The Tails Issue 12

THETAILS MAGAZINE

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Issue 12

THE BIGGEST INDEPENDENT PET MAGAZINE IN THE UK

TALES AND MORE FOR PET LOVERS

INSIDE:

• ON THE • BENGAL DANE TRAIN CATS

• COCKER • THE BIG C SPANIELS & MORE

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TAILS/06/09

www.foalfarm.org.uk

Date

CONTENTS Page 6-7 News - Calling all pet-lovers, here is everything you need to know about the news.

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Page 10-11 A tale of two tails - Can cats and dogs ever really be friends? Holly Mash explains.

Page 12-13 Breed Review – The second most registered pedigree in the UK, everyone loves a cocker.

Page 14-16 Breed Review – A domestic cat in tiger’s clothing. The Tails provides the low down on The Bengal Cat.

Page 20-21 Great Expectations – we meet a couple of extraordinary Great Dane foster parents.

Page 18-19 Tales From the Doghouse – this time Lucy takes on a weighty issue, we’re talking Heavy Petting.

Page 22-24 Sadly our four legged friends are not immune from the big “C” - Here Tails explores the homoepathic options when it comes to treating cancer in pets.

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Page 26 Ask the Vet – this issue we are talking cats.

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Page 28 The Tails Survey – It could be you…

Page 29 The Tails Directory – come and find The country’s best pet services.

Page 30 Last but not least it’s our dog-friendly pub review - This issue we’re in Fulham, SW6

MEET THE TEAM

RYAN GOTTSCHE Publishing and editing The Tails has been a dream for a long time; to provide a fun, free and interesting read for the nations’ pet lovers.

His two dogs and two cats help him with inspiration from issue to issue.

JANE SIGALOFF Jane is a writer and a mother to an 11 month old two-legged child and a 4½ year old fourlegged one. She first met Ryan in the park where they were both walking their dogs and the rest, as they say, is history.

EMMA NICHOLAS Between her time at The Tails, Emma works between a practice in Notting Hill and Barons Court. After qualifying from Cambridge in 1994 she has practiced across the world but now calls England home with her dog and two kids.

HOLLY MASH Holly is a vet specialising in complementary medicine. She runs holistic medicine clinics in Barnes, London and has her own Complementary referral clinic in Bristol. www.hollymashvet.com She has a lovely Cocker Spaniel called Penny.

COLIN HALLIDAY He has been putting together the magazine since it’s launch and runs a company specialising in designing and producing all types of publications. The latest addition to the family is an adorable rescue cat named Peppa.

ISSUE 12 THE TAILS 3

The Mayhew Open Day 2009

Adults £2.00, children £1.00 Senior citizens £1.00, under 5’s free Families (2 adults and 2 children) just 5.00

Sunday 19th July

12-4pm

Take part in the Royal Parks half marathon in London on Sunday 11 October 2009 to help sick and homeless animals cared for by The Blue Cross.

M5549/0509

Gift stalls Barbecue Meet the animals Refreshments Tombola Face painting Live entertainment Information & advice

Register for your place today, visit www.bluecross.org.uk/rphalf or call Heather on 01993 825567

The Mayhew Animal Home & Humane Education Centre

Trenmar Gardens, Kensal Green, London NW10 6BJ 020 8969 0178

www.mayhewanimalhome.org

Royvon Boarding & Training Send your dog on holiday whilst you are on holiday The only boarding facility with customised training & activity agendas for dogs Located just outside South London with daily chauffeured collections & deliveries to the London area

Royvon Dog Training Schools 0208 819 7372 info@royvon.co.uk www.royvon.co.uk Professional Pet Care for 50 years

Actual Royvon Guests

A well trained dog is a happy dog!

4 the tails issue 12

sponsored by

Registered charity no: 224392 (England and Wales), SC040154 (Scotland)

Petpals, the leading professional petsitting company has franchise opportunities across the UK. Join the Petpals team & you will receive everything you need to set up & run your own franchise incl. a comprehensive training programme, pre-launch & ongoing marketing, website & operational support.

Or to use our pet sitting services check out our website for your local Petpals branch.

www.petpals.com or call 0845 643 9981

Welcome!

Dear pet oWner

eDitor

Ryan Gottsche Features eDitor

Jane Sigaloff aDvertising

Anneli Page 0207 386 8099 Design & proDuction

Vortex Creative Ltd eD’s assistants

Saatchi and Jack Dogs BoDy

Daniel Delorme WorDs

Jane Sigaloff Holly Mash Emma Nicholas Emily Kate Stephens Kylie Gottsche images

Jan Wright Paul Day Daniel Delorme

First things first. Apologies to any of our wonderful Dog Tails supporters who may have received a bit of a shock when they went to their pet shop, supermarket, groomers or mail box to pick up their brand new issue and found The Tails! The good news is that there is no need for raised blood pressure. All of your favourite doggie things are still part of The Tails, we have just grown and now will also include the other fantastic pets across the nation. Your continued support and enjoyment is the thing that we cherish most deeply. Most importantly, we have kept your favourite magazine free and it is still packed full of what you have told us you like to read about.

Not content with one big change, here’s another one, we are now nationwide.

We are delighted to report that The Tails is available across the UK. A big welcome to all our new readers.

We’d really like to get to know you, so if could spare a couple of minutes, please fill out our quick survey. If the effort of putting a pen to paper, finding an envelope, stamp etc. is too much/old fashioned for you, there is of course an online version @ www.thetails.co.uk. Whilst you are there, why not have a word on our forum, post a picture or two or simply look up your nearest dog friendly pub.

I hope that you enjoy this issue. Our features include a special on cancer in pets (a holistic approach), Great Dane fostering, breed reviews of the Bengal cat and one of the nation’s (and my) favourites; the Cocker Spaniel. There is also the next instalment of Tales from the Dog House, advice on neutering your kitten and a pub review of course.

Enjoy!

ryan gottsche

Editor

puBlisher

Urban Dog Tails Ltd 57 Delorme Street London W6 8DS 020 7386 8099 suBscriBe

0207 386 8099

www.londondogtails.com

theTails issue 12 the tails 5

tails

news

happy 10th Birthday to the Blue Cross animal hospital, merton t

he Blue Cross animal hospital in Merton celebrates its 10th anniversary on 24 June 2009. The hospital was opened in 1999 by HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and has provided essential treatment to many thousands of local pets since - last year alone the hospital undertook a staggering 69,728 consultations.

Blue Cross veterinary services are

available to pet owners on means-tested benefits and the animal hospital in Merton is one of three animal hospitals operated in London by the charity.

To celebrate the anniversary the hospital will be hosting special events, including a special birthday party on Friday 26 June, with a chance to see behind the scenes. • Contact the hospital on 020 8254 1400 for more information.

TAILS FRIENDLY RENTALS t

he economic downturn has hit our four legged friends hard and rescue centres are sadly having to turn animals away every day. The Dogs Trust have launched a unique campaign to reduce the number of pets abandoned when owners are forced to move into rented accommodation.

The Lets With Pets campaign is a win win situation offering pet owners the opportunity to keep their pets and it also provides income for struggling buy-to let-landlords.

For more information on this scheme go to www.letswithpets.org.uk

mayhew animal home open day, sunday 19th July

This hugely popular annual open day takes place at the centre in Kensal Green, London on Sunday 19th July. This wonderful event has something for all the family including the chance to meet some of the animals. ItĂ­s their biggest day of the year to help raise money for all the animals that they save so please show your support. www.mayhewanimalhome.org

6 the tails issue 12

MACMILLAN DOG DAY IS BACK M

acmillan’s popular canine day is a fabulous afternoon out featuring celebrity-judged dog classes, entertainment and stalls. Prizes are awarded for the best fancy dress and the waggiest tail plus for the two legged younger visitors there will also be face painters and bouncy castles. Alternatively you can Pat and Chat to police dogs or if you need to get your dog house in order, book in for a behavioural consultation with Rob Alleyne.

If you find yourself in the area why not drop by, enjoy the fun and pick up your latest edition of The Tails. For tickets and more information go to www.macmillan.org.uk/dogday

USING ‘DOMINANCE’ TO EXPLAIN DOG BEHAVIOUR IS OLD HAT A

new study shows how the behaviour of dogs has been misunderstood for generations: The findings challenge many of the dominance related interpretations of behaviour and training techniques suggested by current TV dog trainers.

According to the research published by academics at the University of Bristol’s Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, contrary to popular belief, aggressive dogs are NOT trying to assert their dominance over their canine or human pack.

The researchers spent six months studying dogs freely interacting at a Dogs Trust rehoming centre, and reanalysing data from studies of feral dogs, before concluding that individual relationships between dogs are learnt through experience rather than motivated by a desire to assert dominance.

The academics say that training approaches aimed at dominance reduction vary from being worthless to being actually dangerous and likely to make behaviours worse.

Instructing owners to eat before their dog or go through doors first will not influence the dog’s overall perception of the relationship and merely teach them what to expect in these specific situations. Much worse, techniques such as pinning the dog to the floor, grabbing jowls, or blasting hooters will make dogs anxious, often about their owner, and potentially lead to an escalation of aggression.

Dr Rachel Casey, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare, said: The blanket assumption that every dog is motivated by some innate desire to control people and other dogs is frankly ridiculous. It hugely underestimates the complex communicative and learning abilities of dogs. It also leads to the use of coercive training techniques, which compromise welfare, and actually cause problem behaviours.

C’mon take a walk in the park…

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ISSUE 12 THE TAILS 7

Cats & DOGs

a tale OF tWO tails

Can dogs and cats really share their homes and their owners with each other? Holly gives her top tips on how to introduce cats and dogs to one another in a safe and gentle way to increase the chance of successful co-habitation.

By hOlly Mash

D

ogs and Cats, Cats and Dogs…

Whenever I tell people that I am a vet, one of the first questions that comes up (after the usual one about how awful it must be having to put animals to sleep), is whether I prefer cats or dogs? Whether you are a cat-person or a dog-person is something that seems to divide and intrigue the pet-loving public, and (without confessing where my allegiances lie), I would have to agree that in our heart of hearts we would probably favour one type of four-legged friend over the other.

So, when Ryan told me that London Dog Tails would be merging to include ‘cat –people’ in its readership, I thought he might need a few tips on how to make this a smooth transition! I mean when people introduce a cat to a household (or magazine) that already has a dog in it, they wouldn’t dream of simply arriving home with the new pet and letting it loose! Oh no – there is usually a lengthy period of supervised ‘introduction’ so that the transition from ‘dog only’ to contented co-species cohabitation can be as smooth as possible. So here are my tips for how to introduce cats

8 the tails issue 12

to dogs and dogs to cats – (and Ryan, take a few notes – we don’t want a magazine that is for Dog owners with just a few lines at the bottom of the page for the cat-lovers, nor are we aiming for a magazine divided into two separate halves – let’s aim for a harmonious shift where both dog and cat lovers can curl up together and enjoy a good read!)

sphinx versus scavenger Cats and dogs are as different as chalk and cheese. The former is descended from ancient Egypt where it was worshipped as a god, the latter descended from the wolf, a prairie scavenger. Whilst our feline friends are well known for being aloof and independent, not deigning to even contemplate

eating the same food for two days in a row, the archetypal pooch is a rough n’ tumble, funloving, loyal companion who will eat whatever is put in front of him, (and sometimes what isn’t too, if given the chance)…

Unlike dogs, which live in a pack, cats are not naturally social animals and can live very contentedly on their own, (well, with a well-trained owner to open the gourmet foil pouches for them twice a day). It goes without saying that cats and dogs cannot be forced to get along with one another, but the way that they are first introduced, by us owners, can make a difference to how their relationship develops. Ultimately it will depend on the individuals concerned, some cats will get along with some dogs very well – I know some that curl up together in a

basket and even groom one another. Others will barely tolerate one another as each party does their utmost to ignore the other and carry on as if they were not there! Territories can become well demarcated, with the cat living upstairs and the dog living downstairs – and frequent spats and high-pitched screaming as the stairs become a chase zone.

Happily, cats and dogs often do not turn out to be the enemies that they are often perceived as being. Indeed they can become much better companions to one another than two pets of the same species, because they do not see one another as direct competition.

introductions The key to successful merging of feline and canine companions in a household is down to careful and well-planned introductions, a lot of patience and a bit of luck! The luck will be down to whether or not the individuals concerned can hit it off – just remember it’s exactly the same as with people, some we like, and others we don’t – there often isn’t much rhyme or reason or much that anyone else can do about it!

Would like to meet - ….

Let’s take the situation of a new cat being introduced to a household with a dog.

Consideration of the following will be vital; choice of cat in relation to resident dog is key. Think about compatibility of age, sex, breed, size, character, (including any previous convictions for cat-chasing or in the case of the pussies, a penchant for nose-swiping), and training, (how likely is it that you will be able to be able to make your dog listen to you when you tell him to stop him chasing kitty?).

Carefully consider the timing of the pet ‘merger’, (don’t do it at Christmas or when you have invalid auntie Joan staying, or any cheeky or noisy youngsters for that matter). The layout of the house and the provision of a playpen for the cat (for the early days) is also important, as is buying some cat food! (Yes – that’s right, dogs can eat cat food, but cats shouldn’t eat dog

…that will get lots of tails wagging!’

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18/06/2009 22:55

issue 12 the tails 9

CATS & DOGS food. It’s a ‘pet food fact’ – not a myth! They have different digestive systems and metabolic pathways; one is an omnivore, the other an obligate carnivore).

COMPATIBILITY? We can only ever guess at rescue pets’ past lives, so if you choose to adopt a rescue cat, don’t forget that they may have lived with, or even been friends with dogs before - and this will be a huge help! (Of course they may have chased them and hate them with a vengeance too, but let’s be optimistic!) Equally your Battersea hound may have encountered cats before – again, for the good or the bad.

The breed of your dog will have an impact on how they behave with a cat; because terriers, (and also greyhounds) are bred to chase, a cat will almost certainly seem like fair game at first! Equally, puppies or young dogs will probably be more excitable and ready to chase and play – activities that are unfortunately frequently frowned upon, (or more accurately hissed and spat at), by the cat in question.

So, when you have stocked up on cat food, made sure that it will be a quiet few weeks at home. Have a long talk with fido about welcoming his new companion with open paws, then head out before its time to collect kitty.

IN THE BEGINNING….

Make sure you keep dogs and cats in separate parts of your house to begin with.

They will use their scents, as a means of letting each of them know that they have a potential new friend nearby. Do this by stroking each of them separately without washing your hands in-between, so that they can each smell one another’s scent and hence learn a few important things about one another, and will feel less strange the first time they meet.

For the first meeting, it’s a good idea to have the cat in either a pen, or their travelling cage, so that they feel secure and protected. Place this above eye level of the dog, to help reduce confrontation and hence anxiety. It’s also a good idea to have walked your dog beforehand so that he is less energetic and maybe even a bit tired, and have him on the lead and ask him to sit quietly. Have the treats ready, to reward calm interaction and behaviour will work wonders here.

There will inevitably be some hissing from the cat on the first meeting. Keep the meetings short –so that neither animal becomes overly stressed. Most dogs settle down once they realize that the cat isn’t actually that interestingand isn’t always going to play and chase!

There is no hard and fast rule about how long it will take your pets to get to know one another or how long it should be before you dispense

with the pen/cage and allow free interaction, it may be a week or a few weeks. Do make sure that you keep your dog on the lead when they are together until you are happy that they get along, and always make sure that they each, (kitty especially), have the opportunity to escape from one another and have their own ’safe zones’ to take safe refuge in.

HOME SWEET HOME? Once the introductions have been make and your dog and new cat are happily living together, (or are happily denying the existence of the other and pretending life is just as it used to be), just make sure that you have catered for both canine as well as feline lifestyles in your home and routine. This means making sure that your new cat has places where she can get away from the boisterous dog for some peace and quiet if she wants to, (maybe a bed on top of the wardrobe or in the laundry room, where fido can’t reach her). Equally if your dog is very exuberant and always playful, your cat might prefer her feeding and water bowls to be up high out of his reach. Finally, don’t forget to make sure that the litter tray is also somewhere quiet – or you may find a few accidents around the house! It’s common sense really, but being aware of both your pets’ different needs is especially important if they do not turn out to be best friends, and the cat may be a bit scared of the dog, (or vice versa in some cases – where poor pooches’ nose can get a nasty scratch for his trouble), so making sure that places to eat, sleep and ‘use the toilet’ are out of the dogs way – are very wise precautions.

A HELPING HAND If you do want some extra help for those first introductions there are a few ways to do it. First of all there is Dr Bach’s Rescue Remedy, a few drops of this in both animals’ water bowls for the week of the introduction will help relieve the anxiety and panic of both parties, (and take some yourself if the fur is flying!). You may also use the Bach Flower remedy ‘Walnut’ as this helps pets’ adapt to changes – a new pet is certainly a change and will take some getting used to. And don’t forget the synthetic pheromone products that are available from your vet,( DAP and ‘Feliway’), which can be useful in helping to smooth the transition period.

A HEALTHY BALANCE For health and happiness in life we need a balance of yin and yang, (the restful and the active), cats bring us ‘yin’ qualities and dogs bring us bundles of energetic ‘yang’. By having both in a household we have a source of both energies to help us humans re-balance ourselves, and stay in harmony.

Finally, do make sure you still have ‘special time’ for each pet – so that neither feels left-out, make this regular time where you either sit and stroke, or groom them. This is important and will make for a happier and more harmonious multi-species household.

In the same vein, this means that we would like you, ‘dog-people’ readers, to enjoy reading the ‘cat articles’ and the same goes for the more ‘cat-minded’ amongst you – embrace the dogs!

HAPPILY, CATS AND DOGS OFTEN DO NOT TURN OUT TO BE THE ENEMIES THAT THEY ARE OFTEN PERCEIVED AS BEING. 10 THE TAILS ISSUE 12

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issue 12 the tails 11

BREED REVIEW

COCKER SPANIEL From working in the fields to posing in the park the Cocker is the second most popular dog in the UK: The Tails reveals all.

A

s the second most registered pedigree in the UK, most people will have befriended a cocker spaniel or two in their lifetime.

Their fun and loving nature, combined with their warm, dark eyes makes them almost impossible to resist.

The working Cocker looks a lot more like a mini-springer spaniel than a cocker from a non-working line as they have been bred to perform in the field as a working companion, Their coats are shorter and their ears smaller and less pendulous. Very often they will lack certain physical attributes that would prevent them winning in a show ring.

HISTORY Spaniels, as the names suggests, originate from Spain where they were used as working dogs.

From Spain the dogs were transported, traded, given away as gifts, or simply travelled with their masters to England. Spaniels were used in England for hunting on the estates of the wealthy and were further developed and bred for specific hunting purposes there.

The spaniel was a generic term used to describe a type of dog. When a litter was born the owner/breeder would decide what use a particular dog or pup was to be put to. Much depended on the size and how muscular the dog turned out to be, the stamina he/she displayed, and the intelligence of the dog.

What type of game the dog was to hunt was also a factor. The spaniel could possibly be used for hunting in the forests, pointing in high brush, flushing birds out of thickets, or used in marshes for retrieving ducks, geese, etc. One such variant was found to be particularly good at flushing out birds from bushes and tracking rabbits. This particular size, shape and temperament eventually became The Cocker.

UPKEEP SHOW OR WORKER? Despite their origins as working dogs the English Cocker Spaniel is now split into two categories; The Cocker Spaniel (show type) and The Working Cocker. From “park statistics” the Working Cocker seems to be an ever increasing choice of dog however this can not be properly measured as both types of dog are registered as a “Cocker Spaniel” .

When it comes to appearance the two dogs differ a lot. The show-type Cocker has been bred to conform to a set of looks, proportions and demeanor as set out in the breed standard; dark eyes with lobular ears that should reach the tip of the nose when pulled forward, measuring between 15 to 17 inches ( 38 – 43cm) weighing between 13 – 15kgs. They have a large range of colours ranging from solid colours to a mix of two to three. Studies have found that Rage Syndrome (although quite rare now) is more common in solid colours than parti-coloured.

Spaniels should be brushed 4 – 5 times a week and visit the salon every 6 – 8 weeks to be hand striped (clipping your cocker can ruin their silky flat coat and make them fuzzy). A working cocker can be brushed about once a week and shouldn’t really need to visit the groomers accept for a really good clean, a trim and splash of canine perfume.

Exercise wise an adult Cocker should be out for a brisk walk of at least 30 minutes twice a day; working Cockers may require considerably more time than this. Generally Cockers will keep going until you decide to stop so take care in summer that they do not overheat by looking for the signs such as excessive panting ,seeking shady areas on their route back to you or less subtly, making a b-line to the nearest patch of water to dive in.

CHARACTER Spaniels are typically full of life and love.

They are very eager to please and love being with their master (and any other human that will give them a bit of attention). A well-bred Cocker is loyal, cheerful, trustworthy, easily trained and adaptable.

TRAINING Cockers want to please you and it is their general affection for food that makes him an ideal student.

If this is your first dog you may want too bring them to an organised obedience class. These classes generally help you with the basics and train you how to train your new best friend. An untrained Cocker can be a handful; the ease of training your new cocker should keep you motivated to continue.

A well trained cocker is a happy one.

Their general enthusiasm for life can be reflected in their pulling on the lead but with perseverance this can be kept under control: Positive reinforcements with treats, praise and affection are a good combination to get the most out of your puppy. Finally, socialisation, (experiences) of all sorts from travel, noises, other dogs, other people, children, etc should try and be crammed in by the time the puppy is around 16 weeks.

12 THE TAILS ISSUE 12

Wag this way!

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ISSUE 12 THE TAILS 13

BREED REVIEW

14 THE TAILS ISSUE 12

THE BENGAL CAT A domestic cat in tiger’s clothing, the Bengal Cat is often misunderstood. Read on to find out about this special breed.

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have always been intrigued by the Bengal Cat and as a cat lover I wanted to find out more about these mysterious animals. Why the name Bengal? Are they mini Bengal tigers? Well, nothing that dramatic!

Originally known as a Leopardette, the Bengal Cat is a hybrid of a domestic cat and an Asian Leopard Cat - a small wild cat found from Siberia to Borneo and the Philippines. The species’ Latin name (Bengalensis) is derived from the first Asian Leopard Cat that was discovered swimming in the Bay of Bengal.

There are various claims on the origin of the first domestic Bengal cat, dating back to 1889. However it wasn’t until the 1970s that American Jean Mill worked hard to popularise the breed. In her own words: “I deliberately crossed leopard cats with domestic cats for several important reasons: Female leopard cats defending their nests were shot for their pelts, and the cubs were shipped off to pet stores worldwide.

Unsuspecting cat lovers bought them, unaware of the danger, their unpleasant elimination habits and the unsuitability of keeping them as pets. Most of the wild kittens escaping from this era ended up in zoos or onto the city streets. I hoped that by putting a leopard coat on a domestic cat the pet trade could be safely satisfied.

If fashionable women could be dissuaded from wearing furs that look like their friends’ pets the diminished demand would result in less poaching of wild species.”

The breed finally gained recognition with The International Cat Association. (TICA) in 1984 and the breed is now the TICA’s most popular registered breed.

Although still not fully recognized by all cat fanciers.

tabby to sepia, mink and silver. The most expensive specimens feature bi-colored, highly contrasted rosettes like those of the jaguar.

There is a common misconception that Bengals are large cats, but they typically fall within the size range of a conventional

APPEARANCE Bengals come in a variety of colours ranging from traditional

domestic feline. Females are generally in the 7lb-10lb range and males fall between 9lb – 12lbs. They tend to have long, lean bodies that are very striking in length, much like a cheetah when they reach and stretch.

PERSONALITY AND TRAINING Owners of this “dog-cat” breed will be only too aware that there are several common personality traits. These can be desirable and endearing or simply challenging. Neutered males seem to be more affectionate and spayed females seem to be more independent, but both have the potential to make great pets.

They often coexist poorly in a household with other cats if they are already established when other cats are introduced. However, they do get along well with many breeds of dogs. Bengals are also frequently tolerant of a bit of poking and grabbing by small children, especially those whom they recognize.

As a breed they tend toward doglike than catlike behaviours. They can be trained to travel in vehicles well. They tend to not

Let’s go walkies!

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18/06/2009 22:55

ISSUE 12 THE TAILS 15

BREED REVIEW

be adverse to water like most domestic cats, though they still usually dislike being splashed. Many owners find their Bengal enjoys jumping into the shower for a drink of fresh warm water, or sitting or playing around the bathtub.

They like perching on tall things and balancing on narrow places like bannister railings. This behaviour can be enjoyed

positively by providing places for perching or climbing. They take well to litter box training, and even sometimes to toilet training. They can learn to open doors with lever style handles and even to do simple tricks like “speaking” on command, standing, or rolling over. Bengals will usually permit a leash or a tie-out (tether) very well, but do not usually train to being walked on a leash and often get tangled on a tether.

The Bengal has a different voice compared to a domestic cat. Males and females are extremely vocal in volume and frequency.

The meow is louder than expected for domestic cats and is reminiscent of a crying baby, though they also make other noises like chirps, squeaks, trills and warbles. The life expectancy is 12-16 years. Bengals LOVE water so you have to keep all toilet seats down! They could be a great help if you need an extra set of paws to scrub the dishes or need to get to that hard to reach spot!

PURCHASING YOUR BENGAL If you are an active person and not at home much then a Bengal is not for you. That said. if you really want to get a Bengal and can’t give it all the attention it needs, then getting two could be the answer.

Before buying a Bengal it is definitely worth visiting a few breeders to get an idea of the different cats and temperaments. As you would expect, prices vary from breeder to breeder and also from cat to cat. A normal

16 THE TAILS ISSUE 12

Here is a checklist that you should go through before considering purchasing a Bengal: • Firstly contact the Bengal Cat Breed Club • Do you want a show cat/breeding cat/pet?

• Kitten or Mature Cat • Male/Female

What to look for when you visit the cats and breeders: • Shiny fur, bright eyes, clean bottoms.

There should be no runny noses/eyes or pot bellies • Look for outgoing cats/kittens the ones that are busy, active and friendly and don’t mind being picked up or stroked. Don’t forget that cats and especially kittens do sleep (they do need to get their 19 hours of sleep!)

• Make sure the breeder gives you Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) pedigree, vaccination certificates and insurance certificates.

Bengal could cost between £300-£500. A breeding female, otherwise known as a Queen, or a show cat could set you back at least £800 with some changing hands for several thousand pounds.

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ISSUE 12 THE TAILS 17

22/5/09 12:08:42

HEAVY PETTING THE WEIGHTY ISSUE

Spring has sprung, the sun has started to make more regular appearances and as our thoughts naturally turn to the state of our bodies (and those of our dogsbodies) I have to admit that this year Lucy is definitely looking a little broader/sturdier/chunkier * (*insert derogatory adjective of your choice).

I

t doesn’t help that some of her fellow working cockers are from a slenderer lineage. Joking apart, there is – and I’m being serious – a smaller-framed working line in the West London area. I know at least three adult dogs who are the same size as Lucy was in her youth and, without dwelling on their breadth or girth, it so happens that they are slim too.

When it comes to stature, Lucy looks like her mother (canine). Bramble was thick set and Lucy has followed suit. However it would appear that Lucy has followed in her mother’s (human) footsteps on the weight gain front in recent months. My excuse is that I have had a Like Mother

TALES FROM THE DOGHOUSE

BY JANE SIGALOFF

baby. Her excuse? That I have had a baby. In the weeks before our lives changed forever, the walks were slower. Then when we were trying to prove to Lucy that we still loved her there may have been some high-calorie bribery involved.

While Lucy has always had the advantage of a dark, glossy, silky coat (we all know that black is supposed to make you look slimmer), this summer it’s time that we both got serious.

Now the sun is warm on our walks, she does start panting pretty quickly and I am starting to suspect it may be to do with her current Body Mass Index rather than the Tog rating of her coat.

We’re back to two good walks a day but the new mistress of the house is now ten months old and at the messy finger food stage. Lucy’s hitherto healthy James Wellbeloved diet has been supplemented with rice cakes, biscotti, bits of cheese, bread and breakfast cereals.

Some of the titbits are accidental but I have recently observed the donations becoming more deliberate as the baby loves feeding Lucy more than she loves feeding herself. I am starting to wonder if Luce has promised her future pawcket money to her non-furry sister as snacks are regularly passed furtively from small hand to large mouth under the table or high chair tray.

It isn’t just the weather that is bringing matters to a head. Lucy is going for her annual MOT at the vet in a few days time. It’s the usual boosters, general health check and weigh-in and for the first time I am nervous. I hate being told off but unless I can teach her to lean against the wall when standing on the scales or to put one paw on the floor whilst

WHILE LUCY HAS ALWAYS HAD THE ADVANTAGE OF A DARK, GLOSSY, SILKY COAT (WE ALL KNOW THAT BLACK IS SUPPOSED TO MAKE YOU LOOK SLIMMER), THIS SUMMER IT’S TIME THAT WE BOTH GOT SERIOUS. 18 THE TAILS ISSUE 12

Like Daughter

balancing more gingerly on the remaining three, she’s going to be informed that she’s on the slightly heavy side.

I will of course defend her to the hilt; she is after all big-boned, she has more fur than most (she does), she is very muscular and we all know that muscle weighs more than fat, but the truth is that my rose tinted spectacles need a new prescription. As my hormones finally return to normal, I am starting to see that both she and I are carrying a bit of extra weight.

Yet unlike Lucy, I don’t have to be weighed in front of the vet. Maybe I could book her in for a tummy tuck or at the very least, a haircut?

Do they make a canine version of Slimfast? I could of course take her for a swim just before our appointment. She definitely looks thinner when she’s wet.

Luce and I skipped breakfast on the morning of our appointment and I’m sure I caught her holding her breath as she reluctantly sat on the scales. Assuming they don’t need recalibrating, the bad news is that Lucy is just over two Kilos overweight. Flushed with embarrassment at my shortcomings, I looked at the floor a lot, gestured to the baby (as if it were her fault), muttered something about lots of fur being

Does my tum look big in this?

heavy and then promised to do better. I’m no mathematician but even I realise that 2kg as a percentage of 13kg is quite a lot. And the killer blow came when the vet ever so nicely hinted that a recent tendon stretch in Lucy’s knee, sustained on a very walk-heavy weekend away in the country, could have been precipitated by her being overweight. That was the slap I needed. I want Lucy to live forever and I certainly don’t want to be one of those owners who literally loves their pet to death.

To Lucy’s horror, a new stricter mother

drove her home from the vet that morning.

With instructions to feed the dog a little less of her own food and, most importantly, nothing else, Lucy spent the next baby dinner time in the garden. She was far from amused but I managed to stand firm despite the mournful stares penetrating the French doors.

When she was barred from the breakfast food fight the following morning, I could hear her sighing from the other side of the baby gate. But she is adjusting and I when I feel myself weakening I remind myself that these rations are for her own good. I keep telling her that by the time we get to France late this summer, she’ll be in fantastic shape.

And then it’ll be time for the next project.

Me. •To find out more about Jane visit www.janesigaloff.com

Take a walk in the park…

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ISSUE 12 THE TAILS 19

dane train

on the dane train People are definitely staring. it is a miserable drizzly April day and we are being led through the park by three large, beautiful dogs.

J

ez and Melli Bond have been fostering Harvey, a Great Dane.

I am accompanying them as they introduce him to his new owner and her Great Dane. Also in tow is the Bond’s full-time dog, Hazel.

Almost a year ago the Bonds rescued Hazel from Battersea Dogs Home. She is a Great Dane-Mastiff cross, so when they began

20 the tails issue 12

contemplating getting a dog to keep her company they decided to look at Great Danes.

If you type Great Dane into Google one of the first sites to appear is that of Daneline.

Daneline is a charity that re-homes abandoned Danes and this caught the interest of Jez and Melli who are keen to rescue dogs rather than buying from breeders as “there are so many dogs in need of a good home.”

Daneline is unique in that they never put dogs into kennels, but place them with foster carers who assess and rehabilitate the dog whilst a new owner is being found.

“When we found out about fostering which isn’t something we were looking into - we thought it could be a good thing for us to do to learn more about the breed and also to give us a taste of how it would be to have two

dogs.” Jez explains.

They contacted Daneline who assessed their suitability as foster carers; size of their home and garden, proximity to a park and whether they were nice people, able to adequately care for potential wards.

“Daneline were really excited because we’re the only ones doing it in London” Melli enthuses. The Bonds passed with flying colour and within days the process began.

“We got a call on the Friday,” Jez recalls, “saying we need you to look after this dog tomorrow, and it was full steam ahead.” The following day Harvey arrived.

I have got to know Harvey over the past four weeks. He is 57 kilos of lolloping beast with big feet and an even bigger heart. What he lacks in brains he more than makes up for in energy and enthusiasm. I have run with him, Hazel and Melli for more than two hours without him tiring. To have this ball of unbridled zeal and his enormous limbs in ones home is, literally, a huge responsibility. And yet Jez and Melli have adapted amazingly well.

They are impressive dog trainers. Hazel is the most impeccably behaved dog that I have had the fortune to know, with no signs of residual behavioural issues from her own abandonment. They see no reason that there should be, believing firmly that a dog’s behaviour is largely down to the energy that you present.

“Dogs don’t come with any baggage,” Jez admonishes, “whatever people might say. ‘Oh, he’s scared of brown dogs because he was bitten by one’. That’s something the owner has imposed. They need to break their dog out of it because the dog doesn’t come with any baggage, it just comes needing a good home and leadership.”

In a month the Bonds have changed Harvey’s behaviour. From research that they have done themselves and guidance from the Dog Whisperer’s book, Jez and Melli introduced Harvey to Hazel outside the home and thus began four weeks of intensive, timeconsuming training.

“He was unsettled at first. She [Hazel] helped to settle him. She would be relaxed and settled and eventually he followed her example.” Melli explains. “Having another dog first is a massive help because with her we’ve already set up the rules. They are all challenges for Harvey that Hazel has already accomplished. Eventually he got there.”

Caring for a Dane is certainly a commitment of both time and energy. Daily walks take in

excess of three hours. During the first week there needs to be someone with the dog most of the time as they settle in. Even popping to the shops and leaving them at home requires careful thought and a good deal of trust.

“We had to build up leaving him in stages.”

Jez describes. “We did think, what if we come back and the whole house is destroyed? So we started small, 5 minutes, and we crept round the back windows to see how they behaved. It was dark outside and we left the lights high on inside so they wouldn’t be able to see us. And we just observed them. They settled down. We built that up more and more.”

A level of trust is now apparent. The Bonds insist on creating a pack environment and instilling a pack mentality for the dog, where the hierarchy is clearly observed. Jez and Melli are the leaders. Hazel is next in the pecking order and I’ve observed her berating Harvey several times when he’s not responded to a command, or not respected the pack order.

“It’s the oldest relationship, between dog and man…” Jez says, “where man gives dog certain things and the dog in return gives man certain things. So he knows he’s going to get the food, the water, the walks. And in return what is he going to give us? He’s going to give us obedience, he’s going to protect us. He’s going to look up to us.”

And this is how, in a matter of weeks, an old dog has been taught new tricks. Gone is the underweight, mangy-coated, doleful, nervy Dane that I met four weeks ago. In his place an obedient, confident, calmer creature, albeit one who is still mildly unaware of his own size

and might.

“It is quite emotional” Melli admits, “and can be quite draining because you put so much of yourself into training them, loving them, caring for them, knowing them, and going right, let’s get you healthy and happy and fed.

You feel lows when he’s pulling and he’s not learning and you’re thinking what am I doing wrong? And then it’s tough as they’re going.”

So we are here, a spectacle in Bishop’s Park, and the end of Harvey’s time with the Bonds.

It is an emotional day for Jez and Melli but they are hiding it well as Harvey and Hazel flail through the mud with Harvey’s new sister, Marble. Harvey shows no sign that he is aware that his life is about to change permanently. Hazel, holding her own despite the size difference, is oblivious to the fact that she is about to lose the friend with whom she’s played, walked, eaten, slept and disciplined for the last month.

“He became part of the family.” Melli says. “I think that we should feel happy and glad that we came such a long way with him. He’s put on the weight and he’s happy and he got settled.

And knowing that he should be settled and happy in his new home - they’re going to love him, they’re going to have a great time with him - that feels good.”

There is a real sadness as Jez and Melli enter the house having put Harvey into the car with his new family, but there is little time to dwell.

Tomorrow the process begins again as the Bond’s second foster Dane arrives. He is even bigger than Harvey.

BY EMILY KATE STEPHENS

…that will get lots of tails wagging!’

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18/06/2009 22:58

ISSUE 12 THE TAILS 21

CanCer In PeTS

CanCer in pets

The members of your family with paws are sadly not immune to cancer and as many are living longer, it is a condition that more owners are having to contend with. Tails offers you the homeopathic approach to treatment.

By Holly MaSH

22 THe TaIlS issue 12

C

ancer affects pets of all shapes, sizes and age groups, and with more of them living well into their ‘senior citizen’ years it is a diagnosis that is being made by more vets every day.

Whether the tumour is ‘benign’, (usually a localized lump that is nothing to worry about), or ‘malignant’, (a fast growing mass with the potential to spread), there are a lot of decisions that have to be made regarding treatment and care of your beloved pet when the ‘c’ word is mentioned. Because more animals are being diagnosed with cancer, and because complementary treatments are on the rise amongst the discerning pet-owning public, we are bringing both of these together here to outline the role of homeopathy in the treatment of cancer.

What is cancer?

In health, there is a constant, highly regulated process where the body’s building blocks, ‘cells’ are regularly replaced.

This everyday process of ‘cell division’ is a delicate balance of renewal and repair. Cancer is the result of an upset in this finely tuned process. A common presentation of cancer in the body is a growth, or a mass; for example you feel an unusual lump on your dog’s or cat’s skin. In such cases it is always best to have any new or unusual lump or bump checked over by the vet – as it may just be a swelling associated with a knock or a bruise, or it may be a more sinister lump that they can either keep an eye on, or offer to biopsy, (and hence get a diagnosis). As always with cancer, the earlier the diagnosis is made, the more likely that treatment will be successful.

The definition of cancer, (or ‘malignant neoplasia’), is the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. Normal cells that have ‘gone haywire’ and lost their regulation and control mechanisms. These malignant, cancer cells invade, and destroy nearby tissues and can spread (or ‘metastasise’) to other parts of the body. ‘Malignant cancers’ are different from ’benign cancers’, which are self-limiting and do not invade or spread. Cancer however doesn’t always have to be a mass, it can also affect the

blood cells, such as in leukemia. Many different types of cancer can affect dogs and cats, each having different prognoses and recommended forms of treatment.

What causes cancer?

This of course is a relatively unknown quantity and still an area of some discussion and controversy in human medicine. There are of course plenty of likely, as well as less-likely theories as to what causes cancer, with new ones being suggested on a more or less daily basis - most of these generally need to be taken with a pinch of salt!

Cancer is generally thought to develop as a result of a complex mix of factors related to the animal’s environment, potential exposure to carcinogens or radiation, nutrition and heredity. You may be able to pinpoint the exact cause of your pet’s cancer – or, more usually, you may not.

Homeopaths view cancer as the end point of an ongoing and long standing disease process, and treat it in a holistic manner. They take

white lab coat I’m sure), will analyse it to determine whether it is a benign tumour or whether it is a cancerous (‘malignant’) one.

Other common diagnostic tests for cancer include x rays and, or ultrasound, so that any abnormalities can be more exactly visualised.

These diagnostics can be very important steps in both deciding upon, and in assessing your pet’s response to treatment, as well as for evaluating the prognosis. Don’t dismiss these diagnostic tests even if you are choosing to go along the route of homeopathic treatment – because the specialist vet will still find all these tests very useful in terms of treatment, (they help with choice of remedy and treatment protocol).

treatment: Being clear about the quality of life for your pet, both with and without the various forms of treatment will be vital. Although each and every pet owner has differing attitudes on how far they will go to save a loved one, when it comes down to their four-legged friend, they find it difficult to decide what kind of treatment they consider putting their friend through.

I’m sure most people would rather have their beloved pal around happily wagging their tail at the thought of a walk, (or purring and rubbing up against foil packs of Sheba), for a little bit less time – treatments involving long hospital stays or aggressive treatments, that may give them a few extra weeks or months.

When all’s said and done, it’s all about quality, rather than quantity of life for our pets.

Depending on the type of cancer and the stage of the disease – whether it is at an early or a late stage, there may be several treatment options to consider. These include the mainstays of surgery, chemotherapy or even radiation therapy, but also now increasingly people are turning to complementary treatments such as homeopathy as either a sole form, or more commonly as an adjunct to, traditional treatments.

Ultimately, the choice of the type of treatment that will be best suited for your individual animal will be based on you being able to make an informed decision after carefully evaluating the pro’s and con’s of each treatment for your own pet’s condition and

there are a lot oF Decisions that haVe to Be maDe regarDing treatment anD care oF Your BeloVeD Pet When the “c” WorD is mentioneD. into consideration the pet’s mind, body, diet, home-environment and past medical history as an individual and unique whole when they are prescribing their treatment. They view cancer as being a ‘whole-body’ imbalance, rather than one or more cancerous masses that can be definitively treated or cured by removal. The aim of homeopathic treatment of any longstanding condition, such as cancer, is find the root cause of the body’s ‘imbalance’, whether this is on an emotional or a physical level, and by addressing this, they treat the ‘cancer’.

Diagnosis: The first step in diagnosing cancer is often via a fine needle aspirate (FNA) or biopsy from the mass – the vet will usually do this either in the consultation,(for a fine needle aspirate), or via a surgical technique in an operation,(a tissue biopsy). The biopsy sample is then sent to the laboratory where a pathologist, (in a

Wag this way!

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18/06/2009 22:58

issue 12 the tails 23

CANCER IN PETS individual circumstance.

HOMEOPATHY:

Homeopathic treatment of cancer is aimed at using one or more homeopathic remedies to help re-balance the patient’s internal ‘vital force’ and thus restore function of the immune system and boost their innate self-healing mechanisms. Whether homeopathy can be used as either a sole treatment, or as part of an integrated treatment approach will depend on the individual case, depending on the recommendations of both your regular vet, and also the specialist homeopath, (or in rare cases you may be lucky enough to have them as one and the same!)

The homeopathic vet (VetMFHom) has one or more of several different prescribing strategies available to them in the treatment of cancer, (they will choose which one to follow depending on the particular case). The most fundamental of these treatment approaches is the ‘constitutional’ remedy, which is chosen especially for the patient as an individual.

In addition, they may also prescribe a ‘local’ or supportive remedy, based on the physical or localised symptoms. The homeopathic remedies can be given in either liquid or tablet formulations – depending on whichever is easier for the patient, (and the owner!).

Homeopathy can also, and often is, used in conjunction with conventional treatments – as part of an integrated treatment strategy for the patient. For example homeopathic remedies may be used alongside and after surgery, or to help with any side effects of either chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

IMMUNE SUPPORT A weak or poor immune system is undoubtedly linked to cancer; therefore supporting the immune system is a vital part of treatment. Often high doses of Vitamin C and E, as well as a variety of other antioxidants such as Echinacea are used in treatment for animals.

PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE As ever, ‘prevention is better than cure’ and by looking at various ways we treat our pets, we can take great steps in keeping them fighting-fit!

• ‘You are what you eat’ – The importance of a healthy diet cannot be underestimated. A natural, fresh diet, full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants will be the basis of a strong immune system and a healthy body where no cells are going to malfunction or misbehave!

Try and add organic, fresh fruit and vegetables to your pets daily rations, (in moderation of course), as often as you can – this will support vitality and a healthy digestive tract.

• Avoidance of toxins- This goes for everything and anything that your pet comes into contact with, whether on a regular or one-off basis. For example make sure that you use stainless steel or ceramic feed and water bowls, (rather than plastic ones), and baskets and bedding made from natural materials. Also be careful about which household cleaning

24 THE TAILS ISSUE 12

BE CAREFUL ABOUT WHICH HOUSEHOLD CLEANING PRODUCTS YOU EXPOSE YOUR COMPANIONS TO. REMEMBER THEY ARE MUCH NEARER TO THE FLOOR – AND THEREFORE THE CHEMICALS – THAN YOU ARE. products, pet shampoos, air-fresheners, you expose your companions to, (remember they are much nearer to the floor – and therefore to the chemicals - than you are). The same caution applies to the use of flea preparations, and a host of other products we drop, tip, or ‘put’ on our pets. Just use common sense and think first about what the product is and where you are putting it, in relation to your four-legged friend.

• Lifestyle and home-environment-When you reflect on just how closely we live with our pets, and just how close a bond we have with them, it is not difficult to appreciate that they do pick up on our emotions and feelings and so can be affected by negative energy in and around the home. Just being aware that our companions share our energy-field, can help you appreciate the kind of things that they may be exposed to, or pick up on.

• Breed/Genes- As mentioned previously, some breeds of cat and dog are known to be more likely to suffer from certain types of

cancers, than others, so doing your research before you take your puppy home will at least fore-warn you. Heinz 57’s (or mongrels as they are otherwise, less endearingly known), are of course generally made of much sturdier stuff!

• Homeopathic treatment throughout your pets life – This will help to avoid cancer by making sure the body’s early-warning signs, (what we see as minor symptoms such as ear infections and coughs), are heeded, rather than suppressed, so that no chronic and longstanding state of imbalance exists to be later diagnosed as cancer.

A LAST THOUGHT… Whichever method of treatment you opt for, and whether you choose any at all, just be sure that you are doing the right thing for your faithful friend, and acting in their best interests to ensure that they keep their dignity and quality of life until the end.

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David Cuffe & Associates Veterinary Surgeons 52, Abbeville Road Clapham London SW4 9NF T +44 20 8772 9922 F +44 20 8772 9911 E davidcuffe@gmail.com There is one problem cropping up all the time now and it is this. Cash is a bit tight and the Pet Insurance comes up for renewal and it has seemingly doubled in price. The owner thinks – I’ll Google it and see if I can do better. Sure enough there are several cheaper alternatives.

So the owner switches to the new policy, which on the face of it looks at least as good, and cheaper. Then that old ear/skin/foot/whatever flares up again and now it needs an expensive operation to cure it. No problem, you think, you have a wonderful new policy. Unfortunately the new policy doesn’t cover existing problems. So anything on the animals record can be excluded.

In effect, you have only cover against problems that from which your pet has never suffered. In this case, no cover. Not such a bargain. It is just as bad, though not as costly, if you cancel your insurance altogether. If you are thinking of doing that, have a chat with the practice first. Throwing away a policy entitlement may not make sense especially as you have paid dear for it, and may well pay dear again without it.

ISSUE 12 THE TAILS 25

Alpha Dog Sitting

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The only luxury dog resort to give your precious dogs the love, attention and exercise they need. Whilst relaxing in our luxury dog hotel, or playing in our beautiful countryside your dogs will have a wonderful holiday of their own.

Whether it is an action packed activity holiday, or a relaxing break ambling around our acres of beautiful countryside, our aim is to guarantee that all our guests will have a wonderful, fulfilling and safe stay in the clean, fresh sea air which cleans their coats and makes their eyes sparkle.

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www.caninecountryclub.co.uk 26 THE TAILS ISSUE 12

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ASK THE VET

ASK THE VET NEUTERING KITTENS - WHEN AND WHY?

Historically and culturally nearly all cats in the UK are neutered.

It is really quite rare for me to see an adult cat that has not been neutered unless it is a breeding tom or queen.

T

FEMALES

he benefits of neutering are mainly behavioural ones but there are also health benefits for your kitten. Obviously there is the small risk of the general anaesthetic and the procedure itself, but a good vet will go over this with you and explain everything to you before you go ahead.

MALES Entire (un-neutered) males tend to be more territorial than neutered cats. This means that they are more likely to roam if they go outside, wander off and get into fights with other cats (and are more likely to get run over by a car).

Equally they are likely to “spray” urine. This is a territory marking behaviour and involves them spraying urine horizontally around the periphery of their territory, usually on curtains, sofas and walls! Some female cats will also spray but this is less common although entire females are also territorial.

Neutering a male cat should make them want to stay at home and be less likely to spray. No bad thing as Tomcat urine is very smelly!

The more territorial the cat, the more likely they are to get into fights and fighting between cats can cause severe injuries and abscesses requiring veterinary treatment.

Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) also known as cat AIDS, are spread by fighting and sexual

contact. We can vaccinate against against FeLV, but at present there is no vaccine available against FIV. Neutering your kitten will reduce his tendency to fight and stop any sexual contact. We recommend that all cats and kittens are vaccinated against cat ‘flu and FeLV if they go outside. (If you have an indoor cat it is still usually advisable to vaccinate against cat ‘flu.)

In my practice, we routinely neuter male cats at 5 to 6 months old. We often implant a microchip at the same time.

notting hill and barons court veterinary centres 106 Talbot Road Notting Hill London W11 1JR

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The most obvious reason to neuter a female cat is in order to prevent unwanted pregnancy. A female kitten from about 7 months old will start to cycle every 2 to 3 weeks.

During this time she is said to be “calling”.

Calling usually goes on for about a week. During calling she will often miaow loudly and crouch low to the ground rubbing against the floor.

Tom cats will smell her from miles away and come running! Female cats ovulate on mating so this behaviour will continue until she is mated.

Letting your kitten or cat get mated by the local tom can carry health risks as discussed above (FIV and FeLV). Neutering also removes the risk of womb infections in later life and possibly reduces the risks of mammary (breast tissue) tumours. In my practice, we routinely neuter kittens from 4 months old and implant a microchip at the same time.

In summary, I would strongly recommend that you get your kitten neutered. After neutering there is a tendency for both male and female kittens to put on weight quickly.

This is because neutering reduces calorie requirement and also seems to increase appetite. There are a couple of very good “neutered cat” foods available on the market which try to prevent excessive weight gain. We routinely send our patients home with a sample of this when they are neutered and we have noticed a definite reduction in obesity post-neutering as a result.

KIND REGARDS,

EMMA

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ISSUE 12 THE TAILS 27

SURVEY

READERSHIP SURVEY 2009 GETTING TO KNOW YOU -

HOW MANY DOGS DO YOU OWN

❏0

❏1

❏2

❏3

❏ 4+

HOW MANY CATS DO YOU OWN?

WIN £500 AS A THANK YOU! DO YOUR ANIMALS HAVE PET INSURANCE?

❏0

❏1

❏2

❏3

❏ 4+

❏ Yes

❏ No

❏ Only some

WHERE DO YOU BUY YOUR PET FOOD?

❏ Vet ❏ Online

❏ Supermarket ❏ Homemade

❏ Pet shop

DO YOU GO ON HOLIDAYS WITH YOUR PET?

❏ Yes

❏ No

❏ Sometimes

DOES YOUR PET EVER GO WITH YOU ON SOCIAL OUTINGS? (PUB, COFFE SHOP ETC)?

❏ Yes

❏ No

HAVE YOU MADE NEW FRIENDS AS A DIRECT RESULT OF YOUR PET?

❏ Yes

❏ No

DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER ANIMALS OTHER THAN A CAT OR A DOG? IF SO, WHAT?

HOW MUCH ON AVERAGE WOULD YOU SPEND ON YOUR PET PER MONTH?

❏ >£10

❏ £10 - £20

❏ £20

❏ £40

❏ < £40

DO YOU PETS GET PRESENTS FOR OCCASIONS LIKE CHRISTMAS, BIRTHDAYS ETC?

❏ Yes

DO YOU BUY ANY OTHER PET PUBLICATIONS? IF SO, WHICH PUBLICATIONS?

28 LONDON DOG TAILS ISSUE 12

AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD INCOME

SEX

❏ Male ❏ female

❏ No

❏ Yes

YOU

❏ No

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❏ -18 ❏ 18-25 ❏ 35-50 ❏ 50-65

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DOG-TAILS FRIENDLY THE TEMPERANCE

I

ts history dating back 100 years, The Temperance began its life as a Temperance Hall; i.e. a bar with no alcohol. It has tried to be other things in its past, including a billiard and snooker room, but its latest incarnation is as a great bar (with alcohol).

As you enter, you are faced with a double height room with an open plan upstairs and downstairs section. The walls are filled with modern art and the rooms arranged with an eclectic yet welcoming selection of tables, chairs and sofas. My two first impressions are that this place is going to be expensive and I’m not sure that dogs are allowed in here after all, despite being told that they were.

I am delighted to say that I was proved wrong on both counts. My dogs were made to feel most welcome (the chef even came out and gave them a piece of meat) and the menu is very reasonable. From Monday to Friday

30 THE TAILS ISSUE 12

they have a £5 special menu that changes week to week and their regular menu is considerably cheaper than most of their local rivals. We chose the chicken burger and corn beef hash; both tasted great for a fiver. Sunday roasts are also served (on a Sunday) from 12noon till 10.30pm and cost around £8.

The Temperance has a great selection of drinks including specially chosen Ales.

Given our assignment we thought it was most appropriate to sample the Trashy Blond

by BREWDOG. The pub also takes pride in their wine list, and there is a Thursday night ‘Grape Club’.

Our suggestion to you if you have time, is to begin your afternoon with unexercised dogs on the south side of Putney Bridge and walk past the boat houses to the tow path and carry on to Hammersmith Bridge, cross the river, head back towards Fulham and finish here.

Then you can collapse onto the comfy sofas upstairs and pick up a cool drink. You won’t be disappointed.

THE TEMPERANCE 90a Fulham High Street SW6 3LF

WHAT’S YOUR TAIL?

www.thetails.co.uk

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s go walkies with Dogs Trust!

Have fun and help give thousands of dogs a happier, safer life!

Dogs Trust will be holding sponsored walks in ten beautiful parks across the UK. You can choose a route of 3miles or 6miles and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need a dog to take part!

So why not treat yourself (and your family) to a great day out and help make a real difference to lots of our four legged friends?

Visit www.waggywalks.org.uk for more information or to register for the event.

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