About Animals Winter2012

Animals About

Autumn/Winter 2012

magazine ÂŁ1.50

CHRISTMAS AND BEYOND animal charities need your help Plus: Cats and Dogs - French style, Cat Travel - We look at the options, Dogs scavenging - How to put a stop to it, Get Creative - Great vegetarian Christmas recipes, Animal Adoption - The gift that keeps on giving

A charity registered in Scotland No SC 037536 and in England and Wales No 290356

E M I T T X NE T F I G A E GIV E H T H T I W ’ H H H H ‘AHHH .

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T Y E C K N FA A HORSE OR DO ADOPT

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on the number below.

To adopt a horse or donkey call us ure future to look forward to.

With your help can give them a sec TO ADOPT call us or to donate text: now on FREEPHONE 0300 999 99 PONY33 followed 9 by the amount in 3 £’s to 70070

Mountains Animal Sanctuary, Milton of Ogil, Glen Ogil, Forfar DD8 3SQ. TO FIND OUT MORE CALL US: 01356 650258.

YOU CAN ALSO DONATE AT: mount ainsanimalsanctuary.org.uk SEE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE.

JEANNIE

NELLIE 2 PM. TO 4.30 PM. S, AY D 7 EN OP E AR WE A90 SITUATED CLOSE TO N) SIGNPOSTED (DUNDEE/ABERDEE (B957).

FROM TANNADICE

Editor’s Letter & Contents

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Editor's Letter &

Contents Welcome to the Autumn/Winter 2012 edition of About Animals.

It’s that time of year again when we all have the quandary of what to buy friends and family for Christmas. Have you thought about animal adoption as an alternative present, ideal for animal lovers and at the same time giving much needed support to many animals.

See page 6 and 9 for some inspiring ideas.

Also, this year let’s not just think about giving to friends and family, why not add your favourite charity to your list. Animal charities work tirelessly all year round providing help and support to animals in need and there are many ways in which we can help and support their much needed funds. You can buy your Christmas cards, calendars and a wide variety of gifts on-line, see pages 14 and 15.

Domestic dogs have their food supplied by us, but they still retain the instinct not to waste anything – whether it be an unguarded sandwich in the house or animal droppings in the park.

If you have a problem with your dog stealing or scavenging food, read on page 16 how you can control and prevent this situation.

Moving home can be a risky time, when indoor cats may wander in the commotion of moving and outdoor cats can become confused and even get lost in their new territories. On page 12 read how to plan ahead to reduce the risks, to avoid loss and escape when moving to your new home.

We also offer some great vegetarian recipes for you to try over the Christmas period. See page 18 for some of our favourites from the Vegetarian Society.

Finally we hope you enjoy the magazine and would like to take this opportunity to wish all our readers a happy and prosperous New Year.

CONTENTS

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Cats and Dogs – French Style

6

Make it Count – animal adoption

12 Travelling and Moving Home – transporting your cat 14 Charity begins at Christmas –Supporting your favourite charity and shop on-line

Amra Media Solutions The Old Lavender Mill, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES Tel.

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Website: www.aboutanimalsmagazine.com Designed by: Tom Evans Design

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16 Stealing Food and Scavenging – breaking bad habits in dogs 18 Get Creative in the Kitchen – Vegetarian recipes 21 Update – Various news articles 22 Charity News – Animals rescued with help of charities 23 Subscription

Cover image ©Fotolia

Published by:

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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Although every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information and the advertisements contained within the magazine, the publishers cannot accept any liability. About Animals would be pleased to receive your articles and photographs for possible publication. Although all reasonable care will be taken the magazine can assume no responsibility and contributors are advised to retain a copy.

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About Ani m a l s

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‘Cats and Dogs’ – French Style

‘Cats and Dogs’ –

A

ll the staff at ‘About Animals‘ embrace technology and most of us own kindles. However with Christmas in mind we wanted to highlight two books that are exquisite in their printed forms and would make the perfect Christmas gift for animal lovers and Francophiles alike.

The French Cat and Dog depict stunning French scenes and their feline and canine inhabitants.

From chateaus to farmhouses every image offers Rachael’s unique perspective on France and the animals that live there.

Throughout the book there are quotes from famous historical figures, the following two pages offer a taster.

I have studied many philosophers and many cats. The wisdom of cats is infinitely superior.

Hippolyte Adolphe Taine (1828-93, French critic and historian)

I love cats because I enjoy my home; and little by little, they become its visible soul.

Jean Cocteau (1889 – 1963, French poet, novelist, playwright and filmmaker)

‘For me the assignment was like a love affair. I just love being out on location and capturing cats showing their true personalities in their own environment.’

Quote from Rachael

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‘Cats and Dogs’ – French Style

– French Style

It occurred to me that the reason French dogs are so well behaved and so interesting is because they’re not bored; they live full lives, get plenty of exercise and are encouraged to play.

Extracts from The French Cat and The French Dog

by Rachael McKenna, published by Hardie Grant Books

The best thing about a man is his dog.

French proverb

In keeping with the French love of dogs, their designated areas are not miserly fencedoff compounds worn bare by countless scampering paws, but a true part of the park About Ani m a l s

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Make it Count

MAKE IT COUNT Christmas is the season for giving but sometimes it feels like the huge commercialisation of the season is not in keeping with the original spirit.

Presents received can become quickly discarded, put to the back of a drawer and forgotten about, or even re-sold on auction sites. So this year when thinking of what to buy friends and family why not give the high street a miss and look at finding a way to give that will help animals.

Animal adoption or sponsorship is a fantastic way of giving someone a truly memorable gift but at the same time making a wonderful contribution to animal welfare. It really is the gift that keeps on giving. It works like this; an animal is adopted or sponsored for a period of time and in return the adoptee gets the opportunity to follow the development of their chosen animal or perhaps where possible visit. There are also a range of goodies that often come with the adoption, everything from cuddly toys to day passes to wildlife parks. It can be a great alternative for children and adults alike who for whatever reason are unable to keep a pet, or larger animal such as a horse and also can encourage them to develop an interest in wildlife conservation. No other gift can teach a child love and compassion, the qualities most important in a child’s development.

Animal adoption is also a very important method of fund raising, and an ideal option for any animal lover. The details vary but the essentials remain the same. The person receives a certificate, pictures of their animal and in some cases a cuddly toy, all helping to create that special bond.

Over the next two pages we provide a great choice for potential adoptees, take a look and make this year a truly giving Christmas. Give the gift that keeps on giving

Rumpel at Redwings one year on

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

AT A GLANCE

Redwings Horse Sanctuary, cares for over 1,200 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules every day.

They have eight centres around the UK, Adopt today and get including three visitor centres in Essex, Norfolk Fre e entry pass to the park and Warwickshire. The charity aims to re-home for one year as many of their equines as possible and prefers Adoption certificate to use adoption as the means to provide help for residents while they are in their care. The Photo of your chosen Redwings Adoption Club is the fun way to primate or group Bart & Paddy Monkey World-Ape Rescue Centre support the charity and at the same time make a Newsletter 3 times new friend in the process. It’s a great way to give Monkey World – a year help towards the daily care of the many Ape Rescue Centre residents such as Rumpel, who was rescued from Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre in Spindle Farm in Buckinghamshire in 2008 where Dorset is set in 65 acres of woodland, offering he had been living in truly awful conditions a safe haven for over 240 primates who have along with almost 100 other horses and been rescued from all over the world. The donkeys, many of which were so sanctuary works in conjunction with foreign weak they were barely able governments worldwide to stop the illegal to stand. Once at smuggling of apes out of Africa and Asia. At the Redwings Rumpel Centre refugees of this illegal trade, as well as recovered well from those that have suffered abuse or neglect, are Ad opt today and get his terrible ordeal, rehabilitated into natural living groups. If you however during his Standard ‘Nosebag’: decide to adopt with Monkey World you can be training, Rumpel Photograph and adoption cert ificate assured that every penny goes directly to the showed them that Your adopted animals story rescue centre’s beneficiaries. From just £20, and how you being ridden can visit your new friend just choose your monkey or ape such as Bart simply wasn’t for Update and new photo just befo or Paddy (pictured). Adopting a primate makes re their birthday him and so he will Invite to your adopted anim a superb present for both adults and children, stay happily within als party! especially at Christmas, but also at any time Or Online ‘Nosebag’ the Sanctuary for of the year. the rest of his days.

A year’s worth of access to you r ©

AT A GLANCE

www.redwings.co.uk 6

About Anim als

chosen horse’s Nosebag, featuring exclusive diary, photos, videos and wallpaper to download.

www.monkeyworld.org

Adopt a Puppy like me for ÂŁ1 a week and help us transform the lives of disabled people

Great gift

Your Adopt a Puppy pack includes: • Photos • A cuddly jacketed toy dog • A personalised certificate • Regular updates

Canine Partners T: 01730 716026 E: adoptapuppy@caninepartners.org.uk For further details visit: caninepartners.org.uk Registered address: Canine Partners, Mill Lane, Heyshott, Midhurst, West Sussex GU29 0ED Canine Partners for Independence. A charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered in England No. 2516146.

Charity Commission Reg. No. 803680 Scottish Reg. Charity No. SC039050

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D E E N L WE AL ENDS! I R F R U

I O N C LU T P O D A S REDWING IEND! E H T N I O J FR S P E C IAL Y R E V A AN D B E

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Do something different and be Del Boy’s friend by adopting him for just £12.50 and we will use your donation to feed and care for him and all his friends.

There are 20 horses and donkeys you can adopt Adoptions cost just ÂŁ12.50 ‘Standard’ or ‘Online’ Adoption available Makes a wonderful gift for absolutely everyone.

Registered Charity No 1068911

Call 01508 481010 or visit www.redwings.co.uk to take REDWINGS Adoption Club Redwings Horse Sanctuary is a Registered Charity Number 1068911 out your adoption today!

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Help protect our future this Christmas

Available to buy at WWT centres, online at wwt.org.uk, or call 01453 891198 WWT reg charity in England & Wales, no. 1030884 and Scotland, no. SC039410.

Funds raised through bird adoptions helps WWT’s conservation work saving wetlands wfor wildlife and people around the world.

It’s not just dogs that can feel vulnerable and alone.

Are you feeling concerned about the welfare of your dogs and need someone to talk to?

Are you struggling to cope and cannot give your dog the attention it requires?

Call us now in complete confidence:

BREEDERS’ HELPLINE

0845 30 30 180

*

*This service is for welfare issues only and does not support any queries relating to Kennel Club activities or services.

Registered Charity No. 327802

Nick Cottrell, Dominic Heard & James Lees

Adopt a bird for a loved one this Christmas and help WWT save species from excinction

Make it Count

AT A GLANCE

Adopt today and get

Baxter

Canine Partners

Introductory letter about your puppy A personal certificate A photograph and a toy puppy Four updates per year complete with news of your puppy’s progress

Canine Partners trains assistance dogs for people with disabilities to enjoy greater independence and a better quality of life, providing practical day to day assistance with tasks that may be difficult, painful or impossible to perform. Every disabled person has a different story to tell, has different levels of ability, different needs, different things that are preventing them from getting the most out of life, and each dog is tailor-made for each individual to make the maximum impact. They also provide that special companionship, unconditional love and affection which is so unique to dogs.

Dayzee

Mountains Animal Sanctuary Mountains Animal Sanctuary is Scotland’s largest equine rescue centre, caring for over 100 horses, ponies and donkeys.

They provide food, shelter and medical care as well as unconditional love and patience to help the recovery and rehabilitation of many abused and neglected equines.

You can sponsor a Canine Partners puppy like Baxter, a gorgeous chocolate Labrador (pictured) for £52 a year, which can be spread over monthly or weekly payments.

This is a co-sponsorship scheme where you help to fund the training of a future canine partner that will subsequently be matched to a person with disabilities to give them independence and a better quality of life. www.caninepartners.org.uk

AT A GLANCE

Adopt today and get Adoption can be a Adoption certificate popular Ph oto of your chosen solution horse, pony for horse or donkey lovers An information sheet generally, about your animal who don’t have the A Rosette facilities themselves to create a home for the horse. One of the horses available for adoption at the sanctuary is Dayzee (pictured) an Argentinean Miniature Horse who came to the Sanctuary in September 2010 at just 11 weeks old, an orphan. With round the clock care and first class veterinary treatment she now enjoys life to the full with her field companions. Funds are crucial for horses like Dayzee for them to continue to receive the care, love and attention they deserve and by adopting one of these equines, it’s a perfect way to give a gift and support them at the same time. www.mountainsanimalsanctuary. org.uk

The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT)

Bewicks swan ©James Lees

The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) is a leading UK conservation organisation, saving wetlands for wildlife and people. Founded in the UK in 1946 by the late Sir Peter Scott, today they work globally to save important wetland habitats and species as well as providing a network of nine UK visitor centres.

All around the world wetlands are being lost or damaged more rapidly than any other ecosystem, threatening many species with extinction. The iconic Bewick’s swan is just one of these species. Each year they fly thousands of miles from the Russian Arctic to spend the winter in the UK. Their migration is fraught with danger and unfortunately numbers are declining.

WWT is working hard at raising awareness of these issues, and by adopting a Bewick’s swan, you can play your part and help the recipient of your gift get closer to nature.

AT A GLANCE

Adopt today and get

Cuddly toy of chosen specie s Reusable jute bag Complimentary ticket to a WWT centre Twice yearly newsletter, adoption certificate, fact sheet & bookmark.

For only £27 you can adopt a Bewick’s swan or one of the other four species: nene (Hawaiin goose), lesser flamingo, mallard, common crane. www.wwt.org.uk About Ani m a l s

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Pioneering Alternatives

Pioneering Alternatives The good news is that EU governments have recently passed legislation that is due to be integrated into law in EU countries as well as the UK in January 2013. This clearly states that where alternative methods exist, they must be used in place of animal experiments and many new technologies are already replacing animal experiments with successful results.

t is a sad fact that nearly 3.8 million animals, including cats and dogs, were used in medical research experiments last year alone yet in over 100 years of using animals in this way, we still don’t have a cure for cancer or many other diseases.

I

In spite of alternatives that do not use animals being available, recent Home Office statistics show a shocking 2% increase in the last 12 months in the number of animals, many of them companion animals, used in scientific procedures. The use of domesticated animals such as dogs, cats, birds and fish has risen by up to 26% in the last year alone. These numbers are the highest that have been recorded since 1988 when the proper recording of animal statistics began.

Scientists acknowledge that results from animal experiments are highly questionable in their value to humans, that many diseases simply do not exist in animals and the way an animal’s body deals with disease or a drug is very different to the way our bodies deal with them.

Yet, animal use has reached its highest level in 24 years in spite of major scientific advances and changes in attitude that have seen the use of alternatives to animal experiments become an accepted part of everyday science.

One organisation that has dedicated the last 42 years to funding replacements for animal experiments is the Dr Hadwen Trust for Humane Research (DHT).

The DHT is the UK’s leading medical research charity and has been a driving force in funding and promoting the development of techniques and procedures to replace the use of animals in biomedical research and testing.

Since it was established in 1970, the DHT has awarded grants to hundreds of research projects for some of the most advanced and successful humanrelated techniques in diverse areas of medical research including cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, asthma, kidney, heart and liver disease and diabetes as well as mental health disorders.

Funded solely by charitable donations, the DHT supports and financially assists scientists in universities, hospitals and research organisations across the country to develop and implement alternative research techniques which are more humanrelevant and replace animal experiments in the fight against human illness.

Last year, the DHT gave financial assistance of more than £750,000 to 18 such research projects including advanced brain imaging techniques, nanotoxicology testing, Huntington’s disease, asthma, skin cancer, pain and Cystic Fibrosis.

Funding from the DHT has, for example, enabled Professor Furlong and the team at Aston University to develop highly

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sophisticated MEG scanning equipment which enables them to carry out a whole array of noninvasive human brain research without using animals in areas including behaviour, pain, hearing, speech and vision and they recently launched the UK’s first paediatric scanner.

Today, the DHT is recognised as one of the world’s leading exponents of non-animal research and is consulted internationally for its expertise in replacement research methods by scientists, governments, education, animal welfare organisations and industry.

Without government funding, the DHT has made a significant contribution to changing the face of medical research. It is vital that its valuable work continues. Some of the ways you can help would be to: • Surf the net and shop online while raising money for the DHT via Every click, Give as you live, ebay for charity or easyfundraising.org.uk • Recycle mobile phones, printer cartridges, old jewellery, old and foreign banknotes to raise funds.

We can also recycle your unwanted CDs and DVDs - call us and we can send you some envelopes or just send them in to us. You can even donate your car. Visit giveacar.co.uk or call them on 020 0011 1664.

• Set up a regular donation by standing order or through your payroll. Some companies will even match your donation to us. Regular donations help us plan our spending much more effectively.

• Leave a legacy.

• Make a quick and easy donation by mobile phone - Text HADW01£ and either 5 or 10 to 70070 to donate simply and easily. The text message is free, there are no charges on any network and all of the donations will be passed to the DHT. You can also add Gift Aid which means we benefit from an extra 25%.

To find out more, go to www.drhadwentrust.org

Large or small, your legacy will make a big difference.

Sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to decide who to help.

But you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to choose between saving a helpless animal from suffering or saving a human life when you choose the Dr Hadwen Trust. You will be helping both.

For 42 years, the DHT has funded ground-breaking medical research that does not harm any animals and has helped in the fight against cancer, heart disease and mental health disorders, to name a few.

We rely solely on voluntary donations and legacies from people who are compassionate about animals and want to support our valuable and essential work.

By leaving us a legacy, however large or small, you will help us create a world in which all life is precious.

Help us continue to save lives, both human and animal.

To receive your legacy pack: Call: 01462 436 819 or Email: info@drhadwentrust.org

Registered Charity No. 261096

For more information about our work visit www.drhadwentrust.org Suite 8 | Portmill House | Portmill Lane | Hitchin | Hertfordshire | SG5 1DJ | United Kingdom

Tr a v e l l i n g a n d M o v i n g H o m e

Travelling and Moving Home With the exception of outgoing extraverts and those that were accustomed to travel at an early age, most cats prefer to stay at home when you and your family go away on holiday. Moving home is another matter. This is a risky time, when indoor cats may wander away in the commotion of moving and outdoor cats become confused and even lost in their new territories. Plan ahead to reduce risks.

Most cats are stay-at-homes

Pet Travel Documents

If you’re going on holiday, you can put your cat in a well run cattery or, as most cats prefer, you can arrange for it to stay in its own home, either with a cat (and house) sitter who moves in, or a neighbour or professional cat visitor arriving once or twice each day to empty the litter tray, fill up the food and water bowls and play with your cat. Gregarious personalities will need additional amusement if they are at home alone.

Your vet can help you find temporary accommodation for your cat; they usually know good catteries and reliable cat-sitters or visitors.

While an up-to-date vaccination certificate and proof of parasite treatment is usually all that is needed to visit a cattery, more complicated and expensive documents are needed if you plan to visit or move to rabies-free regions such as Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, Sweden, the United Kingdom, or Ireland. Health officials have a habit of changing regulations, so always check the relevant government’s website before you travel, but in most instances a cat must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have a blood sample taken a few weeks later that confirms protection.

Moving home

Moving day and after

Moving home is a different matter.

Speaking from my experience, the safest and most pragmatic arrangement is for your cat to spend a few days at an approved cattery from before you move until a few days after the move. By that time you’ve got your furniture in place and know exactly where your cat stuff will be. That way there’s no chance of escape or loss.

If that isn’t possible, either get out the crate you used as a kitten pen, or select a small, safe room in your home (from which you’ve already removed the contents, so the movers don’t have to go in it) and use that to protect your cat during the move. Set up the crate or room as you did when your cat arrived, with litter tray, food and water bowls, bedding and toys.

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Before the movers arrive, ensure your cat is in its safe place. For the journey, your cat goes with you, not the movers! It might sound self-evident, but some of my otherwise intelligent clients have sent their cats in a carrier with the delivery van. The cat carrier you use to take your cat to the vet should be fine for the move. Give a light meal, or no food if you know your cat is a poor traveller. If it’s a terrible traveller, your vet can provide something to ease the journey, from motion sickness medication to synthetic cheekgland scent spray to use in the transport carrier.

An extract from Complete Cat Care by Bruce Fogle, published by Mitchell Beazley.

ISBN 978-84533-544-1

When your cat arrives in your new home, either with you or from the cattery after after you've started to settle in, restric it to a single room until it wants to investigate its new home. Some cats take weeks to settle in, while others want to explore outdoors immediately – but take care.

These are new and unexpected dangers outside. Sprinkle a little of your cat’s urine-soiled litter close to your new home to act as an outdoor signpost for its new home, and personally escort your cat outdoors on the first few visits. It usually takes several weeks before a cat becomes fully accustomed to its new indoor and outdoor territories.

Bruce’s identity update tip A house move is the time when your cat is most likely to go missing, either because it knows something is up and can’t be found before the move, or because it forgets how to get back to its new home when exploring at the other end. In either case, a microchip is invaluable for reuniting you with your pet – but it’s surprising how many people “fit and forget”, so the microchip record contains their previous address. Update your cat’s details promptly and make sure the new owners of your old house have your number – if you haven’t moved far, your cat may go “home”.

Park House Animal Sanctuary (supported by Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund)

A lifeline for animals of all kinds

We provide sanctuary to animals who become homeless or who have been injured or abused, and vital veterinary care to those on low incomes. We also provide ca#ery/kennel facili"es for your pets whilst you are away from home.

Homes some mes needed for cats, dogs, equines and small animals Visit the Lord Whisky Tea Room at Rhodes Minnis, CT4 6XY Open every day from 10am - 4pm. Groups welcome

The sanctuary receives no government funding and relies en rely on dona ons and legacies to con nue its valuable work.

For further informa on contact: Mrs M Todd MBE (Founder)

Park House Animal Sanctuary,

Stelling Minnis, Nr Canterbury, CT4 6AN Tel. 01303 862622

www.lordwhisky.co.uk Registered Charity No. 283483

Caring for Animals 2001 Charity No. 1097762 Black and white cat called Pepe

Please help us to give feral/virus positive cats a long and happy life, as others like them are not so lucky and are destroyed in their thousands.

With more funds and more land we can help more cats 2 Irvine Gardens, South Ockendon Essex RM15 5JP Tel: 01708 854567 www.caring-for-animals.org

Glen - FELV positive

Our vet bills for last year totalled ÂŁ52,130.95

Tame Jay FIV positive

Ace was abandoned in a factory Peppermint FIV positive.

Feral cat, now tame and living permanently at the shelter.

Peppermint before and after, brought in by Pest Control.

Tame Sandy FIV positive

The Humane Research Trust The first Trust to promote medical and scientific research without the use of animals

HUMAN MODELS FOR HUMAN DISEASES HELPS PEOPLE AND SAVES ANIMALS The Humane Research Trust Brook House, 29 Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall, Stockport, Cheshire SK7 2DN Telephone: 0161 439 8041 Email: info@humaneresearch.org.uk Website: www.humaneresearch.org.uk Registered Charity Number 267779

Dog Aid Society of Scotland Their future is in your hands Giving a donation or leaving a legacy to the Dog Aid Society means you will help us continue to find loving new homes for dogs all around Scotland.

Every dog deserves the right to be wanted The Society re-homes dogs of all breeds and ages.

www.dogaidsociety.com – 0131 668 3633 60 Blackford Avenue, Edinburgh, EH9 3ER Reg Charity No SC001918

CHARITY hristmas is the season of good will and a time to give gifts to our loved ones.

However, this year, let’s not just think about giving to friends and family. Animal charities work tirelessly all year round providing help and support to animals in need, but do we spare a thought at this festive time as to how they manage to survive. This year why not add your favourite charity to your list. There are many ways in which you can help, it’s easier than you think.

Most of the charities have websites which have a fantastic range of gifts available, suitable for children to grandparents. As well as gifts, why not order your Christmas cards from your favourite charity, your calendar for next year too!

C

Skincare range from Humane Research Trust

There is a vast array of gifts available online from many animal charities, some of the best include The Humane Research Trust, a registered charity that helps people and saves animals. The Trust raises the necessary finance to fund and promote pioneering medical research into human disease without the use of animals or animal tissue, with the aim to eliminate the need for animals in human medical research. You can help fund research in to many diseases by buying Christmas cards, gifts, toys as well as skincare beauty products from their online shop.

Greyhounds in Need, a charity dedicated to the welfare and rescue of Greyhounds, especially those in Spain, have a variety of special items and gifts with a greyhound or galgo theme.

As well as the usual Christmas cards and calendars, you can chose gifts from a unisex polo shirt, jewellery, books and much more including stocking fillers such as book marks, key rings, plus there are also items you can buy for your two legged friends too!

Unisex Polo Shirt from Greyhounds in Need

Charity begins at Christmas

begins at Christmas The National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) has some great animal themed cards and gifts including some adorable coasters, and every purchase you make goes towards helping unwanted pets/animals in their care.

Or why not send a Charity Greeting that will let your friends, family and colleagues know you are thinking about them, while supporting a worthy cause too.

Christmas Card from NAWT

NAWT have joined forces with CharityGreetings.com , providing an innovative alternative to traditional greeting cards, CharityGreetings.com allows ethically minded consumers to donate to a charity, at the same time as sending a special message.

Another charity promoting the wellbeing of all animals is Caring for Animals. At present they deal primarily in the rescue, neutering and rehoming of feral cats. Their dream is to have a farm or small holding where they can create a sanctuary for all types of animals not just feral cats, but obviously this needs funding and they too need all the help they can get. Take a look at their online shop for cards, calendars, and some cute animal brooches, ideal for children, priced at only £1!

As well as buying gifts, you can also help charities in other ways. Why not indulge yourself with an afternoon cream tea at Lord Whisky tearooms, near Canterbury. As well as afternoon tea they provide a wide variety of food, and surplus funds from the tea room are donated to the charity who provide sanctuary to animals who become homeless or who have been injured or abused through no fault of their own.

At this time of year many Visit Lord Whisky tearooms for a delightful afternnoon tea charities have Fetes and Christmas fairs and you can often pick up that unusual gift for a friend or family member, whilst at the same time contributing to raising much needed additional funds.

Sponsorship of kennels and cattery’s are yet another way of giving a gift to an animal lover and at the same helping provide a safe and warm haven to dogs and cats whilst they await their new home.

Although Christmas is a great time to remember to help others, the best giving is regular giving. Setting up a monthly direct debit for just a few pounds a month allows charities to plan their long-term development. Ask yourself, would you really miss a few pounds a month?

Around £10 a month would help animals in dire need which is just equivalent to a couple of glasses of wine in the pub.

Finally, do remember charities when making a will. It’s an excellent way of leaving a donation to a charity you have supported in your lifetime and an easy method of providing long-term support. A legacy, no matter how small can make a huge difference.

Visit the following on-line shops: Buy on-line from Caring for Animals and help unwanted animals

Did you know you can even buy your Christmas pudding on line!

Ferne Animal Sanctuary who has been saving the lives of abandoned animals for over 70 years strives to provide care and refuge for unwanted domestic and farm animals. All the animals are given the care, attention and TLC they need to enjoy a life while they are at Ferne. Visit their on-line shop to order your pudding and to see lots of other goodies too.

Buy your Christmas Pudding online from Ferne Animal Sanctuary

The Humane Research Trust www.humaneresearch.org.uk National Animal Welfare Trust www.nawt.org.uk Greyhounds in Need www.greyhoundsinneed.co.uk Caring for Animals www.caring-for-animals.org Lord Whisky www.lordwhisky.co.uk Ferne Animal Sancuary www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org Dr Hadwen Trust www.drhadwentrust.org Canine Partners www.caninepartners.org.uk Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust www.wwt.org.uk

About Ani m a l s

15

Stealing Food and Scavenging

Stealing Food and Scavenging ogs are scavengers by nature. Wild dogs owe their success to their virtually omnivorous eating habits and their readiness to supplement hunting kills by eating carrion and anything else they find. To a wild dog, any food source can mean the difference between life and death.

Domestic dogs have their food supplied by us, but they retain the instinct not to waste anything – whether it be an unguarded sandwich in the house or animal droppings in the park.

D

It follows that dogs don’t understand our views on stealing food, or indeed the concept of stealing – they merely eat what they find as their wild cousins do. So they find our reactions quite incomprehensible. Dogs learn by association. If every time a dog finds a delicious piece of decaying rubbish his owner chases him, grabs him and tries to prise it out of his mouth, what is the dog to conclude but that the owner wants it for himself? Understandably, the dog learns that the best response is to make a run for it – and since he has two more legs, the resulting victory is a foregone conclusion!

Taste Buds Dogs have fewer taste buds than humans, and very different ideas on what is edible. Furthermore, they are not bothered by human perceptions of what might be toxic or dangerous. To dogs, therefore, the world is their restaurant. We, however, find it distasteful when our pets vacuum up waste food in the park or on the street. We also know that this is dangerous, since it can cause severe food poisoning.

Equally, it is natural for dogs to gobble up cow, horse and sheep dung or, in fact, the dung of any herbivorous animal. The dung of herbivores contains many partly digested nutrients, and the canine motto is “Waste not, want not”. Some dogs go further and roll in the stuff for good measure, to help mask their own scent. Again, humans are repelled by this. We understand that dogs can ingest parasites through eating dung.

For wild dogs, incurring a parasitic infection is an acceptable risk – but it’s a risk we prefer our pets to avoid.

In The Home Food is the strongest driving force for animals in the natural world.

Domestic dogs are fed on a regular basis, but they still have the urge to supplement this occasionally with what they hunt (find). This is frequently provided by neglectful 16

About Anim als

humans who leave cakes, sandwiches, biscuits and other delights on temptingly low tables.

It would be unnatural for a dog to turn up such an opportunity.

Each successful foray reinforces the dog’s instinct to hunt down such supplementary snacks.

Often, dogs learn to steal food more out of boredom than from hunger. Dogs which have been left for long periods of time with little stimulation seek to entertain themselves, just as we would if we were stuck in a room for too long on our own.

Following Their Noses Their acute sense of smell encourages them to explore, and the exciting aromas escaping from the kitchen bin are irresistible. Tipping over the bin not only provides a food reward but also fun in the form of rummaging and investigating. Having found the experience rewarding, a dog is likely to repeat it. To prevent this, it’s wise to secure all bins, indoors and outdoors.

Some breeds are gluttons in the first degree – Labrador Retrievers are famous for this. Such dogs don’t need an excuse to eat what they shouldn’t!

Gobbling up unattended food comes naturally.

Why Dogs Steal Food • Nature – dogs are programmed not to waste food.

• Opportunity – food is left in accessible positions.

• Boredom – bored, lonely dogs seek entertainment.

Training Digest Food is the strongest driving force for animals in the natural world.

Domestic dogs are fed on a regular basis, but they still have the urge to supplement this occasionally with what they hunt (find) Dogs which have been left for long periods of time with little stimulation seek to entertain themselves by stealing food, just as we would if we were stuck in a room on our own.

Having found the experience rewarding, a dog is likely to repeat it.

To prevent this, it’s wise to secure all bins, indoors and outdoors.

Obedience Training At home or in the park, teaching your dog to obey your obedience commands is the only sure way to prevent scavenging. Since dogs cannot understand our views on food, they need to be taught that “No” means “No” and

not “Maybe”. It’s advisable to teach puppies or new adult dogs the word “No” early on. Then walk your dog round the house on collar and lead.

If he approaches any food, check him with the lead and tell him “No”. It helps to leave food out in a container which allows it to be seen and smelt but which prevents the dog from getting a reward if he snatches it.

This is vital, as one food reward may be remembered for ever.

The rules are made clearer to your dog if you never hand-feed him, and never offer food to him from your plate. Few dogs waste their efforts staring and drooling at the plates of people who never feed them by hand.

It’s natural to hand your dog a portion of what you are eating, as a way of saying, “Let’s share but don’t take”.

However, what this signals to the dog is that whenever you have food there is always a chance of a reward, and this simply increases the likelihood that he will start helping himself.

Deterrents In my experience, deterrents are less effective than prevention. Some people recommend discouraging theft by leaving out food smeared with an unpleasant-tasting substance, such as mustard. This is usually a waste of time. Most dogs smell the horrible potion and steer well clear of it, but still continue to steal untreated food.

Others will just eat anything and look for seconds – treated or untreated.

Prevention Advice Dogs develop the habit of taking food from tables or kitchen surfaces because of careless owners. It only takes one successful foray to establish the practice! The best prevention is never to leave food unattended. Lock every tempting morsel away. This will eliminate the reward and stop the habit developing – especially important in the puppy and adolescent periods, when bad habits are easily formed.

Stealing Food and Scavenging

With a dog already conditioned to stealing, set the dog up regularly so that you control the situation and are not caught off guard. Allowing the dog to dictate training times is a recipe for failure. You must be in control at all times.

The combination of young children, food and dogs can be a nightmare for you – and a delight for most dogs.

Toddlers often rain food down on dogs from their high chairs, and this is a difficult situation to resolve. Probably the best solution is to keep your dog out of the room while the child is eating, and not let him back in until you have cleaned up all crumbs and splatters. If the dog has learned the “No” command, you can use this to

Direct Action

Using Muzzles

When your dog steals food in your presence, the “No” command can be backed up with various aids, such as a water pistol or training discs. As he reaches for the food, squirt water at his face or throw training discs (or a large bunch of keys) just behind him.

The squirt or the clattering noise will put off all but the most hardened thieves.

In extreme cases where a dog constantly takes food (especially in the street or park where he may pick up dangerous substances), a muzzle may be necessary. Once a dog is accustomed to wearing the muzzle, he can go out anywhere without being able to scavenge. This interrupts the behaviour pattern and eventually, if this is combined with obedience training, he may learn not to eat what he finds. The muzzle can be used in the home for particularly persistent dogs or big strong dogs which are difficult to manage. Muzzles should not be left on dogs for more than two hours at a time, preferably less.

Alternatively, you can use a remotecontrolled spray deterrent collar. (This is not a shock collar.) The device is very effective in interrupting undesired behaviour like stealing food, although you will need to learn from a trainer how to use it correctly.

The remote control means you can operate the spray mechanism without the dog realizing that you are directly involved – instead he associates the unpleasant effect with his own action.

With the dog held under control by means of a collar and lead, it is possible to work on the “No” command, diverting any lunges towards the plate with a restraining pull on the lead.

Training discs add an extra deterrent effect. When you spot a dog about to snatch some food, throw the discs on the floor close to him. The clatter of the metal discs sets up an unpleasant association in the dog’s mind with the act of stealing the food.

Scavenging – recap • Don’t leave food unattended or within the dog’s reach.

restrain him – provided the child does not require all your attention.

Alternatively, you can use the hook restriction method. It’s important to be in control, rather than let the dog dictate his own actions.

• Work on the “No” command.

• Don’t offer titbits from your plate.

• Make stealing an unpleasant experience (use a water pistol, training discs, or “set up” situations with clattering trays).

However, when dogs learn that a particular behaviour may earn them a food reward, the habit can become ingrained.

• Dedicated thieves and scavengers may need a muzzle – for short periods only.

A dog has to learn that his food will only be delivered to him through his feed bowl. You may deliver extra treats, but preferably not from your own plate.

When offering food by hand, make sure that you call the shots.

Children love playing – and eating – on the floor. And dogs love them doing it too – there’s always the chance of snatching an extra morsel.

Training Digest Teaching your dog to obey your obedience commands is the only sure way to prevent scavenging.

The rules are made clearer to your dog if you never hand-feed him, and never offer food to him from your plate.

The best prevention is never to leave food unattended. Lock every tempting morsel away. This will eliminate the reward and stop the habit developing.

Deterrents are less effective than prevention.

Setting Up Your Dog This “natural learning” method often has the best chance of teaching a dog what is a bad deal and what is a good deal in life. If you wish to dissuade your dog from stealing food when you out of the room, then “set him up”. Tie several tin trays or empty bean cans (make sure there are no sharp edges) together with string, secure the other end of the string to a piece of food such as a tough piece of meat, and place them all on a kitchen top. Then leave the room. When your dog grabs the meat, it will pull off the trays causing the most almighty clatter.

Most dogs will be put off by the noise.

Repeat the exercise regularly, with variations and in different rooms, and a dog soon learns not to take food unless it is in his bowl.

An extract from Breaking Bad Habits in Dogs

by Colin Tennant, published by Interpet Publishing.

ISBN 978-184286-228-5 About Ani m a l s

17

C

GET CREATIVE

hristmas is a fantastic time to prepare some mouthwatering cusine and a great opportunity for getting creative in the kitchen. Whether you are a vegetarian yourself or perhaps have friends and family who are vegetarian, these recipes are sure to be hit!

Walnut & Spiced Plum Christmas Cob Can be vegan* Serves 4

Snowballs Serves 4 Ingredients 100g milk chocolate 50g plain chocolate 100g desiccated coconut 25g butter 50g icing sugar sieved To Decorate: 25g chocolate vermicelli 50g desiccated coconut Method 1. Break the chocolate into small pieces. Melt in a medium bowl over a saucepan of simmering water.

2. Remove carefully and stir in the coconut, butter and icing sugar.

Mix well.

3. Roll the mixture into small balls and roll in the chocolate vermicelli and/ or coconut.

4. Put each ball into a petit four sweet case and leave in the fridge to chill. Use within one week.

18

About Anim als

softened – you may need to add a little water to prevent plums sticking Ingredients – the end mixture should be soft and 1 round cob loaf or boule moist (not wet). Remove spices and 2 tbsp olive oil discard. Allow sauce to cool.

For Spiced Plum Sauce: 4. For walnut pate: sauté both the shallot and celery in oil until soft.

10 ripe plums, roughly chopped (use Add the garlic and sauté for further tinned if fresh not available) 2 minutes.

6 tbsp full bodied vegetarian red wine 5.

Add remaining ingredients (except (*use vegan red wine) 50g of walnuts) to a food processor 4 star anise and process until walnut mixture 8 cloves comes together but is still rough and not quite a paste. Roughly chop 6 allspice berries remaining 50g of walnuts and add For the Rough Walnut Pate: to mixture.

2 tbsp olive oil 6. For the asparagus/broccoli: cut 150g walnuts asparagus in half and discard bottom half. Gently peel asparagus to expose 1 shallot, peeled and finely chopped pale green colour. Steam for between 1 stick celery, finely chopped 2-3 minutes, depending on size, until 1 clove garlic crushed soft. Allow to cool. If using broccoli or 50g of the bread from hollowed out loaf green beans, trim ends and steam for 2-3 minutes.

10g Flat leaf (Italian) parsley 7.

To assemble and cook: Divide the 1 chilli – deseeded (optional) walnut pate in half and place one 1 tbsp soya sauce half in bottom of hollowed out cob Other: loaf ensuring mixture goes right into edges. Press down well.

2 bunches fresh asparagus (about 32 spears) – use tender stem broccoli or 8. Place half of the asparagus over the green beans if not available top alternating the spears end to opposite end. Spoon half the plum 150g vegetarian brie or camembert sauce on top, then add slices of (*do not use for vegan cob) cheese (*omit for vegan recipe). Top Method this with the remaining asparagus, 1. Preheat oven to 180C. then the remaining walnut pate and lastly the rest of the plum sauce.

2. To hollow out cob loaf: place cob Press down well. Place the bread lid loaf on its side and cut off a lid. back on top.

Using your hands hollow out centre leaving just a little bread on the 9. Wrap whole loaf in tin foil and bake crust – do the same for the lid. in oven for 1 hour – to test if the loaf Reserve 50g of the bread for later. is ready, take out of oven remove the Brush inside of hollowed out loaf lid and place a knife in the centre. and lid with olive oil.

If the knife comes out very hot the loaf is ready.

3. For spiced plum sauce: Place all ingredients in medium pan and 10.Allow to stand for a few minutes cook on low heat until plums have before cutting into wedges.

in the Kitchen These are just some of our favourites, courtesy of the Vegetarian Society.

For more recipes visit www.veggiechristmas.org

Exotic Christmas Pud Serves 8.

Can be made 2 or 3 days beforehand.

Ingredients 100g ready to eat dried mango 100g ready to eat dried figs 125g ready to eat dried cranberries

Rose Elliotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pine Nut & Carrot Roast with Mushroom Sauce Serves 6

Method

Ingredients

1. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/gas 4.

Grease and line a 500g/1lb loaf tin.

25g butter

200ml vegetarian fino sherry 100g light vegetarian suet 100g white breadcrumbs 100g light muscovado sugar 50g plain flour

2. Melt the butter in a large pan and fry the onion, without browning, for 5 minutes, then add the carrot and celery and cook uncovered for 10 minutes.

1 ½ tsp cardamom seeds, lightly crushed

2 celery sticks, finely chopped

3. Remove from heat and add the pine nuts, parsley, lemon juice and eggs.

2 large free range eggs, lightly beaten

225g pine nuts, grated

4. Season well with salt, pepper and nutmeg.

Pour into the tin and bake for 40 minutes until golden brown and firm in the centre.

To prepare the sauce: 1. Put the mushrooms and water in a saucepan, bring to the boil then remove from heat and leave to soak for 40 minutes, then drain, reserving the liquid and chop the mushrooms.

Method

1 onion, finely chopped 225g carrots, finely grated

2 tbsp chopped parsley squeeze of lemon juice 2 free range eggs sea salt and freshly ground black pepper freshly grated nutmeg

25g pecan nuts, finely chopped 1 large orange, zest and juice 15g butter (for greasing) 1. Cut all the dried fruit into small dice (kitchen scissors can be less messy than using a knife) and place in a shallow bowl.

Pour over the sherry and leave to soak for 1 hour, stirring from time to time.

2. Combine the suet, breadcrumbs, sugar, flour, cardamom and nuts in a large bowl.

Add the orange zest, juice and eggs to the marinating fruit and then combine with the dry ingredients, mixing well.

For the Sauce:

5. Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the onion and fry for 10 minutes until lightly browned.

7g dried mushrooms, rinsed

6. Add the mushrooms and gently cook for 30 minutes until tender.

600ml water

7. Mix the cornflour with the reserved liquid, Madeira and shoyu, then add to the mushroom mixture. Bring to the boil, stirring until slightly thickened. Season to taste.

3. Grease a 1 litre pudding basin and line the base with baking parchment. Spoon the mixture into the basin and level the top. Cover with baking parchment, pleated to allow for expansion, then cover with foil also pleated and tie with string.

8. Turn the roast out onto a plate, slice thickly and drizzle with the mushroom sauce. Serve with roast potatoes, sprouts, carrots and all the trimmings for a classic vegetarian Christmas feast that will be a sure-fire hit year after year.

4. Place an upturned saucer in a large saucepan. Stand the basin on top and pour boiling water two-thirds up the sides of the basin. Bring to the boil and simmer for 3 ½ hours topping up with boiling water as necessary.

25g butter 1 small onion, thinly sliced 2 tsp cornflour 2 tbsp vegetarian Madeira or fortified wine 2 tbsp shoyu sauce

About Ani m a l s

19

• Stunning Countryside • Restaurant/Tea Room • Home Cooked Food • Fun Packed Nature Trail • Over 300 Animals • Open 7 Days a Week • Childrens Play Areas • A Unique Family Experience Our Restaurant and Tea Room Open 10am -4pm Daily

Tel: 01460 65214 Email: info@ferneanimalsanctuary.org

ADMISSION IS F R E E Ferne Animal Sanctuary, Wambrook, Chard, Somerset, TA20 3DH One and a half miles outside Chard on the A30 Guided Tours, Coaches and Groups are welcome by prior arrangement (Open daily except Christmas Day and New Years Day)

Update

Meet and Greet over 200 breeds

Animal loving Brits offered amazing opportunity to enjoy Australian lifestyle About Animals Magazine was contacted recently by British expat now Aussie resident Jan Riddell who is offering an amazing opportunity to animal loving Brits.

Particularly suited to the retired or semi retired Jan through her company Allpets is offering a chance to take a long vacation, usually 3 months house sitting in the beautiful city of Perth on Australia’s west coast, in return for pet sitting while the owner is away.

One recent retiree who did just that is Barbara Trumble along with her partner Bernard, Barbara explains ‘My partner and I are both very fond of animals and always wanted to live in the sunshine near to the sea - and by pure chance we found Allpets in Perth, Australia. Our dream has come true.

Jan Riddell and friend

This will be our third season of living in and around the wonderful city of Perth -- Allpets allocate properties to us where the owners have gone on vacation ; We look after the house and care for their pets as they do. All the houses we have lived in have been superb , very often have their own pool and of course the animals have been a joy to live with.

During the summer the weather is glorious and you can always be assured of a sunny day so it is always better to excercise the dog or dogs in the cooler morning; then after breakfast , very often the hardest decision we have to make is shall we go down to the beach,fish off a jetty in the Swan River or the Indian Ocean , play some lawn bowls or just go shopping , -- then come back for lunch. -and of course one added bonus , the accommodation is free of charge and we are away during the very cold English Winter.

Baby Blues Being “mum” to an orphaned animal is a highlight for many volunteers at Khulula Care for Wild and volunteer Amanda Theoret took to mothering Casey the baby baboon immediately: “That was the start of the most memorable experience of my life. I was up by 5 am every morning in order to prepare Casey’s 6 am feeding of porridge and milk.

Casey slept in a wooden box beside my bed and would act as my alarm clock, knocking on the door every morning to remind me when it was time to get up. As soon as I’d open the door she’d run out and latch on to my leg where she would cling, chirping away as I prepared her bottle...

Discover Dogs 2012, presented by the Kennel Club, takes place between 10-11 November at Earls Court 1, London and is open 10-5pm each day.

Sponsored by Eukanuba and Metro Bank, the event is expected to welcome over 26,000 visitors and 3,000 dogs over the two days of the show.

The show provides a fantastic opportunity for visitors to meet, greet and discover over 200 different breeds of dog, and learn all about the distinctive personalities, traits and looks of each breed and how to buy the perfect canine partner.

It didn’t take long for Casey to feel like my very own.

It's indescribable the way you can feel so maternal to someone who isn't even of your species. The bond I felt with her was amazing, which made our goodbye that much harder. I still miss her crazy antics and think of her all the time, wondering how she’s doing and how much she's grown.”

The Kennel Club is the organisation responsible for running Discover Dogs every year. The Kennel Club was founded in 1873 and is able to offer dog owners an unparalleled source of information, experience and advice on dog welfare, dog health, dog training and dog breeding.

Amanda travelled to Africa with African Conservation Experience: www.conservationafrica.net

For further information and to purchase tickets online visit www.discoverdogs.org.uk or call 0844 581 1381 to book over the phone.

MY GARDEN AND OTHER ANIMALS

WIN! by Mike Dilger

A regular face on TV, for the past year Mike Dilger has been involved in a project much closer to home: transforming his neglected garden into a wildlife oasis for native species.

Together with his partner, artist and illustrator Christina Holvey, the pair took a chance on a run-down home just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Chew Valley Lake in Somerset.

They were completely won over by the potential of its 90-foot garden. And so began a twelvemonth journey to create their very own nature sanctuary. Through the changing seasons Mike and Christina painstakingly brought the garden to life, creating a patchwork of wildlife havens in their own special corner of Britain.

We have 3 copies of the book to giveaway to readers. For a chance to win send in your name and address to Amra Media Solutions, The Old Lavender Mill, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES, quoting AAA/MGOA, or email info@amramedia.co.uk Closing date: 10 December 2012 About Ani m a l s

21

Charity News

In 2007 as an injured foal

2012 as a much loved riding pony

Orla finds her forever home at Catastrophes

Injured Lexie is now a much loved family pet The South West Equine Protection rescue and rehabilitate wild moorland ponies. One of their most recent success stories is about a little Dartmoor pony called Lexie. As a young foal in 2007, she was hit by a car on a moorland road where she was seriously injured; she had a gaping cut in her front leg which needed immediate veterinary treatment. Due to the location of the injury, the healing process was prolonged and it took a lot of specialist care from vets and the team at SWEP; at times it was uncertain if she would survive but against all odds she pulled through and has made a full

recovery. In the spring this year Lexie was chosen to be loaned out to a gentleman for his pony mad teenage daughter.

When Lexie was discovered by his daughter in the stable one morning, it was love at first sight and they have been inseparable ever since. They have developed a true bond and now Lexie is a much loved family pet and riding pony, who has a loan home for life.

Lexie is just one of over 400 ponies SWEP have rescued since 1996, most of which are now in long term loan homes across the south west.

For further information visit www.swep.org

Catastrophes, a cat rescue charity based in East Sussex, is run by Liz Varney and her team, whose aim is to help any cat that is in need, believing that every cat deserves the chance of a good home. Liz rehomes cats when they have little or no hope of finding a home elsewhere, giving them freedom and comfort in idyllic surroundings, where they can live out the rest of their lives in the peace and comfort they deserve.

The cats in their care are given a high standard of veterinary care and they strongly believe in spaying and neutering as a responsible part of pet ownership.

While on a cat sterilisation project in Ireland, they came across Orla, a lovely black and white cat, who was going to be shot on a farm. They rescued her and brought her back to the sanctuary to move in with the rest of the feline inhabitants in the blissful setting of Half Moon Cottage.

Many of the cats in their care need regular medication for ailments, and some are on special diets because of their age or their health. One way you can help with much needed funds is by sponsoring one of the cats like Orla.

For further information visit www.catastrophescats.org

Please visit www.aboutanimalsmagazine.com for all pet related information tray and abandoned dogs like me arrive daily at our kennels from all over the West Midlands usually in desperate need of love and attention. This they receive in plentiful from Birmingham Dogs Home but their greatest need is a new loving home.

S

If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rehome a dog, could you open your heart to help us.

We are a charity that receives no Government funding and depends totally on donations from the general public. Food and blankets are also greatly appreciated.

You can make a one-off cash donation or sign up to one of the many sponsorship opportunities we offer.

New New Bartholomew Bartholomew Street Street Digbeth Digbeth Birmingham Birmingham B5 B5 5QS 5QS

Appeals Appeals Office Office Tel: Tel: 0121 0121 643 643 5018 5018 Email: Email: enquiries@birminghamdogshome.org.uk enquiries@birminghamdogshome.org.uk www.birminghamdogshome.org.uk www.birminghamdogshome.org.uk

Tel: 0121 643 5211

Registered Registered Charity Charity No: No: 222436 222436

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CATASTROPHES CAT RESCUE Over the years we have helped an increasing number of cats and kittens in distress, by taking them into our care and finding good homes for them. The cats we take in have often been abandoned or badly treated, some are simply strays who have never had the chance of a proper caring home.

Our aim is to help any cat that is in need and we believe that every cat deserves the chance of a good home.

We do not believe in putting animals to sleep unnecessarily and we actively encourage sterilisation as a vital part of pet ownership. Please remember us in your will. Your donation or legacy will help our work for the animals and save lives.

Catastrophes Cat Rescue Contact Liz Varney

Half Moon Cottage, Bakers Lane, Dallington, Heathfield, East Sussex TN21 9JS Tel: 01435 830212 Fax: 01825 768012 Email: lizzie@internationalanimalrescue.org Registered Charity Number: 1017304

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