A newly-updated practical guide to pet-keeping, covering all aspects of choosing and caring for small mammals including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils and jirds, chinchillas, rats and mice - plus birds, herptiles, invertebrates and fish. Each chapter features the most popular breeds in each species, based on general availability and suitability. Find out how to choose the best pet for your lifestyle plus practical tips on buying a pet; housing and exercise; foods for a balanced diet; pet health and what to do when your pet is sick. This is a perfect reference book on petcare for any owner. Expert advice on choosing and buying a pet, the breeds, housing, feeding, handling, showing and health care. Helpful information and fascinating insights about every aspect of caring for the most popular pet species. How to select the right pet for your lifestyle, including choosing exotic species and the most suitable pets for young children and families. Maintaining a pet's health, plus the equipment needed to house, feed and exercise pets correctly, and detailed advice on training, handling, showing and breeding pets.

Encyclopedia of Geology, Second Edition presents in six volumes state-of-the-art reviews on the various aspects of geologic research, all of which have moved on considerably since the writing of the first edition. New areas of discussion include extinctions, origins of life, plate tectonics and its influence on faunal provinces, new types of mineral and hydrocarbon deposits, new methods of dating rocks, and geological processes. Users will find this to be a fundamental resource for teachers and students of geology, as well as researchers and non-geology professionals seeking up-to-date reviews of geologic research.

This comprehensive guide is the most complete owner's manual for keeping all types of freshwater and marine fish. The book will take you through all the options in choosing the right fish for any water temperature - tropical and coldwater - and for all types of environment - indoor aquariums or outdoor ponds. Know the difference between keeping marine fish and freshwater fish, including differences in aquarium setups, and feeding and caring for your pet fish. Learn to tell if your fish are healthy and find out everything you need to breed them successfully. The Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish contains a huge photographic colour reference directory of over 800 of the most popular fish, which not only shows you what they look like, but also gives you the key information you need, such as how big they will grow, whether they integrate with different fish, what food they eat, and what water type and temperature they prefer.

Describing the most intriguing creatures on the planet, from the big cats of Africa to the apes that are our closest evolutionary ancestors and the whales and dolphins that roam the world's oceans, Animals profiles over 400 of the world's most fascinating species, offering a truly comprehensive overview of animals from every continent and giving a sense of the incredible diversity of animal types. Featured animals are grouped by order, then within each order by family; each family section contains examples of the key species, which are illustrated with beautifully detailed, full-colour artworks. For easy reference, each entry includes a table of information on scientific name, order and family, features, habitats, distribution, diet and breeding, as well as informative maps and detailed box features. Packed full of information and colour, Animals is guaranteed to appeal to any budding zoologist or animal enthusiast.

Dogs can find themselves homeless and living on the streets for a wide variety of reasons. The lucky ones are taken to rescue shelters where staff work hard to re-home them. Adopting and caring for a re-homed dog can be challenging at first, but when it works out you really do have a friend for life. This new book includes everything that anyone taking on a rescue dog will need to know. It addresses a rescue dog’s specific needs, such as learning to play, coping with separation anxiety, eating disorders and lack of trust, and provides practical, expert guidance on how best to deal with issues as they arise to make your dog grow in confidence and security over time.

Birds are a delight in the garden, not only for their beauty and birdsong, but also because they eat many harmful garden pests. This book contains a wealth of feeding ideas for backyard birds, from seeds, grains and peanuts to fruits, suet cakes and fat balls, and suggestions for the best flowers, shrubs, hedges and trees to plant to encourage birds into the garden. There are step-by-step projects for tables, nest boxes, birdbaths and birdhouses that will enhance and decorate your garden, and the book also features illustrated directories of the most common garden birds in the UK and in the USA, from woodland and countryside locations to town and city environments, with information about identification, distribution, habitat and feeding habits. With its helpful practical advice and superb photographs and illustrations, this is the ideal source book for all wildlife enthusiasts Learn what to feed garden birds, from seeds, grains and peanuts to fruits, suet cakes and fat balls, as well as how to attract birds by planting the right flower borders, trees and shrubs, and by making wildlife hedges and ponds * Features practical step-by-step projects for making your own feeders, tables, birdbaths and nest boxes, from simple designs to highly ornamental creations * Includes a visual directory of all the most common garden bird species, with natural history information on distribution, size, nesting, eggs and feeding habits * Explains how birds live - from flying and feeding to egg-laying and migrating - with a guide to birdwatching in urban, country, woodland and aquatic locations * With over 760 beautiful photographs and illustrations.

Science is now providing some remarkable insights into animal behavior, with crocodiles, for example, emerging as devoted parents, and elephants - like whales - able to communicate with each other across long distances by ultrasound, which is inaudible to our ears. There seems little doubt that animals experience a range of emotions, just as we do; but can they grieve, too? David Alderton - award-winning, multi-million specialist animal author - contends that emotions - including grief - can potentially have a survival value for a species. The authoritative, rational text is superbly supported by interesting, sensitive photographs carefully chosen to be reflective of the subject matter. Unique subject matter, drawing on the latest research - Covers both domestic and wild animals - A subject that has intrigued pet owners for many years - Fascinating insights into the natural world - Insights into how grieving may help wild animals to survive - How this could affect conservation planning - Sensitive, rational approach to the subject - The impact on pet owners and their animals - Written by an award-winning, multi-million selling specialist animal author - A book with widespread appeal for anyone with an interest in the natural world

This is a practical guide to caring for your pet, in step-by-step photographs. It is packed with essential information and advice, from how to choose a dog, to feeding and healthcare. Ideal for 5- to 9-year-olds, this book will enable children to make friends with their puppy or dog and show them how to get the most out of being a responsible and thoughtful pet owner. The practical guidance is complemented by 60 wonderful photographs that highlight the many different varieties and capture the appeal of mankind's best friend. There is more to being a pet owner than just providing a good home - it is a big responsibility. This fascinating book is a guide for young animal lovers on how best to look after their pet. It tells you all about the different breeds available, preparing a home for your new puppy or dog, how to choose the best one for you, and how to look after your canine friend so that it leads a long and happy life. You can find out what to feed your pet and when, how to groom its coat properly and how to give it a bath. You will also learn how to teach your dog with the necessary basic training. With easy-to-follow instructions and appealing photographs throughout, this is the only book a junior dog owner will need.

This is a practical guide to caring for your pet, in step-by-step photographs. Filled with useful information and guidance, from how to choose a guinea pig, to feeding and healthcare, this title offers practical advice on how to groom your pet, how to know when it is unwell, and cleaning out its cage, all shown in over 60 easy-to-follow pictures. Ideal for 5- to 9-year-olds, this book will enable children to make friends with their guinea pig and show them how to get the most out of being a responsible and caring pet owner. Being a pet owner is a big responsibility. There is more to it than simply providing a good home. This informative book is a guide for junior animal lovers on how best to look after their pet. Clear advice is given on the different breeds available, preparing a home for your guinea pig, how to choose the best pet for you, and how to look after your little friend so that it leads a happy and healthy life. Find out what to feed your pet and when, and how to clean out its home. You can also learn how to handle your guinea pig safely and how to groom its coat properly. With simple step-by-step instructions and appealing photographs throughout, this is the only book a young guinea pig owner will ever need.

An extensive and clear recognition guide to over 300 dog breeds from around the world. Introducing Handbook of Dogs - a comprehensive and concise pocket guide to dogs from all over the world. Authoritative text, crystal-clear photography, and a systematic approach, make this an incredibly comprehensive and concise pocket guide to dogs of the world. Have you ever seen an adorable dog in the park or in a car window and desperately wondered what breed it was? Then this book may be for you! This handy reference book is designed to cut through the process of identification and help you to recognise a breed quickly and easily Dive straight in to discover: -Packed with more than 1,000 full-colour photographs of over 300 dog breeds, -Each entry includes at-a-glance facts for quick reference -Photographs show close-ups of key details and highlight distinguishing features -Colour portraits show the whole dog, making it easy to compare breeds -Illustrations indicate the typical size of each animal Expertly written and thoroughly vetted, each entry combines a precise description with annotated photographs to highlight the characteristics and distinguishing features of each breed, while bands provide at-a-glance facts for quick reference. From choosing your dog to domestic dog groups, herding dogs to working dogs, this all-encompassing handbook of dogs truly does have something for every dog-lover, both new and experienced, to love! The introduction traces the evolution of the domestic dog, explains the difference between pedigrees and non-pedigrees, looks at how breeds are classified, and examines their characteristics in detail. Designed to delight and inform dog-lovers of all ages - from new owners to established enthusiasts, and envious admirers keen to tell terriers apart - the DK Handbook of Dogs offers a quick, easy way to hone your knowledge of hounds! At DK, we believe in the power of discovery. So why not explore the rest of the books in our Handbook complete collection? Discover the awe-inspiring world of astronomy with Handbook of Stars and Planets, brush up on facts about felines with Handbook of Cats, or dive deep into the past when dinosaurs roamed the earth with Handbook of Dinosaurs.

The habitats of Great Britain, Europe and Africa boast some of the most interesting and adaptable members of the avian world. This accessible and fully illustrated guide presents some of the rare and familiar species of these lands. From the grace of a mute swan to the striking casque of an African crowned hornbill, each has the power to enthrall. An expert, accessible introduction explains how birds evolved, their different habitats and habits, and gives practical tips on fieldcraft. A directory of over 550 species features intricate artworks, and describes everything from variable plumage to bill shapes, distribution, size, food, eggs and nests.

This newly updated book is an essential reference manual for bird-keepers of all levels – from the novice looking to keep a single pet bird indoors to the seasoned breeder wishing to extend an existing aviary collection. A close look at more than 250 examples provides a fascinating insight into the coloration, characteristics, weaknesses and breeding habits of each of the major groups: waxbills, weavers, wydahs, canaries and related finches, quails and pheasants, softbills, Australian parakeets, cockatiels, cockatoos, lories and lorikeets, parrots, doves and pigeons. The book provides all the bird husbandry information needed for bird-keepers everywhere. • Step-by-step instructions on caring for pet birds in the home or outdoor aviary • Includes a photographic directory of more than 250 of the world’s most popular bird varieties • Advice on selecting the right bird for your lifestyle, including buying varieties for novices, for breeding and for showing, and all the equipment you will need • How to keep pet birds healthy and in the best condition, and what to do when problems occur

Crossbreeding between different types of dog is not a new phenomenon, and, over recent years, interest in crossbreeding has grown, partly due to curiosity but more significantly because the role of dogs in our lives has undergone a dramatic change as they have become one of the family. As a result, breeders are seeking to create new, distinctive, friendly companion dogs that will thrive in domestic surroundings. The lovable Cockapoo is one of the oldest members of the so-called 'designer dog' group, and, in this essential guide, you will find everything you need to know about choosing, buying and enjoying your Cockapoo, including breed background, settling in your new arrival, establishing a daily routine and what to expect as your canine companion grows up. This book includes over 100 illustrations - many specially commissioned - that colourfully illustrate and describe these captivating dogs.

The habitats of Great Britain, Europe and Africa boast some of the most interesting and adaptable members of the avian world. This accessible and fully illustrated guide presents some of the rare and familiar species of these lands. From the grace of a mute swan to the striking casque of an African crowned hornbill, each has the power to enthrall. An expert, accessible introductionexplains how birds evolved, their different habitats and habits and gives practical tips on fieldcraft. A directory of over 560 species features intricate artworks, and details everything from variable plumage to bill shapes, distribution, size, food, eggs and nests.

The habitats of Great Britain, Europe and Africa boast some of the most interesting and adaptable members of the avian world. This accessible and fully illustrated guide presents some of the rare and familiar species of these lands. From the tiny malachite sunbird to the enormous ostrich; from the grace of a mute swan to the striking casque of an African crowned hornbill - each has the power to enthrall.An expert, accessible introduction explains how birds evolved, bird behaviour, practical tips on fieldcraft, and the different habitats in which birds can be found. A directory of over 560 species features intricate colour artworks, and details everything from variable plumage to bill shapes, distribution, size, food, eggs and nests. The birds are grouped by habitat and type - including oceanic, estuarine, freshwater, woodland, open country and urban species. With over 535 individual colour illustrations and photographs, this comprehensive visual encyclopedia is a classic reference for all bird enthusiasts.

This is a practical guide to caring for your pet, in step-by-step photographs. It is packed with all the essential information you need - choosing the right rabbit, preparing a home for it, what to feed it and when, and keeping your pet healthy. It includes 60 instructional and inspirational photographs. It allows young readers to make friends with their rabbit and shows them how to get the most out of being a responsible and caring pet owner. It is ideal for 5- to 9-year-olds. Owning a rabbit is a big responsibility. There is more to it than simply providing it with a home. This exciting book is a guide for young animal lovers on how best to look after a pet. Simple and helpful advice is given on preparing for your new rabbit, and how to choose the best type for you. You can learn about the different breeds, from the Netherland Dwarf to the British Giant. You can also find out how to pick up and carry your rabbit safely, how to clean out its hutch, how to groom its coat properly, and how to look after it so that it leads a long and happy life. Clear step-by-step instructions, together with appealing photographs of rabbits and their young owners, make this book both useful and fun to read.

This is a practical guide to caring for your pet, in step-by-step photographs. It is filled with useful information and guidance, from how to choose a hamster, to feeding and healthcare. It includes practical advice on how to handle your pet, what to do if it escapes, and how to keep it safe from danger, all shown in 60 easy-to-follow photographs. It is written by an internationally renowned authority on pets and their care. It is perfect for 5- to 9-year-olds, this book will enable children to make friends with their hamster and get the most out of being a responsible and caring pet owner. There is more to keeping a hamster than just providing it with a good home. Owning even the smallest pet is a big responsibility, but an enjoyable one. This fascinating book is a useful and accessible guide for young animal lovers on how best to care for their pet. It explains all you need to know about the different breeds that are available, including long- and short-haired varieties, and useful items to include in your hamster's home, such as a drinking bottle and an exercise wheel. Practical guidance is complemented by 60 instructional and inspirational photographs, showing how to pick up your pet safely, and how to clean and maintain its cage, making this the only book a junior hamster owner will ever need.

This is an authoritative family guide to caring for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, jirds, rats, mice and chinchillas, with more than 250 photographs. It features all the practical advice you need to ensure a happy home for your small pet: choosing and buying, housing, feeding and nutrition, general care, handling, exercise, breeding, grooming and showing. It provides instructions for all the most familiar types of small pet - including smooth-coated and long-haired varieties - as well as more unusual pets such as chipmunks, spiny mice and sugar gliders. It is an authoritative guide to health care and first aid: common problems to watch out for in your pet, and what to do when things go wrong. It is an informative text from one of the subject's leading petcare experts, and fully illustrated with over 250 photographs for identification and to show how to do each practical task. Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, jirds, rats, mice and chinchillas make excellent animal companions, particularly for children. For anyone unable to decide which pet to buy, the range and depth of information covered here will ensure an informed choice. There are descriptions of the temperament and physical characteristics of each species, and practical advice on indoor and outdoor housing, handling and exercising your pet, nutrition, grooming, showing, and pet health. Beautifully illustrated with over 250 photographs, this expertly written manual will provide all the knowledge you need to care for your pet with complete confidence.