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Crested Geckos: What Plants Can I Safely Use? Most crested gecko owners want to beautify their vivariums by adding a variety of living plants. Living plants can add tremendous aesthetic value to most crested gecko habitats. However, plants must be selected carefully. Some varieties of plant may be toxic or harmful to your lizard, and they should be avoided or kept separate from your pet.  While there is no single list of “good” and “bad” terrarium plants, most common houseplants and ornamentals can be used in crested gecko enclosure. Plus, if you are unsure, there are some pretty easy ways...

How to Create a Bioactive Substrate Table of Contents Creating and Maintaining a Bioactive Substrate Bioactive terrariums make for one of the most visually appealing reptile habitats, especially if they are done right. Further, they may create a healthier environment for your reptile or amphibian if the substrates are properly maintained. In this article, we discuss the most important aspects of a bioactive substrate, why they may promote better health in your pet, and how you can get started maintaining your own bioactive terrarium! Likely the hardest part in getting started is a bioactive substrate. What is a Bioactive Substrate?...

How to Maintain Excellent Horse Skin and Coat Health Skin and coat condition are a leading indicator of a horse's health Achieving that enviable shine or “glow” takes time, knowledge, a little luck, and a lot of work. Three main factors affect the horse’s skin and coat health: genetics nutrition environment Horse Genetics Genetics, for most horse owners that are not breeders, comes down to luck and mitigating any genetic disorder. Genetics primarily influences coat color, however some conditions affecting the skin and hair are thought to be hereditary.  Adequate Nutrition Adequate nutrition is the building block for a healthy skin and...

How to Select the Correct Stable Blanket for your Horse Table of Contents Does A Horse Need Stable Blankets? Blankets are a great way to keep horses warm and comfortable during cold, chilly weather, especially during winter months. Not all horses need blankets. Horses grow a thicker, longer, more insulating winter coat to protect themselves from the elements. This hair growth is triggered by daylight hours, not temperature. It’s most common to see horses blanketed if they are going to horse shows over the winter, or if they are in heavy training. It takes much longer to properly cool down...

Stop Horse Scratches Table of Contents What are Scratches? “Scratches” goes by many names, all of which refer to the same condition—pastern dermatitis. This condition affects the lower leg of the horse and is caused by repeated wet/dry/wet conditions. Especially common during the spring when pastures and paddocks are muddy, scratches can generally be diagnosed and treated in several easy steps utilizing over-the-counter products. That said, it is important to closely monitor the horse’s condition and consult your veterinarian with questions or if the condition worsens. Equine Pastern Dermatitis (EPD) Scratches, Mud Fever, Dew Poisoning, Greasy heels…these are all terms...