Featured Articles
Basic Learning Theory and Dogs
Before taking on the rewarding task of training your pet, it might be a good idea to learn about how dogs (and any other animal, including ourselves) actually learn. Classical conditioning and operant conditioning are two terms you may have come across. They are two of the most important concepts governing learning.
Classical conditioning was made famous by the Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov and his dogs. Perhaps you have heard of the experiments he conducted, which eventually got the dogs salivating and drooling simply at the sound of a ringing bell, because they were expecting food. How classical conditioning works is that a neutral stimulus, such as a bell, is paired with giving food. Eventually, after a number of pairings the animal mentally associates the bell with the food.
Hamsters Mice Rabbits
You might find yourself in the following scenario: The kids are constantly begging for a pet. Dogs are too large, birds are too noisy, you are allergic to cats, and reptiles scare your significant other. You suggest fish, but the …
Freshwater or Saltwater
Many aquarists are inspired to take up the hobby when they first see a well-kept marine tank (saltwater), with its exotic corals, swaying anemone, and flashy tropical fish. However, the costs and considerations when first setting up this type of …
Feral Cat to Domestic House Cat
Turning Feral (Wild) Cats into Domestic Cats
If you are a cat lover, then it’s likely that you’ve noticed stray or feral (wild) cats and kittens in and around your neighborhood and you probably feel sorry for them. This is …
Common Birds
Birds for Beginners – Getting your First Pet Bird
Not all birds are created equal! If you’re thinking about getting a pet bird, it is important to choose a bird that fits your personality and lifestyle. That way you can …
Clipping your Pet’s Nails
Cutting or clipping your dog cat or pet’s nails is a preventative measure.
Clipping your pet’s nails is a part of it’s regular care and should be done on a routine basis, as long nails can lead to many problems …
Rabbits
Rabbits are often bought as a first pet, for a child, or for someone without much time for an animal. This is because rabbits are often thought of as cute, low-maintenance pets. Although it is true that rabbits take less …
Feeding sick anorexic cats
Cats can be notoriously picky eaters, and this finickiness can become even more pronounced when they are sick. For owners trying to feed this type of cat, getting enough food into their pet can be a frustrating battle, as no matter what is offered (wet food, kibble, treats) the cat will often turn its head away. Unfortunately though, a cat that is not eating is not something that can be ignored, or treated as a “wait and see” type of situation.
