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Dogs and Small Animals Very few dogs can appreciate the attributes of a small furry pet, bird, reptile or snake without thinking of a quick game of chase or a quick snack. Some dogs have even been known to fish.
Nature is natural We domesticated dogs that survived by hunting small furry animals. It is not uncommon today to hear of a dog surviving “in the wild” by savaging through garbage and hunting. A dog’s natural instinct is to pounce on and chase fast moving objects and animals. 
Many dogs can be taught to live in harmony with a cat, but a gerbil, mouse or snake is another story. We have all seen the TV movie clips of the bird and dog interacting cutely; these are the exceptions, not the norm. Take precautions and keep the small animals in secure cage that can not be destroyed by your dog. Do not allow your dog to terrorize your small pet. Many small animals may not appreciate the drooling dog watching their every move. Keep them in a separate room and close the door behind you.
Take precautions. When in doubt, close a door to separate these pets.
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