Pet Prints July/August 2023

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I hope our readers are all snuggled up with a pooch or a pet for this winter edition, which is packed with great articles on pet care and education.

In this anniversary issue we feature the wonderfully talented Dr Owen, who hasn’t only mastered the art of painting on canvas, but also with literature. He is a wonderfully inspiring individual who puts his passion into his work as both pathologist and artist. His inspiring and thought-provoking conversation starters are showcased locally as well as internationally. Pop on over to page 10 to find out more about his art and K-9 companions.

For our young readers and their parents, we have a special feature called "Kids and Kittens." We explore the unique bond between children and their feline friends, shedding light on the benefits of growing up with a cat and providing tips on responsible pet ownership.

If you're in the mood to discover some fascinating facts about the animal world, be sure to check out "Fascinating Frog Facts." From

The Project Earth Mission

their mesmerizing life cycles to their incredible adaptations, we dive into the intriguing world of these amphibians and unravel their captivating secrets.

In our "Feral Cat Project" feature, we delve into the efforts to address the challenges faced by feral cat populations and highlight the importance of trap-neuter-return programs in promoting their well-being.

Finally, we understand the deep anxiety that comes with a missing pet. That's why we've put together "Top Tips on What to Do if Your Pet Goes Missing." With expert advice and practical strategies, we aim to equip you with the necessary tools to act swiftly and effectively, increasing the chances of a happy reunion with your beloved pet.

We hope this issue brings you joy, knowledge, and inspiration, while nurturing the loving relationships we share with our pets.

Each person has the power to make a difference in this world. As a magazine focused on animal welfare, we firmly believe in this statement. Our passion for animals has taken us on a whirlwind adventure and we are proud to say that we have been actively involved in paying vet bills, donating food and shelter and even volunteering our time to help the animal welfare organizations that work tirelessly to fight for animals. You can be part of this project by supporting us. The bigger our network, the more animals we will be able to help.

“The universe does not give you what you ask for with your thoughts; it gives you what you ask for with your actions.” Dr Steve Maraboli

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ISSUE 3, 2023

EDITORIAL

Marise Burger

Gerhard Maritz

Nelda Cilliers

Gaironesa Atkins

Kareem Abdel-Rahim

Nadia Bruiners

PHOTOGRAPHY

Emma O’Brien Photography

PRINTING

Optic Printers

CONTRIBUTORS

Get-to-Know Dr Suzette Greubel - Greenside Animal Hospital

Top Tips on what to do if your pet goes missing - Bryony van Niekerk

The Dog Mum - Estaschia Cossadianos

Pets Need a Break Too - Brian Berkman

Kids and Kittens - Jenni Davies

Blockhous trails - Kiarin Naidoo

Dr Travis Gray - Tygerberg Animal Hospital

COPYRIGHT:

Marise Burger

071 382 7795

All rights reserved. Pet Prints is published by Umsebeni Emhlabeni (Pty) Ltd t/a Project Earth. All profits go towards assisting non-profit animal welfare organisations in need. The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this magazine. While every effort is made to ensure editorial and factual accuracy, no responsibility is accepted for any errors.

Igrew up in Pretoria, and attended Laerskool Totiusdal (Primary School) and Hoërskool Oos-Moot (High School). I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a medical professional, and at university I discovered that veterinary science was the way to combine my passion for medicine, science and animals. After qualifying as a vet, I moved to Johannesburg with my husband Greg and, from our small flat in Morningside, used the yellow pages to find locum work at veterinary practices not too far from home (my old Mini Cooper was on her ‘last wheels’ and I couldn’t chance long-distance travel). This was how I found Greenside Animal Hospital, I started working here, first, as a locum vet in 2002, and then signing on permanently in 2003. It’s been nearly 20 years, and I am now also the co-owner of the practice with Dr Joubert Viljoen.

Our state-of-the-art veterinary hospital started out in 1943 as one of the earliest private practices in Johannesburg. In 2014 it was completely rebuilt with the aim of being a ‘green building’ with a very low carbon footprint, and we are very proud of our energy-saving principles, while still using the best technology and practices to provide world-class care for our beloved furry patients.

I get out of bed every day for two things: my family (Greg and I have two children aged 14 and 11), as well as the mystery of who and what will come through Greenside Animal Hospital’s doors.

Get to Know from Dr Suzette Greubel

Every day brings different challenges that we are tasked with solving. I am passionate about internal veterinary medicine (the physician part of veterinary medicine), and investigating and solving the puzzle of my patients’ ailments. It helps to be part of such a fantastic team of veterinarians, nurses, support staff and receptionists (my work family) whose skill, compassion and love for what they do is an inspiration.

At Greenside Animal Hospital, our vision is “Sharing the Care”. We understand it is a collective effort with our patients’ owners. Most of our clients understand this important dynamic between owner, pet and vet, and one of the best parts of being a vet is experiencing the incredible bond between people and their pets, and being able to help when their pets need veterinary care. I love working with dogs and cats (especially the challenge of handling the difficult, grumpy cats!), and occasionally I also help my dad with his Bonsmara cattle, which I find very rewarding. My own four-legged family consists of two German shorthaired pointers, Gunny and Aero, and two cats, Zoomie and Dobby, who came into the practice as rescued kittens.

My hobbies include wildlife photography and camping, things that our beautiful South Africa offers plenty of opportunities to do. I have lived and worked outside of South Africa and, despite all the challenges, problems and frustrations our country faces, there’s no place like home, and no people like South Africans!

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FROM OUR READERS

Carley

I am Carley, I may be small in size but I have large amounts of energy! I have to be this way, I have a very important job to do. I am the alarm for our home, I take care of the property, and make sure that no scary creatures enter. I am the protector. I guard against friendly faces, little mice and anyone who talks to my humans. I need to be around my people all the time, just to make sure they’re ok, so I always follow them around and make sure I am close by in case of scary intruders. I actually am a softy on the inside, but please don’t tell anyone because I have a reputation to uphold.

m aui

Maui is our 3-month-old big baby boy. He loves to eat, and enjoys a good cuddle!

– Erin and Wrenelle

powder

This is Powder, and she is 2 years old. Her morning routine starts with a ‘meow’ and a knock on the door with her soft paw. She loves playing ‘soccer’ with her tiny ball, and tag with the family. She also loves new things, even if she’s cautious at first, and just a ray of sunshine in our lives.

- Beatrice Bruiners

Meet Jack, a 7 year-old Jack Russell. He absolutely loves life, and his sister is his best friend. Playing tug-of-war is his favourite, and he loves sunbathing in the Karoo sun. He might be small, but he makes sure his sister knows that he's the one in charge. Always ready to chase something and have fun!

- Johlene Stassen

mila

Mila is a rescue from Roars4Paws, and is 8 months old. She loves her toys (especially Piggy), and loves sprinting from one end of the house to the other. She enjoys belly rubs, and won't say no to a treat. She has 6 other siblings: Timmy and Krissy (doggies), and Ferris, Finn, Lilly and Missy (kitties). – Anchelin Hutchison

lady

Meet Lady, a 2 year-old American Staffy. She might be big, but she's a puppy at heart! Her days are spent chasing her brother around, playing tug-of-war, chewing toys and sunbathing. She's very independent, but loves receiving tons of love and cuddles. Definitely the baby of the family.''

- Johlene Stassen

Hi there, I am Snoetie, and I was adopted 14 years ago. I am staying with my Gogo, and together we live and love retirement!

-

Cecile

Kennedy and Snoetie

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Pathology Painting with Dr Owen Dr Owen

Some people colour with pencils, others use paint… then there are those who have the unique talent to paint with words. I count myself lucky to know a person like this. Owen Wiese, also known as Dr Owen, is a unique human who has been the inspiration and comfort behind many women who have tried to wade their way through life. His understanding and wisdom seem to come effortlessly and paints the most beautiful pictures of self-acceptance and support for women’s mental health.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA O’BRIEN

WORDS BY MARISE BURGER

Most people will also remember Owen from a television show called, Dokterdokter, where he was a presenter answering patients’ questions. Currently studying and working in the world of pathology this talented artist and dedicated doctor, is a remarkable individual who has found a unique balance between the worlds of science and art. In a recent interview, he shared fascinating insights into his life, his family, and his passion for painting.

Owen’s passiOn fOr painting started shOrtly after lOck dOwn. “painting and art changed my life! while studying fOr an exam I realised I needed a change in scenery. I walked past an art shOp and the rest is histOry!

This was two years ago. Since then, I developed my style creating geometric abstraction and intuitive abstraction art.

Art literally changed the way I approach life. In chemical Pathology left brain power is required, but I’m a creative. So, art caters for my right brain and creative side.”

Interestingly, Owen noticed parallels between his profession and his art. The pieces he creates respond to his experiences, reflecting both his studies and his personal journey. Geometric abstraction often emerges when he is focused on his studies, requiring logical thinking and precision. On the other hand, intuitive abstraction flows naturally when he needs to let loose and express himself freely.

It is a delightful coincidence that his two careers, one rooted in science and the other in creativity, provide him with immense fulfillment and satisfaction.

Amidst the laughter, Owen recounted a mischievous incident involving Betsie. Apparently, she once destroyed one of his textbooks, leaving him both amused and exasperated.

Own shares his home with his husband, Rohan and his three K-9 daughters, Rentia, Annemarie, and Betsie. Rentia and Annemarie, both turning seven this year, joined their family only four days apart. Annemarie, the matriarch of the household, is described as a quiet yet authoritative presence who effectively manages the household. Rentia, on the other hand, possesses a kind and gentle nature, always aiming to please.

As for Betsie, the youngest of the three, she is a spirited and playful city girl, despite her health condition, pulmonary artery stenosis.

Amidst the laughter, Owen recounted a mischievous incident involving Betsie. Apparently, she once destroyed one of his textbooks, leaving him both amused and exasperated. It seems that Betsie's free-spirited nature occasionally leads to some unexpected adventures.

entia,

While each of his doggydaughters has unique qualities, Owen also highlighted a few distinct quirks. Annemarie, for instance, has claimed a spot on the sofa where neither Rentia nor Betsie

Additionally, she has a knack for demanding attention, often resorting to playful antics to ensure she remains the center of their universe. Betsie, true to her free-spirited nature, takes an early evening nap, unaffected by the household's activities.

the family's n enthusiast, ws featuring animals. her gram is an r pet insurance, which never elicit excitement

sO, what wOuld a BulldOg Or gOlden retriever dO fOr a living if they had the chance yOu ask? well, rentia, with her lOve fOr drama and televisiOn, wOuld undOuBtedly make a fantastic sOap actress.

Art literally changed the way I approach life.

Owen J Wiese is an exemplary individual, effortlessly balancing the demands of being a doctor and an artist. With his keen eye for both detail and abstraction, he navigates the realms of science and art, enriching his life and the lives of those around him. As he continues to study pathology and explore his artistic endeavors, Owen embodies the harmonious coexistence of two seemingly disparate worlds.

For more on Owen’s art and shows you can check out his website, owenjwiese. com.

on what to do if your

Top Tips Pet Goes Missing

It’s 21:00 on 2 October 2022 and I get a message from our pet sitter: Harri (our disabled cat who never leaves the property) is missing. They can’t find her anywhere. Immediately, every worst-case scenario flood into my mind and I feel absolutely powerless. Never mind the fact that it’s pitch-black outside and the chances of spotting my mostly black and white cat is slim, but we were also out of town visiting the In-laws so not being able to physically do anything was torture.

This is every pet owner’s worst nightmare and not one we like to think about. Maybe you think this is something that won’t happen to your pet – they are too well behaved / comfortable to run away, or your property is secure. But the reality is that accidents do happen and as responsible and loving pet parents, you have to take precautions and be prepared in the event that things go awry.

This is where we were so incredibly lucky. My amazing friends immediately went over to help my pet sitter search my house, canvas the estate until midnight and print and put up posters. Believe me when I say I put into practice each and every one of the tips below. Now, I can’t say whether it was a culmination of all the efforts or if the universe heard my prayers, but this story has a happy ending because after two very stressful days, little Miss Harri casually strolled into the house at 4 am wondering what the fuss was about.

So, in case the unthinkable happens, use the tips below to help ensure that no time is wasted in getting your pet back home.

Prevention

First and foremost, ensure that your property is secure. You are going to have to really think like your pet here. Can they squeeze through the gap in the palisade? Use that beautiful rock feature to launch themselves over the wall? Rather be overly cautious when escape-proofing your garden than run the risk of them being able to get out.

Also make sure your pets have collars with ID tags and are microchipped. This is so important as their collars can come off (especially with cats who are masters at removing them).

You can also invest in GPS trackers. But do your research because some only have a limited range.

Early alert

The moment you realize your pet is missing, get the word out. Do not wait, hoping they will just turn up. I read a statistic that there is a 90% chance of finding your pet within the first 12 hours. Post detailed messages with a clear picture on all social media platforms including local community groups, estate WhatsApp groups and local security forums.

Call all vets and shelters in your area and go and visit your local SPCA. They are inundated with dogs and cats on a daily basis, so simply placing a call to them is not enough.

Get canvasing

Gather all your friends and family, form a search party, and canvas the area. Chances are your pet is scared and hiding so search under bushes, under parked cars and in all nooks and crannies. While looking, call your pet by name and stop ever so often and listen for any meows or barks. When Harri was MIA, I sent my friends 30 second voice recordings of me calling her name. A familiar voice may have been what drew her home.

The best times to go canvasing is usually early morning or just before dusk when it’s quiet and not many people and cars around.

Posters

Create a ‘missing pet’ poster. Keep it simple and include a brief description, any distinguishing features/markings, a clear picture, and their name so people can call them by name if they encounter them. If you are able, offer a reward. Place these posters everywhere! Around your neighbourhood, vet rooms, school bulletin boards, in post boxes. Go wild.

Place a sign outside your front door/gate detailing that your pet is missing and that they live there. Your pet may have strayed not too far from home and a Good Samaritan could pick them up and drive/walk around the neighbourhood trying to find their home. Having a sign outside would alert the person to where your pet lives.

Leave a scent

We all know dogs and cats have an amazing sense of smell, far superior to ours. Place your dog’s bed, blanket or favourite toy outside your front door or entrance gate and for cats, you can use their litter box (used litter is a must). In doing this, your missing pet may be able to pick up the familiar scent and find their way back home.

Provide access

If possible, and if it won’t allow your other pets to get out, leave your gate/ sliding door/ window open for your pet to be able to come in. At any time, your pet could come home and then turn around and leave again if they cannot gain access to the property.

Bryony Van Niekerk

Mom of dogs; slave to cats. An environmentalist who loves travelling, baking and going on adventures with her dogs, Linc and Oliver.

To be a part of the chaos, follow @misadventures_of_ollie

Our cats have a curfew and are locked in at night, so while Harri was missing, we put all the cats in one room that was secured and left both the front and back doors open.

Call in the professionals

Sometimes you need expert help. Maybe your pet is on chronic medication, is disabled, or needs weekly treatments. In this instance, time is crucial, and you may need to hire the services of a pet detective.

We enlisted the help of Healthy Hounds, an organization that has trained dogs to sniff out and track missing pets. Since Harri has a very bad limp, never leaves the garden and is therefore not street smart, we wanted to find her as quickly as possible. The tracking dogs never actually got to do their thing because two hours before they were set to arrive, Harri came home, but this organization does have a very high success rate.

Don’t give up

It can be disheartening if your pet is missing for an extended period of time, but never lose hope. So many pet parents are reunited with their animals months and even years later. My friend’s cat pitched at our house (she used to be our roommate) three months after she went missing! So, keep the faith and keep searching because you never know.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

No matter the breed or size, you want your puppy to have the best possible food in order for them to be able to grow the way they are supposed to and build a good foundation for nutrition. Whether you are a brand spankin’ new dog owner or it is your fifth, you are constantly bombarded with copious amounts of products that are “ideal” or “the best” for your dog.

When we collected Echo, she was sent home with a small sample bag of food that the breeder was feeding them so we could mix it into her new food as to not upset her tummy too much. It is a safe way to slowly introduce new food to all dogs. With all of my research, I was always a fan of this specific brand, brand A, but I was also torn between the choices of a” healthier” and more “natural” diet for Echo. I finally decided to try out a different brand of puppy food,

brand B - Puppy because it had so many good reviews and people who were on it loved it and so did their dogs.

It was not long after that Echo’s tummy protested. She loved the food a lot and I honestly thought she was just getting used to her new food. Then, out of the blue, Echo didn’t want to eat her kibble anymore and this was around week two of having her on brand BPuppy. It hit me like a ton of bricks that she was trying to tell me, “Mum, this food gives me the runny poops ” – I finally understood her and got her brand A - Giant Puppy. I had to feed my baby bear and it was the easiest thing I could think of as it was what the breeder was feeding her. Echo’s tummy settled within a few hours of being on the brand A - Giant Puppy food and I was relieved.

The thing is that there isn’t a one size fits all when it comes to feeding your dog. People with kids know that everyone has something to say and will tell you what’s better

BY ESTASCHIA COSSADIANOS

for your kids. At the end of the day, you as a parent need to make the decision on what is healthy and wholesome for your family dynamic and lifestyle no matter what everyone else is preaching. You need to tone down all the good advice or you will go crazy. Now, this also applies to your dog/s. You as the pet parent need to take note of what your pet thrives on and agrees with them best, no matter what the newest craze is or even at times recommendations from your Vet. For instance, our Vet loves brand C, but it gave Echo the stinkiest poops and farts that I could smell two blocks away. Nee dankie! I made the decision to keep her on brand A - Giant puppy, until she was a year old as it is what worked for us back then, despite our Vet’s recommendation – please note, listen to your Vet in certain situations regarding your dog’s health. I am simply pointing out that not everything that comes highly recommended will work for you and your family.

Let’s fast forward a year into Echo’s life where I tried following the raw feeding lifestyle because of all the benefits it was promoted to have for your dog. I was super excited to feed her all those fresh meats and veggies, just to have her sniff at it and look at me like, “You eat it.” – Right! I kept trying to mix it with her food and feed her in small amounts but my Berner wasn’t having it. Okay so, back to regular kibble we go. I personally love the raw food diet for dogs and I wish she took to it, but sadly that wasn’t the case, so we switched her back onto brand A.

A month after we moved her back onto her regular brand A diet, she began shaking her head a lot. I kept checking her ears for possible infections or ticks etc, but there was nothing at all, so I took her to the Vet and we were told it was likely a food allergy. Great. It was incredibly frustrating to figure out what the allergy could be as we had to remove everything out of her diet and just start from basics and keep adding piece by piece until something set off her itchy ears again. She never had any itchy skin or red marks, she only got itchy ears that she would

shake and scratch at constantly. The culprit finally revealed itself and it was chicken c’mon!

Not everybody is aware that the majority of dog foods are made from chicken in some way and chicken derivatives. Now I wish that the raw food diet had worked when we tried it originally as it would’ve been so ideal, but anyway, I was on the hunt again for kibble that was a single based protein and didn’t have a mix of wheat or any kind of poultry at all. The search was on. Again, you have brand B that is single protein based but I knew she couldn’t have that as it didn’t agree with her stomach previously. I loved brand

B, especially as they are proudly South African, but I couldn’t put Echo’s system through that again. Finally we received a breakthrough with brand D. I was a bit sceptical at first as it has the exact same recipe as brand B, but I had to try it, so I bought a teeny bag to test. Winner, winner non-chicken dinner, baby. Echo loved her food. It was instantaneous how her stomach and overall health flourished. Her poops were tiny and solid (as we know by now, this is a great thing as it means the dog absorbs more of the nutrients and the poops are teeny) and the odour factor was cut in half. Hallelujah! My wallet wasn’t too happy about the cost of her food –but I had to cut a few things out of my budget to make it work. I mean, her coat was shiny and flowy and she looked like a Vogue model.

Basically, not everything will work for your dog. Your dog is also its own individual and has their own likes and dislikes. Learn the difference and cater to it because in the end, they are our family, always and a happy doggo breeds a happy owner.

"You as the pet parent need to take note of what your pet thrives on and agrees with them best, no matter what the newest craze is or even at times recommendations from your Vet".

TNR

WHAT IS TRAPNEUTER-RETURN?

TTrap-Neuter-Return is the humane and effective approach for stray and feral cats. Cats are humanely trapped and taken to a veterinarian to be sterilised and receive a rabies vaccination. They are also ear tipped which shows they have been sterilised as part of a TNR program. After recovery, the cats are returned to their home – their colony, outdoors.

Grounded in science and years of research worldwide, TNR stops the breeding cycle of cats and improve their overall health - a female isn't constantly feeding kittens and depleting her body, undernourished kittens aren’t born already compromised and the males are no longer fighting to mate and getting injured. They also don't have the urge to roam further afield which lead the colony to settle. Additionally, TNR

improves their relationships with the people who live near them – no more yowling at night and no more spraying everywhere. Over time and with the natural passing away of animals, the size of colonies decreases. We call two or more feral / stray cats living together a colony.

It is a fact that the removal and killing of outdoor cats, that has been tried for decades, is never ending, futile and a waste of money.

Cats gravitate to certain areas as there is usually a food source there – be it mice and rats or human food waste. They will fight for that territory and keep others away. Thus, the removal just creates a vacuum and new cats move in which of course starts the breeding cycle all over again.

Since feral cats are not adoptable and it's extremely stressful for the cat to be enclosed, they are put to sleep when handed into many shelters, so TNR truly saves lives. Small kittens are uplifted and where possible, if they are found young, can be tamed and could then be responsibly homed.

Plus, if microchipped, a lost cat, maybe living feral for months or years, can be reunited with their owner and what joy that is.

Next time: What to do if an unfamiliar cat shows up on your property.

TNR stops the breeding cycle of cats and improve their overall health

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Kittens + kids

BY JENNI DAVIES

Adorable baby-and-kitten pictures and heart-melting time lapse videos of cherubic children growing up with their feline friends greet us with every visit to the internet. Not only is this a heartwarming combination, but, according to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, there are many benefits to children being raised with pets. “Developing positive feelings about pets can contribute to selfesteem and self-confidence. Positive relationships with pets can aid in the development of trusting relationships with others [and] also help in developing nonverbal communication, compassion, and empathy.” In addition, research shows that a child’s continued exposure to dogs and cats from foetal development onward seems to reduce the incidence of developing food allergies.

Sounds good, you think. Kittens are cute, don’t need much space, are less work as dogs… they’ll make the perfect pets for my kids! Right? Well, maybe. Cats can be fantastic companions for children, but kittens and very young children don’t always make the best match, and felines aren’t necessarily the easy-peasy pets people think they’ll be. In many cases, the dream turns out to be less ‘good idea’ and more ‘good grief, what were we thinking’. In fact, so often does this go awry (leading to animals being returned) that many animal welfares won’t even adopt kittens under a certain age to homes with very young children. Often child-friendly cats of over a year are a far better option.

That doesn’t necessarily mean kittens are an absolute no-no, but it is a decision requiring careful consideration, particularly for first-time kitten owners and/or firsttime parents. Here’s what you should bear in mind – and what to do if you’ve got your heart set on a kitten companion for your children.

Kittens need loads of work to become welladjusted family members

The first 6 months of a kitten’s life are absolutely crucial for their social development. If you don’t put everything in throughout that time, you may not end up with that best friend you're dreaming of. Families with small children are generally already super busy driving them everywhere, having playdates, going to school, etc. This means that you may not have much spare time to socialise and train a kitten, which needs to take place throughout the day. And an unsocialised cat does not make a good children’s companion.

Children can hurt kittens

Kittens, as tough as they may act, are actually really fragile. They are, after all, just tiny infants, albeit independent ones. Your kids may not intend to hurt any animal, but young children often don’t know their own strength or can be a little uncoordinated. In their eagerness, they may grab, pull, pinch, or fall on kittens, injuring or even killing them, or causing them to lash out in defence. They may also find it hard to

follow rules regarding handling the kittens.

Kittens can hurt children

Kittens have super-sharp teeth and claws (which they often haven’t yet figured out how to retract). Scratching, pouncing, biting, kicking, etc. are completely normal behaviours as they learn to balance, play, hunt, and socialise. They also chew and bite as they’re teething, which can go on until they are over 6 months of age. So, even during normal play, they could hurt a child and, if they’re afraid, overwhelmed or hurt, kittens do lash out. Older children generally understand and manage this, but younger or developmentally challenged children may not. Best case, they’ll get a fright; worst case, they could end up with scars or a lifelong fear of cats (and, invariably, the kitten gets returned to the shelter, often never to be adopted because it’s been mis-labelled as ‘aggressive’).

Children can overwhelm kittens

Children who love animals can be so enthusiastic that they inadvertently overwhelm, overstimulate, or frighten a kitten. For example, they tend to want to grab, hug, kiss, and chase them to play with or cuddle them, or shout loudly or run around in excitement. Although this is normal for growing children, it’s not something the average cat enjoys, and kittens may be terrified – so much so that your kitten lashes out and hurts your child, or even grows into a cat which does not like or avoids children.

Veterinary costs

If you adopt your kitten from an animal welfare, it will likely be vaccinated up to the date of adoption and, hopefully, sterilisation will be included in the adoption fee. Any veterinary care thereafter is your responsibility. If you adopt an 8-weekold kitten, this means you still have 2 – 3 rounds of vaccinations to go at your cost, all of which can run into the thousands. Then there’s food, parasite treatments, bedding, and so on. Growing families already have a fair amount of outgoing expenses, so this is something to consider.

Your child’s age and stage

Consider your child’s age and individual maturity level and abilities. Can they remain calm? Are they responsible and gentle? Or are they impatient, rough, or impulsive? How coordinated are they (for example, a child just learning to walk may not do well with a kitten underfoot)? Do they listen to your guidance and can they be taught proper kitten-handling? How much responsibility are they willing and able to take on in caring for the kitten? Will they tolerate a kitten not wanting to play? If you have more than one child, will each child want its own kitten or can they share? How will you handle potential issues? These are all things to be considered in advance.

Fear not; this doesn’t mean that young families cannot adopt a kitten or cat. There are millions of families around the world which do so successfully. Each home is different, so, depending on your family and how much time and work you’re able to put in, things could work out beautifully. It’s all up to you.

To get you started Tips

ALWAYS supervise young children around any animal.

This is very important to ensure everyone’s safety.

Adopt more than one kitten

They teach each other how to be cats and keep themselves busy, test out their claws and teeth on each other instead of on you, and can find comfort in each other if they feel overwhelmed.

Consider older

animals. Consider a slightly older kitten, say 10 - 14 weeks, rather than 6 - 9 weeks. They're a little more robust and will have had an extra couple of weeks to gain social skills. Alternatively, go for an adult cat over 1 year of age which is known to be child-friendly. Remember: cats can easily live 15 to 20 years, so your child may still have them in their lives for a long time.

Choose wisely.

You’re looking for relaxed, confident, friendly kittens which have been in a busy foster home or reputable animal shelter with lots of visitors so that they’ve had plenty of exposure to different people and animals. The kittens should happily approach you, want to interact and play, and not scare easily; kittens that are very shy or run away still make great pets – but not for homes with young children.

Think about health. If you have an immunocompromised child, check with your doctor if having a cat is viable and, if you decide to go ahead, be extra careful about things like ringworm. If

you’re concerned about allergies, try taking them to visit friends with cats or, if your child tends towards serious allergies in general, ask your GP for an allergy test. Bear in mind that many children grow out of cat allergies so you may still be able to adopt a kitten in a few years’ time. (Note that hairless cats are not 100% hypoallergenic.)

Teach proper kitten handling.

This includes things like how to pick them up correctly (with a hand supporting the back legs and a hand supporting the front), how to pet them, not shouting, chasing, or squeezing, etc. Ideally, young children would handle kittens only when sitting comfortably on the floor as it’s a shorter distance should the kitten jump or fall. Children should also be taught not to disturb any animal while it’s sleeping or eating as any species can react negatively to being disturbed. Consider setting up a ‘kitten zone’ with cushions, toys, etc. so your child knows that’s the spot to go for kitten playtime.

Involve your children (but accept that you’ll do the lion’s share

of the work). Helping with pets won’t lighten your load but it can teach children responsibility, self-sufficiency, and compassion. However, children cannot accept sole responsibility or learn without guidance and supervision. They should be involved in an age- and stage-appropriate manner. According to developmental guidelines, children as young as 2 years should do some chores – including looking after pets. Depending on their abilities, this can take the form of picking up discarded kitten toys, bringing bowls to fill at mealtimes, helping to dish up food,

checking that water bowls are clean and filled, assisting you with litter-box duty (for example, 8- or 9-year-olds can do the work and 6- to 7-year-olds can wield the dustpan and brush), grooming, etcetera.

Provide a kitten “safe zone”. Set aside an area which is for the kittens only so that they have a place to retreat to if things get too much. Ensure children know to leave kittens alone when they’re in there – you may need a baby gate for little ones who won’t understand that they can’t enter. If the kittens are old enough to safely jump onto things, provide a countertop, desk, or shelf with a cat igloo to which they can retreat.

Beware litterboxes

and food bowls. These things need to be accessible to kittens, which generally means on the floor - but you don’t want to find your child digging into the cat’s food or rummaging through the litterbox! The kitten safe zone is a good place to put these things. If you don’t have a separate room, try putting the litter box inside a large cardboard box with high sides (like boxes washing machines come in), with a small “kitten door” cut in the side.

Keep kittens inside. Kittens shouldn’t be allowed outside unsupervised for the first 6 months to protect them from diseases, predators, and theft. This means your children will need reminding not to leave doors and windows open. Install child-proof locks if needed.

Create good associations

to build bonds. Ultimately, you want kittens and children to bond. This means the kitten/s need to learn that children are fun and safe to be around, and that they can be trusted. Let children give treats to help the kitten associate them with good things, and provide safe toys like feathers, bells, or balls. Avoid toys involving sticks which could poke an eye and items that can be swallowed or become choking hazards (for kittens or children).

At the end of the day, what’s best for the animal is usually also best for the humans – the whole point of the exercise is to have a happy, loving animal as your family’s companion, not a scared or antagonistic one. If the time isn’t right just yet, wait a few months or years, and spend the time preparing. The good news is that you can have pets in your life with a growing family if you go about things the right way, with compassion and consideration.

FASCINATING

A FROG IS ANY MEMBER OF A DIVERSE AND LARGELY CARNIVOROUS GROUP OF SHORT-BODIED, TAILLESS AMPHIBIANS COMPOSING THE ORDER ANURA.

You will find frogs on every continent, except Antarctica.

Frogs have protruding eyes, no tail and strong, webbed hind feet that are adapted for leaping and swimming.

A Frog’s eyes allow it to see in front, sideways and even partially behind it.

Frogs and toads are both amphibians, but belong to different families. They also have some physical differences like skin texture, body shape and vocalizations.

There are more than 6,000 species in the world.

South Africa is home to more than 120 species of frogs.

FROGS ARE AMPHIBIANS, WHICH MEANS THEY LIVE BOTH IN WATER AND ON LAND.

A group of frogs is called an Army.

Frogs are usually different shades of the 7 main colours of brown, grey, green, blue, yellow, red, and black, while Poison

Frogs are the most colourful species.

These colours play a key role in their defence mechanisms, and help them camouflage and deter potential predators.

Some South African frog species have a variety of vocalizations including calls, grunts and clicks.

Frog calls can be used to identify certain species, as each species has a unique call.

These calls are also used by experts to monitor certain frog populations.

Some distinct calls are used by males to attract females.

FROGS HAVE A THREE-CHAMBERED HEART, WITH TWO ATRIA AND ONE VENTRICLE.

They can breathe through their skin as well as through their lungs.

FROGS HAVE POWERFUL HIND LEGS, WHICH THEY USE FOR SWIMMING AND JUMPING.

Most frogs can jump 20 times their body length, which is

useful to help them escape predators and catch prey.

According to Guinness World Records, the longest jump by a frog relative to the size of its body was in 1975 by a South African sharp-nosed frog named Ex Lax. This frog jumped 5.35 meters (90 times its own body length).

NOT ALL FROGS CAN JUMP, SOME LONG-LEGGED SPECIES CAN JUMP WHILE OTHERS WITH SHORTER BACK LEGS CAN WALK, HOP, OR CRAWL.

They also have long, sticky tongues which they use to catch various prey.

They are nocturnal creatures, and with superior night vision they can hunt prey easily at night.

FROGS ARE VERTEBRATES (ANIMALS WITH BACKBONES), AND THEY DON’T HAVE RIB CAGES.

Frogs are ectothermic, which means they rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature. They can't generate their own body heat (like mammals and birds), and instead their body temperature depends on that of their surroundings.

The diet of South African frogs varies depending on the species, but typically includes insects, snails, worms, spiders and small vertebrates.

When a frog wants to swallow its food, it has to close its eyes in order to help push the food down its throat.

Most frogs have teeth (usually only on their upper jaw) that are used to hold prey in place until the frog can swallow it.

SOME FROG SPECIES IN SOUTH AFRICA HAVE ADAPTED TO FEED ON TOXIC PREY, AND ARE ABLE TO SEQUESTER AND STORE THESE TOXINS IN THEIR OWN SKIN.

Some frog species in South Africa have highly toxic skin secretions, which they use to deter predators.

Certain frog species in South Africa have evolved to become fully aquatic, and never leave the water.

Many frog species in South Africa are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world.

The breeding habits of South African frogs vary depending on the species, but typically involve the male calling to attract a mate.

Female frogs lay their eggs in water, where they develop into tadpoles.

The tadpoles of many frog species in South Africa have specialized mouthparts, which they use to scrape algae and other organic matter off surfaces.

TADPOLES UNDERGO METAMORPHOSIS TO BECOME ADULT FROGS, A PROCESS WHICH CAN TAKE SEVERAL MONTHS.

South African frogs play an important role in the ecosystem, serving as indicators of environmental health, and functioning as predators and prey.

South African frog species have unique adaptations that allow them to survive in the region's varied habitats such as forests, grasslands and deserts.

Some South African frog species are able to tolerate extreme temperatures and drought.

Frogs play an important role in the food chain, providing food for a variety of predators, including mammals, snakes and birds.

Some of the most common frog species in South Africa include the

FACTS

African Bullfrog, the Painted Reed Frog and the Common Platanna. The African Bullfrog is the largest frog species in South Africa, with males reaching lengths of up to 25 cm and a mass of up to 1.4 kg.

THE GIANT BULLFROG IS A LARGE SOUTH AFRICAN FROG SPECIES THAT IS KNOWN FOR ITS DEEP, RESONANT CALL, AND IS FOUND IN THE SAVANNAS AND WETLANDS.

The Common Platanna is a highly adaptable species, found in a wide range of habitats from coastal wetlands to arid savannas.

The African Clawed Frog is one of the most well-known frog species from South Africa, and also a popular pet which has been introduced to other parts of the world where it is considered an invasive species.

The African Clawed Frog prefer to live in stagnant water, and have the ability to change their appearance to match their background.

African Clawed Frogs are scavengers with a voracious appetite, and can attack anything that passes by. They lack a tongue and a visible ear.

They are sexually mature in 10 to 12 months, can live up to 15 years and

have been extensively used as laboratory research animals.

Some South African frog species are listed as endangered, or critically endangered, by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and efforts are underway to protect their habitats.

South African frog species are important indicators of environmental health, and can be used by experts to monitor changes in the ecosystem over time.

Certain frog species are threatened by climate change, pollution and habitat destruction, which can alter their habitats and affect their ability to survive and reproduce.

SOUTH AFRICAN FROG SPECIES ARE ALSO THREATENED BY DISEASE, INCLUDING CHYTRIDIOMYCOSIS, A FUNGAL DISEASE THAT HAS CAUSED DECLINES IN FROG POPULATIONS AROUND THE WORLD.

Some frog species have cultural significance, and are associated with myths and legends.

POPPY MEASURING SCOOP

The new Poppy Measuring Scoop ensures your best friend gets just the correct amount of food for their age and size. Switches between grams and ounces (max weight 800g). batteries not included.

DON'T LET AGE TAKE ITS TOLL DON'T LET AGE TAKE ITS TOLL DON'T LET AGE TAKE ITS TOLL

Looking for a way to pamper your furry friend?

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CBD oil is known to help with a variety of ailments, from anxiety to pain management. Vitozol's Pets

CBD Oil is made from 100% natural ingredients containing no THC, making it a safe and effective option for pets of all ages and breeds. Plus, with their easy-to-use dropper, giving your pet the recommended dose has never been easier.

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CBD Oil has received rave reviews from pet owners all over South Africa. One happy customer says, "My dog was suffering from arthritis and was in constant pain. After using Vitozol's CBD oil, he's now able to run and play like he used to!"

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Take control of your pet's wellness with Vitozol. Visit us online at www.vitozol.co.za for more information.

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pEts you lovE Dog's Life Teddy Park Pet Carrier

Teddy Park Pet Carrier is the ideal bag to take small dogs on vacation no matter if it is by car or train.

R1,248.00

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uRBAN pAws

Max Bandana - Dog Bandana

We wear scarves all year round so why shouldn't your bestie not always be styling their fave bandana?

R129,00

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lA fuRMiliA

Dog Collar ~ West Coast Blues

Our premium W-A-L-K dog accessories are made from durable, super-soft printed webbing.

R125,00

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Benji + Moon's Moisture Bar is hand formulated with all-natural vegan healing ingredients featuring chamomile petals and sage essential oil.

R170,00

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dog MoM

Dogs Make Life Better T-shirt

Crunchy Texture, Control Plaque and Tartar for all cat sizes

R225,00

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BENJi + MooN Moisture Bars

Power Green Smoothie Bowl

Serves: 4

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup of milk of choice

• 2 tablespoons B ‐well Canola Oil

• 4 cups spinach

• 1 medium ripe avocado

• 2 medium ripe peeled bananas

• 1½ cup frozen pineapple

• ½ ripe peeled mango, chopped and frozen

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

SMOOTHIE BOWL TOPPING OPTIONS

• 1 tablespoon toasted coconut or pumpkin seeds

• 2 teaspoons chia seeds

• ½ cup fresh strawberries, blueberries and/or raspberries

METHOD

1. Add ingredients in the order listed into a blender, adding only ½ cup liquid to start.

2. Start on “Low” speed, scraping down the bowl as needed, and

adding more liquid if it gets stuck. Once thick and creamy, set the mixer to “High” speed until it reaches sorbet‐like consistency.

3. Divide smoothie mixture between 4 bowls, and garnish with Smoothie Bowl Topping Options (e.g. chia seeds, fresh berries).

BIZZIBABS CORNER Out of the Box Convenience

Most of us do our very best not to forget to put a doggie poop bag in our pocket, bag, or car before we take our furkid for a walk or a fun outing. How irritating it can be when we can't find that little roll of poop bags that should be in the top drawer, but now that you need one they are not there. While you search in the next spot your dog gets more and more anxious for his walk. We've all been there. Frustrating! If only those small rolls of poop bags were bigger! Good news: they are, and we sell them online. Earth rated ecofriendly poop bags — 300 bags in a tissue-like box! When you pull one up the next pops up. In our home our box of doggie poop bags sits in the garage, making it convenient to pull a poop bag out of the box every time we put a dog in the car. You can also have the same convenience. Keep a box of degradable dog poop bags in your car, your hallway or, since the Earth rated boxes are rather cute, you could even keep a box on your kitchen counter. Excellent quality bags. Size 32x20cm. www.bizzibabs.com R260 Box of 300

PETS NEED A

Breaktoo!

BY BRIAN BERKMAN

“ LUXURY TRAVEL WRITER, BRIAN BERKMAN, SEARCHES OUT THE FABULOUS AND OFTEN AFFORDABLE OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO YOU AND YOUR PETS. JULIE, HIS RESCUED MIXED-BREED DOGGIE-DAUGHTER, INSISTS ON JOINING THEM.

“

illiersdorp might still be considered undiscovered from a tourism perspective but, as Brian Berkman says, there are gems here, especially in the Bossieveld area where Pendennis Farm is located, that are worthy of the journey.

Grabouw, with its vibrant food and market scene, is relatively close by, as is Worcester, but there is enough to keep you and your pets happy in Villiersdorp, and especially

Vwhen you stay at Pendennis Farm just as you leave this important agricultural town.

There are a number of accommodation options available on the farm, which are in converted and updated cottages, but the Container House at Pendennis Farm is newly built from repurposed refrigerated containers and can comfortably accommodate eight people.

The best part is the price, pitched at an affordable R320 per person. This is the sort of location where it may well be affordable to extend a stay, and with your beloved pets with you, there is no reason not to.

Although clearly visible from the exterior,

once inside there isn’t much, except for the varying floor levels and the tongue-andgrove look of the walls, to indicate you are staying in a converted container. There are fans to help keep your cool or, if you ask for it, an apple bin can be filled with water for you and a friend to splash in.

For pet owners, the fact that this property is large and entirely fenced means it removes any anxiety about letting your dogs run free while at home.

And, the fact that Pendennis’ Max Schumacher and his fiancée Annabelle work to rescue and re-home dogs, means they are all animal lovers at heart, and that you will be in good company.

The Container House has two bedrooms with double beds; one bedroom with a queen-sized bed, and one with doublebunk beds. There are two bathrooms with loos and shower, and one also has a large tub.

This is the kind of self-catering stay that has all the things travellers need: Wi-Fi, multiplugs where you want them, comfortable beds and powerful showers. They are also decorated with heirlooms, artworks, photos and collections of old books that are interesting to look at. If you’d like to whip up a feast in the well-stocked kitchen, there are even German-language recipe books for inspiration. All of this makes up for the lack of a TV.

Pink Lady, Lemon Cottage and Lavender Cottage, along with fun Teepee and safaristyle tents for fair-weather camping, are also available for rentals.

There are gas and wood-braai facilities outside. Also outside and under cover is another large table, but with acid-limegreen painted cane chairs.

The back area is mostly enclosed by a prickly-pear hedge on one side, while the front has shade-cloth covered parking.

store that is very well-provisioned, and will carry everything from home bakes and just-harvested cartons of fruit, to high quality meats and farm and hardware-type implements.

www.pendennisfarm.co.za, dasbosbarn@gmail.com or telephone +27 72 363 1937

Brian Berkman says that with the recent launch of SunPet rooms at the SunSquare Hotel in Cape Town’s Gardens area, travelling to the city with your cat or dog is now easier than ever.

SunSquare Cape Town Gardens offers pet-friendly rooms with Sealy Pet Beds, and more!

De Waal Park, established in 1895, is a fully walled and gated park, and was one of the city’s first dog-friendly locations. Julie loved to chase and bark at the squirrels once they escaped into a tree. To our great relief, Julie only had pleasant interactions with the many other dogs there whom were also off their leads.

What’s special about De Waal Park is that it is large enough to use for proper exercise (for

you and your pet) and has many amenities, from children’s playthings to tables for picnic use. Nearer the top of the park, is a Victorian bandstand that has a pop-up coffee and croissant service. The park’s many trees also have QR codes, so if you want to learn more about them, or indeed donate money to the Friends of De Waal Park, both can easily be achieved with a mobile phone.

A few meters away from the hotel is a charming Italian restaurant, The Woodland Eatery at 8 Breda Street that even welcomed Julie inside. Make a point of eating here when you visit.

A little further afield, on Dunkley Square, is Maria’s, which also invited Julie into the restaurant as the wind was howling, and offered her a raw lamb’s tail bone to munch on as we settled in. The cuisine is Greek, and reservations for this rightly popular restaurant are essential.

In a similar vicinity to Maria’s is The Yard at 6 Roodehek Road, which is a high-energy, vibey and casual eating experience with beer, burgers, wings and pizzas on the menu.

Pooches are welcome.

Finding nearby pet-friendly accommodation has been quiet tricky until recently. With the launch of their new SunPet rooms, the SunSquare Cape Town Gardens provides a wonderful amenity for folks travelling with pets. Most impressive is the pet bed made by no less than Sealy. While Julie curled up on the bed, I lay on the floor and rested my head on it to be close to her. That was probably the most comfortable my head has ever been!

SunPet rooms come at a R250 premium, and a R500 returnable deposit is payable. What you get for this, in addition to having your beloved pet with you, is the fabulous bed, branded food and water bowls, a synthetic grass patch, toys, poo bags and, most importantly, vinyl floors, which means keeping the room hygienic is easy. Currently there are five petfriendly rooms on the hotel’s first floor.

Pets and humans are welcome to dine together on the deep covered balcony at Zepi, the hotel’s buffet and grill restaurant, and from where a generous breakfast buffet is served. Order from the Woof Cuisine menu

some Steak Frites (R65) or Paw Licken Chicken (R35). There are purrific items on the menu to order for cats too.

Julie loved being poolside with us. There is a large garden adjacent to the pool, and plenty shade too. We ordered a couple of items from the pool menu, which include pizzas, ranging in price from R120 to R165, and Burgers, at R110. Salads include Caesar and Japanese Crab Salad. It was easy to connect to the Wi-Fi, and we had excellent coverage wherever we were

Pets need to be on the lead, and under their owner’s control at all times. If you want to go out to the theatre, or to a restaurant that does not welcome pets, with advance notice the hotel will arrange for a pet sitter to stay in your room while you are away. And, if security is a concern, rooms come with large digital safes with plenty room for laptops and the crown jewels. You obviously cannot leave your pet in the room unattended. They also have a vet on speed dial, if necessary.

Keet comes over to greet you and your fur baby, you will soon realise that he must have been a driving force behind the hotel becoming a pet-friendly one. We loved the view of Table Mountain from our window; the plenty and free parking, and a really comfortable king-sized bed in a super clean room and bathroom.

SunSquare Cape Town Gardens, 10 Mill Street, Gardens, Cape Town, +27-21-4651311

The King’s Blockhouse

The King’s Blockhouse is a stunning hiking trail which offers a variety of views of the greater Cape Town area. This hike is one of the most popular trails in the area and it is not difficult to see why. Whilst steep in some areas, this trail is still quite short in distance and offers a mixture of tree cover and sun along the route making it ideal for beginners. The trail is wellmaintained and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

If you’re a dog owner, the King’s Blockhouse trail is a must-visit. This trail begins at the parking lot to Rhodes Memorial just above the University of Cape Town. Not only can you access the Blockhouse trail from here but a wide variety of different trails without any ladders or climbing that may prove a challenge for your four-legged friend. That makes this one of my favourite spots for daily walks with my dogs.

I’m always wary of trying new trails in Cape Town without a friend who knows the route but luckily this one is well marked and easy to follow if you’re on your own for the first time.

It begins with a gentle climb through a forested area which offers plenty of shade for your dog to play and keep cool. As you make your way higher, the forested area begins to merge with our more famous

challenging for a short stint. You’ll have to step through a few narrow passages depending on the season and be careful to look out for loose rocks if you’re going soon after rainfall. Thankfully, the effort is well worth it. As you climb higher, the views become even more spectacular.

Throughout the hike, your dog will have plenty of opportunities to meet other dogs and make new friends as well. Many other dog owners frequent this trail, and it’s not uncommon to encounter other friendly pups along the way. Just remember to keep your dog on a leash to ensure everyone’s safety.

In addition to other dogs, there’s a healthy variety of wildlife to look out for on this trail as well. These include the dassie, the Cape Sugarbird (endemic to the area and known for its long tail feathers and orange plumage), the Table Mountain Beauty butterfly (another species found only here) and on the very rare occasion, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a caracal. That being said, there are also a few animals you may not want to run into such as snakes and scorpions so again, be sure to keep your dog on a leash to ensure safety.

Cape Town based nature lover and dog enthusiast. Passionate about power breeds and enhancing my skills and knowledge in animal behaviour and nutrition. Follow the adventure: @_all. bark.no.bite

your dog to bond over. Make sure to carry plenty of water and snacks for both you and your pup and enjoy the experience.

Fynbos vegetation which offers your dog a variety of scents and textures to explore. After about 30 minutes, you’ll reach a clearing with a large boulder. This is a great spot to take a small break and let your dog have a drink of water.

From there, the trail becomes slightly steeper and a bit more

After about an hour of hiking you will reach the King’s Blockhouse. Take some time to explore the area with your dog. The structure is a piece of history, built in 1796 during the British occupation of the Cape. The Blockhouse was used as a lookout point to protect Cape Town against potential attacks by allowing a view from False Bay all the way to what is now Bloubergstrand. When approaching ships were spotted, a series of signals were sent from King’s Blockhouse through two other blockhouses before finally reaching the Cape Castle. The other two blockhouses being the Prince of Wales Blockhouse and Queen’s Blockhouse of which the remains can still be seen along other trails on the mountain.

King’s Blockhouse’s strategic position is impressive and makes for an interesting piece of history to explore with your dog. The wellmaintained trail, stunning views and glimpse into the past make for a great adventure for you and

Kiarin Naidoo

As you make your way higher, the forested area begins to merge with our more famous Fynbos vegetation which offers your dog a variety of scents and textures to explore

EUTHANASIA MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS

“My pet will cross the rainbow bridge peacefully at home surrounded by family.”

Only a very small percentage of our pets experience a “good” passing without our help. Many distressing changes can happen during the passing process and if left to pass naturally, will do so overnight or while the owner is away. Some owners feel regret afterward because their pet was alone when they passed away.

“I would feel responsible for the passing of my pet.”

Try to remember that your pet’s illness, disease or injury is doing the harm to your pet. Euthanasia provides the opportunity to allow your pet to pass over the rainbow bridge humanely and with dignity. It is their illness that causes suffering; you are relieving that suffering in a loving and respectful way.

“Planning and scheduling the euthanasia is strange.”

It can feel odd or wrong to schedule a time or place for your pet’s passing. By scheduling ahead (even by a few hours or days), you are taking some control of a situation over which you have little power. Many owners find comfort in scheduling a time when friends or family members can be present, or in scheduling a time before their pet is truly suffering.

“My pet will know what is happening.”

When handled properly, the euthanasia process is a loving, peaceful, dignified end of a pet’s life. Your vet can give medication to sedate that will relieve your pet’s anxiety and pain. Animals live in the present moment. Unlike us, they don’t know that a choice is being made—they only know that they are being loved, that you are with them, and that they don’t feel pain anymore.

“My pet will let me know.”

While there are sometimes signs, events or symptoms that occur that make the choice obvious, often the choice is not clear. Many families tell us that they waited too long; families rarely tell us they made the decision too soon.

Deciding to euthanize your companion animal may be one of the most difficult decisions you ever make. Often, well-loved pets are euthanized to minimize unnecessary suffering. The quality of animals’ lives is defined by their overall physical and mental well-being, not just one aspect of their lives.

Information from The Ohio State Veterinary Medical Center, Honoring the Bond, Coping with the Loss

So many ways to honour their loyalty

Let the memories of your loved-one live on through our range of hand-selected caskets, urns and ash infused glass keepsakes.

We offer the Return of your beloved pet’s Ashes, helping you to honour and remember their loyalty through our memorabilia range. Speak to your vet about cremation options.

Ask the Vet

Q: Dear Dr Travis, I’m in need of help. My neighbour and I have been in several arguments about tail docking for dogs. According to him it improves hygiene in dogs and is harmless if done correctly. I don’t feel the same, and think it’s cruel. What points can I use to explain this to someone who isn’t hearing my point of view?

A: The truth is that there is no valid reason to dock a tail from a healthy dog, and putting an animal through a painful procedure just because you want it to look a particular way is, to be honest, barbaric.

Hi, my name is Travis

and I’m a vet at a referral practice in Cape Town, dealing exclusively with dogs and cats. I’m a cat-lover, and proud cat-dad to two rescues named Natsu and Falcon. In a world filled with conflicting veterinary information, Petprints has given me a chance to try and make sense of some of the muddle. So, if you have anything you want to ask, send it through and I’ll do my best to help you out.

Tails are generally docked while the dogs are still puppies (usually 2 to 5 days old). Now, vets aren’t allowed to perform tail docking without a valid medical reason. So puppies with docked tails often have the procedure done by lay people. To make matters worse, anaesthetic in puppies so young can be risky, so the procedure is often done with the puppy completely awake. While some may argue that puppies can’t feel pain in their tails, this is obviously not true.

The procedure for docking a tail involves cutting the skin, bone and nerves of the tail with a scalpel or scissors. This can cause bleeding, infection and damage to the remaining nervous tissue, which can linger after the procedure is completed. Some people dock tails by tying an elastic band around the tail to restrict blood flow. This is particularly cruel (imagine tying an elastic band around one of your fingers for a few hours), and leaves a high risk of infection that may spread into the spinal cord.

Aside from the pain and stress that docking causes, people that dock tails assume that the tail serves no purpose, which is wrong. Dogs use their tails to help with balance and movement. More importantly, they use their tails for communication. So dogs with docked tails lose those functions too.

Q: Hi Doctor, my name is Tracy and I’m 10 years old. We got a puppy, and I would like to find out how many times a day he needs to be fed. Also, is there anything else I need to know to take care of him? He is 4 months old, and is a rescue.

A: At four months old, a puppy can be eating twice a day; one meal in the morning, and one in the evening. Ideally, you should be feeding him food made specifically for puppies. Try

to find out if anyone can guess how big your puppy will be when he’s fully grown. This can be very difficult with rescue dogs! But it is important, because dogs that grow into big bodies have different food needs than dogs that grow into small bodies. Also, I’m sure he’s a very good boy, but try not to give him too many treats. Too many treats can give him an upset tummy, or make him too fat.

If you got him from a welfare organization, they probably gave you a book that has his deworming and vaccination information. It’s very important that you do your best to keep all of that up to date. Puppy vaccinations and deworming are important ways to protect him from some nasty diseases.

Other than that, make sure you give him lots of love and attention. This is a very important age for him, where he is learning about how the world works. You can try to teach him some basic tricks like “sit” and “stay”. This would also be a good time to get him used to walking on a lead, because he probably wants to go for walks but might get himself into trouble if he runs off.

If you have any other questions, then you can always find a vet nearby to ask. We are here to help you keep your furry friends healthy!

Q: Hi Dr Travis, I’m trying to explain to a lady at work that it’s not enough to feed a parrot sunflower seeds only. As far as I know they need to eat fruit as well. Could you please help?

A: Like all animals, parrots need to eat a balanced diet in order to stay healthy. The basis of this diet is usually commercially available pellets, which are designed to provide all the vitamins and minerals required by a parrot. Pellets also reduce “selective feeding”, where parrots choose the parts of the mix that they like and try their best to avoid the rest of it, which can lead to nutrient imbalances.

The pelleted diet should be supplemented by fresh fruit and vegetables, and these should make up 25 to 50 percent of the parrot’s total diet. Some parrot experts favour vegetables over fruit, because fruit has a higher sugar content. However, to my knowledge, there is no formal agreement on this. Just be sure to do your research to find out what is safe to feed. Remember; avocado is deathly poisonous to birds!

Seeds can make up a small part of the total diet. Sunflower seeds are essentially the junk food of the parrot world. The parrots love them, but they are not good in high amounts. Sunflower seeds are high in fat, and overconsumption will lead to obesity.

This will leave the parrot at a high risk of heart disease. Additionally, sunflower seeds can’t provide all the nutrients needed and are deficient in several vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin A and Calcium. Chronic nutrient deficiencies will lead to health problems.

If a parrot is being fed only sunflower seeds, it would be best to move them onto a more balanced diet. As with any diet change, this should be done gradually, and if the owner has any questions or concerns, they should contact their local exotic vet for more information.

Q: Dear Dr Travis, is it necessary to microchip my pet if they wear a name tag and never leave our house? The needles for this look so big, and I have a friend that said she’s had to have her dog microchipped three times now because the microchip disappears. I’m so worried that the chip lands up in my dog’s bloodstream and makes them sick.

A: I always advise owners to microchip their animals, because tags and collars can be lost or removed, and there is always a small risk that any pet may find a way to go on an adventure.

Every day, lost animals are brought into the practice where I work, and the first thing the receptionist does is scan for a microchip. If we find one, then the owners can be called right away, but finding the owners of nonmicrochipped animals is difficult. Sometimes we never find the owners.

More importantly, there have been cases where an animal has escaped from their homes and been injured. If they are microchipped, we can contact the owners right away and discuss treatment options. If not, the vet has to just guess what the owner would want.

I agree that the size of the microchip needle can be intimidating, but fortunately the process of inserting the microchip is very quick, like an injection. Sometimes owners just close their eyes while a nurse holds the patient, or the microchip can be inserted while the patient is sedated for another procedure, such as a sterilization.

The microchip is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades. There are no major nerves or blood vessels here, so the chance of the microchip ending up in the bloodstream is basically impossible. It shouldn’t cause any discomfort or illness once it has been inserted. Unfortunately, one issue that might happen is that the microchip can move underneath the skin, so that it isn’t in the right place anymore. In these cases, you can still find it by scanning further up the neck or down the front legs. These microchips will also show up on an x-ray. In very rare instances, the microchip can be ejected by the body, but this almost never happens.

Q: Hi Dr Travis, I have a Labrador-mix dog. She has a short coat, but she always stinks, no matter what I wash her with. Could there be a specific cause for this, or is it something I should just live with? It’s difficult especially when it rains, because she stays indoors.

A: Foul smelling skin can be a sign of skin inflammation, especially if the smell tends to return soon after washing. The reason for this is because inflamed skin has a compromised immune system, which allows bacteria and yeasts to overpopulate the surface, causing the smell. These dogs are often itchy, shed more and can suffer from recurring ear infections.

Skin inflammation can have many causes such as parasites, food allergies, environmental allergies or infections. Unless the underlying issue is found and addressed, any improvement from washing the skin will only be temporary. Finding the underlying issue, however, can be challenging and does sometimes require a process of elimination. It would be advised that you visit your regular veterinarian to help you with this. While at the vet visit, make sure they also check your dog’s teeth, ears and anal glands, as diseases in these places can also cause a patient to smell bad.

Babba

Corella Cockatoo, his age is unknown. He has made significant progress with his foster dad and mom. Babba will do good in a home where he will be able to have lots of out- of- cage time. To adopt Babba, contact Monique O'kelly.

Dotty

Peach Fronted Conure, her age is unknown. Dotty suffered from an attack with a fractured wing. She has recovered well, and LOVES flying around. Dotty will need a home where there is not too much human contact, as well as a forever home where she can fly around and just chill. To adopt Dotty, contact Marianka Thomas.

Williem

22-year-old female Congo African Grey. She is mostly off-hands with people unless she has bonded with you, then she gives you all the love. She loves sitting on her cage, staring out the window and destroying pine blocks. She shows a slight preference for women, but can get on with men. To adopt Willem, contact Giselle Diemer.

Adoption Fee:

Mango and Coco

Green Cheeck and Sun Conure. Mango is 11 years old. They are a really adorable duo. They deserve their forever home! If you would like to adopt Mango and Coco, contact Danielle Haupt.

Mickey

This handsome male Eclectus is a precious case. Unfortunately, Mickey's health conditions makes us appreciate him every day. That doesn't take away from his quirky personality, and deep love for his humans. He's as sweet as pie, and would love for a place to settle down. To adopt Mickey, contact Georgia Gifford.

Minnie

Minnie is a female Eclectus that is as sassy as she is sweet. She's slowly learning how to fly like a bird again, and is sometimes spooked by other birds. This feathered cuteness needs daily foot massages. She would love to find her own family (and personal masseuse). To adopt Mickey, contact Georgia Gifford.

Ranges from R200.00 – R1000.00 (includes all birds are Vet checked)

Contact details: Monique O'kelly- moniqueokelly@cheekybeaks.org.za / Georgia Gifford - georgia@cheekybeaks.org.za / Danielle Haupt - danielle@cheekybeaks.org.za / Giselle Diemer - gizelle@cheekybeaks.org.za / Marianka Thomas - mariankathomas@ cheekybeaks.org.za www.cheekybeaks.org.za and complete the online adoptions form.

Tweedledum

A Labrador Cross. He is 2 and a half years old and a goofball of note. He loves running around with his doggo friends. Unfortunately, he does not get on well with cats.

Nutmeg

Is a large mix breed and 8 years old. She would love the opportunity of a loving home to live the rest of her senior years. She gets on well with cats and will sit on your lap at any given opportunity.

Hope

Is a 3-year-old Jack Russel and an absolute sweetheart with a soft nature. She loves playing with a ball and sneaking in cuddles. She is not suited to be homed with cats.

Sofia

A 2-year-old mixed breed. Sofia is one of the most amazing dogs and thrives off attention and human affection. She loves to have space and run around. She is really comfortable around cats.

Geronimo

Geronimo is a 3-year-old domestic short hair cat (ginger colour). A very talkative boy who loves to be around people. Although he loves a good cuddle, he also enjoys his play time and catnip.

Gracie is 2-year-old domestic short hair cat, grey and white in colour. She is an inquisitive little character and will watch your every move. She loves treats, catnip, and back scratches.

Nicolas

Nicolas is a 3 and half year-old domestic short hair cat (caramel and ginger colour). He is a sweet boy who is looking for love. He unfortunately doesn’t share his human’s love with other cats.

Poppy

Poppy is a 4-year-old domestic short hair cat (tabby with white in colour). She loves naps on a Sunday afternoon with her humans and is a fun-loving sweetheart. She will fill your home with lots of meows and purrs.

Adoption Fee

R550.00 for all adults (includes: the sterilization (which is already done), vaccinations are up to date, tick/flea & dewormer is current and a microchip.)

Contact details: 083 387 1012 & 060 582 1771 / Landline – 010 224 0760/63

info@kittyhaven.co.za/admin@kittyhaven.co.za

Gracie

Consistently voted the world’s favourite breed, the Labrador Retriever has come a long way from its hard-working, Canadian roots. Historically, they earned their keep as fishermen’s helpers; hauling nets, fetching ropes and retrieving fish from the chilly North Atlantic.

Today's Labrador are as good natured and hard working as their ancestors, and are still used as working dogs by hunters for retrieving game, trained as search and rescue dogs and also as guide, assistance and therapy dogs.

The breed is active, intelligent, eager and easy to train. Labradors are a friendly, energetic and playful breed, making them ideal companion dogs who do well in a family situation as they are eager to please, and generally get on well with other pets, and are very good with children

It must be remembered that Labradors are not small dogs, are considered to be medium-large breed and can weigh between 20 and 40 kgs as a full grown adult, and measure up to 60cm at the shoulders and should therefore (as with all dogs) always be supervised with young children as they tend to be boisterous, and can unintentionally hurt a small child, especially when they are puppies and not trained.

Labradors are highly intelligent and have high energy levels, especially as puppies, and should always be trained and socialised. Labradors love water, and love to swim. They have a water-resistant double coat which

Adopt a Labrador

should not be shaved, but should be brushed every day to minimise shedding. And they do shed, a lot!

There are only three recognised colours of Labradors: Yellow, Chocolate and Black.

Puppies of all colours can occur in the same litter.

Labradors have a lifespan of between 10 and 12 years, and hip dysplasia is a common ailment, especially with badly bred dogs. Because eating (anything and everything) is their favourite pastime, Labradors often become obese, which is very unhealthy and also causes all sorts of other problems, so try and ignore those woeful, sad eyes pleading for treats.

Labrador puppies are very cute. They are also very destructive, high energy, have very sharp teeth and chew everything for at least 3 years. However, once they become “grown-up“ dogs, you could never wish for a better companion, protector, friend and loyal member of the family.

So many Labradors are being abandoned and surrendered due to families emigrating or downscaling due to financial constraints, and there are some wonderful, trained, wellbehaved Labradors looking for another family to love. If you are considering a Labrador to add to your family, please be in touch with Labrador Rescue SA, who have a number of dogs of all ages looking for a second chance. We can see why this highly intelligent breed is so popular, and for a good-natured family pet,

the Labrador is a sensible choice. Labradors are among the most commonly kept dogs in the world, and have been voted the most popular breed in the world for many years. They were bred as sporting and hunting dogs, but are now widely kept as companion dogs. Labradors are also trained as a guide or assistance dogs, or for rescue or therapy work.

Labradors are easy-going, rewarding pets with high energy levels, which means they love extra attention, stimulation and exercise.

They make excellent companions, as well as assistance dogs due to their sensitive and affectionate nature. Intelligent and eager to please, Labs relish the chance to learn, and are quick to pick up cues.

Labradors are highly social by nature, and enjoy running free with other dogs, which is a fantastic way to burn brain energy and is very stimulating for them.

Labradors are famous for being trained to be guide dogs and assistance dogs. The are also commonly used as detection dogs, police dogs and military dogs. Labradors have proven to have a high success rate at becoming guide dogs. The breed is also used in water rescue/ lifesaving.

The Labrador continues to be a valued pet for any family, and are just a wonderful breed all round if given the correct training and stimulation. Owing to their high energy levels, they can be boisterous, eating, chewing demolition machines.

UP FOR ADOPTION

Leela Jagger

Jagger is 7 months old, and just the cutest little guy ever. He is super confident and loves other dogs and humans.

Zeus

Leela is 5 years old. She is the gentlest girl with the most beautiful eyes. She gets on well with cats and other dogs, and loves kids and humans. She is soft and caring, and loves to play.

Coke

Zeus is 8 years old, and needs to be homed with his best friend and ‘honorary Labrador’, Beagle. Zeus is outgoing and friendly, and loves to swim.

Coke is 5 years old, and needs to be rehomed with his sister Milo. He is a goofy boy with lots of character. He loves to play and swim, and gets on well with other dogs.

Gerrard & Thor Rome

Beagle

Beagle is 7 years old, and needs to be homed with his best friend Zeus. Beagle is a happy, friendly boy who thinks he is a Labrador.

Milo

Milo is 5 years old, and such a sweet girl. She needs to be rehomed with her brother Coke as they are a bonded pair. She is regal and beautiful, and loves tummy tickles.

Rome is 7 years old, and a big cuddly teddy bear. He loves car rides and swimming, and gets on well with other dogs and children.

Thor (yellow) is 7 years old, and Gerrard (black) is 9 years old. They both get on well with other dogs, humans and cats, and love to swim. They need to be rehomed together as they are inseparable. They are cool, calm and collected, and would make the perfect companions.

Contact Details:

info@labrescue.org.za

sharon@labrescue.org.za

Emergency Welfare Directory