The ultimate guide to setting up your home aquarium

The ultimate guide to setting up your home aquarium

Having a home aquarium is a great way to see and learn about underwater life. It’s like having a piece of the ocean or a river right in your living room. It adds beauty and life to any room. Aquaria can make your home feel more peaceful and relaxing too, so if you’re looking for a unique way to decorate your room, this could be it.

It doesn’t matter if you’re new to fish or if you’ve had them before, setting up an aquarium is a great thing to do. There are different kinds of aquariums; like ones with fresh water, salt water, or even a mix, called a reef aquarium. Each kind has its own special things to see and learn about. In this guide, we’ll show you how to set up an aquarium in your home.

Decide on the type

When you decide to set up an aquarium in your home, the first big choice is the type of aquarium you want. There are three main types: freshwater, saltwater and reef.

Freshwater aquariums are a good choice if you’re new to this hobby. They’re easier to look after than other types. In these aquariums, you can have many kinds of fish and plants that are pretty and interesting.

Saltwater aquariums are more of a challenge. They’re like having a piece of the sea in your house. You can have special fish and sea creatures like starfish in these tanks. They look amazing, but you have to be careful with them.

Reef aquariums are even more complex than saltwater tanks, and you should already have experience with aquariums. They have fish, but also living corals and other sea life. It’s like having a piece of a coral reef at home.

Another fun idea is to make your own aquarium with custom plexiglass sheets. This way, you can make a tank that fits just right in your space. You can choose its size and shape. When you build your own, you’ll have a special aquarium that’s perfect for your home.

Essential equipment

Setting up an aquarium isn’t as simple as filling the tank with water and adding fish. You’ll need some essentials for it to function properly and be a perfect environment for the fish.

The most important component is the filtration system. There are different types of filtration systems, but they all work at removing dirt and chemicals from the water. Some common types include mechanical filters that trap debris, biological filters that break down waste and chemical filters that remove impurities.

Proper lighting is essential for your aquarium, as it helps your fish and plants thrive. Different types of aquariums require different lighting setups. For freshwater aquariums, most fish and plants do well with basic aquarium lights.

Heaters are needed to keep the water at the right temperature for your fish. Most tropical fish prefer temperatures between 75-82°F. Choose a heater that’s suitable for your tank size and can maintain a stable temperature.

Water preparation

Now that you have your aquarium tank, it’s time to fill it with water and get it ready for your fishy friends. Proper water preparation and understanding the nitrogen cycle are crucial steps to ensure a healthy environment for your aquatic pets.

Start by using tap water to fill your aquarium. It’s a good idea to use a dechlorinator or water conditioner to treat the tap water.

The nitrogen cycle is a natural process that happens in all aquariums. It’s a way to make sure the waste from the fish is recycled and neutralized. To kickstart the nitrogen cycle in your aquarium, you’ll need to introduce a source of ammonia. You can do this by adding a small amount of fish food to the tank or using pure ammonia.

Selecting the fish

Choosing the right fish for your aquarium is an important step in creating a happy and healthy environment.

Different types of aquariums are best suited for different kinds of fish. For freshwater aquariums, you have a lot of options, including some types of tropical fish. Saltwater aquariums allow you to keep exotic marine species, while reef aquariums are perfect for those who want to care for both fish and corals.

Not all fish get along with each other. Some are territorial, while others are peaceful. Research the compatibility of fish species before adding them to your aquarium. Avoid mixing aggressive species with peaceful ones to prevent conflicts.

Some fish have specific needs, like particular water parameters, food preferences or tank decorations. Make sure you can meet these requirements before bringing the fish home.

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Preparing for a new pet: things to consider

Preparing for a new pet: things to consider

Bringing a new pet into your life is an exciting adventure. However, it requires careful planning and consideration. This post delves into the essential aspects before welcoming a furry friend. From lifestyle adjustments to pet-proofing your home, explore the comprehensive guide to ensure a smooth transition for you and your new companion.

Choosing the right breed

Selecting the ideal pet breed is crucial. Consider factors like size, energy levels and temperament that match your lifestyle. Research a breed’s care requirements, exercise needs and potential health concerns. A well-matched breed ensures a harmonious companionship, leading to a happier and healthier life together. Always research breeders before buying a puppy or kitten to ensure you’re buying from a responsible breeder.

Choosing the right food

Opt for pet food featuring natural ingredients. Look for real meat or fish sources as primary ingredients. Avoid artificial additives and fillers like corn or soy. Natural pet food promotes better digestion and overall health and reduces the risk of allergies. Providing your pet with natural ingredients ensures a balanced and nourishing diet for their well-being. Encore offers a range of high-quality pet foods with natural and nutritious ingredients that enable you to give your pet a diet that both tastes great and keeps them healthy.

Pet-sitting or boarding plans

When welcoming a new pet, plan pet sitting or boarding arrangements for times you’re away. Research local pet sitters or boarding facilities with positive reviews and suitable amenities. Schedule visits or a trial stay to ensure your pet’s comfort. Having reliable care options allows you to travel or handle unexpected situations with peace of mind, ensuring your pet’s well-being.

Pet-proofing your home

Pet-proofing your home is essential. Remove hazardous items like toxic plants and chemicals, secure cords and blinds and store small objects out of reach. Install safety gates if needed and check for small spaces where pets could get stuck. This creates a safe environment, preventing accidents and promoting a smooth transition for your new companion.

Insurance

Getting insurance for your new pet is a prudent step. Pet insurance helps cover unexpected veterinary expenses due to accidents, injuries, illnesses, or surgeries. It provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your pet’s health without worrying about financial burdens. Research different plans, compare coverage options and select a policy that suits your pet’s needs and your budget. Having pet insurance ensures you’re prepared for the unexpected, ensuring your furry friend receives the best possible care whenever they need it.

Registering with a vet

Registering your new pet at the veterinarian’s office is a crucial initial step. Call the clinic to schedule an appointment for a health check-up and vaccinations. Bring any paperwork the breeder, shelter, or previous owner provides, including medical records. Discuss your pet’s history, diet and behaviour during the visit with the vet. Registering establishes a healthcare relationship, ensuring your pet’s medical records are up-to-date and enabling timely preventive care. This proactive approach sets the foundation for a healthy and happy journey with your new companion. They’ll also be able to help you organise and advise on other treatments, such as neutering.

Microchipping and ID tags

Microchipping and ID tags are vital for your new pet’s safety. Implanted under their skin, a microchip provides a permanent and unalterable form of identification if they get lost. ID tags with your contact information are a quick way for anyone to return your pet if they stray. These precautions greatly increase the chances of reuniting with your furry friend, offering peace of mind and safeguarding their well-being.

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How pets affect your household: A guide

How pets affect your household: A guide

Getting a pet can be great, but it isn’t something you should rush into without giving a lot of prior thought. Many people assume that owning a pet is easy and that it won’t affect their day-to-day lives in any significant way, but that simply isn’t true. The reality is that owning a pet will affect your household in many ways, and many of them can be negative.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get a pet, as there are many positives to it as well, but it does mean that you should be aware of what you’re getting yourself into before taking the plunge.

Pets can smell unpleasant

Most types of pets can smell unpleasant at times. And yes, that includes low-maintenance pets like fish and birds, especially if you don’t clean their fish bowls or cages regularly.

Dogs and cats can also sometimes have a foul odour. At times, this simply means that they need a bath, but it can also be that their hormones or other factors are causing them to smell whiffy. And of course, if they have an accident in the house, especially on a rug or carpet, that scent can linger. However, don’t let this scare you off from having a pet, as there are companies that specialise in pet odor removal.

Pets can destroy your belongings

Dogs and cats can scratch and chew your belongings until they’re damaged beyond repair. Even if you take steps to avoid this, there’s still the chance that your pet may destroy a few items here & there, especially if they’re still young.

Bear in mind that this doesn’t just refer to small, easily replaceable items like shoes, but also larger or more valuable belongings. For example, your pet could chew on the legs of your sofa, or they could damage your screen door.

Pets can shed

Pets also shed, which means that if you own a dog or a cat, the odds are that you, your furniture and your home’s floor will always be covered in dog or cat fur.

If this is something that will bother you, or if you have severe allergies, it may be best to opt for another type of pet, such as a fish or hamster. However, if you have your heart set on a dog or cat, there are ways to cope with the shedding. You can get a breed of dog that doesn’t shed, or you could invest in gadgets that easily remove pet hair from your clothes.

Pets fill your house with love

Of course, since we’ve spent the whole post so far talking about a few negative ways that a pet can affect your household, you may be wondering why so many people still have pets, or why you should still consider getting one.

Simply put, despite all the cons that may come with owning a pet, there are also many pros – with the biggest one being that a pet is bound to fill your house with love. If you have kids, you should also consider getting a pet for their benefit, as pets can have a positive influence on children. You can learn more about that here.

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Indoor dog crate ideas that actually look good in your home

Indoor dog crate ideas that actually look good in your home

Dog crates are typically used whenever there’s no one else in the house to keep an eye on your pet. It also serves as their sleeping quarters, a safe place for them – especially when travelling – or a place for house training or preventing destructive behaviour.

With the growing needs of people wanting to have an aesthetically pleasing home with dog crates, dog accessories shops are responding well by providing modern dog crates that go well with the house’s interior.

To complement that, let us help you find ideas on creating an indoor dog crate that looks perfect in your home!

How to turn an indoor dog crate into a natural part of the house

There are an infinite number of ways to make your pet’s cabin appear perfectly at home in the heart of your house – exactly where your pet likes to be – with just a little ingenuity.

Shared by interior designers, here are some indoor dog crate ideas you may want to consider!

Turn it into a table

You can make a modest DIY table if your dog cage idea has to fit in a tiny area. You have two alternatives for this – either build a table with legs where you can insert the dog crate in the middle or just get a wide blanket to cover the top and sides.

You may also opt only to cover the top to allow more airflow for your dog. Additionally, your pup can see everyone in the house while inside the crate. It’s a win-win for everybody!

Create an island out of your dog’s crate

Consider using a high-top alternative to camouflage your dog’s crate if you have a huge dog that requires a lot of space. In the middle of your chosen room, you could want to think about installing a dog crate that a central island can cover that you build.

Seating area that doubles as a dog crate

Why not construct a cage for your pet in the middle of the living room if your beloved is the kind of dog that likes to follow you wherever you go? Whenever you hang out, and your dog is restricted to sitting beside you, a dog crate below you will feel that they are near you.

When placed in a location with a nice view, it can also serve as a window seat for your fur buddy so that they can monitor their surroundings.

Transform a cabinet into a dog crate

A lower cabinet in the kitchen is a great area to turn into a comfy bed for little dogs since it’s simple and provides plenty of storage space.

The most important thing is to check that the cabinet has sufficient room for air to circulate. And you should ensure it is kept far away from any cabinets keeping home cleaners or any other possible hazards.

Remove a cabinet door from a kitchen cabinet and dedicate the space for your dog. Install a curtain that can be lowered or pulled back as required.

Put the crate at the centre of things

Building a shelf unit around a crate and painting it a bright colour is one method to soften the look of a dog crate when placed in the most visited part of the house. The shelves not only offer visual interest but also create exhibition areas.

When your pup is exhausted and needs to rest, or when you wish to conceal the dog crate from view, you can lower a roll-down cloth shade by untying it.

Create a colour scheme complementary to the kennel by hanging artwork above it, adding accent cushions and a blanket to decorate a nearby sofa or chair. It will ensure that the crate is thoroughly integrated into the room’s design.

Furnish a crate as if it were furniture

You can include a dog crate into the design of a bedroom or living area by selecting an attractive, ready-made furniture-type item.

Mount a hanging shelf over it to showcase treasured artwork and complement it with pet-safe indoor plants of various sizes for a tailored wall display with natural touches.

Collie in a dog crate

Types of dog crates from which to choose

Now that you already have some ideas on blending your indoor dog crate with the rest of the house, it’s time to know the dog crate styles from which you can choose.

Remember that the material is just one factor in having attractive dog crates for your home. It’s still up to you how you design it and transform it into an aesthetic item.

Dog crates made of folding wire

The most common and widely used folding crate that you can buy nowadays is constructed from wire. These dog crates are long-lasting and may be collapsed down flat for convenient storage.

The good thing with this type of dog crate is its portability and travel-friendliness. It also includes a metal or plastic bottom that you can remove for easy cleaning and maintenance. You can also choose one that fits your dog because they’re available in different sizes.

However, basic wire cages don’t provide enough comfort for pets; thus, you should be prepared to spend additional money on a soft dog bed or crate cushion. And while it’s functional, you may not like it if you’re looking for stylish dog crates.

Dog crates with soft sides

A variation to the wire-made crate is the use of dog crates with soft sides typically made of canvas. This type is convenient for transport because of its low weight and the ease with which they can be assembled.

However, it’s less resilient than plastic wire or metal crates. And because a canvas cage isn’t as durable as other designs, you shouldn’t use it for dogs who have chewing and clawing tendencies or for larger hounds that can damage them from the inside.

Dog crates made of plastic

Plastic carrier crates are designed for easy travel with your canine companion, but they may also serve as a kennel in your house if you want.

Crates made of plastic typically have a solid plastic exterior and a door that locks and has metal struts for reinforcement. These carriers, much like canvas crates, provide a dimly lit environment, which is something that some dogs prefer.

These cages are ideally suited for small canines – to medium-sized dogs, but even larger dogs should have no trouble fitting inside.

Carriers made of plastic are available in a dizzying array of colours, sizes and functionalities. However, this may not be your best option if you’re particularly interested in indoor dog crate ideas that will look great in your home.

Dog crates made to last

Purposely made to last, heavy-duty crates are often only used as a last option since they’re both bulky and not very appealing to the eye. They’re usually manufactured out of steel, so they have the strength necessary to restrain strong, aggressive or destructive dogs.

They’re helpful for dogs who tend to destroy things or who love to escape, however, they won’t remedy the underlying issue producing these undesirable behaviours. Assembly is also required for heavy-duty containers, which may be challenging for some.

Because heavy-duty crates are often designed for larger dogs, finding ones that are suitable for smaller dogs may be challenging. Some versions could feature additional securing mechanisms or reinforcements to make the cage even more secure than it already is.

Speaking of destroying things, you may also need to know how to prevent and repair magnet screen door damage caused by pets. A dog crate may not be the only solution because there are also direct ways to deal with the repairs.

Dog crates made as furniture

Indoor dog crates ideas are inspired by furniture – functional and go well with the interior design of the house. And so, among these dog crate materials, furniture dog crates are closest to what you are looking for!

Traditional crates provide many advantages, but furniture crates combine those benefits with the style and functionality of side tables or bedside tables. You may also recall that this is one of the indoor dog crate ideas previously discussed to furnish a crate as though it were a piece of furniture.

We also recommend that these crates be used for house-trained dogs – those who don’t have any tendencies towards chewing or scratching furniture. This is because most furniture dog crates are constructed from wood or a combination of wood and plastic.

Looking for a minimalist dog crate?

The five types of dog crates mentioned in the previous section have their respective pros and cons, and we acknowledge that you may be looking for a different one – perhaps a minimalist dog crate for a modern look.

If that’s the case, a clear dog crate may be the perfect thing for your pup! It’s a modern dog crate made of acrylic plastic for a transparent look, with the bonus of being collapsible.

Final thoughts

Your dog loves you and constantly seeks out opportunities to spend time with you. However, if you want to create a particular look with your interior design, you won’t want to plonk an unattractive plastic and wire cage where your dog sleeps in the middle of your living area.

Keep in mind that appearance follows functionality, and before you get started on a crate makeover, you need to choose a design that will still provide your dog with a warm and secure environment in which to live.

For a stylish yet purposeful dog crate designs and other dog accessories and needs, feel free to check out our products – with a guaranteed high-quality companion for your furry best friend!

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