Feeding Pond Fish

It is almost that time of year again.   We have pushed the clocks ahead one hour and the days are getting a little longer and warmer.   If you have not already, you will see life emerge in your pond.   You will see movement, you will see fish picking at algae and maybe even coming to the surface.   As it gets warmer and warmer, you will soon need to start feeding them.

Once the fear of freeze is gone, you can start up the filters.     Now would be a good time to scoop out dead leaves and other debris accumulated on the top and bottom.    And, add some type of biologic starter or enzymes to help get rid of sludge.

When the water reaches fifty degrees, you can start feeding the fish.   Do not feed them before this time.   They will not be able to properly digest the food in the cooler temps and will just put it back into the pond as waste product.   It can also cause health problems for the fish later on in the season.  In addition, the bacteria in the pond will not break the food down until the temperatures are almost sixty degrees.   So, you can see, the nitrites and ammonia will quickly build up and could be detrimental to the fish.

The food to use in the spring would be a wheat-germ based food.   The fish are still in slow motion, and they cannot use a high protein based food at this time.   Many companies make great foods with wheat germ.   Wheat germ is extremely palatable and easy to digest.   Also look for no corn or corn starches which are nearly impossible to digest.   Always look for foods that contain high quality ingredients, which in turn will provide your fish with excellent nutrition.

As a result, your fish will not require as much food and less waste is produced.   You can see how this would help with clean clear water.  And, help you to enjoy your pond more!

You should use the wheat germ based food until the water temperature reaches about seventy degrees.   When you do switch your food from wheat-germ based to higher protein based, make sure you do it slowly.   Use a little of both until the fish get familiar with the new food you are using.

Hopefully, this has given you some insight as to when to start feeding your pond fish.   Remember, your fish associate at your favorite store or nursery can help answer any other questions you may have.

I bet you can’t wait to be sitting by the pond listening to the waterfall and watching those beautiful Koi.

Wildlife and Spring

The phones are starting to ring off the hook at the Wildlife Hotline! People are calling about hurt or abandoned animals almost every day; a sure sign that spring has arrived.

I would like to take a moment to go over some guidelines as to what to do in case you come across an animal that looks like it may need assistance.

Some common calls are about fawn and bunnies.

First, you should try to make sure that the animal really needs your help. Fawn will sometimes leave their moms for short periods of time as they go out to explore. But, rest assured the mom is usually not too far away. The mom will not come back if she senses a person is nearby; and will wait for you to leave. If you happen to see a fawn in the middle of the road; please do not put it in your car. Move it to the side, off the road, where the mom can see it and come to retrieve it. Move away and give it an hour or so and see if the mom returns; most likely she will. If she does not, please call a wildlife hotline or rehabilitator.

Fawns also use a camouflage position where they lay close to the ground; they are not injured in this position. This is just a means of protection. Remember not to move a fawn or handle it unless it is in the middle or the road or injured.

Of course, if you see the animal is hurt; you should take action. If it is in the middle of the street; take care and think of your safety first! If it is a fawn, a light towel over the face may calm it while you retrieve it. Putting the injured animal into a nice box lined with a non-frayed blanket or towel would be the best thing to do until you get further help. Always use gloves and do not put an animal near your face. You can wrap it in a towel to lift it and place in into the nice cozy box. Do not attempt to take care of an injured animal by yourself and never attempt to feed it or give it water. You could potentially cause it more harm even though your intentions are good.

Your next step should be to call a wildlife hotline. We have one here at Animal Kingdom. 1-866-wild-331. The people answering the hotline will give you instructions as to what to do or where to bring the animal. Keep the box in a nice quiet area to keep the animal calm and stress free.

Most do not realize that rabbit moms will leave their nests for most of the day.  If you see a nest with babies; do not touch them. The mom should return. They only come back to nurse their young twice a day.

Baby squirrels are in abundance in the spring. If you find abandoned or hurt babies; pick them up with a non-frayed towel and place them in a box. You can put a gentle heating pad on them, under the box. Remember not to feed or water them. Your next step should be to call 1-866-wild-331 or a wildlife center in your area.

Birds are another matter of rescue.

If you spot a nestling on the ground, try to find the nest and put it back into it. This would be the best chance of survival for a nestling. If you cannot get to the nest, try to make a simple one and place the baby bird into it. Place it in a nearby tree or on a branch. Hopefully, the parents will see it and feed it. If not, please call a rehabilitator or 1-866-wild-331.

Try to make this call quickly as the babies need to eat a few times an hour at this stage. Keep the bird in a box in a warm stress-free area until you receive further instructions.

If the bird is a fledgling, the parents must be close by. You can pick up the bird and place it into its nest if you can, or in a tree or branch. Hopefully the parents will see it and coax it back to the nest. If the bird is injured, or the parents do not come back, please call the rehabilitation number. Again, do not attempt to feed or water any baby birds.

If you see a baby bird that is being circled by flies; it must be rescued. Flies will definitely cause the death of a bird if it is not dealt with, even if the bird is not injured.

There are other birds such as crows and raptures. Remember, they are stronger and can cause some serious damage to you. Make sure you have gloves to pick up these stronger injured birds; you may also have to use a heavy towel or blanket for retrieval. Again, put the bird into a box to keep it calm and secure and place it into a quiet area while you make your phone call.

As you can, see the best means of survival for any animal is to place it in the care of someone who is licensed in wildlife rehabilitation. Please don’t be afraid to rescue an animal in need; just make sure to make the important phone call as soon as you do. 1-866-wild-331!

Is Your Dog Spring Ready?

As we all know, spring is a fantastic time of year.   Most of us love being outside and we do love to take our dogs along.   It is important to remember the safety of our pets while enjoying the beautiful days outside.

If you plan on going for a car ride with your dog, think about making sure your pet is secure in the car.   There are a variety of ways to do this.   Besides crates and carriers, there are harnesses and vests that fasten to car seatbelts.   There are also many size car seats available.   The same type of securing is suggested if you are going on a boat ride.   May I also recommend including a life jacket if boating is your mode of transportation?

In addition to properly securing your pets, it is a good idea to have current identification on them just in case you get separated.      If your dog has not travelled much in the car or boat, a good suggestion is that you start out with small trips in the beginning to ensure that your pet reacts well.   You can slowly increase the trip durations.  Don’t forget to bring a leash to use when you reach your final destination.  And, if you are planning on being away overnight or longer, make sure you have checked ahead to ensure your favorite friend is welcome.   Also remember to pack a supply of food, bowls, a favorite toy and any medications your pet might be using.

Also be careful of open car windows.  Try not to travel with your pet’s head sticking out of a window.  This could be very hazardous and can also lead to eye injuries.  If you do love to drive with the windows open, just make sure your pet is safe; there are also doggie goggles available!

Remember your dog will be meeting many new people while outdoors.   A well behaved pet will be willing to make new friends.   Try to ensure that any newcomers follow a safe plan to greet your dog.   If they ask to greet your dog, make sure they initially approach you slowly.   If you say yes, make sure they curl their hand into a closed fist with the back of their hand facing upward.   They can then extend their hand slowly toward the dog.   Your pet should sniff the hand and become familiar with the scent of the individual.   The dog should then allow the person to pet it under the chin or chest.   This procedure should make it enjoyable for you, your new friend, and your dog!

It probably is time for you to start spring cleaning around the home.   Please be careful with any chemicals you are using.   This includes lawn fertilizers, pesticides, paints, paint thinners and any other chemicals that help make your home look its best.  Remember your pet is likely to explore and get into situations that are not always the healthiest.   Why do these moments always seem to happen when our backs are turned?   Just remember to think “safety” and many problems should be averted.

Spring is also the time of year with lots of goodies and chocolate around the home.   The chocolate bunnies and candy eggs may look very inviting to a dog or puppy.  Make sure your pet is not able to get into the sweets or even the artificial grass that line colorful baskets and holiday displays.   These items can have serious consequences for pets that ingest them.   Please be extremely careful with these items.   Also be careful at holiday dinners with guests.   Encourage them not to give your pets any food that you do not authorize.   A trip to the veterinarian for a pet’s stomach problems should not be on your holiday “to do” list.

During the spring there are also many plants that are not safe for your pets.  Please keep them away from azaleas, lilies, oleander, tulips, daffodils and rhododendrons as they can prove toxic.   Also be careful with any plant bulbs you may have around.   You would not want your pet to ingest one of these!

The last thing you should be aware of is that your pet might be allergic to the great outdoors.   Some dogs may get itchy skin, get a rash, chew their tails, or may even lick their feet.   In this case, you can consult a veterinarian to help with a remedy.

Here is a wish for you to have lots of fun outdoors this spring with your family and pets.   Hopefully, this just served as a gentle reminder of the things you already knew.   Sometimes we just need a little nudge to help us remember the things we should be doing.

Coming Soon to a Pet Store Near You

Having just returned from an exciting pet show in Orlando, I can tell you there is no shortage of pet products.   Truthfully, I don’t know how any person opening a new store can decide on what to carry.

There are so many products to choose from.   Some are new and different, some are exciting, some are already existing products with a few improvements, some are rather silly, and some, well , we won’t even discuss.

But, all in all, it is great to go to these shows and see all the new foods, products, services, and organizations.   It is fun to keep up-to-date on all the progress in the pet industry.   It is a pretty impressive industry and, judging by the crowd many retailers try to keep up on the “newness” and “freshness” with their product selection.

So, what did I see…..?

A few brands of new “indestructible” dog toys; I will certainly have some pets put them through the test!   There are also some existing brands that came out with a new cast of characters.

Many new anxiety relief products such as calming shirts, hats and various supplements

New eco-friendly beddings, litters and even fertilizer

Many new desk-top aquariums that provide more room, better lighting and better heating than ever before

New and different grain-free dog foods; even an alkaline-based food

Many dog treats and chews now being produced in the USA; even one to lick out of a bottle

Puzzles, games, art kits, and foraging toys for all animals to keep them engaged

Collars, leashes, harnesses, dishes and clothes of every color and pattern to appeal to every consumer

New toilet bowl litter boxes and scratching items for cats

Exciting happenings with more aquarium fish being captive bred and a huge coral restoration project

Wow, this is just a sampling of what I saw.   So, keep your eye out in pet stores for some new and exciting products coming in the next few months….they caught my interest….hope they catch yours too!!

Eco-Friendly Pets

There are many things we are asked to do to help save the environment.  What many of us don’t realize is that there are many ways we can keep our pets and their items “Eco Friendly”.

Here are a few suggestions:

You can use biodegradable pet waste bags and make sure you always scoop the poop from outside areas!  Do not leave it hanging around.   It contains harmful bacteria that will make its way into the water supply via run off.   Composting in a ground container is one good idea.

There are many organic or dehydrated natural foods to feed your pets, Honest Kitchen, Dr. Harvey’s, Nature’s Variety, Oxbow and Newman’s Own have some great foods.

Using natural flea and tick products can be a good solution to the chemical alternative. Natural Chemistry and Pet Naturals of Vermont have some great products.

Look for organic cat nip or grow your own!

You can also purchase your soft dog toys made out of recycled or green materials.  There are plenty to choose from made by Hagen, West Paw, Katie’s Bumpers, Chuck It, and Planet Dog to name a few.  There are also rubber toys made from recycled tires.

Make your own cat toys out of recycled products from around the home; newspaper, string, plastic bottle rings, etc.   There are some great suggestions on line for  making  your own cat toys!

There are even collars and leashes made from recycled, soy or hemp materials.   There are also some made from reclaimed bicycle tires.

Look for natural cat litters rather than clay; Swheat Scoop or Feline Pine can be a good choice.  CaribSea makes a good bedding for small animals too.

Be careful of your cleaning products on kitchen floors, etc.   Don’t forget your pet may lick the floors.   Use a steam mop, or natural products.   Simple Solution has a great line!

There are plenty of grooming supplies made from recycled materials.

Many health items are also available in a natural line; check out Synergy Labs, HomeoPet and Nutri-Vet (as well as others) for homeopathic and natural products.

Make sure you spay/neuter your pet to cut down on unwanted animals.

Think about adopting or rescuing a dog or cat that needs a home.