A LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR PET OWNERS
Hello readers! I am excited to present to you the magazine that after a whole year of planning, months of hard work and dedication has finally come out in print. It was in October 2011 that I planned to combine my two passions, writing and pets together. Slowly and gradually all the animal enthusiasts I know joined in and we started executing the plan into reality. As a pet lover we want to ensure that our pet-pal is in the best of health. Therefore, we have formed a panel of experts who you can write to anytime with all kinds of animal related questions that come to your mind. We have many veterinary doctors from around the world contributing to make this a fun yet informative magazine. If you are planning to get a Pomeranian dog, then flip to our interview with Karen Gunning, WBFF figure, fitness instructor and owner of an adorable pom pom. Karen talks to us about Missy, the gorgeous poodle, and how Karen manages her time to give Missy all the attention she wants. I, myself, am currently owned by a seven year old, blue and very pampered Persian cat. I know she is always up to something. I can tell from her expressions. This is what living with pets does to you; you start understanding animals better than people! I didn’t know she had a writer’s streak in her till I stumbled upon a piece of writing from her on my laptop. Do read “Cat In The City,” our regular column, where she pours her heart out and talks about how imperfect her perfect life is. If you have picked up this magazine then I am assuming you love animals, even if you are not as crazy about them as we are and don’t have pets, you can always help by avoiding products tested on animals. In this issue we have featured what animals go through just to make us look beautiful in “Death – The Price Of Beauty.” I am a cat person, for me, nothing can be more pleasing than being surrounded by as many cats possible. If you love cats too, then you need to pack your bags and book a flight to Istanbul. Read all about it in our travel story “Istanbul - The City Of Cats.” I am sure you will be planning your next vacation there. So flip through the pages and enjoy what we have put together for you. Do join us on FaceBook , Meetup and Twitter and send in your suggestions on mail@petigreemag.com Until the next issue, have a great month ahead and look after your pet. Sanober Irshad Chief Editor sanober@chameleon.ae
Chief Editor Sanober Irshad Managing Director Sabiha Jafri Staff Writers Sadaf Hassan. Suha Jafri. Zainab Khan Art Director Fazal Ahmed Sales Mia Harvey mia@select-dubai.com Contributors Sahar Arshad, Zahra Reza, Dr Carla Liza Guillermo, Yossma Binte Sohail, Jean Sutherland, Virginia Fidler Published by: Chameleon Publishing LLC info@chameleon.ae
Printed by Al Ghurair Printing & Publishing LLC. Sales & Marketing: Select Media Group
Distributed by Tawzea, Abu Dhabi Media Company Toll Free: 8002220
No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher. The information in this magazine is for general purposes only. The opinions expressed in PETIGREE Magazine are not necessarily those of the editors or the publisher. Although care has been taken to ensure accuracy of the information provided in this publication. Neither the magazine nor its employees can be held liable for any errors, omissions, views expressed or information provided in PETIGREE Magazine. Copyright ©2013 PETIGREE Magazine. All rights reserved.
CONTENTS FEATURES
8 Death – The Price Of Beauty
Read about what animals go through just to make us look beautiful.
30 Istanbul – The City Of Cats
Travel with us to Istanbul and explore their culture while petting the cats.
PEOPLE
8
30
18
40
17
14
24
44
18 Pompered Missy
WBFF figure Karen Gunning tells us all about how she manages to pamper her pet with the busy schedule.
40 Lighting Up The UAE
Samira brightens up our magazine with her gorgeous animal print candles!
PETS
17 Best Friends Forever
Women and Dogs do share a unique bond. Read all about it.
14 Party Animals
How about you party with your pet pals this weekend? Dress them up and invite a few friends over. It’s pizza and pet chow time!
24 Ask The Experts
Our experts are waiting for your questions. So send us whatever comes to your mind. They are here to answer all your queries.
44 Taking Care Of Your Pet Hamster
Are you planning to get a hamster? Here is a guide for all new hamster parents to make sure your little ones get the best.
CONTENTS 42 Cooking With Chef Ginny
Why not wear the chef’s hat today and cook your four-legged friend a gourmet meal?
WILDLIFE
34 Why Chimps Can’t Speak?
If chimpanzees are our closest living relatives in the animal kingdom, why cant they also talk? Dr Walter Tarello explains.
42
34
36
27
22
39
35
50
URBAN PETS
36 Refurbish Your Home With A Touch Of Royalty Turn your home into a palace with DECOART.
27 PEUGEOT 3008 – The Perfect Family Car
Are you looking for a car that is spacious enough to accommodate your Great Dane and comfortable to drive? Your search has come to an end. Book a test drive today.
22 A Furry Comeback
They are back! If you are allergic to fur or are a frequent traveller who can’t take care of pets. You have just found yourself a solution.
REGULARS
6 Reviews 39 Say Cheese 35 Competitions 48 My Dog & I 50 Cat In The City 51 Horoscope
SUBSCRIPTION FORM Petigree Magazine www.petigreemag.com
SUBSCRIBE NOW and receive one FREE ISSUE! Please sign me up for: 1 Year Subscription (6 issues) for AED 50 Ms/Miss/Mrs/Mr: Occupation:
Date of Birth:
Email Address: Telephone:
P.O.Box:
Address:
City:
Name of Pet: Date of Birth:
Gender: Species:
Breed:
Please send the payment cheque with this coupon to our address. Please make the cheque payable to CHAMELEON PUBLISHING LLC Email any queries to subscription@petigreemag.com P.O.Box: 486207 Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: 04.4508309
R
E
V
I
E
W
S
TITLE: Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know AUTHOR: Alexandra Horowitz PUBLISHER: Scribner; Fourth Impression Edition As dog owners, we think about a lot of things our pet friend does throughout the day. Sometimes the behaviour takes us by surprise.
Reviewed by: Sadaf Hassan
“Inside of a Dog” is written by a fellow dog lover, Alexandra Horowitz, who is also a cognitive scientist, animal ethnologist, and animal behaviourist. Her vast and concentrated study of dogs persuaded her to write about them and their behaviour. In clear-cut writing style without complicated phrases, Horowitz makes it easier for the readers to comprehend and identify with all the information she provides. This book is not a “how to train your dog” manual; it is much more than that. Dog lovers will really enjoy this book, as it is an amazing, realistic, comprehensive, scientifically grounded insight of the dog-human bond. Ever wondered how this bond developed? How dog’s sensory abilities shape their world and relationship with us? how deep is their world? This book will answer all your thought provoking questions and introduce you to concepts that will leave you bowled over. “Inside of a Dog” will come in handy especially when you are trying to develop a better relationship with your canine friend. It is an easy read provided that you are ready to feel what you have read and relate it to your dog. The best feature of the book for is that how Horowitz has used her own pet canine, Pump, as an example to put forward the different points. It gives a practical and realistic foundation to what she is talking about instead of forcing you to think about an imaginary dog doing something.
Title: Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul: Stories About Pets as Teachers, Healers, Heroes and Friends Author: Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, Marty Becker Publisher: Health Communications Inc; First Scholastic Printing Edition ‘Chicken Soup’ series has a warm and meaningful feel to it. Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul is one of the best books for a pet lover’s bookshelf. Somewhere in the book, all the pet owners will find their furry, feathered or finned companions. The authors of the series ‘Chicken Soup’, Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen, have teamed up with Marty Becker and Carol Kline, authors and animal-professionals for this book. Different people of different age brackets and backgrounds narrate the short stories; from children to elderly, all of the contributors have touching tales to share about their pet friends. The stories are not just about our domestic friends, but also include friends from the wildlife. However, keep a tissue box aside because many stories will certainly make you cry. The book not only shows how pets influence and bond with their owners’ lives, but also how they connect with other animals around. Any person who loves their pet will be totally stirred and will relate to these short stories. There is motivation, enjoyment, affection, and sorrow in these pages, but they all project the marvels of our pets and how lucky we are to have them. 6
Reviewed by: Sadaf Hassan
R
YOUTUBE CHANNEL VIDEO REVIEW
E
V
I
E
W
S
YouTube Channel: Simon’s Cat www.youtube.com/user/simonscat
Reviewed by: Sadaf Hassan Most of the cat lovers out there were hooked to Simon’s Cat cartoon mini-series on YouTube. This cute, little, mischievous kitty earned 25 million fans by making them laugh and “aww” for many months. The antics and expressions of the cat are priceless; these go from the curious squeaks when confused, to the satisfied purr of a spoilt cat. We first saw the cat online in a film called ‘Cat Man Do’. Since then, Simon’s cat has appeared in its own picture book, games and comic strips. The artist behind Simon’s Cat, Simon Tofield, is a British animator who is very fond of cats and is owner (we rather say attendant) to four felines himself. On Simon’s Cat official YouTube channel, you will find the complete collection of Simon’s Cat short films and latest news. You are sure to find your own, or some cat you may know of in many of those entertaining videos.
APP REVIEW
Talking Tom 2
Reviewed by: Suha Jafri All of you who own an electronic device or a smartphone have come across the Talking Tom Cat. The popularity of the initial application lead to its new version: Talking Tom 2. The initial free version does not have many features, but the full version is quite entertaining. Tom repeats everything you say and also purrs like a real cat. The additional features in this new version include Ben, his k-9 friend, who keeps bugging Tom forcing him to react in various cute ways. There is a surprise option that makes Tom do unusual and unexpected tricks and a phone option, where Tom pulls out a phone like device containing the Talking Tom 2 application, so anything you say is repeated by both cats in squeakier voices. When Ben pops a brown bag causing a loud explosion, Tom jumps and clings to the chandelier. If you slap Tom continuously, he falls down from dizziness. The possibilities with Talking Tom 2 are endless and you can get a good laugh by his entertaining antics. You can dress up Tom in your favourite outfits by purchasing clothing and accessories for him from the shop or you can also look into downloading other variations of the Talking Tom cat for more laughter and fun. 7
F
E
A T
U
R
E
DEATH
The Price
Beauty
Would you die for an eyeliner or an after-shave? Maybe not, but every year cosmetic producers take life of thousands of animals to experiment their products during manufacturing.
By Sadaf Hassan
According to the producers, it is best for human’s health and safety to test products on animals before the products are launched in markets for human use. Alternatively, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not necessitate testing cosmetics on animals because there are many other options existing in this era of new technology to test products. Therefore, deciding on which testing method to use is in the hands of the manufacturers. The practice of testing cosmetics on animals began in the 1930s when a woman was blinded by using mascara. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) passed the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) in 1938 to keep the public away from hazardous makeup. However, the FDA did not clearly necessitate animal testing for cosmetics or ingredients. Cosmetic testing on animals takes place in all of the practices whether its: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Testing complete cosmetic items on animals. Testing individual ingredients of cosmetic products on animals. Testing whichever grouping of ingredients on animals. Using a third-party corporation to carry out any of the above tests. Using a secondary or third party corporation to carry out any of the above tests in nations where animal testing is not prohibited.
Some cosmetic companies possibly will state that their items are not tested on animals, regardless of using one or more of the mentioned practices. Animal testing for beauty products is an extremely brutal, unkind and unethical custom, which we humans are guilty of. Thousands of animals like rats, mice, frogs, dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, guinea 8
pigs, monkeys, birds even fish and reptiles are used for testing every year. According to Enlightenment for Animals (EFA), animals are injected with chemicals and different types of ingredients or kept in hazardous conditions to test out tolerance and reactions. In order to test lethal doses, the animals are strained to swallow chemical until 50% of the animals under the process expire. A number of them are forced to draw in poisonous vapors (for inhalation studies), others are helplessly held in dangerous equipments for hours, several have holes pierced into their skulls, and most have their skin tissues and flesh permanently burned off when corrosive chemicals are applied directly to their skin. Pain relieving drugs generally are not given as testers say their use may hinder the test results. Consequently of these factors, a lot of animals fracture their necks or backs in an effort to get away. All of this is done for our favourite mascaras, perfumes and body lotions that we use to enhance our beauty, and destroy theirs. Would you want your pet to go through this viciousness?
F
E
A T
U
R
E
Alternatives Charles R. Magel, PhD, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy and Ethics at Moorhead State University, explains it best: Ask the experimenters why they experiment on animals, and the answer is: “because the animals are like us.� Animal experimentation rests on a logical contradiction. According to the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS), many alternatives to test products are available. Several companies that are against animal testing have developed artificial skin systems that can be used to evaluate the irritancy likelihood of tests agents. Cell culture and tissue culture is at present very successful and shows good potential to be the best method to test products.
Samples of human cells and tissues are employed to test a chemical in this method. It is comparatively inexpensive and is favourable for a manufacturer as well, because it offers information and results, in particular, concerning to humans. More substitutes to the use of animals are up-todate computer systems and human corneas from eye banks. By adopting such methods, the billions of dollars spent every year in animal testing could be put to a much more competent, useful, and humane exercise if used in medical and epidemiological research and public health programs.
9
F
E
A T
U
R
E
What Can We Do? The chief drawbacks to animal testing are animal uneasiness, death, species extrapolation issues, time consumption, heavy costs, and most importantly, the brutal handling of animals.
“The brute animals have all the same sensations of pain as human beings, and consequently endure as much pain when their body is hurt; but in their case the cruelty of torment is greater, because they have no mind to bear them up against their sufferings, and no hope to look forward to when enduring the last extreme pain.� Thomas Chalmers Animals, as sentient creatures, ought to have parity and deserve to be sheltered from this kind of violence. The basic type of parity is equal thought of interests, and it is this that we must spread out further than the limitations of
10
our own species. Basically this means that if an animal feels pain, the pain matters as much as it does when a human feels pain. Pain and suffering does not depend on the species of being that goes through it. There has to be a call for an instant stop to animal testing for pointless and irrelevant purposes. Our initial steps could be to spread awareness and opt for cosmetic companies that do not make animal testing as a part of their making. Always look for products that state on the label that they have not been tested on animals. There are famous companies like LUSH that manufacture beauty products without animal testing. A ban on beauty products that are made after being tested on animals would save many laboratory animals, and millions per year. Tell us your views on animal testing. How do you think we can help? Email your answers to: mail@petigreemag.com and win a prize by LUSH cosmetics. Details on page 35.
Lush Cosmetics celebrate the Cosmetics Directive and prepare for their next animal testing fight In May 2012 Lush Cosmetics collected over 400,000 signatures supporting the Cosmetics Directive, legislation that makes Europe the first zone in the world where animal testing of cosmetics is banned. Today in over 850 shops worldwide Lush Cosmetics are hosting Animal Parties to celebrate the final stage of the Cosmetics Directive coming into force.
However REACH has not been updated since it was written in 2007. In the intervening years many non-animal alternatives have been developed and also some animal test refinements (these are improved protocols which mean that for each test less animals need to be used and killed). By not adding these replacement tests to the REACH testing guidelines, REACH are breaking their own stated rules – and millions of animals are dying in tests because companies cannot use the non-animal alternatives until the legislation lists them as suitable for use. Lush has launched second phase of campaign in April and continues to fight againt animal testing.
However the fight to end animal testing in Europe is far from over. After celebrating the Cosmetics Directive today, Lush Cosmetics will launch a campaign - in collaboration with the Humane Society International - to replace animal tests with more modern alternatives for all REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) testing. The REACH legislation was written in 2007 – and requires companies to take part in product safety testing. Companies must follow REACH guidelines for which tests should be administered for the various ingredients.
Support their cause visit LUSH cosmetics and find out more about their campaigns to end animal testing on: www.lush.ae
A LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR PET OWNERS
We are waiting for your feedback. Send your letters and suggestions to mail@petigreemag.com To have your pets featured in our magazine, send us a picture of your pet along with your details and don’t forget to tell us what’s unique about your pet pal on mail@ petigreemag.com Or you can share the pictures with us on www.facebook.com/Petigree To advertise with us, please contact advertising@petigreemag.com If you would like to contribute, please send your story ideas to editor@petigreemag.com For more information, please contact info@petigreemag.com Follow us on twitter @PetigreeMag Like us on FaceBook www.facebook.com/Petigree Join us on Meetup www.meetup.com/Lets-Talk-About-Our-Pets
F
U
N
Superman, Batman, Cinderella, Peter Pan, Captain Jack Sparrow, Lady Gaga and many others all together at one place… What can it be? A costume party of course. By Yossma B. Sohail
Dressing up for fun, meeting up with friends, taking crazy pictures, eating and drinking, who doesn’t love costume parties? Imagine how exciting these parties would become if your furry little friends accompanied you. Yes. A costume party for the pets! It is a perfect way to give yourself and your pet a fun filled treat. For all the animal lovers out there, this idea is simple, creative and fun. The basic theme of this party is quite simple. Just dress up your pets in a miniature version of the costume you are wearing and take them with you. Or, you could dress up your pet or yourself as the character’s sidekick. For example, an adorable Russian poodle dressed up as Romeo and his owner wearing a stunning Juliet dress. You, a pirate, and your faithful green parrot 14
perched on your shoulder with an eye-patch and hat too. Your Siamese cat with its black nose, ears and paws can be transformed easily into Batman, with a cape around its neck and you can dress up as its sidekick, Robin, for a change. Your pet monkey can make a terrific magician, in a little suit and a hat. Another unique idea is to make your pets look like other animals. Two bunny ears on your white Persian cat will transform it into a fluffy rabbit. One of the best things about these parties is how easily the costumes can be made. Your old red shirt can be used to make capes for your Superman or a dress and hat for your Santa Claus. Old accessories like clips or toys, which you and your children do not use, can be used creatively to add to your pet’s costume.
The Party’s On! What to do in the party? Well, if you are hosting it, one thing you need to remember is that you are tending equally to both people and animals.
Where you have prepared scrumptious treats for your human friends, make sure the pets are not neglected. A room with simple, small treats for all the pets should be present with separate dishes. Confirm the number of pets that will be attending your party to make sure there is enough food so that the pets and their owners don’t go back disappointed. Just a few biscuits, dog food, cat food, crackers and bones will do. You will also have to be sure that all your pet guests are well trained to coexist with other humans and animals. Make them meet other pets and help them make new friends. It is a party and everyone would want to have fun.
you can do whatever you like to ensure you, your pet, and all the guests have a fun time. Pets are the stars of the party. With their pretty little costumes, the furry or feathery friends will look even more adorable, and their pictures will undoubtedly turn out brilliant. Why not hold a best costume competition? To make the selection you can have a little catwalk. Ask the pet owners to walk with their pets and have a panel of judges to select the top three with the best costumes and tricks. There is no doubt, that having a pet costume party is a treat on its own for all the animal enthusiasts. So next time when you plan a party don’t forget to invite the furry little friends. They will definitely flaunt their clothes just as well as their owners and who would want to miss that cute sight? Happy partying!
If you are still uncertain, then it is best to hold an all dogs costume party, an all cats costume party or an all birds costume party. What makes these parties so interesting is the versatility. There are no strict rules,
15
P
E
T
S
Best friends forever
From the tiny Chihuahuas to the mighty Great Danes, dogs are the most loyal pets known to mankind. Dogs, even though known as a man’s best friends, share a special bond with women too. So what is it that makes dog a woman’s best friend? by Yossma B. Sohail Every woman after a long tiring day needs a pal who is not only a good listener, but also someone who can cheer her up or comfort her. Dogs have the ability to interpret their owner’s emotions correctly and their only wish is to see their master happy.
walks and exercises. They prove to be good work out partners. Pregnant women, in particular, find that their dogs help them get their daily exercise by walking with them in the parks.
Sarah, an 18-year-old dog owner said, “I don’t know how to explain the bond I share with Lylah. All I can say is that she is more than just a pet. It is next to impossible to imagine life without her. She is practically a part of my family.”
Evidently, dogs and women can be the best of mates. A book entitled “Dogs and the women who love them” written by Allen and Linda Anderson, tells us that how women and dogs who have to gone through similar experiences find solace in each other.
Apart from being an understanding friend, dogs love to be pampered. This love for attention and glamour makes them a perfect pet for women.
Debrah R. Schnackenberg, (Vice President of Emergency Services at American Humane Association) said:
Most dogs enjoy long baths and someone brushing their sleek coat till it shines. They love it as much as women do. A few simple accessories, a bow, clips, glasses, or even a funky ribbon can help transform your dog into a superstar. Along with glam and fashion, dogs also love long
“These stories come from a diverse range of women about a diverse range of dogs and experiences, yet they share one common, uplifting theme: how women and dogs inspire and fulfill each other through love, dedication and companionship. The Andersons excel at celebrating that special bond.” 17
P
E
T
S
Originally from Scotland U.K, Karen Gunning has been in the fitness industry for 11 years now. She moved to the UAE in 2003 and started her own company, Fitness Beat, in 2010. She currently works there as a trainer and presenter for Les Mills, head lecturer and program developer for GEL (group exercise leaders instructor qualification) and master trainer for BOSU and TRX. Zainab Khan meets up with the fitness instructor and owner of an adorable Pomeranian dog, Missy, to get to know a little bit more about her furry little girl. Photography by Herbert Iponla and Gyn C. Mendoza Makeup Cheryl Riyafran
Pompered
Missy
We were waiting outside Karen Gunning’s apartment in Dubai, when we heard Missy, Gunning’s 5-years old orange Pomeranian, barking excitedly on the other side of the door. As soon as we got in, Gunning greeted us very warmly but what none of us expected was the welcome we got from Missy. She was certainly thrilled to see so many new faces and was enthusiastically running around all of us, lovingly wrapping herself around our feet. While the rest of our team got to their respective work, I got the chance to ask Gunning a few questions about Missy, which she answered very fervently, providing us with a lot of interesting details. 18
P How did you find Missy and how long has it been since you have had her?
It has been 5 years since i have had Missy. I got her from a pet shop here in Dubai, which imported her from Thailand.
What is Missy’s daily routine like?
She doesn’t really have a set routine. How it usually works is that she has a bowl of wet food and a bowl of dry food around all the time. She just eats whenever she wants. Her training pads are always laid out. If I am out and not back in time, she will just go and sit there. She pretty much looks after herself.
Do you walk Missy yourself every day?
Yes, I take her out every day in the morning and in the night. During summer, in the heat, we just go around the building, as she gets too tired. If I take her for a longer walk, she lays down flat on all fours and doesn’t move. Then I have to pick her up and walk back. However, when the weather is cooler, she is fine with a long walk.
E
T
S
Like other dog breeds, do Pomeranians also need proper exercise?
Not really. When I got Missy and did my research on her breed, I read that their legs are not very strong so you shouldn’t put too much stress on them. That’s one of the reasons why I don’t take her out for a long walk.
How did you find the time to potty train Missy with your busy schedule? When I had not started my own company and was working somewhere else, I had enough time to train her. By the time I got busy with setting up my own business, she was already properly trained.
How do you ensure she is being taken care of while you are at work?
I usually just leave her at home while I am away, as I get to have many breaks during work, so I can manage to see her at home. However, if I plan to stay out for long, I drop her off at a day care for dogs.
19
P
E
T
S
Is there a particular diet for Missy or does she just eat regular dog food?
She eats her regular dog food. Apart from that, she loves tuna. If I am in the kitchen and I open up a can of tuna she runs around in circles till I put some in her bowl. She also loves egg yolks. I usually only eat the egg whites so she eats the yolks. There are certain foods that Pomeranians are not supposed to have though, like grapes, almonds and a few more.
It is said that Pomeranians get very attached to their owners and are often very possessive about them. They do not like being on their own either. Is that the case with Missy too? She is fine when she is on her own. I leave her home sometimes when I go to work. She is all right when I get 20
back. She is used to it. But if I am at home and I leave her in the bedroom to come and sit in the lounge, she goes crazy. She starts barking and scratching the door. I sometimes take her with me to a friend’s house who also has a dog. If the dog is sitting next to me, Missy has to squeeze in between us and then she tries to push the other dog away. She is very possessive.
How do you reward Missy when she does something right? I usually give her dog treats. She loves those!
Like most Pomeranians, does Missy react strongly to change in environment?
She gets very excited when she is in a new place or around new people. I am sure you noticed [laughs]. She runs around till she eventually gets tired and lays down flat on the floor.
P
E
T
S
How is Missy around other cats and dogs?
Oh she is very friendly around them. I used to take her to a lady who had dogs and cats. Missy would be okay around the cats too. She gets along with pretty much anybody.
Describe Missy in 5 words.
Are the available grooming services in Dubai good for this breed? How often do you need to get her groomed? Yes, the services are pretty good. I don’t need to get her groomed too often though. Her fur stays clean and tangle free for quite some time.
In case of an emergency, do pet clinics in Dubai have good arrangements?
I haven’t really had to take Missy to the clinic in an emergency but some of the veterinary clinics do have a number in case of an emergency. The clinics do provide good services otherwise.
What drove you to join the fitness business and how has your experience in Dubai been so far?
I have always been into sports and fitness since the time I was in school. I tried working at a bank but that just wasn’t me. So I decided to follow my heart and chose to do what I am doing now. I love every bit of it. My experience in Dubai has been very good so far. I enjoy being here.
We congratulate Karen for winning the 1st place in the WBFF figure category and wish her all the best for a bright future
Happy Hyper Loves licking Friendly Cute
21
Afurry
U
R
B
A
N
P
E
T
S
comeback
No need to shy away from the truth. You are either allergic to fur, do not have the proper facilities to take care of a pet or are simply not allowed to own one. You feel devastated when you see your best friend happily conducting a marathon with his dog, but not anymore! The explosive hope to capture the heart of timid children and pet loving people that faded in the blink of an eye after 1998 is back again with bigger, brighter and better features. Please scratch the ears of the new Furby family: Voodoo, Phoenix, Black Magic, Sprite, Yeti and Taboo! - By Zahra Reza Many of us might recall the pastel coloured furry models that sported floppy ears and fluffy tails with eyes that would rotate like those of dolls. Those memories are not forgotten in the new and intensely vivacious coloured Furby that is ready for adoption. Simple alterations like replacing the plain fur with a more visually realistic, wavy hair and creating the ears from a material similar to latex for easier motion, inserted a breath of fresh air into the 22
toy. Now Furby appears livelier than ever with its jiggling ears and blinking LED eyes. Communication between the user and Furby is made possible by the sensors located in between the eyes, tummy, tail and ears. The most striking feature is the dramatic eyes that reflect their current mood. Puppy eyes, beady eyes, evil eyes, happy eyes, you name it, Furby shows it! Like any real pet, their personality depends on
U
how they are treated. Shower them with cuddles and they will turn out to be the best pet ever. Act rashly by overfeeding or ignoring them and the devil side will arise to the surface, which to warn you, is not a delightful experience. The ever so energetic children are the real daredevils who are usually caught trying to pull the cat’s tail or turn the fish upside down. Parents are always concerned about the safety of their poor pets. Now they can take a guilt free break while the curious offspring spend time with Furby. Flash light in their eyes, tickle the ears and tummy, pat their back and give loop the loops; for every action, Furby responds with an unexpected reaction. Place them in a group with other Furbies and enjoy their amusing interaction. Let us not forget their newfound love: music. Play Gangnam style and see how your Furby dances with joy.
R
B
A
N
P
E
T
S
playing. Apps are available to translate Furbish and one can skim through the dictionary available on the official website. This way everyone can understand what these cute creatures are saying. Overall, children can polish their language skills and learn the pros and cons of different behaviors when moulding their Furby’s personality. Who does not like to mix match items and play with creativity? Fashionistas are in for a treat with the latest arrival of funky Furby accessories in the form of bags, sunglasses, stickers, bean bags, carrier bags, T-shirts and much more. Hasbro also launched a Party Rockers Edition exclusively for 2013. These models are comparatively smaller than the original Furby and have limited sensors and features, but they get wild as they are rocked harder! The new members of this line are Twitby, Fussby, Scoofby and Loveby.
The cutest moment is witnessing them during their uninterrupted sleep. Starvation is a no-no. You can feed them by eitherpressing their tongue with your finger or using their application and browsing through the scrumptious menu.
It seems everyone is caught up with the hype for these adorable creatures. The shelves in various parts of the world are hit by a blast of cold wind as the stores have run out of stock. If your child deserves a brownie point and money is no issue, then head over to your nearest toy store.
Remove the thought of precious time being wasted if your child plays too much with Furby. Younger children can learn and teach Furby their own native language. Even though Furbies speak Furbish, they can learn any language with more time spent, so children can be benefitted while
The Apps are compatible with IPod Touch, IPad and IPhone with iOS 4.2 onwards. Furby requires 4 AA batteries while Part Rockers necessitate 3 AAA batteries. Furby and Party Rockersare strictly for ages 6 and above. So, who would not have the heart to give Furby a good home? 23
A
S
K
T
H
E
E
X
P
E
R
T
S
Dr Dominik Surek DVM Phd Dr Dominik graduated from the University of veterinary medicine, Zagreb, Croatia in 1997. He continued with his PhD in Veterinary Reproduction in Warsaw, Poland while practicing in a small animals veterinary clinic. He moved to the UAE in 2001 where he spent seven years working with domestic and exotic animals in a local veterinary clinic. In 2008, Dr Dominik founded VETCARE Veterinary Medical Centre in Dubai where he continues to treat the furry little pet friends.
Q: Are the multivitamins that we get from pet stores safe for our pets or should we consult a vet before getting them? Samar A, Dubai Dear Samar, In general, the multivitamins purchased from pet shops are safe for use, especially if they are by branded companies, which specialize in such products and manufacture them. When imported, all these products are checked and approved by the competent authorities here in the UAE. You should always check the expiry date and packaging to avoid accidentally buying damaged ones. In my opinion, you should always consider getting a professional opinion from the vets especially when purchasing supplements that are calcium based or are goring supplements for your animal.
24
Q: What is the best solution for fleas? Kareem, Dubai Dear Kareem, I am happy to tell you that at least in Dubai, we rarely see fleas in animals. I have seen very few cases over the years and they where mainly in animals imported from outside UAE. There are quite a few products available in the market. The flea and tick shampoos are easily available and you can purchase them from any pet store. We mainly use “Frontline Spot On” drops that we place on the animal’s neck or we spray them with the Frontline flea spray. Frontline is also good for ticks which are a real problem here. Other medications available are Advocate for fleas and Advantix for ticks, both in spot on form Want to ask Dr Dominik a question? Email us at mail@petigreemag.com
A
S
K
T
H
E
E
X
P
E R
T
S
Mat Ward BSc MVS CCAB Mat is a Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist based in Edinburgh, Scotland. He holds a Master’s degree in animal behaviour and works with dog and cat owners to help solve behavioural issues every day. Originally from New Zealand, Mat has trained animals for film and television, alongside his work with problem pets. Mat uses methods that improve the lives of both pet owners and their pets, rather than using pain, fear, or intimidation to superficially suppress undesirable behaviour. www.petbehavioursorted.com
Q: My cat is very aggressive if I pet her when she does not want to, she makes sure she takes revenge either then or later. She attacks me a lot, what can I do? Saeed, Abu Dhabi, UAE Dear Saeed, Some cats are intolerant of the interactions that we as humans enjoy with our cats. Petting and cuddling may be accepted for a period, but then irritation and frustration escalates and a cat may finally lash out. Try to identify the types of interactions that your cat reacts to, and stop these types of contacts. If you notice a swishing tail stop petting her or playing with her. Start feeding her small special treats such as tiny pieces of chicken if she sits politely next to you. Alternatively there is a chance that her behaviour is playful in nature, despite the fact it hurts or even injures you!
under a blanket. If she starts to behave aggressively, stand up and walk away.
Q: I have a 2-year-old boy. Which according to you would be the best pet for him? Cristina S, Dubai Dear Cristina, Research the species and breed that will fit in with your lifestyle. Select a pet who you will be able to provide with sufficient mental, social, and environmental stimulation. Then get the animal when it is young, for example, a dog should be 7 weeks old, so it grows up with your son and is not intimidated by his toddler behaviour. Make sure that if the animal looks anxious during some interactions with your boy you give them space or allow them to move away. Want to ask Mat a question? Email us at mail@petigreemag.com
Set aside time for appropriate play with pieces of string, cat fishing-rod type toys, and moving an object
25
A
S
K
T
H
E
E
X
P
E
R
T
S
Dr WALTER TARELLO, DVM, MRCVS, MA SA Cardiology Dr Walter was born in the Swiss Alps, and has fatal interest in exotic and dangerous animals. He has been practicing for around twenty-five years across the globe, including, Italy, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, Qatar, China and Dubai. He wrote a book on deer biology. Unfortunately, the book did not make it to the best sellers list but he continued his passion for research, which led to 63 scientific publications and 10 Congress presentations worldwide. At present Dr Walter practices in the Pet Connection Veterinary Clinic in Dubai.
I have always loved animals and I want to keep a pet but I have a hectic schedule. I go to work early in the morning and return by late evening. What pet would you suggest is low maintenance easy to look after? George N, Dubai Dear George, Terrapin is the ideal pet for you. It will take very little of your time and it does not care if you are not at home most of the time! Just give him the right temperature (30-37C) in his terrarium and a chance of being under a natural source of light for at least 2 hours a day. Terrapins are low maintenance, do not require training and don’t eat everyday. Just make sure the terrarium is cleaned regularly. Commercial food for terrapins is available in most pet shops.
26
Do birds need to be vaccinated? Leila, Sharjah Dear Leila, Yes, birds do need to be vaccinated. Especially against he most common diseases affecting birds in the UAE, like avian pox and Newcastle disease virus, paramyxovirus type 1. Preventive medication against Psittacosis due to Chlamydia psittaci bacterium is also advisable because this bacterium is contagious and can transfer to humans as well causing respiratory infections. Want to ask Dr Walter a question? Email us at mail@petigreemag.com
U
R
B
A
N
P
PEUGEOT 3008
CROSSOVER-THE PERFECT FAMILY CAR Reviewed by Zainab Khan & Sadaf Hassan
E
T
S
Searching for the perfect vehicle that is comfortable and spacious for your family and your four legged friends? Provides you with a smooth driving experience and looks desirable too? Look no further as the Peugeot 3008 Crossover has it all. Both people and critics have great thoughts about the Peugeot 3008 and it has been taken very well. In all aspects, it stands somewhere between being an SUV and a hatchback, so it uses quite less fuel yet the driver feels the glory of having to cruise in a high-up position.
roads and traffic in this part of the world. The tall dimensions provide the optimal height and stability for a smooth driving experience, which makes this the perfect “supermini.�
DESIGN & COMFORT
The interior has been well thought out keeping in mind the comfort and space that one would want when looking for the ideal car. The height and length of the roofline and wheelbase respectively, make the seats comfortable with plenty of legroom for the passengers. The appropriately sized front and back seats do not only ensure ease but also make this one of the most desirable cars for a family and pets.
This car has the right looks and comfort of a SUV. The size of this hatchback is very practical for the
The airy boot just adds to all the other features that
28
make this car an appropriate choice. The car has an additional advantage of a two-level boot floor, split by a divider. The second-row seats fold completely flat for bigger loads; however, even with the seats are in their place, the trunk with no trouble handles most loads. Whether you are planning on a road trip and need to store your luggage, or if you are planning to take your pet out for a spin, to the beach or for a visit to the vet, the boot is the perfect place for them to be in. It has enough space to fit large carriers without making them feel claustrophobic.
PERFORMANCE The steering wheel is very light and delivers very little feel while steering. Due to the tall exterior, the amount of wind noise is minimal while you are on the road and provides a nice, quiet environment for your family and pets to feel comfortable in. The large windscreen and windows allow a lot of sunlight to brighten up the car during the day. PEUGEOT 3008 has 1.6L turbo charged engine, known for its speed and great fuel economy, which gives the car precision and smoothness. The BMP6 (6-speed sequential gearbox) has two modes: manual or automatic. The rear suspension with Dynamic Roll Control increases the power of the vehicle and gives it a good grip on the road. All in all, the Peugeot 3008 Crossover is a car that will provide you with the complete driving experience. So, visit your nearest Peugeot showroom today to request for a test drive for this fantastic car which is made to travel with your family and pets. Price From AED 84,900; Engine 1.6L VVT - 4 Cylinders - Turbo Charged, Power 156bhp; Torque (NM) 240 @ 1400rpm; Transmission 6 Speed Auto Tiptronic; Wheels 17� Alloy 29
T
R
A V
E
L
Amidst the years of history, culture and architecture, it is common to find in Istanbul what you least expect – Cats! By Suha Jafri
T
R
A V
E
L
When I first landed in Istanbul, I was awed by the scenery and landscape. Two days later when I sat down to view the pictures I had taken during the sightseeing tour, I was stumped to notice that I had an unusually large number of cat pictures.
graffiti on walls and paintings are flooded with cats.
Many visitors have noted the abundance of stray cats in the old imperial capital of Istanbul. The cats amble and lounge around some mosques and have the run of a couple of universities. Online campaigns gather supplies for them, and it’s easy to spot nibbles and plastic containers of water left discreetly on sidewalks for the felines.
Kumkapi is an old Ottoman Greek and Armenian fishermen’s district near the Sea of Marmara shore. It is surrounded by many seafood restaurants.
Not only do cats roam the streets, but also the souvenir items, decoration pieces and even the
Our first encounter with a friendly feline was on the first day of our trip at the Kumkapi District.
When we were enjoying dinner, a cat ran underneath the chair and for a moment no one could understand what just happened. It was later that we realized that there was a beautiful cat purring at our feet hoping someone at the table would share the exquisite seafood.
THE ROYAL CATS
The next morning, we visited the Dolmabache Palace. The palace had been home to six Sultans and all their belongings were still intact. The architecture and possessions of the Sultan’s were breath taking and the cherry on top was when we saw a cat and a duck roaming around together like friendly companions. It was one of the most admirable sights I had seen in a very long time. Two animals, so different from each other, were peacefully coexisting. It almost seemed as though they were trying to teach the human race a very important lesson. The importance of cats in Islamic culture and society has made stray cats a common find in many Muslim countries like Turkey. The following morning of our sightseeing tour involved a lot of walking. Our day began at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, now known as Sultanahmet Square. Near the Obelisk of Theodosius, which is today known as Sultanahmet Meydani, we were amazed to come across a very beautiful and rare breed of cat; the Turkish Angora. The beautiful brown furry feline sat across us and we rushed to take pictures of it. The interesting thing about the cats in Istanbul was that they were as friendly as the people we met there. It is almost as if they are immune to human interaction.
T
R
A V
E
L
MEET JANE!
That evening we went to dine at an Indian restaurant in Sultanahmet and decided to sit outside to enjoy the fine evening and the weather. The restaurants vicinity was filled with as many cats as there were tourists. A variety of breeds and colours ran around town almost like they owned it. Then we met Jane. Yes, Jane. He was the restaurant owner’s pet cat and by far the cutest one I had ever seen. He was unusually big for a cat’s size and
THE CAT LANGUAGE
On several occasions throughout the week, as we sat down at a fine restaurant to dine, we spent half our meal time staring out the window taking pictures of the copious number of cats outside. The interesting fact throughout Istanbul and our encounters was that the cats had their own language. It was easy to notice the communication. The other strange thing that I observed was that the cats seemed to gather around the graveyard in Sultanahmet a lot. On an average, at least six cats sat on the window or loitered around in the courtyard of the graveyard.
CAT IMAGERY
As common as cats were on the streets of Turkey, they were equally common in the bazars. Every souvenir gift shop was flooded with Turkish jewellery, decoration and in between all that, there sat a range of feline inspired pieces. Cat shaped sculptures were a common item in the bazar. I felt that the Turkish people loved cats like no other because every cat I had seen in that one week was well fed, looked after by someone or the other, and most importantly, was loved by the people. Cats seemed to be a part of the culture of Turkey. Every palace, every street was home to the cats and that, for me, was an unusual attraction in Istanbul. Not only was I able to enjoy the culture and heritage, but I was also able to enjoy my love for animals. Alongside the beautiful Turkish Angora, Turkey is also home to another rare breed of cats; the Turkish Van, nicknamed the swimming cat. The Turkish Van is a longhaired breed of domestic feline that is descended from the landrace of Van cats found near Lake Van in modern Turkey. The breed is rare, and is distinguished by the van colour pattern, where the colour is restricted to the head and the tail, and the rest of the cat is white; this is due to the expression of the piebald white spotting gene. A Van may have blue or amber eyes, or one eye of each colour. The Turkish Van is also called the swimming cat because it is known to have an unusual love for water. 32
also the friendliest one that I had come across. Jane was a well-fed cat who spent most of his time at the restaurant. Even during our tour of the Topkapi Palace and its one-of-a-kind collection of antiques, we managed to spot a few cats in the courtyards. From regular breed cats to the rare Turkish Angora and the Turkish Van, I felt as though I had seen them all. Every cat was beautiful and every cat appeared to be as rare and special as the other.
T
R
A V
E
L
TRAVEL TIPS
•
The currency of Turkey is the New Turkish Lira.
•
It is generally a safe place but it’s advisable to take care of your handbag in crowded areas.
•
July till August is very busy and hot. Winters are typically rainy or snowy.
•
Turkish is the official language.
•
It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes, as the adventures would include Steep hills and uneven streets.
Photographs: Sanober Irshad
33
W
I
L
D
L
I
F
E
WHY
CHIMPANZEES DON’T TALK? Language is one of humans oddest characteristics but chimps too can develop it - By Dr Walter Tarello (DVM)
If you take a chimpanzee born in the New York Zoo and place it back in its African original habitat he will have little trouble communicating with its peers. This is because all chimps share a common small repertoire of hoots, screams, grunts and barks. Humans are definitely more flexible. Our brain can hold a huge range of abstractions so we have evolved an open ended form of communication to express our thoughts. Given that we are genetically and evolutionary speaking, very close, why don’t chimps talk? Superior sequence processing abilities may have helped our forefathers to develop speech when chimps could not. Innate non-arbitrary tendency to link sounds and sights is thought to play a crucial role in language evolution. It could have been advantageous to our ancestors to associate the name ‘lulla’ to a rounded shape and the name ‘zizi’ to a spiky shape, for instance, because instinctively we find it easier to learn the names of rounded objects whose names use rounded vowels. Most people are not aware of the associations they 34
make, but for some worlds the connection between sound and sight is stronger. Now for the first time scientist Vera Ludwig and colleagues in Germany have discovered that chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) also make crosssensory associations, suggesting that chimp brains have the rudimentary wiring to develop a language. Chimps were seen to link sounds with level of brightness of light, a type of connection that underlies the phenomenon called synaesthesia in humans. As a matter of fact, synaesthetes make unusual connections between different senses. Some perceive a certain taste when they hear Bach music, while others see numbers as colours. This is a much more common experience than you might think, partially explaining how our ancestors took the first step from ape-like screams to a decently understandable vocabulary. Some chimps may find that music by bitter. However, it remains to be experience helps them to develop vocabulary and to understand the others use.
Bach tastes seen if this a common words that
W
I
N
Does your pet friend have a mischievous mind of its own? Does the naughty behaviour keep you on the edge? We are up for some laughs! Share a funny incident or story of your pet with us and get a chance to win a beautiful dolphin bookmark by Sahar’s Luxury Handicrafts. Send in your entries to mail@petigreemag.com or post them on our FaceBook or Twitter pages.
After 30 years of campaigning, the European Union has banned animal testing on cosmetics, but BUAV says many countries in the world still test on animals for cosmetics and the group is now pressing for a global ban. What in your opinion is the best way to discourage people from using animal tested products in these countries? Post your opinions on our FaceBook or Twitter pages or send in your ideas to mail@petigreemag.com to win a prize by LUSH cosmetics.
35
U
R
B
A
N
P
E
T
S
DECOART
MAIN OFFICE/SHOWROOM AL QUOZ INDUSTRIAL 4 DUBAI, U.A.E. Tel: 00971(0) 43474600, E-mail: info@decoartdubai.com, http://www.decoartdubai.com
U
R
B
A
N
P
E
T
S
DECOART was founded in 1989 as an Interior Design firm that initially conceived to answer the needs of the fast-growing urbane cities of the United Arab Emirates. Now, the company also offers its interior decoration expertise to a substantial proportion of the business community. The showroom houses a variety of unique cultured and stylish furniture, some of which also depicts animal pattern fabrics such as stripes
38
and spots and animal imagery. The animal print fabric is incorporated in the exquisite designs. Armrests for chairs and sofas are often crafted as lions or camels and add that extra touch of middle-eastern royalty. So those of you who are fond of your pets or are looking to add a regal touch to your home, check out DECOART and turn your home into a palace.
P
E
T
S
SAY Name: Flash Male, 8 months old Qualities: For a White German Shepherd he has an amazing temperament, usually this breed is known to be shy but Flash is not. He is a quick learner, is very friendly, playful and assertive. Owner: Ambreen
Name: Mishka Female, 1 and half years old, Exotic Persian Qualities: She is very playful. She loves to talk and follow you around. Owner: Emaan
CHEESE!
Name: February Valentine Female, African Grey Parrot, 1 and half years old. Qualities: Mimics more than 40 different types of sounds. She is very brave. She is a very smart bird and has actually learnt how to open the cage door by herself. Owner: Ambreen
Name: Bella Figueroa 2 years old, Silky Yorkie Terrier Qualities: Bella loves to go on walks and loves to play with her favorite toy (yellow duck) Owners: Karla Figueroa & Cristo Cortes
Name: Eduardo 8 months old boy, Persian Qualities: He is playful, very curious, loves to explore new things and is a climber, loves climbing on doors and cupboards. Owner: Hamad
Name: Princess Persian, 8 months old girl Qualities: She is very sweet and polite and she loves to talk when in mood. She is a typical lap cat. Owner: Emaan
Send us pictures of your furry friends with their details to be featured in this section on: mail@petigreemag.com
39
P
E
O
P
L
E
Lighting Up The UAE
Samira has been decorating candles with pictures and art for more than a year now. Her brand, Mira’s Candles, regularly features animal portraits, which can light up any animal enthusiast home. By Sahar Afsheen Arshad
Around 16 years ago Samira came from Russia to visit her sister in the UAE. She fell in love with the city, its vibrant spirit, the weather and hospitality and she decided to stay.
What is your craftwork, and where did you learn it from? I do decoupage, which is the art of decorating an object by gluing coloured paper cut outs onto it in combination with special paint effects and gold leaf. It is a craft that originated from Europe in the 12th century. I started reading about it and found it interesting so I decided give it try. 40
P
What got you started with your craftwork? I believe that I take my artistic genes from my mother and grandmother. I used to do crochet and knitting while in school. I saw a friend doing decoupage and I fell in love with it. So I started learning and practicing decoupage from whatever information I could find online and in books. The response that I got from my friends and family encouraged me to continue doing decoupage and polish my skills further.
E
O
P
L
E
Why do you mostly include pictures of animals in you craftwork? The first candle, and my favourite piece, was of horses. I love how people relate to animal portraits with cute memories. I personally think that animal pictures bring a unique look to the crafts.
Have you ever had pets?
If people want to get in touch with you, where can they do that?
I have had birds and a Turkish Angora cat before. Recently, I got a beautiful blue coloured fighter fish.
I am usually regular with craft markets like Arte Souk and have a Facebook page called “Mira’s Candles.”
Do you think pets make a lot of difference in the quality of our lives? Yes. Pets make you more responsible and you learn to be affectionate towards something that cannot speak for itself. It is very important to have pets specially if you have kids at home as children learn to be appreciative towards animals and treat them with love and kindness.
Tell us about your animal obsession! Do you have a hobby or a collection that is inspired by animals? If so, then contact us on mail@ petigreemag.com and get featured in the magazine. Also, get a chance to win a beautiful animal candle by Samira’s Candles.
41
F
O
O
D
COOKING WITH CHEF Homemade GINNY Recipes for Dogs
You love your dog and want the best possible for him. When you shop for dog food, you probably get something that has been advertised or recommended by your veterinarian. This time why not treat your pet by fixing a little meal for him? A homemade recipe can be made quickly and easily. You can change the ingredients according to what you have handy. This way, your dog gets a wide variety of meals that are really good for him.
BASIC MEAT DELIGHT This basic recipe contains meat, grain and vegetables. It is good to vary the ingredients to keep your dog from getting bored.
-
INGREDIENTS:
A pound of meat (can be turkey, beef, liver, fish or chicken) 2 cups brown rice or barley 5 cups of water 1/2 cup frozen vegetables 1 – 2 Eggs (optional)
Directions:
Combine the meat and rice with water in a large pan. Let this simmer for a while. Then add the frozen vegetable. For variety, use carrots, pea, broccoli, cauliflower, etc. Continue cooking for a few more minutes. Any vegetable is great except onions. And be careful with potatoes. Too many potatoes can make your dog gain weight. One or two eggs can be added for extra protein and flavour. Let the mixture cool and refrigerate. This basic recipe ensures that your dog gets all the nutrients and vitamins in his diet. He will love it. If your dog has some special needs, the recipe can be easily adjusted. For extra flavour, use chicken broth instead of water. If your dog is having tummy problems or isn’t feeling his usual bouncy self, try pureeing the vegetables to make them easier to digest.
GOOD DOGGIE TREAT If your dog has been very good (he always is, isn’t he?) he deserves a cupcake!
Directions:
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups shredded carrots - 2 beaten eggs - 1/2 cup apple sauce - 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon - 1/2 cup of oats - 2 – 3 cups of whole wheat flour
For an easy doggie cupcake, mix the carrots, eggs and the applesauce together. Add the cinnamon, oats and whole wheat flour to the carrot mixture. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and lightly spray the muffin pan. Spoon mixture into the pan and bake for 25 minutes. Let it cool. Your dog will love his very own cupcakes!
42
F
O
O
D
RAW DOGGIE FEAST
Many people consider raw food the best kind of diet. We can create a new meal using the same ingredients as in the recipe before.
- - - - -
INGREDIENTS:
A pound of meat (can be turkey, beef, liver, fish or chicken) 2 cups brown rice or barley 5 cups of water 1/2 cup frozen vegetables 1 – 2 Eggs (optional)
Directions:
Cut up the meat into bite-sized pieces and mix all of the ingredients together, but do not cook. Since your dog needs a lot of protein, half of the recipe should be comprised of meat. Raw vegetables or fruits (no grapes) are as healthy for your dog as they are for you, but make sure you don’t add too much. Fibre will keep his digestive track healthy, but he doesn’t need it in abundance. A raw food diet is thought to have long-term benefits for your dog’s overall health and gleaming coat.
DOGGIE GOODIES
Making some homemade treats for your dog is just as easy, and you know your best friend deserves something special at the end of the day, right? -
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups flour 1 cup cornmeal A pinch of salt 1/3 cup vegetable oil A cup of water 1 egg
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix the flour and cornmeal in a bowl. Add the egg, salt, vegetable oil, and water to the bowl. Mix all the ingredients into a dough-like consistency. Make slightly flattened balls out of the dough and place them on a greased cookie sheet. Bake for up to 25 minutes. Your dog will go crazy for these delicious treats. They can be stored in a sealed container for around a week or frozen till it lasts. Just defrost before serving.
TIP FROM THE KITCHEN
RECIPES BY VIRGINIA FIDLER
Why not share your own pet recipes with us? Send them to our kitchen with your details on mail@petigreemag.com
For an easy, vitamin-laden healthy treat, simply cut up an apple and a carrot into bite-size pieces. This sweet and crunchy treat is as healthy for your dog as it is for you. Actually, why not share? 43
H E A L T H
&
W E L L N E S S
TAKING CARE OF YOUR PET HAMSTER
It is no doubt that hamsters are 3C’s - cute, cuddly and cheap. However, these tempting characteristics cannot overshadow the required tasks to keep them well and healthy. By Dr Joan Dee Riconalla (DVM)
The word hamster originated from the German word hamstern meaning hoard. Hoarding is a unique characteristic of hamsters, which means that they secretly store extra food collected by them. Generally, female hamsters are bigger but live a shorter life than males. They can survive comfortably between 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They hibernate if the temperature is lower. Hamsters have a lifespan of 1-5 years. There are different hamster breeds like Syrian, Siberian, Chinese and Roborovsky’s Djungarian. Syrians or golden hamsters that come in various colours are bigger, more gentle and love to be groomed than its dwarf counterparts. 44
H E A L T H
CHOOSING YOUR PET
Don’t be easily deceived by these pocket-sized guys because their needs and personalities are contrary to their size. When choosing the perfect hamster for pet, check reputable breeders or adopt from shelter. Ideally, hamsters between 4 to 7 weeks old are easier to tame. Choose a socially alert but curious one
“Choose a socially alert but curious one that washes itself, looks apparently healthy and relaxes when held in the hand” that washes itself, looks apparently healthy and relaxes when held in the hand. Its better to know your hamster’s breed, as it influences their behaviour and overall requirements. For instance, except for territorial Syrian breed, all are naturally social and can be housed in pairs. This is important to prevent frequent fierce fights that may lead to death.
BASIC NECESSITIES
These fragile creatures should be handled gently. The owners should provide them with adequate
&
W E L L N E S S
food and water just like any other pet. Hamsters will take a bite at anything, so be cautious with what you are feeding them. Readily available hamster food can be purchased in pet supply stores and should be provided once or twice daily. This balanced food contains seeds, pellets, grains and cracked corn, which can be mixed with rice grains, sunflower seeds, fruits, alfalfa pellets and vegetables every 2 to 3 days. Leftovers should be removed after two days or before spoilage. Avoid feeding a lot of nuts for its high fat content as well as raw kidney beans and potato, onions, rhubarb, sweets or junk food. You can provide mineral stone and vitamin supplements for rodents if available. There should be an inverted drinking bottle with fresh, clean water attached to the cage as hamster’s water source. The bottle should be washed weekly while daily inspection for leakage is necessary. The bottle spout should be reachable by pets but not in contact with bedding. If you supply water in a bowl, make sure that it doesn’t tip over or drown your pet. Hamsters also need a comfortable shelter to protect and secure them against harsh external conditions. It should be located in a quiet and dim place of the house that is away from wind, direct sunlight and other animals. However, the area should be visited frequently to establish pet-owner relationship. When building or buying a hamster home, remember two things: the bigger the enclosure, the better and pet hamsters are escape artists.
45
H E A L T H
&
W E L L N E S S
You can use a wire cage that hamsters can climb on or a tank made up of plastic or glass for easier maintenance. The house should have secured but well-ventilated lid or top wire mesh. With a barred cage, black colour wires will make pets more visible. Housekeeping should be done every day to remove faeces, spoiled food and soiled beddings. Weekly tank disinfection using soap water or disinfectant and bedding replacement is important too. An inexpensive cleaning alternative using 50 per cent white vinegar solution is effective in removing urine residue. Evening, when your pets are widely awake, is the best time to do this cleaning work.
EXTRA NEEDS
You can put fancy accessories for hamster’s enjoyment. Tunnels and hideaways are good but do consider the sizes of pregnant or fat hamsters when buying the tunnels as the pets can get stuck in them. Have not more than two tiers of accessories to prevent dangerous fall. Hamsters also shred and make nest using paper towel or napkins, so provide them with some. A sleeping area made up of a box or flowerpot should be placed in the furthest corner of the cage to offer privacy. Since hamsters are agile creatures, a running wheel without rungs or a silent spinner is recommended for daily exercise. They can also play outside the cage by running in a plastic hamster ball that is specially designed for additional stimulation and 46
entertainment. This can be done at least once a week in a safe place away from stairs. The absorbent bedding materials, about 2 inches thick, should always be warm and dry. It should not emit harmful fumes, as it can cause a possible allergic reaction. Chew toys made of soft wood or calcium can be provided for entertainment as well as to keep hamsters teeth filed down. Cardboard materials like old toilet paper rolls and dog biscuits are good toys too.
BREEDING
Due to its early maturity, short gestation period and large litter size, hamsters are considered fast breeders. Breeding is not easy because it requires additional space, enough high-protein food and proper pregnancy detection. Behavioural and physical changes can also be observed, like nesting and cannibalism.
“Although popularly offered as first pets, hamster’s nocturnal habits make them unsuitable for very young children” DEALING WITH CHILDREN
Although popularly offered as first pets, hamster’s
nocturnal habits make them unsuitable for very young children. A supervising adult is required for kids younger than 10 years old to fully enjoy the hamster’s companionship.
HAMSTER BEHAVIOR
Hamsters bite. This nipping behaviour is caused by stress due to loud noise, sleep disturbance, rough handling and food-smelling hands. The solution is taming the pet to people and situations gradually. They should get used to playing, grooming and petting at an early age. Bathing is almost unnecessary as hamsters clean themselves well. Cold temperature makes them vulnerable to diseases. However, dirty beddings can cause bad odour, which can be eliminated by using chinchilla sand.
HEALTH CONCERNS
A sick hamster should be isolated from others and treated by a veterinarian immediately. The first two days of disease are crucial so prompt action is needed. They are also susceptible to common colds from humans so make sure to practice good hygiene. Prevent disease transmission by washing hands after handling hamsters or place a sanitizer bottle next to the cage that you can use. Maintain the ideal temperature. Give medications as instructed by the veterinarian and encourage the pet to eat and drink it normally with their favourite food or honey. Taking care of a hamster is quite demanding but when you learn to love them, they are the easiest and cutest pets you can have.
Signs to look for: • Lack of appetite • Overgrown teeth • Dull-looking eyes • Hair loss • Mites • Matted fur • Dehydration • Weight loss • Shaking • Swollen scent glands • Abscesses • Ulcers • Sore nose and eyes • Slow breathing • Sneezing • Runny nose • Abdominal pain • Diarrhoea
47
C O L U M N
By Jean Sutherland
DOGS AND ANXIETY
If there is one thing I dread doing, it is taking my Maggie anywhere in the car. I have crossed three countries and back with Maggie and still managed to live to tell the tale. Unfortunately, I have a dog that is afraid of everything. She came into my life as a 4-week-old foster dog that needed special care, and when it was time to find a “forever” home for her I realized she was already in her forever home. As a puppy, she did well in a crate, had an older dog to show her the ropes, and thought the cat was a delightful creature to play with. I was so excited when the day arrived that we could finally purchase her first new toy. Excitement turned into disappointment quickly, when I realized she was terrified of the new squeaky toy. That was the beginning of a long journey of Maggie being frightened of everything and that included the car. She would get all excited about going somewhere in the car, but the minute she was in it, her fear took over. Her tail would wag a happy wag, but I knew she was terrified. Along the way, I picked up some tricks that helped her deal with long drives, as well as all her other anxieties. My first thought was that the veterinarian would fix everything, so off we went for our first visit. Maggie had been to the vet as a puppy, and it went very well, considering he had to treat her for worms, mange, and a fungal infection. The joy of adopting a shelter puppy in Mexico! The minute we got in the car to seek help for this latest problem, the anxiety started.
too! Every medication she was given had no effect at all on her level of anxiety. In fact, the more she realized something different was happening to her, she fought it all the more. Then we come to everyone’s favourite topic - lightning and thunderstorms. Poor Maggie is terrified of them. She soon figured out that if she saw lightening, then a loud clap of thunder was likely to follow. The strange thing is, when this happens in the daytime she’s fine. She is a little nervous but nothing extreme. Nighttime lightning and thunder is a whole other story. She looks for places to hide and jumps up on couches and chairs so that she can be with us. We bought a nice, large metal cage for her to “hide” in and covered it with a heavy wool blanket so any “lightening show” couldn’t get through, and it didn’t help one bit. She gnawed away at the cage door so hard, that we feared for her teeth. Therefor, another solution was rejected by the persistent Maggie. Now, we are moving to the latest in fashion wear for the fearful thunderstorm dog! We are buying one of those new “Thundershirts.” I have watched the videos, read all the testimonials, but I know Maggie, and I have my doubts. I will let you know how well it worked the next time we meet. Wish me luck!
Maggie has her own special back seat harness that allows her to move, but keeps her safe and secure in case we have to hit the brakes. She started panting, crying and pacing from one side to the other. Thankfully it was a short trip to the vet’s office and she arrived without having a heart attack. The doctor suggested a number of over the counter medications that he was sure would help her. Little did he or I know just how stubborn Maggie would be with these solutions! I know Corgi’s have “special” personalities, but I thought if the Queen of England can deal with them, then surely I could 48
Jean is an ardent animal lover and works with a number of different shelters in the US and Mexico. Animal welfare and teaching the young about caring for animals is something she strives to accomplish. She is currently owned by her two shelter dogs.
C O L U M N
CAT IN THE CITY THE NAME GAME
By Ginger
Sometimes I wonder when lazing around comfortably on my cushion, in my lounge what is it that these humans think about us pets? I couldn’t sleep yesterday as this question kept popping in my head from time to time.
Cleopatra but no. I am Ginger Eyes!
Sometimes they treat us like babies. The silly faces, the baby talk… I feel sick thinking about it. Come on I am not a kitten anymore, I may be smaller than the giants I own, but I am a gorgeous adult cat. Well, to be honest, gorgeous would be an understatement.
I have friends on FaceBook called Furry, Snow, Puppy, Brownie, Silly and the list of senseless names goes on and on.
When these humans got me home I was just three months old. I was playful, mischievous and restless. With such wonderful and “rare” qualities they decided to name me “Ginger,” short for Ginger Eyes. Why? Because I am a stunning blue furred cat with big beautiful orange eyes. What I fail to understand is why do these human creatures have to name us on our attributes or our colour? I would call it racist thinking! Why can’t we have decent names? For instance, I could have been called Queen, Dazzling or
How would the humans feel if a brunette is named Ginger? Or how about I call my human “Greeny” as she has green eyes? I actually like it!
I hardly come across any friend of mine who likes his name. I think it’s high time we pets unite and protest against this issue. Oh! I hear the door. I think I will just lie down here on the laptop and pretend to sleep. If my human servant comes to know I can type I will be asked to work. I just can’t afford to have more issues in my life. Have a purrrrrfect day!
Ginger Eyes is an 8 years old, well travelled cat who loves herself a bit too much. She thinks she is the best thing that could have happened to the human who she currently owns.
50
P E T S
HOROSCOPES By Zainab Khan
51
Aries (March 21 – April 19) There is going to be a new mate in the tank soon! Be at your best behavior. Take control and show the newbie the ropes around the household. Your person will definitely take notice and might even reward you with those treats you have been eyeing lately.
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) You are doing a good job at keeping the peace amongst your mates. However, some of them might want to disturb what you have successfully established. Watch the tuna in the bowl like a hawk and make sure everyone gets an equal share.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20) You may get things done your way by refusing to play fetch, but it’s not always going to work. Try to be a little cooperative and less stubborn. Be welcoming of a few changes here and there. A new food bowl is cleaner and shinier than an old one.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) All that glitters is not a new collar you would look pretty in. Beware of new claw clippers. Your human may plan on ruining your perfect manicure. Let your killer instinct play its part and fight back.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20) Its time to play peace maker. Your mates around you may seem like they are ready to bite each others tails off. Take charge of the situation. Sometimes all you need is some TLC and lots of earthworms.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 Dec. 21) You are feeling creative and have no idea what to change around you. Keep away from your owners dressing table. It will just mean one week of bland food and no tuna. Try moving your cushion to a new place. Preferably near the cabinet with all the yummy treats.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Your owner has lots of cuddles for you. This isn’t the time to bark and storm out. You are finally getting some alone time with them. Just what you wanted! Purr gently or wave your tail in appreciation. Keep calm and enjoy the attention.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) All you need to do is distract your human when they are not happy with something you have done. Get the Frisbee out and play fetch for a while. Or just rub your head against their feet while purring lovingly. They love that!
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) Its okay to be a little cranky in this heat. Not so much when your owner is crankier. Be the bigger being and be understanding. Keep that muzzle up and swish that tail. Your positive attitude just might lift your owners spirits too.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb 19) Your trips to the spa are getting frequent. Just what you need to beat the heat! Get that fur shampooed and trimmed. Ask them for their best manicure. Its times like these when you thank your stars for having the best human. Aah! Bliss!
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) Scheming are we? You find yourself spending hours charming your fellow mates with stories of greener plants and cleaner waters. Genius plan for getting your owner to buy you a bigger tank. Keep it up!
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Enjoy the walks in the park with your owner. It may be annoying when they stop to socialize with their species, but think of all the eye candy you get. You enjoy watching fellow species walk around with that grace and poise, pointing their perfect muzzles up. Swish your tail flirtatiously to get noticed!