How to Care for Your Uni

     For those who are new to Uni ownership and are considering these magnificent creatures for a Pet - it is important to note that their stunning appearance is not by coincidence. Unis spend an unproportionate amount of time each day grooming themselves to perfection. With no opposable thumbs to aid them in this endeavour the task is no small feat and to keep your Uni at their absolute happiest, you will need to become well versed in the art of brushing, combing, plaiting and buffing.

     Particular attention must be paid to each of your Unis (as remember, you will likely end up with more than one!) mane and tail. Unis are well known for being incredibly inquisitive creatures but are not likewise known for remarkable intelligence! You may find more often than not that your Uni's natural curiosity may lead her astray into situations that may tangle or snag on their thankfully mid-length mane and tail. This author recommends the use of hair oil liberally applied to the ends of the hair only before being applied into a braid, preferably of Merivale style and tied off with sun-dried Kelp strands. Island Unis will insist on being adorned with blue flowers. This extra labor of love will be well-rewarded with your Uni's happiness.

     Of equal importance to the mane and tail are the hooves of your Uni. These must be lifted and cleaned out of any debris accumulating underneath daily. Buffing and applying a clear varnish may be done at minimum once weekly, though it is advisable for best results to do thrice a week. Low maintenance, these Pets are not! Without proper care of the hooves Unis may become very footsore and grumpy.

     Unlike more reserved, or perhaps less outspoken Pets, Unis will readily let you know when they are not feeling their best. Should you have an individual who is new to your care, however, do note if the head carriage is low or your Uni begins to separate itself from others within your group. Such actions are ample warning that all is not well and provide an opportunity to revisit your level of care and attention.

     The horn of the Uni is made from a similar material than the hooves but mercifully needs no further care. For beauty contests (which naturally they excel at) some do opt to apply a varnish with a modest amount of glitter. The colour absolutely must be complimentary to the horn's base colour or your Uni will promptly find the nearest sturdy structure or shrubbery and will scrape the paint right off of their own volition.

     Should aggression regrettably rise between your Pets, a plush pillow may be placed so that the horn pierces it midway before being secured to the head with ribbon. Your Uni will abhor this treatment so it is necessary to secure your first pillow tightly. I guarantee that a second pillow will not be needed as your Uni will be so ashamed of their appearance that they will not bully or be-little others again! Generally, however, these Pets are well mannered and pleasant. Individuals, of course, may vary and those adopted from the pound can not be spoken against without first applying patience, love and time.

     Now we come to the Unis wings. Each delicate feather can be preened into alignment by your uni with no help from yourself required. A little known fact is that the Uni's premolars are ever so slightly pointed to allow them to grip the hollow shaft of the features and smooth each barb into place. Should you wish to help your Uni with this task for the purposes of bonding or passing the time, a special fine comb will be necessary and are available through all good grooming stores.

     The diet of the Uni is likewise easily achieved. They will eat most items offered happily but are reported to have rather a taste for the sweeter treats if variety is offered. As a result, it is advisable to keep a close eye on your Uni's weight and to make sure it does not reach obscene levels. The ribs of your Uni should be well-covered but she should be able to take off in flight without lag or delay. If your Uni displays more than a single sweep of the wings in take off, look first for injury before then considering if excess weight might be making her too uncomfortable to fly.

     Flight should come to a Uni as breathing comes to us. Naturally. Easily. Instantly. Should you find yourself with a baby Uni in your care who has not yet had its first flight, you may pair it with a friend's older and gentle Uni to instil her with the confidence to take to the skies. While difficult, please suppress the urge to have the baby stay close to you during this time. She will need a long first flight to learn how her new wings function. You may have already experienced that babies are easily distracted and your worrying will only worry her.

     Finally we come to the heart. Your Uni will thrive if you follow the care instructions above, not because Unis are vain and like to look their best, but because doing so shows her that you will take time out of your busy schedule to spend one on one time with her. Grooming and feeding is an activity that will create a wonderful bond between yourself and your Uni that can not be replaced.

     That being said, all of your Uni care needs above can and will be met by the cheerful and competent staff at the Neolodge, of course. However there can be no greater satisfaction than having a well-cared for and happy Uni at your side as the result of your hard work and well-spent time.