a beginner's guide to pets
DESCRIPTION
This handbook will help you learn how to make an educated decision about the right pet for you, as well as providing some basic tips on how to care for it.TRANSCRIPT
!!!!!!"#$!%&'()**+!,*-!,.-/$0$.1#!"#$!*2'#-/!Z!! !
!
!
!
• !
!
! !
>?8@>?%@3%ABC%5D?%5;&?%0B%E??0%0=@+%
!?0F+%+!?8@3@8%G??>+%
*4A!!"#$%&'()**+$,*-$./-0#12/3"$!"#$45'"-0!><??!3;K>!GK4!;K>!F4B;!BCA5!GK4A!E5@!><??!=55DN!!1C=G!E5@3!I5@!HKA5D!<M!@;5G!DK!=K@!;CP5!5=K4I;!"#$%"#%"#$!BK=@CB@N!!$;<3!HKA5DKF!BC=!?5CD!@K!C!;K3@!KM!&#'$()*+,-$!H5;CP<KA3N!!
!
>BGH0%+=B!%@E!C&+@I?&A%
1CS5!CDKE@<=I!KA!H4G<=I!C!E5@!C!'$-),$*+.$L!@;K4I;@0K4@!
CB@<K=N!)4G<=I!C!E5@!C@!C!E5@!3;KE!H5BC435!<@!?KKS3!3KL!3K!
CDKACH?5!<3!=K@!C!IKKD!>CG!@K!CDD!C=K@;5A!-"#/%.$*0!
0$0,$*!@K!GK4A!MCF<?GN!!
!
E508=%ABCD%!?0%0B%ABCD%&@3?+0A&?%
5/$%'()%"%:-#9*%(J1%(/%"%6"'%,$/2(:K!!/KF5!E5@3L!?<S5!34ICA!I?<D5A3!C=D!M5AA5@3!3E5=D!F4B;!KM!@;5!DCG!C3?55E!C=D!CA5!FK3@!CB@<P5!C@!=<I;@N!!
>(%'()%J(/<%1(:#%9()/2K!!/KF5!E5@3!I5@!P5AG!-"#$-1!HG!@;5F35?P53!>;<?5!K@;5A3!CA5!=K@!HK@;5A5D!HG!3K?<@4D5N!!
@L%'()%*/"M$1%"%1(*%J9(%J-11%."/$%L(/%*9$%,$*%J9-1$%'()%"/$%"J"'K%
!
E508=%ABCD%!?0%0B%ABCD%=BE?%
• =(J%4).9%L/$$%2,".$%-2%*9$/$K%%
• @2%*9$/$%"%L$:.$6%N".<%'"/6K%
• =(J%J-11%'()/%:$-#9N(/2%L$$1%"N()*%*9-2%:$J%,$*K%%
• @L%'()%/$:*O%J9"*%J-11%'()/%1":61(/6%*9-:<%"N()*%*9-2%,$*K%
!
>?8@>?%P=A%ABC%P5G0%5%!?0%
3(/%.(4,":-(:29-,K!!7K4!FCG!>C=@!C!'"/!KA!EK33<H?G!C=!4=434C??G!+22$3.)"#+.$!3+.N!!
*=5!KM!@;5!."1!HA55D3!FCG!H5!<D5C?!MKA!GK4N!7K4A!4$*("#+-).1!.*+).(!CA5!P5AG!<FEKA@C=@N!!
@:6$,$:6$:*%(/%$:$/#$*-.%.(4,":-(:K!5+.!E5KE?5!@5=D!@K!;CP5!D<MM5A5=@!@AC<@3!@;C=!'"/!E5KE?5N!!
.M!GK4!I<P5!5<@;5A!KM!@;5F!@;5!>AK=I!3E5B<53L!@;5G!KM@5=!;CP5!@AK4H?5!HK=D<=I!><@;!@;5!E5@N!!
!!!!!!"#$!%&'()**+!,*-!,.-/$0$.1#!"#$!*2'#-/!Z!! !
!
!
!
>?8@>?%@3%0=@+%@+%0=?%D@Q=0%0@E?%@G%ABCD%&@3?%0B%Q?0%5%!?0%
OK=3<D5A!<M!@;<3!<3!A5C??G!@;5!A<I;@!@<F5!<=!GK4A!?<M5!@K!K>=!C!UC=K@;5AV!E5@N!!
• @L%'()%"1/$"6'%9"M$%(*9$/%,$*2%9(J%J-11%*9$'%#$*%"1(:#%J-*9%*9$%:$J%(:$K%!• =(J%2*"N1$%"/$%'()/%9)4":%/$1"*-(:29-,2K!
• =(J%#((6%-2%'()/%9$"1*9K!
!
8BG+@>?D%ABCD%!?0F+%&@3?%+!5G%
%K>!?K=I!DK!GK4!5JE5B@!GK4A!E5@!@K!?<P5[!!
• E-.$\!]!G5CA3%• Q(16L-29\!^_0]_!G5CA3%• >(#2!":6!."*2\!^]0^`!G5CA3%• !"//(*2\!a0`_!G5CA3!%• 0(/*(-2$2\!4E!@K!^__!G5CA3%
%
!
!
8BG+@>?D%0=?%8B+0%B3%R??!@GQ%5%!?0%
)53<D53!@;5!<=<@<C?!BK3@!KM!@;5!E5@L!GK4!><??!<=B4A!BK=3<D5ACH?5!5JE5=35!<=\!!
• 34<@CH?5!;KF5!KA!BCI5!• C!IKKD!D<5@!!• IAKKF<=I!• E5@!3<@@5A3!!• P5@5A<=CAG!BCA5!
!
I@+@0%0=?%=CE5G?%+B8@?0A%S%5G@E5&%D?+8C?%BDQ5G@T50@BG+%
"CG!C!M5>!@A<E3!@K!GK4A!?KBC?!6&0+#$!("3)$.1!KA!*$(3&$!"*/+#)7+.)"#(!C=D!<=@5ACB@!><@;!3KF5!KM!@;5!C=<FC?3!@;5A5!<=!C!b4<5@!!K=50K=0K=5!HC3<3N!!!*H35AP5!@;5!E5@!>;5=!<@!<3!C?K=5!><@;!GK4!C=D!@AG!@K!FCS5!C F5=@C?!?<3@!KM!<@3!4"().)8$!C=D!#$/+.)8$!EK<=@3N
!
+=B!%5DBCG>%
$CS5!@;5!@<F5!@K!?5CA=!C??!CHK4@!@;5!S<=D!KM!E5@!GK4!CA5!BK=3<D5A<=I!H4G<=IN!!)A55D3!CA5!C3!D<MM5A5=@!<=!@;5<A!4$*("#+-).)$(L!+,)-).)$(!C=D!#$$'(!C3!E5KE?5!CA5N!!7K4!><??!?5CA=!CHK4@!D<MM5A5=@!HA55D3!KM!BC@3!C=D!DKI3!<=!@;<3!!"#$%&'()**+$,*-$./-0#12/3"$!"#$45'"-06!
A Beginner’s
Guide to Dogs
Things to think about when selecting a dog:
• Why do you want a dog? Make sure your expectations are realistic.
• What kind of activity level do you want your dog to have? Different breeds vary a lot in their activity levels.
• Do you have the time to care for a dog? What will you do if you have to leave for a weekend?
• Have you considered the expenses of owning a dog?
• If you get a puppy, do you have the patience for training?
An Introduction to the Most Popular Breeds in the U.S.
#1 Labrador Retriever
Key for Symbols Things to keep in mind about your living situation for a breed Any special health considerations for the breed Grooming information about the breed
Information about training and activity level for the breed
Information about the breed’s interactions with owners
Thrive in most environments, but should have a backyard if possible
Generally healthy, but prone to hip, elbow, and joint problems
Very easy to groom, need to be brushed often or they will shed
Very intelligent and easy to train, need lots of exercise
Adaptable, very good with children and families
#2 German Shepherd
Sheds heavily, thick coat
Generally healthy, prone to hip problems, often poorly bred
Very adaptable, can live in an apartment if it gets lots of exercise
Extremely intelligent, eager to please, need lots of exercise
Loyal family pet, but is very protective
BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO DOGS
#3 Yorkshire Terrier Very adaptable, but won’t do well if left alone for long amount of time
Delicate and fragile, use a harness not a leash, prone to tooth decay Daily combing if kept long haired, needs regular trimming, hypoallergenic
High energy, easy to train
Not good for families with young children as they can be aggressive towards them
#4 Beagle Bark and howl-‐ not good for apartments, need to be penned
Very healthy
Low maintenance grooming but need to be bathed often
Stubborn, more interested in following their nose than training, but are food motivated
Great family pet, very good with children
#5 Golden Retriever See #1 Labrador Retriever-‐ they are very similar! However, golden retrievers have longer coats and need more grooming
#6 Bulldog Okay for apartments, not good in hot
climates
Short life span, prone to many diseases
Need daily cleaning in between folds of skin to avoid infections
Stubborn, difficult to train, don’t need much exercise
Not the most charming dog, but they are good with children
#7 Boxer Best in moderate climates, need
space to run
Prone to cancer
Very low maintenance
Easy to train, need lots of exercise
Good family pet, but can be too rowdy with very young children
Mixed Breed Dogs In addition to pure breed dogs, there are endless combinations of mixed breed dogs. Many end up in animal shelters, so it’s important to consider mixed breed dogs in your search as well! Do Your Research This guide is unfortunately not informative enough to make a choice regarding which breed of dog is right for you. There are many resources available online and at your local library with more information.
BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO DOGS
Expenses Owning a dog can be expensive. If finances are a source of concern for you, considering other pet options is important. Starting costs:
The dog itself-‐ $50-‐500 (depending on if you get it from an animal shelter or breeder)
Leash and collar-‐ $15-‐30 Dog bed-‐ $20-‐40 Toys-‐ $5-‐20 Spay/neuter-‐ $75-‐200
(some animal shelters will reduce the price)
Monthly costs:
Dog food-‐ $10-‐30 Treats/chew toys-‐ $5-‐8 Grooming-‐ $25-‐50, if
required Yearly costs:
Veterinarian visits-‐ $30+ Vaccinations-‐ $60-‐80 Heartworm and Flea/tick
preventative-‐ $200-‐250 In addition:
Your pet may have health conditions that require extra care (and expense)
Costs vary based on size of pet, location, and pet’s needs
Although owning a dog is very rewarding, the expenses need to be carefully considered before committing to a dog. The prices are listed in a price range, but consider buying quality toys and food for your dog. Most people consider their dog a part of their family, so they should be treated as a member of the family too.
Common Health Problems for Dogs Although the health problems a dog is most prone to depends largely on the breed and environment, there a few problems your dog is most likely to experience. It is not always necessary to contact your veterinarian, it is a good idea to call them and seek their opinion. ALWAYS contact your veterinarian if you notice behavioral changes resembling depression and lethargy, because it probably signals a more serious problem. Below are the top 10 most common canine health problems:
1. Ear infections 2. Skin allergies 3. Bacterial skin infections 4. Vomiting 5. Diarrhea 6. Urinary Tract Infections 7. Benign skin tumors 8. Osteoarthritis 9. Eye inflammation 10. Hyperthyroidism
Vaccinations Dogs Need
• Rabies vaccine-‐ in most states it is required for dogs to be vaccinated for rabies. This is especially important, because if your dog is infected with rabies, he can infect your or family members.
• Combination vaccine-‐ not required in most states, but highly recommended. It protects from adenovirus, hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, and parvovirus.
• Lyme Disease vaccine-‐ recommended if ticks are common in the dog’s environment. Lyme disease is a dangerous, and dogs don’t show a rash like people do.’
• Bordetella vaccine-‐ protects against tracheobronchitis, commonly known as kennel cough. This vaccination is recommended if your dog will be around other dogs in a boarding kennel.
• Coronavirus vaccine and Leptospirosis vaccine-‐ ask your vet if these diseases are of high risk in your area.
Providing Quality Nutrition Quality dog food is being advertised more now, but it’s very important to critically read the label when selecting a food for your dog. Dogs do best when fed a consistent diet, so try to select a food that you can continue to buy (it’s easily available, affordable, etc). Dry dog food is most commonly fed because it helps fight plaque build-‐up and is cheaper. When switching dog foods, make sure to mix it in gradually over a week. Here are the main things to look for in a dog food:
1. Meat should be the first ingredient. Look for a specific meat source listed, not “chicken byproduct meal”, etc.
2. Other ingredients-‐ look for holistic ingredients like “oats” rather than “oat hulls”. Ingredients should also name the source like “chicken broth” for flavoring.
3. Expensive dog foods aren’t necessarily the best, make
sure to do your homework.
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO CATS
A Beginner’s
Guide to Cats
Things to think about when selecting a cat: • Why do you want a
cat? • Does your housing
situation allow for owning a cat?
• Do you have enough time to spend with your cat each day?
• Do you have enough income per month to support your cat?
• Do you travel a lot? If so, how will your cat be cared for if you have to leave for an extended period?
• If you get a kitten, do you have the patience for training?
An Introduction to the Most Popular Breeds in the U.S.
#1 Oriental
Key for Symbols Things to keep in mind about your living situation for a breed
Any special health considerations for the breed
Grooming information about the breed
Information about the breed’s interactions with owners
Needs attention and will be depressed if left alone too much
Healthy breed, 20+ lifespan
Shorthair: Self-‐cleaning cat Longhair: Weekly brushing is needed
Perfect family cat, loves people, and learns easily
#2 Maine Coon
Needs to be brushed twice a week
Generally healthy and can grow up to 25 pounds
Needs attention and time with people
Loyal family pet, loving nature, and a good cat for first time owners
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO CATS
Generally healthy and daily grooming improves health
Daily grooming is required
Very good family cat. They are very playful with children.
#5 Abyssinian Need to walk them regularly. They
are very active, so put fragile belongings away.
Short life span, prone to many diseases
Groom once a week
Wonderful family cat, need a lot of attention, very playful but rough with children.
#6 Persian
Keep them indoors, they live well with others.
Prone to respiratory and kidney problems
Perfect family cat. They are very friendly.
#3 Himalayan
Keep them near you at home because they love time with people
#4 Siamese
Very loud, vocal cats. They are active, so put away fragile belongings.
Healthy cat, but can get respiratory infections
Easy to groom
Very smart, social, and vocal. Loves to have fun with owners.
#7 American Shorthair
They enjoy time with owners, but can be independent, too.
Healthy cat and can live 15 – 20 years.
Little to no grooming is required
Great with children and other pets. Great cat for first time owners.
Daily grooming is required
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO CATS
Mozilla Firefox.lnk
Expenses Starting costs:
The cat itself: from shelter-‐ $100-‐150 from pet shop-‐$500-‐1000 Spaying/Neutering-‐ $100-‐200 Microchipping-‐ $50 Cat carrier-‐ $30-‐50 Food & water bowls-‐ $20 Grooming brush-‐ $20 Litter trays-‐ $20
Monthly costs:
Cat food-‐ $10-‐30 Toys-‐ $10
Yearly costs:
Veterinarian visits-‐ $30+ Vaccinations-‐ $50-‐70
In addition:
Your pet may have health conditions that require extra care (and expense) Costs vary based on size of pet, location, and pet’s needs
As you can see, owning a cat can be expensive. A cat can live around 20 years, so you must commit to supporting the cat for a long time. The prices listed above are an estimate, and may differ according to your preferences.
Age Vaccination 6-‐7 weeks Combination Vaccine* 10 weeks Combination Vaccine
Chlamydophila 12 weeks Rabies 13 weeks Combination Vaccine
Chlamydophila Feline Leukemia(FeLV)
16 & 19 weeks Combination Vaccine FeLV
Adult Combination Vaccine Chlamydophila
FeLV Rabies
The kind of vaccinations that your cat will need depends on when you get the cat. The list above is a reference, but before your cat receives any vaccinations you should consult with your local veterinarian to determine the suitable schedule for your cat. *A combination vaccine includes feline distemper, rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus.
1. Be sure to choose reputable brand of cat food. You can consult your veterinarian for recommendations.
2. Feed your cat dry food and wet food. A cat food containing 34%-‐38% protein and 19%-‐22% fat provides a healthy balance. Read the label before you buy the cat food.
3. When cats get older, higher fiber content is required in their diet. Do not hesitate to consult your veterinarian for good advice about cat food.
Things To Do for Your Cat
#1 Give Your Cat Vaccinations
Having trimmed claws is very important for cats’ health. Most cats don’t like to have their claws trimmed, so start trimming your cat’s claws when they are young so that they get used to the process.
1. Choose a type of nail trimmers-‐ human nail clippers, guillotine, or scissors type. The first two types are easy to use in cats.
2. To restrain a cat in your lap, have your forearms draped over the cat’s neck and hind-‐end. Hold the clippers in your right hand.
3. Gently squeeze the toe between thumb and forefinger to expose the claw. When you cut, the clipper should be placed perpendicular to the nail (cutting top to bottom).
#2 Feed Your Cat Well
#3 Clip your Cat’s Claws
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BIRDS
A Beginner’s
Guide to Birds
Things to consider before choosing a bird Why do you want a bird? • Size of the bird
• Behavior and
temperament
• Nutrition and
maintenance
• Time commitment
• Lifespan of a bird
-‐ Finches: 5-‐10
-‐ Canaries: 5-‐10
-‐ Parakeets: 12-‐14
-‐Cockatiels: 15-‐20
-‐ Lovebird: up to 20
-‐ African Grey: 50-‐70
• Noise level
• Wild or hand fed
• Budget and finances
An Introduction to the Popular Breeds in the U.S.
#1 Parakeets/Budgies
Key for Symbols General information of cage sizes and bar spacing for birds
Any special health considerations for the breed
Grooming information about the breed
Information about training and activity level for the breed
Information about the breeds interactions with owners
Cage must be at least 18x18x24 so they can turn and fly to each ends.
They conceal any sign of illness so keep a close eye for any signs.
Very seldom they need grooming, they clean and groom themselves
Very intelligent, they can be taught to speak, whistle tunes, and play
Adaptable, very good with children and families
#2 Cockatiels
Needs periodic grooming. Nail, beak, bathe, and clipping the wings.
They conceal any sign of illness so keep a close eye for any signs.
Cage must be at least 18x18x24 so they can turn and fly to each ends.
Takes considerable amount of time to train them new skills.
Hand raised cockatiels are great with kids and family.
Any special health considerations for the breed
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BIRDS |
#3 Finches and Canaries They have high activity level so they require a large cage. 14x14x24
Known for being healthy, easy to care for birds, they aren’t above falling ill.
Need a shallow dish of water for bathing and a concrete to trim their nails.
Takes considerable amount of time to train them new skills.
Little human interaction is needed, good for first time owners.
#4 Pyrrhura Conures
Cage must be at least 18x18x24 so they can turn and fly to each ends.
Very healthy
Grooming their toenail, beaks and trim the wings.
They are intelligent and they are easily tamed.
Great family pet, very good with children
#5 Lovebirds
#6 African Grey The cage size 36x24x48 is a
minimum. The bigger the better.
Requires additional vitamin A in their diets.
Regular bathing, clip wigs, and trim nails.
One of the easiest birds to train. Can obey words on command.
Adaptable, very good with children and families
Do Your Research Choosing the right bird for you is the most important rule to remember when you enter the world of bird ownership. Without doing research on the different species, their personality traits, and care requirements, it's almost impossible to find a pet that you will be happy with. Keep in mind that the best birds aren't always the biggest or most brightly colored.
Daily Cleaning Dirty cages can lead to a host of serious health problems in birds. Certain cleaning must be done every day to minimize your pet's risk of infection. Follow these simple steps daily to make sure that your bird's cage stays in top condition. ü Change the cage liner. In addition to being uncomfortable, it is unhealthy for birds to walk around in discarded food and
droppings. Unchanged cage papers can also emit a very unpleasant stench. ü Clean Food and Water Dishes. Remove your bird's food and water bowls daily and wash them with a mild dish detergent. Make
sure to rinse and dry them thoroughly before placing them back in your bird's cage. ü Wipe Down Surfaces. Using a damp rag or paper towel, spot clean the surfaces of the cage, including the bars, perches, and any
toys. To clean stubborn, stuck on messes, use a bird-‐safe cage cleaner.
Cage must be at least 24x24x24 also the bars need to be close together.
They conceal any sign of illness so keep a close eye for any signs.
Low maintenance grooming but need to be bathed often
Intelligent and they are fairly easy to train.
Are loving and social birds, very good with children.
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BIRDS |
Mozilla Firefox.lnk
Expenses Pet Bird Cost
Bird Species Cost Finch $15+
Parakeet/Budgie $20+ Lovebird $40+ Canary $90+
African Grey Parrot $500+ Pyrrhura Conures $125+
Starting costs:
The bird itself: from shelter-‐ Free-‐200 from pet shop-‐ $15-‐1000 Bird cage-‐ $40-‐900 Play stand -‐ $20-‐50 Bird feeder-‐ $5-‐20 Bird bath-‐ $10 Cage cover-‐ $10-‐20
Monthly costs:
Bird food-‐ $50-‐250 (Depends on the breed) Toys-‐ $20-‐60 Grooming-‐ $20-‐60
Yearly costs:
Veterinarian visits-‐ $100+ Special care-‐ $50-‐200
In addition:
Your pet may have health conditions that require extra care (and expense) Costs vary based on size of pet, location, and pet’s needs
Keep in mind, the larger birds need larger cages and they are more expensive. Their toys are also bigger and therefore more expensive. The costs listed above are just an average estimate range, which differs quite a bit due to the breed and the size of the bird. Most people consider birds thinking that the birds are easy to handle, but the truth is birds need just as much attention as dogs.
Common Health Problems for Birds As bird owners, it's important to be aware of the diseases and disorders that can affect our precious pets. Early detection of illness is key to successful treatment in pet birds, and is indeed important to their survival in many cases. It is not always necessary to contact your veterinarian, it is a good idea to call them and seek their opinion. Below are the top 10 most common bird health problems:
1. Tumors 2. Goiter 3. Psittacosis (fever) 4. Cnemodocoptes mites 5. Liver disease 6. Polyoma virus 7. Psittacine beak (feather disease) 8. Brown hypertrophy of the cere 9. Megabacteria 10. Protozoal infections
Foods to Avoid
Milk Products: Most birds lack the enzyme lactase to break down lactose. If milk products are fed, please look out for symptoms of indigestion and diarrhea.
Grain Products: Such has cereal, bread and, in fact, most other grain products are often fortified with iron. Birds can't tolerate iron supplementation and they are susceptible to iron overload disease -‐ an untreatable and deadly condition.
Fortified Bird Food: Some researchers voiced their concern that "fortified bird seeds / pellets" are also to blame for the increased occurrence of Iron Storage / Overlead Disease.
• High-‐fat junk food (potato chips, doughnuts, etc.) • Avocado (guacamole) • Chocolate • Alcohol or caffeine • Fruit pits • Persimmons • Table salt • Onions • Apple seeds • Mushrooms
Providing Quality Nutrition ♦ Seed-‐eating birds -‐ Even for seed-‐eating birds, seeds alone are not a proper diet.
Even when multiple types of seed are offered, the seed-‐only diet will not supply the necessary array of vitamins and minerals that is needed for optimal health.
♦ Formulated diets -‐ The food is a blend of grains, seeds, vegetables, fruits, and various types of proteins, as well as additional vitamins and minerals.
♦ Vegetable -‐ a good source of vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates. Small amounts of fruit can also provide some nutrition. Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before feeding.
♦ Non-‐seed eating birds -‐ Diets for non-‐seed eating birds such as Lories and Lorikeets consist of a commercially prepared formula.
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO FISH
A Beginner’s Guide to
Fish
Fish can be categorized into 2
types, freshwater fish and
saltwater fish. Freshwater fish can
be further divided into cold water
species and tropical fish. Each type
of fish has its own size, habitat,
feeding habits, ideal aquarium
setup and care.
The most popular species of
freshwater fishes are Bettas,
Guppies, Cardinal Tetra, Cichlids,
Catfish, Angelfish, Black Molly
and Goldfish. For saltwater fish,
the most common species are
Clownfish, Gobies, Rays,
Seahorses, and Butterflyfish.
However, we are going to focus on
4 types of freshwater fishes and 3
types of saltwater fishes in this
handbook.
FISH
Freshwater Fish Saltwater Fish
Tropical Fish Coldwater Fish
Key for Symbols
Aquarium conditions
Food
Fish characteristics
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO FISH
Freshwater Fish
Betta Fish
Cardinal Tetra
Black Molly
Angelfish
Water Temperature (ᵒF): 75 to 85
• Male betta should be placed in their own bowl.
• Avoid sharp edged decorations.
• Tight-fitting cover is required.
• Bloodworms, black worms, chopped earthworms,
glass worms and brine shrimp.
• Flake and freeze-dried foods.
Water Temperature (ᵒF): 75 to 82
Alkalinity: as soft and acid as possible
Do not keep it with larger fish (angelfish or larger
cichlids)
Tank should be well planted with some tall plants and
floating plants to provide protection.
Flake, frozen, freeze-dried or live.
Water Temperature (ᵒF): 70 to 82
Alkalinity: Hard
Best kept in a community tank that does not include
aggressive fish.
20 gallon aquarium is good. Put one teaspoon of salt for each gallon of water.
It eats the green algae in tank.
Temperature (ᵒF): 78 to 82
Alkalinity: soft, slightly acidic
No more than one pair should be housed in a 20 to 30-
gallon high aquarium.
Should be housed in a relatively tall tank.
Flake and freeze-dried food. Also provide small live food.
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO FISH
Saltwater fishes require similar aquarium conditions. You can refer the information in the part where the
settings of aquarium are discussed.
Clownfish
Goby
Size: 3 inches
Family: Gobiidae
Size: 3 to 4 inches
Some species are loners but other species are often
found in pairs or small groups.
Should not be kept with aggressive fishes.
Brine shrimp, large shrimp chopped into bits,
and other meaty foods.
This group of fish is extremely hardy, and is well suited to
life in the average marine aquarium.
PE Mysis shrimp. Ocean Nutrition frozen formula 1, 2, and VHP
Butterflyfish
Family: Chaetodontidae
Size: 6 inches
Their small size, rounded bodies and slightly concave
foreheads distinguish them from larger angelfish.
It usually will accept most foods offered, including
finely chopped seafood, frozen or live brine shrimp,
frozen preparations and even flake food.
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO FISH
Cost of Fishes
There are many species of fish categorized each type. They vary in colors, patterns and costs.
The average costs of each species of fish are tabulated in the table below.
Fish Species Cost
Betta Fish $3.50 - $13.95
Cardinal Fish $4.50
Black Molly $1.00
Angelfish $6 - $8
Clownfish $29 - $129
Goby $20 - $35
Butterflyfish $45 - $250
Starting Cost:
The fish itself - $1 - $250 Aquarium – $10 - $300 Stand - $50 - $300 Cover - $20 - $170 Decorations - $1 - $10 Lighting - $25 - $270 Heating - $10 - $35 Filter - $7 - $140 Fish food - $2 - $60
The cost of keeping fish actually depends on the amount of fish you want to keep. If you
decide to keep a large amount of fish, you will have to buy a larger aquarium, heavier stand,
larger cover, higher voltage heater and more food. Therefore, the cost that you have to pay
will increase. The costs listed above are just an estimate. They differ due to the species of fish
and the amount of fish you want to keep.
Weekly and Monthly Cost:
Fish food - $2 - $60 Replacement of filter, heater or lighting if needed - $7 - $140
Decorations if desired - $1 - $10
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO FISH
Keeping your fish healthy can be difficults at times. This section contains with some tips and
ideas for keeping aquarium fish from getting sick. Once you have set up your tank, added some
fish, and developed a maintenance routine, you will need to make sure your fish remain healthy
by feeding them correctly, observing them for changes in their appearance or behavior, and
treating them for disease if necessary.
Aquarium Fish Diseases
Diseases of Freshwater Fish
Ich
Symptoms: • Small, raised white spots on the body and fins,
making it one of the few fish ailments that is
easily identifiable.
Treatment:
• Raise the temperature of tank to about 90
degrees Fahrenheit.
Fungus
Symptoms:
• Fungus shows up as a white growth on fish,
appearing sort of like cotton.
Treatment:
• Treat the fish with a fish medication that is
specifically formulated for fungus.
Diseases of Saltwater Fish
Bacterial Infections
Symptoms:
• Decaying of the fins (fin-and-tail rot).
Treatment:
• Difficult to treat and prevention is the best
solution.
Fungal and Viral Infections
Symptoms:
• It is very hard to diagnose.
Treatment:
• Remove the fish that is suspected to have a
fungal infection from the tank immediately and
try treating him with malachite green,
methylene blue or one of the various fungicides.
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO FISH
Setting Up an Aquarium for
Freshwater Fish
Equipment • Tank
Ø The recommended size of tank is 20
gallons.
Ø Rectangular tank is recommended
over other shapes.
• Stand
• Cover
• Decorations
• Lighting
• Heating
Ø Most fishes do well in an aquarium
that maintains a temperature
between 76°F and 80°F.
• Filter
Maintenance • Daily Maintenance
Ø Check the temperature of the tank,
filter and heater.
• Weekly Maintenance
Ø A 50% change of water in the tank
is recommended.
Ø Make sure the temperature of the
replacement water is the same of
the water removed.
• Monthly Maintenance
Ø Rinse the filter gently with water
from the tank.
Ø Clean the cover if you are keeping
live plants in the tank.
Setting Up an Aquarium for Saltwater Fish
Equipment
• Tank
Ø The fish tank should be either made
of glass or acrlic.
Ø The recommended size of tank is 55
gallons for beginners.
• Stand
• Rockwork
• Lighting
• Heating
Ø The ideal temperature range is
between 72°F and 79°F.
• Filter
Maintenance • Daily Maintenance
Ø Check the temperature of the tank
water, filter and heater.
Ø Remove uneaten food.
• Weekly Maintenance
Ø Test the water for ammonia,
nitrite and nitrate.
Ø Rinse the filter to remove uneaten
food and debris.
• Biweekly Maintenance
Ø Do 10 percent water-change.
Ø Remove salt buildup, calcium
deposits and dusts.
Ø Check the power sources of filters
are working well.
!!"!#$%&''$()*!%+&,$!-.!("##&-*/!%+&'$"!0&%*!1!*2"33!2"22"3*! !!
!
!
!
!!!!!!"!#4567748)9!
%:6;4!<=!(>??6<9/!
%:674>!0659/!1!*@>AA!
2>@@>A9!
!!
! ! !
! ! !
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!"#$%&'#(%)*$+,-#./0#1&22#3+$#4,&+5#&"5/,6)$&/"#)4/0$#,)44&$'-#30&"+)#*&3'-#)"7#'6)22#6)66)2'-#&"(207&"38#
• "#$%&'(%#• )'(*+,%!
• -+.'!
• /#&%!!
!!"#$!%&''!()*!+,-&.!&/0#12,*&#/!#/3!
!
9//7#$/#:"/18#
• 01!234!#536&!&73!8#$%&'(%!31!
&8'!3663%+&'!%'9:!234!$#2!
%33;!8#<'!#!*'<2!31!*#*2!
8#$%&'(%=!>8#&?%!*'.#4%'!#!
8#$%&'(!6('@;#;.2!3;,2!&#A'%!
#*34&!&73!7''A%:!1(3$!%&#(&!
&3!1+;+%8=!
#
• B82!#(';?&!*4;;+'%!#;5!
6('%.833,'(%!#!@335!$+9C!D,,!
&8#&!.455,+;@!#;5!.#((2+;@!
#(34;5!('#,,2!%&('%%'%!#!
(#**+&:!783%'!+;%&+;.&%!#('!
%834&+;@!E5#;@'(:!5#;@'(:!
5#;@'(FE!G'13('!,3;@:!&8'!
(#**+&?%!234;@!#5$+('(!$#2!
*'!.3<'('5!+;!%.(#&.8'%!1(3$!
+&%!637'(14,!.,#7%!#%!+&!*'#&%!#!
8#%&2!'9+&=!!
#
!
!
!
B8#&!&3!1''5!234(!6'&!
G#%+.!8'#,&8!.3;%+5'(#&+3;%!
!!!!$BC47949!!
!!"!#$%&''$()*!%+&,$!-.!("##&-*/!%+&'$"!0&%*!1!*2"33!2"22"3*! !
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
• ;/7+"$#(%/1#%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!#&!#,,!&+$'%=!H466,'$';&!7+&8!8#$%&'(!$+9:!
$#5'!46!31!6',,'&%:!@(#+;%:!%''5%!#;5!5(+'5!<'@@+'%=!
• <,+'%-#(2+)"#1)$+,#%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!#&!#,,!&+$'%=!
• I11'(!%$#,,:!*+&'J%+K'5!*+&%!31!5,+'%#=+33&+'#)"7#5,0&$'!'<'(2!LJM!5#2%!
!
!!
!!
!
!
!
!!!!!!
4#-*!5)1!6),1!D!789:!!
!
>%&"3'#$/#(/"'&7+,8#• "#$%&'(%!#('!;3&!&8'!
*'%&!6'&%!13(!%$#,,!
.8+,5(';!*'.#4%'!31!
&8'+(!;3.&4(;#,!;#&4('!
#;5!&';5';.2!&3!;+6!
!
• H6'.+1+.!A+;5%!31!
8#$%&'(%!%834,5!;3&!
*'!A'6&!&3@'&8'(!
78+,'!3&8'(%!';N32!
.3$6#;2:!%3!53!234(!
('%'#(.8F!
;$&/),!!<&(-!!
!
• )4+;'#!6+@!6',,'&%!#('!&8'!*#%+%!31!234(!6'&O%!5+'&=!D;!#<'(#@'!@4+;'#!6+@!7+,,!
'#&!#*34&!PQR!.46!5#+,2=!>+$3&82!8#2J*#%'5!6',,'&%!#('!('.3$$';5'5!13(!
#54,&%:!#;5!#<3+5!&83%'!$#5'!7+&8!;4&%:!%''5%:!5(+'5!1(4+&%!#;5!.3(;!
6(354.&%=!
• )(#%%!8#2!#;5!1('%8:!.,'#;!7#&'(!%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!&3!234(!6'&!#&!DSS!
&+$'%=!
• I11'(!%$#,,:!*+&'J%+K'5!#$34;&%!31!1('%8!1(4+&%!#;5!<'@'&#*,'%!5#+,2T!8#,1!#!
8#;514,!31!<'@@+'%!#;5!#!%,+.'!31!1(4+&!6'(!6+@!+%!6,';&2=!
!
!
• G(+;@!234(!@4+;'#!6+@!&3!&8'!<'&'(+;#(+#;!#;;4#,,2!13(!.8'.AJ46%=!U3;O&!
7#+&!13(!234(!2'#(,2!#663+;&$';&!+1!234!&8+;A!234(!6'&!+%!%+.AV%''A!8',6!
+$$'5+#&',2=!!
• W3$$3;!%+@;%!&8#&!%3$'&8+;@!+%;O&!(+@8&!+;.,45'!%;''K+;@:!.(4%&2!'2'%:!
5+(&2!'#(%:!%'<'('!5+#((8'#:!8#+(!,3%%:!7'+@8&!,3%%:!.8#;@'!+;!*'8#<+3(!#;5!
*,3352!3(!@(+&&2!4(+;'=!
>%&"3'#$/#(/"'&7+,8#• /#**+&%!8#<'!#!,3;@!
,+1'!%6#;!#;5!
&8'('13('!('X4+('!
,3;@J&'($!.#('!
• /#**+&%!13($!&+@8&!
*3;5%!7+&8!&8'+(!
1#$+,+'%!
• /#**+&%!&#A'!1#+(,2!
7',,!&3!,+&&'(!&(#+;+;@:!
%3!234!.#;!,'&!&8'$!
(4;!1(''!+;!234(!83$'!
!!
!!
!
!
!
!!!!
4#-*!5)1!6),1!D!7=9>!
• ?).#@3,)''#%).'#'0(%#)'#$&6/$%.-#/,#/)$#%).A!#;5!5,+'%-#(2+)"#1)$+,#%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!#&!#,,!&+$'%=!
• B+3+$)42+'!%834,5!$#A'!46!#!,#(@'!63(&+3;!31!&8'!5+'&=!U'6';5+;@!3;!&8'!
%+K'!31!&8'!(#**+&:!LJY!.46%!31!1('%8!<'@@+'%!%834,5!*'!@+<';!6'(!5#2=!!
!
• G(+;@!234(!*4;;2!&3!&8'!<'&'(+;#(+#;!#;;4#,,2!13(!.8'.AJ46%=!!
• 01!234(!(#**+&!%&36%!'#&+;@!3(!$3<+;@!8+%!*37',%!13(!Z!834(%!3(!,3;@'(:!3(!8#%!
7#&'(2!5+#((8'#:!%''A!8',6!+$$'5+#&',2=!I&8'(!%+@;%!&8#&!%3$'&8+;@!+%;O&!
(+@8&!+;.,45'!(4;;2!;3%'![!'2'%:!5#(A!('5!4(+;':!,'&8#(@2!#;5!14(!,3%%=!
• /#**+&%!%834,5!*'!%6#2'5!3(!;'4&'('5!*2!#!<'&'(+;#(+#;!'96'(+';.'5!7+&8!
(#**+&!%4(@'(+'%=!>8+%!6('<';&%!4;7#;&'5!,+&&'(%:!%6(#2+;@!+;!$#,'%!#;5!
4&'(+;'!.#;.'(!+;!1'$#,'%!
?,++&*-!
!
!!
!!
!
!
!
!!!!!!
4#-*!5)1!6),1!D!79>>!!
!
>%&"3'#$/#(/"'&7+,8#
• "#$%&'(%!#('!;3&!&8'!
*'%&!6'&%!13(!%$#,,!
.8+,5(';!*'.#4%'!31!
&8'+(!;3.&4(;#,!;#&4('!
#;5!&';5';.2!&3!;+6!
!
• H6'.+1+.!A+;5%!31!
8#$%&'(%!%834,5!;3&!
*'!A'6&!&3@'&8'(!
78+,'!3&8'(%!';N32!
.3$6#;2:!%3!53!234(!
('%'#(.8F!
@,2-*)1-!!
• D!8+@8JX4#,+&2!(35';&!.837!\#,%3!.#,,'5!(#&!*,3.A%]!%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!&3!
234(!6'&!#&!#,,!&+$'%=!H466,'$';&!&8+%!7+&8!8#$%&'(!$+9:!$#5'!46!31!6',,'&%:!
@(#+;%:!%''5%!#;5!5(+'5!<'@@+'%=!
• ^('%8:!.,'#;!7#&'(!%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!LYQ_=!D!7#&'(!*3&&,'!7+&8!#!5(+;A+;@!
&4*'!&8#&!#&&#.8'%!&3!&8'!.#@'!+%!&8'!*'%&!7#2!&3!@3=!
• I11'(!%$#,,:!*+&'J%+K'5!*+&%!31!1('%8!<'@@+'%!#;5!1(4+&%!\'<'(2!LJM!5#2%]=!
!
!
• G(+;@!234(!8#$%&'(!&3!&8'!<'&'(+;#(+#;!#;;4#,,2!13(!.8'.AJ46%=!U3;O&!
7#+&!13(!234(!2'#(,2!#663+;&$';&!+1!234!&8+;A!234(!6'&!+%!%+.AV%''A!8',6!
+$$'5+#&',2=!!
• W3$$3;!%+@;%!&8#&!%3$'&8+;@!+%;O&!(+@8&!+;.,45'!54,,J,33A+;@!'2'%:!
3<'(@(37;!&''&8:!$#&&'5!14(:!7'+@8&!,3%%:!%8#A+;@:!(4;;2!;3%'!#;5!
5+#((8'#=!
• "#$%&'(%!#('!%4%.'6&+*,'!&3!('%6+(#&3(2!6(3*,'$%:!+;.,45+;@!*#.&'(+#,!
6;'4$3;+#:!78+.8!&8'2!.#;!.#&.8!1(3$!84$#;%=!
!
!!"!#$%&''$()*!%+&,$!-.!("##&-*/!%+&'$"!0&%*!1!*2"33!2"22"3*! !
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
>%&"3'#$/#(/"'&7+,8#• )('#&!13(!1#$+,+'%!
7+&8!.8+,5(';!`![!46:!
783!.#;!.,'#;!.#@':!
$'#%4('!1335:!'&.=!
7+&8!#54,&!
%46'(<+%+3;!
!
• a34!.#;!&(#+;!234(!
$+.'!&3!%+&!+;!234(!
8#;5!3(!3;!234(!
%834,5'(F!
!!
!!
!
!
!
!!!!
4#-*!5)1!6),1!D!79>>!
• W3$$'(.+#,!(35';&!.837:!'+&8'(!+;!*,3.A!3(!6',,'&!13($:!%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!
&3!234(!6'&!#&!#,,!&+$'%=!H','.&!#!13($4,#!&8#&!.3;&#+;%!#&!,'#%&!PZb!6(3&'+;!
#;5!PRb!1+*'(:!#;5!;3!$3('!&8#;!Yb!1#&=!
• ^('%8:!.,'#;!7#&'(!%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!#&!#,,!&+$'%=!
• I11'(!%$#,,:!*+&'J%+K'5!*+&%!31!1('%8!1(4+&%!#;5!<'@@+'%!5#+,2=!!!
!
• G(+;@!234(!$+.'!&3!&8'!<'&'(+;#(+#;!#;;4#,,2!13(!.8'.AJ46%=!U3;O&!7#+&!13(!
234(!2'#(,2!#663+;&$';&!+1!234!&8+;A!3;'!31!234(!$+.'!+%!%+.AV%''A!8',6!
+$$'5+#&',2=!
• W3$$3;!%+@;%!&8#&!%3$'&8+;@!+%;O&!(+@8&!+;.,45'!%;''K+;@:!.34@8+;@:!
.8#&&'(+;@:!'9.'%%+<'!%.(#&.8+;@:!5+11+.4,&2!*('#&8+;@:!7'+@8&!,3%%!#;5!
,'&8#(@2=!
• -+.'!#('!%4%.'6&+*,'!&3!'9&'(;#,!6#(#%+&'%!%4.8!#%!,+.'=!01!234!&8+;A!234(!6'&%!
#('!+;1'%&'5:!.3;%4,&!#!<'&'(+;#(+#;=!
A&.)!
!
>%&"3'#$/#(/"'&7+,8#
• B8';!(#&%!#('!<'(2!
.3;&';&:!&8'2!@(+;5!
&8'+(!&''&8F!
!
• W4(+34%:!+;&',,+@';&!
#;5!#,7#2%!46!13(!
%3$'!14;:!(#&%!.#;!*'!
@('#&!6'&%!13(!A+5%V
*4&!234;@!.#('&#A'(%!%834,5!#,7#2%!*'!
%46'(<+%'5!*2!#;!
#54,&=!
!!
!!
!
!
!
!!!!!
4#-*!5)1!6),1!D!79>>!
• D!8+@8JX4#,+&2!(35';&!.837!\#,%3!.#,,'5!(#&!*,3.A%]!%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!&3!
234(!6'&!#&!#,,!&+$'%=!S33A!13(!#!*(#;5!7+&8!%32*'#;!#%!&8'!$#+;!+;@('5+';&=!
• ^('%8:!.,'#;!7#&'(!%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!LYQ_=!!
• /#&%!SIcd!6'36,'!1335:!#;5!234!.#;!@+<'!234(%!&8'!3..#%+3;#,!&#*,'!%.(#6:!
%4.8!#%!.33A'5!6#%&#!3(!#!*+&!31!6+KK#!.(4%&=!!
!
• G(+;@!234(!(#&%!&3!&8'!<'&'(+;#(+#;!#;;4#,,2!13(!.8'.AJ46%=!U3;O&!7#+&!13(!
234(!2'#(,2!#663+;&$';&!+1!234!&8+;A!3;'!31!234(!(#&%!+%!%+.AV%''A!8',6!
+$$'5+#&',2=!W3$$3;!%+@;%!&8#&!%3$'&8+;@!+%;O&!(+@8&!+;.,45'!%;''K+;@:!
,'&8#(@2:!7'+@8&!,3%%:!54,,!'2'%:!36';!734;5%:!5+#((8'#!#;5!5+11+.4,&2!
*('#&8+;@=!
• /#&%!#('!%4%.'6&+*,'!&3!'9&'(;#,!6#(#%+&'%!%4.8!#%!,+.'=!01!234!&8+;A!234(!6'&%!
#('!+;1'%&'5:!.3;%4,&!#!<'&'(+;#(+#;=!
?,*-!
!
>%&"3'#$/#(/"'&7+,8#
• D,,!@'(*+,%!#('!<'(2!
1(+%A2:!#;5!.#;!'#%+,2!
'%.#6'!1(3$!#!.#@'!
&8#&!+%;O&!.,3%'5!
%'.4(',2!
!
• >8'+(!'2'%+@8&!+%;O&!
<'(2!@335:!%3!234O,,!
;''5!&3!&#A'!'9&(#!
.#('!&8'2!53;O&!1#,,!3(!
3&8'(7+%'!84(&!
&8'$%',<'%!
!!
!!
!
!
!
!!!!!
4#-*!5)1!6),1!D!79>>!
• )'(*+,!%''5!$+9!7+&8!#!6(3&'+;!.3;&';&!31!#*34&!PL!6'(.';&:!#;5!#!1#&!.3;&';&!
+;!&8'!ZJ!&3!RJ6'(.';&!(#;@'=!
• )'(*+,!$+9!+%!$#5'!46!31!6',,'&%:!@(#+;%:!%''5%!#;5!5(+'5!<'@'&#*,'%!
• I11'(!%$#,,!#$34;&%!31!1('%8!<'@'&#*,'%!'<'(2!5#2=!!
• I11'(!%$#,,!#$34;&%!31!%7''&!1(4+&!• ^('%8:!.,'#;!7#&'(!%834,5!*'!#<#+,#*,'!#&!#,,!&+$'%=!
!
!
• 01!234!&8+;A!3;'!31!234(!@'(*+,%!+%!%+.A:!53;O&!5',#2V%''A!$'5+.#,!#&&';&+3;!
+$$'5+#&',2=!!
• W3$$3;!%+@;%!+;.,45'!%;''K+;@:!5+11+.4,&2!*('#&8+;@:!5+#((8'#!#;5!,'&8#(@2=!!
• )'(*+,%!#('!#,%3!%4%.'6&+*,'!&3!'9&'(;#,!6#(#%+&'%!%4.8!#%!1,'#%!#;5!,+.'=!01!234!
&8+;A!234(!6'&!+%!+;1'%&'5:!234O,,!;''5!&3!&('#&!*3&8!&8'!#;+$#,:!834%+;@!#;5!
%4((34;5+;@!';<+(3;$';&=!!
;)1+&'-!
!
ü Put away any dangerous materials that could injure your new pet.
q Electrical cords q Household chemicals q Breakable items q Food accessible to your pet
ü Buy the items you will need to take care of your pet. q Bed or cage with bedding q Collar and Identification tag q Pet food q Treats q Toys
Life with a New Pet
Before Bringing Your Pet Home
LIFE WITH A NEW PET: BEFORE BRINGING YOUR PET HOME
ü Make sure you have time in your daily schedule to take care of your pet. Decide which family members will do each task.
q For example, dogs need: § Two walks per day
§ Let outside to go to the bathroom frequently
§ Fed once or twice per day q Cats will need to be fed and have their litterbox cleaned.
q Exotic animals, birds, and fish will all need to be fed and have their
cages cleaned.
ü Decide how to let your pet have outside time, if required.There are many options available.
q Leash pet at all times
q Provide a fenced enclosure for your pet
q Try an electric fence system
ü Find a veterinarian and make an appointment for soon after your pet arrives.
q Consider recommendations from friends and family in the area
to find the best veterinarian for your pet.
q Consider location-‐ is your pet comfortable riding in the car?
q Think of questions to ask the veterinarian about caring for
your new pet.
q Do some research about vaccinations your pet might need.
ü Talk with your family about training your pet.
q Determine expectations for your pet.
q Decide how to react to bad behavior by your pet.
q Will you use treats as motivation?
q Who will be the principle trainer of your new pet?
LIFE WITH NEW PET: AFTER BRINGING YOUR PET HOME
1. Welcome your new pet.
v Give your new pet with the best welcome with love, patience
and mutual respect to make him feel like part of the family in no time.
2. Let your pet adjust. v A new pet will feel insecure and frightened by a change in
environment. Give your pet some time to explore and adjust to his new surroundings.
Life with a New Pet
After Bringing Your Pet Home
LIFE WITH NEW PET: AFTER BRINGING YOUR PET HOME
5. Make introductions. v Introduce your pet to neighbors, regular visitor and other
family members slowly. Give your pet a sense of who your friends are.
6. Set house rules. v Train your pet from the beginning what is and what not
appropriate behaviors is. Consistency of enforcing the house rules helps your pet to behave well. Block any area in the house that you want off-‐limits to your pet.
3. Go to the veterinarian. v Set up a regular check-‐up and vaccination schedule with
your veterinarian for your pet. Ask the vet about your pet’s behavior, diet, activity level and other concerns.
v Consider microchip your pet. It is a permanent method of identify your pet. Injection of a microchip is similar to a routine shot. Your pet will not react any more than he would to a vaccination.
v Tag your pet with your name, address and phone number at all times to increase the chances of your pet returned to you if he is lost or runs away.
7. Feed a good diet. v Feed your pet the food that is best for him by working with
your veterinarian or breeder according to your pet’s activity level, age and size. Provide plenty of clean and fresh water.
LIFE WITH NEW PET: AFTER BRINGING YOUR PET HOME
8. Exercise.
v Bring your pet for regular walks or run to ensure continuing good health and prevent behavior problems.
9. Clean your pet. v Bath your pet regularly according to his needs and environment.
However, over bathing can be harmful. Also clean your pet’s teeth to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Clean the cage or aquarium of your pet with appropriate tools.
10. Travel safely. v Keep your pet safe in the car by using a crate or by attaching the
dog to a seat belt when you and your pet are going for travelling. Never let your pet’s head out of the car window to ensure his safety.
11. Find a pet-‐sitter or boarding kennel. v Make arrangements for your pet’s care when you are going for
vacation. Have a reliable friend or pet-‐sitter come over to tend to your pet or find a good kennel for boarding.
!!!!!!!
!
! !
!
!
!
!!
!
!
!
!!
!
! !
!"#$%#&%'(#)*+,-%.%/#-%&"#0%.%1234*3"5%
• 6#7%$.83%0#,39%!"#$%&'()#"'%*+(,%$-".#"+$%/&0%1"%&'()#"'%*(+%&%.(2%)+3/"4%&0'%,&05%$-".#"+$%637"%&2&5%/(8)(0$%*(+%,(0"5%(**%(*%&%7"#%73$3#%&0'%&%$)&590"8#"+:%%
• 6#7"%)3*%:+44%;3%<23<=%;9%.%83*3"+,."+.,%;((<%*(+%&%$-".#"+%#-&#%8$"$%&%.3/"0$"'%7"#%#(%/-"/<%(7"+%)"#$%#(%"0$8+"%#-"5%&+"%-"&.#-5%1"*(+"%5(8%&'()#%#-"%)"#:%%
• 6#7%-3*%*#%<2##$3%&"#0%8."+3*9%#&%;"33($%=-3$%3$%6+"&#%3*%5(8%&+"%80$8+"%2-&#%1+""'%5(8%2&0#>%?($#%$-".#"+%&..(2%5(8%#(%$(/3&.3@"%23#-%5(8+%)+($)"/#37"%)"#%1"*(+"%&'()#306:%%
• 6#7%<.,%2.83%0#"3%<#,&+(3,<3%$*."*+,-%#7*%.$%.%,3:%)3*%#:,3"%?($#%)"#$%30%$-".#"+$%&+"%&%13#%(.'"+4%2-3/-%/&0%,&<"%#-",%"&$3"+%#(%2(+<%23#-:%?&05%)"#$%-&7"%-&'%$(,"%#+&30306%*+(,%&%)+3(+%(20"+%1"*(+"%"0'306%8)%30%#-"%$-".#"+:%%
• 6#7%234)%"3(7<3%)3*%#83")#)74.*+#,%.,(%$.83%.%4+&3%A(,"%$-".#"+$%"8#-&03@"%)"#$%#-&#%'(0B#%*30'%-(,"$%30%&%/"+#&30%&,(80#%(*%#3,":%C0%&''3#3(04%,&05%)"()."%1".3"7"%3#%3$%80"#-3/&.%#(%)&5%-80'+"'$%(*%'(..&+$%*(+%&%'(6%2-"0%$(%,&05%&+"%$#8/<%30%$-".#"+$%1"/&8$"%#-"3+%(20"+$%'3'0B#%#&<"%6(('%/&+"%(*%#-",:%
%• D(8%,36-#%1"%&1."%#(%E+"#8+0F%5(8+%)"#%
%%!"#$%#&%>79+,-%.%/#-%&"#0%.%!3*%1*#"35%
• !3*$%&"#0%.%4#<.4%;"33(3"%%?($#%)"#%$#(+"$%8$"%1+""'"+$%#-&#%&+"%.(/&.4%$(%#-"%)"#$%$-(8.'0B#%-&7"%#(%#+&7".%.(06%'3$#&0/"$%1"*(+"%5(8%185%#-",:%
%• 1344%<7*3%)7))+3$?%=+**3,$%
D(8%/&0%6"#%7"+5%5(806%)"#$%&#%)"#%$#(+"$:%G"/&8$"%#-"5%&+"%30/+"'31.5%/8#"4%#-(86-4%)"#%$#(+"$%/&0%."&'%#(%3,)8.$"%)8+/-&$306:%%%
• @".+,%*230%9#7"$34&%G"/&8$"%)"#$%&#%)"#%$#(+"$%&+"%7"+5%5(8064%#-"5%-&7"0B#%+"/"37"'%&05%#+&30306:%D(8%/&0%"0$8+"%#-&#%#-"5%."&+0%6(('%'3$/3).30"%&0'%&+"%#+&30"'%#-"%2&5%5(8%2&0#%#-",%#(%1":%
%• A,$*.,*%.<<3$$%*#%.%8."+3*9%#&%)3*$%
!"#%$#(+"$%-&7"%/"+#&30%#5)"$%(*%)"#$%&..%#-"%#3,":%H03,&.%A-".#"+$%&.$(%-&7"%&%7&+3"#54%18#%#-"5%'(0B#%-&7"%#-"%$&,"%7&+3"#5%"7"+5%#3,"%5(8%6(:%
%• B#"3%4+=349%*#%2.83%$0.44%.,+0.4$%.,(%"3)*+43$%*2.,%.,+0.4%$234*3"$C%
?($#%&03,&.%$-".#"+$%(0.5%-&7"%/&#$4%'(6$4%&0'%#-"%(//&$3(0&.%+&113#:%!"#%$#(+"$%/&++5%,(+"%"I(#3/%)"#$:%%
• D+44+,-%*#%$344%*#%.,9;#(9%%H03,&.%$-".#"+$%8$8&..5%'(%&%J8"$#3(00&3+"%#(%"0$8+"%5(8%&+"%&%+"$)(0$31."%(20"+%&0'%/-"/<%23#-%5(8+%.&0'.(+'%K3*%5(8%-&7"%(0"L%#-&#%5(8%&+"%&..(2"'%#(%-&7"%&%)"#:%!"#%$#(+"$%23..%$"..%#-"3+%)"#$%#(%&05(0"%23#-%"0(86-%,(0"5:%
!
"#$!%$&'#%!(!%)#*$#'%!(!+#$#',-.'/!G*,-,G%! !
!
!
!
!
!
!
! !
!Pet Stores in Ames
• IJ@#6-!&3,!F7(;d!_ZHZaeKSSeZTKZ!
LHK!U>@2855!.B82>8!
.:84N!,6F<!Z]]H]!
• ?'%!&3,!F7(;d!_ZHZaeK^KeLTLT!
STK]!*12D6A2!V<?!
.:84N!,6F<!Z]]HL!
• 5/$3-!&*;;#3-d!_ZHZa!LZ]e^IIg!
S]I!%6>50!`<765<!.B82>8!
.:84N!,6F<!Z]]HL!
Animal Shelters Around Ames
• ?A3-!?0#A/$!F73$,3'!_ZHZaeKS^eI]gH!SKZ!U1AA?!%>2;<?!'6<;!.:84N!,6F<!Z]]H]!
• KFL!5*A/03!F(+#3,J!_ZHZaeK^LeHKLS!ZHK!E@<2;!.B82>8!.:84N!,6F<!Z]]H]!
• 4((03!?'3/!5*A/03!F(+#3,J!_ZHZaeLSKeTHHK!KKI!V845!HT50!%5@885!U6628N!,6F<!Z]]ST!
• F,('J!B(*0,J!?0#A/$!F73$,3'!_ZHZaeSIKeSSSI!^gZ!V845!*12D6A2!V<?!-8B<;<N!,6F<!Z]K]H!
• ?$$!&3,!?0#A/$!5(-;#,/$!
_ZHZaeKSSeHgZT!
• ?A3-!&3,!5(-;#,/$!
_ZHZaeK^KeIIIZ!
• KFL!FA/$$!?0#A/$!5(-;#,/$!
_ZHZaeK^LeL^]]!
• &3,!"3)#+/$!B30,3'!
_ITTaeSKIeK^HZ!
• M(+%N(()!?0#A/$!5(-;#,/$!
_ZHZaeKSKeKIIH!
• F(A3'-3,!G3,3'#0/'J!5(-;#,/$!
_ITTaeL^ZeIZSg!