Pet Prints Magazine November/December 2021 by Pet Prints Magazine

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Welcome

The holidays are close upon us, and I couldn’t be happier!! Shopping centres have finally started putting out Christmas decorations and you can smell summer in the air at night. This is my favourite time of year. That said, I’m always thinking of those pets left at home, while their owners go away on vacation. It’s a sensitive subject, I know… but with so many pet-friendly destinations, I feel as though we should all aim to support these businesses or, at the very least, support entrepreneurs who make a living from house- and pet-sitting. If those options aren’t available, there are a lot of reputable kennelling services, but please make sure to vet the options that you are looking at. A good tip is to ask one of the Facebook communities in your area if anyone has a recommendation or experience with a particular service. I would also have a look at websites, like hellopeter.com, or do a general Google search before trusting my fur kids to a stranger. (I generally work on personal references.)

ISSUE 5, 2021 Tips for keeping fidgety fido’s busy this holiday and well into the future, when you have to get back to work. Our cover model dog-mom extraordinaire is social media sweet-heart, Stephanie Stander, who has been inspiring women across the country to transform not only their bodies but also their mindset. Building confidence and good habits is at the core of her practice, and she’s a shining example of a doting dog-mom. You can turn to page 8 to read about Stephanie and Mila’s beautiful relationship. As always, please keep an eye out for lost or neglected animals this holiday. Nothing is too small to report. If you are worried about an animal, please don’t hesitate to let the proper authorities know. Please check page 52 for an organisation that works in your area. Keep well and travel safe. Until next time!

Marise Burger Gerhard Maritz Nelda Cilliers Sharnelle van der Merwe Gaironesa Atkins

PHOTOGRAPHY Emma O’Brien Photography

PRINTING Optic Printers

CONTRIBUTORS Get-to-Know Dr Lesleigh Rous from Cape Companion Vet Clinic Vaccination 101 - Jennifer Davies

In this issue we bring you some much loved travel destinations as well as Top

Top Tips for Keeping Fidgety Fidos busy - Bryony van Niekerk Sterilisation and Obesity Fact Check - Dr Megan Esterhuysen

The Project Earth Mission 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

ON THE COVER

EDITORIAL

CONTACT DETAILS

FEEDBACK AND LETTERS

Marise Burger

mail@petprints.co.za

071 382 7795 marise@projectearth.org.za

@petprintsmag

How Vodka Saves a cat’s life - Imogen Tarita The Heat is on - Dr Kathryn Knype Pets need a break too - Brian Berkman Signs of illness in your equine friend - Dani McNeill Dr Travis Gray - Tygerberg Animal Hospital COPYRIGHT: 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.

CONTENTS

NO VEMBER/ DECEM BE R 2 0 2 1

20 STERILISATION & OBESITY - FACT CHECK VODKA SAVES CAT’S LIFE

MOUSE, HALLOUMI & MOZZARELLA

FASCINATING GECKO FACTS

COMMUNITY PAGE

THE HEAT IS ON

A very strange case that the Cluni Animal Trust team figured out in record time

Fancy rats are domestic rats that are bred for temperament and companionship, and they make great pets!

GET TO KNOW YOUR VET

Get to know Dr Lesleigh Rous from Cape Companions

FROM OUR READERS

Write to us and stand a chance to win a Red Dingo Leash & Collar Set

FEATURE ARTICLE

Stephanie Stander talks to us about her pooch Mila and what it takes to be an online fitness instructor

TOP TIPS

Top Tips for keeping fidgety fidos busy

VACCINATION 101

Making rescues fashionable and the Paws a While Market in review

Summer is nearly here, and we are all too familiar with the scorching temperatures that South Africa can experience. We as humans can take measures to ensure that we remain comfortable, however, for our pets, this is not always possible. Here are a few things to keep in mind this summer.

LIFESTYLE

Celebrate the festive season

Everyone seems to be talking about vaccinations these days. But how do they actually work, and why are they important for our furry family members

B-WELL RECIPE

Refried black bean mexican lettuce wraps

PETS NEED A BREAK TOO

Atlantica & Park inn by Radisson

SIGNS OF ILLNESS IN YOUR EQUINE FRIEND 44 ASK THE VET

ADOPTIONS

BREED SPECIFIC ADOPTIONS

WELFARE DIRECTORY

Dr Travis Grey from Tygerberg Animal Hospital answers your questions.

Your peace of mind in Veterinary practice management Our New Dashboard is LIVE

The Vetsoft Team has been hard at work to bring you all the features you love on a platform you deserve. Keep an eye out for our digital transformation!

Get to Know

Dr Lesleigh Rous from Many clients also expect far more from their veterinarian than what they would expect from their house doctor! On a more positive note, the gratification one feels when a pet goes home after he has recovered under your care, far outweighs the bad days. For example, we have recently been treating a cat with FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis), a viral disease, which was considered fatal in cats. We have successfully treated two cats with this condition, who are both now in remission. This is a very exciting development for Veterinary Science and for our cat patients, as this disease was previously thought to be untreatable. There’s nothing better than seeing these patients back home, and doing well, and the smile on their owners’ faces.

grew up in a rural Veterinary Practice in Colesberg, and I am the third-generation veterinarian in my family, including my grandfather, Robin Rous, my mother, Charmaine Rous and my father, Gavin Rous. When asked as a small child what my father did for a living, my response would be that “he took poo out of horses”. Little did I know that I would one day be following in his footsteps!

Surgery is my passion - it challenges me and helps me to grow as a professional in the field. One of the favorite procedures that I recently performed, was a rhinoplasty (“nose job”) on a French Bulldog, in order to help it breathe easier.

I graduated from the Onderstepoort Veterinary Faculty, at the University of Pretoria, in 2018, after which, I completed my community service year in De Aar in 2019. I currently work at Cape Companions Veterinary Clinic, which is situated on Klein Joostenberg Farm, on the R304 in Muldersvlei, on the way to Stellenbosch. We are a mixed practice, with a special interest in cats, racing pigeons, horses and dogs. Our practice is small, consisting of 2 veterinarians and one veterinary assistant/receptionist. We are personally involved in every aspect of your pet’s care, from start to finish.

My father is a racing pigeon fancier and, as a result, I have been exposed to this niche field from a very young age, which in turn sparked my own passion for racing pigeon medicine. We often see pigeons who are experiencing a loss in performance, and it is a challenge to diagnose what the problem is. Whenever I get home, I am greeted at the door by my two Staffies, Buddha and Paddington, as well as my Weimaraner, called Bosco. Our family also includes a Blue and Gold Macaw, Merlin, and a Maine Coon, called Toulouse.

Having grown up in the veterinary field, I always imagined I would be more prepared than most for what the job expects of you. However, I have realized that being a veterinarian is not an easy job. Euthanasia never gets easier and neither does losing a patient or dealing with heartbroken clients.

I look forward to meeting all your pets and making them part of the Cape Companions Vet family.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Professional photography by Emma O’Brien

#cooldog

To enter:

M-PETS And PETPRINTS are looking for all the Cool Dogs and Pups out there! We are giving 1 lucky winner a chance to get their paws on a Foldable pet cooling mat. Beat the heat with this foldable pet cooling mat. Ready to use, easy to clean (hand washable) and non toxic. This cooling mat keeps your pet cool and comfy with pressure activated gel technology that absorbs body heat. It can also deliver relief for senior pets with joint pain.The cooling mat is filled with a safe self-cooling gel which is activated the moment the dog goes to lie on the mat.

We’ll choose 1 lucky winner at random at the end of the November. Best of luck everyone! Competition closing date: 30 November 2021. The winner will be announced on Facebook and Instagram

Follow 2 Instagram accounts @petprintsmag and @mpet_za & tag us in a photo featuring your cool dog! Remember to add the hashtag #cooldog

FROM OUR READERS MAX Max is a collie cross that we adopted from AACL in 2018. At the time, we had, unfortunately, recently lost a puppy to parvo, and we couldn’t bring an unvaccinated dog into our household. We went to AACL to see if there was a dog for us, and Max happened to be the only one who was still a young dog and fully vaccinated. We brought him home and he was so happy to be at his forever home that he just ran around the garden for hours. He was always meant to find us and be in our lives! – Lauren Dent

Winston

Stark Winston is a five-month-old orange roan English Cocker Spaniel. He is currently busy with foundation obedience class after completing puppy school. He very playful and loves other dogs. Squeaky toys are his favorite things to play with! – Talisha Jorge

Meet Stark, my 7 year old pitbull. People said never to get a pitball when having a kid due to the stigma attached..... Well Starky sure proved them wrong he is the most loveable and affectionate dog with the most amazing cuddles and puppy licks! - Gaironesa

Tag us on instagram @petprintsmag 6

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

codi Codi is the most well-behaved dog. He is super friendly and loves everyone! – Alan Arumugam

Louie and Daisy Meet Louie and Daisy Coetzee. Our insanely cute, mischievous, and loving Yorkies. – Lauren Coetzee

Hello, my name is Frankie, and I am a 10-year-old basset hound. I love my dad more than anything and demand his attention at all times. It really annoys me when I am having my morning snuggles and he insists on reading and not paying me enough attention. So, I make sure to make sure that he notices my disapproval by staring at him over his book. Best wishes, Frankie - Natalie Danks

JAMESON

Frankie

Jameson is my rescue boy, from Aid 4 Animals. He wakes up every day with the joys of life, which has really helped me. I got him at a very low point in my life and he has helped me to believe in following my dreams. He is a total love bug and brings joy to my life every day! – Lucy Porter

WRITE TO US AND STAND A CHANCE TO WIN A RED DINGO LEASH AND COLLAR SET MAIL@PETPRINTS.CO.ZA

PET PRINTS WILL SELECT ONE ENTRY PER ISSUE TO WIN THE PRIZE Red Dingo, Australia, have been producing the ultimate pet accessories since 2001 and are now available in South Africa. Their products are tough and built to outlast any pet adventure. Red Dingo is instantly recognized by its patented buckle-bone for dogs and fish clip for cats. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram #reddingoza #bucklebonemovement Red Dingo Stockists: Planet Woooof, petheaven.co.za, Pet World and Vet World (all outlets), selected Vet Shops, Blue Cross Veterinary hospital, Vet Point, Bergrivier Vet, urbanpaws.co.za, selected About Cats and Dogs, NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS vet-x.co.za, apetslife.co.za, takealot.com and others. Distributed by Meelo (Pty) Ltd. 7

STEPHANIE ON MILA +

MOVEMENT &MOTIVATION

Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and carry on doing what you love, what you are good at and what you want to do. Enter Stephanie Stander! Just like everyone else, and Stephanie as well, I’m sure, I was ill prepared when COVID 19 struck. I dare say I was in complete denial. We had booked a holiday in Zanzibar, spent about 3 days abroad and then got a message that the Tanzanian borders were closing within 48 hours, and we had to leave. Getting the exact same news once settling back in at home, we were sure things were only temporary and that three weeks would be it for lockdown.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA O’BRIEN WORDS BY MARISE BURGER

E A 9

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Advice for people who need to get started on their fitness journey. “No matter where you are in your life, if you want to get into fitness, you just need to get started.”

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

This was difficult news for us, as runners, to take in. We comforted ourselves with the fact that we could run circles around the outside of our house. Not everyone was this lucky, though. With the vast majority of people living in flats (high rise buildings at that), running or doing vigorous exercise wasn’t exactly an option. From my own experience, nothing makes you dislike the upstairs neighbours more than those 5am mornings when they decide to do washing or move furniture for cleaning. How would one try to stay active without making a racket? This lady who made lock down not only bearable for many women, but actually helped them thrive, Stephanie TWS, as she’s known on Instagram, has made it her life’s purpose to transform women’s bodies and build their confidence through educating them on a healthy lifestyle.

programs, and I’ve been creating them ever since.” Let’s not kid ourselves, online marketing isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but building such a successful platform and business based on an online market is nothing to sneeze at. “I never intended for TWS to be what it is now, which is a primarily online training platform, but I’m happy with what we’ve achieved. I get to work with so many inspiring ladies.” So, what helps this bubbly, bright lady to get up in the morning? As I understand it, it’s a mixture of endorphins,

discipline and a pooch called Mila! Mila, or Mila Muis, as she is affectionately called, is often seen on the Stephanie TWS Instagram feeds, laying around the studio while Stephanie teaches us how to apply ourselves physically. As a child, Stephanie grew up with a Border Collie, named Guss, who was as much part of the family as any dog could hope for. He would go wherever the family went and was a big part of Stephanie’s life for over 20 years. Unfortunately, a Border Collie wouldn’t make a great fit for city living and Stephanie and her partner, Mark, adored the idea of a French Bulldog sharing their lives. After some research, they found that the health problems associated with Frenchies might be a bit much to take on and decided that a Boston Terrier would fit their lifestyle perfectly.

MILA

The technique? A simple homebased workout with minimal equipment and moving, paired with a healthy eating plan. An advocate for balance, Stephanie loves a glass of red wine, but warns that this isn’t all that life is about. “It’s about doing what’s good for your body and soul.” After a career as a Marketing Professional, Personal Assistant and Flight Attendant, Stephanie ventured into the realm of making her daily practice a career. Admitting that she hasn’t always loved training, it was something that she’d always done out of habit; she loved sports and took part in swimming and netball growing up. A healthy lifestyle was engraved in her as a principle. After numerous requests from the women in her life who admired her determination, Stephanie decided to do a course in personal training and developed a four-week program which would combine her love for movement with an easy-to-follow plan of action. “That plan was so well received and had everyone so motivated that they kept asking for new

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

What’s the most important piece of equipment to invest in for home training?

“The most essential piece of equipment you can own, when starting your workout kit at home, is a stepper. You can do a lot with a stepper. After this, a set of dumbbells.”

A boisterous little Boston girl of 2 years old, Mila has a perfectly matching family. A mom and dad that adore her and keep an active lifestyle. Boston Terriers aren’t exactly the placid type, and Mila gets to live her best life with a lot of walks and ball games. She’s a talented little rascal who sits beautifully when she spots a treat and also does ballerina turns when she gets really excited. When she’s not showing off her peaches on social media or running along the foot paths of the park, she’s snoring up a storm or begging for belly rubs. She gets to go almost everywhere with mom and dad and is treated like a proper princess. Getting up at around 7am, she has breakfast, makes a turn in the garden and heads straight back to bed to tuck herself in under the covers. This is where mom, Stephanie, finds her at 10am when she actually gets up. As with most Boston Terriers, little Mila is quite fond of napping around the house and finding little spots of sun to enjoy. As the day winds down, this breed finds their stamina. Mila gets to go for walks in the afternoon and plays ball while Stephanie and Mark train. So, while everyone is working on their 2022 summer bodies, why not check out the Stephanie TWS website for a program that fits your lifestyle. Stephanie is careful to remind people that it’s not a quick fix method of losing weight, but rather a lifestyle change. Looking at the lifestyle Stephanie lives, and the compassion she has for others and especially her pup, I think it’s safe to say that she can be trusted with just about anyone’s journey. We can’t wait to see what next year has instore for this lady!

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Words to live by: “With dedication, comes transformation!”

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Top Tips

for keeping fidgety fidos busy I have traded in my talkative, treat bringing co-worker for one that is extremely needy, steals my stuff and is constantly interrupting me. That’s right, I am talking about becoming a work-from-home Dog Mom. Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, millions of people around the world have taken to working from home, much to the utter elation of their furry companions. And who can blame them? Spending time with Mom and Dad 24/7 is their dream come true. Don’t get me wrong, I have loved being able to spend more quality time with the pets, but it has come with its own set of challenges. Every morning without fail, as I sit down at my desk, Oliver will come and bring me a toy to entice me to play with him. If, on the

rare occasion, I ignore him, he will get up to mischief, steal something he KNOWS he shouldn’t have (e.g., scrubbing brushes, sponges, shoes, razors?!) because it results in me furiously running after him trying to take back the contraband. Attention is attention, whether it is good or bad. As the saying goes, a tired dog is a good dog, but you can’t expect your dog to lie peacefully

in a corner if they are ignored all day and get no physical or mental stimulation. So read on to see how you can implement small changes to make a big difference in both your life and your pooches.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

WALKS

I don’t know about you, but my dog has endless energy first thing in the morning (8 hours of sleep will do that to you). Starting your day off with a short walk will not only clear your head before you begin work, but it is also an ideal way to rid your dog of their excess energy and help to settle them so that you can focus.

PLAY BREAKS

You can’t sit at your desk all day. At some point you have to get up to stretch, make coffee, get a snack etc. I find that after a quick play session of ball throwing, a game of tug-of-war, or even just kisses and cuddles, Oliver readily settles back into his bed and lets me carry on with my work. So, don’t stand around while the kettle boils, grab your pup’s favourite toy, head outside for some fresh air and get the blood pumping. You will both be better off for it.

FROZEN TREATS

Get creative and make your own pupsicles. Freeze high value treats or chews into water or a low sodium broth like chicken or beef. Your dog will be kept busy for ages licking the treats out as the ice melts. This is also a great way to keep them hydrated and cool them down on hot summer days.

WINDOW WATCHING

This will either be the best idea or the worst. For me, it is the worst. Oliver

loves to window watch, which is fine until he actually sees or hears someone. Then all chaos breaks loose, and it sounds like Cerberus (the 3-headed dog that guards the underworld in Greek mythology) has been set free in my office. To combat this, I am trying to teach him not to bark, by using positive reinforcement and lots of treats - it is a slow process, though, and I don’t have the heart to banish him from my office. However, if your dog does behave and simply observes passers-by and the world around him, then this is a great way to keep them entertained. Place a bed and comfy pillow to rest their head at the window and let them while the day away.

ROTATE TOYS

In my house Oliver really, really wants what he can’t have - which is, mainly, his brother’s toys. These are put away for safe keeping and when he eventually gets his paws on them (read: steals them), it keeps him busy for at least 30 minutes to an hour. So why not use your dog’s rebellion to your advantage and rotate certain toys every few days. This ensures that they don’t get bored with them and saves you money by not having to repeatedly buy new toys.

ENRICHMENT GAMES/ TOYS

Tiring your dog out isn’t all about physical exercise, they need mental stimulation as well. Brain games, puzzles and enrichment toys are the perfect boredom busters as they provide your dog with a challenge and give them an opportunity to use their problem-solving skills. Certain toys are designed to play with your

dog, which are great for those play breaks, and others are designed for solo play to keep them busy for an extended period, while you are working or away. Keep in mind that puzzle games come in different levels of difficulty, so start with level 1 and build your way up. Not all dogs will enjoy the puzzle games. Some might prefer toys which can be filled with any tasty treat like wet food, fruit, yoghurt or peanut butter that they can lick out. These treat toys can even be frozen for a longer lasting treat/added challenge. Some good solo play toys are “treat” balls, snuffle mats, lick mats and stuffable toys.

DIY

Keeping your dog occupied and entertained does not mean that you have to go out and buy expensive interactive toys. Common household items can be transformed into amazing toys that your dog will love! A cold drink bottle can be repurposed into a treat dispensing toy by simply poking appropriately sized holes into it, filling it with treats/dry food and giving it to your dog to roll it around and get the snacks out. Spread some peanut butter/ yoghurt onto a silicone potholder and you have yourself a “licky” mat. Sprinkle some treats into a scrunched-up towel for an improvised snuffle mat. Even muffin tins and the inside of a toilet roll can be used to hide treats for your pup to sniff out. Always be mindful of choking hazards and keep your eye out, especially if your dog is known to eat things they shouldn’t!

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Vaccination 101 Immunity identikit

Think of pathogens (disease-causing organisms, like viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites) as invaders. They sneak into the body, where they cause damage, use resources, and make us ill. The immune system is the body’s defence force - it detects the invaders and mounts an attack to fight and eradicate them. In the process, antibodies are created with a detailed ‘identikit’ of the intruder so that, if it comes along again, it will be recognised and can be combated and, hopefully, defeated. Most pathogens are mild and can be easily overcome; others are so powerful and multiply so rapidly that they cannot be defeated without serious damage to the body, or even death. Fortunately, we have vaccines for many of these nasties. A vaccine is an altered form of the pathogen from which scientists have removed the disease-causing aspect. This ‘deactivated’ pathogen is introduced into the body, usually via injection, but sometimes orally or nasally. Essentially, it shows the immune army the ‘identikit’ without the risk of serious illness, which allows the body to prepare a strong defence for when the real thing comes along. Some vaccinations don’t create complete immunity, and it’s still possible to get sick, but then the infection usually isn’t as severe. Most vaccines that we give to our pets, if administered correctly and regularly, provide excellent protection against some very serious contagious illnesses. It’s important to know that this immunity is not instant. As with any defence system, it takes a little while to develop the right protection. It also does not last forever, so regular reminders (booster

vaccinations) are needed, particularly in young animals. Once is not enough for full protection – unless a vaccination programme is followed, the protection is not complete. That’s why it is so important to take your pet for their scheduled shots.

Getting the essentials

So, you’re on track with all their jabs…but what are they actually for? Several vaccines are considered essential as they protect against serious, highly contagious diseases - these are called core vaccines and they are the ones most dogs and cats receive. The most important one is against rabies, a deadly disease which can be transmitted to humans and animals. In fact, vaccination is compulsory, under the Animal Diseases Act (Act 35 of 1985), because it protects everyone. South African state veterinarian, Dr Alicia Cloete, who specialises in animal disease control at the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) advises that puppies and

kittens should receive their first rabies vaccine by 12 weeks, followed by a booster within 12 months, but at least one month after the first vaccine. Thereafter, booster vaccinations every three years are required (or annually in high-risk settings). If your pet was vaccinated earlier than 12 weeks, they will need an extra vaccination. If they were not vaccinated at 12 weeks or you don’t know their history, you can vaccinate them at any time, and follow this up with a booster between one and 12 months afterwards, and then follow the annual, or three-yearly schedule, as mentioned.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

BY JENNIFER DAVIES Everyone seems to be talking about vaccinations these days. But how do they actually work, and why are they important for our furry family members?

Aside from rabies vaccination, dogs and cats have different core requirements. According to the South African Veterinary Association’s vaccination guidelines, core vaccines for dogs (DHPP/DAPP) are Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper Virus, and Canine Adenovirus type 2. Core vaccines for cats (FVRCP) are Feline Panleukopaenia Virus, Feline Herpes Virus, and Feline Calicivirus. Some of these diseases can be fatal and spread rapidly; they may even affect wild animals. Dr Lesley van Helden, State Veterinarian: Epidemiology, at the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, says: “Canine parvovirus and distemper can infect almost all wild carnivores and cause outbreaks and deaths in wildlife populations. For instance, there have been reports of distemper causing deaths in endangered African wild dogs.”

Vaccinations considered to be non-essential are given only if circumstances require (e.g., travelling or kennelling); they include Bordetella (kennel cough) for dogs and cats, leptospirosis (which can be transmitted to humans) and canine parainfluenza for dogs, and FIV, FeLV, and feline chlamydia in cats. When we decide to bring animals into our lives, we take on a responsibility - not just for them and their health, but for everything else that could be affected by their presence. The more animals that are vaccinated, the stronger the ‘circle of protection’ that shields those who are more vulnerable. Protecting animals and each other really is something that we all can do. And it starts with vaccinations

Core vaccine schedule for dogs

1. Core: 6 – 8 weeks old 2. Core: 4 weeks after the first vaccination at 10 – 12 weeks old. 3. Core + Rabies: 4 weeks after the second vaccination at 14 – 16 weeks old. Note that, if the rabies vaccine was given before 12 weeks, it will need to be given again. 4. Core + Rabies: 12 months old 5. Thereafter, Core + Rabies every 1 - 3 years, or as advised by your veterinarian. *DHPP/DAPP: Canine Distemper, Adenovirus Type 1 (Hepatitis), Adenovirus Type 2 (Respiratory Disease), Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.

Inoculation, vaccination, or immunisation – which is correct?

Inoculation refers to any process that implants a microorganism into the body, not necessarily to stimulate immune function. In medicine, we introduce altered versions of viruses and bacteria (vaccines) with the intention of stimulating an immune response. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same: you are inoculated with a vaccine (vaccinated) in order to create immunity (immunisation).

1796

The first documented vaccination administered. English doctor Edward Jenner used the vaccinia (cowpox) virus in order to prevent infection with the deadly smallpox virus. It would be over a hundred years before the first vaccine for animals, when Louis Pasteur invented one for chicken cholera in 1879.

1884

Scientist Louis Pasteur invented the canine rabies vaccination. In 1885, the vaccine was given to a child who had been bitten by a rabid dog, which is credited with saving his life.

9-99

Every 9 minutes, someone in the world dies of rabies. 99% of these cases are transmitted by rabid dogs. Rabies spread can be prevented through vaccination of dogs and cats.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

RABIES RED ALERT FOR RABIES

“Globally, every nine minutes, a person dies of rabies, according to the World Health Organisation,” says South African state veterinarian, Dr Alicia Cloete, who specialises in animal disease control at the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD). “This fatal disease affects the brain and has a terrible course - it is disturbing to witness animals and people suffering from rabies and eventually succumbing to it. Once symptoms appear, there is no effective treatment,” she cautions. The virus, which affects the brains of mammals, is spread via saliva, and can be transmitted through bites, licks, or scratches from a rabid animal to other animals or people. In animals, signs include fever, behavioural changes (for example, friendly pets may become aggressive; wild animals may become unusually tame), difficulty swallowing and drooling (causing the classic appearance of ‘foaming at the mouth’), photophobia (aversion to light), staggering, trembling, collapse, and seizures.

IT’S SERIOUS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Cloete emphasises that this zoonotic disease should be taken extremely seriously, “In 2020, 294 animal rabies cases were officially reported to the SA Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), up from 257 in 2019. By the end of July 2021, just over 330 laboratory-confirmed animal rabies cases were recorded.” This may be the tip of the iceberg as many outbreaks are never detected.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Rabies is endemic to our country – this means that it’s a naturally occurring part of our environment. Dr Lesley Van Helden, state veterinarian (epidemiology) at the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, says that, “In different parts of SA, rabies cycles are maintained by domestic dogs, jackals, yellow mongooses, or bat-eared foxes. However, dog rabies poses the biggest threat to humans: 99% of human rabies cases around the world are a result of infection from rabid dogs. ”Van Helden advises that, “It is predominantly reported in the eastern parts of the country (Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape provinces and the eastern Free State border with Lesotho).” However, it can and does occur all over SA. Most recently, in June 2021, three confirmed cases of rabies in wild animals were found on Gauteng’s West Rand, and in August 2021, two rabid dogs were reported in the densely populated area of Khayelitsha.

Join the good fight

The good news, says Cloete, is that, “Dog-mediated human rabies is 100% preventable. This can be achieved through creating rabies awareness, adequate vaccination coverage of dog populations (70% coverage) and access to affordable post-exposure prophylaxis for people. SA State veterinary services vaccinate animals for rabies throughout the year, but there are periods when vaccination campaigns intensify, particularly around World Rabies Day (annually on 28 September). Some provinces even provide free vaccines to welfare organisations to ensure that even indigent dogs and cats are protected.” This is part of the global ‘Zero by 30’ (zero cases of dog-

mediated human rabies deaths by 2030) strategic plan. We can’t do much to stop wild animals from getting rabies yet but, says Cloete, “On a larger scale, vaccinated pets in our communities can create a “buffer” between people, and wildlife and stray animals that may be infected.” With the movement of people and their animals throughout the country, increase in heavily populated areas, and encroachment into previously wild spaces, vaccinating our pets against rabies and supporting outreach programmes that vaccinate freeroaming dogs and cats has never been more important. If you see a suspected rabid animal, do not approach it. It is also advised not to pick up stray animals in highrisk rabies areas. Instead, contact a local veterinarian or animal welfare for assistance. If you have been licked,

scratched, or bitten by a suspected rabid animal, clean the area thoroughly with soap and running water and seek immediate medical attention for post-exposure prophylaxis (a course of injections that must be completed). Even if the animal is not rabid, in order to prevent bacterial infections, animal bite/ scratch wounds should always be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, and, if you have not had a tetanus shot in the last decade, get a booster. If your pet has been in contact with a suspected rabid animal, contact your vet immediately.

CORE vaccination schedule for cats

1. Core: 6 – 8 weeks old 2. Core: 4 weeks after the first vaccination at 10 to 12 weeks old. Note that, if the rabies vaccine was given before 12 weeks, it will need to be given again. 3. Core + Rabies: 4 weeks after the second vaccination at 14 to 16 weeks old 4. Core + Rabies: 12 months old 5. Thereafter, Core + Rabies every 1 - 3 years, or as advised by your veterinarian. *FVRCP: Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) caused by feline herpesvirus-1, Feline calicivirus (FCV), and Feline panleukopaenia (FPL) caused by feline parvovirus (FPV).

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

DR MEGAN ESTERHUYSEN

STERILISATION & BESITY - FACT CHECK

Plump. Big-boned. Curvy. Tubby. Let’s not beat around the bush, Rover is fat. A waistline more akin to clock radio than hourglass, can’t walk ten steps without panting and a boep that is the envy of many a sumo wrestler.

s a veterinarian, I have seen my fair share of fat animals over the years. One of the most common excuses offered by owners for their animal’s not-exactlysvelte appearance? Sterilisation. Is it really that simple? Is that the only factor playing a role in the increased number of chubby patients rolling through my consult door? Or is there more to it? Let’s start at the top. Can sterilisation lead to increased weight gain? Studies show that there certainly is a correlation between the sterilisation of animals and obesity. In one study, over a third of all neutered male cats were overweight or obese (1) and excess weight gain was found in spayed queens versus intact queens. The prevalence of obesity in neutered dogs was 32% compared to only 20% in intact males whilst obesity in intact bitches was 23 % versus 32 % in sterilised bitches. (2) The tendency for sterilised pets to be overweight or obese could be attributed to decreased roaming behaviour (i.e. looking for a mate), an increased daily food intake and a decreased resting metabolic rate. (3) You may think the solution to this weighty issue is obvious; don’t sterilise your pets? Not so fast. There are numerous benefits to sterilisation that far outweigh (sorry) the downside. Sterilisation decreases a number of unwanted, problematic behaviour in our pets. Spayed bitches tend to fight less, no longer attract unwanted males and show less roaming behaviour. Queens are renowned for their vocalization during oestrus and can have numerous heat cycles in a year.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

After sterilisation, male animals tend to roam less, do not urine marking as frequently and have fewer territorial fights. In addition to the afore-mentioned, sterilisation also has numerous medical benefits and the main reason I advocate for the procedure. Spayed females have a decreased incidence of numerous cancers including mammary carcinoma (which is the second most common tumour in bitches(4) and the third most common tumour in queens), Uterine and ovarian cancers. Also prevented by sterilisation is pyometra which is a when the uterus is filled with purulent, toxic fluid requiring an emergency hysterectomy. In male dogs, sterilisation reduces the incidence of benign prostastic hyperplasia and testicular cancer. Tomcats (once sterilized) do not fight as much resulting in fewer abscesses (a common sequel to a cat fights) as well as a decreased risk of contracting an infectious disease such as feline immunodeficiency virus(5). I know what you’re thinking; Sterilisation seems like the way to go, after all, what is a few extra rolls between man and his best friend? The answer is “a lot”. Among the numerous conditions commonly associated with excess

weight are a risk of joint problems, respiratory difficulties, cardiac disease, reproductive and urinary disorders as well as an increased risk of diabetes can all be greatly reduced with effective weight management. To snip or not to snip, that is the question? This isn’t as much of a conundrum as one would think. The adverse effects associated with not sterilising your pet cannot be reversed whereas the effects of excess weight and obesity can be reversed as well as controlled. Taking simple measures post-sterilisation can prevent the weight gain such as feeding a diet which is lower in calories due to sterilized pets decreased metabolic

rate. In terms of feeding, make sure that you cut back on the treats, adhere to the food manufacturer’s feeding guideline and feed twice a day. Lastly, check that Rover is not coming back for seconds and vacuuming up your other pet’s food when you’re not watching. As with humans, regular exercise helps keep your pet fit and lean. If you notice weight gain in your pet, then act sooner rather than later and don’t dismiss it as simply a side-effect of sterilisation. The weight gain could be the result of other factors such as arthritis (which leads to decreased physical activity) and endocrine diseases such as cushings disease which lowers the pet’s metabolic rate thereby contributing to weight gain. Your friendly neighbourhood vet will be able to help you identify any of these causes. So, does sterilisation increase the risk of obesity? Certainly, however, it can be controlled and is definitely not the only scapegoat. Diet, snacks and exercise all have a role to play in maintaining a healthy weight in your pet. Sterilisation is not an excuse for your pet being overweight; we need to stop focusing on this one potential factor and start seeing the bigger picture. References will be supplied on request.

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A VERY STRANGE CASE THAT OUR VETERINARY TEAM FIGURED OUT IN RECORD TIME

It is stories like these that just show how at even a small animal clinic in the middle of the Free State, South Africa, you can have great minds working quickly to figure out a problem and save an animal’s life.

The team went back to the drawing board and started again, this time they decided it had to be kidney failure and with such a sudden onset and rapid decline, that it had to be linked to poison, but what poison?

It all started when Babi was rushed to us by Jabu and Reitumetsie (who absolutely love their cat). Babi is known to be a fussy cat, but they became very concerned when he wasn’t eating and, in addition to that, he seemed very weak and feeble, barely able to stand. They scooped him up and carried him in their arms, almost 2kms through the valley, to get to us. Thankfully, Babi had been sterilised and vaccinated previously, so they knew exactly where we were!

That was when they started thinking about the time of the year. It is very cold here in the Free State in winter with temps reaching -5 most mornings. They came up with potential anti-freeze poisoning and quickly checked Google for more information. Sadly, the prognosis for antifreeze poisoning is very poor if not caught early, and we initially feared the worst. But, because Babi had vomited, the team was convinced that we had caught it early enough, and that we had to try everything we could to save him. The Internet said that the urine would be fluorescent, so Dr K rushed back to her private practice, which thankfully wasn’t too far away, to get her fluorescent lamp and the urine was a bright neon colour. That confirmed our diagnosis. Now for the treatment, and this is where the story gets very interesting!

Thankfully, Dr Katherine was at the Cluny clinic in Fouriesburg with Dr Eunice Olevano (our CCS vet) and Dr Mariska Malan (CCS vet from Ladybrand), who had brought a dog for us to x-ray. The veterinary team immediately suspected poisoning, so Dr K did a cystocentesis (which involves the insertion of a needle through the abdominal and bladder walls to get a urine sample). The urine Disclaimer: came out a funny lime/yellow colour! The use of vodka Immediately after she had taken the urine sample, Babi started to in this article was part of a specific projectile vomit watery liquid. medical protocol which would be dangerous to attempt by anyone His urine tested very high for other than a professional. Alcohol increased glucose levels. Initially in all forms is toxic to dogs and they thought it might be diabetes, but Babi does not have a history cats, and has no benefit as a home of diabetes, and because he was remedy if your pet is sick. acting and eating normally just the Remember, it is never advised to give day before, that was quickly ruled any form of medication to out. your animal without first consulting your vet.

Anti-freeze poisoning is treated with intravenous ethanol, but, of course, that is not something that we have just lying around, so back to Google we went. What could we use in its place? Dr K rushed off to Sakkie at the local bottle store in Fouriesburg and got hold of the purest bottle of vodka she could get (which turned out to be Romanoff vodka!. Thankfully, the team had Babi hooked up to a drip, so it took them a couple of minutes to work out the dosage which they had to dilute…yes you are reading this right, we intravenously dosed Babi with vodka! NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

BY IMOGEN TARITA, VOLUNTEER, CLUNY ANIMAL TRUST

to form in the kidneys, which destroys the tubules in the kidneys, and the ethanol, or, in this case, the vodka dissolves the crystals and allows them to pass in the urine. By the 4th treatment Babi was almost back to normal. Eating and looking like a million bucks, very different from when he was first brought in. We kept him for a couple of days for observation and it was about a week before he could go home. To say that the family was thrilled to have him back would be an understatement, just check out the smiles on their faces!

This case was fascinating, thinking on their feet and considering all angles, plus it was one that none of us (Dr K included) had ever seen or experienced before, but it is definitely a case that none of us will forget! After we first posted the story on Facebook (which went viral), a number of people wanted to know what we did with the rest of the vodka. We can’t tell a lie…we mixed the vodka with OJ to make screwdrivers, and celebrated that this is one story that had a very happy ending!

Of course, even though it was diluted he still got drunk. We had to repeat the process every 6 hours for a day and a half, and then every 8 hours for another day. Basically, the ethylene glycol in anti-freeze causes crystals

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Mouse, Halloumi Mozzarella.

Fancy rats are domestic rats that are bred for temperament and companionship, and they make great pets! I was 9 years old when I got my first rat. She had been brought in one night by one of my cats, which was trying to teach our other cat, her son, to hunt. Needless to say, this little rat outsmarted both cats all night. My mother was not a fan of rodents at all, but after seeing this sweet little face staring back at her in terror that morning, she said the frightened little thing could stay. The cats’ victim must have been someone’s pet that had escaped. It was the year 2000, so Pikachu was the inevitable name choice, being my favorite Pokémon character. Back then I didn’t know anything about rats, particularly that they should not be kept alone and do best with a rat friend or two. She was an incredible little creature and made me fall in love with rats. She would manage to squeeze out of her cage every morning, climb into bed with me and lick my face to wake me up and have a cuddle. She had such a spunky personality. She even survived when our house caught fire in a tragic accident in 2001. The firefighters were directed to where she was and came out of the burning house holding her cage up in victory. Talk about a dramatic story! Sadly, Pikachu had to be put to sleep not long after that due to a large cancerous lump that appeared almost overnight. It was a while until I got more rats after Pikachu passed away, as my house was full of dogs and cats, and it was a bit too risky to have a rat in the mix. In 2017 I got 2 more rats, Jupiter and Lyra, from a friend of mine who was a fancy rat breeder. They absolutely changed my life! I called them my antidepressants and they were an absolute joy and got me through a really tough time in my life. They showed me just how smart and loving pet rats can be and how each one had a completely different personality, just like a dog or cat. Not to mention that they were super cute! They

would come when I called them and sat with me on my bed watching TV in the evenings or explore my room until it was bedtime. I later adopted 3 more rats from a rescue organization that had loads of rats needing homes and I couldn’t resist. They were “feeder rats” and less friendly than the others, but still very smart. I was nervous about introducing them to my 2 rat girls, but with some help from the rat groups on Facebook and my rat breeder friend, it went pretty smoothly. This is where my journey of learning all about these little critters started, not that I’m now an expert by any means. South Africa has a substantial community of pet rat owners and there are multiple Facebook groups and organizations to help rescue rats, educate owners, and let them share stories and tips. There are also many international rat groups and celebrity rats all over the world that people follow and adore. There are different breeds of fancy rats, and they can have a variety of colours and markings. Rats really are like mini dogs! They have their own unique personalities; they’re smart, friendly, affectionate, absolutely adorable and can be so funny!

I now totally understand why there are so many cartoon rodents - if you sit and watch them for a while, I guarantee they will put a smile on your face. I eventually landed up with 11 rats at one point - I just couldn’t resist them. All my rats have been female, to prevent rat babies, which can happen very quickly. I introduced my Labrador to them when he was a small puppy so that he would be used to them as he was growing up. He is always delighted to see them and they’re very cute together. I keep all their interactions short and closely supervised so that nothing unfortunate happens. I currently have 3 rats, 2 standard ear and one dumbo rat named Mouse (yes, a rat named Mouse, LOL), Halloumi and Mozzarella. Sadly, rats are very prone to respiratory issues and often get cancerous lumps.

Visit www.apopo.org for more on these incredible rats If you’re interested in adopting (preferable as there are always many pet rats in need of loving homes) or buying a pet rat, here are a few places to start: Facebook groups: Pet Rat Support RSA Rats in South Africa

SEPTEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

BY MEGAN VON MALTITZ

It’s really important to do your research if you’re wanting to get pet rats, to ensure they live a healthy, happy and long life. Their cage set up is very important and it is vital that you don’t use things that can aggravate their respiratory vulnerabilities.

A reputable exotics vet can treat them and often know rats well because they’re quite a popular pet. Newspaper that is changed regularly is what I found works best as bedding, but there are other options. Rats can be litter box trained and are very clean animals, for the most part. They spend a great deal of their time cleaning themselves and their cage-mates. Rats are omnivores and eat almost any food. There are commercially available rat foods that you can buy at a pet or vet shop and fresh veggies and fruits are also important in your rats’ diet. Protein, like egg and meat, are also important for them, especially when they are growing

or are elderly; but this needs to be fed in moderation. Watching a rat eat has got to be one of the greatest delights for a rat owner. Their little hands holding onto their food and taking little bites while their whiskers wiggle around as they chew is just so adorable!

metal that slows down other traditional landmine detection equipment. Landmines are pressure activated and the weight of these rats is not enough to set off the explosives. According to APOPO’s website no rats have ever been killed in landmine detection.

Make no mistake, fancy rats are the friendly, lovable little creatures, but all rats are extremely intelligent.

APOPO’s HeroRATs can screen 100 sputum samples for TB in 20 minutes, which can take a lab technician up to 4 days!

The giant pouch rat is used in landmine and tuberculosis (TB) detection that is run by an organization called APOPO in central Africa. Rats can sniff out the explosives in landmines quickly and ignore the

Rats have incredible smell and are easy to train which makes them the perfect little heroes!

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

FASCINATING GECKOS ARE CLASSIFIED AS LIZARDS THAT BELONG TO THE GEKKOTA INFRAORDER. There are over 1,000 species of geckos and they all possess some similarities, including a short stout body, a large head and, typically, well-developed limbs. Geckos are found on every continent except Antarctica. They are mostly found in warm climates and have adapted to habitat ranges from rain forests and jungles, mountains, grasslands and even deserts.

Geckos can vary greatly in length, with some of the smallest species that are under 2 centimetres, while some species can grow up to 60 centimetres. Geckos have a lens within each iris that enlarges in darkness to let more light in, making their eyes over 350 times more sensitive to light than a normal human. Most geckos lack eyelids and, instead, have a transparent membrane, which they keep clean by licking it with their tongues.

Geckos use their tail for different purposes, such as to act as fuel tanks to store fat and nutrients, to maintain balance with certain obstacles, like climbing a branch, and add camouflage to help them to blend into their environment. A STUDY PUBLISHED IN THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES JOURNAL, HAVE REPORTED THAT WHEN A GECKO FALLS, IT TWISTS ITS TAIL TO THE RIGHT ANGLE TO ENABLE IT TO LAND ON ITS FEET. They are also able to shed their tails if a predator grabs them, as a last escape effort. They then regenerate their tail.

WHEN THE GECKO SHEDS ITS TAIL, IT CONTINUES TO WRIGGLE AS IF IT IS STILL ALIVE, WHICH HOPEFULLY IS ENOUGH OF A DISTRACTION SO THAT THE GECKO CAN ESCAPE THE PREDATOR. Geckos are known for their sticky feet that gives them the ability to crawl across smooth or even horizontal surfaces (such as ceilings) without falling.

This is possible because their toes have tiny hooks which act like suction cups during walking. Teflon is the only material to which a gecko cannot climb or walk without gliding. Geckos occur in various patterns and colours, usually brightly coloured, while some species can even change their colour and may be lighter at night time. Most species of geckos are brown or grey, depending on their environment. These camouflaging colours help the geckos to blend in and to hide amongst rocks, dirt and sand from predators. ALL GECKOS SHED THEIR SKIN AT REGULAR INTERVALS, WITH SOME SPECIES DIFFERING IN TIMING. When shedding begins, the gecko will detach the loose skin from its body and will start to eat the shed skin.

MOST GECKOS ARE NOCTURNAL, WHICH MEANS THEY ARE AWAKE AT NIGHT AND SLEEP DURING THE DAY. Nocturnal gecko species have an excellent night vision. Their colour vision is 350 times more sensitive than that of a human’s colour vision. Many geckos, especially young ones, make noises to communicate when they are upset or defending their territory, or even to attract a mate. GECKOS HAVE AN EXCELLENT SENSE OF HEARING. STUDIES SUGGEST THAT THEY ARE CAPABLE OF HEARING TONES HIGHER THAN THOSE DETECTABLE BY ANY OTHER REPTILE SPECIES.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

FACTS Geckos are polyphyodonts and are able to replace each of their teeth every 3 to 4 months, depending on the species type.

ON AVERAGE A GECKO WILL LIVE UP TO 8-10 YEARS, BUT A NUMBER OF SPECIES WILL LIVE TO DOUBLE THAT. Geckos typically eat fruits, insects, such as crickets, worms and grasshoppers and flower nectar.

AFTER HATCHING, IT WILL BE A YEAR BEFORE THE BABY GECKOS ARE MATURE AND READY TO MEET AND MATE.

Geckos will also consume spiders, centipedes and small scorpions, and they will even eat other hatchling geckos.

Depending on the species and location, their endangered status can range from least concern to critically endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

Geckos mate several times during the year. Mating habits vary amongst gecko species, but most may include posturing, movements, vocalizations and even physical nipping and nudging.

Some gecko species are endangered due to habitat loss and because of the introduction of new predatory species into their environment.

Due to their small size, geckos are often preyed by snakes, large spiders, birds and some mammal species.

GECKOS ARE OFTEN KEPT AS PETS BY HUMANS AROUND THE WORLD. In some regions of the world, geckos are allowed to be indoors as they can help rid the house of unwelcome insects like mosquitos.

FEMALE GECKOS GIVE BIRTH BY LAYING EGGS IN PROTECTED LOCATIONS UNDER ROCKS, LOGS OR TREE BARK. THE EGGS ARE STICKY AND WHITE, AND HAVE SOFT, PLIABLE SHELLS THAT GRADUALLY HARDEN ONCE THEY’RE EXPOSED TO AIR. Depending on the species, the eggs incubate anything from 30 to 70 days before the fully formed baby geckos emerge. FEMALES DO NOT TAKE CARE OF THE EGGS. The newly emerged babies are called hatchlings.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Professional photography by Emma O’Brien

Fashionable

Making rescues

The Sushi and Panda Foundation is a registered NPO that focuses mainly on going into under-privileged areas to sterilize, vaccinate and treat animals, while educating their owners on how to care for their pets. They improve the living conditions of the animals as well as take in, rehabilitate and re-home any abandoned, neglected, abused and unwanted animals.

an attempt to get more animals adopted nationwide by changing the public’s perception surrounding rescue dogs, and making them more “glamourous” and sought after.

hey recently launched their newest campaign, “Make Rescues Fashionable”, by photographing their rescue dogs in high-end designer scarves from the likes of Gucci, Hermes, Burberry, Valentino and Louis Vuitton etc.

Hundreds of animals sit in shelters around South Africa, with most never finding a home to call their own. Most people do not even look at adopting, but rather opt to buy an animal instead. The Sushi and Panda Foundation wants to try and open the public’s mind to going to shelters and considering adopting, as an alternative to purchasing. Rescues are all one of a kind, no two are the same and they want to emphasize how special and unique each rescue is with their new campaign.

These incredible images, photographed by awardwinning pet photographer Emma O’Brien, will be turned into their 2022 rescue calendar that you need to purchase in order to see the full campaign. Spotted in these images are Megan Taylor (founder and owner of The Sushi and Panda Foundation) with her fiancé, Ty van der Waal, and their 3 dogs, Sushi, Panda and Nala, making a statement and posing with designer scarves to launch their new initiative and to get people talking about it.

So, let’s share it, talk about it and spread the word. Together we can make rescues fashionable! For more information contact Megan Taylor on 082 905 0277 or follow them on social on Facebook https:// www.facebook.com/ iandpandafoundation or on Instagram sushi_and_panda_ the_frenchies

The Foundation was named after their dogs, Sushi and Panda. Nala was rescued later during one of their outreach programs. Their aim is to create an awareness of rescue animals in

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

The Paws-A-While

Animal Adoption Fair celebrated World Animal Day on the 3rd of October, showcasing 15 animal welfare organisations in De Waal Park with their puppies and dogs up for adoption, of which many received applications! The Cape of Good Hope SPCA hosted a fun and educational puppet show for the children, yoga with Downward Dog for dogs and local musicians, Kayleigh Bell and Stanley Sibande shared their talent with Paws-a-whilers and park goers.

The Paws-a-While

Animal Adoption Fair is an exciting, outdoor, charitable event designed to promote and advance the adoption of animals from registered animal welfare organisations, who are members of the Cape Animal Welfare Forum (CAWF). We offer a platform for animal and ecofriendly traders to promote their goods. There is no charge to trade at the PawsA-While Fair, as we are dedicated to promoting small businesses who love animals! We do, however, work on a donation system and encourage traders to make a contribution towards the work of CAWF. Funds raised support the work of CAWF members on animal welfare projects in and around Cape Town.

The Metro Police K9 Unit treated us to a “narcotics search” demonstration before our main event, the Rescue Dog Show. MC’ed by the phenomenal Julian Cranford, celebrity judges: Premier Alan Winde, Alderman JP Smith, A Dogs Life producer, Samantha Grey, Africa Melane and South Africa’s World Animal Day ambassador, Tozie Zokufa, chose winners from 10 fun categories including the Happiest, most Wiggly Waggly Furchild, the Trickster, the Most Handsome Rescue Boy and the Most Gorgeous Rescue Gal. All participants won prizes from our pawsome sponsors, including Absolute Pets and AtFrits Dog Hotel vouchers, Marlton’s treats and Emperor Dog Food! This event is endorsed and supported by the City of Cape Town in the interest of animal welfare across the City. Our next Paws-A-While will be held in December, so keep an eye on our socials! Enquiries about World Animal Day can be made to pawsawhileadoptionfair@ gmail.com | Facebook - PawsawhileCT | Instagram - paws.a.while

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

BY: DR KATHRYN KNYPE FROM BIRNAM VETERINARY CLINIC

HE S ON Summer is nearly here, and we are all too familiar with the scorching temperatures that South Africa can experience. We as humans can take measures to ensure that we remain comfortable, however, for our pets, this is not always possible. Here are a few things to keep in mind this summer.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

SPONSORED BY Heatstroke is defined as: a severe elevation in body temperature between 40.5°C and 43°C. This can easily be caused by exposure to very high ambient temperatures, excessive solar radiation, and lack of ventilation. Humans and animals have various physiological mechanisms to assist with dissipating heat in warm environments. For animals, this includes seeking shelter, increasing blood flow to the skin surface to aid in heat transfer, as well as panting to cool down via evaporation of moisture from the mucus membranes in the respiratory tract. When the environmental temperature exceeds the body’s capacity to dissipate heat and cool down, this can lead to heatstroke. Heatstroke is a potentially fatal condition characterised by excessive panting and a very high core body temperature. Animals may become weak and collapse and may experience circulatory shock and even activation of the systemic inflammatory response system, which can result in multiple organ failure and death. It is vitally important that your pet has access to shelter for shade from the sun, as well as protection from adverse weather, such as rain and hailstorms, at all times. Your pets should also always have access to plenty of cool, clean water. When taking your dogs for a walk, it is important to check that the pavement or tar, or any surface that you are walking on is not too hot for your dog’s paw pads. Remember, you are likely wearing shoes, they are not. Hold the top of your hand to the surface you want to walk on. If it is too hot to hold your hand there for 10 seconds, then it is too hot for your pet to walk on, and they may burn their paw pads. It is also advisable to reserve walks for the coolest times of the day, before 10am and after 3pm. At the peak of summer, one may want to only go in the very early morning or at dusk. Always take water on your walks. One can purchase various collapsible water dishes that are ideal for this use.

Brachycephalic dog breeds are those which have short noses, such as Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Boston terriers and Pekingese. As dogs rely heavily on the movement of cool air over moist mucus membranes in their nasal passages to dissipate heat, these types of dogs are more susceptible to the effects of high environmental temperatures. This is because they have less mucus membranes through which to dissipate heat than dogs with a snout that is considered normal length. Therefore, it is even more important with these breeds of dogs to avoid very hot conditions and, in particular, vigorous exercise in hot conditions. These points are important for all the outings we take our dogs on, we may not realise when we take them with us to an outdoor event, such as a show or market, that, although we may enjoy it, they may quickly become uncomfortable if walking around outside for extended periods. When traveling with your pets, always ensure that there is adequate ventilation, particularly for animals traveling in transport crates. Make regular stops to allow dogs to have a walk and to drink some water. Water should be offered to cats who are travelling long distances in crates or carriers. They should be carefully monitored for signs of heat stress, such as excessive panting, weakness or collapse.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Pets that are locked in cars are a major concern for all animal lovers. Studies have found that the internal temperature of a stationary motor vehicle, with no ventilation, can reach life-threatening temperatures in 30 minutes or less. This may lead to heatstroke in any person, child, or animal that is trapped inside that vehicle. Even with the windows open a crack, this cannot provide sufficient ventilation, particularly when the vehicle is parked in the sun or any hot area. Please do not leave your pets in a closed car, even for just the quickest stop. It can have lifethreatening consequences. Should you encounter an animal trapped in a locked car, please phone an inspector from a local welfare society, who will have the authority to assess the situation and take the necessary actions required. In Johannesburg, the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) or the AACL (Animal Anti-Cruelty League) can be contacted.

AACL - 011 435 0672 Sandton SPCA - 011 444 773 SPCA out-of-hours emergency number - 082 460 2765 Should you find an animal trapped in a vehicle, that is completely collapsed and at immediate risk of dying, the local police services may also be contacted. If an animal is left unattended in a locked car and is experiencing distress, it is considered animal cruelty and is punishable by law. However, it is recommended that use be made of the appropriate authorities, rather than taking matters into your own hands, as doing so may lead to criminal charges against you. By following these basic guidelines, we hope that you will be able to enjoy the outdoors this summer with your pets while keeping them happy and comfortable.

Professional photography by Emma O’Brien

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Giant Biscuit

www.pupcakesdogbakery.co.za | Open times Weekdays 10am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12pm

Bizzy’s fur-brufur, Senior Puppy and fur-susfur, AloeVeraPuppy, became taste-testers for two of Pupcakes treats - the Giant Biscuit and the Mini Pupcake. Pupcakes are luxury, healthy, homemade dog treats from a new bakery in Cape Town. By the look on Senior Puppy’s face, when he tried the Giant Pupcake, made with strawberry, banana and oats, we knew that this was “the biscuit” he had been dreaming about for 14 years. The biscuit is 20cm in diameter, a whopping 200g and crisp, but soft enough to break into bite size portions to suit the size of your dog. Going on Senior Puppy’s reaction, Bizzibabs gives Pupcakes 10/10 for a biscuit that is a hit with our dog, and we believe it will be with yours.

Scratch Patch

There are Barkday cakes for sale, Barkday boxes full of special treats, Christmas stockings and mini biscuits, but what also caught our eye was Pupcakes with bright pink “icing”. The mini-Pupcakes are made with pumpkin, carrot, cinnamon, oats and apple, topped with yummy potato and peanut butter flavouring. Pupcakes also offers smaller trays of 6 Applesquich pupcakes for sale. Pumpkin, carrot and cinnamon filled with home-made apple sauce. We gave our Aloeverapuppy an Applesquich Pupcake to taste and it disappeared so quickly that we have no pictures to share with you! Pupcakes - we give you another 10/10! Support Pupcakes - your dog will love you for it! NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

LA FURMILIA Travel mug Our awesome travel mug is durable, leak proof and does not alter the taste of your drink. www.lafurmilia.co.za R205.00

Pet Portraits and more.... 082 832 4642 siggibaars@gmail.com www.siggibaars.wix.com/siggib

FestiveSeaso CELEBRATE THE

PRIMA PAWS Food & Water Bubble Dispenser Adjustable food and water bowl with automatic water dispenser. www.primapaws.co.za R450.00

DEAR PET COMPANY Adjustable Chest Harness Cream base with multi coloured baking design and printed water resistant scuba. www.dearpet.co.za R 449.99

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

PET GRANNIES Chicken Flavoured Dog Biscuits Not only are they super delicious, our biscuits are packed with highly digestible liver proteins. www.petgrannies.com R75.00

BAXTER & CO Peanut Butter & Biltong Crunchie These crunchie type dog biscuits is packed with sugar-free peanut butter and biltong powder for the tastiest treat around. www.baxterandco.co.za R69.00

KUMPEL Dog Lead This lead is available in small, medium and large and matches the buckles and width of the respective collar sizes. www.kumpelpets.com From R255.00

PETS PLANET Grey and Gold Luxurious Dog Collar Designed to elevate your dog from the rest of the pack. www.petsplanet.co.za R 329.00

PET PRINTS Pet Prints A5 Notepad Individually hand stamped. Half cork & half Turquoise or Royal Blue Fabrication. www.petprints.co.za R150

ZUKI Round Cosy Plush Cat Cave The perfect cat hideaway, designed to compliment a modern home. www.zuki. co.za R750.00

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Refried Black Bean Mexican Lettuce Wraps When all you need is something quick and something tasty. Where convenience doesn’t mean compromising on health and nutrition. This hearty black bean mix with peppers, spices and lime packs a wholesome number of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory elements too and is super quick to get ready. Fibre-rich for stomach health, ingredients for extra benefits! Time: 20 min Level: Easy Peasy Preparation

Ingredients • 3 tbsp B-well Canola and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blend • 1 can black beans or 400 g cooked, rinsed and drained well • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

1. Boil the mielie in a large pot of boiling water until tender, then drain and set aside. 2. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and fry the onions until golden and cooked. Add in the garlic and fry for 1 min before adding the black beans. 3. Fry the beans, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Fry off all the liquid.

• 3 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 tsp cumin • ½ turmeric • ½ tsp smoked sweet paprika • 500 g portobello mushrooms, sliced • ½ red or green pepper, finely diced • 1 mielie (corn on the cob), or ½ can of whole kernel corn • 1 avocado

4. Add the spices, red/green pepper and stir in the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 6-8 min or until the mushrooms are well sautéed. 5. Transfer the black bean mixture to a bowl, wipe the pan clean and cook the mielie over medium heat with a little extra B-well Canola and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Blend until golden and just slightly charred. Remove, and allow to cool before cutting the kernels off. Set aside. 6. Wash and dry each lettuce leaf well. Then stuff the bean mixture, mielie kernels, avocado, coriander and chilli into the lettuce leaves to create a boat. Serve immediately with lime wedges. To eat, wrap the filling into the lettuce leaves, dip in some Serves yoghurt and take a delicious bite! YUM!

• 1 tbsp lime juice • 1 handful fresh coriander, chopped • 1 chilli, deseeded, finely chopped • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper • 1 lime, cut in wedges • 1 cup of plain yoghurt

• 1 head of lettuce, full leaves removed

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

GO ALL-OUT FOR GO ALL-OUT FOR YOUR DOGGOS WITH YOUR DOGGOS WITH

OUTSURANCE OUTSURANCE PET INSURANCE INSURANCE PET

We know you won’t settle for anything but the best We know you won’t settle for anything but the best for your fur babies, which is why OUTsurance Pet for your fur babies, which is why OUTsurance Pet Insurance is paw-fect for you. With fixed excesses and Insurance is paw-fect for you. With fixed excesses and loads of added benefits, OUTsurance offers affordable loads of added benefits, OUTsurance offers affordable cover that gives you priceless peace of mind. cover that gives you priceless peace of mind. CHOOSE BETWEEN THREE CHOOSE BETWEEN THREE PAW-SOME PLANS PAW-SOME PLANS Pet-parents can tailor their cover Pet-parents can tailor their cover to suit their pup’s specific needs. to suit their pup’s specific needs. OUTsurance offers an Accidental OUTsurance offers an Accidental Plan that covers unforeseen injury to Plan that covers unforeseen injury to your pet, as well as a Standard Plan your pet, as well as a Standard Plan that offers extensive cover for vet that offers extensive cover for vet visits, illness costs, annual routine visits, illness costs, annual routine care as well as accidents. Lastly, their care as well as accidents. Lastly, their Executive Plan offers comprehensive Executive Plan offers comprehensive cover that includes all the Standard cover that includes all the Standard Plan benefits, with increased limits. Plan benefits, with increased limits. GET EVEN MORE OUT BY GET EVEN MORE OUT BY ADDING COVER FOR PUPPY ADDING COVER FOR PUPPY CLASSES, BEHAVIOUR CLASSES, BEHAVIOUR TREATMENTS AND MORE TREATMENTS AND MORE You can add the Pet-Act-OUT You can add the Pet-Act-OUT benefit to your Executive Plan, which benefit to your Executive Plan, which includes cover for puppy school includes cover for puppy school and vet-recommended corrective and vet-recommended corrective behaviour treatments. OUTsurance behaviour treatments. OUTsurance also offers the Help-Pet-OUT optional also offers the Help-Pet-OUT optional benefit, which includes rehabilitation benefit, which includes rehabilitation

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OUTsurance is a licensed insurer and FSP. The OUTbonus is a standard product feature, only paid after three claim-free years and premium dependent. Ts, Cs and limits apply. Free SMS. PT21/0189/E OUTsurance is a licensed insurer and FSP. The OUTbonus is a standard product feature, only paid after three claim-free years and premium dependent. Ts, Cs and limits apply. Free SMS. PT21/0189/E

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

BY BRIAN BERKMAN

Break PETS NEED

A TOO!

“

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.

“

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

An upmarket and fully versatile property which can be used as a weekend getaway, or an extended vacation for the whole family

fter adopting Julie into their forever home, luxury-travel writer, BRIAN BERKMAN, and husband, JP, don’t want to leave home without her. The good news is that they mostly don’t have to. There are colourful stories told about Schaap Island in Yzerfontein, a promontory that intersects the coast like a sharp incisor tooth, which is inaccessible during high-tide and, the story goes, was used to safely lodge and graze sheep and other livestock at night. As you enter Yzerfontein, about an hour and a bit from Cape Town, there are two strange-looking pits with National Monument insignia. These are among the original lime kilns in the area where black-mussel shells were burned until the carbon oxidized to mix into lime which was

used for building and agriculture. A walk along the coast still shows the millennia mussel shells on the beaches and between the rocks. Atlantica is designed to entertain. With seven luxurious bedrooms (six are en-suite), this is perfect for a getaway. There is an undercover braai area on one side of the house, and a patio with seating for 12 or more, with an adjustable awning, on the other. There is a plunge pool, a very large open-plan kitchen, walk-in pantry and scullery, complete with dishwasher and washing machine, which leads to a games room with table-tennis table, darts and a library. There is a loft above it with additional accommodations. Do note that the stairs to the front door, and from the sitting area and balcony to the

kitchen, are quite steep. As a petfriendly property there are tiled floors, that can easily be kept clean. We took Julie on a sea-front walk soon after we arrived, and we encountered another dog that was not on the lead. The other dog seemed friendly enough, at first, and came to meet Julie, while the owner caught up. In a millisecond a happy situation turned very bad and the dog bit Julie on her leg. She was yelping! Blood was spurting! We were panicking. The other dog’s owner suggested we take Julie to the local vet which we did, and he paid the bill. The vet cleaned the wound and gave us medicine for the next week. Very fortunately, Julie didn’t need stitches.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Of course, when we travel, and especially when we travel with children or pets, such a situation can really dampen the trip. We can only imagine what might have happened had the other dog’s owner not been a decent human. While we will probably always think of Yzerfontein as the place Julie was bitten, we will also remember a kind pet owner who took responsibility for their pet’s actions. He even checked-in on all of us the following day. Exclusive use of the property is guaranteed, whether there are two or 16 guests. Rates are R2000 for two

people plus R500 per person per night sharing, thereafter. The full house rates of R9000 per night applies for 16 guests, but also, irrespective of the number of guests, full-house rates are applicable between mid-December and mid-January, and over the Easter weekend. There is no mobile phone reception, but there is free and fast Wi-Fi throughout the property, as well as Netflix and Apple TV. www.yzergetaways.co.za, 079 157 9932.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Being welcomed with open paws. While the Park Inn by Radisson, on Cape Town’s Heerengracht, on the foreshore, is ideally placed for people attending the theatre at the nearby Artscape Centre or the Cape Town International Convention Centre, which is within easy walking distance, it is also super convenient for a city break, where you are sufficiently close to feel the vibe, but sufficiently far away not to hear it. The Park Inn by Radisson is among the growing number of hotels who understand, and most especially so since surviving lockdown together, that our pets are essential members of our families, and we don’t wish to travel without them. So, it is especially heartening to know that you and your four-legged family will be welcomed with open arms, or “open paws” as the welcome letter puts it, and special treats for Julie.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

This is a four-star graded hotel, but the third-floor room we had, with a balcony overlooking the Foreshore fountain, could easily have been a five-star room. There are 120 rooms in the hotel, and all come with coffee machines and Lavazza pods, as well as a kettle and a selection of teas. Usefully, there is a lap-top sized safe and an ironing board and iron in the room, along with free Wi-Fi internet, Smart TV and a super-snazzy leather office chair on which to swivel, if the moods takes you. But the best reason for staying here isn’t the smart room or new stateof-the-art gym, also on the third floor, but Harald’s roof-terrace and bar on the 11th floor, which seems to frame Table Mountain in such a spectacular way, you’d imagine it was purpose built to do so. There is a tiny pool and an AstroTurf “grassy” patch with doggie bowls and loads of high tables at which to perch, and comfortable loungers too. You and your dogs are welcome throughout the hotel and even in the RGB ground-floor eatery for all day grazing and where a delicious breakfast is served.

It has been a while since we have been in the Foreshore and the whole area, from the fountain which is now looking glorious and working fulltime, to the neat landscaping along the Heerengracht, seems much upgraded since we were there last. Julie loved our walks long the grassy patches and into Green Market Square, and while we have lived in Cape Town all our lives, this most recent visit suggested that the city improvement projects, and local government safety initiatives, are really succeeding.

had the feeling that everything was switched on - all the staff we encountered - from the welcome at the front door, to ordering delicious food on the rooftop, were ready, friendly and efficient, but not in that sometimes-bristling way that makes one a little uncomfortable. We can’t wait to go back, if only because Julie so loved the special doggie-bed they provided for her and her being the near constant centre of attention. www.Radissonhotels.com/ parkinn 021-427-4800.

The Park Inn provides secure undercover parking, albeit via Thibault Square, which you must access from behind the hotel. We

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

By Dani Mc Neill

Signs of illness in your equine friend NO ONE LIKES TO SEE A HORSE SUFFER IN SILENCE. OUR EQUINE FRIENDS CAN’T TELL US WHEN SOMETHING IS WRONG, SO IT’S UP TO US, AS RESPONSIBLE HORSE OWNERS, TO SPOT THE SIGNS OF ILLNESS OR INJURY AS QUICKLY AS WE CAN. NATURALLY, HORSES ARE PREY ANIMALS, SO THEY WILL DO EVERYTHING THEY CAN TO TRY TO HIDE ANY SIGNS OF WEAKNESS. REGULAR HEALTH CHECKS ARE THE ONLY WAY WE, AS OWNERS, CAN MAKE SURE OUR HORSES AND PONIES ARE IN TIP-TOP CONDITION AT ALL TIMES.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

n underlying health condition can make a horse less stable when you’re hacking through the countryside – which could have big consequences for you, as the rider, if something has gone unnoticed for too long. Every horse and pony is different, which is why it’s so important to spend time with your horse, so that you get to know its normal behaviour and temperament. That way, you’ll be able to spot quickly when something is wrong.

Thick discharge from the nostrils, or wet, weeping eyes are not normal, either. Coat Has your horse’s usually shiny coat turned dull with dry, flaky skin underneath? This, or excessively greasy coats, can signal wider health problems, and should be checked by an equine vet as soon as possible. Feet Impacted stones or thorns can cause lameness if not treated quickly, and raise the risk of injury for your horse and accidents for you.

Let’s take a look at how to spot the common signs of illness in a horse and learn how to prevent small problems becoming full-blown health issues.

Dark red or black patches on your horse’s foot, along with discharge or foul smells, are all signs that you should contact the vet.

What are the common signs of illness in a horse? Here is a quick rundown of what you should be checking on your horse:

Also check for loose horseshoes, or any splits or obvious damage to the wall of the hoof. The hooves should be cleaned out daily to avoid any foot problems.

Back

A badly fitting saddle, or poor riding technique can damage a horse’s back in the long-term. This is very important for riders to keep in mind. Signs of back pain in horses include stiffness, dipping down when being mounted or hollowing out the back when they’re being ridden. Also look for signs of discomfort when you’re putting the saddle on, bucking and bolting or the refusal to do normal tasks like cantering. Riders should regularly get their saddles checked by professional saddle fitters. Teeth Drooling, sores and swellings in the mouth are dental problems that could be the first signs of more serious underlying health problems. Watch your horse when it’s chewing to see if it’s favouring one side of its mouth over the other. Spilling food out of the mouth, resisting the bite or consistent head shaking could also be signs of dental issues. Ears, nose and eyes If you spot your horse with a low head and his ears pinned back, this is usually a sign of pain, and you should get it checked out immediately.

What are some of the most common horse diseases? Skin conditions Ringworm, Rainscald and Mud Fever are three of the most common horse skin conditions. Ringworm is a highly contagious, fungal infection. Rainscald is caused when the skin goes soft following persistent saturation, and Mud Fever occurs when the legs become inflamed and scaly after long-term exposure to wet and muddy conditions. Coughs and colds Symptoms of a horse’s cold are similar to those seen in humans, such as thick nasal discharge, high temperature and swollen glands. Coughs may be a symptom of a cold, or could be caused by another problem entirely, such as an allergic reaction. If you suspect your horse has a cough or cold, seek the advice of a vet immediately.your horse from getting ill? The best way to stop your horse from falling ill, or catching and spreading a disease, is to do some daily checks. They don’t take long and could help you to save your horse’s life.

Doing a basic daily check of your horse’s breathing, temperature and pulse before anything else, is the best way to pick up any sign of sickness early. Normal breathing for a horse is around 8 to 16 breaths per minute. Get to know what ‘normal’ breathing sounds like for your horse, so that you can recognise if it becomes more laboured. When it comes to temperature, anything over 38.5C is considered to be high. Temperature will naturally be higher straight after exercise, but if it stays high, it could indicate infection or inflammation. A digital, rectal thermometer is the best way to take your horse’s temperature. Be careful doing this if you do not have previous experience in doing so. If in doubt, always find a more experienced person to help you. An adult horse’s pulse should rest at around 30 to 36 beats per minute. It can sometimes be a little higher (40bpm), but a pulse that’s constantly racing above 60bpm, is definitely cause for concern. Young foals may have naturally higher pulse rates, so try to find out what’s normal for your animal. Vaccinations are also available for some illnesses such as Equine Flu, Herpes, African Horse Sickness and Tetanus, so speak to your vet to see what they recommend. How to stop the spread of disease Outbreaks of disease not only have a devastating effect on your horse, they can also be extremely costly for a yard or riding school. Here are some top tips for stopping the spread of disease: • Make sure all vaccinations are up to date. • Don’t let your horse share water sources with other animals outside your yard. • Prevent contact between horses at your yard. • Make sure each equine has its own equipment. • Disinfect riding boots and wash clothing if you’ve visited other yards.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Ask the Vet

Q: Hi Doctor, my cockatiel has vomited twice in the last month. We haven’t changed the food we give her or anything else I can think of. Should I worry?

uncomfortable. If she starts to resist, don’t try and force her to stay still, rather let her go until she calms down again. With time, she should become more comfortable with you grooming her.

A: Cockatiels can sometimes regurgitate as a sign of affection, but vomiting is definitely something to be concerned about. The difference between the two is that vomiting is more of an aggressive process. The bird will shake its head from side to side and bits of the vomit may remain on the bird’s beak or chest.

With regards to heavily matted hair, avoid cutting the mat out as there is a good chance you could nick the skin. Rather invest in a rat-tailed comb (the one with the very thin handle) for this. The tail of the comb can be used to break the matted fur up into smaller bits that can be plucked and brushed out. This process may take time and several attempts, but there will be little risk of you injuring your rabbit’s skin.

There are several causes of vomiting in cockatiels, including crop infections and liver or kidney disease. For this reason, I would advise that you take your cockatiel to an avian vet for an examination, so that the underlying cause can be treated.

Q: While growing up our pets ate from our table, and we hardly purchased commercial food brands. Now there are so many versions and life stages of food available. What is the difference, and should we rather purchase from a grocery store or a vet?

Q: Dear Doctor, I’m a bit frustrated as my new bunny won’t let me brush her. She squirms and tries to get away. She has thick fur that mats. Do you have any helpful tips to get her to sit still?

A: The reason there are so many versions of food available (even from one company) is because nutritional needs vary greatly amongst individuals. For example, a puppy will have different requirements than a fully grown dog. Similarly, a Boerboel puppy with its rapid growth rate would have different energy and mineral needs than a Dachshund.

A: Unfortunately, the only way to get her to sit still would be through time and patience. Before you start grooming her, sit calmly with her for a while.

You can also offer treats while doing this. Some rabbits will be happy on your lap, but others may prefer to stay on the floor. Once she is calm, you can start by gently petting her. Then you can start brushing her for short periods of time. Rabbit skin can be quite sensitive, so use a soft brush, such as one with rubber bristles. Combs with fine teeth can sometimes tug at the fur, which is

Home prepared diets are still quite popular amongst some pet owners, but they take time and can be imbalanced if you don’t know what you are doing. For this reason, I do normally recommend commercial diets to my clients.

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

“

While listening to the sounds a guinea pig is making can tell you a lot about how they are feeling, it’s also important to take note of the body language they are displaying.

When choosing which food to buy, there are a lot of factors to consider. Some owners can’t afford higher priced premium brands, but still want to feed decent food. Some pets have allergies to certain ingredients, or may refuse to eat some formulations based entirely on taste.

The best advice I can offer you is to stop at a local Vetshop and chat to one of the assistants on duty. They are trained to help you choose the food most suited to your pets’ needs based on their age, condition and lifestyle. Q: Hi Doctor, my daughter got two guinea pigs this year. I have no idea how to interpret the noises they make. I understand a dog’s growl vs. his bark or a whimper, but this is new. Are there telling signs to say whether they are happy or upset? A: While listening to the sounds a guinea pig is making can tell you a lot about how they are feeling, it’s also important to take note of the body language they are displaying. For example, a content guinea pig may make a purring type of noise and their posture will look calm and relaxed. Some guinea pigs may also make a soft, clucking sound (called chutting) when interacting with you.

ONLINE ONLINE SHOPPING FOR SHOPPING FOR ALL YOUR PET ALL YOUR PET &VET SUPPLIES &VET SUPPLIES

High pitched, whistling noises (also known as wheeking) can be associated with excitement. Owners may notice this sound during feeding. If the guinea pig makes high pitched noises while running or hiding, then that may be a sign of pain or fear. Remember that if your guinea pig is running from you, the worst thing to do is to chase it. That will just worsen the sense of alarm. If a guinea pig is feeling aggressive, they may hiss (like a cat) and chatter their teeth. They may also be standing with stiff legs and fluffing their fur out. Don’t try and pick them up while they are showing this behaviour; it may get you bitten.

If you would like to ask Dr Travis a question, please send an email to mail@petprints.co.za Please include as much information in the email as possible. Dr Travis Gray

WWW.VETPRODUCTSONLINE.CO.ZA TEL: 033 263 1608

thevet@vetproductsonline.co.za

Tygerberg Animal Hospital

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Kaizer

Lisa

Kaizer is a 5-month-old mix breed boy. He is very playful, good with other dogs and cats.

Lisa is 7 years old and is a Staffie mix girl. She is good with other dogs, especially males.

Oscar

Razor

Oscar is an Africanis boy of 10 years. He has been at the shelter since 2016. He is good with other dogs and kids and is a very calm dog.

Razor is a 5-year-old mix breed boy. He is good with other dogs, and he is very playful.

Chain

Volvie

Chain is a boy of 2 years old. He was found in the street with a big chain around his neck that weighed about 2 kilograms. He is good with other dogs, and he is a very calm dog.

Volvie is an Africanis girl of 4 years old. She is good with other dogs, very playful and she likes going out for walks.

Adoption fee R600 including: Vaccinations, sterilization, de-worming and microchip Call 079-916-4602 or 067-356-3898 | wollies.cillat@gmail.com

For Business Network and IT Solutions Contact us info@bm.co.za | Tel: 021 704 2720 | www.bm.co.za 48

NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS

Pet Prints Magazine November/December 2021

Articles inside

WELFARE DIRECTORY

ADOPTIONS

ASK THE VET

SIGNS OF ILLNESS IN YOUR EQUINE FRIEND

B-WELL RECIPE

LIFESTYLE

TOP TIPS

FASCINATING GECKO FACTS

COMMUNITY

MOUSE, HALLOUMI & MOZZARELLA

FEATURE ARTICLE

VODKA SAVES CAT’S LIFE

VACCINATION 101

THE HEAT IS ON