Category: Blog

As the calendar year approaches the holidays, you might have a lot on your mind. Perhaps you’re thinking about what type of pie to have at Thanksgiving, or maybe you’re wondering how big your Christmas tree needs to be to fill your place. If you’re a pet owner, especially of a cat, you know that they’re going to be near the top of your concerns. However, no matter how well of a cat aficionado you are, you may have forgotten one thing:

How do I keep my cat cozy during the holiday?

The winter weather will have a demonstrable effect on your feline friends, but there are many things to consider to make sure they are comfy.

Cats Sleep More During the Winter

The holidays fall around the same time that daylight outside becomes sparse. As a result, this can cause melatonin levels in pets to increase while serotonin levels to decrease. While the former leads to more lethargy or relaxation, the latter as a neurotransmitter affects mood regulation.

What does this mean for cats? More sleep! This is not to be a cause for concern, as sleeping is considered a show of being “content” with their surroundings. However, you can give your snoozy cat more light by placing their bed closer towards the window to get greater sun exposure.
Cats Eat More During the Winter
Not only does winter impact the sleeping pattern of cats, but it can affect their eating habits. The old adage of “eating more for winter hibernation” is not just for bears and other creatures in the wild. Cats increase their eating during his time in order to keep energized and warm during activity.

This is important to know if you’re concerned about your cats weight. Moderate your cat’s food intake during the winter to ensure that they are not overeating, and encourage more eating during the summer months when they are not as prone to eating as much. By tipping the “food scales” in this manner, you’ll allow your fluffy friend to keep a consistent weight right around the holidays.

Not All Cats Stay Warm During Winter

At first glance, you may think that a cat is able to survive against the harsh winds and snow of winter because of its fur. While this may be true for some cats, it definitely isn’t the gold standard for all. Cats with thicker fur will be able to handle it better, but species with thin fur will not be as lucky. This is especially true if they are “outside” pets or happen to find themselves out of the house.

To prevent your feline family member from getting hypothermia or other cold-weather ailments, consider keeping them inside at all times and blocking any exits that may get them out. Once inside, you can help keep them cozy with small sweaters or coats designed for them (provided the material does not irritate their skin). Not only will this add an extra layer of protection against cold temperatures, it allows your pet to take part in the holiday festivities!

Winter weather makes a wonder of us all, and that includes our pets. If you’re a cat owner and concerned about how the cold air will affect your little friend, don’t panic. By knowing how their sleep and eating habits will increase and what to do in case they do come across frosty temperatures, you can ensure that your cat will stay cozy through the holidays and beyond.

Sources:
https://www.petassure.com/new-newsletters/do-cats-get-cabin-fever-in-winter/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/05/140528114828.htm
https://www.purina.co.uk/cats/health-and-nutrition/grooming-and-daily-care/winter-cat-care

The cold weather is upon us, which means plenty of food, fun, and family time. It also means blistering cold winds and rainy nights. While this may be fine and well for people, it may not be ideal for your furry friends, especially if you’re looking to keep them sleeping.

To get the most out of your pup’s sleep schedule during the winter, remember:

Keep Them Inside

This may seem like a no-brainer, but keeping your pet indoors is the first line of defense against cold sleepless nights. While there is nothing wrong with having an “outside” dog, dogs are just as susceptible to cold weather as humans. In fact, dogs that are adverse to the cold weather (ex. smaller breeds or those with thinner coats) begin to feel uncomfortable when temperatures fall below 40° F. When you begin to reach the 20’s, all dogs can be affected by ailments like frostbite.

If you’re concerned with housetraining (or lack thereof) and winter, start your training earlier by autumn at the latest in preparation for winter. However, if you’re already in the midsts of the snowy season, you can still provide consistent training to get your furry friend ready for cold nights provided that the wind and snow does not disrupt your training time.

Be Mindful of Your Pet’s Sleeping Space

After you’ve gotten your furry friend indoors, they should be fine sleeping anywhere, right?

Well, not exactly.

Treat your dog as if you were sleeping: with warm blankets and bedding. Regardless if your dog is still in the kennel or sleeping in your bedroom, ensuring that they have proper bedding that is elevated from cold tiles or floors is a must for comfort. In addition, while it may appear ideal to set their bed near a heat source, bear in mind how close they are. Worst case scenario, your dog might be tempted to get closer (especially if it’s a heater or fireplace) and burn themselves on the source. Just like you did when you first brought them home, be mindful of your surroundings.

Know Why Their Sleep is Changing

Dogs typically sleep more during the wintertime than in any other season as a result of light exposure. During these months when light is sparse, your dog’s melatonin (the hormone related to sleep) levels go up while their serotonin (the neurotransmitter that regulates mood) conversely goes down. The resulting shift in chemicals in the brain can cause more sleep along with more lethargy.

This is not to say that it should be a cause for immediate concern (though there have been some associations with Seasonal Affective Disorder and dogs during the winter), but it does mean less playtime with your pup. If you’re looking to regulate their sleep during the day, consider increasing their light exposure naturally by taking them outside during the brightest daytime hours, keeping their bed or kennel near the window, or using artificial lights that closely resemble sunlight. This process could slowly invert the aforementioned melatonin-serotonin levels and provide your dog with more energy to play and explore.

This holiday season, make your dog’s tail wag with glee by giving them the best sleep possible. By keeping them inside, providing them with a safe and comfortable bed, and keeping an eye on their nap times, you make snowy nights feel as comfortable as sunny days.

Sources:
https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/how-cold-too-cold-dog
https://www.therapydogs.com/dog-care-winter-months/
https://topdogtips.com/do-dogs-sleep-more-in-winter/

You see them slither on the floor. You see them curl around tree branches and arms. You may even seem them stare back with an exotic confidence only reserve for nature’s most elusive creatures.

Now, imagine having this intricate animal as one of your new companions.

Snakes are more than just Indiana Jones’ biggest fear. They are reptiles that have often been misunderstood over the years among casual pet enthusiasts, but they do possess many traits that make them rival even man’s best friend. Such as…

1. Snakes Can Live for a Long Time
One of the most difficult parts about having a pet is the realization that one day they will leave this Earth. As a result, many people become hesitant about getting an animal companion. When you get a snake, those fears are assuaged, as they can live for many years. Corn snakes can live as long as ten years, while the ball python can last for up to three decades. This means that your snake can be more than just your pet, it can be part of your family.

2. Snakes are Low-Maintenance Pets
Much like cats, snakes are relatively independent in personality and therefore need little personal comfort while you take care of them. That is not to say that they are completely self-reliant since you will most likely be keeping them indoors, but they are low-maintenance in terms of housing and feeding. As long as you provide clean water, food, and a heated habitat with plenty of space to navigate in, they will be more than happy.

3. Snakes are Solitary Creatures
We all need our own space from time to time. Sometimes you just want to relax by yourself but your dog or cat may hop on your lap when you need to be alone. As mentioned earlier, snakes are independent in terms of their care, but this independence also carries over to their lifestyle. They prefer solitude, sometimes being shy when faced with new visitors. For those days when you want some “you time,” your snakes can have their own without recourse.

4. Snakes Groom Themselves
As much as we love our furry friends, cleaning up hair from the furniture or floor can be annoying and time-consuming. When you have a pet snake, you have one less thing to clean. Instead of fur, snakes have a scaly skin that undergoes shedding between two to four times a year where they leave their old skin behind as they grow a new layer. Clean-up becomes as easy as tossing the old skin in the trash.

5. Snakes Can Be Mesmerizing to Watch
Snakes have a smooth motion about them when they slither from place-to-place. Their slow pace during normal movement is a sight to behold, like watching a live piece of artwork. Having a snake can provide you with entertainment as you see it travel, wrap around its habitat, or even eat. For some people, it can be a soothing experience akin to watching rain roll down a window. While snakes should not be owned solely for personal gratification, they do give you something wonderful to witness.

If you’re ready to add a sleek, independent, and low-maintenance member to your family, consider getting a snake. With all due respect to the wonderful cats and dogs that roam the world, sometimes scales and tails beats fur and purrs.

Sources:
https://www.petmd.com/reptile/care/evr_rp_first_snake
https://www.petmd.com/reptile/care/evr_rp_snake_facts?page=2

Forget dogs or cats – Here’s why snakes make the best pets

https://www.wonderopolis.org/wonder/why-do-snakes-shed-their-skin
https://www.pets4homes.co.uk/pet-advice/why-snakes-make-great-pets.html

Going to a pet store for the first time may seem a bit intimidating. After all, you’re looking to get a new companion to play with and care for, and you want one that fits you. Will you get the peppy dog in the window? Would you rather have the sleek cat curled up in the corner?

Maybe you want something a little more unique. Perhaps you might be interested in one of nature’s most fascinating creatures: the tortoise.

Tortoises can make a fine addition to your family, but there are key things you need to know about them before making your first purchase. Such as…

1. Tortoises and Turtles are Not The Same
Despite popular misconceptions, the word “turtle” and “tortoise” are not used interchangeably. All tortoises are turtles, but not all turtles are tortoises. If this seems confusing, here’s just a few quick differences between the two:
Tortoises are land creatures, while there are turtles who prefer water-based environments
Tortoises are vegetarian, while turtles are omnivores
Tortoises have a heavier shell than turtles
These may seem like irrelevant differences, but they do come into play when you consider how to take care of your tortoise, such as food, shelter, and climate. Make sure that you are intent on buying a tortoise that you receive a tortoise, not a turtle.

2. Tortoises Have a Specific Plant-Based Diet
As mentioned earlier, tortoises are vegetarians, meaning that what you purchase for your new friend will be strictly plant-based. With that said, they should be eating fresh vegetables like kale, collard greens, or peppers. You can also include apples and grapes, though it would be best to keep it on the lower side compared to vegetables. For an added calcium boost for their shells, include grinded calcium into their meals. Stick with this diet and your tortoise will be thanking you later!

3. Tortoises Need Space- A Lot of It
Ideally, your tortoises habitat should match its natural environment as much as possible. It is generally considered the best approach to have them as outdoor pets. However, there are indoor solutions you can use if keeping them outside is not an option. The most common indoor approach is to use a wooden tortoise table that is 30 in. x 18 in. x 6 in. for those under five years old and 4 ft. x 2 ft. x 8 in. for older tortoises. This should give them plenty of space to roam around and not be stressed over habitat size.

4. Tortoises Need UVA/UVB Light and Heat
In addition to a tortoise table, you need to be sure that your land-dweller has plenty of light. Direct sunlight (especially during the summertime) is not advised, so you can make do with a UVA/UVB bulb to simulate the light. In addition, their natural environment involves a lot of heat, as many come from deserts and tropical rainforests. You can mimic this heat with heat bulbs on one side of the enclosure. Keeping it to one side will give them a hot spot around 95°F and a cool spot near 75°F with a nighttime temperature around 60°F.

5. Tortoises are Docile Creatures with Longevity
When you purchase a tortoise, you can be rest assured that it will not be an overly aggressive pet. In fact, they are relatively shy and withdrawn but they can be more social when presented with a playmate. There is a catch to this: pairing two males together can result in competition with both hurting each other. If you do intend on getting multiple tortoises or having someone bring theirs to your place, it may be best to have two females together or a male and female in the same space.

If you’re ready to come out of your shell as a pet owner, consider purchasing a tortoise as your new friend. By keeping their habitat, climate, and temperament in mind, you’ll be rewarded with a low-maintenance pet that may surprise you with its personality.

Sources:
https://www.britannica.com/story/whats-the-difference-between-a-turtle-and-a-tortoise
https://www.petsmart.com/learning-center/reptile-care/what-do-i-feed-my-new-turtle-or-tortoise/A0082.html
https://www.thetortoiseshop.com/tortoise-accommodation
https://www.petsmart.com/learning-center/reptile-care/your-turtle-or-tortoises-new-home/A0094.html
https://www.thesprucepets.com/tortoises-as-pets-1237258

It’s your first day in the pet shop, and your eyes scan the store for your new companion. You might think that dogs can be adventurous or that cats can be low-maintenance. Yet your eyes meet something else and you smile with a sudden realization.

You want a bird.

Becoming a bird owner may seem like a way to make you stand out from the rest of the crowd, and in a way it does. However, taking care of a bird is a bit different than walking your dog or watching over your cat. It requires deep dedication and research on your part.

Such as…

1. What Breed to Get

You wouldn’t go to a pet store and buy any random dog or cat, right? You would want to know about the breed, its personality, and any drawbacks that may come with it. The same scenario applies when you get a bird. Not all birds are the same, as some are friendlier than others.

As a first-time bird owner, you may want a bird that’s on the more easygoing side. Cockatiels, for instance, are good social birds for kids and adults while conures are curious creatures with a loud squawk and a long lifespan. Think about your lifestyle and which bird can help complement it. Talk to your pet owner to see which species is ready to flock with you.

2. Dietary Restrictions

Birds have a distinct diet that ensures proper health and feature strength. What they eat can be dependent on their species, but for the most part bird diets can be divided into these categories:
Plant-eating (florivores)
Grain or seed eating (granivores)
Fruit-eating (frugivores)
Nectar-eating (nectavores)
All of the above (omnivores)
For example, the Blue-throated Macaw may eat mostly fruit, but that doesn’t mean that every bird is going to be comfortable eating berries. It’s important for you to research what type of food your future bird will eat to avoid any complications.

3. Molting

Unlike cats and dogs, birds do not have fur to shed. You might be thinking that they are cleaner creatures due to this, but on the contrary. While birds do not shed, they do undergo a process called molting, where worn-out feathers are shed in place of new features. It’s a process that can last weeks or even years depending on what type of bird you have.

That’s not cause for alarm, but it does require you to be vigilant about their care once the molting process begins.Specifically, a poor diet during molting can affect new feather health and cause abnormalities. Taking proper care of your bird during molting means that they will be rewarded with beautiful feathers and you’ll have a happier flying companion as a result.

4. Space to Live

Birds are among the most mobile pets you can have and require a lot of space to roam free. When considering what type of cage to get for your bird, you need to think about two things: the size of the cage and the space between its bars. You should optimally go for the largest size you can afford and reasonably accommodate into your home, and nifty charts like this can help you figure out what you’re looking for based on your species of bird.

Not only do you need to figure out how big the cage needs to be, you also should think about smaller details about its design that can impact your bird’s enjoyment. For example, larger birds may need bars that run horizontally in order to climb and navigate. Stainless steel designs are easy to clean while round cages can make birds claustrophobic. The main thing to remember is that you’re not just buying a container to transport your new pet, you’re also buying their home and should be treated as such.

5. Time to Fly

Without sounding obvious, birds need to be able to fly, especially if they are going to be domesticated pets. Not only does flying give birds much needed exercise that goes beyond just walking around in a cage, but it is vital for their emotional health. Flying in a safe, open area can reduce the tendency in birds to harm themselves due to stress.

This does not mean that flying is as simple as letting it free inside your home. Birds require positive reinforcement training just like you would for a puppy, and that extends to flight. Training your bird about acceptable and unacceptable flying behavior makes it safer for it to fly inside your home. With enough practice and patience, you can even train your bird to fly outside and feel greater freedom.

Owning a bird may seem daunting as a beginner, but your life will improve tremendously for it. From having a quirky companion to seeing the beauty of flight up close, you can rest easy in your decision. If you follow the steps above when thinking about your future bird, you’ll be taking home a flying friend that’s eager to be in your home.

Sources:
www.petmd.com/bird/slideshows/8-most-popular-pet-birds
www.petcoach.co/article/bird-nutrition-feeding-pet-birds-parrot-diets-and-nutrition
www.thespruce.com/importance-of-molting-386470
www.bird-cage.com/how-to-select-a-bird-cage
spring2017.iaabcjournal.org/birds-need-fly

You’ve seen them on the internet, you’ve seen them on Instagram, and you’ve seen them walking down the street. You may even know friends or family who have one (or two) but didn’t really think to get one.

Until now.

What you’re thinking of getting is a cat, a lovable furry companion that has enough calmness yet character to keep you entertained for years. However, cats are unique animals in the way you feed, interact, and take care of them, and your actions could mean the difference between having a lifetime of comfort or ounces of misery. If you’re a first-time cat owner, there are quite a few things you need to know before you buy or adopt a feline friend.

1. Consider Which Personality Type You’re Getting

Cats are like any creature in that they can vary in breed, but they can also vary in personality. According to research from the University of South Australia, there are five different personality types demonstrated in cats:
Skittish
Outgoing
Dominant
Spontaneous
Friendly
These traits give cats their own flair and character and can mirror well with their owner, but it can also lead to behavior issues. For example, skittish cats can be very anti-social and run away from guests, while spontaneous cats can act without reason, leading to stress. If you’re buying or adopting an older cat, check with the previous owner to see what traits it exhibited.

2. Kitten and Adult Cats Require Different Things

If you’re a parent, then you know how raising a baby is different than raising a child or teenager. The same thing applies to kittens and cats. While both are wonderful additions to your family, deciding which one to get is going to depend on your lifestyle. Kittens are still getting used to the world around them and require nurturing and patience. Once a cat is older, it becomes more independent and self-reliant, so it will be comfortable being left alone for hours on end (provided that you give it food and water). So, knowing how much time you can invest in your pet when you first get it is very critical.

3. Get the Right Food (And Avoid the Wrong Ones)

Shopping for cat food can be daunting if you’ve never had a cat before, but understanding their diet can go a long way towards saving money and health issues. It’s recommended that cats eat wet food over dry food because of the added moisture, but the food itself poses some extra variables. Whole animal protein should be the first thing listed in the ingredients list if you are choosing to feed your cat manufactured food.

That’s not to say that cats can eat human food, but it becomes even more tricky. Cats can enjoy food with fat in it in moderation, and favorites like eggs and cooked poultry can give your furry feline some additional vitamins and protein.

4. Cats Sleep…A Lot.

Cats are very active pets, but only during certain hours of the day. They’re considered crepuscular, meaning that most of their activity is reserved for dawn and dusk hours. Even then, they can adapt their sleeping schedule to their feeding schedule, so knowing when you are able to feed your cat throughout the day can give you a general idea of their active hours. Still, don’t be surprised to see your new cat sleep for many hours on end, as it is completely normal.

5. Your Home is Their Home Now…Fix It.

Many first-time pet owners, including cat owners, think that getting a new pet means that you can keep your home the way it is. However, just like bringing a baby into your home for the first time, bringing a cat into the home requires a few changes of scenery. Cats can be adventurous in a new setting, so you have to consider which things might be attractive to them to play with or bite on.

Cords, blinds, and sewing equipment can be alluring to your cat, so you should put those out of sight in order to avoid them playing with it or panicking after getting tangled up. Plants like lilies and tulips need to be away from eating distance, and windows and balconies should be closed to prevent falling. Think about the things valuable to you in your home, and think about how valuable your new cat is to you now.

Cats are lovable, playful creatures ready to be welcomed into your home, but it requires work and patience if it’s your first time. Understand what type of cat you’re getting, what diet they need, and the home life you’re building for them. Once you do, you’re all set for a fun feline friend!

Sources:

Your Cat Fits One of These 5 Personality Types — Which One?

https://www.cuteness.com/13708962/what-do-cats-like-to-eat
https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/evr_ct_why_do_cats_sleep_so_much
https://www.vets-now.com/2017/01/cat-proof-your-house/

Owning a pet can be a wonderful thing. They can be companions, entertaining us for days when we’re happy and pulling us up when we’re down. But what if you want something other than a cat or dog? What if you want something a little more…exotic?

An exotic bird is not the most typical pet, but it can be a benefit for the typical owner. Owning an exotic bird can be fulfilling in many ways, including…

Having Something Social to Be Around

Exotic birds can be friendly creatures to owners and their guests. From the Yellow-thighed caique to the Blue-fronted Amazon, these birds enjoy having a home that fosters interaction and play. Others have the ability to talk if trained properly, like the Indian Ringneck or the African Grey which can create full, clear sentences. If you’re somebody who may be new to an area or wouldn’t mind an extra buddy, exotic birds can be your new friend.

Fostering a Healthy Lifestyle

Birds require a very particular environment, specifically in regards to air quality. They are sensitive to smoke and potential toxins in the home. Taking care of an exotic bird can improve your quality of life by causing you to give up certain bad habits, such as smoking. In addition, their diet can include fruits like apples and cherries along with common nuts. This may prompt you to buy similar food as a way to save money and be more conscious about what you take in as a pet owner. As a result, you both can soar with happier, healthier lives.

Making You Smarter

Exotic birds like the cockatoo are very intelligent, both in play and movement. Training them is not an easy feat and requires a lot of patience and know-how. The process itself is rewarding for both of you, as you will have to rely on critical thinking and strategic behavior reinforcement to make sure you get the results you want out of your training. Plus, you have the added benefit of doing research about your bird, giving you greater insight and appreciation for it along your journey.

Having a Great Conversation Starter

According to a 2017 study by the National Pet Owners Association, 68% of households in the U.S. own a pet. From that percentage, 7.9 million homes own a bird. If you consider that only a portion of those homes owns exotic birds specifically, then you may have something that other people do not have. This can be a great ice breaker for new friends or a story starter for longtime guests eager to know how your flying friend is doing. Maybe it can even cause more people to buy their own exotic bird, which is always a plus!

Building Lifelong Adventures

These magnificent creatures can have a long lifespan. Some, like the budgies, can live for 5-7 years; others, like the Amazon, have the chance to live as many as 60 years. No matter which exotic bird you have, they can be with you for a lifetime, bringing you adventures daily with a flair that dogs and cats may lack.

Whether you’re a fan of flight or want to spread your wings socially, owning an exotic bird can be a rewarding experience as a pet owner. You may think that you’re changing the bird’s life, but it’ll change yours for the better.

Sources:
m.petmd.com/bird/top_tens/evr_bd_top10talking_birds?page=1
www.avianwelfare.org/issues/articles/NBD_shelters_before_adopting.pdf
www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-pet-statistics
exoticbirdevents.com/How-Long-Do-Birds-Live.html

Pet owners, what do you feel is the hardest part about having an animal companion? Is it the feeding, lifestyle, or training? Does cleaning up after it make you groan and sigh? What if you had a pet that was not just a good pet, but a fantastic pet?

Welcome to the wild world of exotic reptiles! Many may say that having lizards and snakes as pets are not for the faint of heart, but maybe these seven reasons will show you that your heart is bigger than you thought.

Take Your Pet Anywhere

Reptiles, especially exotic ones, need a very particular place to sleep, eat, and move around. For the most part, they are better left in an enclosure suited for their size. This may seem like a negative to those who prefer having pets free and out in the open. However, having a reptile in a portable enclosure or small habitat can mean taking them anywhere you want without risk of them running away or having negative interactions with others. Rather than worrying about your dog running away from its leash, your exotic pet is now safely in your hands.

Customize Your Habitat

Connecting to the previous point, exotic reptiles need a place that has specific heating and lighting needs due to their cold-blooded nature. They also need places to hide in and around, as constant exposure can cause stress. What this means is a fully-customizable habitat where you can let your creativity shine for your reptile. From rocks and boulders to realistic vegetation in the enclosure, it’s more ambitious and fun than simply finding holiday sweaters for your cat.

No Fur? No Problem

Unlike traditional pets like dogs and cats, reptiles do not have fur, which makes it much easier to clean up after. You can say goodbye to stray hairs on your furniture or your clothing before big events. This is perfect for those who are allergic to fur or pet dander but still want something to love. Plus, think of how much money you’ll be saving on grooming products and constant vacuuming!

Small Diet for Small Price

The diet for an exotic reptile is going to depend on the specific species you would have. Some, like geckos, can eat small crickets. Others, like pythons, may be a bit more carnivorous and need creatures such as mice for feeding. Pet owners who prefer the former can save money on food for their exotic creature instead of constantly going to the grocery store for pounds of dry food. Not to mention, you’ll also have a pet who is eating something more natural than pre-made artificial kibbles and bits.

Spend More Time With Your Friend

Getting attached to a pet can be bittersweet. While knowing that you’ll have many years with your animal companion, it can be sad knowing that they will pass on. With exotic reptiles, it can be more sweet than bitter, as their life expectancy far exceeds normal pets. Snakes can live for at least fifteen years, geckos and iguanas into their late teens to early twenties, and turtles can survive for a staggering forty years! Not only will you have an exotic acquaintance for over a decade, but you can pass it on to a family member who is looking to share in the experience, too.

Mellow Moods, But Plenty of Love

Some people like the hustle and energy of dogs, and that is perfectly fine. However, some people may need something more mellow to watch over, whether it is due to age or simply having a calmer personality. No matter what the case may be, owning an exotic reptile can be very low-energy provided that you raise it healthy and safe. This does not mean that they are without personality; on the contrary, they may show more of an affectionate personality given that they are not so expressive with movement.

No Need for Training

You may think that owning a lizard, turtle, snake, or any reptile requires a lot of training, much like you would with dogs or cats. With exotic reptiles, this isn’t always the case, as they do not require obedience commands or potty-training. Not only does this make it less stressful to own a pet, but it can time and money that would’ve been spent with trainers. Your pet reptile will truly be a reflection of you if you treat it kindly and with respect.

From green iguanas to baby leopard turtles and everything in between, owning an exotic reptile can be an experience that other pet owners will miss out on. Stand out from the rest, show your stripes and own an exotic reptile today!

Sources:
www.texvetpets.org/article/reptiles-as-pets
www.reptiles.swelluk.com/blog/advantages-to-having-a-pet-reptile
www.petplace.com/article/reptiles/general/life-expectancy-of-reptiles
www.petmd.com/reptile/care/can-your-reptile-bond-with-you
alohavegasvets.com/2016/05/15/southwest-las-vegas-nv-vet-benefits-pet-reptile

In the late 70's to through the early 90's, backpacks were very fashionable, and to be particular, several designer brands were quite fashionable. Nonetheless, the Coach backpacks seemed to control the market, and that is what your likely to find these days when in the hunt for the best vintage backpack. Nonetheless, you can rarely stumble on or find these types of bags in a brand new condition; they are in economy and thrift stores as second- hand commodities. Nevertheless, you'll be astounded that after all these years; the backpacks are still in good condition and still have the stylish look they had when they were brand new. Therefore, it is worth purchase as it is very affordable even cheaper than a good treat of burger and fries!

Features and Benefits of Vintage Backpacks

Vintage Backpacks are the purses and not the hiking backpacks. Nowadays lots of women are carrying vintage backpacks, and indeed, these backpacks are making a grand comeback, which is for a good reason. Not only are they classy, trendy, and unique, but they are in great conditions and cheap to purchase compared to a price of a new one. Although there are various color choices, most of these bags are British tan, brown, and black. Interestingly, they are simple but robust with substantial hardware and real leather. Further, the compartments are easy and simple to find, the shoulder straps fine tune to any desired length, and most of them have handles that permit you to carry it like a purse.

A majority of these backpacks made of eminence leather, and they are very durable. They are ideal and handy for shopping trips, vacation, and for college student's carrying supplies and books. No need to fret about getting them dirty as they clean up amazingly well because of the high quality and durable leather used. Additionally, they are cheap to purchase, and most ladies prefer them as their "punch bags" and enjoy carrying them!

Advantages of Vintage Backpacks

Since, these backpacks manufactured of leather; they have a better price tag linked to them than other backpacks made from several polyester, artificial mixes, or canvas. Flere are some advantages that you should know and consider when purchasing these backpacks.

Eminent Longevity

Owing to the fact these backpacks are sturdier and stronger than others; they also last for long. Ordinary backpack are long lasting under bulky and extensive use, and also have the capability to wear and tear, and take well the weather conditions. Consequently, they save money, as you do not need to interchange frequently the backpack.

Waterproofed Material

The backpack is weatherproof and waterproof as they have inbuilt leather that can handle these conditions. As these backpacks are manufactured to address any adverse situation, and they have an added safety component that safeguards the content inside the backpack, Flence, these components make the vintage backpack stand out and last for long.

Tough and Resilient

Since they are leather-based backpacks, they are tough and resilient compared to other backpacks manufactured from canvas, polyester, or other artificial mixes. Also, they have the capability to carry bigger weights, as the material is sufficiently pliable. Further, they do not tear or lose their shape, which makes these backpacks exceptional, and a must have than any other type of backpacks!

As a child I was enthralled with reptiles, mesmerized by the unending stare of a snake and the myriad geometric patterns and colors of turtle and lizard scales. I would spend hours trekking through nearby fields and streams in search of all things slimy and scaly- a habit I never grew out of. Growing up in the Midwest, species of the western US up until now were encountered only as pictures in books and childhood daydreams. After relocating to the west coast, much of my free-time is spent in the field attempting to catch a glimpse of the native reptile and amphibian species of central California. More recently, I have become interested in identifying and untangling the seemingly unfathomable number of bird species found here on the Central Coast. As I encounter local species of reptiles, amphibians and birds I will be posting pictures of these animal encounters along with interesting natural history facts about each specimen. There is so much beauty within the world to be discovered and appreciated; why not start in one’s own backyard.

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It only took over a year, but the quintessential Californian was finally found! Let’s take a look at arguably one of the most beautiful snakes in the country, the California Kingsnake, Lampropeltis getula californiae. This species is unmistakable in appearance, hosting a pallet of striking contrast, usually of black and white banding in its most familiar phenotype. There are local color variations throughout the range, with sub-populations exhibiting variable hues of chocolate browns and creams. There are even populations of individuals with longitudinal striping rather the more familiar banded pattern. California Kingsnakes are medium-sized, gentle snakes that range throughout the state in a variety of different habitats. When surprised/threatened, they will hiss loudly and quickly vibrate their tail, accomplishing a somewhat surprisingly loud buzzing noise when in contact with loose, dry debris. If the envelope is further pushed, they will hide their head within their coils and expose the bright red mucosal surface of their cloaca with (it is suspected) the intent of drawing attention to the back end while the front end searches for an escape.

So, why are they called kingsnakes? Welp, these beasts will eat just about anything they come across – lizards, young turtles, birds, a variety of small mammals, large insects, the eggs of lizards and snakes, and even other snakes! Kingsnakes immobilize and dispatch their prey by constriction. California has a variety of snake species- our friend Lampropeltis getula californiae reigns supreme. These guys will even eat rattlesnakes – and if that isn’t macho enough, kingsnakes are immune to rattlesnake venom!