Pet Prints May/June 2022 by Pet Prints Magazine

MAY | JUN 2022

Well

Tips

for raising

- Mannered Fur Kids

GET TO KNOW DR KIKI SCHNEDIDER

from Hakuna Matata Vet

Lee Thompson LOVING LIFE WITH GRACE

The Puuurfect Gift For

HIM & HER

FREE

Welcome

I love autumn – it is probably my favourite season! Cool air, colourful leaves and just a bit more snuggle time before the sun peeks out in the morning. If you’re living in areas that have a lot of thunderstorms during summer, I’m sure this season also brings you some relief from the terrible stress of these storms. For those closer to the western parts of the country, I hope you’re gearing up for the coming winter, because it looks like it’s going to be a cold one! Luckily, this issue is going to be toasty. We bring you all the beautiful stories that welfare would like to share about happy homings as well as advice from our very knowledgeable experts. We also made sure to give you a handsome-with-huge-heart cover model.

ISSUE 3, 2022 match from the show did not work out. He did, however, find his perfect canine in a beautiful Ridgeback named Grace. You can find out more about this wonderful pairing on page 8. During the months of May and June, we look forward to celebrating Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. I don’t know about you, but I love getting slippers and mugs from our pack of mutts. If you’d like to gift something special to your significant other, why not pop over to page 32 and see if there’s something they might fancy. As always, we hope you enjoy your read and please pop us a mail with your feedback to mail@petprint.co.za

EDITORIAL Marise Burger Gerhard Maritz Nelda Cilliers Sharnelle van der Merwe Gaironesa Atkins Kareem Abdel-Rahim

PHOTOGRAPHY Emma O’Brien Photography

PRINTING Optic Printers

CONTRIBUTORS Get-to-Know Dr Kiki Schneider from Hakuna Matata Veterinary Clinic

Gracing this issue is none other than the South African Bachelor, Lee Thompson. Lee was the first man featured on the popular reality show “The Bachelor” in South Africa, where he was hoping to find his perfect match. Unfortunately for Lee, his love-

ABC’s of CBD - Dr. Erika Van Zyl-Venter Top Tips for for raising wellmannered fur kids - Bryony van Niekerk Tails of a Foster dad - Bill Ashton

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

CONTACT DETAILS Marise Burger

FEEDBACK AND LETTERS mail@petprints.co.za

071 382 7795 marise@projectearth.org.za

@petprintsmag

Depression in Pets - Dr Ingrid de Wet Over the Rainbow Bridge - Jennifer Davies Pets need a break too - Brian Berkman How Horses Help Us - 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.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

content

MAY/JU NE 2 0 2 2

SPECIALIST DOG PHOTOGRAPHER

FASCINATING WEASEL FACTS

COMMUNITY PAGE

B-WELL RECIPE

M-PETS

FASHION PAGE

COOL DOG RECIPES

Emma O’Brien

Caws 4 Paws | Lewis’s Fugly Friends & Bizzibabs African ball of glory

Join us for a round of golf!!!

The puuurfect gift for him & her

GET TO KNOW YOUR VET

Get to know Dr Kiki Schneider from Hakuna Matata Veterinary Clinic

The Ultimate treat for the coolest dogs!

FROM OUR READERS

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

FEATURE ARTICLE

Lee Thompson’s Loving life with Grace

TOP TIPS

Top Tips for raising well-mannered fur kids

ABC’S OF CBD

Pet Cannabis, mostly the Pet CBD product market, has grown fast, and many products are readily available.

TAILS OF A FOSTER DAD

DEPRESSION IN PETS

By: Bill Ashton

OVER THE RAINBOW BRIDGE Euthenasia

PETS NEED A BREAK TOO!

Mossel Bay The Point Hotel and White Bridge Farm Accommodation

HORSING AROUND

ASK THE VET

ADOPTIONS

BREED SPECIFIC ADOPTIONS

WELFARE DIRECTORY

How horses help us

Dr Travis Grey from Tygerberg Animal Hospital answers your questions.

Adopt a Pitbull

It’s important to note that our furry and feathered companions can struggle with many of the same mental health challenges as we do.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

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MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Get to Know

Dr Kiki Schneider from

was born in Pretoria, and from a very young age, I always loved animals. I started horse riding from about 3 years of age, and horses were my life. My other main love was wildlife. The first time my dad took me to the Kruger National Park was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. When I saw my first kudu, the feeling of happiness was indescribable. So, from a young age, my dad and I would go to the KNP once or even twice a year, getting up early in the morning so we could be at the gate when they opened. We stopped to identify every single bird we saw, and these memories have been some of the most amazing in my life. Therefore, the only thing I wanted to be, was to be a game ranger. I even had the opportunity to work as a horse trail guide on a cattle and game farm, which was like a dream come true. People often asked, “Why don’t you consider Veterinary Science?” but at the time that did not appeal to me at all. Obviously, daddy agreed, and did not think becoming a game ranger was the best career option for his

daughter. So instead of enrolling me in the Wildlife Management course I asked for, he enrolled me at Tukkies for Veterinary Science. In those days, we had to complete the first year of a normal BSc degree, and then from those grades and an interview did one get selected. As I went through my first year, I suddenly became aware of how much I love the science behind living organisms/humans/animals, and how we all function. I became more and more eager to become a vet! Five and a half years later, after lots of blood, sweat and tears, I made it!!!!

With the tremendous help of my husband, I opened the doors to Hakuna Matata Veterinary Clinic in June 2013. Very scary - no clients to start with and a lot of money spent starting the practice. We have grown at a tremendous rate since, and recently expanded from a practice with only one consulting room to three consulting rooms with three vets. Apart from helping our private clients, we also help quite a few welfare organizations, with treatments at a hugely reduced rate. We always like to give back to the community

I spent 6 years in the UK after qualifying where I gained a large amount of knowledge, including running a practice. The next few years I spent working and travelling in South Africa, Australia and the UK. I was a bit of a rolling stone, not sure where I wanted to be.

I am so proud of what I have achieved and encourage any young person wanting to become a vet, or even a veterinary nurse, to not give up on their dreams.

Then I met my (now) husband and moved to Cape Town in 2010. I have always had a dream to open my own practice, where I could practice the highest standard of patient care and customer satisfaction.

Life in the veterinary industry is extremely hard. You need dedication and compassion for your patients 24/7, no matter what, but in the end, I would not change my job for anything. I want to thank my husband and my amazing team at the practice for helping the practice get where we are today.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

The cats had their turn, now the pooches get to slumber in style. Designed by Lotte Velvetti bed.

GIVEAWAY Enter to win

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1. Follow 2 Instagram accounts @petprintsmag and @beeztees _south_africa 2. tag 2 friends who you think should win a designed by Lotte Velvetti bed in our social media post tagged with #beezteesvelvetti

You will be allowed to vote for yourself, but we’ll be keeping an eye on who is being generous and sharing the love.

COMPETITION CLOSING DATE: 20 JUNE 2022 THE WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

FROM OUR READERS ROXY “Roxy is a 2 and a half year old Bull Terrier that we adopted from Adorabull Recuse Centre. She is a super lively and lovable girl that we absolutely adore. She loves walks, especially at off-leash parks. She is super social, and spends 1 day a week at Canine Kids Doggy Day-Care to play with all her other socialised doggy friends. My baby and my everything. Daddy’s spoiled little girl :)” - Pieter Le Roux

Piper Shasha Hello, this is my beautiful baby Shasha. She is a mix between a Pitbull and a Jack Russell. She deserves to win because she is the most adorable, most protective puppy ever. She knows I am terrified of moths, and and catches them out of the sky when they come close to me. I love her so much!!!” - Lauren Julies

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Piper is 13 years old. Piper was rescued as a kitten. When I fetched her, she was the only little kitten sitting in a pot plant meowing at me as I walked in. It was love at first sight. She has the prettiest pink nose and ice white paws that are always grey after a day of playing in the garden. She is sweet but feisty! She rules our house and our Pitbull, Judah” - Nikki Mc Bryne

@petprintsmag MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

honey “Meet my 1-year-old Yorkie named Honey! She is a tornado of energy, joy, and unconditional love.” - Kelly Mckay

Sasha and dobby “Sasha (Boston Terrier) & Dobby (Fox Terrier X) are our two little rescues that made our house a home with their love and energy.” - Chene’ Fourie

“My doggo Tyke. For a very independent soul, I have watched him turn into the most loving dog around my two kids, I really could not have asked for a better 1st best friend for my kids. At 13 years of age now, life’s best enjoyment is a long walk with me and baba in the pram.” - Josi Montanari

Judah

Tyke

“This is Judah, he is the clumsiest dog you will ever meet. He is almost 8 years old but still has puppy energy. His hobbies include playing fetch, catching bugs and relaxing on the couch. He is deathly afraid of our cat.” - Tamzyn Rushin

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, vet-x.co.za, apetslife.co.za, takealot.com and others. Distributed by Meelo (Pty) Ltd.

Lee Thompson LOVING LIFE WITH GRACE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA O’BRIEN WORDS BY MARISE BURGER & LEE THOMPSON 8

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

When The Bachelor landed on South African shores, the whole country was on the edge of its seats to see who the lucky man was who would be spending time with 24 beautiful ladies, hand-picked to fit his personality and lifestyle. Viewers were glued to their screens, episode after episode, completely entrenched in the drama that is one of reality television’s most popular franchises. Unfortunately, television isn’t always the accurate storyteller we would believe it to be. It is an edited version of what sells screentime and a lot of the drama seen on screen, is made up and planned to feed the viewer’s thirst for entertainment. This is also the story of Lee Thompson, who recently released a book calling out the industry for these tricks which influence what is believed to be an organic process. The title is “The Truth Behind the Rose.” While most people don’t see themselves finding love in front of a camera crew, some die-hard romantics really do. Lee, being one of these romantics, wanted nothing more than to settle down with the person he can share the rest of his life with. After being matched on the show, the reality of everyday life unfortunately set in, which proved too challenging for the couple.

Fast Forward 3 YEARS Fast forward 3 years and Lee is still pursuing love. This time around, however, it is a love for life and his passion for fitness and animals. We were fortunate to catch up with Lee, who has been busy furthering business interests in the fitness industry. As active as always, he shared his smile with us, brightening our day. While exploring life and everything that comes along with it, by Lee’s side is Grace, his trusty and beloved canine. Together the two make quite a pair. Here’s a bit more about our chat: Q: Being an instant celebrity, you were most likely the subject of some cheeky rumours. Which rumour struck you as the most surprising or entertaining? A: Well, it surprised me when I kept on hearing how lucky I must be to be spending time with 24 women and going on all these amazing dates when little do they know, how difficult it was having to spend time with 24 women, all the drama that comes with it and having to send a few ladies home each week.

Favourite memory you have from The Bachelor? I really enjoyed the skydiving. It was my first time doing it and there was just something about being up there that is total bliss. 10

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Q: As a former rugby player and fitness conscious individual, modelling and showing off your hard work seemed a natural next step in your career. Which brands do you enjoy working with most and why? A: I enjoy working with “Fitness Health Active” (FHA) and their TV show “5 Colour Fitness” because I get to share my health and fitness knowledge with millions of people around South Africa and continue to do what I am passionate about. Q: What is the most ridiculous thing that’s been requested of you on a shoot? A: This one shoot, I had to kiss a lady for

a TV commercial. There were so many retakes of our scene, it began to get a bit awkward after a while. I was surprised to get this job because I had a big cut above my right eye, with stitches, from a rugby game earlier that week. They said they only needed the one side of my face. Plus, I had a girlfriend at the time, and she only found out about the filming of the commercial and me kissing the lady when she saw it on TV. It was an all-round unusual situation lol. Q: You’re obviously a hard worker. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?

reading, watching random videos on YouTube and watching sport. Q: Writing a book is an ambitious venture. How long did it take you to write “The Truth Behind the Rose”? A: I’d say it took about a year or so. It always takes longer than what you think. I also found myself adding to the book as time went on. Q: You’ve chosen to work with Live Hope Love SA where you donate 10% of all book sales. Tell us a bit about this

A: I enjoy visiting the beach, gardening,

The best brands are those that have a mission and a motive behind them – and FHA really is changing the fitness landscape on both a local and global scale. Not just with the TV Show, but by promoting a crossplatform healthy lifestyle that is easily accessible and rewarding. It’s definitely a brand that’s going places and they align with my idea of a healthy, fit and active lifestyle.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

organisation and are there any events you are planning right now? A: Five percent of all book sales (as well as all donations) go towards the “Live Hope Love South Africa Children’s Fund”, which is an initiative that I started this year to help underprivileged children finance their schooling and give them an equal opportunity at a quality education. Q: Looking to the future, we are happy to hear that you’ve found love again. We are, of course, talking about Grace! Tell us a bit more about Grace and how your paths crossed. A: Yes, my lovely Grace. She is a Rhodesian Ridgeback and is two years old. Grace was staying on this farm I recently visited for a Christian Lifestyle Retreat. Grace was rescued from an abusive home, so she has always had this shy, withdrawn nature about her. We grew extremely close during my

Most common misconception people have of you? That I’m a “player”

time there. I think she began having a thing for me, because after each meal I’d give her my leftovers. I’d also take her along with me on hikes, which she loved. We would often both stop by the dam on our way back and take a refreshing dip. She loves the water! Q: Which of her personality traits do you enjoy the most? A: She has an extremely affectionate personality (just like me), so I enjoy showing her as much love as possible. Whenever she wants you to show her love, she does this thing where she sits on your legs and feet until you rub her back or talk to her. It’s really cute! Q: Is she a fitness fanatic like you?

THIS OR

A: She loves her naps, but she will never turn down the offer for a run or hike with me. She also enjoys doing her doggy paddle in the dam on hot days.

8. Android | iPhone

Q: Would you consider getting another pet? If so, tell us what you have in mind.

12. Lions | Cheetahs

A: I would love to get a kitten. I’ve always had a cat growing up and found them very playful, beautiful and cute. I think a cat would be the perfect addition to my family!

Richie McCaw

Q: What piece of advice would you give someone who is keen to adopt a Ridgeback? A: Make sure that you take your Ridgeback on a lot of walks and give them space to run. If you are an active, outdoorsy type of person, then a Ridgeback is a great dog for you. Spend quality time with your dog each day because they absolutely love affection from their owner.

9. Animals | People 10. Books | Movies 11. Cats | Dogs 13. Favourite Colour - blue 14. Favourite Rugby Player -

I don’t know about you, but how a man treats animals surely says a lot about him. I hope that Lee will find his forever match soon and that the lucky lady falls head over heels for Grace too!

Lee Thompson FHA leethompson52 fha_fitnesshealthactive

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Top Tips

Well

for raising

- Mannered Fur Kids BY BRYONY VAN NIEKERK

You know that moment when there is a knock on your door, you calmly go and open it, your guest comes inside freely, you greet each other and have a conversation all while your dog sits patiently, wagging their tail? Or how about when you sit down to eat your dinner and you don’t have this creepy feeling of being watched? Oh, you don’t? Well neither do I. In fact, I have the exact opposite.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

There is earth-shattering barking, followed by jumping, licking and a wet nose in places you probably want to keep private. And that’s just the first 30 seconds. It takes Oliver a good 30 minutes to get to a stage where visitors can actually relax on the couch without getting their ears nibbled off and aggressively kissed to death. And don’t get me started on the begging! This is not to say that Oliver doesn’t have any manners. He just gets so excited that he completely loses his hearing and the ability to control himself. You may think I’m being dramatic, but Beagles (of which I’m very certain Oliver has in him) can ‘turn off’ their hearing. This helps them to home in on a scent, and in Oliver’s case, his excitement. But being well-mannered doesn’t only pertain to not jumping on you/ guests, but also includes not begging at the table, walking well on a leash, playing nicely with other animals and all round just having good listening skills. After reading all my confessions, you are probably asking yourself what qualifies me to give advice about raising wellmannered fur kids. Well, those who can’t do, teach, right? So hopefully the tips below help to make a small change in your pets’ behaviour. I’ll just be sitting here in my corner with Oliver, praying for adolescence to be over.

Define your boundaries

We all have different ideas on what we deem acceptable behaviour, so it is important to determine these limits and clearly convey them to your pets. Your pets need to know what they are allowed to do and where they can do it. For instance, I don’t mind

my dogs and cats gathering around me while I eat, as long as they keep a respectful distance. They know that once I am done, they each get a bite.

Training using positive reinforcement

Obviously one of the best ways to get your pet to be wellbehaved is to train them using force-free methods such as positive reinforcement. This is a great training method as it works by rewarding (be it treats or a happy verbal cue) the behaviour that you want and ignoring or redirecting the unwanted behaviour. If you have decided that you do not want your dog jumping up on you, you would ignore this behaviour and reward them when all four paws are on the ground. Or if your dog gets a bit mouthy during playtime, redirect their attention to a toy that they are allowed to chew on. Over time your dog will learn to associate positive connotations (i.e., the treats) to the behaviour that you are enforcing.

Consistency

If I have said this once, I have said this a thousand times. You have got to be consistent! Reprimanding your dog for begging at the table one day and then giving them half of your wors roll the next day, is very confusing. Your pet is not a mind reader. They can’t tell which time you will allow them to push the boundaries and which time they will get told off for it. So, if you don’t want them to exhibit a certain behaviour, be consistent in your

expectations and maintaining your boundaries. Giving in just one time, can undo all the work you have put in.

Socialization

Socialising your dog has a dual purpose. It not only exposes them to other animals and people, but it also teaches them how to behave and interact with other dogs. Being able to read social cues and body language displayed by other canines is a very important skill for your dog to learn. The last thing you want is for your pet to be a bully and not respect boundaries that their companions are putting up. The best way to socialize your dog is to join a play group hosted by a dog training school who will be able to guide you and correct any undesirable behaviour.

Love

While training, socialization and consistency are all very important to raising a well-behaved pet, the secret ingredient to bring it all together is love. A loved pet will grow up to be confident and happy which in turn will help them to deal with new situations and react in a more positive manner. However, even the most loved dogs can still be insecure. Oliver is the most confident and happy boy when he is just with us, but he can be very nervous and fearful of new situations and people. This doesn’t mean that he doesn’t get enough love, it just means he needs a little bit extra. Also, don’t buy into the old mindset that dogs are pack animals and should be treated as such. Showering your dog with love and attention won’t spoil them and result in them not listening to you. It will only strengthen your bond and make them want to please you even more.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

OF Pet Cannabis, mostly the Pet CBD product market, has grown fast, and many products are readily available. Research into the potential health effects and the use in overall wellness as well as new discoveries into the use of cannabis is coming about daily, and the use of CBD as an alternative therapy has grown immensely. Cannabis molecules called cannabinoids, or phyto- (for plant) cannabinoids, like CBD, work on the body’s own endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is found in all mammals and is very important in the homeostasis and balance of everyday systems in the body, from the central nervous system, immune system, the gastrointestinal system and many more. Because the ECS influences such a vast number of systems, introducing a CBD containing product from outside the body, can affect many bodily functions and will also affect the metabolism of other medications and supplements you may already use for your pet.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

BY: DR. ERIKA VAN ZYL-VENTER FROM: CANNAVSPES AND SANDOWN ANIMAL HOSPITAL, CAPE TOWN

Our pets’ bodies produce their own endocannabinoids (endo meaning inside the body), one is called anandamide (Sanskrit for “bliss”), the other well-known one is 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). Both are produced on demand, as needed, from arachidonic acid inside the cell membranes. These molecules then bind to the cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are mostly found in the nervous system and dogs have a lot more receptors than humans do. CB2 receptors are mostly found in immune cells and those cells modulating immune reactions. CBD affects the ECS system by binding to both these receptors, and therefore CBD has such a wide potential therapeutic effect.

CBD is used to help assist with painful conditions like osteoarthritis, neuropathic pain, it helps with nervous conditions such as anxiety and depression, it could potentially help with allergic skin conditions, and it may help appetite and prevent nausea. Our pets’ bodies have their own ECS tone or optimum level that their bodies function on, and CBD helps bring balance to the ECS system if the tone is out of balance.

Batch numbers or barcodes. Does the product have a batch number or barcode that will allow it to be traced back to the farm or grower of origin? Traceability is very important as this assures quality control, but also helps you get a similar profile product again, which will have the same therapeutic effects. Is there some form of contact details?

Knowing which product to choose to give to your beloved pet can feel daunting due to all the available options on the market. Here are the ABC of CBD to help choose a product that is not only safe to use, but will also get you your money’s worth:

1. Number and concentration of cannabinoids per ml of product. You want to know that what you buy is what you get and if it can be traced back to the bottle you have in your hand. Also, you do not want to accidentally give too much THC to your pet, which may cause signs of intoxication.

Ask a lot of questions and look at the product label. The more information on the label or package-insert, the better. Broad spectrum or full spectrum products are generally better than a CBD isolate product, as it will also contain other cannabinoids and terpenes that contribute to the entourage effect (all the molecules in the plant enhance each other’s effect) instead of just CBD alone.

Certificate of analysis (COA), a document for each batch, that shows quality testing has been done for a specific batch. COA tests the following:

2. If pesticides and residues are still present. The cannabis plant can take up and store pesticides from the environment and residues from the extraction process may not have been completely removed, and these are potentially harmful to your pet. 3. If moulds and bacteria are present. Moulds can grow on the flowerheads from which the CBD gets extracted from, or harmful bacteria could have contaminated the product, and you need to know if the batch is free from these harmful agents.

C: Concentration of the product. When we talk about concentration, this means the number of cannabinoids or CBD measured in milligrams per millilitre of the product. The concentration per ml will determine how much of the product you need to give to your pet. Lower concentrations are easier to give to a smaller pet and higher concentrations are better for larger pets. The concentration will also affect the price - the higher the concentration, the higher the price. B: Begin low and go slow. Titrate the dosage until you see an effect. Start with only a few drops, or half the dose prescribed on the package, and over a few days, gradually increase the dose, until you see a change in your pet. Each animal according to its endocannabinoid tone will be different, and therefore, one dose will not fit all. But giving more than needed will also not give a better effect, as CBD has a biphasic effect, meaning once you reach a certain level, giving more will not give a better response, and may cause just the opposite effect. Also, if after a few weeks of no positive response, it is better to rather stop the treatment, as your pet’s condition may be resistant to treatment, and it would be better to consult your veterinarian. CBD has a lot of potential to help your pet’s general wellbeing and health, and as an add on supplement or therapy, together with your veterinarian’s treatment plans and advice, you can help your beloved pet to live the best life you can offer it.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

ails of a foster dad BY BILL ASHTON

“Dogs, for a reason that can only be described as divine, have the ability to forgive, let go of the past, and live each day joyously. It’s something the rest of us strive for.”

e were standing on the driveway, watching Paddy ready to leave our family after 8 weeks of fondness and friendliness. There are tears in our eyes! Not because we are despondent or forlorn, but because we are happy that he is on his way to his forever home. After a lifetime of neglect and cruelty, Paddy is joining a family on the West Coast who wanted a “friend” for their other dogs.

Paddy is a Greyhound who had been rescued from a life of cruelty and neglect in a hunting group in the Eastern Cape. His body was covered in scars, he had obviously been abused and was malnourished, but Paddy joined our family with only kindness and unconditional love to give us. From the moment he arrived, he settled into our family life. He showed no aggression to us nor to our own two dogs, Jethro, a gentle speed machine of a Whippet who could be aloof at times, and Izzy, a feisty but loving Jack Russell X who personifies her black and tan colours by always being super charged. The first hour after his arrival was a time for Paddy to survey this strange place he had been brought to. He wandered inquisitively around all areas of the house leaving no room untouched. Then he diverted his investigation to the garden. Eventually he decided these “digs” seem OK and he finally joined us in the TV room to lay down for a well-deserved rest after a long journey.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

f Paddy had a flaw, it was his gargantuan desire for food. He had obviously been in an environment where starvation was used to incite the prey drive when hunting. We have a 24/7 food service for Jethro and Izzy. Their food and water are always available and neither of them ever over-eat, but oh dear, a completely foreign concept to Paddy! To him, food in the dish signalled a desire to eat, which meant we had to devise a system that allowed all three “furkids” to have the required amount of food at specific times. It was amazing to witness how quickly Paddy remembered “feeding time”! Bedtime came and almost instantly Paddy accepted his place on a duvet next to our bed and rarely disturbed us during the night but, unfortunately, he was an early riser and rarely stayed calm after 04:30. He was very quickly accepted by Jethro and Izzy and enjoyed his runs on the sports field, happily playing with his fellow canine pals. Right from the start, Paddy latched onto me as his “leader”, an unusual turn of events as our own dogs, and other “fosterkids”, seemed to be more attached to Carol. Wherever I went, Paddy wanted to go, and he would cry if I had to leave the house without him. Eventually, a dog-loving couple from the West Coast saw Paddy on a video I had posted on Facebook and decided he would make a perfect friend for their existing dogs.

The most common response we receive when we tell people that we foster dogs is ”Oh, I couldn’t do that, I would miss them too much” or “You must be tempted to adopt?” Yes, it is difficult to see them go, but we know that we have given them a good re-start in

life and that they are going to a loving forever home. Adoption wouldn’t be a sensible option, otherwise we would have eight fosterkids we had adopted plus our own two. Ten dogs in a threebedroom house – not a good idea! A much-needed part of dog adoption is fostering – taking a

dog into your home and providing it with shelter and care for a predetermined amount of time or until a forever home is found. It is one of the most rewarding things a dog person can do. Paddy wasn’t our first foster, we had enjoyed seven others before him – Greta, Buddy, Aylia, Shakespeare, Yoko, Charlie and Presley preceded him. Carol and I started fostering in the same way that many fosterers get involved. In 2016, after many years of being unable to have a dog in our family (mainly due to living in a complex that did not allow it), we finally found our “furkid”, Jethro. Jethro was a 4-year-old Whippet who was already a rescue hound but unfortunately, did not fit into the lives of his adoptive canine siblings. Before we decided on adopting a dog, we carefully investigated the type of breed that would fit in well with our environment AND our lifestyle. Medium size with a good-natured disposition that would enjoy long walks and running in the fields. Jethro seemed to be the ideal choice. It didn’t take long for Jethro to settle into his new home and after a year we decided he would like a friend. Izzy, a Jack Russell X, was noticed by Carol during her dog walking sessions at Garden Route SPCA. She was immediately taken by Izzy’s attentive and bubbly nature and so she became our second “furkid”. Jethro and Izzy quickly became the best of friends – they do say that “opposites attract” and how true!!! Jethro, the speedy couch potato, and Izzy, the perpetually charged dynamo.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

During our search for a dog to adopt we came upon the most wonderful and caring dog rescuer, Cheryl Campbell, who runs a charity in Cape Town called Sighthound Rescue SA. Cheryl is the quintessential dog rescuer – she is bold, stubborn, loving and dedicated to bringing sighthounds out of neglect, cruelty and abuse and into suitable forever homes. It soon became clear that Sighthound Rescue SA was in urgent need of foster families to help rescued hounds become used to “home life” prior to readiness for adoption. Fostering a shelter pet is a valuable way to overcome many of the serious fears a rescue dog has. In many cases, it may never have known a warm bed or eaten a satisfying meal. By simply opening our home to a foster hound, we are not only saving that pet’s life and experiencing the fun of having a new pet in our home, but we are also making space in a shelter for another animal in need. The stability and love of a temporary home also brings out the dog’s true character and provides an opportunity for them to interact with other people and pets, all of which increases their likelihood of being adopted. After a couple of false starts, we volunteered to foster a female

Greyhound puppy who we called Greta. We collected Greta from Swellendam in October 2019 with another rescue puppy called Finn, who was moving on the next day to a foster home in Plettenberg Bay. Within an hour of being in our home, they had inspected every inch of the property, discovered where the food was and used most of the rooms in the house as portaloos. Greta quickly adapted to life in our family and had no problem accepting Jethro and Izzy, although they sometimes let Greta know that as more mature dogs, they didn’t always enjoy her desire for 24/7 play time! Greta was eventually adopted by a young couple in Johannesburg, and she flew by private charter from Plettenberg Bay to Johannesburg. She is now 2½ years old and has developed into the most beautiful young lady! We are very lucky to have seen all our foster furkids develop into loving, happy and healthy hounds and even luckier to know that all are now living in stable, caring homes. When you foster a homeless dog, you agree to take them into your home and provide the same wonderful care you would for a pet you’ve adopted, either for a predetermined amount of time or until that pet has found a forever family.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Many people can be condescending as to the merit of fostering. I will finish with this:

Socialising hy do dogs need foster care?

The rescue organization often does not have a physical building, and thus relies on the help of foster volunteers to care for dogs until permanent homes can be found.

2 3 4

The dog may be too young to be adopted and needs a safe home until they are of age.

The dog has had little to no interaction with people and/or other dogs and needs help with socialization.

The dog is pregnant or nursing a litter. The dog is convalescing from surgery, illness or injury and needs a calm situation to recover and receive supportive care.

As a father and son walked along the beach after the high tide began to ebb, they noticed starfish baking in the hot sun. The boy stopped, picked up a crustacean and flung it into the ocean. A few minutes later he tossed another one in the water, and then later another. “Son, what are you doing?” the man asked.

“I’m saving starfish.” The father gestured to the beach littered with thousands of dying sea creatures. “There are thousands of them. What difference could you possibly make?” The boy picked up a starfish. He ran fingers across the rough surface and then threw it into the water. The starfish landed with a small splash and the boy smiled broadly. “It made a difference to that one.” This year millions of bewildered dogs will find themselves in animal shelters. It’s overwhelming to think in terms of such vast numbers. While you may not be able to help every homeless pet, just saving one frightened dog from death in an animal shelter would mean the world to that dog.

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

If you’d like more information on adopting, fostering a shelter pet, or our recommended rescue partners, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Cheryl Campbell at Sighthound Rescue SA via WhatsApp 0832773970 (no calls please!)

For more information 081 736 1506 kittykazzrescuegmail.com

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Depression

in pets

There is a growing awareness of mental health among humans, and we are beginning to understand more and more that our mental health impacts our physical health, and vice-versa. It’s important to note that our furry and feathered companions can struggle with many of the same mental health challenges as we do.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

BY: DR. INGRID DE WET FROM: EBERVET COUNTRY ANIMAL CLINIC IN SOMERSET WEST

Symptoms of depression in dogs and cats may include a change in behaviour, and a lack of interest in activities that they previously enjoyed. You may also notice a change in body language and a loss of appetite. Sometimes pets will sleep more or sleep less, and show repetitive behaviours like pacing. Often depression follows chronic anxiety, so if your pet is very nervous, or struggles with separation, this may lead to depression. This is because the anxiety becomes too much to deal with, and the pet simply shuts down. Birds can show a change in behaviour and become less vocal, and pluck out their feathers. Animals that have experienced severe neglect or cruelty are more likely to become depressed. If your pet has lost a companion, this may also trigger them into a state of depression. Diagnosing depression in pets is extremely challenging because they cannot simply tell us how they are feeling. What makes diagnosis even more difficult is that many other illnesses (including life-threatening illnesses) and pain can cause the same symptoms. Thus, it is essential that any pet showing a behavioural change, change in appetite or energy levels, be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. The vet will take a full history, do a full clinical examination, and in many cases run blood tests to ensure that there are no underlying health concerns that we need to address. If underlying diseases and pain have been ruled out, then a diagnosis of depression can be made. Often there is anxiety

that we need to manage. In severe cases or very longstanding cases, we will usually prescribe antidepressants or drugs to help with anxiety. This is to help restore the balance of the brain’s neurotransmitters and allow the pet to learn new behaviours. We will oftentimes refer you to an animal behaviourist at this point to do an in-home assessment, and they will teach you ways to help improve your pet’s mental health.

ways to allow them to express that behaviour, e.g. give them a ‘herd’ of soccer balls to round up, or play games with them to encourage that behaviour. Other breeds will need different outlets for their natural behaviours, for example Retrievers need to be given the opportunity to retrieve objects and will have endless energy available to fetch and return a ball, whilst Bassets will need frequent walks to ‘smell out’ their environment, and Jack Russells need ample time to dig up prey and hunt. Cats are built to spend their waking hours searching for, and hunting, food. We can simulate that by playing hunting games with them or hiding their food so that they need to move around to find it. Birds tend to be social animals, although we tend to house them alone, and this can cause stress.

Diagnosingdepression in pets is extremely challenging because they cannot simply tell us how they are Treating depression will always feeling. involve behaviour modification Animals are hard-wired to behave in a certain way and to have particular social interactions. By doing the things they were designed to do, they will experience joy. If they are unable to do those things, they can become depressed. For example, Border Collies have been bred over many generations to become excellent herders. If they cannot act out that behaviour in some form or another, they may become depressed. Whilst most Border Collie owners don’t have a herd of sheep available, you can think of other ingenious

to some extent, and this includes providing adequate social interaction with the pet, providing an outlet for their normal behaviours, providing regular exercise, showering them with love and affection and ensuring that their husbandry is appropriate for their breed. And in some cases, they will need medication and more intense behaviour modification with the help of a behaviourist. If you suspect your pet is suffering from depression, get them to a vet. This is the first step in ensuring that they are on the path to recovery.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Specialist dog photographer

Emma

’Brien

Specialist dog photographer Emma O’Brien is no stranger to the world of rescue dogs. She shares her home with five, and for the past decade has been a champion of South African shelter dogs of all shapes and sizes. In preparation for a photography exhibition at the Foto ZA Gallery in Johannesburg in April, Emma shifted her focus to the realm of purebred dog adoption, and what she uncovered in the process was alarming to say the least. Whilst mixed breed dogs often find themselves unwanted and surrendered to shelters across the country thanks to unchecked breeding, they have no intrinsic saleable value which puts them at a disadvantage when it comes to adoptees wanting a dog of a specific breed, and a clear advantage because, unlike their pedigree counterparts, they can’t be traded like commodities.

During the process of creating her new series of work, Dogs Unleashed, Emma discovered that the previously unwanted pedigree dogs she photographed found themselves in need of rehoming for three main reasons: a lack of understanding of breed specific requirements, no longer being of financial use to a breeder, and puppy mill breeders closing or offloading their pups. Firstly, it’s essential to research the dog breed you’re considering acquiring. One of Emma’s models, Leila the Bluetick Coonhound, is now in her seventh (and forever) home. Coonhounds are similar to German Shorthaired Pointers in that they are extremely active and need A LOT of

physical and mental stimulation. As a result of originally being acquired by people who had no understanding of the breed, Leila scaled walls, escaped multiple times and got herself caught in snares whilst out and about. Her unruly (and quite natural) behaviour led to her being given up repeatedly. This is a common problem for active, busy, working breeds. As well as making sure you choose the right breed for you and your family, choosing the right breeder is essential. Not all breeders have their dogs’ best interests at heart, many are simply motivated by the money they can earn from selling puppies with no care for the welfare of their breeding dogs.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Linka the Vizsla, Maverick the Toy Poodle, and Lisa the Schnauzer were all given up for adoption once they were no longer financially useful to their breeders. Linka has a broken jaw (presumably from being kicked) and both Maverick and Lisa spent their lives in a backyard producing puppies. Getting adopted in their senior years is the first time they’ve been part of a family. When you, often unwittingly, financially support breeders like this by buying puppies from them, you’re supporting animal exploitation and cruelty. KUSA registration is meaningless when it comes to the welfare standards of a pedigree dog breeder, so doing your homework is essential. As champions of the “adopt, don’t shop” message, we will always encourage you to adopt your dog breed of choice. A quick Facebook or Google search will tell you that there’s a rescue organisation for your favourite breed, and sometimes they even have puppies available!

If you have your heart set on a particular breed of puppy, there are plenty of responsible breeders out there, here’s how to spot one: You’ll likely be added to a waitlist. Visiting the mom and pups at their premises won’t be an issue. Pups will only be available from 8 weeks old (10 to 12 weeks is preferable). You’ll be able to collect your puppy from them. The breeder will ask you to sign a contract that stipulates your pup being sterilised, that you can’t breed with your pup and that should you no longer be able to care for your pup, you’ll return the dog to them.

You’ll receive proof that both the pup’s parents were screened and cleared of breed specific genetic problems. They won’t be selling a collection of different dog breeds. As dog lovers, we have the power to protect the welfare of animals in South Africa by making more informed and ethical choices, hopefully Emma’s new project will promote doing just that. Emma photographed 68 dogs for her Dogs Unleashed series, you can see more images and find out about the individual dog’s stories on her. website - www.emmaobrien.com and IG feed @emmaobrienphoto

They’ll ask you for references from your vet.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

FASCINATING THE AFRICAN STRIPED WEASEL IS A TYPE OF WEASEL THAT BELONGS TO CLASS MAMMALIA, FAMILY MUSTELIDAE, AND GENUS POECILOGALE.

There are approximately seventeen extant species of the weasel family, which include species of ferrets and polecats, as well as the mink and the ermine.

Congo, Kenya, and in southern South Africa.

They are most common in savanna habitats, but can also be found in forests and grasslands. They are one of the smallest mammalian carnivores in Africa, and have a long slender body and short legs.

The African striped weasel is also known as “Muishond”. African striped weasels inhabit much of Africa south of the equator, and can be found in the Democratic Republic of

Adults have a body length of anything between 27 to 33 cm, with the tail adding a further 15 to 20 cm.

Males are larger than females, weighing an average of about 250 to 350 grams. Females weigh in at anything from 230 to 290 grams. The African striped weasel’s fur is mostly black, with four white-to-pale-yellow bands running down the back, a white patch on the top of the head, and a white bushy tail. WEASELS HAVE SMALL FLATTENED HEADS, LONG FLEXIBLE NECKS, AND SHORT LIMBS WITH SHORT DENSE FUR. THEY HAVE SMALL EYES, A SHORT BROAD SNOUT, SHORT EARS, AND LONG CANINE TEETH. The African striped weasel has well-developed scent glands that can spray a noxious fluid when the animal feels threatened by something like a predator. They have five toes on each foot end, and sharp curved claws. The African weasels lead mainly solitary lives. They are effective diggers, and individuals sometimes pair up to dig burrows. They may sometimes rest in natural cavities such as rock crevices or hollow logs. A male can become aggressive when they encounter another male – making short cries and fake charges, which can escalate to fighting if neither male retreats. They are well known to leave dung in well-defined locations, possibly as scent marking. According to a couple of studies, African striped weasels have been identified as making six different calls.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

They include: aggressive, distress, warning, surrendering during a fight, greeting, and lastly a call that signals submission of a retreating male.

FACTS Although the offspring are grown at twenty weeks, they start killing their own prey at thirteen weeks.

ALTHOUGH THEY GENERALLY HAVE A SOLITARY LIFESTYLE, THEY DO LIVE IN SMALL FAMILY GROUPS OF TWO TO FOUR DURING MATING SEASON.

THE AVERAGE AFRICAN STRIPED WEASEL’S LIFE EXPECTANCY IS FIVE YEARS, BUT THAT ALL DEPENDS ON THEIR DIET AND HABITAT.

Mating or reproduction normally occurs between the spring and summer seasons in South Africa.

AN AFRICAN STRIPED WEASEL IS PREDOMINANTLY A CARNIVORE.

FEMALES GIVE BIRTH TO A SINGLE LITTER OF TWO OR THREE YOUNG PER SEASON.

They are nocturnal hunters, and they generally hunt alone.

The young are born in a burrow and are initially blind and hairless.

THEY MAINLY HUNT SMALL MAMMALS, REPTILES, AND INSECTS, BUT FEED ALMOST ENTIRELY ON RODENTS OF THEIR OWN SIZE OR SMALLER.

THEY WEIGH AROUND 4 GRAMS EACH.

They like feeding principally on mice, voles, rats, and rabbits, but they also eat frogs.

The young develop canine teeth at five to six weeks, and their eyes open after six to seven weeks. They reach the full adult size at twenty weeks, and are sexually mature at eight months.

African striped weasel has a few threats, including foxes, owls, eagles, snakes, and hawks. The exact population of the African striped weasel in the world is not known. CURRENTLY, THEY ARE CLASSIFIED AS A LEAST CONCERN SPECIES BY THE IUCN RED LIST. African striped weasels are also known to help keep the rodent population under control. There’s an expression, “A weasel’s nose is not to be trifled with.” According to African folklore, if one cuts off the nose of a weasel, it will grow back two shades lighter in colour, but it will bring misfortune to the family, and lead to a poor harvest.

THEY ALSO OCCASIONALLY FEED ON BIRDS AND EGGS. Weasels are famous for raiding chicken coops. Because of their small and narrow bodies, weasels can capture and pursue rodents in their burrows, chasing them through holes, under dense herbage, up trees, or into water. Weasels hunt primarily by scent, attacking the prey with a sudden lunge and striking at the back of the neck. They sometimes store prey in their burrow instead of eating it immediately.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

n 21 April 2021, I saw Lollie for the first time. She was this sad-looking, emaciated bag of bones, maintaining a safe distance from where I was busy feeding other dogs. Upon enquiring who she was and where she came from, I was told that her owner had abandoned her. Nobody knew where he was. It was also evident that she must have had puppies – according to some, she had given birth a short while ago, but her puppies all died. She was scrounging for food everywhere. She was fed and dewormed, and I asked people in the area to feed her, of course leaving some dog food. She was visited again on 29 April and even though it was only eight days later, she looked better. From here onwards it was an up and down journey – the one week she would look better, only to appear to be thinner again the next week. By 25 May I realized something more

needed to be done and I ‘bribed’ a young lad, Jerome, to feed Lollie with food sponsored by CAWS 4 PAWS in exchange for R10 a week. A remarkable improvement was

Lollie was returned to the settlement where she was found. She was given a rubber kennel that was sponsored by CAWS 4 PAWS and is still being monitored regularly and provided with food and basic medical care. She was also a beneficiary of the Santa Cause for Paws Drive in 2021. Lollie’s life has really improved for the better and she is a happy dog these days.

CAWS 4 PAWS BANKING DETAILS Standard Bank Mossel Bay Business Savings Account 1805 76305 Branch Code 050 414 CONTACT NUMBERS 063 849 3448 | 078 256 2055 noticed by 31 May and in June she was ready to be sterilized at our local vets – Croft Animal Hospital.

Individually handmade with love. Supporting rescue dogs all over South Africa

LITTLE THINGS MATTER A LOT As a matter of fact, my whiskers are so sensitive that if I am forced to eat or drink from a narrow food or water bowl, the strain on my tactile hairs results in “whisker stress.” Bizzy @bizzibabs_pra_ siamese Let’s get serious. The above is not Bizzy with cattitude. Whisker stress is real! Does your cat eat

by scooping food out with its paw, or does he knock his food on the floor while eating? It could be that your cat is experiencing a type of weariness as a result of their whiskers rubbing up against the sides of their food dish. The solution: get a bigger, WHISKER FRIENDLY bowl! A Rogz Fishcake Bowlz would be ideal. The low edges and wide shape provide space for your cat’s whiskers. Melamine. Non-slip base. Dishwasher safe. One size only, 200ml. Proudly made in South Africa. Available from Bizzibabs Scratch Available online Patch Online Shop www.bizzibabs.com - www.bizzibabs. com.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

AFRICAN BALLS OF GLORY

Traditional Amagwinya, AKA good ‘ol VETKOEK filled with creamy, leafy Muriwo unedovi- greens in peanut sauce. Basically delicious soft dough, crispy on the outside, filled with creamy, peanut-infused stewed green leaves, filled with protein, fibers and flavour in this take on combining two of Africa’s favourite foods.

FOR THE MURIWO

What You’ll Need: • 60ml B-Well Olive & Canola blended oil

• ½ tbsp Red Chili powder

• 1 Cup Spinach Leaves and stalks, thinly shredded

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• 1 Cup Kale Leaves, thinly shredded • 1 Cup Pumpkin/Beetroot/Swiss Chard leaves, thinly shredded • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1 onion, diced

• ½ tsp ground coriander • ½ tbsp Salt • ½ tsp black pepper • 2 Tbsp Peanut Butter, smooth or chunky

• 2 small tomatoes, diced

How To Make 1. Heat the B-WELL Olive & Canola Blend oil in a frying pan, add the chopped onions and fry until soft. 2. Add the spices and garlic, stirring with the onions and fry until mixture is golden and brown. 3. Add the shredded spinach, kale and greens and cook for 2 minutes. 4. Add the tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. 5. Add the peanut butter and a small splash of water, stirring until it’s all blended and thick. Add more water slowly till desired thickness. 6. Replace the lid of the pan, reduce heat to low and allow mixture to simmer and cook for 3-5minutes. 7. Leafy Greens in Peanut Butter, Muriwo neDovi is complete. 8. Best served with Pap, rice, bread or (drum roll) Amagwinya/VetKoek

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

JOIN US FOR A ROUND!!!

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

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Pet FusionL’Chic Treat Launcher Dog Toy – Black A fun interactive treats launcher and training tool, designed for you and your dog to play together. Fill the storage chamber easily with kibbles and simply trigger the launch with a tap of the finger!

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PAW BOYS

Dog Mom Mugg Mugs are R110 for a single and R200 for a combo

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The Puuurfect Gift For

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takealot

Peace.Love.Dogs T-shirts Adults Crewneck 100% Combed Cotton Reactive Dye Unisex Cut Size Small - 3XL

R319.00

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MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

chommies

HIKER | AROUND THE BLOCK Slip on style loop leashes with colour whipping of your choice, made with our sailing grade rope.

R900.00

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Long Dog

Canvas Shopper Bag - Grey Dachshund Mama Canvas Shopper Bag 5 Cute shopper bags. Print on one side / plain on the other

R80.00

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mc mac

PoochPouch Front Carrier The PoochPouch Front Carrier is ideal for carrying smaller pups who aren’t always ready for long hikes, but are an integral part of the pack! Padded shoulder straps and adjustable buckles provide a supportive, handsfree fit for all body types.

R725.00

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Pet Treat Selfie Clip Capture the “pawfect” shot everytime with this dog selfie clip.

R75.00

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MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

! s g o D t s Coole THE ULTIMATE TREAT FOR THE

......................................

....................

COOL DOGS CREATIVE CAKE CREATIONS

Instructions

......................................

2. Pour the thick ice cream into your chosen mould/bowl.

Ingredients & Equipment

3. Place in the freezer for 4-6 hours.

...................

• 1 to 3+ tubs COOL DOGS SHAKIN’ & LICKIN’ Ice Cream (the number of tubs depends on how large you would like your creation to be)

4. Remove the frozen mould/bowl and run a little bit of boiling water over it to release the ice cream.

Ingredients

• A COOL mould which could also be a thick glass bowl or shaped moulds • A plate or cake stand

1. Mix your COOL DOGS tub ingredients as instructed on the tub.

5. Place the ice cream creation onto a plate/cake stand. 6. Start decorating. The Creative Cake can be re-frozen numerous times.

• Decorations can be from a baking store near you. Optional – ribbons and your fur kids’ names

COOL DOGS ICE CREAM CONES SERVES 6

• 1 tub COOL DOGS SHAKIN’ & LICKIN’ Ice Cream • Ice cream cones supplied by ‘From the Barkery’ • Doggy droewors (chocolate flake look alike, as chocolate is bad for your pooch) • Liver biltong sprinkles

Instructions 1. Make your COOL DOGS SHAKIN’ & LICKIN’ as per the directions on the tub. 2. Freeze for 3 to 6 hours. 3. Once frozen, add it to your cone and decorate with your dog’s favorite treats. 4. Watch your pup’s tongue twirl!

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

......................................

COOL DOGS PAWSOME PUPPUCCINO SERVES 6

..................................... Ingredients • 1 tub COOL DOGS SHAKIN’ & LICKIN’ Ice Cream • 250ml coconut and rice milk • Biltong sprinkles

Instructions 1. Empty the COOL DOGS SHAKIN’ & LICKIN’ dry mix into a mixing bowl. 2. Add the coconut and rice milk and whisk.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

3. Pour the mixture into 6 espresso cups. 4. Add a sprinkle of biltong (biscuit straws and bones supplied by ‘From the Barkery’). 5. Watch your pup slurp it up!

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

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.

“

BY BRIAN BERKMAN MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

take it all back. Julie’s favourite place in the universe is not Pringle Bay, not the Sea Point beachfront nor even the Hermanus cliff path. Her favourite place in the universe, so far anyway, is a balcony overlooking the Poort, on Mossel Bay’s rocky peninsula, The Point.

She was immovable. No longer interested in us or going for walks, unless the walk was for an even closer look at the dassies, she stood sentry on the balcony, moving her head from side to side to maintain solid surveillance. We even left her alone on the balcony in the room while we went for breakfast as she was not welcome in the buffet restaurant and when we returned, we weren’t even missed.

From the second-floor balcony at The Point Hotel and Spa, Julie was transfixed. With the keen attention of an umpire at a Wimbledon Tennis Grand Slam, she watched the dassies (Rock Hyrax) that live on the rocks directly in front of the hotel’s balconies.

The primary attraction of staying at The Point Hotel and Spa is the location. There is another hotel just a block away with the same name, which is confusing. The appeal here is of near proximity, about 50 paces from the hotel’s front door to a natural tidal pool that has been enhanced by showers and changing cubicles and safety ropes across the rock channels in the event that the tide is too great. There are also areas from which it is considered safe to jump into the water

and a few sets of stairs, albeit mostly mossy and slippery, to allow for easier access and egress. At low tide, the Poort is calm, and the soft sandy floor is easy to walk on for many hundred meters towards the sea source. In high tide, the waves that crash over the rocky areas, create white water and excitingly strong currents. And, because this part of the Indian Ocean is nearer to the warmer sea currents, it is a pleasure to swim in. There is a paved and popular walking route along the coast in Mossel Bay which is dog friendly, as are many of the beaches like Santos Beach, about five minutes car journey from The Point. At Santos there is a shark net to protect swimmers and the wide bay is very popular with swimmers and kayakers alike.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

“

Within the harbour area there are several restaurants and Julie enjoyed watching the seagulls from the outside area at Sea Gypsy, a relaxed and affordable option. But Julie’s best experience was sharing an Eisbein bone at Le Perron. Owners and staff love dogs so much they even brought her a zinc plate on which to eat her bone, although she grabbed and munched it while lying on the sandy floor beneath our table. Notable things about The Point Hotel & Spa are that the best rates are via booking.com; bathrooms are equipped with loo and standing shower as well

as a bidet shower adjacent to the loo. There is a handy pull-out tea and coffee drawer, and all rooms have balconies with chairs and air-conditioning inside the room. Importantly, there is a lap-top computer sized digital safe. We can’t wait to return. https://pointhotel.co.za

Her favourite place in the universe, so far anyway, is a balcony overlooking the Poort, on Mossel Bay’s rocky peninsula, The Point.

“

Adjacent to The Point Hotel and Spa is a Spur restaurant, which is not pet friendly, and the Mossel Bay Zipline, which runs from St Blaize Lighthouse on the hill above the hotel, down to the sea, which is. Equally pet-friendly and a wonderful experience is Le Perron, a restaurant on the old train platform.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

f a cottage built from river stones and local timber overlooking the Breede River is your idea of paradise, then add rows of fruit orchards, olive groves and mountains wherever you look and you’re

probably at Dixon’s View, a self-catering and pet-friendly cottage on the White Bridge Farm Accommodation in Wolseley. With Ceres and Tulbagh in nearby, this is the perfect location from which to explore the Witzenberg Valley. This is a working farm and the wedding venue The Olive Rock is a short drive from the cottage. There are neither fences around the farm itself nor around Dixon’s View and we did encounter other large dogs on the farm as well as a troop of baboons one morning, moving through the orchards in search of breakfast.

you dine in the pretty garden or on the terrace. They are famous for their pork ribs which gets a coffee-based rub before being slow cooked. Equally pet-friendly is The Creative Hub. A farm stall, yes, but much more than that. You might, for example, find winter-warm zip -up vests made from Masai blankets and exquisitely fine ceramics too. A large selection of local wines and spirits is also available as well as local cheeses, charcuterie and the now famous Pappaslick pies. Peppi Stanford, the owner, is also the owner of White Bridge Farm Accommodation and a passionate agent for positive change.

The Winterberg Inn and its Harvest Bistro restaurant is a short walk away and you are welcome to bring your dogs if

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Take time to seek her out, if you can, and learn more about the Marimba group she arranges as well as the sculptural artist who creates monolithic birds and dragons from steel drums and other recyclables. The accommodation at Dixon’s View is ideal for a couple. While there is an open mezzanine above the main bed with two single beds, there is a steep bamboo ladder to reach it and both areas are open to the rest of the room. There is a large shower and a loo on the

ground floor. The open-plan space includes a comfortable sitting area in front of a fireplace and a small kitchen that has a fridge, microwave, an oven and an induction plate. There is a kitchen/ dining table made from an old tree. Outside, there is a large timber deck with a teak table, canvas umbrella and a fire pit in which to braai. From this vantage point you look into the river and the lush trees that climb up its banks. There are rough stone steps to help you down to the riverbed. There are other accommodations also available to rent on the farm. Otter’s Landing is the closest to Dixon’s View and a good option if you are travelling together with family or friends that you like but don’t love. This means that they are easy to get to at just 30-odd meters away but far enough so you have your privacy.

Whiskey Yankee is another, larger house to rent and nearer to the wedding venue. There are guest rooms near the main homestead available too, also some distance away, and while one is ideal for self-catering, the other is not. Dixon’s View is affordably priced from R1300 for two people or R1400 for three or four people. This is the kind of place that invites you to kick off your shoes and relax into the rhythm of the farm. And, if you are lucky, the beat of the Marimba drum. https://www.whitebridge.co.za/ accommodation

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

OVER THE RAINBOW BRIDGE

Euthenasia THE PROCESS OF EUTHANASIA

In the previous column, we looked at the emotional time of saying goodbye to your beloved animal family member, and how to make the decision. However, once the time arrives, it can be incredibly daunting to take the next step, especially if you’ve never gone through it before. We spoke to veterinarian, Dr Travis Gray, to find out what to expect from the process.

WHAT IS EUTHENASIA?

Euthanasia (also called ‘putting to sleep’, ‘PTS’, or ‘putting down’) is the process of ending an animal’s life in a humane and dignified way, usually when they are suffering from disease or advanced old age for which treatment can no longer help, and they are (or soon will be) suffering. It is rare that our pets die peacefully on their own and, because we love them, we may choose to have them put to sleep in order to prevent further suffering. “A lot of people refer to euthanasia as ‘putting the animal to sleep’,” says Dr Gray. “This is actually a good way to think about it, as the patient is made to fall asleep with an anaesthetic; we just use a very potent form of anaesthetic that will stop the heart once they’re asleep. In the vast majority of cases, this is a peaceful procedure, and the patient normally passes within a minute of the injection.” Sometimes people question if this is natural, but, says Moira Andersen Allen, author of Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet, “much of the medical care we provide our pets is, by definition,

Our animal family members bring boundless joy and unconditional love, and are an integral part of our lives. Sadly, it’s an inescapable reality that, one day, we will have to bid them farewell. This is an incredibly hard process, made worse by not knowing what to expect. This regular column aims to demystify it in order to help you for when the time comes for them to cross the Rainbow Bridge.

interrupting a ‘natural’ process or illness. Euthanasia is often not so much a question of ‘artificially ending’ a life, but of when to cease artificially extending that life.” Easier said than done, of course, particularly if we don’t understand the process. So, what can you expect when the time has come?

WHAT IS THE PROCESS?

Each veterinary practice has different procedures but, in general, you are shown to a consulting room, where the vet will discuss everything with you and, unless it is an emergency that requires immediate action, you can spend some time with your pet. Small animals are usually placed on a consulting table, while large ones and those that don’t like being picked up remain on the floor and the vet moves to their level – this is done to minimise stress to the animal. You may bring something to help your pet feel more comfortable, such as a blanket or favourite toy. Remember that animals don’t know what the procedure is for - if they feel nervous, it is because it’s something out of the ordinary; it is only us humans who know what’s happening and fear it. Try to be as calm as possible for their sake but don’t feel bad if you can’t - it is completely understandable to be emotional at this time. Dr Gray says that some owners prefer their pets be sedated before the procedure, which is particularly helpful for cats. He adds that it can also be of benefit in aggressive or highly stressed animals, but cautions that, in dogs, it can make the procedure seem more drawn out, and make placing the injection challenging because sedation lowers blood pressure. He advises that, if you feel this is needed, you should discuss it with your vet beforehand as there may be oral sedatives you can give your pet at home.

“In order to give the euthanasia injection we have to first place an intravenous catheter into the patient to make sure the drug enters the bloodstream smoothly,” explains Dr Gray. The area is usually shaved in order to facilitate this. A needle and syringe can be used instead of a catheter, but, because it isn’t fixed in place, there’s a risk that, if the animal moves, the needle can be pulled out of the blood vessel, causing the drug to ‘leak’ out, which is painful. “The catheter (or jelco, as most vets like to call them), is usually placed in the patient’s front leg. They may feel a small needle prick as it enters the skin – this is the ‘worst’ part for the patient; the rest doesn’t hurt.” In rare cases, the injection may be administered elsewhere, such as the kidney (particularly in cats), and tiny pets like hamsters or animals unused to being handled may be given anaesthetic gas first. Sometimes things don’t go according to plan and the procedure will change, for example, if the vein can’t be raised or the animal won’t let their legs be handled. “Most vets prefer not to place the catheter in front of owners,” says Dr Gray. “They may take your pet from the room for a few minutes. Some owners worry that the patient will be put to sleep without them but this will not happen – as soon as the catheter is secured, the vet will return so that you can be with your pet.” They are usually assisted by a vet nurse or orderly. Tell the vet if you feel strongly about being with your pet every step of the way. Dr Gray says that, “some vets may first flush the catheter with sterile water to ensure that everything is flowing smoothly and, once they are sure everything is correct, they will start to administer the euthanasia drug. I give people the option to have a last goodbye before the injection, but I find that most have said their goodbyes by this point and just want the patient to be at peace.” “Clients can hold or pet their animal as the injection is given, and the patient is normally already asleep by the time the injection is finished. The vet will then listen to the patient’s heart to confirm that they have passed on.

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Owners are also usually allowed to stay with the body afterwards [for a few minutes], and can choose what they would like to happen to the body afterwards [burial, cremation, etc.].” It is best to decide these things in advance so that you don’t have to make decisions during such an emotional time. If you would like to take their things with you, such as their blanket, toy, or collar, or even a lock of their hair, do so. If you would prefer to leave immediately and not take anything, that is also fine. Don’t be afraid or feel bad to do what is right for you. It is important to know that, if you don’t feel you can be present, this is okay, says Dr Gray. “We want the patient’s last moments to be as peaceful as possible and some owners feel that they won’t be able to control their emotions, which will stress their pet out. It doesn’t mean that they love their animals any less than owners who stay.” If you aren’t able to be there, for whatever reason, the veterinary staff will ensure that your pet is comforted.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?

In general, the procedure is usually swift and peaceful, says Dr Gray, “Some patients slowly slip down into sleep, while others seem alert and then suddenly flop down.” Nonetheless, it may be best to let children say goodbye beforehand, as they may find it upsetting to witness. Dr Gray adds that it’s important to know that things can occur during the procedure that may seem strange or frightening, but which are completely normal. “[Euthanasia causes the body to enter] a completely relaxed state. This means that the patient can urinate and/or defecate as their muscles slacken. This unfortunately also means that the eyes stay open once the animal has passed away - they don’t remain closed even if you try to close them. A very small number of patients may also growl, vocalise, or gasp. These movements and sounds are known as post-mortal reflexes, and are the result of the last contractions of the diaphragm and air leaving the lungs.” He emphasises that this does not mean they’re still alive. “While it may seem terrifying and distressing, it is important to remember that the patient is not conscious of anything happening as they have already passed.”

Gone, but not forgotten... For over 25 years we have extended our values of dignity, integrity and compassion to our customers and their faithful companions. When the sad day of their passing comes, you can rely on our trusted and caring cremation services and memorabilia to provide you some comfort in your time of grief.

Lastly, as harsh as it seems, be aware that you will need to settle the bill. Some practices allow long-standing clients to do so later, while others require it straight afterwards or allow payment before the procedure.

A FINAL KINDNESS

Thinking about our pets not being with us one day is awful. We all wish they could live forever, but the reality is that we will eventually have to say goodbye. Planning ahead may seem callous but it allows you to prepare the best send-off for your pet, to prepare everyone in the family, to arrange sedatives or at-home euthanasia, to make your pet’s last days comfortable. You can even arrange a special day for them with all their favourite treats and trips. The fact is that none of this is ever easy, but having the option to provide this final kindness to our loved animals is a blessing. And, once all is said and done, as Robert Louis Stevenson said, “Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow.”

Celebrating over 25 Years of

In the next issue, we look into what options are available after you’ve said goodbye to your animal family member, and how you can honour their memory.

1996 - 2022

(If you missed last issues’ columns about coping with grief, how to decide when it’s time, and what the procedure of euthanasia entails, please visit www.petprints.co.za.)

Western Cape | KwaZulu-Natal | Gauteng For more information and to see the rest of our memorabilia range MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS talk to your vet or visit www.legacypet.co.za

By Dani Mc Neill

How horses help us Winston Churchill once said, “There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.” No truer word spoken, especially with how horses can be used for therapy too. Horses have become much more than friends and companions in today’s time. No horse will ever judge a person by their appearance. They look past one’s disabilities and will recognize the emotion side. Horses are mirrors of the soul.

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nimals that have been used for therapeutic purposes, such as elephants, dolphins, dogs and cats, are still not as effective and as popular as horses. The reason horses have become the most popular to use in animal therapy is because of how horses will give immediate feedback to the actions of handlers or riders. Horses are also known to mirror the feelings of the handler or rider. Furthermore, horses are large and intimidating which forces one to gain trust around them. Today we have a form of Equine Therapy or Equine Assisted Therapy, which is a treatment that includes either being in an equine environment or includes equine activities. This treatment helps to promote growth, whether it is occupational, mental and/ or physical, to help people who suffer from anxiety, ADD, autism, cerebral palsy, depression, dementia, genetic syndromes (such as Down Syndrome), behavioural issues, abuse issues and many other mental health problems. In Equine Therapy, an individual gains greatly by building confidence, selfefficiency, trust, perspective, impulse control, improving communication and social skills as well as learning boundaries. Horses have very similar behaviours to us, making it easy for the person to make a connection with the horse. Equine Assisted Therapies have been recognized in most major countries by the medical and mental health fields for many years now. In some sessions of Equine Therapy, the client may not even touch the horse at all. It all depends on what the client needs from this therapy. A qualified therapist will set goals for the client, such as putting a halter on or walking the horse to a designated area. Once the task is complete, the client will discuss their ideas, thought process and problem-solving skills used to complete the tasks set out by the therapist. The client improves their language skills by discussing what they are doing at a given time. Communication skills are therefore improved by listening to the instructor and following directions and allowing clients to ask questions.

Horses have unique roles in Assisted Equine Therapy, making them suitable for these sessions. Here is what makes them so unique: Horses are unbiased and nonjudgemental. They only react to the client’s emotions and behaviours and are not biased by the client’s past mistakes or physical appearance. This is very crucial to a person’s therapy and aids in the increase in self-confidence and self-esteem. As herd animals, horses are sensitive and hyper vigilant, which makes them very keen observers. This means that feedback is provided much earlier than a human therapist can give and more consistently. As discussed before, horses are great at mirroring a person’s behaviour, emotions or physical movements, which helps a person to be more aware of themselves. This is where clients say they “feel felt”. Horses are also used as a metaphor for other issues, which when participating in the equine treatment, makes it possible to relate to real life problems. One example of how this was used, was a therapist who had a patient who was struggling to discuss how they felt about an upcoming move to another country. The patient, however, was able to discuss and offer insightful suggestions on how to help a horse that had been sold and how she was going to make his stay in his new environment more comfortable. By using this metaphor, the patient had a better understanding of their own move. Learning to walk through riding. Riding a horse can be very beneficial for one’s muscular system. The walk of the horse is a three-dimensional movement, meaning there is movement forward and back, up and down as well as side to side. It is very similar to the same neuromuscular pathway simulation that is given when a human walks. When a person walks and moves their hips from side to side and swings their arms, that same three-dimensional movement occurs. The amazing thing is that there is no gym or machine that can give you what

the horse does, which is a movement so like that of the human walk. Riders with cerebral palsy such as Charlotte Frederick will tell you that if she hadn’t started riding at such an early age, she doesn’t know if she ever would have learnt to walk. It’s amazing to watch these sessions because within minutes of the patient getting on the horse, there is a clear difference that can be seen. Child speaks first words in the saddle. There are so many success stories like the following. “We have had autistic children come to us for therapy sessions who have never spoken before,” says Sarah Dixon of Willow Stables. She and her partner Desmond are therapists at this riding centre. “After a couple of riding lessons, the children start to talk. The pony’s name is always the first thing they will say. Then they go home and have their first dinner conversations. That is just one success story. We have one every day.” “Some autistic children are afraid to speak as they feel they will be judged,” says Desmond. “They know that horses won’t judge them.” You don’t have to see to ride. Sue Carlson’s son Josh says he only feels free when sitting on the back of a horse. He is a very talented competitive rider that competes in Show Jumping and Dressage. Don’t ever say it can’t be done. Soothing the soul. Grooming horses is a great therapeutic exercise for people with bipolar disorder. “I feel a connection to the horse and it’s something special,” says Jonathon. “It calms me down.” Psychologist Dr David Parrish says, “Being around horses can help people that have difficulty dealing with anxiety, particularly people with anxiety related to the stigma that goes along with being different.” So, in all essence, Winston Churchill was very accurate with his statement. “There is something about the outside of a horse which is good for the inside of a man.”

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Ask the Vet

Q: Hi Dr Travis, this is more curiosity than serious, but I’ve been seeing more and more companies advertising Ultrasonic Tick and Flea Repellers for pets. Do these devices really work? Are there any negative side effects to consider in this technology?

first few days of introducing it to their diets. If you do notice any of these signs, then soy should be avoided. There is also a concern amongst some owners that soy may predispose a dog to bloat, but this hasn’t been proven.

A: Ticks and fleas can be a huge problem in households with pets, and any well-informed pet owner will want to find the safest way to keep their animals safe from these parasites. Ultrasonic tick and flea repellers are electrical devices that emit high frequency sounds which are typically not audible to human ears. These high frequency sounds are claimed to cause discomfort to pests and keep them away, providing owners an alternative to using chemical insect repellents on their pets. While there are many of these products on the market, there is very little scientific data to support that they actually work. One older study from Rhodes University (from 1991) found the devices made no difference in the distribution of ticks and fleas after a 24-hour period. Similarly, a fact sheet from Oklahoma State University from 2013 states that ultrasonic devices have no effect on fleas, but have been associated with temporary hearing loss in some pets. So of the scientific literature that is available, none of it seems to support the use of these devices.

My advice would be, if you want to treat your dog with soy products, feed it as you would any other treat; no more than 5% of the diet. Be careful of the type of soy you feed as some soy products (like soy sauce) can be high in sodium, which can have negative effects on your dogs health. Also, when adding anything new to a pet’s diet, remember to introduce the new ingredient slowly. Feed only small amounts to start with, and then increase the amount given as their digestive system gets more used to it. Q: Hi. Do all rabbits get lonely, or is it just some breeds? My dwarf rabbit seems to hate friends and people. I’m starting to feel guilty as I don’t always have time to spend with him. I try to spend at least an hour with him while he roams around and does his thing, but is there anything more I can do? I constantly worry about whether he is lonely or not.

I have never used an ultrasonic tick and flea repeller on one of my animals, nor do I know any clients who have used them. With many other products on the market with proven efficacy and safety studies, I would advise that one of these is used instead Q: Dear Dr Travis, I was under the impression that soy products are bad for dogs, and I’ve always resisted my dogs when they beg because this is one of my main protein sources. The other day I saw a celebrity feeding her bulldog a few products consisting of soy, so I’m just wondering whether this is okay or not.

A: Soy is safe for dogs to eat. In fact, a lot of commercial dog foods contain soy as an ingredient. It is highly digestible and rich in vitamins and essential amino acids. While some dogs may have an allergy to soy, it is considered to be less allergenic than other meat and dairy protein sources. You will know your dog has a soy allergy if they develop rashes, ear infections or loose stools within the

A: In general, rabbits are social animals, and do benefit from interaction with both humans and other rabbits. Lonely rabbits may seek attention by nudging or nibbling you. They may also withdraw from you, or show other negative behaviours such as aggression, destruction of property, or pulling their fur out. Spending an hour with him is a decent amount of time. Be sure to spend some of that time playing on his level. Some rabbits also like to be petted on their backs, cheeks and foreheads. That said; human interaction is not the same as rabbit interaction, and he might be happier with a companion. Pairing rabbits of opposite gender, but of similar size and age generally works best. Just be sure to neuter them unless you want an unexpected horde of baby rabbits! You would also need to introduce them on neutral territory to start off with. If you introduce an unknown rabbit into your rabbit’s “space”, then there is a risk of fighting between them. Once they show positive interactions with one another (grooming each other, sitting together), then they can be allowed to share living space unsupervised. MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Make sure that, if you do get him a companion, there is enough food and space for both of them to reduce competition. If he really doesn’t take to having a companion, then don’t force it. Constant stress and fighting would not make a healthy environment for your rabbit to live in. Rabbits can do well with only human interaction, and it sounds like you’re already doing as much as you can for him. Q: Good day Doctor Travis. Help, my Maltipoo (female) is spayed, and her genitals are somewhat hidden between, I think, excess fatty skin. Some pubic hair is growing into her vagina and causes infection regularly. These hairs also get tangled inside. How can I get it out and treat the area? What should I expect the vet to do if I take her there? A: A recessed (or hypoplastic) vulva is a fairly common conformational issue, where the vulva is partially obstructed by folds of skin. This causes the area to be moist and inflamed, and in some cases, like your Maltipoo, hair can grow in too. The condition is mostly thought to be genetic, but there is a suspicion that spaying a female dog while they are too young may also be a predisposing factor. This suspicion has not been backed up by scientific data. While many dogs can live with this condition without a problem, some dogs do tend to get recurring infections in the area. These infections can involve the skin and vulva, but may extend all the way inward to cause a bladder infection.

Your peace of mind in Veterinary Practice Management

Most owners bring their dogs in to see the vet because they notice a foul smell, or the patient seems itchy or uncomfortable in the vulvar area. The vet will then do a clinical examination on the patient, and probably start treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. During the examination, the area is usually clipped and cleaned so that we can see it clearly, and if a bladder infection is suspected, we will collect a urine sample for analysis. Clearing the infection is usually quite easy, it’s keeping it away that is difficult. Going forward, the area will have to be kept shaved and clean. There are many topical creams and washes that can help with this. I would advise using a groomer to clip the area unless you know what you’re doing. With overweight patients, weight loss can also help.

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I always try medical management first, but in cases where the infections continue to return, surgical management might be needed. Surgical management involves cutting and restructuring the skin folds around the vulva, with a procedure known as an episioplasty. Not all vets are comfortable performing this procedure, and your vet may have to refer you. Patients that have the surgery tend to have complete resolution of their clinical signs.

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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.

Address Unit12, The Siding, 22 Plantation Road, Ottery General Email info@bm.co.za

Dr Travis Gray Tygerberg Animal Hospital

Office Number 021 704 2720 MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Beavis

Buster

My name is Beavis. I am a very friendly and loving Beagle x Jack Russell. I love being taken for walks in the playpark or cuddling on your lap! I am a small size 2-year-old male. I was brought to the shelter because of the horrible C pandemic; my parents could no longer afford our house and we (my brother, who’s been adopted, and I) were surrendered.

Cher

Mila

My name is Cher. I can “sing” as nicely as the human Cher and I am also very pretty!! I am a little mixture of 4 months and will be a medium sized adult (that means about knee height if you are average length). My mommy was rescued after she was dumped next to the road and left to fend for herself.

Gheera

My name is Mila, and I am a 5-yearold female St Bernard. I am a very loving girl, but I don’t get along with all dogs. I love being walked and love to play in the water! I have been house trained and would fit into any family without toddlers as I am very big and strong.

Chrissie

My name is Gheera, it means “protectiveness” in Arabic. I am 8 years old and would love to be in a loving home. Sadly, my human father passed away and I was brought back to the shelter because I don’t get along with other dogs. I love people and just want to share all my love with them. I have been house trained and would fit into any family!

My name is Buster. I don’t know why. They said my mother was a Min Pin, so I guess I am a mixture of one. I am 8 years old and would love to be in a loving home. My parents, who I adored very much, had to go back to their country of origin and were told that I am too old to fly with them. I am well behaved, loving, house trained and love scrambled eggs!

My name is Chrissie, and I am a 2-year-old Africanus. I was rescued from a farm where I was left with a badly fractured front leg without treatment for months! Unfortunately, my leg had to be amputated but I have since undergone rehab. I am very well socialized and very alert. I need a home where people will give me time to get to know them and shower me with love and doggy biscuits!

The adoption fee will include sterilization of your pet, up-to-date deworming and vaccinations, and a microchip.

Adoption fee: R680 for dogs and R580 for cats

CMY

Contact: adoptions@wetnose.co.za / (013) 932 3941

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

MAY 2022 | PETPRINTS

Pet Prints May/June 2022

Articles inside

FEATURE ARTICLE

TOP TIPS

DEPRESSION IN PETS