Library
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Fluoxetine is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat various behavioral conditions. Common side effects include sleepiness and decreased appetite. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
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It is suggested that a selection of various fruits and vegetables be fed to your bird every day. A good source of carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, fresh produce should comprise no more than 20%-40% of the diet. Bright yellow, red, and orange vegetables and fruits all contain a great deal of vitamin A, which is a critical nutrient in a birds' diet.
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Furosemide is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label to treat many conditions, including congestive heart failure and fluid retention. Common side effects include increased urination, diarrhea, or constipation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or in those that are unable to make urine.
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Gemfibrozil is a medication prescribed off-label by veterinarians to treat high levels of fat (lipids) in the blood of dogs and cats when dietary modifications have not been effective. Occasionally, it is also used in birds for the same purpose. As a relatively new drug in veterinary medicine, its benefits, side effects, and adverse effects are still being determined.
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There are multiple methods of inheritance that determine which characteristics (or phenotypes) are displayed by the offspring, including autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, and sex-linked inheritance. There are also many polygenic traits (i.e., associated with multiple genes) as well as environmental factors that make it much more complicated to predict disease or the likelihood of passing disease onto offspring.
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Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a long molecule that contains an organism’s entire genetic code. Every cell in the body contains two identical strands of DNA, and this DNA contains the “instructions” (genes) needed to create and run every part of the body. This handout summarizes how DNA works and how it directs the overall appearance, health, and actions of an animal.
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Hand-raised babies usually make better pets, as they have been completely socialized with humans. Hand-feeding is a job best left for the experienced bird breeder or aviculturist. If you are considering hand-feeding a baby bird, you should contact your local bird breeder or avian veterinarian for help. This article provides general guidelines and best practices.
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Chickens are fun, playful, friendly pets. Like all small pets, chickens require the proper diet, protection from predators, and room to move around. This handout discusses general housing, nutrition, and healthcare for chickens.
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A place of height is a place of dominance for many birds. It can be a territorial claim and position of control. Unless trained properly, birds placed on high locations like the shoulders or on top of their cages are more likely to try and "run the show." This handout outlines how to avoid these problems.
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Home renovation can be arduous for every member of the household. Awareness of possible construction site problems will help homeowners avoid pet-related issues. A little planning can make the renovation process run more smoothly everyone.