Meet The Rare Creature People Are Calling ‘The Most Beautiful Horse In The World’ (8 Pics)

 

Mother Nature never ceases to amaze us with its abundance of outstanding beauty.

This is no exception, meet the Akhal Teke horse, dubbed the ‘worlds most beautiful horse.’

Native to Turkmenistan in Asia, these stunning creatures are best known for their shiny ‘metallic’ coats.

Their shiny coats which can reflect and refract light just like metal are due to their genetics.

To read more on this story, click here: Meet The Rare Creature People Are Calling ‘The Most Beautiful Horse In The World’ (8 Pics)

Meet Smoothie, The World’s Most Photogenic Cat

 

As you can see from these pictures, Smoothie knows how to pose for the camera. Then again, it’s pretty easy for her. After all, while most of us have a best angle, EVERY angle is Smoothie’s best angle! With 175k followers and counting, Smoothie is the cat that Instagram was made for, so head on over to her popular page and join her legion of worshippers. As it says on her site, “Sometimes you just need a Smoothie in your life”. We couldn’t agree more.

“This gorgeous kitty has a coat of fur that is luxuriously long and fluffy. When she sits up tall, her legs are hidden behind all that floof. With that bushy tail strutting about, she turns herself into a foxy kitty.“

To read more on this story, click here: Meet Smoothie, The World’s Most Photogenic Cat

Animal Rescue Pleads ‘Snip The Straps’ On Disposable Face Masks After Hundreds Of Wild Animals Become Entangled In Them

Countries around the world were eliminating single-use plastics and slowly starting to reduce plastic pollution, but it all went out the window when the global pandemic hit.

8 million tons of plastic enter our oceans every year, killing thousands of animals, but with the recent surge in single-use personal protective equipment (PPE) the situation just got worse.

To read more on this story, click here: Animal Rescue Pleads ‘Snip The Straps’ On Disposable Face Masks After Hundreds Of Wild Animals Become Entangled In Them

Pet Allergies, Are You Allergic to Your Pet? - Do You Know the Symptoms?

What is pet dander?
Cats and dogs have pet dander. It is tiny flakes of dead skin that slough off the pet continuously. Breathing in pet dander is the number one reason that people have an allergic reaction to animals. The dander is hard to see on some animals, and on others it looks like a bad case of dandruff, and the animal smells even after a bath. When the dander combines with oil and dirt, it becomes a glue-like substance trapping the undercoat and causing the hair to turn into large wadded mats.

What are the most common causes for pet allergies?
Cat and dog Dander, or skin flakes, as well as their saliva and urine, can cause an allergic reaction such as: sneezing, wheezing, and running eyes and nose.

Both feathers and the droppings from birds, another common kind of pets, can increase the allergen exposure. Bird droppings can also be a source of bacteria, dust, fungi and mold. This also applies to the droppings of other caged pets, such as gerbils, hamsters and mice.

Animal hair is not considered to be a very significant allergen, however, the hair or fur can collect pollen, dust, mold, and other allergens. Although individual pets may produce more or less allergen, there is no relationship between the pet's hair length and allergen production. There is also no such thing as a non-allergenic breed.

Animal allergens are found mostly in homes where pets are present. What is surprising, however, is that these allergens are also found (in lesser amounts) in places where pets have never been present, such as schools, workplaces, and other public spaces. Since dander allergens are sticky, they can be brought to these places on the clothing of pet owners. Also, while dander on a smooth surface (such as a wall) can be easily wiped off, in soft materials, such as carpets, mattresses, upholstered furniture, and clothing, it can persist for long periods of time. That is why, unless special steps are taken, pet dander can remain in a home for up to six months after the pet has been removed.

Rabbit Allergy
Many people gets surprised when they first hear about rabbit allergy, it is something that they don’t even consider before buying a rabbit as a pet, however it is a type of allergy found in some homes.  Just like other types of animal allergies its origin is in the proteins found in the saliva and blood of the animal and not in the fur.

When the immune system is weak to fight these allergens, it enters into a defense mode, producing the infamous allergic reactions.  Watery eyes and nose dripping are used by the body to wash away the allergens.  This means that the body reacts to an attack, this attack by itself is not dangerous but it could be if the symptoms complicate.

Did You Know Cockatiels Are Among The Most Popular Of Pet Birds?

Did you know that cockatiels are among the most popular of pet birds? Normal cockatiels are gray, with white patches on the wings. They have a yellow/white face with a bright orange patch over the 'ear'. Variations include : Pied (varing white patches cover body), Pearl (each feather retains gray color, with white intersperced), Lutino (Bird white with yellow/white/ orange face), and Albino (white bird). Another popular bird is the Budgie also known as the Parakeet.

The life-span of Cockatiels is usually around 15 – 20 years, however, it has been reported that some have lived up to 30 years!  Having one bird is fine, but you must spend a lot of time interacting with the cockatiel on a daily basis. Having two birds will make it a little easier, but they will bond with each other, and may not bond with the owner.

I have often heard people say, “I don’t want a bird, they are dirty!”  This is simply not true. If a bird’s cage isn’t clean, it’s the fault of the owner, not the bird! All pets require care.

One thing that I do want to mention, is to never keep your bird in your kitchen. A friend of mine has a cockatiel that she used to keep in her kitchen. I asked her why she had it there, she said that because she spends a lot of time in her kitchen/dining area. Her bird did end up getting sick. The kitchen is generally a poor choice for your cockatiel’s cage. There are a number of fumes in the average household kitchen that can be toxic for birds. A good place the cage is where you and your family spend time so that you can interact with the bird.

Cockatiels are vocal creatures. Some make very loud noises. It may sound like they are screaming, but it’s just the natural sounds of the bird. When you arrive home your bird may make noises at the excitement of seeing you.



How to tell the sex of your Cockatiel:
Males tend to have a brighter facial color. Females have a duller facial color, and have barring under their tails. This method of sexing becomes more difficult in the variations of birds.

Feeding your Cockatiel:
A seed diet is not adequate, but tends to be high in fat and deficient in vitamin A, calcium, and protein. Seeds can be part of a healthy diet but only a minor percentage. There are other human foods that birds like. Millet is another great food.

For a well nourished bird include a variety of fresh fruits crisp or lightly steamed veggies and other table foods in your bird’s diet. Always serve them chopped, sliced, diced, minced and mashed.

There are human foods that you can give your Cockatiel:
Cooked chicken/ turkey; Eggs/hard boiled/scrambled; Cottage cheese; Yogurt; Asparagus; Beets/beet tops; Broccoli; Brussel sprouts; Carrots; celery; corn; chicory greens; cilantro; collard greens; green/yellow beans; kale; mustard greens; peas and pods; parsley;  pumpkin; red/green sweet pepper;  romaine lettuce; spinach; turnip greens; water crest; yellow squash; zucchini; bananas; berries; cantaloupe; cherries; cranberries; honey dew; kiwi; mango; oranges(seedless); papaya; pineapple; watermelon; cook pasta; cooked brown rice; dried fruits; whole wheat toast; oatmeal; cheerios; rice krispies; grape nuts; Un salted popcorn; and animal crackers.

Foods you should never give your Cockatiel:
Avocado, chocolate, coffee, lima beans, milk, sodas, sugar, teas, rhubarb, leaves from potatoes, tomatoes, egg plants, bean plants, alcohol, salt, greasy foods, tobacco, fruits seeds or pits from, apples, apricots, oranges, cherries, or peaches.

Tips on caring for your Cockatiel:

1. Your cockatiel needs to have fresh water every day. Change the water every day, even if it looks full. If you find any droppings or feathers in the water cup, change the water, so your bird will not get sick.

2. Some bird noise is very loud but is not screaming, it’s just the natural sounds of birds. Since they are very vocal creatures and you can expect them to greet dawn and sunset with enthusiasm. They may get rowdy just before mealtimes and especially, if you work and the house is empty all day, when you arrive home.

3. Offer foods that have different colors shapes, textures and flavors also vary the presentation.

4. Some birds get startled in their sleep and awaken in a panic. They may start trying to flee the cage and bumping into toys, feeding bowls and their perch.

5. Don't ever give food from your mouth, or kiss your bird.  This is harmful to your bird since your mouth carries germs that can make your bird sick.

6. Cockatiels are very dusty. They use a powder to keep their wings water proof. After petting the bird, one normally has a powdery finger.

Signs that your bird may be sick:

•  Birds often pretend to be fine when someone is watching nearby (survival instinct), so observe very carefully

• Sleeping excessively. Like people, birds who sleep a lot more than usual may be in trouble.

• Any sign of blood, is a bad sign. If your bird is bleeding, you need to stop the bleeding immediately, and contact your Vet.

• If a normally playful bird doesn't play very much any more, it may well be sick.

The Blind Pet - They Can Still Live a Happy Normal Life

A blind pet does have some special needs, including a protected environment. This is particularly important because they behave so normally that you may forget that they are handicapped. Hazards for a blind pet include swimming pools, traffic and balconies. A blind dog should always be kept on a leash when outside of a fenced yard; you may find a harness works better than a collar for guiding your pet on walks outdoors. There are tools available to help you keep your pet safe while still allowing some freedom. For example, there is an alarm you can attach to your pets collar to alert you if they fall in the swimming pool.

While there are certainly some things that they may be unable to do, most of the activities that are important to our pets are still possible. A blind dog or cat will behave remarkably normally in their own home. Animals that lose vision gradually appear to adjust better than those that lose vision rapidly. In both cases, with a bit of patience, we have found that almost every pet can make this adjustment. They will remember where their food and water are and rarely bump into things in the home.

Try not to rearrange the furniture and you will be amazed at how well your pet will remember the floor plan, even going up and down stairs. They will still play with toys and may prefer a ball with a bell or a squeak toy. They will enjoy interacting with their human family in most all of the same ways as they did before they lost vision. A blind pet can continue in every way in their primary role as a loving companion.

Is Your Pet Left Handed or Right Handed

Cats, dogs, parrots and even fish are right or left-handed, scientists have revealed.

The discovery was made by psychologists from Queen's University Belfast, who as part of their research played with 42 pet cats for weeks on end.

Dogs are the same - until they are spayed or neutered, when the difference disappears, suggesting hormones play a role in left or right-handedness. They found that females are 'right-handed' while toms favor the left.

Paw preference: Female dogs favor their right front paw and males choose their left, according to the study.

The scientists also reported that parrots will pick up objects with their 'dominant' foot, toads are mostly right-handed and fish will have a preference to left or right when they dodge a predator - and even humpback whales prefer the right side of their jaws when feeding.

Dogs wag their tails to the right when relaxed and to the left when agitated, this week's New Scientist reports.

The experts said: 'Male and female cats differ in their behavioral patterns, for example hunting styles and parental care, and it is possible that these place different demands on motor functioning.'

Female felines use their right paw while toms tend to use their left

Dr Culum Brown, a behavioral ecologist, said they also tested the theory with parrots: "Anything they are interested in they will pick up with their dominant foot".
Curiously, those parrots that favor their left or right rather than liking both equally, have been shown to be brainier.

With goldfish, the way they dodge predators is likely to allow them to use a specific eye and side of the brain to deal with the threat.

To test it out, place an unfamiliar object in the center of your fish tank and watch which way your pet swims round it.

Toads, however, prefer their right, and pounce more quickly on morsels of food that enter their line of vision from their right.

Humpback whales prefer to use the right side of their jaws to scrape up sand eels from the ocean floor.

While there are advantages in following the crowd, it can also be good to be different. For instance, those humans or animals that are left-handed, or pawed, in a right-handed world, have the surprise on their side when they launch an attack.

So Many Animals Are Going Extinct That It Could Take Earth 10 Million Years To Recover

Some 65 million years ago, an asteroid just six miles wide struck the planet. The resulting cloud of dust and debris that funneled into the atmosphere blocked sunlight for several weeks, while earthquakes, landslides, and tsunamis wreaked havoc on what is now the Americas.

When all was said and done, the Tyrannosaurus rex and its Saurichian compatriots had all died out, along with 75% of the planet's species.

Today, another force is driving Earth towards its next extinction event. Human-driven changes to the planet are hitting global species on multiple fronts, as hotter oceans, deforestation, and climate change drive floral and faunal populations to extinction in unprecedented numbers. As much as half of the total number of animal individuals that once shared the Earth with humans are already gone, a clear sign that we're on the brink, if not in the midst of, a sixth mass extinction.

To read more on this story, click here: So Many Animals Are Going Extinct That It Could Take Earth 10 Million Years To Recover

Tips on Sharing the Christmas Holiday with Your Cat

Many people think that it is a good idea to give pets as holiday gifts, but about half of those animals just get returned because the gift receiver didn't want the pet. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), says that you should never give a pet as a gift.  Instead, they ask that you check with the ASPCA Adoption Center. You can use the zip code search to look at available cats in your area.  They are offering a unique opportunity for pet lovers.

Know someone who wants to add a feline to the family? Now you can give the gift of companionship with their Gift-a-Pet Certificate. At this time, they are only offer Gift-a-Pet certificates for cat and kitten adoptions.

The ASPCA says, securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should they imbibe.

Keep these items away from your cat :
Glass ornaments, Christmas trees , Poinsettias, Christmas cheer, spun glass or angel hair, foil candy wrappers, batteries lit candles,`electric lights, tinsel, electrical cords, metal hangers, spray snow, artificial snow, angel hair, Christmas ribbon, Christmas tree ornaments and Christmas tree water that may contain fertilizers and bacteria, which, if ingested, can upset the stomach.

Tips:

1. Do not leave food crumbs on plates and make sure all food items are sealed in containers with lids.

2. Also place candles where cats cannot knock them over. Never leave a cat unattended in a room with lit candles. He will gravitate to them like moths to a porch light.

3. Keep stoves and countertops off-limits to cats. Electric stovetops can be very hot without changing color, and present a serious burn hazard to curious noses and tender feet.

4. You may be tempted to put your cats in the garage to keep them out of the way when your Christmas visitors arrive. This is not a good idea for several reasons. Anti-freeze is both attractive and deadly to cats. Anti-freeze and caustic chemicals stored in the garage spell certain disaster if a cat comes in contact with them. Although it may seem like an attractive idea to keep a normally indoor-outdoor cat in the garage over the winter, please keep them in the house. If you need to keep your indoor-only cats away from the festivities, consider a "Safe Room".

5. Keep trash cans either secured with a tight fitting lid, or under a cabinet. Caution your guest on arrival about giving turkey and other table foods to your cat.

6. Once the meal is over, place any uneaten leftovers in the garbage and remove the garbage bag from the room. It should immediately be placed in a garbage bin where it can't be accessed by your cat.

7. If you have guests coming into the home around the holidays this poses many dangers to pets.  A child who does not know how to properly interact with your cat may end up getting scratched

8. Sage (Salvia species) is considered to be edible in small amounts. However, it and many other herbs contain essential oils and resins that can cause gastrointestinal upset and even central nervous system depression if eaten in large quantities.

9. Cats are sensitive to the effects of essential oils, so for safety’s sake, I suggest you break the bad news to kitty and keep him away from the sage you are cooking with this Christmas.

10. As guests enter and exit your home for Christmas dinner this provides an opportunity for your cat to escape.

11. If you think someone gave your cat too much table food, contact your vet immediately. The same is true if your cat got into the trash and ate something he shouldn't have.

12. Cats in particular love to climb on Christmas trees and grab the low hanging branches. Make sure the tree is secure in the stand and tie the tree to a permanent fixture, like a railing. A toppled tree can crush a kitten or puppy and the broken ornaments pose problems of their own.

13. Some cats are attracted to the motion or sound of water that comes out of a faucet. So be careful about leaving the water running when preparing your Christmas dinner.

14. Holidays are a confusing mix of noise, people, strange sights, sounds and smells. Make sure your cat or dog has his own space, either a crate or a separate room, to retreat to when it all becomes overwhelming. You and your pet will be happier for it.

Since most vet offices are closed on holidays including Christmas, you should have an emergency contact number on hand. Most likely, this will be the nearest Pet Emergency Center.


                                     Merry Christmas from The Pet Tree House!

Tips on Sharing the Christmas Holiday with Your Dog

The ASPCA says to securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water, which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset, from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.
                                                                                       

Keep these items away from your pet:
Glass ornaments, Christmas trees, poinsettias, Christmas cheer, spun glass or angel hair, foil candy wrappers, batteries, lit candles, electric lights, tinsel, electrical cords, metal hangers, spray snow, angel hair, Christmas ribbon, Christmas tree ornaments and Christmas tree water.

Tips:

1. Try to keep all foods pushed toward the back of the counter, prepared and uncooked.

2. Feed your dog in their dog bowl.

3. Caution your guest on arrival about giving table foods to your dog.

4. If you have guests coming into the home around the holidays this poses many dangers to pets. A child who does not know how to properly interact with your dog may end up the victim of a dog bite incident.

5. If you think someone gave your dog table food, contact your vet immediately. The same is true if your dog got into the trash and ate something he shouldn't have.

Since most vet offices are closed on holidays including Christmas, you should have an emergency contact number on hand. Most likely, this will be the nearest Pet Emergency Center.

                                                     Merry Christmas from The Pet Tree House!

You Don’t Need Money To Be Kind To Animals

You don’t need money to be kind to animals. When I saw this picture I knew that I had to share it with the world.

I am not sure where this picture was taken or who the woman is, but if you ever heard the saying that a "picture is worth a thousand words"…this is it!

This heartwarming picture is a reminder that we all should be kind to animals. God bless her.

Animal Hoarding – What Do You Think?

I am not an expert on this subject. All of the views below come from other sources. I would like to know what you think about Animal Hoarding.

The Humane Society of the United States says:

What is an animal hoarder?
An animal hoarder is a person who amasses more animals than he/she can properly care for. Such individuals generally fail to recognize or refuse to acknowledge when the animals in their custody become victims of gross neglect. Animal hoarders are sometimes referred to as animal "collectors" or animal "addicts."

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)  says:

What Is Animal Hoarding?
Animal hoarding is a complex and intricate public health and community issue. Its effects are far-reaching and encompass mental health, animal welfare and public safety concerns.

For more information on animal hoarding, visit: How Animal Hoarding Develops

Foods You CAN Give Your Pets at Thanksgiving

If you have family members two- and four-legged joining your feast on Thanksgiving, it’s important to know who can eat what. Human food and dogs don’t get along that great, especially the flavorful, seasoned dishes served on Thanksgiving. Diarrhea in dogs is extremely common as a result of overfeeding rich foods. Too much of a good thing can result in pancreatitis, a painful inflammatory condition that is expensive to treat and can have lifelong effects on your pet.

It doesn’t mean you have exclude your pets from the festivities, but it does mean you need to watch what they eat, and what you (and other guests) feed Fido. Whip up some Thanksgiving-themed homemade dog treats to distract your dog from the main meal, or take him for a pre-dinner walk around the block to tire him out.

Certain Thanksgiving foods are safe and even healthy for dogs! However, only the pure, raw, unseasoned forms of these foods are acceptable to give to pets. These Thanksgiving foods are dog-friendly, but they should still be served only in moderation.

Sweet Potatoes
Typically served baked with marshmallows or in sweet potato pie, this seasonal superfood is a hit with dogs. Orange sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, potassium, fiber, and many other much-needed nutrients.  Feed your pup raw or dried pieces of sweet potato, not the canned mix. Never give your dog marshmallows, which contain xylitol – an artificial sweetener dangerous to pets – as well as large amounts of sugar.

Turkey
The main course, Thanksgiving turkey is a dog’s ultimate dream dish. Cooked turkey is safe for both cats and dogs, but it must be unseasoned. Turkey bones are also off-limits for dogs, as they can easily crunch and splinter, causing an intestinal obstruction or internal bleeding. The turkey’s skin is also out of bounds for dogs, as its rich flavor can cause gastrointestinal upset. Feeding too much fatty meat can lead to pancreatitis in dogs, an inflammatory disease of the pancreas.

Green Beans
Green beans are a Thanksgiving casserole staple for some families, but dogs prefer these snappy veggies raw. High in fiber and vitamins C and K, toss your pup a handful before you add Grandma’s secret seasoning. Mushrooms and onions – common casserole additions – are toxic to dogs, so avoid these vegetables.

Carrots
Another orange-hued veggie, carrots are also loaded with beta-carotene, vitamins and fiber. Raw carrots are a dog’s best friend thanks to their satisfying crunch, but cooked (unseasoned) carrots are also a tasty treat. This root vegetable is high in antioxidants too, beneficial for pets with cancer.

Pumpkin
Fall is full of orange, including its signature gourd. Pumpkins are perfect for pets raw or cooked, but always use fresh, pure pumpkin – not your leftover Jack-O-Lantern or canned pie filling! Full of fiber, pumpkin flesh and seeds add texture to homemade dog treats. Remember to avoid any sugar or spice when feeding pumpkin to pets.

Rolls and Bread
Bread and rolls are another Thanksgiving table staple. Chock full of carbs, there’s really no nutritional benefit to feeding your dog bread or rolls. A minute amount of fiber can be found in whole grain bread and dinner rolls, but who’s eating that on Thanksgiving.


*Make sure your dog does not eat any of the above items that are highlighted.

These Incredible Animal Photos Show Why Steve Irwin’s Son Is An Award Winning Photographer

Being part of the legacy that Steve Irwin left behind must be no easy task, but Robert Irwin, his 13-year-old son makes it seem smooth and oh-so-easy. Robert and his family have always been involved with nature, and even as a baby, his love for it was obvious. Now as a young teenager, he has actually traveled around the world with his family, capturing nature while at it and becoming an award-winning photographer – yes, at just 13-years-old!

Regardless of his age, there is no question why his work has been recognized in several contests: the images he captures are raw and pretty up-close, giving people a more intimate glance at nature and wildlife through his images.

To read more on this story, click here: These Incredible Animal Photos Show Why Steve Irwin’s Son Is An Award Winning Photographer

The Eyes of an Animal - How They Differ from Ours

Have you ever wondered about the eyes of an animal, and how they differ from ours? Not only in shape, size and color...but in vision.

I am not an expert by no means on animals eyes, but decided to do some research and share with my readers.

A couple of  questions that I was interested in were, "why do animals have luminous eyes at night and why do some animals' eyes shine red at night and some yellow?"

I found out:

The eyes of many animals, but not humans, contain a reflective layer called the "tapetum lucidum".  That helps the eye gather more light, which improves night vision.  You just see what's reflected back at you; the rest of the light is absorbed by the creature's eye.

But it's not a precision mirror, and it tends to give you less accurate vision during the day.  Humans go in for precision (which is why we can read) at the expense of hunting or seeing predators at night.

The tapetum lucidum is reflective, but it's not like a mirror.  It's more like some bird feathers and butterfly wings, where it uses ridges or dots of clear material to achieve a colored effect.  The distance between the ridges interacts with the frequency of light to give you different colors.  The colors you're not seeing are the ones that the animal are what the animal actually sees.

Another question I had was, What does the phrase "eye of the tiger mean?"

I found out:

In the wild, seeing the "eyes" of the tiger signifies death, because right before a tiger attacks, it turns its ears forward so that the spot on the back of each ear faces nearer its prey. The "eye spots" on the back of tigers' ears serve to confuse predators and reduce the risk of attack from behind. Hence, once someone sees these "eyes", the tiger is about to attack.

Did you know:

• Dogs and cats are color blind. They are said to be able to see only in pale shades of color.
• Snakes have 2 sets of eyes. One pair for day and one pair for night.
• Insects and bees use compound eyes made up of hundreds, even thousands of  tiny lenses placed together in a honeycomb pattern.
• Horses eyes point sideways to give them excellent peripheral vision.

Meet Beyoncé: The "World's Tiniest Dog"

The world's smallest puppy named after one of the world's biggest pop stars, Beyoncé, was so tiny at birth she could fit on a spoon.

The female Dachshund mix dog weighed just one ounce when she was born.

Animal rescuers in California say that she still remains so small that she can easily fit on an iPhone while she is the same size as a business card or credit card.

Experts say she is now likely to set a new record for being the world's tiniest dog. She is not yet officially the title holder but a "fast-track" application has been submitted to the Guinness World Records.

But a dog rescue centre in El Dorado Hills, California, has now been inundated with requests to adopt the little animal.

Beyoncé was the runt of a litter of five that was born to an abandoned dachshund mix, named Casey. Their mother was too heavily pregnant to have a termination and was scheduled to be put down.

But vets intervened and looked after the dog until she gave birth a fortnight ago.
When Beyoncé was delivered, vets were convinced she was still born. She was the last one delivered and was born without a heartbeat.

Dr Michael Russell, the Grace Foundation's vet, then attempted to give her heart compressions but she still wasn't breathing.

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation was then given by assistant Beth DeCaprio. She said: "It was actually a little funny, and gross, trying to get my mouth around hers, but after a couple of really small breaths she took a deep breath and started to really move around.

"We cleaned out her little nasal passages, and I gave her a couple more breaths and then she started breathing on her own. She is just a remarkable little survivor.

"Our hope is that Beyoncé and her miraculous story of survival helps spread awareness about the plight of rescue dogs."

Beyoncé is still smaller than the rest of her siblings but she's grown to 124g and is said to be thriving. She is expected to weigh less than 1kg when fully grown.

25 Images That'll Make You Never Want to Wear Animals

Most of the world’s leather comes from India, where animal-protection laws are blatantly ignored. Cows like these are forced to march for days to their own slaughter, and they do so without food, water, or medical attention.

In India, it’s illegal to slaughter calves or milk-producing cows—but this, like so many other laws, is often disregarded.

To read more on this story, click here: 25 Images That'll Make You Never Want to Wear Animals

Do You Know the Story of Hachikō, an Akita, Remembered for His Remarkable Loyalty to his Owner? Here is His Story

There is Also a Hearwarming Remake His Story on Netflix - " Hachi - A Dog's Tale"

Hachikō was an Akita dog born on a farm near the city of Ōdate, Akita Prefecture and is remembered for his remarkable loyalty to his owner which continued for many years after his owner's death

In 1924, Hidesaburō Ueno, a professor in the agriculture department at the University of Tokyo, took in Hachikō, a golden brown Akita, as a pet. During his owner's life, Hachikō greeted him at the end of each day at the nearby Shibuya Station. The pair continued their daily routine until May 1925, when Professor Ueno did not return. The professor had suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and died, never returning to the train station where Hachikō was waiting. Each day for the next nine years Hachikō awaited Ueno's return, appearing precisely when the train was due at the station.

Hachikō attracted the attention of other commuters. Many of the people who frequented the Shibuya train station had seen Hachikō and Professor Ueno together each day. Initial reactions from the people, especially from those working at the station, were not necessarily friendly. However, after the first appearance of the article about him on October 4, 1932 in Asahi Shimbun, people started to bring Hachikō treats and food to nourish him during his wait.

The last photo ever taken of Hachikō, the dog who waited for 9 years after the death of his master outside the train station every morning until he himself passed away in 1930s.

Today, the bronze statue of the Akita dog, Hachiko, erected at the spot where he waited for his master outside the Shibuya Station, pays silent tribute to the breed's faithfulness and loyalty. A festival is also held there every April. The location is now a popular meeting point in Tokyo.

I watched, "Hachi - A Dog's Tale" on Netflix. It is a very heartwarming story that will bring you to tears.





About: Hachikō

Hachikō was an Akita dog born on a farm near the city of Ōdate, Akita Prefecture and is remembered for his remarkable loyalty to his owner which continued for many years after his owner's death. Wikipedia
Born: November 10, 1923, Akita Prefecture, Japan
Died: March 8, 1935, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan

Pit Bulls – Do They Make Good Pets?

Pit bull is a term commonly used to describe several breeds of dog in the molosser breed group. Most jurisdictions that restrict pit bulls, use the term "pit bull" to refer to the modern American Pit Bull Terrier, American  Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or any other dog that has the substantial physical characteristics and appearance of those breeds.

Media hysteria and bad owners have greatly damaged this breed, and every incident involving a pit bull makes it worse for the entire breed and their owners, often prompting breed specific legislation or breed bans.

The pit bull is typically a people loving, intelligent and fun breed. Due to their affinity with people, this breed is a good candidate for rescue and adoption, but potential homes need to be carefully screened to insure that the new owners understand and accept the responsibility of owning a pit bull.  This is not a breed for everyone! The only way to repair the pit bull's bad reputation is to keep them in the hands of responsible owners.

Animal shelters in the United States euthanized approximately 1.7 million dogs in 2008; approximately 980,000, or 58 percent of these were assessed to have been pit bull-type dogs.

Cockatiels Are Among The Most Popular Of Pet Birds

Did you know that cockatiels are among the most popular of pet birds? Normal cockatiels are gray, with white patches on the wings. They have a yellow/white face with a bright orange patch over the 'ear'. Variations include : Pied (varing white patches cover body), Pearl (each feather retains gray color, with white intersperced), Lutino (Bird white with yellow/white/ orange face), and Albino (white bird). Another popular bird is the Budgie also known as the Parakeet.

The life-span of Cockatiels is usually around 15 – 20 years, however, it has been reported that some have lived up to 30 years!  Having one bird is fine, but you must spend a lot of time interacting with the cockatiel on a daily basis. Having two birds will make it a little easier, but they will bond with each other, and may not bond with the owner.

I have often heard people say, “I don’t want a bird, they are dirty!”  This is simply not true. If a bird’s cage isn’t clean, it’s the fault of the owner, not the bird! All pets require care.

One thing that I do want to mention, is to never keep your bird in your kitchen. A friend of mine has a cockatiel that she used to keep in her kitchen. I asked her why she had it there, she said that because she spends a lot of time in her kitchen/dining area. Her bird did end up getting sick. The kitchen is generally a poor choice for your cockatiel’s cage. There are a number of fumes in the average household kitchen that can be toxic for birds. A good place the cage is where you and your family spend time so that you can interact with the bird.

Cockatiels are vocal creatures. Some make very loud noises. It may sound like they are screaming, but it’s just the natural sounds of the bird. When you arrive home your bird may make noises at the excitement of seeing you.

How to tell the sex of your Cockatiel:

Males tend to have a brighter facial color. Females have a duller facial color, and have barring under their tails. This method of sexing becomes more difficult in the variations of birds.

Feeding your Cockatiel:

A seed diet is not adequate, but tends to be high in fat and deficient in vitamin A, calcium, and protein. Seeds can be part of a healthy diet but only a minor percentage. There are other human foods that birds like. Millet is another great food.

For a well nourished bird include a variety of fresh fruits crisp or lightly steamed veggies and other table foods in your bird’s diet. Always serve them chopped, sliced, diced, minced and mashed.

There are human foods that you can give your Cockatiel:

Cooked chicken/ turkey; Eggs/hard boiled/scrambled; Cottage cheese; Yogurt; Asparagus; Beets/beet tops; Broccoli; Brussel sprouts; Carrots; celery; corn; chicory greens; cilantro; collard greens; green/yellow beans; kale; mustard greens; peas and pods; parsley;  pumpkin; red/green sweet pepper;  romaine lettuce; spinach; turnip greens; water crest; yellow squash; zucchini; bananas; berries; cantaloupe; cherries; cranberries; honey dew; kiwi; mango; oranges(seedless); papaya; pineapple; watermelon; cook pasta; cooked brown rice; dried fruits; whole wheat toast; oatmeal; cheerios; rice krispies; grape nuts; Un salted popcorn; and animal crackers.

Foods you should never give your Cockatiel:

Avocado, chocolate, coffee, lima beans, milk, sodas, sugar, teas, rhubarb, leaves from potatoes, tomatoes, egg plants, bean plants, alcohol, salt, greasy foods, tobacco, fruits seeds or pits from, apples, apricots, oranges, cherries, or peaches.

Tips on caring for your Cockatiel:

• Your cockatiel needs to have fresh water every day. Change the water every day, even if it looks full. If you find any droppings or feathers in the water cup, change the water, so your bird will not get sick.

• Some bird noise is very loud but is not screaming, it’s just the natural sounds of birds. Since they are very vocal creatures and you can expect them to greet dawn and sunset with enthusiasm. They may get rowdy just before mealtimes and especially, if you work and the house is empty all day, when you arrive home.

• Offer foods that have different colors shapes, textures and flavors also vary the presentation.Some birds get startled in their sleep and awaken in a panic. They may start trying to flee the cage and bumping into toys, feeding bowls and their perch.

• Don't ever give food from your mouth, or kiss your bird.  This is harmful to your bird since your mouth carries germs that can make your bird sick.

• Cockatiels are very dusty. They use a powder to keep their wings water proof. After petting the bird, one normally has a powdery finger.

Signs that your bird may be sick:

• Birds often pretend to be fine when someone is watching nearby (survival instinct), so observe very carefully

• Sleeping excessively. Like people, birds who sleep a lot more than usual may be in trouble.

• Any sign of blood, is a bad sign. If your bird is bleeding, you need to stop the bleeding immediately, and contact your Vet.

• If a normally playful bird doesn't play very much any more, it may well be sick.

Cockatiel sings "If Your Happy & You Know it"