MICROSCOPIC WARS The battle of bacteria and what goes on in your pet’s gut. PLUS naturally better pets, with Synbiotic. Vetafarm’s all new natural prebiotic, probiotic and enzyme blend to help your pets.

KIDS ACTIVITIESCorroboree frog origami, DIY fish tank scene, colouring in and more!

VETAFARM EEI

ISSUE 05AUTUMN 2016

FERRETSPlayful, easily trained and lively companions. These smelly little thieves make amazing pets!

THE SPECTACULARBUDGERIGARMore than just a tiny bird, find out why the budgie is the 3rd most popular pet in the world!

ANIMAL INTELLIGENCEWhat we know so far, a little history about animal smarts.

ENDANGERED SPECIES SPOTLIGHT: THE CORROBOREE FROG Australia’s most distinctive and perhaps one of our most endangered frog species.

RESPIRATORY DISEASE IN RATSDr James Haberfield explains the red discharge on your rat’s nose.

UNDERWATER WONDERSSimon Claridge from Melbourne Sea Life Aquarium explains the difference between sea horses and sea dragons.

MICROSCOPIC WARS The battle of bacteria and what goes on in your pet’s gut. PLUS naturally better pets, with Synbiotic. Vetafarm’s all new natural prebiotic, probiotic and enzyme blend to help your pets.

UNDER THREAT BEAUTIFUL BLACK COCKATOOS IN DANGER!South-west Western Australia is home to three unique black cockatoo species, found nowhere else in the world! All are under threat with formerly recorded large flocks of these birds now increasingly uncommon.

DINO FUZZWhat our backyard chooks and dinosaurs have in common.

Vetafarm Exotic Expert Stores

are hand selected for their

exceptional service, passion and

knowledge on all things bird,

small animal and reptile.

By shopping with a Vetafarm Exotic

Expert, you can be confident you

are receiving the best experience,

service, product and prices for

your special pet, while supporting

family owned Australian businesses

that truly care.

For more information on Vetafarm's

Exotic Expert Stores, jump onto

our website or contact Vetafarm!

Cheers,

The Vetafarm team.

About the initiative...

Can we do better? Tell us what you think!

Missed an issue?Read them all online!

www.vetafarm.com.au/exclusive-magazine

WINTER IS COMING!Next issue available from June 1st.

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FUN and simple! Just take a photo of your pet with the letter ‘V’ in the shot (for Vetafarm) and post it on our Facebook or Instagram page with the hash tag #Vetapet

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Did you know?

How to enter? #Vetapet Competition

Vetafarm makes food for flamingos!

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05/16Contents

Features

VETAFARMEXCLUSIVE6 UNDERWATER WONDERSThe difference between sea horses and sea dragons.

8 EndangeredSpecies Spotlight: The Corroboree Frog Australia’s most distinctive and perhaps one of our most endangered frog species.

14 MICROSCOPIC WARSThe battle of bacteria and what goes on in your pet’s gut. PLUS naturally better pets, with Synbiotic. Vetafarm’s all new natural prebiotic, probiotic and enzyme blend to help your pets.

21 FERRETSPlayful, easily trained and lively companions. These smelly little thieves make amazing pets!

24 RESPIRATORYDISEASE IN RATSDr James Haberfield explains the red discharge on your rat’s nose.

18 THE SPECTACULAR BUDGERIGARMore than just a tiny bird, find out why the budgie is the 3rd most popular pet in the world!

4 DINO FUZZWhat our backyard chooks and dinosaurs have in common.

22 ANIMAL INTELLIGENCEWhat we know so far, a little history about animal smarts.

9 Animal origami Make a jumping corroboree frog!

19 DIY FISH TANKMake your very own fish tank scene!

20 FIND A WORDCan you find all the endangered animals?

26 Store locationsExotic Expert Store locations

10 colouring inBlack Cockatoo

Keep up to date,your pets will thank you for it!Stay updated with the latest news, competitons and products.

12

By Rachel Riley, Avian Management Officerfrom Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre

South-west Western Australia is home to three unique black cockatoo species, all are under threat with formerly recorded large flocks of these birds now increasingly uncommon.

Y E K N O M R E D I P S K C A L B N N R

M J G V O Y G T L S O D S C P T L I B A

S U V R W O A R E A R G O L N N B U G U

N S S G E B T A E A H R N A T L Y G P G

O R U S M A L A P E R W H O A S R N M A

W N E O O I T O K O N P E C G A M E O J

L A W D O P E W B C E T K U E U A P U L

E T W N P L D O H L O R U B L P D S N L

O U S H R A R E E I H C R R F B K O T O

P G E U A E N N L I T A K S T K J G A U

A N M T E L A D N I L E M C P L P A I Q

R A D F M R E O A O A J S G A N E P N N

D R R S T B K L P Z J T D H O L W Á G R

F O T A E E Z N A P M I H C A U B L O E

G H M G I A N T P A N D A S V R K A R T

K U B L U E F I N T U N A A U I K G I S

S L I V E D N A I N A M S A T R Z O L E

A F R I C A N E L E P H A N T A B F L W

K W A H Y E N D Y S P A N G O L I N A D

E C E P X A N T I O B O N O B T I G E R

CAN YOU HELP FIND THE NAMES OF THESE ENDANGERED ANIMALS?

African Elephant

Amur Leopard

Black Cockatoo

Black Rhino

Black Spider Monkey

Bluefin Tuna

Blue Whale

Bonobo

Brush-Tailed Possum

Chimpanzee

Corroboree Frog

Dugong

Galápagos Penguin

Giant Panda

Great White Shark

Green Turtle

Jaguar

Mountain Gorilla

Orangutan

Pangolin

Polar Bear

Red Panda

Sea Lions

Snow Leopard

Sumatran Elephant

Sydney Hawk

Tasmanian Devil

Tiger

Western Quoll

Whale

Wombat

DIY FISH TANK SCENEColour in the sea creatures below then cut them out and create your very own fish tank!

Tyrannosaurus, Allosaurus, Velociraptor…Sinosauropteryx? This small turkey-sized dinosaur is actually a “paleo” cousin to our farmyard and backyard friend – the humble chicken. Long debated by scientists, it has recently become generally accepted that theropods, the carnivorous group of dinosaurs, are the extinct ancestors of today’s birds. Thanks to DNA testing and the mapping of the entire chicken genome, it’s thought the closest living relative to dinosaurs would be the common backyard chicken!

It’s a long leap to “chickens were once dinosaurs” and it’s easy to dismiss the claim. Paleontologists have been arguing for decades trying to lay claim to a fact – one way or another. There isn’t a single theory in science that is completely unarguable, but neither side really wanted to give in. It wasn’t until about 2001 and the discovery of a dinosaur about the size of a small dingo, the Sinornithosaurus, was found in China. This dinosaur was unique in the fact that it was found preserved with a ring of material around its body, aptly named “dino fuzz”. Dino fuzz under the microscope shares the same structure of filaments – the aspect that gives feathers their unique look and shape.

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Vetafarm is gearing up to release a holistic, vegan, completely balanced chicken food for your backyard dinosaurs (chooks).

DINO...ERR, CHICKEN FOOD!DINO...ERR, CHICKEN FOOD!

So what do dinosaur chickens look like? Our best guess is from preserved fossils. Many of the fossils come from China, mostly from an area and time called the Jehol Biota. Organisms lived here from around 133- 120 million years ago! This area was relatively protected, and prevailing conditions have allowed for fossils from the region to be some of the best preserved in the world. It was also relatively isolated from other parts of the world during the late Jurassic and Cretaceous periods (Dinosaurs become extinct in the late Cretaceous). From studying these fossils, many paleontologists can now presume that most dinosaurs had feathers, called “protofeathers”.

Scientists continued to argue their case. Then around 2005, scientists who study genetics started to weigh in. These scientists had mapped the entire genome, which means the complete set of DNA, for a chicken. DNA is what determines not only what humans, fish, plants, (everything) will grow up to be, it also allows scientists a better look at what each organism has in common with each other. Using the mapped DNA, in 2014, biotechnicians (the scientists who process data collected from DNA studies) were able to compile data from numerous sources. They were able to determine that chickens have undergone the fewest amounts of changes since evolving from their dinosaur ancestor.

Feathers (and protofeathers) contain “melanosomes”. These types of melanosomes are unique to feathers and are what gives birds their colours and shine. (Although some colours like the bright pinks of flamingos, or the bright yellows in penguins, are from the foods they eat, not from melanosomes). Scientists hypothesise that some therapods would be in shades of red, browns, greys and blacks, very different from the brightly coloured birds of today such as macaws and amazons, but more like chickens.

So it’s taken 230 million years for birds to transition from dinosaurs to the birds. It was only 150 million years ago that they even started flying the skies! Can you see the raptor hiding in your backyard chicken? Do you think scientists are right?

SEA HORSES

PREDATORSUnfortunately for seahorses, any predatory fish that can fit them in their mouth will treat them as food. Some of the common predators are little penguins (fairy penguins), flathead, frog fish, angler fish, stone fish, crabs etc.

SNICKING The action of a sea horse and sea dragon feeding is called a “snick”. Snicking is achieved by the use of a hinge found on their chin. When a sea horse aims its snout at its prey it opens this hinge in a fraction of a second which causes a vacuum within their snout. This vacuum pulls the water in front its snout into its fused jaw and in that water is hopefully its prey. This action causes a clicking noise in the water which is how the name “snick” originated.

HABITATSeahorses are typically found in algae forests, sea grass meadows and coral reefs. But as a juvenile many species of seahorse are pelagic which means they drift around in the open eating plankton until they are large enough to settle in a home.

Both sea horses and sea dragons are classified in the family of fish called Syngnathids. The common characteristic in this family is that they possess a fused jaw; this fused jaw appears as an elongated snout resembling a drinking straw. At the end of their snout they have a set of lips they open and close to pass water over their gills as well as using it to feed through.

TAILSeahorses have what is called a prehensile tail just like a monkey which they can use to cling to their surroundings which aids their ability to blend in and go undetected by predators. SELF DEFENSE

Some species of seahorse like the Barbour’s seahorse possess rigid spikes all over their body which helps to deter predators.

CAMOUFLAGESeahorses are well known for their ability to change colour. Depending on the type of seahorse they can all change colour at different rates. Even though they can change colours they are unable to change to green or blue because they lack the pigment cells in their skin to do so.

SNOUTA seahorse’s snout can expand to double its normal size to consume particularly large prey items.

DIETSeahorses primarily feed on shrimp and other small crustaceans which is why they are sometimes referred to as shrimp fish. However seahorse along with most other fish in the syngnathidae family will also feed on small juvenile fish if the opportunity arises.

By Simon Claridge, Assistant Aquarist, SEA LIFE Melbourne AquariumBy Simon Claridge, Assistant Aquarist, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

PREDATORSUnfortunately for seahorses, any predatory fish that can fit them in their mouth will treat them as food. Some of the common predators are little penguins (fairy penguins), flathead, frog fish, angler fish, stone fish, crabs etc.

SEA HORSES

SNICKING The action of a sea horse and sea dragon feeding is called a “snick”. Snicking is achieved by the use of a hinge found on their chin. When a sea horse aims its snout at its prey it opens this hinge in a fraction of a second which causes a vacuum within their snout. This vacuum pulls the water in front its snout into its fused jaw and in that water is hopefully its prey. This action causes a clicking noise in the water which is how the name “snick” originated.

HABITATSeahorses are typically found in algae forests, sea grass meadows and coral reefs. But as a juvenile many species of seahorse are pelagic which means they drift around in the open eating plankton until they are large enough to settle in a home.

Both sea horses and sea dragons are classified in the family of fish called Syngnathids. The common characteristic in this family is that they possess a fused jaw; this fused jaw appears as an elongated snout resembling a drinking straw. At the end of their snout they have a set of lips they open and close to pass water over their gills as well as using it to feed through.

TAILSeahorses have what is called a prehensile tail just like a monkey which they can use to cling to their surroundings which aids their ability to blend in and go undetected by predators. SELF DEFENSE

Some species of seahorse like the Barbour’s seahorse possess rigid spikes all over their body which helps to deter predators.

CAMOUFLAGESeahorses are well known for their ability to change colour. Depending on the type of seahorse they can all change colour at different rates. Even though they can change colours they are unable to change to green or blue because they lack the pigment cells in their skin to do so.

SNOUTA seahorse’s snout can expand to double its normal size to consume particularly large prey items.

DIETSeahorses primarily feed on shrimp and other small crustaceans which is why they are sometimes referred to as shrimp fish. However seahorse along with most other fish in the syngnathidae family will also feed on small juvenile fish if the opportunity arises.

6

SEADRAGONS

DIGESTIONBecause their digestive system is quite short and their stomachs are unable to hold large quantities of food they have to graze throughout the day, which quite often means they follow large schools of shrimp so they always have access to food.

BABY DRAGONS Breeding sea dragons in captivity isn’t common or easy. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is quite well known for captive breeding weedy sea dragons. The latest birth which occurredmid-December is going well and growing fast.

SEA DRAGON BREEDINGSea dragons are urophic brooders which means their eggs develop externally and not internally like sea horses. Sea dragons like all other members of the syngnathidae family are protected and hatched by the male and not the female of the species. In sea dragons the male holds the eggs on the underside of his tail. When the female begins releasing hormones into the water the flesh on the males tail will become spongy and much thicker than usual. When the female transfers the eggs she will push them

against his now spongy tail and they will suction on.The male will fertilise the eggs and protect them for approximately two months, in this time the eggs will grow algae over them to aid in their camouflaging. After two months little tails will begin to slowly break out of their egg casings. The male will shake his tail to aid in dislodging the fry. Once the fry have left the casing they are all on their own ready to eat, swim and fend for themselves.

AMBUSH PREDATORSSea dragons are an ambush predator. Their camouflage helps to keep them concealed from their prey and when it ventures close enough the dragon will vacuum up their unsuspecting prey.

HABITATSea dragons are found in areas where there is strong flow and dense kelp and algae forests.

MOVEMENTSea dragons are pelagic which means they are always swimming and cannot rest on their surroundings.

STRONG SWIMMERS Sea dragons are incredible strong and efficient swimmers that can very easily manipulate strong currents to stay more or less stationary.

CAMOUFLAGESea dragons have some amazing appendages covering their bodies. The leafy sea dragon for example has green to yellow appendages that closely mimic green or yellow algae and kelp. The leafy sea dragon’s appendages will sway along in the current which aids in the effectiveness of the camouflage.

CLIMATESea dragons are only found in the cool temperate waters of southern Australia.

www.melbourneaquarium.com.au

DIGESTIONBecause their digestive system is quite short and their stomachs are unable to hold large quantities of food they have to graze throughout the day, which quite often means they follow large schools of shrimp so they always have access to food.

BABY DRAGONS Breeding sea dragons in captivity isn’t common or easy. SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is quite well known for captive breeding weedy sea dragons. The latest birth which occurredmid-December is going well and growing fast.

SEA DRAGON BREEDINGSea dragons are urophic brooders which means their eggs develop externally and not internally like sea horses. Sea dragons like all other members of the syngnathidae family are protected and hatched by the male and not the female of the species. In sea dragons the male holds the eggs on the underside of his tail. When the female begins releasing hormones into the water the flesh on the males tail will become spongy and much thicker than usual. When the female transfers the eggs she will push them

against his now spongy tail and they will suction on.The male will fertilise the eggs and protect them for approximately two months, in this time the eggs will grow algae over them to aid in their camouflaging. After two months little tails will begin to slowly break out of their egg casings. The male will shake his tail to aid in dislodging the fry. Once the fry have left the casing they are all on their own ready to eat, swim and fend for themselves.

AMBUSH PREDATORSSea dragons are an ambush predator. Their camouflage helps to keep them concealed from their prey and when it ventures close enough the dragon will vacuum up their unsuspecting prey.

HABITATSea dragons are found in areas where there is strong flow and dense kelp and algae forests.

MOVEMENTSea dragons are pelagic which means they are always swimming and cannot rest on their surroundings.

STRONG SWIMMERS Sea dragons are incredible strong and efficient swimmers that can very easily manipulate strong currents to stay more or less stationary.

CAMOUFLAGESea dragons have some amazing appendages covering their bodies. The leafy sea dragon for example has green to yellow appendages that closely mimic green or yellow algae and kelp. The leafy sea dragon’s appendages will sway along in the current which aids in the effectiveness of the camouflage.

CLIMATESea dragons are only found in the cool temperate waters of southern Australia.

SEADRAGONS

CORROBOREE FROGThe bold black and yellow stripes of the corroboree frog make it one of Australia’s most distinctive frog species. Today it is perhaps one of our most endangered frog species in the wild. Luckily, a recovery team of government officers, park managers, zoos, and scientists have been managing the corroboree frog populations to avoid extinction and keep it alive in the wild.

Photo Credit: Dave Hunter,Office of Environment and Heritage

THE CRITICALLY ENDANGERED AUSTRALIAN FROG

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELPResearchers are trying to find a cure for the disease caused by the amphibian chytrid fungus – without a cure, the corroboree frog faces extinction in the wild. The Corroboree Frog Recovery Team has established large-scale captive insurance colonies across several zoos and breeding facilities in an effort to save the frog from extinction. Captive-bred animals are re-introduced into the wild to maintain wild populations. Chytrid-free enclosures have also been established in Kosciuszko National Park as a means of maintaining populations in the wild.

WHAT IS BEING DONE TO SAVE CORROBOREE FROGS?

The Corroboree Frog Recovery Team is a partnership of organisations made up of government officers, zoo staff, park managers and scientists. The team develops strategies to ensure corroboree frogs don’t become extinct. The program is also contributing to global efforts to save species threatened by the amphibian chytrid fungus.

WHAT DOES THE CORROBOREE FROG RECOVERY TEAM DO?

A corroboree frog’s diet consists of small invertebrates, particularly small black ants.

DIET

Secretes a poisonous alkaloid from its skin which is toxic to predators.

TOXICITY

Corroboree frogs typically don’t jump – they walk through vegetation.

FROG JUMP STYLE

Corroboree frogs are inactive through the winter, remaining under logs or litter on the woodland floor.

WINTER REST

To warn animals that it is poisonous.REASON FOR BRIGHT COLOURS

There are two species of Corroboree Frog: the Southern Corroboree Frog (Pseudophryne Corroboree) and the Northern Corroboree Frog (Pseudophryne Pengilleyi).

SPECIES

Meet a corroboree frog in these locations

2.5–3 centimetres body length. Females are larger than males.

SIZE

Small seasonal wetlands above 750 metres in the Australian Alps region of NSW and the ACT.

HABITAT

Critically endangered.CONSERVATION STATUS

SOUTHERN CORROBOREE FROGTaronga Zoo, NSWHealesville Sanctuary, VicMelbourne Zoo, VicJindabyne Visitor Centre, NSWTumut Visitor Centre, NSWWirraminna Environmental Education Centre, Burrumbuttock NSW

NORTHERN CORROBOREE FROGTidbinbilla Visitor Centre, ACT

The decline is mainly due to infection by the amphibian chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis). It is a newcomer to Australia and many frog species have limited resistance to the disease caused by the fungus.

WHY ARE CORROBOREE FROG POPULATIONS DECLINING IN THE WILD?

Tell a friend about the special corroboree frogsFind out more – corroboreefrog.org.auGet involved with threatened species recovery at:www.environment.nsw.gov.au/SavingOurSpecies/GetInvolved.htm

Information provided bythe Office of Environment and Heritage

8

enda

ngered

Spotlight

Cut out the pattern below and follow the origami instructions on page 11.MAKE YOUR OWN CORROBOREE FROGS!

CORROBOREE FROG ORIGAMI

10

Start with a rectangular sheet of paper, white side up and the frog’s eyes looking upward. Fold it in half, and open out again.

Hold the paper at the sides, bring these points down to the centre line, then flatten. The creases should do most of the work here!

Fold bottom of model upwards so the end sits in the centre of the top diamond.

Now fold the same part downwards, in half.

Turn over and your frog is finished! To make him jump, press down on his back as shown.

Fold the uppermost triangles up to the top point.

Fold sides in to the centre line.

Fold both top corners to the opposite edge of the paper. Your creases should look like this.

Where the diagonal creases meet in the middle, fold the paper backwards, crease well and open.

CORROBOREE FROG ORIGAMI

By Rachel Riley, Avian Management Officer atKaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre.

UNDER THREATBEAUTIFUL BLACK COCKATOOS

IN DANGER!

Did You Know?South-west Western Australia is home to three unique black cockatoo species that are found nowhere else in the world! These are the distinctive short-billed Carnaby’s, the long-billed Baudin’s white-tailed cockatoos, and a subspecies of the red-tailed black cockatoo known as the Forest red-tailed black cockatoo.

Human InterferenceFormerly recorded large flocks of these birds are now increasingly uncommon. All are threatened due to the destruction of forests, fires, and competition from other animals taking over their nest hollows. In addition to issues of safe breeding and food sources, there is also the obvious clash of humans and birds living in such

close proximity. As people have moved steadily into established black cockatoo territories, there have been inevitable conflicts and fatalities for these birds.

Endangered NativesWith many threats to their survival, all species are in decline with the Carnaby’s and Baudin’s officially listed as endangered, and the Forest red-tails listed as vulnerable (approximately 10,000 – 40,000 Carnaby’s and 10,000 Baudin’s and Forest reds are left - these numbers are in review). Worryingly, the latest research (by Birdlife Australia 2015) shows the Carnaby’s population is in a steep decline. The population in the Perth/Peel region is forecast to be extinct by 2029 at the current 15% per year rate of decline.

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a p p r o x . 1 0 , 0 0 0 - 4 0 , 0 0 0

2 0 2 92 0 1 6

“AT THE CURRENT RATE the Carnaby’s COCKATOO population

IS forecast to be extinctin the Perth/Peel

region by by 2029”

UNDER THREAT!

12

Kaarakin to the RescueFortunately, the black cockatoos have a few dedicated conservation teams fighting in their corner, with Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre at the forefront. Kaarakin is a not-for-profit, independent conservation organisation working to conserve black cockatoos by rehabilitating injured birds for release back into the wild, revegetating areas of degraded bushland and educating the community. Kaarakin (named after the Noongar word ‘Kaarak’ meaning black feathers) began in 2002 when the Dewhurst family (who are still heavily involved) began a small rescue and release operation from the family property. A strong partnership began with Perth Zoo (who provided the initial and follow up veterinary care) and the Department of Parks and Wildlife.

Today, Kaarakin houses around 180 black cockatoos across four species (including the Inland Red-Tail Black Cockatoos). It is run by three part-time staff and over

200 dedicated volunteers. Within the last seven years, Kaarakin has been leading the black cockatoo conservation efforts, having rescued, rehabilitated and released over 250 black cockatoos, educated the community through outreach programmes, and revegetated over 100 acres of degraded land back into cockatoo habitat.

Taking care of our Aussie CockatoosThe team at Vetafarm are proudly supporting Kaarakin with the donation of over $20,000 worth of much needed food and medications. This donation means the high cost of correctly feeding Kaarakin’s permanent residents a quality, complete diet and crucial medication for sick or injured birds is no longer a pressing concern.

“THE BIRDS Love THE NEW FOOD! WE THANK VETAFARM FOR THEIR

GENEROUS SUPPORT AND DONATION, WHICH PROVIDES OUR COCKATOOS

WITH PELLETS, FORMULA AND MEDICATIONS.” - Rachel Riley

Kaarakin’s Survival, you can help!As a non-profit organisation, finding funding can be difficult. It would be greatly appreciated if you could help the Kaarakin team and the black cockatoos of WA. Donations are always welcome and currently form a crucial revenue stream. If you would like to help, please head to the donation page on our website.

Want to know more about Kaarakin? Visit www.blackcockatoorecovery.com or like us on Facebook for all the latest news www.facebook.com/kaarakin

Rachel Riley with Kattaninga male Carnaby at Kaarakin

The battle for the Microbiome Every day the bodies of our pets go to war. Yes - war on a microscopic scale between the forces of good bacteria or “Probiotics” and the armies of bad bacteria, or “Pathogens”, with each side making advances against the other for territory within the Microbiome of your pet’s gut (the microbiological ecology in the stomach).

It’s important for our pet’s ongoing health, whether they be a bird, dog or rat, that the probiotics win as much territory in the microbiome as possible. While probiotics help digest food and bolster the immune system, pathogens can cause a range of illnesses. If left unchecked or if your pet becomes stressed, pathogens numbers increase and their hold in the microbiome strengthens. Now pathogens are putting your animal’s health at risk. They must not prevail!

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MICROSCOPIC WARS

MICROSCOPIC WARS

PROBIOTICSGood bacteria

PATHOGENSBad bacteria

The Good - ProbioticsProbiotics are live organisms that have a beneficial effect in the gut or microbiome (or the microbiological ecology in the stomach). Probiotics can be yeast or fungi, but the most common type are bacteria. Different types of beneficial bacteria play different roles within the microbiome, but essentially, if your pet has a high probiotic population in their microbiome, they will have a stronger immune system, better digestive function and will generally feel better overall.

The Bad - PathogensPathogens are bad bacteria, (such as E.Coli and Salmonella) that can cause gut upset, diarrhoea and a number of other illnesses. Pathogens take advantage of your animal when they are stressed or ill and begin to multiply. When the population of these pathogens grow, illness begins. Eradicating pathogens completely is impossible, but keeping them in check is essential to your pet’s wellbeing.

The Ugly - Chemical WarfareWhen pathogens run riot in the microbiome we commonly treat them with antibiotics. However when oral antibiotics are administered to your pet, the result is the equivalent of a chemical weapon going off in the microbiome. Antibiotics don’t choose sides and every bacteria at ground zero will be wiped out. Much of the time this is an effective means of removing most of the pathogenic bacteria, however it does leave the microbiome vulnerable, as there are no longer any probiotics left to hold the fort or to help digest food. This is why many animals develop a case of diarrhoea during a course of antibiotics. Their good bacteria have died and are being expelled and they are also struggling to digest food. This is not what a sick animal needs!

Power ups for our single celled freedom fIghters! - PrebioticsPrebiotics act as a super food source for Probiotics in your pet’s stomach. By introducing Prebiotics into the Microbiome, we effectively provide good bacteria with a supply drop of the nourishment they need, giving them an advantage over their pathogenic rivals. An example of this action is best represented in one particular Probiotic or good bacteria (Bifidobactrium), which when provided with Prebiotics (Inulin) produces nourishing fatty acids for your pet and aggressively competes with Pathogens for space in the gut, which can significantly improve your pet’s nutrition and their immune system.

The Digestive Workforce - EnzymesWhen your pet eats and the food moves into their gut it needs to be broken into smaller pieces before it can be used by their bodies. Enter the enzymes. A microscopic workforce of tiny protein molecules responsible for pulling any food your pet eats into pieces small enough for absorption in your pet’s gut. Each different type of enzyme has a very specific job. Protease enzymes are in charge of breaking down proteins, while lipase enzymes are responsible for the deconstruction of fat. Enzymes are extremely important to the overall health and digestion of all animals, particularly in young, sick or injured animals.

INULIN OR PREBIOTICSuper food source for

probiotics

ENZYMESMicroscopic protein

molecules that break down food for absorption.

ANTIBIOTICSDestroys bacteria

SYNBIOTICSYNBIOTICNATURALLY BETTER PETSNATURALLY BETTER PETSBy taking probiotics and adding the prebiotic power up effect of chicory root extract, you now have an amazing package of natural digestive and immune system boosters referred to as a Synbiotic.

Vetafarm has improved on this by formulating our country’s most advanced blend of probiotics/prebiotics with the additional health benefits of digestive enzymes.

The final result is a synergy of science and nature, designed by vets and nutritionists to improve the health of any animal. Vetafarm Synbiotic’s purpose is to support your pet’s natural digestive and immune systems, reducing the use of and the reliance on antibiotics, and ensuring your pets are better, naturally.

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The word Probiotic is taken from the Greek meaning “for life”. Without them, humans and animals would die!

Synbiotic contains 9 strains of beneficial bacteria, making Synbiotic the most diverse and effective Probiotic supplement available ( Lactobacillus acidophilus, L.casei, L. salivarus, L.plantarum, L.rhamnosus, L.brevis, Bifidobacterium bifidum, B.lactis, Streptococcus thermophilus). These probiotics support your pet’s immune system in a number of ways, from physically forcing pathogens out of the gut, to stimulating the development of protective mucus – Yum!

Across the 9 strains, there are 550 MILLION good bacteria in every gram of Synbiotic, making it the most concentrated probiotic available for pets and ensuring the optimum colonisation of good bacteria in the gut.

There are 7 different enzymes to suit your particular pet’s diet, improving digestion and ensuring the best uptake of nutrients essential for recovery from illness.

Prebiotics in the form of natural chicory root extract provide further support for probiotic growth in the gut.

daily use of Vetafarm makes pets naturally better!

DIGESTIVEENZYMES

NATURAL PREBIOTIC

CHICORY ROOT EXTRACT

STRAIN PROBIOTIC

MILLIONGOOD BACTERIA

IN EVERY GRAM

Good.

What pets will Vetafarm be suitable for? ALL PETS will benefit from the inclusion of Vetafarm Synbiotic in their daily health routine, even more so in times of stress and illness. The depth and variety of probiotics and enzymes in Synbiotic are designed to support the digestive and immune functions of herbivores, omnivores, carnivores and everything in between. Synbiotic. Naturally Better Pets.

Everyday immune and digestive supportDaily support using Vetafarm Synbiotic at a maintenance dose can make a huge difference to the long term health of your animal. Boosting the immune system, supporting digestion and reducing toxin production in your pet’s body, means happier andhealthier pets every day, naturally.

Non SpecifIc DiarrhoeaThere are a number of reasons our pets may experience diarrhoea or runny droppings, such as parasitic or bacterial infections. Stress, illness and changes in diet may also cause this problem. Vetafarm Synbiotic is an ideal support supplement for animals experiencing diarrhoea and will quickly re-establishgut flora and speed up recovery.

Post AntibioticsAfter a course of antibiotics, our pets guts are typically wiped clean of most beneficial bacteria or probiotics. This is a very vulnerable time for our animals. As probiotics are essential

for digestion of food and the effective digestion of food is essential to a successful recovery, our animals

desperately need their probiotics replaced asap.

Post surgery, travelor stressTravelling, new environments, new foods, surgery and many other situations cause our animals stress. When our pets become stressed, changes take place in the gut and the

conditions for pathogens or bad bacteria become ideal. This is a large part of the

reason that animals commonly fall ill and symptoms like diarrhoea are only one of many

problems that can eventuate.

When should you use Vetafarm ?

NATURALLY BETTER PETS

AVAILABLE NOW!

“If the good bacteria in our pet’s gut can’t keep the pathogens in check in these circumstances, our pets commonly end up at the vet - or worse.

A stress dose of Synbiotic is ideal in these scenarios.”

Budgerigars are a small parrot native to Australia. They are the 3rd most popular pet in the world behind cats and dogs and part of the reason why is that they pack a big personality and a lot of fun into a tiny little body. Budgies have been bred in captivity for over 150 years, and this results in a variety of colours, feather types and even size! Bigger budgies are called “English” budgies. The small variety with long tails are called “parakeets”.

Budgies are some of the smartest parrots despite their diminutive size. The parrot that holds the world record for most spoken words, is Puck the Budgie. Puck appeared in the 1995 Guinness Book of World Records and was able to speak 1,728 words. Males budgies are typically better talkers than females, and although quite talkative, tend to speak more softly than their larger cousins, like African Greys or Ringneck Parrots.

Hand TamingBudgies are very friendly birds and can be tamed down easily. After a few days of being in their cage after they are brought home, they can be introduced to step training. Slowly introduce a hand inside the budgie’s cage and work on getting closer to the bird. Once the budgie learns that fingers aren’t scary, they can be asked to “step up” by saying the word and pushing a finger low on their belly to encourage them to step up. From there, birds can be tamed even further by “tunnelling”. This involves a budgie stepping up, and then using the other hand to cup the budgie gently. The budgie will “tunnel” through one hand. Take the other hand and make another tunnel on top of the first. This repetitive action gets the budgie used to being handled and will tame them down very quickly. After that, they can be clicker trained very easily, and love interacting with their humans.

T H E S P E C T A C U L A R

S U P E R I O R

F O R M U L A

Remember that budgies may be small, but they still require proper care. They should have plenty of room, lots of attention and be fed the best food with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables for them to eat and play with. They can get lonely, so two may be better than one! With proper care and socialisation, budgies can make an awesome pet!

Completely balanced diet suitable for all birds including

budgerigars, canaries and parrots. Designed to be

completely user friendly, our new formula can be fed as a complete food or as a supplement and at

any time of the year, WET or DRY.

Heart RateThe heart rate of the budgie is also extremely fast and

cannot be monitored by listening in the normal way, as it beats over 300 times per minute!

Turning HeadsBudgies have more vertebrae in their necks than humans

do, allowing them to swivel their heads up to 180 degrees, or allow them to face backwards!

GenderIf an adult budgie’s cere (the flesh above the beak where the nostrils are located) is blue it is a male, if it is brown or tan it is a female.

3rd PlaceIs the third most popular pet in the world behind dogs and cats.

Speech to ImpressPuck, a budgerigar, or budgie, (popularly known as a parakeet in America), was accepted into the 1995 Guinness Book of World Records as “the bird with the largest vocabulary in the world.” He was acknowledged as having 1,728 words when the Guinness Book went to press.

Budgerigar

Egg and Biscuit

18

DIY FISH TANK SCENEColour in the sea creatures below then cut them out and create your very own fish tank!

Budgerigar

Y E K N O M R E D I P S K C A L B N N R M J G V O Y G T L S O D S C P T L I B A S U V R W O A R E A R G O L N N B U G U N S S G E B T A E A H R N A T L Y G P G O R U S M A L A P E R W H O A S R N M A W N E O O I T O K O N P E C G A M E O J L A W D O P E W B C E T K U E U A P U L E T W N P L D O H L O R U B L P D S N L O U S H R A R E E I H C R R F B K O T O P G E U A E N N L I T A K S T K J G A U A N M T E L A D N I L E M C P L P A I Q R A D F M R E O A O A J S G A N E P N N D R R S T B K L P Z J T D H O L W Á G R F O T A E E Z N A P M I H C A U B L O E G H M G I A N T P A N D A S V R K A R T K U B L U E F I N T U N A A U I K G I S S L I V E D N A I N A M S A T R Z O L E A F R I C A N E L E P H A N T A B F L W K W A H Y E N D Y S P A N G O L I N A D E C E P X A N T I O B O N O B T I G E R

CAN YOU HELP FIND THE NAMES OF THESE ENDANGERED ANIMALS?

African Elephant

Amur Leopard

Black Cockatoo

Black Rhino

Black Spider Monkey

Bluefin Tuna

Blue Whale

Bonobo

Brush-Tailed Possum

Chimpanzee

Corroboree Frog

Dugong

Galápagos Penguin

Giant Panda

Great White Shark

Green Turtle

Jaguar

Mountain Gorilla

Orangutan

Pangolin

Polar Bear

Red Panda

Sea Lions

Snow Leopard

Sumatran Elephant

Sydney Hawk

Tasmanian Devil

Tiger

Western Quoll

Whale

Wombat

20

FERRETSLatin: Mustela putorius furo (meaing ‘smelly little thief’.)

LIFESPAN7-10 Years

HIGHER CLASSIFICATIONEuropean Polecat

GESTATION PERIOD42 Days

DAILY SLEEP14-18 Hours

Polecats, Varmints… Smelly Little Thieves, ferrets can be called many things. They can also be

called an amazing pet! You cannot find a “wild ferret” as they have been bred (from the European

Polecat) to work with humans for almost 2500 years. They were bred to help hunt rabbit and

vermin and it was a common sight in the middle ages to see a hunter with a pouch containing his

ferrets.

Since the middle ages, ferrets have become a very popular house pet, and in the USA are one of

the most popular pets owned. Ferrets are lively companions, who thrive in groups and love lots

of human attention. They are easily trained and love to play. Ferrets are “crepuscular” which

means that they are more active at dawn and dusk. They may sleep for 14-18 hours a day, but

when they are awake, they are ready to play!

FUN FERRET FACTS

Ferrets love to hide things! They will steal and hide anything from keys to foods, even their owners wallets! They will chew on almost anything, so take great care when choosing toys for your ferrets so that they can’t be swallowed.

Ferrets can get bored easily and can lose focus, so when training them, it is best to teach them one task at a time and for short periods of time.

Queen Elizabeth owned an albino ferret, which appears in one of her

portraits.

When ferrets are excited, they perform what is called a “weasel war dance,” which is a series of leaps, hops, and bumping into things. They may even puff out their tails! Such a display is not a sign of aggression but rather an invitation to play.

Ferrets are obligate carnivores. This means that they have developed eating whole prey, and

not a lot of fruit, vegetables and grains. This means ferrets should be fed a high quality diet

that has been developed specifically for their needs. They have a high metabolism and

should be fed often, so this means they should not be fed fatty and sugary foods. Ferrets can

live for up to 10 years, so they should have the best nutrition to give them a long and

healthy life.

Members of the Mustelidae or weasel family are known to have a musty or

smelly odour. However, this doesn’t mean they should be bathed often as this

can dry out their skin. Dry skin will make the ferret secrete more oils into

their fur and this can make them smellier than before their bath! Ferrets

only really need a bath 1 or 2 times a year. In between they can be

sprinkled with a dust bath and brushed out to maintain their sleek coat.

Female ferrets (or Jills) need to be desexed before their first heat

cycle (about 4 – 6 months), as they will remain in heat indefinitely if

not spayed. Allowing a jill to remain in heat will eventually lead to

aplastic anemia, which is a condition where the bone marrow is

suppressed, leading to red blood cell, platelet and white blood cell

production deficiencies.

Ferrets make amazing and fun pets for the right owner. They can be illegal

in some states, so check with your local council before getting one. With

lots of love, attention and training, the cheeky ferret can make an ideal

companion.

Ferret OriginsMade specifically for ferrets and their particular digestive systems.Ferret Origins is a completely grain free diet, made from premium fresh Australian meat and extrusion cooked for superior digestibility and safety.

For most of us, it wouldn’t be a surprise to say that

animals think and feel in much the same way we do.

We’ve learned that rats for example, use peer pressure

to exert influence on their group. We know budgies can

speak hundreds of words and some parrots can even

speak coherent sentences. Many of us have looked at

our dog or cat and thought, “how clever!” this animal is.

We know our animals are smart beings and that is part

of the reason we surround ourselves with them.

BRAIN WAVES

MONKEY SEE, MONKEY DO

ANIMAL

Would it be surprising to learn that animal intelligence (called cognition) is still hotly debated by scientists? Up until the 1950’s, many scientists believed that what we call “smart” was really only

an instinct or a reaction from our favourite animals. Some scientists would grudgingly admit some animals like chimps or apes had some form of intelligence, as they could be seen communicating with each other, and using tools, such as a stick, to find more food to eat. This is because animal intelligence is actually very hard to measure, and

without measuring something, scientists were unable to say if an animal was or was not smart.

INTELLIGENCE

22

This is when we assign human traits to our pets or animals.

Think about the last time you’ve come home and found

something broken in the living room, with your dog looking guilty

under the coffee table. Anthropomorphism is saying the dog

looks guilty. However we don’t know if he feels guilty at all, or is

simply reading our body language (this is called The Clever Hans

Effect). Perhaps he has seen this expression on our face before

and knows if he lowers his head and hangs his ears, you will give

him a pat instead of yelling. Anthropomorphic behaviour can lead

to a scientist being unable to give an objective (factual) result.

ANTHROPOMORPHISM

INTELLIGENCE QUOTIENT In humans, we can measure intelligence quite easily. For humans, we could administer a test called an IQ test, to determine whether

someone was smart or not. These tests would measure math skills, reasoning and spatial awareness. Most humans can answer these

questions in much the same way, giving results to the test. There is no test like this for animals. We can assume that cows don’t reason

the same way ducks do, or that fish don’t see shapes the sameway birds do.

DECADES OF DEDICATIONScientists have begun to shift their way of thinking. Thanks to the work of amazing pioneers such as Jane

Goodall and her study of chimps, Irene Pepperberg and her work with Alex and other African Greys, and even Darwin who believed animals and humans think quite similarly (he was a very forward thinker in 1871).

Thanks to these and many others, there are new fields of study on how animals think and behave in the wild (ethology) and in captivity (comparative psychology). Over the next few decades, we will find out why

dogs empathise so well, why birds are so clever and why cats are so sneaky. Not only will this give us greater understanding of our favourite animals, but also our own place in the world and our relationship with our furry and feathered friends. The question will no longer be “do animals think” but “how do animals think”

and “what do animals think”.

RESPIRATORY

DISEASEIN RATS

The term “respiratory” relates to the areas involved when you breathe, this includes the nasal cavity right the way down through to the lungs. Upper and lower respiratory disease is very common in rats and today’s article will look at a few of the things to watch out for.

What causes respiratory disease?The cause usually relates to a combination of factors; often there is a bacterial, viral and/or Mycoplasmal infection present that is worsened by additional stress or a dirty environment. Mycoplasma pulmonis is one of the main organisms present in almost all chronic respiratory disease in rats. It can be transferred via aerosolisation (when rats breathe or sneeze on each other) or sometimes from the female rat to her babies. Mycoplasma can be a normal inhabitant of the respiratory tract, however if your rat becomes stressed or exposed to another respiratory disease, this can trigger Mycoplasma to cause disease. Other bacteria and viruses that can be a component of respiratory disease are usually transferred by aerosolisation.

The environment that your rat lives in can also play a factor, as ammonia (a component of urine and faeces) building up in a rat’s environment can destroy cilia inside their respiratory tract. Cilia are small projections extending off the cells that line the respiratory tract which are covered with mucous. This mucous traps any dust, dirt or bacteria trying to enter the respiratory tract and the cilia move it back out of the respiratory tract. Ammonia can destroy these cilia which then allows bacteria to enter the respiratory tract. For this reason, well-ventilated cages are recommended. We also recommend regular and thorough cleaning of rat cages and even litter training your rats.

By Dr James Haberfield

24

How do we treat respiratory disease?Treatment of respiratory disease is often aimed at control rather than a cure. Unfortunately in rats when respiratory disease occurs it is often present for life. Respiratory signs can clear up with the right treatment, however in many cases they will recur, as the organisms causing the infection can be very difficult to eliminate from the respiratory tract.

We use a combination of medications in order to achieve the best relief for rats. These include:

AntibioticsAntibiotics are used to control secondary bacterial infections. Some antibiotics that are prescribed for respiratory infections can also have anti-inflammatory effects, which will further help relieve symptoms.

Anti-inflammatoriesAnti-inflammatory drugs are used to control any inflammation that may be occurring in your rat’s airway.

Bronchodilators and MucolyticsBronchodilators dilate the airways within your rat’s lungs and mucolytics help to break down any excessive mucous that has formed. Ultimately this allows more air to flow through and helps rats who are having difficulty breathing to be able to breathe better.

NebulisationUsing a specialised nebuliser which turns medications into a vapour, medications can be directly delivered to the airways. Nebulisation can also be used to help remove mucous that can build up in airways during chronic respiratory infections.

What does it mean if there is red discharge around my rat’s nose or eyes?This red discharge is called porphyrin and while it looks like blood in most cases it is not. Porphyrin secretion occurs in rats due to stress, which is common in rats with respiratory disease. You can clean away the discharge gently with a warm, damp cloth or tissue, as it can be irritating and often rats with chronic respiratory disease do not clean it away.

Should I treat all of my rats?This depends on a number of factors, including how many rats you own, how many of these rats are showing clinical signs and how old your rats are. The answer is different for different scenarios, so speak to your vet about your situation and they can give you a more personalised treatment plan.

What else can I do to help my rat?Give them lots of love! Your rat will benefit from some extra TLC, including lots of warm bedding such as polar fleece, warm food and plenty of water. If your rat lives outside, consider bringing it inside, especially during the cold winter months, as cold weather can exacerbate respiratory disease. If your house is cold, cover their cage with a blanket to reduce draughts and consider providing them with a heat pack, but bear in mind that rats like to nibble! If you are using sawdust as a substrate in your rat’s cage try switching to something less dusty, such as shredded paper, which is less likely to irritate your rat’s airway.

www.unusualpetvets.com.auDr James Haberfield

Porphyrin - Secretion caused by stress

ACHOO

AH

AH

What are the signs ofrespiratory disease?Respiratory disease can present with a number of signs including sneezing, wheezing, nasal discharge, having ‘red tears’ and unusual noises while breathing, including rattling or honking.

NSWBorder Aquarium and Pets466 David Street,Albury, 2640Phone: 02 6021 2644

Birdsville684 Botany Rd,Alexandria, 2015Phone: 02 9669 1766

Campbelltown Pet and Aquarium6&7/266 Queen Street,Campbelltown, 2560Phone: 02 4625 1838

Pet Quarters Belmont 467 Pacific HwyBelmont, 2280Phone: 02 4947 7496

Pet Quarters Rutherford1/58 Shipley Drive,Rutherford, 2320Phone: 02 4937 6466

Tamworth Pet Centre250 Peel Street,Tamworth, 2340Phone: 02 6766 5016

Bob’s Birdz-N-Pets29 Tompson St,Wagga Wagga, 2650Phone: 02 6921 7022

Parkes Petbarn2/1 Bogan St,Parkes, 2870Phone: 02 6862 6287

Kellyville Pets106 Windsor Rd,Beaumont Hills, 2155Phone: 02 9629 3282

Pet Quarters Glendale15 Stockland Dr,Glendale, 2285Phone: 02 4958 3555

Pet Quarters Broadmeadow4/7A Griffiths Road,Broadmeadow, 2292Phone: 02 4969 4327

Southwest Stockfeeds1D Moorong St, Wagga Wagga, 2650Phone: 02 6921 4151

QLDPet Destination1/ 320 Olsen Avenue,Parkwood, 4214Phone: 07 5563 1834

Exotiques & Birds InParadise Petshop Victoria Point Lake SideBunker Rd,Victoria Point, 4165Phone: 07 3820 8470

Pet Superstore Capalaba135 Redland Bay Rd,Capalaba, 4157Phone: 07 3245 3393

Pet City224 Wishart Rd,Mount Gravatt, 4122Phone: 07 3349 2086

Pet Superstore Stafford266 Stafford Road,Stafford, 4053Phone: 07 3352 4000

Boylans Garden & Pet 21 Woondooma Street,Bundaberg, 4670Phone: 07 4151 7200

Mackay Pet Superstore22 Grandview Drive,Mackay, 4740Phone: 07 4942 2566

Roma Pet World72 Spencer St,Roma, 4455Phone: 07 4622 7979

Pet Supplies Direct OxenfordShop 10, 3-5 Cottonwood Pl, Oxenford, 4210Phone: 07 5580 4400

Aquabird Pet Centre663 Ruthven St,Toowoomba, 4350Phone: 07 4638 0220

Redlands Produce87 Boundary Rd,Thornlands, 4164Phone: 07 3206 0069

VICFantastic PetsUnit 6, 36 Lauderdale RdNarre Warren, 3805Phone: 03 9704 6634

Fish and Feather 243-245 Colchester RoadKilsyth, 3137 Phone: 03 9761 4410

Superpet Warehouse Essendon306-308 Keilor Road,Essendon, 3041Phone: 03 9374 1433

Stinkys Pet SuppliesShop 2a Mcdowell St,Rosebud, 3939Phone: 03 5981 1944

Mad About PetsShop 58 Mountain GateShopping Centre,Ferntree Gully, 3156Phone: 03 9758 8838

Superpet WarehouseChirnside Park1/286 Maroondah Highway,Chirnside Park, 3116Phone: 03 9726 4302

WB Hunter Shepparton20-28 Florence St,Shepparton, 3630Phone: 03 5821 5744

ACTReptiles IncShop 4/48 Mannheim St,Kambah, 2902Phone: 02 6231 2894

26

SAToucan Pet Centre49 Rundle Mall,Adelaide, 5000Phone: 08 8410 2752

Olivers Pets & Plants88 Morphett Rd,Glengowrie, 5044Phone: 08 8377 0223

Aldinga One Stop Pet Shop Cnr Aldinga Beach and How RdAldinga Beach, 5173Phone: 08 8557 7857

QLD CONT.Capalaba Produce3211 Old Cleveland RoadCapalaba, 4157Phone: 07 3390 1433

Ipswich Pet and Aquarium7 Hooper St,Ipswich, 4305Phone: 07 3281 3122

Port City Pet World Shop 2/220 Dawson HwyGladstone City, 4680Phone: 07 4978 1677

Absolutely Fish and Pets 143 Old Maryborough RoadHervey Bay, 4655Phone: 07 4194 1155

Pet HQ251-255 Ross River Rd,Aitkenvale, 4814Phone: 07 4779 2330

QLD CONT.Innisfail Bird and Aquarium Centre 37 Ernest Street,Innisfail, 4860Phone: 07 4061 3960

Vitamin A for healthy skin & keen

eye sight

Choline for a healthy brain & memory retention

Essential minerals to encourage enzyme

development & support the immune system

Essential amino acids for vibrant feather development

& moulting support

Vitamin D for calcium absorption essential for bone

strength and muscle development

Essential for seed dietsSeed eating birds have access to carbohydrates and fat in their diet enough to sustain them – but what about everything else?Like amino acids, which are essential for the development of naturally vibrant feathers? Or the vitamins and minerals required for normal brain function, memory retention, keen eye sight and strong muscle development?Your bird needs a balanced range of nutrients along with those provided by seed, fruit and vegetables to ensure they remain healthy in both body and mind.Multivet is the new supplement from Vetafarm that not only makes this possible, but also makes it easy. Do the right thing by your pet with Multivet!

Multivet

Vitamin A for healthy skin & keen

eye sight

Choline for a healthy brain & memory retention

Essential minerals to encourage enzyme

development & support the immune system

Essential amino acids for vibrant feather development

& moulting support

Vitamin D for calcium absorption essential for bone

strength and muscle development

www.vetafarm.com.au

Better Health. Better Plumage. Better Bird.

Liquid