Handling -Prey vs. Predator, Part 1

Here's a practice-makes-perfect subject, and the one that I personally feel the need to practice the most. This is tricky stuff. And one of the biggest  requirements to know.

Restraint.

Simply put, it's restraining pets for the vet's exam, for the tests or treatments they need...dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, lizards, ferrets, snakes, and more. Relaxed dogs, anxious cats, hostile rabbits, dangerous birds, aggressive lizards...or anxious dogs, aggressive cats, happy ferrets, hostile birds, dangerous lizards.....or hostile dogs, calm cats, anxious lizards, happy birds, sad turtles....well, you get the picture. Anyone can be anything. At ANY time. And a visit to the veterinarian's office can be a big, tricky stressor.

So, some tips:

Prey animals have eyes placed at each side of their skull. This provides a wide visual field.

Predators have forward-facing eyes, providing depth perception to help capture prey.

Prey animals have a blind spot in front of them.

Predators do not have as far of a side visual field as prey animals.

Prey have young who can stand and run shortly after birth.

Predators have young who are completely dependent on them the first few weeks.

So. Bunnies as predators then. Little bunniculas.

I kinda like that thought.

We must revisit those facts.