Rats mature and can breed at a young age (as early as four weeks of age), breed prolifically, and have large litter sizes. They will come into season every 4-5 days unless pregnant; their pregnancy duration is 21-23 days; their litter size is 6-13 pups; and they can be ready…
Mice are very clean and usually do a great job of grooming themselves. Washing your mouse Because of their cleanliness, it is uncommon for mice to ever need a wash. The exceptions are elderly or arthritic mice who can’t wash themselves, or mice who have somehow gotten really dirty and…
Mice are generally best protected in their enclosure, as this limits their access to potential dangers and keeps them safe. However, even when they are in their enclosure, there are still potential dangers – the danger may come to them, or they might escape. When they have time out of…
What is environmental enrichment? Environmental enrichment describes the provision of physical and social opportunities to promote mouse behaviour that is important, valuable, and specific to them. It encourages and allows mice to do things that matter to them, resulting in positive experiences based on their individual interests, which underpins good…
Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency. Seek veterinary attention immediately. Heatstroke involves potentially life-threatening elevations in body temperature (hyperthermia). Heatstroke is an emergency. It can lead to rapid multi-organ failure and death. The focus is often on dogs but other companion animals, and farm animals, are also vulnerable to heatstroke. Signs…
The RSPCA is opposed to ear cropping because it is painful, inhumane, and unnecessary. Ear cropping is illegal in all Australian states and territories. Ear cropping is a surgical procedure involving partial or full removal of the external ear flaps for cosmetic purposes. Breeders of certain dog breeds once routinely…
Unfortunately, there is always the possibility that you will need to move or transport your fish in an emergency. This may be because the tank develops a leak or a more serious emergency such as fire or flood. Being prepared for such an emergency is always a good idea and…
The key to a beautiful aquarium with healthy fish is effective filtration and maintaining water quality. There are three types of filtration in aquariums: mechanical (using sponges to collect debris) chemical (to absorb specific toxins) biological (to break down fish waste) Of the three types of filtration, biological is the…
Tropical fish are very popular aquarium fish due to their colour and variety. They originate from many regions of the world. The following information will help to improve your fish longevity, health, and welfare. Purchasing healthy tropical fish When purchasing tropical fish, first check that the seller is reputable and…
Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) are a very popular aquarium fish. They originate from tropical regions of Southeast Asia and, today, there are a wide variety of Siamese fighting fish types and colours available. Purchasing a healthy Siamese fighting fish When purchasing a Siamese fighting fish first check that the seller…