Most tanks, except for the very small table-top types, have matching stands available. The stands provide a sturdy and flat surface capable of holding the combined weight of the tank, gravel and the water (water alone weighs 8 lbs per gallon). Cabinet type stands can also conceal fish foods, books and equipment most commonly used to care for your aquarium. Common home furniture is usually not built strong enough to support the weight of an aquarium, please exercise caution.

Aquarium lights provide the illumination that permits viewing of fish and plants in full color splendor. A tank with lights can be enjoyed at any time of day or night. Lights are available in the form of tungsten bulbs or as fluorescent tubes. Fluorescent tubes are a better choice since they give a more natural color enhancing light, do not give off excessive heat and have a longer life. Lights can be purchased individually or as part of a tank cover-light combo that matches the tank and stand trim.

A properly functioning filter is of utmost importance in keeping fish successfully. Filters help maintain the purity of the water by physically removing debris, and by further neutralizing waste products through chemical reactions; or bacterial activity. There are two broad categories of filters, the passive and the power filters. Passive filters (box filters, under gravel filters, sponge filters, etc) rely on water being passed through the filtering media with the aid of an external air pump or by siphoning action. These filters work relatively well in smaller tanks (under 15 gallons) or when used in conjunction with another type of filter. The power filters, as their name implies, have an integrated pump that suctions water from the tank and forces it through the filtering material. Power filters are recommended over passive filters for most aquarium applications, as they more effective in maintaining optimum water quality and are easier to care for. Power filters come in a variety of sizes, always select a filter that will handle your tank water volume with sufficient capacity.

Sudden changes in temperature, as well as prolonged exposure to cooler than a particular fish can tolerate are reasons for stress in fish. To prevent these situations, all tanks require a heater to keep water temperature constant, and a thermometer to indicate such temperature. There are two main types of heaters, the hang-on type and the fully submersible heaters. Fully submersible heaters are longer lasting than the hang-on variety as the glass tube that covers the heating element is rarely exposed to an air-water interface. Most heaters keep water temperature at an acceptable range by means of built-in thermostats. The more modern submersible heaters, on the other hand use solid state technology to electronically control the temperature at the pre-set level, and also offer an auto shut-off feature should the heater be inadvertently taken out of the water. All heaters come rated in watts, to determine what size heater you need, simply multiply the volume in gallons of your. tank by 5 to determine the minimum number of watts required. As with filters, always select a heater that can handle your tank capacity with sufficient power.

Fish breathe oxygen dissolved in the water, and in doing so they release carbon dioxide just as all other animals do. In order to maintain a stable concentration of dissolved oxygen in the water an air pump may be necessary. Air pumps connect with hoses to air stones, or bubbling devices to provide gentle aeration to the water. Always connect a check valve in the main air line to prevent siphoning back if the pump is accidentally turned off.

Test kits allow you to monitor the condition your aquarium water at any given time. A fresh water test kit should include at least reagents to test for pH and ammonia. 

Since the water coming out of our pipes at home is seldom suitable to sustain aquatic life, water conditioners are needed to render it safe for aquarium use. A good water conditioner should effectively neutralize chlorine, chloramines and heavy metals present in the water. In some areas other conditioners may be needed to correct some local conditions. Avoid using filtered water to fill your tank, as some filters may remove necessary elements present in the water. A different type of conditioner which will greatly improve the water quality of your aquarium are the bacterial additives. These provide much needed beneficial bacteria to help jump start your filters.

An aquarium, just as a picture, should always express who you are or what you like. Gravel, background pictures and decorations come in different colors, designs and motifs to help you express your taste and ideas, let your imagination run wild. You will need a minimum of one and a half pounds of gravel per each gallon of tank capacity to achieve an nicely sloped and rich base.

Locate it in a room where it serves the purpose you originally intended it for. A family aquarium will be best placed in a den or family room, while a decorative piece should most likely stay in the living room or the office.

Select a site away from windows or where sunlight hits directly for part of the day to avoid proliferation of algae in the tank.

Always place your aquarium near an electric outlet, in order to avoid having to use extension cords. Remember the filter and air pump must always be left On.

Place your aquarium away from drafty areas or right next to heat or air conditioning sources, these will cause unnecessary temperature fluctuations that will stress the fish.

Place your aquarium on a level and well supported floor. This is especially important when dealing with large size aquariums. Remember, a gallon of water weighs 8 pounds.

The size and type of housing necessary will be determined by the kind and number of animals you want to hold in it. A secure and well ventilated enclosure is essential in keeping your pet out of trouble and out of harms way.

Hamsters and gerbils, due to their small size, can be kept in glass tanks with metal screens and safety clips, cages or in expandable habitats (Habitrail, ect) specially designed to provide them with hours of fun. Larger species, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and ferrets, require the use of cages specially designed to meet their space and care requirements. All small animal enclosures require fresh bedding to absorb their droppings, and to provide warmth and shelter.

When placing your cage at home, select a visible area away from drafts, where you and your pet can enjoy the interaction. Avoid leaving cages with small animals within the reach of curious cats or dogs, as these may frighten the new arrivals.

Petland Discounts carries a wide variety of foods and treats scientifically formulated to meet your pet’s dietary needs. Always be sure to feed a diet that meets the specific requirements of your pet. Most small animals eat small amounts of food throughout the day, thus fresh food and water must always be available. Ask our associates to recommend a suitable water bottle and food dish for your new friend.

All small animals require a steady supply of vitamins and minerals as part of their regular diet. These can be supplied daily in their water to aid in their growth and development.

Treats play an important role in the life of a small animal. They not only provide a variety in their diet, but also provide enjoyment, and much needed teeth trimming as they chew or gnaw through them. Your neighborhood Petland Discounts store carries a wide selection of fun treats for your furry pet.
Vitamins and minerals

A mineral block, available in many shapes and flavors, provides much needed calcium and minerals necessary for optimum health.

A cage is the essential housing of any bird in captivity. A cage not only serves as a means for keeping the bird from flying away, but also as an enclosure to keep the bird out of harms way. Cages should be large enough to allow freedom of movement. The bird should be able to spread its wings and turn fully without brushing them on the sides of the cage. It should be equipped with doors, perches, and cups that are large enough for the bird. Always select a cage provided with an easy to clean removable tray. An associate can guide you through cage selection.

There are several excellent brands of foods to meet your bird’s dietary needs. Always be sure to feed a diet that is well balanced for your particular bird. Birds eat small amounts of food throughout the whole day, so make sure fresh food and water are always available. Most birds also require fresh fruits and vegetables as part of their diet. These should be made available on regular basis.

Treats not only provide some variety in a bird’s diet, but some also provide enjoyment as they peck at the sticks. Your neighborhood Petland Discounts carries a variety of treats specifically formulated for your bird in different flavors and shapes.

All captive birds require the continuous supply of vitamins and minerals as part of their regular diet. Vitamins supplied daily in their water or added to their feed aid in proper growth and optimum health.

Calcium is also essential for proper bird health. It is especially important for bone formation and for feathering. Calcium can be made available to birds with the use of cuttlebones or mineral blocks.

Birds are very intelligent animals; they require toys that will keep them busy to prevent boredom. Typical toys for birds include mirrors, bells, toy birds and wooden blocks. Ask one of our associates to point out the most appropriate toys for your bird.

Birds enjoy a light misting from a spray bottle on daily basis. Prepared birdbaths sprays (used at room temperature) will stimulate their preening and keeps their feathers clean and healthy. It is recommended to mist your bird early in the day to allow the feathers time to dry before the evening temperature change.

Mite protectors should be used on every cage. These small and un-obtrusive cans form a barrier around the cage that prevents the entrance of mites and many other insects.

There are several books written about pet birds. These can give you an insight on their care and general habits. A book is the most important tool for any pet owner.