Pets Magazine - 77th Issue

SINGAPORE’S LEADING MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS THE ONLY AUDITED PET MAGAZINE IN SINGAPORE petsmagazine.com.sg

Bickering.

Brawls.

And Big Love.

Paul Foster on his new life with three cats and one bear-like dog

THE INCLUSIVITY ISSUE Extraordinary pet owners who welcome a diverse mix of animals into their family, be they furry, fanged or feathered

Spa-cial treatment

Pet pampering facilities, tried and tested

Ice, Ice, Baby

Simple recipes for frozen treats

Hot Topic

To shave or not to shave?

ISSN 1793-7736 S$5.00 9 771793 773006

All good things come in threes - or even fours at Happy Dog!

The Happy Dog Natural Life Concept

HAPPY DOG

NATURAL

LIFE CONCEPTÂŽ

Dogs are descended from wolves and this was the starting point for our Happy Dog Natural Life Concept. But we have also adapted it to the needs of modern dogs. Scientifically proven, it provides your dog with a nutritionally balanced combination of vital ingredients to support optimum and species-appropriate metabolism.

The right amount of meat

TATEN AU ZU

UR B YERN A

S

N

AT

ER SD

BEST E

Premium quality meat and valuable animal proteins are the most important components of our pet food. In our Happy Dog dry food, the proportion of meat and animal protein in the overall protein content is up to 90%.

Fresh and natural from Bavaria

We could purchase our raw ingredients sustainably and at a good price from anywhere.

But many of our raw ingredients come freshly from our home region around Wehringen in beautiful Bavaria.

Getting off to a good start

The way to a puppy’s heart is through the stomach. With the Happy Dog heart-shaped loops, you are giving your little darling what he needs right from the start. Premium quality puppy food that is easy to chew and easier to digest than conventional kibble.

Happy Dog Products

Happy Dog Supreme Mini

o Small biscuits for small breeds o With valuable animal proteins – perfectly balanced o For small dogs up to 10kg at any stage of life

Happy Dog Supreme Young o For a great start in life ! o Unique heart-shaped loop for easier chew & digestion

Happy Dog Supreme Mini Sensible

o Small kibbles for small dogs o Ideal for dogs with food or other sensitivities o Exclusive meat for anyone who wants to feed their pets something special o Adult – for small sensitive dogs up to 10kg

Happy Dog Supreme Sensible

o Ideal for dogs with food or other sensitivities o Exclusive meat for anyone who wants to feed their pets something special o Adult – for sensitive dogs from 11kg For more information: www.happydogsg.com | www.happycatsg.com www.facebook.com/happydogsingapore | www.facebook.com/happycatsingapore

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LIFESTYLE 16 THE IN THING The latest and hottest products and services in the pets industry, spanning from ‘needs’ to ‘wants’ 24 TRENDING TREATS Get ready for Spring with these sunny lifestyle products

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26 TRIED AND TESTED – PRIMP AND PAW-PER Our readers share their trusted dog spa facilities 32 PET-FRIENDLY VENUE – FREE TO ROAM The expansive green field surrounding Wheeler’s Estate makes it a delightful space for frolicking pups

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june-august 2019

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44 54 58

PEOPLE & PETS 36 COVER PERSONALITY – PAUL FOSTER The animal lover on starting a new chapter of his life – with three cats and a dog 44 FEATURE – MENAGERIE MADNESS Extraordinary pet owners who welcome a diverse mix of animals to create their unique little families 50 PETPARAZZI Pet and people in the news from around the world

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WELLNESS 54 BODY AND SOUL – HAIRY BUSINESS To shave or not to shave? That is the question 58 PET NUTRITION A family's happy promise 60 PET PANTRY – COOL COMFORT Three-ingredient recipes for easy frozen dog treats 64 ASK THE EXPERT 66 TOGETHER TIME – COOL SPOTS FOR HOT DOGS Cool activities at indoor facilities perfect for sweltering summer days 68 TOP DOG – BASENJI 70 FANCY FELINE – SPHYNX 72 FEATHERY FRIEND – BUDGIE 74 SMALL WONDER – ROBOROVSKI DWARF HAMSTER 76 MARINE PARADE – GHOST SHRIMP 78 BEEN THERE, DONE THAT

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SINGAPORE’S LEADING MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS

PUBLISHER Ho Sum Kwong (sk.ho@petsmagazine.com.sg) EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Koh Yuen Lin (yuenlin.koh@petsmagazine.com.sg) DESIGN CONSULTANT Keris Wee (chris@olivegrin.com) DIGITAL MEDIA & OPERATIONS MANAGER Vince Wong (vince.wong@petsmagazine.com.sg) STYLIST CK Koo PHOTOGRAPHERS Denise Oh, Nicholas Koh, Sherman See-Tho, Vernon Wong, Zaph Zhang EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Ashutosh Ravikrishnan, CK Koo, Denise Oh, Gwen Li, Joshua Tan, Meredith Lin, Nicholas Koh, Russell Chan IT & DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Jun Evangelista (jun.evangelista@petsmagazine.com.sg)

www.petsmagazine.com.sg www.facebook.com/PETSmag www.twitter.com/petsmagazine www.youtube.com/PETSmagazine www.instagram.com/petsmagazinesg

SINGAPORE’S LEADING MAGAZINE FOR PET LOVERS THE ONLY AUDITED PET MAGAZINE IN SINGAPORE petsmagazine.com.sg

Bickering.

Brawls.

And Big Love.

1

06/01/2010

10:26 AM

JUN / AUG 2019

ISSN 17937736_00_00.pdf

Paul Foster on his new life with three cats and one bear-like dog

THE INCLUSIVITY ISSUE petsmagazine.com.sg MCI (P) 153/03/2019

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO MATERIAL MAY BE REPRODUCED IN PART OR IN WHOLE WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT FROM THE PUBLISHER. VIEWS AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN PETS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE PUBLISHER OR THE EDITORS. ALTHOUGH REASONABLE CARE HAS BEEN TAKEN TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY AND OBJECTIVITY OF THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS PUBLICATION, NEITHER THE PUBLISHER, EDITORS AND THEIR EMPLOYEES AND AGENTS CAN BE HELD LIABLE FOR ANY ERRORS AND OMISSIONS, NOR ANY ACTION TAKEN BASED ON THE VIEWS EXPRESSED OR INFORMATION PROVIDED WITHIN THIS PUBLICATION. PRINTED BY IMAGE PRINTERS PTE LTD L025/09/2018

THE INCLUSIVITY ISSUE Extraordinary pet owners who welcome a diverse mix of animals into their family, be they furry, fanged or feathered

Spa-cial treatment

Pet pampering facilities, tried and tested

Ice, Ice, Baby

Simple recipes for frozen treats

Hot Topic

To shave or not to shave?

ISSN 1793-7736

S$5.00 9 771793 773006

00 cover jun-aug2019 final.indd 1

PETS MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY PETS MEDIA & MARKETING PTE LTD REGISTERED AT 11, YISHUN INDUSTRIAL STREET 1, #07-92 NORTH SPRING BIZHUB SINGAPORE 768089.

MCI (P) 153/03/2019

25/6/19 9:56 PM

FROM THE TEAM

All Things Under The Sun A

member of the Pets magazine team recently adopted a shelter pup, and was only too excited to share the news with her friends. The third-time dogmum confesses: “I might have announced his arrival to more people than when my kids were born!”

To animal lovers, pets are indeed like family. And we love our family unconditionally, without prejudice. While we fully understand that people have their preferences – be it for big dog breeds that are regally handsome, exotic feline species that call to mind mythical legends from faraway lands, or even psychedelic aquatic pets that bring a dazzling pop of colour to one’s everyday life; we also applaud those with such a big love for animals that they welcome one and all into their embrace, be they furry, feathered or scaled.

So, this issue, we put the spotlight on these extraordinary pet owners – for their dedication and undying love, and for showing that it is possible to overcome all manner of differences with love. After all, we are a nation that celebrates diversity and integration – so why not start at home, with our pet fam?

As we head into the hottest time of the year, we’ve also put together a list of ideas to beat the heat: from spa treatments and indoor facilities to three-ingredient frozen treats that you can easily whip up at home. Enjoy the lineup of fun snips and inspiring long reads we have prepared for you – and may they inspire you to create plenty of precious moments with your pet this Summer.

Pets Magazine Team

petsmagazine.com.sg

CONTRIBUTORS

contributors < Meredith Lin When not hunched over typing out animal tales, Meredith can be found gambolling across sandy shores with her pup and scavenging for treats — both for herself and pet.

Gwen Li > Gwen graduated with a degree in Sociology and has spent the past eight years building communities in different industries. When not lobbying her husband to adopt a cat, she spends time in the kitchen cooking up storms.

Saba Kash > Saba is a Singaporean-born Persian with great adoration for animals. You can usually find her playing with her ginger Persian cat Charlie, who loves to get up to all kinds of shenanigans.

< CK Koo CK is sought after by fashion houses and magazines alike for his ability to put together timeless looks. When he isn’t styling shoots or conducting masterclasses, CK is a dedicated parent to his beloved senior dog.

Nicholas Tan > A freelance photographer who enjoys shooting travel and documentary projects, Nicholas cherishes his free time playing ‘tennis’ with his two rescued dogs, Abbey and Witty.

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LIFESTYLE

Inside â&#x20AC;˘ Everything new and trending, from Needs and Wants to hangout spots

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IN THING

IN THING

BY MEREDITH LIN

Up, up, and away!

Ever wondered how celebrities like Lewis Hamilton and Chrissy Teigen are able to traipse around the world, with their pooches by their side? Two magic words: Private. Jet. Now, one private jet service provider has upped the ante with a dedicated programme just for your pet, be it furry, feathered or scaly.

VistaJet’s new global pet travel programme, VistaPet, is designed in collaboration with experienced veterinary practitioners, groomers, and dietitians, the programme aims to provide a seamless experience for your pet. Pooches on board will receive a Kibble Pet’s Travel Care Kit that contains goodies ranging from waterfree shampoos to rope toys. When it is time for chow, pick from a menu of roast tenderloin, baked salmon, and roasted chicken to go with roasted vegetables – each dish specially developed to provide a balanced meal. Time to sleep? Cosy up with your pet, who gets to sleep next to you on luxurious handmade Labbvenn mats.

If you’re worried about your pet being fearful for flying, VistaJet

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even provides flying courses for dogs to help with the de-sensitisation process. The friendly customer service team can also help in checking for pet-friendly travel destinations and hotels, so you don’t have to do the legwork yourself if you’re time-starved. Enticed? Just get your cheque book and be ready to sign away a few hundred grand for VistaJet’s jet card programme, which starts at 50 hours per year, with hourly rates starting at US$12,000. vistajet.com/pets

Stylo-Milo Keep your pup comfortable in this stylish collar, crafted from natural hemp. This classic 3-strand rope collar is extra durable, and is hand-spliced with whipped ends for a stylish touch. Comes in fashionable shades of magenta, blue, slate, dusty pink and grey.

Classic 3 Strand Rope Necklace from www.wigglywoos.com

Winning The Tug-O-War Take your pet on a stress-free walk with this new harness by Italian brand Cortina. Months of extensive research have gone into making this harness as comfortable for your pet as possible: think no stitching on the edges or any scraping surface in contact with the skin. Crafted from a tough and tear-resistant material called EcPolymer, it is also a hardy piece that is as suited for mountain hikes as it is for navigating the concrete jungle.

Coralpina Dog Harness, from Pet Lovers Centre

Cool Spot Quench your pupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thirst while adding a stylish element to your house at the same time. This X-shaped wooden bowl stand crafted entirely from treated wood is not just pleasing to the eye, but easy to assemble to boot. Comes with a stainless steel drinking bowl for your pup (or kitten) as well.

Xandro Natural Wooden Bowl Stand, from wooferandpurrlensky.com

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IN THING

Forager’s Feast Let your dog sniff out his favourite treats in this pretty ceramic bowl with a woodland theme. The flora motif etched onto the bowl makes it a super cute piece to have – especially for pooches that cannot keep their noses out of shrubs and bushes!

Woodland Flower Dog Bowl, mungoandmaud.com

#InstaFood Foodies, this one’s for you. Keep your pet — and yourself — entertained with the Barkshop’s range of delicious plush toys. Cosy up with a venti-sized cup of Hazelnutt Latte, with a generous swirl of whipped cream, and pair it with a scrumptious (and adorable) Fish Taco plush toy.

Barkshop plush toys, available from gooddogpeople.com

Itadakimas!

Indulge your pup with a Japanese “feast” that won’t upset their tummies at the same time. This adorable sushi stuffed toy from P.L.A.Y is made for food-curious pups and cats. Made with a double-layered exterior for durability, it also has a cotton rope for you to engage in a little game of tug-of-war with your pet. Machine-washable and dryer-friendly.

Spot’s Sushi Plush Toy, from shop.vanillapup.com

Luxurious Comforts Nothing beats curling under fluffy covers for a good night’s rest. Treat your pet to the same comforts with this gorgeous blanket. Made from a silky, soft faux fur on one side, and cotton terry on the other, it is perfect for both cool rainy nights and balmy evenings.

Wellington Cooling Blanket, from wooferandpurrlensky.com

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IN THING

Find That Rainbow Brighten up your hamster or guinea pig’s home with this new, colourful bedding from Carefresh!

The rainbow confetti-type shavings are pillowy soft, and designed with a 10-day odour control formula to suppress any sharp ammonia smell.

The bedding is also 99% dust-free, ensuring your pet lives in a cleaner, healthier home.

Carefresh colours small pet bedding, from Pet Lovers Centre

Good Night, Sweetheart Available in a chic palette of teal, dark grey, sand and navy, the new Chenille Bedding Collection is designed to complement any home décor. Our top pick: the doughnut-shaped design that looks perfect for pups to curl up in.

Dog Smart Chenille Bedding, from Pet Lovers Centre

Whet the Appetite Got a picky eater on your hands? Add a generous sprinkle of BARE meal-boosters to the dinner for a flavour and nutrient enhancement. Made from 100% natural ingredients, these meal toppers come in four umami-packed flavours – anchovies, beef liver, kombu and chicken – all mixed with omega-rich chia seeds.

BARE Meal Booster Dog Meal Mixer, rom gooddogpeople.com

Soup-er Time Saver Save these bottles of delicious bone broth for the days when you have to work late and find yourself short on time to prepare your pet’s dinner. These Wholesome Broths are slowly simmered for over 72 hours, with a splash of organic apple cider to coax out the good stuff from the bones. Packed with gelatin and calcium, these bone broths are nutritious and are easy-tomake. Available in Beef, Pork, Duck and Salmon flavours.

Bone Broth, from wholesomepaws.co

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO FEED HAPPY, HEALTHY DOGS & CATS

100% NATURAL

W I T H A D D E D V I TA M I N S & M I N E R A L S

IN THING Extra Strength Give your pet an immunity boost with Imperial Pet Co. deer velvet, which contains plenty of active ingredients and is a rich source of omega-3, glucosamine, amino acid and iron.

Good for lubricating your pet’s joints and relieving symptoms of hip dysplasia, while also promoting bone growth and increasing energy levels.

Imperial Pet Co. Deer Velvet, from wholesomepaws.co

Made with Love Give your pet a treat with these tasty cookies from British brand, Wagg. Made with real peanut butter and mashed bananas, these ovenbaked sweet treats are bound to disappear in just one bite! Enriched with vitamins and minerals so your pet gets a healthy boost, too.

Wagg’s Oven-Baked Cookies (Peanut Butter and Banana), from Pet Lovers Centre

Ready, set, smile!

Here’s a dental chew that’s a treat, not a chore.

Get your pet’s teeth squeaky clean with this tasty stick made from natural ingredients such as algae, fennel and coconut oil. The unique spongy texture of the chew helps remove hard-to-reach plaque at your pet’s gumline, and is also suitable for sensitive stomachs when consumed.

Woof Brush Dental Chew from Lily’s Kitchen, available from Pet Lovers Centre

Crunchy Goodness Fish is often thought of as food for cats, but they are chockful of goodness for doggies too! The latest addition to Fish 4 Dogs’ range of Ocean Wraps treats – Banana Wrap Treats – is made with dehydrated bananas wrapped in crisp fish skin. Sweet, umami-packed and crunchy to boot, these treats are tasty and great for cleaning your pet’s teeth.

Fish 4 Dogs Sweet Ocean Wraps Banana, available from Pet Lovers Centre

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TRENDING treats

, Sun s Out, Pets Out!

Hit the beach this summer and shoot the sea breeze with your pet. We round up stylish beach essentials for both you and your pet. BY MEREDITH LIN

Fun In The Sun Send your pup flying across the sand with this doughnutshaped delight. Designed with an erratic bounce and high-floating qualities, to ensure your dog gets endless hours of playing fetch with this toy.

Air Squeaker Donut S$26.75, from Pet Lovers Centre

Arm Candy We know that feeling: you wish your furry best friend could be by your side where ever you go. Make it a reality with the custom service from Hoop and Loop which allows you to have the likeness of your pet embroidered on T-shirts, bags and even pillow cases.

Our top pick for the summer season: this beach bag made with brushed cotton canvas. Fully machinewashable, the heavy-duty bag comes with a zip opening and sturdy carry handles.

Heavy Duty Contrast Cotton Tote Bag S$150, from hoopnloop.co.uk

Buckle Up! Keep your pet from bumping about the car while you’re driving to the beach! This stylish seatbelt will keep your pet securely strapped in, with a simple clasp that is attachable to your pet’s harness.

Leighton Pet Seatbelt S$27, from wooferandpurrlensky.com

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Pick-Me-Up Comb the beach in style with this wool-and-leather poop bag dispenser. Designed with a snap button closure for an easy change of refill rolls, this dispenser also attaches easily to leash rings, belt loops and bags.

Noi Poop Bag Dispenser For Dogs S$29, from gingerandbear.com.sg

Paw-fect Balm Soothe your pet’s paws with this nourishing balm enriched with shea butter, beeswax and aloe vera. Perfect for preventing cracked pads after a gallop across sun-kissed sandy shores.

Quatre Pattes Paw Balm S$29, from mungoandmaud.com

Soaps And Suds Salt water is a treat for your pet’s fur, but an extra shampoo after a day out at the beach helps wash those grains of sand out. Treat your pet to a soothing massage with this moisturising dog shampoo, made with neem seed and peppermint.

The lovely woody scent with citrus notes will have you going in for extra cuddles!

Essential Dog Neem Shampoo S$27, from wholesomepaws.co

Thirst Quencher What is a day out with sand and sea without a healthy dose of sun? But sunny weather also means your pet will get thirsty fast. Quench your pet’s thirst with this portable water bowl, made from a foldable canvas material that holds its shape with a leather-and-stud closure. Available in Deep Green or Grey.

Melo Foldable Travel Bowl For Dogs S$78, from gingerandbear.com.sg Sunny Stripes-Up How do you make sure you won’t lose your pet at the beach? Wear his (or her) face on you, of course!

This comfy crewneck T-shirt comes in a bright striped pattern, made from cooling cotton that promises to wick away sweat.

S$159, from hoopnloop.co.uk

Scrub-A-Dub-Dub Keep your car sand- and mud-free with this portable and noise-free washing brush. Simply fill with warm water, and scrub away icky mud stains on your car seat or floor. Bonus points for being environmentally-friendly and using less water than a hose or water jet.

Portable Mud Washing Brush S$89.90, from all Pet Lovers Centre stores

Eyes And Ears It’s no secret how sand gets everywhere. Keep your pets itchfree with these calming wet wipes that contain aloe vera, green tea, and calendula. Suitable for eyes, ears, and adorable button noses.

Mes Petites Lingettes S$13.30, from mungoandmaud.com

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tried and tested

primp and paw-per

Pamper your canine friend with the luxe services offered by these spa-tecular dog groomers and wellness centres. JOSHUA TAN

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help you tidy up at the end of a session. Owners are most welcome to watch the grooming process, which takes an hour for the basic grooming package, and two to three hours for the full package— although durations vary, depending on the coat condition, size and temperament of your dog. But of course, you could also take this hour to Netflix and chill!

Years in operation 4

t Comfor s e of Hom Likeable Pets www.likeablepets.com WhatsApp/Tel: 8685 2360 Taking your precious fur babies out for a grooming appointment can be challenging, especially if you barely have time for your own TLC. Likeable Pets solves this problem by bringing the pet grooming salon to your doorstep. All you need to do is drop the service’s founder Alex Chew a WhatsApp message and he – or another certified dog groomer – will work with you to schedule a session. This certainly takes out the waiting time at the groomers and the transportation woes!

On your end, you will just need to provide a bath towel for your pooch, and a working space for the groomer, with an accessible power outlet for the grooming equipment. If your dog has a special skin issues, you should also supply a suitable shampoo. Worried about the mess?

Likeable Pets’ expertly trained groomers will

Service Capacity 3-4 doggy clients per day, per groomer

Unique service(s) All treatments and services are carried out in the comfort of the pet owner’s home.

Price range Basic grooming packages for small dogs start at $60, while full grooming packages start at $90, the final price depends on the dog’s size and location. Transportation fees start at $30.

Loyal Customer Lauren Alexa, 29, Fashion Stylist Owner of a 10 year-old rescued ex-breeding dog Nala, a four yearold Toy Poodle Effie, and a three year-old rescued paraplegic dog named Max. A customer since 2015.

“I started using Likeable Pets’ services four years ago and have never been disappointed. Alex is very accommodating and works my dogs’ personalities and behavioural issues – and he is fearless even with the most difficult of dogs. Effie is such a little troublemaker and yet Alex manages to groom her with ease, something I find very impressive. My dogs always go for the full dog grooming package as it includes fur trimming and styling on top of the usual nail clipping, ear cleaning, teeth brushing, bath and blow dry that the basic package offers. Each of my dogs gets groomed four times a year.”

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tried and tested

Years in operation 7

Capacity 12-14 dogs on weekdays, and 16-20 on weekends.

Water ss Wellne

Canine Wellness & Rehab Centre www.caninewellness.com.sg 224 Telok Kurau Rd (Lor L) Uni Building, #01-05 Singapore 423836 Tel: 6440 0487 (enquiries) / 9299 2950 (appointment booking) Owners who can’t bear to see their pooch suffer the muscle and joint aches that might come with aging, fret not. Canine Wellness & Rehab Centre is home to a heated, hydrotherapy pool and is dedicated to the therapeutic use of water for your dog’s wellbeing.

Canine hydrotherapy has many benefits, including post-surgery rehabilitation, relieving muscle and joint problems, as well as for overall relaxation and improved quality of life.

At Canine Wellness, each session lasts 30 minutes and includes physical therapy – plus a light massage. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual dog. Owners are welcome to swim with their dogs, too! Fur parents are also encouraged to provide a detailed medical history from the vet, so that their therapists can assess the right approach. Your dog will be monitored and guided throughout the session by the therapist, while wearing a life jacket. After each treatment, the centre also keeps records of your dog’s progress.

The centre also provides services like the Dead Sea Mud Spa and Infrared Light Therapy. The mud spa uses natural ingredients enriched with aloe vera and plant extracts to soothe your dog’s skin – a much welcome treat for Fido who just can’t resist playtime in the sun. The infrared therapy can also be added to the mud spa or done as a standalone treatment – it relieves aches and pains in the muscles and joints, while promoting blood circulation and tissue healing.

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Animal-to-staff ratio Each therapist can handle one to two dogs at a time for treatments, while showers and blowdrying are done on a one-on-one basis.

Unique service(s) Owners are allowed to accompany their dogs during treatment at no extra charge.

Price range Infrared Light Therapy costs $20 for dogs of all sizes, while other treatments like the Hydrotherapy start at $58 per session, depending on the size of the dog.

Loyal Customer Chrystal Ng, 28, Market Research Executive Owner of Bingo, a 14-year-old Dachshund.

A customer since 2018 “I’ve sent my dog to Canine Wellness & Rehab Centre about eight times so far! Bingo has arthritis, which is not uncommon for his age. Our vet recommended that Bingo try hydrotherapy to ease the joint pains. Now, he has a session every two months. It was through Canine Wellness that we had our first encounter with canine hydrotherapy, and we are glad as the centre has a lovely and relaxing atmosphere. Both Diana and Sharon are wonderful in handling my old, grumpy Bingo. Truthfully, everyone at Canine Wellness warmly welcomes and loves every dog that walks through their doors.”

The Wicked Wag www.wickedwag.com 77 Indus Road, #01-511 Singapore 160077 Tel: 6252 7717 Mobile: 9776 4316 Email: info@wickedwag.com

Animal-to-staff ratio

Scente d Canine s

Many dog owners treat their pups like their own flesh and blood, and this is the philosophy The Wicked Wag believes in. When Founder Fiona adopted Ford, a poodle-schnauzer mix, she wanted to find the perfect groomer. She eventually met grooming guru Kumiko, who trained extensively in Japan and Australia. It was a marriage of minds and The Wicked Wag was born. A certified animal therapist from the Japan Society of Animal Specialty Education, Kumiko has over a decade of grooming experience under her belt. One who has worked with many animals, Kumiko has the innate ability to tell a dog’s temperament and is able to deliver fine grooming while keeping your pet at ease.

The Wicked Wag recommends their aromatherapy Salt Bath for a range of common dog ailments. If your dog needs to relax, their signature lavender formulation promotes relaxation, kills bacteria, enhances healthy and shiny fur growth as well as acts as a natural anti-itch remedy. The Wicked Wag also offers day care and dog hotel services, for parents who need to travel or attend to errands.

Years in operation 4

Capacity 5-8 dogs on a weekday, and 10-15 dogs on weekends

They can attend to three to four dogs every two hours and around two to three staff members are present in the salon at any time.

Unique service(s) Wicked Wag provides aromatherapy dog spas using non-harsh, paraben-free, all-natural ingredients like therapeutic grade essential oils.

Price range Basic grooming starts from $40 while a Salt Bath includes sea salts and essential oils like lavender or sandalwood, and costs upwards of $20.

Loyal Customer Aivee Ng, 39, Administrative Executive Owner of Snowy, an eight year-old Miniature Schnauzer A customer since 2015.

“I’ve lost count on the number of times I’ve sent Snowy to The Wicked Wag! I especially love the aromatherapy dog spa treatments using organic, therapeutic grade essential oils such as a very soothing lavender. Snowy usually goes to TWW once every two to three months for grooming, spa treatments and sometimes day care when I am on holiday or staycation. The staff at TWW are incredibly professional in handling Snowy as well as my requests. Kumiko always delivers to grooming style I ask for and gives me suggestions whenever I have questions about Snowy.”

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Years in operation 2

Capacity

Pictur e Pa w - F e ct Pawfessional Pet Care 1026 Sembawang Road Singapore 758499 Tel: 6481 3168 WhatsApp: 9383 0169 Email: hello@pawfessional.sg Specialising in dog grooming, the individuals behind Pawfessional Pet Care started out competing in dog shows such as the Singapore Kennel Club Championship and shows organised by Fédération Cynologique Internationale. This hobby led to the opening of the family-owned business. It’s no surprise, since founder Mr Chau Yat Wah and his son Hutch are experienced with dogs and enjoy sharing dog care tips with enthusiastic customers.

Sited on Sembawang Road, Pawfessional Pet Care is a day care, grooming and spa services dedicated to dogs. Its basic grooming package includes a suite of services, among them a bubble bath, brushing and blow drying, ear cleaning and even a general health evaluation. The full grooming package includes trimming and styling, on top of what the Basic package offers.

In addition, Pawfessional also offers a menu à la carte services for pups that might require certain specialised services like deticking or de-matting. And if you fur kid needs a relaxing time, Pawfessional’s signature spa treatments will deliver the perfect treat.

The AYU Herb Spa treatment uses an all-natural herbal treatment designed for dry or oily skin, dandruff, inflammation, bald spots and more! After the spa session, your fur kid will be left with clean, soft fur that repels insects for up to two weeks. There is also the Jacuzzi Hydrotherapy Spa treatment which combines warmth, massage and aromatherapy to relax and invigorate your pooch.

Up to 25 dogs a day, depending on the package type.

Animal-to-staff ratio Each groomer takes care of one dog at a time.

Unique service(s) Pawfessional Pet Care has been competing in dog shows for many years and they specialise in grooming Shiba Inus, Toy Poodles, and Chihuahuas.

Price range Basic grooming costs upwards of $40 while the full grooming package starts at $70.

Loyal Customer

Sukie Wong, 30, HR Operations Specialist Owner of Toffee, an 18 month-old Cavoodle A customer since 2018.

“We started sending Toffee to Pawfessional Pet Care around August last year. Toffee goes there almost weekly for a Bubble Bath and enjoys a good Dead Sea Mineral Mud Treatment and Basic Grooming once a month. We also pamper him with a Full Grooming session every two months. Pawfessional uses products that smell good and last for days. Toffee’s coat has been kept so soft and healthy. Everyone there is friendly and makes us feel special—not just like another customer. In fact, they always offer advice when we have problems or questions regarding dog care.”

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pet-friendly venue

Free to Roam

Singapore might not have rolling meadows, but the expansive green field surrounding Wheeler’s Estate is a delightful space for frolicking pups.

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY: NICHOLAS KOH

I

n a country as crowded as Singapore, it is nice to find peaceful oases on the fringes of the island. Wheeler’s Estate, the sister cafe to the wildly-popular Wheeler’s Yard, is situated in such a corner of Singapore. Perched atop a gentle hill in the middle of an expansive open field, the two-storey black-and-white building harks back to colonial times of Singapore in the early 1900s.

THE AMBIENCE It was a quiet, balmy Friday afternoon when my pups, Abbey and Witty, and I dropped by Wheeler’s Estate for a spot of lunch.

Abbey and Witty immediately took to the big green field, which they had all to themselves since it was a weekday afternoon. The area does get crowded over the weekends and on holidays, and is a good place to head to if you’re looking to socialise your dogs, make new furry friends, or simply just be a puppy paparazzi. Nurse a milky latte or treat yourself to a large breakfast while doing so.

I took my place at the edge of the seating area so my dogs, on their extended leashes, could roam around the field while I was tucking into lunch. While Singapore’s weather is known to be humid, the dining area was breezy, with large fans circulating the air and a retractable tarp for a roof.

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FOOD, DRINK (& FUN!) We got the Super Bowl Salad (S$24) to start — a big bowl of pumpkins, broccoli, kale, dates and cashews tossed with a zesty lemon dressing. Not only is it a refreshing starter for the humans, it is also perfect for getting in your dog’s daily dose of greens!

If some comfort grub is what you’re after, sink your teeth into the Bad Hombre Burger (S$28). The generously-sized (a whole 200-grams) patty made from New Zealand beef mince is grilled to perfect juiciness, topped with sweet caramelised onions, fiery jalapenos, a slice of Provolone cheese, and a lovely fried egg complete with a golden yolk. It also comes with a hearty portion of Thunder Crunch fries, which definitely lives up to its name!

Wheeler’s Yard doesn’t have pet-specific menus, but the 350-gram serving of Nagano Pork Cutlet (S$36) seems a wholesome treat that can be easily cut into bite-sized pieces for dogs – just ask for it to be done without salt. The

tender, juicy meat comes grilled on the bone (another plus!), with colcannon potatoes and a solitary onion ring that we wolfed down quickly before it got to the pups.

Mains vary from $20 all the way to $150 for a giant Tomahawk Steak to share, with the usual assortment of sides. Weekend brunch mains are between $20-25. Portions come slightly larger than average, so bring your appetite!

The compound that Wheeler’s Estate sits on is generous, and gives patrons ample space to appreciate the scenery. There’s also a full restaurant located on the second floor, and the cafe turns into a pub in the evenings, with live music accompanying your dinner and drinks. The Estate even hosts a monthly movie screening at the open field under the night sky!

ACCESSIBILITY Chances are, if you’re ferrying your pup around, you’d be taking some form of private transport. The parking space here is ample, but Wheeler’s Estate is also public transportation-friendly! Service number 103 from Yishun/Serangoon Interchanges or 117 from Punggol/Sembawang Interchanges ply the main road directly outside Wheeler’s Estate. From the main road, it’s about a 3-minute slow walk to the café. q

PET-FRIENDLINESS Wheeler’s Estate has a beautiful lawn for your pets to amble about while you dine on your breakfast. Furry friends should be kept on an extended leash, as the field is not an enclosed area! Unfortunately, they do not have a petspecific menu, though there’s nothing to stop you from sharing some tasty morsels off your platter!

Wheeler’s Estate 2 Park Lane, Singapore 798386 Closed on Mondays.

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people and pets

Inside â&#x20AC;˘ Paul Fosterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal animal crusade and other extraordinary owners with multi-breed pet families

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cover story

Reigning Catsand

a Dog

Blue suit: BOSS

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Paul Foster wants pet owners to spread their love and integrate more pets into their household â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and is setting the example himself. BY GWEN LI

Photography: Zaph Zhang/ The Republic Studios | Assistant photographer: Sherman See-Tho Styling: CK | Grooming: Zoel Tee, using Laura Mercier & Hanz de Fuko

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Maroon sweater, navy blue bermuda: COS

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F

“

irst up, the full disclosure: it took only FOUR HOURS to get the three cats and one dog in Paul Foster’s household to get into position for a full “family portrait”. In between was plenty of cajoling from Paul, and even more escaping, hiding and hissing from the cats. And the dog just wanted to steal the tennis balls our photographer uses to protect the legs of her light stand.

Yet we also have to consider that this big family is only three weeks-old at this point.

And while Paul will be the first to admit the moments of tension and show pictures of shredded fur – the aftermath of a brawl, they have also moments of bliss. Followers of Paul’s Instagram account @paulfosterrr would have seen his pictures of the entire pack crowding into the bathroom one morning. There was also the live video of the brood each in its own place at bedtime: six year-old Maine coon Moshi on top of the pillow of Paul’s girlfriend Joey; five year-old mixed Maine coon Bongo on Paul’s pillow; eight year-old calico cat Jewel finding her own space at the bottom part of the mattress; and two and a half year-old husky Bam Bam on the floor, at the foot of the bed.

“That’s the Utopia,” beams Paul proudly. “And we got there! Within three weeks!”

Getting to know you An entertainment industry veteran with a portfolio spanning acting, modelling and hosting, Paul Foster lends his celebrity muscle to many green initiatives. The World Wildlife Fund Earth Hour ambassador is also a Nespresso Tastemaker helping to create awareness about the brand’s “One Pod at A Time” campaign which highlights the continuous recycling of their pods. He is also spreading the word about Timberland’s long-standing reforestation initiative that has planted over 10 million trees worldwide.

He even has his own plastic waste clean-up initiative.

While searching for a place, we first looked at satisfying the dog’s needs, followed by that of the cats. The needs of the human occupants were placed last!

The strapping 39 year-old Singaporean with a megawatt grin is not just a greenie though. For the last five years, he has been an ambassador for Singapore largest no-kill shelter Animal Lovers League. He has helped to organise and host the inaugural and latest editions of the Best Friends Animal Adoption Day – an annual event that brings together multiple animal welfare groups across the island to help create awareness on their rescue, foster and sheltering efforts. Among many other animal welfare initiatives, he also supports #hottoadopt – a local social media campaign that spotlights the benefits of adoption through, well, good-looking pet-adopters who aren’t shy to bare some skin for the camera.

Paul became a proud pet-adopter five years ago when he first visited the facilities of Animal Lovers League. He found himself drawn to the shelter’s feline matriarch Jewel. “She was super social, coming up and saying hi to everyone, the connection was immediate,” recalls Paul.

Since then, the dominant calico cat has been his trusty companion, a source of comfort for him through the ups and downs of his life. And though Jewel has been the lioness of Paul’s

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domain all this time, things got shaken up a little earlier this year when Paul decided to find a place with his girlfriend – and her two cats and one dog.

There were challenges aplenty. To begin with, housing all the animals under one roof required finding a place that could accord each animal its personal space. And for free-spirited husky Bam Bam, there needed to be substantial outdoor area for expending her boundless energy. “Basically, while searching for a place, we first looked at satisfying the dog’s needs, followed by those of the cats. The needs of the human occupants were placed last!” shares Paul with a chuckle.

Upon finding a suitable home – a spacious semi-detached house with a great green area outdoors, and lots of open space indoors – Paul had to then manage the integration. “Jewel was the solo cat who ruled her entire kingdom. She had all the humans at her beck and call. But Moshi had been the matriarch of Joey’s brood all this time. So, there is now this fight for the position of top cat,” observes Paul. Apart from the power struggle between the two matriarchs, there were also other fights – such as a big brawl between Jewel and Bongo, previously the “mama’s boy” in Joey’s family – during which the older cat swiped out a huge pile of fur from the Maine coon. With tensions rising, Moshi has also lashed out at her new master Paul, leaving him with bloodied fingers.

He also had to manage the inter-species interaction between relaxed Jewel and the indefatigable Bam Bam. However, that has been smoothened somewhat thanks to the fact that the husky is extremely comfortable around cats – even if they don’t necessarily feel the same way. “Jewel and Bam Bam can get quite close (in proximity) now – even though she still swipes from time to time. But Bam Bam doesn’t care.

She just keeps coming back!”

Despite the drama, Paul never once felt that he is doing the impossible. He gives each animal its own space, and the pets are allowed to organically socialise with each other, in their own time, at their own pace. While he and Joey might step in to mediate and discipline at times, they also make sure to bond with each pet through play and cuddles, reassuring them that they are loved. This transition stage seemed more effortless also because Joey works predominantly from home and is around to

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manage the pets. And Paul admits that they got lucky: “Cats are not trainable, intrinsically.

But our three cats are pretty well-behaved, in general!”

Paul absolutely relishes having this big mixed-species family – especially in the moments when everything falls into place harmoniously. “Apart from the bedroom, the living room area is also where we have created shared spaces where everybody has their own spot within the same space. Jewel takes the sofa, the cat tree is shared between Bongo and Moshi, or Bongo might get onto the pool table and Moshi, into the display cabinet beside the pool table. And Bam Bam on her bed. It is a 360-degree area where everybody – including the humans – has their own spot!”

“There certainly is an amount of stress – for both us and the animals – in keeping peace.

But when you get it together, the happiness is amazing,” he gushes. “Now, I want to have a fish pond!” (At this point Joey walks by and rolls her eyes behind Paul in mock displeasure.)

There certainly is an amount of stress – for both us and the animals – in keeping peace.

But when you get it together, the happiness is amazing.

Light blue shirt: COS

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Integrate and conquer This integration exercise might be confined to his home, but Paul, ever the passionate advocate for shelter animal adoption, also wants to use it as a public showcase, readily sharing the ups and downs of this integration journey on social media. He isn’t aiming to become Singapore’s next Cat-Cum-Dog Whisperer, but simply wants to demonstrate how it is possible to have a harmonious mixedspecies brood. “There are lots of cats and dogs in the local shelters waiting for homes, but a lot of people would say: ‘Oh I have dogs at home, so I can’t get a cat’, or vice versa. It is possible to have this big happy family – with proper management, training… and just lots of love, lah!”

A recent meeting with internationally - renowned dog trainer Cesar Millan has inspired him to foster – not in view of adoption, but to discipline and socialise. “Since we have the space, we will also look into fostering in the future. I was talking to Cesar about adoptions and he turned my attention to

Why should there be animals without a home when there are people spending thousands buying from puppy mills?

fostering and it dawned on me how important that is,” says Paul. “Helping out at the shelters is great, but sometimes what the animals need is that fostering experience. If we can help to house strays and put them through some sort of learning curve, so that they are toilet- and leadtrained, and good with people and cats, it will be so much easier for them to find a home.”

“Also, my name is Foster, so I should foster, right?”

Paul is also on a crusade to restrict breeding, restrict pet shop sales, reduce the number of animals in the shelters and rescue organisations, and spay and neuter as many strays as possible.

It’s a big endeavour – and one that will require activating many parties to achieve, but Paul is going for broke. “I am planning to write a white paper to advocate for no animals to be sold at pet stores until the shelters are empty,” he opines.

“Off the top of my head, I can think of some 10 shelters each housing a few hundred animals.

Why should there be animals without a home when there are people spending thousands buying from puppy mills?” Similar laws banning the sale of non-rescue dogs and cats at pet shops have been passed in a few American cities, such as Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and most recently, San Francisco.

“It is not my wish to take away the livelihood of proper breeders, but there should be a better way of doing things. Buyers should reach out to recognised breeders so that they can breed to order, rather than having puppy mills produce an oversupply of animals that will get put down if they aren’t sold,” he highlights. “We will need government muscle to step in and make some hard decisions, and I am trying to get my voice heard.”

In the meantime, he is also pondering ground-up solutions, such as starting a service to help those seeking specific breeds to get a puppy from ethical breeders, and to house-train the animals before sending them to the buyers’ homes.

“I’ve always been a bit of Earth child,” says Paul with a twinkle in his eye. “And in the last year, the universe has presented me with so many amazing opportunities to support the causes close to my heart. Over the years, I have created my own brand where I can be my own voice, and I feel that now is the time to get things done.” g

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people and Their Pets

menagerie madness

Cats! Dogs! Birds! We talk to extraordinary pet owners who welcome a diverse mix of animals with open arms to create their unique little families.

PHOTOS VERNON WONG

BY MEREDITH LIN | PHOTOGRAPHY VERNON WONG

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STRANGE FATE

Chia Wee Loon, 37, Marine surveyor Owner of six year-old Spitz Snowy, six year-old Yorkshire-Chihuahua cross Coco, four year-old cat Codi, seven year-old local breed dog Karen When Chia Wee Loon brought home his first dog in a cardboard box, it sparked an uproar.

Then just 17 years of age, he had saved S$650 from his part-time job to bring home a young Chihuahua from a Pasir Ris farm – against his mother’s wishes. And she was furious.

“Of course, she grew to love him after some time had passed,” says Wee Loon with a laugh.

When his first dog passed away from a heart murmur at 13 years and eight months in 2012, Wee Loon decided to adopt another dog. In the same year, he welcomed home a whitefurred Japanese Spitz that he named Snowy. A mere few months later, he, together with his wife, decided to adopt his second dog Coco, a Yorkshire-Chihuahua cross, as a buddy to his first.

“I have always loved dogs, and back then, we did not have our baby boy (Evans) yet,” shares Wee Loon. Being of similar size, both Snowy and Coco turned out to be fast friends.

The harmonious relationship between the dogs created a good foundation for Wee Loon’s wife, a 33-year-old fund accountant with a fondness for felines, to introduce a cat into the family in 2014.

When his wife broached the topic of adopting a cat into their home, the couple made sure to do their due diligence. They decided to

adopt a kitten instead of a grown cat, as they read that it would be easier to socialise a young cat with their two dogs.

“When Codi (the couple’s cat) first entered our home, we put her in a cage and let her slowly get used to the two dogs,” shares Wee Loon. He laughs as he talks about Coco and Snowy licking the kitten, and how Codi was a feisty little cat who would try to nip the dogs at their necks. He says, “I didn’t really do much to socialise them, actually. I just introduced them with some safety barriers in place, and let the kitten out when she eventually stopped snarling at the dogs.”

Though Wee Loon loves all his pets equally, he admits to sharing a special affinity with his third dog, Karen, a local stray he brought home in 2016. Wee Loon first met Karen in 2012, where she was part of a pack of strays living in the shipyard he worked at. Karen would always hide under a car, but would run out when she heard Wee Loon’s whistle. She slowly learnt to trust him, eating out of his hand and learning how to put her paw in his hand in exchange for a treat.

It was only when Karen went missing that it struck Wee Loon how much he had come to care for this dog. He embarked on a thorough search with local organisations, and they eventually found Karen in the SPCA, where she

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people and Their Pets

had been caught by a culling team. Though Karen had two strains of tick fever, Wee Loon made the eventual decision to bring her home after clearing her health conditions with a vet and discussing finances with his wife.

Still, it wasn’t the smoothest transition. Wee Loon recalls a particular incident that took place a few months after he had brought Karen home. He had come home from work before he planned to head out for a Christmas dinner with friends, only to discover Snowy screaming with pain when he combed his fingers through her fur. “I realised Karen had bitten Snowy and she had punctured wounds at her ear and neck,” recalls Wee Loon, who spent his Christmas celebration in the emergency room of the vet washing and stitching up Snowy’s wounds. He adds, “I was really upset then. I even considered returning Karen to the shelter.” Chia eventually decided what happened between Karen and Snowy was a natural accident, and invested in a basket muzzle for Karen to prevent repeat episodes when the family was out.

“Having three dogs and one cat, the cost can add up. I have to put aside a few hundred dollars each month for their food and grooming,” says Wee Loon. His advice to pet owners looking to extend their family is to make sure they can commit their time.

“We have to bathe four animals, and it’s a big challenge! I bathe Coco and Karen once a week, Snowy every few months, and the cat every four to five months,” he shares. “And if you want to integrate two different breeds, it’s always easier to start with a kitten or puppy so the pets can get along,” he adds.

Asked if he’s ever wished they had just stuck to one pet, Wee Loon pauses to think for a moment. “When my (15-month-old) son started walking and crawling, it did occur to me that I wish I only had one dog. There’s always a lot of fur on my floor,” says Wee Loon.

But he admits that coming back to an empty house without his pets would make for a cold, sad home. “Sometimes you have a bad day, and all the barking and meowing just adds to your frustrations. But when I see Snowy and Coco lick baby Evans face, or when Karen’s tail smacks the baby’s head and he laughs very loudly, it really fills my heart with warmth.”

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FURBALLS AND FEATHERS Lynn Wong, 34, child educator Owner of 4.5 year-old mini Pomeranian, Foxy; 4.4 year-old Chihuahua, Easter; 4 year-old mixed Persian, Yoda; 3 year-old black domestic short-hair cat, Toothless; 3 year-old short-haired tabby, Eggs; and two year-old white-bellied caique bird, Tim. Lynn Wong was more scared than fond of her pets as a young girl.

Her first pet was a giant rabbit that lived in a dog’s kennel, and she recalls being tasked to feed the bunny with carrots daily. “I was actually quite terrified, and I would just throw the carrots into the dog house and run away,” she shares with a laugh.

It’s hard to imagine that Lynn and her husband are proud pet parents to a menagerie today. Together, they currently own two dogs, four cats, and one bird.

34 year-old Lynn can still trace back to the incident that sparked off the couple’s desire to own a pet together. The pair were studying in Sydney, and met a man who would play the Phantom of the Opera, for his birds and feed them egg tarts and rice in beef stock. She says, “I remember thinking, wah, the birds eat even better than I do!”

When Lynn and her husband moved into their first home in

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people and Their Pets

2014, they decided to get a pair of Lovebirds from Goodwill Bird shop. The birds were less than a month old, and Lynn had to feed the delicate babies with water from a syringe, and they became tame enough to perch on her shoulders with a wiggle of her fingers.

In the same year, the couple watched the blockbuster hit Kingsman: The Secret Service, and fell in love with Pugs (the breed was featured as the trusty companion of a lead character). They specially made a trip to a farm in Pasir Ris, in search of a pug. “We didn’t know much about dogs then,” says Lynn, adding that they only spotted one pug among the dogs. However, a three-month old Mini Pomeranian caught their eye. “Foxy pacing her cage and it felt like she only had eyes for me. She would keep following my movements wherever I went,” shares Lynn. The couple impulsively took a chance and decided to bring Foxy home that same sunny day. While Lynn was worried about socialising the lovebirds with Foxy, the two birds took an immediate liking to the then three-month-old puppy, swooping down to Foxy’s cage whenever the pup cried and cheekily stealing the young dog’s food any chance they could.

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It was a random turn of events that led to the couple owning their second dog, a Chihuahua named Easter, just a month later. Wong’s husband had fallen for Easter’s corporatelooking profile photo on display in a pet shop, and ended up carrying the three month-old puppy home.

Lynn recalls feeling the stress with the rapidly-expanding family at that time. “Foxy was still very new, and Easter was such a loud dog that I was worried they wouldn’t get along,” she shares. “But Easter actually helped Foxy with her separation anxiety, and Foxy would be less stressed with Easter around.”

Adding cats to their pet family was a decision borne from thinking that Easter would enjoy a feline companion. Lynn’s husband had read that Chihuahuas get along with cats, and insisted on getting cat so that Easter will have a playmate.

Their first cat, Yoda, was the runt of his litter when he joined the family as a two month-old kitten. Lynn shares a heart-warming tale of the two puppies attempting to carry the mewling kitten about by its ear, and how the pets would snuggle together. Their second and third cats were adopted when Yoda turned one as the dogs sleep with the couple at night and Lynn and her

husband worry that their mixed Persian would be lonely.

“We considered getting a smaller cat as we read that they had a lower instinct to hunt – and we were concerned about the safety of the birds,” says Lynn. While Yoda integrated well with the birds (the birds would peck the young kitten if he misbehaved) the couple’s next few cats Toothless, a three year-old female black domestic short-hair; Eggs, a three year-old stray tabby; and Benny, their current four-year-old foster cat had a penchant for hunting. Toothless and Eggs would try to swipe at the birds whenever they flew closer, and Benny had the sharpest instinct. “There was once Ant-thony Bacon (their previous Conure that passed away earlier this year) flew into my study room, and Benny immediately leapt onto the table and stared at him intently. Ant was a bit shocked, and I had to take him out of the room and quickly put him back in the cage,” shares Lynn.

Despite the cats’ mischievous ways, one of the toughest period Lynn and her husband went through was when Eggs went missing.

The couple took urgent leave from work and spent two weeks searching for their beloved pet, even going to the extent of engaging an animal

communicator to help them ‘sense’ where Eggs was. “It was a really stressful and trying period, because we still had to take care of the other animals at the same time,” says Lynn, who adds that the two dogs got plenty of extra walks that period, helping to search for Eggs. They eventually found the tabby in a construction area, four blocks away, when the animal communicator they engaged shared a vision of Eggs cold and hungry in a run-down site.

Besides the time invested in caring for the pets, the couple also put aside about S$700 monthly for potential vet fees and food costs — Lynn usually portions and packs the raw meat meant for the dogs and cats herself, which is cheaper than buying the meat pre-packed. “The birds are actually the hardest to care for,” says Lynn, who now owns a white-bellied Caique named Tim, bought two months after Ant-thony Bacon passed on. “Most people have the misconception that they just stay in the cage, but keeping a bird in a cage the whole time is like chaining up a dog perpetually. They need plenty of social and mental stimulation. And you also have to be careful with their diet and not feed them things like sunflower seeds which are super fatty.”

She adds, “Of course, there are moments when we wondered if we should have just stuck to the Lovebirds. But we could never regret having dogs and cats. Yoda always comes to us when he knows we are sad, and dogs are so loving. It’s a heart-warming thing.”

“We already knew we were not going to have kids. Our pets are our family now.” q

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PetParazzi

Pets and people in the news

BY GWEN LI

Bear-y Bad Behaviour

Who: A Malaysian singer and her “pet” sun bear Where: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia What’s the story: Sun bears are listed as Vulnerable to Extinction by the IUCN, making it a criminal offence for anyone to possess any specimen species. So imagine the shock the residents of Sentrio Suites Condominium in Kuala Lumpur had, when a sun bear cub was seen crying for help from the window of a unit! Singer Zarith Sofia, a former reality show contestant, was arrested on 7 June for the misdeed, though she claimed that she had picked the animal up from the roadside, in a weak condition. “At first, I thought it was a dog,” Zarith was quoted saying, and also claims that she had no intention of keeping the six-month-old cub and had planned on surrendering it after it had recuperated.

We say: There are those who get into trouble for not taking care of their pets; and those who get into trouble for showering care on animals that shouldn’t be a pet in the first place…

Claws Out

Who: Cat lovers of New York Where: New York, United States of America What’s the story: Depending on who you ask, cat declawing is either a terrible abomination or a necessary evil. While some feline owners may think it as a harmless fix to deter scratching, critics have likened the painful and permanently crippling procedure to amputation. In June, New York has taken stand as a state by passing a new bill to ban these operations. If successful, veterinarians who perform the “barbaric and inhumane” procedure would be subject to US$1,000 in fines. This makes New York the first state to ban cat declawing, though other feline-loving US cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and Denver have long banned it.

We say: Yay! As matter of fact, declawing – except for medical reasons – is illegal in more than 20 countries around the world, from Brazil to Slovenia. We will like to see this happening in Singapore, soon!

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Deft, Dexterous and Dogged

Who: Secret the Australian Shepherd and Mary the human Where: Iowa, United States What’s the story: A classic game for children and drunk adults, Jenga has been promising hilarious bonding time for families across the world since time immemorial. While fail videos of humans desperately trying to keep the Jenga tower intact is a favourite guilty pleasure of too many of us, a handsome canine named Secret in Iowa has been owning the Interweb by playing the game better than, well, most of mankind. Her human Mary posted to Instagram, “(Secret) really enjoys games that require precision like this, so we’ve been having a lot of fun with it!”

We say: Follow Secret on Instagram @my_ aussie_gal to see her wield a paintbrush, play the guitar and perform yoga with her human, then come to the sobering revelation that dogs may soon be taking over the world. q

years of caring

WELLNESS Inside

â&#x20AC;˘ Easy recipes for frozen treats, indoor venues to keep active in during bad weather, and tips from pet experts

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BODY AND SOUL

hairy business To shave, or not to shave?

That is the question. BY GWEN LI

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Here in our little red dot where summer is perpetually in full swing and the tropical climate hardly lets down for more than a couple of showers in a week, ridding your dog of its fur in an attempt to keep them cool and hygienic may seem a natural decision. This might have been the thought process of the owners of a Husky whose photo went viral on social news site Reddit in 2017. The handsome canine was photographed shaven clean to his skin, sparking off a robust debate on whether shaving a dog is cruel or just goofy, like “a badly photoshopped Husky head on an ugly cat”.

Many pet owners and veterinary professionals are of the opinion that there are better alternatives to shaving your pet to fend against the heatwave and prevent shedding.

Yet we do still sometimes see dogs with a buzz cut, which begs the age-old question: When is it alright to shave your dog, and more importantly – when is it not?

Sun Protection Factor We might associate big furry coats with wintery climate, but for dogs, fur is not just a shield against the cold. As a protective layer between the elements and its tissue-thin skin, a dog’s coat also protects him against sunburn and skin cancer, insect bites, and even cuts and abrasions while roaming through fields and bushes. In fact, pets with thin coats, or white or light-colored coats are particularly susceptible to sun damage. These shorterhair breeds will definitely not benefit from a shave, and will even run a much higher risk of sunburn after the procedure. In fact, any dog can suffer sunburn, so even if you are shaving your thick-coated dog after consultation with your vet or groomer, be sure to leave at least an inch of hair as a natural sun protection factor.

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BODY AND SOUL

Keepin’ It Cool While humans perspire through our skin to bring our body temperature down, dogs only sweat through the pads of their paws and primarily keep cool by panting. Air, trapped between the hair follicles and skin, functions as a natural insulator for dogs, keeping them cool in the heat and warm in the cold. This also means that if a dog spends most of his time indoors or within a controlled environment like an airconditioned room, it matters less whether or not he is shaved, for he would be less susceptible to overheating, physical exertion and direct sunlight exposure. On the contrary, if your dog spends a lot of unsupervised time outdoors, his coat should be left au naturel and untrimmed.

It may seem counter-intuitive, but a shaved dog does not necessarily mean a cooler dog – just one without its natural ability to thermoregulate.

Different Strokes for Different Coats The insulating function of a dog’s fur is particularly important for double-coated breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Shiba Inus, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds and German Shepherds. These dogs have a dense undercoat of short hairs which are woolly in texture, under a top coat of longer hairs called guard hairs. The fluffier your dog is, the denser is his undercoat.

This undercoat serves the insulating function while the guard hairs help to repel moisture and dirt. It is strongly inadvisable to shave doublecoated breeds to the skin, not just because clipping short any double coat will cause serious, irreversible damage to the beautiful natural coat, but also because of the sensitive nature of their skin. Double-coated dogs are known to be particularly susceptible to razor burn, hot spots, sunburns, and a damaging medical condition known as post-clipping alopecia, when a dog’s undercoat never grows back.

This is not to say other breeds of dogs should be carelessly groomed or trimmed. As a rule of thumb, it is best to allow a professional groomer to give your long-haired dog a “summer cut” – a modest trim to make it more manageable – but again, avoid shaving down to the skin and definitely do not undertake the procedure yourself with a pair of clippers at home.

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Extenuating Circumstances Grooming can be an enjoyable part of every pet parent’s journey, either as an exercise to bond with the dog or just to keep his fur and skin healthy and glowing. Unfortunately, some dogs may develop a matting as a result of not receiving regular grooming. Mats often occur in areas of friction such as behind the ears, under the collar or in the armpits. Neglect and lack of grooming often leads to tangles and knots forming in both the outer coat and the dense under coat. If not attended to in time, severe matting can cut off blood supply to the

extremities and deny regular air circulation, leading to open sores and infections. In the case if mats cannot be combed out, the only recourse could be to shave the entire coat.

An exception to dog shaving would be if the animal is a victim of recurrent hotspots or other dermatologic conditions. Based on the medical assessment of their vet professionals, some dogs may do better with shorter hair so that their owners can manage their skin conditions more easily. l

KEEP THE CLIPPERS!

3 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR FUR KIDS COOL… WITHOUT SHAVING Cooling mats/vest - These handy mats work by being soaked in cold water, or with built-in gels which immediately bring down the temperature of your dog’s body. Keep them handy during those scorching afternoons!

Stay hydrated - This is a no-brainer. Just like humans, dogs need to plenty of water on those long afternoon walks. You can even try popping some ice cubes in the doggie bowl – some dogs find that a real treat.

Groom, groom, groom - Brushing is not just for the vain. It helps remove the dead undercoat, and allow air to circulate nearer to your dog’s skin, thereby keeping him cooler and drier. If you can afford the time and energy, brush daily.

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a happy promise

A family’s dedication to pet nutrition translates into an exceptional product.

Pet owners these days are spoilt for choice when it comes to food options for their furry friends.

Yet, behind the sleek packages are often faceless corporations guided by market trends and bottom lines. Only few can boast the personal commitment that goes behind every Happy Dog and Happy Cat product from – a family-run German company with decades of history and expertise.

Heritage and Heart The beginnings of Happy Dog and Happy Cat can be traced way back to 1765, when the Müller family operated a grain mill on the River Singold in Wehringen. With the advancement of technology, they went on to produce the company’s first complete dry dog food in 1965 and steadily progressed to become one of the leading dry dog food in German specialist pet shops. Today, Happy Dog – together with feline dry food brand Happy Cat, which was launched in 2002 – is exported to 66 countries and has a presence on three continents.

With more than half a century’s worth of

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experience in the dry food production industry, it certainly can be considered a heritage pet food company. And at the heart of this heritage is a family who is as passionate about the well-being of dogs and cats as any pet lover is.

Georg Müller, the current owner of Happy Dog and Happy Cat brands, was given his very first pet – a ginger domestic tabby named Mimi – when he was just a six year-old boy. Since then, his love for animals has grown and he has also welcomed canine friends into his family – the first of which was a mongrel stray who found her way to the family. Being a pet owner and animal lover, Georg Müller – together with other members of the Müller family and his work family at Happy Dog and Happy Cat – is dedicated to delivering the best for our constant companions.

Guided by science, led by passion Refined over the decades, Happy Dog and Happy Cat products are developed based on the latest scientific knowledge, and bettered through a passion for pets. Every product carries with it seven promises: that the dry food produced by

their family business is of the very highest “Made in Germany” quality; that the strictest independent tests are passed, guaranteeing the highest level of quality; that no animal testing is done; that exclusive and top-quality raw ingredients sourced from local and regional farmers are used; that maximum digestibility is guaranteed; that it contains no artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives; and that there is no added sugar, soya or genetically-modified ingredients.

What makes their dry food special are unique proprietary concepts: The Happy Dog Natural Life Concept and the Happy Cat All-in-One Concept.

The basis of the Natural Life Concept lies in the belief that a balanced diet for dogs is a combination of natural ingredients that facilitate optimum, species-appropriate metabolism. Guided by the Happy Dog Natural Life Concept, Happy Dog dry food ranges are made with special holistic blends – made with freshly butchered meat and no plant protein substitutes – that give your dog everything it needs, in its different stages of life, from building a strong immune system to growing a healthy coat.

Dog owner Jia Hui comments: “Mini Neuseeland, which is enriched with omega-3 and -6 fatty acids that supports eye, hair and skin health, is my dog’s favourite. It also contains New Zealand green lipped mussels which is not only nutritious but very tasty – even for my dog who is a picky and choosy eater!”

Similarly, The Happy Cat All in One concept also ensures that their products – made with high quality protein and oils, cat-friendly carbohydrates and a good dose of roughage – contains all the essential ingredients a cat needs. And they’ve got all bases covered: cellulose fibres for hairball control and dental care; special amino acids for maintaining optimum urine pH; taurine for optimal heart and eye health, and green lipped mussels for joint health, just to name some. There is even a taste guarantee to boot!

The Happy Dog and Happy Cat ranges are the product of a family’s experience, expertise and a pursuit for excellence. What that translates to for pet owners around the world, is a pet food with a difference. q Find out more at: www.facebook.com/HappyDogSingapore/ www.facebook.com/HappyCatSingapore/ Instagram: @happydogsingapore | @ happycatsingapore

HAPPY TESTIMONIALS Pet owners share their review of Happy Dog and Happy Cat products “My favourite product from Happy Cat is Sensitive Ente. My cats are very picky but since switching to Happy Cat, I haven’t had any more ‘complaints’ and my cats look forward to their meals. I also noticed that my cats’ poop no longer smell!”

– Hennie Sun

“My cat is a sterilised seven yearold and his health is of utmost importance to me. But aside from good quality ingredients, taste is also important. Happy Cat food contains all natural ingredients, and my cat has been on it for the past few weeks – I can see that he looks satisfied. I cannot wait to let him try the other ranges from Happy Cat soon!”

– April Wong

“I like Toni to have good quality ingredients in his kibbles. Mini Toscana satisfies his nutritional needs and is low in fats. The tiny kibbles are of appropriate size for Toni to chew and are easier to digest too. It makes me feel happy watching Toni enjoying his food. I will certainly recommend Happy Dog to other dog owners!” – Ros Tay

“My dog’s favourite product is the Happy Dog Mini Adult, which contains five valuable sources of protein. It is a balanced diet for my dog!” - Tan Wee Lit

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pet pantry

cool comfort

Ice and lots of water are great, but why not pamper your dog with these frozen treats perfect for hot summer days? Each made with just three easy-to-find ingredients, they are quick, fuss-free, and are so yummy you might end up stealing them from your pooch!

RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHY: CK KOO | ADDITIONAL REPORTING: GWEN LI Minty Pina Colada Makes 4 popsicles 1 Pineapple 1 cup Fresh coconut milk* Handful of mint leaves • Divide coconut milk into four paper cups and allow to freeze.

• Peel pineapple and cut into smaller pieces before processing it into a smooth pulp in a blender.

• Fill the cups of frozen coconut milk with the pineapple pulp.

• Finely mince the mint leaves and sprinkle on top of the pineapple pulp. You can also mix the mint leaves into the pineapple pulp.

• Freeze overnight. These popsicles will remain fresh in the freezer for five days.

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*We prefer fresh coconut milk because they do not contain any additives, but you can make the treat with UHT coconut milk that are easily available from supermarkets too.

A Pineapple a Day… Raw pineapples are powerhouses full of vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate and minerals such as manganese, copper, potassium, magnesium, iron. This nutrient-dense fruit can be great for your dog’s immune system and digestive health, but its high fibre content and natural sugars might upset the tummy of some pooches. Owners who have never fed their dogs pineapples should introduce the fruit in small quantities and observe if they show any signs of an upset stomach.

Blueberry Breakfast Makes 1 ice cube tray portion 125g Fresh blueberries (one punnet) ½ cup Plain Greek yoghurt 1 Tbsp Raw honey • Wash blueberries and blitz in a blender.

• Stir blueberry puree into yoghurt. Add honey and stir until evenly combined.

• Pour mixture into ice cube tray to freeze over-night. These cubes will remain fresh in the freezer for three days.

The Honey Debate Some say honey is a wonder-ingredient that can do lots spanning from soothing the stomach and controlling minor stomach ulcers. Others say it should be approached with caution as the botulism spores present in raw honey might be a threat to young pups and dogs with compromised immune systems. What is agreed though is that a small dose of honey – no more than a teaspoon a day – can help boost your dog’s energy levels thanks to the sugar content. Perfect for those hot muggy days when everybody is feeling sluggish!

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pet pantry PB Ice Cream Makes 2 cups 2 large Bananas, fully ripened ½ cup Coconut water 1 Tbsp Unsalted peanut butter • Slice bananas and freeze in an air-tight container.

• In a blender, blitz frozen banana slices together with peanut butter.

• Add coconut water little by little and blend until a smooth consistency is achieved.

• Serve immediately while the blend is still chilled!

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Better Butter We’ve not met a dog who doesn’t love peanut butter – we love this saltish, creamy treat too for doing everything from masking the taste of pills to a reluctant dog, to distracting a nervous pup during a grooming session. However, peanut butter is ultimately a processed food and dog owners should read ingredient labels carefully. Peanut butters containing the sugar substitute Xylitol should be avoided at all cost, as the substance is toxic to dogs. l

ASK THE EXPERT Q: “We have a seven year old local breed who was adopted from an animal shelter where she lived alongside cats. She was fine being surrounded by cats at the shelter, and would only occasionally jump at the street cats on her walks, so we thought it would be OK to introduce an adopted adult female cat into the family.

However, it has been a disastrous two weeks – we tried leashed introductions both at home and on neutral ground, but it was impossible to calm them both and they seem to only want to get at each other’s necks. Our home is big enough for them to have very separate spaces (the dog takes the ground floor while the cat takes the second), but we like our pets to freely roam throughout the house and more importantly, interact harmoniously. Please could you advise on how else we can get them to bond?”

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A: Having a multi-pet household myself, I know it is never smooth sailing in the beginning.

My dogs and cats became best of friends after about two weeks and I will guide you on how to make things better in your own multi-pet household. Not being able to assess your situation in person makes this tough for me to diagnose so I will list out the possibilities of why your dog is reacting out of the ordinary.

Dogs are social animals. Your dog living and being surrounded by other cats during her time at the shelter is great. However, her time at the shelter surrounded by those cats does not necessarily mean that she is okay with cats in general. She could be comfortable living with those specific cats only.

The cat itself also plays a huge part. The way cats socialise is very different from dogs.

Cats socialise by scent. Also, if an adult cat did not grow up around, or was exposed to, dogs, it is not going to just go: “This is a friendly dog. I will be fine with him” on day one. Cats need time – a lot more time than you would expect! By placing your cat physically with your dog on the first day (in a new environment that is your home) will be extremely stressful for it, and I would suggest separating them for now to ease the stress on both animals.

When I first got my cat, she did not get to interact or even see my dogs for two weeks.

She stayed in her own room with everything she needed. On each day of those first two weeks, I placed a different piece of fabric – such as T-shirt which my dogs have slept on the entire day, or even played with – into my cat’s bed. This allowed the cat to get familiar with the scent of the dogs in a non-stressful environment.

After around two to three weeks of the “scent introduction”, you can bring your dog to meet the cat in the cat’s room or a space where the cat feels secure. My dogs are well-behaved, so I knew from the get-go that I would not have to worry about them meeting the cat when the time came. I knew that they would not try to jump or paw at the cat. Yet, even so, there is no such thing as “they will sort it out themselves”.

Please note that this first physical introduction needs to be a controlled situation. If your dog is overly excitable, I would advise to take up a training plan and ensure your dog relaxes when the cat is around. This can also help the cat be less jumpy and stressed around the dog, as she will know that the dog will not run up to her for no reason.

During the introduction, you should sit with your dog and calm her down with a “sit” or a “down” command. You should let the cat come to the dog – rather than the other way around. If the scent introduction worked, your cat may just walk up and decide to smell your dog. Should your cat hiss and become agitated the moment she sees your dog, or when she approached her, take a step back in your training programme and continue the entire scent introduction again. Every animal is different, so you should allow yourself – and your cats – to take as much time as they need to slowly get comfortable with its new home with your dog.

Maureen Tay is the chief trainer at KasPup

UniFursity. A certified Professional Dog Trainer, Animal-Assisted Therapy Handler, Family Paws Parent Educator, Canine First Responder and member of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers, she believes in the use of positive reinforcement and force-free methodology. While her pet ownership journey started with dogs, she has since fostered, rehomed and trained numerous animals – including cats and birds.

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together time

cool spots for hot dogs

As the mercury soars, help your canine beat the heat at these indoor facilities designed just for them.

BY RUSSELL CHAN

C

ommunications director Ms Foo Kim Leng watches as her three-year-old Corgi splashes about in a pool. “It looks like he’s having the time of his life, doesn’t it?” she says, beaming. But this is no ordinary pool for dogs—we’re at the Canine Wellness & Rehab Centre on Telok Kurau Road. To Kim Leng’s delight, the pool is in an airconditioned setting, which means she can watch Gryphon have fun in comfort. “We’re both protected from the elements,” she says with a laugh.

And the elements are indeed bearing down on Singapore, with temperatures soaring to 38 degrees Celsius (and hopefully not counting). What’s a hot dog to do? Hit up one of these spots to cool down, of course.

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SPLASH ABOUT What is more relaxing than a dip in cool waters on a sweltering day? A swim in the heated pool in an air-conditioned room. A number of indoor hydrotherapy facilities offer pet owners a weather-proof alternative to the outdoor pool, such as Canine Wellness & Rehab Centre, which also has an outlet at Jalan Gelenggang that allows owners to swim with their pups. Rates start at $58 each for a fitness swim and hydrotherapy, while packages are also available for those seeking an avenue for their pooch to work out without running the risk of getting heat stroke.

Red Hot Alert: Watch out for these signs of heatstroke Signs of mental confusion, delirium Dizziness, staggering Lethargy, weakness Muscle tremors Excessive panting Little to no urine production Source: RSPCA Australia

JUMP AROUND For land-loving mutts whose idea of fun is anything but splashing about in a pool, an action-packed day at the Singapore Indoor Dog Agility Arena will check the right boxes. This facility located within the Marina Country Club near Punggol is a playful dog’s dream come true. Spread out over its 10,000 square-foot campus is everything from a see-saw to balance on and ramps to thunder up and tunnels to chase through. The facility also organises workshops for those looking to take their dog’s agility training to the next level. Access to the play space starts from $38 for a one-hour session for one dog, and $28 for subsequent pooches going in at the same time – so round up your fur-kid’s doggy friends for a playdate! singaporeindoordogagilityarena.com

GO UPSCALE

With hydrotherapy becoming increasingly popular, more choices have also become available. At Hydro Canine, a Happy Doggy Swim starts at $55 for toy breed to splash about for 30 minutes in the heated indoor pool. The facility even provides fun toys to keep your pooch motivated during the session.

And at The Naked Pet, a 30 minute-dip in their non-chlorinated indoor pool starts from just $15. www.caninewellness.com.sg www.facebook.com/thenakedpet/ www.hydrocanine.com.sg

Sometimes, the oppressive heat can making you feel like doing absolutely nothing else but lie down for a perpetual siesta. How about losing yourself to the soft white sheets and fluffy duvets of a plush hotel bed – together with Fido? At the Four Seasons, your best friend can join you on your stay-cay for an additional charge $100 per stay. Do note though, that the hotel also has a strict no-larger-than 8kg weight limit for dogs. So, while they might not bad an eyelid at a terrier, trying to bring a Great Dane through the doors might not be such a good idea. g

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top dog

a mind of its own

Other dogs may be eager to please, but the Basenji is refreshingly independent-minded.

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BASENJI • Weight: Males, 10 - 12kg; Females, 9 - 11kg • Size: Males, 41 - 43 cm tall; Females, 38 - 41 cm tall • Grooming frequency: Once every two months • Lifespan: 12 - 16 years • Health issues: Can develop eye, kidney and intestine problems

A

Basenji can be a frustrating dog to train. He might sit on command one minute, but obstinately remain on all fours the next. It isn’t because he’s forgotten the command you had just taught him – it’s more likely that he’s enjoying watching you get frustrated! Renowned for their intelligence, these dogs aren’t going to perform a trick without considering what’s in it for them.

This might be put off people in search of the next big Instagram dog who will prance and pose for the camera on demand. But for someone looking for a canine with a mind of its own, the Basenji offers intelligent, stimulating and thought-provoking company. They are commonly referred to as the “barkless” dog, but if you’re expecting a silent pooch, think again.

These dogs can be vocally active – but instead of a menacing bark, they let out a high-pitched yodel. It is not quite as intimidating, yet definitely just as deafening as a good ol’ woof. This is in addition to all the whimpering, growling and whining made by any dog, so get ready for a wide repertoire.

Their tan-and-white colouring might be similar to Jack Russell Terriers, but they tower over the terrier, standing at about 41cm. This slightly larger size means that Basenjis are not HDB-approved. They do share the JRT’s inquisitive nature. Long-time Basenji owners will tell you that having the dog is the best way to learn to pick up after yourself. That’s because any unattended item, be it a sock or a remote control, is an intellectual treat for this curious canine.

This innate sense of curiosity also translates to a

PRODUCT PICKS Tire squeak ball Nerf dog A bored or penned-up Basenji will most likely turn to destructive behaviours, so keep yours stimulated with these squeak balls. Their durable rubber body can withstand extended chewing and makes an interactive squeaking sound, which will amuse your hound.

Available for $10.70 at Pet Lovers Centre.

Waterproof pet socks Pawpaw A basenji cooped up at home can be maddening to care for.

Keep your pooch walk-ready even in wet weather with these waterproof pet socks.

Available for $24 at Pet Lovers Centre.

constant need to be stimulated, so be sure to leave them plenty of toys to play with, as a bored Basenji is a destructive dog.

The Basenji is a hound that attacks by sight. Motion catches its eye, and it'll chase whatever he sees that moves, be it a cat, squirrel or even a housefly. Its hunting nature is unlikely to be curbed by human interaction, which makes the breed unsuitable for a home with other pets (unless they have been raised together since young).

The home that does open its doors to a Basenji will find an alert, affectionate and deeply protective companion in it. But to ensure the dog doesn’t become the neighbourhood nuisance, make it a point to socialise it early, either by taking it for walks in crowded parks or by having friends over regularly. This should be done earlier to ensure that your Basenji grows up well-adjusted and sociable. Long walks suit the Basenji well, since it’s a hunting dog after all, and needs daily exercise.

The Basenji is vulnerable to fanconi syndrome, a kidney disease that causes protein leakage through urine. Signs include excessive thirst, excessive urination, and elevated glucose levels. It's usually diagnosed in dogs that are four to seven years old, but can be easily managed if diagnosis and treatment are done early. h

Fancy Feline

the best of both worlds The Sphynx combines the agility and grace of a cat with the affection and companionship of a dog.

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SPHYNX • Weight: 5kg • Size: 20 - 25cm tall • Grooming frequency: Bathe at least once a week • Lifespan: 10 - 15 years • Health issues: Sensitive digestive systems.

Young ones might face respiratory issues

f

ans of the popular 1990s sitcom Friends might recognise the Sphynx as being Rachel Green’s cat – or as Joey famously exclaimed, “not a cat!” But the Sphynx is most definitely a cat – just one with a unique appearance because of its lack of fur. While some cats do go bald because of gene mutation, the Spyhnx was selectively bred this way, starting in the 1960s.

The most noticeable feature of the Sphynx is its warm body, which is a physiological response to its lack of fur. Because they have no coat, Sphynxes lose more body heat than coated cats.

But spend a little time with a Sphynx and you’ll discover that one of its most distinguishable trait is their highly social nature. Dispelling the myth that cats are aloof creatures, the Sphynx is known to bound into the arms of its owner, almost like a dog. Other canine qualities include a habit of greeting their owners at the door and a fondness for socialising with strangers.

Another canine-like trait this cat carries is the level of care it needs from its owners. Its lack of a coat poses some unusual problems for the Sphynx. For instance, owners have to bathe them at least once a week, to combat the natural build-up of body oils that would normally be absorbed by fur. Then there’s the care owners have to take to avoid sunburn and skin damage from prolonged exposure to the sun. Like humans, light-coloured varieties burn more quickly and easily than their darkercoloured cousins. But don’t be tempted to apply your sunscreen on your cat’s skin to protect it—this can do more harm than good and there aren’t any sunscreens specially formulated for them just yet. In Singapore’s sunny climate, it’s advised that the Sphynx spend no more than 15 minutes in direct sunlight at a time. Owners will

also need to keep their cat away from hot concrete surfaces, as these can burn its sensitive paws.

Not having hair also affects the Sphynx’s ears.

Without a lining of hair in the ear canal to trap dust and other foreign bodies, the cat relies on producing copious amounts of earwax to remove these. Owners should use a cotton swab and a dedicated ear cleaner to remove this wax buildup once a week to prevent future hearing damage.

Despite the seemingly long to-do list when it comes to caring for a Sphynx, many a owner of this unusual cat will tell you that it makes a wonderful addition to any family. Gentle and easy-going, Sphynxes generally get along well with other dogs and cats. Their need for affection makes them prone to separation anxiety though, so it will do better in a household with a constant human presence or with a fellow Sphynx for it to befriend. q

PRODUCT PICKS EAR CLEANER (100ML) M&C This gentle non-toxic ear cleaner does not contain alcohol, preventing the ear canal from drying out. Its neem oil base helps maintain good ear hygiene and doesn’t cause a stinging or burning sensation.

Available for $17.30 at Pet Lovers Centre.

ADVANCED STAIN & ODOUR REMOVER (500ML) Byopet Sphynxes have oily sweat glands, which can stain your upholstery from time-to-time.

This antibacterial advanced stain and odour remover eliminates the toughest of organic stains and odours.

Available for $11 at Pet Lovers Centre.

White-WING IDEOLOGY

flights of fancy A first-time Budgie owner might be surprised by all the bells and whistles these social birds enjoy.

BUDGIE • Weight: 25g - 36g • Size: 20cm (from tip to tail) • Grooming frequency: Twice-weekly water baths • Lifespan: 5 - 10 years • Health issues: Prone to obesity, fatty tumours and liver and foot disorders.

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T

he words “pet toys” conjure images of chewable bones for dogs and fishing poles for cats.

The term is less associated with birds, who are often thought to be happy just perching on a branch chirping and parroting for amusement. But owners of Budgies will quickly dispel this myth, by sharing just how much these birds, also known as parakeets,

enjoy toys. Endemic to Australia, the Budgie has found fans across the world with its colourful, social and vocal nature. If you’d like to try your hand at raising one, be sure to set aside some time for preparation before you actually get the bird.

The first thing to know about Budgies is that they prefer flying horizontally, rather than vertically. Understanding this will help you choose the right cage for your new feathered friend. A good rule of thumb is that the wider the cage, the better. Avoid traditional bird cages that are more suitable for birds that soar to greater heights. Before you buy a cage, spend some time simulating how you’d clean it to be sure you can reach every corner. This is important as Budgies thrive in clean surroundings, yet can defecate every half-hour. Budgies in the wild enjoy water on their bodies and their captive cousins are no different, so include a tub of water for them to wet their wings in.

As mentioned earlier, toys are a must to stimulate these clever creatures. However, there can be too much of a good thing. Keep to two to three different toys for each Budgie – filling up its cage with more toys might make the bird feel crowded out. When choosing a toy, look for ladders, bells and balls, as these offer varied stimulation, depending on how they are used.

Don’t restrict your Budgie’s diet to store-bought feed, as a varied diet offers more nutritional value. Easy additions include fruit and greens like spinach and coriander, which are all rich sources of dietary fibre. A good rule of thumb is filling a tenth of its diet with fresh food. Budgies are sometimes notorious for being picky eaters. But as many vets would say: “no today does not mean no every day”, so don’t give up yet. These feathered beings can be extremely fickle about food, so you’ll likely find yourself scratching your head wondering why it’s rejecting the same apple slices it devoured yesterday. When this happens, try placing the food in an empty feed cup and hang the cup inside the cage with a few treats. This should entice it to have a go at the food you put out.

Surprisingly, their pickiness with food doesn’t always keep Budgies slender. These birds are prone to obesity, especially if they don’t have enough space to spread their wings for regular flight. It is recommended that Budgies weigh between 25 and 36 grams. Any more could impede even basic flight, so be sure to feed them a sensible amount every day, or be prepared to face the wrath of a hungry, dieting bird later on. u

PRODUCT PICKS NATURAL PERCH

Wild

The Budgie might enjoy manmade toys but when it comes to its perch, natural is king. A wooden perch is recommended and a plastic one should be avoided at all costs, since the irregular shape of natural hardwood exercises feet and strengthens leg muscles more than a plastic one does.

Available for $12.20 at Pet Lovers Centre.

WOODEN TOY

Speelgoed

The bright colours of this toy attract Budgies to play, but do not harm the bird in the process, since the pigment is certified safe for pets.

Available for $17.90 at Pet Lovers Centre.

SMALL WONDER

tiny but MIGHTY

Don’t let the miniscule nature of the Roborovski dwarf hamster fool you—the variety is quite the handful.

ROBOROVSKI DWARF HAMSTER • Weight: 20 - 25g • Size: 4 - 5cm tall • Grooming frequency/Hygiene: Weekly dust bath, clean tank once a week • Lifespan: 3 years • Health issues: Prone to fractures and skin conditions

T

he relatively long lifespans of Roborovski dwarf hamsters make them deceptively attractive to first-time hamster owners.

After all, with a lifespan of three years, they are the longest-lived among pet hamster species. But a few hours into owning them, it quickly becomes clear that these tiny creatures are quite a handful.

Described by some as “balls of frenetic energy”, these hamsters are notorious escape artists.

First-time owners who make the mistake of taking them out to hold will quickly find that the hamster’s quick reflexes and lightning-fast motion often translates to a few hours searching for them.

Being no bigger than an adult's thumb even when fully grown also makes finding them a challenge.

But for owners more experienced with hamsters, the Roborovski dwarf variety is a joy to rear. Known to be extremely social – both with their littermates and humans – they are best kept in pairs or groups. Be sure to raise them in their pairings or groupings early, since they can be aggressive to newcomers. If all goes well, the

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hamsters should live about three years.

To meet this ideal scenario, one of the most important things to consider is where your hamster will spend his or her life.

Conventional wisdom suggests that a cage makes a good abode but considering the size of the Roborovski dwarf hamster, we would recommend an aquarium instead. Cover your hamsters' home with mesh to allow air circulation and to prevent foreign objects from falling in. Hamsters will enjoy a 3cm thick layer of shavings, which will allow your new pets to burrow.

Toys are also a must – wheels, tubes and balls excellent choices. Despite their social nature, these hamsters are not fond of sharing and can be extremely territorial of their “possessions”. Avoid nasty fights by providing each hamster with its own toys. This goes for food bowls and water bottles as well. Once a week, remove everything from the tank and clean it using hot water. For areas that smell, use a solution of vinegar, but be sure to wash it out with hot water after.

When it comes to feeding your hamster, opt for good quality hamster food. Supplement this with small amounts of fresh foods—choice fruit and vegetables include seedless apples, grapes, mango and turnips. Be sure to thoroughly wash any fresh food you give them as their stomachs are extremely sensitive to contaminants.

Like many hamster varieties, Roborovski hamsters are nocturnal. This could pose a problem to hamster owners with kids, who will likely want to play and handle the hamsters in the day, when they’re asleep. Prevent children from doing so as this could mess up the hamsters’ fragile sleep cycle. u

PRODUCT PICKS ASPEN SHAVINGS Kaytee Your little friend will enjoy burrowing in aspen shavings, which doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t irritate their sensitive skin. This variety is also better than pine and cedar wood shavings, which have reportedly been linked to respiratory issues.

Available for $20.20 at Pet Lovers Centre.

PORTABLE CAGE Trustie The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends that hamsters visit the vet at least once a year. The durable plastic top of this cage ensures that your pet doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go all prison break during that visit.

Available for $12 at Pet Lovers Centre.

MARINE PARADE

GHOST SHRIMP • Size: 3 - 5cm head to tail • Hygiene: As necessary (judge by sight) • Lifespan: 1 - 2 years

when prey becomes pet

Once reared as food for larger fish, Ghost Shrimp have carved a niche of their own as a fascinating addition to an aquarium.

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a

decade ago, going to an aquarium shop to buy Ghost Shrimp meant one thing: you had big fish at home that needed feeding. Be it an aggressive Arowana or a colourful Cichlid, these large fish have one thing in common: they enjoy a meal of Ghost Shrimp.

But today, buying Ghost Shrimp could simply mean you’re among the growing number of aquarists who rear the crustacean for fun. The term “Ghost Shrimp” can refer to a number of species of crustaceans that live in different habitats – among them brackish water and saltwater – but most aquarists prefer the freshwater variety for its ease of care.

Staring into a tank of Ghost Shrimp, it’s easy to understand their etymology. The shrimp are mostly transparent – a boon in the wild but a feature that can frustrate casual aquarists. To overcome this, place your shrimp in a tank with black gravel. Add to the contrast by placing a black background against the back wall of the tank. This brings out the subtle colours of the shrimp’s organs.

Kept on their own, you can safely keep around one shrimp for every litre of water. But avoid overpopulating a tank with other inhabitants – these shrimp may be small but they also add to the bioload of a tank. Larger tankmates may also pose a problem since these shrimp are easy targets for them. Be sure to include lots of hiding places for the shrimp to retreat to for some solitude – aquatic plants and rock formations are great for this.

Besides protecting shrimp, aquatic plants also serve as an easy source of food and amusement for them. While these tiny critters certainly do not chomp at plants the way that dugongs do, they do enjoy picking at plant debris that will inevitably float around the tank. This keeps them occupied and also satiates their seemingly perpetual hunger. But don’t let that be your shrimp’s only source of nutrition – a single algae pellet will easily fuel a tank containing many shrimp. Be mindful though, because any more and you risk overfeeding. Enhance your pet’s nutrition by introducing calcium supplements, although be sure to avoid anything containing copper, as the metal is poisonous to shrimp.

Ghost Shrimp are easy to breed, especially if they are the only inhabitants in a tank. Females grow larger than males and produce eggs every few weeks. These appear as 20 to 30 green “balls” on its underbelly. Wait a day or two for males to fertilise the eggs and then move the female Ghost Shrimp to a dedicated breeding tank. When the eggs hatch, move the female back to the main tank to minimise the risk of her eating her own young.

Avoid suction filters in the breeding tank as these may suck away your new pets – a sponge filter is a good alternative. m

PRODUCT PICKS BLACK SAND (5KG) Sudo Ghost Shrimp are bottom dwellers, so they spend a lot of time on the soil. Choosing sand or fine gravel reduces the likelihood of damage to your shrimp’s sensitive antennae. The black of this sand brings out its fascinating colours as well.

Available for $19.05 at Pet Lovers Centre.

SPONGE FILTER Xinyou A sponge filter keeps your shrimp safe and their tanks clean, allowing you to appreciate their beauty better.

This is ideal for a few shrimp as the sponge filter can’t handle large bioloads.

Available for $5.10 at Pet Lovers Centre.

been there, done that

PRETTY FOR A GOOD CAUSE

The inaugural edition of #Fur4Hope at PetExpo 2019 saw pooches being pampered to raise funds for dog shelters.

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY: DENISE OH

For 34-year-old Mr Gerald Chu, knowing that his money goes towards a good cause is important. That’s why the lawyer jumped at the chance to have the nails of his seven-month-old shiba inu trimmed at the #Fur4Hope booth at PetExpo 2019. “My dog gets the service he needs, and I get a goodie bag as well as the satisfaction of knowing that I have supported a good cause,” he told PETS, as he watched his pooch have his nails trimmed and filed.

Mr Chu was among the many dog owners who swung by the #Fur4Hope over PetExpo 2019’s three-day run at the Singapore Expo. Jointly organised by Animal Arts Academy and Pet Lovers Centre, #Fur4Hope is the first charity dog grooming event-of-itskind in Singapore. Its aims are simple: to raise awareness and funds

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been there, done that

for AVA-licensed dog shelters, explained Ms Karen Koh of Pet Lovers Centre. Hundred per cent of the event’s proceeds went to the nine shelters that participated in the initiative (see sidebar).

There was also the added bonus of seeing celebrities Andrea DeCruz and Jon Chua of Sam Willows together with his TV host wife Amanda Chaang lend their star power to the event.

Nail trimming and filing were just some of the grooming services available. Fur kids could also look forward to a 20-minute express haircut or an ear cleaning session. Those looking for more unique grooming services could also opt for pet-safe fur extensions to give their pet’s coat a splash of colour.

To some, the effort demonstrated how committed Singapore’s pet owners were to both their own fur kids as well as the general

welfare of animals here. “I didn’t actually need this fellow’s hair cut, but the fact that the organisers thought of that and offered other services like ear cleaning and nail cutting says something, doesn’t it,” quipped Ms Annabelle Fernandez, gesturing to her six-year-old Jack Russell Terrier. In fact, 25 year-old Ms Fernandez wasn’t planning to get her terrier groomed at all. “But hearing how the money would be used changed my mind immediately,” she said, adding that she hoped more of such initiatives would pop up around the island.

Judging by the popularity of this inaugural event, her wish might just come true in the near future!

ALL THINGS PETS PetExpo is Singapore’s largest annual pet fair. It returned for its sixth edition this year and ran from 12 to 14 April.

HELPING PAWS: #Fur4Hope benefited the following shelters: Action for Singapore Dogs Animal Lovers League Causes for Animals Singapore Exclusively Mongrels Noah’s Ark CARES Oasis Second Chance Animal Shelter (OSCAS) Save Our Street Dogs Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Voices for Animals

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been there, done that

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BIRDS AND THE BEES When 19 March 2019 Where The Pet Safari @ VivoCity

An amazing event happened at The Pet Safari @ VivoCity shopping mall on 19 March 2019: For the first time in Singapore, 29 kids got up close with birds and “nature”.

Co-hosted by Pet Lovers Junior Club, Pet Lovers Centre and its partner, Oh My Bird Training School, the event was specially designed for kids. In a fun environment, the young attendees learned about birds and how to take care of them as pets through getting an insight on their behaviour in nature. For example, in the wild, birds are also exposed to branches of various sizes, widths, and orientations. Thus it is important to provide a variety of perches inside the bird cage to help prevent a pet bird from developing foot problems such as arthritis, tendonitis, atrophy or pressure sores.

Apart from being educational, the event was also hugely entertaining for the kids. Under the supervision of bird experts, the winged friends performed tricks, including making free flights and playing basketball. There was also a kids-and-bird “wefie” session, which made this learning event more fun.

Thanks to Oh My Bird Training School and their team for their support. This activity was a success for everyone — birds, kids and adults!

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been there, done that

PETEXPO 2019 When 12-14 April 2019 Where Singapore Expo Hall 7

petexposg.com, fb & ig: petexposg

The annual PetExpo held at Singapore Expo Hall 7, now in its sixth iteration, saw a record turnout of over 31,000 visitors and more than 240 brands. The April event sets a new high since the very first PetExpo in 2014.

New to the show is the Fur4Hope initiative organised by Animal Arts Academy and Pet Lovers Centre. The fundraiser saw close to a hundred dog owners come together for a one-day grooming session on 12 April to raise money for nine rehoming partners.

Visitors were spoilt for choice at this pet extravaganza: all 6,500 sqm of the exhibition hall was transformed into a veritable playground for pet lovers with adoption drives, talks and workshops, shops and booths showcasing their deals, and plenty of fun for the animals. While pet owners scouted the amazing pet product and service deals offered by the 102 exhibitors, their fur-kids had fun partaking in exhilarating activities spanning from obstacle courses to dog dancing! There were also educational health and wellness workshops for those always yearning to learn how best to care for their pets.

Other enthralling event highlights included showcases such as the SKC Championship Dog Show, Obedience Championship Trials, Grooming Certification and Elites Grooming Competition, National Betta Competition, Guppy Challenge, Easter Extravaganza CFA Cat Show, Flightmaster parrots showcase and free flying shows.

It was an all-encompassing event that caters to all the needs of pets and pet owners alike all under one roof.

Best of all, there were adorable pets of all kinds at almost every turn!

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. . . t a e l b a l i a Av

Love is

K1 PETS SHOP Animal Cottage 114 Yio Chu Kang Rd (S)545581 Tel: 63828677

(Coming Soon) Pet Lovers Centre | Island-wide www.petloverscentre.com

133 Jalan Bukit Merah #01-1532 (S)160133 Tel: 92780800

151 Serangoon North Ave 2 #01-79 (S)550151 Tel: 94500947

84 Bedok North St 4 #01-09 (S)460084 Tel: 64478588

46 Jalan Bukit Ho Swee #01-896 (S)160046 Tel: 97227485

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Active K9 Academy B’smiley Cattitude Cats Garage Earnest Mutt K&K Aquarium & Bird Centre Little Kats Maco Pet Shop Pet Boulevard Petronize Pets Joyland Pets Keepers Petsmaniac Pet’s Secret S&S Pet’s Shop Straits Dog Boarding SunDream Pet U S Pet House Woofia

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360 Tanjong Katong Road (S)437121 5 Upper Adjunied Lane #01-38 (S)360005 28 Senang Crescent #02-09 (S)416601 430 Upper Changi Road #01-28 East Village (S)487048 201D Tampines St 21 #01-1145 (S)524201 21 Cuscaden Road #B1-12 Ming Arcade Building (S)249720 678 Hougang Ave 8 #01-511 (S)530678 442 Jurong West Ave 1 #01-750 (S)640442 18 Upper Boon Keng Road #01-1131 (S)380018 5 Upper Aljunied Link #05-05 Quartz Industrial Building (S)367903 131 Marsiling Rise #01-188 (S)730131 293 Yishun Ring Road #01-235 (S)760293 534 Balestier Road (S)329860 462 Tampines Street 44 #01-58 (S)520462 21 Kalidasa Avenue (S)789400 545 Orchard Road #01-04 (S)238882 1003 Upper Serangoon Road (S)534741 28 Dover Crescent #01-85 Dover Gardens (S)130028

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www.bubblepets.com.sg www.catpal.com.sg www.doggyfriend.com www.eamart.com www.facebook.com/hapeestore www.jepetz.sg www.kohepets.com.sg www.nekojam.com www.perromart.com.sg

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CNY VISIT TO KRETA AYER SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTRE When 14 February 2019 Where Kreta Ayer Senior Activity Centre

It was a very special Valentines date with some very special people.

On 14 Feb 2019, Pet Lovers Foundation, the non-profit arm of Pet Lovers Centre (PLC), organised their annual visit to Kreta Ayer Senior Activity Centre. This is the seventh year the organisation has paid a trip to celebrate lunar new year with the seniors, but the first where they celebrated Valentine’s Day! Some 40 PLC staff – served a lively lohei lunch to 80 seniors and played engaging quiz games. They were also joined by celebrity dog trainer, Patrick Wong of Waggie’s Pet Care, who – together with his pack of canine friends – enthralled the audience with entertaining performances.

Red packets and mandarin oranges were distributed to the seniors, alongside festive bags – personally prepared by the staff members – filled with groceries and hygiene needs. The PLC staff even went the extra mile to help the seniors carry the haul of festive goodie back to their homes. It was certainly a day filled with laughter – and love!

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Tel: +65 6844 4409 Fax: +65 6844 4407 Email: enquiries@happypet.com.sg www.happydogsg.com | www.happycatsg.com www.facebook.com/happydogsingapore www.facebook.com/happycatsingapore