Issue 2 Oct/Nov 2013
A LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR PET OWNERS
Hello readers! When we started working on the first issue of PETIGREE, we didn’t know the hurdles and delays we would face. It was passion and motivation that gave us the patience to deal with the challenges one at a time. When boxes of the printed magazines arrived and we held the first issue in our hands, that’s when we realised that the dream had turned into reality! It was finally starting to sink in and along with that I could see the deadlines of the second issue nearing. Today you are holding our second issue in your hands and I am sure you can see we have added a few new fun sections to keep you flipping through the pages. I would like to welcome Chris Queen to PETIGREE. You will definitely enjoy his quirky and nerdy outlook on the animal world in his regular column “The Nerdy Vet.” Wait no further and hop onto our celebrity interview. Raveena Tandon Thadani, the ravishing actor, who has entertained viewers for more than two decades in Bollywood, has been working with PETA on various animal issues, befriending and helping many four legged fans. We catch up with her on her latest PETA campaign. Imagine taking care of five pet camels! Camels in the Arab world have a deep-rooted cultural significance. We met up with Mohamed Al Tamimi owner of these five beauties and learned a lot about camels, their needs and upkeep. I am sure you will enjoy the interview as much as we enjoyed working on it. Back in the 17th century, people were as passionate about animals as they are today. During the Mughal era, Emperor Jahangir, constructed a mausoleum in the remembrance of his beloved deer. So, do keep a box of tissues handy as you read “Remembrance Of The Royal Pet.” I am sure most of you are familiar with the Mount Police. If not, then read our feature on the effectiveness and training of The British Mount Police Force. You will be watching them with more interest aftre reading this feature. There is a lot to learn and we have made sure you enjoy this issue from cover to cover. Do drop us a line and tell us how you like the magazine. Join our social pages and interact with us. We are waiting for your emails. So until the next issue take care of your little one, start preparing for winters and keep your pets vaccines up to date! 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: Zahra Reza, Nagmani, Chris Queen, Dr Samantha J. Licudine, Dr Walter Tarello, Dr Carla Liza Guillermo, Ginger Eyes 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 The Mounted Police Force Of UK Is a trained Mounted Officer as effective as a dozen officers on foot?
12 From The Deep Seas To The Open Shores Read about how can we help save marine mammals from extinction.
CELEBRITY
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12
14
26
25
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26 “Adopt, Don’t Buy” Says Bollywood Actor Raveena Tandon Thadani She has impressed many people with her good looks and acting skills; now with the support of PETA she is making some four-legged fans.
PEOPLE
20 The Camel Boy
If you think having cats and dogs as pets is difficult read about how Mohamed Al Tamimi looks after of his 5 pet camels!
40 Taking Care Of Animals With Special Needs
Meet Wendy, a lady in the UK, who has 4 pets, 2 with special needs.
PETS
14 Given The Choice Would Your Cat Opt For The “Lion Cut” Look?
Would you choose to give your cat a lion cut after reading this?
25 The Solution To Rabies: Mass Vaccination WSPA tells us about one of their projects in this issue.
CONTENTS 32 Remembrance Of The Royal Pet
Did you know that in the 17th century a Mughal King constructed a mausoleum in remembrance of his favourite pet deer? If this is not love, then what is?
34 Baking With Mutt Madness
Mutt Madness collaborates with us to bring in some freshly baked treats for your best friend.
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6
36
19
45
28
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36 In Fine Feather
Have birds? Or are you planning to bring in a feathered friend? If so, this article is for you to read.
45 Paternal Instincts
Dr Walter Tarello tells us how fathers care for their babies in the animal kingdom.
URBAN PETS
42 Love Is Fun Everywhere
Remember the virtual pet “Tamagotchi?� Well, here is a newer and improved version of it.
REGULARS
6 Reviews 19 Competitions 28 Ask The Experts 39 Say Cheese 44 Events 46 News 47 The Nerdy Vet 50 Cat In The City 51 Horoscopes
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R E V I E W S
TITLE: Miles Kelly Publishing; Over 1000 Fantastic Animal Facts AUTHOR: Belinda Gallagher
Children are letting go of books and taking control of electronic gadgets, but there are few books that may as well bring back their interest in reading. Reviewed by: Sadaf Hassan
Reading is a great activity and method to encourage a bond between parents and children. Both, adults and children are attracted to rich illustrations, and 1000 Fantastic Animal Facts by Belinda Gallagher makes sure to build interest by using the same feature. The book provides heaps of knowledge about the animal kingdom in over 1000 numbered facts. The numbering system is the winning feature of the book as children can mark their progress in the world of unbelievable animals with no difficulty. From endangered species of today to deadly monsters of the prehistoric era, we see a range of living creatures in life like illustrations and easy to learn facts about them. Comics, quizzes, and interesting tasks are also a part of the book to actively encourage reading and learning. Children are sure to enjoy the book more with an adult because of some difficult words that they may not understand. 1000 Facts is a series of Miles Kelly Publishing, a company that specializes in producing fascinating books for children.
Title: The Dog Who Danced Author: Susan Wilson
An unexpected call has Justine Meade, a 43 year old single mother, hopped onto a truck and travel cross country back to the home she left many years ago. Her partner on the journey is Mack, a sheepdog trained to dance. Justine has faced loss all her life, with a broken marriage and loss of a son who preferred to live with his father over Justine. Mack is the only one who has managed to brighten up her life. It seems Justine is yet to face more loss. When she is a few minutes late at a truck stop. The trucker drives off leaving Justine behind, not realizing Mack is still in the truck. When he discovers him, he turns him loose and stranded. We now see two journeys: Mack’s journey while he is missing from his owner and Justine’s journey to knit her torn life and find her loyal companion. Parts of the book are captivatingly narrated by Mack. There is no doubt Susan Wilson’s “The Dog Who Danced” will do a little dance on your heart. However, readers who have read her previous bestseller, “One Good Dog” will find this one slightly weaker and predictable. The story nevertheless is one that tells us that a dog is not just a man’s best friend, but a woman’s as well.
06
Reviewed by: Sadaf Hassan
R E V I E W S
WATCH OUT, I’M CUTE!
VIDEO YOU SHOULDN’T MISS http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBkWhkAZ9ds
Reviewed by: Sadaf Hassan
Wild life enthusiast and photographer, Dean Boshoff, took Youtube by surprise by releasing the video of a desert rain frog, which became viral in a matter of days. The video that now has more than 4 million views, was uploaded on 13th February on Youtube by Dean Boshoff, and within a week it had hit 100,000 views. The tiny amphibian looks very threatening, a critter that is all set to attack you. However, little does the frog know that his cry, or shall we say “squeak”, while in defensive mode will make it the “World’s Cutest Frog” and a rising star on YouTube. Thanks to the popularity of the video, Boshoff was even called for an interview by CNN. The desert rain frog of the South African region is quite unlike the other frogs. It has distinctive natural features, such as an unusual voice, short limbs and a snout. It has eyes bulging out of its head and looks more like a puff ball. The frog comes out of its habitat at night to wander over the sand dunes and hunt, and it lives underground throughout the day.
APP REVIEW
WACKY SAFARI
Reviewed by: Sadaf Hassan
Wacky Safari, an Apple application for children is often mistaken for being an educational tool. However, let’s be honest and say it is not about learning but more about entertainment, and it offers a bundle of tacky animal-themed features. The features comprise of animal-themed jokes and facts in Laugh & Learn, Mix & Match where children swipe the screen to mix photographs of animals, so you may end up with giraffe eyes, tiger mouth and a monkey bod. It has a game called Paw Jam, where various animal sounds are released by pressing the soft areas of a paw. It also includes Wacky Phone where children can make “phone calls” to various animals, who in return respond with amusing messages. There are hidden features in the app as well which you find by pressing on the screen on random spots. With low quality production standards, it may not be the best application for your children, but if they love wild animals and some good laugh, then it’s about time you share the laughter with them! A word of warning: it is a loud app, so if you are not a fan of loud sounds, better leave it to the children alone! Wacky Safari for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad is available on iTunes App Store for free.
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F E AT U R E
THE MOUNTED POLICE FORCE OF UK
It is estimated that a trained Mounted Officer on a trained horse can be as effective as a dozen officers on foot. By Suha Jafri
For centuries, animals have been used in various civil and military services. Horses, camels, dogs and elephants have been popular choices for transport and hauling, communication and even as weapons. The history of animal use in warfare is as vast as the history of war and warfare itself. Throughout recorded history, horses remain the most commonly used animal in civil and military services, particularly for horsemounted cavalry. Although advances in technology and innovation in transportation mediums has led to a decline in the usage and requirement of such a department over the years, horses are still widely used in various parts of the world by the police and are popular for transportation and patrol. Especially through terrain that cars and other vehicles cannot access easily. The mounted division is still in existence around the world, used mostly for crowd 08
FE AT U R E
control. London’s Metropolitan Police Force alone employs 140 officers and 120 horses based at eight operational stables around the city. Other countries that have notably active fleets are USA, Canada, Australia, India and even Oman and Egypt. The mounted police force in the UK has existed since as early as 1760. New technology and innovative vehicles over the years significantly reduced the need for such a police squad. The service commonly uses horses or camels and continues to serve in remote areas and in metropolitan areas where their day-to-day function may be picturesque or ceremonial, but they are also employed in crowd control because of their mobile mass and height advantage and are deployed increasingly in the UK for crime prevention and high visibility policing roles. The added height and visibility that the horses give their riders allow officers to observe a wider area, but it also allows people in the wider area to see the officers and that helps deter crime and helps people find officers when they need them.
CURRENT USES
The Mounted Police Force may be employed for specialised duties ranging from patrol of parks and wilderness areas, where police cars would be impractical or noisy, to riot duty, where the horses serve to intimidate those causing disruption and need to be dispersed or may be sent in to detain trouble makers or offenders from the crowd.
For example, in the UK, mounted police are mostly seen at football matches, although they are also a common sight on the streets of many towns and cities as a visible police presence and crime deterrent during the day and night. Some mounted police units are trained in search and rescue due to the horse’s ability to travel where vehicles cannot.
SELECTION CRITERIA AND TRAINING
Most horses that are employed originate from Ireland and are chosen from a selection of sources that know the requirements of the Metropolitan Police. A half or three-quarter bred animal has been found to be best suited to police work, combining the spirit of a thoroughbred with the strength and stability of a draught horse. The training at Imber Court is individualised for each horse, and usually lasts six months. The training is separated into three stages Red, Amber and Green. The horses are managed at stables and trained experts are responsible for the health, wellbeing and diet of these grand animals. The height and size of each horse employed in the force shows that these animals are looked after under proper care and are groomed to the highest standards. An average police force horse is around 6 feet high, thus making the animal perfect for extended visibility of the officers riding them in crowded areas. It is suggested that a trained Mounted Officer on a trained horse can be as effective as a dozen officers on foot.
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F E AT U R E
MAIN DUTIES CEREMONIAL
This is the most high profile part of a Mounted Officer’s duties. From escorting Royalty and ceremonial military movements to marshalling tourists wishing to see the daily Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, the Mounted Branch are an essential part of the life and security of central London. On very important events the Mounted Police provide officers to act as the Sovereigns Escort. From the annual Trooping of the Colour Ceremony to Royal Weddings and Funerals there will be the Escort ‘topping’ and ‘tailing’ the procession. This duty is performed to the most exact timing as the slightest deviation from the plans can be disastrous for a procession of several hundred marching soldiers accompanied by Cavalry and Coaches. The Mounted Branch led the procession for Princess Diana’s, and the Queen Mother’s funeral.
DEMONSTRATIONS AND PUBLIC ORDER Public demonstrations can range from goodnatured to openly hostile. Even if the hostility is initially directed at the perceived objects of the demonstration it can soon swing towards police if they are seen to try to prevent any unlawful intentions of the crowd. Extensive and deep public order training has prepared the officer and his mount for these eventualities. It is from the outstanding actions of Mounted Officers and their horses in past years that such incidents as the clearing of the pitch at Wembley in 1923 by PC George Scorey and ‘Billie’ become part of the cultural and collective memory of this country.
Public Order is more defined and can range from a visible presence to intervention to resolve violent disorder at public order events. From a vantage point, 8 feet high, the Mounted Officer is afforded a view that is invaluable at crowded venues. From this position the officer can spot possible potentially violent confrontations or crush situations and alleviate the problem with crowd management tactics. Directed Patrols by borough policing in a designated area, are patrols in order to show a visible police presence and deter criminals from committing crime. The type of crimes and offences may vary but in general are burglaries, robbery, and theft of and from motor vehicles, rowdiness and vandalism. Some animal rights groups feel that angry crowds are insensitive to the force and the animals are often attacked back when officers are trying to instil discipline at protests and riots. Animal rights 10
groups also argue that the animals are being exposed to harm and risk unnecessarily.
SPORTING EVENTS
Football and Sporting events; crowd numbers can vary from 4,000 to 80,000 or more. Most crowds are good natured and passive. However, at some events, the mood of the supporters can swing very quickly from friendly banter to violent confrontations. In such situations the Mounted Police can resolve the problems very quickly in a restrained and disciplined way. During the football season a mounted officer could police 3-4 football matches a week.
ACTIVITY RIDE
The ride provides a fast moving display demonstrating a high level of skill and agility from both horse and officer. Inch perfect timing, total commitment, professionalism and complete trust are required as horses jump through fire, a solid paper wall and complete fast crossovers. The riders remove their stirrups, tunics and saddles whilst riding their horses over a series of bush jumps. Performing to audiences of literally thousands it is also one of the best advertisements and Public relations tool that the Metropolitan Police Service has to offer. All the riders, horses and ground staff are operational and have been carefully selected because of their commitment and riding ability. The ride was started in the 1950’s for displaying the skills of the Mounted Branch Officers and the incredible training of the horses at the annual horse show held at Imber Court. Watching these magnificent creatures is a treat for the eyes. The grandeur with which these horses of the police march and patrol, is worth watching. There is always a strong sense of strength attached to the mounted police forces across the world.
I S S U E S
From The Deep Seas To The Open Shores Marine Mammals, commonly known as MarMals, are warm-blooded animals who spend most of their lifetime in water or who depend on water for survival. Today, many beautiful species of MarMals are nearly on the verge of extinction. By Dr Samantha J. Licudine Yes, MarMals are mammals that live and survive in the seas and unlike fish, they breathe air and give birth. They nurse and protect their young and do not adapt to the temperature of their environment, instead they regulate their body temperature by using their thick layer of fat called ‘blubber’ to survive in very cold waters. Like dogs, they do not perspire, instead they release heat through their body from their fins and flukes. They are social creatures that survive best in groups or pods, just like humans. MarMals are divided into five groups: Cetaceans, Pinnipeds, Sirenians, Otters and Polar Bears. Cetaceans include Dolphins and Whales. Pinnipeds are the Seals, Walruses, and Sea Lions. The Sirenians include the Manatees and Dugong. Despite specialised laws against exploitation of animals, most species of MarMals are now endangered and some are on the verge of extinction. Many organisations are working to protect them and several laws have been imposed to protect these magical
I S S U E S At times marine mammals get washed ashore during heavy seas or low tides. There are areas with wide sloping beaches that do not reflect accurate sonar pulses, their ability to navigate, so they miscalculate and get marooned. There are also areas known as ‘whale traps’ that have a funnel-like topography, such as estuaries, from where they cannot find their way out. MarMals are social animals. A calf stays with its mother for more than a year, and if the mother gets stranded, the calf is likely to follow. Most cases of being stranded occur due to their close-knit social bond. When the alpha male gets stranded, the pod follows. They are likely to go back to the sea only when their leader dies.
What Can We Do?
creatures from being exploited. One example is the Convention on International Trade In Endangered Species of Wildlife Flora and Fauna (CITES) that ensures the trade of wild plants and animals does not jeopardize the creature’s survival. Another example is the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) whose aim is to conserve migrating animals.
MarMal ‘Stranding’
MarMals can get stranded on shore due to a variety of causes, being ill is one of them. For example, dolphins breathe air and keep a conscious state of buoyancy and breathing, which means if they cannot stay afloat, they will drown when water enters their lungs. In contrast to humans, their breathing is not automatic. They control it. Hence, there can be cases where an animal is unwell and forgets to breathe and dies of suffocation. As a survival instinct, they come on shore for rest. On land, they do not have to worry about keeping afloat or maintaining their balance, and they can breathe freely, provided they do not forget!
Marmals face a lot of threats from nature and humans. Every human being has an affect on the oceans. There are many things we can do to help the creatures from extinction. - Never pollute the sea. Always dispose off plastic bags and products in the recycle bin. - Save energy. Don’t leave taps running and light bulbs switched on as the more carbon dioxide is released the more it affects the sea and causes ocean acidification, which is harmful to marine animals. - Never leave the fishing line and equipment lying around after fishing. - Volunteer for and donate to organisations working to help marine life in your country. - Read about and understand the creatures and their needs more.
Share with us how you think we can help protect marine life. Send us your thoughts on mail@petigreemag.com
Sometimes MarMals get stranded due to noise pollution caused by humans. They can lose their ‘echo location’ skill due to excessive noise. Often, predators like sharks and humans chase them to the shoreline. The most alarming cause or MarMals getting stranded is pollution. News regarding sea animals getting beached due to oil spills is often heard but action is hardly ever taken to prevent it. The animals can also get caught in fishing equipment, which leads to depletion of their stored oxygen levels. Consumption of harmful wastes like hooks and plastics is also a major cause of their death. 13
H E A LT H
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W E L L N E S S
GIVEN THE CHOICE, WOULD YOUR CAT OPT FOR THE ‘LION CUT’ LOOK? It is widely believed that cats feel angry, embarrassed & devastated by their new look. Is it so? By Dr Carla Liza Guillermo
Grooming longhaired cats is one task that owners usually dread. Cats groom themselves therefore most do not like being bathed or brushed regularly, which leaves their coats to matt. Many owners choose to give their cat a ‘lion cut’, a lion-inspired look that has quickly become popular in cat grooming. Cats should be trained to regular baths, brushing and combing from a young age to maintain good health, a beautiful coat and to stimulate normal blood circulation. Besides home grooming, some owners also avail grooming services from salon, especially for longhaired breeds like Persian, Himalayan, Ragamuffin, Korat, Norwegian Forest Cat and Maine Coon.
THE GROOMER
Cutting a longhaired cat’s fur is no easy task. It requires a professional who has great compassion and love for animals to successfully complete the tricky job. Experience and training helps in avoiding nicks and cuts on the cat’s delicate skin and also prevents hurting oneself. Besides basic knowledge about haircuts, specialists work alongside veterinarians 14
to ensure proper restrain and handling. The task is not easy and depending on how comfortable the cat feels, it can take longer than usual, that is why most grooming salons have an appointment system, this way, the groomer and his team can give undivided attention to your cat.
ADVICE: Always assess the grooming area on sanitation. Look for possible stressful conditions like dog odour, and ask if you are allowed to watch the grooming procedure.
THE CUT
The standard lion cut requires shaving the entire body except the head, the mane also known as the upper neck, the boots and a 1 to 2 inches tuft on the tip of the tail. Some owners divert to the natural wild look by having preferred cuts, like trimmed ruff, and request it beforehand. Nowadays, lion cut has various forms such as Young Lion, Mature Lion, Puss In Boots, African, American, Persian, Liger, Tame Liger and Wild Liger. Lion cut is recommended in late spring, before the onset of extreme summer weather and with enough time to re-grow for cold months. Full-
H E A LT H
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W E L L N E S S
length coat re-growth takes about 4 to 6 months, at a rate of an inch every month. However, soft undercoat takes longer time to re-grow compared to the topcoat.
THE ADVANTAGES
The lion cut has several benefits. For cats living in places where warm weather is unbearable, such as in the UAE, this cut makes the heat bearable. Getting the fur trimmed makes cats more active during the summer season as it reduces the heat within their body. The cut makes it easier to maintain the coats of older cats that have difficulty grooming them. Closer contact and better petting sensation enhances the bond between the owner and the pet. It has also been noticed that cats become less temperamental after adjusting to their new look. Owners hugely benefit with the lion cut as it decreases shedding. Shed fur contains cat dander, which can trigger allergic reactions on humans. Veterinarians recommend lion cut as it is easy to maintain and it does not cause any developmental issues. It is beneficial in medical situations such as surgery and in cases of painful mats or knots. Matted fur promotes skin infections and parasites so it becomes necessary to shave if brushing and combing fail. Poor digestion and vomiting due to hairballs decreases after the lion cut as cats have less fur to groom. After the cut, the cat’s skin is almost all exposed, so skin problems like dandruff can be properly treated.
THE DISADVANTAGES
Some animal rights advocates believe that cat’s vanity grooming is cruel, unethical or a form of abuse. They believe that cat fashion and hair styling are just for public show at the expense of animals. Some people also value independence,
dignity and feelings of cats. They believe that cats are self-aware and feel naked or baleful after such a cut. Cats are said to use their fur as their security blanket and after seeing the drastic change in their looks, most cats are believed to feel angry and embarrassed. They are likely to hide, neglect further grooming and look depressed or devastated for a few days. Fur is a natural body temperature regulator. This body control system filters air that passes through the fur and reaches skin. Without this insulator cover, cats are susceptible to diseases caused by extreme heat or cold. Cats that are used to going outdoors regularly are likely to develop wounds after having their torso fully shaved for the cut. These wounds can be caused by catfights, excessive sun exposure or even an exasperated underlying disease. Most nervous cats have to undergo sedation or general anaesthesia to get groomed. These procedures pose some risk and trauma especially for older cats. Therefore, it is strongly advised that only a veterinarian should administer anaesthesia. Anaesthesia usually requires costly diagnostic tests for older cats like complete blood count, chemistry panels and electrocardiogram.
CONCLUSION
Overall, the lion cut is a suitable cut for your cat, depending on weather conditions and also the nature of your cat. Owners can best judge whether or not their cat will accept her new look or whether it will feel traumatised. It is worth considering that sometimes, your cat might just need to be shaved once in order to maintain it’s health. Not all owners groom their cat for shows, most people prefer to keep their pets well-groomed so that they can live a long, healthy and happy life. We would like to hear your verdict on this issue. Are you in favour of the Lion Cut? Write to us on mail@petigreemag.com 15
As Europe Bans Sale of Animal-Tested Cosmetics, LUSH and Humane Society International CEOs Call for Global End to Cosmetics Cruelty As the European Union finally banned the sale of newly animal-tested cosmetics on 11 March 2013, LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics Co-Founder and MD Mark Constantine, and Andrew Rowan, President and CEO of Humane Society International, one of the largest animal protection groups in the world, sent an open letter to the global cosmetics industry calling on it to abandon animal testing once and for all. Although testing cosmetics on animals had been banned across the EU since 2009, it was still legal to sell cosmetics that had been tested on animals in other countries. That changed from 11 March when a ban on selling newly animal tested cosmetics - first promised by politicians 20 years ago and delayed several times since then finally came into force. Any beauty product, from shampoo and mascara to toothpaste and anti-wrinkle cream, is prohibited from sale if it contains ingredients tested on animals from 11 March. HSI and LUSH have campaigned for many years to end cosmetics animal testing. LUSH, which has more than 800 shops in 51 countries, first launched its strictly ‘no animal testing’ policy in 1991, becoming a beacon for ethical, compassionate cosmetics. HSI has led an intense and high profile campaign to see the EU sales ban enforced, and in April last year launched “Be Cruelty-Free,” the largest global campaign to end animal testing for cosmetics worldwide. In a letter sent to cosmetics industry trade associations around the globe, LUSH and HSI call on animal-testing companies across the world to choose the EU sales ban as the moment to go cruelty-free. The letter reads: “On 11th March we will witness a 16
truly landmark moment in the history of the beauty industry. The world’s largest cosmetics market, the European Union, which has already banned animal testing of cosmetics within its own borders, will also close its doors to the sale of cosmetics tested on animals in other markets. This sales ban carries with it a clarion call from consumers: Cosmetics animal testing is not welcome and it needs to stop. Surely this must signal a turning point for the beauty industry worldwide to finally call an end to animal testing and commit to going cruelty-free? LUSH, Humane Society International and others have campaigned tirelessly to end cosmetics cruelty. Over the years we have heard every excuse in the book from cosmetics companies clinging on to animal testing, yet one by one those excuses have been exposed to be hollow and self-serving. Animal toxicity tests represent out-dated science of decades-old techniques that cannot reliably assure consumer safety. The future of safety testing lies with modern, human-biology-based methods. So there is no scientific excuse for animal testing. There are also many thousands of existing cosmetic ingredients that have long been established as safe for use, meaning they don’t require any new testing. Myriad combinations of these allow companies such as LUSH to innovate to their heart’s content. So there is no business excuse for animal testing. And of course animal testing causes unimaginable suffering as rabbits and other animals have chemicals dripped in their eyes or spread on their delicate skin. Swollen eyes, skin rashes and organ damage are the ugly hidden
secrets of a beauty industry that has dragged its feet on ending animal testing. So there is no ethical excuse for animal testing. Hundreds of cruelty-free retailers such as LUSH demonstrate every day that producing exciting, safe and innovative beauty products is entirely possible without new animal testing. So as we celebrate the EU going cruelty-free, we urge all those companies still testing cosmetics on animals in the United States, China, Brazil, India, Canada, South Korea, Russia and beyond to please do the decent thing and stop the suffering. Show your global customers that beauty isn’t just skin deep—that it has a heart. You have it within your collective power to stop cosmetics cruelty today. Please do it. Enough is enough.” To mark the historic EU sales ban, sign the Be Cruelty-Free pledge at www.hsi.org/becrueltyfree and help HSI create a world where no animal has to suffer and die for the sake of cosmetics.
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.
Support their cause visit LUSH cosmetics and find out more about their campaigns to end animal testing on: www.lush.ae
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.
IN YOUR OPINION 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.
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P R I Z E S
WINNER
We should create awareness about how these animals are being kept in labs for testing and the long-term effects that they suffer from after the tests. People should try to put themselves in the place of those animals to feel what they actually feel. There are so many organic alternatives to beauty products then why buy those products which cost lives of millions of animal? How can anyone possibly love their lipstick more than the life of a living being? Once people get to know what these animals go through just to bring us the products we use, only the heartless would ignore. No human would like to hurt anyone the way animals are hurt in the labs, physically and psychologically. How would one feel trapped in a cage and be injected with unknown and unsure chemicals? We think that we, as humans have the right to choose and live but animals don’t just because they can’t speak out like us. Animal testing should be banned in every country and this should be the voice of many, not just one as it will create a bigger impact and a much greater change. Boycott those products that are not “cruelty free.” - Azra Maliha
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WINNER
The best way to discourage people from using animal tested products, in my opinion, would be to do the same thing Lush did in 2012 when they had a per formance artist display the kind of torture animals go through when being tested on for cosmetics. It is a power ful way of raising awareness. If people can be compassionate towards the suffering of people, they can do the same for the helpless animals after witnessing the horrors they go through to satisfy our materialistic wants. - Sarah Amer
P R I Z E S
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.
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.
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P E O P L E
THE
CAMEL BOY
Zainab Khan meets Mohamed Al Tamimi, an Emarati boy who has a passion for tradition and five very pampered pet camels. Photography Nabeela Huda
Driving down to Dubai, on an overcast Sunday morning, I was excited yet nervous about what was to come. I had never visited a camel farm before and did not know what to expect. Little did I know that after getting there, I would realize that there is so much to learn about these majestic creatures and one interview is certainly not going to be enough. Our team met with the young and energetic Mohamed Al Tamimi, who received us with utmost hospitality and drove us to his farm, 20
on the outskirts of Umm Al Quwain. We drove through various Bedouin communities and got to experience UAE in its true essence, which is quite a contrast against the modern city life. When we got there, we were awestruck amidst all the beautiful camels and the energy they gave off. The Petigree team excitedly took a walk around the farm, asking questions and posing for pictures with the camels. Meanwhile, I got the chance to speak to Mohamed about his favourite five back at his farmhouse.
PE O P L E
Tell us a bit about your camels and how long has it been since you have had them? I have had them for about three and a half years now. One of them is a male camel and I have named him El Basel. He is three years old. The rest of the four are females. Their names are Thibyaan, Salhut, Sihanaa and Soughaa; aged nine years, five years, five years, and one year respectively.
Give us a general idea about the temperament of a camel. Do they need to be tamed or are they as harmless as they look?
The male camels are aggressive and wild by nature. This is the reason they are kept away from female camels. Each male has a separate caretaker and his own spot, which is surrounded by cage walls for his own protection and for the protection of those around him. The female camels are generally calm beings. They do not need to be restricted or kept away from each other. They can live in peace with the rest of the females.
Have you trained your camels like people train other pets?
As a matter of fact I have. The basic training of how and when to sit and stand was obviously
given. They were also trained to know that I have come to feed them and mean well. I have also trained them to eat ice cream from an ice cream cone! [laughs]
What does their daily diet consist of?
I feed them fresh grass and dates in the morning. The next meal during the evening consists of mixed grains and dates again. Other than that there is a constant supply of fresh water and dry grass for whenever they feel hungry or thirsty.
Do they need any form of exercise?
No, they do not. They sometimes take a walk if they feel like. Otherwise they mostly just sit around.
Like other pets, do camels need to be vaccinated?
They most certainly do. I have made sure my camels are up to date with their vaccines. I take care of them just like one would take care of a normal house pet. They have a proper passport with details of all their vaccinations.
What are the things you need to keep a check on to ensure that the camels remain healthy? First and foremost, we need to make sure they
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P E O P L E have a constant supply of fresh and clean water. I have installed a special water maker for my camels. This extracts water directly from underground and converts it into clean water. Other than that, the food provided to them is of the best quality, free from any insects or impurities. I also make sure I don’t bathe the camels during winters as they could easily catch a cold due to wet fur.
What kind of grooming do camels need and how often do you get them groomed?
I make sure I keep them as clean as possible. They are showered and cleaned after every ten days during the summers. I do not shower them during winters, as there are chances of them falling ill. They do not get dirty during the winters anyway so bathing them is not necessary when it’s cold. Their fur remains soft for a long time and is very clean. They are constantly checked for fleas and other pests to make sure they remain clean and in good health.
How does a change in weather affect the camels?
Camels grow fur during winters. This keeps them warm in the cold weather. During the summer, their fur naturally sheds off to adapt to the hot weather. Other than that there is not much of a change.
What are the health issues that a camel may face and what precautions do you take to avoid these issues?
Camels sometimes catch flu during winters if they are not properly taken care of. We also need to be careful if we have the flu because they can easily catch it from us too. It is mostly the viral that they catch very quickly. Other than that, we tie the feet of pregnant camels to make sure they do not run or walk too much, as that would
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risk their health and the health of their baby. Their feet are tied loosely enough for them to walk if needed though.
How often does the vet visit them for routine check-ups? If the camels are in good health, the vet visits them once in two or three weeks. However, the vets are available at any time in case of an emergency.
Like other pets, do camels recognize and get attached to their owners and caretakers?
Yes, of course. My camels recognize their caretakers and me. Due to the aggressive nature of male camels, it is especially important for them to know who their caretaker is. They need to establish their comfort level with the person handling them. Here at the farm, there is a separate caretaker for each male camel. The females do not give much trouble in that aspect. However, they too recognize their owners and get attached to them.
Are the camels comfortable around visitors and new faces?
The females usually remain calm, as you have probably noticed. The male camels sometimes get a little hyper around new people. Camels are very smart and observant beings, much like dogs. Trust me when I say that. They have been noticing you from the moment you entered through that gate. Their sight extends much farther than ours, and is very sensitive to change.
Who looks after your camels while you are away? Do they need to be constantly supervised? I have caretakers who are specially trained
PE O P L E
to look after the camels. They are in charge while I am away. The camels do not need to be watched and supervised constantly. In special cases, for instance if a female camel is in labour, one of the caretakers is with the camel 24/7, until she gives birth. I make sure everything the caretaker needs is provided to him while he is with the camel. Other than that, just a routine check to make sure everything is in order is all that is needed.
The most special thing about having a camel as a pet is‌ There is nothing more special than the fact that they make me feel so close to my culture and tradition. Camels represent the rich history of my country and my nation in a way, and there is a lot to learn from these creatures. Looking after them makes me feel more connected to my roots.
Born and brought up in the UAE, the youthful and enthusiastic Mohamed Al Tamimi is a proud Emirati through and through. He is currently a business student, following the footsteps of his family, who are the owners of the popular furniture stores, Decoart.
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P E O P L E
I S S U E S
THE SOLUTION TO RABIES: MASS VACCINATION Rabies is responsible for approximately 55,000 human deaths per year, one person every ten minutes; 99% of which result from the bite of a rabid dog. People and dogs are needlessly dying due to rabies, states the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA). This loss of life is tragic and entirely preventable with mass dog vaccination as a key solution to helping solve the problem. The World Health Organisation estimates that rabies costs a staggering $6 billion USD annually worldwide, except much of this money is wasted on temporary or failing ‘solutions’ such as the culling of dogs. An economic analysis of rabies on the Indonesian island of Bali shows that culling is ineffective, cruel and expensive and that the elimination of rabies is possible if the focus is on prevention via mass dog vaccination. Over a 10-year period, this could save up to $16 million USD. By removing the main source of infection, deaths of dogs and people in response to rabies is vastly reduced. Moving towards a rabies free future, WSPA and GARC (Global Alliance for Rabies Control) have
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to ensure mass dog vaccination programmes in parts of Asia Pacific and Africa. WSPA has also supported the Government of Bangladesh to vaccinate over 70 per cent of an estimated 4,000 dog population in the southern beach resort of Cox’s Bazar in Southern Bangladesh, with the hope of eliminating rabies nationwide by 2020. There are still hot spots that pose an alarming risk to rabies in regions of Latin America, Asia Pacific and Africa, and more surprisingly in mainland Europe for the first time in thirty years, following a widelyreported incident in Spain in June of this year. Since 2007, WSPA has been working with and supporting governments, partners and local communities to change behaviour from brutal culling to the vaccination of dogs. WSPA CEO, Mike Baker says: “Rabies is a forgotten disease - many people assume they are not at risk, yet Spain, rabies-free for decades, has had a recent outbreak scare. We must tackle this disease in a way that does not see the needless and inhumane killing of dogs; mass dog vaccination is the key to that.”
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C E L E B R I T Y
Raveena Tandon Thadani, a longtime supporter of PETA talks about her commitment to the organisation’s causes. by Nagmani
says Bollywood actor Raveena Tandon Thadani When it comes to rescuing animals off the street, Bollywood actor Raveena Tandon Thadani gives out her heart and soul. This altruistic gesture of hers reveals how passionate she is about saving them from unimaginable miseries we know of. We sit down with beautiful Raveena, to find out more about her recent PETA campaign of adopting the homeless dogs. 26
C E L E B R I T Y
What inspired you to get involved with this PETA campaign?
I am a long-time supporter of PETA’s homelessdog adoption campaign and its other lifesaving activities. As a matter of fact, I have come forward many times to support PETA in their muchneeded campaigns against the use of exotic animals as fashion accessories and the cruel transportation of cattle to slaughterhouses for leather.
How much does it matter to you being part of this great cause?
It matters to me immensely. First and foremost, I have rescued animals at home. They were rescued from the street or adopted from an animal shelter. Wherever and however I can, I try to encourage others who are looking to welcome a dog or cat into their home to choose to adopt, not buy. This way, we can give a better life to these animals. After all, they also need care and affection in the same way as we humans seek and cannot live without.
Tell us something about your adopted pets. What are their names?
I have adopted five dogs and one cat who I share my life with. Chotu and Hero are the community dogs who I brought in from the streets and Cuddles is a Pomeranian who I adopted from an animal shelter. The recent addition to my family are Luv and Ganga, two adorable puppies that PETA rescued from the monsoon downpour who I took in. Not only that, I also have a cat named Tinkerbell who I found on the street and instantly got her home.
When did you realize that you should reach out to stray dogs?
Anil (my husband) and I have always had our hearts melted by the sad plight of stray dogs and our kids are the same. Animals on the streets and shelters deserve a chance and they need our help, love and compassion. We were fully aware of the harsh realities these animals face. So, it was a matter of time before we took this important initiative.
How serious is this problem of stray dogs being neglected and treated inhumanely?
Dogs and cats struggle to survive on the street. They are often hit by cars, they are injured, or are vigorously abused by cruel people. In fact, whenever PETA finds homeless animals, they are in bad shape; bruised, bloodied and emaciated. There are currently many homeless dogs and cats and not enough good homes. Many people buy animals on impulse or without realizing the time and effort it takes to care for the pet properly. Once the novelty wears off, healthy, lovable, friendly dogs and cats are often dumped at animal shelters. There, they wait in desperation for a loving home. Adopting a homeless dog or cat is a compassionate choice – and for you a great way to make a best friend for life.
What is the situation like where you live, especially in Mumbai?
This problem is not just prevalent in Mumbai. Across India, unwanted animals are often abandoned on the streets to join stray dogs and cats who struggle to survive. Many of these animals starve to death, are injured or killed in fights, are hit by vehicles or are abused. Countless others are kept in animal shelters because there aren’t enough good homes for them. Every time someone buys a dog or cat from a breeder or pet store, a homeless animal roaming the streets or waiting in an animal shelter loses a chance at finding a good home.
How hopeful are you with your ad campaign? Do you think that people’s behavior might be changing quickly? PETA tells me people call them everyday enquiring how they can go about adopting an Indian dog. There are so many homeless dogs and cats who have found loving homes. I hope to see many more homes found for animals on the streets or in shanty shelters. People with the time, resources, love and patience to make a lifetime commitment to an animal can make a huge difference by adopting a dog from a shelter or rescuing animals from a perilous life on the street.
How has your life changed since you brought them home?
They all have become a part of my family. We are inseparable.
How did your two kids react when they saw them?
My kids love them! They are all best friends. When kids get back home from school, they hardly leave each others side; playing with them in the park, watching television together. For them, the fun never ends. 27
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: I got my male cat neutered when he was a kitten, but he still sprays around the house. What can I do to make him stop? I seriously need some help. - Anon., Dubai Dear Reader, From your information I don’t know what is the current age of your cat. Spraying and marking are normal territorial behaviours of non-neutered male cats. In most of them this behavior subsides and stops once they are castrated at young age. However, spraying in an adult cat can also be a sign of health problem like FLUTD (lower urinary tract diseases) or behavioral (anxiety) that are accompanied with similar symptoms. I think that a visit to your vet would be beneficial first to discuss all the aspect and habits of your cat, i.e., food, environment and potential stress factors, to determine the nature of his problem and then to decide on the treatment.
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Q: How often to get my cats teeth cleaned? - Sally, Abu Dhabi It is completely your choice that how often you want your cats teeth cleaned. It depends on their age, eating habits, saliva composition and type of bacterial flora inside the mouth. In general some cats require cleaning once every few years and some less often. It is advisable their teeth to be checked during their regular check ups or during their annual vaccination check to determine if they need teeth cleaning.
Q: How long do rabbits live? - Abdullah, Dubai The average life span of rabbits is between 6 - 9 years. Smaller breeds of rabbits live longer in comparison to the bigger breeds. 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
Sabine Poncelet Sabine is a Certificated Animal communications expert and alternative healer. Originally from Belgium, Sabine has been helping humans and animals with various physical and mental issues through her various alternative healing methods. www.animalreikidubai.com
Is alternative therapy for animals effective? - Anon. Yes. It is effective on humans, so no doubt it is also effective on animals because animals are more sensitive than humans and can feel energy at a higher level than us, particularly horses; they can even read your mind! Alternative healing also works well for emotional troubles in animals.
Can an animal suffering from a deadly disease be cured with reiki? - Karthika Sharma, Dubai
My cat has a behaviour problem. She hisses at me and scratches me a lot. Should I try alternative therapy on her? - Marvin, Dubai Yes, of course. We cannot give medicines to animals for such behavior. However, with alternative therapy, like reiki, your cat will feel better and become more relaxed. It will be more effective if you get someone who practices reiki regularly to try it on your cat. Want to ask Sabine a question? Email us at mail@petigreemag.com
Yes, if given enough sessions, the life of the animal can be prolonged and made more comfortable. In animals, one cannot say in advance how much time or how many sessions they will require. I advise to begin sessions before it is too late. Reiki is known to be a painkiller and is great for relief from pain of cancer and chemotherapy.
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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.
How many times should I feed my fish? Do I need to bring my fish to the veterinarian? - Oshan, Ajman Small fish require 2-3 meals per day whereas big fish need only one meal per day. If the food administered is in excess, it will cause waste of nutrients, water pollution and reduce oxygenation in the aquarium. Furthermore, reduced visibility in the water will favor collisions between members of the tank colony, which in turn will deserve an emergency rush to the veterinary clinic to treat wounds and state of shock!
I have heard hamsters are very sensitive to noise. Is it true? - Anon., Abu Dhabi Definitely hamsters are not party animals. Solitary and very shy, they are sensitive to all kind of noise
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and external stimuli. Before a consultation they have to be waken up slowly respecting their privacy! In short, these nocturnal shy creatures need an environment that is noise-free and serene enough to enjoy Mozart music at low volume
I am thinking of getting a snow glider. What temperature should I keep it in? Salena, Dubai These are not common pets but it is easy to keep them in your home, because their optimal environmental temperature range from 18 to 26 C, about the same temperature of your airconditioned house, in average.
Want to ask Dr Walter a question? Email us at mail@petigreemag.com
Issue 2 Oct/Nov
A LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR PET OWNERS
2013
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
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T R AV E L
In the 16th Century Emperor Jahangir constructed a mausoleum for his favourite pet, Mansraj, the royal deer. By Sadaf Hassan
In the 16th and 17th centuries The Mughal Dynasty left many evident and historical marks in the subcontinent that we now call India and Pakistan. Hunting grounds were considered an integral feature of the Mughal era’s physical environment. Jahangirpura, now called Sheikhupura, is about 40 kilometers northwest of the city of Lahore in Pakistan. The place where the town is now located, was Emperor Jahangir’s Royal getaway as a Prince when his Father Akbar was on the throne. It was founded by Emperor Jahangir himself when he ruled in the 1600s. The unused forest lands surrounding this town were to be utilized as hunting ground for the royal clan.
T R AV E L Similar to other architectural features unique to the Mughal dynasty, this tower was also built of bricks as opposed to stones. A rectangular pond In the vicinity of the tower was later on added to glorify the royal remembrance in its entirety and give off a soothing sensation during sunsets. A pathway was especially made to link the barren area with the minaret. At the center of each side, tilted bridges made way into the lake the purpose of which was to give access to the royal animals. One of the features of the monument which spell bounds tourists is its one of a kind water collection system at the grave. Near the corner of every tank are cubic structures and a water collection system which goes beneath the land and ensures a trivial, ever ready supply for the tank. An additional feature, which makes this site stand out, is its salient location. If one stands on top of Hiran Minar, it can be undoubtedly said that he is standing at a place where the vast landscape of the green province can be viewed that hints at the magnificence of the Mughal age.
Environmentalism may seem like a new term, but the ideology existed even during the Mughals as Jahangir was also an environmentalist of the first order, with inquisitiveness for facts. He preserved a rich zoological garden and an aviary, taken care by a team of specialists under the Emperor’s strict supervision. Regular records were made of each species of animals and birds, along with any information as he desired to obtain.
A bond was broken
During one of the hunting games, Jahangir caught an antelope which was shortly disciplined and named Mansraj. The attachment between the two grew soon. It is said that in one of Jahangir’s hunts, he unintentionally shot an arrow that hit Mansraj. The Emperor was filled with grief on losing the extraordinary bond between him and his beloved pet. No sooner did the Emperor’s loved deer passed away, the hunting grounds took on a new meaning as the royal decree went on to prohibit any more hunting and declared the place more or less a mausoleum for the deer. In loving memory of the pet deer, an 8-sided tower was built by the emperor at the bottom of the grave in 1607 and was named Hiran Minar, roughly translated as ‘Tower of the Deer.’
Viewing the landscape straight up north, one can see the small demarcations of lands similar to the ones used for forest vegetation when Mughal dynasty was at its peak. The west view boasts of multitudes of well-irrigated fields which the early twentieth and late nineteenth century saw rising in number. These fields have a resemblance to those used for cultivation in that era.
Keeping the memory
The current headless state of the monument was caused by the collapse of its canopy, causing its original measured height of 110 feet to shorten. A total of 108 steps on a spiral flight of stairs lead to its pinnacle where the remains of Mansraj are buried. The tombstone was built in the form of an antelope according to Jahangir’s wish and the epitaph carved on it is written by Mullah Mohammed Hussain Kashmiri: “In this beautiful and healthful place, God-thirsty Nuruddin Jahangir captured a deer; in one month the deer left his jungle habits and soon became the king of the Royal Deer.” A thick forest edges the northern side of the pool, with crisscrossing footpaths meandering their way over the elevated mounds. On the opposite side of the pool a garden, with a cafeteria and some swings and slides await excursionists. In the present time, efforts are being made to get the monument registered with the UNESCO’s World Heritage List, so as to generate funds for its much needed repair and renovation. A lot of people every day visit the place for time off and boating, far away from city’s hustle-bustle; while some just go in the remembrance of the Emperor’s dear Mansraj – the royal pet. 33
F O O D
BAKING WITH MUTT MADNESS Carrot & Banana Biscuits Directions
Preheat the oven to 185ºC Ingredients
Put the mashed banana, grated carrot, egg and oil into a mixing bowl. Mix them together and then add whole wheat flour, maize flour and water and keep mixing. Mix the ingredients until you have a nice, stiff dough. If the mix is too wet add extra whole wheat flour, if it is too dry add extra water.
2 cups grated carrot 2 ripe bananas (mashed) 1 beaten egg 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour ½ cup maize flour ½ cup water
Flour your surface and roll out the dough until it is ¼ inch thick. Use your cookie cutter to cut out your cookies and put them on a baking paper lined baking tray. To bake the cookies more thoroughly use a fork to prick holes in the middle of your biscuits. Place them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. When done, switch of your oven and leave the biscuits in the oven for 3 hours or overnight to dry. These biscuits can be kept in an airtight container or fridge for 6 weeks.
Baking Tips: 34
• If your dog has wheat allergies please replace the whole wheat and maize flour with gram flour and black rice flour for all our dog biscuit recipes (not the muffins). Please also use both together otherwise the dough will be too sticky.
• If you decide to experiment with different recipes for your dog please do not add any salt, sugar, onion or onion relation in your recipes. Garlic is also not recommended.
F O O D
Sweet Potato Biscuits Directions Preheat the oven to 185ºC Ingredients 1 pound of sweet potatoes 2 tablespoons honey 1 beaten egg 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour ¼ cup water
Boil peeled sweet potatoes in water until they are soft. Drain and mash. Put the cold mashed sweet potatoes, honey, egg and oil into a mixing bowl. Mix them together and then add whole wheat flour, and water and keep mixing. Mix the ingredients until you have a nice stiff dough. If the mix is too wet add extra whole wheat flour, if it is too dry add extra water. Flour your surface and roll out the dough until it is ¼ inch thick. Use your cookie cutter to cut out your cookies and put them on a baking paper lined baking tray. To bake the cookies more thoroughly use a fork to prick holes in the middle of your biscuits. Place them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. When done, switch of your oven and leave the biscuits in the oven for 3 hours or overnight to dry. These biscuits can be kept in an airtight container or fridge for 6 weeks.
Peanut Butter & Corn Muf ins Directions Preheat the oven to 180ºC Ingredients ¼ cup natural peanut butter (no sugar) 1 egg 2 tablespoons honey 1 cup whole wheat flour ½ cup corn meal ½ cup water ½ tsp baking soda ½ tsp baking powder
Put all the ingredients into a mixing bowl. Mix them together until you have a smooth batter. Spoon the batter evenly into small paper muffin cups. Place them in the oven and bake for 10 – 15 minutes. Muffins are completely baked when you pick the muffin with a toothpick and it comes out completely clean. This makes 12 muffins. They can be kept in the fridge for 4 -5 days or 6 weeks in the freezer.
All recipes by
Tel: 00971 (0)50 2817298 Email: mutt.madness@hotmail.com Facebook.com/MuttMadnessDubai www.muttmadnessdubai.com 35
INFINE H E A LT H
&
W E L L N E S S
FEATHER
Striking looks and friendly personality tempt people to bring a feathered buddy to their homes, but bird ownership is a responsibility. By Sadaf Hassan
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H E A LT H
If you are thinking of bringing in a friend with wings, make sure you know how to keep it happy. With good nutrition and care, smaller birds will live for 5 to 10 years, whereas a lot of birds like macaws, parrots and cockatoos will celebrate their 50th birthday. Your bird may grow old with you and be your life long companion. Therefore, make sure you are ready to commit to its care for a long period of time. Unlike cats and dogs, birds are not very expressive, so it gets hard to identify their feelings. You will have to pay good attention to your companion so as to identify its needs or any problems it may be facing.
TAKING CARE
If you are a bird owner, cleaning the cage is a regular exercise for you. With their quick digestion and tiny intestines, the food turns into droppings faster than you can imagine! Cleaning your bird’s cage can tell you a lot about their health. By cleaning regularly you can learn to recognize warning signs in your bird’s droppings. For example, less than 30 droppings per day is not a good sign. Veterinary care will be more useful and less expensive if you act fast. Along with that, your bird will get care quicker and have a better ability to live on. It is vital to keep the cage clean so as to avoid any bacteria forming in the cage that can cause different infections in birds. Nowadays, cleaning
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W E L L N E S S
cages has been made easier by removable bottoms. All you have to do is to pull out the bottom tray and replace the paper with a clean one. Bird’s coat of feathers makes it hard to recognise many health problems like weight loss, skin diseases and other illnesses. Look for the following symptoms to help you identify a problem: * Loss of hunger * Frequent plump up of feathers * Stress * Discharge from the nostrils and eyes A common cause of stress in birds is lack of rest and sleep. A number of birds require 10 to 12 hours of sleep every night. Some people keep their bird’s cage by open windows or at places where noise and commotion keeps the bird disturbed and awake. A lot of owners cover the cage with a sheet at night. Not all birds are happy with that, so it is best to ask a veterinarian regarding the most favorable sleeping pattern for your pet friend. Since almost all residences here are air conditioned, veterinary care becomes compulsory because it is not easy for birds to survive in air conditioned homes.
CAGES
While most pet birds live in a cage all their lives, they 37
H E A LT H
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W E L L N E S S
IN FLIGHT
require sufficient space to stretch their wings out at least. For sparrows and other tiny birds, there has to be sufficient space to fly from one end to another. Some birds are so tiny that they may escape from between the bars of the cage, so you have to be careful while picking a cage for your bird, and make sure whichever cage you select suits the type of bird you have. When fixing the cage at home, keep it well above the ground for example on a counter or hang it from a safe hook. The cage should not be close to open windows as strong winds cause serious harm to birds, also the temperature of UAE is too high and exposure to direct heat can be fatal.
FOOD AND NUTRITION
Like all living beings, birds require constant access to fresh clean water. Do not expect your pet friend to have the least of table manners! Birds are most likely to create a big mess while having meals and drinking water. Whether you use a sipper bottle or a bowl, make sure they are cleaned regularly. All birds require specific amounts of nutrients and calcium is one of the most vital one. There are a lot of formulated pellet diets and seed mixes for nutrients. Such diets are more often than not given next to a choice of whole grains, seeds and fresh clean vegetables. Your vet can recommend a healthy grouping of meals for the particular kind of pet bird you have.
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Psittacine birds like parrots, cockatiels and budgerigars must not be caged all the time because their high brainpower benefits from exercise and freedom. However, trying to catch a flying bird is extremely difficult, except if you tire it out to the point of fatigue, which possibly will be damaging to it. It also depends on the species how much flight freedom it should be given. When a bird is in the air, make sure the windows are not just closed, but also covered, as birds can injure themselves by flying into clear glass. Wings can be clipped for short terms. Correctly clipped wings will let the bird fly down from a branch, but put off mid-air crash or easy escapes. Yet again, the suitability of this differ from specie to specie, so it is important to first seek advice from a veterinarian, and do not try clipping the wings yourselves unless you are skilled at it. Most birds are strong and they do not fall ill as often as other pets, but that does not mean they do not need veterinary checkups. You must take them to a veterinarian for regular checkups and annual vaccines if any needed. It would be great if you know an experienced avian expert, vets specializing in birds, in case of an emergency. It is very common to hear families complaining of their pet birds not living long enough in apartments here. Keeping small birds in apartments where air conditioner is switched on around the clock is not advisable. Birds need sufficient fresh air and temperature that suits their body type. Always provide good veterinary care to your pet regularly. With everything checked on your list, you should be celebrating your feathered friend’s longevity and watching them take the flight for life!
P E T S
SAY Name: Apollo Male, 2 years old Qualities: Apollo is a stubborn little pomeranian and likes things his way unless there’s a treat. He just can’t stay still! Owner: Sarah Amer
Name: Einstein 5 years old male Persian Qualities: Likes to stare at electronics and go to sleep. Owner: Haneea Abro
CHEESE!
Name: Yvanna Female, Albino Rabbit, 4 months old. Qualities: I rescued Yvanna from the street coincidentally on Easter! She is very friendly and soon became best friends with my pet cat. Owner: Fatme Chahine
Name: Madam Curie 5 years old girl, Persian Qualities: Likes to play with anything that moves and get pet. Owner: Haneea Abro
Name: Misha (left) & Contessa (right) Both Red Eared Slider girls, Misha is 6 months and Contessa 1.5 years old Qualities: Misha is very cute, shy and sensitive. Contessa is very friendly, playful and naughty. Contessa and Misha live happily together. Owner: Fatme Chahine
Name: CJ 7 years old boy Qualities: Extremely loving, likes home cooked food, is a typical lazy boy and talks too much. Is a giver, hunts for gifts for the owners every now and then. Owner: Sabih Jafri
Send us pictures of your furry friends with their details to be featured in this section on: mail@petigreemag.com
P E O P L E
TAKING CARE OF ANIMALS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
By Suha Jafri
Meet Wendy Brooks. A 42-year-old woman who lives on a farm in Hampshire, United Kingdom with her husband, two kids and four pets. Wendy and her family have three cats, namely Sooty, Toby and Bella and one dog named Bernie. Sooty is 13 years old, Toby is 7, Bella is 2 and Bernie is 9. Of her four pets, the two older ones suffer from ailments and health problems but Wendy and her family are devoted to taking care of their pets, who are very much a part of the Brooks household.
THE PETS AND THEIR HEALTH CONCERNS
Sooty, the 13-year-old feline tomcat was diagnosed with an over-active thyroid in September last year. He suffered from weight loss, fur loss and also had breathing troubles during that period. Now, he is on lifetime daily medication to keep the thyroid in control. Regular weight and bloods checks are carried out to ensure his wellbeing. Bernie, the big friendly dog has a longstanding history of health problems since he was three months old, when he had a hernia operation. He has also suffered continuously from ear problems since the age of three and even today requires extensive attention and care. When he was six years old, he was stung in his mouth, causing abnormal swelling to his head, forcing his eye lids to turn inwards and his eye lashes penetrating his eyes, leaving him blind in one eye. Like adding salt to the wounds, in this case more 40
PE O P L E literally, he was diagnosed with arthritis a year later at the age of seven. As a result, he also requires regular visits to the vet, and care at home.
is more severe than usual, he is often heard barking loudly and asks for love and affection from the family.
Toby, a long-haired tabby cat requires regular grooming to keep his fur from getting knots. He was rescued by the family and took a long time to adjust to the family and his new home. He and Sooty also had trouble adjusting to each other and only recently they have accepted one another. He was very nervous when he was brought home but time and affection has made Toby a very loving and affectionate animal.
IS CARING FOR AN ILL PET LIKE A FULL-TIME JOB?
Toby and the young Bella are healthy and well.
I asked Mrs Brooks if she felt as though catering to the special needs of her pets was like a full-time job for her. She believes that for anyone who has even one pet, must consider it a part-time or full-time job to look after the pet. Someone who chooses to bring a living thing into their household, must treat it is as they would treat their other family members. She added that if the pets are in need of extra medical attention, it definitely can feel like a full-time job.
HEALTHCARE ROUTINES FOR SOOTY AND BERNIE
WORDS OF WISDOM
Sooty is required to take lifetime medication on a daily basis to keep his thyroid in check. However, since he is an outgoing feline, it is also equally important and necessary to keep an eye on him in case something happens to him outside. Sooty was found unconscious in the home once but was immediately treated. Wendy and the family are worried about something happening to him outside and so take extra caution if and when he goes out, especially during the harsh UK winters.
Mrs Brooks said that if anyone is considering caring for or adopting a pet, regardless of whether or not the animal has special needs, they must be committed and prepared to dedicate their time and attention in caring for the animals. Of course a pet with special needs is going to require them to be patient, as they may take longer to adapt to their new surroundings. There is also the cost that needs to be taken into consideration as this can become high if your pet needs regular vet visits and daily medication.
Bernie on the other hand requires much more medical attention on a daily basis. Besides regular medication, he also needs daily cleaning of his eyes and ears, sometimes this process is supposed to be repeated three times a day. His arthritis also requires daily medication and his physical health needs monitoring as well. On days when his arthritis
Any animal should not be disowned because he or she has or may developed special needs over time. Take time and ask lots of questions about their daily requirements, as you may be surprised to learn that their needs might not be more than a normal pet, but the thing they would require most is love and care.
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U R B A N
P E T S
LoveIs Fun Everywhere
For those who belong to Millennial Generation, Bandai has brought their nostalgic childhood memories back on track. Welding the Japanese word for egg “tamago” and the English word “watch”, the world’s initial virtual pet Tamagotchi is back with a bang! By Zahra Reza
During the era where complex electronic gadgets did not exist, this innovative plastic won the hearts of children and adults alike. The popularity rose to a level where, even after almost 16 sweet years since debut, the demand is higher than ever. Following the demand, Bandai teamed up with Sync Beatz and decided to unveil an upgraded version of their beloved creation in the form of Tamagotchi L.I.F.E.
WHAT IS L.I.F.E?
The Love is Fun Everywhere (L.I.F.E) app is currently available to be downloaded for free in the US and Canada for now. It is compatible with Android and
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other smartphones. One of the most interesting features of this touch screen app is that it offers 2 modes of gameplay; the old school mode to give a nostalgic experience with the 16 bit pixelated display and the colourful mode with a much higher resolution. The infrared communication allows the pets to socialize with others, giving a perfect opportunity to find their soul mate and create a family that can last up to second, third or even fourth generation, if they are well taken care of. Customization is a must and to keep up with this trending fashion, adding personal touch ups to the eggs and LCD backgrounds is now also possible.
U R B A N Bored of playing with the same pet? Not to worry because the new storage facility allows the user to create a collection of various Tamagotchi characters within the same app. This is really good news for those who might be concerned of having to download several different apps in order to play with different pets.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Just how we lose interest in wearing the same outfit or visiting the same places again and again, the Tamagotchi are no different! L.I.F.E offers the golden opportunity to take your pet’s palate up a notch by offering a diverse range of meals, games and other social features that are updated on a frequent basis. Generation Z may not be familiar with the famous history of Tamagotchi but the new app will definitely draw attention. Children who complain of becoming bored easily, especially during summer, will have their attention fixated on the pet that cutely demands attention within a span of 5 minutes. What our parents endure every single day can be empathised by the children as a concrete reminder every now and then. Appropriate discipline is a hidden pointer behind the concept of raising a Tamagotchi. A well-mannered pet will ensure a trouble free journey and live longer while a naughty one could transform into a bandit or even a snake and not survive for long.
P E T S
WILL CHILDREN TODAY EASILY BEFRIEND A TAMAGOTCHI?
The news of nurturing virtual pets in this technologically advanced day and age brought diverse reactions amongst school children. Some were excited about the ease of having virtual pet-in terms of availability of proper accommodation, time and other expenses as compared to raising a real pet, while most of them had a different opinion. A high school student believed that these days, social media has become so commonly spread that face to face interaction with society and nature has become scarce. Having a virtual pet opposes the idea of feeling loved and having an actual sense of responsibility. Once a virtual pet dies, whether it was due to a careless mistake or otherwise, all it takes is a rest button to start the entire cycle again, but this is not the case with a living creature. The joy of having a real pet cannot be easily replaced. Regardless of who is happy with the revival of this adorable toy, Bandai accomplished their aspiration of generating a planet homing more affluent, lovable and colourful avatars. Tamagotchi has received a much warmer than anticipated welcome. The addition of a complete life cycle, raising a proper family and socializing with similar aged pets, and other features have increased the popularity scale amongst the faithful fans and the tech savvy.
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E V E N T S
PETIGREE AT ARTE SOUQ Yes we were there at the ARTE Souq on September Friday the 13th at The Time Square Centre. Thank you all for coming and making it a lucky day for us!
Paternal Instincts The evolution of fatherood shows shocking similarities in humans and animals and appears nothing like a mother’s connection to her baby. By Dr Walter Tarello
However, mammal fathers only gain the extra brain cells and new connections if they remain hands on in physical contact with the offsprings and experience their smells. Scientists still struggle to understand why new neurons originate in the brain of all mammals, including humans. Human fathers producing higher levels of oxytocin also called the ‘love hormone’ show stronger paternal instincts and motivation in the first months of their child’s life. Major changes occur in the metabolism of males during the pregnancy of the partner. They increase the fat deposits, as a response to higher levels of circulating prolactin, the same hormone that in females stimulates milk production. Male prolactin exists naturally in low level but tends to increase when the female is pregnant. It is the result of psychological empathy that connects mind and body through hormonal changes and can be traced thoughout all mammals. In the early days after birth, more changes occur in the brains of both the father and the newborn. In response to a baby’s cry, certain areas of the father’s brain become activated with a signature pattern quite different from that of non-parents who are hearing the same sounds.
Marmoset father monkeys constantly feed their youngsters during the first six months, but after that period the fathers start to ignore their adolescents, and keep the food for themselves. What causes this change is actually a decreased level of oxytocin. Where prolactin and oxytocin are both heavily associated with fatherhood interactions, the hormone that modulates stress response, corticosterone, has been blamed of creating structural changes in the mammalian father’s brain. Positive stressors such as exercise boost corticosterone levels. Therefore, we can easily conclude that fatherood is no less that an exercise in this matter.
Fatherly feelings are parallel but not identical to the baby and mother bond. A father’s brain produces new neurons in many areas, a process called neurogenesis, which is connected with learning new things. The neuronal cells form brand-new connection pathways, or circuits as well, in the days following the birth of the babies. Another set of neurons grow in the father’s hippocampus, a center for the memory in the brain, which probably helps to consolidate the features of their babies into longterm memory and forms a lasting bond. 45
N E W S
China shows off 14 baby pandas
September 24, 2013
jawbones as modern bony fishes and land vertebrates including ourselves,” said study co-author Min Zhu of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing. “The human jaw is quite directly connected to the jaw of this fish, and that’s what makes it so interesting.” The bones comprising the fish’s cheek and jaws appear essentially the same as those found in modern bony vertebrates, including humans, Zhu added. Because it boasts maxilla and mandible much like our own, the fish may be the earliest known creature with what we would recognize as a face.
A group of 14 panda cubs have been put on display in China. The 14 cubs were artificially bred in the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base in south-west China’s Sichuan province.
Source: National Geographic News Illustration: Brian Choo
Iran to send Persian cat into space as it ramps up plans for first human astronaut by 2018
Born between July and September this year, they are currently being raised in two delivery rooms at the base. The eldest, Meng Meng, is four times heavier than the youngest, Ya Yi.
September 16, 2013
The giant panda, an endangered species, is native to China, and biologists and zoologists in the world’s most populous country are working to make sure the adorable animals do not become extinct. Roughly 80% of the approximately 1,000 pandas left in the world live in Sichuan province, the province in which Chengdu is located.
Source: BBC News, Voice of America Photograph: National Geographic
Scientists have found the oldest face—and it’s a fish.
September 25, 2013
As Iran steps up its space programme with plans to send a human into space by 2018, the country has been using animals as test astronauts and may now turn to the distinctive, and locally named, Persian cat. The move comes seven months after Iran claimed it launched a monkey out of earth’s atmosphere and successfully returned it home, although the claims were questioned after photos appeared to show different monkeys before the launch and after it allegedly returned. Western countries see the plan as another possible step by Iran’s ambitious aerospace programme.
The 419-million-year-old fish fossil could help explain when and how vertebrates, including humans, acquired their faces - suggesting a far more primitive origin for this critical feature of our success, a new study says.
But a senior space program official, Mohammad Ebrahimi, tried to quash doubts over its success in sending a monkey into space by saying state media had mistakenly sent out a photo of an alternate monkey that was not used in the February launch. He insisted just one monkey, Pishgam or Pioneer, was sent on the 20-minute flight to a height of 72 miles and returned safely.
“Entelognathus primordialis is one of the earliest, and certainly the most primitive, fossil fish that has the same 46
Source: Daily Mail UK
C O L U M N
THE NERDY VET By: Chris Queen Android Animals
What effect will future technology have on our pets?
Like most people I can’t help but think about the future. However, being a self-confessed nerd, the future I envisage and ponder is one a little further on in timescale than what most normal, level-headed members of the population might. Being a vet as well means that I can’t help but imagine what the future holds for our pets, us as pet owners and members of my own profession. We have already seen incredible leaps forward in terms of medical care advances for our domestic pets, with the fact that many of our feline friends now routinely live into their late teens or beyond - unthinkable even 20 years ago. It is no secret that many of the technological advancements seen in pet, and indeed animal care, originate in human medicine and so keeping an eye on what is happening in medicine is a great place to get a feel for the future of pet healthcare. And the indications are that it is set to be a very interesting one indeed.
Robotic animals - is it even possible?
One idea for the future which I personally find fascinating is the prospect of animatronic, android animals, which not only look, sound, feel and act exactly like our living, breathing pets do now, but that seamlessly recreate the pet ownership experience without any of the inevitable downsides of keeping an animal at present. Imagine an adorable puppy or kitten that never ages, never gets sick, never feels the need to chuck up or pee all over your favourite rug, and never puts you through the pain and heartache of having to put them to sleep due to disease or old age. Many I am sure will instantly decry this vision as fanciful and undesirable. After all, who wants a robot pet? The fact that many owners of robotic vacuum cleaners appear to get emotionally attached to their electronic ‘pets’ suggests that if it looked like a dog, acted like a dog and to all intents and purposes was a dog then we wouldn’t actually be able to
help but form the kind of deep pet-owner bond that we currently do. Hang on a minute though..... If all our pets are robotic and never get sick or die then will there be any need for, well, me? Vets? I certainly think there will be fewer of us, and the role of a ‘small animal vet’ will change to be more akin to a highly trained and specialized electrical engineer, with a ‘visit to the vets’ being closer to an annual service, checking that our pets don’t need any hardware repairs or ironing out any software bugs that might cause what appear to be signs of clinical disease, such as odd behaviour. There will still be those who choose to continue owning ‘real’ pets and so they will still need to consult with a veterinarian. The fact that advances in medical technology will make such visits themselves markedly different to what we are used to now is perhaps the subject of an entirely separate article. Maybe all of this iRobot style thinking is just the odd musings of a nerdy vet and pet ownership will continue to be what it is now far into the future, but with the current and expected advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence, and the fact that we already have visions of the future in robots like Sony’s AIBO, which can recreate many of the classic behaviours seen in real puppies, it feels almost inevitable that some of us, in our capacity as pet owners, will choose to keep ‘silicon and metal’ in preference to ‘fur and feather.’ This nerd for one will be keeping his stethoscope up and listening closely. Chris is a vet, a self-confessed technology enthusiast and a nerd. This level of nerdiness has seen Chris develop his own award winning iPhone apps for UK dog and cat owners, in addition to writing on a range of technology matters relevant to pets and the veterinary profession. He made the move out to Dubai in early 2013, plying his trade as a small animal vet. When he is not writing, thinking nerdy thoughts or treating animals, he can be found training for and competing in triathlons, kite surfing or jumping from planes in the interest of fun.
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H E A LT H
&
W E L L N E S S
GROOMER HAS IT! TIPS BY: SAMER ALOGIDI POOCH PARLOUR PETS SALON LLC
Nails
Long nails are more than unsightly. They also present a potential health problem. Unattended nails may grow long enough to cause the entire tendon and the bone structure of the foot and pastern to break down. The nail of the dog is very strong and has a tendency to grow in a slight downward curve. On medium to small breeds of dogs, the nail tends to grow in a circle, and, if left unattended, back into the footpad. From a Dog Stylist standpoint, nails that are too long make it all but impossible to trim a nicely shaped styled foot because the long nails alter the round lines of the foot.
How often should nails be trimmed?
That depends on the dog and its lifestyle, but most pets benefit from having their nails trimmed every 4 to 6 weeks. A dog that constantly walks on hard surfaces will naturally wear down his nails. Some dogs may never require nail trimming. Professional dog stylists, however, work on housedogs mostly, that are rarely exposed to environment that will naturally wear down the nail. When cutting the nail it is important to know how far you can cut. If the soft sensitive underlying flesh is exposed “quick” the dog will be in discomfort. If the nail bleeds, which means that the blood vessel has been cut, the dog will be in great pain and shock, which will probably make him afraid of all future nail trimmings.
Pads
Most dogs, other than the really fine, short-coated dogs, grow an excessive amount of fur between the pads of the feet. Clipping the coat short in this area can minimize the amount of dirt a pet tracks into the house, if there is long coat present between the foot pads. If the dog walks on wet soil, mud, or moist sand, if there is high humidity in the atmosphere, small ponds, or wet grass after which then the dog walks on sandy areas
or soil, dry mud balls cling to the foot pads and cause great discomfort to an active pet. Knots or mats can form easily in that area, and if not attended to can cause pain, in humans it would be equivalent to you carrying a pebble inside your shoe constantly. From a Dog Stylist standpoint, untrimmed footpads indicate an unfinished groom job, and a stylist who ignores the finer points of our beloved craft.
How often should the pads be clipped? Pads should usually be clipped every four to six weeks if previously done properly.
Some breeds require the top area of the foot to be trimmed also in addition to the pads. All Spaniel breeds must have their feet clear of any access hair and the “fingers” exposed and clear. Any hair or coat underneath, on top or in between the pads must be removed. The same goes also for Labradors, retrievers, German Shepherds and other breeds.
Call: +971 50 566 51 56 (I\ +OHIP»Z ÄYZ[ ZHSVU ZWLJPÄJHSS` KLZPNUH[LK MVY KVN NYVVTPUN PU 4)A >L JH[LY [V HSS IYLLKZ VM JHUPUL LTWSV`PUN O\THUL WLYZVUHSPaLK [LJOUPX\LZ [V THRL `V\Y KVN HZ JVTMVY[HISL JVU[LU[ WYL[[` HZ WVZZPISL /LHK :[`SPZ[ :HTLY PZ H KVN SV]LY KVN V^ULY HUK <2 JLY[PÄLK KVN NYVVTLY @poochAUH
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CAT IN THE CITY Grooming Terrors By Ginger
So I passed another day by hiding under the bed when my human was about to take me for grooming. Lets see how many more times can I dodge the bullet. Just five more minutes and I will go out from under the bed. Hopefully by then the savage groomers would be closed. I need to plan my next escape; as soon as I am sure what time my human servant will reschedule the appointment for tomorrow. Look at her apologising to them over the phone over and over again, where I feel I should be the one she should be seeking for apology. Today was difficult. I had to really fight to not go into the carrier. A few hisses and scratches, and I escaped. Now what can she possibly do tomorrow? Good thing she didn’t close the door to my bedroom because she cant reach for me under my double bed! I hate the fact that she does not even pity the stupid puppy eyes I make. I try my best to look adorable and like that overly obedient, poor little, I-am-your-slave creature her friend has. He doesn’t even say no to grooming! It kills me when I see how “Batman,” that’s what they call him, obediently wags his tail and walks with his human to the groomers every time she wants him to! What a clichéd name. He cant even save his own life from the clutches of that barbaric savage who wants to throw us all in water whenever he gets a chance and rub some creamy liquid, that smells worse than my litter box, all over us. If humans are so concerned about “cleanliness” they should just relax! Water is not clean! I have to later spend hours just brushing my coat over and over again till the weird smell of that liquid wears off and I smell like me again.
Don’t even get me started on the creepy instruments that groomer holds. They call them brushes, clippers and scissors. I wish I could one day use them on these humans so that they would understand how stupid brushing and clipping nails is. I love my hair the way it is and I don’t understand why would anyone remove knots? Come on, don’t you get attached to things that have been with you for sometime? It’s a part of me that they cut off and then they call me ruthless! I don’t even want to comment on the hideous look they call “the lion cut.” Do I look like a boy to you? Why would you give me a lion cut? Now, does it mean I start spraying around the house? I do admit I feel light and good after a few hours of the cut but why can’t it be called the lioness cut instead? Anyhow, my human is offering me treats, should I go or not? Seems to be a trap…I am sure she rescheduled the appointment. What to do??? She has my favourite treats in her hand. The smell is killing me…I want one now! This is torture! Can I quickly go and grab it from her hand without her noticing? Lets give it a try… Ok so she is just being nice…she is giving me more treats. Maybe she is just apologising for wanting to take me to the groomers. Uh oh! She just shut my bedroom door and is coming towards me. It was a trap! Where do I go now? I need a new hiding place. I should RUN! Ginger Eyes is an 8 years old cat that loves herself a bit too much. She thinks she is the best thing that could have happened to the human who she currently owns
P E T S
HOROSCOPES By Zainab Khan
Aries (March 21 – April 19) Perfecting an art takes time, dear Aries. Do not get anxious and bite all those claws off. Keep it together and behave. Hissing back at your person will only mean lesser treats (Aren’t those delicious?). Be patient and you just might get that pat on the back you are working so hard for.
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) It is summer time, dear Libra, and it is perfectly okay to be a little off balance. Scaring off passerbys by barking at them and baring those fangs will not do you any good. It may cause more trouble if your human finds out (yikes!). Just be gentle and keep the peace like you always do.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20) Being self-absorbed will not get you far. Learn from your mates. A yummy treat may be in store for all of you. Do not greedily gobble up all of it and lick the bowl clean. Let your furry friends join in the fun. Sharing is caring.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) Love thy neighbor. Even more when their humans got them new toys! Summer time means longer days and you do have a lot of time to kill. Bring them one of your treats to show you mean well. Playing catch seems more fun when you have more friends to play with.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20) Try to spend more time indoors to avoid the scorching heat. Keep yourself hydrated, even if you have to scratch at your persons door, while they are taking their afternoon nap. You do not want to end up at the masked humans store, where all the shiny objects only prick and hurt.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 Dec. 21) Its alright if the hot weather making you lazy and unproductive. Cuddle up to your person and purr gently while you’re with them. A few meows might make them feel like you need a break too. If you succeed, you will be rewarded. Possibly with a day at the spa.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22) A newbie is expected to come swishing its tail and end up getting all the cuddles. Be attentive and beware. It may want to steal your limelight. Shine those claws and be ready to show everyone who the boss is.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) You may experience a disturbance in the routine. Everyone knows you are laidback most of the time, but sometimes you need to stomp that paw and woof authoritatively to show those around you that the rules must not be broken. Demand your fresh water and full bowl of tuna.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) You may notice your tank mates have been a tad bit edgy lately. Take charge. Try and entertain by showing them a new swimming technique. Or hide behind the plastic plant and let them seek. All they need is a little distraction.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb 19) Things are looking as bright as the summer sun for you. New opportunities may be knocking at your kennel. Keep sniffing around and be attentive. Keep an eye out for new grocery bags. That’s when you know your human definitely got you something new. Be ready to be surprised!
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) Love is in the air! It may seem like taking a walk in this heat is a bad idea, Virgo, but you do not want to miss this opportunity. Look your best and dress to impress. Keep that muzzle up and charm the collars off of all those who notice you.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Two is company, three is a party! You are feeling energetic and you want someone to take notice. Get the Frisbee out and wave it in your persons face. Pounce about swishing your tail. They may notice and you may have one hell of a summer getting all the attention you want.
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