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Next to dogs and cats, ferrets rank at the top of the list of commonly owned pets in the USA. This is a fairly recent occurrence - since the 80's and 90's. What has increased the popularity of this funny little critter? We think we know!

Ferrets are happy, curious animals that bring lots of joy to their households. Their ability to bond with humans and animals, along with their crazy antics, make them an endearing pet to have around. A fully domesticated animal, ferrets have in the past been unfairly accused of having a strong odor. However, pet ferrets when purchased at reputable facilities have been descented (by the removal of their scent glands). They do have a musky odor to their skin, but it is not overpowering. Ferrets are also spayed or neutered which is required for their health.

They are, however, little thieves. The name ferret is derived from a Latin word, furonem, meaning "thief". This is a deserved attribute as they love to steal items and hide them in secret places. They are especially attracted to anything they can turnover, turn inside out, or drag - regardless of size!

Ferrets are considered a "high maintenance" pet. They require supervised play as their natural curiosity can get them into trouble fast. Ferret-proofing is important before introducing a ferret into your home.

Ferrets themselves can be relatively expensive, starting around $100 and their cages and accessories can easily cost $300-$500. They also are not suitable for young children.

If you are considering a pet that will bring a little life and spunk to your home,look no further than a ferret!

Betta fish, sometimes called the Siamese fighting fish, were not originally found in the United States.  Traveling all the way from swamps and rice paddies in part of Southeast Asia, Thailand, Malaysia, and China, betta fish made their journey to the United States around 1910 and have been great pets ever since!

Because of their origination in tropical countries, betta's water temperature should be kept between 75-86°F. A normal size tank for your betta should be around 3 gallons. Be sure to avoid using flower vases as tanks, because even though they may look "chic" it is not ideal for your betta. Never use distilled water when filling your pet's tank. Instead, fill your tank with tap water and let the water stand for 24 hours to condition the water before giving your betta its new home. If properly maintained, these fresh water, fishy friends of ours can live up to 3 years and grow on average about three inches long!

The cool thing about betta fish is that they have both gills and a labyrinth which actually allows them breathe air! Since your pet needs oxygen, it is a good idea to have holes in the top of the tank. Your betta will love real plants as tank decorations. To find out if your male betta is happy, just check the top of the tank! Male bettas will make bubble nests, or large masses of floating bubbles when they are content. If you are considering getting your betta a tank-mate make sure you get a "betta friendly" companion such as angel fish, shrimp, loaches, platies and mollies.

The major difference between a female and a male betta is the size of the fins. Males have longer flowing fins, and generally a larger overall body. Females are much smaller and have a small white dot on their stomach. Whether your betta is male or female, it's bound to be a great fish friend.