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THE SAVANNAH CAT
savannah
The Savannah cat is an exotic cat. They are covered in spots and enjoy socializing with people as well as pets. They are also extremely curious and will want to follow you from room to room. Quite supportive in nature, the Savannah cat loves to provide companionship, which makes them ideal for therapy cats. Not only do Savannahs play well with children, they are always happy to make new friends.
Brief History
The first Savannah cat was born in the 1980s as the result of crossbreeding between an African Serval and a domestic cat. The successful crossbreed was performed by Patrick Kelly and Joyce Sroufe. The African Serval was further outcrossed with cat breeds such as Bengals, Oriental Shorthairs and Egyptian Maus. This led to a widespread establishment and acceptance of the breed. Savannah cats began getting registered by the International Cat Association (ICA) in 2001. The breed attained Championship status or full recognition in 2012.
Physical Features
The most noticeable characteristic of the Savannah cat is their beautiful, spotted coat. Their fur has a light brown shade and is covered in black spots. As a result, they have a distinctive cheetah-like appearance. Their ears are deep, large and face forward in a sonar-like way. Their eyes are big and golden. The Savannah cat has a pink nose and long white whiskers. An outstanding feature of the Savannah cat is their long legs. Thanks to this characteristic, this breed has held the Guinness Book of World Record for tallest domestic cat since 2006. They have long tails and an intelligent expression.
Average Height:
8-15 inches
Average Weight:
12-25 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-20 years
Temperament
The Savannah is devoted to their owner or family. As a result, many people regard the Savannah cat as being a feline version of a dog. They enjoys social interaction. If left alone for long periods of time, Savannahs will pout and begin to experience separation anxiety. Their attitude is kitten-like throughout their lives. Savannahs also enjoys being involved in family or group activities. This makes the Savannah an ideal family cat.
savannah cat
Special Needs
The Savannah has quite a lot of energy and needs a structured way of exercising. The Savannah is also an intelligent breed that can understand and obey simple commands. Also, they can learn how to use a scratching pole and which sections of the house to avoid. Housetraining the Savannah can be performed in a short period of time. This is possible as long as you use positive reinforcement throughout the process.
The Savannah still has hunting and territorial instincts. So they will be protective or even aggressive around other pets. This means that they should be introduced to other animals gradually until they can be friends.
Possible Health Concerns
The Savannah is a healthy and strong cat that can suffer from some genetic diseases and adverse conditions. The Savannah can be infertile due to genetic predisposition. They may also have low levels of fertility resulting in 1 to 3 kittens per litter. The Savannah may also be very selective in picking out mates. This is because they prefer to procreate with cats that they’ve grown up with from kittenhood.
Exercise
The Savannah cat has a high level of energy. They will prance around your house and enjoys chasing birds for leisure. To control these energy levels, some exercise is required. This can be achieved by engaging the cat in sessions that involve walks, jogs or brisk runs. This can be done 2 times a day for 30 minutes each. Intense play sessions can also be great exercise for this cat. They require both physical and mental stimulation. This is because the Savannah is an intelligent cat. Puzzle games and toys are most welcome for this cat.
Nutrition
The Savannah cat requires a balanced diet. Their large size prompts generous portions per serving, but they are not picky eaters. The Savannah will gladly chow down on wet food or dry kibble. Their nutritional needs require that they consume more carbohydrates than any other food group. This is so that they can sustain their high energy levels. Savannah cats grow quickly. This warrants ample protein as well. They can be fed twice a day in the morning and the evening. Cool, clean water needs to be provided throughout the day.
Grooming
Savannah cats’ fur is short and thick. To keep it healthy and smooth, they need regular brushing at least once a day.
Their teeth and ears also need cleaning three times every week. They may produce some discharge on the inner tips of their eyes which needs to be cleaned off as soon as it emerges. Their ears are large and open which makes them collect dirt and debris quite easily. They can be cleaned at least two times every week using a special solution made of 50% cider vinegar and 50% water.
The Savannah is an interesting, beautiful cat. They are dedicated and their loyalty makes them an excellent therapy cat.
savannah cat breed
World Records for Pets and Other Animals
If you always dreamed of getting in the Guinness Book of Records, then you might want to start preparing. It seems competition is tough and not just with humans — there’s a whole host of world records set by animals!
What are Savannah Cats?
There’s something unmistakably striking about the Savannah cat. Descended from African wild cats and crossed with domestic cats, these exotic hybrids are graceful, captivating and leave you wanting to know more.
THE POMERANIAN
The foxy-faced, spunky Pomeranian has the corner on cute. But did you know they were originally bred to pull a sled? This tiny puff of fluff is royalty’s choice of lap dog, but their surprising background belies their petite and carefully-coiffed appearance.
Brief History
The Pomeranian is a descendant of the Spitz, the ancestors of today’s huskies and other sled dogs. The breed’s name comes from the region of Germany and Poland which was, in ancient times, known as Pomerania.
In the mid-1900’s, the Pomeranian was introduced to England. Back then, it weighed around 30 pounds and was most likely white in color. Canine historians think it probably descended from the Deutscher Spitz. It had pragmatic uses, including pulling sleds and herding sheep.
In 1870, the Pomeranian gained recognition through The English Kennel Club. But the breed earned its popularity boom when Queen Victoria took a fancy to it. She imported a Pomeranian from Italy, a red-coated dog named Marco. She became quite passionate about her dogs, who became beloved travel companions, and she maintained her own breeding kennel. She even exhibited her dogs at the famous Crufts Dog Show in London when it opened in 1891.
Thanks to the royal endorsement, the breed was exhibited in dog shows in the United States under the American Kennel Club’s Miscellaneous Class the following year. Eight years later, it earned a regular classification. It was accepted in various colors. The trend of miniaturizing the Pomeranian continued, and it was selectively bred to have a bigger coat and a “puff ball” appearance.
Physical Features
According to the AKC breed standard, the Pomeranian is “long a favorite of royals and commoners alike [and] has been called the ideal companion. The glorious coat, smiling, foxy face, and vivacious personality have helped make the Pom one of the world’s most popular toy breeds.”
The AKC recognizes nearly two dozen color patterns, the most common being orange or red.
Although it is descended from northern sled dogs, the Pomeranian is recognized as a toy breed.
Average Height:
6 to 7 inches
Average Weight:
3 to 7 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12 to 16 years
Temperament
The Pomeranian is inquisitive, bold, and lively.
Special Needs
With a thick double coat, the Pomeranian needs regular brushing to keep clean and free of mats. His undercoat will typically shed heavily twice a year. Like many toy dogs, he can be prone to obesity and needs his diet monitored carefully, as well as given a daily dose of exercise. Unless the Pom is raised with children, he generally does not do well with them. Being a petite toy breed, he can be fragile, and care must be taken to avoid injury.
Possible Health Concerns
Pomeranians can be prone to the following:
Patellar luxation
Dental disease
Tracheal collapse
Patellar luxation
Patent ductus arteriosus
Exercise
Although all dogs benefit from some outdoor time to sniff around and enjoy a leash walk, Pomeranians require a moderate amount of exercise. They do well in apartments and can thrive on an outdoor jaunt a couple of times a day with a game of fetch.
Nutrition
A Pomeranian’s diet should be maintained to avoid overfeeding. He will thrive on quality kibble, with extras such as meat or fish and steamed vegetables.
Pomeranians are ideal companions for a quiet home, and most of them thrive in a lap-dog lifestyle. Once he settles into your lap, it won’t be long before he finds a secure place in your heart.
THE LHASA APSO
The Lhasa Apso, also known as the Apso Seng Kye (bark lion dog), originated from Tibet thousands of years ago. It is part of the UKC, Companion Dog Group, and the AKC’s Non-Sporting Dog Group.
Brief History
The Lhasa Apso were used as guard dogs in monasteries and Buddhist temples in Tibet. The Lhasa has been associated with the Dalai Lama for centuries and was offered as a gift by the 14th Dalai Lama to the U.S in 1933. Lhasa is a sacred city in Tibet. Apso means a “longhaired dog.”
Physical Features
The Lhasa Apso is small, yet feisty. They have a medium-length muzzle, dark brown eyes and a black nose. With ears that are pendant, and catlike feet, the Lhasa carries their tails over its back. Their tails also have a kink at the end.
This breed has lots of long hair and also has a beard. Their coats come in any color, and is heavy, straight, and long. The hair is parted centrally from the head to the tail.
Average Height:
10-11 inches
Average Weight:
14-15 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
The Lhasa Apso is watchful, yet can be friendly. This dog breed is affectionate with family, and enjoys human company. It may be wary of strangers, and sometimes children. This is a happy dog breed that thrives on being pampered. This dog breed should begin with socialization and positive puppy training early on during puppyhood.
The Lhasa is quick to learn, but needs plenty of rewards to become motivated. This breed does not do well with harsh reprimands or long periods of training. They need to be positively trained with short training sessions to maintain focus and enthusiasm. Quite willful, yet sensitive and playful, the Lhasa bonds very closely to his dog parents and will sulk if left behind.
Lhasa Apso
Special Needs
The Lhasa Apso needs plenty of attention and regular exercise. This breed does well with a dog parent that is nurturing and understanding. This breed needs to be careful when climbing stairs, so as not to injure their backs. The Lhasa adores being pampered 24/7, in fact, they often demand it!
Possible Health Concerns
Hereditary Renal Disease: Hereditary renal disease in the Lhasa is common. Kidney malformations are called dysplasias, and occur when the kidneys do not develop properly before birth. When the kidneys are too small, this is called hypoplasia. This can occur in one or both kidneys. Kidneys will be pale, small, and firm. Symptoms include excessive thirst and excessive urination.
Cherry Eye. (Prolapsed Nictitans Gland) This is the inflammation of the Harderian gland, which is an accessory tear gland. This can result in dry eye. It is common in young dogs, and certain dog breeds like the Lhasa Apso. With this disorder, the gland of the nictitating membrane thickens and slips out of its proper place. When this disorder becomes severe, the red glandular mass swells and protrudes over the edge of the membrane, hence the name “cherry eye.”
Skin Allergies: Lhasa’s may be prone to Atopic Dermatitis. This is caused by an abnormal immune system response. There are many allergies which can affect the skin, and are caused by fleas, dog food and other allergens like pollen in the air. Consult with your veterinarian if your Lhasa suffers from intense itching.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is the name for a group of diseases that cause degeneration of the retina. This will include inherited abnormalities of the light- sensitive cells.
Hip Dysplasia is the abnormal development of the hip joint in dog breeds like the Lhasa Apso. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease.
Patellar Luxation: This is a hereditary condition that is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap(patella).X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement. Treatment usually involves surgical options.
Exercise
All dogs need exercise, some more so than others! The Lhasa Apso dog breed is one that does well with fun exercise schedules. Off-leash runs at the dog park or beach work wonders to keep your pooch calm and focused. Combining that with positive training classes, allows for your Lhasa to be happy and healthy.
Grooming
The Lhasa Apso has a long coat that will need to be maintained to prevent matting. It’s best with this breed to opt for a professional clipping. Daily grooming is necessary to maintain coat and skin health. It also promotes new hair growth. Try finishing sprays and dry canine shampoos as well.
Teeth need to be brushed daily with a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Ears need to be cleaned weekly and checked for sensitivity. Nails trimmed as needed. Your Lhasa will need to have a professional dental cleaning twice a year.
The feisty and stubborn Lhasa Apso adapts easily to any home. Although they may look like couch potatoes, this dog breed needs exercise and mental stimulation. The Lhasa does well in home environments that will pamper them. This dog breed needs a firm dog parent, and consistent housetraining with lots of fun canine sports that the entire family can partake in.
THE ABYSSINIAN CAT
Abyssinian cats get their name from the term Abyssinia which was a former name for Ethiopia. A breed with fine bone and elaborate pose Abyssinian cats never fail to impress us. They have a tabby yet multi-colored coat that gives them an intricate look and elegant appearance.
Brief History
There are many stories that surround the Abyssinian cat’s origins however many cat fanciers believe that this breed’s first ancestors were from parts of Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean coast. Traders within these regions were accredited for the cat’s migration into other continental parts such as Arabia and Africa. Some breeds said to be in the Abyss genetic background are Russian Blues, Burnese and Siamese. During the 19th century the breed became famous in Great Britain with belief that British soldiers deployed in various parts of Africa and Asia brought it back home by the end of their expeditions.
Physical Features
The Abyssinian is quite slender but with fine bone and an average body size. They have almond shaped eyes that glare with expression while their ears are large and tend to be pointed with alertness. A kitten Abyssinian is born with a dark coat that lightens with age and as they proceed into adulthood their coats become soft, silky to the touch and ideally fine but close lying and dense.
Average Height:
8-10 inches
Average Weight:
8-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
9-15 years
Temperament
Abyssinians are generally friendly in nature showing affection for kids and other pets. They are also playful, dislike being lonely or in boring environments and can make good therapy pets thanks to this appeal. As for the family an Abyssinian’s affection is averagely placed meaning that they neither love nor hate to belong to a particular grouping. Everything they do is done willingly and with enthusiasm making them one cat breed that knows how to live every second of their life to the fullest. Any activity, be it play, climbing, jumping or running is done with energy and passion.
Abyssinian cat
Special Needs
They are not the lazing around type of cats, and with a high level of intelligence they can act according to your mood. If it’s time for play, you’ll definitely have a playmate. If you want to easily get along with your Abyssinian it’s a good idea to ensure that the type of relationship that exists between you is complementary rather than opposing.
Possible Health Concerns
Just like all other pedigreed and mixed-breed cats, Abyssinians are vulnerable to certain diseases that may be hereditary or those caused through certain mutation flaws. The most fatal genetic condition is Pyruvate kinase deficiency. Pyruvate Kinase is an enzyme present in all red blood cell bearing animals. This enzyme is necessary for energy metabolism within the red blood cells. The Pyruvate Kinase deficiency is caused by a recessive gene and it is a known hereditary condition in various cat breeds. This deficiency may show in kittens as young as 6 months or even older cats of 12 years and more. Breeders are advised to have their stock screened for this condition since has no known treatment. Other diseases and health conditions are: Hyperesthesia syndrome, Patellar luxation, Progressive retinal atrophy and Renal amyloidosis.
Exercise
Exercise to the Abyssinian should be equal to play. Keep in mind that they are very energetic and enthusiastic cats who’d rather be involved in a fun muscle exciting activity rather than a boring one that inspires little or no muscle movement. The country side or a yard with plenty of trees for them to climb is essential. Regular climbing keeps their joints active and to get down, they’d rather jump as heights do not scare them.
Grooming
Abyssinians have a short coat that doesn’t shed a lot. This coat is easy to maintain and weekly grooming should be enough to remove any dead hairs and keep it shiny and healthy. Trim the nails every fortnight and brush the teeth regularly to prevent it from contracting periodontal disease.
These cats make excellent pets as they are very independent and well-mannered thus needing less supervisory attention from their owners.
THE FRENCH BULLDOG
The French Bulldog, also known as the Bouledogue Francais, or Frenchie, looks like a miniature Bulldog. The Frenchie originated from France, and was bred from miniature Bulldogs as a companion dog. This is a muscular and heavily boned breed, with a short tail, large bat-like ears, and heavily wrinkled skin around the head, neck and shoulders. Frenchies are fun and affectionate dogs.
Brief History
During the late 19th Century, the French Bulldog was bred as a companion dog by English lace workers who emigrated to France. The English dogs were bred with local dogs in France, and soon this breed became fashionable.
Physical Features
The French Bulldog has a large, square head with an upturned nose, and a short and wrinkled muzzle. Their ears are naturally upright, rounded with a batlike appearance. Their skin is soft, with wrinkles at the head, neck and shoulders. Coats can be brindle, fawn, white, or brindle and white.
Average Height:
11-13 inches
Average Weight:
18-28 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-12 years
Temperament
This breed is affectionate, alert, curious and intelligent. They get along with other dogs and people and make for great guard dogs, but don’t bark as much as smaller breeds. French Bulldogs adapt easily to apartment life since they don’t require a lot of exercise. Although this breed can be stubborn, they are easy keepers, and do best with positive training and plenty of socialization. This breed is gentle with children, and also enjoys living with single pet parents.
Special Needs
This is a brachycephalic breed, also known as a short-faced or snub-nosed breed, and needs to have plenty of protection from heatstroke. This breed does well indoors during extreme temperatures. They also need to be supervised when around water or swimming pools – they can’t swim due to their front-heavy build.
Possible Health Concerns
Since French Bulldogs have flat faces, they are more sensitive to anesthesia. They may also be susceptible to:
Atopic Dermatitis. A common allergic skin condition. Constant itching and scratching leads to hair loss and scabbing, resulting in secondary bacterial infections. Treatment involves antihistamines, change of environment, essential fatty acid supplements (EFA), and medicated shampoos.
Congenital Vertebral Anomalies. French Bulldogs may have deformities of the bones in the spine resulting in pressure of the spinal cord, progressive pain, and possibly loss of hind limb function.
Brachycephalic Syndrome. Dogs with this problem will snore, snort and breathe through their mouths.
Elongated Soft Palate. A long palate may result in blockage of part of the airway into the lungs. This causes breathing difficulties, and can be corrected surgically with a high success rate, most especially if the dog is under a year.
Heatstroke. French Bulldogs are more susceptible to heat than many other dog breeds.
Exercise
The French Bulldog does well with light exercise, such as a short walk around the block or brief trip to the dog park. This breed enjoys dog training classes, obedience, agility and some rally sports. However, they should never exert themselves during hot or humid temperatures.
Nutrition
Every dog is different, and some brands of food will be better suited for certain dogs. When it comes to dog foods, understanding your pet’s current health and nutritional needs is important. Consult with your veterinarian for advice. There is no best diet since all French Bulldogs have different dietary needs, so it’s always smart to find the best food to match each individual dog.
Grooming
Daily brushing with a rubber mitt or medium bristle brush will aid in removing loose hair and keep the coat healthy and shiny. Make sure the loose folds around their necks are kept clean and wiped daily, and regularly trim their nails.
Because the French Bulldog is a low energy breed, they make for a wonderful, family-friendly adoption.
THE LABRADOR RETRIEVER
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds. Dogs in this breed are high-energy, intelligent, and social. This breed is a sporting dog, and originated in Newfoundland, first dubbed St. John’s Water dog.
Brief History
The first record of this breed was in Newfoundland in the 1700’s. They were brought to England in the early 1800’s. Some think they were bred from the Greater Newfoundland dog or the French St. Hubert’s dog.
This breed of dog was known for enjoying retrieving, originally with English fisherman in Newfoundland. The fisherman would use them to retrieve fish that had fallen off their hooks, or bring fishing lines in through the water. This made them good hunting dogs. The name Labrador was introduced in 1887 by the Earl of Malmesbury.
Physical Features
Labs come in three colors: black, yellow, or chocolate, with black being the most popular. They have large, stocky bodies. Their coats are dense and short, and repel water and dirt.
Average Height:
22-24 inches
Average Weight:
55-79 lbs
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Temperament
Labrador Retrievers are extremely social, and will want to play quite frequently. They’re fast learners and bond quickly when given attention. They have gentle dispositions, are easy to get along with, and are known to be loyal.
Labs are ideal family dogs, sporting dogs, and therapy dogs. They are obedient with proper training, and their favorite activities are swimming and retrieving (naturally).
Special Needs
Regular exercise is incredibly important for Labrador Retrievers in your family, not only because they are high energy dogs and love to play, but also because they are susceptible to weight gain if they’re sedentary. Labs also have a tendency to push themselves to the limit of their physical abilities, and can overheat in warm weather.
While they are good outdoor dogs, this breed prefers to live inside with their human companions.
Possible Health Concerns
A common health concern for Labrador Retrievers is obesity. Healthy dogs will have an hourglass shape. Other conditions they are susceptible to include:
Patellar Luxation. This happens when the dog’s patella is dislocated. Treatment involves surgery.
Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD). When the ball and socket of the hip joint are malformed and grind against each other instead of moving smoothly. Treatment could be outpatient but it could also involve surgery.
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD). When cartillege in a joint is damaged. Treatment could involve surgery.
Exercise
Labrador Retrievers are highly active, and you’ll need enough space in your home and yard for them to run around. They’ll go on runs or play fetch. You won’t want them to get bored, because they can become temperamental and even be destructive.
Labs need a lot of exercise, and especially love swimming, in any type of water. While young, you’ll need to watch them in the water, but over time they’ll gain confidence.
Nutrition
Each Labrador Retriever is different, and may need different nutritional needs. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian. Since this breed is prone to obesity, monitor their food consumption.
Grooming
Due to their dense coats, Labs will need to be combed weekly if not daily. They also shed, so watch out for your carpets! Their coats are resistant to water and also dirt, so brushing is mostly for shedding maintenance and to keep them looking healthy. They’ll need regular nail trimming and ear cleaning as well.
Labrador Retrievers are high-energy, loyal, family dogs who love attention and being involved in family activities. Know that when you adopt, you’ll have to put the time in to train them, but your efforts will be rewarded!
