Tips on Getting a Pet Rabbit

Are you thinking of getting a pet rabbit?

Rabbits are pretty good pets for the certain people such as those who do not have time or space for a cat or dog. Rabbits are active in the day (unlike hamsters and other nocturnal pets) and can be walked on a leash when using a harness.

There are several breeds of rabbits, some being rather small and others being very large (often used for meat). Fluffy rabbits require proper grooming and regular brushing. Breed selection is very important, keeping in mind that the larger rabbits will need a lot more space. The lop eared rabbits also tend to need more space because in a small cage they tend to stand on their ears a lot which makes them dirty.

The size of the rabbit's cage, or hutch, is important. At the very least a small rabbit will need three square feet of space in its cage, while a larger rabbit may need six square feet of space. The smaller the cage the more time the rabbit should have out of it for exercise and mental stimulation.

Some people leave their rabbit loose in their house, allowing it to use a litter box much like cats do.

You must consider where you are going to keep your pet rabbit. While many people do keep pet rabbits outdoors in hutches this is not the ideal place. Not only do they tend to be neglected when outside but they also are at risk for attacks from predators and problems such as fly strike.

Rabbits need proper rabbit food, timothy hay, and fresh vegetables. You can feed them carrots, cucumbers, apples, and romaine lettuce (no other lettuces), but be sure to wash all vegetables first. You can also give a rabbit dandelion greens from your yard as long as you have not used any chemicals on your lawn.
Bedding in the cage should be straw, or aspen shavings; pine shavings are okay, but cedar shavings should never be used in a rabbit's cage.

When looking for your rabbit's supplies be sure to check That Pet Place for discounted pet supplies and treats.

General Considerations Before Getting a Pet Rabbit

• Be sure you have space, and money, for a large cage.
• Be sure you have time to let your rabbit out of its cage for at least 2 hours a day.
• Can you make a lifetime commitment to owning a pet rabbit?
• If you are planning on keeping your pet rabbit outdoors, is it safe from predators, will it be warm and dry in bad weather?
• Where do you plan on getting your pet rabbit? Consider adopting your pet rabbit from an animal shelter.

Supplies Needed for Owning a Miniature Horse or Pony

If you are considering getting a miniature horse or pony you might be wondering what supplies you need. Or perhaps you know somebody who owns a miniature horse or pony and are looking for gift ideas.

Halters and Lead Shanks

Normally a horse or pony is sold with a halter and lead shank, but not always, and sometimes it is just a good idea to have a spare halter and a few lead shanks If you intend to show your miniature horse or pony in conformation or halter classes you will also need a more decorative halter and shank for these reasons.

Grooming Supplies

There are many grooming supplies you need for brushing your miniature horse or pony. You will want a curry comb and dandy brush, as well as a mane and tail comb and hoof pick. There are other brushes and grooming tools that can be purchased later, including horse shampoo and conditioner. You may want to get a grooming kit to carry around your supplies in.

Medications and Wormers

Miniature horses and ponies should be wormed once a year if they have a large pasture with only a few horses, twice a year is better if there are many equines in the same space.

Pretty much those are all the things you really need to buy for your miniature horse or pony unless you want to ride it, but do note that only the larger miniature horses are suitable for riding, the smaller ones are normally only suited as “pets” or for driving and should not be ridden.

If you are thinking of riding your miniature horse or pony the other supplies you will want are as follows.

Bridle and Bit

Bridles come in many styles, if your pony is already broke to ride you should know what type of bridle and bit were being used on it before you bought it and should stick with the same type. Inexperienced riders should use snaffle bits rather than curb bits as a jerk on the reins with a curb bit can really hurt a horse's mouth. There are many different types of snaffle, some being more severe than others. Click here to learn more about bits and how they work.

Saddle and Saddle Pad

Saddles need to fit the horse and rider. If your pony has high withers and a narrow build be sure to select a saddle to fit it, the same applies to fatter, wider ponies. Saddle pads are also required and go under the saddle. You will also require a girth, or cinch, to keep the saddle on the horse. You can also buy bareback pads to make bareback riding more comfortable.

Boots, Helmets, and other Riding Apparel.

Boots with a heel are a must as they prevent the rider's foot from going through the stirrup. Helmets are also an essential. Even a fall from a short horse can be dangerous if your head hits the wall or is stepped on by the horse. 

Shop a great selection of Riding Apparel at StateLineTack.com PLUS $5.99 Flat Shipping!

Other Bonus Supplies for Owners of Miniature Horses or Ponies

You may also want to buy toys for horses, such as balls they can play with in their pasture. Toys are particularly important for horses or ponies that live alone. Toys help relieve boredom and may prevent problem behavior such as weaving or cribbing.

You may also want to consider supplements and treats. These help an owner to bond with their equine. Generally miniature horses and ponies do not need a lot of rich feed (and can founder if overfed a grain ration) but supplements can be used to improve the quality of their coat and herbal remedies can help with some behavior problems (such as moody mares).

For a new owner a book on horse and pony care might also be a good gift idea.

Take 5% OFF ANY SIZE ORDER at Statelinetack.com. Use coupon code CJSL5OFF at checkout.

Bobcats as Exotic Pets

Many people are looking for more exotic, more unusual, slightly more dangerous, exotic pets; but they still want cute!  As such bobcats and lynxes are now being considered as pets and are slowly entering the exotic pet market.

I personally do not feel a need to own such a creature but did a lot of research on ownership of them which I present to you now. 

In most areas you will require a licence or permit own own a pet bobcat or pet lynx.  Depending on your area this may require getting your property inspected for security.  Your local zoning may be an issue too.  You can only acquire these exotics from licenced breeders who are required to check your permit before selling to you.  Note that you cannot catch and keep a wild bobcat or lynx in most areas as this is illegal, not to mention cruel and dangerous.

Bobcats are about twice the size of a domestic cat, and the Canadian lynx is slightly larger, so you must be sure you can accomodate such a big animal, offering it enough room to play, and as well you must consider the higher costs of feeding and over all care.

Some people breed their own rabbits for the purpose of feeding their pet bobcat or lynx, others use premium commercial diets.  Meat must be the main part of the diet as, like all cats, bobcats are true carnivores. 

You need to be certain you have a veterinarian willing to treat and care for such an exotic pet. 

Keep in mind that a bobcat or lynx is very playful, they will be more destructive than a regular house cat and require plenty of things to climb on.  They may also see any smaller pets as prey.  Like most cats they spend the majority of their day sleeping, but like to be awake in the morning and evening.

If you are intersted in getting a pet bobcat or pet lynx the first thing to check is what licensing and/or permits are needed in your area.  Contact a breeder to see what their requirements are in terms of space and fencing, as most breeders insist on doing home checks before selling to a buyer - they may require a deposit made before they actually have kittens ready to sell.

You should plan on spending $1200 - $1800 USD to purchase a pet bobcat.  Make sure it has been vet checked and vaccinated first.  It should be no younger than 8 weeks of age and should come with health guarantees.