Your Pet Magazine - Issue 1

Why welove ourpets somuch!the dog house | petiquette | in the tank | ask our vetbird talk | cat chat | petarazzi | social animal | and more!

CREATURE FEATURE: THE WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER

FREEIssue 1 Mar/Apr 2005

Queensland’s first free pet lifestyle magazine

2 Your Pet Magazine

Publisher and Editor

Janice Holland

Pet Shop and Promotions

Sallyanne Holland

Veterinary Advice

Dr Paddy Batch (Tarragindi Vet, Whites Hill Vet, Guppy’s to Puppy’s Pet Shop)

Dr Cam Day (Animal Behaviour) www.pethealth.com.au

Photography

Giulio Saggin www.giuliophotography.com.au

Contributing Writers

Leanne Holland, Rachel Ryan, Sallyanne Holland, Vyvyan Black

Art, Design and Online

Black Eye Advertising www.blackeye.com.au

Printing

Penfold Buscombe

Good Petiquette

Miffy Bruel

Send letters to the editor to:

[email protected] or PO Box 451, Coorparoo Queensland 4151

Please include the full name and address of the writer.

Your Pet Magazine has the right to edit and reproduce letters received.

Advertising enquiries

[email protected]

or Ph: 07 3394 1607

Distribution and home delivery enquiries

[email protected]

or Ph: 07 3394 1607

Front cover

Miffy Bruel photographed by Giulio Saggin

© January 2005

Your Pet Magazine

PO Box 451 Coorparoo Queensland 4151

Ph: 07 3394 1607

Fax: 07 3394 1661

www.yourpetmagazine.com.au

This publication is not advice on your pet. It is intended to inform and illustrate. No reader should act onthe basis of any matter contained in this publication without first seeking appropriate professional advicethat takes into account their own particular circumstances. The publishers and editors give norepresentation and make no warranties, express or implied, with respect to the accuracy, completeness,currency or reliability of any of the material contained in this publication. The publishers and editorsexpressly disclaim all responsibility for any errors in or omissions from the information contained in thispublication, including all liability for any loss or damage suffered or incurred by any person or animal as aresult of or arising out of that person placing any reliance, whether whole or partial, upon the whole

or any part of the contents of this publication. No correspondence will be entered into in relation to thispublication by the publishers, editors or authors. The publishers do not endorse any company,organisation, person, strategy or technique mentioned in this publication unless expressly statedotherwise. The publishers do not endorse any advertisements or special advertising features in thispublication, nor does the publisher endorse any advertiser(s) or their products / services unless expresslystates to the contrary. Articles are published in reliance upon the representations and warranties of theauthors of the articles and without our knowledge of any infringement of any third party copyright. Thepublishers and editors do not authorise, sanction, approve or countenance any copyright infringement.

Features

8 ContributorsMeet the people behind our first issue

9 Roaming the StreetsOff lead areas at Buddina on the Sunshine Coast

10 Why we love our pets so muchWe talk to pet owners and leading psychologist,Dr Maureen Burke, about the nature of our affinitywith our animals

18 Creature Feature The West Highland White Terrier

28 The Business Meet Brigitte Duffield, 26 year oldRSPCA fundraising co-ordinator

Regulars

4 Social AnimalCalender of Events

4 From The Editor

5 BitesNews and snippets of useful and fun information

6 PetarazziPets and their owners out and about

14 Pet ShopNew products, apparel and accessories

16 Ask Our VetAdvice on keeping your pet healthy

21 Pet CamAnimal behaviour with Dr Cam Day

22 Good PetiquetteWith Miffy Bruel

23 Bird TalkArticles on topics related to keeping birds

24 Cat ChatArticles on topics related to cats

26 The Dog HouseArticles on topics related to dogs

27 In The TankArticles on topics related to keeping fish,turtles, hermit crabs and critters

29 Book and Media ReviewPet-related books, movies and products

31 End TaleOur pet project

31 ObituariesReaders farewell their pets

Welcome to the first issue ofYour Pet Magazine.

contents

10

14 23

27 28Your Pet Magazine 3

9

4 Your Pet Magazine

IF YOU’RE READING this first editionof Your Pet Magazine, chances are youknow that pets have a very specialplace in our lives.

This also means that Your PetMagazine - Queensland’s first free, colourpet lifestyle magazine - is devoted to youand your special companion!

Your Pet Magazine celebrates pets andthe joy they bring through entertainingarticles, expert information and excellent

photography. Throughout this and future editions, you’ll findadvisory and human interest stories about dogs, cats, birds, fish,reptiles, critters and various other companion animals. We willfeature articles on pet care and advice, living with pets, trainingand behaviour, breed profiles as well as lots of ideas for gettingout and about and holidaying with your pet.

While Your Pet Magazine includes articles on all types of petsand their behaviours, we think the antics of pet owners can alsobe entertaining (let’s face it, some of us are a breed of our own)!So in each edition, we get up close and personal with people whopamper, preen or parade their pets and meet people who workwithin the pet and animal industries. And look out for ourcelebrity pet owners in upcoming editions.

Given that 64 percent of Australian households own one ormore pets (Petnet 2004) and a 2004 Australian Institute studyfound that Australian’s spend about $2.2 billion a year on pet care,there is no denying that today’s pets are treated much differentlyto in the past.

Pets today are key family members often having their ownspecial place in the home, participating in outings and giving andreceiving gifts. As there are so many wonderful products andservices available to ensure your pet is well and truly pampered,we’ve included a “Pet Shop” section to keep you in the loop.In this section you’ll also find some great items for the pet lover.

Despite the growing pet industry and the changing role ofpets in society, the reality is that not all animals go to lovinghomes. And as outlined in recent media reports, we still see casesof cruelty to animals. Your Pet Magazine also aims to play a rolein educating the community about responsible pet ownership.

Of course, a pet project such as this does not happen withoutsupport and input from many people. I sincerely thank my familyand friends - especially my husband Stephen Bruel and “TeamHolland” who have been devoted to seeing this magazine unleashed!

I am also grateful to the magazine’s contributors and partnerswhose expertise and talent has ensured this is a top qualitypublication. And of course, I thank the people and pets featuredin this first issue.

I must also acknowledge the role “Miffy” has played inYour Pet Magazine’s production. It was inevitable that Miffy(named after the bunny character created by Dick Bruna) wouldstar on the first cover. She was nine weeks old when Stephen andI brought her home in mid-2003. Like all new parents we weredaunted by our new responsibility, but since then Miffy hasentertained us, loved us, worried us and made us wonder what wetalked about before she joined us! (Stephen says we talked a lotabout getting Miffy.) But above all, Miffy provided the inspirationfor this magazine.

I hope you find a quiet spot to curl up with your specialcompanion and enjoy this first edition of Your Pet Magazine.After all, it is a lifestyle magazine. ®

Enjoy your pet - Janice Holland

from the editorsocial animal

March 1-14Guide Dogs Queensland’s Pawknock Help put a guide dog in the hands of a vision impaired Queenslanderby volunteering to help with Guide Dogs Pawknock appeal or bydonating when a collector comes to you door. Funds raised godirectly to providing guide dogs and other vital mobilityservices. Visit www.guidedogsqld.com.au or call 1800 810 119.

April 3 Companion Parrot WorkshopCurrumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Gold CoastThis one-day workshop provides a foundation level of knowledgeand understanding about companion parrot care, behaviourmanagement and training. Nutrition, enclosure management,enrichment and behavioural understandings will also be covered.Cost: $125 per person (includes Sanctuary entry and workshopbooklet). Call 5534 0846 or email [email protected].

April 8RSPCA Gala Dinner, Stamford Plaza, BrisbaneFor information and tickets call 3426 9926.

April 15-17The 10th Brisbane Pet and Animal ExpoBrisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South BrisbaneThis family event will feature hundreds of products and servicesfor caring for pets and animals and visitors will be able tointeract with animals of all kinds. Don’t forget to visit the YourPet Magazine team and Giulio Photography at stand 80.

Friday April 15 10am - 5pmSaturday April 16 10am - 6pm Sunday April 17 10am - 6pm

April 28International Guide Dogs DayA day to recognise the wonderful partnership between visionimpaired people and their guide dogs. For more information call1800 810 119 or email [email protected].

May 15Million Paws Walk Mark your diary and start thinking about how you’re going to getinvolved in this year’s Million Paws Walk. Throughout south eastQueensland, people and their pets will enjoy the best day out ofthe year while supporting the vital work of the RSPCA. For moreinformation call 3426 9926, email [email protected] orvisit www.millionpawswalk.com.au. For information on teamingup for the walk with Your Pet Magazine, keep an eye onwww.yourpetmagazine.com.au.

June 26Companion Parrot Workshop,Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Gold CoastSee April 3 for details.

July 3Open Day at Guide Dogs QldBreeding & Training Centre, Bald HillsWander through the kennels and meet some of the adorabletrainee guide dog puppies. Entertainment and demonstrationsfrom 10am - 3pm. Details call 1800 810 119 or [email protected].

If you have an event scheduled that you would like listed in theSocial Animal calendar of events please email the details includingdate, contact number and a website address (if available) to:[email protected]

Treats go to…The Little Larder at New Farm for always being ready

with a latte for the walkers and a bowl of fresh water foryour best friend. These guys know the council rules aboutdogs in restaurants and uphold them in a friendly andconsistent manner. Your pooch can be tethered to anoutside pole (away from where food is being served)while you sit nearby and enjoy the Little Larder’s all daybreakfast, great coffee and fabulous staff. Could be theclosest we dog-lovers will get to Europe in Brisbane.

Open: 6am-5pm, seven days. Ph: 3358 2024Address: 78 Moray Street, New Farm (corner Locke Street)

Doggy day careQueensland’s first large

scale dog day care centre hasopened at Bowen Hills. Waggin’Tails was established by HelpEnterprises, a not-for-profit group that helps people with disabilities find work.

“Wanting to work with animals was a common request from our job seekers over theyears but the reality is that there are very few jobs available in this area, so we decided tocreate our own,” said Therese McMahon, development manager for Help Enterprises.

“We believe there are a lot of workers in the city who are looking for this type of service- where they can safely leave their dogs for the day knowing they will have lots of playmatesand carers genuinely interested in their welfare.”

The facility complements Woofys, a smaller operation located at Stafford, which hasprovided dog day care, doggy sitting and boarding services since 2003. For more information:

Waggin’ Tails Dog Daycare Ph: 3252 1110 Website: http://www.waggintails.com.au/ Woofys Ph: 0401 338 761 Website: http://www.woofys.com.au

bites

Brothers and sisters,I bid you beware

Of giving your heartto a dog to tear.

Rudyard Kipling

Jeanne is top dogCongratulations to Jeanne Robinson,

recipient of the Maroochy ShireAustralia Day Achievement Award forAnimal Welfare. Jeanne works with theSunshine Coast Dog Obedience Club;the PetPEP programme to educateschool children in dog behaviour andaged care visitation.

She also established the Buderimdedicated Dog Park and is a memberof the Maroochy Shire Council AnimalMembership Committee.

Work begins on RSPCACooloola shelterThe new RSPCA Cooloola Shelter moved astep closer to reality in February with theofficial turning of the sod ceremony at theLaurenson Road site at Gympie.

Primary Industries and FisheriesMinister Henry Palaszczuk said the new$1.5 million shelter would provide avaluable service to the Cooloolacommunity.

“The RSPCA plays a major role inlooking after animal welfare andpromoting responsible animal ownership,”Mr Palaszczuk said. “The establishment ofthe Cooloola refuge is the result of anenormous amount of planning by the localRSPCA branch and years of hard workraising funds within the local community.

“Everyone who has contributed to theproject should feel a real sense ofsatisfaction as work on the shelter beginsin earnest.”

Mr Palaszczuk said the StateGovernment was making a significantfinancial contribution towards the projectas part of its agreement with the RSPCA tocontribute $2.5 million towards theRSPCA’s State-wide capital worksprogram.

“The State Government supports theRSPCA because we are concerned foranimal welfare and understand the keyrole that the RSPCA plays in this area,”Mr Palaszczuk said.

Find your purrfect match…The Cat Adoption Centre program is run through selected

veterinary clinics across Queensland to re-home healthy andsocialised cats and kittens that may otherwise have an uncertainfuture. Cat Adoption Centres promote responsible ownership -

all cats and kittens in the program are desexed, vaccinated andwormed. On adoption all new owners receive an adoption

certificate and Free adoption kit full of information and gifts.Adoption fees range from $60 to $150. For participating

centres visit www.catmatch.com.au/adopt

The first talkingbudgerigar on recordbelonged to a convictwho arrived on theFirst Fleet.

Did youknow…• The canine noseworks one milliontimes moreefficiently than thehuman nose!

• The average doghas 42 permanentteeth.

Send a vet to school The Australian Veterinary Association has a Pets and

People Education Program that gives primary schoolchildren the opportunity to learn about and have contactwith animals.

Upon request, AVA PetPEP will organise a freePet Expo at your school where a local vet, the RSPCA, localcouncil and other animal welfare organisations visit theschool and teach children about responsible pet ownershipand understanding animals. Call 1800 282 738 for details.

Going for gold...The oldest goldfish

on record is“Freda” who died

in Sussex, England,aged 41 years.

Going for gold...The oldest goldfish

on record is“Freda” who died

in Sussex, England,aged 41 years.

l

Your Pet Magazine 5

The drizzle didn’t dampen the patriotic spirit ofthese pooches and their parents who weresnapped by the Your Pet Magazine petarazzi atNew Farm Park on Australia Day.

petarazzi

}

}

Deon and SharonGoosen went to New

Farm Park to smellthe roses with theirJack Russell, Rosie,

and Red Cattledog, Indie.

Rain didn’t take the fizz out of the publicholiday for Mary and Elisabeth Barranwho were out and about with Sherbet,their Miniature Schnauzer.

6 Your Pet Magazine

{ Richard and Mari-Anne Seymour andcharming Charlie the Groodle(Golden LabradorRetriever and Poodlecross breed) took the rainin their stride and a seatfor our photographerduring their morning walk.

{Photos by Giulio Saggin

Karen Searle and Jack, her LabradorRetriever cross breed, pause during theirmorning walk.

}

spotlight}

Tamarind Taylor and her littletyke Eike, going for marigolds onAustralia Day.

Pet’s name:Eike

Breed:Maltese and Mini Fox Terrier cross breed

How old is Eike?Six months

How did he get his name?It was a name I always liked and it suited him

Favourite outing together:Walking around New Farm Park

What does Eike like to eat?Mainly chicken and steak

What’s the best thing about your pet?His devoted love - he is always welcomingand happy to see you.

Your Pet Magazine 7

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}Web Sites

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} Illustration

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John Brien had his hands full with his ShetlandCollies, Tabitha and Sharnee.

8 Your Pet Magazine

Sallyanne HollandSallyanne’s first pets were two gold fish

named “Garry” and “Glitter”. She later owned“Otto” who, despite many fish out of waterexperiences, lived a long and happy life.Longevity is a trait of Sallyanne’s pets - a

champagne ginger cat that she adopted and named “Mango”lived until it was 17. Sallyanne combines her passion for petswith her eye for style to handle promotions and compile thePet Shop section for Your Pet Magazine.

Dr Paddy BatchDr Paddy Batch brings almost 30 years of

veterinary practice to Your Pet Magazine.Dr Paddy has worked around Australia

attending to the needs of large and smallanimals. Over the past 12 years Dr Paddy has operated a clinicat Tarragindi and more recently a clinic at Whites Hill, which isadjoined by the Guppy’s to Puppy’s pet shop run by his wife,Kym Batch.

And yes, Paddy played wing for Australia as a Wallaby inthe 1970s. Although “not quite as fast” as when he played rugbyunion, these days Paddy’s three school age children, two dogs,three cats and seven fish keep him on the fly.

Dr Cam DayDr Cam Day is a veterinary surgeon,

an animal behaviour consultant and mediapresenter. He claims to have two professions,the first as a husband to Kathryn and as a parent

of three children, and the second is his consultancy. He consultsdaily with dog, cat and bird owners, helping to solve problemssuch as aggressive behaviours and problem barking in dogs.He also helps his animal clients overcome fears, phobias andobsessive-compulsive disorders as well as escape behaviour indogs, roaming behaviour in cats and noise problems with birds.

Dr Day consults to media organisations, writes for avariety of magazines and is Brisbane’s radio Pet Vet.

Giulio SagginGiulio’s childhood was filled with dogs,

cats, goldfish, mice and canaries. There waseven a calf put aside as a pet for him on hisnonno’s (grandfather’s) farm.

Giulio’s photographic career has taken him all overAustralia and the world. These days Giulio works as afreelance news, magazine and pet portrait photographer.

While his lifestyle currently isn’t conducive to caring for apet, he hopes to one day have another dog or cat.

In the meantime, Giulio is happy photographing all types ofpets in his unique style, for pet lovers and forYour Pet Magazine.

Leanne HollandCats, dogs, turtles, birds and fish - they

would all inhabit Leanne’s home if she couldhave it that way. After many furred andfeathered family members, Leanne has

developed an interest in the broad range of cat breeds.These days Leanne and her daughter have limited themselvesto two cats and numerous fish and hermit crabs.

“We would really like a whole menagerie but don’t havethe lifestyle for it,” she says. “So researching and writing forYour Pet Magazine is the next best thing.” Leanne is studyingnatural health including animal nutrition.

Rachel RyanRachel has a cat called Kitty, that she

adopted from the RSPCA when Kitty was sixweeks old. “We play hide and seek and she likesto surprise me by jumping out from behind

furniture,” says Rachel. Rachel has an interest in animal welfare (having participated

in several animal rescues), environmental issues and is a fourthyear journalism student.

Miffy BruelMiffy’s cheeky antics, smoochie

personality and “preciousness” keeps herfamily entertained, occasionally concernedand constantly busy!

Miffy likes long, sniffy walks, chasing birds and lizards,making new friends (human and animal), watching wildlifedocumentaries, playing with teddy and Sunday afternoondrinks with the girls.

She contributes by brightening up the office, collectingmail and visiting the magazine’s design team to play withLeo the Lhasa Apso.

The ideal way to get yourmessage directly into thehands of your customers!

Advertising in Your Pet Magazine reaches devoted pet loversthroughout Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast

Ask about our great rates and options: Ph (07) 3394 1607

Email: [email protected]

contributors

OCATED ON THE Point Cartwright peninsula justsouth of Mooloolaba, Buddina is easy to miss ifyou don’t know it’s there.

The Nicklin Way bypasses the suburb as it bendsbetween Minyama and Warana so you need to look out forthe Point Cartwright turnoff, which is not far from Kawanashopping world.

For dog owners, the area has specific, well sign-postedoff lead areas at La Balsa Park alongside the MooloolahRiver, at Point Cartwright and Beacon lighthouse reserveand along sections of Buddina Beach. Don’t forget to cleanup after your dog.

The area offers easy walking and scenic views. Beingone of the coast’s property hotspots, there’s plenty of renovatinggoing on for those who like toadmire waterfront properties.

As the area is geared for picnicsand barbeques, there is little in theway of café’s so visitors usually bringtheir own. But if you’re looking fortakeaway or provisions there’s thePoint Cartwright shops. Bella’sbeachside café makes sandwichesand other takeaway or eat in optionsto order and you’ll get freshly bakedbread from the bakery which opensfrom 6am, seven days.

As well as providing fresh bread,Noel ensures there’s plenty of freshwater nearby for your pooch.

La Balsa ParkSituated on the western side of

Point Cartwright, La Balsa Park offersparking, showers, toilets, barbeques, tables, walking,fishing and a kids’ playground - although dogs are notallowed within 10 metres of the picnic tables andbarbeques. There’s plenty of shade so there are manyplaces away from the designated food preparation areas toset up and take in the views of the marina and yacht clublocated directly opposite, and to watch the passing marineand foot traffic. A small section of beach appears on a lowtide for swimming.

Between 4pm and 8am dogs are permitted off lead inthe park area between Point Cartwright headland andLa Balsa Park.

Point Cartwright The walk up to Point Cartwright reserve is about

230 metres to the lighthouse and the stunning views northto Noosa and south to Caloundra and Moreton Island.

Point Cartwright is an unpatrolled beach adjacent tothe Mooloolah River, popular for its surfing point break.

It is not a swimming beach. There are showers, toiletsand dog off lead areas. Dogs are permitted off lead at alltimes on the lighthouse reserve grassed area near Pacific

Boulevard and the park area on the eastern side ofPoint Cartwright headland, south to Gulai Street.

Buddina Beach Three kilometres before Point Cartwright is Buddina

Beach and the Kawana Surf Life Saving Club.Buddina beach offers peaceful, easy walking in either

direction. There are parks and playgrounds, barbecues andpicnic areas along the beach and showers and toilets arescattered along the numbered beach accesses.

Dogs are permitted off lead at all times along theBuddina foreshore from Point Cartwright to Gulai Street

(beach access 1-4)and Mawarra Avenueto Talinga Street(beach access13-21). Dogs are notallowed near thepatrolled area (beachaccess 21 to 30).

On the southern side of the patrolled area, dogsare permitted off lead from 4pm to 8am along the beachfrom Maloga Street, Buddina to Wurley Drive, Wurtulla.

The whole area is well signed regarding dog access socheck out the signage upon arrival for clarification.

Jessica ParkAt Minyama, a short way along Nicklin Way heading

north after the Point Cartwright turnoff, is Jessica Park.Although not actually situated in Buddina, we thought itwould be remiss of us not to mention this park, which has avisitor information centre and an off lead area. ®

* Words and photos by Janice Holland

roaming the streets

L

Your Pet Magazine 9

Buddina Beach

La Balsa Park

The locals probably won’t like us letting the cat out of the bag about theSunshine Coast suburb of Buddina which offers the best of both worlds -riverside park on one side and surf beach on the other.

10 Your Pet Magazine

Tricia and John McCoskerwith Uffley and Pooch IV

Your Pet Magazine 11

HERE’S NO DENYING that Queenslanders lovetheir pets. We treat our special family membersto doggy day care, pamper parlours and petcouture. We’ve seen people spend months and

thousands of dollars searching for lost pets and nowwe even have a pet lifestyle magazine.

So what’s behind this people/pet bond? We know petsmake us feel good, reduce stress and provideunconditional love. But surely there’s a stronger, deeper,more powerful reason forQueenslanders sharing their homeswith an estimated 5.43 million petsand spending about $783 million ayear on pet care in the process.

Are we so desperate to be loved?Is it because of the modern lifestylewhere we’re too busy to talk to ourneighbours? Or is it the decliningbirth rate? I have to find out.

So I stop my busy modernlifestyle for a moment and ask myneighbours, John and TriciaMcCosker who say they can’t imagine- or remember - life without pets.

“There would definitely besomething lacking,” says Tricia, “itwould be too quiet”.

John and Tricia are well qualifiedto comment. Over the years they havehad 63 pets including dogs, cats,birds, fish and guinea pigs! (They dida tally for this article.)

With their family of four nowgrown up and with children of theirown, these days it’s just the two ofthem, “Uffley”, their 14 year old gingercat and “Pooch IV”, their six monthold chocolate Labrador.

“I think pets are important for teaching children howto learn responsibility and care for their fellow creatures.This indirectly teaches them how to care for other people,”says Tricia.

“Pets also bring a lot of fun and pleasure,” she adds. “Uffley is great for relaxation - he is a real people cat

and will sit and purr alongside you.”

While Tricia admits that not all of the seven cats thathave shared the McCosker home have been as affectionateas Uffley, she says, “they have all been good company”.

Tricia and John are now seeing their pet philosophycoming through in the their eight grandchildren who allhave pets of their own including guinea pigs, cats, birdsand fish.

And one grandson likes to visit his grandparents tohelp train Pooch IV.

“It’s a nice way to bond with thechildren,” says John.

“I don’t think any of the familycan imagine a household withoutpets,” he adds.

Even their youngest son, whodoesn’t have pets, “visits every two tothree days to do a Pooch check”.

This last comment leads me to thenotion that maybe couples who arehaving children later in life - orchoosing not to have them at all - areopting for ankle biters of the caninekind.

But would people really prefer topick up a pooch’s poo in public thanchange a nappy in privacy?

I abandon the ‘burbs to findTracey McFadden and Steve Grant ofNew Farm who readily acknowledgethat their three Maltese Terriers -Jack, Coco and PJ (Prince Jack) - aredefinitely child substitutes.

“We are not planning children sosix years ago we set off to get somepups,” says Tracey.

She says what she loves about her“children” is how “they can’t hidetheir feelings”.

“They are just so happy to see youwhen you get home, they get so excited and are just goodcompany.”

Like children, each dog has a unique personality.“Coco thinks about everything and is the boss or top dog,”says Tracey.

“Jack is at the bottom of the pecking order and PJ,well he’s just a wild little dog that’s into everything.”

Janice Holland digs deep to find out the truth aboutcats and dogs, birds, fish, guinea pigs, mice…

why we loveour pets so much

T

YBut would people really

prefer to pick up a

pooch’s poo in public

than change a nappy

in privacy?

Z


But he is the 14 month oldbaby of the family so that’s to beexpected.

Tracey dresses Jack, Cocoand PJ “in little jumpers andhats in winter because theyfeel the cold”.

“It’s a huge commitment andif you’re going to have pets youshould do it properly,” she says.

“I miss the dogs during theday when I’m at work and we

miss them when we go on holidays.“I can’t imagine life without them, they are a great

reason to come home.” I wasn’t game to ask the poo question so I still needed

answers. WHY do we love our pets so much? WHY arepeople dishing out on designer dog bowls, diamante catcollars and post-modern mouse houses?

It was time for academic input…Dr Maureen Burke, psychologist and director of

student support services at the University of Queenslandhas her own pet project involving “Buddy”, her chocolate-point Siamese cat.

Buddy entered Maureen’s life six months after thedeath of her husband and helped her through the grievingprocess. Maureen says during this time, Buddy loved andaccepted her, whatever mood she was in.

“It’s the sense of being needed,” says Maureen. “Theywelcome you home and you have to feed and look afterthem. It’s that, and the unconditional love that they providein return.”

After experiencing how Buddy helped her through herown difficult time, Maureen compiled a relaxation andvisualisation tape featuring Buddy, to help a close friendwho had been diagnosed with breast cancer.

“She found it so helpful she suggested I prepare ageneric tape for other people, so we developed ‘Buddytargets cancer’,” explains Maureen.

Using the tape Maureen ran a small study with 12 peopleto investigate how Buddy could help in treating othercancer patients. Her findings were presented at theEuropean Congress of Psychology in 2001 where she advisedthe results of this pilot study were particularly promising.

“It’s about helping patients to feel good aboutthemselves and I think that cats particularly have a strongsense of who they are,” says Maureen.

“A sense of belonging is very important to people,particularly with the number of Australians living alone, it’sterribly important to have a pet.”

Maureen says being able to respond to a pet is veryimportant particularly with illnesses such as depression onthe increase.

“Pets make us laugh, they show loyalty, they love us,they need us, we have to be responsible for them - theseare all good attributes.”

But WHY are these attributes important to us? I ask thebiggie: WHY do we love our pets so much?

“I think we love them because they mean so much tous,” she says. “We have a relationship with them and in anyrelationship - human or animal - you give and you receive.And we receive so much from our pets.

“That’s why we love them so much because they give usso much.”

Finally, I had found the meaning of life with pets.But there’s more. “If you take life today, the pace is

very fast, things are constantly changing whereas there‘ssomething about a pet that is constant,” adds Maureen.

“Maybe a pet can provide that sense of security that weare all looking for.”

So does this explain the millions of dollarsQueenslanders spend on pet care? Is it simply one way ofexpressing our love?

“If you love a child or animal you want to give themsomething,” says Maureen. “And if you can find littlepresents that make you happy, and you can, well you do it.”

I take it one step further and ask: are our relationshipswith pets replacing our relationships with people?

“I think for some people developing relationships maybe difficult so they are happy with the relationship theyhave with their animal,” Maureen says. “And if they get whatthey want from that, then who are we to criticise?” ®

* Maureen and Buddy have produced two other tapes “Buddytargets feeling good about yourself” and “Buddy targetsdepression” which will be released soon. For more informationvisit www.thebuddytapes.com.au.

why we love our pets so much

Dr Maureen Burkeand Buddy


Tracey McFadden and Steve Grantwith (l-r) Jack, PJ and Coco

no feeding!

The fish to have when you’re not having fish -

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punk chic for pooches

Your pooch will look fetching in this leather and stud neckwear,

$29 to $44 from the Pet Café Greenslopes, tel: 3397 5477

pet shopCompiled by Sallyanne Holland, photos by Giulio Saggin

cool cards

Photographer and pet lover John Lund takes

photoshop to new levels with his range of fun

greeting cards. Available from Wild,

Carindale and Garden City, tel: 3324 9336


fabulousfigurines

The cool cats and hot

dogs collection by

award winning artist

Toni Goffe, $34.95 to

$54.95 from Wild,

Carindale and Garden

City, tel: 3324 9336

bird gym

Your bird will enjoy this tabletop gym, available in various

sizes from Guppy’s to Puppy’s, Camp Hill, tel: 3324 8088

polly want a strawberry?

Fruity bird toy, $6.40, from Guppy’s

to Puppy’s, Camp Hill, tel: 3324 8088

singled out

Step out in style in this Scotty singlet

top, $19.95 from Soul Sanctuary,

Peregian, Buderim and Noosaville,

tel: 5474 0430.

bowl-arama

Designer food dishes from

The Pet Pad, New Farm, tel: 3254 0333



ECENTLY I attended a conference where theguest speaker, an international medicine

expert, said “we probably save as many petsby their annual check up as we do by thevaccination that follows it”.

I couldn’t agree more with these comments. So for myfirst column, I’d like to remind readers of the importanceof your pet’s annual check up at vaccination time - and howyou and your pet can get the most out of the consultation.

Having your pet vaccinated by a vet practice with fullfacilities is one way of ensuring your cat or dog is

thoroughly examined at least once a yearfor illness or disease.

Although these annual visits of about15 minutes may seem brief, they providetime for the vet to conduct an overallhealth check of your pet in addition toadministering the vaccination.

During this visit the vet will fullycheck over your pet - from nose and earsto under your pet’s tail. The vet will belooking for all sorts of problems fromcancers, allergies and lameness topre-cursers to disease.

The vet will also talk to you aboutother topics such as desexing, diet,heartworm control, flea control,intestinal worming, grooming methodsand even micro-chipping.

During the consultation, the vet willalso listen with a stethoscope to yourdog or cat’s chest (heart and lungs) andpossibly the abdomen.

This annual visit is a good time to raise any concernsabout your pet’s health. To get the most out of yourappointment, it’s a good idea to prepare a list beforehandto help you remember everything that’s cropped up sinceyour last visit. Try to arrive before your scheduledappointment and present your list to the vet nurse so anynecessary preparations can be made prior to yourconsultation with the vet.

To maintain your pet’s medical history, it’s best to visitthe same vet practice each year. If for some reason youmust visit another vet, be sure your pet’s medical history isnoted and recorded. You can do this by asking your regularvet for a copy of your pet’s medical history so that the vettreating your pet is fully informed.

In turn, all good vets will happily provide details of thevisit for your regular vet’s files.

Your pet’s annual vaccination is more than just a jab -it’s an important part of ensuring your best friend’s longterm health and wellbeing. Visit a vet practice that doesmore than vaccinations and please, be sure you and yourpet get the most out of the consultation. ®

ask our vetwith Dr Paddy Batch BVSc

Dr Paddy Batch has almost30 years of veterinaryexperience that he shareswith readers through thisregular column.

The importance of regular check ups

How to get the most out of your pet’sannual vaccination visit:

• Before your pet’s appointment, prepare a list ofall the points you wish to raise with the vet andpresent it to the vet nurse upon arrival.

• Arrive five minutes before the scheduledappointment - this will give the vet nurse time toprepare any equipment that may be requiredbased on the points you have provided.

• During the consultation, point out any lumps thatyou may have found on your pet.

• Develop a long-term relationship with your vetwhere your pet’s history is recorded. If your petis being vaccinated elsewhere, take your pet’smedical history and ask at the start of thetreatment a for copy of the visit for your regularvet’s records.

• If you cannot make a scheduled appointment letthe vet practice know so the vet and vet nursecan attend to other sick animals.

Things that will help

To meet kennel association requirements,your pet should have at least the followingannual vaccinations:

DOGS C5 - protects your dog from distemper,hepatitis, parvovirus, bordatella and parainfluenza

CATS F3 - protects your cat from feline enteritis,calicivirus and rhinotracheitis

Vaccinations

Things to look out for with new pets:

• Check vaccination certificates of newly acquiredpets for a veterinary practice logo or address -this way you know your pet has had a full healthcheck as part of the vaccination process.

• Don’t accept a pup or kitten from someone whowill forward a vaccination certificate - vetssupply certificates at the time of consultation.

• In Brisbane, council law requires that all pups bevaccinated at the time of being sold or given away.

New pets

R


Q&APost your question for Dr Paddy to:PO Box 451 Coorparoo Queensland 4151or email: [email protected]

Hair shedding help

My six month old Labrador sheds heaps and heaps of hair.

We brush him regularly but this does not seem to help

much. Is there anything we can do about it?

Labby lover, Coorparoo

Other than seasonal shedding, which is harder to keep upwith, your problem probably relates to the brush you use.The ones with pins on one side and bristles on the other aregreat for preparing dogs for shows, but are useless forremoving the excess coat.

The “Lawrence tendercare slicker” is quite useful andcarried by most pet shops. It is a dense bed of hooked nailswith a rubber backing that flexes for comfort. My GoldenRetrievers prefer this one as do thick coated Labradors.

Ear troubles

We have a Weimaraner, Martha, who has regular ear

infections. She shakes her head - it has been so bad that she

has twice caused ruptures in the artery in her ear causing

considerable and painful swelling.

Two operations later and several rounds of antibiotics

and eardrops, she still gets these infections. Is there some

other drug or non-drug treatment we can use to manage the

problem? Martha is only three, lively and very friendly. It is

very upsetting to see her troubled this way.

DT, Drummoyne

Unfortunately a large percentage of “fat ear” which your dogseems to be experiencing, is the result of autoimmunedisease that has been followed by infection.

Your vet would have checked that Martha’s ear canalshave not been partially closed by the surgery she hasundergone and if the infections are occurring only weeksapart, your vet would have taken a swab to identify anyresistant bugs and recommend appropriate treatment.

Many dogs will at some stage get an ear infection andyou may just have a susceptible dog. If this is the case, thereare a number of good over the counter ear rinses that youcould use on a regular basis (weekly or twice weekly as apreventative to clean Martha’s ears).

The greatest problem in my practice is the client’sfailure to massage thedog’s lower ear canalto ensure the ear rinsegets where it needs togo to dry the ear andremove debris. Askyour vet to show youhow to do this assimply rubbing ormassaging your pet’sface is ineffective.

Keeping a turtle

We have recently acquired a pet turtle and would like to

know what environment they like to live in. That is, what

would be a suitable house for a turtle as apparently they

need to be able to swim in water and walk on dry surfaces?

Also, what foods do they like?

Carla G, Carindale

Turtles live for 70 years. So-called “penny turtles” werebabies that lived only a few years and stayed small due tomalnutrition. There are now complete turtle foods to ensuremistakes of the past are not repeated.

A great home would be a fish tank - perhaps a smallsized tank now (about one metre) that you can replace witha larger tank (about two metres) in years to come. Make abeach at one end and basking logs at the other end and apond for swimming. Also essential is an ultra-violet lightand if your pet is to be active all year, you will need to heatthe water.

More information on turtles will be found inIssue 2 of Your Pet Magazine - Editor.

Flea allergies

My cat (Harry) is losing a lot of hair. He normally has a

beautiful thick coat but gradually it has thinned out, in

clumps in some spots. I asked the vet about six months ago

when it wasn’t as bad and he said it was probably fleas. I

have been treating my cat with the drops on the neck every

two months but it doesn’t seem to be improving. I’ve never

found any fleas on him (very easy with a lot of white hair

and losing hair) and he scratches only occasionally.

Sonja Hooper, Bribie Island

Drops on the neck are great, but theyshould be applied monthly. If Harry has aflea infestation now due to incorrectdosing it may take many months to regaincontrol. If a cat is allergic to fleas, thenjust a few will lead to over-grooming(rather than scratching) which is what itsounds like Harry is doing. HoweverHarry could be allergic to something else.

I suggest you work with your vet torule out any food allergies or you mayneed to take Harry to a dermatologist.


F YOU’RE LOOKING for a small dog withpersonality, good looks and intelligence, you can’tgo past the West Highland White Terrier.

Measuring about 28 centimetres to the shoulder, don’tlet the size of this little white powerhouse fool you. TheWest Highland White Terrier - or “Westie” - is a cheeky andfeisty little guy who was originally bred to hunt game likeotters, badgers, foxes and wild cats in the craggycountryside of the Scottish Highlands.

The breed standard for the West Highland WhiteTerrier is that of a small, game, hardy-looking Terrier,possessed of no small amount of self esteem.

In her book Westies from Head to Tail (which isregarded by many devotees as the bible for West HighlandWhite Terrier owners), former breeder and exhibitor RuthFaherty says “the Westie merits an award for designexcellence”.

“With his natty white coat and black trimmings, darkhazel eyes deep-set in a shaggy face, perky ears and tailcarried like a banner, he is a delightful small and compactpackage of a dog,” she says.

“The Westie is big enough to really be a dog but smallenough to go in the car or to share your easy chair. Heenjoys the outdoors, regardless of weather, but fits nicelyinto a small apartment.”

Cooroy-based breeder, Anne-Maree Pollari, has ownedand bred West Highland White Terriers for seven years andGolden Retrievers for over 30 years. So after studying thetwo breeds for years, she is well placed to confirm the “bigdog in a small package” theory.

“Westies are not delicate little dogs like the toy breeds,but much more the character of larger breeds, but in sucha nice, compact little body,” says Anne-Maree.

“The are full of self-esteem and have a strong sense oftheir own importance.

“They are not a yappy breed, but are great littlewatchdogs, letting you know when a stranger isapproaching the house.”

West Highland White Terriers love being close to theirfamily, to whom they are devoted, and they thrive inhouseholds where there is a family member home most ofthe time.

“Although they love the outdoors, they also take greatinterest in whatever is happening around the home,”adds Anne-Maree.

“When there is something exciting afoot, they are rightthere, joining in the fun, however when it is a quiet time,they will be sound asleep, usually near their master’s feet,perfectly relaxed and contented.

“And they beg to be included in outings in the car, nomatter how short the trip.”

Anne-Maree says the ideal set up for a Westie is a ruralproperty with lots of places for adventure, although manyWesties live in wonderful suburban homes, with a securelyfenced yard. Regardless of the situation, the Westie isdefinitely a house dog and requires full access to the house.

“City and townhouse homes can also work well if theowners are energetic and enjoy regular walks as part oftheir daily routine with their little friend,” saysAnne-Maree.

“The ideal home also includes the owner having thetime to manage the regular grooming of the Westie’s coat.”

This is an important issue that must not be overlooked. Possibly the best known “Westie” in Australia is

“Imelda”, star of the My Dog television commercials. Don’tlet Imelda’s immaculate coat and chrysanthemum shapedhair style fool you. This is the work of experts and if youwant a pet looking like Imelda around the home you couldbe disappointed.

The West Highland White Terrier requires dailygrooming. When Anne-Maree says “underneath the verycute, teddy bear exterior lives the fiery heart of a terrierand they are very keen little hunters” it’s a reminder thatthe West Highland White Terrier is looking for adventureand the owner needs to be prepared for the upkeep thatcomes with it!

Although it’s fairly easy to groom this breed, it is an artthat requires practice and patience (from you and yourpet). While your breeder will assist and provide you withreference notes, there are several books available.

The correct way to groom a Westie is to “pluck” orhand strip the hair and the classic Westie shape features a“skirt” of longer hair. But this is mainly used for show dogs.Most pets are simply brushed daily, clipped regularly andtaken to the professional groomer about four times a year.For a full insight to grooming a Westie, read books andchat to breeders and professional groomers.

If there had to be a downside to the West HighlandWhite Terrier, it would be their willfulness. Anne-Mareesays they can be willful and strong-minded, but are veryresponsive to kind but firm handling and training.

This willfulness shouldn’t be mistaken for a lack ofintelligence. In fact, Anne-Maree says she is constantlyimpressed by her Westies’ intelligence and problemsolving ability.

“The majority of the time they are an absolutelydelightful, fun, sturdy, robust, intelligent little breed thatthrives on companionship.”

Your Pet Magazine editor and West Highland White Terrier devotee,Janice Holland, provides an overview on this bonny breed.

I

The “Wee Westie” - the West Highland Terrier

creature feature


YThe Westie meritsan award for

design excellence

Z

Main photo: Young JimmyBelow: Jessie and JimmyBottom: (l-r) Molly & Kiani (Miffy’s mother)Photos supplied by Anne-Maree Pollari


How muchexercise does theWHWT need?

We walk ourWesties threekilometres everyday, from aboutfive months of age.They love theirwalks, even if it isa shorter stroll tothe local park, oraround the block.Westies tend topace themselves

with their owners, keeping up well with young energeticfamilies, as well as being an excellent walking companionfor older people, enjoying a steadier pace.

What are the best things about the WHWT?

• Their very cute, cheeky appearance and brightand bonny nature

• They are wonderful little character dogswith personality plus

• Their devotion and faithfulness

• Their robust and sturdy, compact size

• They have the ability to brighten any mood instantlyand are an absolute delight!

Are there any common health problems among thebreed? If so, what are they and how can they bemanaged?

Westies are generally a very healthy.Common conditions can include:

• Skin Disorders

Thought to have a hereditary base, Westies will be farmore likely to develop skin problems if allowed to carryfleas. It is most important to be vigilant and ensure thatyour Westie has a flea free environment. A natural dietalso plays a significant role.

• Inguinal Hernias

Inguinal hernias can present in puppies in the first fewweeks of life. Although the hernias do not cause the young

puppy pain or discomfort, it is important that thesepuppies are desexed at around six months old, at whichtime the hernia can be corrected. Some hernias are verysmall and will self-correct, however it is important thatthe puppy is not bred from, but goes to a suitable “pethome”.

Are they good with children?

Westies are generally very good with children, if they havebeen brought up with them from puppyhood. It isimperative that little children are supervised very carefullyand taught how to handle the puppy with care, that is, onlybeing allowed to hold the puppy on their laps while sittingon the floor.

What does a WHWT cost?

Puppies are priced from $1000 - $1200. This usually includesregistration/pedigree, full vet check and first vaccinationshots. Breeders should also include a comprehensive guideto diet, general care, worming history and other relevantinformation to get the new owners off to a good start.

What is the WHWT lifespan?

Westies usually enjoy an active, long life of an average13 to 15 years, and older dogs are not uncommon.

Where can people go for more information?

It’s important to research well before deciding that aWestie will suit your family and lifestyle. Search theinternet, read books and contact several breeders.If possible, arrange to view the adult Westies and theenvironment in which their puppies are raised. Some arestrictly kennel dogs while others are more home-based.

Other good resources include:

• West Highland White Terrier Club of Queensland

Phone (07) 3206 8200

• Dogzonline

www.dogzonline.com.au - a good resource and listsregistered breeders

• Canine Control Council of Qld

www.cccq.org.au - provides breeders names and generallocal and interstate information, tel: 3252 2661. ®

Cooroy-based West Highland White Terrier breederAnne-Maree Pollari answers our “creature feature” Q&A:

Anne-Maree Pollari has bred West HighlandWhite Terriers for seven years and GoldenRetrievers for more than 30 years. She is located atCooroy near Noosa on the Sunshine Coast whereshe shares her acreage home with her husband,three teenage children and their family of six adultWesties and two “youngens”.

Email: [email protected]

Bonny Lily at 11 weeks


When a Noise Annoys

Mother Nature is not all that motherly sometimes. In fact, if you were toask your dog what it thought of the way Mother Nature handles storms,the results, in doggy language at least, may not be printable.

pet cam

ANY DOGS are scared by thunderstorms and other noises and the fear is not only a problem - it can be fatal.

To help your dog, you need to considerthe following: How predictable is the noise that affectsyour dog and how long does it last? Is the noise local or isit widespread? Is it seasonal and, like nail guns, will itdisappear once the building has stopped?

ThunderstormsThunderstorms are one of the most predictable noises.

When those ominous storm clouds appear on the horizonor when the weather forecasters say “thunderstorms arelikely” you should make moves to protect your fearful Fidofrom its frightful phobias.

While thunderstorms are seasonal, they are intense,long and loud and they occur over a wide area.

The predictability of storms means that medication canbe used and, because the storms are so intense, medicationis usually essential for the bad cases.

FireworksFireworks are not as predictable as storms because,

usually, you won’t know when they are going to occur.It helps that fireworks mostly occur on Friday nights andthe weekend. They are reasonably localised compared withstorms which are more global. Fireworks present atherapeutic challenge because they are intense but of shortduration.

Medication may not work quickly enough to be of usewith fireworks, unless you use it routinely on weekendevenings just in case.

It is a good idea to provide your dog with a soundproof den for refuge.

Cap Guns, Nail Guns and Other ExplosionsCap guns are a particular nuisance - you don’t know

when the neighbour’s Dennis the Menace will fire thedreaded implement but when he does, it will usually occuronly for a short time before he runs out of caps or hisparents, thankfully, confiscate the device.

Medication is of little use for cap gun phobias but atleast the noise can be reproduced easily and desensitisingyour dog to the noise is therefore easier.

Nail gun noises can be a real problem. They arepredictable because when they occur in a local renovationor construction, you can bet they will occur regularly overa few weeks until the building is completed. Medicationoften helps with nail gun phobias. The medication shouldbe used on a daily basis while the building is occurring andthen stopped.

Noise Fear Solutions Helping hounds to deal with their

noise phobias involves more than justmedication. There are four steps:

STEP 1Ensure that your dog is safe when

you are not home. This involves carefulattention to the fence to ensure escape isnot possible and the provision of asoundproof den for the dog to retreat towhen it is confronted by an unexpected noise.

STEP 2Ensure that you handle the dog correctly when you are

home and it suddenly becomes scared. Don’t try to comfortyour dog as you will be teaching it that the fearfulbehaviour is what you want.

When your dog is scared, it is much better to play‘brain games’ and to reward the playing that results.Usually this involves some short, quick, but fun, obediencecommands which the dog is encouraged to respond to.

STEP 3It is often possible to train a dog not to be scared of

the noises that currently upset it.This is generally done by reproducing the same or

similar noises but at a quieter level and training your dogto enjoy its exposure to these noises.

Sometimes recordings are helpful if the soundreproduction is accurate, and sometimes a muffled versionof the nuisance noise is used. The latter can be achievedwith cap guns, for example, by having the gun explodedseveral rooms away from where the dog is being trainedand then, as the dog becomes accustomed to thereduced noise, moving the noise source closer andcloser to the dog.

STEP 4Medication and pheromone therapy often play a

part. Medication is often used to calm the dog whileother processes are being implemented to create along term cure.

New anti-anxiety medications used in a precisemanner will make the progress to a cure much quicker.

The Dog Appeasing Pheromone is also useful to reducenoise fears in dogs that are inside the home when theyare scared. ®

* Handling noise fears in dogs is very complexbut help is at hand. Visit www.pethealth.com.auand type “noise” in the search box.

M

animal behaviour with Dr Cam Day


3!Come and have a free chat withDr Paddy about your pet’s needs andproblems. 11am-1pm Wednesdays.No pets during these sessions please!

3!Professional pet groomingby TAFE accredited groomers

3!All vet supplies andquality pet foods (fresh,frozen & dried)

Dr Paddy Batch BVScDr Paddy Batch BVSc

Your one-stop pet centre!Your one-stop pet centre!

Only humane, reward-based therapies areused. Electric shock collars are NOT used

• Satisfaction-guaranteed service

• Telephone Consultations

• Assessment Consultations

• Clinic Consultations

• House Call Consultations

• Web-based Solutions

• Behaviour Management CD-Roms,Audio CDs and E-Books

Only humane, reward-based therapies areused. Electric shock collars are NOT used

• Satisfaction-guaranteed service

• Telephone Consultations

• Assessment Consultations

• Clinic Consultations

• House Call Consultations

• Web-based Solutions

• Behaviour Management CD-Roms,Audio CDs and E-Books

Dr Cam DayAnimal Behaviour Veterinarian

Ph 07 3365 1560Email: [email protected]

Dr Cam DayAnimal Behaviour Veterinarian

Ph 07 3365 1560Email: [email protected]

Pet BehaviouralProblems SolvedPet BehaviouralProblems Solved

good petiquettewith Miffy Bruel

OWNING A DOG is one ofthe joys of life.Dogs provide greatcompanionship.They will love youunconditionally, make youlaugh, sometimes makeyou cry and will always beyour best friend.

Being a responsible dog owner means ensuring your dogis healthy, safe, well cared for and doesn’t become a nuisanceto your neighbours. Plus, when we visit family and friends wewant to be invited back!

Apart from the safety and social aspects, you are legallyresponsible for your dog’s actions both on and off yourpremises. So it’s vital that you teach your pet basicobedience, house manners, acceptable outdoor behaviour andneighbourly manners.

When teaching your dog, remember to:

• Keep a sense of humour and never scold your dogif it makes a mistake

• Always use a kind, firm voice and short, simple words suchas sit, come, down, heel

• Emphasise reward and praise - not punishment

• Never use a stick or raise your hand to your dog

• Keep lessons short (about 10 minutes) for puppiesand extend gradually as the dog matures.

One of the most important commands your dog should learnis “come”. To teach your dog this command:

• Start by adding the word “come” to your dog’s name whenyou call, and be sure to use a pleasant, fun voice

• Attract your dog by clapping your hands or offering aninducement/reward such as a treat (this can gradually beeliminated as the dog responds to the command)

• Don’t forget to include lots of praise.

For help with dog training and obedience contact your localRSPCA animal training and behavioural centre or look up“dog training” in the yellow pages.

* The above is extracted from Keeping a Dog in Brisbane,Your Guide to Responsible Dog Ownership Brisbane CityCouncil, March 2003. (Reproduced with permission from theBrisbane City Council.)

Did you know?While the detail of local laws may vary between councils,

generally you are legally responsible for your dog’s actionsboth on and off your premises.

You must control your dog at all times, which meanskeeping it on a lead in public places unless you are in adesignated off lead area. You must provide safe access toyour front door for visitors, unless you take action toeffectively prevent entry to your premises.

If your dog is found wandering or it injures a person oranother animal, it may be impounded, it may be declareddangerous by council (and incur a higher registration fee),you may be fined or you could find yourself in court! ®


S A CHILD, I had a budgie named Chirpy that wasvery chatty. Chirpy’s phrases included “what’sfor dinner?”, “ring the bell” and “where’sRemmie?” (Remmie was the dog). Chirpyalso mimicked the sound of the washing

machine and barracked for the local football team! Whenever a family member passed Chirpy’s cage, they

would stop and repeat the same phrase and Chirpy wouldcome close, tilt his head and look very intently as we madethe sounds. But Chirpy also spent a lot of time out of thecage on our fingers or shoulders. He was there with us allthe time - watching television, eating dinner…he even sat onour pillows at bedtime! Unbeknown to us at the time,through all this exposure Chirpy was responding to the“model-rival” method recommended by experts for teachingbirds to talk.

Parrot behaviour consultant Jim McKendry says thismethod simply involves people talking to each other incontext, in front of the bird.

“With this method, a bird is more likely to use animitated ‘word’ or ‘phrase’ in its correct context,”Mr McKendry says.

“For example, if you wanted to teach your parrot to say‘apple’ you would use that word every time you introduced apiece of apple to the bird so that the word has both astimulating and positively reinforcing experienceassociated with it.

“The same would apply for everyday language use suchas ‘hello’ and ‘goodnight’.”

This approach includes linking a phrase to a particularaction - such as ‘hello’ when the phone rings, or ‘dinnertime, I’m hungry’ while serving dinner. If you are willing topersevere with this approach, you can end up with somereally cute phrases and timings. (Chirpy would ring his bellon command - or tell himself to ring his bell - and then doit. He also gave a kiss when requested - and said “give us akiss” which of course we did!)

“The key things to keep in mind during any teaching areconsistency and positive associations to motivate the birdto repeat the desired behaviour,” says Mr McKendry.

He says people who want toteach their bird to talk need toremember that while most parrotshave the physical capability tomimic speech, actual mimicrybeing achieved depends onspecies, gender, age, wildbehavioural ecology,environmental stimulation and thebird’s emotional security level andconfidence.

“There should be no hard andfast timeline imposed on the bird,”he adds. “Even a single word suchas ‘hello’ should be considered abonus and not a certainty.”

Generally, a bird needs to hear phrases that are clearand consistent and two teaching sessions a day ofapproximately 10 minutes each are adequate. Birds can betaught through the personal approach or by pre-recordings. Mr McKendry says the personal approachshould result in greater success.

“Using pre-recordings is considered far less effective asa suitable teaching method because it obviously takes awaythe element of reinforcement, the contextual element andvisual stimulation.”

Inevitably, birds will pick up sounds that their ownerswish they hadn’t, such as a baby crying or a computerprinter! While this behaviour is difficult to reverse, you candiscourage it by ignoring the bird when it says theunwanted phrase by covering the bird’s cage, or returningthe bird to its cage for five to 10 minutes.

Regardless of whether your bird talks, it’s important toremember that birds are social creatures and will notflourish unless they have plenty of input from you, a mirrorand toys for extra stimulation.

* Jim McKendry is a parrot behaviour and environmentenrichment consultant who runs workshops for parrot ownersat Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. For more information see theSocial Animal calendar ofevents or visitwww.parrot-behaviour.info.

Pictured: Cockatiels areintelligent birds that love tomimic household sounds.

bird talk

The African Grey parrotis considered to have thebest ability to mimicspeech and is the onlyspecies that mimics tone, accent and inflections.

Other birds with talking potential that are keptin captivity in Australia, include the Amazon parrots,male Budgerigars and Cockatiels, Quaker parrots,Eclectus parrots, Cockatoos and some of theAsiatic species such as Indian Ringnecks andAlexandrine parrots.®

Polly want aphrase book?

by Leanne Holland

A


cat chat

“CAT SEASON” is the time of year when thousands of unwanted kittens are born.As we reach the tail end of summer, cat lover Rachel Ryan reminds us to desexour feline friends now, before cat season comes around again.

Each year the RSPCA and other animal welfare organisations fight the ongoing battleto control the growing number of kittens born during cat season.

In 2003 almost 17,000 cats and kittens were taken to the RSPCA in Queensland andaccording to RSPCA director of veterinary services Anne Covill, this number increaseseach year. However, the numbers are actually much higher as there are otherorganisations that take in unwanted cats and kittens such as local vets, animal pounds

and other welfare groups.“Anyone who is not a

registered breeder should bedesexing their cats,”Dr Covill says.

“Apart from the fact that thosewho don’t desex could beconsidered irresponsible, thereare some major benefits.

“Desexed cats are generallymore affectionate, less likely tostray, spray or catch lifethreatening diseases.”

Cat season coincides with thewarmer weather varying in lengthand months each year, butgenerally peaking at Christmastime. During this time, acombination of heat, over-crowded facilities and risk ofdisease put a tremendous strain onthe animals and RSPCA workers.

As the RSPCA is veryparticular about which cats areadopted out, sadly this over

population means thousands of cats and kittens are euthanased each year. Another problem is the impact the growing cat population has on native animals

when cats are left to become stray or feral. The Queensland Environmental Protection Agency advises that feral cats breed

profusely - having up to three litters during breeding season. This has led to a feral catpopulation in Queensland of about 1·5 million, which is greater than the domestic catpopulation. According to the EPA, feral cats are one of the greatest threats to nativewildlife, killing more than 3.8 million animals each year. Furthermore, feral cats eat thescarce food sources relied on by native animals.

The RSPCA and the EPA agree that cats shouldn’t be allowed to run free and shouldbe confined to a house with enclosures and entry points for their own safety and for thesafety of native animals. They also recognise desexing as the most effective way tocontrol the rapidly growing cat population.

To help get the message into the community, the RSPCA has introduced Australia’sfirst mobile desexing unit - PAWS (Portable Animal Welfare Service).

“PAWS is something visual and bright that’s taking the service to the masses ratherthan the masses coming to the service,” explains Dr Covill.

The idea of PAWS, which is already in use in other countries, is to take an innovativeand unique approach to the problem.

PAWS offers a low cost, easily accessible desexing service to people on limitedincome as well as servicing remote communities.

Dr Covill says controlling the cat population is multi-levelled and PAWS is oneinitiative that will “hopefully engender enthusiasm to get animals desexed”.

“We see her as being a catalyst,” she says. ®

PAWS for thought

Visit

Your Pet

Magazine

at the

Brisbane

Pet

and Animal

Expo

Brisbane

Convention

and

Exhibition

Centre

15-17 April

2005

www.yourpetmagazine.com.au

YIn 2003 almost

17,000 cats and kittens

were taken to the

RSPCA in Qld

Z

YIn 2003 almost

17,000 cats and kittens

were taken to the

RSPCA in Qld

Z

by Rachel Ryan



HEN CONSIDERING a dog’s exerciseneeds, it’s important to remember

that many of the dogs we keep aspets were originally bred as

working dogs. Animal behaviour veterinarian Cam Day says we ask

much of our 21st century canines.“With the shrinking back yard, our long working

hours and life’s increasing frenetic pace, it’s sometimesdifficult for us to give our dogs the rich lifestyle thatthey deserve,” Dr Day says.

In confining our dogs to the back yard we oftenforget “their yearning for the freedom of the openspaces that were once the provinces of their ancestorseons before”.

A lack of exercise can make your pet overweight,putting strain on the heart and joints. Excess weight canalso lead to illnesses in your dog such as pancreatitisand diabetes.

However, if your pet is left at home alone all weekdon’t think you need to make it up to your pooch on theweekends as over-exercising can cause other problems.

As well as keeping you and your poochhealthy, a regular walk helps to eliminateboredom and the behaviours that come with it.Bored dogs are more likely to persistentlybark, escape and pursue other destructiveactivities.

And similar to how exercise lifts people’smoods, a regular walk will help your dog beatthe blues and sleep soundly at night.

As well as regular walks, Dr Dayrecommends playing with your dog in your backyard on a daily basis by giving it aerobicexercise, mental stimulation and cuddles andcompanionship.

“Throwing frisbees and balls in the backyard is good and just running and jumping withyour dog is good exercise for both of you,”he says.

“I often advise my clients to use a specialdog toy called a Kong toy that bouncesunpredictably and resists a dog’s chewing.”

Dr Day says mental stimulation involves afun training routine in which you teach your dogto do different things for no reason other thanfor fun.

“Teach it to walk along balance beams, toclimb over garden furniture and otherobstacles, to roll over, crawl and to ‘playdead’,” he suggests.

For variety go somewhere different for yourwalk or go for a run on the beach.

For the super-active pooch, Dr Dayrecommends walking your dog regularly andparticipating in some of the novel dog sportsthat give aerobic exercise and brain exercise atthe same time such as agility training, flyballand dog endurance training. ®

Fit in a walk

Exercise can be overlooked when owning a dog - particularly givenour time-poor lifestyles - but it is important to fit in a walk.

the dog house

W

by Janice Holland

Siamese fighting fish

in the tank

IF YOU’RE LOOKING fora low maintenance petyou can’t do “Betta”than a Siamesefighting fish.

These graceful,ornamental fish areavailable in just aboutevery colour imaginableand housed in a glass bowlor tall vase, the “fighter”can be found making a

vibrant visual effect in many work places and homes.From accessorising fashion boutiques to brightening up

boardrooms and providing coffee table centrepieces, thesefish make a striking and relaxing feature. But are thesedecorative vases suitable for the Siamese fighting fish?

“Yes”, says Kay Hodges from AquaZoo Aquaria inFortitude Valley, “they are perfect for a bowl or vase as theydo not require filtration or aeration of the water”.

“Just make sure it’s a good quality thick glass and willhold at least 1.5 to 2 litres of water.”

The average price for a Siamese fighting fish is around$12 each and with the addition of a plant (Ms Hodgesrecommends an anubias as they are slow growing and

pretty hardy, lasting about eight to 10 months) and ascattering of pebbles, your aquarium is relatively easy andinexpensive to set up. And yes, one fish is all you need.Siamese fighting fish are solitary and do not need company.

“To add another fish would prove fatal, the males inparticular are highly aggressive by nature and will fightviciously,” Ms Hodges says. “They do not get lonely.”

You only need to feed your fighter three to four Bettapellets daily. Regular general cleaning of your aquarium isrequired. You will need to clean the pebbles and bowl anddo a water change once a month. Being a tropical fish, theyprefer warmer water.

Keep an eye out for signs of sickness or stress in yourfish and if you have any concerns consult your aquariumspecialist who will assist with treatment.

For a full overview on how to keep your fish fighting fit,search the internet or refer to the many books available.Don’t forget to also look up the scientific name - Bettasplendens.

Caring for your pet will ensure you enjoy this waterwonderland in your home or office for about two years,with some Siamese fighting fish known to live as long asfour years. ®

* For tips on maintaining your fish bowl visitAquaZoo’s website at www.aquazoo.com.au

by Sallyanne Holland


Siamese fighting fish - or Betta splendens - have alabyrinth organ comprising a well developed set ofblood vessels to absorb oxygen. This enables the fishto breath air directly because they normally inhabitpoorly oxygenated stretches of muddy water.

HAT IS IT LIKE to work in the petindustry? In this issue we talk to

Brigitte Duffield, 26 year oldRSPCA fundraising co-ordinator.

Job description: I’m responsible for managing RSPCA Queensland’s

collection container program and assisting in other areassuch as special events, public relations and communityeducation.

How did you get into your current role?I graduated from uni in 2000 and was having difficulty

finding reliable employment that suited my qualifications.I was also unsure of the occupational

field I wanted to move into. In early 2002I started doing some voluntary work for myfavourite charity in the hope that it wouldincrease my skills and confidence, as wellas provide a bit more meaning and purposeto my life. I undertook a variety of casualwork for the RSPCA in fundraising andadministration before being offered mycurrent role in January 2003.

What are your formal qualifications? Parallel Bachelor of Psychology and

Bachelor of Science (majoring in humanbiology) from the University of Queensland.Currently studying a Graduate Certificate inBusiness, specialising in Integrated MarketingCommunication, at the Queensland University ofTechnology.

Informal qualifications: I can communicate persuasively with a variety of

people due to my years of experience in hospitality, salesand promotions.

Remuneration: Although I have been offered a salary, I have chosen to

remain on casual wages as I undertake other work outsidethe RSPCA and need to remain flexible. Casual rates are

currently an average of $15.00 per hour and I work between20-40 hours per week, depending on my workload andoutside engagements.

What's the best thing about your job? Working for a worthy cause is something that has

always been really close to my heart. Also, working withpeople who are similarly motivated and who all share thesame common goal of animal welfare.

I also like the freedom I have been given to experimentwith different ways of raising funds. The fundraising teamat RSPCA Queensland is very creative and proactive. Thereis a lot of communication within the group and a lot of ourprojects and programs overlap.

What do you hope to do in the future? I want to remain self-employed and hopefully, to run

my own business one day. I wish to build abroad skill-base while contributing to thisworthy cause and later in life, to use theseskills in a consultative role. I will never beone of those “corporate” types - it doesn’tsuit my personality.

Advice to those who want to enterthe field:

A lot of the staff I work with started outas volunteers, although people with the rightqualifications and/or experience can behired from outside the organisation.Positions are advertised in the usual way andthere is an interviewing process.

However, those who have already proven their skillsand established relationships with other staff willobviously have an advantage.

Primarily, you have to really care about the cause if youare considering working for a charity. If you don’t, the pay,cramped offices and lack of resources will really get youdown. When you are happy about what you are doing youdon’t even notice these things!

Suggested courses or other preparation: For fundraising, qualifications in marketing, public

relations, business or advertising will not go astray. Butpersonality plays a huge role as well! ®

W

the businessby Rachel Ryan

YWorking with people

who are similarly

motivated and share

the common goal of

animal welfare.

Z



101 CataclysmsAuthor: Rachael Hale

Following in the paw printsof the wildly successful 101

Salivations celebrated animalportraitist Rachael Hale brings usa photographic celebration of theworld’s most popular pet. Hale’sspecial rapport with animals has

allowed her to capture the true essence of her subjects:from the bald-faced cheekiness of Hilander, the sphinx, tothe clear-eyed gaze of just-bathed Edmund, the Himalayan

Persian. A wonderful gift,irresistible to cat loverseverywhere.

BlackieAuthor: Stephen Downes

A heartwarming and deeplymoving story about an unlikelyfriendship between veteranAustralian food writer, StephenDownes, and Blackie, abackfence stray. This is an

honest and courageous book filled with love for a veryspecial little cat. It is so rare to see a man let down hisguard and talk about love with such depth and sentiment.Deeply moving yet unsentimental, Blackie is a beautifullywritten tale about love and loss.

101 SalivationsAuthor: Rachael Hale

No one appreciates the veryspecial genius of yourconversation as the dog does.And puppies have never beforeprovided such poetry as theydo in this adorable album of

everyone’s favourite pooches. A dog has but one missionin life - to bestow his heart - and this magnificentcollection of words and images from the creators of

M.I.L.K is sure to warm yours.

100 Ways to Live witha Cat AddictAuthor: Ronald Payne

A set of guidelines for those whoshare a home with one or more felinedemi-gods and their devoted humans.

The fundamental rule is to acknowledge that cats are rightin all circumstances. The good news is that peace may reignwithout abject surrender.

My Cat Hates YouAuthor: Jim Edgar

Cat, in all of its incarnations,hates us for subjecting it to thepredictable species that is homosapiens. As long as the food keepscoming so will the feigned loving.

Within these pages you will find that Cat has far less thanyour well-being at the forefront of his agenda… but thenyou always knew that deep down, didn’t you, loser?

A Fish Out Of WaterAuthor: Helen Palmer

First published 1963 by Random House Renewed 1989by Dr Seuss Enterprises Harper Collins Publishers LtdReviewed by: Janice Holland

A Fish Out Of Water is about a boy who buys a goldfishfrom Mr Carp and is advised not to give the fish too muchfood “or something may happen! You never know what”.

Like most little boys who are told not to do something,the temptation proves too much. Soon the boy and hisgoldfish “Otto” embark on an adventure that includes thepolice and fire brigade as they search for containers largeenough to hold the ever expanding Otto.

In this fast paced story, Otto goes on a journey fromfish bowl, to vase, saucepan, bath tub and out of water untilhe finally makes a splash at the local swimming pool.

More than 30 years on andI still find this storyentertaining. It’s the classic1960s illustrations and thesilliness of the story thatappeals. Although I’m stillunclear on how exactly Otto isreduced to his original sizewhen Mr Carp finally comes tothe rescue!

A Fish Out Of Water isrelevant today as, just likelittle boys and girls of the

1960s, children of the 21st century are going to do what theyare told not to do, and learn from their experiences.

Although renewed in 1989 by Dr Seuss Enterprises,A Fish Out Of Water doesn’t follow the formulaic rhyme orrhythm found in the “Cat in the Hat” series. With its fastpace, humour, bright illustrations and relevant message,A Fish Out Of Water is bound to hook a new generation ofbeginner readers.

Retro Read

Mary’s Top 5 Pet Reads

1

2

4

5

3The Top 5 pet titlesselected by ourfriends at Mary Ryan’s.

book & media review


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0


HE RECENT TALK about the benefits oftaking your pet to work just confirms thatMiffy and I were ahead of our time.

Miffy is our West Highland White Terrier named after thebunny with a cross-stitched mouth, created by children’sauthor and illustrator Dick Bruna. Miffy is now almost two.When she was a puppy, she accompanied me to GeorgeStreet for a day at the office. Unannounced, I took her towork under the lame excuse that she was recuperating afterbeing desexed and as my husband was going away thatafternoon, I needed to keep an eye on her.

Plus I just adored her and wanted to be with her. Besides,after hearing all about Miffy’s birth and adoption process,I knew some of my work buddies were keen to meet her.

Yes, Miffy was indeed good for morale and team bonding.One group email to my colleagues to advise that my littlewhite, fluffy bundle of joy was visiting and they were allsneaking into my office for a play. (I actually think there aregrounds for introducing pet-ernity leave but that’sanother issue.)

While Miffy brought muffled laughter and much fun intomy small office as she madly jumped up to greet her visitors,I do think she stressed some of the women who were wearingstockings that day.

And we were productive. I popped newspaper on thefloor, set her up with kibble, water and a few toys andeverything was fine. I was quite contented writing away withmy puppy alongside me. But as she was a puppy, it wasinevitable that she would be inquisitive and want to explorethe wider office surrounds. She escaped once and startedtearing around the floor but we managed to catch her beforeshe did a complete circuit.

The few times she cried at the door wanting to go out andplay, I just picked her up, popped her on my lap and keptworking. And she didn’t even piddle on the carpet!

But unfortunately Miffy’s foray into office life was shortlived. Our downfall was that my office was not far from theoffice belonging to the “big boss”, and his visitors’ chairswere right outside my door. While my colleagues couldcontrol their giggles, Miffy was a little more gregarious andher excited barks were just too attention-drawing.

Needless to say we were sent home to work remotely.Since then, I’ve deemed that day “not my most professionalmoment”. However, it was fun - and a turning point. I startedthinking that there had to be a more fido-friendly way.Finding kibble under my desk and behind the filing cabinetfor months after only brought back the memories andreinforced my separation anxiety.

So, with the first issue of Your Pet Magazine now incirculation throughout Brisbane, the Gold Coast andSunshine Coast, Miffy and I are striving to create our ownjobs where we can work together every day. The plan is thatthrough our pet project, we will demonstrate that the barkand the byte can indeed work happily, productively andsuccessfully together. ®

end tale

T

by Janice Holland

Bill the Burmese“Willem Chantaram Andawarna Royal Reply” - now

that’s a moniker. And one that was bestowed by theworthy breeder from whom we purchased our pureBurmese cat “Bill” - as he came to be known.

Bill had the qualities of his breeding. They wereevident even as he played as a tiny kitten. There wasalways something princely about him. It was in the way helooked at you with those golden split eyes - a kind ofknowing. All cats, to some degree, have qualities that seemto be the antithesis of a dog’s. I guess that’s why we’redivided into cat or dog people. (I always thought I was acat person - until we got a dog).

Cats won’t belittle themselves, or grovel, or beg. Catssimply eye you reproachfully when the bowl isn’t filled atthe appropriate time. Cats deign to share their house withyou, commandeer the lounge and casually climb onto yourlap even though you’ve turfed them off four hundred times.

At first we lived in a warehouse block on a busySydney street. Bill never knew about grass or lawns orback yards. Instead he made the angled roofs of the blockhis nature strip. And when we moved to Brisbane he wasusually found lolling comfortably in the centre of the road.He never suffered from sickness. His only real stint at thevet’s was when he became embedded between twobranches while chasing something in a tree.

Even in the most vexing situations Bill was alwayselegant, beautifully soft and supremely confident. Hisfeatures were clearly defined, his temperament clearlyarticulated - chiseled from the stone of his ancientforebears. A creature of the night - flexible, agile andalways on top of things.

Then, when my wife became pregnant, Bill felt it hisduty to present us with gifts for the coming baby. To ourhorror he’d bring in all sorts of prey - usually in themiddle of the night. When we had kids he wasn’t in theleast jealous or put out. With great serenity he weatheredthe storms around him, knowing just when to keep hisdistance.

Our kids loved him. Our daughter especially loved himin a playpram, wrapped in baby sheets and being zoomedaround the kitchen. Even then he maintained his wonderfuldignity and decorum.

Bill stayed with us for almost 17 years. We knewsomething was wrong when his breathing became forced.He died in my wife’s arms as we drove to the surgery.When the vet announced the bad news we all, children andadults, burst into tears.

Goodbye Bill and God bless. We miss you. ®

* Vyvyan Black. Photo: Karen Black.

obituaries

Our pet project

I would like to make a donation of:

I enclose a cheque payable to RSPCA Qld

Please debit my VISA / MasterCard / AMEX / Bankcard OR call 3426 9926 to make your credit card donation today

Please send me further information about : Becoming a RSPCA Qld Member Giving a regular gift by direct debit VolunteeringSponsoring a Kennel Pet Insurance RSPCA Qld's Pet Legacy Program Forthcoming events

Card no: Name on card:

Signature: Expiry: / CVV no: / /

Thank You!$10 $50 $100 $250 $500 $

Title: First Name: Last Name:

Address:

Postcode:

Tel: E-mail:

Visit www.rspcaqld.org.au today

Animals like a litter of nine puppies that arrived at our Fairfield Shelter by ambulance on

Christmas Eve. Just four weeks old, extremely dehydrated and riddled with fleas, each pup was

in a critical state. A heartbreaking decision for staff on duty, to relieve them of further pain

and suffering, seven of the litter had to be euthanased. The two survivors, fostered by a member

of staff, will soon be ready for adoption.

These are just some of the ways in which you help RSPCA Qld to continue making a real differenceto the lives of thousands of animals.

RSPCA Qld is the oldest, largest and leading animal welfare charity

in Queensland preventing cruelty to, and saving the lives of, thousands

of abused, abandoned and neglected animals every year.

Receiving less than 2% Government funding RSPCA Qld depends on

community support from organisations and people like you.

Without the generous support of people like you, thousands of animalslike these would simply not have a chance. So if you care about animals please:

• Make your voice count join RSPCA Qld as a member call 3426 9901

Give a regular donation by direct debit or credit card today call 3426 9926

Sponsor a RSPCA Qld kennel or pen call 3426 9914

Volunteer last year 108 hours were dedicated state-wide to helping the animals to become

a RSPCA volunteer call 3426 9915

Include a gift to the animals in your Will & enroll your pets in our Pet Legacy Program

call 3426 9937 for details

Take out RSPCA Pet Insurance call 1300 855 150

Support a RSPCA Qld fundraising event Gala Dinner, Stamford Plaza (April 8th),

Million Paws Walk, St Lucia (May 15th), Charity Golf Day, Brookwater (June 3rd) call 3426 9916

for info or e-mail [email protected].

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Your Pet Magazine - Issue 1