Paws & Claws Magazine Spring Issue 24 by Andrea Ferris

Queensland’s pet magazine for all animal lovers! SPRING ISSUE 24: SEP - DEC 11

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DOG PARK DECORUM | PANCREATITIS IN PETS

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I’ve always been a fan of dogs. I grew up in the country with working dogs, so I love ca le dogs. I have a few dogs around the home: a chocolate Labrador, English Mas ﬀ, German Shepherd, and an old Ca le Dog who gets around blind. I’ve learnt a lot from that old dog. I started training dogs at 16, and I’ve worked with all kinds of breeds for over 30 years now. Over the years I’ve trained thousands of dogs. I was formally trained as a police dog trainer in the Royal Australian Air Force. A er leaving the RAAF I started my dog training business, providing professional dog training services specifically for pet owners. Because of my background I have a very clear understanding of obedience training. As dogs like the the bullterrier type breeds became more popular, I knew that educa on was needed to teach people about responsible pet ownership and the importance of training. I believe you need to think more like a dog to train properly. You really need to come down to their level and understand their pack system. I have put a lot of eﬀort into developing my obedience training system,

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K9 Master Class Training Basics, so that people can con nue to train their dogs themselves. I wanted everybody to be able to access comprehensive dog training in a cost-eﬀec ve manner. Throughout the years a few special dogs have really stood out. I remember one in par cular, a li le Pekingese. By the me I finished training him, he was eight months old and he was fully oﬀ-leash obedience trained. Another dog was brought to me mostly blind and deaf; he only had three legs and was 13. I asked his owners why they were worried about training him, and they said they had seen how happy a friend’s dog was a er training with me, and so they had brought their dog along because they thought it would be something fun to do. I see myself as linking the relaƟonship between the dog and the owner. By using my methods and leading the way, people can con nue to train their own dogs. For more informaƟon on ScoƩ Donald’s professional dog training services turn to inside back cover of this magazine.

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ne of the harshest realities that we’ve had to face since beginning Paws & Claws in 2005 is that healthy cats and dogs have to be put down purely because there are not enough homes for them. Over 250,000 cats and dogs are euthanased in shelters every year around Australia. Why? Because, quite simply, there is an overpopulation of them.

EDITOR | DIRECTOR Johanna Jauregui | Jason Allender SUB-EDITOR Susan Shoring EDITOR’S PA | ADVERTISING COPY WRITER Kirsty-Lee Workman GRAPHIC DESIGN (ADVERTISING) Joe Baker GRAPHIC DESIGN (MAGAZINE) Thomas McIntosh JOURNALIST Kirsty-Lee Workman CONTRIBUTORS Dr Cam Day Dr Lisa Roberts BVSc (Hons) MACVSc Scott Donald Solange Newton Susan Shoring Disclaimer: Content and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publishers. No liability is accepted for issues or damages arising from content or advertising by Arcadia Publishing Pty Ltd. The contents, design and graphics of Paws & Claws magazines are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form in whole or part without the written permission of the publishers. Contributions in the form of articles, letters and photographs are most welcome. Please supply us with a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you would like the items returned. The provider is responsible for copyright of all material supplied. Copyright (C) 2005-2011 Arcadia Publishing - Paws & Claws. The material in Paws & Claws magazine is protected by the Commonwealth Copyright Act 1968.

A way in which animal organisations across the nation have dealt with this calamity is through desexing the thousands of cats and dogs that go through their shelters. We invite you to read our special spring feature on desexing (page 24) based on researched conducted by the RSPCA, and discussions with local vets. By learning more about how it works, how it affects your pet, and the impact this one decision can have on many animals’ lives, we can try to prevent the many litters that shelter workers reluctantly expect as summer approaches. On the topic of prevention, keep your pets safe and check out our spring care tips on page 56. Ensure your dog is well socialised and trained before visiting the local parks, and avoid any unwanted encounters by reading our pet behaviour feature on the ‘guidelines for dog park decorum’ on page 44. If prevention is the key, awareness and education are the hands that turn that key. Have fun with your pet this season, and we hope you enjoy our special spring edition!

PO Box 564, Labrador Qld 4215 Ph: (07) 5594 7998 Em: adminteam@arcadiapublishing.com.au www.facebook.com.au/PawsClaws www.pawsandclaws.com.au

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PAWS & CLAWS I

6. 12. 16.

Dog B Breed: A Lhasa Apso Adv Vet Advice: Greencro Vets Greencross

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Fe Feline Feature: Cat carin caring

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Nutr Pet Nutrition: Preventin pancreatitis Preventing

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Featu Story: Feature WSPA special on dog trade

Bre Cat Breed: Bengals

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Fea Feature Story: The great benefits of a healthy desexed pet

20. 22. 24.

38.

RSPCA Qld

Forever Friends: Pet grief counselling Pet Be Behaviour: Park se season: socialise your pet Wild News: Savi Saving the northern hairy-nosed wombat

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Ani Animal ER: Ra Ratsak poisoning

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F Feature Story: Be prepared for spring Vets & Emergency Contacts

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PUPPY TRAINING AND PRESCHOOL AVAILABLE

SOCIALISE YOUR PUPPY SAFE ENVIRONMENT HOUSE AND OBEDIENCE TRAINING EXERCISE AND HEALTHCARE TRAINING Craig A. Murray, International Dog Trainer, www.dogschool.com.au Paws & Claws Issue 24

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OPEN 7 DAYS Robina Super Centre 86/104 Robina Town Centre Dr (take the Robina Parkway exit)

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Local training initiatives support new puppy owners

elcoming l i a new puppy iinto t th the ffamily il is an exci ng me. But it can also be a very frustra ng me, as without the proper care and training puppies, no ma er how cute, can become a real handful! Pet Crazy is a pet store with a difference, because the staff are passionate about responsible pet care. In order to promote and facilitate the highest level of pet care in their local community, the team at Pet Crazy has enlisted the help of world renowned dog training company Craig A. Murray Dog Training, organising a team of expert trainers to host exclusive Puppy Kindergarten and Juvenile Puppy classes at the Robina store. A number of staff at Pet Crazy have undergone specialised training with Craig A. Murray to ensure they have working knowledge of the needs of pets and pet owners, in order to ensure successful rela onships between families and new pets. This comprehensive training included a number of methods and policies to ensure the successful integra on of new puppies into family households. Anthea Holmes and Amanda Tutor have received specially designed training by Craig A. Murray Dog Training instructors, and are in-store to help teach pet owners responsible ownership prac ces, including how to shape good behaviour, and how to prevent issues arising as puppies grow and mature. With the help of Anthea and Amanda, Pet Crazy offers a range of training classes designed specifically to suit the needs of new puppy owners. Puppy Kindergarten is for pups from eight weeks to sixteen weeks, and has been developed to assist pet

owners tto shape h b behaviour h i and d sett good d boundab d ries for their pups from the very beginning of the rela onship. Puppies undertaking Puppy Kindergarten get to play and have fun with their peers, but they also have important learning experiences throughout the class that enables them to adapt to arising situa ons as they mature, without suﬀering from undue stress. This important class teaches new pups an apprecia on for learning, and builds confidence, while simultaneously training them towards the goal of becoming a well-behaved, social family pet that is also a great ambassador for dogs in the wider community. Juvenile Puppy Class is for pups from 16 weeks to six months of age. This class is not an obedience class as such. Rather, it is a class designed to shape good manners and social interac on, and to ensure that pet owners are equipped to recognise what is good and what is bad behaviour, and to know how to deal with both. This slightly more developed training class is the perfect stepping stone between puppy class and the next step to proper obedience training, which can be taken only once the pup develops further both mentally and emo onally, and becomes capable of par cipa ng in a more formal training process. For any enquiries, or to book a spot in these highly sought a er classes, please feel free to contact Anthea Holmes on 5533 8405 or 0405 125 117. Alterna vely, visit the Pet Crazy website at www. petcrazy.com.au/puppy-pre-school.html, or the Craig A. Murray site at www.dogschool.com.au.

Come and say hello to Pet Crazy at the Gold Coast Pet & Animal Expo! www.pawsandclaws.com.au

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By Kirsty-Lee Workman

esexing is one of the most controversial issues in the Australian pet and animal industry today. This is because every year thousands of homeless companion cats and dogs end up in animal shelters around the country. With not enough homes available to take them in, many of these innocent animals are euthanased. Between 2009–2010, the RSPCA received a massive 159,007 animals na onally. Of these,

20,177 dogs were euthanased, as were 38,642 cats. While these numbers are staggering, they are just a snapshot of the problem. There are many animal shelters and pounds around Australia where unwanted animals wait, hoping to be found by a loving family before they too suﬀer this cruel fate. The problem of unwanted companion animals is costly for society, and is also a significant ethical issue. Desexing pets is one of the best ways to stop the rampant spread of unwanted cats and dogs, and

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Other significant health benefits include: A reduced risk of a range of diseases associated with the reproduc ve organs. • Females avoid the physical and nutri onal exhaus on of con nually breeding. • Pets generally live longer and healthier lives.

given the size of the pet overpopula on problem within Australia, the ques on has to be asked: why don’t more pet owners act responsibly and desex their pets? Perhaps pet desexing numbers would increase if all pet owners were fully aware that, far from being unnecessary, desexing has a number of significant health and behavioural benefits for both male and female pets.

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There are also a number of behavioural benefits associated with desexing. The biggest behavioural eﬀect for male pets is that they are less likely to wander in search of females in heat; as a result they are less likely to get lost or injured. Desexing also: • Reduces male territorial behaviour—such as spraying indoors or leg li ing—as well as aggression and figh ng. • Females—cats especially—will not search for a mate as the urge and ability has been removed. • They are therefore far less likely to roam. Both cats and dogs are less likely to exhibit an social behaviours and are easier to socialise.

What is desexing? Desexing is the surgical removal of the reproduc ve organs. While diﬀerent veterinarians will have diﬀerent recommenda ons, both the RSPCA and Animal Welfare League perform desexing from the age of eight weeks, as long as the animal is a minimum of 1kg in weight. Benefits for the animal According to Dr Peter Elliot of Ashmore Vetcall Veterinary Prac ces, desexing has a number of significant health benefits for both male and female pets. “Desexing avoids uterine infec ons in females, and decreases the risk of prostate problems and tes cular cancer in males,” he explains.

There is li le risk involved with the desexing procedure. Pre-anaesthe c blood tests are performed to make sure pets are healthy enough to be put under general anaesthe c, and it generally takes only a few days for pets to recover.

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“

B etween 2 009–2010, Between 2009–2010, tthe he R S P C A eceived a RSPCA rreceived a m a s s i v e 1 5 9 , 0 0 7 a n i m a ls. massive 159,007 animals. Of Of thethese, se, 20,20,177 177 dogdogs s were euteuthanased, hanased, were a s w e r e 8,642 ccats. ats. as were 3 38,642

“

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Common misconcep ons A number of misconcep ons have hampered the eﬀort to promote desexing to Australian pet owners, including that desexing is an expensive, and simply unnecessary, procedure. Desexing is not only necessary for the health and behavioural reasons outlined above, but also to prevent the thousands of unwanted ki ens and puppies that crowd shelters every year. And, according to Dr Elliot, vets make very li le from performing desexing procedures. “The cost of desexing is heavily subsidised by vets,” he said. “We perform the procedure more as a community service rather than to make money.” Pet owners who cannot aﬀord desexing can find help through the Na onal Desexing Network (NDN). The NDN puts owners in contact with vets who desex pets for a discounted price. Dr Elliot also explained that many pet owners mistakenly believe that letting their female dogs have a litter before desexing will make them a

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better pet. In fact, letting a pet have a litter only adds to the unwanted pet overpopulation, and owners should keep in mind that not all births are without complications, both for the mother and for the kittens or puppies. Pet owners also worry that desexing male dogs will make them less masculine, and that desexed pets are more likely to become overweight. While desexed pets are more suscep ble to weight problems—due to the fact that they don’t feel the need to chase around for a mate—this is can be easily managed by paying close a en on to diet. “The only reason for not desexing is if the owner wants to breed their animal,” said Dr Elliot. Before deciding to breed your pet it is important to learn your local council laws, most of which require breeders to have the appropriate inspecons and permits.

So, given the health benefits and rela ve ease of having the procedure performed, why don’t more pet owners desex their pets?

Controlling overpopula on of pets Despite the wide availability of informa on describing the health benefits of desexing, many pet owners remain unaware that desexing actually improves their pet’s health and lengthens their lives. In fact, a 2010 study conducted by students of

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to breed indiscriminately,” she said. “One single cat that is not desexed and her un-desexed descendants can breed up to 170,000 ki ens over a 10 year period.” Mrs Hayes also said that educa on is important for reducing the number of animals in shelters. Educa ng the public about the health benefits of desexing will provide pet owners with a powerful incen ve to desex their pets, and will hopefully have the flow-on eﬀect of reducing the number of unwanted cats and dogs in shelters around Australia.

Monash University revealed that only 52.9% of pet owners surveyed agreed that desexing is good for their dog’s health. Aside from the health benefits for pets, desexing also has a number of benefits for owners, including a reduced likelihood of expensive surgeries resul ng from pets roaming and figh ng in search of mates,cheaper registra on costs as many councils charge more for non-desexed animals,no surprise food or vet bills for unwanted oﬀspring, and no need to find homes for unexpected li ers. There are also very important benefits for local communities. Desexing reduces the community costs involved with having to care for unwanted litters in pounds and shelters, and there is also a significant ethical cost to dumping puppies and kittens–an act which is illegal and inhumane. Vice President and Branch Spokesperson of the Gold Coast RSPCA, Peggy Hayes, says that desexing is the key to controlling the overpopula on of companion animals. “Every non-desexed animal has the opportunity

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To find out more about desexing and the campaign to get Australia to zero euthanasia, check out our Facebook note on the 4th Na onal G2Z Summit to End Companion Animal Overpopula on at: www.facebook.com/PawsClaws

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Would you know what to do if your pet was sick or injured? new course available on the Gold Coast is teaching pet lovers how to administer vital first aid to their pets. PetTech: First Aid & Care for Your Pets is a comprehensive one day course that takes pet owners step-by-step through the basic techniques of first aid care for pets. Ali Barclay, director and owner of dog walking service Wag The Dog, is a self-confessed dog lover, and proud parent to Beau—an RSPCA rescue dog—and Chloe. Ali credits her dogs with having completely changed her life. Ali recently travelled to New Orleans, USA to complete the Pet Tech Instructor Training course and has brought her newfound knowledge back with her to offer this invaluable service to South-East Queensland pet owners. As directors of Paws & Claws—and parents to spirited rescue dog Ruby, and the charmingly pompous felines Simba and Sooty—Jason and Johanna jumped at the chance to complete PetTech. “We were lucky to be among the first in Queensland to attend the course,” said Johanna. In an emergency scenario, minutes can be the difference between life and death, and many pet owners don’t know enough about basic pet first aid to be able to help their pet until a veterinarian can be reached. “If anything serious was to happen to one our pets we would be devastated,” explains Jason. “We heard about the Pet Tech course and instantly knew it was something we had to do.”

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The course teaches pet owners how to help their pets in a range of emergency situations, including choking and bleeding emergencies, fracture and limb injuries, poisoning, and seizures. “Everything was very practical and easy-to-follow, and Ali was a great teacher,” said Johanna. “The course takes place in a comfortable setting where we can discuss various aspects of what we are learning and ask lots questions.” PetTech teaches basic emergency skills, such as how to identify and assess emergency scenarios, as well as how to administer emergency aid and CPR to pets. The course also teaches you how to create your own pet first aid kit, how to administer medication, and what important signs and symptoms to keep an eye out for. The special ‘Snout-to-Tail’ assessment guide that PetTech teaches is an easy and practical way to assess emergency injuries, and a great way to help pet owners keep track of their pet’s general health. “It’s something quick and easy that we can do at any time to make sure that everything is ok and as it should be with our pet’s health,” said Jason. PetTech also features great tips on general pet health, including how to help pets live a longer, healthier life. “We had a great time at the PetTech course and we learned so much. We feel so much more empowered and at ease now that we have this knowledge,” said Johanna. “It really could make the difference one day.”

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Protecting dogs around the world By WSPA, Photos by Dennis Bruussard/WSPA

n Sierra Leone, West Africa, there is an es mated 27,000 dogs roaming the streets. The region’s decade-long civil war caused extreme poverty and hardship, forcing thousands of people to abandon their pets in order to focus on their family’s survival. To protect these dogs,the World Society for the Protec on of Animals (WSPA) has been working with local partner, the Sierra Leone Animal Welfare

Society (SLAWS), to provide vaccina on, sterilisaon and veterinary services, as well as community educa on, in a region where no such services existed before. The majority of the dogs treated at the clinics are brought by children, like eight-year-old Emanuel who brought his dog,Tiger.Emanuel explained that he cannot remember a me without Tiger, so he

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thinks Tiger also must be eight. Thankfully, Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wounds were minimal. Under Emanuelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close supervision, the clinic vet anesthe sed Tiger and treated his wounds. Through both sta c and mobile veterinary clinics, WSPA with SLAWS are crea ng an environment where healthy dogs and informed humans can co-exist harmoniously.

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Sierra Leone is just one of the many regions around the world where WSPA is working with animal welfare groups, governments and communi es to help improve the lives of roaming dogs. Life on the streets is hard. Dogs will fight over the limited amounts of food; injuries sustained this way are rarely treated, and it is es mated that over 75% of puppies in developing countries die in agony from diseases including rabies and distemper.

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WSPA es mates that approximately 400 million dogs around the world suffer on the streets, facing cruelty, mistreatment, neglect and disease. But with more funding, its humane dog popula on welfare strategy can con nue to turn that situa on around. Joanna Tuckwell, project manager for the WSPA humane rabies control project in Bali said, “Thanks to a pioneering rabies vaccina on program in Bali, we’ve prevented the inhumane culling of over 300,000 dogs on the island and demonstrated that mass vaccina on is the humane and effec ve way to protect communi es from the disease.” “WSPA programs deal with immediate issues like these, as well as addressing the root causes of poor dog welfare. Community educa on programs across some of our global projects, for example, help ensure long-term change and encourage neighbouring communi es and governments to take las ng ac on.” “This includes providing real solu ons such as equipment, training, medicines and veterinary outreach services to ensure that local authori es and veterinary officers are able to manage stray dogs humanely.” “Our work is prac cal and effec ve, but our programs in places like Sierra Leone, Zanzibar and Sri Lanka desperately need more funding to con nue – we’re calling on dog lovers around the country to help make that happen.”

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ET CARE AND LIFESTYLE

BREATHE EASIER THIS SPRING... Queenslanders can breathe easy thanks to an innovative product by Camso Pty Ltd that completely removes all traces of pet urine from carpets and rugs. Much more than just a cover up, PISS OFF™ is the ultimate odour absorber, and the perfect solution to those little pet accidents. “I am happy to say I discovered PISS OFF around 12 months ago and I’m absolutely thrilled with the results. I have a desexed male cat who thinks a great place to pee is our foyer. As you can imagine I don’t agree with him. Since using PISS OFF my embarrassment at the cat pee smell has disappeared because the smell itself has disappeared!” Jennifer Rogers

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CATS PLAY IT SAFE THIS SPRING...

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PET CARE AND LIFESTY

Cats love to play in the fresh air and nap outside in the sun, but if they do wander outside the yard, many dangers await them. They could be attacked by dogs, hit by a car, get into a fight with another cat and risk catching an infectious disease such as feline AIDS. This is partly why the law clearly states that all cats must not leave their owner’s yards. It ensures the cat’s safety and the owner’s peace of mind. As a cat lover, owner and breeder, Pat Lee from Aussie Cat Enclosures knows how difficult it can be to keep cats safe. To make things easier, Aussie Cat Enclosures incorporates a range of purpose built DIY Flat Packs, complete with shelves and hammocks to ensure cats can play to their heart’s content and soak up the warm spring sunshine. To give your cat the lifestyle it deserves, call Pat today for a FREE measure & quote on (07) 3829 0563 or visit www.catenclosures.com.au.

PET CARE AND LIFESTYLE

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Words by Kirsty-Lee Workman. Photos by Zoo Studio Animal Art Photography

hasa Apsos may be small dogs, but don’t be fooled by their size as they have big personali es. They are also an ancient and valued dog breed. DNA analysis has identified the Lhasa Apso as one of the 14 most ancient dog breeds. In their home of Tibet some locals believed that the bodies of Lhasa Apsos could be entered by souls of deceased Lamas while they awaited reincarnation. The Lhasa Apso—meaning ‘long-haired Tibetan dog’—is a rela vely new interna onal breed, only

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entering the Western world in the 1930s and coming to Australia as recently as the 1960s.The breed was popularised throughout the Western world by Disney’s famous doggie film Lady and the Tramp, which featured a beau ful Lhasa Apso as the singing pound dog Peg. History Named for the sacred Tibetan city of their origin, Lhasa Apsos have a long and dis nguished history that stretches back to around 800BC.

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Dog Breed

Breed Standards The Lhasa Apso breed has a dis nc ve regal stance and gait, with the head carried high and the tail curved over the back. Lhasas should be approximately 27.3cm at the shoulders and weigh between 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;8kg. Like most breeds, females are generally slightly smaller. All Lhasas should have a bushy, high-set tail that is carried well over the back in a screw shape, o en with a kink at the end, and lovely pendant shaped ears, with dark ps considered to be an asset. Lhasas are known for their amazing coats, which should be heavy and straight, and hang almost to the floor.Coats come in a wide variety of beau ful colours, including golden, sandy, honey,

Originally, Lhasas were bred as interior sen nels for the Buddhist monasteries, and guardians for the homes of Tibetan nobility. These li le guardians were charged with aler ng their owners to any intruders who entered, and have a reputa on for being fearless in the Tibetan mountain ranges. Their alertness, keen sense of hearing, and rich, sonorous bark that belies their size, ensured that Lhasas were highly-prized dogs, and they were never sold in Tibet; the only way a person could get a Lhasa was as a gi . The Lhasa breed has, at various mes throughout history, been registered as both a Terrier and a Toy, but is now classifiedas a NonSpor ng Breed.

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Dog Breed

dark grizzle, slate, smoke, red, and par -colour with various shadings, along with the more wellknown black, white, or brown. No one colour is considered be er than another. A low carriage of stern is considered a serious fault with this breed.

great companion dogs. Healthy Lhasas can live for quite a long me, so it is important to make sure that the Lhasa is the right choice for your family. Your Lhasa will need to be a part of your family, and will bond par cularly well with one person. Training a Lhasa can require pa ence, but in return Lhasas are comical, entertaining, and caring companions. They enjoy training, and generally respondto exercise and discipline with a calm, asserve energy.

Nature Lhasas are known as happy, cheerful dogs, and well-cared-for Lhasas are carefree and jaunty in their movement.They do have a reputa on for being wary of strangers, and can be aggressive toward people they don’t recognise, if le untrained. Most Lhasas are independent dogs, but are also extremely loyal to those closest to them, and make

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Suitability Anybody thinking of adding a Lhasa to their family should also keep in mind that grooming a Lhasa requires a certain level of dedica on, at least un l its coat is either fully grown or long enough to groom regularly. While the dog is young its coat must be brushed every day, and bathed once a week. Breeders recommend that the coat is not clipped for 9–10 months, when a more mature coat has developed. Lhasas that are not being groomed for showing are o en kept in what is called a ‘puppy clip’ to reduce maintenance—it also keeps your Lhasa looking very cute! If you would prefer your Lhasa to have the beau ful long coat the breed is famous for, you will be pleased to know that once the coat has reached the ground, it will only require brush-

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ing once a week. However, the full adult coat of a Lhasa takes around six to seven years to grow. All Lhasas must have the hair between their feet pads trimmed, and their ears plucked. Although they do lose some coat in the summer months, Lhasas are low-shedding, and can co-exist quite well with people who suﬀer allergies. As with any breed, Lhasas need a quality balanced diet, as they have a tendency to become overweight if overfed. However, they do not require rou ne exercise as they self-exercise. Although Lhasas are good natured, loving dogs, like most breeds they require socialisa on with dogs and people as puppies and throughout their lives. And while their personality usually belies their size, they do need a home that can cater for a smaller dog. So, although Lhasas can be happy with families, they do not suit life with rough and tumble kids. A slightly older family that respects their Lhasa Apso will be blessed with a loving and loyal companion.

are common in all smaller dog breeds. While Lhasas are suscep ble to the same environmental issues all dog breeds are, many Lhasas live to their early 20s with minimal health problems, although the average age is 14. When looking for your perfect Lhasa, steer clear of puppies that look ma ed or unwell, and be aware that problems o en arise in crossbreeds. Always source your Lhasa from a registered breeder. Pedigree Lhasa pups range from $1,000–1,500. Almost no pedigree Lhasas are le in rescue shelters in Queensland, so although it may seem a li le pricey to go for a registered pup,the popularity of Lhasas speaks volumes. Besides being happy, healthy li le dogs, Lhasa Apsos are thought to bring luck, so if you are on the lookout for a loyal companion, consider a ‘Lucky Lhasa’ and enjoy the loving rewards of having a Lhasa Apso in your life.

Health Perhaps because of its long history, and recent entry into the Western world, the Lhasa Apso is a robust breed, with few specific health problems, although luxa ng patella–loose knee joint—problems

If you do happen to find a Lhasa Apso that needs rescue assistance, please contact Jane at: jane@lhasaapso.com.au

Working for our future – today

Gee Cee’s Top Safety Tips Always supervise children around dogs or separate Recognise the warning signs by learning about dog body language and emotion

Responding to a dog bite UÊ -iVÕÀiÊÌ iÊ` }Ê ÀÊÌ iÊÛ VÌ °Ê ÛiÊ iÊ>Ü>ÞÊvÀ ÊÌ iÊ Ì iÀÊ Ü Ì ÕÌÊ« >V }ÊÞ ÕÀÃi vÊ Ê`> }iÀ UÊ ÌÀ Ê> ÞÊL ii` }]ÊV i> ÊÌ iÊÜ Õ `Ê> `ÊV ÛiÀ UÊ ÃÕ ÌÊÞ ÕÀÊ VÌ À UÊ > iÊ>ÊÀi« ÀÌÊÌ Ê Õ V

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GCCC 8020

Educate your family UÊ / ÊLiÊV> ]ÊÀiÃ«iVÌvÕ Ê> `Ê}i Ì iÊ>À Õ `Ê` }ÃÊ UÊ / ÊÃÌiiÀÊV i>ÀÊ vÊ>Ê` }ÊÜ i Ê Ì½ÃÊi>Ì }]ÊÌ i`ÊÕ«]Ê Ã ii« }Ê ÀÊ}À Ü }Ê UÊ / ÊÃÌ> `ÊÛiÀÞÊÃÌ Ê vÊ>Ê` }ÊÀÕ ÃÊ>ÌÊÞ ÕÊ UÊ / Ê> Ü>ÞÃÊÃ>ÞÊº >ÞÊ Ê* i>ÃiÊ*>ÌÊ> `Ê* >Þ¶»Ê

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Does Your Pet Have Terrible Breath? What’s going on inside its mouth.... By Dr Kerri Anders, Greencross Vets

ental problems are one of the most common condi ons that I deal with as a veterinarian. Over 85% of dogs and cats above the age of four have some form of dental disease. Dental disease causes bad breath and pain. It is also a source of infec on, and can make your pet seriously ill. The good news is that most cases of dental disease are preventable and/or are easily treated. The most common signs of dental disease include persistent bad breath, discoloured teeth, loose teeth, red and irritated gums (gingivi s), excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, and diﬃculty chewing or ea ng. If you think your pet is suffering from signs of dental disease, it is important to start treatment before any irreversible damage occurs. Contact one of our Greencross team members to make an appointment for your pet to have a dental check-up. Dental disease is totally preventable. The best way to prevent progression is by brushing your pet’s teeth daily. Select a so bristle toothbrush and only use toothpaste that is specifically designed for pets. Pet toothpaste is tas er for your pet, and is also safe if it is swallowed. If tooth brushing is not possible, you can give your pet raw, meaty bones. These are great for cleaning teeth because the chewing ac on causes scraping on the teeth and gum massage, which helps remove plaque. Do not feed your pet cooked bones as they may splinter and cause intes nal damage.

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As a rule of thumb, only feed your pet bones that are bigger than the size of its head so they cannot be swallowed. We also have specially designed treats, chews, and dental diets to help aid in the removal of plaque. If your pet already has tartar and gingivi s present, a professional dental scale and polish procedure is warranted ASAP. Bacteria can enter its blood stream and aﬀect its heart, liver, and kidneys, deplete the pet of energy, and make it feel generally unwell. A dental scale and polish is the best way to get your pet’s mouth back to a clean slate. This procedure is done under a general anaesthe c. Preanaesthe c blood tes ng and IV fluid therapy are included to provide the highest standard of care for your pet. Just like your own den st, we use specialised den stry instruments. Keeping your pet’s teeth clean is guaranteed to help it live a healthier, longer life! If you have any ques ons regarding dental cleanings or the care of your pet’s mouth, please don’t hesitate to contact us. At Greencross vets we are passionate about pets!

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A road less travelled Helping Animals - Enlightening People - Changing Lives By Michael Beatty, Media and Community Relations RSPCA Queensland

very weekday at 3.45 pm Jess would po er down the road to wait for the bus. When the red double decker with the open rear pulled up, she received a cheerful welcome from the conductor and ambled up the aisle to sit on the floor in the front. But Jess was not your average fare paying local. She was a ten-year-old Border Collie on her way to meet Leila Gubbins, her mistress, who worked at the White Horse Hotel on the river. The se ng was Sonning-on-Thames in the UK and this was the early Six es. When the bus pulled up at the pub, out would hop Jess. She would wander into the beer garden to wait pa ently for Leila. They would then walk home together. This way Leila s ll got some exercise and Jess didn’t overexert herself in her declining years. Sadly, this would never happen in Australia. Especially in this day and age! To travel on public transport, dogs must be crated unless they’re a registered assistance dog. While this may be just feasible if your family pooch is a Chihuahua, it’s an impossibility if they’re anything larger. Unless, of course, you’re The Incredible Hulk! While in most parts of Europe and the United States, dogs are very much considered part of society, in Australia they remain chained behind fences, and you’re liable to cop a tongue lashing if they sit outside the takeaway store while you’re ordering a coﬀee. Most five star hotels in Europe allow dogs in their signature restaurant. Many years ago, I interviewed the late Sir Richard Burton in the dining room at The Dorchester. He had one Maltese terrier on his lap, while another snoozed under the table. In between sips of vodka, he’d slip the dogs pieces from a dish that had been especially prepared in the kitchen! In Europe dogs are allowed into pubs, restaurants, cafés, hotel rooms, shops and occasionally, as I once saw in Stockholm, nightclubs. They accompany their owners on and oﬀ trains and buses with the minimum of fuss and, dare I say it, with no li le accidents.

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So why is this? For the most part, it’s simple, socialisa on from an early age and an a tude amongst the human popula on that dogs truly are “man’s best friend”. Can you believe that in Queensland it is actually within the law to chain a dog for 22 out of 24 hours. Then of course we wonder why that dog is not all sweetness and light when it finally manages to escape from its confinement. Veterinarian and Dogs NSW spokesperson Dr Peter Higgins is calling for a more liberal approach across the board. “Although Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, our a tude to animals in public is outdated,” he says. “Buses, trains, planes and taxis should allow well socialised, trained, healthy animals on board.” He’s got a point. At the RSPCA, we o en come across elderly pet owners who are unable to get their animals to a vet because they can’t take them on public transport or in a taxi. Australian airlines treat animals as li le more than cargo. They’re le to bounce around in the hold with the suitcases and golf clubs. This can be especially trauma c during take oﬀs and landings, and if there is turbulence. So let’s ease the restric ons and make responsible pet ownership easier. Nor should we forget that pet ownership is not a right. It’s a privilege. And finally, on a lighter note, speaking about privilege: a 60-year*old Israeli woman paid more than $38,000 for her pet boxer, Orchuk, to travel business class from Paris to Tel Aviv. Surely “ca le class” would have been suﬃcient!

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By Susan Shoring, Secretary of the Gold Coast Cat Club

n excep onally stunning coat makes the Bengal cat instantly recognisable, as well as a tremendously popular breed. Originally named the ‘Leoparde e’, this breed originated as a cross between an Asian Leopard Cat and a domes c cat. The Asian Leopard Cat, Felis bengalensis, is a small, spo ed, forest-dwelling cat from southern Asia, weighing around 4.5kg, which looks very much like a miniature leopard. Unlike the vicious leopard, however, this feline is very mid. Breeders wanted to create a truly wild-looking domes c cat with the spectacular coat of the Leopard Cat. The breeders’ aim was to replicate the look

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of the wild ancestry, while breeding towards an aﬀec onate, dependable domes c pet. Today, most Bengals have a very minor percentage of wild blood in their gene c make-up, and as such are not much diﬀerent from other domes c cats, aside from their remarkable coat and unique personality. Although it is believed that ma ngs similar to those which produced the Bengal had occurred in tropical Asia for centuries, none of these hybrids was ever developed into a breed. However, in 1963, Mrs Jean Sugden, an American gene cist from Yuma, Arizona, crossed a female Leopard Cat, obtained from a pet shop in the late 1950s, with

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a black shorthaired domes c male. A female oﬀspring from this ma ng was then bred back to her wild father, resul ng in some plain and some spo ed oﬀspring. The fact that live ki ens resulted from these cross-ma ngs meant that the idea of a ‘pet leopard’ was a real possibility, but Mrs Sugden abandoned this project when she was widowed. Dr Willard Centerwall, a gene cist working at the University of California, began a breeding program which involved crossing Leopard Cats with shorthaired domes c cats in the late 1970s. This was part of a study of feline leukaemia, designed to determine whether the leopard cat’s immunity to feline leukaemia could be transferred to the domes c cat–as it turned out, it could not. By this stage, Jean Sugden had remarried and was Mrs Jean Mill. She now lived in Covina,

Cat Breed

Above: EliteCats Jigger (aka Simbah), Brown Spo ed Bengal, bred by Olga Anissimov of EliteCats Bengals; owned by Cynthia Mar n. Far LeŌ: EliteCats Caprice, Brown Spo ed Bengal, bred and owned by Olga Anissimov of EliteCats Bengals.

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Cat Breed

near Los Angeles, and acquired eight female hybrids from Dr Centerwall in 1981. Using these as founda on stock for a new Bengal Cat project, she resurrected her aim to combine the markings of a wild Leopard Cat with the pleasant temperament of a tame domes c cat. The female hybrids were mated with a friendly cat that had been found living in the rhinoceros enclosure of the Delhi Zoo, and a brown spo ed tabby from a Los Angeles cat shelter. From these beginnings, the new breed was developed, and 1985 saw Millwood Penny Ante first exhibited at cat shows to great acclaim. The breed’s name was taken from the scien fic name for the leopard cat, Prionailurus bengalensis. The founder of Bengals in Australia is Heather Field of Queensland’s Jagsun Bengals. In 1994, following great controversy and many Government mee ngs to have a legal Bengal protocol

introduced, Heather imported Ch CD Jaguarundi Sun, from Houston,Texas, USA. Jag is recognised as the Founder of the Bengal breed in this country. The second import, also by Jagsun Bengals, was a female from the UK, Nyali Pash Wari, and the resul ng li er from these two brown spo ed imports was the first Bengal li er registered in Australia. Their second li er contained an amazing 11 live ki ens – quickly boos ng the Australian Bengal popula on! As with many of the larger cat breeds, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) occasion-

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ally aﬀects Bengals. HCM is a progressive heart disease wherein the heart muscles enlarge and thicken, which aﬀects the cat’s quality of life and lifespan. Therefore, beware of cheap backyardbred, unregistered Bengals and only purchase from a registered breeder who has all breeding cats screened for HCM. The Bengal is a medium to large very muscular cat, and is sleek, long, powerful and athle c in appearance. The weight range for females is 3.5-5kg, while 4.5-7kg is average for males. What makes the Bengal stand out from other breeds is its unique coat. It is always spo ed or marbled tabby, in a colour choice of brown, snow or silver, and it is very thick, silky and extremely so , with a luxuriously glossy sheen. The markings are clear, and much be er defined than in ordinary tabby cats, with the spo ed coats showing larger spots than typically seen. It is essen al that the Bengal has a reliable temperament

Cat Breed

Above: EliteCats Alexander, Brown Marbled Bengal, bred by Olga Anissimov of EliteCats Bengals; owned by Wes Tahau. Far LeŌ: EliteCats Caprice, Brown Spo ed Bengal, bred and owned by Olga Anissimov of EliteCats Bengals.

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Cat Breed

and not exhibit any undesirable wild traits. This is a determined, curious and highly intelligent cat, speaking in a voice containing several ‘wild’ elements, which is so very diﬀerent to that of any other domes c cat. As with all cats, a Bengal will roam if outdoors, so keeping this very special ki y as an exclusively-indoor pet is essen al, par cularly as it is very peopleorientated and thrives on human companionship. This safe lifestyle also protects exquisite cats like the Bengal from the dangers of cars, people with malicious intent, and viruses and infec ons. Locking away all breakables, especially those on high shelves, is safest because this puss loves climbing. The Asian Leopard Cat is an accomplished swimmer and fisher; that legacy lives on in the Bengal with its love of water play, so covering aquariums is a must. Allowing it access to a shower or bath with a bit of water can provide hours of entertainment – both for the cat and its owner! An alert and ac ve, very playful breed, it is also confident, outgoing and sociable. Whilst it is independent, the Bengal is also an extremely aﬀec onate feline that flourishes in a mentally and physically s mula ng environment, and enjoys the company of people of all ages, dogs and other cats. If you have a good understanding of feline

behaviour and you love the exo c look of wild cats, the spectacular Bengal is as close as you can get to owning your very own leopard!

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f you are considering adding a cat to your family soon, here are a few ps. Firstly, decide whether you wish to adopt a cat already needing a home from a shelter, or if you’re a er a par cular breed. Visit www.petnet.com.au to determine which breed is best suited for you. Look up registered breeders if you decide on a pedigree cat, to ensure a healthy pet without gene c problems. Do you want a male or a female? Once desexed, there is minimal diﬀerence, although males are generally friendlier, while females tend to be more independent. Desexing is very important, as pet overpopula on is already an immense problem in this country. (See our feature story ‘A desexed pet is a healthy pet’ on page 24.) Decide whether puss will be permi ed outdoors at all. Animal welfare groups and cat clubs advise against ever le ng your Paws & Claws Issue 24

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Feline Feature

Words by Susan Shoring, Secretary of the Gold Coast Cat Club will keep ki y entertained, exercised, and save your furniture. Outdoor enclosures keep cats and birds safe, whilst adding great interest to your catâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. These can be custom-made or purchased flat packed for self-installa on, and are usually accessed via a cat flap in a window. Keeping a feline outside but protected within the boundaries of its own backyard can be accomplished using a cat containment system, such as fence capping, which is available for DIY or professional installa on. Visit your vet regularly for vaccina ons and general check-ups. Vets can also guide you on such ma ers as household poisons that may be poten ally lethal to cats. And always head straight for your vet if you no ce anything unusual or concerning about your cat. Keeping your cat happy and healthy will give you a wonderful companion for many years to come.

new ki y outside, as this keeps them healthier, prevents car accidents and cat fights, and also protects local wildlife. Feed only good-quality cat foods, and always have fresh water available. Veterinary surgeries and pet supply stores stock foods developed specifically for the op mum health of cats. Keep li er trays fresh with a thorough weekly clean using bleach (1:30 dilu on). To ensure con nued tray patronage, always scoop out solids. Visit your local pet shop for tools such as brushes, combs and nail scissors. All coat lengths will require some grooming to prevent hairballs, and cats need their nails trimmed regularly. Your vet can show you how to do this. Establish a regular program to prevent fleas and worms. Some monthly spot-on liquids treat both at once, and are available from pet shops and vets. Plenty of toys, plus a tall scratching post, www.pawsandclaws.com.au

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By Kirsty-Lee Workman

Preventing Pancreatitis

any of us don’t even know what a pancreas is, let alone what it does, or how it can become harmful to our pets. The pancreas is a gland in the abdomen that is very important for maintaining good digesve health because it produces and releases enzymes and hormones that aid diges on. The pancreas also produces insulin, an important hormone that controls blood sugar levels. Most forms of diabetes are related to the pancreas not producing enough insulin. When the pancreas is inflamed and ‘sick’, it can cause discomfort and ongoing health problems for your pet. This is known as pancrea s. What is pancrea s? Pancrea s is inflamma on of the pancreas. This inflamma on is caused by diges ve enzymes becoming ac vated within the pancreas. When this happens, the enzymes begin diges ng the pancreas itself. This self-diges on causes severe inflamma on, pain, and tenderness of the abdomen. Pancrea s is usually classified as either acute (when it occurs suddenly) or chronic (if it is an ongoing condi on).

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Pet Nutrition

Causes of pancrea s The exact causes of pancrea s are o en unknown—especially in cats—and the condi on can be brought on by a number of factors. Pancrea s usually aﬀects middle-aged and older dogs and cats. Most cases are triggered by ea ng a very fa y or high protein meal. However, it can also be the result of abdominal trauma, spinal injury, tumours, intes nal obstrucons, liver and gallbladder disease, and even insec cide poisoning. Infec ous diseases and bacterial or viral infec ons can also be contribu ng factors.

“

Diet, fat intake, and nutritional health are all important factors in the development of pancreatitis in dogs and cats.

“

Risk factors There are a number of risk factors involved with the development of pancrea s in dogs and cats. Diet, fat intake, and nutri onal health are all par cularly important factors in the development of the condi on. For dogs especially, being overweight significantly increases the risk of developing pancrea s. Dogs are also more likely to develop pancrea s a er ea ng a meal with a high fat content. Diets high in fat can cause hyperlipidaemia, a condi on in which the amount of fat in the blood is elevated. Hyperlipidaemia normally occurs for a short period a er meals. Some pets, however, have a metabolic problem that prevents their body from processing fat properly, and thus puts them at a higher risk of developing pancrea s. Other risk factors include the use of certain medica ons or drugs, higher than normal calcium levels, hyperparathyroidism, and even neutering. Clinical signs While both dogs and cats can suffer from pancrea s, the way they experience the condion and the symptoms they exhibit can be very different. Dogs tend to suffer repeated acute episodes of pancrea s, whereas cats usually www.pawsandclaws.com.au

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Pet Nutrition

suffer from a more gradual chronic form of inflamma on. Pancrea s is tradi onally much more difficult to pinpoint in cats than in dogs because cats o en experience no specific signs or symptoms of the condi on, while dogs generally present with classic symptoms such as vomi ng and a painful abdomen. For both dogs and cats, diagnosing pancrea s can be tricky, as there is a wide range of symptoms associated with an a ack of the condi on, and many of these can be caused by something completely unrelated to inflamma on of the pancreas. Diagnosis is normally based on a combina on of clinical signs, laboratory blood tests, x-rays, and an ultrasound scan. As a general rule, if your pet suffers any of the following symptoms, you should consult your vet as soon as possible: • abdominal tenderness or pain • lack of appe te • nausea, vomi ng, or diarrhoea • dehydra on (indicated by sunken or dry eyes and mouth) or extreme thirst • weakness or inability to walk • abnormal body temperature or fever • acute shock or depression (this could indicate a par cularly severe a ack) Treatment Treatment of pancrea s varies depending on the severity of the condi on. According to Dr Kevin Cruickshank of Gold Coast Vet Surgery, pancrea s “can vary from a very mild condi on that some mes clears on its own with a bit of fas ng, to a serious, very painful and life-threatening condi on.” Immediate treatment is usually needed, and is commenced by withholding all food, water, and medica on, as anything consumed orally will s mulate the release of enzymes from the pancreas and worsen the condi on. In many cases, food intake is restricted for a number of days, and fluid is given in very small amounts or even provided intravenously. Your vet may also recommend medicaon to help manage symptoms and pain, and in most cases hospitalisa on on intravenous fluids is required. Once your pet is on the mend, solid food should be reintroduced gradually, in small quan es of highly diges ble nutrients with Paws & Claws Issue 24

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Pet Nutrition

low fat content, un l the inflamma on subsides completely and the pancreas returns to normal. Once a pet has suﬀered pancrea s, a specially designed, ultra-low fat prescrip on diet is usually required for the rest of its life.

seen around Christmas,” he says. “Especially avoid feeding pets le overs and fa y trims, and keep dogs as lean as possible.” Your vet may also recommend supplements for your pet’s diet, such as vitamins or even enzymes, to ensure adequate diges on of food. Most importantly, high fat and protein-rich foods should be avoided. Dividing your dog’s meals into two or three small feedings, and maintaining your cat on a low fat, high fibre diet, could also help keep pancrea s away over the long term.

Preventa ve ac on/cau on Dr Kevin Cruickshank recommends a healthy and balanced diet as the best way to prevent the development of pancrea s. “Because the problem is related to ea ng a lot of fa y and protein-rich food, it is o en

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7 Things You Need To Know About Boarding Your Pet

s the number of boarding kennels increases, choosing the right kennel to board your pet with is becoming trickier than ever. Chris Trew of Abbeyards Boarding Kennels and Cattery shares his tips for finding the right kennel for your furry friend.

Always visit the kennel. Pictures paint a thousand words—as any real estate photographer knows. That is why it’s important that you visit the kennel you wish to board your pet at. You wouldn’t drop your child off at a daycare centre without checking it out, so why should it be any different for your furry friend?

Get references. Ask friends and family about their experiences with boarding kennels, as they know if their pets come home happy. Another great person to ask is your vet, because they know if a kennel is doing the right thing medically. Reading online comments and reviews can also be helpful.

Talk to the staff at the kennel. See if they are willing to take the time to get to know your pet. Do they ask questions that will help your pet to be more comfortable during its stay?

#4 How does the kennel handle pet stress? Do they take steps to minimise stress your pet may experience while being away from you? Can you bring in blankets, toys, or bedding from home? Are the big dogs and small dogs housed separately? Can they see other animals in the kennel?

How comfortable is the kennel? Make sure there is plenty of room inside the kennel. It’s also good to know if they will be sharing with another dog, or if they get their own kennel. Is the kennel open sided or fully enclosed?

Always check the condition of your pet after boarding. A little weight variation is normal, but a big difference may be a problem. A clean and happy pet is a sign that your animal has been well cared for.

Fees and charges vary wildly. Some kennels charge different rates depending on seasons, deluxe or standard rooms, minimum stays, medication, and baths. The best way to compare kennel prices is at a site such as www.comparekennels.com.au. Abbeyards Boarding Kennels and Cattery is located at 6 John Rogers Road, Mudgeeraba. Book early for the upcoming School & Christmas holiday periods to avoid disappointment! Call (07) 5530 5689 or visit www.abbeyards.com.au.

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Forever Friends

n this edi on we would like to share with you a very special poem,The Rainbow Bridge. The Rainbow Bridge is about a mythological place that a pet goes to when it passes away, and waits to be reunited with its beloved owner. Although the original creator of the poem is unknown, this beau fully wri en piece has brought comfort to many pet owners coping with the loss of a pet companion. The poem is very popular among animal lovers as we have all had one or more adored animals that has gone to the Rainbow Bridge, and we can feel reassured when imagining them blissfully playing in this magical place.

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Forever Friends

Paws & Claws Issue 24

13/09/2011 11:39:35 AM

Looking for kid friendly endly f fun? fun un? Bring them down to the ultimate craft centree where there’s lots of fun for everyone! Party room & Mobile craft unit

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Commemorate and honour your beloved pet by sending us a photo of your

special friend, along with your story or poem, and we will feature your message in our ‘Forever Friends’ section and send you a copy to keep forever.

foreverfriends@ pawsandclaws.com.au

nimal orld’s Adopt An A Through Dreamw se oo ch re lovers can program, creatu m Su atran odile, Bengal or oc cr a r so on sp to well devil or bilby, as n ia an sm Ta , er tig imals. as many other an

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at just nze sponsorship ro B a ith w g tin Star nd ey raised helps fu $50 per year, mon r ects for ou conservation proj life. endangered wild

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By Thomas McIntosh

elly was a beau ful Siberian Husky that my girlfriend’s parents owned, but she kind of belonged to all of us in a way—Diane, Peter, Naomi, Ma hew, Andrew, Kerry and myself. She was a rescue dog and had come from the Animal Welfare League of Qld (AWLQ) about five years ago. We think she was about eight. When she was around the family, Kelly was a playful and happy dog. She was very cute, everybody fell in love with her. Just a few weeks ago, on Saturday August 13, Kelly started to get sick. Dianne looked her over and found a ck. By Sunday she had lost her appe te and had begun vomi ng. As she got sicker she became withdrawn and weak, un l she couldn’t even stand. First thing on Monday I took her to the AWL Vet Clinic for a check up. The vets told us that she was ill due to the ck Dianne had found, so we got Kelly some ck serum and she stayed overnight. When we went to see how she was doing on Tuesday the vets told us that she would have to be shaved, and they found four more cks. At this stage she s ll hadn’t eaten or drunk anything, and she was on a drip the whole me she was in hospital. At least three of us from the family would go in and visit her every day, and I remember she looked really miserable, all shaven and sick. She had lost her sparkle, and her condi on was just ge ng worse every day.

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Kelly’s Story

Forever Friends

She had been in hospital a few days now and at this point the vets gave her a blood test and changed the diagnosis from ck paralysis to something more serious. They weren’t en rely sure, but thought it might be pancrea s. By Friday Kelly was s ll very weak and the vets recommended not moving her at all. It s ll wasn’t clear what was wrong with her, but it was clear she wasn’t ge ng any be er, and the family made a unanimous decision that it was me to let her go. The whole family would like to say thank you to the staﬀ at the AWL Vet Clinic, for taking great care of Kelly, and for their support. They really helped us through a tough me. Kelly was a beau ful dog who was wellloved by her family. We will all miss her, but we will always remember her.

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PET HEALTH & NUTRITION

Spring has finally sprung and people and pooches alike are heading out in droves to take advantage of the fresh air and warm Queensland sunshine. Getting out and about with your dog is not only fun, it’s also a great way to exercise. For many dog owners, however, a simple walk is more mo of a chore than an enjoyable afternoon outing. Dogs that lack proper training can be a handful for even the most Dog patient owner, often running away, barking and chasing after other pati pets, or even jumping on people walking by. Instead of enjoying pets time with their dog, owners are often hurt when their arms are tim pulled and their backs are twisted by an uncontrollable pet. pul Dog lover and professional trainer, Dee Scott, understands the Do importance of maintaining dog training more than most. imp “We recently had a client contact us who had gone through a “W puppy training course 18 months earlier. She vividly remembered pup the trainer explaining that training is an ongoing process, but she thought at the time that it would be fine. She basically had to start tho the training process all over again.” To help you enjoy walking with your dog, Positive Response Dog Training has a range of training courses to suit R dogs that have never trained before, or to help maintain the do bbasics of puppy school. Call Dee on (07) 3821 6996 and get your dog ready for those C spring outings. sspecial p

ET HEALTH & NUTRITION

WALKING WELL-TRAINED POOCHES...

PET FOOD GOES BACK TO NATURE... At about four years of age the Campbell’s family cat Pepper suffered a chronic skin condition that left her covered in itchy red lesions. Concerned that commercial pet mince and regular cat food was contributing to Pepper’s condition, the Campbells changed her diet to organic raw meats, ground bone, and offal, and Pepper made a speedy recovery. Concerned about the increase of ill health in pets across all ages and breeds, the Campbells researched commercial pet food and were shocked to learn it is full of potentially harmful toxic fillers and artificial chemicals. Sue believed there was a need for a safe, organic raw pet food that mimicked the natural diet of a carnivore, and Organic Paws was born.

PET HEALTH & NUTRITION

Sue Campbell has worked in the pet industry for 20 years and knows first-hand the importance of a raw diet for carnivores, and the benefits of fresh organic pet food.

Organic Paws recipes are made with high-quality certified organic meats, ground bone, and organs, and are complemented with cod liver oil and kelp to promote better health, more energy, and general well-being for pets.

Visit www.organicpaws.com.au for more information about Organic Paws or to find your local stockists.

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PET HEALTH & NUTRIT

Since launching Organic Paws earlier this year the Campbell family has received positive feedback from many clients whose pets have experienced success stories similar to Pepper’s.

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ow that the warm fingers of Spring are luring us outside for some fun in the sun, you are likely to be taking your dog out for walks and exercise more frequently. Whether it is just a stroll along the footpath, a trip to the local dog beach, or even to a friend’s house, your dog will enjoy the ou ng as much as you. And where is the most common place you may be taking your dog for a bit of fun and exercise? The local dog park, of course. There, Patch can explore the confines of the dog park to his or her heart’s content. He or she can meet other dogs, say hello to new people and have a good me running around as carefree as ever. Dog parks are (mostly) wonderful for dogs. They promote inter-dog socialisa on, s mulate exercise, and also give us owners a chance for a bit of a break where we can just sit and enjoy watching our dogs having fun,while we na er happily with other like-minded dog owners. But, just as not all people love the rollercoaster, not all dogs love the dog park either. At dog parks, there are guidelines that you should follow to ensure the safety of all and to minimise any risk.

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1. Ensure your dog has a suitable personality for a dog park Is your dog anxious or fearful in unfamiliar • se ngs? If so, this could lead to anxietybased aggression. he or she enjoy the thrill of the chase a • Does li le too much and perhaps may make other dogs anxious with his or her exuberance? • Does your dog know when another dog does not want to be interacted with and respond to you to come away from such dogs to ensure safety?

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You should ask yourself these ques ons and more before taking your dog to a dog park. A er all, the dog park should be a pleasant experience for all. Truthfully, some dogs are be er not going to dog parks.

Located at Waterford

Find out more at: www.maximumpets.com.au Paws & Claws Issue 24

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By Dr. Cam Day www.pethealth.com.au

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Pet Behaviour

2. Be watchful and vigilant When you do decide to take your dog to a dog park, you are obligated to keep a du ful eye on your dog. This means that your main priority should be to watch your dog at all mes. Fears and anxie es can develop quickly when one dog is threatened by another even if the threat is just an exuberant, overly-playful dog that yours feels threatened by. A threatened dog is a dangerous dog and it may go into fight/flight mode. Aggression is a common consequence in such situa ons. 3. Be cau ous when new dogs enter Be very observant when a new dog enters the dog park. If you can see that the new dogs are perhaps too excited, or even if they seem anxious or aggressive, keep your dog away from them un l they’ve had a chance to se le in. It is be er to err on the side of cau on in dog parks. 4. Use leads when needed You should never be without your lead when in a dog park. Council regula ons state you should always enter and exit a dog park with your dog on lead. This is not only a legal requirement but will also ensure your dogs’ safety, as well as the safety of other dogs in the park. If you’re unsure of how your dog will react in a dog park, or how other dogs will react to your dog, keep your pooch on a lead. It’s easier and quicker to get your dog out of harm’s way if you have your dog a ached to a lead. You can promptly and safely exit the dog park if things get too intense.

Concerned about your pet’s behaviour? Dr Garth Jennens M.Soc.Sci. Ph.D Animal Behaviour Consultant

One-on-one personal service from Garth for behaviour problems in all species Prevent a problem developing with home management and training programs for puppies Expert witness, seminars and animal management services available Fully qualified with 30 years experience consulting South Brisbane,Ipswich & Gold Coast

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Pet Behaviour

your dog – just remember it’s be er to be safe than sorry. Use common-sense, follow the guidelines above, and the dog park can be fun for all.

5. Furry White Fluffy Fury Owners of ‘white fluffies’ should be especially cau ous. Many large breeds see these small white fluffy dogs, such as the Maltese, as being equivalent to white rabbits. Some dogs will show predatory aggression to white fluffies just as they would to rabbits or cats. The results can be devasta ng. 6. Pick your mes carefully to avoid ‘dog stew’ In prepara on for visi ng a dog park, make note of the mes when your local park is busiest and when canines boil together like the ingredients in a stew. If you have a dog that’s anxious in dog parks, then you can choose to visit the park when other dogs are not present, to stop your dog ge ng ‘all steamed up’ and hot under the collar. Generally, dog parks are busiest between 7am and 8am and between 3pm to 6pm on weekdays, and almost any me on a weekend. For safety’s sake, you should avoid the dog park at these mes. You can achieve the same amount of exercise for your pooch at off-peak mes, without the presence of other dogs making your dog anxious and fearful. So as the months warm up, walk and exercise

Working for our future – today

Make it safe and fun... for everyone! Rules have been established in off-leash dog exercise areas to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for you, your dog, and for others. your dog must always be under effective control keep your dog from jumping on or interfering with other people and their dogs dogs must wear a collar with identification at all times watch your dog and keep their leash with you at all times leash your dog immediately if any aggressive behaviour is observed scoop the poop! Make sure you always have equipment with you to pick up and dispose of your dog’s droppings have your dog on a leash when entering and leaving the park children should not be allowed on the dog agility equipment and should be supervised at all times For more information visit goldcoastcity.qld.gov.au/animals

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LOCAL COMPANY LEADS THE WAY IN PET SAFETY

f youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thinking of heading to the park or beach to enjoy the warm spring sunshine, why not take your canine companion with you. Dog-friendly parks and beaches are not only a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors with your dog; they are also a great way to socialise and exercise pets. Before jumping into your ute with your mate, keep in mind that, unfortunately, not all dogs make the trip safely. RSPCA statistics reveal that up to 5,000 dogs each year are injured or killed Australia-wide as a result of falling from a moving vehicle. Dogs left to roam on tray backs are vulnerable to a number of potentially fatal injuries, including falling and being hit by passing vehicles, being struck by loose equipment or low tree branches, as well as sun and wind exposure.

quality latches and hinges, theK9 TravelSafe is guaranteed not to rust, and to have no annoying rattles when installed correctly. This state-of-the-art canine travel carrier is available in two standard sizes to suit both alloy ute trays and styleside trays. Custom sizes to suit all dog breeds can be made to order, and optional folding partitions and rope rails are available. For more information on K9 TravelSafe cages call Jesse Engineering directly on (07) 55253245 or visit www.jesseengineering.com. au. Jesse Engineering Pty Ltd is located at Unit 2b/6 Elysium Rd, Carrara, on the Gold Coast.

As a special spring offer, Jesse Engineering is offering FREE installation to all Paws & Claws readers.

Hefty fines are also a possibility for anybody caught travelling with an unrestrained dog on the back of a moving vehicle, under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 and the Transport Operations (Road Use Management â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Road Rules) Regulation 1999. To make sure you get your dog there safely, Gold Coast company Jesse Engineering has designed the K9 TravelSafe dog safety cage for utility vehicles. The K9 TravelSafe is the only dog safety cage manufactured in South-East Queensland, and ensures that wherever you go, your dog is protected from harm, and you are protected from prosecution. Manufactured in Australia from highquality aluminium that guarantees superior, long-lasting construction, and featuring

As a special spring offer, Jesse Engineering is offering FREE installation to all Paws & Claws readers. www.pawsandclaws.com.au

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On the brink of extinction The h Northern h Hairy-nosed i d Wombat b

By Kirsty-Lee i Workman k

t approximately 30 cen metres high and barely one metre long, the Northern Hairynosed Wombat is one of Australia’s cutest, yet most endangered, marsupials. In fact, this li le cri er with the big personality is one of the world’s rarest large mammals. As recently as 1981, there were just 20 Northern Hairy Nosed Wombats le in the wild. Once widely distributed around Eastern Australia, from Deniliquin, NSW, to the Moonie River in southern QLD, and Epping Forest in central QLD, the last remaining colony of wild Northern

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Hairy-nosed Wombats is restricted to a range of approximately 750acres in Epping Forest, which was established as Na onal Park in 1971 in order to protect their precious habitat. The Northern Hairy-nosed Wombat (NHnW) gets its curious name from its dis nc ve muzzle— which is covered with short brown hairs—and is also referred to as the Queensland Hairy-nosed Wombat, Yaminon, or by its nickname ‘Bulldozer of the bush’. Whatever it is called, this dis nc ve Australian marsupial is currently listed as Endangered by the Australian government, and Cri cally Endangered by

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Wild News

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0466 369 372 www.AdvancedPetSitting.com.au recovery rate for this rare species is slow. The main threats to the NHnW in the past have been habitat loss, drought, and compe on for food with introduced species such as ca le, sheep, and rabbits. Wild dingoes also presented a significant threat to the recovery of the species, and in 2002 the NHnW’s only remaining home, Epping Forest Na onal Park, was fenced in order to keep the colony safe from these threats. A further problem for the NHnW is introduced grass species. Planted as ca le feed in nearby areas, buﬀel grass out-competes the na ve grasses that the NHnW prefers to eat, and thus forces the wombats to travel further than normal to find suitable food. Because there is only a single colony of NHnW surviving in the wild, they remain very vulnerable to disease, inbreeding, fire, and natural disasters. Luckily, a number of precau ons have been taken to protect the NHnW’s habitat. Access to Epping Forest Na onal Park is ghtly controlled, and normally restricted to researchers and park managers. Programs have been put in place to control buﬀel grass and improve the supply of na ve grasses, and the park is protected from

the Interna onal Union for Conserva on of Wildlife (IUCN). There is a very real danger that the NHnW will become ex nct if threats to the remaining popula on con nue. With so , silky fur of brown, grey, fawn, and black colours, a broad head, and long pointy ears that o en have tu s of white hair around the edges, the NHnW will melt any animal lover’s heart. This stocky li le wombat is a strong and heavily-built animal, with short, powerful legs and strong claws which are used to dig burrows or search for suitable food, including na ve grasses, sca ered eucalypts and acacias, and introduced grasses. Like other marsupials, the NHnW is ac ve at night, feeding around dusk and dawn, and usually staying close to one of its many burrows. Although wombats are mainly solitary animals, they live in groups of large burrows, and some mes even share burrows with family members. Baby NHnWs stay in the mother’s specially designed backward-facing pouch for approximately nine months, and only leave the safety of their mum’s protec on at around 15 months of age. With only one young born during each wet season, the

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Wild news

wildfires by fire breaks and patch burning. Thanks to protec ve ac ons such as these, wombat numbers have increased significantly over the past few decades, and currently remain steady at approximately 110. However, according to a 1998 study, only around 35 of these wombats are females, and a mere 25 of these are of breeding age. Despite this concerning fact, there is significant hope for the long-term future of the NHnW, with a

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second colony of wombats established in 2008 at Richard Underwood Nature Refuge, Yarran Downs, in southern QLD, not only surviving, but breeding well. In March of this year the Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management reported that one of the female wombats at Richard Underwood Nature Refuge was carrying a joey in her pouch. This was followed in April 2011by even more exci ng news of a second

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female carrying a joey. The NHnW has come perilously close to extinction recently, but thanks to clever and commi ed conserva on ac on, its prognosis for its future now looks much brighter. However, we must con nue the fight to protect vulnerable species such as the NHnW, and ensure that this endearing wombat not only survives into the future, but that all endangered Australian animals are given the same chance. Wednesday September 7, 2011 is Threatened Species Day; a na onal day held each year to commemorate the death of the last remaining Tasmanian Tiger at Hobart Zoo in 1936. For informa on on the wide range of Australian fauna and flora that remains threatened, please visit: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspecies/ ThreatenedSpeciesDay.htm

To keep up with the latest news on the gorgeous joey wombats and see adorable footage, visit: www.derm.qld.gov.au/wildlife-ecosystems/wildlife/threatened_plants_ and_animals/endangered/northern_ hairynosed_wombat.

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Animal ER: Ratsak Poisoning

Words by Solange Newton, Animal Emergency Service

nimal Emergency Service (AES) at Underwood and Carrara has seen an increase in the number of pets suﬀering from Ratsak poisoning recently. This may be due to the reported increase in rodent popula on caused by the floods experienced earlier in the year and the par cularly wet season we’ve experienced this year. One thing is for certain,

though: while Ratsak is eﬀec ve in elimina ng vermin around your home or business, it is just as eﬀec ve at causing harm to other animals that come into contact with the commercial poison. During June-July 2011, there were 15 individual cases of Ratsak poisoning presented to AES. The cases consisted of a Tenterfield Terrier, Jack Russell

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significant effect when ingested by a pet. Since Ratsak aﬀects the blood’s clo ng ability, symptoms will start to occur 36 to 72 hours a er inges on. By this me, depending on the amount ingested, the poison may be causing internal bleeding. The earlier the pet is presented to AES, the shorter the length of treatment and therefore the lower the cost. Subsequently, there is also greater opportunity for a posi ve outcome. Symptoms of Ratsak poisoning will include blood in urine, faeces, vomit, saliva, or from the nose. If blood has pooled in the chest cavity, the pet will develop laboured breathing. If bleeding occurs in the skull, paralysis or seizures may occur. As the bleeding con nues, your pet may show signs of anaemia. This is when there is a low red blood cell count; the dog has pale gums, and is lethargic and weak. If you no ce these symptoms, you should get urgent veterinarian assistance. In July 2011, Harry (name changed to protect

Terrier, Ca le Dog cross, Kelpie, Cavalier King Charles, Dalma an cross, Shetland Sheepdog, two German Shepherds, three Fox Terriers, and three Staffordshire Terriers. All pa ents were presented within 24 hours of inges ng the poison and were successfully treated by our Emergency Vets. It is important to note that in most of these cases, the owners didn’t know where the Ratsak was ingested and weren’t aware where it had come from. This success rate isn’t always the case, as Ratsak can have serious implica ons for pets. It is important to remember that Ratsak is a poison. It kills rodents by preven ng their blood from clo ng, and it has the same effect on dogs, cats and wildlife. This effect can be caused by either primary or secondary poisoning. Primary poisoning is caused when a pet eats the bait directly. This most commonly occurs when the bait is incorrectly stored. Secondary poisoning happens when a pet eats a poisoned rat. The bait in the rat’s stomach can still have

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Animal ER

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Animal ER

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iden ty) the Shetland Sheepdog was presented to AES Underwood within four hours of inges ng an uniden fied rat bait. Dr Ma Rosen examined Harry and found that, whilst Harry was ea ng, drinking and going to the toilet as usual, he was displaying signs of Roden cide Toxicity. Harry was given 25mg Vitamin K supplementa on to be taken orally twice a day with food. Harry’s owner was then instructed to revisit with their regular veterinarian in three days’ me to have a blood test performed for Harry’s clo ng me. Harry’s regular veterinarian would then prescribe any further medica on if required.

•

When storing the poison, place the container inside another sealed container in case it is dropped, and ensure it is out of reach of pets and children.

•

Do not allow the bait to get into drains, waterways or ponds.

•

Dispose of dead rodent carcasses by wrapping them and placing them in the garbage.

Some hints to avoid your pet suﬀering rat bait poisoning include:

•

Place baits in loca ons that are not accessible by your pets or wildlife

Take care to dispose of the container in the garbage and never use it as a container for anything other than rat bait. If you no ce your pet has been in contact with rat bait seek urgent veterinary assistance and where possible, try to take the packet with you for iden fica on.

PUPPY LOVERS COMPETITION WIN 1 OF 5 COPIES OF “HAPPY PUPPY: A TRAINING MANUAL FOR PUPPY (AND DOG) PARENTS” BY LOCAL DOG TRAINER LOUISE LAURENS OF PAWS X 4 DOG TRAINING! To win simply send a photo of your puppy sitting for the first time to photos@pawsandclaws.com.au. The best 5 puppy sits will win! Louise’s specially designed 4 week Puppy Training course covers socialisation, basic commands, pet care information, and puppy problems such as toilet training, mouthing, biting, chewing, destructiveness, and discipline. Like children, puppies learn fast at an early age. Correct training will prevent bad habits and teach pets good manners in a friendly, fun environment! Classes are held Tuesday evenings at 6.00pm, Ferny Hills Vet Surgery, 9 Mawarra Crescent, Ferny Hills. Begin any week! Bookings are not required. Visit www.pawsx4.com or call 0438 179 166 for more information. Also available for expecting mums, The Crying CD. Prepare your puppy for the arrival of your baby today! Paws & Claws Issue 24

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Working for our future – today

Gee Cee’s Top Safety Tips Always supervise children around dogs or separate Recognise the warning signs by learning about dog body language and emotion Educate your family UÊ / ÊLiÊV> ]ÊÀiÃ«iVÌvÕ Ê> `Ê}i Ì iÊ>À Õ `Ê` }ÃÊ UÊ / ÊÃÌiiÀÊV i>ÀÊ vÊ>Ê` }ÊÜ i Ê Ì½ÃÊi>Ì }]ÊÌ i`ÊÕ«]Ê Ã ii« }Ê ÀÊ}À Ü }Ê UÊ / ÊÃÌ> `ÊÛiÀÞÊÃÌ Ê vÊ>Ê` }ÊÀÕ ÃÊ>ÌÊÞ ÕÊ UÊ / Ê> Ü>ÞÃÊÃ>ÞÊº >ÞÊ Ê* i>ÃiÊ*>ÌÊ> `Ê* >Þ¶»Ê

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WARNING: BE PREPARED FOR SPRING Dr Lisa Roberts BVSc (Hons) MACVSc, Windaroo Vet Surgery • Paralysis cks kill hundreds of dogs and cats on the coast every year, don’t let your beloved pet be a sta s c. Tick season is well underway.

• Bi ng insects: warm moist weather can bring out the midges and bi ng flies. Some dogs are allergic to the bites. Mosquitoes transmit Heartworm to dogs.

• Fleas: If your pet has fleas in the Winter you have a BIG flea problem. Seek the right advice regarding complete flea control.

• Atopic dogs (allergic to plant pollens) are usually most itchy in Spring. The pollens are airborne and may travel a long distance from canefields and bushland. Removing all the plants in the garden

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• Wandering Jew and other garden plants can irritate a dogs skin if he lays in the cool foliage. Some garden mulches may irritate a dogs skin. • Toxic Plants: A number of common garden plants are toxic dogs and will flower in Spring. The flowers and seeds of “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” and Cycads are toxic to dogs and many lilies are toxic to cats.

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is NOT the solu on. Seek Veterinary a en on early in the season before skin infec ons set in.

Feature

• Check garden for irritant and toxic plants. Your Veterinarian can advise you how to perform a “patch test” for plants you suspect may be causing skin irrita ons. • Clear garden debris that may hide snakes. • If using rat baits, place them with great care and check them regularly.

• Snakes: When the warm weather returns and the Brown Snakes first wake up they are highly venomous. Clear away loose leaf li er and a end to poten al hiding places…carefully as we are also at risk from deadly Brown Snake envenoma on. • Rat baits: There has been a mouse plague in some regions and dogs are o en poisoned by the tasty pellets. Always lay baits carefully and out of pulling, jumping or climbing reach of dogs. The signs of illness do not occur un l several days a er inges on, so if your dog is seen ea ng rat bait don’t wait, get to the vet ASAP to make him vomit up the poison.

Check List for Spring

• Flea and Tick products appropriate for your pet’s situa on. • Heartworm preven on should be used year round.

www.pawsandclaws.com.au

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Paws & Claws Issue 24

13/09/2011 11:39:56 AM

EN-year-old German Shepherd Gordie has been given his quality of life back by a natural dietary supplement called Mussel Dog. The New Zealand product contains a stabilised and highly-concentrated extract of the New Zealand green-lipped mussel which, in another form, has been used by humans for almost two decades, to relieve the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Mussel Dog is promoted as providing relief from the pain and inflammation of arthritis, as well as being of preventative value in supporting joint mobility, eye health, and an ideal coat. Gordie, aka Kantena Nevana AZ, is the canine companion of the German Shepherd Dog Club of Queensland past President, Sharon Thorp. Gordie and two German Shepherd bitches, Jodie (Bruvic Olympic Lady AZ) and Cricket (Blue Max Jiminy Cricket AZ), live with Sharon on the outskirts of Brisbane.

Sharon said. “He did not want to get up, he was that sore.” A year ago, Sharon spent thousands of dollars for stem cell therapy on Gordie’s problem areas, which worked everywhere except in his right elbow.

After a successful show career that began with winning the ribbon for best male puppy in the state, life became not so happy for Gordie about two years ago, when what Sharon called an ‘exceptionally active’ lifestyle began to catch up with him.

At the beginning of 2011, Sharon came across the New Zealand product called Mussel Dog and decided to try it, because all the usual drug treatments had not provided relief.

Gordie developed arthritis in the elbow of his right foreleg, his toes, and his shoulders.

Sharon said that within two weeks of giving Gordie four capsules per day (two in the morning and two at night), she began to notice an improvement in his ability to get up and walk about.

From being a big active German Shepherd, who loved to get out and run and play like a puppy, Gordie became a semi-invalid, racked with pain and unable to walk up and down stairs.

A month later, Gordie was trotting up and down stairs and jumping in and out of the car again, which he had not done for two years.

Sharon said that when her grandchildren visited her, Gordie would become so excited that he would forget about his constant pain, because all he could think about was how much he wanted to play with the children.

Sharon said that Gordie also began to show his old playful personality again and enjoyed some rough and tumble with the two female German Shepherds.

“Afterward, Gordie would be in dreadful pain,” Paws & Claws Issue 24

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13/09/2011 11:39:56 AM

Get your best friend walking again • Ten-year-old retired show dog Gordie (Kantena Nevana AZ) who is up and about again with the help of Mussel Dog.

• Relief of pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. • Glossy coat. • Eye health. • General wellbeing. To order Mussel Dog for your best friend go to www.musseldog.co.nz or for more information call

1800 682 208 www.pawsandclaws.com.au

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13/09/2011 11:39:57 AM

c c c c c c c c

Vets & Emergency Contacts

Animal Emergency Services Provides excellence in caring for your pet through dedicated and specially trained staff, as well as state of the art emergency and critical care equipment. P: (07) 3423 1888 P: (07) 5559 1599

Brian Stewart Veterinary Clinic Tell someone who cares about your pet… A caring, compassionate vet clinic oﬀering the highest level of care for your beloved family pet. Individual care provided. Crystal Waters Shopping Centre, Thornlands P: (07) 3821 6001 Open 6 days Gold Coast Vet Surgery “Where Pets Are Family” P: (07) 5538 5909 (All Hours) Proudly independent and family operated. Cnr Gold Coast Hwy & Monte Carlo Ave, Surfers Paradise / Broadbeach. Free Undercover Parking. Greencross Veterinary Clinics P: 1300 GREENX www.greencrossvet.com.au Vetcall Ashmore Hospital & Cat Clinic Cnr Heeb Street & Ashmore Road, Ashmore P: (07) 5539 4133 www.vetcall.com.au Vetcall Robina Q- Superstore Mermaid Waters P: (07) 5572 4331 Vetcall Burleigh Executive Drive Burleigh Waters P: (07) 5593 5557 Vetcall Mudgeeraba Cnr Robert & Railway St, Mudgeeraba P: (07) 5530 2204

Paws & Claws Issue 24

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13/09/2011 11:39:57 AM

24 hour veterinary care on call 24 hour soothing music for your pet h

Clipping and grooming available for all breeds of dogs & cats

Quality, premium pet food

Pick up and delivery service available h All guests must be immunised and healthy

DOG & CAT BOARDING SPECIAL

$14 per day for dogs $9 per day for cats $10 off dog grooming

Breeder of champion miniature poodles

*Must present this ad (excluding school holidays)

For bookings call Margret on 3711 9282 246 Learoyd Rd Acacia Ridge 4110 - www.rydgespetresort.com.au

THE CLEAN YOU EXPECT ... THE SERVICE YOU DESERVE

“I clean your carpet the same way I clean mine.”

We use the latest technology and powerful, enzyme-based deodorising process (not fragrances) to eliminate pet hair, dander and odours. Advanced stain removal with every job. Your carpets stay clean longer and if stains return, so will we!

That’s a 100% satisfaction guarantee! FREE RUG CLEANED WITH EVERY SERVICE Pensioner Discounts

Call 345 984 www.gdcarpetcleaning.com.au Call G&D G&DCleaning Cleaning5529 55294397 4397/ 0413 / 0413 345 984 www.ganddcleaning.com.au www.pawsandclaws.com.au

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Paws & Claws Issue 24

13/09/2011 11:39:57 AM

Pet walking & caring for animals large & small

Mind-Yr-Mate!

Luvn’ Yr Mates While Yr Away

Pet Carer, Pet Walker

Personalised care Plans for every pet Professional, in-home care Competitive rates For an all-inclusive care package

call Jo today on 0421 025 732

Northern Gold Coast

a Need someone reliable to look after your babies? a a a a We’ll give your pets as much love & care as you do! a If you’ve been planning that long-awaited holiday, you can now rest assured knowing that we offer a personalised, in-home care for your pets & garden. Long-term care & a wide range of home services available.

Call Dee on 0423 662 992 Paws & Claws Issue 24

ISSUE24.indd 64

www.pawsandclaws.com.au

13/09/2011 11:39:57 AM

Have your dog looking TOPKNOTCH! Internationally Certified Master Groomer Breed Standard Specialist Designer Dogs Pet Styling Personalised Service Highest Standards Assured

PH: 5527 2450

DOGGIE DAYCARE

Complete pet and veterinary care h AQIS Approved Vet h Microchipping & Desexing h In-house Diagnostics & X-rays

“The Professional one dog stop, While you shop!”

Unit 3/1149 Jacobs Well Rd Jacobs Well

;JJ7 HEEC?D= E==?; 7O97H; 07 5563 9778

07 5546 1411

5/17 ASHTON ST. LABRADOR

ISSUE24.indd 65

Unit 2/7 Price St, NERANG

Jacobs Well Vet Surgery

GOLD COAST’S ORIGINAL

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TOPKNOTCH DOGS SALON

Paws & Claws Issue 24

13/09/2011 11:39:58 AM

Send your pet and animal photos to photos@pawsandclaws.com.au ISSUE24.indd 66

13/09/2011 11:39:58 AM

Have you ever felt like your dog was walking you? Have you ever had your dog run away? Have ever been embarrassed by how your dog behaves in public? Let the professionals teach you how it’s done! Scott Donald is a world acclaimed professional dog trainer. 25 years of experience has given Scott the cutting edge in his field. He can train any breed of dog for purpose-based jobs such as defence as well as leisure training, like walking your dog around the block “hassle free”. His high profile clients include the General Manager of Pan Pacific. He has trained police dogs to secure various Heads of State worldwide including Pope John Paul II, Princess Diana & Charles to name just a few. Major mine owners from around the world and Purex’s loveable Char Pei, Rolly dog, has earned him the respect of a worldwide market. Furthermore he was responsible for training and supplying dogs on the movie “Collision Course” starring Steve Irwin. Scott and his team are shifting their focus away from their international market to a more relaxed local market, bringing his prestige innovative methods right here to the Gold Coast. Offering us the opportunity to have a well adjusted and trained pooch, and train with the best.

Choosing the right trainer is as important as choosing the right breed of dog for you and your family. There is no point in owning an untrained pedigree, it will cause you grief in the long run and may even lead to the dog being put down. “For every dog that is put down because of cancer, four times the amount is put down due to behavioural problems” Alan Cornick, President of the Australian Vet Association Qld Division Practicing Veterinarian at Waterford Vet Clinic. Scott Donald professional dog training will show you and your dog skills for life. They oﬀer a pick up and take home service so you can have your dog trained even while you’re at work. With private and personal training we are charged for performance and results and not hours and equipment. Improve the relationship you have with your dog, give them the proper training, care and time they need and they will truly be your best friend. “Don’t get rid of the dog, get rid of the problem.”

All results are guaranteed for life*

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7/09/2006 2:45:22 PM 22/08/2011 1:26:04 PM

Don’t get bitten by large vet bills! Save up to 80% on eligible vet bills from less than $4 per week* Statistics show that two out of three pets will need treatment for sudden and unexpected illness and injury each year. Don’t be left with the heartbreaking decision of whether you can afford treatment if your pet becomes ill or gets injured. Many pet owners don’t consider pet insurance until it is too late, yet it is much easier to budget a few dollars each week than to face the pain of losing a pet because of the cost of treatment. We offer a choice of Pet Health Insurance plans which will cover your dog or cat for up to 80% of eligible vet bills in case of injury or illness.

Get a quote now... it’s EASY!

When you take out or renew a Bow Wow Meow Pet Health Insurance Policy we’ll give you $500 in travel dollars to use off already discounted prices from one of the world’s leading travel sites. For more info, terms & conditions visit www.bowwowinsurance.com.au/traveldollars

Call 1800 668 502 or visit www.bowwowinsurance.com.au for more information and an instant quote. DON’T delay until it is too late!

*From less than $4 a week premium for a dog or a cat, depending on the breed and age, insured under our Major Medical Plan which provides Accidental Injury or Illness cover up to a maximum of $8,000 per year. This is general advice only, please read the Product Disclosure Statement on our website www.bowwowinsurance.com.au and consider if this product is appropriate for you. Bow Wow Meow Pet Health Insurance is issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd AFSL 241436.

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