T H E U K ’ S O N LY W E ST H I G H L A N D T E R R I E R M AG A Z I N E
WESTIES & BESTIES ISSUE 1, VOL 1
SEPTEMBER 2020
RAW VERSUS KIBBLE Which one will you choose?
ISSN 2634-4149
The Dog’s Dinner Healthy Recipes for your Bestie
TECHNOLOGY Top 5 Facebook Dog Groups You Should Join Today
THE
SILENT KILLER
NEW WESTIE
Vince the Vet on kidney disease
PUPPY?
Top 10 Training Tips for Puppies & the Kids!
Pup
Nutrition
Jack Wolf Founder on Love at First Bite
Portraits
DOG TALES
The UK Artists Capturing Your Pets
SUSTAINABILITY
Honey’s Natural Feeding Handbook
5-Step Green Guide
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Jack Wolf
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WELCOME
EDITOR’S NOTE It has taken us two whole years to be able to bring you the UK’s ONLY magazine dedicated to West Highland Terriers and their owners. In the runup to this launch issue, we’ve chatted to the UK’s leading vets, nutrition experts, dog brands, Westie associations, dog charities, as well as several Westie social media groups to find out what you, our fabulous readers and Westie owners, need to know when it comes to taking care of our best friends. We’re not your average dog magazine rather a modernday lifestyle magazine that delves into all the questions, problems, as well as the celebrations and pure joy associated with being pet parents. As Westie owners ourselves we will be asking the most important questions on your behalf to make sure our besties have happy and healthy lives. From skin issues to kidney disease to the debate on raw versus kibble – Westies & Besties Magazine is the mouthpiece and go-to source for all the information you need to ensure the optimised health of your dog. We have our own views on certain issues, but we are not here to preach. Our team has a combined experience of nearly 70 years in magazine publishing and our aim is to give our readers both sides of a story to enable you to make an informed decision on how to take care of your beloved pups. We would like to thank every one of you for your enthusiasm, inspiration, and support. You have all contributed to the concept of this magazine in one way or another and we look forward to bringing you the best interviews, research, and stories as we move forward.
K. Latham Editor
Info@westiesandbesties.com
Our Westie, Buffy, Chief Cuddles Officer!
“DOGS DO SPEAK, BUT ONLY TO THOSE WHO KNOW HOW TO LISTEN.” ― Orhan Pamuk, My Name Is Red
Publisher – Westies & Besties Ltd Tatham Road, Cardiff CF14 5FB Editor Kim Latham Tel: +44 7496 310169 Email: Info@westiesandbesties.com Commercial Director Alex Griffin Tel: +44 7496 310173 Email: alex@westiesandbesties.com Web Developer Rhys Davies Email: Info@westiesandbesties.com Design Kutchibok Ltd. Photography MelGib Photography Printing Warners Midlands PLC Westies & Besties Magazine is published by Westies & Besties Ltd (the “Publisher) and printed on behalf of the publisher by Warners. 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 be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequences arising from it. The Publishers accept no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or other materials, in the case of all product reviews. Judgements have been made in the context of the product tested. (All pictures have been supplied unless otherwise mentioned.)
To subscribe to Westies & Besties Magazine visit: www.westiesandbestiesmagazine.com
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CONTENTS
CONTENTS
Inside this issue
SEPTEMBER
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C ANI NE NEWS The latest canine news from around the United Kingdom
06 Q U ES TIO N TIM E
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Have a health or behaviour-related question that’s keeping you up at night? Let our professional panel of experts calm your concerns
12 THE S ILENT KI LLE R Canine kidney disease can be a life-changing illness for both dogs and owners. Dr. Vince MacNally talks to Westies & Besties on prevention, diet, and what to watch out for in blood test results
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
COLL AR OR LE ASH? Which one is safer for your dog?
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LOV E AT FIRS T B I TE
Christopher Adderley, CEO of Jack Wolf, a family-owned natural pet company reveals how his dogs led to him setting up his own raw food business.
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TOP 5 FAC E BOOK GROUPS FOR DOG OWNE RS
R AW VE RSUS KI BBLE – WHI C H ONE WI LL YOU C HOOSE ?
There are thousands of Facebook groups out there targeting dog owners, so we’ve done the research for you by listing the key groups that provide advice, fun, and a real sense of community.
The Raw Food Veterinary Association, and Bella & Duke talk to Westies & Besties on the controversial subject of raw versus kibble and which one is best for dogs.
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34 D OG OWNER S U RGE D TO TA K E LE A D RO LE IN P ROT E C TING THE E N VI RO NM ENT Top UK eco-firm, Beco, invites consumers to follow its new 5-Step Green Guide aimed at helping grow Britain’s £40bn ‘green’ economy.
TOP 10 TR AI NI NG TI PS Welcoming a new puppy into your home? Check out our list of 10 training tips for your puppy… and your kids!
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THE DOG’S DI NNE R Jamie Shanks delivers delicious healthy recipes for your pooch
UK ARTI STS Want a photo shoot with your pup? Looking for an artist to sketch your bestie? Check out our list of the talented people capturing a glimpse of our precious pups
42 DOG TALE S Our book review this issue looks at the Honey’s Natural Feeding Handbook for Dogs
BONE BR OTH RE CIPE www.westiesandbestiesmagazine.com
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ASK THE EXPERT
QUESTION TIME FOSTERING A WESTIE? UNSURE ABOUT WHAT TO FEED YOUR FURRY FRIEND? CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF YOUR DOG’S TOYS? WORRIED YOUR PUPPY IS RUNNING AMUCK? WHATEVER THE ISSUE, OUR PANEL OF EXPERTS ARE HERE TO HELP. EMAIL YOUR PROBLEM TO INFO@WESTIESANDBESTIES.COM AND WE’LL ASK OUR EXPERIENCED PANEL OF PROFESSIONALS FOR THEIR OPINION BEFORE YOU SEEK HELP FROM YOUR VET.
VINCE THE VET
Dr Vince MacNally
Dr Vince MacNally BVSc VetMFHom MRCVS is a veterinary surgeon with more than 35 years clinical expertise. He has successfully helped many thousands of pets, using the power of nutrients supplied by Nature to transform health. This led to the development of a unique range of Vince the Vet, clinically proven Veterinary Formula Supplements, Remedies and Raw food, so that pet owners everywhere, could have access to the most effective, life-enhancing products available.
G EORG E BRAMBLE Pet industry entrepreneur George Bramble is the Founder and MD of Beco, a fast-growing British company whose motto is ‘Love your dog, love our planet’. Beco are constantly seeking innovations to make their products more sustainable and during the past 11 years, they have won more than a dozen awards and now export to 50 countries. All Beco products are designed in Great Britain. The company believes that the foundations of any great product are selecting the right materials and Beco aims to raise the bar for welfare standards in its protein sources for its dog food. All its chicken is free-range; the fish recipe includes only Marine Stewardship Council-certified fish, and transparency in food provenance is of high importance in their premium natural food. Beco is also one of the world’s leading compostable and biodegradable poop bag businesses. George Bramble
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
Sue Makepeace
Dani Moulton
SUE MAKEPEACE
D A N I M O U LTO N
Sue is the founder of the hugely popular Westie Advice Group (WAG) on Facebook. She is a prominent figure in the West Highland Terrier community and helps hundreds of dog owners with their Westie’s health. Sue has rescued hundreds of Westies and has taken many of them into her own home to help dogs with skins issues. She then finds the dogs loving homes to move on to when they are ready to join a family environment again. Sue advocates the feeding of raw food for dogs as she says she has seen first-hand the improvement a healthy balanced diet can make to dog’s health and happiness. Sue’s Westie work began back in 2012 when she started volunteering for Westie Rescue…she’s been rescuing dogs ever since.
Having had a successful career within marketing and sports sponsorship in London, Dani retrained as a trainer/behaviourist and moved to Cheddar in 2018 as she wanted to create a new path for herself and establish a dog training company as a way to make a more positive impact on the world and within her new local community. By creating Dani’s Balanced Dogs (DBD) her purpose is to help people think dog and crack the secret code to canine communication. DBD offers behavioural assessments, basic obedience training, in home obedience training and pack therapy for ‘difficult dogs.’ DBD focuses on fulfilling the breed, daily brain training as well as physical exercise and lots of positive reinforcement for wanted behaviours. Dani is also a volunteer for Dogs Friends, a charity set up to find better homes for unwanted and unloved dogs in Bristol, Bath, and Somerset.
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ADVERTORIAL
NAKED DOG LAUNCHES APPEAL FOR W ESTIE IN NEED
IF YOUR FURRY FRIEND SUFFERS WITH SKIN ISSUES A CHANGE IN DIET COULD BE THE KEY
Is your dog suffering from skin problems? Perhaps you’ve got a yeasty Westie? Is your dog fed kibble but you fancy giving raw food a go? If the answer to these questions is ‘yes’ then this could be the perfect opportunity for your West Highland Terrier. We all know that Westies can be prone to allergies and skin problems so a nutritionist from Naked Dog is offering free advice and free raw food for a minimum of one month to track the progress of your dog’s journey on his path to healthier skin. All you have to do is keep a daily diary and photos of your Westie, which we will publish each month, showing us your pup on his road to physical improvement. Naked Dog is a high-quality raw food that provides a balanced and nutritious complete meal – essential for a dog’s well-being and vitality. We all know that Westies can be prone to skin issues and a nutritionist from Naked Dog will provide a free consultation to discuss the dog’s overall health and requirements and will tailor-make a diet specifically for your furry friend. Email caroline@ndfd.co.uk with high-resolution photos of your dog’s skin condition and your contact details and Naked Dog will be in touch
Image supplied by d2creative.
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
ADVERTORIAL
COMPLETE FOODS AND COMPLIMENTARY TREATS When faced with making choices about dog food and treats, we are often guided by our own personal knowledge and preference for food and nutrition. However, dogs are unique creatures, who may share some similarities with us as humans, but they are not human and need food and treats that are developed specifically for their needs. Evidence of the pitfalls of ‘overhumanisation’ is unfortunately apparent when looking at the many problems dogs experience, from coat and skin irritations and digestive problems to more serious problems like obesity, arthritis and mobility problems. So, whilst everyone wants to see empty bowls and waggy tails, it’s important that we understand what we are feeding and why – choosing food that is tasty, healthy and balanced with high quality ingredients that are chosen specifically to avoid common health problems. The same consideration needs to be applied to treats – in fact, some would say more so, because we tend to separate the giving of treats from the calorie calculation we apply when feeding. So, if we don’t select treats that compliment our food and take their use into account when tracking how much our dogs are consuming, then problems with weight can arise. That’s why, for over 12 years, Fish4Dogs have worked with
Graham with his dogs Sadie and Riley
Image supplied by Fish4Dogs
expert animal nutritionists and qualified veterinarians to develop a range of complete foods and complimentary treats that offer flavour and variety, combined with choice ingredients that provide our dogs with all the nutrition they need, using what we believe to be the best protein source; Fish. Graham Smith, CEO of Fish4Dogs said: “We often get asked why we have chosen fish as our protein. Not only is fish highly desirable to dogs – having an enticing aroma and strong taste. It is an excellent protein that has a whole range of great health benefits, including being naturally high in hugely beneficial omega 3. As a popular human food choice, there’s lots of premium human grade fish that can be utilised sustainably to make wonderfully healthy dog food. Also, with so many species of fish, there’s great choice and amazing flavours, which dogs just
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can’t get enough of. And because we only use fishprotein in our treats as well, this means that our food and treats compliment each other well and to help our customers even further, we’ve just finished a major redesign of all our packaging – pulling out the key benefits of our food and treats and making our feeding guidelines clearer”. To find out more, or to try Fish4Dogs products, visit www.fish4dogs.com. Use West15 at the checkout for 15% off.
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OPINION
COLLAR VERSUS HARNESS WHICH ONE WILL YOU CHOOSE?
BY CAROLINE COWAN, CARDIFF CANINE CITIZENS
If only I had a pound for every time I was asked the question of collar versus harness I would be relaxing on a desert island by now. When I first owned dogs, around 35 years ago, we always used collars. Just plain leather buckle collars, which didn’t constrict and my dogs didn’t have any respiratory problems. Most importantly I have always trained my dogs not to pull! Collars may be fixed, semi choke, martingale which are popular with sighthound owners and sighthounds often have thick muscular necks but relatively small heads.
Comfortable or Constricting? Some collars are intentionally designed to constrict or cause discomfort when a dog pulls, as a means of training. Choke chains, prong collars and electric shock collars would come under this bracket. The use of electric shock collars is banned in Wales. So immediately I see how owners could have a fair bit of negativity towards the use of collars. In part this would be to the inappropriate use of collars as in collar corrections.
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I’m sure we have all seen dogs who pull against their lead, often choking or wheezing, eyes red and bulging and usually panting hard. These dogs have not been trained to walk on a loose lead! So, just as some collars are intentionally designed to constrict or cause discomfort when a dog pulls, as a means of training so are some harnesses. Harnesses that tighten around the front legs or the midriff if the dog pulls or even pull dogs off balance due to the position of the point of attachment can be aversive.
Health Issues I would never advise using a collar with any of the brachycephalic breeds due to often already compromised breathing such as Yorkshire Terriers due to their predisposition to collapsing tracheas, Daxis due to the possibility of spinal issues and Dobermanns due to the condition Cervical Spondylomyelopathy (CSM), often known as Wobblers Syndrome or with any dog that is a hard puller. Harnesses that don’t fit properly and rub and chaff or are made of abrasive materials will cause a dog discomfort. Some harnesses with a chest strap may impede a dog’s movement. If you think of the
Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
OPINION
forelimbs moving like an inverted pendulum anything that prevents this movement may lead to physical issues. We have seen dogs lame on the rear quarters due to such harnesses, where the dog is trying to compensate for the forequarters restricted movement. Harnesses for car travel and some dog sports such as Cani X and bikejoring, sled dogs etc are specialist harnesses, specifically designed for their purpose and they have to be fit for function. We do like the escape proof harnesses with an extra strap around the middle. These are advisable for nervous, imported dogs as there are way too many who escape and can’t be caught. Research published on Pubmed. gov - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/16611932/ - looked at the effect on intraocular pressure (IOP) from dogs pulling against a collar or a harness. Intraocular
pressure increased significantly from baseline when pressure was applied via a collar but not via a harness. One of the reasons cited for using harnesses with strong pullers rather than collars is the position of the thyroid gland and neighbouring salivary glands which may be injured by trauma and sudden pressure forces. So, there may be potential for contributing to the development of thyroid disease, particularly in those breeds genetically predisposed by using collars. We like Y shaped harness, fleece lined ideally especially for fine coated dogs. We like the modular harness that allows owners to just purchase segments as the dog grows rather than having to replace the whole harness. I personally find that changing to a new piece of equipment at the same time as beginning an
intense period of training loose lead walking can sometimes help. Dogs get used to feeling the restrictions of whatever was previously used, and a new piece of equipment can give owners a fresh start to master this skill. Ideally owners would do some research. Ask around, what is my chosen breed predisposed to medically, does my dog pull, have a look at different collars and harnesses, measure your dog, can the collar or harness be washed are all things I tend to look at. Please ensure your dog wears an ID tag also! Our dogs are at the mercy of the choices we make for them, so choose well! Caroline is a BSC Certified Canine Fitness Trainer and Fitpaws Master Trainer.
Image: @Murdoch2013 Dreamstime.com
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H E A LT H
D R . VI N C E M A CN
A
Y LL
THE SILENT KILLER W H E N A FA M I LY D O G I S D I A G N O S E D WITH KIDNEY DISEASE IT’S A JOB TO K N O W W H AT S T E P S T O TA K E T O E N S U R E T H E H E A LT H A N D W E L L B E I N G O F A B E L O V E D P E T. W E S P O K E T O D R . V I N C E THE VET TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS LIFE-CHANGING ILLNESS.
WHAT CAUSES KIDNEY DISEASE IN DOGS?
There are many possible causes of kidney disease in dogs, which include: • congenital abnormalities (e.g. cysts and other anatomical defects) • infections by bacteria and viruses • damage caused by poisons (such as antifreeze), toxins (in spoiled food, grapes and raisins, for example) or prescribed drugs (e.g. NSAID’s) • autoimmune diseases • formation of urinary stones • blockages • cancer • other, less common conditions such as amyloidosis It is important to determine the specific cause of kidney disease whenever possible, so that the most effective treatment can be provided.
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
Image by MalGib Photography
H E A LT H
DOES DIET PLAY A BIG PART? Nutrition can play a pivotal role both in the development and management of kidney disease. Providing a complete, healthy, balanced diet, rich in the nutrients the body needs for optimum health, helps to maintain normal kidney function for as long as possible. This is central because many vitamins, minerals, trace elements, fatty acids and other micronutrients cannot be made or stored by the body, and so need to be supplied by food every day. This is best achieved by feeding high quality raw (meat, bone and offal) or home-cooked food, and adding selected natural supplements to whichever option is chosen. Tailoring this to meet a dog’s own, unique nutritional needs is even better. If kibble or wet food is fed, it is best that meat content is high, and it is free of non-organic grains, fruit, vegetables, and chemical additives. Fresh water should always be freely available to maintain good hydration, so that the kidneys can clear excessive salt, other minerals, toxins, and waste products from the body. This is especially important if dry pet food is fed.
IS THERE ANYTHING DOG OWNERS CAN DO TO PREVENT KIDNEY DISEASE OCCURRING? (PREVENTATIVE RATHER THAN CURE?) A two-pronged approach to kidney care can reduce (not eliminate) the risk of kidney disease occurring. The first step is to avoid unnecessary exposure to substances which can damage renal tissue, by:
• minimising the use of potentially toxic chemicals in and around the home • avoiding grains, fruits and vegetables in the diet which contain pesticide residues • using effective, natural alternatives to nephrotoxic medications whenever possible (antibiotics and NSAID’s, for example)
some evidence that such a diet results in a slower rate of progression of CKD (chronic kidney disease). A challenge often faced however, is that many dogs find renal foods unappetising, and so there is a risk of reduced food intake at a time when body condition needs to be maintained as much as possible.
The second step is to provide enhanced nutritional support to the kidneys, using a combination of dietary changes along with clinically proven natural supplements and remedies.
A carefully formulated raw diet can be effective at supporting quality of life in CKD dogs. Care must be taken however, to consider the specific nutritional needs dictated by each stage of the disease, and the individual requirements of each pet. Adjusting the amount of phosphorus in the diet for example, is just one piece of the jigsaw to consider. Increasing levels of B vitamins, essential fatty acids and ensuring only the highest quality protein is fed, is equally important, if not more so. And giving supplements and remedies known to aid and protect renal health, adds another dimension of support, which is important for the best possible outcome. Such an approach requires significantly more work compared to feeding ‘ready-made’ renal foods, but the individualisation and ability to adjust the diet in response to how CKD affects a particular dog, frequently offers the greatest rewards.
WHAT SHOULD DOG OWNERS BE LOOKING FOR IN THEIR DOG’S BLOOD TEST RESULTS? The earliest indicator of renal dysfunction is an increase in blood SDMA. This begins to rise when as little as 25% of kidney function has been lost. Creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen (Bun) on the other hand, tend to increase only after 75% of renal tissue has been irreversibly damaged. As SDMA is the most sensitive test currently available for monitoring kidney health, there is a good argument for performing this test annually, to pick up dogs with subclinical kidney disease, when they can be helped the most.
THE DEBATE OF RAW VERSUS KIBBLE – WHICH IS BEST FOR DOGS WITH KIDNEY DISEASE AND WHY? Commercial renal foods are based on the principle that lowering protein, phosphorus, and sodium levels in the diet, relieves the strain on failing kidneys and supports continued renal function. And there is
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Feeding a consistent diet is best, as this makes it easier to assess the impact of nutrition on a pet. Adjustments can then be made to achieve the best possible results. A single protein is the simplest way to do this, but different sources can be combined (meat and eggs, for example), if they are all high quality, and the proportions are kept fairly constant.
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H E A LT H
ARE FRUIT AND VEGETABLES A GOOD IDEA FOR DOGS WITH KIDNEY DISEASE? WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND GIVING AS SNACKS? A small amount of organic vegetables added as a topping or given as a treat is fine. Large quantities however, risks lowering nutrient content to a level which adversely affects kidney function and body condition. It is also important to be aware, that most fruit and vegetables used in commercial pet foods (processed and some raw) are not organic. Consequently, many of these contain chemicals which can be harmful to the kidneys. This was highlighted recently in a report by the Pesticide Action Network called ‘Food for Thought’ which found 123 different pesticide residues in a wide range of produce. Feeding non-organic fruit and vegetables therefore (or pet foods including these in their ingredients) risks causing further damage to already compromised kidneys.
WHAT CAN DOG OWNERS DO TO HELP STOP WEIGHT LOSS? Appetite is often suppressed when kidney disease is present. It is important therefore to feed energy rich, highly nutritious, easy to digest food, which delivers the maximum amount of nourishment in every mouthful. For those choosing a raw or home-cooked diet, this means placing an emphasis on lean meats, eggs, high quality fish oil, nutrient dense natural supplements and non-protein sources of extra calories, such as organic, cold-pressed, virgin coconut oil.
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WHAT ARE THE MAIN DIFFERENCES IN THE VARIOUS STAGES OF KIDNEY DISEASE?
HOW IMPORTANT IS DENTAL HYGIENE FOR DOGS WITH KIDNEY DISEASE?
Kidney disease is often characterised as acute or chronic.
Huge. Over 75% of dogs suffer from naturally occurring periodontal disease, which is associated with the development of chronic renal failure. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums, therefore, significantly reduces the risk of kidney damage being caused by bacteria and toxins entering the bloodstream through inflamed gums, particularly at mealtimes.
Acute is where there is sudden and often severe impairment of renal function. Ingestion of a poison, a blockage in the urinary tract, a blow to the kidneys or an infection for example, can all cause this. Here treatment should address the underlying cause as quickly as possible, to limit the extent of any damage and reduce the risk of CKD occurring subsequently. Chronic kidney disease on the other hand, typically occurs over a much longer time frame (which can be many years). Here there is a progressive loss of healthy renal tissue, to the point where the kidneys are unable to filter blood effectively. This typically results in a build-up of waste products in the body, which cause many of the signs associated with kidney failure, such as: • raised blood levels of SDMA, creatinine and BUN • an increased thirst • more frequent urination • loss of appetite • weight loss • lethargy • deterioration in body condition • a sore mouth • bad breath • a tendency to vomit or regurgitate food • dehydration • fluid and/or electrolyte disturbances Treatment for CKD is focused on supporting continued renal function and alleviating the toxic effects of increased nitrogenous waste in the body.
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Regular brushing with a natural toothpaste (made from Vince the Vet Immunity and organic coconut oil) and the provision of natural chews (e.g. air-dried strips of meat), help to keep teeth and gums healthy. ---------------------For more information visit Dr Vince MacNally’s (BVSc VetMFHom MRCVS) website: www.vincethevet.co.uk/aboutvince-the-vet
WESTIES & BESTIES
BESTIES Image by: Kath Jones
Photo by: Leandra Mallinson: Bobby & Lucy - owners of Liz Cooke
does your westie have a bestie? SEND YOUR FAVOURITE HIGH-RES PHOTOGRAPHS OF YOUR WESTIE A N D H I S B E S T PA L S TO INFO@WESTIESANDBESTIES.COM
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NUTRITION
LOVE AT FIRST BITE W E S T I E S & B E S T I E S TA L K S T O C H R I S T O P H E R A D D E R L E Y, C E O O F J A C K W O L F, A F A M I LY- O W N E D N AT U R A L P E T C O M PA N Y, O N W H Y H I S D O G S , J A C K A N D M A G G I E , L E D H I M A N D PA R T N E R L U I Z A O N T H E PAT H T O FEEDING THOUSANDS OF DOGS AROUND THE UNITED KINGDOM BY BERNARD ROBERTS
Jack Wolf is a now a leading raw food manufacturer in the UK which continues to be synonymous with good quality food from a company people trust. What do you do differently to some other raw food providers? From the start, we have sought to produce the freshest products available in a modern facility to a higher standard than that expected of human food. Particularly because this is a product people will put in their fridges and we approached the issue from the consumers perspective. All our products are made exclusively from frozen ingredients and we fill below freezing to our finished packaging.
Raw food can sometimes appear to be expensive to those contemplating making the switch from kibble and some raw food manufacturers are offering cheaper produce. Explain how these companies may be cutting corners. Raw food can be slightly more expensive, but it is also considerably better value for money. There are no cheap fillers - and the fruit and vegetables which are used can in many instances cost more than the meat owing to the washing, blanching, laser sorting and Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) freezing process. Corners can be cut in the collection, process, storage, and transportation stages particularly if using fresh. Inspectors do not sample products or ingredients for bacteria and instead entrust that to manufacturers.
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Years ago, people used to feed their dogs leftovers from dinner and people would literally throw their dog a bone. Do you think we are going full circle in terms of moving towards fresher, more natural ingredients again for dogs? If so, why are people changing their minds on what to feed their dogs? Back in the previous global financial crisis, the pet market was a standout market which continued to perform well. We were changing as consumers, more health conscious. In addition, we observed the personification of pets - they became little people in a sense. From looking at the back of packets/ingredients to see what we were feeding ourselves; this habit spilt over into the pet market.
Your own dogs, Jack and Maggie, inspired you to create Jack Wolf and you’ve said that they were fantastic experts when it came to trying out your new food. Did you have any reservations at that time about feeding them raw food? If not, why not? We had not fed raw before so not going to lie it was, though not entirely outlandish, a little strange to begin with. Akin to so many other people’s accounts, it rapidly became par for the course. We were concerned a little about bacteria and the quality of products available. This did fuel our desire to contribute to the improvement upon what was available in the marketplace.
Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
NUTRITION
Everyone has their own opinion about feeding dogs raw food but what do you say to people whose vet has told them raw food is dangerous? Vets, a bit like the society they mirror will hold different perspectives. There are many vets who are supportive and some, to be fair to them, who are more nuanced on the subject. I think it is important not to be too tribalistic. One of the issues with research/evidence is there is not a great deal on raw food, but my personal view derives from ‘bad news travels fast.’ In that vein, if you join an online group such as Westie Advice Group (WAG) you’ll be bombarded with positive stories!
What do you think the future of the pet raw food industry looks like? There are competing trends of ‘fresh food’ options which include the cooked and then frozen; in a sense, a traditional cooked wet pet food except it is frozen into a packet. But broadly speaking there are a variety of formats emerging and raw forms the biggest part of that trend. Freeze-dried products are unlikely to compete with raw because it is a very expensive process.
Christoper Adderley, CEO of Jack Wolf.
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ADVERTORIAL
COULD DIET HELP YOUR WESTIES’ PROBLEM SKIN? E L I M I N AT I O N D I E T S A N D T H E N AT U R A L A P P R O A C H
As a Westie owner you’ll be well aware of the array of skin complaints that are associated with the breed. While they are unfortunately predisposed to some skin conditions such as Atopic Dermatitis, it may be that your dog has a milder condition that can be treated, or at least alleviated with a suitable diet. Even if your vet suspects Atopic Dermatitis, they will usually need to rule out a food intolerance or allergy before they can proceed with a diagnosis, as the clinical signs of the two are indistinguishable. They will likely recommend an elimination diet, which is the only true way to diagnose a food sensitivity in your pet. Although a blood test is available, it is widely agreed that this is not a reliable option. Before you begin an elimination diet it is vital than any infections or infestations are treated, so you can properly assess any difference the diet may be making. An elimination diet involves sticking strictly to one food source for at least 8 weeks - that means cutting out the extras too! Foods composed of a ‘novel’ protein and carbohydrate source, selected based on your dogs’ dietary history (choosing ingredients they have never had before), and that have a limited list of ingredients are vital for this approach. Burns Pet Nutrition was created by vet John Burns over 25 years ago after he regularly saw recurring problems such as itchy skin. John Burns created our diets with this in mind and even to this day we follow our original principals of simple recipes with natural ingredients that allow the body to function as it should. Our Sensitive range offers diets such as Pork & Potato and Fish & Wholegrain Maize, which are designed to provide novel ingredients. It is strongly advisable to avoid common allergens such as beef, wheat and dairy, which account for up to 70% of intolerances in dogs! If, after the 8+ weeks, your dog’s skin troubles have improved, they ideally need to be ‘re-challenged’ with the ingredients from their original diet. Skin conditions can wax and wane naturally, so by reintroducing the ingredients you will be able to confirm whether the
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reaction is diet related. If they start presenting with an adverse reaction again, you would stop the old diet immediately and can continue with the novel diet going forward. There are other aspects that can cause a dog to present with itchy skin – especially in breeds such as the Westie where the predisposition is already there. Excesses, especially excess protein, can cause flare ups. Getting the feeding amounts correct is important, and we often forget that treats and extras need to be taken into consideration too! Things such as dental chews are high in calories and can be equivalent to about 35g of our foods, which for a small breed is a considerable amount of their daily needs. Vegetables are a great, low calorie alternative if your dog likes them. Even if your dog has been diagnosed with a skin condition unrelated to food, keeping them healthy from the inside out can make a big difference in the severity of the symptoms. Dogs’ anti-inflammatory white blood cells are highly concentrated under their skin, so keeping things simple, natural, and free from common allergens will help to avoid any unnecessary aggravation. Promoting all round holistic health, starting with your dogs’ diet, can make a great difference to current conditions whilst setting them up for a healthy future. If you would like any further information or specific advice on your dog, please contact the Burns free Nutrition Helpline. We are a team of experienced Nutritional Advisors who can look at each dog on a case by case basis and help you to decide which diet to choose, as well as suggested feeding amounts. You can call us on 0800 083 6696, email on info@ burnspet.co.uk or contact us via live chat on our website at burnspet.co.uk.
Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
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TECHNOLOGY
TOP 5 FACEBOOK GROUPS FOR DOG OWNERS
T H E R E A R E H U N D R E D S O F F A C E B O O K F O R U M S D E D I C AT E D T O D O G S A N D T H E I R O W N E R S . W E ’ V E S E L E C T E D F I V E T H AT D O G OWNERS WILL FIND BOTH USEFUL AND FUN.
Westie Advice Group (WAG) Group Founder: Sue Makepeace Established: April 2015 Members: 9,674
This no-nonsense group dishes out fantastic advice on the benefits of raw feeding your dog and the natural route to keeping your Westie healthy. This is a group of very experienced Westie owners who are quick to respond to those looking for advice on raw feeding, skin problems, and the best natural products to use to help Westies live happy and healthy lives. “The Westie Advice Group (WAG) was established after I realised there was little information about the health of Westies. I was seeing more and more dogs suffering with all sorts of issues from skin conditions to diabetes. I was working with a Rescue at the time and saw so many dogs recover just from making a few changes to diet and lifestyle. That’s when I decided to start the group and it has grown from there.” - Sue Makepeace
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Allie’s Canine Cancer Crew
Westie Rehoming
This group is open to all dogs (not just Westies,) and started as a support network for dogs with cancer but quickly evolved into becoming a go-to source for information for everything to do with proactive health and well-being. Most members feed raw food and use natural, non-toxic modalities, however, there are those that feed kibble along with people who choose conventional treatments like chemotherapy. “This is a judgement-free group. We have holistic and integrative vets, herbalists, and canine physio and rehab specialists as part of our group too. Each month I also conduct two vodcasts as well as Q & As with Integrative vet, Dr Margo Roman.” - Peter Ciancarelli
Westie ReHoming is a registered charity in England, Wales and Scotland dedicated to the welfare and rehoming of the West Highland White Terrier and was founded eighteen years ago. The charity takes in westies needing a new start in life and places them in suitable homes where they will be loved and have their needs met. Westie Rehoming has a holistic approach to health and rehoming, although the needs of the westies always come first. “We are a Kennel Club Breed Rescue, hold a Dog Rescue Advanced Certificate, and are registered with the Fund-Raising Regulator for public confidence. After a lifetime of unquenchable thirst for learning about canines along with many years of experience of owning and showing westies, we love doing what we do and sharing our knowledge. We’ve met some lovely people through the course of our work, and of course some fabulous little dogs.” Jacqueline Ferris-Woods
Group Founder: Peter Ciancarelli Established: 2019 Members: 2,807
Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
Group Founder: Jacqueline Ferris-Woods & Robert Ferris-Woods Established: 2015 Members: Over 8,000
TECHNOLOGY
Oldest Westies Around the World – Seniors 16+ years Stories & Photos Group Founder: Dena Zimmer Established: 2014 Members: Nearly 18,000
With a soft spot for senior westies this group dedicates its time to people who have at one time or another had Westies that have lived to the ripe old age of 16 or over. Members are encouraged to share advice on living with and helping elderly Westies to live their best lives. “One of my volunteer Facebook jobs was working with a group to compile all the known Westie Rescue organizations around the world and the idea of the Oldest Westie page began in 2013 with several Facebook friends. The official ‘Oldest Westies Around the World – Seniors 16+ years Stories & Photos, page officially began in January 2014. At that
time, the oldest Westie was Taffy aged 18 years and 6 months from Texas, USA. Following this, we slowly found several Westies aged 19, 20, and 21 years of age and just recently we found a Westie aged 23!” - Dena Zimmer
Westies Health – From Ears to Tail Group Founder: Katie Wyatt Established: 2010 Members: 12,000
professional advice of veterinary aides”. The group includes an evergrowing reference section of health information including files on allergies, diet, digestion, skin, supplements, and yeast to name just a few. This information is available as printable references for members that they can use to discuss further with veterinary professionals. – Katie Wyatt
Katie founded Westies Health – From Ears to Tail to raise awareness of the unique health and behavioural issues surrounding West Highland White Terriers. The concept was always to share actual first-hand owners’ questions, experiences, and knowledge toward resolving problems. “We always stress, Katie says, that group comments should augment, not replace, the
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ADVERTORIAL
IS THE GRASS ALWAYS GREENER WITH DOG FRIENDLY TURF?
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
ADVERTORIAL
W E S T I E S & B E S T I E S M A G A Z I N E TA L K S T O J O H N S T R A I N , M A N A G I N G DIRECTOR OF K9 TURF ON WHY HIS ARTIFICIAL GRASS PRODUCTS ARE PROVING POPULAR AMONG DOG OWNERS
When did you first set up K9 Turf and what gave you the idea? K9 Turf was formed in 2009 by Robbie Garret the founder of the company and I bought the firm from him in 2019 after installing K9 Turf myself for nearly two years. K9 Turf is said to be 100% safe for both dogs and cats. Can you explain how it works? Yes, K9 Turf has a non-latex backing which is key in preventing the smell of dog urine and the K9 grass has a woven quadribind backing with full drainage and this helps get rid of the smell so customers can rest assured that their garden won’t smell doggy! K9 Turf is also specially manufactured to take a zeolite infill in the bed of the grass. This is to catch the urine which then crystallizes and goes into the base work along with natural rain fall another key element of K9 Turf. What do you think is the main appeal for customers choosing artificial turf over real grass? I think the main reason for artificial grass as opposed to real turf is there is no mud and no mess involved. However, in many cases, people are unaware that latex artificial grass is not good for dogs due to the strong smell of urine during the summer months hence K9 Turf is a more efficient product. Plus, our
turf is hypoallergenic and non-hazardous for pets. Over the past five to ten years, increasing numbers of homeowners are opting for artificial grass. This is thanks to the many benefits it offers, including the following: • Reduced water bills • Low maintenance • Suitable for use all year round • It’s versatile and can be used almost anywhere • Eliminates muddy puddles and waterlogging • Provides a solution for areas where natural grass won’t grow • No need to mow, reducing electricity and emissions How long does artificial turf last? K9 Turf comes with a 15-year manufacturers’ guarantee and can be extended to 18 years. We don’t walk away from jobs; we are with our customers all the way. All artificial grass needs some type of maintenance to extend the life span of the grass and of course this depends on its usage. Does artificial turf need any kind of maintenance? At K9 Turf artificial grass for dogs, the UV Inhibitors are mixed into the fiber/yarn resin and are built into the turf itself and we also offer full comprehensive 18 years warranty on both the grass and installation with service Plan.
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COVER STORY
Battle of the Bowls R AW VERSUS KIBBLE - WHICH ONE IS BEST FOR YOUR DOG? B Y K I M L AT H A M
The debate on which food is best for dogs, raw or kibble, continues to be clouded in controversy. There are those at one end of the spectrum who appear to be strict advocates of feeding a raw meat diet to beloved pets. Many of these same advocates once fed kibble to their dogs and claim the difference in the dog’s health and happiness since making the switch to raw food is proof that feeding natural food is paramount. Kibble, due to the way it is processed, can contain dead animals – birds, rats, not to mention insects, potentially causing cancer, some raw food advocates claim. If this isn’t enough to put dog lovers off feeding it to their best friend then how about looking at the way kibble is apparently stored for months on end in warehouses, shops, and even in our kitchen cupboards…before eventually making its way to our dog’s bowls. Others will testify that the above is simply ‘fake news’ with a sprinkling of myth served on the side and that kibble is a safer, more hygienic option. Raw food could possess harmful bacteria. Families worry that raw food could potentially cause harm to young children touching the kitchen surfaces on which the raw food is prepared. It can’t be good having defrosted raw food sitting in the fridge alongside human food can it? Measuring raw food is too complicated, not to mention expensive, and newbies are frightened of overfeeding or underfeeding canine companions. Ever heard of a vet prescribing a raw food diet? Perhaps, but as a rule of thumb, many vets, still tend to prescribe kibble-based diets on a more frequent basis.
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As for the potentially thousands of poor souls stuck on the fence, meanwhile, these pup parents are chasing their tails to weigh up the pros and cons of each desperate to decipher which information and advice is true and that is no easy task. Some might argue a large part of the problem in this vital nutritional debate is the divide among veterinarians themselves. Holistic vets, in many instances, travel a different path for people’s pups than the road followed by more traditional vets. While some conventional vets do advocate or at least do not dismiss raw food, others frown upon it. If there is no consistency in the veterinary community perhaps it is of no great surprise that the British public are confused about what to feed their dogs. Dr Brendan Clarke, President of The Raw Feeding Veterinary Society (RFVS) said: “The day-to-day principles relate to how as a profession we uphold our oath to take responsibility for the health of the patients under our care with paramount importance being based around our patients’ welfare. The five welfare needs as quoted from the British Veterinary Associations’ Animal Welfare Foundation are: • the need for a suitable environment • the need for a suitable diet • the need to be able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns • the need to be housed with, or apart from, other animals • the need to be protected from pain, suffering, injury, and disease
Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
Every day we see patients and want to advise them not just about what is needed to get well again but how to stay in a state of health. To this end, we believe that three of these needs are helped by giving a suitably appropriate raw food diet, allowing animals to exhibit normal behaviour and space while eating that diet helping them remain protected from pain, suffering, and disease”, he said. So, what constitutes a ‘suitable diet?’ According to the RFVA it is ‘as close to the evolutionary diet of dogs and cats as is practically possible, is made from fresh frozen raw meaty bones, meats, organ meats, fruits, and vegetables, minimally processed by mincing and freezing. The diet contains no added synthetic supplements, additives or preservatives.’ If the RFVA and the British Veterinary Associations’ Animal Welfare Foundation clearly state that ‘fresh frozen raw meaty bones’ are what Britain’s dogs should be eating, the question surely arises as to why some vets continue to support kibble. “What is exciting is how we are seeing pet parents educating vets on the raw feeding as they see the improvements through great nutrition. The attitude of veterinarians toward raw feeding is changing and many are saying that a complete raw diet is good for dogs and to be careful if you Do-It-Yourself that you get the balance right, said Mark Scott, CEO, Bella & Duke.
Brendan&Pebbles
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COVER STORY
Many younger vets also seem to be more pro raw feeding maybe because they take more of an interest in nutrition. I’m not frustrated but I am disappointed that many vets don’t look at the labels of kibble and do research into the ingredients that make up highly processed food”. An ‘interest in nutrition’…perhaps there lies part of the answer? According to Dr Clarke, vets have five years of training, much of which in the first two years historically has been firmly grounded in anatomy (the study of body structure and species differences), physiology (the study of the bodies reactions and mechanisms to respond to its environment ) and biochemistry (the study of how the body uses the nutrients and processes them to build, repair, and produce energy to function). Then over the next three years the focus is on the study of diseases and the affects they have on a multitude
of species and the support the patient needs to heal. “Nutrition is often seen separately from these processes by many people recommending how to feed a pet having gained online qualifications. However, they are an integral part of understanding what the body needs especially for animals which are already ill. The quotes for the study in the production of foods for pet animals are often limited to no more than a few weeks and are often funded by commercial feed companies which is still true to this day and are not the independent lectures of assessing a species’ needs, in areas such as the five freedoms of animal welfare and the relevance of how we influence diets health impacts by using highly processed diets rather than following human health advice of moving away from processed food to a wide variety of appropriate whole foods”, said
Clarke. Switch on the television and peruse the numerous dog food adverts. Westies eating wet food out of a tin. Labradors eating kibble from their bowls. Collies running full steam ahead around a field. What these marketing adverts have in common is the healthy, happy dog complete with gleaming coat and sparkling eyes that all dog lovers want for their own furry friends. It is perhaps no wonder that dog owners up and down Britain do not know which food is best for their dogs when big budget marketing campaigns are spinning pet parents in all different directions across all forms of media channels. Bella & Duke has recently launched its own television advert campaign promoting raw feeding, most likely a first for a raw food dog company.
The debate on which food is best for dogs, raw or kibble, continues to be clouded in controversy.
Photo 40396987 © Radub85 Dreamstime.com
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
COVER STORY
“What’s great is social platforms now allow pet parents to chat and discuss pet nutrition, no longer can huge marketing spend keep healthy options from reaching the mass market,” said Scott. For years now, most dog food adverts on television have promoted kibble and tinned food so is it no wonder that most people still opt for kibble when they have grown up with such adverts? While audiences have stayed loyal to big brands, have some of these same dog owners been taken by the hand on a long road trip by marketeers that are big on convenience food and perhaps not so big on nutrition? “In true human fashion we believed through processing foods and using by-products of food manufacture we can produce a more affordable food for all species. This has bitten us badly when we look at spongiform encephalopathies (e.g. mad cow disease) due to the feeding of processed animals into cattle feed to increase protein and even for our own health with processed ready meals leading to a huge rise in obesity and chronic inflammatory disease and even cancer. Recent years have revealed that the best way to combat these issues are to look back to more whole foods and appropriate feeding of our animals and ourselves”, said Clarke.
Raw food for dogs continues to get a bad rap in many media stories despite the growing popularity of it. This is perhaps because of the lack of substantial research due to it being relatively new compared to kibble and tinned food. What is intriguing is that these same media stories while slating raw food do not appear to have a strong argument for the benefits of kibble. Similarly, raw feeders find it difficult to prove that kibble causes chronic disease due to the lack of long-term research. Either way, it is vital that dog owners continue to ask who or what organisation is funding research papers whether that be individuals, organisations, or businesses. “I currently head up the Raw Feeding Veterinary Society as President and we are sponsored by several small manufacturers of raw food, so we all have vested interests. The only way around this would be for members of the public to start sponsoring these positions and organisations anonymously. These organisations would then cease to exist as people would find themselves aligning to a certain point-of-view or being sponsored by those who gain greater funds. Some professionals hold onto a pretence of science when pushing away alternative ideas which they do not have the knowledge or time to explain. All of us like to believe we are free thinking ethical scientists, but we all believe a version of the truth which makes for debate,” said Clarke.
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COVER STORY
Whichever way you sway when it comes to feeding your dog, it is perhaps important to remember that everyone has an axe to grind and conspiracy theories rage across social media forums whether you’re a lover or a hater of raw food or kibble. The biggest travesty of the late twentieth century was the drive
for convenience and losing sight of the responsibilities for our planet and the species we share it with. Let’s hope that scientists and veterinarians continue to push for research that is unbiased and accurate allowing dog owners to truly give their friends the best lives possible.
Mark Scott and Trin
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
COVER STORY
Westies & Besties Magazine approached the UK press office for Mars and invited them to take part in this story. The request was declined, and the UK press office response was Mars does not support a raw diet and therefore would not proceed with the interview opportunity. Here are the questions put forward to Mars.
- Kibble perhaps gets a bad rap these days with the growing availability of raw food coming into the marketplace. Tell us your views on this. - In the future do you see any of your brands producing its own raw food? - What is your response to those that say kibble for dogs is lacking in essential nutritious ingredients? - Why do you recommend kibble rather than raw food to dog owners? What are the benefits? - Is it fair to say that kibble is a ‘convenience’ food for dog owners? Do you envisage any of your pet food brands changing direction in the future? - Some say raw food is expensive. Do you think your pet food brands of kibble sell well because of price points? - There are numerous brands under Mars that make kibble and yet the branding for each company is different and perhaps appealing to different kinds of dog owners. What is the difference in kibble for various brands or is it all made and manufactured in the same way, in the same plant?
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S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
Britain’s 10 Million Dog Owners Urged to Take Lead Role in Protecting the Environment TOP UK ECO-FIRM, BECO, INVITES CONSUMERS TO FOLLOW ITS N E W 5 - S T E P G R E E N G U I D E A I M E D AT H E L P I N G G R O W B R I TA I N ’ S £40BN GREEN ECONOMY
Leading ‘green’ pet products company Beco is urging Britain’s 10 million dog owners to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the environment after Coronavirus. The trailblazing firm, who have exported to 50 countries and won a dozen awards over the past 10 years, state: “It’s time to care for our planet as much as our dogs”. As we slowly recover from the Covid-19 pandemic, and Beco enters its second decade in the pet trade, the company wants to encourage British dog owners to make more environmentally friendly choices as ‘pet parents’. Promoting the UK’s ‘green’ economy, valued by the Office of National Statistics at over £40 billion, Beco, whose sustainable products have earned The Ethical Company Organisation’s prestigious Ethical Award, is inviting owners to follow its ‘5-Step Green Guide’:
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Step 01 Wage war on plastic waste Every year, 8 million tons of plastic end up in our oceans, with drastic effects on marine life. New Beco stats reveal that last year the company’s worldwide dog-toy sales used recycled, shredded plastic from 1.7 million plastic bottles that might otherwise have ended up in our oceans and it’s urging consumers to cut down on single-use plastic as much as possible.
Step 02 Care about poop British dogs produce over 1,000 tonnes of poop every day, causing owners, local councils and parks major disposal challenges. The bestselling poop bags Beco produce are degradable or home compostable and packaged in recycled cardboard. Since 2012, Beco poop bags have helped owners in 50 countries behave responsibly by scooping 463 million poops while minimising their environmental impact. Beco asks British dog owners to follow suit and dispose of poop responsibly.
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Beco Fo u nder G eo rg e B ra m bl e wi th h i s La bra do r, Ta rka
Step 03
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Investigate ingredient Humans care about food sourcing and quality ingredients for family meals, and Beco believes dogs deserve the same. Beco’s dry and new wet dog food contains only certified ethical and sustainable ingredients that support the environment, eg, Marine Stewardship Council-certified haddock, and free-range chicken from Norfolk. Focusing on food provenance, Beco has adopted a different approach from many other producers and is now urging more conscientious dog owners to consider sustainability and the environment when making food choices for their pet.
Enjoy more exercise While observing social distancing, walking daily with your dog helps them stay fit and healthy and also boosts your own mental and physical wellbeing after lockdown. As Britain emerges from Coronavirus restrictions, Beco will be stepping up its encouragement to owners to increase the amount of exercise they take outdoors with their dogs.
Prioritise packaging The UK alone produces more than 170m tonnes of waste a year, much of it food packaging. Supermarkets using excess packaging are facing a backlash from consumers who increasingly favour zerowaste shops. Beco makes its packaging out of materials such as recycled cardboard and PLA, a biodegradable plastic from plant-based renewables. Beco urges discerning consumers to prioritise environmentally friendly packaging as they carry on caring about the planet, and hopes fellow manufacturers also take note.
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S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
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‘LOVE YOUR DOG, LOVE OUR PLANET’
‘BORROW FROM NATURE, ALSO GIVE BACK’
“We’ve devoted the past 10 years to creating the most sustainable products known to dogs. Now, there are many growing existential threats to our environment, it’s time to care for our planet just as much as we do our dogs, said Beco Founder and Managing Director, George Bramble. “In the past year, we sold Beco toys made from around 1.7 million upcycled plastic bottles. That’s 1.7 million items of plastic litter recycled, not heading for our oceans, not poisoning marine life. We’re doing this because we really care about the environment and we want to pioneer the way. “Since 2009, we’ve been pushing plasticalternative pet products made from bamboo. At first, people just didn’t appreciate why a non-plastic pet bowl was the better option. Now things have changed.
Bramble added: “This next chapter in Beco’s journey is, for us, both challenging and exciting. As we leave Covid-19 lockdown, we’re keen to encourage dog walking which can enhance your physical and mental wellbeing. But the ongoing threats to our environment go wider. “As a company, we feel a commitment to the planet and our customers to create the best products we can, whilst striving to be as sustainable as possible. From products to process, our team has worked incredibly hard to make everything the best it can possibly be. “As a business we’re not perfect, but our materials and ingredients reflect who we are, whether that be the wildcaught fish that goes into our dog food, the hypoallergenic BPA-free bamboo that goes into our bowls or the natural rubber that makes up our toy balls. “We are striving to create the most sustainable pet products possible. By using fully recyclable and compostable materials, we try to ensure that what we borrow from nature, we also give back,” he said.
Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
Te am B eco
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BEHAVIOUR
TOP 10 TRAINING TIPS FOR KIDS & PUPPIES B Y D A N I M O U LT O N O F D A N I ’ S BALANCED DOGS
I ma g e s u p pli e d by D a n i ’s Ba la n c e d D ogs
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Picking Up Your Puppy Remember that your puppy is a dog, not a baby. Most puppies don’t want to be continuously picked up and cuddled. Puppies should only be picked up in emergency situations, or for managing heights like going in and out of the car or down steps. If you pick your puppy up when they are doing something ‘naughty’ they are more likely to run away next time. If you pick your puppy up for a random cuddle, they are likely to start snapping when carried.
Space for your Face Keeping your face out of the dog’s face and vice versa is especially important. It’s very easy for us to let our dogs climb onto us and have free access to our faces when they are young, but this often leads to pups thinking that its okay to nip faces in play as well. Likewise, dogs have overly sensitive senses on their head, such as their nose, eyes and ears which can make them uncomfortable when we get too close.
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02 Personal Space is very important Asking for personal space is asking for respect. We often like to have our puppies on our lap, but once they’ve grown to their full size, we no longer want them there. When we allow puppies onto our laps or near our face it tells them that it’s okay to get that close, which often means that they also do this in play, which can lead to face nipping.
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Let Sleeping Dogs Sleep Puppies do the majority of their growing whilst they are asleep, and it’s important for their development that they are able to have enough down time. Puppies should be provided with a safe child free space (separate room or a crate or playpen) where children are not allowed free access. Only an adult should wake up a sleeping dog, which is always best done through putting a treat by their nose for their sense of smell to wake them up.
Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
BEHAVIOUR
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Chase me, Chase you Children tend to be high energy and love to be chased by their puppies. However, when the puppy catches up with them and starts nipping this can lead to all kinds of tears and unhappy parents. Chase me games should be minimised where possible to stop encouraging this behaviour from the pup, with interactions with kids calm and training focused.
Basic Obedience and Building a Bond Basic obedience training is a fantastic opportunity for your kids to interact with the puppy in a positive and structured way. This puts your children in more of a leadership position for your pups, increases positive associations with children and is amazing for building the bond between them. It also is important that your kids feel empowered and that they also have control of the pup in your home.
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Volume and Excitement Nervous puppies appreciate a quiet house, and even bolder dogs may not want to be excited 24 hours a day. I always recommend that a puppy has the opportunity to socialise with kids when they are in a low energy environment and during a quiet activity. This way they don’t associate the children with play or become nervous of loud noises.
Puppies love rules and boundaries Consistency is the key to training, and this can only happen when everyone in the household agrees on what the rules should be. Sit down with the whole family and write down the rules for interacting with your pup and what boundaries your pup will be given around the house. For example: access to sofas, no begging at the table etc. Better yet why not ask your children to write the rules for their friends when they visit. I often find by empowering them in this way they stick to the rules better themselves.
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Greeting Routines It’s very easy for kids (and parents) to return home and immediately run to their puppy. While this is a great sign of positive interaction, it can also condition the puppy to expect this kind of greeting from every visitor. I recommend that family and friends put their coats and bags away, pop the kettle on and then sit in their own ‘love seat’ where all greetings take place. This changes the approach to the front door, but also teaches the pup about patience and waiting for affection.
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Roles and Responsibilities Lots of parents get a puppy as they want to teach their children about responsibility, but then take on all the jobs themselves. Sit down as a family and teach your kids about ALL the tasks it takes to give your dog the best life possible (eg grooming, feeding, walking, training etc). Assign jobs to each person in the household and at what age they are expected/allowed to take on each. For example, Age 5, can hold the training lead in the park. Age 12 can hold the lead on the pavement.
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C R E AT I V E
P O RT R A I T P U P S $ G o to a ny d og lover ’s home an d yo u’ re s u re to s ee pain t in gs an d photogra phs of a be love d p et aro u n d th e h o u s e. Ch eck o u t th e wonderf ul a rtists a n d photo graph ers c reat in g l ife-l o n g wo rks o f o u r loyal fu r r y frien ds . By Kim Latham 01 04
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C R E AT I V E
01: LEANDRA MALLINSON
04: ANDREW JOHN MARSH
Leandra has a huge passion for photography and her other huge passion in life are dogs and horses. A Westie owner for almost 30 years, Leandra loves everything about the breed, their boldness, their intelligence, and their love. She often finds herself laying on the wet and muddy ground waiting to capture that ‘special moment’ when she can produce some beautiful images for owners to cherish forever.
Andrew is a portrait artist who specialises in pet portraits. He has been educating and painting for the last 30 years. He prefers to work with oils due to the vivid and vibrant colours which bring out the personality and warmth of our furry friends.
Website: www.malgibphotography.com Email: Malgibphotography@hotmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/malgibphotography
02: ANGELA CROFT Angela is a person that ‘needs’ to draw. It brings her the purest form of joy and happiness, she says. Angela creates amazing paintings and pencil pet drawings, many of which were done while housesitting other people’s pets and properties and this was her way of saying thank you to the owners for allowing her to take care of them. Website: www.residentartist.weebly.com Email: anggraphicdesign@gmail.com
Email: Andrew1971marsh@gmail.com
0 5 : C H R I S N O RTO N Chris, owner of Tails of Wales Dog Photography, is a dedicated and experienced professional dog photographer. He loves to tell stories of dogs through expressive, unique, and beautiful photography. Based in Hay-on-Wye in beautiful Wales, Chris has the Brecon Beacons National Park as his backdrop making this the ideal location for many of his shoots. Website: www.tailsofwalesdogphotography.com
06: SHARRON GURNEY Sharon has been painting pet portraits for as long as she can remember. Being on lockdown has given her the time and opportunity to turn her hobby into a business following a painted birthday present she created for a friend. She is potty about animals and her aim is to capture the individuality of a pet which clearly comes across in her work.
03: SARAH BEVAN Sarah is a pet portrait artist. She has been painting for just five years but her love of both pets and art is the perfect combination. She paints at her studio in South Wales and customers are always welcome to drop by to see her work.
Email: Sharrongurney@yahoo.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/Sharon-Gurney-pet-portraitanimal-and-wildlife-artist.
Website: www.bespokepetportraitsbysarah.co.uk Instagram: petportraitsbysarahcaerphilly
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ADVERTORIAL
W IN A D R E A MY PET P R O D U C TS DE N FO R YO UR D O G ! Dreamy Pet Products is running a competition for readers of Westies & Besties Magazine for the month of September 2020. Simply visit the Dreamy Pet Products Facebook page until the end of September, like and share the page, and enter a photograph of your Westie. The Dreamy Pet Products team will choose their favourite snap and the lucky winner will win a brand-new cosy Igloo for their best pal.
GO O D L U C K !
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
ADVERTORIAL
DREAMY DOG DENS Dogs love to have their own little den... a private space to relax and sleep, just for them. This triangular igloo dog bed makes the perfect cubby for afternoon naps and cosy, safe bedtime sleeps. With a comfortable Sherpa fleece lining and large hole at the front for coming and going, your dog will love their cosy new igloo dog den. Igloo dog beds have been around for several years, but the Dreamy Igloo is the best dog igloo on the market, and here’s why: Most of the igloo beds on the market are only made for cats and small dogs. With this Dreamy Igloo we have an igloo for dogs that are medium to large as well as small. Yes, these igloos go all the way from Small to X Large, and available in five different colours, so they cater for large and small dogs alike. Woof! Plus, this is not your flimsy, floppy igloo bed, oh no. Dreamy Igloos are incredibly well made and very sturdy. They also have a reversible and removable inner base cushion for easy washing. We are extremely happy and proud to say that our beds are hand made in the UK. Here at Dreamy HQ we specialise
in stunning products for your pets. Established in 2012 we are forever evolving our product base with new and innovative products to make your pets the happiest around. The Dreamy Igloos are one of our favourite products, but we also carry a range of dog and cat products and are always on the lookout for new products for our customers. We pride ourselves on great customer service so any questions please do not hesitate to contact us, we are very happy to help. Check out our website www. dreamypetproducts.co.uk send us an email at info@dreamypetproducts.co.uk or give us a call on 01423 568066 or 07749 886115.
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BONE BROTH RECIPE $ GIVE YOUR DOG THE BEST LIFE POSSIBLE WITH DELICIOUS AND NUTRITIOUS FOOD By Jamie Shanks, Bishopton Dog Walking Services www.bdws.co.uk
S T N E I D INGRE c rgani o n e nes f froz 1kg o fed beef bo grass apple f o p r 1 cu inega v r e cid lic of gar s e v o 1-2 cl ptional) (o
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
THE DOG’S DINNER
1
METHOD
2
• Place frozen bones in a pressure cooker • Add 1 cup of apple cider vinegar to the pot • Fill the pot to cover the bones - about 3 litres • Simmer for 4 hours until soft and crumbly
D O H T E M or a pot n i g n mer ooki • If c ooker, sim 4 slow c tween 8-2 for be ours. h rd disca d e k t the e coo • Onc nes, it’s jus . t the bo th you wan e bro ever b n d l u es. s sho • Dog cooked bon fed
SHELF LIFE The broth will last for just a few days even in the fridge regardless of whether it’s for humans or dogs. The general rule is freeze it until it’s needed.
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D O G TA L E S
H O N E Y ’ S N AT U R A L F E E DI N G HANDBOOK FOR DOGS $ EDITOR’S RATING : 5/5
The Honey’s Natural Feeding Handbook is a must-read for dog-owners wanting to learn more about the benefits of raw feeding. The author, Jonathan Self, who is also the founder of Honey’s Real Dog Food, a company said to provide raw food to around 4,000 dogs a month, spells out the correlation between good health, diet, and the longevity of our precious dogs. It is an easy-to-follow book written in plain English with simple but vital advice that reminds readers of the ancestry and anatomy of dogs and why a Biologically Appropriate Raw Food diet is necessary for a dog’s health and happiness. Jonathan takes us with him on a journey that reveals how 1950s Britain changed its eating habits when consumers were introduced to convenience food. While housewives up and down the country were probably jumping for joy at having a break from the kitchen, thanks to the invention of processed dinners, dogs were also being subjected to the same mass produced ready meals that had suddenly replaced the raw bones and meat available from local butchers. By the 1980s, according to Self, most dogs were being fed dried, canned, or pouched food. Jonathan points out what he believes is wrong with processed food, whatever the brand, citing examples of why, over time, this type of dog food can cause problems. In an unusual twist, the author invites anyone sitting on the fence about raw feeding to call his company for free advice without any obligation to purchase food. I decided to put this invitation to the test by calling as a consumer and not as an Editor. A member of the Health Team called me back and asked me questions about my dog’s age, weight, health issues and what he is currently being fed. The person on the telephone took the time to tell me about raw food and its benefits. It was clear that she was genuine about doing her best for my dog - this was not a sales pitch I am pleased to say. While she gently talked me through the benefits of raw feeding she also stated that some dogs are best to stay on, or follow, a prescription diet as advised by the vet and she acknowledged that a raw diet isn’t for every dog. The following day I received a quotation for food along with numerous leaflets offering information and the help available for poorly dogs as well as information on why raw food is so connected to good health and diet – for dogs and humans. An excellent book and very impressive free advice from Honeys.
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Westies & Besties - Sept 2020
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