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Preventive Care & Wellness

  • Colubrids are snakes in the Colubridae family, the largest grouping of snakes. Most colubrid snakes are harmless, although they can all bite. Some colubrids are small, insectivorous species. Larger species include racers and indigo snakes. Most colubrid snakes sold at pet stores make excellent pets.

  • While there are many species of pythons and boas, those noted here are among the easiest to keep. However, constrictor snakes, like the very large, reticulated python, can be dangerous in the hands of an inexperienced keeper, while others, such as the royal python, can be frustrating because of their long periods of not eating.

  • Snakes are carnivores. Some eat warm-blooded prey (rodents, rabbits, birds), while others eat insects, amphibians, eggs, other reptiles, fish, earthworms, or slugs. This handout answers some common questions about feeding snakes.

  • Proper housing is essential for the health and safety of pet snakes. Use the largest cage possible; bedding, lighting and heat sources will differ depending on the species and size of your snake. This handout outlines the basic requirements for a comfortable snake environment.

  • Dogs, like people, are social by nature and spending time with other dogs can be fun and can provide aerobic exercise that is good for the mind and body. Organized play dates or play groups allow you to meet up with compatible canine playmates. This handout outlines some options and key safety considerations.

  • Socialization is the process during which the kitten becomes familiar with people, other animals, and many aspects of their environment. Kittens are primed for socialization when they are between two and seven weeks old. As soon as kittens have settled into their new home, they can begin gentle exposures to a wide range of stimuli that they may encounter as adults.

  • Choosing to bring a new pet into your life is an exciting journey. Many people decide to adopt, rather than shop, for a pet, since there are so many cats and dogs who need homes. This handout outlines some key resources for adopting pets so you can find the right pet for your family.

  • Spaying is the common term for the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed to sterilize a female cat. This operation requires a general anesthetic and complications are rare. Spaying is recommended to prevent ovarian and uterine cancer, prevent unwanted pregnancy, and reduce the risk of mammary cancer and pyometra.

  • Spaying is the common term for the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed to sterilize a female dog. This operation requires a general anesthetic and complications are rare. Spaying is recommended to prevent ovarian and uterine cancer, prevent unwanted pregnancy, and reduce the risk of mammary cancer and pyometra.

  • There are many health and behavioral benefits associated with spaying your rabbit, such as preventing unwanted pregnancies, reducing her risk for reproductive cancers, and minimizing the stress associated with sexual frustration. This handout explains the surgical procedure, post-operative care at home, and, although rare, possible complications that may occur.