The UK'S Only West Highland White Terrier Magazine
ISSUE 35, VOL 1
SEPTEMBER 2023
ISSN 2634-4130
HEALTH
NUTRITION
To spay or not to spay?
Create a dog-friendly
feast
from your
fridge
TRAVEL
Take a dogfriendly
Winter beach break in a 5-star resort
News
CENTRAL DATABASE MAKES SEARCH SIMPLER TO FIND RESCUE DOGS
COMMUNITY
Westies from around the world
COMPETITION A HAMPER FROM BECO PETS!
Chinese Medicine and your
Westie’s Health
www.westiesandbestiesmagazine.com
E H T T E P YOUR
Y A W S N BUR
SCAN FOR 20% OFF! Use code WOOF23 at checkout
burnspet.co.uk T&C’s at burnspet.co.uk
Feature: westie&bestie
EDITOR’S NOTE
Enchanting Autumn It’s hard to believe the Autumn months are approaching and there are no complaints about it from my side as it’s my favourite time of year. Hot drinks, pumpkins, and crisp windy walks with my Bestie, ah, how delightful! In this September edition, we bring you a different kind of Cover Story that looks at the basics of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the impact these ancient treatments, which have been practiced for thousands of years in China, can have on your Westie and his/her health.
Kim Latham Editor
If you’ve forgotten to order your dog’s food, and we all have at one time or another, never fear! Sue Makepeace is here to remind us of how to create a meal fit for a king with what’s left in your fridge and kitchen cupboards until you can get your usual food delivered to your front door. In the run up to Christmas there always tends to be a surge in dog thefts in the United Kingdom and insurance comparison site, Quotezone.co.uk, has created top tips on how to keep your canine safe and secure. Canine and human Osteopath, Faye Andrews, is back this month and explains recent scientific research in the ongoing and controversial question of what age we should or should not spay or neuter our beloved dogs. Enjoy! Buffy, Chief Cuddles Officer
Photo Credit: Buffy, Chief Cuddles Officer Image supplied by Kim Latham
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Publisher Westies & Besties Ltd Fidlas Road, Cardiff, CF14 5LZ Editor Kim Latham Tel: +44 7496 310169 Email: Info@westiesandbesties.com Commercial Director Alex Griffin Tel: +44 7496 310173 Email: alex@westiesandbesties.com Front Cover Image Image supplied by shutterstock_2013226619 Design Jayden Ali Printing WPG Group Westies & Besties Magazine is published by Westies & Besties Ltd (the Publisher) and printed on behalf of the publisher by WPG Group. Westies & Besties Ltd is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office. Westies & Besties Magazine and the Westies & Besties Masthead/logo is trademarked and are marks of Westies & Besties Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of the Publisher. The views and opinions expressed within Westies & Besties Magazine are not necessarily those of the Publisher or those of its contributors. While every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, the Publishers cannot/will not be held accountable for the accuracy of the information here therein, or any consequences arising from it. The Publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited articles or manuscripts in the case of all product reviews. Judgements have been made in the context of the product tested. (All photographs have been supplied unless otherwise mentioned.) Advertisers in this publication must adhere to the rules and regulations of the Advertising Standards Authority. Westies & Besties Ltd is not responsible or liable for a company or individual’s advert. Readers are advised to see a fully qualified veterinarian before attempting to try any of the suggestions made by a contributor.
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26 6 NATIONAL DATABASE
A team of animal lovers in Cambridgeshire have created a central database of rescue animals that will help potential pet parents save time when it comes to searching for compatible pets
8 DO YOU KNOW CPR?
The latest figures, according to charity, the PDSA, reveal over 90% of owners have received no pet first aid training leaving both pets and owners in a vulnerable position should things go wrong
10 HOOK, LINE & SINKER
Sustainable pet brand, Tangle, has launched a new range of premium dog bowls following the success of its first product – sustainable dog leads
12 CHRISTMAS
COUNTDOWN Sadly, the run-up to Christmas usually means more thieves on the prowl trying to make a few bucks by stealing people’s precious pups. Insurance comparison site, quotezone.co.uk, reveal their top tips on how to keep your Bestie safe and secure
32 16 COMPETITION TIME
Surprize your Bestie with a mini hamper full of goodies brought to you by Beco Pets. All you have to do to win is to answer one simple question… correctly
20 5-MINUTE MEALS
Forgotten to order your dog’s food? Create a meal fit for a king with what’s left in your fridge and kitchen cupboards
26 TO SPAY OR NOT TO SPAY?
This is an age-old question that seems to divide many dog owners as the answer is a difficult one to prove. Nevertheless, Faye Andrews, canine and human Osteopath, explains the latest findings in new research
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32 CHINA’S ANCIENT REMEDIES Traditional Chinese Medicines have been used across Asia for centuries. Kathy Tompson explains the basics of how it works and why it could be of great potential to the health and wellbeing of our Westies
42 TAKE A BREAK
Why not stretch your legs on some of the most beautiful beaches the UK has to offer? with the kids back in school you and your Bestie could enjoy a relaxing weekend in a five-star resort
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News
Central Database Launched to Help Potential Pet Parents Find Rescue Animals More Easily The aim is to simplify the adoption process so that potential owners won’t have to search each individual animal shelter around the country Image supplied by shutterstock_758063041
A
team of animal lovers in Cambridgeshire, who are determined to make finding the right pet to adopt a great deal easier, have launched a new central database to simplify the process of finding rescue dogs and cats in need of adoption. Recent TV and news articles confirm that there has been a dramatic rise in the number of pet owners parting with their dogs and cats. There are many reasons why a family may need to rehome a pet, but every pet is relovable and deserves a safe and loving home. The cost-of-living crisis has taken a huge toll on many
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households, leaving pet owners struggling with the cost of pet food and vet bills. Because of this, animal shelters and rescue homes have seen a 48% increase in the number of pets being taken to shelters. Despite over 800,000 online searches being made by potential adopters every month, over 100,000 animals are simply not found, and many remain in shelters for several months even years. Sadly, in some cases, long term shelter residents can face euthanasia. The problem is clear and obvious. Potential pet adopters face the fragmented task of searching over 1,000 Westies & Besties - September 2023
separate animal shelter websites to find the right dog or cat to adopt - and many give up. The fact is, no central database for animals available for re-homing exists, yet websites such as Rightmove for property or Autotrader for cars have proven to be the ‘go to’ websites for their industries. Work began in 2022 to create a website and develop a community of animal shelters and people willing to adopt a dog or cat. The website aims to be of nationwide appeal, connecting animal lovers with shelters from all over the country, making the adoption process more accessible to all. The website will also provide
News
valuable pet adopting community information and resources to help pet owners care for their new furry friends. In April the group launched the website www. relovablepets.co.uk This solution was not revolutionary but evolutionary and simple. By replicating the service provided by Rightmove and Autotrader, the adopting public would have access to a single database of animals and in doing so, increase their chances of a successful adoption. The website would also deliver benefits to shelters too by providing access to a wider geographical audience, and
therefore driving more enquiries directly to them. “We are thrilled to have developed a solution that simplifies the pet adoption process and connects animal lovers with their perfect pet. We understand the challenges of searching and registering with the many shelters to find the right pet, and our goal is to make it easier for everyone,” said founder Elaine Scott. The organisation has launched a crowdfunding appeal to help cover the initial costs of digitally connecting animal shelter lists with the Relovable Pets website to create a dynamic and live central database. www.westiesandbestiesmagazine.com
We understand the challenges of searching and registering with the many shelters to find the right pet, and our goal is to make it easier for everyone,” - Elaine Scott, Founder of www.relovablepets.co.uk
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News
Have Received No Pet First Aid Training Around 75% of pet owners don’t know how to perform CPR
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atest figures from leading vet charity, PDSA, reveal that more than nine out of 10 pet owners surveyed have never received any pet first aid training.
Three quarters of those surveyed (75%) wouldn’t know how to perform CPR on their pet, highlighting a worrying number of owners feeling unequipped to deal with an animal-related medical emergency, such as a seizure, heatstroke, or road traffic accident. PDSA, which provides vital treatment to pets in need, is encouraging owners to brush up on basic skills that could prove crucial.
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or would be unsure what to do if their pet was having a seizure. While almost half (46%) didn’t know or weren’t sure how to help their pet if they were suffering from heatstroke. And over half (52%) would feel clueless or would not be sure what steps to take if their furry companion broke a bone. However, it seems owners are keen to gain these necessary skills, with almost two thirds (67%) of those surveyed agreeing they should have a basic understanding of pet first aid.
A survey conducted by the charity also found that 80% of owners don’t own a pet first aid kit, and many feel uninformed when it comes to managing common illnesses or injuries affecting their furry family members.
PDSA’s handy first aid guide offers actionable tips around how to spot and provide first aid for injuries such as broken bones or bleeding wounds. It also suggests simple ways to prevent an emergency from happening, including keeping toxic human food and medications out of paws’ reach, as well as how to be prepared if your pet does become unwell or injured.
For example, almost three quarters (74%) of those surveyed confessed they wouldn’t know
PDSA Vet, Lynne James, said: “The figures highlight the extent of the skills gap when it
Westies & Besties - September 2023
News
comes to basic pet first aid skills. However, owners often don’t realise how important first aid training is until they need it, which can sometimes be too late. As with humans, taking the right actions in the first few minutes following an emergency before seeking veterinary attention can make a huge difference on the outcome of the situation. The good news is that while it may seem like a big task, there are practical tips that owners can learn, which will help them treat and potentially save the lives of their pets. “I’d encourage anyone who doesn’t feel confident providing treatment to their furry friend in an emergency to download our pet first aid guide, which includes a host of resources that could prove vital. “Many of us may also be concerned about the cost of living at the moment, and the price of unexpected treatment will only add further strain to pet owner’s pockets. Aside from lifesaving tips on treating pets in an urgent situation, our guide also offers lots of simple advice that can help to avoid an incident happening in the first place and requiring more costly treatment down the line.”
Almost three quarters (74%) of those surveyed confessed they wouldn’t know or would be unsure what to do if their pet was having a seizure. While almost half (46%) didn’t know or weren’t sure how to help their pet if they were suffering from heatstroke. And over half (52%) would feel clueless or would be not sure what steps to take if their furry companion broke a bone”. - PDSA
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News
Launches New
Premium Dog Bowls
Image supplied by Kirsty McKeon
BY KIM LATHAM
S
ustainable dog brand, Tangle, has launched the Tangle Dog Bowl, crafted out of endof-life fishing nets. The brand is on a mission to put an end to ghost nets, lost or abandoned fishing nets, from entering our oceans and killing marine life through a range of high-end sustainable dog accessories made from recycled fishing nets in the UK. Named the silent killer of our seas, nearly half of the plastic in the ocean comes from ghost fishing nets that have been discarded in the sea. These nets are often made from harsh plastics that take centuries to degrade and are killing millions of marine species every year.
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Xavier Warburton, founder of Tangle started the business in 2022, concerned by the risk ghost nets were causing to marine life, they wanted to combat this problem in an innovative way, repurposing the nets into long lasting, premium dog products. Xavier says: “As an eco-conscious dog owner, it was so important to me to have a positive impact on the environment and also create top of the range products that last. Following the incredible success of our first product, the Tangle Dog Lead, which we launched last year, we know that dog owners want to make a difference too. They love our products and have
Westies & Besties - September 2023
News
been patiently waiting for the next product launch, the Tangle Dog Bowl.’ “These awful ghost nets make up nearly half of all ocean plastics, and our precious marine life is being needlessly killed because of these floating death traps. By creating our beautifully made dog products from recycled nets, Tangle’s helping animal lovers save marine life in the oceans, we’re now on track to stop 526 tennis courts worth (137,800 sqm) of fishing nets becoming ghost nets this year.” Tangle has also joined forces with Ghost Fishing UK, a charity dedicated to removing
abandoned, lost and discarded fishing gear from UK waters. Xavier says “we’re really glad that each product sold supports such a brilliant charity. The guys over at Ghost Fishing UK work tirelessly to make sure that these silent killers are out of our oceans, we want to do anything we can to help.” The Tangle Dog Bowl is the perfect addition to any home, stylish, lightweight, durable and sustainable. The medium sized teal marble effect bowl shows the natural colour of the recycled fishing nets that it’s made from and are ideal for water or dog food and the thick non-slip ring around the base of the bowl makes for a mess free mealtime.
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News
Over 2,000 Dogs Stolen Each Year
How Westie Owners can Protect their Besties
W
ith criminals looking to make a quick buck from the increased dog prices nationwide, pet owners have been warned to take extra precautions to protect their pooches from theft particularly in the run-up to Christmas. Thousands of dogs are stolen from their owners each year in the UK, so experts from Quotezone.co.uk are sharing advice to help owners deter thieves. Prices for a new pup have stabilised at a higher level than before the pandemic at over £1,300, unfortunately making furry friends prime targets for thieves*. Over 2,000 dogs are subject to theft each year in the UK according to a report by charity, the Dog’s Trust, with reports increasing since the pandemic, driven mainly by their increase in value. There is concern that the cost-ofliving crisis will trigger a new wave of dognapping, with criminals seeing it as a way to make quick cash.
In the Greater London region alone, the Metropolitan Police revealed that 1,029 pets were stolen from gardens in the first five months of 2022. This was a 662% increase from reports the previous year, with only 135 reported garden thefts. Dogs are the most commonly owned pet in the UK, and as a nation of dog lovers, 34% of households are at risk of being targeted for their furry companions. **** Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Although precautions such as micro-chipping can help reunite pets with their owners, it, unfortunately, doesn’t stop the actual theft. Visible collars with GPS tags may help act as a deterrent but it’s important to review home security and where your pup spends time alone. “Since lockdown, there has been a significant increase in the price of dogs, making them a lucrative target for criminals. “However, there are many preventative measures that pet owners can take to reduce the risk of dog theft. We’ve created a list of some suggestions to help improve security and protect your pup. “No one wants to imagine their pet being stolen, but the reality is that the crime will only get worse with the cost-of-living crisis as thieves see an increasing opportunity to make money.”
Image supplied by shutterstock_513492859
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News
Quotezone.co.uk has revealed 10 tips to help prevent dog theft:
1 Keep pups on the lead Dogs love nothing more than a bit of freedom out on a walk, but owners eager to avoid harm’s way should keep their pooch on the lead to stop them from wondering too far. With no one around, anyone could capture a free-roaming dog. Investing in a long-line lead is a good idea so pets have more space but are still safe and close by.
2 Practice recall If owners would rather not keep their dogs on the lead and like letting them engage freely with their new surroundings, teaching them to be highly responsive to recall is vital. Dogs with poor recall are more likely to get lost and targeted by criminals.
3 Take photos Be sure to take pictures of your dog from all angles to help identify them, should worse come to worst you may need proof to get them back from rescuers and even photos with yourself and the dog, to help confirm ownership. Image supplied by shutterstock_1680278362
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Stick to open spaces
News
Sticking to open spaces and walking with a friend is highly recommended for dog walkers because it’s safer, and owners can see all around them. Try and avoid areas such as forests and woodlands with less visibility, it’s also more likely that dogs could get lost.
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Secure home and garden
Unfortunately, many dogs are stolen from their homes and gardens, so pet owners should consider improving their home security where possible with cctv cameras, burglar alarms, motion sensor lighting and joining the local neighbourhood watch scheme. Gardens are a prime spot for dognappers to target, so ensure they have locks and fences that people can’t jump or fit through. Even fitting a bell to the gate, pebble stones around the entrance and additional lights are helpful to alert owners to any potential intruders.
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Microchip pooch and keep it updated
If a dog is found after being stolen, pet organisations can read the registration information stored on the microchip to tie registration back to the owner. If a dog is resold after being robbed and an unsuspecting new owner takes it to the vet for a check, they can be reunited. For microchipping to work, information must be updated in the microchip registry. Immediately update contact information such as a phone number and addresses if it changes so the owner and pet can be reunited should they be stolen.
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Be wary of social media
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Be careful of oversharing location tags and your favourite spots for walks on social media channels, especially live posting, it could make you and your pet more vulnerable.
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Image supplied by shutterstock_651790885
Invest in a GPS Tracker collar
GPS dog trackers allow dog owners to monitor their pooches’ location constantly. As long as the tracker remains attached, they can be located in real-time if they escape, are stolen or run off on a walk.
Westies & Besties - September 2023
News
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Don’t leave pups alone in public.
Aside from the danger of overheating in the car, leaving dogs in the car is also tempting for thieves. They can quickly smash the window and steal lone pups. Similarly, leaving a pet unattended outside a shop is just as risky.
10 Vary walks Dognappers can target people they see going on the same walks regularly, so make sure to alternate routes in case suspicious strangers are watching. Be extra cautious of overly friendly people who ask lots of questions about your dog.
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COMPETITION
A BECO PETS HAMPER! Enter this month’s competition and win some goodies for your Bestie.
Question: WHAT MATERIAL ARE BECO PETS’ DOG WIPES MADE FROM? Email your answer to Info@westiesandbesties.com
Good luck!
COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS: This competition opens on the 1st September 2023 and ends on October 31st 2023. Only one entry per household is permitted. The winner will be notified by email by Westies & Besties Magazine after receiving the first correct answer by email and the prize will be sent by post directly by Beco Pets. If we do not receive a response to our email requesting a postal address within 48 hours, Westies & Besties Magazine has the right to present the prize to the runner up – in this instance the second person to email the correct answer by email. This prize is open to both print and digital subscribers around the world.
Images supplied by Beco Pets
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Westies & Besties - September 2023
COMPETITION
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ADVERTORIAL
Itchy, Scratchy Dr. Tom Shurlock, a Nutrition Consultant with The Golden Paste Company reveals the problems and solutions to a dog’s skin issues Seeing a dog scratch an itch is one of the most natural things in the world. However, what causes the itch, and why do some dogs scratch more than others? We have been speaking to Dr Tom Shurlock, Nutrition Consultant for The Golden Paste Company about TurmerItch, a product created to help soothe itching skin in dogs. Is there a reason why my Westie has started itching? An itch is a response to something that irritates the skin. It may be a single cause, such as an allergic response to an insect bite, mites or a mange infection, or airborne allergens, such as dust or pollen. It can also be due to a build-up of causes including dietary allergens, behavioural stress and underlying physiological disorders. One of the main factors relating to how much a dog is affected by itchy skin is breed, and unfortunately, Westies are particularly prone. Skin irritation, whatever the reason, causes an immunological response, impacting the immune system. This response activates nerve systems which give the sensation of itching. Behaviourally, the itching stimulates a subconscious response involving licking and scratching, but can extend to mounting, chewing, hyperactivity, eating faeces, begging for and stealing food, attentionseeking, excitability, excessive grooming and reduced trainability, all stress factors that feedback into the immunological reaction.
multiple causes, this can be difficult. Repelling insects or mites is a first step. In addition, supporting the body’s natural defence system and reduce factors that cause inflammation is important. In order to do this, a supplement can be added to the diet to soothe from the inside out. TurmerItch, from The Golden Paste Company is a great solution as it is designed specifically to support horses with itchy skin; it reduces inflammation and helps keep the skin and coat in great condition. Why does TurmerItch work? TurmerItch for Dogs is a carefully formulated supplement that soothes to reduce itching, improves skin and coat health, promotes hair re-growth and helps to repel insects. It includes Turmeric, Red Bush Tea, Chamomile, Apple Cider Vinegar, Milk Thistle, Lemongrass, Thyme, Cooked Linseed, Sweet Potato and Salmon. TurmerItch contains a number of bioactive compounds that can help support the regulation of networks in the nervous system involved in pain and itching. Research has shown that natural antioxidants, such as curcumin in Turmeric can have a positive impact on inflammation. It has also been shown that the Turmeric, Thyme and Lemongrass in TurmerItch can help to repel insects such as ticks and fleas. The combination of omega-3 fatty acids, fibres and antioxidants help optimise the microbiome which can be a critical factor in the body’s reaction to suppressing allergens.
What can I do to soothe the itching? The obvious answer would be to remove whatever is causing the itching, but, as these factors may be unknown, or there are
How can TurmerItch be incorporated into my Westie’s diet? Ideally, a supplement such as TurmerItch, should be given at least twice a day. This is because some of the ingredients in the supplement
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Westies & Besties - September 2023
are at their peak effectiveness for a limited number of hours. The best way to ensure that a supplement is effective is to keep a certain level of it in the dog’s system consistently. Given that the supplement comes in tasty slices, it is easy to feed and can be fed either with morning and evening meals, or as a treat, twice a day. Will my dog like the taste? Yes, as the base for the supplement is salmon, dogs find the product extremely palatable. For this reason, owners have the option of either adding it to meals or replacing two treats a day with these slices as dogs love them! I’ve never fed my dog a supplement before, what should I look out for? When choosing a supplement, particularly one that contains Turmeric, it is important to see what the ingredients are and how well the dog will be able to digest them. In its natural state, Turmeric is not particularly bioavailable, therefore dogs are able to digest very little of the useful compounds within it. The addition of black pepper and apple cider vinegar to TurmerItch enable the dog to digest the Turmeric more effectively, therefore getting more benefit from the supplement. Thanks to the enhanced bioavailability of all the key ingredients, TurmerItch for Dogs is the ideal daily coat and skin supplement for your dog. When looking at results, keep an eye out for an improvement both in scratching (if that has been a problem), and also in coat and skin condition. This should occur within a week or two of starting a supplement, with a noticeable improvement in the appearance of skin and coat.
ADVERTORIAL
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nutrition
Forget to order your bestie’s food? Never fear, simply create a healthy meal from staples in your kitchen cupboards BY SUE MAKEPEACE
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Westies & Besties - September 2023
nutrition
Image supplied by shutterstock_1921199570
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nutrition
Image supplied by shutterstock_134491526
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Westies & Besties - September 2023
nutrition
Ever woken up early with that nagging feeling you have forgotten to do something important? Then you hear the dog whining for his breakfast, and you realise, oops you have forgotten to order your besties food!
Never fear! All is not lost; your Westie is not going to starve; you just have to get creative and pull together a nutritious and delicious breakfast. Your fridge and store cupboard are actually full of healthy nutrient dense foods to feed your bestie if you know what to look for. Firstly, let’s look in the larder where hopefully you have a few cans of oily fish including sardines and mackerel. These are an excellent source of the anti-inflammatory omega 3. They are also packed full of protein, vitamins, trace minerals, DHA, and EPA. So those little fish are really packed fully of fishy goodness. Let’s move on to your fridge. What have we got in that we can add to our breakfast menu. Perhaps some cottage cheese? It’s a great source of protein, low in lactose and rich in calcium. If there are any leftover vegetables around from last night’s dinner then you’re on to a winner. These can be added to the bowl as they’re high in antioxidants, fibre, vitamins, and minerals and great for the dog’s health and wellbeing.
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nutrition
How about a few blueberries, strawberries or raspberries, any fruits except grapes. They contain polyphenols which have several health benefits, not only for humans but for dogs too. Then you spot some eggs, fed raw or cooked, they’re packed full of eggy goodness. They contain protein and one of the best sources of amino acids, which are essential to the health of your Westie. There is a pack of beef, turkey or chicken mince or chunks you were defrosting for dinner, you could take a few grams off and feed it as well. Fresh meat is an essential part of a dog’s diet, it’s bioavailable, easily digestible, and great for the immune system. So, there we have it, some fish, cheese, veggies, fruit, an egg and some minced meat or chunks. All, or at least some will be in your fridge or cupboard, and you can make a wonderfully nutritious breakfast for your Westie. Top it off with a few herbs, rosemary, thyme and parsley and a few crushed pumpkin seeds and feed it for a delicious breakfast. Then get that order in for food, or pop to the shops, write it on your calendar, set up a subscription or alert on your phone, and promise yourself you won’t forget again. But, even if you do you can be confident that you’ve got your Westie’s mealtimes covered. Image supplied by shutterstock_1910846917
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nutrition
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HEALTH
To Spay or Not to Too young, too old, can cause behavioural problems, won’t fix behavioural problems… its little wonder dog owners don’t know which decision is best BY FAYE ANDREWS
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Westies & Besties - September 2023
HEALTH Image supplied by shutterstock_180753653
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HEALTH
Image supplied by shutterstock_686190901
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HEALTH
Out of 142 Westies, zero of the intact males or females had any of the cancers, and no noteworthy occurrences of cancers in neutered males or females. Mammary cancer had no occurrences in either intact or neutered females”
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was shown to me by my own vet the day before my two cocker spaniels were about to be spayed and it made for an interesting read.
Yet research by Benjamin Hart et al from the Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology at the School of Veterinary Medicine in California, looked at “Assisting decision making on the age of neutering for 35 breeds of dogs: associated joint disorders, cancers and urinary incontinence.” This research
The research looked at both male and female dogs, previous research had revealed that for some dog breeds, neutering may have been associated with an increased risk of joint disorders (hip and elbow dysplasia and cruciate ligament tears or ruptures) and some cancers (lymphoma, mast cell tumour, hemangiosarcoma and osteosarcoma). This new research was to expand on previous data collected and analysed more breeds than previously (Labradors, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds).
often get asked by owners, new or old, (of all breeds), when the best time is to spay or neuter a dog. Opinions on this issue differ considerably amongst breeders, behaviourists, owners, and vets. Let them have their first season, leave them until they are 2 years of age, have them ‘done’ before their first season…everyone has their own opinion, and many are valid.
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HEALTH
The results may come as a surprise, but in most cases the caregiver (owner) can choose the age of neutering without any increased risk to joint disorders or cancers. In fact, only two small breed dogs (the Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu) had a significant increase to cancers whilst all small breeds had no increased risk of joint disorders. All dogs that were used spanned a range of ages of when neutered: • 6 months • 6 – 11 months • 1 – 2 years • 2 – 8 years • Left in tact The diseases were tracked until the dog was either last seen by the vet or through until the dog had reached 11 years of age. Whilst the study looked at 35 breeds, I will obviously focus on our beloved Westies and how many westies were used, and the findings. A total of 142 Westies were looked at (35 intact males, 33 neutered males, 28 intact females and 46 spayed females), I will point out now that whilst this is not a huge sample size, other breeds were in 300/400 mark, and some were lower than the 142 Westies. Out of the 142 Westies only one had a joint disorder (an intact male) other than that no joint disorders were reported in any of the other dogs. Out of 142 Westies, zero of the intact males or females had any of the cancers, and no noteworthy occurrences of cancers in neutered males or females. Mammary cancer had no occurrences in either intact or neutered females also. Other findings include: • 7% occurrence in pyometra in intact females • 14% occurrence of urinary incontinence for females spayed 6 months and 6% at 6 – 11 months.
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The general consensus is that neutering at 6 months old doesn’t affect the likelihood of joint disorders and that it is the owners decision when to neuter. While this is a research-based answer, there is another well-known concept that one should consider. Hopefully, we all know that we shouldn’t walk our puppies more than five minutes per number of months of age, so for example at four months that is 20 minutes, six months that is 30 minutes, but isn’t that usually half of our Westie’s daily walk? We have been told this is to protect the joints as they grow to avoid any growth defects. While some breeds continue to grow up to 24 months, and large breeds take longer to reach full adult size than smaller breeds, it is worth noting that each type of bone develops at a different rate. The best I can find on rates of development is based on an average dog of 25-30kg, this states that humerus (the main arm bone) can take between five to eight months, the femur (thigh bone) between six to twelve months. Most growth plates (depending on breed) should be fully fused around nine months of age. The American Kennel Club states that a small dog between 0 – 9kg will be 75% fully grown by six months of age. Again, another reason to think that neutering at six months isn’t necessarily an issue, after all if an issue is going to develop with the growth plate it would do so early on and not necessarily when the dog is 75% fully grown. This appears then to come down to owner preference and my role is simply to present the facts and knowledge I have so that pet parents can make up their own minds. Neutering has many complexities to it, not just about growth, there are behavioural complexities too so I would suggest seeking advice from a behavioural expert as to their opinions about neutering and the effects on a dog’s behaviour.
Westies & Besties - September 2023
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Cover Story
Traditional Chinese medicine focuses on healing the root cause of disease, encompassing a range of modalities from acupuncture, nutrition, herbal medicine, and mind-body exercise. Three of those modalities are completely appropriate and very useful for our pets writes Kathy Tompson.
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Cover Story
Several cultures believe in an energy source that relates to our physical and mental selves.
I
n China, this energy is called qi or chi. Chi is an energy force that supplies nutrients and minerals as it circulates through the body. Chi circulates through meridians or energy branches that link with each other and every part of the body. Meridians ensure that all parts of the body communicate with each other. These meridians can be seen on a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) chart and give us hints to where the root cause may be by correlating the locations of symptoms and which meridian(s) run through them. Your pet’s body has twelve important meridians on each side. These meridians all individually link to one of your pet’s organs. Every organ relies on other systems and meridians to carry out physical or energy tasks. When chi flow is affected, energy cannot move along meridian lines, and blood cannot flow easily through the veins. Pain also occurs when the area in question doesn’t receive enough nutrients. A healthy, pain-free body allows Chi to travel freely without anything encumbering the flow. Disease and illnesses start occurring when the Chi flow is blocked. To be healthy again, it is important to get rid of the blockages.
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Cover Story
Acupuncture is an excellent method to remove blockage, open meridians, and restore Chi flow in the body. Acupuncture involves puncturing the meridian lines on the affected region with very thin needles to remove the blockage. Your Chinese medicine practitioner/acupuncturist places tiny needles along the meridians in areas where blockage occurs to allow the Chi to flow smoothly again. Many animals, like humans, respond well to acupuncture. Nutrition is a very important piece of TCM. Nutrition encompasses food energetics based on the idea that foods have specific characteristics and can be used to change the profile of the body. Yin energy is cold or cool, so that foods with cooling and cold properties enhance Yin energy. Yang energy is warm or hot, so that warming and warm foods enhance Yang energy. There are also neutral foods, which are balanced without a heavy influence on Yin or Yang. Maintaining the yin-yang balance is key to ultimate health and TCM dictates that its disharmony is the basis of all disease. When there is too much heat, the body needs cooling. When the body is cold, it needs to be warmed. When deficiency exists, it should be toned. When an excess exists, it should be reduced. If dampness is present, it should be dried and so on. The goal is to be in balance or harmony. In addition to enhancing Yin and Yang, warming and cooling foods, along with warming and cooling environments (to the extent that you can) are used to decrease their opposites in the body. Common problems in dogs include excessive heat and excessive dampness. It is useful to see dampness as inflammation or even phlegm in the body. Many of us and our pets are walking around full of phlegm! TCM encourages us to eat seasonally. We should feed our pets more cooling foods in summer months and more warming foods in winter months to maintain harmony. Most dogs default to warm or hot throughout most of the year. The more processed a food is, the warmer it is so that highly processed foods like kibble are hot no matter what the meat source is. Since dogs and cats are carnivores, here is an overview of warm and cold meats.
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Cover Story
Hot Foods include lamb, mutton, goat, venison, and anchovies. Warming foods include chicken, pheasant, and trout. Cooling Foods include duck, rabbit, and whitefish. Neutral Foods include beef, goose, pork, tripe, quail, carp, catfish, herring, mackerel, salmon, sardines, sturgeon, and tuna.
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Cover Story
Herbal Medicine is where TCM excels. While acupuncture removes blocks and allows Chi to flow and proper diet reduces the imbalances caused by poor diet, herbs are used to change the underlying patterns before they become disease. This is why Chinese medicine is best used to stay in harmony and balance BEFORE symptoms even appear.
For over 2,200 years, Chinese herbal formulas have been composed of combinations of herbs chosen to function in synergy with each other. In the West, medications are usually prescribed for a specific symptom and do not address the underlying cause or pattern” If your Westie has complex health issues, the guidance of a qualified professional is essential; but it is simple to help your bestie stay in balance by incorporating seasonal foods into their diet. Some warming foods to your sunseeker, or cooling foods to your generally well-managed itchy dog are good examples.
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TCM makes use of herbs and herbal formulas to strengthen organ function and support good health. An understanding of the essence of various herbal components gives the TCM practitioner a way to create a healing effect that reaches beyond the chemical composition and physical properties of the herbs. The practitioner chooses the herbal formula whose essence, or signature energy vibration, correctly stimulates or adjusts the body’s own energy vibration. For over 2,200 years, Chinese herbal formulas have been composed of combinations of herbs chosen to function in synergy with each other. In the West, medications are usually prescribed for a specific symptom and do not address the underlying cause or pattern. In classical TCM herbal formulas, each herb has a different purpose or role to help the body achieve harmony. For a plant to be included in the Chinese apothecary, each part had to be identified for a different healing purpose. Various Western scientific disciplines have conducted studies to learn how Chinese medicine works, but it is difficult to use a Western yardstick to measure Eastern medicine. For example, many studies on acupuncture involve research that attempts to prove that this modality can eliminate or reduce pain or alleviate certain conditions. However, this elementary approach ignores the deeper insight and experience of Chinese medicine that the human body has unlimited healing power and that the complementary energies of health and disease reflect the yin yang principle within the human body. Unfortunately, TCM practitioners often see pets only after western medicine has failed them. At that point, it is still very successful in identifying and balancing the underlying pattern. The best way to take advantage of all that TCM has to offer is to seek a practitioner while your Westie is still the picture of health and while you can maintain that picture.
Westies & Besties - September 2023
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Travel
Clifftop Gem is a
Fancy stretching your legs this winter with a dog-friendly mini break in Cornwall? BY STAFF WRITER
W
estie owners searching for the perfect place for a break with their four-legged friends should look no further than a five-star experience at The Headland. With a host of treats to keep your canine content, the iconic hotel and its spectacular surrounds has so much to offer on the north coast of Cornwall. The Headland’s partnership with Cornish company Bella’s Pet Boutiques provides the warmest of welcomes for your Westie, with a blanket, bowl, poo bags and treats in rooms on arrival. Guests can also request a copy of Sue Bradbury’s ‘Dog Walks in Cornwall’ to use during their stay, which highlights some of the best places to explore with your furry friend. There is a bounty of doggy delights including toys, treats and travel water bottles which can be purchased from the hotel’s shop in The Square, as well as an outdoor shower to wash off sand from any frolicking on nearby Fistral Beach.
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Westies & Besties - September 2023
The famous surf spot which stretches out below The Headland is one of the UK’s most dog friendly beaches, with no restrictions to access at any time of the year. If the sand and sea is not your dog’s scene, there are some wonderful walks on the hotel’s doorstep, with the Southwest Coast Path running in both directions towards Pentire to the
south, or Watergate Bay to the north. If you’re planning to lunch in the comfort of The Headland’s relaxed luxury, dogs are welcome to accompany you in The Terrace restaurant and The Ballroom.
breed from a Bernese Mountain Dog to a West Highland White Terrier. Dogs are £30 per night, with up to two dogs per room or cottage. Some of the self-catering cottages have small outdoor areas for sniffs and stretches when not out adventuring.
Unlike many hotels, there is no weight restriction for your dog – all The Headland’s rooms and cottages accommodate every
The hotel’s concierges can also organise dog sitters, should guests wish to venture out without them.
Maxi WHITE
SHAMPOO
Brightens Whites & Enhances Colour
Travel
The famous surf spot which stretches out below The Headland is one of the UK’s most dog friendly beaches, with no restrictions to access at any time of the year”
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COMMUNITY
Such a When Bride and Groom Erin and Mark Corkery celebrated their big day at Campbell Point House on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria, Australia, they simply had to have their Besties by their side
Mark and Georgia
Erin and D
uchess
Duncan, Georgia, and Billie
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Westies & Besties - September 2023
COMMUNITY
Georgia getting ready for the big day Georgi
a
Left to righ t Billie, Cha rlie, Duchess, a nd Georgia
Duncan an
d pals
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COMMUNITY
Owners of Sharon Gay from the United Kingdom Images supplied by Sharon Gay
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Westies & Besties - September 2023
COMMUNITY
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COMMUNITY
A Catch Up in
Eight beautiful Westies have a get together in Santa Barbara, in the United States…and they took their owners along with them too! Images supplied by Daniel Stone
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Westies & Besties - September 2023
COMMUNITY
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COMMUNITY
PUPS IN THE PRESS Cotton the Westie - owner of Donna Lancour Images supplied by Donna Lancour
Cotton is two years old and lives in Vermont in the United States 50
Put your Pup in the press! Send your Westie pics to info@westiesandbesties.com
Westies & Besties - September 2023
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