can comply with them, so contact the state veterinarian for specific information. It is not uncommon for pets to need an entry permit in order to enter a new state. As well, in many towns and cities the number of pets per household may be limited. You will be required to obtain a local license for your pet within a certain deadline, such as 30 days, so find out what it is. You don’t want to pay a fine for not keeping your pet’s license current!

Health

You may need to obtain a health certificate for your pet from a licensed veterinarian and this can be used in the event it is required for entry to your new home state. The Department of Agriculture may request to see the health cert at your destination airport or could even be patrolling the highways if you are driving. A health cert is generally valid for 10 days, so be sure to have the inspection scheduled just before you move. The veterinarian will conduct a complete physical examination of your pet and check that he is current with all inoculations.

Dogs

Whether traveling by air or by car, moving can be even more stressful for a dog than for a human, although some dogs adapt better than others. Hold off on packing your dog’s bedding and toys until the last moment so that he can be comforted by the presence of familiar things. If you’re traveling a long way, avoid feeding your dog for 12 hours before the journey in order to prevent travel sickness. If you know your dog suffers from travel sickness, ask your veterinary surgeon about medication.

If you plan on flying to your new home, do your best to book a direct flight. If your dog has to be transported by freight and the flight is not direct he may have to sit out in the hot or cold weather as the freight is boarded to the new flight. Check with the airlines for details. If your dog is small enough, he may be able to travel in the passenger cabin with you. He will need a special pet carrier, which you can purchase at your local pet store. Ask the airline what crate specifications they require.

If traveling by car, have your dog’s nails cut to avoid damage to the upholstery. Carry an adequate supply of plastic bags and use these to clean up after your pet at any rest stops you use. Never let your dog hang his head out the window of a car when it’ s moving. Even though most dogs love to do this, it can cause sore eyes, ears or throat.

Never leave your pet alone in a car, especially in hot weather. The temperature inside the car can quickly rise to an unbearable level, even on what feels like a pleasant afternoon.

Once you arrive at your destination, be sure to get your dog back in to his routine of eating and exercise. If you have moved to an apartment building and your pet dog was used to having a yard to play in, you’ll need to be extra considerate. Walk your dog more frequently, at least until he gets used to his new living situation. Be patient and make allowances for indoor “accidents.” Don’t punish your pooch, as this may make the problem worse. Clean the mess to remove the soil and smell. Once your dog has settled in, the accidents should stop. Use positive reinforcement to teach him where he needs to go. Always praise him when he relieves himself in the correct place.

One way to help your dog settle in more quickly is to create a comfortable sleeping area for him. If your new home has a yard, check the fencing to make sure that it is secure, of sufficient height and ‘hole-free’ before letting your dog run loose. If your dog is able to escape, exercise him on a lead until you are able to make the necessary improvements.

Cats

It’s commonly accepted that cats get very attached to places and typically hate to move. Cats get particularly comfortable with routine, and don’t like their environment to change. This can make moving especially difficult for humans and their cats.

In the days leading up to your move, try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible. It is best to crate your cat during the moving process, and it may be helpful to ask a friend or family member to keep an eye him.

If you are traveling by air, you may need to purchase an airline-approved carrier for you cat. You airline should be able to provide you with all the details. If you are traveling by car you may also want to use a crate or carrier so your cat cannot roam about the car, or escape through an open window or door.

Once you are in your new location, be careful to keep your cat indoors until he becomes comfortable in his new surroundings. Do not allow your cat outdoors, because he may try to return to you old home … and that’s obviously dangerous for him, especially if you’ve moved far away. Supervised outings are advised until your pet gets used to your new home. You can use a long leash on your cat and connect it to a stake in the ground, allowing your pet to wander the length of the leash for the first few days. Let your cat explore all the rooms of the house and be sure to check that outside doors and windows are closed before you begin.

Birds and Small Pets

Of all pets, birds are probably the most sensitive to changes in temperature and environment. Your pet bird can be moved in the cage in which it lives. When you are moving with your pet bird, be sure to use a cover for the cage. This can keep the bird calm and protect it from drafts. Place the cage in a shallow box to collect any gravel, feathers or droppings that may spill during transit. Remove any containers of food and water before moving the cage to avoid spills en route. Do feed and water your bird at its regular times, as birds, like all small animals, can become dehydrated very quickly in warm weather.

Some states require a health cert for birds entering the state. The USDA may inspect this cert either at the airport or during routine roadway inspections. Have your pet bird inspected by your veterinarian prior to traveling. Some health certificates are valid for a brief period of time. Ten 10 days is a common window for a health certificate.

Horses

There are several ways to transport horses. Your horse can be transported by air freight, by towing a trailer or by hiring a specialized horse transporting company. The horse transport company can use either air or road to transport horses.

By Air

Many airlines accept horses as air freight. In general, they will only transport horses on direct flights. You will be required to have a stall constructed to the airline’s specifications, and you will need to ensure your horse has the necessary health checks completed prior to moving to your new home state. Remember that requirements vary by state, and airlines will request a health certificate. The USDA may also be at the destination airport conducting inspections and may request to see the health certificate.

By Road

Depending on the distance you need to travel, towing your horse in a trailer behind your car or truck may be an option. If you do not own a trailer, you may consider renting one, but you’ll want to be sure you’re experienced enough to safely load and trailer your horse. You can also pack tack and feed in the trailer.

If your trip requires overnight stays you will need to book stables en route for your horse. These stables will require a health certificates appropriate to horses only, and if they do not you probably don’t want to board your horse there. Your veterinarian should be aware of the applicable laws of the different states and will be able to provide you with the necessary health certificates. (Contact information regarding states entry requirements is at the end of this guide.)

If you are unable to find a stable or lodgings for your horse in close proximity to your hotel, inquire whether the hotel will allow you to keep the trailer in the parking lot overnight. In inclement weather this is not advisable. Feed and water your horse per the normal routine and clean out the stall when you have an overnight stop.

Reptiles

Most states have strict government regulations regarding the entry of reptiles. See the states regulatory contact list at the end of this guide to find out what you need to do before moving your reptile from state to state.

As a general rule, the carrier that a reptile is transported in needs to be kept moist. Place the reptile in a cloth bag and fasten the top of the bag, making sure to leave the reptile enough room to move about, then place the bag in the shipping container. Use foam peanuts for cushioning and place damp paper or cloth in the shipper to keep the environment moist. Make sure there are air holes in the shipper for ventilation. If you are traveling overnight with your reptile you may need to place him in the tub of your hotel room at night for a nice long soak. Check if the hotel allows pets first.

Do not ship reptiles in excessively hot or cold weather, as their shipping container may be left outside for periods of time, leading to stress and possibly death.

Snakes must be handled with extra care, especially if they are venomous. Most airlines require double crating for snakes, which means putting the snake in one crate and then placing this crate in another, larger crate. Adequate ventilation is a must. The airline may provide you with stickers to put on all sides of the crate and you will need to write the type of snake on this label. You should also write on the sticker whether the snake is venomous or not.

**Warning

Remember to keep the surroundings of all reptiles moist, but not wet. Placing a damp cloth inside the container is one of the best ways to keep your reptile’s environment appropriately moist during transit.

Fish

Fish are notoriously difficult to move safely from one location to another, but it can be done effectively and efficiently with some planning. It is advisable to sell or give away as many fish as you can before you move to help ease the burden. However if this is not an option, this guide will help you understand what you need to do.

Depending on the size of your aquarium, and the number and type of fish you have, it may be easier to separate them into a several smaller tanks. If the aquarium is 5 gallons or less it may be just as easy to move the entire aquarium. Place some cellophane over the top of the aquarium and remove all heaters and aerators. Place the container in a cooler box or Styrofoam container to regulate the temperature and keep it constant for up to 48 hours. Be sure to open the cellophane every four to five hours to change and refresh the air. This option may be the best for tropical fish, which don’t do well in smaller containers with overcrowding or sudden changes in water and temperature.

Never leave the container in the car overnight, as the temperature changes may be too drastic for the fish. If you plan to be traveling to your destination for a couple of days with your fish it is advisable to purchase a portable aerator to keep the water well oxygenated. Always pack your aquarium last in the moving truck so that you can unload it quickly at your destination.

If you separate your fish into smaller containers or fish bags, you should try to use the aquarium water in order to keep the environment as constant as possible. In the event you do not have enough water for all the smaller containers, add fresh or saltwater appropriate to the type of fish. It is advisable to allow each container of water to settle for a few hours after filling. If you have only a small number of fish and are moving a short driving distance, you can move the fish to their new location by using plastic bags half-filled with water and half-filled with air. As a general guideline, each fish should have at least 1-2 gallons of water. To maintain the temperature, place the bags in an insulated container or Styrofoam container.

Most fish can go without food for a couple of days without any problems, but it is important to add healing agents to the water, as the fish may become bruised en route. This is not uncommon and you can purchase healing agents at your local pet supply store.

When you arrive at your destination set up the aquarium as quickly as possible. You may need to treat the water to neutralize any chemicals; your local pet store can advise you of any treatments the local water may need.

Turn the aerator on for a while, and then add slowly and gently add the fish to the tank one at a time. Wait until the water settles, and feed them as usual.

New Community

PLEASE, PLEASE be responsible when you move and check beforehand with your new community to find out if pets are allowed. Some apartment and condominium complexes may not allow pets, and you certainly don’t want to find that out on moving day.

Some of the most common reasons that people leave their pets with shelters are “we are moving “and “my landlord doesn’t allow pets.” Remember, pets do not know why their owners are leaving them behind, so do your homework beforehand to save all that heartbreak. Consider your options carefully, as pets should be considered a lifetime commitment. If you are absolutely unable to take your pet with you, you owe it to this creature to find him a good home.

State and local regulations

You need to make sure that your pet has some sort of easily read ID attached to its body. For dogs and cats this can be a collar, while a tag around the leg is appropriate for birds. The ID tag should have your pet’s name, destination address, your name and telephone number. It is also a good idea to have an alternate’s name and number on the tags in the event that somebody finds your lost pet and is unable to get in touch with you. You should also have rabies tags for your pet; depending on the state where you live this will most likely be a requirement. For air travel, your pet may be required to wear special travel tags, which the airline will provide.

Find More Pet Care Advice Articles

My dog Hippo has been on the raw diet for over a year and a half. The results of the diet exceeded my initial expectations, so I’ve made this video in hope that it will inspire others to try this method of feeding their dog. Hippo was born with severe hip displaysia. the raw diet rolled back the clock on his hips and he acts the same way that he did when he was 4 (and he’s 8.5 years old in this video). Hippo is a 110 lb. Akita/Rottweiler mix (aka a Rokita) Raw is also much cheaper than high quality kibble. This mix here cost me around 75 cents per pound to make!