written by Maria
October 4 is World Animal Day, an internationally-recognized celebration promoting animal rights and welfare held on the feast day of Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.
Being kind to your pets, giving them the best life possible and making sure they are never abandoned all fall under World Animal Day’s purview. But it works two ways, because having pets is an amazing experience that brings joy to those who share a home with their furry, feathery or scaly companions.
But most pets require some form of special care, training or knowledge. You are taking an animal into your house that has its own personality and character traits, so it’s important to learn what they are and be aware of what your pet needs.
There are many kinds of guides out there. But to make things a little simpler, I’ve made a list including as many of the different kinds of pets you may soon find by your side.
Happy World Animal Day! And give your treasured pet some extra treats, love and a hug from me!
Zak George’s Dog Training Revolution: The Complete Guide to Raising the Perfect Pet with Love by Zak George
A very complete and thorough guide for training and caring for your dog. I recommend this book especially for beginners; it has real personality because the writer speaks from his own experience, which I enjoy. This guide is not too complicated but covers everything you need to know.
The Trainable Cat: A Practical Guide to Making Life Happier for You and Your Cat by John Bradshaw and Sarah Ellis
“Cats can’t be trained.” That’s a statement usually said by people who don’t own them. Cats are incredibly smart and quick to learn. As a cat owner, I know firsthand that you have to teach them all kinds of things: where to eat, what’s not allowed, what is and isn’t a toy. This book will definitely help on those fronts. It also has helpful tips about introducing new cats into your home and navigating vet visits from anthrozoologist Bradshaw and cat expert Ellis, who claim that understanding your cat’s journey from wild predator to domesticated animal is what it’s all about.
Snakes as Pets by Ben Team
Keeping snakes is not something you do on a whim. There is much to learn about them beforehand, and this book is especially good for that. By giving all kinds of information, helpful facts and tips—including those on snake care, behavior, diet, interaction, costs and health—Snakes as Pets will help you prepare properly for your new serpents. It also has some great information about their habitats, which is crucial when owning snakes.
Parrots For Dummies by Nikki Moustaki
Parrots are known for being one of the more difficult pets to have. They are super picky about who they like, they make lots of noise and training is something that is mandatory. But when you bond with a parrot, it’s long-lasting and super rewarding. Although the title is a bit redundant, I have found that Parrots for Dummies helps with understanding the behavior of your bird. It’s perfect for beginners, giving you all the helpful information you need to have a happy parrot and a singingly good relationship with your bird.
The Everything Pet Rabbit Handbook: Your Ultimate Guide to Pet Rabbit Ownership, Training, and Care by Sarah Martin
This book will help those beginner bunny owners who worry they just don’t know enough to care for their pet. It includes the basics, but also contains some more detailed info and tips. It’s an easy-to-read and understand handbook that teaches about rabbit body language and what to do/not do when introducing new rabbits into your domestic fluffle. Definitely pick this one up if you’re thinking about bringing home a bunny.
Freshwater Aquariums for Dummies by Madelaine Heleine (previous 2006 edition written by Maddy Hargrove and Mic Hargrove)
I know…again a “for Dummies” book. But this one is really super helpful if you’re thinking about owning freshwater fish. Because caring for your fish is more than just placing it in a round fish bowl (please don’t do that!). This book will tell you why you need a more complicated aquarium and how to properly take care of both it and your fish. This third edition is as helpful and full of great information as the original.
