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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver Weekend, Saturday March 1, 2008 - 11 Finches are not lots of work B irds provide a great alternative to households that are not able to have larger animals as pets. Busy schedules often make it difficult for a family to take on the added responsibility of an animal. If you are looking for a lowmaintenance bird that requires little attention, the finch is a great option. Finches are found in almost every area of the world. Many species have been caught and bred in captivity for generations, resulting in a great selection available to pet owners. Most pet finches are zebra finches, which are hardy and easy to maintain. Other popular species include the canary and gold finch. Depending on the species, finches can live five to 10 years. With a large variety of colours, species and songs, it may not be easy to decide on just one bird. In fact, having more than one is ideal for this pet. All finches prefer to be paired, however placing two males together may result in fighting. If left alone, a finch is prone to have behavioural changes, such as increased vocalizations, depression and feather picking (a form of self-mutilation), which may lead to death. Generally, finches do well without human interaction. They are quite content to associate with other finches, but typically flee from humans. This may be seen as a deterrent to some pet owners, but given the time to adjust to a new household, finches can adapt to people and become quite social. Hand-fed finches are more likely to perch upon or near people, and can learn to be called, interact and enjoy the presence of people in the household. Given time and with patience, a finch will come out of its cage to you for treats, such as millet or fruit. Caring for a finch is not difficult. They consume 30 per cent of their body weight daily, so ensuring that plenty of seeds and fresh water are available is important. Also provide a warm and draft free location with some sunlight for a long and wide cage or aviary to fly in. Because finches startle easily, which can cause panic attacks, it is wise to place their cage away from heavy traffic areas of the home. Other precautions should be taken to help keep a finch healthy. Heavy smoking in a house could quickly kill a tiny finch, and rough handling by people or other household pets are also threats to a bird's life. All family members should be aware of these concerns prior to bringing this type of bird into your household. If you are interested in finding out more about this low maintenance pet, speak to your veterinarian or contact the Oakville & District Humane Society at 905-8451551. Finches are often available for adoption at the shelter, which is located at 445 Cornwall Rd. Yes. I want to join The Oakville & District Humane Society's monthly giving program and give hope today -- and every day. Pet of the Week SHY BUT SWEET: Angie is a sweet dog who is shy around strangers. For more information on the animals that are available, visit www.oakvillehumane.ca or drop by the shelter located at 445 Cornwall Rd. Graduate ANNOUNCEMENT J JoAnn formally of Michael's y Hair Design has joined Your Looks Hair Salon. J JoAnn has over 20 y years experience in the hair industry. She looks forward to inviting her current clients g and friends to join her at her new salon. Certificate Open Ho use One Year JoAnn Davis Cam pus (Bramp ton) and Trafalgar R oad Camp us (Oakville ) to a Great Career! You've earned a postsecondary degree or diploma. Congratulations. Now you need skills and credentials that the workplace demands. Choose from over 20 Graduate Certificates, in the fields of: Your Looks Hair Salon 1500 6th Line, Oakville (905) 466-2012 GOVERNMENT CERTIFIED N.W.T. DIAMONDS CUSTOM SEIZED - UNPAID - DEFAULTED PUBLIC AUCTION Many items will be sold on the basis of NO MINIMUM - NO RESERVE BID High value diamond jewellery confiscated for non-payment now ordered sold piece by piece. Authenticity guaranteed. GIA, Gemscan, etc. ROLEX - CARTIER - PIAGET Sunday March 2nd, 2008 Auction at 2:00 p.m. Viewing from 1:00 p.m. For more program information: Holiday Inn Bronte - Oakville 2525 Wycroft Rd. (Q.E.W. and Bronte) Each lot certified authentic. All sales final. Terms: Visa, M.C., Debit, Cash and Certified Cheques. Some reserves may apply. Sale subject to additions, deletions, errors and omissions. 15% buyers premium to be added. contracted auctioneer: Heritage International.