Paulie Pays Back

Oftentimes, i transferred bird cages from one corner to the other, or sometimes transferred them from flight cages to breeding cages or vice versa. Yesterday, as i was busy doing the same, i switched Paulie's Nest Box with the other Cockatiel's Box. In doing so, i just put a small wired cover unto the hole of Paulie's Cage and has continued my activities... Been very busy that didnt noticed that my dear parrot has loosen the cover and accidentally escaped. It may have taken quite a long while before i noticed that he wasn't on his cage anymore and found him resting on top the aviary facade, looking at the open space where there are lot of trees beyond his view. At first, i must admit that i got worried seeing him from there, that he might fly away and be gone. But looking through, i always believed he loves me, and will never leave. I have been his dear friend and confident with the friendship we have. With that chance to be free and back to nature, what would Paulie choose?

He flew!!! But on my shoulder and kissed me. With that, he has only proven how much he treasures me as his mother, friend, a companion. Paulie has nothing to prove his love to me anymore --- i am glad he pays back all the love i gave to him.

Three Remaaining Stands Up Fot Sale

Ibonlandia's Dream

Dreams are free (Libre Ang Mangarap) as folks are saying, with that Ibonlandia never stops from developing innovative bird and parrot toys for your pet birds delight. We have come up with different unique, creative, original bird stuff using our very own indigenous materials like buri, rafia, bamboo, abaca, coconut, and rattan.

Ibonlandia's Dream

Dreams are free (Libre Ang Mangarap) as folks are saying, with that Ibonlandia never stops from developing innovative bird and parrot toys for your pet birds delight. We have come up with different unique, creative, original bird stuff using our very own indigenous materials like buri, rafia, bamboo, abaca, coconut, and rattan.

Great Artwork In Germany Lake

Check Out The Giant Nude Lady Who Is Bathing In A German Lake

Visitors to Hamburg's Alster Lake will get a serious eyeful for the next 10 days.

Artist Oliver Voss just unveiled his enormous sculpture of a lady bathing in the lake, and it's already causing an uproar among some locals.

The sculpture, named "The Bather," is "sullying the beloved lake," district mayor Markus Schreiber told a local newspaper, according to The Daily Mail.

The three-piece statue is made of steel and styrofoam, and stands 13 feet high.

And she makes a fantastic backdrop for tourists boating on the lake.

Raffia Toys - New Indigenous Bird Toys

The Many Benefits of the Right Parrot Stand

Parrots are wonderful pets that can bring a lot of joy to the lives of their owners. They can bond very closely with them and provide both companionship and entertainment. It is important to take good care of all of our pets, including parrots. One of the things that a parrot can really benefit from is the right parrot stand.

Here are just three of the benefits that the right parrot stand can bring to both the parrot and the parrot owner.

#1 - Parrots need to be active and play for a good amount of their day. The right parrot stand will either come with a good selection of toys, bars, or branches for the parrot to play with, or it will have several spots on it where it is easy to attach those things. By providing a place for their parrot to play, the owner is making sure they are happy and is helping them to live a long life.

#2 - Parrots, like many birds, are very sensitive to change and unfamiliar surroundings. If the bird's owner can make them as comfortable as possible, they are doing a good job of keeping them healthy. A good way to do this is to get a bird cage that has the parrot stand mounted either on its side or on its top. This allows them to be active and on display very close to what they consider their home. This can be very comforting to a parrot.

#3 - Parrots bond strongly with their owner and anything that encourages the owner to interact with them is going to be very healthy for the bird. The right parrot stand placed in the right spot in the house could encourage the owner, or other occupants of the house, to stop and talk or play with the bird more often. This can end up helping keep the bird happier and even create a somewhat stronger bond between bird and owner than was there before.

Finding the right parrot stand is easier than most people think though as there is a lot available out there on the market. This can make the parrot healthier, the owner happier, and can help everyone be more satisfied with the life they share with their pet.

The Doodle Swing - The Newest Birdloloy

Whats hot and latest from ibonlandia? We have launched the Doodle Swing... A swing with a sturdy perch that can not be broken ever. It is made of high grade plastic tube that ensures not only the saety of our birds but is also easy to clean and will last for-ever.

It is being offered at its introductory price of P200.00 only. Applicable to all sizes of birds.

Kalangay - The Red Vented Cockatoo

The Red-vented Cockatoo, Cacatua haematuropygia, sometimes called the Philippine Cockatoo or Kalangay, is an endemic Philippine cockatoo roughly the size and shape of the Tanimbar Corella. It is easily distinguished by the red feathers around the vent.

Description

The plumage is all white with red undertail coverts tipped white, yellowish undertail and pale yellow underwings. It is 12.2 inches long and has an 8.6 inches wingspan.

The Red-vented Cockatoo makes a characteristic bleating call, as well as screeching or whistling noises that are common to most cockatoos. It is quieter than most cockatoos, and much quieter than the Umbrella Cockatoo or Moluccan Cockatoo.

[edit] Distribution and status

Red-vented Cockatoos were formerly widely distributed on all larger and many smaller islands of the Philippines, excluding northern and central Luzon. In the early 1990s the total wild population was estimated at 1000-4000, however, by 2008 this was reduced to probably less than 1000. Now remnant populations exist on the islands of Palawan, Tawitawi, Mindanao and Masbate. The species stronghold is the Palawan Faunal Region where the Katala Foundation has been running the Philippine Cockatoo Conservation Programme since 1998. There are around 180 found in wilderness conservation in Narra, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

A captive population is bred by Antonio de Dios's Birds International near Manila.

This bird is critically endangered. Populations have decreased dramatically due to illegal trapping for the cage-bird trade. The high price fetched per bird (c.US$160 in Manila in 1997) means that chicks are taken from virtually every accessible nest. Other contributing factors are loss of coastal habitat and persecution as an agricultural pest.

Behaviour

The Red-vented Cockatoo is a social species which roosts, feeds, and flies in noisy groups but during the mating season, from March to July, pairs live apart from the flock.

They feed on seeds, and, to a lesser extent, on fruits, flowers, buds and nectar. The species is very adaptable and even forages on crops, particularly rice, when half-ripe, and corn, hence becoming regarded a pest.

Top 5 Companion Birds

This is a list of the Top 5 Companion Bird Species available. Brief descriptions of these popular birds are sure to help potential owners decide which type of pet bird they should buy.


1. Parakeets/Budgies

"The common Parakeet, or Budgerigar to be exact, makes a wondeful pet for children or those who are new to keeping birds. These hardy little jewels come in an array of beautiful colors, and require less space and maintenance than larger bird species. They are quite intelligent in spite of their small size, and while most are content to whistle and sing, some have been known to learn a word or two. Average life expectancy is 12 to 14 years."


"2. Cockatiels"

""These medium sized birds are simply a delight to keep. Members of the parrot family, these Australian natives are known for their surprisingly advanced whistling and singing abilities. While Cockatiels are capable of learning to talk, many owners find that their birds prefer to whistle, and tend to mimic quirky, random sounds such as the ringing of a telephone. These birds are available in increasingly diverse color combinations and have an average life expectancy of between 15 and 20 years.""


""3. Finches and Canaries""

""Finches and Canaries are other popular types of pet birds. With most varieties measuring 5 inches or less, Finches and Canaries require less space than most other bird species. Unlike parrots, which are hookbills, Finches and Canaries are known as softbills or waxbills. These little birds thrive in small flocks, and generally pay little attention to humans -- making them perfect pets for those who love to watch birds, but would like a pet that requires minimal interaction. A well cared for Finch or Canary can live for up to 10 years.""


""4. Lovebirds""

""Lovebirds are one of the smallest known parrot species. These beautiful little birds should not be overlooked in favor of larger, more demanding parrots; any Lovebird owner will tell you that these birds possess all the intelligence and personality of the largest of macaws. These birds are fairly quiet companions, making them ideal for those who live in apartments or condominiums. At around 6 inches long, the Lovebird has a life expectancy of up to 20 years.""


""5. African Greys""

""African Greys have been said to be the most intelligent of birds, some boasting vocabularies of up to 2,000 words! Because these birds are so smart, they tend to be demanding pets, and will get bored quickly if not stimulated. If you are looking for a highly intelligent and affectionate friend, however, the African Grey may be right up your alley. Greys typically live 50-70 years. ""

The Responsible Breeder

That Truly Rare Breed
"The Responsible Breeder"

This article is contributed by Serafina Cupido, a rescuer who used to participate actively in breeding and showing. Introduction The true "responsible breeder" or "good breeder" has a tall order to fill. They are few and far between. Many people breed animals, but few truly have their best interests at heart. Just because people have a so-called "right" to own or breed animals doesn't mean that everyone and anyone should. It usually isn't difficult to produce animal offspring, but part of being a moral and ethical human being means we have the ability to use our intelligence and compassion when dealing with beings we can control. Those people who strive to meet and exceed the challenge of being a good breeder realize they are moving towards a very difficult, but attainable goal. That goal is the unsurpassed health and functional structure of a particular breed type so that all caring pet owners may enjoy long and happy lives with their chosen dependants. Responsible breeders have obligations not only to the animals, but to all other people who care for animals now and in the future. They accept all responsibility for everything that happens to their breeding stock. This can often include the early and often preventable death of some. Even the most careful breeders lose some of their animals earlier than those not in a breeding program due to the added risks caused by high performance needs such as pregnancy and parturition (giving birth). Good breeders accept and acknowledge these facts. There are no excuses to be made. Good breeders also do not hastily encourage other prospective breeders. It is an extremely demanding job. They should often refer prospective adoptive families to reputable rescues and shelters when appropriate. This is not a money-making venture or contest to see who can breed the most winners or sell the most animals. The best interests of the animals and best suited placements should always be of paramount concern. Education Good breeders educate themselves before acquiring any animals. It should go without saying that knowledge of the basics such as proper daily care and basic veterinary care (at the least) is necessary. Then, breeders must spend countless hours and years researching genetics, specific lines, various faults, and potential congenital or other health issues. Attending shows to study various breeding combinations and types helps develop a sharp eye for quality animals. Experienced and established breeders can be priceless mentors and should be consulted for advice and assistance with newer breeding programs. All the above information is vital in producing functional and healthy companions. The education should continue throughout the breeder's career, as new advances are constantly being developed. Health Health should be a top priority. Good husbandry is vital in maintaining healthy animals. All animals should have ample room and clean cages with appropriate bedding and shelter. Animals should be part of the family and checked on several times throughout the day. This is easiest to do when most are housed in the home and should be a requirement for many species. There should never be an ammonia odor! Everything the animals come in contact with should be cleaned thoroughly and frequently. Animals should not be housed together for convenience or space constraints. They should not be "collected" either, which is a consequence of over breeding and mismanagement. If resources are short, a breeder should not take on more animals than can be properly cared for or breed at all. Pet ownership is not required of any human. They did not ask to be bred or owned by someone who does not have the time, ability, or funds to do what is right. Food and water should be fresh, high-quality, and given often. Water should always be available. Grooming is frequent and includes, but is not limited to trimming toenails, cleaning ears, and bathing. All animals should be well-socialized. Temperament is about 60% inherited and 40% learned. Good temperament should be the only thing bred into a line! Often these basic needs are the ones lacking, which saddens all who strive to meet the important goals. If such basic requirements are not met, how can a person even aspire to be a breeder? Breeder's standards are so much higher than average pet homes since they are role models in every aspect of animal care. They are called upon to not only care for their own animals, but be active in doing what they can to stop and prevent animal abuses outside their homes. Breeding A breeder realizes every female bred may die due to their involvement. No animals are bred before maturation, "accidentally", or too late. Each female should be allowed a proper recovery period between litters and not exceed 1 or 2 litters in a lifetime. More than that is unnecessary and irresponsible. Since breeders are attempting to improve health and type, the successive generations should be of better quality than the foundation animals. If this is not achieved, breeding programs should be seriously re-evaluated. A good breeder never has more than 1 or 2 litters a year. They don't need to. Quality, not quantity is their motto. Good breeders actively show their animals to prove their quality against other animals of the same type. Yes, it is necessary. The input of other breeders is also to be considered. More experienced breeders can help point out faults which enable the less experienced to improve their lines. Excellent record keeping is a cornerstone in a breeding program. Genetics, health, and breeding records aid educated decisions about breeding programs and not choices based on whims, which opens the door to all sorts of problems. Congenital problems should be the rarest of rare. "Breeding out" serious health problems should not even be considered. Such animals shouldn't be bred at all. If the lines have evident health defects, there are enough animals out there that much better choices may be made! All animals should be fully current on regular veterinary exams, pre-breeding screening, vaccinations (if warranted), and parasite-free. Outbreaks of infectious disease and parasitism are inexcusable. All new or ill animals should be properly conditioned, treated, and quarantined to minimize risks to others. Ill animals must receive competent veterinary attention and be cared for if treatable. Real breeders would not euthanize sick animals which require time, money, and extra care. Things such as pyometra and dystocia are often a part of breeding animals and can require costly surgery to fix. Placement and Responsibility Good breeders have pets NOT possessions, and would not dispose of their older animals, but retire them (spaying/neutering when applicable). They should have some retired animals living to and past average life expectancies. For cavies, this means at least 5 or 6 years old. Breeders are responsible for all animals ever produced and their progeny's produce if ever bred (no matter who owns them)! Therefore, they need to choose new homes wisely and place animals with spay/neuter/no-breeding contracts to pet homes. They would never sell animals to animal wholesalers, at animal shows, to pet stores, etc. Such selling means the breeder does not fulfill their commitment to these animals. Such places are havens for impulse-buyers and mill breeders. All prospective adopters should be pre-screened and (if approved) made to sign a detailed contract upon transfer of ownership. If necessary, all new owners are counseled and educated. The breeder should be available at all times to assist their adoptive families with any problems or questions they might have. They remain in contact with these families as long as the animals they helped create live. They provide education and resources when needed. Breeders also should be available to answer questions even from non-prospective homes since educating the public is another of the responsibilities of a decent breeder. Breeders should also take responsibility for any problems which arise (and they will). Any animals with congenital health problems should be either retained lifelong in the breeder's loving home or placed with a caring family. Good breeders realize they are physically responsible and morally liable for congenital problems and other problems originating at their home. Many owners bond to their pets quickly and do not care to "return for a money-back refund." Animals are not just commodities. If the owner does not intend to keep the pet, the animal should be returned to the breeder. The breeder should make sure that under any circumstances, the breeder will get the animal back if they are not able to be well-cared for in the adoptive home. Overpopulation Finally, every responsible breeder realizes the major overpopulation problem of every domestic species. They will admit that they contribute in some way to the problem and (if adherent to the above ideals) do anything they can to make life better for more people and their pets, as well as the ones under their care.

"The Responsible Breeder"

That Truly Rare Breed
"The Responsible Breeder"

This article is contributed by Serafina Cupido, a rescuer who used to participate actively in breeding and showing. Introduction The true "responsible breeder" or "good breeder" has a tall order to fill. They are few and far between. Many people breed animals, but few truly have their best interests at heart. Just because people have a so-called "right" to own or breed animals doesn't mean that everyone and anyone should. It usually isn't difficult to produce animal offspring, but part of being a moral and ethical human being means we have the ability to use our intelligence and compassion when dealing with beings we can control. Those people who strive to meet and exceed the challenge of being a good breeder realize they are moving towards a very difficult, but attainable goal. That goal is the unsurpassed health and functional structure of a particular breed type so that all caring pet owners may enjoy long and happy lives with their chosen dependants. Responsible breeders have obligations not only to the animals, but to all other people who care for animals now and in the future. They accept all responsibility for everything that happens to their breeding stock. This can often include the early and often preventable death of some. Even the most careful breeders lose some of their animals earlier than those not in a breeding program due to the added risks caused by high performance needs such as pregnancy and parturition (giving birth). Good breeders accept and acknowledge these facts. There are no excuses to be made. Good breeders also do not hastily encourage other prospective breeders. It is an extremely demanding job. They should often refer prospective adoptive families to reputable rescues and shelters when appropriate. This is not a money-making venture or contest to see who can breed the most winners or sell the most animals. The best interests of the animals and best suited placements should always be of paramount concern. Education Good breeders educate themselves before acquiring any animals. It should go without saying that knowledge of the basics such as proper daily care and basic veterinary care (at the least) is necessary. Then, breeders must spend countless hours and years researching genetics, specific lines, various faults, and potential congenital or other health issues. Attending shows to study various breeding combinations and types helps develop a sharp eye for quality animals. Experienced and established breeders can be priceless mentors and should be consulted for advice and assistance with newer breeding programs. All the above information is vital in producing functional and healthy companions. The education should continue throughout the breeder's career, as new advances are constantly being developed. Health Health should be a top priority. Good husbandry is vital in maintaining healthy animals. All animals should have ample room and clean cages with appropriate bedding and shelter. Animals should be part of the family and checked on several times throughout the day. This is easiest to do when most are housed in the home and should be a requirement for many species. There should never be an ammonia odor! Everything the animals come in contact with should be cleaned thoroughly and frequently. Animals should not be housed together for convenience or space constraints. They should not be "collected" either, which is a consequence of over breeding and mismanagement. If resources are short, a breeder should not take on more animals than can be properly cared for or breed at all. Pet ownership is not required of any human. They did not ask to be bred or owned by someone who does not have the time, ability, or funds to do what is right. Food and water should be fresh, high-quality, and given often. Water should always be available. Grooming is frequent and includes, but is not limited to trimming toenails, cleaning ears, and bathing. All animals should be well-socialized. Temperament is about 60% inherited and 40% learned. Good temperament should be the only thing bred into a line! Often these basic needs are the ones lacking, which saddens all who strive to meet the important goals. If such basic requirements are not met, how can a person even aspire to be a breeder? Breeder's standards are so much higher than average pet homes since they are role models in every aspect of animal care. They are called upon to not only care for their own animals, but be active in doing what they can to stop and prevent animal abuses outside their homes. Breeding A breeder realizes every female bred may die due to their involvement. No animals are bred before maturation, "accidentally", or too late. Each female should be allowed a proper recovery period between litters and not exceed 1 or 2 litters in a lifetime. More than that is unnecessary and irresponsible. Since breeders are attempting to improve health and type, the successive generations should be of better quality than the foundation animals. If this is not achieved, breeding programs should be seriously re-evaluated. A good breeder never has more than 1 or 2 litters a year. They don't need to. Quality, not quantity is their motto. Good breeders actively show their animals to prove their quality against other animals of the same type. Yes, it is necessary. The input of other breeders is also to be considered. More experienced breeders can help point out faults which enable the less experienced to improve their lines. Excellent record keeping is a cornerstone in a breeding program. Genetics, health, and breeding records aid educated decisions about breeding programs and not choices based on whims, which opens the door to all sorts of problems. Congenital problems should be the rarest of rare. "Breeding out" serious health problems should not even be considered. Such animals shouldn't be bred at all. If the lines have evident health defects, there are enough animals out there that much better choices may be made! All animals should be fully current on regular veterinary exams, pre-breeding screening, vaccinations (if warranted), and parasite-free. Outbreaks of infectious disease and parasitism are inexcusable. All new or ill animals should be properly conditioned, treated, and quarantined to minimize risks to others. Ill animals must receive competent veterinary attention and be cared for if treatable. Real breeders would not euthanize sick animals which require time, money, and extra care. Things such as pyometra and dystocia are often a part of breeding animals and can require costly surgery to fix. Placement and Responsibility Good breeders have pets NOT possessions, and would not dispose of their older animals, but retire them (spaying/neutering when applicable). They should have some retired animals living to and past average life expectancies. For cavies, this means at least 5 or 6 years old. Breeders are responsible for all animals ever produced and their progeny's produce if ever bred (no matter who owns them)! Therefore, they need to choose new homes wisely and place animals with spay/neuter/no-breeding contracts to pet homes. They would never sell animals to animal wholesalers, at animal shows, to pet stores, etc. Such selling means the breeder does not fulfill their commitment to these animals. Such places are havens for impulse-buyers and mill breeders. All prospective adopters should be pre-screened and (if approved) made to sign a detailed contract upon transfer of ownership. If necessary, all new owners are counseled and educated. The breeder should be available at all times to assist their adoptive families with any problems or questions they might have. They remain in contact with these families as long as the animals they helped create live. They provide education and resources when needed. Breeders also should be available to answer questions even from non-prospective homes since educating the public is another of the responsibilities of a decent breeder. Breeders should also take responsibility for any problems which arise (and they will). Any animals with congenital health problems should be either retained lifelong in the breeder's loving home or placed with a caring family. Good breeders realize they are physically responsible and morally liable for congenital problems and other problems originating at their home. Many owners bond to their pets quickly and do not care to "return for a money-back refund." Animals are not just commodities. If the owner does not intend to keep the pet, the animal should be returned to the breeder. The breeder should make sure that under any circumstances, the breeder will get the animal back if they are not able to be well-cared for in the adoptive home. Overpopulation Finally, every responsible breeder realizes the major overpopulation problem of every domestic species. They will admit that they contribute in some way to the problem and (if adherent to the above ideals) do anything they can to make life better for more people and their pets, as well as the ones under their care.

"The Responsible Breeder"

That Truly Rare Breed
"The Responsible Breeder"

This article is contributed by Serafina Cupido, a rescuer who used to participate actively in breeding and showing. Introduction The true "responsible breeder" or "good breeder" has a tall order to fill. They are few and far between. Many people breed animals, but few truly have their best interests at heart. Just because people have a so-called "right" to own or breed animals doesn't mean that everyone and anyone should. It usually isn't difficult to produce animal offspring, but part of being a moral and ethical human being means we have the ability to use our intelligence and compassion when dealing with beings we can control. Those people who strive to meet and exceed the challenge of being a good breeder realize they are moving towards a very difficult, but attainable goal. That goal is the unsurpassed health and functional structure of a particular breed type so that all caring pet owners may enjoy long and happy lives with their chosen dependants. Responsible breeders have obligations not only to the animals, but to all other people who care for animals now and in the future. They accept all responsibility for everything that happens to their breeding stock. This can often include the early and often preventable death of some. Even the most careful breeders lose some of their animals earlier than those not in a breeding program due to the added risks caused by high performance needs such as pregnancy and parturition (giving birth). Good breeders accept and acknowledge these facts. There are no excuses to be made. Good breeders also do not hastily encourage other prospective breeders. It is an extremely demanding job. They should often refer prospective adoptive families to reputable rescues and shelters when appropriate. This is not a money-making venture or contest to see who can breed the most winners or sell the most animals. The best interests of the animals and best suited placements should always be of paramount concern. Education Good breeders educate themselves before acquiring any animals. It should go without saying that knowledge of the basics such as proper daily care and basic veterinary care (at the least) is necessary. Then, breeders must spend countless hours and years researching genetics, specific lines, various faults, and potential congenital or other health issues. Attending shows to study various breeding combinations and types helps develop a sharp eye for quality animals. Experienced and established breeders can be priceless mentors and should be consulted for advice and assistance with newer breeding programs. All the above information is vital in producing functional and healthy companions. The education should continue throughout the breeder's career, as new advances are constantly being developed. Health Health should be a top priority. Good husbandry is vital in maintaining healthy animals. All animals should have ample room and clean cages with appropriate bedding and shelter. Animals should be part of the family and checked on several times throughout the day. This is easiest to do when most are housed in the home and should be a requirement for many species. There should never be an ammonia odor! Everything the animals come in contact with should be cleaned thoroughly and frequently. Animals should not be housed together for convenience or space constraints. They should not be "collected" either, which is a consequence of over breeding and mismanagement. If resources are short, a breeder should not take on more animals than can be properly cared for or breed at all. Pet ownership is not required of any human. They did not ask to be bred or owned by someone who does not have the time, ability, or funds to do what is right. Food and water should be fresh, high-quality, and given often. Water should always be available. Grooming is frequent and includes, but is not limited to trimming toenails, cleaning ears, and bathing. All animals should be well-socialized. Temperament is about 60% inherited and 40% learned. Good temperament should be the only thing bred into a line! Often these basic needs are the ones lacking, which saddens all who strive to meet the important goals. If such basic requirements are not met, how can a person even aspire to be a breeder? Breeder's standards are so much higher than average pet homes since they are role models in every aspect of animal care. They are called upon to not only care for their own animals, but be active in doing what they can to stop and prevent animal abuses outside their homes. Breeding A breeder realizes every female bred may die due to their involvement. No animals are bred before maturation, "accidentally", or too late. Each female should be allowed a proper recovery period between litters and not exceed 1 or 2 litters in a lifetime. More than that is unnecessary and irresponsible. Since breeders are attempting to improve health and type, the successive generations should be of better quality than the foundation animals. If this is not achieved, breeding programs should be seriously re-evaluated. A good breeder never has more than 1 or 2 litters a year. They don't need to. Quality, not quantity is their motto. Good breeders actively show their animals to prove their quality against other animals of the same type. Yes, it is necessary. The input of other breeders is also to be considered. More experienced breeders can help point out faults which enable the less experienced to improve their lines. Excellent record keeping is a cornerstone in a breeding program. Genetics, health, and breeding records aid educated decisions about breeding programs and not choices based on whims, which opens the door to all sorts of problems. Congenital problems should be the rarest of rare. "Breeding out" serious health problems should not even be considered. Such animals shouldn't be bred at all. If the lines have evident health defects, there are enough animals out there that much better choices may be made! All animals should be fully current on regular veterinary exams, pre-breeding screening, vaccinations (if warranted), and parasite-free. Outbreaks of infectious disease and parasitism are inexcusable. All new or ill animals should be properly conditioned, treated, and quarantined to minimize risks to others. Ill animals must receive competent veterinary attention and be cared for if treatable. Real breeders would not euthanize sick animals which require time, money, and extra care. Things such as pyometra and dystocia are often a part of breeding animals and can require costly surgery to fix. Placement and Responsibility Good breeders have pets NOT possessions, and would not dispose of their older animals, but retire them (spaying/neutering when applicable). They should have some retired animals living to and past average life expectancies. For cavies, this means at least 5 or 6 years old. Breeders are responsible for all animals ever produced and their progeny's produce if ever bred (no matter who owns them)! Therefore, they need to choose new homes wisely and place animals with spay/neuter/no-breeding contracts to pet homes. They would never sell animals to animal wholesalers, at animal shows, to pet stores, etc. Such selling means the breeder does not fulfill their commitment to these animals. Such places are havens for impulse-buyers and mill breeders. All prospective adopters should be pre-screened and (if approved) made to sign a detailed contract upon transfer of ownership. If necessary, all new owners are counseled and educated. The breeder should be available at all times to assist their adoptive families with any problems or questions they might have. They remain in contact with these families as long as the animals they helped create live. They provide education and resources when needed. Breeders also should be available to answer questions even from non-prospective homes since educating the public is another of the responsibilities of a decent breeder. Breeders should also take responsibility for any problems which arise (and they will). Any animals with congenital health problems should be either retained lifelong in the breeder's loving home or placed with a caring family. Good breeders realize they are physically responsible and morally liable for congenital problems and other problems originating at their home. Many owners bond to their pets quickly and do not care to "return for a money-back refund." Animals are not just commodities. If the owner does not intend to keep the pet, the animal should be returned to the breeder. The breeder should make sure that under any circumstances, the breeder will get the animal back if they are not able to be well-cared for in the adoptive home. Overpopulation Finally, every responsible breeder realizes the major overpopulation problem of every domestic species. They will admit that they contribute in some way to the problem and (if adherent to the above ideals) do anything they can to make life better for more people and their pets, as well as the ones under their care.