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Editor’s Letter & Contents
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Editor's Letter &
CONTENTS
Welcome to the Autumn/Winter edition of All About Animals. With Christmas fast approaching, there is always the quandary of what to buy friends and family at this festive time. Have you thought about animal adoption as an alternative, either in the wild or perhaps at an animal sanctuary? You could consider sponsoring an animal that for many reasons cannot be rehomed, or perhaps give a donation towards the up keep of a kennel, all of which make ideal gifts for any animal lover and at the same time gives much needed support to many animals. See page 4 for some inspiring ideas. Cat bullies are often described as ‘despotic’ as they actively seek out territory defended by others to claim as their own. Read on page 8 how best to cope with this type of cat. Whether you are bringing a new dog into a home where there are already other pets or if you are introducing your dog to a new baby, both can be very stressful times for your pet. On page 14 read about the best way to handle these situations and some safety guidelines to follow. When an owner dies or becomes unable to look after a pet, the pet may have to be rehomed and this can prove difficult for both the pet and the new owner. On page 18 read about animals change of behaviour following the death of a companion and also how pets can be cared for after your passing. We also offer some great Vegetarian recipes for you to try from the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’, a new festive recipe collection from the Vegetarian Society.
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Make it count
8
The Despotic Cat
Monkey World
Contents 8
10 Charity News 12 Twelve days of Christmas 14 Happy Dog
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18 Rehoming a pet when an owner dies 19 Subscription
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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.
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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. All 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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Make it count
MAKE IT COUNT This year let’s do our utmost to give the high street a miss and look at animal adoption, the gift that keeps on giving. But hurry, adoption is increasingly popular at this time of year so don’t leave it too late.
Britain has a well deserved reputation as a nation of animals lovers, this combined with the fact that when it comes to giving to charity we are one of the most generous nations in the world. 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. Many of us have everything we need and presents can become quickly discarded or put to the back of a drawer and forgotten about. Press reports confirm this in January with articles galore on people selling unwanted gifts with online sites such as ebay. One way of making a difference and giving a valued present is animal adoption, whereby someone adopts an animal for a period of time and in return gets the opportunity to follow the development of their own animal and in some cases visit, (not to be confused with rehoming) In many ways it is great for children and adults alike who for whatever reason are unable to keep an additional pet or perhaps have no access to the outdoors making pet ownership very difficult. Most importantly it can help children become involved in conservation and can develop life long relationships. Animal adoption or sponsorship is an increasingly important method of fund raising for charities, the details vary but the essentials remain the same. The person receives a certificate, pictures of their animal and in some cases a cuddly toys, all helping to create that special bond.
Bewick's swan preening - James Lees
The ‘Adopt a Horse’scheme from World Horse Welfare is a great way to help the charities staff care for a chosen horse at one of their four UK Rescue and Rehoming Centres. One of the horses available for adoption is Spencer, who grew up as part of a semi-wild herd, having to compete for every scrap of food he could find. He was in a terribly frail condition when World Horse Welfare was called by a concerned member of the public. Shortly after arriving at Belwade Farm, Spencer collapsed through sheer exhaustion. With the help of medication and theTLC of the grooms throughout the night he started to regain his strength. At three years old, Spencer is slowly starting to fill out. He has 'Spencer' from World Horse Welfare – Spencer Feb a number of issues to address but is being handled every day and has proven to be full of fight and character on a number of occasions.
Founded in 1946 by the naturalist and artist, the late Sir Peter Scott, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) is a leading UK conservation organisation, saving wetlands for wildlife and people across the world. The charity has a national network of nine specialist wetland visitor centres, introducing hundreds of thousands of people a year to the wonders of wetlands and their wildlife. Adoption costs £27 a year and one of the charity’s most popular adoptions is the Bewick’s swan. Bewick’s are the rarest of the three species of swans found in the British Isles and every year they fly thousands of miles from the Russian Arctic to spend the winter in the UK. The unique thing about these swans is that every individual has a unique bill pattern meaning that WWT has been able to study these swans in detail since 1964, making this one of the longest single species studies in the world. Unfortunately, the number of Bewick’s swans is falling, but WWT is doing all it can to work out the reasons behind this decline and address the threats to the swans. By adopting a Bewick’s The horses all have their swan you can play own sad story to tell, but your part in Adopt today and get thanks to their adopters helping to save they are all being given Cuddly toy of your species globally threatened Com plim ent ary ticket to a WWT the love and care that species and also they need. You can Centre help the recipient adopt Spencer or one Reusable jute bag make a personal of his friends Homer, connection with Twice yearly newsletter Rocky or Zeam for wildlife. just £5 per month. Adoption cer
AT A GLANCE
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tificate Fact sheet Bookmark
AT A GLANCE
Adopt today and get DVD Film Colour Photograph Seasonal updates Four exclusive updates on the horse’s progress The chance to visit your adopted horse Pin Badge Notebook
Make it count
Monkey World - Ape Centre in Dorset is set in 65 acres of woodland, offering a safe haven for over 240 primates who have been rescued from all over the world. The sanctuary works in conjunction with foreign governments worldwide to stop the illegal smuggling of apes out of Africa and Asia. At the Centre refugees of this illegal trade, as well as those that have suffered abuse or neglect, are rehabilitated into natural living groups. If you decide to adopt with Monkey World you can be assured that every penny goes directly to the rescue centre’s beneficiaries. From just £20, just choose your monkey or ape such as Bart, who was born at the park in 2007. Adopting a primate makes a superb present for both adults Adopt today and get and children, especially Photograph of your at Christmas, but also at any time of adopted primate the year. Ado
AT A GLANCE
'Denise' from Redwings
Redwings Horse Sanctuary, cares for over 1,100 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules every day. They have eight centres around the UK, including three visitor centres in Essex, Norfolk and Warwickshire. The charity aims to re-home as many of their equines as possible and prefers to use adoption as the means to provide help for residents while they are in their care. The Redwings Adoption Club is the fun way to support the charity for just £12,50 and at the same time make a new friend in the process. It’s a great way to give help towards the daily care of the many residents such as Denise, who is a very cheeky skewbald donkey. She was rescued in 1996 as a week-old foal as her mother had developed mastitis and was unable to feed her. She was bottle fed day and night and is now a perfectly healthy, happy donkey and she certainly makes her presence known at the Visitor Centre!
ption certificate Three yearly newsletters Annual entry pass to the park for one year
'Bart' from Monkey World – © Monkey World
AT A GLANCE
Adopt today and get
e Welcome letter and certificat Photograph of the animal accommodation you are supporting ter Twice yearly sponsor’s newslet es riti Two editions of the cha magazine ‘Animate’ Window sticker Key ring
AT A GLANCE
Adopt today and get
Standard ‘Nosebag’: Photograph and adoption cer tificate Your adopted animals story and how you can visit your new friend Update and new photo just bef ore their birthday Invite to your adopted anima ls party! Online ‘Nosebag’: A year’s worth of access to you r chosen horse’s website A chance to help take care of your new friend yourself
Pet Accommodation from NAWT
Life for animals at the The National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT), means they are cared for by one of the top animal rescue and re-homing charities in England, which currently have four re-homing centres, giving safe and secure accommodation to a range of unwanted animals. Their sponsorship scheme ‘Home from Home’ specially supports the animals accommodation, ensuring that as many animals as possible benefit from your gift, by providing the animals with appropriate and welcoming accommodation, to ensure their wellbeing until the Trust can find these animals loving new homes. From as little as £1 per week, you can buy someone you love the gift of one year’s sponsorship from a cat pen and dog kennel ,or you may prefer to support the rabbit/guinea pig runs,or green pastures and aviaries.
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Make it count
Paignton Zoo is home to thousands of amazing animals and apart from the annual food bill of £200,000 per year and maintaining its commitment to providing a first-rate environment for all its animals, there is also the cost of financing conservation as well. The growing number of people choosing adoption as a Christmas gift is making a significant contribution in all areas. Few people are aware that you can adopt both plants and animals. You can adopt any animal from as little as £35 a year as a fantastic gift. This represents one ‘share’ and you can purchase as many shares as you wish.
AT A GLANCE
Adopt today and get
Adoption certificate r Wallet-sized magnetic card nea r yea a for l your chosen anima A year’s subscription to Zoo News Three yearly newsletter magazines One free ticket to the zoo
'Dipsybell' from Mare and Foal
The Mare & Foal Sanctuary based in Devon, was founded in 1988 by Rosemary Kind. The Sanctuary became a Registered Charity in 1992, and has since rescued and found loving homes for a large number of Meerkat from Paignton Zoo – Tina Whitelegg horses and ponies. The horses are often rehomed and visited regularly to ensure their safety. However, unfortunately, many residents, for a number of reasons, will never be suitable to re-home and for these they seek your help by adopting a pony or We’ve featured in horse such as ‘Dispybell’ for just £15. this article some really ‘Dipples, as she is affectionately worthwhile organisations who are known is a tiny pony, who came to the sanctuary as her previous owner could offering fantastic adoption schemes. no longer look after her. She There’s sure to be one to suit every has bags of recipient young or old! character and loves people, proving a For further information on all adoptions firm favourite featured visit: with everyone Adopt today and get who meets her. Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust: Adoption certificate Sponsorship www.wwt.org.uk with the Photograph of your chosen Sanctuary World Horse Welfare: horse or pony has for many www.worldhorsewelfare.org Bac kgr ound information on how animals he/she arrived at the sanctu literally been National Animal Welfare Trust: ary a life-saver. China Mug www.nawt.org.uk
AT A GLANCE
Teddy Bear Car Sticker Gifts may vary depending on type of adoption pack chosen
Redwings: www.redwings.org.uk Monkey World: www.monkeyworld.org Mare & Foal Sanctuary: www.mareandfoalsanctuary.org Paignton Zoo: www.paigntonzoo.org.uk
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ED E N L L A WE ! S D N E I R OUR F WINGS
Give the gift
of conservation
RED JOIN THE ND BE N C LU B A I E N D ! AD O P TI O C IAL F R E P S Y R E AV
isit 10 or v e 0 1 8 4 08 ak Call 015 ings.co.uk to t ! dw www.re doption today ra out you
REDWINGS Adoption Club
Redwings Horse Sanctuary is a Registered Charity Number 1068911
r a loved Adopt a bird fotm as one this Chris g.uk Buy from wwt.or tre or at a WWT cen from only £24.99
WWT reg charity in England & Wales, no. 1030884 and Scotland, no. SC039410. Funds raised through bird adoptions helps WWT’s conservation work saving wetlands for wildlife and people around the world.
Dominic Heard
A ND BUY A Y A D ABOUT TO U CARE FERENT O IF Y D E N G OMEO ETHIN dicated N FOR S DO SOM r the de o IO f T P y a O p D s him. GS A ies like Redwing n s o REDWIN p lp e d h n rses a doption adopt other ho ou can - your a d y n s a y n e k lo Rhad nd don care of horses a 8 1 e r a £12.50 - There ble st just o c n availa s n io t io p t o p d o ne’ A - Ad ne or ‘Onli ’ d r a r everyo d o n f a t t if ‘S g nderful es a wo k a M -
The despotic cat
DEALING WITH A DESPOT It’s important to establish whether the cat is owned and neutered. If there is no evidence of an owner, it may be possible to request assistance for humane trapping, neutering and re-homing.
THE DESPOTIC CAT S
ome territorial aggression exceeds what is considered by most to be acceptable. These cat bullies are often described as ‘despotic’, as they actively seek out territory defended by others to claim as their own. These ‘despots’ will enter houses located over a wide area, attack the resident cats (and the owners if they get in the way) and spray mark vertical surfaces with urine before departing.The victims rarely fight back, as a ‘despot’ will choose them wisely and often pick relentlessly on the old, infirm or timid cats in the neighbourhood. Some pedigrees, such as the Burmese and more recently the Bengal, represent a surprisingly large percentage of the reported perpetrators. Entire tomcats (despots are usually male) are also likely to behave in a similar way, as will any domestic crossbreed that is particularly territorial. Owners can become extremely distressed by these incidents, particularly as they occur within their own home, demanding that steps are taken by the owner of the bully in the view that the person in question is solelyresponsible for preventing future attacks. While it’s entirely appropriate that these measures are put in place, the unpopular truth is that the victim’s owner must also take reasonable steps to protect his or her 8
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property. The victim cats are clearly unable to deter intruders or defend their own territory, so the owners have to intervene in these cases. There is some debate about whether or not these bullying cats are behaving abnormally for the species, but regrettably there is little evidence to suggest that their behaviour is anything but normal for the cat as a territorial species.Domestic crossbreeds or ‘moggies’ have been selectively bred over many thousands of generations to moderate their territorial behaviour in order to live in built-up areas in close proximity to other cats. Expression of this behaviour is all a matter of degree, and cat ownersall over the world should actually be grateful that this is not a more common problem!
If you can locate the owner, it should be agreed that the despotic cat be confined indoors at night, if the fighting and property invasion occurs during the hours of darkness. The owner can feed the cat a latenight treat to give some incentive to come in by a certain time. If the attacks occur during the day, the curfew hours should reflect that. All neighbours with victim cats should be informed that the aggressor is confined at specific times so that they know when their own cats are safe. The despotic cat should have a couple of bells attached to his collar in order that neighbours and their cats can hear him coming and take any necessary action if the curfew is broken. The owner of the victim cat should block up their cat flap by locking it and placing a solid board over both aspects or close any doors or windows through which the aggressive cat entered the house. The aggressor’s route into the garden should be established and blocked where possible. The victim cat should then be escorted into the garden by the owner if they show interest in going, but be sure to provide an indoor litter tray. If the victim wants free access outdoors in the future, an exclusiveentry cat flap should be installed, but unfortunately no device will exclude the most determined cats from invading. The aggressive cat’s home should be adapted to ensure that he is provided with appropriate stimulation and resources, as enforced confinement could be stressful for him. Give him enough warm beds located around the house to allow him every opportunity to sleep and therefore fill the void of activity. Introduce active play sessions to use up energy, particularly early morning and evening or at other times when he is normally most active. Some despotic cats are very determined to behave in this way and often the only way to resolve the heated disputes that arise between neighbours is to re-home them to areas with low cat populations.
The despotic cat
ZORRO, THE DESPOT Zorro was a Bengal with a soft spot for people but not cats. He was terrorizing the local cats on a daily basis and really pushed his luck one day when an elderly lady attempted to protect her cat in her own kitchen and was badly mauled as a result. Zorro’s owner, Julia, was duly notified and action was demanded to keep him off the streets, so she kept him indoors for a week in the hope that he would become resigned to his confinement. Sadly this was not the case and he started to pace and spray urine constantly. It was eventually agreed that exclusive entry cat flaps would be fitted to each home, Zorro would be allowed out at specific times only (mainly at night) when other cats were safely indoors. It was difficult for many months and the problem was only resolved when Julia and Zorro moved to an area with very few house cats or cat flaps in sight and he was able to patrol and expand his territory at will without the need for constant conflict.
An extract from the Secret Life of Your Cat by Vicky Halls, published by Hamlyn. RSP ÂŁ14.99 ISBN 978-0-600-62138-6
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. Contact Liz Varney
Catastrophes Cat Rescue 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
Charity News
The Urchins are coming At this time of year Tiggywinkles are indeed flooded with all manner of orphaned birds and mammals. However they are all ever on alert for that first baby hedgehog at the front desk. But this year caught them all out with mother nature giving them their first baby hedgehogs from within the hospital. The first sign was in one of the ICU cages in the hedgehog room. A shrill piping in one of the bottom cages alerted them to a tiny mite of a newborn hedgehog vainly trying to find succour with another newborn that was already dead. They knew what to expect and on gingerly lifting the towel saw a quiet mother hedgehog suckling at least three urchins. Knowing how fickle she could be if she was disturbed, they quickly covered her up again and removed the rejected baby and its dead sibling. It would have been inadvisable to try to reintroduce the live urchin back to its mother. She would have possibly killed it. It then went to the Mammal Nursery where Siobhan and her team are perfectly competent surrogate mothers. As to nursing mum, they put her whole cage without disturbing her, in intensive care unit. They could not resist one more peek before they left her alone. In fact she had four little urchins lying contentedly feeding of mum. The only drawback would be they could not clean her out for fear of upsetting her fragile temperament. Still she didn’t seem to mind. These were the first urchins of the year. No doubt the harbingers of many more to come. They are ready for them! For further information visit www.sttiggywinkles.org.uk
Join the Animal Health Trust’s fight against cancer Cancer is the most common cause of death in dogs and the second most common cause in cats. However the good news is that with the right facilities, expertise and treatment it is the most curable chronic disease in these animals. The Animal Health Trust is developing a new Cancer Centre which will provide all three treatment options: surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, on one site. The brand new facility – due to open in 2012 - will treat horses, dogs and cats and also aims to further knowledge and understanding of cancer, not only in animals, but also in people. Treating animals with all types of the disease will enable the AHT’s vets and scientists to expand current knowledge about cancer. This will help with the development of new ways to diagnose and treat the disease. Vets and scientists at the AHT already work with cancer researchers looking at the disease in humans. There are a number of links between human and animal cancers which have already been identified. It is hoped that knowledge gained from the AHT Cancer Centre may also help in the understanding of cancer in people. The AHT has launched an urgent appeal to raise funds to equip the centre with a linear accelerator. If you would like to make a donation to this appeal, please visit www.aht.org.uk or call 01638 555648. 10
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Dartmoor Hill Pony Sales TRADITIONALLY, it is at this time of year that the Dartmoor hill pony sales take place. Known locally as ‘drifts’, the owners round up their stock and bring them down off the moor in order to choose which to keep and which to send to market. Those selected for sale are mostly foals and some of the older mares who are in poor health or are no longer suitable for breeding. Years ago, these beautiful animals would have been worth a lot more at auction but unfortunately for their keepers their value has slowly fallen. Every year, therefore, the Devon-based Mare & Foal Sanctuary attends the sales and takes in as many of those considered most at risk as possible. The charity’s Equine Manager Sally Burton says: “These ponies are used to living wild on the moor so the whole process is very stressful. We particularly try to save the poorest animals, as if bought by dealers for meat they may need to be transported long distances and may not even survive the journey. “Once at the Sanctuary, they are rested, given any necessary medical treatment and rehabilitated. Most are then rehomed, but those who remain wild at heart or with medical complications stay with us and are looked after by our staff and volunteers.” For further information, visit www.mareandfoal.org
Charity News
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Act now to help horses transported long distances to slaughter World Horse Welfare is urging everyone who cares about horses to act now to help end the needless suffering endured by 80,000 horses driven long distances across Europe to slaughter each year. They are asking people to take action to build mass support across Europe and lend a voice to these defenceless horses. By filling out an ‘Action Card’ with their own personal message, and sending it to their local Member of the European Parliament (MEP), people can show how strongly they oppose these needlessly long-distance journeys. They will be encouraging MEPs to back their campaign for change by bringing all of the ‘Action Cards’ they receive to their stand in the European Parliament between the 10th and 14th October 2011, when they will be handing their updated Dossier of Evidence to the Commission. At the end of September, the European Commission is due to release a report of its own reviewing the current transport Regulation. Their aim is to convince the Commission of the urgent need for amendments to this Regulation, most importantly the introduction of a 9-12 hour maximum journey limit. At present, journeys for these horses can last for days, with little or no chance of food, water or rest. You can download an Action Card from their website www.worldhorsewelfare.org/help-tomorrow/transport_action
SWEP attends pony markets South West Equine Protection is heading for one of the worst times of the year for them. A small Devon based charity that helps and rescues Dartmoor and Bodmin moor ponies. September is when all the ponies on the moor are rounded up by the farmers. Then it is off to the pony market. It is just a process to the farmers, who want the most money they can get from their stock. To SWEP they are scared ponies, being chased across the moor and then moved from place to place, with the prospect of being shot if they do not sell. A SWEP representative attends all the markets and they help the ones they can. In the past they have taken in small ponies close to being trampled by the larger ones, blind ponies and little boys destined to be shot. Their rehabilitation yard is already fit to burst with ponies and they are not sure how far they can stretch their helpers and their finances. If you would like to know more about the work SWEP carries out or you would like to make a donation, please visit their website at www.swep.org.uk or telephone on 07780 673672.
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The Twelve Days of Christmas A new recipe collection for festive feasting The Twelve Days of Christmas is a new festive recipe collection from the Vegetarian Society. This collection has fourteen recipes and is guaranteed free from partridges, French hens and geese and there isn’t a turkey to be seen. Here are few of our favourites. The recipe collection is available free of charge from the Vegetarian Society, an educational charity. Visit www.vegsoc.org/christmas or by call 0161 925 2000.
Festive Figs with Feta
Festive Layered Loaf
This simple starter is easy to prepare and looks very impressive. If the figs available are small, serve two per person.
A fabulous centrepiece for your table.
Serves 4 Preparation time 15 minutes Cooking time 5 minutes Ingredients 4 ripe figs 1 tbsp mango chutney 100g feta cheese, crumbled 1 red chilli, sliced into thin strips Salad 200g rocket leaves 2 oranges 200g walnut pieces 2 tbsp sugar 3 tablespoons water Reduced balsamic vinegar (available in most supermarkets) or place 4 tbsp of ordinary balsamic vinegar in a pan and gently heat for 5 minutes. Allow to cool before using.
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Method 1. Wash the figs and trim the top. Carefully slice each fig to divide them into 4 sections without fully slicing through. 2. Place a little mango chutney into each fig and top with the crumbled feta cheese. Place to one side ready to grill. 3. In a large pan heat the water and dissolve the sugar. Add the walnuts and continue to cook until most of the water has evaporated. Using a spoon lift the walnuts out of the sugar mixture and allow to cool. 4. Using a sharp knife remove the peel and pith of the orange. Carefully work your way around the orange to cut out each orange segment just inside the segment membrane. 5. Grill the figs for 7 minutes under a moderate heat until the cheese starts to bubble. 6. Assemble the salad with the figs in the middle. Dress with reduced balsamic vinegar and garnish the figs with finely sliced strips of chilli. © The Vegetarian Society 2011
Serves 4 Preparation time 15 minutes Cooking time 50 minutes *Can be vegan Ingredients 1 onion, finely chopped 1 tbsp olive oil 3 cloves of garlic, crushed 300g Quorn mince or *frozen vegan mince 2 tbsp mild curry paste 30g breadcrumbs 3 drops of almond essence 2 tbsp water ½ tsp dried rosemary 50g toasted chopped hazelnuts 250g ready to eat prunes, finely chopped 4 free range eggs, beaten or *1 tbsp gram flour mixed with 4 tbsp water 1 orange, skin removed and finely sliced 1 jar roasted red peppers or 1 red pepper roasted and skin removed Salt and pepper to taste
Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas Mark 4. Line a loaf tin (20 cm x 12cm x 6cm) with greaseproof paper. 2. Gently fry onions in olive oil for 5 minutes then add the garlic and mince and continue to cook for 10 minutes. 3. Add the curry paste, breadcrumbs, almond essence, water, rosemary, half the prunes and hazelnuts, stir and remove from the heat. Allow to cool for 10 minutes then add the beaten eggs or gram flour mixture, stir and season with salt and pepper. 4. Line the base of the loaf tin with sliced orange. 5. Put half of the mixture into the tin then a layer of red peppers. Top up the tin with the remaining mince mixture. 6. Then place a layer of the remaining prunes on top of the mixture. Cover the loaf with greaseproof paper and bake for 30-40 minutes. 7. Carefully lift out the loaf, invert so that the orange slices are at the top and serve as a festive centre-piece. © The Vegetarian Society 2011
Potato Nest with Artichoke, Oyster Mushroom and Sun-dried Tomatoes. Preparation time 15 minutes Cooking time 50 minutes Serves 6 Size will vary dependent on the size of the tray used. Special equipment muffin tray cases (9cm) *can be vegan Ingredients For the potato nests: Olive oil to grease the muffin tray cases 550g baking potatoes 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped 2 tbsp olive oil black pepper and salt to taste oil to brush the baskets For the filling: 100g artichoke hearts, sliced (drained,from a jar of artichokes in oil) 150g fresh oyster mushrooms 50g sun-dried tomatoes (drained, from a jar of sun-dried tomatoes in oil) 1 clove, garlic 30g cranberry sauce 50g strong cheddar cheese or * vegan “cheese”, cut into small cubes Side salad 1 avocado, peeled and sliced 1 yellow pepper, finely sliced 1 red pepper, finely sliced 1 small bunch radishes, finely sliced 10 vine cherry tomatoes, sliced in half Fresh mint, washed and loosely chopped Baby lettuce leaves Dressing 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp vinegar 1 tsp mustard Salt and pepper
Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas Mark 4. Oil a 5cm deep, 6 hole muffin tray with a little olive oil. 2. Peel the potatoes and grate them coarsely. Wrap up the grated potato in kitchen paper and press out as much water as possible. You may need to change the paper several times. 3. Put the potato in a bowl then mix in the rosemary, 2 tbsp olive oil and seasoning. Evenly divide the potato mixture into the muffin tin, pressing the potato into the bases and the sides to form cups. Brush lightly with oil, gently cover with greaseproof paper and bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes until the potato has become crisp, checking periodically that the potato is not burning. 4. While the potatoes are cooking prepare the filling. Roughly chop the artichokes, mushrooms, garlic and tomatoes, then sauté until slightly soft. Season to taste. 5. When the potato nests are cooked, allow them to cool slightly before turning out. Once turned out put a spoonful of cranberry sauce in the base of each of the cups, then divide the filling evenly on top. Divide the cheese between the nests. Place on a baking tray and bake in the oven for 10 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted. 6. Assemble your salad on each plate with the nest in the middle. 7. Just before serving mix all of the dressing ingredients together and drizzle over the salad. © The Vegetarian Society 2011
Roasted Celeriac, Blue Cheese and Apple Stack This is a rich and indulgent treat for Christmas. If you want to lower the calories halve the amount of cream. Serves 4 Preparation time 20 minutes Cooking time 50 minutes Special equipment one food ring 6cm deep 8cm wide (approximately) Ingredients 3 tbsp olive oil 200g apple, peeled, cored and chopped into 2cm cubes 500g celeriac, peeled and chopped into 1cm cubes 25g butter 1 shallot, finely sliced 25g plain flour 100g vegetarian blue cheese, crumbled 300ml double cream ½ tsp rosemary, chopped ½ tsp thyme, chopped 16 sundried tomatoes, finely chopped 600g frozen chopped spinach, defrosted and as much of the liquid squeezed out as possible ½ lemon juice only 3 cloves garlic, crushed Salt and pepper to taste 1 packet of filo pastry
Method 1. Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/Gas Mark 6. Place the celeriac and apple in a lined roasting tin and drizzle with a little olive oil. Roast for 30 minutes or until the vegetables have started to soften. 2. Once the apple and celeriac are nearly cooked, fry the shallot in the butter then mix in the flour. Melt in the cheese then slowly add the double cream. Cook until you are left with a fairly thick mixture then add the apple, celeriac and chopped herbs. Set aside. 3. Warm the sundried tomatoes in a pan for 3 minutes. Set aside. 4. Warm the spinach in a frying pan with the garlic and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside. 5. Reduce the oven temperature to 180°C/Gas Mark 4. Cut the filo into 12 circles with the food ring and place on a baking sheet. Brush with oil and bake in the oven for 5 minutes – be careful as they cook quickly. Leave to cool down. 6. Place a piece of the filo into the food ring then spoon over some of the cream mixture, add a layer of spinach and finally tomato. Continue again to make another layer and top the stack with a third piece of filo. Carefully remove the food ring and serve immediately. © The Vegetarian Society 2011
all about Animals
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Happy Dog
Happy Dog Introducing a new baby
Meeting your new baby can be stressful for your dog. The dog needs to understand that the baby is a new member of the pack so the two can begin to form a bond. It is vital that your dog is obedience-trained before you bring the baby into your home. You need to be able to trust the dog to sit, stay and not to get overexcited around the child.
Before baby arrives Give your dog ‘practice’ in dealing with a baby – make it sit and stay while you attend to a doll wrapped in a blanket, for example. Praise and reward the dog for staying still. Get the dog used to recorded baby sounds such as crying. Introduce your dog to as many real babies as possible to accustom it to their distinct look, smell, sound and way of moving. Offer your dog treats whenever it is near a baby to reinforce positive associations. Over time, start to reduce the amount of attention you give your dog.
Bringing baby home A day or two before the baby arrives home, bring a blanket back from the hospital for the dog to smell – and as it does so, give it treats. (Don’t allow the dog to play with the blanket.) When mother and baby first arrive home, get someone else to hold the baby while the mother reintroduces herself to the dog. Gradually bring the dog nearer to the baby, on a lead and wearing a muzzle if you are at all worried that it may snap. Allow the dog to sniff the baby and get used to it. 14
all about Animals
Although you need to be aware of the danger your dog could pose to your baby, remember that most dogs adjust to babies perfectly happily.
Toddlers and Dogs Living together Never allow the dog to be with the baby unsupervised. Take special care when the baby is crying or waving its arms and legs, as this may excite your dog. To alleviate any jealously, allow the dog to be near when you are with the baby – make it sit and reward good behaviour with praise and tidbits so it associates the baby with positive things. Never leave your dog alone or unsupervised with a baby or small child, no matter how uninterested it appears to be. Don’t exclude your dog after the arrival of a new baby.
Once your toddler starts moving around, it will interact with the dog in ways that could annoy or confuse the dog – pulling its tail, hugging it, pinching it and so on. Pre-empt any adverse reaction from your dog by doing these things yourself, and giving treats at the same time; the dog will get used to being treated in slightly unexpected ways.
Help change the life of a horse in need
Adopt a Horse
There are four horses – including Spencer – to choose. For just £5 a month you will receive a welcome pack, regular updates and help rehabilitate a horse in our care. Adopt a Horse at: www.worldhorsewelfare.org/adopt or call 01953 497239* for more information. *Lines open 8.30-5.30, Mon-Fri Registered charity no: 206658 and SC038384
PARK HOUSE ANIMAL SANCTUARY (supported by Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund 283483)
The sanctuary helps a variety of animals, domestic, farm, wildlife, etc. No animal is destroyed unless terminally ill. Also provides veterinary clinics for people on low income. Homes sometimes needed for dogs, cats, equines and small animals. Supported only by your donations and legacies. For further information please write to:
Mrs M Todd MBE (Founder) Park House Animal Sanctuary, Stelling Minnis, Nr Canterbury, CT4 6AN
Tel. 01303 862 622
When responding to advertisements please remember to mention
All About Animals magazine
Protection from Cruelty
In our 80th year, we secured the historic ban on hunting with dogs. Now we campaign for enforcement of this law and for an end to cruel sports such as dogfighting, game bird shooting, snaring and bullfighting. This takes decades of dedication, which is why legacy gifts are vitally important. For information on remembering the League in your Will, please contact James Robinson on 01483 524 250, jamesrobinson@league.org.uk, or League Against Cruel Sports, Room 1, New Sparling House, Holloway Hill, Godalming, GU7 1QZ.
Registered charity, no. 1095234
The League Against Cruel Sports works to expose and bring to an end the cruelty inflicted on animals in the name of ‘sport’.
www.league.org.uk/legacies Thank you for helping those who cannot protect themselves
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Molly Molly was found by walkers on Dartmoor, nearly drowned in a stream. She was pulled out, near death and brought to SWEP. Nursed back to life.
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Billy Found by walkers. Billy was stuck in a bog on Dartmoor. Walkers pulled him out – no mare or herd to be seen. Foal followed the walkers to their checkpoint and SWEP were informed and took him in.
Specialising in helping and rescuing wild moorland ponies on Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor
68.,1$²$)7(5
Ponies that are in an emaciated condition, mares having trouble giving birth and injured ponies hit by cars All ponies receive veterinary treatment Please help SWEP continue helping ponies like Molly and Billy by making a donation and Gift Aid or leaving SWEP a legacy You can ensure their future is safe in SWEP’s care 2 Tor Royal Bungalows, Princetown, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6SL Tel/Fax: 01822 890668 - email: mail@swep.org.uk website: www.swep.org.uk
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Happy Dog
Happy Dog Introducing a new animal
Whether you are bringing a new dog into a home where there is an older dog or cat, or introducing a new kitten to a home in which your dog is already established, you need to follow a few simple rules to help the process go smoothly. Remember that the original animal needs to feel included and not starved of attention, however fascinating a new young puppy or kitten may be.
New dog on the block An older dog may find it hard to accept the arrival of a new puppy in your home. It inevitably means that there will be less attention to go around, and it will have to get used to sharing its space. The puppy will, of course, be completely oblivious to this, and may try to greet the older dog boisterously, biting and tugging at it in an attempt to initiate a game. This could be annoying for the older dog and, unless it is extremely placid, it is likely to warn the puppy off with a growl or even a nip. Try to arrange the introduction so that it happens in the garden in case things get a little heated.
If you have more than one dog, provide them each with a house cage to allow them a place where they can be on their own if they want to. This is also important if you leave them alone often. Stand up for your older dog â&#x20AC;&#x201C; donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t allow a new arrival to take its toys or food.
Dogs and Cats Dogs and cats are traditionally viewed as enemies. If you bring a new puppy into a home where there is already a cat, you need to train the dog to respect the cat from the start, for the safety and well-being of both animals. The first hurdle to overcome is getting them used o each other. To achieve this, simply place one of them in a crate or cage but allow them to occupy the same space so that each gets used to the way the other smells and looks. Gradually, allow them to interact. They should start to tolerate each other and may even surprise you by becoming friends. However, some cats and dogs never get along. An extract from Happy Dog by Liz Dalby, published by Interpet Publishing. all about Animals
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Rehoming a pet when an owner dies
Rehoming a pet when an owner dies hen an owner dies or becomes unable to look after a pet, the pet may have to be rehomed and this can prove difficult for both the pet and the new owner. Dogs often adapt quite well to a new environment and, although there will be a time of adjustment whilst the animal settles down to a new routine and a new owner, the new environment may well help the dog to get over his pining for his previous owner. In contrast cats tend to become closely bonded to one individual and if that individual dies they may find it hard to adjust, becoming introverted and changing their behaviour quite markedly. ‘She always remained my mother’s cat,’ the new owner of a rehomed cat told us. Eventually the cat may form a bond with its new owner but it takes time and patience; old cats are much more set in their ways and therefore have much more difficulty settling down.
Replacement A dog is also much more likely to accept a replacement after its companion dies than a cat would be. Some cats never really accept a replacement for the companion they grew up with; it may take many months or it may never happen. Many cats simply behave as if the replacement does not exist. The decision to replace a pet must be based on your own personal feelings and also on your assessment of how a replacement would affect your existing pets. In some cases a replacement pet has proved positively beneficial. Brammer, a Labrador cross and Bungle, a beagle, were inseparable. When Brammer became ill and euthanansia was carried out, Bungle appeared to become very depressed. Although he would show an interest in other dogs out on his walks, at home he was listless and miserable. After a year his owner acquired Bobby, another beagle, and after a period of adjustment Bungle is more or less back to normal.
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all about Animals
Although many animals show a change of behaviour following the death of a companion, not all changes are adverse ones. The death of a dominant pet may allow its more submissive companion to ‘blossom’; a shy, nervous cat may become confident and affectionate, a submissive dog may become the ‘leader of the pack’. When the ‘leader of the pack’ in a household of dogs dies, a new leader has to emerge and this may initially cause friction until the new social order becomes established.
Sensing death The warden of a block of flats agreed to look after an elderly lady’s dog when she went into hospital. At 11am one morning, for no apparent reason the dog sat up and howled. A little while later the hospital rang to say the lady has passed away – at 11am! In Taiwan many people ask a priest to visit them when they hear a dog howl, because a family death is believed to be imminent. Even in the fictional Sherlock Holmes stories, the howling of a hound announced the imminent death of a member of the Baskerville family.
Tales of this nature are so numerous that it is hard to separate fact from fiction. It is not possible to reach any definite conclusion on the awareness of animals, but it is acceptable to suppose that animals may have faculties beyond our comprehension. An extract from Absent Friend-coping with the loss of a pet by Laura & Martyn Lee, published by Interpet Ltd
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