Creature Companion July 2014 by People and Management ( A HR magazine)

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Edited, Printed, Published & Owned by Linda Brady Hawke Published from L.B. Associates (Pvt) Ltd H-108, Sector 63, Noida - 201301 Dist. Gautam Budh Nagar, U.P. Delhi NCR, India Tel: +91-120-4727107 Fax: +91-120-2427108 Email: info@creature-companions.com Websites: www.creature-companions.com www.lbassociates.com Printed at US Printographics E-53, Sector-7, Noida 201301 GB Nagar UP, India Co Editor Abha Garyali Peer Contributing Editor Aamir H Kaki Guest Writers Anneliese Hackmann Dr Anton C Beynen Bhakti Bhukhanwala & Trupti Zaveri Dave Lawrence Dr Paul Fredrick Radhiya Hemchandra Dr R Selvakkumar & Dr S Ganesh Kumar Sindhoor Vidya Ratan Director - Business Development Binoy Sahee Marketing Amit Kumar Gupta akgupta@lbassociates.com Tel: +91-120-4727111 Yash Malhotra yash@creature-companions.com Tel: +91-9911787926 Events Shekhar Upadhyay shekhar@creature-companions.com Circulation Rahul rahul@lbassociates.com Tel:+91-120-4727114 Design Atul Kumar Pradeep Singh Bisht Webmaster: Uday N Jha

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in Creature Companion are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors or publisher. Although all efforts have been made to ensure the complete accuracy of text, neither the editors nor publisher can accept responsibility for consequences arising from errors or omissions or any opinions or advice given.

also find us on www.facebook.com/Creature.Companion

Creature Companion | February 2014

Publisher’s Note Welcome to the July edition of Creature Companion! Its monsoon time again! The best way to make the most out of rainy season is to enjoy it with delicious and finger-licking food. Same holds true for pets! They also deserve special treats once-in-a-while, don’t they? Well, the Cover Story for July ‘Progress of Pet Bakeries’ specifically caters to this very need of your four-legged companions. Pet Bakeries, with their mouth-watering and nutritional treats, are fast emerging in the Pet Industry. Our Cover Story brings forth the top four Bakery brands in our country. Do read it, if you want to indulge and pamper your mutts. It’s a pleasure to inform our readers that Creature Companion was the Official Media Partner for Interzoo 2014, world’s leading exhibition for pet supplies, at Nuremberg in Germany. It was a four day event, from May 29-June 1, 2014. Read the Interzoo section, to know what all transpired there. There is good news for all the Pet lovers. From this month onwards, we will be getting specialised articles from Sindhoor, an expert canine coach and behaviourist. The section ‘School for Pets’ will exclusively feature her articles. Deafness is not just among human beings, but can also develop in animals. Can you imagine their condition, when they are bereft of hearing? Dr R Selvakkumar and Dr S Ganesh Kumar present an overview on deafness among canines in the Health & Wellness Section. Along with this, our regular Pet Nutritional columnist, Dr Anton C Beynen writes about the different nutritional requirements in small, mature and old canines and felines. Cat lovers; don’t miss the feline section! It’s about making your pet cats happier. The article by Anneliese Hackmann would give you an in-depth knowledge of cat psychology. For the Aqua section, we have an interesting write-up on breeding Cichlids, which would surely add more colour to your aquarium as well as your home. The Your Pet & You Section has a wonderful write-up on ‘Importance of Pet Socialisation’. You playing with your pet is just not enough. He needs to meet other pets and human beings to become socialised. For all you voracious readers, we present Best Reads Section which has review of two fantastic novels. Don’t miss it! Great Dane, the Giant Dog is the Breed Profile for July. Industry Speaks, NGO, Exotic Pet, Exotic Dog and Feline breed, we have it all for you! Read on. Till next month, look after yourselves and your pampered furry friends! Happy Reading!!!

Linda Brady Hawke

linda@lbassociates.com

July 2014

News & Events

Industry Speak Harley’s Corner, from Mighty Meals to Special Dietary Meals for Pets

Interzoo 2014

Cover Story Whiff! Whiff! Pooches Ready for Bakes ‘n’ Cakes

Exotic Dog Coton de Tulear: Meet the ‘Royal Dog of Madagascar’

Best Reads

Exotic Pet Rexes: Rabbits with Velvety Touch ‘N’ Motherly Nature

Pet of the Month Scooby 36 Breed Profile Great Dane: The Gentle Giant

School Your Pets Relocating Dogs: It’s a Big Deal, Mind it! 42

Feline The Egyptian Mau An Exotic Beauty

Make your Cat, a Really Happy Pet!

Groomer’s Corner Afghan Hound: Grooming is Fun

Aqua Add More Colour n’ Beauty to your Aquarium with Cichlids!

Your Pet & You Importance of Buddies in Bobo’s Life!

NGOs PFA: Creating Wildlife Awareness

Pet Nutrition Life-Stage Nutrition

Health & Wellness Hearing Inability in Dogs: An Overview

Dr Paul Fredrick is a Veterinary Obstetrician & Gynecologist. After retiring as Deputy Director, Animal Husbandry, Tamil Nadu, he is currently running Pets 'N' Vets Veterinary Multi Specialty Hospital for pets, exotic animals and birds.

Vidya Ratan, has been a keen exhibitor of dogs, all over India for many years. He is the founder of Vidanes Kennels. He has been actively involved in exhibiting Great Dane and Labradors. He is also involved in their breeding since 1986.

GUEST LIST

Bhakti Bhukhanwala & Trupti Zaveri, are two pet-loving sisters who disliked the fact that pets are not allowed in restaurants. Therefore, they founded Mutt Hutt, a pop up café where dogs and their owners can dine together. With Mutt Hutt, they aim to create a fun and safe place for pet owners to hang out with their dogs.

Radhiya Hemchandra is India’s popular Professional Pet Stylist and Master Groomer. She has had most of her training under her mother, Mrs Yashodhara Hemchandra, an All –Breeds Judge. She has represented India and is one of the only few Asians at the SUPER GROOM SHOW in USA. She also teaches professional pet grooming & styling to aspiring animal enthusiasts at FuzzyWuzzy Pet Styling Studio & Spa, Bangalore.

Anneliese Hackmann is the President of World Cat Federation (WCF). WCF has more than 370 single organisations, distributed worldwide, also in the United States. WCF is an internationally operating federation, officially registered in the registration court in Germany. WCF works for standardisation of various cat breeds, international registration of cattery names etc.

Dr R Selvakkumar works at Instructional Livestock Farm Complex, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Tiruneleveli, a unit of Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University. Dr S Ganesh Kumar is Assistant Professor, Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Dave Lawrence is an expert from UK. He writes on taking care and breeding Rabbits. He has been breeding Black Rex rabbits for the past 10 years and has won numerous prizes for showing them also. He has also done a fair amount of judging, as well.

News

WSAVA Phase II Project: ‘Cats, Dogs and Humans: One Medicine, One Health’

he World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), One Health Committee, has launched its second three-year programme of work, which aims to highlight the role of small companion animals in One Health. Plans for the project were discussed during a two-day meeting at Duke Medical Centre in Durham, North Carolina from June 9-10, 2014. The WSAVA is a not-for-profit body, dedicated to enhancing the quality of veterinary care for companion animals around the world in key areas such as One Health, Continuing Education (CE) and nutrition. One Health Committee was established in 2010 with a mission of ensuring the prominence of the small companion animal–human interface in the global One Health agenda. During the meeting, One Health Committee Chairman, Professor Michael Day from the University of Bristol, UK, gave a public lecture entitled: ‘Cats, Dogs and Humans: One Medicine, One Health’ to take the WSAVA’s One Health message directly to the human medical community at Duke. Later this year, the One Health Committee will host a full-day programme on rabies control in Africa at the WSAVA World Congress which will take place in

Gerald Bassleer Re-Elected OFI President

erald Bassleer was re-elected as President of Ornamental Fish International (OFI). The decision was announced at the annual meeting of OFI at Interzoo, in Nuremberg, Germany on May 29, 2014.

All members of the Board of Advisors were re-elected. They include: Svein A Fosså, Frank de Goey, Ekembra Koroye, Marc Seguinot, Pauline Teo, Mikael Håkanson, Willi Heidbrink, Francisco Pin, Shane Willis, Michiko Kamihata and Raymond Cheah. Ornamental Fish International is the worldwide trade association of the aquarium industry. OFI defends the interest of the industry and keep members updated on the latest developments.

New launch from Venky's Pet Division Glossy Coat Plus It contains omega 6 & 3 fatty acid in ratio 10:1 & enriched with biotin. It helps in management of various skin & coat problems like allergic itching, demodectic mange, flea bite dermatitis, pyoderma, fungal skin infection. It also improves general body condition. It is available in 200g pack.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Cape Town, South Africa, from September 16-19. The fourth annual WSAVA Global One Health Award will also be presented at World Congress. WSAVA is an association made up of 92 veterinary organisations from all over the world, representing 145,000 individual veterinarians globally.

News

Treat your Dogs with Solid Gold Treats & Biscuits

olid Gold treats and biscuits line gives you the perfect treat to reward your pet. Our biscuits are made with premium ingredients and our bagels are human-grade. We pride ourselves on the high quality of our biscuits and treats.

Our treats and biscuits range available in India are as follows; Lamb Jerky, Turkey Jerky, Tiny Tots, Cinna Bits, Cinna Bones and Garlic Bagels. Visit us @ www.solidgoldindia.com for more detalis.

Dogs Don’t Need Jewellery, Lady Gaga: PETA

s a pet owner, you must do all you can to ensure the comfort and safety of your four-legged companion. However, at times, people go overboard and land both the pet and themselves in trouble. The latest to have invited the ire of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is pop star Lady Gaga.The animal rights activist PETA has criticised the singer for putting jewellery on her pet dog. Lady Gaga posted photos of her French bulldog, Asia, draped in sparkly necklaces, bracelets and clipped on earrings on her Instagram page. It sparked a furore, and PETA was quick to reprimand the pop singer. “Lady Gaga may choose to decorate herself with elaborate and even uncomfortable outfits, but Asia doesn’t get to make that choice... Although it seems pretty clear that Lady Gaga loves Asia, we think Asia - and all dogs - are adorable without the added flair. The best accessory for any dog is a comfortable, secure, well-fitting harness, which is perfect for long walks together,” a representative for PETA told Usmagazine.com.

Petzy.com, Latest Entrant to the Online Pet Industry

etzy.com, a Bangalore based e-commerce website is the new entrant to the booming e-commerce segment as well as the pet industry. The website would be selling pet-based products of both international and domestic brands. Petzy.com is owned and operated by Petzy India Pvt Ltd. The brand is all geared up to serve the pet lovers with a delightful shopping experience. Petzy aims to cater to pet owners, lovers and

hobbyists, from across India, with an extensive range of products in multiple categories such as dogs, cats, fish and birds amongst others. Besides planning to provide pet owners with a variety of products, the website also intends to add attractive features such as Articles and Blogs, Pet Boutique, Environment and Tech-Centric, pet friendly products, personalised accessories and apparels.

‘Keep my Pug in Air-conditioned Room’

ollywood actor Vir Das, who will be next seen in the Ajay Bhuyandirected comedy Amit Sahini Ki List, had sent out a special request to his producers. The actor insisted that his producers book an air-conditioned room exclusively dedicated to his co-star - a pug, while he rests in his vanity van. “Yes, a room at Madh Island was reserved

Creature Companion | July 2014

for the dog as it could not shoot for more than an hour in the heat and it needed those breaks. However, the same couldn’t be arranged when the crew was outdoors,” revealed a source. “The treatment meted out to animals while shooting a movie is not always the best. I have a pet bulldog and understand how easily animals tire. I insisted the pug used in the film be kept in an air-conditioned area,” Vir said.

Industry Speak

Harley’s Corner, from Mighty Meals to Special Dietary Meals for Pets

flavours), Therapeutic Food – Obesity Management Diet and ID Diet (Gastro) and high Quality Dog Leashes.

How do you plan to market the new products in the Indian market? What are their USP’s?

Harley's Corner introduced the concept of ‘Ready to Eat Wet Dog Food’ with the aim that pets, too get the freshest and most nutritious ingredients in their meals. In an interview with Abha Garyali Peer, Editor, Creature Companion, Ishmeet Singh, Owner, Harley’s Corner shares about his innovative business concept.

Kindly tell us about the conception of Harley’s Corner. What initiated you to manufacture ‘Ready to Eat, Wet Dog Food’? The entire idea of Harley’s Corner was conceptualised because of our baby boy, Harley. Both Nicola (my wife) and I are certified and qualified Food Production professionals, and collectively have over 25 years of work experience with handling, preparing and serving food. We adopted Harley from a construction site when he was just two months old. Ever since he was a puppy, both Nicola and I would prepare home cooked food for him. We used a variety of ingredients, herbs, meats, etc and he had a great time wolfing it all down. This sowed the seed in our heads to come up with a ‘Gourmet’ menu for dogs, one which was not only different, but also healthy and nutritious. Needless to say, we had to ensure it was also easily affordable to all. It took months of research, trials and more trials to finally come up with our first menu. It ranged from Mighty Meals to Special Treats to Birthday Cakes and Special Dietary Meals. We started delivering food in Mumbai via the ‘Dabbawallas’. However, as the demand for the food grew, we decided to launch the

Creature Companion | July 2014

product in a packaged form. To ensure a longer shelf life, without the use of preservatives, we decided to use retort technology. Retort technology gives the food a 12 month shelf life by subjecting it to high temperatures, under pressure for a sustained period of time. This process kills all the micro-organisms in the pack, hence giving the food a long shelf life. Harley’s Corner is one of the very few companies that use this state-of-the-art technology for pet food.

Please share about the products that are in your portfolio. We currently have many product categories like Ready to Eat Wet Dog Food, which includes Signature Feast and Grrissotto. We have Food Enhancers, also in two flavours, Liver dip and Chicken sauce. We manufacture Ready to Eat Wet Therapeutic Dog Food of two kinds, Renal Failure diet and Hypo Allergen diet. Beside these special Wet foods, we have Treats, Rawhide Sticks, Accessories and Car Belts for dogs.

What are the new products you would be launching in 2014? In 2014, we would be launching products like Dog Biscuits, Dog Treats (new

We are the first company to have launched the Ready to Eat Wet Dog food in the country. We are at an advantage due to the ever increasing awareness amongst pet parents in regards to the benefits of wet food, as compared to dry food. The ‘Ready to Eat Wet Food’ products have never been seen before by an Indian manufacturer. These products use only Human Grade ingredients, and are available far cheaper than the imported variants available in the markets. We shall market our products through trade organisations, vets, pet shops and dog events.

Harley’s Corner is into Pet Treats as well. What, according to you, is the scope of this trend in the Indian market? Treats are a huge market, with the potential to grow even further. A lot of pet parents want high quality treats to feed their dogs, as they do not want to compromise on health of their pets, just for price.

What are your views on competition in this field as many new players have also emerged in the pet industry? Competition will ensure we stay honest and true to our values, goals and commitments. We have always welcomed competition and feel proud to be part of this elite group of companies, who have understood the international trends and correctly predicted the move from dry food to wet food. We personally feel that the market is huge and that every company will be able to enjoy their slice of the entire market pie.

YASHBANS KENNELS With a passion for Perfection.

Home to some of India’s top dogs for over 30 years. Winners of prestigious Awards like “Breeder of the Year”, “Dog of the Year”, “Reserve Dog of the Year” and “Reserve Puppy of the Year”. Breeders of two, “Dog of the Years”, One “Reserve Puppy of the Year” and innumerable Champions, Best in Show Winners and Line-up winners.

Show Quality Golden Retriever, Shih Tzu, Miniature Pinscher and Siberian Husky puppies now available .

Contact:

Ms. Yashodhara

Yashbans Kennels, Kyalasanahalli, Off. Hennur Road, Bangalore: 560 077. India. Phone: 98440 58080 / 98451 58080

email: yashbans@gmail.com

www.yashbans.com

Kennels | Pet Styling Studio & Spa | Professional Pet Grooming School | International Pet Transportation Boarding

Interzoo

Creature Companion: The Official Media Partner for Interzoo 2014

percent annual rate in the coming years, and will eventually become a leading supplier of pet products around the world. Creature Companion will promote and circulate, especially prepared ‘International Edition’ on the Indian Pet Industry with incisive and analytical articles on different segments like veterinary services, grooming amongst others. These articles will give much needed information to international companies, eyeing India to market their pet products.

About Creature Companion

reature Companion is the only magazine from India to be the media partner of Interzoo 2014, which was held in Nuremberg, Germany from May 29 to June 1, 2014. About 1,700 manufacturers, wholesalers and service providers from over 50 countries participated in the Interzoo 2014. The pet industry in India has witnessed significant growth in the past few years. There are around 2.2 million pet dogs in India, with the population increasing by 26 percent every year. India is finally

making a mark on the pet care products’ global map. The industry offers opportunities for companies, involved in pet care products, all over the world. The commercial pet food market is growing due to increasingly hectic lifestyles and two-income families. It is a wide open industry on the world pet stage that is just waiting to be tapped. London-based market intelligence firm, Euromonitor reports that Indian pet food market is expected to grow at a 10 to 15

Interzoo 2014, A Great Start!

he world’s biggest trade fair for pet supplies, Interzoo 2014, had a pronounced start with 1,720 exhibitors from 63 countries. The 33rd Interzoo in Nuremberg focussed on pet food products, grooming articles and accessories for dogs, cats, rodents, birds and aquatic animals. Compared to last year, the industry’s leading exhibition has grown by 12 percent to a new record number of exhibitors and offers even more display

Creature Companion | July 2014

space. On 110,000 square metres in 12 halls, visitors could discover, just about everything about the pet industry’s new trends. The maximum participation was from Germany, China and Italy, followed by the USA, Great Britain, France and the Netherlands. This year many new countries had presented their products. Now, exhibitors from Argentina, Bangladesh, BosniaHerzegovina, Chile, the Dominican Republic, Ghana, Columbia, Mexico,

Creature Companion, a leading pet care magazine, has been successfully covering issues related to pet care industries, since 2006. The magazine focusses on all the aspects of pet care from pet grooming services, pet food products to pet nutrition products. The magazine has a pan India presence.

About Interzoo The Interzoo is the world’s biggest trade fair for the international pet supplies. As the world’s leading exhibition of supplies for dogs, cats, rodents, horses and birds, Interzoo drives innovation in the industry. Interzoo, for the last 30 years, is constantly setting new standards in pet keeping and gives visiting professionals a comprehensive overview of the global market.

Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, Uganda and Vietnam also showcased their products. This has increased the international share again, by another three percent over 2012 to 82 percent. Interzoo, a great platform for the visitors, gives them the biggest global overview in a short time – and they can profit from the exhibitors’ special offers at the exhibition. The trade fair showcases the products related to pets from all over the world and will provide visitors an overview of products which can have the market prospects.

Linda Brady with Ralf Majer Abele, Editor-in-chief, Pet Worldwide

Linda Brady with Mohan S.Nogja (center), MB Diwekar (Left), Sudhir Kulkarni (Right), Venky's Pet

The fair provides visitors the freedom to have a closer look over the products and they can also test the products. All in all, this fair is by the professional, for the professionals!

care magazine, also participated in the trade fair with a stall of its own. The magazine focusses on all the aspects of pet care from pet grooming services, pet food products to pet nutrition products.

The Stall of Creature Companion

This year, Creature Companion promoted its especially prepared

Creature Companion, India’s leading pet

‘International Edition’ on pet industry with analytical articles on different segments like, veterinary, pet grooming, import, export, etc. These articles can provide an idea about the pet care industry in India, to those who are looking forward to do business in India.

Interzoo 2014: It’s India All the Way

he world’ s biggest trade fair for pets, Interzoo 2014, ended on a promising note on June 1, 2014 at Nuremberg, Germany. The four day event from May 29 to June 1, 2014 witnessed an enthusiastic participation. More than 1,700 exhibitors showcased their wide range of pet foods, grooming supplies and accessories at Interzoo 2014, spread over an area of 110,000 square metres. Indian companies made their presence felt in a big way at the event. More than 30 companies exhibited their products. Companies like Pearl Global, Euro India Exports, Stain lay India Pvt Ltd, Kahf Leather Co, Hi- Line Pet Clothing Co, provided a glimpse of leather collars and various other accessories for pets. Several Indian pet food industries also participated in the exhibition such as Agro Food Industries, J S International, MASH International Pvt Ltd, Superhouse

Limited, Swastik Industries, Vinayak International Housewares Pvt Ltd, Veer Metals, Petz Creation, All Season Exports, Ideal Pet Products, Daivies Expo, used the global event to present innovative pet feeding products like pet feeding bowls, pet bedding, automatic feeders, heavy duty holders, etc. The visitors gave thumbs-up to Indian companies like Shivam Polymers, YK Industries, Kings International Limited, AMQ Agro India Private Limited, Agricom Impex, Eastern Exports for their range of advanced products. India’s leading pet care magazine, Creature Companion also had its stall in the Interzoo 2014. The visitors at Interzoo appreciated the stall and took keen interest in reading the special International Edition of the magazine. The magazine covers all the aspects of pet care and promotes the pet care industry

in India. Creature Companion prepared a special ‘International Edition’ featuring Interzoo 2014. India’s leading pet care magazine became the cynosure of all eyes at the fair. It won huge appreciation from the visitors for its unique and rich content.

Concluding Day at Interzoo 2014 The 33rd edition of Interzoo 2014 ended on June 1, 2014. From May 29-June 1, Interzoo 2014 welcomed more than 37,000 visitors from over 120 countries. The exhibitors from all over the world put up their best show, and the visitors got value for their money.

Interzoo

Aqvainnova’s Linea Zero Aquarium Plants Zero Substrate, Zero Handling & No Cleaning!

ver heard of growing plants without substrate? Well, this is now possible with Aqvainnova’s innovative idea of Linea Zero aquarium plants. These latest aquarium plants would be available in market from September 2014. Linea Zero is the latest innovation by Aqvainnova in the cultivation of aquatic plants. Aqvainnova has developed a special system for a new way of aquatic plant cultivation. It has two important characteristics; as starting material only in-vitro plants are used and the plants are grown without use of any kind of substrate. The brand Aqvainnova is an offshoot of Anubias (Italy) and Aquaflora (The Netherlands). These two well-established companies in the industry share a deeprooted passion for aquarium plants and a drive for innovation. Hence, Aqvainnova came up with the innovative technology of Linea Zero.

Conception of Linea Zero Plants The idea for Linea Zero aquarium plants was born, out of the urge to find a solution for a problem. Since a long time, Aqvainnova wished to export to the USA. However, because of export limitations, this was not possible. It is not possible to import aquarium plants in the USA that have a substrate or growing medium. All plants need to be bare-rooted and free of any kind of substrate. This led to the idea of Linea Zero plants.

Benefits of Linea Zero Aquatic Plants Linea Zero aquarium plants have all the benefits of in-vitro plants and more. Contrary to in-vitro plants, Linea Zero plants are subjected to an intermediate stage. In the traditional way of cultivating aquatic plants, this is the stage where plants are normally planted in a growing medium, such as non bio-degradable rock wool, which can

Creature Companion | July 2014

Linea Zero is the latest innovation by Aqvainnova in the cultivation of aquatic plants. Aqvainnova has developed a special system for a new way of aquatic plant cultivation contain fertiliser and pesticides. Linea Zero plants have no substrate and are grown in a special environment, which grants a healthy growth and makes them stronger.

Advantages of Linea Zero • It needs zero substrate, zero handling, and no cleaning. Just remove the vitroanchor and plant; • It has zero pesticide. Environment friendly Linea Zero plants are strong healthy and of premium quality;

• Linea Zero aquarium plants can be sold in the traditional way, but are also available with the Aqvainnova FPS (Fresh Plant System). This is a retail display to sell aquarium plants in a new way. A self-service system that not only provides the ideal environment for aquarium plants, but also gives a highly increased convenience for both shop and customer. Therefore, these plants save water, electricity, labour costs, display space and creates fewer losses; and, • This ensures a successful transplanting without any kind of stress. The special environment allows the plants to form cuticles which make them stronger and protects them during transport and planting. They produce well grown roots that are rolled up with bacteria colonies, taking away the stress of the first days in the aquarium. Linea Zero plants are healthy and strong plants, with a huge growing power. They will grow better than plants produced in the traditional way. Moreover, Linea Zero plants allow both the starting hobbyist, as well as the most experienced aqua-scaper to enjoy the beauty of aquatic plants.

Interzoo

Brio: Now, Keep Fish ‘n’ Grow Plants in Home Aquariums

aunched at Interzoo 2014 in Nuremberg, Germany, Brio-Urban Eco Gardens is a path breaking development in home aquariums. Till now, Aquariums were just meant for keeping fish and plants. However, with this revolutionary technology and design, Aqua hobbyists can now grow plants in their aquariums. Surprised? Don’t be! Robin Plante, owner, Brio has designed an innovative aquarium, in which you can keep fish, while growing plants.You can enjoy the benefits of this Brio system unlike any other conventional aquarium. Herbs for good health like Mint, Basil, Parsley, Chives, Lavender, Dill, Rosemary and the list continues, can be grown in the Brio Urban Eco garden.

Novel Aquarium Technology The Brio aquaponics system is based on a natural eco-system, where plants filter water, unlike conventional aquariums, where you rely on chemical filtration and frequent water changes. Moreover, with Brio’s unique filtration system, your garden absorbs and feeds on natural waste coming from the aquatic species, creating an environment prone to exceptional vegetation growth.

Eco-Friendly in Nature Besides revolutionising the aqua system, Brio aquaponic is also eco-friendly in nature in the following ways: • Energy saving exclusive LED light spectrum with automatic timer control; • Unique water recycling system that reduces water consumption;

Creature Companion | July 2014

• Less carbon footprint filter media compared to traditional aquarium filters; • Safe environment for aquatic species.

Models Launched Initially, Brio has launched two models of this innovative technology. You can grow fresh plants and herbs in both Brio 35 and Brio 250. However, there is difference in their specifications.

Brio 35 Brio 35 is the exclusive and luxurious member of a new family of home aquariums. It would bring the science of aquaponics to your homes, in a truly elegant design. The Brio 35 includes an impressive list of features that makes for a unique experience of having both fresh water fish, and growth of herbs and plants. Brio 35 includes 9.5g/36 litres aquaponics system and aquarium, dual light timer control with orientable fixtures, day light spectrum led bulbs + 2x grow Spectrum LED bulbs and biological filtration planting media and filters. Specifications: Height: 75 cm (29.5”) x Length 49 cm (19.3”) x Width 38 cm (15”) 36 litres (9.5 gallons)

Brio 250 With its 254 litres (66 gallons) aquarium and two garden spaces, the Brio 250 also boasts of having fresh water fish, and growing herbs and plants. It has a lighting system providing highly specific colour spectrums creating photosynthetic reactions, perfect for growing plants, herbs and flowers at surprising speeds. Specifications: Height 160 cm (63”) x Length 170 cm (67”) x Width 52 cm (20.5”) 254 litres (66 gallons)

Accessories Brio aquaponics premium accessories are designed for urban eco-gardens, providingan unique experience. The accessories consist of Brio liquids, lighting accessories, heaters, vacuum cleaners, replacement filters and cabinets. You must be wondering why this absolutely wonderful aquarium technology is still not available in India! There is good news. Robin Designs, is looking for distributors all around the world, which is why the product is not on market yet. Distributors can contact sales@brioaquaponics.com or visit the website at www.brioaquaponics.com to get more information.

Cover Story

Whiff! Whiff! Pooches Ready for Bakes ‘n’ Cakes ■ By Abha Garyali Peer

Are you tired of seeing the despair in your pet’s eyes or listening to the tiny whimper of protest when you offer him food? Are you one of those pet parents who have to coax their beloved pooch to eat his meal? Now, there is no need to persuade your pets to eat, as it is the time for Pet Bakeries! The delicious aroma of baking can invigorate all our senses, making us hungry all over again! Therefore, just imagine its effect on our furry friends, whose sense of smell is much stronger than ours!

By the time you reach the end of this article, you would be ready to take out your best cutlery and lay the table for your pampered pooches!

eing indulging pet parents, you would love to see your pet scamper about with glee, on seeing his food. On the contrary, it is not unusual to receive looks of disdain from your, otherwise cheerful mutt, when you offer him his daily meal. The reason for your adorable pooches, not getting excited to eat their daily meals is not unacceptable. How would you feel, if given the same food every day? None of you would even enjoy your favourite roasted chicken or Cheese Pasta, if you get to eat it for a week. How can you imagine that your pet would eat, let alone enjoy, his daily meal without cribbing! Your pet knows that you adore him, so why not pamper him to exhibit the deep love!

Creature Companion | July 2014

With pet bakeries gaining popularity, it is time you enhance the taste buds of your pets with delicious, yet nutritious goodies!

Pet Owners to Pet Parents Till a few years back, the regular meal of milk with rice or roti, was considered appropriate for pets. They were considered lucky if they got any non-vegetarian treats. However, there is continuous change in the perception of pet owners. This change can be attributed to the shift from being ‘pet owners to becoming pet parents’. Being parents of your pets, you surely love to pamper them! So why not spoil

your pet a little bit with some treats made in bakeries that cater especially to them?

Bakery for Pets The term 'Pet Bakery' would certainly be unheard of, about a decade back. However, at present pet bakeries are the in-thing and pet parents are flocking towards it. Our pampered pooches are now dining on a menu that could easily jump out of a fancy French bistro. The delicacies on the menu card of these bakeries look good enough for us to relish. Herein, we bring a few of the pet bakeries who have tantalised the taste buds of our furry friends, making them beg for more!

Waggy Bags Dog Barkery

Pratima Jamwal, Owner, Waggy Bags Dogs Barkery

aggy Bags Dog Barkery is a premium bakery just for doggies. Started in 2006, this is the first pet bakery in India. Over to Pratima Jamwal, Owner of Waggy Bags Dogs Barkery.

Brainwave behind a Pet Bakery Kat Ferrara, who is my friend and partner, came up with the name and the idea of starting a dog bakery. She is an American lady, and is very passionate about animals. We saw that people in metros like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, consider their pets as part of their families. They are not just pet animals, but like their children. Therefore, celebrating their birthdays along with other members of their families was equally important to them. Keeping this in mind, we started off. Moreover, baking for pets is more rewarding, due to their true loyalty and unconditional love.

Delicious Menus and Healthy Ingredients We handcraft every order and never

use any artificial flavours or colours and preservatives, just wholesome doggy goodness! All goodies are made from 100 percent human grade foods. We developed birthday cakes for dogs after some research and experimentation. It had to be healthy for dogs, without butter, sugar or chocolate. So, we introduced chicken, beef and other ingredients which would be loved by all the dogs of every breed, and would be the healthiest cake for both humans and their four-legged babies. Our cakes can be shared by dogs and their human families. We have yummy cakes, muffins, biscotti, treats, gourmet meals and much more. We also work with several vets creating specialty diets for dogs with health issues like renal failure, heart disease, allergies, obesity etc.

Success Tasted So Far Till now, our journey has been smooth and we have made many permanent customers, who come with their pets. So far, we have never put any advertisements

in newspapers. Our best advertisement has been by word of mouth. This makes us more confident of our bakes.

Look at the Future It is a growing industry, and if one can devise a way to get the cakes across other cities, the future would be extremely bright for this industry. We are not doing anything special to expand, but our business has grown over the years. This is just due to more awareness, about pets being part of the family.

Unforgettable Experience Once I had baked a lovely cake for a neighbour’s mutt, and kept it for cooling on the rack in the window. After a few minutes when I returned to the kitchen, I found our Tomcat, Calvin, had nibbled the edge and the middle of the cake completely. Needless to say, I had to bake another cake all over again but came to know that cakes are loved by cats too.

The Spoilt Brat ~ Barkery ‘n’ More

ith the motto "The way to a man’s best friend’s heart is also through his stomach", The Spolit Brat Barkery has been making ways to the hearts of our pets. Yadika Sharma, Founder of The Spoilt Brat Barkery ‘n’ More tells us about her venture.

Brainwave behind a Pet Bakery The Spoilt Brat ~ Barkery ‘n’ More ~ is a bakery that creates all natural,

wholesome, oven-baked biscuits, treats and cakes for our four-legged best friends. My Australian cocker spaniel, Maximus – the original spoilt brat, who is truly the most pampered individual in our house, was the inspiration behind the start of this venture. Inspired by my little brat, Maximus, who is extremely fussy about what he eats, I decided that there must be other pet owners like my husband and me, who also love to

Yadika Sharma, Founder, The Spoilt Brat Barkery 'n' More

Creature Companion | July 2014

Cover Story pamper their pets. Baking goodies all day long and then heading home to my own brat, who can’t wait to see what mommy has got back today, is simply precious!

Delicious Menus and Healthy Ingredients The Spoilt Brat barkery ‘n’ More focusses on creating wholesome, all natural, ovenbaked, gourmet treats and biscuits, using only human-grade quality ingredients (Saffola oil, Dabur honey, Quaker Oats, etc). We also use natural ingredients such as fresh fruits and vegetables that are not only tasty, but particularly good for dogs also. Everything on our menu is low fat, sugar and salt free and contain no preservatives. We also keep certain dog allergies in mind and use relevant substitutes for the same. For example, dogs are not allowed chocolates, so we use an imported ingredient called Carob, which is a chocolate substitute and as such can be consumed by dogs. Moreover, we don’t use any preservatives and all the goodies are low fat. All our bakery products are vegetarian, although we do use eggs in some of them. As far as our menu is concerned, it lists a variety of gourmet biscuits and treats such as brownies, muttkins (doggy muffins), lolli pups (biscuits with a rawhide chewy stick) and pawkins and pupcakes (doggy cupcakes). In addition, we specialise in dog birthday cakes which come in various shapes like bone, paw, kennel, dog images, popular cartoon

Success Tasted So Far Our success story is simple. We treat our customers like family. The same care that goes into preparing treats for my mutt, is shown while baking for other brats. We officially launched the barkery in May 2010 and although it has been only a few years, the response we have received has been tremendously encouraging. Most pet lovers are excited to have a place to go to get special treats or birthday cakes for their dogs. We have received lots of acknowledgement for what we do and this encourages us to do even better.

Look at the Future Our growth over the last four years has been very reassuring and has validated our belief that the pet industry in India is poised for significant growth. We believe this is just the beginning! Although, we have started out as a pet bakery, our vision is to make The Spoilt Brat brand name synonymous with pet pampering.

Unforgettable Experience There are many special moments we have had in the last four years, but one that stands out the most is about Tomboy, a 13-year-old dog. He had been our regular customer, since we started. Recently, he had fallen ill and was admitted in a hospital. His dad, Mohit called the day before he was being discharged to say that he wanted his favourite cake (fresh mango cheese cake) baked for his welcome home party. We baked a kennel shaped cake, welcoming him back and wishing him a speedy recovery. Two days later, I got a call from Mohit saying Tomboy had peacefully breathed his last that morning. Even though he had been unwell, he had enjoyed his cake. I was a bag of mixed emotions that day, heartbroken that he was no more, but elated that we were able to make his last days at home memorable.

Gourmutt-The Pet Bakery

ourmutt is an exclusive bakery where one can get a range of products, from freshly baked doggie treats and biscuits to special doggie birthday cakes, cupcakes and other bakery delicacies. Bhavini Bangera, Founder of Gourmutt-The Pet Bakery talks about her venture.

characters, etc. We also have our frozen foods line with a variety of doggie ice creams, sorbets and pupsicles.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Brainwave behind a Pet Bakery Gourmutt was started officially around two years back in 2012. However, I had been baking for dogs since 2010. Being a qualified food technologist, I was always inclined towards baking. My interest and love for pets, especially dogs, started way back in 2005 when I had my first

Bhavini Bangera, Founder of Gourmutt-The Pet Bakery

pet, a Labrador Retriever, called Simba. Ever since Simba came into my life, I was always reading about the nutrition requirements and food habits of dogs, and that prompted me to try cooking new and different meals for him. Once, during my birthday celebration, we all friends were celebrating and eating the cake. I was upset of not being able to share my piece of cake with Simba. This incident made me realise that I should develop something which he can also have! Some months later, I was ready to share the joy of celebrating the birthdays of my other furry friends with my unique doggy birthday cakes. I went a step ahead and also made biscuits and other grainfree treats for dogs, which besides being healthy are preservative free.

Delicious Menus and Healthy Ingredients Healthy and dog friendly ingredients like fresh veggies, fruits, chicken, etc are used. I prefer to ensure quality and nutrition value of my products. Therefore, I always use the best and branded ingredients. I have a huge range of delicacies like cakes, cupcakes, puffs, rice meals, and freshly baked biscuits. Besides my chicken and oats birthday cakes and cupcakes, chicken jerky with herbs is my, as well as all the pooches favourite.

Success Tasted So Far For a human bakery chef, it is very easy to get testimonials from his/her clients, since they can express and talk about it. For a dog bakery chef, the only feedback which determines the acceptability of love for his/her creation is a heavy tail wag, drooling tongues and bark for more!

For a human bakery chef, it is very easy to get testimonials from his/her clients. For a dog bakery chef, the only feedback for his/her creation is a heavy tail wag, drooling tongues and bark for more

When I started, there was no recognition as I did not even have a brand name for my bakery. I used to operate under a pet shop’s brand name. However, ‘Gourmutt’ as a brand name was always on my mind. With the increase in popularity of my cakes and treats, I launched my products under the brand name of ‘Gourmutt-The Pet Bakery’. Initial period was definitely tough because of the pricing factor, with not many pet parents wanting to spend much on their pets. However, in the recent times, there has been a steady increase in the customer base. The pet parent community was earlier not exposed to the idea of celebrating their pet’s special events. However, slowly the mentality has changed and they too believe in celebrating festivals and other special occasions for their pets just as they would for any other family member.

Look at the Future With more and more people now understanding the importance of having a pet in their family, the pet industry is expanding faster than we can imagine. Furthermore, pets are not just treated as an animal companion for humans, but more like a family member and a

child. This has led to a steady growth in the demand for Pet Bakery in India. For future, I aim to develop more products which are pet friendly and healthy and can act as a special treat for them. My focus would be on development of grain and gluten free products for them.

Unforgettable Experience There are many incidents that would always be in my mind. However, talking about a special one, reminds me of my pet Simba. My eight-year-old Simba passed away in March 2013. His birthday was in May. Every year, on his birthday, he used to relish his own birthday cake which I used to bake for him. After he left us, I celebrated his birthday by baking 50 large cupcakes and distributing it to all the strays in the locality. Remembering the excitement and contentment which they expressed, always makes me happy.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Cover Story

Bone Appetite

ith the motto ‘Baking for our Best Friends’, Bone Appetite is steadily growing and making a name for itself in the baking industry. It has become popular as a ‘Make-to-Order’ bakery for our pooches. Over to Priya and Shruti, Founders of Bone Appetite, who will enlighten us more regarding the pet baking sector.

Priya

Shruti

Brainwave behind a Pet Bakery Bone Appetite was stared in August 2012. Growing up in a household with dogs has made us avid dog lovers. Therefore, love for animals and having pets around was the motivation and inspiration behind our venture. We would bake cakes for our pet’s birthday and many of our friends would ask us to bake for them. This is what set us thinking! Moreover, there are not many people baking for pets. Hence, pet owners are buying packaged products, even though they would prefer fresh products.

Delicious Menus and Healthy Ingredients At Bone Appetite, we use human grade ingredients without any preservatives, artificial flavours, salt, and sugar. Some of the ingredients used are skim milk, wheat germ, flax seeds, peanut butter, pure honey, whole wheat flour, oats, oat bran, ragi, multigrain and lots of vegetables. On the menu are delicious cakes, whole wheat pumpkin, peanut butter, chicken and carrot, and whole wheat-ragi, 'poodle pasta' made of whole wheat spaghetti, meat loafs, apple pie, cookies, muffins and doughnuts. Although, we do not use sugar in any of our recipes, we do add a little honey just for flavouring at times.

Success Tasted So Far We can vouch for our success, in terms of increase in customer footfall. Our repeat customers have increased many fold, this itself speaks of our success! The success of our venture can be attributed to the

Creature Companion | July 2014

On the menu are delicious cakes, whole wheat pumpkin, peanut butter, chicken and carrot, & whole wheat-ragi, 'poodle pasta' made of whole wheat spaghetti, meat loafs, apple pie, cookies, muffins & doughnuts development of pet industry. Pet owners, dog trainers, pet shop owners, event management companies and even nondog owners want to gift goodies to their pet owner friends. Word of mouth has been the primary reason for our increase in customers. Our treats are so tasty and nutritional, made from ingredients

suitable for humans that even small kids can devour them.

Look at the Future The pet bakery can be predicted with great success. There is more awareness among the pet owners, about what is good for their pets and what isn’t. So fresh bakes with ingredients, which are good for the pets in here to stay! Looking at our success, we have added new items in our menu. We have included fish based items and also introduced multi grains keeping in mind canine needs.

Unforgettable Experience We once received a request to bake cookies for a gluten intolerant pet. He was allergic to gluten. Baking goodies for this pet was a unique experience! To conclude, it can be said that the idea of a Pet Bakery probably sounds a bit farfetched for non-pet owners. However, for anyone who has, or has had a pet at some point, in their lives, will associate with the underlying belief ‘Our Pets’ spoil us by making us feel like the most important people in the world... let’s spoil them too!’

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Indigo Moon (Grain & Gluten Free) Holistic Cat Food from Solid Gold, USA

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hether your family includes an adorable kitten, a happy adult or a warm-hearted senior cat, your pet needs balanced nutrition to stay healthy and happy. Solid Gold Indigo Moon Holistic Cat Food is a grain-free cat food that is high in protein and low in fat to support cats at any age. This delicious dry food formula combines taste and nutrition for an irresistible meal every time you open the bag. The Solid Gold Indigo Moon Holistic Cat Food formula is designed to closely resemble a cat’s natural diet. This grain-free cat food provides your pet with lots of healthy protein, an essential ingredient to help kittens develop strong, lean muscles. It also assists adults and seniors in maintaining a healthy body weight. The delicious chicken and chicken meal in Indigo Moon also adds a natural flavour that your cat will love. Solid Gold Indigo Moon Holistic Cat Food omits unnecessary fillers that your cat doesn’t need. Indigo Moon is a gluten-free formula of dry cat food that uses chicken as its main protein source. This grainfree cat food does not include wheat, corn, soybean,

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Creature Companion | July 2014

Exotic Dog

"D Coton de Tulear Meet the ‘Royal Dog of Madagascar’

ogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." This famous quote pretty much explains the importance of dogs in our lives. If you also want to make your life complete, it’s time you own a pet.

■ By Abha Garyali Peer

Creature Companion | July 2014

If you are looking for a dog that you can take everywhere, one that has little or no shedding, little or no dander (a cause of allergies in people), little or no doggy odour, then the Coton de Tulear can be the dog for you. It is a dog, clean enough to sleep in your bed, and has no significant genetic disease.

Coton de Tulear is a small canine breed, which is named after the city of Tulear in Madagascar. Moreover ‘Coton’ is the French word for cotton. As its name suggests, the most conspicuous feature of the Coton de Tulear is its coat, which is cottony or fluffy rather than silky.

History and Origin

Weight Male: 4 to 6 Kg Female: 3.5 to 5 Kg Weight can go up to 8 Kg also. Height Male: 25 to 30 cm Female: 23 to 27 cm Life Span: About 14 to 16 years

Coton de Tulear was developed on the island of Madagascar in Tulear. It is still the island’s national dog. According to the history of the Coton, it is believed that the Tenerife dog was brought to Madagascar and mated with a dog of the island, creating an unexpected result.

the Madagascar upper class for some years, and is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. The breed was recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the World Canine Organisation in 1970.

The Coton is a Bichon-type related to the French Bichons and the Italian Bolognese. This small, friendly dog caught the fancy of the Malagasy royalty, and they were the only people allowed to keep Cotons.

The Coton is the ‘Official Dog of Madagascar.’ It was Dr Robert Jay Russell, who discovered the breed in Madagascar in 1973 and brought it to America. He coined the phrase ‘Royal Dog of Madagascar’ for the Cotons.

Although still rare, this breed has enjoyed considerable popularity with

The Coton breed was first formally recognised as a breed by the Societe

Centrale Canine (the French national kennel club) in 1970. However, it was later in 1972 that it was accepted by the FCI, which also published the Breed Standard. This breed is also recognised internationally through it.

Appearance The Coton’s most distinguished feature is its cottony coat. It is long, soft, and thick. The coat is usually four inches long by the time this dog grows up. The fluffy hair covers the thin, lightly-muscled forelegs. Coton de Tulear mostly comes in colours like white and black, and white and tri-coloured. However, white is the preferred colour for show dogs of this breed. Few have slightly yellowish markings on the ears. Puppies are born with all white or with yellow, brown, rust, or black spots on the head, ears, and sometimes on the body. These spots start disappearing, as puppies grow up and mature. Therefore,

Exotic Dog by the time they are fully grown, the areas change in colour, from light to medium champagne or gray. The Cotons have prominent black noses and large expressive eyes, which can easily attract and melt anyone’s heart.

Personality This small, longhaired, cottony-coated dog can become an excellent companion. The Cotons are rare dogs, so you can’t come across many dogs of this breed. However, people who own Cotons, praise their intelligence, sociability, and easycare coat. They are observant dogs, who quickly learn routines and adapts to their

The Cotons are rare dogs, so you can’t come across many dogs of this breed. However, people who own Cotons, praise their intelligence, sociability, and easy-care coat

spring. This breed is often recommended for people who have allergies from dog hair. The long, light-textured hair of the Coton de Tulear requires careful grooming. Cotons may develop matted fur. To prevent this, brush their coat daily or atleast three to four times a week with a pin brush that has uncoated metal pins. The dead hair should be brushed and combed out. Special attention needs to be given to the areas behind the ears, legs, and elbows. Excess hair between the pads of the feet and in the inner ears should be removed. They do not need a bath more than once or twice a month. Bathe your Coton with a whitening shampoo to keep him looking his best. After a bath, pat him damp dry instead of rubbing him with a towel or his coat will knot up. Brush his coat properly to make it soft and smooth. Being a rare breed, the Coton has to be well-cared for. You have to take care of his dental hygiene and nail care. It is important to brush your Coton’s teeth at least two or three times a week. This will remove tartar and bacterial build-up, and reduce the fowl smell from his mouth. Do not avoid trimming your pet’s nails once a month. Long nails can scratch your legs, when your dog jumps to greet you.

master’s needs. This dog won’t disturb you. They will sleep peacefully, while you are busy. However, as soon as you leave the room, your dog is sure to follow suit. Although generally quiet, they can become very vocal, and start grunting, barking when excited. Cotons love to socialise, they need exposure to different people, sights, sounds, and experiences since puppyhood. Socialisation ensures that the Coton puppy grows up to be a well-adjusted, happy dog. They usually get along well with kids. They are very attached to their home and master, and will try their best to please and keep you in good mood. This breed makes great watchdogs. When your doorbell rings, the Coton will surely

Creature Companion | July 2014

bark and let you know that someone is at the door. These dogs can be easily trained, but can also be stubborn sometimes. They learn quickly through rewards. Full of tricks and surprises to fulfil his master’s every wish, one of their most endearing traits is their tendency to jump and walk on their hind legs. During his playtime, the Coton will surely grab his favourite toy and bring it to you for an exciting game of fetch. He loves to go for walks, but due to his limited strength, his exercise needs are not excessive. Playing inside or in a fenced yard will just as easily satisfy his need for activity, as long as he has his master to play with.

Grooming and Care The Coton’s shed little but shed, mainly in

These dogs want to be with you all the time, wherever you go, even to the bathroom. They love human companionship and thrive on your love and care. No dog can be happy and live, if left alone at home for long periods of time. If you stay out of home for 8-9 hours in a day, think again before you bring home a puppy. At the end, it would be apt to say that a well-mannered and groomed Coton de Tulear is sure to fetch a lot of favourable attention to you. Be prepared for it!! Sources: http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/coton-de-tulear http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coton_de_Tulear http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/cotondetulear.htm http://www.americancotonclub.com/temperament.htm

Best Reads

Few of the Best Reads for You

Reading some of the bestsellers can make you understand your pets. Moreover, if you are not a pet owner yet, you will fall in love with these fourlegged friends by reading some of the fictions and non-fictions. Herein, we bring four best reads for you. Pet owners, these are must haves for you. Go on….. Read these!

Born to Run By Michael Morpurgo

Suki By Suniti Namjoshi

Suniti Namjoshi, an acclaimed writer with more than 30 novels to her credit, yet again weaves magic with her new novel, 'Suki'. This novel is a memoir of the author’s life with her lilac Burmese cat, named Suki. ‘Born to Run’, by Michael Mopurgo, is a touching story of a greyhound, who experiences many different lives in his single life. The greyhound gets three different names from his three different masters, but still lives to find comfortable home and love in his life. From unwanted burden to favourite companion, and from pet to champion race dog, this book brings out the experiences of a greyhound. As a puppy, saved by his first master, Patrick, this greyhound is named Best Mate. As his name suggests, he becomes the best friend of little Patrick. However, his life again changes, when he is kidnapped by a greyhound trainer, and begins a new life as a champion race dog. In the trainer’s house, he meets his second owner, Suzie, the trainer’s step-daughter, who falls in love with the dog as soon as she sees him. Called Bright Eyes, he makes a new friend, Alfie, another greyhound champion race dog. His happy life as a race dog with Alfie and Suzie again changes when Suzie comes to know that her step-father get the dogs killed, who cannot perform well in races! Will Suzie let Bright Eyes die or will she save him by running from her house with him? Who will be the greyhound’s third master? Will he ever find a home in his life? Read this marvellous novel to get the answers. It is a heart-warming story with a very good composition. You will surely find it impossible to put the book down; at least I could not, till I read the last page of this full of surprises story.

This delightful book is full of playful, ironic, and philosophical debates between the author and her beloved cat. These debates are on a variety of topics like love, life, obedience, immortality, meditation, their relationship, human morals and animal code of conduct, philosophy etc. From being banal, the conversations become philosophical and bring out the deep truths of life. Here, the author tries to make us look at life, from an animal’s perspective as well. ‘Suki’ has a tone of novelty in the way it has been written. It is just not about the love between an owner and a pet. It brings out the disagreements and annoyances that pets and owners can have sometimes. While reading the novel, it is difficult to believe that the conversations are imaginary, as the writer does a marvellous job of bringing out the cat’s philosophy of life. Rather, all the conversations look real and it seems that Suki was really a talking cat. Suki lived for 4,803 days, between June 2, 1984 and of July 27, 1997. These definite dates show the love and importance of Suki in S, the narrator’s life. An important comparison is made by S, who writes, “There are probably more leaves on the giant ash tree growing against the bank in the adjoining field.” Here the days of Suki’s life are figured like leaves, which fall intensely but irrevocably. However, these are recollected with tenderness by the grieving S, who eventually learns through meditation how to loose, what is most loved. As mentioned, the novel is not just about an owner and pet’s relationship. It is more like a relationship of two best friends and companions for life. Throughout the novel, the readers can understand the emptiness that the narrator feels without Suki. The novel brings out the guilt that S suffers from because of putting Suki to sleep due to her illness. In a letter to Suki, S asks for forgiveness and asks herself, whether she would have done the same thing, if Suki was a human being, not a cat. The novel brings out the different shades of the cat’s character as well. Suki, as a cat is haughty, almost to the point of being imperialistic, opinionated and stubborn. She calls herself a Goddess and S her high priestess. Throughout the novel, there are incidences where Suki comes across as an individualistic cat, with a mind of her own. On the other hand, Suki is also capable of immense love, sensitivity, and loyalty for S. In one of her conversations, Suki tells S that she will take her side if there was a fight between humans and cats. This shows Suki’s loyalty and love for S. ‘Suki’ in my opinion celebrates life and its moments. It is not soppy. It is not preachy. It is not even sentimental. It is just an honest book – full of tenderness, of energy, of biting dialogues and more than anything else of relationships of every kind and nature.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Exotic Pet

Rexes: Rabbits

with Velvety Touch ‘N’ Motherly Nature ■ By Dave Lawrence

ost of us look forward to have a house pet, because we just love the sight, sound and feel of anything soft, furry and adorable. If you have zeroed down on a rabbit, as a pet, then the Rex Rabbit can be the perfect breed for you. The Rex Rabbit is a gentle, playful and intelligent breed. They are lovable and low maintenance pets. Like all rabbits, they too are messy but they can be potty trained more easily, as compared to other rabbits. Their name is derived from the Rex gene, which is responsible for their straight hair, growing perpendicular to the body and curly whiskers and eyebrows. These

Creature Companion | July 2014

rabbits come in two main types, Standard and Mini Rex versions.

Coated Retriever), horses (the Curly Horse), and rats.

History of Rex Rabbits

Appearance

This breed of rabbits originated in France in 1919, due to natural mutation (crossbreed) of the gray rabbits found in the wilderness of France. Rex Rabbit was first shown publicly at the Paris International Rabbit Show in 1924. The Rex Rabbits have been recognised as a standard breed in parts of Europe since 1925. Today, the Rex have become one of the most popular and accepted pets, for those who prefer rabbits as house pets.

The typical feature of this rabbit breed is its smooth, velvety fur. They are one of the loveliest rabbits, when their coat is fully grown. However, when they are moulting, they can be compared with well-worn carpets. Rex rabbit fur can have a length that ranges between 1.3 to 2 centimeters.

The Rex features can also be found in cats (the Cornish Rex), dogs (the Curly

Rexes come in various colours like black, white, blue, castor, chocolate, sable, tortoise, seal, brindle, etc. They are medium-sized with a body weight of around three to five kilograms. Generally,

are mostly made of timber or metal with mesh enclosures. You must make sure to provide an insect screen, so that mosquitoes and rabbit fleas do not enter the hutch. These insects may cause a disease called Myxomatosis in rabbits. Each Rex should be kept in its own cage with sawdust about one inch thick on the floor, as Rexes are very prone to sore hocks.

The typical feature of this rabbit breed is its smooth, velvety fur. They are one of the loveliest rabbits, when their coat is fully grown

female Rex rabbits weigh more than their male counterparts. The above mentioned body measures are of a standard Rex. Talking about its mini version, the weight would be 1.5 to 2.5 kilograms. The Rex has a slightly broader head, as compared to other breeds of rabbit. They have proportionate and upright ears, as well as toe nails that match the colour of its fur on proportionally smaller feet. Females may also sport a skin flap under their chin, which is called dewlap.

Temperament Rex Rabbits are claimed to be one of the most intelligent breeds among rabbits. These plump fur balls are quite popular, as pets due to their friendly, curious and playful nature. These lovely and extremely soft haired creatures do require a physical show of affection. They like to be held, cuddled and patted by owners.

Rexes are believed to have a motherly nature and therefore, can become perfect foster moms to any other rabbit, you may keep. Rexes require low to medium activity levels. They can jump as high as three feet, but are equally content sitting on their ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lap and acting as a perfect pet. As mentioned, they are clever and fun to play with, but they crave for attention from their owners. If the Rex feel ignored, they can become destructive and hostile. This breed of Rabbit is most active during the evening and early morning hours, and prefers to rest during the day. Other than being litter trained, the Rexes can also be trained for doing many other tricks. These include standing on command, and coming when beckoned. Moreover, being gentle in nature, the Rex rabbits are considered as ideal pets for a family with kids. Nevertheless, before leaving your Rex rabbit alone with kids, make sure that the kids know about proper handling of these cuddly pets.

Housing and Feeding Most Rex rabbits require a cage/hutch that is about four to five times, larger than the size of the rabbit. However, Rexes being a more active breed should have a slightly larger cage. Ideally, a rabbit hutch must have a minimum 120 x 60 x 50 cm space per rabbit. Rex Rabbits, being fragile, should not be subjected to extreme heat or cold. Avoid placing the hutch in locations with direct sunlight. Outdoor hutches

Rex Rabbits eat a lot; sometimes you may think you have a horse, as a pet. However, the good news is that their food is easily available and not very expensive. Rexes mostly feed on commercial rabbit pellets, timothy hay, lucerne hay, fresh greens and fresh fruit. However, all my Rexes are fed on pellets and water. Once a week, vegetables can be given for a treat. Rabbits love treats such as celery, dandelions, parsley, carrots, etc. However, fruit should be limited as mostly all fruits have high sugar content. For this, you need a heart of steel. How else, can you deny them their favourite, when they look at you with big, watery eyes!! One advice, do not keep changing their diet and food.

Grooming This breed has very short fur that does not require regular grooming. Moreover, the coat is supposed to stick up from the body. Therefore, brushing can damage it. Rex rabbits should never be bathed, as this will strip the coat of its natural oils and possibly destroy the resiliency in the coat. When a rabbit is moulting, you may want to stroke its coat with a slightly damp washcloth to help remove dead hair. The only other thing that needs to be done is clipping the nails, this only need to be done about every six to eight weeks. To wind up, I would again suggest Rexes can be the best pets, for those who like rabbits. You will surely fall, so much in love with your curious, albeit playful pet that you will learn to ignore few of its shortcomings!

Creature Companion | July 2014

Pet of The Month

Pet of the Month July 2014

Scooby

Name: Scooby Breed: Cocker Spaniel Age: 2/06/2009 (5-years-old) Gender: Male Human Parents: Mohim and Neera Sharma Resident of: Chandigarh Food Habits: Likes to have chapatti with cottage cheese or curd or chicken or kebabs. He loves eating Almonds, icecream, rajma and dog biscuits. Eccentricities/Adorable Habits: Scooby starts his day by fetching the newspaper and goes for a walk only then. He welcomes everybody by taking off their sandals and shoes and whatever he can get hold off, for getting biscuit in return. Any Funny Anecdote: Once Scooby was sleeping and a mouse jumped over his back. He got very scared and ran inside the cupboard, that's his safest spot. Favourite Pastime: He takes socks, shoes, handkerchiefs, and then wants biscuit.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Fears, if any: Hates taking bath and whenever sees his vet, hides somewhere. He is too scared of the doctor.

Breed Profile

Great Dane

Creature Companion | July 2014

The Gentle Giant â&#x2013; By Vidya Ratan

s its name signifies, the Great Dane is truly a great dog breed. Being large and noble, it is commonly referred to as a gentle giant or as ‘Apollo of dogs.’ Apollo is the Greek God of the sun, the brightest fixture in the sky. Similarly, the Great Dane also holds a prominent stature in the dog world. This breed looks terribly imposing, but in reality, it is one of the best-natured dog breeds. In contrast to its size, Great Dane is a sweet, affectionate pet. He loves to play and is gentle with children.

Origin and History Despite its name, the Great Dane originates from Germany, rather than from Denmark. It is assumed that these dogs, which became very famous all over

Following the Great Dane rise in popularity in Germany in mid 1800s, the breed began to be standardised. More and more breeders made efforts to adopt an official description of the Great Dane dog breed. During the first German Dog Show, which took place in Hamburg, Altona in 1863, Daneswere also present. Eight of them were registered as Danish Danes and seven as Ulmer Danes.

General Appearance The essence of Great Dane can basically be summed up in three vital points: size, substance and elegance. The Great Dane is remarkable for its size and strength, yet this breed has an added elegance.Large size with remarkable elegance can be an elusive combination, which the Great

Great Dane is a short haired breed with a strong galloping figure.” The Great Dane can be described as a giant, powerful dog. Its body is in a square shape, with female dogs, being slightly longer than tall. The long head is rectangular in shape. The muzzle is deep, with a pronounced stop. The dark, deep-set eyes are medium in size, while the ears are set high and either cropped or left natural. If, left in their natural state they are folded forward, hanging close to the cheek. However, when cropped, the ears stand erect and are large in proportion to the rest of the head. The coat is short and thick. The Great Dane can come in a variety of colours like brindle, fawn, black, blue, mantle harlequin and sometimes merle.

This breed looks terribly imposing, but in reality, it is one of the best-natured dog breeds. In contrast to its size, Great Dane is a sweet, affectionate pet Europe, were the offspring of those dogs imported to England and Ireland by the Celts, where they were interbreed with Irish Wolf Hound.

Dane is endowed with. The element of elegance comes from flowing lines of the long clean, strong arched neck and refined head.

Originally, this breed was used to hunt wild boar and other animals in Germany and throughout Europe. However, gradually in 1800s, the Great Dane became more popular as pets, rather than being kept as hunting dogs. Well-to-do dog fanciers began to own the dogs as precious pets. They were also kept within houses and estates, as hunting dogs.

As described by the American Kennel Club, “The Great Dane combines, in its regal appearance, dignity, strength and elegance with great size and a powerful, well-formed, smoothly muscled body. It is one of the giant working breeds, but is unique in that its general conformation must be so well balanced that it never appears clumsy, and shall move with a long reach and powerful drive. The

Temperament “Knowing this animal is among you is a blessing in itself.” This line aptly describes the Great Dane. The Great Dane is well known for the look of dash and dare, ready to do anything and go anywhere. In contrast to their daring nature, these dogs are also endowed with a good disposition. Charming and affectionate, they are playful and patient with children. The Great Dane does not bark much and only become aggressive when the situation demands. Being courageous and loyal, these can become good watchdogs.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Advertorial

WHY DO DOGS GET GUM DISEASE? Dental care for dogs

The number one health problem for dogs, apart from being overweight, is periodontal disease. Just like people, dogs need to have their teeth brushed and cleaned. Regular veterinary dental cleaning along with specially designed pet toothbrushes, toothpaste and chew snacks can help reduce plaque build-up.

The truth about tooth woes

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80 percent of dogs show signs of periodontal disease by the age of three. The build of plaque on teeth is inevitable, unrelenting process that occurs when bacteria from saliva sticks to teeth surface forming a yellow colored film. In a few days' time, the plaque hardens to form tartar or calculus. As Tartar accumulates, the healthy pink gum starts to look red, and swell. At this point, without medical intervention, inflammation of the gum takes over and can lead to periodontal disease. This process leads to painful bleeding gums and bad breath. And worse, it often leads to damage to the jawbones, and loss of teeth. If left untreated, the bacteria from mouth can enter blood stream to enter vital organs like heart, kidney causing serious health problems. Open the dog’s mouth to inspect all his teeth. Beware of tartar build-up, which is yellow to dark brown in color

Caring for your puppies’ teeth

Puppies enjoy chewing on everyday household objects. Discourage your dog from doing that and provide him with a specially designed toy. Although puppies will generally not have problems with their teeth or gums, plaque can quickly build up at the base of the teeth and cause gum disease in dogs as young as 12 months. To reduce the risk of this happening, regularly check your pet’s teeth. Special dog biscuits or chews are very beneficial and help clean the plaque off your dog’s teeth. You can also introduce tooth brushing at this age.

Spot check: teeth and gums

Lift your dog’s lips away from his gums, and press a finger firmly over an upper tooth. When taken away, the white colour of the finger imprint on the gum should return to pink. Open the dog’s mouth to inspect all his teeth. Beware of tartar build-up, which is yellow to dark brown in colour, this can lead to periodontal disease & should be removed by a veterinarian.

Oral hygiene

Visit a vet: First of all, have your dog visit your vet to have his teeth properly cleaned. The procedures used are similar to what we go through when we visit the dentist to have our teeth cleaned. The difference is that dogs who have their teeth cleaned are either sedated with a

tranquilizer or, more commonly, put under general anesthesia. In between visits to the vet, brush your pet’s teeth regularly. Consult your vet for suitable brush and paste. Owners can lightly brush their dog’s teeth at least twice a week to remove plaque deposits. Do not use tooth pastes made for humans, it can cause nausea in dogs if swallowed. Start by putting a small amount of the toothpaste on your finger, and gently rub it on your dog’s front teeth and gums. After some time, switch from a finger to a dog’s or a child’s toothbrush, one with soft, rounded bristles. Start by brushing the front teeth only, with a downward motion on the top teeth and upward on the lower teeth. After your dog gets used to this new activity, start doing teeth farther back in his mouth, brushing the premolars, then molars with the same motion you used on the front teeth.

Other alternatives

An alternative to brushing is using a dental chew. Studies have shown that certain specifically designed dental health chews result in a significant reduction of plaque and calculus accumulation, gingivitis and odour. Dry dog food also helps in preventing dental plaque accumulation.

The Great Dane wants to be with the family always. They like to socialise with people, including strangers. Therefore, will welcome guests to your home happily, unless they think you need their protection. At such situations, this breed can be fiercely protective. Great Danes need to be trained from the start. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great idea.

Wobblers, and Orthopaedic Disease (OCD, HOD, etc. Breeders who deny any knowledge of any possible hereditary disease in their lines as well as those who are not familiar with these diseases (and the screening process) should be avoided. Dogs having been diagnosed with any heritable disease should never be used in a breeding programme.

Grooming

Like most dogs, Great Danes require daily walks to maintain their health. However, it is important, not to over-exercise this breed, particularly when young. Great Dane puppies grow very large, in a short time, which puts them at risk of joint and bone problems. As puppies have less of natural energy, Dane owners should take consideration by minimising activities while the dog is still growing.

The Dane is a short-haired breed, and therefore requires little in the way of coat care. Most do well with weekly brushing (more often during periods of heavy shedding). Bathing the Great Dane is a big chore, which takes a lot of time. So, once a month bath is enough for this breed. The Dane also requires ear cleaning, dental care, and toenail trimming like any other dog breed.

Health

Exercise

Courtesy - tail shots

Height Male: 30 to 34 Inches Female: 28 to 32 Inch Weight: 60 to 100 Kg Life Span: Shorter life span, about 6-10 years

Great Danes like many other breeds, is prone to variety of health problems. Responsible breeders should do the following health screening on all dogs, which are used in a breeding programme.

disorders. It can be diagnosed with blood screening.

Hip Dysplasia

Von Willebrand Disease

It is a polyâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;genetic hereditary disease, which can cause pain and lameness,even to the point of becoming a cripple. The Orthopaedic Foundation for animals review radiographs on dogs (two years of age or older) and certify the hip joints conformation as normal (free of Hip Dysplasia).

It is a bleeding disorder (similar to Hemophilia in people). It can also be diagnosed with blood screening. The Canine Eye Registration Foundation can only certify a dog to be free of apparent Heritable Ocular disease, based upon examination of veterinary ophthalmologist. The dog must be re-examined and recertified every 12 months.

Hypothyroidism It can cause a variety of medical problems and has been linked to auto-immune

Given their large size, Great Danes continue to grow (mostly gaining weight) longer than most dogs.

Great Dane as Pets

Other heath problems, include Gastric Torsion (Bloat), Seizure Disorders,

Great Danes are simply extra large canines. They are very gentle, affectionate, playful, friendly, loyal and majestic creature. They more closely resemble a small horse, than a dog. Either way, the beautiful Great Dane is sure to stand out in a crowd. However, it is more than looks that makes this breed outstanding. Great Danes need ample of space at home. When Great Danes are young and not fully trained, they may not know their size and strength. However with age and proper training they usually become gentle for kids. They are perfect pets for a family with small kids.

School Your Pets

Relocating Dogs Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Big Deal, Mind it!

S Sindhoor is a Canine Family Coach & Behaviourist, who runs Bangalore Hundeskole and a Facebook support group for dog lovers called BombatDawgz

Creature Companion | July 2014

o you are all charged up shifting to a new place. Spare a thought for your dog, though. Relocation is a big deal for dogs. After all, they are group animals.

even in the same locality, throws them off balance. The unfamiliarity of the new surroundings makes them uncomfortable, insecure and weary. So how can we help them?

Moving them to a new location, even in the same city, or for that matter,

Helping Dogs to Adjust Keeping in mind, these few points will certainly help you and your pooch

settled on his old bed, and seems relaxed enough, take your dog out for a walk. It is quite natural for a dog to pee in the new home. This has nothing to do with territorial marking. Your dog is just excited and anxious. This can make your dog lose control of his bladder, and pee. Try not to yell or scold him. Just mop it all up, with vinegar. There is a possibilitythat you might have to do toilet training again. You have perhaps done it in the past. So, you won’t be new to it, neither will be your dog. Your dog will catch on fast;

to adjust in a new and unfamiliar environment. • If you are relocating to a place in the same city, make a couple of visit to your potential new home, with your dog. Let him sniff around and get a feel of the place; • On the shifting day, just get your pooch, out of the scene. Take your dog to a friend’s or a relative’s place. Let the dog not witness all the packing; The dog would be stressed, on seeing so many movers in the house. Packing of all the items in the house andwould be really scary for your mutt; • Let the movers, move your belongings and unpack it, at your new place. Then, bring your dog back to your new home. Give your dog plenty of time and space to get acquainted with your new home; • Do not add other complications to the picture - such as, inviting friends over, or having another new dog at home. The key is to keep changes to a minimum. Your moving in party can wait a few days. Your focus should be to get your dog settled in; • Once you have shifted, and your dog has sniffed out the new place and

• If you have plans of moving to a new place, and get a new dog, postpone getting the new dog, until you are settled in your new home. Don’t get the dog and move immediately;

Long Distance Shifting Is your relocation taking you to another city, and the mode of transportation is by car? In such a situation, get your dog used to the car, by doing short fun rides with your dog. The next best option is to go by train. You will have to book a coupe. And remember, your dog could react to the stress of the train journey by peeing and pooping a lot, or by just not peeing or pooping at all. Either way, do not get stressed. It is better to maintain your cool. Don’t try to comfort your dog. Let your dog find his comfort zone on his own. Finally, if you are relocating to another country and cannot avoid taking a flight, then hire the services of a relocation specialist. There is ton of paper work involved. The last thing you need is for your process to get stuck in paperwork, and your pup kept in quarantine. Train your dog to stay in a crate, well in advance, so that your dog is comfortable in the crate that he will be travelling in.

Sindhoor will be writing for this exclusive section every month.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Feline

The Egyptian Mau An Exotic Beauty

ats, with their mysterious eyes and endowed with lady-like grace, can become wonderful pets. Adding more to these characteristics is the Egyptian Mau. This cat breed is known for its exotic good looks. Most people fall in love with Egyptian Mau, because of their incredible and irrepressible personalities. In addition to their beauty, the Egyptian Maus are friendly in nature. They tend to be cautious with strangers and select their ‘Special Person’, as mostly all cats do. In other words, they make wonderful companions.

History The exact origin of the Egyptian Mau is not known by anyone. Despite its name, Cat (Mau) of Egypt, DNA analysis reveals probabilities of European and North American origins.

Creature Companion | July 2014

However, the modern Mau is said to have originated in 1953 in Italy. According to historical records, a female Egyptian Mau kitten was scheduled to accompany exiled Russian princess Nathalie Troubetskoy from Rome to the United States. They missed getting on a huge luxury ship that sank. In 1956, Troubetskoy successfully immigrated to the United States, with her three Maus. Mau soon developed a set of fanciers who wanted to preserve the rare and historically significant breed. There were attempts by British breeders to create Maus, from cross-breeds of Abyssians, Siamese, and Tabbies. However, these were not at all like the original Maus. Much later, this mix became the basis for the Ocicat. Presently, the Egyptian Mau is ranked 20th in popularity among the breeds

listed by the Cat Fanciers Association, which granted it championship status in 1977. The original Egyptian Maus can be recognised, either by a ‘scarab beetle’ or ‘M’ marking on their foreheads. Those with the latter, tend to be from the United States.

Appearance Seeing an Egyptian Mau can remind you of something a little exotic, a little breathtaking, and a little primitive.

Being graceful in their movements, they are often described as 'cheetah like' in both appearance and elegance

The Egyptian Maus, surely are heartbreakingly beautiful cats. None of the pictures or books can do justice to the exotic beauty, which can be found in an Egyptian Mauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dazzling green eyes and shiny spots. Moreover, the ghostly elegance found in a smoke Egyptian Mauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pattern is impossible to be seen anywhere else. The Egyptian Maus are slender in appearance with a muscular body. Being graceful in their movements, they are often described as 'cheetah like' in both

appearance and elegance. These cats give the impression of strength, substance, grace, and agility. These cats have very large ears set on top of a unique triangular well-proportioned head pointing out at the nose. Another striking feature in the Mau is its random, distinctive spots. The spots can be large or small, round or oblong, or can also have combinations of all. However, the spots are vivid and distinct, with good contrast between the background colour and the colour of

Creature Companion | July 2014

Feline

the spots. Egyptian Maus are usually of three colours, bronze, silver, and smoke. Their coat is fine in texture, displaying a beautiful sheen.

Personality The first thing that catches our eyes is the enchanting looks of the Maus. Nevertheless, once you keep this cat as a pet, you will love it more because of its temperament, personality and its intelligence. The Egyptian Maus, being very rare and expensive breed, are often kept as house cats. However, this breed has excessive energy level and is the fastest known breed of domesticated cats. They can approximately run 10 mph faster than Olympic sprinters. Therefore, as pets, it is important they receive enough physical and mental stimulation. Despite these very natural characteristics, the Egyptian Maus are gentle and reserved. They love their people and desire attention and affection from them. On the other hand, they are wary of others and take time to become friends with strangers.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Once you keep this cat as a pet, you will love it more because of its temperament, personality and its intelligence These cats are not overly talkative but can convey their feelings and emotions to their family. Their voices are usually melodious and quiet. While playing with their human family, Maus wag their tails, tread with their feet, and make a variety of sounds that cat lovers call ‘chortling’.

Grooming The Egyptian Mau has short to medium length coat. Therefore, a brush weekly on the short hair is enough to keep it shiny and healthy. Besides brushing, the only other grooming the Egyptian Mau needs

is regular nail trimming, usually weekly, and ear cleaning if they look dirty. For this, use a gentle cleanser recommended by a veterinarian. Brush your cat’s teeth frequently with vet-approved pet toothpaste for good overall health and fresh breath. Start the hair brushing, nail trimming, and teeth brushing regime, while your cat is still a kitten. Cats take time to get used to these activities. If you are a cat lover, the Egyptian Mau is a good choice, because of its beauty and even temperament. Mau is an affectionate and loving cat that enjoys human attention and can make great pets for kids as well. Egyptian Maus normally get along very well with other cats and household pets. References http://www.catsofaustralia.com/egyptyian_maudescription.htm http://www.the-cat-guide.com/egyptian-mau-cat.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egyptian_Mau http://www.cfa.org/Breeds/BreedsCJ/EgyptianMau. aspx http://www.vetstreet.com/cats/egyptian-mau#overview http://www.catster.com/cat-breeds/Egyptian_Mau

Feline

Make your Cat, a Really Happy Pet! â&#x2013; By Anneliese Hackmann

ust having a cat as a pet isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough. You must do all you can to ensure that you have a happy pet. Several things are important and should be kept in mind for pet cats, so that they can enjoy a happy life.

This article is especially for feline owners and for people who adore cats and are planning to keep cats as pets.

By providing food, water and shelter, you do not necessarily become a kind owner. Understanding your feline friends and their needs is of utmost importance for becoming an ideal feline owner.

Almost no cat wants to live alone, without a feline companion. They need company and interaction with, at least one other cat. Whatever you do, you can never substitute the social aspect of a

Creature Companion | July 2014

Needs of Our Felines Companionship

congener. Playing alone is not so much fun as playing with a congener.

Confused? Read on to get a better idea! Imagine you are kidnapped by a horde of elephants. They take you to their little village, where there are no humans, only elephants. The elephants really care for you, bring your favourite dishes, play with you and cuddle you a lot. Every evening they even trumpet a good

Scratching posts in adequate number should be available for your cat every time. In addition, cats love to play, and enjoy having different sorts of toys. There are balls, fur-mice, and cushions and so on. If you have a large place, give some independent space to your pet cat. Cats get relieved if they sit alone for sometime. However, make sure that your cat is safe, and cannot get out, before you allow her in the garden or a balcony. Lot of accidents may happen to a cat outside. In addition, do not forget about the possibility that a pure bred cat may attract many thieves.

Almost no cat wants to live alone, without a feline companion. They need company and interaction with, at least one other cat Moreover, you cannot even understand what they ‘tell’ you.

night story for you. Once in a year, the elephants go on trip and ask the gorillas to take good care of you. Three years pass, with you being in that village only. Now, you know every hut; have gained 15 kg of weight, because you always got your favourite food. You have played every game available in the village, countless times, climbed every tree. However, still you can not trumpet like the elephants.

What do you think? Would you not be lonesome? Would you not have been happier, if the elephants had obtained a companion of your own kind? One with whom you could talk in your own language, laugh together, play together, just one of the same kind. I hope this helps you to put yourself in the position of your pet cat.

Accommodation Cats prefer living on different levels, unlike human beings who live at one level only. It’s important to give cats more place to move in their surrounding easily. You can put shelves on the walls, and cover them with carpet or sisal as race tracks.

Hygiene Cats are usually very clean animals. Even with only one cat you should provide minimum of two litter boxes. Increase the number of litter boxes, according to the number of cats. Every litter box should be cleaned regularly. Additionally, the litter boxes should be emptied and cleaned with disinfectant regularly.

Health Regular vaccinations and health checks at the veterinarian should be granted. Remember, that you can get a lot of microbes and bacilli from outside, into your home, which can affect your cats. If your cat is just a pet, and not a breeding cat, the neutering should be done at an adequate time. Unneutered cats can develop several health issues. Water is a basic necessity for your cats. Cats need food of good quality accompanied by enough water to stay healthy and in good condition. For cats, drinking less of water, electric wells can be a solution. Remember- Only a healthy cat, can be a happy cat! To conclude, I can say that only the affection and attention of its owner will make a cat, a really happy pet!

Creature Companion | July 2014

Groomer’s Corner

Afghan Hound Grooming is Fun Before

■ By Radhiya Hemchandra

eing a pet owner and being a pet parent are as different as chalk and cheese. Anyone can become an owner, but becoming a pet parent requires a lot of love, dedication and time for your four-legged friends. More so, if the particular breed requires a lot of grooming. With the pet industry growing at a fast rate, there are many pet grooming places for your pets. However, taking your pet for grooming very frequently is not viable. Therefore, it is essential to make your pet, look his best, being at home. Read on, to easily groom a beautiful breed of dog, the Afghan Hound at home. The Afghan Hound is a sight hound and is one of the oldest dog breeds. This breed originated from the cold mountainous regions of Afghanistan. It is easily distinguished by its thick, fine, silky coat and its tail with a ring curl at the end. The Afghan Hound is mostly 24 to 28 inches tall and comes in a variety of colours. Grooming an Afghan Hound is fun, but undoubtedly requires a lot of patience and precision. To begin with, place your dog on an appropriate table so that it is comfortable for you to work on.This will help you examine the dog closely to understand how to go about the grooming process, which is explained in detail.

Eyes Clean the eyes. Use eye cleaning wipes gently, from the inner corner of the eyes to the outer corner in a circular motion.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Things you may need: • Clean place to bathe your Afghan hound • Tooth brush and tooth paste • Ear buds • Eye cleaner • Cottonwool • Ear hair removing powder • Nail clippers and a nail grinder (keep stypticpowder always accessible) • Hair dryer • Grooming Table • Shampoo • Crème rinse/conditioner • Absorbent towels & cotton towels • Slicker brush • Pin brush • Plastic comb • Metal pin comb (broad and narrow) • Skin and Coat Spray • Hair Serum • Perfume • Setting spray • Sanitary Clippers • Shears – straight and curved

Ears Put a few drops of ear cleaning solution on a piece of cotton wool and gently clean the ears of your hound. Try cleaning from about half an inch inside the ear canal, outward to the ear flap. Sprinkle a little ear powder into the ears, rub gently and pluck out the excess hair from inside the ear. Make sure the ears are clean and dry to avoid any ear problems from occurring.

Teeth Put a little doggy tooth paste on a soft finger brush. Hold your pet firmly, and gently brush, from side to side, in a circular motion.

Nails Use an appropriate sized nail clipper and clip in a vertical angle about three millimetres away from the quick (the pink nerve ending situated in the centre of the nail). In case of bleeding, due to over cutting, use the styptic powder to stop the bleeding. Grind the nails gently, if necessary, to avoid sharp edges or splints. Do not forget to trim the claws.

The Coat Brush the dog entirely in the direction of

Apply a little conditioner or crème rinse keeping in mind the coat texture. Begin half an inch away from the roots of the hair, throughout the length of the dog’s coat. Wait for about three minutes and rinse again.

Drying

After

Use absorbent towels to remove the excess water. Do not mess the hair or rub in vigorous and forceful motion. Follow with cotton towels until the coat is about 70 percent dry.

the growth of the hair, with a slicker brush thoroughly to remove surface dirt and light tangles. Avoid brushing the face. Divide the coat into smaller sections and begin to brush using a pin brush. Follow with the metal comb, first broad pinned and then narrow pinned. Repeat the brushing process on all sections of the hair, until you have completed the entire body and legs. Use the slicker brush and metal comb for the ears. Support his ears with the palm of your hand. Use only the metal comb and plastic comb for the top of the head. Make sure the dog is matt free between the toes too.

Bathing Plug your dog’s ears with cotton, so that, water doesn’t enter its ears. Wet the entire body of your dog thoroughly with warm water. Tilt its head downwards, while wetting the face to avoid water entering the ears, eyes and nose. Apply a good cleansing and moisturising shampoo lightly, throughout your pet’s body and work it up until you get a foamy lather. Shampoo should be worked through the coat with the growth of the hair and never rubbed or scrubbed in.

Gently apply shampoo on the face avoiding the eyes, nose and mouth. Use a rubber bath-brush to scrub in the direction of the growth of the hair. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.

Plug your dog’s ears with cotton, so that, water doesn’t enter its ears. Wet the entire body of your dog thoroughly with warm water. Tilt its head downwards, while wetting the face to avoid water entering the ears, eyes and nose

Turn your dryer/blow dryer on medium heat, high speed. Brush with a pinbrush in the direction of the growth of the hair, while drying. Ensure that the dog is completely dry from root to tip. Dry its feet. Make sure his feet are totally dry. Use only a plastic comb to dry the face. Pin brush may be used carefully, to dry the ears. Make sure the dog’s coat is completely dry to avoid any skin infections.

Perfect Finishing Use a sanitary trimmer to clip excess hair that grows in pads of the feet, under the paws. Clip around the genital areas. Use curved shears to shape the paws. Use straight shears to shape under the body and tail in a straight ascending line from the chest to the loin. Do not trim the ears or the hair on top of its head. Apply air serum all over the coat, to get that shine and to set its hair in the appropriate style. The hair on the head can be styled, either with a centre parting or on a side parting. Then set with styling spray. Spray a generous amount of pet perfume avoiding the face. Your Afghan hound is now ready for the show.

Few Everyday Tips for Maintenance • Always moisten the coat with grooming spray before brushing; • Ears should be either wrapped or snooded, while exercising or playing.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Aqua

Add More Colour 'n' Beauty to your Aquarium with Cichlids!

â&#x2013; By Dr Paul Fredrick

training centres and buy fitness gadgets to cope up with such situations. It may go well for a week, but fitness training is not a long time solution to everyday stress.

compared to the companionship of humans.

Many of you might have kept dogs and cats as pets. However, due to space constraint at home, and no one to take care, it becomes difficult to maintain them, thereby adding more stress and tension. An aquarium, therefore, comes across as the best option!

Why keep Pets?

That very much explains why the treadmills, cycles etc become drying stand for washed clothes after a few weeks. Now, the question arises, how can we overcome everyday stress and tension? The simple solution to this is by observing God. Confused? You all must have seen pictures of God. Have you ever observed the companions of God?

In the 21st century, stress is an important part and parcel of every one's life. There are many reasons for stress like job competition, peer pressure etc. This, in turn, culminates to sickness, phobias and loneliness. Most people join fitness

Lord Jesus is with a lamb; Lord Krishna is with cows; Muruga with peacock; Kali on the lion and so on and so forth. This clearly shows that our Gods also preferred the company of animals as

eeping an aquarium at home or office adds to the beauty. It is also considered lucky. However, zeroing-in on fish to breed in an aquarium puzzles many. Being an experienced doctor, my answer would be cichlids. They are the best choice. One can select from more than 300 species of aquarium cichlids. Read on to know more about cichlids and their breeding in an aquarium at home.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Keeping Aquariums is the Best Choice

An aquarium is comparatively easier to maintain and fish can de-stress you more than any other pet, and it is cheaper as well. A cichlid (pronounced as sick lid)is a fish from the cichlidae family. Some of

the famous varieties include Oscars, flowerhorn, fresh water angelfish, rainbow, firemouth, aurora, blue aqua, eureka, jack Dempsey, and marble cichlids.

Know More about Cichlids

• Cichlids have their habitat on the southern coasts of India. They are also found in almost every possible water body, within the geographical range, including rivers and lakes, swamps, ditches and puddles; • Cichlids are well-known for their parental care. All cichlids provide parental care in one form or another. This is not the norm for most of the other fish species. It is typically the male fish that provide parental care (in contrast to humans); • Few species among cichlids are substrate spawners; they lay their eggs on the ground or on the leaves or logs.Parental care consists of guarding the eggs, fanning them to provide oxygenated water, and then caring for the young ones (called Wrigglies), who eventually become free swimming fry. Length of parental care may extend up to weeks or even months. Most substrate spawners are bi-parental (both parents take care); • Some cichlids are Haremic, where each female fish lays her eggs in her own care, in the territory of a male fish. Female provides care for her young ones, whereas the male protects the entire territory from other males and predators; • Another unique feature of cichlids is that they are mouth brooders. The

females lay their eggs, but rather than sticking them to the substrate, she picks them up in her mouth. Then, the male fertilises them, in her mouth and the eggs remain there for sometime, till hatching is done. Some species are female mouth brooders, while a few are male mouth brooders also.

Cichlids, Most Preferred by Aquarists There are three main factors for the popularity of this specie. These are: • Easy to keep; • Their varieties; • Observing them is interesting and peaceful.

Setting up an Aquarium for Cichlids Follow these steps to set up the right aquarium for your fish: • 30"X12"X12" aquarium is sufficient • 20-25 lbs of gravel(avoid fluorescent colours) • 100-150 litres of water • Hand net • Air pump • Back colour paper • Plastic plants • Sponge filter • Broken clay flower pot (to hold the eggs) • Gravel suction device • Floating thermometer • White scrub aquarium heater • Tetra flakes food

Breeding Cichlids at Home Follow these simple steps to make your aquarium, a comfortable home for cichlids: • First, try to identify the female fish from the male fish. The female adult will have more of orange colour in the belly, which is rounded and has long fins. Males will be robust, with no orange; • Put both the male and female fish in the arranged tank. Initially, they may stay down because of the fear of humans. Later, they will come up and start swimming freely. Feed them regularly and get acquainted with them. In a few days, they will start recognising you; • It can take up to two to three months to nest. You can observe that they will start poking each other and there will be an eagerness to eat more; • Position the temperature to 72°F. Observe the fish everyday and one day you may seethe female settling down over the broken mud pot's upper surface; • Increase the temp to 80°F and watch for tiny bubble, like eggs; • You can observe the female swimming close to the eggs and waving her pectoral wings back and forth.She is fanning the eggs to hatch; • After sometime tiny black dots will appear inside the eggs and tadpole like young fry will come out of the eggs. Parent cichlids dig a pit in the gravel and place the fries in the drench; • Parents watch the pit alternately (one parent should be at the pit always) and after four days, the wrigglies will come out. The adults dig the gravel to bring up tiny food particles.You can add finely ground frozen brine shrimps or crushed flakes; • After a week,you can retrieve the fries and place them in another tank. Now, you know how to breed cichlids. It’s time to create beautiful aquarium with hundreds of cichlids swimming.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Your Pet & You

Importance of Buddies in Bobo’s Life! ■ By Bhakti Bhukhanwala & Trupti Zaveri

hile socialisation is a very broad term, it essentially refers to the process of teaching your dog how to function in today’s fast paced world. From learning how to get along with humans and other animals, to becoming comfortable in an assortment of environments, and even adapting to new situations, without fear or aggression, it is all based on the direct experience your pet will have with your help. Socialised dogs are more confident, secure, and generally less stress, which, ultimately, leads to a happier and healthier Bobo.

Mutt Hutt: Den for Socialising ‘Mutt Hutt – The Pet Café’ came about for this very same reason. After Bandit entered our lives in 2010, we realised that a visit to the vet was the highlight of our three month old pug’s day. This was because he loved meeting other pets and humans. Hence, addressing the basic need for safe and fun spaces for pets in Mumbai, we ventured out with our cause to make our cities more pet-friendly. In fact, it was Shirin Merchant, India’s premier canine behaviourist and trainer, who suggested we try our concept with one event initially. We jumped at the idea of a pop-up Pet Café and haven’t looked back, since February 2012. We truly believe that socialising is the key. It is important to make your pup experience meeting new people, other dogs, different sights, sounds, and tastes, along with engaging games, all with the help of a certified team of professionals.

Doubts in Pet Owners • “Isn’t my puppy too young or too old to socialise?” • “My dog already has issues with other

Creature Companion | July 2014

Photos : Courtesy Jyotsna Thaval

We truly believe that socialising is the key. It is important to make your pup experience meeting new people, other dogs, different sights, sounds, and tastes, along with engaging games, all with the help of a certified team of professionals

Creature Companion | July 2014

Your Pet & You dogs or people, so there is no point in trying;” • “My dog’s breed traditionally doesn’t do well with other dogs or breeds.” These are few of the common phrases we have heard from pet parents over time, when it comes to socialising their dogs. However, through experience we can say that none of these doubts have basis. Every dog has the possibility, and should get an opportunity to live a social life. Of course, there are always exceptions to be considered. These can be determined with the guidance of a canine behavioural consultant.

Coming back to point, no pet is too young or too old to socialise. Some dog trainers recommend puppy socialisation, as young as three weeks, stating that it begins at home. At this stage, it is limited to people and things sharing the same living space. Post immunisation, necessary shots and of course a ‘go ahead’ from your vet, three to four months old puppies, can have the world as their open playground. Similarly, with older dogs, all you need is patience and correct guidance. Rest will follow. If your dog has had problems socialising in the past, it may be because of various

reasons. Maybe the situation was not correctly introduced to him or the exposure may have been too sudden. Sometimes a meeting can be connected with a negative experience in the past, or simply your pet may not be feeling well at that time. You should always take professional help because socialisation is a lifelong process. It does not end with your pet’s training classes.

Safe Socialisation Practices Exposure to all new experiences should be positive and stress free. You can make it so, for your pet, by following the below pointers: • Respect your pets’ feelings and space. Let them approach new things on their own and let them take time to investigate. Don’t force or push, if they are at all reluctant; • Understand what your pet is conveying to you. Dogs communicate through body language and you can learn to read it over time, with correct guidance; • Ensure all new experiences are positive, followed by positive reinforcement in the form of treats or toys. Avoid situations, people and environments that you think might result in a less-than-happy experience for your new pet; • Lastly, just have fun! Your positive attitude towards new things is important for your pet too.

A Special Note to all Pet Parents

Creature Companion | July 2014

As much as it is important for your dog to socialise, it is equally important for us, as parents, to be socially responsible. We must train our dogs, primarily with the help of experienced professionals and continue the process ourselves, if we want a happy life with our pets. Socially responsible pet parents along with well socialised dogs can open up many avenues and opportunities. We have to be responsible if we want our country to be a pet-friendly one.

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NGO

PFA: Creating Wildlife Awareness • Wildlife is essential for the harmony of nature. We, at PFA have been instrumental in creating wildlife awareness, among public through programmes conducted at the knowledge centre in our shelter in Kengeri, be it for corporate staff, school or college students; • We, impart snake rescue training to people who quite often encounter snakes. We also teach them, how to handle snakes and not get afraid;

eople for Animals (PFA), Bangalore was launched in 1996 by Alpana Bhartia, Namrata Duggar, Gauri Mainihira and Arushi Poddar. Maneka Gandhi is the chairperson of the NGO. PFA works primarily on supporting harmony between humans and wildlife. It very well understands that animals also have the ability to experience pain. Therefore, they deserve basic rights of being protected from the pain and agony caused to them by humans.

Need for PFA With environmental tribulations such as withering habitat, animal sacrifices in plenty, animal cruelty, threat of extinction of wild species of vegetation, one can either express anguish or act to bring it to a standstill. PFA has chosen the latter. PFA acts. PFA is committed to protect and save the already threatened natural inheritance of our country. Our immediate concern is conservation of the urban wildlife in the city of Bangalore by providing quick, efficient aid to those animals that require it the most. For this, PFA has a 24-hour call-in-facility.

PFA for Wildlife PFA rescues an average of 200 wild

Creature Companion | July 2014

PFA works primarily on supporting harmony between humans and wildlife animals per month, in and around Bangalore city. These include endangered species, which are fighting for survival. Out of these, 75 percent are being successfully released into their natural habitat. We rescue reptiles like common cobras, Indian Rock Python, Rat Snake, Russell’s Viper. Birds like Kites, Parakeets, Eagles, Vultures, Barn Owls, Myna, Peafowls and mammals like Bonnet Macaque, Slender loris, Black Naped Hare, Black Buck and Fruit Bats.

What All We Do? PFA acts to save the wildlife in the following ways: • Our volunteers accompany the Forest Department Officials, on raids at pet shops, in godowns and on the streets and whereever wildlife is kept illegally. We also book cases against the offenders;

• Through our ongoing wildlife rescue and rehabilitation processes at the shelter, we deliver a message to the people that they can be a helping hand in whatever ways possible. They can either help by becoming animal caretakers, or by donating to the cause;

Associations of PFA To spread more awareness in Banglore, as well as in the entire nation, we have tied up with major corporate houses, schools etc to organise events. To name a few, corporates like Goldman Sacchs, Debeers and Amicorp have actively participated in our shelter enrichment activities. Schools like Mallya Aditi International School, Sri Sri Ravishankar Guruji Vidya Mandir and BGS International school have taken part in Wildlife Awareness Programmes at PFA.

Activities in PFA Few activities that have been carried out at the shelter are cage enrichment activities, vegetable-fruit cutting, feeding wild animals kept in care etc. We would be happy if you all could also indulge in such activities. Our expert wildlife rescue team would brief you about rescue/treatments/ rehabilitation,how important wildlife is and in what way you could contribute to save wildlife.

Pet Nutrition

Life-Stage Nutrition

Dr Anton C Beynen is affiliated with Vobra Special Petfoods. In the period of 19932007, he was professor of veterinary nutrition at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Canine and feline life-stage nutrition, in contrast to one complete diet for all ages, can be justified. Requirements of nutrients are greater for growth, compared with the maintenance phase. Thus, a complete diet contains nutrient levels, higher than needed by adult animals. Worth noticing, phosphorus intakes, required for growth, might be harmful for senior animals. There is suggestive evidence that nutrient supply affects risk of age-related disease. Adult animals might benefit more from extra intakes of vitamin E and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) than growing animals. Many pet food lines consist of puppy or kitten food, adult and senior foods. Few lines, take into account the relationship between age and nutrient requirements, and that between nutrient-mediated prevention of age-related diseases.

arious committees of experts have set the nutrient requirements of dogs and cats, as based on the available scientific literature. The US National Research Council uses the term recommended allowance, which is defined as the concentration or amount of a nutrient in a diet formulated to support a given physiological state. Thus, the allowances prevent nutrient deficiencies and sustain normal growth and development or the maintenance of body functions in adulthood. Nutrient requirements are best expressed per unit of food energy. The nutrient allowances for growing and adult animals have been fixed. In general, young growing pets need higher concentrations of nutrients in their food than do their

adult counterparts. Specific allowances for senior dogs and cats are not yet determined. Indirect evidence indicates that certain nutrient intakes lower or higher than the recommended allowances have health benefits. Without solid proof, deviation from the allowance is justified when it is safe and likely to be effective. Solid proof or disproof is obtained only through well-designed, long-term trials using different diets with the amount of nutrient under study as the sole variable. Reproducibility of the outcome should also be demonstrated. This communication focusses on the composition of foods. Portion size is also important for pet health. Restricted feeding regimens, so as to achieve

Front page of brochure: complete pet food for dogs of all life stages

or maintain ideal body condition of dogs may impair the development of osteoarthritis and cancer and increase life span.

Protein Cats need more protein in their diet than dogs. The graph also shows that the protein requirement of puppies is much higher than that of adult dogs. Kittens require slightly more protein than adult cats. The figures concern total dietary protein, providing the required amino acids and include a digestibility factor. Protein allowances for senior pets have not yet been established. In a singular study, geriatric dogs with surgicallyinduced chronic kidney disease, were

fed a diet with high- (19.4 g/MJ), instead of lower-protein level (10.4 g/MJ. High protein intake led to more severe kidney lesions. In another singular study, senior dogs appeared to require more protein (9.0 g/MJ) than the allowance for adult dogs (6.0 g/MJ), in order to maintain cellular protein contents. For the time being, the amount of dietary protein for senior dogs should be 50 percent higher, but no more, than that for younger, adult dogs. This notion should be applied to life-stage nutrition.

Calcium The recommended allowance of calcium is greater for growing (0.72 g/MJ) than for adult dogs (0.24 g/MJ). The amount of calcium is critical for puppies of large breeds. For young, growing Great Danes the ideal calcium level (0.47 g/MJ) appears lower than the recommendation; higher calcium intakes may induce skeletal disorders (osteochondrosis). Thus, an all-breed puppy diet should contain less calcium than the allowance.

Phosphorus The phosphorus allowance is higher for growing (0.60 g/MJ) than for adult dogs (0.18 g/MJ). The allowance for adult dogs is close to the minimum requirement that just prevents phosphorus deficiency. Low versus high phosphorus intake reduces the progression of chronic kidney

Recommended allowances of protein for growing and adult dogs and cats

Image of packaging: complete pet food for adult dogs as part of a life-stage line

disease in cats and dogs. It is feasible that low dietary phosphorus curbs chronic kidney disease, which typically develops in senior cats and dogs. Phosphorus concentrations in senior canine foods should approach the allowance for adult dogs, but not be lower.

Vitamin E In dogs, blood concentrations of vitamin E tend to fall with ageing. Furthermore, there is suggestive evidence that vitamin E supplementation counteracts the ageing-induced decrease in immunity, decrease in learning behaviour and the development of senile dementia. Fortifying senior foods with more vitamin E than the recommended allowance can be substantiated.

EPA A body of evidence indicates high EPA intake is effective in the treatment of joint disorders (osteoarthritis) and chronic kidney disease in dogs and cats. The effective EPA dose is much higher than the recommended allowance for adult dogs (14.5 mg/MJ) and cats (1.5 mg/MJ). Possibly, a preventive EPA effect is elicited by enrichment of adult and senior foods with a multiple of the recommended allowance. The requirements are expressed as grams (g) of crude protein per unit (MJ) of available food energy (1 Megajoule = 1000 kilojoules = 239 kilocalories). For converting the figures into the percentage protein in dry food (energy content = 1.5 MJ/100 g), multiplying by 1.5 is practical.

Dr Beynen will be writing this exclusive column on dog and cat nutrition and nutrition-related items every month.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Health & Wellness

Nutrition for healthy skin and coat The skin, sometimes known as the integumentary system is, in fact, the largest organ of the body. It has a complex structure, being composed of many different tissues. It performs many functions that are important in maintaining homeostasis in the body. The coat of the domestic dog refers to the hair that covers its body. A dog’s coat may be a double coat, made up of a soft undercoat and a coarser top coat, or a single coat, which lacks an undercoat. The terms fur and hair are often used interchangeably when describing a dog’s coat, however in general, a double coat, is referred to as a fur coat, while a single coat, like that of is referred to as a hair coat. Every hair in the dog coat grows from a hair follicle, which has a cycle of growing, then dying to be replaced by another follicle. When the follicle dies, the hair is shed. The length of time of the growing and shedding cycle varies by breed, age, and by whether the dog is an inside or outside dog. Coat replacement occurs in a mosaic pattern so there is no synchronized single period of hair shedding. Neighboring follicles are in different phases of the hair cycle at any one time. Domestic dogs tend to molt continuously throughout the year, with peaks of activity during spring and autumn. Various factors that affect hair growth in dogs are day length, ambient temperature, hormonal status, health status and Nutrition. In this article our main emphasis is on nutrition for healthy skin and coat. Many nutrient deficiencies may be associated with skin disorders,

but most produce a range of similar clinical signs. In general, nutrient deficiencies produce seborrheic skin changes that reflect impairment of the fundamental metabolic processes of keratinization, sebum production, and hair growth. A typical sign of a nutritional dermatitis includes, excessive scaling, erythema, alopecia or poor hair growth and greasy skin, often accompanied by secondary bacterial infection and pruritus. In addition to maintaining a balanced diet, supplementation with various nutrients can positively impact the overall health of the skin and prevent common disorders such as skin allergies and immune-related reactions. Dogs with dry skin and poor coats can benefit greatly from essential fatty acid supplementation, and this can be achieved either by supplementing which includes them at effective levels and at the correct ratio or by adding a safe proprietary supplement made especially for dogs & cats. It is generally believed that diets containing increased amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) result in improved canine skin and hair coat. Fatty acids generally fall into the classes of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid. Fatty acids which are not synthesized by dogs are considered as dietary essential and must be supplemented through food to avoid deleterious effect. Both omega 3 fatty acids and omega 6 fatty acids are essential for health. Research studies indicate that the optimal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids that

should be supplemented is to ratios of 10:1. Biotin is a member of the B vitamin family, and is of importance to the skin and coat since it is involved in the synthesis and metabolism of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) and fatty acids. This safe vitamin has no known side-effects and has been found to improve the condition of dry, itchy skin. A major biotin deficiency can result in alopecia. Venky’s pet is presenting new product ‘Glossy Coat Plus’ containing Omega6 & Omega3 fatty acid in ratio 10:1 & enriched with biotin. Slight deviations in nutrient intake can have significant, and very obvious, deleterious effects on the skin. Now a day’s many pet owners are inclined towards readily available pet foods. Therefore, question of deficiencies is to the minimal, though the skin and coat problem due to nutritional deficiencies arises. This may be due to reduced intake, defects in formulation and storage, nutritional bioavailability and individual needs of particular breed as well as ability to utilize nutrient. Therefore, irrespective of source of food of your pet, when supplemented with Venky’s ‘Glossy Coat Plus’ will ensure the healthy skin and coat.

For more details please contact: Mr Mohan S Nogja (AGM) Dr Sweeta Singh (Technical Executive) 020-66802033 or 07757004547 Venky’s Pet ( A Div. of BV Bio- Corp Pvt Ltd)

Health & Wellness

Hearing Inability in Dogs: An Overview ■ By Dr R Selvakkumar & Dr S Ganesh Kumar

ost of the illnesses, associated with our pets are easily recognised by external signs. However, some of them like deafness can be diagnosed by behavioural symptoms shown by pets. Deafness is a condition in which the animal lacks or has lost its ability to hear. It can either be complete or partial hearing loss. The complete deafness may be due to conditions, like wax buildup or excessive hair growth in the ear canals. Permanent hearing loss may result from untreated ear infections, congenital defects, old age and injuries. Congenital deafness is caused by developmental defects in the hearing apparatus. Even though this condition is present from birth, it is difficult to diagnose the problem until the puppy is old enough to respond to sound. If a dog has lost hearing in one ear, we may not notice the deafness.

Symptoms of Deafness • Impassive to daily sounds, and shows no response or gets confused, when given familiar vocal commands;

• Not woken by ear-splitting noise; • Barks excessively without any reason; • Paws its ears or appears to have itchy, painful ears; • Smelly discharge noticed from its ears.

• Unresponsive to its name;

Causes of Congenital and Acquired Deafness

• Unresponsive to the sounds of doorbell ringing, other dogs barking and high-pitched toys;

Deafness in dogs may be congenital or acquired. Developmental defects in the hearing apparatus by birth can result in the inability to hear.

Creature Companion | July 2014

Congenital deafness in dogs is permanent. Cases of congenital deafness is common in approximately 85 dog breeds. Some of these breeds are more susceptible to deafness than others. This condition is more prevalence in the Australian Cattle Dog, the Australian Shepherd, the Bull Terrier, the Dalmatian, the English Cocker Spaniel and the English Setter. Acquired deafness in dogs may be due to many reasons. Few of the conditions may be easily rectified with proper clinical and surgical management. Chronic ear

Excessive amount of wax, dirt, hair or other material plugging in the ear canal may also result in temporary deafness. Loud noise, head trauma and ear mites can also cause temporary deafness

testing the hearing ability, by making a sound, out of the view of your pet can give you an idea of the dog’s hearing status. However, such tests are not fruitful in dogs with partial hearing loss.

Treatment of Deafness There is no definitive cure for deafness in dogs. Infections and injuries may respond to anti-inflammatory medications or antibiotics, but the damage caused may be irreversible. Congenital deafness present in the dog cannot be treated. On the other hand, if the problem is due to some inflammatory condition, proper diagnosis and clinical management may be helpful to curtail the severity. infection and traumatic injury to the ear may lead to hearing problems. The most common cause of deafness is old age.

may also result in temporary deafness. Loud noise, head trauma and ear mites can also cause temporary deafness.

Some dogs, with acquired deafness have only partial hearing loss that may not be noticeable to the owner. Excessive amount of wax, dirt, hair or other material plugging in the ear canal

Most of the dog owners will not notice deafness at first, especially if it occurs gradually. The owners, who spend more time with their pets, can easily identify this problem in the initial stage. Simply

Diagnosing Deafness in Dogs

If the deafness is due to wax build-up in his ears, your veterinarian may help to clean the ears. Routine ear care can help prevent ear infections. Extra care is needed in dogs with pendulous or floppy ears. Dogs with known deafness should never be bred. However, even breeding of two healthy dogs with normal hearing can produce deaf offspring.

RNI NO. UPENG/2008/26403