A Decade of Progress - Pet Owners more environmentally Responsible

The latest research into pet ownership, conducted with approximately 1,000 Australians by Roy Morgan Research has shown that pet owners are more aware of their responsibilities to the environment than they were a decade ago.

Pet ownership brings many benefits to owners and the communities they and their pets are part of, but it is vital that the responsibilities of being a pet owner are understood and acted on.

In 1994, when the last research was done, 63% of owners reported that they kept their cats in at night, whereas in 2006 the comparable figure is 78%.

There are similar improvements in the number of owners who report cleaning up after their dog. 64% of dog owners now report that they ‘always’ pick up their dog droppings, compared with 33% in 1994.

It is particularly pleasing that 61% of the general population felt that the extent to which dog owners pick up droppings had either ‘increased a lot’ or ‘increased moderately’ since 1994.

Carl Carthy, pet lover and CEO of Greening Australia is the owner of two dachshunds, a breed that was originally bred to hunt badgers. He is highly conscious of the need to check the garden because he is lucky enough to have koalas, echidnas and blue tongues lizards visit from time to time.

He checks the garden before letting them out in the morning and never leaves them outside in the garden unsupervised.

Next week, leading animal behaviourist, Kersti Seksel, provides 10 top Eco tips for pet owners

Creating an Under Water World

An aquarium has been accredited with soothing qualities and after a hectic day at the office the blood pressure is undoubtedly lowered by watching fish glide past.

Aquariums range from basic fish bowls containing one or two common garden variety goldfish to salt water aquariums containing exotic marine life and colourful fish more likely to be found around coral reefs.

There are lots of ways to set up an aquarium in an attractive manner and there are no limits to your fantasy. The size of the aquarium depends on your personal choice and the space available. The number of fish you keep will be determined by the size of the tank. Fish need approximately 1 litre of water per centimetre length of fish.

Decide where you want to put your tank before you set it up as it is almost impossible to move even moderate sized tanks once they are filled with water. A place near the window is not an ideal situation as temperatures will vary greatly and the sunlight will cause algae growth.

If the tank is to be placed on a flat surface, such as a bench or table top, it is important to check that the surface is even as the glass base will break under the weight of the water if the surface is uneven.
If your tank is to have a filter system, lights etc, then a power supply will be needed close to the tank.

The bottom of the aquarium should be covered with river sand or a gravel sold by dealers. Rinse the gravel thoroughly with running water before putting it in the tank. Fish like cover and this can be provided by using rocks of varying sizes as decoration.

Any stones which contain lime or metal are toxic to fish. All rocks should be rinsed with boiling water before being used.

Without preparation tap water is unsuitable to use in aquariums. Your aquarium or dealer will be able to advise you on water conditioners to remove chloride, fluoride etc from the water.

Plants are essential to the environment of your underwater world as well as decorative. Plants enrich the water with oxygen and also provide hiding places for the fish. In the beginning fast growing plants should be placed in the tank. Before planting remove all frayed or sick leaves. Make a hole in the gravel and insert the roots of the plant and cover.

The most important equipment which you can purchase for your tank is a filter system.
This will save you a lot of work keeping the tank clean.
Tropical fish will require heaters in their tank to maintain a constant water temperature.

Rough Coated Collie –a lovable Lassie

The Rough Collie started life as a rough-and-tumble sheep herding dog in Scotland many years ago.

It was not until Queen Victoria's interest in the breed elevated his status from that of a lowly shepherd's helper to a favourite of royalty and the wealthier classes, that he started climbing the popularity ladder.

Becoming immortalised for all time through M.G.M.'s "Lassie" films, the Collie has gone on to become one of the world's most recognisable and beloved breeds.

No longer in demand as a herder, today's Collie has transferred these abilities to serving as a devoted family dog, with a particular affinity for small children. Never happier than when he has a job to do, the Collie delights in adopting the dual role of family companion and watchdog.

The Rough Collie's abundant two-ply coat, which comes in tonings of sable and white, tricolour, or blue merle, is without doubt his crowning glory. Although it obviously needs regular grooming to keep it clean and in good order, it helps that the Collie is not so profusely coated around the legs as many of the other heavily coated breeds.

Like all working dogs, the Rough Collie needs regular exercise to keep him in trim. Intuitive and anxious to please, he also responds well to training.