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posted by admin on Apr 24

Too many times non native plants and animals are released into the wild either unintentionally or because the aquarist can no longer care for them.

This poses a unique problem to many hobbyists?what exactly do I do with my aquatic plant/animal that I cannot care for? With the help of this wonderful thing that eats up most of my day (the internet, for you non-it people that actually work) I’ll try to cover some of the basics here?

Plants

Let’s say that John Q. Aquarist has an over abundance of a particular aquatic plant. “Whatever will I do with all of these plants?” John wonders. Well, there are a number of ways to safely dispose of these potentially invasive species, here are a few:

Burning: If allowed in your area, can be an excellent way of disposing of plants that have seeds.

Freezing or Drying: This will effectively destroy plants, but might allow seeds to survive. You can place them in a zipper type plastic bag and throw them away after this.

Composting: Like freezing or drying, this will also do the job of destroying the plant, but seeds can potentially survive to be carried off by birds or animals that might ingest the seeds.
(Source:http://invasives.eeb.uconn.edu)

Animals

John Q. Aquarist got up this morning and discover that his tank contained a huge batch of baby platies. “Ruh roh, what I’m going to do now? My tank can’t support this many fish!” John laments. Don’t worry, John, there is help!

Friends: If you have a friend that is into the wonderful world of fish keeping, perhaps he’d like some little guys. Use your head though: if he or she would like to have them, make sure you let your friend know the particulars about the species?it will just put your pal in the same position if he or she is not prepared.

LFS: If your LFS is like mine, they will take your unwanted pets?sometimes for a trade, sometimes not. Either way, it’s better than euthanizing or flushing. (Flushing is particularly cruel…a slow death is guaranteed by suffocation or poisoning)

Whatever you decide to do, never release them into the wild! Aquatic plants and animals could introduce diseases that the native population is not prepared for. At best, some species can out- compete the natives.

Some states have penalties for improper disposal of aquatic life. I hope this helps to answer some questions and prevent any unfortunate incidents.

If you have anything to add, by all means, do. In no way do I consider this definitive, so let’s see some other opinions!

(Remember, you can always contact your local Department of Natural Resources or Health Department for specific information for your area)

posted by admin on Apr 19

Reports have shown that hoodia gordonii is an effective appetite suppressant. Yes, hoodia gordonii is the latest craze in dieting these days.

After decades or centuries of existence in the desert, now hoodia gordonii is being popular as an effective and safe weight loss pill. But do you know what hoodia gordonii is and where it came from?

Hoodia gordonii is a plant which is mistaken as a cactus since it is a cactus-like plant, but actually it is succulent which means that they belong to the same family. Succulents are desert plants which are made up of fleshy stems and leaves. Hoodia gordonii is a bitter tasting plant with spikes in it. It is known to grow in Kalahari Desert of South Africa.

In the late 1930s, a study was conducted by a Dutch anthropologist, who observed the San people who ate the cactus-like plant by removing the skin and spikes in order to suppress their hunger and thirst especially when they are out for long hunting. The CSIR (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research), in the late 1960s conducted a study about the cactus-like plant. The study showed that this plant can suppress the hunger and thirst of San people when they go for long hunting. They tested this plant to animals and found out that there were decreased in weight when fed with this plant.

A British company had a partnership with Phytopharm, they able to found out the active molecule in the plant and they called it as p57. Three years later, Phytopharm sub-licensed its rights to develop it to Pfizer.

The active molecule which is p57 works by tricking the brain and signaling it that you are full and not hungry or thirsty. Due to this, it prevents a person from eating and wanting to eat because you do not feel hunger. So a person can lose weight by eating less.

With all the new information discovered about hoodia gordonii, this plant is no wonder an amazing weight loss pill that can effectively make you lose weight. But it is advisable to associate taking hoodia gordonii with eating healthy and with proper exercise. You have to eat food that has proper nutrients that are needed by your body. You also have to give 30 minutes to an hour of your time each day by doing physical activities such as swimming, jogging, walking, dancing, aerobics, going to the gym and so on.

You have to take the proper dosage of hoodia gordonii in order for you to see great results. Do not overuse it or take less of it. It is also advisable to drink water even if you do not feel thirsty since water is important and needed by the body. So to lose weight just take hoodia gordonii which an effective appetite suppressant.

posted by admin on Apr 14

Since pets are very vulnerable to diseases of several kinds, the expenses for treatment have been on a steady increase all the time. When the pets are insured properly, the expenses related to the medicine can be met easily without any problems with the costs. Pet insurance is available from various sources with lot of coverage plans and options. Pet insurance is available for injury treatments or sickness, while some plans that come under the category of deluxe plans are devised in such a way that it covers all type of illness. Some plans also offer routine care and examination of the pets. The pet insurance market has grown and become popular to the extent that they even cover dental care, acupuncture treatments and chiropractic care for the pets. Most of the insurance companies cover dogs and cats under the pet insurance plans. Now, a few companies are also offering pet insurance coverage for birds and exotic pets. When insuring pets like iguana, parrots, or potbellied pigs suitable plan and insurance company should be chosen to suit the needs of the pets.

Pet insurance policies or plans are also very similar to the health insurance coverage of human beings. There are limits for coverage, exceptions for pre existing illnesses, deductibles, co-pays etc. Normally pet insurance plans make the owners of the pets to pay the veterinarian bills and care taker bills before receiving any reimbursement. It is advised to avoid insurance companies, which have limited benefits on the pet insurance plans. When the price is set for a certain maximum level, the policy will only allow the pet owner to spend till the set limit regardless of the amount to be paid towards the medical expenses. This plan may entitle the pet owner with a low deductible, but calls for high co-pay, which will be more costly affair in the long run than the high deductibles with low co-pay charges.

Pet insurance information sources:

The best information about pet insurance can be got from the veterinarians. Either they may have the right plan or may recommend a right plan for the pet owner. Internet also can be a good source of information. While researching care needs to be taken to go through the policy of the insurance company regarding exclusion terms and conditions, benefits which can be got out of the insurance policy, their reputation, financial standing, history of disbursing money time taken for processing claims, etc.

There should not be any kind of fixed benefit schedule in the pet insurance policy as it may come with a low deductible and higher co pay costs, which will not be suitable for the pet owner. The policies should cover the diagnostic testing, MRI, Cat scans, X-rays, specialists, cancer treatments, hospitalizations, cost of medicines etc, after hour treatments, etc.

posted by admin on Apr 9

Bearded Collie – Great For The Family

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361

Summary:
The Bearded Collie is a medium sized dog that weighs between 40-58 pounds. They are 20″ to 22″ in height. Their abundant hair gives the impression that they are larger than they actually are. They have a happy, friendly nature and are not watch dogs in any way as they are friendly with all that they meet.

Recognized by the AKC, the acceptable coat colors for the Bearded Collie are black, grey, tan, brown or fawn with some white markings. When they are puppies, they may or …

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Bearded Collie,dog,dogs

Article Body:
The Bearded Collie is a medium sized dog that weighs between 40-58 pounds. They are 20″ to 22″ in height. Their abundant hair gives the impression that they are larger than they actually are. They have a happy, friendly nature and are not watch dogs in any way as they are friendly with all that they meet.

Recognized by the AKC, the acceptable coat colors for the Bearded Collie are black, grey, tan, brown or fawn with some white markings. When they are puppies, they may or may not have white markings. As they mature, their coat color either fades or changes. The most common colors are black with white or gray with white. Their long, harsh, straight and shaggy outer coat and short, soft, thick undercoat requires a daily brushing to prevent tangles. Their nickname is “beardie” because of the long, shaggy hair under their chin.

This energetic, loving, happy-go-lucky breed makes an excellent family pet. They are people dogs and love to be with their family. They are wonderful for homes with children and other dogs and can do well with other non-canine pets provided they have early socialization. They are enthusiastic, outgoing, and lively and require plenty of exercise and play time. They need a yard to run and roam. Having toys on hand is a good idea if you are going to be gone for an extended period of time. Early training is recommended because they have a stubborn tendency at times. They are easy to train.

Dating back over 500 years, the Bearded Collie originated in Scotland. They are considered to be descendents of the Polish sheepdog. They were bred to heard sheep and cattle, thus explaining their collie name which means herding dog in Scotland. They have also been used for tracking. They are still used as sheep herding dogs in some areas.

Friendly to family and strangers alike, the Bearded Collie will greet all he meets with enthusiasm. Because they require regular outdoor exercise and play, they are best with active families who will give them the activity that they need. Homes with other dogs and children can feel confident in adding a Bearded Collie to their family.

posted by admin on Apr 4

The Pomeranian is a favorite among the toy groups. Its endearing fox-like face and comically poofy coat are almost irresistible. However, the Pomeranian is not for the traditional quiet, clinging lap dog. The most independent of the toy breeds, the Pomeranian does not cling to its owners. This little (3 to 7lbs) guy’s claim to fame is his giant personality. These active toys are notoriously animated, inquisitive and busy. So, if you are looking for a big clown in a little body then the Pomeranian is the dog for you. His antics will keep you entertained as well as attract attention. And although independent, their fierce loyalty makes them great companion dogs.

Ideal for those living in small spaces, Pomeranians make great apartment dogs. They don’t need much exercise and spend most of their day taking naps. However, be prepared to keep them entertained while they are awake. Pomeranians are chock full of energy and they need to be entertained or they can develop behavioral problems and destructive habits. They are notorious chewers although with proper stimulation this behavior can be taken care of with a few chew toys left lying around.

Worried about how this tiny little dog will fare with your other household pets? No need. As long as they are properly socialized they get along with other dogs as well as cats. However, please consider your neighbors’ sanity before committing to more than one Pom. They are vocal dogs (females less so than males) and when in groups the chorus of yapping can become a bit much.

Although they are cuddly and loveable, Pomeranians require a lot of attention. Along with their entertainment needs, the soft, thick undercoat and coarser outer coat need to be groomed daily or else they develop painful mats and tangles. They also shed constantly so be prepared to become well acquainted with lint rollers and a pet hair specific vacuum. The undercoat also makes Pomeranians unsuitable for warmer climates if they will be spending extended periods of time out of doors. Their voluminous coats count for about 50% of their apparent size and they are prone to overheating.

Surprisingly, these tiny dogs make great watch dogs. They have a classic case of big dog trapped in tiny body. They are cocky and commanding and rarely back down from anything. Their resounding warning bark can be heard far and wide although its tiny size does not manage to come off as much of a threat. They tend to be reserved with strangers and can bark excessively at new people. It is a good idea to start obedience training early and teach your Pomeranian to bark a few times as an alert but then to ‘be quiet for heaven’s sake’.

A note of caution: this little dog is all personality and your baby’s cute little personality quirks can easily become inappropriate behaviors if they are not loved with a firm hand. These little tricksters need to know that there owner is the boss or they will not listen. They can become demanding, pushy, and snappy if they are allowed free behavioral reign. And while these dogs make good companions for elderly people, they should be closely monitored around very young children. However, they are fine around older, well behaved children.

Pomeranians are also prone to certain physical ailments. Early tooth loss can be a problem so while it is tempting to spoil them with canned food and table treats, the main part of a Pomeranians diet should be comprised of dry dog food to keep the teeth and gums in good condition. You should also make sure that your vet gives your dog regular teeth cleanings. Skin problems and eye infections can also be problematic especially as your Pomeranian ages.

But don’t let these potential problems deter you. When making your breed decision, keep in mind that every breed of dog comes with its own caveats, and with the right mix of discipline and love their delightful natures can flourish.