Frogs are amphibians, animals that spend part of their lives under water and the remainder on land. They have long, powerful jumping legs and a very short backbone. Most Frogs have teeth (in the upper jaws only) but toads do not have any teeth.
Adult Frogs are characterised by long hind legs, a short body, webbed digits, protruding eyes and the absence of a tail. Most Frogs have a semi-aquatic lifestyle, but move easily on land by jumping or climbing. They typically lay their eggs in puddles, ponds or lakes, and their larvae, called tadpoles, have gills and develop in water. Adult Frogs follow a carnivorous diet, mostly of arthropods, annelids and gastropods. Frogs are most noticeable by their call, which can be widely heard during the night or day, mainly in their mating season.
Life cycle: Like all amphibians, Frogs spend their lives near water because they must return to the water to lay their eggs. Frogs eggs are laid in the water. When they hatch into tadpoles, they breathe with gills and swim using a tail. As they mature, they lose their tail, and they develop lungs for breathing air. In harsh climates, Frogs bury themselves in sand and mud and hibernate (sleep very deeply) through the cold winter.
Diet: Frogs eat insects, catching them with their long, sticky tongue. They also eat small fish and worms.
Classification and Evolution: Kingdom Animalia (animals), Phylum Chordata, Class Amphibia (amphibians), Order Anura (Frogs and toads). The first true Frogs evolved during the early Jurassic period, about 200 million years ago (during the time of the dinosaurs).
The distribution of Frogs ranges from tropic to subarctic regions, but most species are found in tropical rainforests. Consisting of more than 5,000 species described, they are among the most diverse groups of vertebrates. However, populations of certain Frogs species are significantly declining.
for:http://www.frogs-house.com
2008年9月17日星期三
2008年9月5日星期五
Pit Bull Terrier Myths: Not Really The Dog You've Heard Them To Be
Pit Bulls are undeniably the most controversial canine pet at the current time. They are the first to be pulled into the media limelight, as anything they are accused of makes headlines people eagerly wish to read. Sadly, the Pit Bulls who have actually harmed humans are dogs who have been neglected and not properly trained.
Along with unfit owners, the myths which are perpetuated by the unlearned about Pit Bulls give the dog an undue bad reputation. Some of the more popular myths concerning Pit Bulls are circulated continually on the internet via chain emails, which get passed to millions of people who’ve never spoken with an owner of, nor had the pleasure of having a Pit Bull in their family.
These untruthful rumor mails always talk about a friend of a cousin’s uncle who knew someone who had a neighbor who met a guy that once heard something about a Pit Bull, and it’s never a good thing. Hopefully, this article will set the record straight on the matter, and expose them for what they are, which is an electronic viral email of ignorance.
Myth: Pit Bulls were specially bred from dogs which had a mutation in the jaw that created a locking jaw, and all modern Pit Bulls have these locking jaws. Once they latch on, they cannot release.
Truth: The locking jaw rumor is a myth. Pit Bulls are not physiologically different from any other breeds of dogs. This means that the Pit Bull has no special jaw or teeth which would make the dog have a locking jaw. It’s a bogus statement, which perpetuates the Pit Bull as a menace to any who may be around them.
Myth: Pit Bulls are by nature aggressive to humans, and make excellent guard dogs because of this trait.
Truth: Pit Bulls do tend to be aggressive toward other dogs, which is not a trait specific to this breed. As a matter of fact, most all breeds of terriers tend to be this way. Pit Bulls who have been raised by caring owners make very affectionate pets. Remember the dog from the original Little Rascal series? Well he was Petey, and he was a Pit Bull. Petey was praised as being one of the smartest dogs in film, and he worked with a horde of children.
Myth: Pit Bulls are notorious for turning on their owners without warning.
Truth: There is no evidence on record which states that ANY breed of dog has a natural tendency to turn on their owners on a whim. As a matter of fact, any aggression by canines is always preceded by some type of warning from the dog. Indeed, it is usually the owners inability to read the dog’s body language and signals which result in a dog turning on the owner. Any dog, regardless of breed, has the same chance statistically to change temperament on the owner.
As long as there are headlines to be made, and inept and uncaring pet owners, there will always be a target breed to satisfy our human need to have unreasonable fear of the unknown. The German Shepherd as well as the Doberman have both been the “dog to fear” in the past, and now unfortunately for the Pit Bull, it’s his turn to be unduly hated.
Along with unfit owners, the myths which are perpetuated by the unlearned about Pit Bulls give the dog an undue bad reputation. Some of the more popular myths concerning Pit Bulls are circulated continually on the internet via chain emails, which get passed to millions of people who’ve never spoken with an owner of, nor had the pleasure of having a Pit Bull in their family.
These untruthful rumor mails always talk about a friend of a cousin’s uncle who knew someone who had a neighbor who met a guy that once heard something about a Pit Bull, and it’s never a good thing. Hopefully, this article will set the record straight on the matter, and expose them for what they are, which is an electronic viral email of ignorance.
Myth: Pit Bulls were specially bred from dogs which had a mutation in the jaw that created a locking jaw, and all modern Pit Bulls have these locking jaws. Once they latch on, they cannot release.
Truth: The locking jaw rumor is a myth. Pit Bulls are not physiologically different from any other breeds of dogs. This means that the Pit Bull has no special jaw or teeth which would make the dog have a locking jaw. It’s a bogus statement, which perpetuates the Pit Bull as a menace to any who may be around them.
Myth: Pit Bulls are by nature aggressive to humans, and make excellent guard dogs because of this trait.
Truth: Pit Bulls do tend to be aggressive toward other dogs, which is not a trait specific to this breed. As a matter of fact, most all breeds of terriers tend to be this way. Pit Bulls who have been raised by caring owners make very affectionate pets. Remember the dog from the original Little Rascal series? Well he was Petey, and he was a Pit Bull. Petey was praised as being one of the smartest dogs in film, and he worked with a horde of children.
Myth: Pit Bulls are notorious for turning on their owners without warning.
Truth: There is no evidence on record which states that ANY breed of dog has a natural tendency to turn on their owners on a whim. As a matter of fact, any aggression by canines is always preceded by some type of warning from the dog. Indeed, it is usually the owners inability to read the dog’s body language and signals which result in a dog turning on the owner. Any dog, regardless of breed, has the same chance statistically to change temperament on the owner.
As long as there are headlines to be made, and inept and uncaring pet owners, there will always be a target breed to satisfy our human need to have unreasonable fear of the unknown. The German Shepherd as well as the Doberman have both been the “dog to fear” in the past, and now unfortunately for the Pit Bull, it’s his turn to be unduly hated.
2008年9月2日星期二
Flea Control: The In's and Out's of Getting Rid of those Pesky Critters
Bleh – fleas! ‘Tis the season – are you prepared? It’s not just at home where you need to be ready either. Different geographical areas have different climate conditions so the flea season varies depending on where you are – keep that in mind whether you are at home or traveling. Something else to be aware of is that fleas, in various stages of their disgusting lives, can survive indoors even during the cold weather. Following are some helpful facts about fleas and information on how you can prevent them from infesting your pets and your home.
Even though there are more than 2,000 known species and subspecies of fleas, only one class of flea called the ‘cat flea’ is to blame for almost all the fleas found on cats and dogs in the United States. What is really daunting is that there is evidence of fleas dating all the way back to the dinosaur era which means they obviously aren’t going away by themselves – all the more reason to do something to protect your pets and family.
Most fleas can survive for an average of two to three months without ‘food’ which is actually the blood they suck from their ‘hosts’. A female flea consumes 15 times her own body weight in blood daily! You should also know that while adult fleas suck blood from a cat, dog or other mammal, their larvae live and feed on organic debris in the host animal's environment – that’s your home! Be aware that some fleas can jump 150 times their own length – that compares to a human jumping 1,000 feet. So if you happen to see one flea, there may be more than 100 offspring or adults looming nearby in furniture, carpeting or on your pet.
Now let’s talk about how to prevent these gross little parasites from getting into your life and how to get rid of them if they do. As a pet owner, one of your main responsibilities is to keep your pet healthy. Taking them to the vet for their annual check ups is very important. While you’re there, be sure to talk to your veterinarian about a flea prevention method for your furry friends such as Advantage, Advantix or Frontline. Certain products can also help to prevent ticks in addition to fleas.
If you see fleas on your pets or in your home, take action immediately. Not only are fleas a huge annoyance, but they can also transmit diseases and tapeworm. If your home becomes infested, you will probably need to purchase flea bombs – make sure read and adhere to the directions carefully and contact your vet to get further advice and relief for your pet and family.
Even though there are more than 2,000 known species and subspecies of fleas, only one class of flea called the ‘cat flea’ is to blame for almost all the fleas found on cats and dogs in the United States. What is really daunting is that there is evidence of fleas dating all the way back to the dinosaur era which means they obviously aren’t going away by themselves – all the more reason to do something to protect your pets and family.
Most fleas can survive for an average of two to three months without ‘food’ which is actually the blood they suck from their ‘hosts’. A female flea consumes 15 times her own body weight in blood daily! You should also know that while adult fleas suck blood from a cat, dog or other mammal, their larvae live and feed on organic debris in the host animal's environment – that’s your home! Be aware that some fleas can jump 150 times their own length – that compares to a human jumping 1,000 feet. So if you happen to see one flea, there may be more than 100 offspring or adults looming nearby in furniture, carpeting or on your pet.
Now let’s talk about how to prevent these gross little parasites from getting into your life and how to get rid of them if they do. As a pet owner, one of your main responsibilities is to keep your pet healthy. Taking them to the vet for their annual check ups is very important. While you’re there, be sure to talk to your veterinarian about a flea prevention method for your furry friends such as Advantage, Advantix or Frontline. Certain products can also help to prevent ticks in addition to fleas.
If you see fleas on your pets or in your home, take action immediately. Not only are fleas a huge annoyance, but they can also transmit diseases and tapeworm. If your home becomes infested, you will probably need to purchase flea bombs – make sure read and adhere to the directions carefully and contact your vet to get further advice and relief for your pet and family.
2008年8月24日星期日
Having A Pet Rabbit - Fun Along With Responsibility
Rabbits are very cute and cuddly and many have the idea that it is very easy to have them as pets. Children love to play with rabbits and as they are soft and cuddly, children like to catch them or hold them. Before deciding to have a rabbit as a pet, you need to learn some points so that you find it easy to maintain them. The first thing that is important is to note that they bite and they don't like to be held or picked up when they are roaming about. So it will be a dangerous thing if you have a small child at home and if the rabbit is caught against their will, they may bite. You cannot train them not to bite in such cases.
Rabbits look very cute and it seems that they are the simplest of pets, as they just have to be caged. But the fact is that they have to be cared for a lot. They need to be taken out of the cage daily and they need to be exercised to keep them healthy. You will have to keep an area especially for them so that they exercise there daily and it should not have any harmful things. You should also keep away important things so that the rabbit doesn't bite and destroy them. Those who have studied about the behavior of the rabbits, are of the opinion that it will also get depressed if it does not get the human touch on regular basis. So you or your child will have to spare some time exclusively for the rabbit and play with it.
It depends upon the breed that how often you have to brush the rabbit because they have a tendency to swallow their own fur, which might lead to intestinal problem or even breathing problems in the rabbit. The rabbit's cage also needs to be cleaned either every day or alternate days. If taken care properly rabbits can live up to 10 years or even more sometimes. Buying a rabbit for a pet is a costly and time taking job. You will have to look after and take care of the rabbit and its habits so that they are maintained in a good health and in hygienic way. You have to take care of the type of food and the nutrition that is important for the rabbit too.
Rabbits are quite destructive sometimes and messy too, because basically it is mischievous. They cannot be trained, not to destroy anything so you will have to keep things away from their reach otherwise rabbits can go to the extent of chewing a shoe, cord or anything that they like. Also you will have to groom your rabbit regularly. Even then you should be prepared to clean up the fur, as they shred them here and there. There is one important point to be noted that most rabbits die of heart attack and they fear children a lot. So by keeping all the things in mind you can have a pet rabbit for your home.
Rabbits look very cute and it seems that they are the simplest of pets, as they just have to be caged. But the fact is that they have to be cared for a lot. They need to be taken out of the cage daily and they need to be exercised to keep them healthy. You will have to keep an area especially for them so that they exercise there daily and it should not have any harmful things. You should also keep away important things so that the rabbit doesn't bite and destroy them. Those who have studied about the behavior of the rabbits, are of the opinion that it will also get depressed if it does not get the human touch on regular basis. So you or your child will have to spare some time exclusively for the rabbit and play with it.
It depends upon the breed that how often you have to brush the rabbit because they have a tendency to swallow their own fur, which might lead to intestinal problem or even breathing problems in the rabbit. The rabbit's cage also needs to be cleaned either every day or alternate days. If taken care properly rabbits can live up to 10 years or even more sometimes. Buying a rabbit for a pet is a costly and time taking job. You will have to look after and take care of the rabbit and its habits so that they are maintained in a good health and in hygienic way. You have to take care of the type of food and the nutrition that is important for the rabbit too.
Rabbits are quite destructive sometimes and messy too, because basically it is mischievous. They cannot be trained, not to destroy anything so you will have to keep things away from their reach otherwise rabbits can go to the extent of chewing a shoe, cord or anything that they like. Also you will have to groom your rabbit regularly. Even then you should be prepared to clean up the fur, as they shred them here and there. There is one important point to be noted that most rabbits die of heart attack and they fear children a lot. So by keeping all the things in mind you can have a pet rabbit for your home.
2008年8月19日星期二
How To Properly Care For An English Bulldog Puppy
There are several types of dog breeds to choose from, not to mention the large number of mixed species there are. If you are searching for a dog breed that will make a great companion an English bull dog puppy would be a great choice. If you do choose an English bull dog puppy you will find that this is a wonderful family pet and this breed of dog gets along well with everyone.
Loves Attention
One standout characteristic that makes an English bull dog puppy great to care for is that they thrive with attention, which makes them ideal companions in loving households, and great for homes with children. These pets are also good with other dogs and cats in the house. In return, the family that gives proper care for an English bull dog puppy will find that their dog is extremely loyal and loving.
Lazy Dogs
One concern you might come across while caring for an English bull dog is that with age, they become less interested in running and exercise. Although these dogs are short and stocky it is best to continue with some sort of walk or exercise daily. Keep in mind that English bull dogs do tire easily so they should be given water to drink frequently.
Sometimes You Have To Be Tough
Although these pets are very loving, the care of an English bull dog requires a bit of toughness. On the other hand, if you spoil an English bull dog they can become difficult to deal with. Also, if your English bull dog is used to a lot of attention and somehow loses it, they may act out by snapping or biting. Attention should be accurate and consistent to remind your dog of its place.
Cleanliness
One of the most important things in the care of an English bull dog puppy is to make sure to clean the folds of skin on its body, its face in particular. Because dirt can be trapped in these folds, these dogs need proper cleaning, or the dirt can lead to bacterial or fungal infections. However, those who do take proper care of their English bull dog puppy, whether in cleaning or giving attention, will find that they will have a loving, loyal companion that makes a household happier.
Finally
In closing, following the tips provided in this article will bring you and your pet many years of happiness. Please take them into consideration and enjoy your pet owning experience.
Loves Attention
One standout characteristic that makes an English bull dog puppy great to care for is that they thrive with attention, which makes them ideal companions in loving households, and great for homes with children. These pets are also good with other dogs and cats in the house. In return, the family that gives proper care for an English bull dog puppy will find that their dog is extremely loyal and loving.
Lazy Dogs
One concern you might come across while caring for an English bull dog is that with age, they become less interested in running and exercise. Although these dogs are short and stocky it is best to continue with some sort of walk or exercise daily. Keep in mind that English bull dogs do tire easily so they should be given water to drink frequently.
Sometimes You Have To Be Tough
Although these pets are very loving, the care of an English bull dog requires a bit of toughness. On the other hand, if you spoil an English bull dog they can become difficult to deal with. Also, if your English bull dog is used to a lot of attention and somehow loses it, they may act out by snapping or biting. Attention should be accurate and consistent to remind your dog of its place.
Cleanliness
One of the most important things in the care of an English bull dog puppy is to make sure to clean the folds of skin on its body, its face in particular. Because dirt can be trapped in these folds, these dogs need proper cleaning, or the dirt can lead to bacterial or fungal infections. However, those who do take proper care of their English bull dog puppy, whether in cleaning or giving attention, will find that they will have a loving, loyal companion that makes a household happier.
Finally
In closing, following the tips provided in this article will bring you and your pet many years of happiness. Please take them into consideration and enjoy your pet owning experience.
2008年8月12日星期二
Vaccinations And Your Dog
Although your new puppy will likely squirm and maybe even cry when getting his shots, it is just as important for your dog as it is for your children or yourself. In fact, by keeping up on your dog’s vaccinations, you could be saving his life.
Vaccinations are injections of a small dose of a disease, which will prevent your puppy from developing that very disease. Just like immunizations in children, it is required by health departments and is the right thing to do for your dog.
Two different types of vaccinations exist. They are a Killed Vaccine and a Modified Live Vaccine. A Modified Live Vaccine is the live disease being injected, while having been altered by the drug company to be unable to cause the disease it is protecting against. A Killed Vaccine is when the virus itself has been killed before any injection occurs.
Once vaccinations are given, your dog’s immune system will recognize the presence of a disease and will then create barriers or reinforcements (antibodies) to fight it off, should it appear. These barriers only last from six months to a year, which makes regular appointments extremely important for your dog.
A few of the more commonly heard of diseases that affect dogs are often at the top of a vaccination list. These include: Canine Distemper, Infectious Hepatitis, Rabies and Corona Virus.
Regular vaccinations can prevent your dog from contracting these diseases; however you should still be aware of what they are. Canine Distemper is caused by a virus that attacks the body and can be damaging to the dogs central nervous system. 50 percent of dogs who contract this disease will have a fatal outcome. It mainly affects middle aged dogs. Puppies and older dogs are usually safe from contracting it.
Another vaccination, which is important to your dog’s health and should not be confused with the human disease, Hepatitis is Infectious Hepatitis, which is a life threatening viral disease. It is transmitted through urine, saliva and feces. All ages of dogs are at risk for this disease. Luckily, it’s not contagious to humans.
Vaccinations for Rabies are probably the most commonly talked about vaccine. The disease itself is the most well known in animals and can quickly affect humans through saliva and bites. Aggression, excessive salivation and erratic behavior will follow the onset of rabies, although it may not be as clear as “Cujo”, the famous rabid-infected dog in the movies.
Another disease that is commonly confused and is important to have vaccinations for is Corona Virus. This disease affects young dogs and is usually mixed up with Parvo, which is a totally different type of disease. Corona Virus is contagious and is passed through feces ingested by another dog, causing trouble with the intestinal system. This disease is usually treatable before Parvo sets in.
As you can see, there are many diseases that can affect, sicken, or even kill your precious family member. Vaccinations are extremely important to yours and your dog’s health and it is your responsibility as a dog owner to have regular visits with the vet. For all the happiness he brings to you and your family, he deserves to be healthy.
Vaccinations are injections of a small dose of a disease, which will prevent your puppy from developing that very disease. Just like immunizations in children, it is required by health departments and is the right thing to do for your dog.
Two different types of vaccinations exist. They are a Killed Vaccine and a Modified Live Vaccine. A Modified Live Vaccine is the live disease being injected, while having been altered by the drug company to be unable to cause the disease it is protecting against. A Killed Vaccine is when the virus itself has been killed before any injection occurs.
Once vaccinations are given, your dog’s immune system will recognize the presence of a disease and will then create barriers or reinforcements (antibodies) to fight it off, should it appear. These barriers only last from six months to a year, which makes regular appointments extremely important for your dog.
A few of the more commonly heard of diseases that affect dogs are often at the top of a vaccination list. These include: Canine Distemper, Infectious Hepatitis, Rabies and Corona Virus.
Regular vaccinations can prevent your dog from contracting these diseases; however you should still be aware of what they are. Canine Distemper is caused by a virus that attacks the body and can be damaging to the dogs central nervous system. 50 percent of dogs who contract this disease will have a fatal outcome. It mainly affects middle aged dogs. Puppies and older dogs are usually safe from contracting it.
Another vaccination, which is important to your dog’s health and should not be confused with the human disease, Hepatitis is Infectious Hepatitis, which is a life threatening viral disease. It is transmitted through urine, saliva and feces. All ages of dogs are at risk for this disease. Luckily, it’s not contagious to humans.
Vaccinations for Rabies are probably the most commonly talked about vaccine. The disease itself is the most well known in animals and can quickly affect humans through saliva and bites. Aggression, excessive salivation and erratic behavior will follow the onset of rabies, although it may not be as clear as “Cujo”, the famous rabid-infected dog in the movies.
Another disease that is commonly confused and is important to have vaccinations for is Corona Virus. This disease affects young dogs and is usually mixed up with Parvo, which is a totally different type of disease. Corona Virus is contagious and is passed through feces ingested by another dog, causing trouble with the intestinal system. This disease is usually treatable before Parvo sets in.
As you can see, there are many diseases that can affect, sicken, or even kill your precious family member. Vaccinations are extremely important to yours and your dog’s health and it is your responsibility as a dog owner to have regular visits with the vet. For all the happiness he brings to you and your family, he deserves to be healthy.
2008年8月11日星期一
All The Amazing Secrets Behind White Pitbulls
There are many different names for pitbulls including white pitbulls; black pitbulls, red pitbulls and those are only to mention a few of the most popular sough after pitbulls. These are not an indication of the type of dogs they are or what mannerisms they might display as they are only to label the colours that the pitbulls are bred to be. White pitbulls are not typically sought after as red or blue pitbulls are however, white pitbulls are among the most popular colours.
There are many white pitbulls that fit under the classification of moo moo pitbulls as they are patterned somewhat like a dairy cow with a most often prominent black patch that covers the entire area of one of the pitbulls eyes. This indicates a Moo Moo pattern of the white pitbull. These are the most popular and sought after of the white pitbulls and are surprisingly common which may be due to the fact that breeders tend to breed more of these by accident when trying to breed other popular colors.
The Pitbull Stigma
There is a huge negative stigma that is now attached to those who own pitbulls as well against pitbulls themselves and it is undeserved typically. The American Temperament Society does testing on dogs every year and every year the pitbull comes back ranking in better temperament than most other breeds. Even the little white poodle has a more aggressive behavior pattern than that of the white pitbull and any other pitbull in general speaking.
In fact, this society tests all kinds of dogs including the popular Border Collie, Dachshund, Pomeranian and even the Beagle have temperaments that are much less desirable than that of the pitbull however the average home doesn't think twice about introducing a new member from these breeds into their homes.
With that said accompanied by the knowledge that the white pitbulls are just a color grouping more than anything, it should be noted that you should seriously consider if a white pitbull or any other pitbull is the right pet for you. It should depend on your ability to provide healthy exercise that is abundant and daily as exercise is extremely important to a pitbulls health and well being.
It is similarly imperative that you have a big enough area within your living quarters as well as outside to provide your white pitbulls with plenty of room. Always be a diligent and responsible pitbull owner so the stigma can be overcome of the pitbull who has unjustly received a horrible reputation.
There are many white pitbulls that fit under the classification of moo moo pitbulls as they are patterned somewhat like a dairy cow with a most often prominent black patch that covers the entire area of one of the pitbulls eyes. This indicates a Moo Moo pattern of the white pitbull. These are the most popular and sought after of the white pitbulls and are surprisingly common which may be due to the fact that breeders tend to breed more of these by accident when trying to breed other popular colors.
The Pitbull Stigma
There is a huge negative stigma that is now attached to those who own pitbulls as well against pitbulls themselves and it is undeserved typically. The American Temperament Society does testing on dogs every year and every year the pitbull comes back ranking in better temperament than most other breeds. Even the little white poodle has a more aggressive behavior pattern than that of the white pitbull and any other pitbull in general speaking.
In fact, this society tests all kinds of dogs including the popular Border Collie, Dachshund, Pomeranian and even the Beagle have temperaments that are much less desirable than that of the pitbull however the average home doesn't think twice about introducing a new member from these breeds into their homes.
With that said accompanied by the knowledge that the white pitbulls are just a color grouping more than anything, it should be noted that you should seriously consider if a white pitbull or any other pitbull is the right pet for you. It should depend on your ability to provide healthy exercise that is abundant and daily as exercise is extremely important to a pitbulls health and well being.
It is similarly imperative that you have a big enough area within your living quarters as well as outside to provide your white pitbulls with plenty of room. Always be a diligent and responsible pitbull owner so the stigma can be overcome of the pitbull who has unjustly received a horrible reputation.
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