Animal Talk Magazine Barbados Issue 2

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 1

2 | ANIMAL TALK | ISSUE 2

CONTENTS

OFF THE HOOF 6 The Arabian

8 Defining The Industry: Horse Dental Care

WAGGING TAILS 10 Why We Should Be Massaging Our Dogs 12 “Andrews Saving Grace” 14 Do Dogs Dream?

15 Dog Kennels

AQUATIC LIFE 16 Global Commuters

18 Maintaining A Healthy Fish Tank

CARIB WILD 20 The Tayra FEATHERED FRIENDS 22 Cattle Egret 23 Bird Song

PURRFECT CATS 24 The Siamese 25 Cat Tidbits

ASK THE VET 26 Ask the Vet – Worms in Dogs 28 Neutering Your Pet

SPOTLIGHT ON 30 Empress Roli Roachford

31 Natassja Bynoe & Qwathi 32 Amanda Ramsey

CHILDREN’S CORNER 34 Playing Safely With Dogs

34 Word Search, Quiz Time and Colouring

LIFE AT THE SANCTUARY 36 Adopting A Rescue Dog – The Ark

37 Out & About With…

38 The MariZayra’s Sanctuary 39 Volunteering At the RSPCA

U SEFUL NUMBERS 40 Vets, Horse Dentist, Shelters, Kennels and Transporation NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 1

Published by

Managing Editor Art Director & Designer

Copy Editor

Advertising Sales

Contributing Writers

Jewel Enterprises Gail Hunte Sian In Design Inc. Christine Fell Gail Hunte Dr. Gus Reader, Karen Stiell, Dr. Laura Hutchinson, Mitchell Hird, Wayne Norville,

Jacqueline Clarke, Roseanna Tudor

Guest Contributors Jason Carmichael, Jane Whitton, Marleen Smith, Emily Kinch, Rhonda Robinson, Stefan Phillips, Nicky Crowe, Karen Ring, Amanda Ramsay

Photograpy iStock.com

Distribution Robert Chung

Printers Printed in the UK by The Magazine Printing Company using only paper from FSC/PEFC suppliers www.magprint.co.uk

Special Thanks To Thank you to: All our wonderful advertisers for your continued support. Nicholas Kelly whose business advice has been invaluable and greatly appreciated. Our guest writers for their enthusiasm and on-point articles and a special thanks to The Team who are just fabulous!

Contact Us:

Animal Talk welcomes your feedback so please email us sharing your thoughts and ideas at: animaltalkeditor@gmail.com

Advertising Sales:

To advertise in Animal Talk Magazine, please email Gail Hunte at: animaltalkads@gmail.com Cover Photography by: Danielle Lynn Photography

Follow us on facebook: AnimaltalkBarbados

Animal Talk makes every effort to ensure accuracy but cannot be held responsible for errors and omissions. The content is strictly informational. You are therefore advised to speak with a registered veterinarian or qualified professional for all matters relating to your pets and other animals.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written permission from the publisher.

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You’ll Be AMAZED! Welcome to this issue of Animal Talk, and I hope you’re feeling relaxed and chilled. If you’re feeling a little tension in the body, then a good massage can work wonders. But did you know a massage can also benefit your dog? Animal Behaviourist Nicky Crowe explains why in Wagging Tails (p10).

Our new section Feathered Friends is all about birds and we’ve featured the Cattle Egret (p22), a familiar sight across our island. Discover the special symbiotic relationship this bird shares with cattle.

The Arabian horse evokes mystery, beauty and romance, and in Off The Hoof, Jane Whitton pays homage to this breed with her wonderful historical article The Arabian (p6).

If you’ve ever seen a humpback whale breach (leap out the water), you would have witnessed one of nature’s most spectacular feats! Marine Biologist Mitchel Hird has written a piece on this awesome mammal that is a ‘must read’ (p16)!

International reggae artist Empress Roli Roachford, is best known for her musical talents. She featured in this year’s Reggae On The Hill and is a prominent figure in the Barbados music industry. So why is she in Animal Talk? Read on to find out (p30).

All this and more awaits you.

Managing Editor

Gail Hunte

∀夀伀唀刀 夀䄀䌀䠀吀Ⰰ 伀唀刀 䔀堀倀䔀刀吀䤀匀䔀∀ 䄀唀吀䠀伀刀䤀娀䔀䐀 䐀䔀䄀䰀䔀刀匀 䘀伀刀 㨀

㈀㐀㘀⸀㈀㘀㈀⸀㘀㔀 㘀

眀眀眀⸀戀愀爀戀愀搀漀猀礀愀挀栀琀猀愀氀攀猀⸀渀攀琀

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 3

GETTING

US

Christine Fell

Copy Editor

After living in Barbados from 2012-2014 where she volunteered at The Ark, Christine Fell moved back to Canada and now calls Torbay in Newfoundland, Canada, her home. She is an excellent proof reader with years of experience. Christine is also passionate about animal welfare and about promoting the cause.

Photography: Leslie St. John

TO KNOW

Sian Pampellonne

Art Director & Designer

Owner of Sian In Design Inc., a growing advertising studio that provides bespoke creative solutions across a wide range of industries with strategic marketing insight. As an Expressionist painter, her signature style, vivid colours and fresh interpretation is reflective of her world view. Follow her on Facebook/Instagram: sianindesign and Sian-Pampellonne-Artist.

Contributors To learn more about all the contributors for this issue, please LIKE us on facebook: AnimaltalkBarbados 4 | ANIMAL TALK | ISSUE 2

Mitchel Hird

Writer

Mitchel Hird is a Marine, and Freshwater Biologist who has a special love of Koi fish. He operates Select Nishikigoi, a Japanese Koi Store in Barbados and offers design consultancy on large scale Pond and Aquarium Displays.

To learn more, visit his website at www.caribbeankoi.com

Dr. Laura Hutchinson

Writer

Dr. Laura Hutchinson, DVM esmt CVA, and owner of Trinity Vets, is a veterinarian, and she is also certified in the specialist areas of Equine Sports Massage Therapy and Veterinary Acupuncture. Listen to her on Morning Barbados as part of a series on animal care.

Wayne Norville

Writer

Wayne Norville, joined the RSPCA at 13. He’s won many awards, including the Silver Medal from the RSPCA in England and Community awards in Barbados. Over the years Wayne has saved hundreds of animal lives making him a real champion and hero to animals.

Jacqueline Clarke

Writer

One of the great loves in Jacqueline Clarke’s life is Spiike her miniature pinscher whom she adopted from Honduras.

Spiike is an energetic fun loving dog who likes to take long walks to the beach.

Dr. Gus Reader

Writer

Dr. Gus Reader, BVSc, owner of Central Veterinary Clinic, is President of the Barbados Veterinary Association and President of the Sailing Association. In his spare time he enjoys sailing and farming.

Roseanna Tudor

Writer

Roseanna Tudor is a champion for animal rights, and has been recognized for her community work by the Lions Club. She has a particular interest in the work of Service Animals, and how these special animals help people in so many different ways.

Karen Stiell

Writer

Karen Stiell is a mother, writer and novelist. Originally from the UK, she now lives in Grenada and is one of the organizers of Grenada Sailing Week. Karen especially loves the different species of wildlife found in the Caribbean.

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OFF THE HOOF

Photography by: Simon Haylett 6 | ANIMAL TALK | ISSUE 2

The Arabian

Written By: Jane Whitton

“In the beginning, God gave Ishmael, son of Abraham, a gift made of mist and dust, as a reward for Ishmael’s faith and dedication to the God of his father. Out of the mist and dust came the first Asil Arabian mare, who was at the time in foal, and produced a son. From these two gifts from God came the beginning of the Asil (pure) Arabian horse.” — Bedouin Legend The story of the Arabian horse is quite literally as old as the sands of time, and almost everyone will have heard some fairytale based on this horse of legends and fantasies. They are the oldest known breed of horse, and remain the only ‘true’ pure bred, with their ancestry traced back thousands of years. Whilst the exact origins of the breed remain unknown, depictions of them are seen in ancient Egyptian artwork from 3,500 years ago.

5 original family lines using stallions and mares that complimented the traits they wished to see. Some strains were known for their size, being over 15hh, with deep strong chests, short heads and broad foreheads. Other strains were smaller in stature (never above 14.2hh) with very fine bones, long necks and a feminine look. This strain was famous for being incredibly fast over short distances but lacking somewhat in the stamina of its relations.

The breed was originally a warhorse for the Bedouin tribesmen, and they were.

Man and horse formed a tight unit and lived, breathed, ate and slept together.

They were like family in every sense of the word, and their foals were raised alongside the tribesmen’s children.

Over the years, this bond has become a genetic characteristic of the Arabian breed. One of their most cherished traits is that they will seek out a bond with their human companion, and once sealed will do everything in their power to please and show affection, making them loyal and loving horses.

Today, all pure bred Arabians are related and can be traced back to their original family lines with several distinct groups such as the Crabbet, Russian, Egyptian, Polish and Spanish (each strain excelling in different areas).

The breed is the epitome of hardiness, and the first Arabians adapted well to their natural desert environment, surviving in conditions which saw them living on meagre fare such as dates and camel’s milk. All of this created the horse we know today: • Tough hooves to cope with sand and rocks • Dense bone • Short back, which gives them a strength beyond that of their small stature • High head and tail carriage that allows the air to keep their bodies cool • Extraordinary stamina • Capability to carry weights over great distances • Speed The Bedouins were masters off their trade, selectively breeding from their

From being the preferred warhorse for the Bedouin tribesmen, this breed has been the favourite mount of some of the greatest characters in history.

Figures such as Napoleon, Genghis Khan and Alexander the Great, rode their loyal Arabian steeds into battle and swore they would not ride another.

Whilst we no longer have need of the Arabian as a war horse, all of their special characteristics have proven to be just as useful and versatile today, in racing, showing (in hand and ridden), Western, eventing, show jumping, and dressage.

Additionally, In fact, every Thoroughbred alive today can trace its heritage right back to either the Godolphin Arabian, the Darley Arabian or the Byerley Turk who were imported to England between 1683 and 1730.

Several other countries around the world also owe thanks to the Arabian for being the foundation of their National breeds.

Currently, the Arabian is used as an ‘improver’ and ‘refiner’ in many other breeds such as the Trakehner, Warmbloods, Quarter Horses, Appaloosas, and coloureds, to create

many different strains.

Part bred Arabians have in recent years become very popular in the show ring, having coined several subsets of the breed such as the ‘Pintabians’ (Arabs crossed onto coloured horses like the American Paints) and the ‘Quarab’ (Arabs crossed onto Quarter Horses).

Breeding programmes around the world are devoted to ensuring the purity of the bloodline, and so for generations to come the Arabia will remain unchanged and continue to be that which dreams are made of.

Barbadian born and raised, Jane now lives in the UK. However, she grew up riding at the local Big C Stables and competing in show jumping and dressage in Barbados. In the UK, Jane has continued with her love of horses, working in the eventing industry and even going to the Athens Olympics with her employer Mark Kyle of the Irish team. A lecturer in Equine studies, Jane has had a passion for horses throughout, with an emphasis in the breeding industry, which led to her acquiring the prolific Arabian stallion H Tobago who is the sire of top endurance and show horses as well as serious eventing prospects. This has added much needed Arabian blood to the sports horse industry.

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 7

OFF THE HOOF

DEFINING THE INDUSTRY:

Written By Emily Kinch

Horse Dental Care Proper dental care enables horses to masticate throughout their lives in comfort while performing in all arenas.

Our goal as non-veterinarian practitioners should be to help horses reach their goals through proper non-invasive prophylactic procedures. If there is any need for invasive treatment, we, the non-veterinarians, must work carefully and diligently with our veterinarian friends to fulfill our horses needs.

Primarily, horse dentistry consists of routine maintenance and equilibrium of your horses teeth. Dental care is very challenging hard work, requiring much love, patience, compassion and understanding of the horse as an individual.

A neglected or abnormal mouth, will eventually affect his Muscular Balance, Cardiovascular Health, Nervous System, Digestive System and Structural Balance (Soundness of his head, neck, back and tongue) - Basically, their entire body!

To prevent this, routine procedures are a MUST. From birth Foals should be checked so that their practitioners can see if early treatments are necessary and to document their progress.

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WEANLING, YEARLINGS AND 2-5 YEAR-OLDS should be checked for sharp teeth and wolf teeth. Horses, between the ages of 2-5 years-olds, go through a major growth period.

They lose 24 baby teeth and gain permanent replacements.

During this time, mostly in Thoroughbred Racing, they’re being broke. I firmly believe that a practitioner should check a horse before a bit goes in their mouth, and once they’ve started breaking in, a 3-6 month check-up should be done.

MIDDLE AGE HORSES usually require less frequent dental care, but still need a couple yearly visits. However, performance horses will need more check-ups than leisure/pleasure horses.

OLD HORSES go hand-in-hand with problems of wear and sharp enamel points. From 15 years-old they may need to see a dentist more frequently. Horses 20 years and older (veterans) need an individual dental care plan. Many of these horses suffer from tooth loss, periodontal disease and shaky teeth.

It is worth noting that most dental problems start out small but can escalate into major problems if unchecked. Horses do not show symptoms until problems are advanced. For preventative care, have your horse’s teeth checked regularly.

Photography by: Sian Pampellonne

‘

The process of teeth floating is not normally painful but the sound of the rasp is loud and the introduction of various instruments can be unsettling.

THE DENTAL EXAM: A good equine dentist will ask you questions about your horse’s history (i.e health and performance). Be prepared to provide the following information: • Horse age • Breed • General health • Eating habits and whether they’ve changed over time • Any performance or behavior problems you’ve been having and when you first noticed them PERFORMANCE HORSES: • Resisting turns • Head tossing/shaking • Subtle, unexplained lameness • Tongue going over the bit • Impossible to ride on any sort of a reign contact - refusing to do work (rearing/bolting) CLINICAL SIGNS: • Nasal discharge (unless they have a cold) • Head-shy • Colicly • Malnourished • Not eating their food - spilling grain while chewing, dunking hay or feed in the water bucket, holding their head to one side while eating, bolting grain, or dropping partially chewed balls of food • Excess salivation, foul breath, and facial swelling can also indicate discomfort or infection • Cheek and tongue ulceration • Glossitis (inflamed tongue) • Peridontal disease

’

Emily Kinch is a trained gnathologist which in layman’s terms is an equine dentist. Her love of horses has taken her all over the world training and competing in many arenas. Emily represented Barbados at the Pan Am Games, CAC Games in Mexico, and has ridden in Equador, France, and Canada. Due to the high-level training she received and knowing horses to be like a fine-tuned engine and a top level athlete; has allowed Emily to be very aware of the importance of horse care and hygiene.

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 9

WAGGING TAILS

Why We Should Be

MASSAGING Our Dogs Written By: Nicky Crowe

‘Many of my dog clients tell me that “it is the parents (the humans) who are the ones suffering from anxiety, stress, depression or chronic illness”.

The pawing, licking and demands for attention are the dog’s way of communicating to their parent that something is wrong. Not wrong with the dog, wrong with the human!’

I have noticed a pattern of behaviour emerging amongst my dog clients whom I’m called to treat, because they are suffering from separation anxiety, excessive barking, chronic whining, pacing etc. Which is that these dogs are also the ones who are pawing at their humans, licking them, sitting on top of them as soon as they perch their bums down on the couch and demanding to be petted. So we stroke our pets, feeding this need that we pick up from them, until their behaviour gets to a point where you call a Dog Behaviourist in to treat them for anxiety issues. But when I connect with these dogs and listen to their side of the story I find a very different tale indeed.

We often do not realise that our dogs are actually reflecting back to us the issues we are unable to cope with; stresses from the day, financial worries, health issues, pain, depression, anxiety, etc. There is a very important, if subtle difference between “projecting” and “reflecting”, and once the dog parent realises the impact that their energy is having on their dog and takes steps to better care for their own needs, the transformation in their dogs often follows instantaneously.

There are exceptions of course and like us, dogs do hold their stress, tension and trauma in their physical bodies which can sometimes manifest not only as muscular/skeletal issues but also as health concerns, allergies and disease.

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Laying on of Hands: • We have chakra/energy centres sitting in the finger tips and palms of our hands, and rubbing the palms and fingers of our hands together is a simple way of warming these energy centres up and readying ourselves to give our dogs healing.

• After rubbing them together for 30 seconds or so, you will likely feel a tingling sensation, and if you hold your palms upwards you may even feel a heaviness or warmth from the energy resting in them.

• Giving our dogs massage helps to release tension, negative energy and emotional stress from their bodies and it helps our dogs to become calm by resetting your dog’s nervous system.

• When the parasympathetic nervous system is switched on, our dogs receive a healing and nourishing state from their body, and blood flows easily to the organs and tissues.

• Dogs are sponges for our energy, both negative and positive. They absorb energy from us and from the energy we leave behind in the house. You will know if this branch of the nervous system is switched on in your dogs because they will likely be displaying symptoms of over-excitement or anxiety. Maybe they are constantly carrying a ball or toy, whining, and barking at everything or even at nothing.

How to Massage Our Dogs:

How will you Know it is Working?

Starting at the head of your dog, slowly run the tips of your fingers gently from the top of their head, down to the base of the tail and along their spine. Repeat several times, taking your time slowly. Now, with a second but similar technique, apply deeper pressure with your hands, you’ll want to use the whole surface of your hand on your dogs’ body. Be careful not to apply direct pressure to any bony landmarks as it is the muscles either side of the skeleton that we are targeting. If your dog moves away or indicates discomfort, respond immediately by decreasing the pressure or stopping for a moment. For some dogs, it is simply that they are not used to the massage.

The common mistake is to apply this technique too quickly to your dog. Instead, slide our hand very slowly from head to tail.

If you think you are going slowly enough, move half as fast as this. Dogs that are hyper excited and cannot stand still for this massage technique. Get your dog standing, holding gently by the collar with your non-dominant hand, head to one side of you, tail to the other. Apply this technique with your other hand. The more often and consistently you apply this technique to your dog, the stronger the benefits. Your dog will start to get used to this massage and the effects will be cumulative. You can also use this technique during times that trigger anxiety for your dog, for example, loud noises, fireworks, vet visits, certain places or after a scuffle with another dog.

If your dog’s eyes start to droop and close, they lower their head, yawn and sigh. These are signals of the body releasing tension and negative energy. Sometimes their nose will water, their breathing will slow. Dogs may also shake themselves off after the massage technique which is an excellent sign of releasing and leaving behind any negative energy.

Try this technique with your dog to give back to them the love that they so freely give to you, and to create more equilibrium in your relationship and exchange of energy between you and your loved one. Ideally at least five minutes once or twice daily for two to four weeks. You may need to apply this for longer with dogs who have severe anxiety and hyper-activity.

For more information on how to learn dog massage techniques, and nutritional and behaviour advice, please visit: www.chilledoutdogs.com or Email: nicky@ chilledoutdogs.org

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 11

WAGGING TAILS

“Andrew’s Saving Andrew’s Story:

“Gutes Mädchen Gracie!” I turned my head at this foreign sound in the hallway of the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Boston, knowing full well that it could only have come from Andrew, the US Army Veteran I was about to interview as he walked alongside Gracie, his part Labrador and part Rottweiler Service dog. I wondered why he spoke German in an American environment, however this was soon revealed to me.

“Sitz”, Andrew looked down at Gracie and uttered a command and right away she sat. This was soon followed by “platz” and as if she was an extension of his body [their moves appeared synchronized], I realised that speaking German made it easier for Gracie to recognize who was giving the commands.

As we entered the room, a thought flashed through my mind, that I was about to learn about a man whose life was far removed from the one we lived here in the Caribbean.

Andrew, you see, comes from that select group of less than one percent of the American population who choose to pay the ultimate sacrifice of serving their country in military service.

However, one would think that being an Army Combat Medic would mean being stationed in the safe zones within the battlefields, attending to the injured. In reality everyone in any combat zone is vulnerable to associated injuries.

Andrew and Gracie currently work at the VA in Boston while waiting to be medically discharged from the Army for Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury.

In 2010, Andrew suffered serious injuries when an 870lb tire fell and pinned him to the ground while doing active service as an Army Combat Medic in Iraq. Besides his physical injuries, he was also diagnosed with exhibiting the signs of PTSD. Andrew had shrugged the diagnosis off figuring it would pass, and after being released from active duty, he was sent back to his unit in 2011.

Being among his guys brought some normalcy that masked any traumatic stress symptoms that were developing, but his condition began to rear its ugly head soon after Andrew was assigned to civilian duties.

To even attempt to describe PTSD and the related conditions would entail writing an entire book.

However, to understand the point at which Gracie

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became a major part of Andrew’s life, he shared some triggers that catapulted him into the realisation that he had to make some life-changing decisions. Andrew becomes paranoid when people stand behind him in restaurants, and he has to sit at the back in order to see everything, scanning the room repeatedly as he eats his meal.

Nightmares occur at the rate of two to three a week and deprive him of adequate sleep.

In helping me to understand as a person who has never been there, Andrew shared the following description: Think of a time in your life that you were truly 100% scared for your life, take that feeling and multiply that feeling by 365 days, 24 hours a day, seven days a week with the inability to retreat from it. You can’t go home, you can’t leave, nothing you say or do or feel or act is going to remove you from that situation; that is a one-year span. That is what Veterans have to go through and on return home it’s tough to come out of that mindset and reintegrate into an environment that says, , I’m home, everything’s gonna be fine. No it isn’t that simple.”

As more and more ‘onsets or triggers’ began to activate the PTSD, his life had to be readjusted. Simple things like the smell of sulphur when someone lit a match remind Andrew of gunfire. Fireworks is something his wife and kids try to keep away from him. The family has developed a protocol to deal with these sudden and sometimes unpredictable changes.

Recognizing he had to get professional help, Andrew went to the VA for the support they would be able to give him. Being proud of his ability to provide certified medical treatment to the army for over eight years, he was not one to take medication lightly, especially for these stress conditions.

This is where Gracie came into the picture: In the Caribbean, our idea of a Service dog is basically one that provides security to properties. However, many people are now becoming aware of the numerous ways that dogs provide life-changing and life-saving services to humans. A year ago, Andrew made the decision to seek out the help of a Service dog and six months later, with the help of Paws to Serve, Rescue and Service dogs Inc. he met Gracie and immediately knew that she would become his life support.

The dogs are rescued from high-kill shelters and consist of Rottweilers, American Staffordshire Terriers (Pit-Bulls) and

Grace”

While attending an Overseas Conference on behalf of the Barbados Council for the Disabled, I had the privilege of meeting Andrew who is affected by the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Having been aware of the importance of dogs to persons with various disabilities, I wanted to learn and share, more of the personal connection between a user and his service dog. I asked and was kindly granted an interview with Andrew.

Written By: Roseanna Tudor

German Shepherds. These breeds are chosen due to their high level of intelligence and are trained with their Veteran.

All dogs have to obtain their Canine Good Citizen Certificate and pass the Assistance Dog Public Access Certification Test.

They are then registered in the US National Service Dog Registry.

If at the end of three weeks and the dog is not adequately bonded to the Veteran, there is no guarantee that the dog will be placed.

(Photo is a likeness of Gracie)

As we speak, someone enters the room and immediately Gracie gets up in a protective stance and only retreats when Andrew says “sitz”.

Having Gracie as part of Andrew’s household has made a big difference in the quality of his life.

It is clear why Andrew has Gracie attached to his side via her leash at all times.

This obviously develops the bond between them in responding to situations in unison.

Though they both seem to move as one, Gracie is always “one paw ahead” of Andrew; always guarded in anticipation of protecting her partner. Dogs like Gracie are not only being used to help humans deal with conditions from PTSD but also trauma from various types of emotional abuse and other physical injuries.

Persons affected by PTSD live with FEAR “Face Everything And Run” but when they acquire a Service Dog like Gracie that FEAR changes to “Face Everything And Rise”.

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 13

WAGGING TAILS

Do Dogs Dream?

Written By: Karen Ring For a person who has been a “dream worker” and psychotherapist for over 30 years the question is a “nobrainer”. Of course, dogs dream!

Besides the scientific evidence that dogs dream, they most likely dream about their daily waking activities, similar to humans. Humans and dogs have brains and neurochemistry, which are very much alike and share the experience of REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. REM sleep indicates an individual is dreaming when their eyes begin moving around inside their closed eyelids. Dr. Stanley Coren, researcher and author of “Do Dogs Dream, states “in dogs, you can monitor when they’re having a dream quite easily”. I decided to conduct some of my own research on this topic and from my readings I discovered that experiments with rats and other animals indicate that they dream, and conclusions can be made that dreaming is common among mammals. I went further and conducted a mini-survey with friends and clients who have dogs. During those discussions, folks began relaying incidents of watching their dogs twitch, jerk their legs, whimper, whine, moan,

‘The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.’ — Eleanor Roosevelt

bark, or wag their tails while they slept.

Research backs up these observations by recording that after about 20 minutes of sleep, dogs go into REM sleep and irregular breathing as humans do when they begin the dream cycle.

We will never know for sure what dogs dream about, but chances are they dream about similar events as humans… those daily waking activities that we process during dreaming that help us to consolidate what we have learned and experienced. Just like us, dogs dream about their lives. After a decade of living with my dogs, I feel pretty sure that they dream about the things that make them happy…playing tug-of- war with their favorite toy, going for a car ride to the gas station, playing fetch at the beach, swimming in the sea, and eating their “chewies” every evening when the sun goes down. And, I’m sure they also dream about things that don’t make them so happy, like those darn cats in the neighborhood, the dastardly monkeys and other dogs that wander onto “their” gap and property. And, oh yes, ‘why is it taking her so long to get back from the grocery store or a night

out?’ (Although, I must say, they seem pretty ecstatic when I arrive home!)

However, the most interesting bit of information I learned from my unscientific mini-survey was that most of the dog owners became concerned about their dog’s dreaming behaviour and quickly came to their aid during what they considered a distressing dream by waking them up out of the dream and petting and comforting them. Just like humans, dogs can have nightmares too. I wondered, is this the right thing to do? Especially based on what I know about the necessity and benefits of dreaming in humans. Is it healthy to interrupt their natural dream process? Even more interesting was that most of the “experts” said no, don’t wake or touch your dog when he or she is having a distressing dream.

‘They cited two main reasons’, the first reason is that you don’t want to abruptly take your dog out of his or her dream state into a waking state as that may startle, confuse or disorient them, which could possibly lead to aggressive behaviour. Secondly, you want to avoid interrupting the dog’s normal deep sleep pattern and allow the sleep cycle (and dream) to be completed.

Although it isn’t recommended that you wake or touch your dog when he or she appears to be distressed in a dream, they also stated that if you can’t control your understandably concerned response initially, then gently and in a soft voice, call the dog’s name and let the dog know that all is okay with reassuring words as he or she slowly wakes up. After they are awake, then physically comfort and soothe them to further avoid a disoriented or confused reaction. So the old adage “let sleeping dogs lie” would be the wisdom to follow, especially when they are dreaming!

Karen A. Ring, MSW, LCSW Transformational Education, Counselling and Consultation karenannring@gmail.com

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DOG KENNELS Written By: Stefan Phillips

If your dog is not a house dog, and you do not have a garage or other dry area for your dog to take its rest during the day or night, a kennel should be provided.

Here are some important factors to consider in making sure your pet is cared for.

• The height and width of the kennel is very important so always get one which is at least 2 or 3 sizes bigger than your dog or puppy. Remember that large breed puppies grow fast so make sure their heads are not touching the roof when they stand.

• Make sure the roof is covered all the way over and that air flows through the kennel. Ventilation is very important as we live in a tropical zone where the days can get very hot. Place the kennel in a shady area.

• Your dog needs to be protected from the rain.

• Water and feeding bowls must be able to fit in the kennel without taking up too much space.

• Your dog should be able to stretch, turn and roll comfortably.

• Kennels must be raised off the ground so that in the event of flash flooding your dog stays dry.

• Dogs and puppies should be provided with safe toys to chew and play with. Your local hardware shop or supermarket will stock these and prices vary. However, puppies need lots of stimulation and are not suited to being left alone all day.

• Your dog should have access in and out of the kennel.

• Purchase a running leash if your garden is not enclosed, so they can walk about and do their toilet.

Make sure there are no trees, pots and wires that your dog may become tangled in. Your dog should feel as if they are free in the yard.

• Exercise your dog daily. Twice if you have highenergy dogs.

• Make sure your dog and kennel are tick and flea free. Speak to your vet for advice.

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 15

AQUATIC LIFE

Global

Commuters Written By: Mitchel Hird

It is interesting to note that many whales are born a little hairy

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Studies suggest that they evolved from hoofed-land animals that returned to the sea some 50 million years ago, and their closest living relative is in fact the hippopotamus.

Over the past 50 million years, their bodies have adapted to their aquatic lifestyle, and the fur of their ancestors has been replaced with streamlined skin, but it is interesting to note that many whales are still born a little hairy.

They produce milk for their young, a hallmark of mammals, but instead of the watery milk of land mammals, theirs is the consistency of toothpaste and produced in giant quantities. A baby blue whale can drink 150 gallons in a day. Supported by the water, many have reached huge sizes, which in combination with their thick blubber allows them to live in freezing water.

The Cetaceans are broadly divided into two categories, Toothed and Baleen whales. The Toothed whales, have a single blowhole and a mouth equipped with teeth to capture their food. They use sound for echolocation of their prey. This works in a similar way to sonar, allowing them to locate their food in dark or murky water.

Baleen whales have an altogether different way of feeding and have plates which are thickly covered in hair-like bristles called Baleen, which they use to filter plankton and small fish from the water. Baleen whales have a double blowhole and aren’t thought to use echolocation. Instead

Baleen

Slapping Tails

their vocalisations are for long distance communication.

the sight of a 40-ton whale leaping out of the water is a fabulous spectacle for whale watchers.

The Caribbean plays host to many species of Cetacean, and perhaps the most charismatic is the humpback whale. These giants can grow to 60 feet and weigh up to 40 Tons, even newborn babies are 15 feet.

Living for up to 50 years, these leviathans have enormous appetites and feed by filtering up to 3000 lbs of plankton and small fish each day. A large portion of their food is made up of tiny shrimp called Krill. Humpbacks often feed by circling schools of fish or krill, whilst releasing a curtain of bubbles causing their prey to concentrate into a tight ball. Then as they reach the surface they lunge, open mouthed capturing vast quantities.

Humpbacks are named for the distinct humped shape of their backs. They have huge wing-like pectoral fins that can be 15 feet in length, in fact their scientific name is Megaptera which means ‘large winged’.

Each humpback whale has a unique colour pattern on the underside of the tail that can be used to identify them. Photographs of these are held in a central database so researchers can identify and track individuals.

Humpbacks are exuberant acrobats and can often be seen breaching (leaping) or slapping their tails and pectoral fins against the surface. The reason for these behaviours is unclear but it may be a form of courtship or communication. Whatever the reason,

Another unique and fascinating behaviour of humpbacks is their singing.

These giants produce complex songs, often lasting up to twenty minutes and repeated over and over again for hours at a time. These haunting melodies are sung only by males and can be heard at distances of twenty miles. Whilst humpbacks are found in all the oceans of the world, scientists have discovered that there are separate and distinct populations and that each population sings its own unique song.

North Atlantic humpbacks spend their summers feeding in the rich waters from New England and as far north as the Arctic Circle. In autumn they start their mammoth journey south on one of the longest migrations of any mammal in the world. They travel more than 3000 miles to spend winter in the warm waters of the Caribbean where they give birth and breed.

Interestingly, they do not feed whilst in the Caribbean, instead living off their thick blubber reserves. The largest known breeding and calving areas are off the coasts of the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

Humpbacks are sighted throughout the Caribbean. Whilst not common in Barbadian waters they are sighted around the coast between December and April. So if you are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these awesome creatures, consider how far they have come to be here.

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 17

AQUATIC LIFE

Maintaining a

Healthy Fish Written By: Jason Carmichael

If overfeeding is the #1 killer in captive systems, overcrowding runs a really close 2nd.

I used to be shocked when people would tell me they don’t like fish or aquariums. How could anyone not love having the colours of the ocean floating peacefully around for their viewing pleasure? I soon realised that when I heard words to that effect, it was almost always because of a negative fish-keeping experience. A little more digging and I’d usually learn that this experience could have been avoided had the person been given adequate and accurate information at the very beginning of their aquarium adventure.

This, dear reader, is what this article is about; dispelling some of the myths which plague our hobby and turn what should be a dream come true (c’mon, who doesn’t dream of having the ocean in their home?) into a wet soggy nightmare.

MYTH # 1:

A smaller aquarium is more manageable and better to start with.

The truth is, smaller bodies of water are less stable and become polluted much faster because there’s less water to dilute fish waste, excess fish food, etc.

Smaller aquariums have smaller filters which are likely to clog faster than large ones and they’re less forgiving of attempts to break the cardinal rules of not overfeeding or overstocking. Do yourself a favour and buy the largest aquarium you can accommodate. It might cost a bit more but you’ll be rewarded for it every time you sit back, relax and enjoy your fishies.

MYTH # 2:

That’s not enough food!

Overfeeding remains the number 1 killer and most frequently made mistake in our hobby. It’s the chief reason why aquariums smell bad, turn cloudy

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Tank and fish die. The average fish’s stomach is said to be roughly two to three times the size of its eye.

Leftover fish food decays (the fish don’t come back to it later for a snack), releasing toxins like ammonia and clogging filter cartridges so they don’t flow or filter as they should. The rule of thumb is if all the food isn’t gone in five minutes, you’re overfeeding.

It’s far better to underfeed than overfeed!

MYTH # 3:

Fish grow to the size of the tank.

If overfeeding is the #1 killer in captive systems, overcrowding runs a really close 2nd.There’s a limit to how many fish any water-body can support.

Additional filtration helps tremendously to remove fish waste and pumps, and aerators will increase your oxygen levels, but there’s always a breaking point. You’d be amazed how lovely your fish grow and how vibrant their colours become when given adequate room.

MYTH # 4:

Cleaning this tank is bare hard work!

Don’t wait till things get intolerably dirty to drain your aquarium, and have to remove and scrub the gravel and accessories, then cram your poor fish into a bucket for the duration of the ordeal. This stresses your fish even more than it stresses you and kills most of the good bacteria which have been slowly building and keeping your system balanced.

A small partial water-change is much better for preserving the life of your fish, the beauty of your aquarium and the sanity of the aquarist. Your pet store will be happy to advise you on the use of inexpensive but useful gadgets like gravel-vacuums and magnetic algae scrapers which make cleaning your fish tank a breeze!

HAPPY FISHING! NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 19

CARIB WILD

The Tayra FAST FACTS Scientific Name:

Eira Barbara

Life Span:

18 years (in captivity)

Diet: Omnivore

Spiny rats, mice, guinea pigs, tamarins, squirrels, agoutis, and other small mammals; fruit, invertebrates, reptiles, insects etc. and honeycomb Predators and Threats: Humans, dogs, loss of habit Habitat:

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Dense woodlands in Central and South America

Written By: Karen Stiell Within a large range of variation, the mustelids exhibit some common characteristics. They are typically small animals with short legs, short, round ears, and thick fur. Most mustelids are solitary, nocturnal animals, and are active year-round.

Tayras are mammals that belong to the Mustelid family, and are similar in appearance to weasels, otters, and badgers. Despite having a long slender body like a weasel, the Tayra’s long bushy tail distinguishes them from their cousin. They have short dark brown or black fur on their body, sometimes with an orange spot on the chest, and lighter colour fur on their head and neck.

Albino or pale yellow varieties complete the species.

Though solitary by nature, they are not nocturnal like other Mustelids, being active during the day, and making the occasional appearance at dusk.

Barbados Wildlife

Reserve & Grenade Hall

Forest & Signal Station

Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Telephone 422-8826

The local patois name in Trinidad is ‘chien bois’ – high woods dog. They can be quite playful and are easily tamed, and kept to control vermin, but can be a pest to domestic animals such as chickens. Indigenous people refer to the Tayra as “cabeza del viejo” – old man’s head, due to the wrinkly appearance of their face.

Habitat: The Tayras habitat is forests across most of South America east of the Andes [except for Uruguay and eastern Brazil], and all but the most northerly parts of Argentina. These beautiful mammals are also found across the whole of Central America, Mexico, southern Veracruz, and on the island of Trinidad. They live in hollow trees, logs or burrows borrowed from other animals which offers a degree of protection from predators such as dogs.

Communication:

Their call is short and barking, often described as a yowl or a snarl and when seen in a small group they sometimes give a clicking sound to communicate.

Diet:

They are omnivores, with a diet consisting of meat and plants, and their favorite foods are rats, mice, lizards [they use their sharp teeth to tear the flesh], birds, fruit and honey. Intelligent creatures, Tayras have been observed to ‘cache’ their food, meaning they will pick unripe plantains, and leave them to ripen in a cache, coming back a few days later to consume the softened pulp.

They locate prey primarily by scent, having relatively poor eyesight, and actively chase it once located, rather than stalking or using ambush tactics

Breeding: Tayras reproduce all year around with

the gestation period lasting 67 days. Between 1 – 3 young are in a typical litter and the female is the sole care giver. The young are fully grown at 6 months but stay with their mother, learning survival skills until they are 10 months old when they leave to establish their own territory.

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FEATHERED FRIENDS

Bubulcus ibis Written By: Jacqueline Clarke

Hey there, this is Bubulcus ibis. Some call me Bubulcus, or Cattle Egret.

I’m not a cow in any sense of the word, but a milky white heron.

Africa is my native land, but I have come a long way, and today my fellow species and I are known in more than 50 major islands throughout the Caribbean Basin.

So let me tell you some cool facts about myself: I’m about 19-21 inches in length with a wingspan of about three feet and often look like I’m hunched over. I have a yellow bill and my legs are short. My neck is thick in comparison to my cousins who have black legs and bills. There are times when my plume (that’s that funny looking spiky hair on my head), chest and back, are golden.

During breeding season my legs and bill are red. We take care of three to five eggs in our nests, made of sticks. These are times when we have to be careful of predators, like other birds that try to steal eggs or our youngsters out of the nests. Luckily, predators are literally few and far between for adult egrets but include the Lynx rufus, bobcat, the red-tailed hawk, the bald eagle and the red fox. Fortunately, none of these animals inhabit this beautiful island of Barbados.

Do you know why you mostly see us following or sitting on a cow?

When the cattle graze, their movements stir up insects, which we eat. That’s meal number one. We call this a symbiotic relationship, an interaction between two different species. It is a one-sided symbiotic relationship called Commensalism meaning we the egrets benefit greatly from the symbiosis and the cattle are unaffected and unharmed. Meal number two is when we sit comfortably on the back of a cow and eat little bugs that bite, and bother the cattle. This is called Mutualism. It is a close and longlasting relationship, and both the cow and the egret benefit. That is how we have come to have many names around the world, cow cranes, cow herons, cow birds, elephant birds, rhinoceros’ egrets, and hippopotamus egrets.

Did you know we also fly toward smoke from long distances away, to catch the insects fleeing the fire?

By now I guess you’re wondering what happened to Eleutherodactylus johnstonei, the Whistling Frog who I dived after in the 1st issue of Animal Talk? Well a cow called to me to relieve her from ticks and other pesky insects that were bothering her, and being the caring creature I am, I set him down so he could return to his family. He hopped happily away and I flew hungrily to an awaiting meal.

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Bird Song Written By: Marleen Smith

Birds are known to sing louder in the early hours of the morning.

There is no better way to be awakened, than by the beautiful sounds of nature, and there is nothing more fitting and delightful to the ears as the pleasant sound of the dawn chorus of birds.

Mornings are brighter with their varied chirpings, and their sweet and mellifluous sounds as they perch their feathery parcels of beauty on the limbs of trees, fences, window sills and housetops. Not only is this cacophony of birdsong sweet, but it also presents the inescapable reality of nature’s beauty.

You may ask, ‘but why do they sing at all?’ It is said that it is mostly the male birds attracting mates, and warning other males away from their territory.

Whatever reasons there are for the clear and consistent sounds of the dawn chorus, we can all appreciate the peaceful tones and melodious tunes that our feathery friends bring to our ears.

However, not only do birds bring delight to our ears, they fill our eyes with much beauty with their array of colours. Indeed, planet earth has been blessed to be adorned with such amazing and splendid beauty, decorating our skies, trees, beaches and buildings.

It is admirable how these wonderful creatures live purposeful lives, exhibiting magnificent poise as they courageously lift themselves from the ground to fly high and free.

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 23

PURRFECT CATS

The Siamese (Felis Catus)

“I had been told that the training procedure with cats was difficult.

It’s not. Mine had me trained in two days.” Bill Dana Written By: Gail Hunte

The Siamese cat made it to the Cat Book of Poems, a manuscript written between 1350 and 1767. It describes a slim cat with dark coloring on its ears, tail and feet, and a pale body.

Siamese cats originate from Thailand, [formerly known as Siam], and with beautiful sapphire eyes and large distinctive ears, they are one of the most recognized breed of cats in the world. They are sleek and slim, and to state the obvious, very feline in appearance.

A Siamese cat’s eyes are blue because the gene responsible for the coat pattern, restricts the amount of pigment – responsible for green or brown eyes.

Typically, Siamese cats come in four traditional colors: seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac point that gives them a pale body color with relatively darker extremities in the face, ears, feet and tail. However, there are numerous variations that can be found today.

If you want a cat with bags of personality, you’ve found it. Vocal, they love to ‘cat talk’ with their human parents, making a loud, low-pitched voice—known as ‘Meezer’ from which they get one of their nicknames. They don’t suit people who are often out, as they like company and need plenty of social interactions.

History and Background Their distinctive look and demeanour, made these cats popular with royalty, and monks who kept them in temples where they lived in opulent luxury. One myth tells of how a Siamese cat guarding rings belonging to a royal princess, slid the rings on its tail, and developed tail kinks to keep the rings from falling off.

In the 1950s–1960s, the Siamese gained in popularity, and breeders and show judges began to favor a slenderer look, so as a result of generations of selective breeding, they created long, fine-boned, narrow-headed cats. By the mid-1980s, cats of the original style largely disappeared from shows, but a few breeders, particularly in the UK continued to breed and register them, resulting in today’s two types of Siamese: the modern, ‘Show-Style’ and the ‘Traditional Siamese’, with both descended from the same distant ancestors.

Siamese cats have even made it to the big screen in movies like Lady and the Tramp, with those two antagonistic Siamese cats; Si and Am; and in the sentimental movie, Incredible Journey, Tao the Siamese cat played one of three pets who journey 250 miles through the wilderness in search of their owners.

Intelligent, elegant, graceful and affectionate, Siamese cats are truly a wonder to behold.

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Cat Tidbits

Written By: Rhonda Robinson

Does your Cat have a Sweet Tooth?

Humans, like most other mammals have five different receptors -salty, bitter, sour, savory and sweet. The taste code for sweet is encoded in two genes that code two proteins, both of which are involved in our ability to taste sweet things. Cats, due to a chance mutation appear to have a broken gene and as a result cats, including wild species, are unable to recognize sweet foods.

Facts About the

SIAMESE • When Siamese cats were first shown in England in 1871 they were described as ‘an unnatural nightmare kind of cat’ because of their strange coloring. They went on to become one of the most popular cat breeds in the world!

• Their Thai name means ‘moon diamond’.

• Queen Elizabeth II was given a seal point kitten as a wedding present to celebrate her marriage to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

• When females are in heat they will yell loudly and incessantly and their voices have been compared to an opera singer singing scales.

They can sometimes be heard right down the street!

• It is quite possible to train a Siamese cat – due to their intelligent nature they even enjoy it. They can be trained to fetch and retrieve, walk on a harness, and even do tricks.

• These cats are prone to acne around their chins. This is because as they’re eating, oily food flakes enter the skin pores just under the mouth. The pores get clogged, looking like blackheads, and if not kept clean can lead to the cat developing a bald patch.

• Many Siamese (and other Oriental) cats are unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. Milk should not be given to them as it can go straight through them and cause bad diarrhea – experiment with caution!

Source: Life With Siamese Cats

The Cat’s Whiskers

Each whisker is filled with tiny supersensitive nerves that help your cat judge distance and space. It’s how your cat makes decisions like: Is this box too small to get inside? How far do I need to jump to reach that counter? If your cat is blind, the whiskers are your cat’s way of judging what is around them.

What you need to know about Feeding Your Cat?

Cats are obligate carnivores so need a diet of meat protein, but it can become confusing as to what is a safe food for cats as there is contradicting information on the Web. One school may argue for dry foods while the other canned, some raw and others no raw food. The best and safest thing is to speak to your veterinarian, especially if you’re a new cat owner or your cat develops any medical conditions.

Body Language in Cats

You’ve probably already learnt the secrets of your cat’s body language, and you’ve noticed similarities with their bigger cousins in the wild. Just like your cute cuddly domestic cat, wild cats also purr, head-butt, roll on their backs and wiggle their bottoms when ready to pounce on their prey. If your cat arches its back and hisses with its tail bushed out, this is a sure sign that they are not comfortable. Likewise, if your cat rubs itself against your legs and purrs, this is a sign of your cat telling you it loves you – and that you are theirs.

Scent Marking

It’s adorable when your cat winds around your legs, rubbing his face and chin on you, but when he does this, your cat is actually scent marking his territory and this includes you. Cats also scratch trees, fences, post and sometimes your furniture as a way of leaving a calling card.

Less desirable is spraying which is usually done my male cats. Neutering can stop your cat from spraying in and around the house, but make sure your cat is not stressed as this may be a reason for their behavior.

Transitioning an 0utdoor Cat to Living Indoors

Perhaps you’re adopting a stray or maybe you’re moving from a house to an apartment.

In these circumstances you may have to transition your cat from being an outdoors cat to an indoor one. Think of things from the point of the cat and you won’t go far wrong as you help your cat transition. If you don’t want your nice dining chairs scratched to pieces, invest in some scratching post.

For a happy and harmonious household, provide outlets for all of your cats natural behaviours such as climbing apparatus and toys.

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 25

ASK THE VET

Know Your WORMS!

Good hygiene is essential in protecting your dog and your family from worms. Prompt cleanup of faeces and safe disposal is critical, and regular scrubbing of contaminated areas and kennels will reduce egg numbers.

Hookworm

“

For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of worm infestations, please consult your veterinarian.

It is important to note that no single worm treatment can eliminate all parasites from your pet so worm control is an ongoing process throughout the life of the animal.

“

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DEAR DR. READER What are the different types of worms, and how should I treat my dog?

Parasitic worms are a common cause of many health problems in dogs and puppies, and the prevention and treatment of infestations is important in maintaining not only the health of your pet, but also the health of your family as many worm parasites of dogs can affect humans.

Hookworm

Roundworm

Hookworms:

The adult hookworm attaches to the wall of the intestine and feeds on blood. It is equipped with sharp teeth that cut into and hold on to the intestinal wall.

Heavy infestations of hookworm can lead to severe blood loss, poor condition and death, especially in puppies. The hookworm produces large numbers of eggs, which pass out in the stool and they can survive for a long time in sand and soil. The eggs hatch into tiny larvae that burrow into the dog’s skin, usually on the feet and abdomen, causing a rash and severe itching. In the dog, the hookworm larvae migrate to the intestine where they attach and complete their life cycle. This life cycle from egg to blood sucking adult takes only three weeks. Important to note is that hookworms can pass directly from mother to puppies in the milk, which means that pups can be infected literally from birth.

Symptoms of hookworm infection: • Lethargy and poor condition • Pale gums and tongue due to anaemia • Black or bloody stools If your environment is contaminated with hookworm eggs, the larvae can penetrate human skin causing intensely itchy, raised tracks. This condition is known as Cutaneous Larval Migrans or Beachworm. Cleaning up stool from your dog’s environment is critical to reducing contamination.

Whipworm:

This worm lives in the large intestine of dogs where they attach deeply into the lining. They cause irritation and ulceration of the intestine and are a common cause of colitis. These worms are difficult to clear completely and may require several treatments, often with different worm medicines. The whipworm produces small numbers of highly resistant eggs making them difficult to diagnose in routine faecal sample examination. They can remain viable in the environment for as long as 25 years, so their numbers tend to increase in kennels and areas where dogs have been kept for a long time. Whipworm eggs are resistant to all known chemical disinfectants, so good hygiene practices is needed to prevent severe infestations.

Symptoms of whipworm infestation are: • Loss of condition • Persistent or recurring bouts of diarrhea • Blood in the stool

Roundworms:

Adult roundworms live in the small intestine of dogs. These are large worms and can absorb significant amounts of nutrients from the intestine so infected dogs and pups fail to thrive. Heavy infestations can lead to obstruction of the intestine resulting in vomiting, especially in pups. The roundworm produces large numbers

Whipworm

of sticky eggs, which pass out with the stool, and stick to the skin and perineal area. Dogs re-infect themselves when grooming and pups become infected while nursing. Once swallowed, the eggs hatch and the larval worms migrate through the wall of the gut, through the liver and lungs, causing significant damage. The dog coughs up the larval and when it swallows, they develop to adults in the intestine.

Symptoms of roundworm infection: • Failure to thrive • Dull coat • Vomiting • Poor appetite • Coughing Because the eggs of the roundworm are very sticky, they can easily be picked up on our hands when handling dogs, especially pups. If swallowed they can hatch and migrate around the human body in a dangerous condition called Visceral Larval Migrans. Washing your hands after handling dogs, especially pups is very important.

Tapeworm: There are several types of tapeworm found

in dogs, but the most common, Dipylidium is carried by fleas.

This tapeworm lives in the intestine, and compete with the dog for nutrients. The tapeworm is divided into segments, each of which is viable on its own. When the eggs are mature, the segments breaks off and passes out of the body with the stool. The segments appear like ‘cucumber seeds’ in the stool or may be seen crawling around the back end of the dog.

Dogs can re-infect themselves by ingesting these segments during grooming, or by ingesting fleas.

Tapeworms can also infect humans, especially children who may get the eggs or tapeworm segment on their fingers while playing with the dog, and transfer them to their mouth.

Treatment:

As a rule, treat pups with worm medicine from two weeks after birth. Further treatments can be carried out in consultation with your veterinarian every two weeks until the pups are 16 weeks old. Thereafter, treat your pup every month until the age of 9 months. Adult dogs should be treated with an effective worm medicine every 4 months or on the advice of your veterinarian.

Resistance to worm medicines (anthelminthics) is widespread and it is essential to have routine faecal samples from your dog checked by your veterinarian to ensure that your de-worming program is effective.

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ASK THE VET

Neutering Your Pet Written By: Dr. Laura Hutchinson

Female animals have a reduced chance of developing mammary tumors or infections in the uterus once it has been removed. While their male counterparts won’t develop testicular cancer.

The Ark Animal Welfare Society uses the tag line ‘dogs and cats can’t add or subtract, but they sure can multiply’, and I think this truly explains the main reason why we as veterinarians, promote neutering of pets. Statistically, a cat can produce up to 3 litters a year with an average of 5 kittens each time.

Therefore, in two years 1 female and her kittens could multiply to 225! While a dog has an average of 1 litter ear of 5 pups, with a 2-year potential of 25 dogs from 1 female!

What is Neutering?

Neutering is defined as the removal of an animal’s reproductive organs (ie.

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ovaries, uterus or testicles) whereas spaying is specific to desexing of a female dog or cat. This means your female pet won’t have any more heat cycles and can’t have puppies/kittens.

The preferred age to neuter your pet is 6 – 9 months old, as this is the age at which most dogs/cats will experience their first heat cycle/puberty. The reason for waiting until then is to allow time for the hormonal changes imparted by the ovaries/testicles in the natural development of the animal to occur before their removal.

Neutering has several advantages for the animal which outweigh the

possible disadvantages. Besides the obvious control for overpopulation of dogs and cats, this procedure also offers health benefits to your pet. Female animals have a reduced chance of developing mammary tumors or infections in the uterus once it has been removed. While their male counterparts won’t develop testicular cancer, in addition to having a lower risk of prostatic problems.

Without a female in heat, there is less stress to the owner, as there will not be a circus of male dogs lurking around the property to try and mate with her. For the owner of a male dog, they will be less inclined to roam from home in search of a ‘girlfriend’ in heat, and thus reduce their chance of getting injured on the road or lost. This benefit is also seen with neutered male cats who usually become house cats once castrated, instead of patrolling the neighborhood every night and coming home with bite wounds from fighting other male cats over a female.

Neutering has also been shown to help with some behavioural issues such as aggression in dogs, and urine spraying in cats.

Lastly, here in Barbados, once your pet is neutered, the licensing fee imposed by the Animal Control Unit is reduced from annually to $5 for life.

Myths There is an ancient belief that we must ‘let the dog have one set of puppies first before spaying her’. In fact, statistics show that the fewer heat cycles the pet is allowed to have before being spayed, then the lower the risk of developing cancer of the breast/ovaries. In addition, there is less expense for the owner without a pregnant dog to care for, veterinary bills and then pups to feed, vaccinate and find homes for.

Obesity is another concern of owners, but while there is a reduced metabolism rate as a result of neutering, this can usually be counteracted with increased exercise for your pet along with reduced dietary portions.

Spaying of females and leaving the males, is another common statement, though this appears to be an issue of manhood, as the intact male will simply continue to pursue other females in heat.

In an age when many people find it hard to feed themselves and their household, it is pertinent that we try our best to rectify the problem of overpopulation of dogs and cats, and help reduce the number of strays and abandoned pets being found in recent times.

AT: If you would like help with spaying/neutering your pet. Please contact one of the animal shelters listed under Useful Numbers in this publication.

NOVEMBER 2016 | ANIMAL TALK | 29

SPOTLIGHT ON

Photography by: Peter Hinds

Empress Roli Roachford Empress Roli Roachford, is winner of The People’s Choice 2013 & won Best Reggae Artist of The year 2015, at The Barbados Music Awards.

She’s one of the top female reggae artist in Barbados and has met with international success. With 4 complete albums of reggae and dancehall fusions, her voice and music is unique and powerful.

She has performed at major events and festivals including The Hill, The I Queen Festival and The Bajan Green Reggae Road Show. She has also been Nominated Best Female Entertainer of the year. However, Empress has another passion besides music, in that she is passionate about horses. She’s a professional show jumper, and is the owner of Jahworks Equestrian Centre & Nature Walk Tours. If this wasn’t enough, Empress has combined her love of horses to provide therapeutic riding lessons for children with disabilities.

AT: When did you begin your love affair with horses?

I was born is Sweden, began riding at age 3, and was a natural. Since then horses have always been a part of my life and I’m blessed to get to work with them.

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AT: Riding horses as a hobby is one thing, but competing in competitions is taking it to another level. When did this begin?

My mother Elisabeth Roachford was a teacher and coach at Fardala riding school in Sweden and I started competing at age 7, in both show jumping and dressage.

AT: Have you won any major competitions?

I have traveled with the Barbados show jumping team and won the FEI World Cup Dressage Challenge more than twice and have been ranked #1 in the region on many occasions, and I have trophies in both show jumping and dressage; placing in the top three in my category, and I’ve won Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. Receiving the sportsmanship award in Canada while show jumping for Barbados made me overjoyed, especially as our team placed second out of 11 countries. I’ve now become a FEI certified trainer and coach AT: Jahworks Equestrian Centre & Nature Walk Tours is set in a beautiful and tranquil location. Tell us about it?

We do horse riding lessons, nature

walk tours, and camping, and of course we take people out on the horses to enjoy the beauty of the Scotland countryside and east coast beaches. We also hold special musical events, and we are ever expanding the business to accommodate our client’s needs.

AT: What can people expect from your camping tours?

The setting is ideal for person who love intimacy and being among nature. We also cater for people who love rugged extreme sports, and our ecofriendly log cabins allow guest to unwind in natural settings at the end of their day’s activities.

The camping experience is very organic with open fires, natural Bajan foods and our own home made wines and juices.

AT: What about BEARD and your work with special needs children?

I founded the Barbados Equestrian Association For Riders With Disabilities (BEARD) because I saw how horses could help children with disabilities.

Over the years I’ve seen remarkable changes in children who have come to Jahworks, and taken part in our riding therapy classes. Riding the horses has

WHY I LOVE MY PET Natassja Bynoe and Qwathi As told to Animal Talk by Natassja Bynoe Qwathi’s name of origin comes from Zhosa in South Africa. Watching Qwathi live with only three legs has taught me valuable lessons in my everyday life: that trying is never a failure, but to not try is the biggest failure. He inspires and pushes me to push through my fears, anxiety and hurts. I have seen him fall and tumble, but his perseverance is more than admirable.

Seeing him so happy and playful today, and knowing his dark past, brings warmth and tears to my eyes. I love him because he is my rock even in tender actions. We have forged a bond so strong, it is like we read each other’s mind. For Qwathi, new beginnings do have happy endings.

Photography by: Peter Hinds Empress has another passion besides music, in that she is passionate about horses.

She’s a professional show jumper, and is the owner of Jahworks Equestrian Centre & Nature Walk Tours. If this wasn’t enough, Empress has combined her love of horses to provide therapeutic riding lessons for children with disabilities.

helped them improve their mobility and physical challenges, and I’ve seen positive changes in emotional and behavioural problems. One child who had not spoken for a very long time, after spending time with the horses began to communicate again. It has become a Calling for me to help persons with special needs to receive therapy in the form of equestrian riding.

Parents especially need to know that Horse Therapy can help their children with their physical development such as balance, building muscle tissue, and regaining certain movements.

AT: There is now more and more being done to rescue horses who are being neglected, and in recent times there’s been some heartwarming rescues and transformation. However, there is still lots more to be done in terms of educating people on how to care for these animals.

Yes, my horses are all rescues and things are getting better, but it is still a huge problem. I try to engage with the owners and see if I can help in anyway, but I’m still concerned by the number of neglected horses in Barbados.

AT: How do you see the future in relation to Equestrian Therapy?

I would like to see more certified trainers in this field and I also intend to spread the message throughout the Caribbean on the benefits of this form of therapy.

One Love.

You can contact Jahworks Equestrian Centre on 246-820-2667 Email roliroachford@hotmail.com

AT: You are advised to seek professional advice and speak with your medical practitioner if you would like your special needs child to take part in equestrian therapy.

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SPOTLIGHT ON

Amanda Ramsay AT: How long have dogs been a part of your life?

I was surrounded by dogs from a child and saw them as additional members to our family. My love and passion for dogs grew until I knew I had to work with them in some way. I thought about becoming a veterinarian, but the years of study was too long for me so I explored other options and found I really loved grooming.

AT: Where did you study Grooming?

I studied in Canada for over a year at the B-pro Grooming Academy school and got my certification.

AT: How long have you been a Professional Dog Groomer?

I started grooming in 2006, and became certified as a groomer in 2008 with the support of a few clients who patiently waited over a year for my return to Barbados to start my business, which I’m very grateful for.

AT: Why is grooming your pet important?

It not only improves the appearance and the hygiene of your pet, but it improves their mental and physical health too. The process involved with grooming can also help you to notice any changes in your pet’s condition such as concealed wounds, sores, lumps and over-grown nails that may be causing discomfort.

AT: How do the dogs respond after their grooming?

After I’m finished grooming they are energetic and happy because they are more comfortable.

At: Do you have any tips for clients who’d like to have their dog groomed but haven’t done so before?

Socialise your pet with different people so they become comfortable with being touched as this helps reduce their anxiety at grooming sessions.

AT: How often should you groom your pet?

I recommend once a month or every two months to maintain a well-groomed dog. It depends on the condition of your pet of course.

AT: What types of dogs do you groom?

We groom all types from big to small, pure to mix, fluffy to short haired and old to young.

AT: To learn more about the Pet Services Amanda provides and to make your appointment call her on 265-2051

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Painting is like dipping a brush into my soul Born in Trinidad and obtaining degrees in Fine Arts at Barbados Community College and International Fine Arts College in the United States, Sian Pampellonne gained valuable experience under the tutelage of her late grandfather, Gordon Parkinson, whose famous landscapes and portraits are well-known to Caribbean art collectors.

An avid art collector, Sian rekindled her love of painting, purely as an outlet for self-expression. “Making art, for me, is an innate response to the world of people, nature and events. I am not good at expressing myself with words, so painting is like dipping a brush into my soul, so that I may communicate my innermost thoughts and emotions,” says Sian. It is no surprise that the fiery redhead is able to convey her passions and sensations through a freedom of hand and brush that unleash vibrant acrylic and mixed media colours onto canvas.

Her vivid pieces radiate deep feelings from her subjects, that leave the admirer delving into their own emotional analysis of the bold art that she has produced.

Her fresh interpretation, signature style and vivid colors firmly place Sian Pampellonne as the Caribbean’s new expressionist to watch, and her pieces have found their way into the hands and homes of collectors, both locally and internationally. Sian has participated in many Art shows and owns a successful Advertising Studio, Sian In Design Inc. in Barbados, where she currently resides.

Sian’s work can be viewed in many Barbadian Art Galleries and at the artist’s studio. She can be contacted at (246) 436-0395 or sian@sianindesign.com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: Advertising Page: facebook.com/sianindesign Fine Arts Page: facebook.com/Sian-Pampellonne-Artist

Follow Sian on Instagram: sianindesign and sianpampellonneartist

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CHILDREN’S CORNER

Playing Safely Written By: Susan Carbaugh & Told By: Makai

with Dogs

Hello Children! My name is Makai! I am a three-year-old Bull Terrier and I want to share with you how you can safely play with me and other dogs. Are you ready?

• First, always ask a grown-up before touching a dog that you do not know.

• When you first meet a dog, keep your side or back to it. If we are interested, we might get closer and sniff you. It’s how we let you know we are curious.

• Always relax, and move slowly, using a soft voice around us. We don’t like people running up to us screaming as our ears are more sensitive than yours.

• Please never lean over us, and don’t push your hands in our faces.

• Grabbing our head, kissing our face, hugging us or putting your face close to ours is not good if you do not know us.

• If you come to us and we back away or walk away, STOP. This means we are not comfortable.

• If a grown-up lets you give us a treat, always give the treat with your palm open and your hand under or to the side of our chin, but not over our head. We might get too excited for the treat and accidentally bite your hand.

• When you’re done petting us, don’t run as you leave. Now that we are friends, we might chase you or playfully jump on you with excitement!

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SUSI grew up in Orange County, California, and after a long career in law enforcement, she chose to retire in 2015. Along with her husband Dan, and their magic Bull Terrier Makai, they moved to a quiet town in Colorado. Suzy now enjoys writing children’s books, hiking and playing with Makai, and enjoying nature.

Since we can’t talk to tell you how we feel, we use our bodies: • If we’re not comfortable, we might lick our nose, blink or yawn a lot.

• If we turn our head or body away, or if we walk away from you, we don’t want to be touched.

• If we tuck our tail down between our back legs, we’re not happy.

• If we start to use our dog voice by growling, STOP what you are doing and walk slowly and calmly away.

Things not to do:

MAKAI is a smart, beautiful and strong, 3-year-old Bull Terrier who loves to run and play. On warm summer days, Makai likes running around in circles with the water hose in her mouth, splashing everything in sight! Eggs are her favorite treat, and she drops everything she’s doing and runs to the kitchen when she hears the sound of an egg crack. She loves playing in a room full of squeaky tennis balls, as well as road trips and nature hikes. She loves to be close to her mommy and daddy, and even snuggles under the blankets with them when it’s time to go to sleep.

Makai is joyful, loyal, funny, sensitive, and she loves everyone!

• Never pull or tug at our ears, tails or any other part of our body.

• Don’t poke our eyes.

• Don’t try to play with us when we are eating.

• Never take our food or toys away.

• When we are sleeping, we like to be left alone so we can rest long enough to get excited to play with you when we wake up.

If you would like to see lots of pictures and videos of Makai, visit: https://www.facebook.com/makaithemagicbullterrier/

Q: Where do cows go for entertainment?

A: To the moo-vies!

Makai also has some Kindle picture books, colouring books and paperback books on Amazon that you will love!

Word Search: At The Farm

Can you find all 10 of the hidden animals?

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LIFE AT THE SANCTUARY

If you’re thinking of adopting a dog, this will be one of the best decisions you will ever make. However, a dog is for life so it’s important to take your time and make your decision with care.

Adopting a Rescue Dog Here are some tips, and important questions to consider before you bring your new companion home.

• Are you able to financially take care of the dog that you may want to adopt? This involves providing a healthy diet and paying for any medical and dental care.

Remember large dogs eat more food than smaller breeds.

• Dogs are social animals so your dog will need lots of human interaction (younger dogs need lots of play time).

• Budget for routine necessities to keep your pet healthy such as worming and treatments for fleas and ticks.

• All dogs need regularly exercise and walks. Do you have the time?

• If you travel who will take care of your pet when you’re away? What will it cost to board the dog, and can you afford to pay so that your dog will be safe and well taken care of?

• Are you an older person that just needs a quiet dog to keep your company?

• Puppies will need to be vaccinated.

• Do you want a dog that will require regular brushing, trimming and grooming of their coat?

• Should you adopt an older dog or a puppy?

• Puppies will need to be fed several times a day. How will this be done if everyone is working?

• Remember that puppies need more care and supervision you will need to do a lot more cleaning up and there will be lots of chewing and play biting as they develop.

• Can you provide a safe enclosed area with adequate shelter and space for your dog to roam safely?

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• Most small breed dogs live 15+ years so consider this when adopting a younger dog.

• Is it possible that you will relocate to another country at some point? If so, would you be willing or financially able to deal with the cost of bringing your dog with you?

• Finally, is everyone in the family on the same page, and willing to play their part to ensure that your pet will have a healthy and happy life?

OUT & ABOUT WITH

It’s Never right to Abandon any Animal!

RSPCA INSPECTOR Wayne Norville

When you abandon an animal that you have cared for, and that has become totally reliant on you, it will have no knowledge of how to forage for food and you are exposing that animal to all types of dangers, such as being poisoned or hit by cars. They can also get trapped in wells and slowly starve to death.

Hunger will drive abandoned dogs to do things that they would not normally do. They will form a pack with other dogs, and kill farm animals and people’s pets. They will turn over garbage cans, and sometimes attack people. Often it will take an abandoned dog days or even weeks before it gets a meal, and during that time it becomes weak and dehydrated, and many die untimely deaths in this painful way.

If there is a bitch in heat, the males get into fights and become injured, and without medication, flies will lay eggs in their wounds. Those eggs turn into maggots, and the maggots eat holes in the wounds and infect them even more. A slow painful death is the end result.

Some people abandon their dog out of shame because they can’t afford to feed them anymore, or the dog might be old. Others abandon their dogs if they become sick and they cannot afford vet fees, so the first thing they think about is ‘getting rid of the it.’ I know of cases where owners see a little lump on their dog, and leave it until it becomes one massive tumor. In cases like these I want people to know I am not here to judge them, all I ask them to do is seek help.

AT: In this publication under Useful Numbers, there is a list of animal shelters that you can contact for assistance. If you see an animal in distress or need help with your pet call a shelter and they will try to help. No animal deserves to be abandoned/ dumped, with no way to fend for itself. It is a myth to think they can survive on their own. The reality is they do not. Please help us to make Barbados an island that cares for its pets and livestock.

If you no longer want an animal, always surrender it to the RSPCA. We are open from 8am to 3.45pm on week days, and on Saturday from 8am to 12noon, and we have an out of office emergency number.

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LIFE AT THE SANCTUARY

The MariZayra’s

Photography by: Peter Hinds

Sanctuary The tranquil MariZayra’s Sanctuary is located to the eastern side of the island along the Harrismith Road, Well House, Saint Philip.

With a wide variety of awesome animals settled among beautiful plants, we live up to our slogan, ‘Nature at its finest’.

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We officially opened The MariZayra’s Sanctuary to the public on October 29th 2015. The idea of the sanctuary was created when a few members of a nearby church visited our home, and suggested it to be a great place to let their youth group visit to complete an ongoing project.

The sanctuary is a non profitable organization and relies on donations collected from persons who come to visit, organised groups or just a family outing. We have a compliment of 4 staff members with one being a volunteer who has the desire to pursue a career as a veterinarian.

Most of the materials used in preparation to make the sanctuary what it is today, were mainly recycled metal gates, fencing, galvanise sheets and wire donated from a recycling company.

We welcome any persons willing to have a hands on experience with our animals both domestic or exotic to join us.

Some of the animals found in the sanctuary are long lived family pets, whilst others were bought previously to the opening to add to the attraction. The MariZayra sanctuary also took in a few adoptions, either by persons bringing them in due to overwhelming care requirements or in some cases where investigations lead to where animal owners had animals in bad conditions, and we pleaded for their rescue. In one case, acting on an investigation lead, our staff went to rescue a 4-foot West Indian Iguana which was housed in a 2×2 square cage for a long time without proper care.

Animals at the sanctuary: Peacocks, Guinea Birds, Ducks, Geese, Exotic Fowls, Pheasants, Quails, Exotic Pigeons, Red Crested Coot, Parrots, Love Birds, Cockatiels, Macaws, Bearded Dragon, Turtles, Tortoise, Guinea Pigs, Rabbits, Hamsters, Lab Rats and Mice, Iguanas, Snakes, Japanese Koi, Exotic Fish both marine and fresh water.

Our opening hours are as follow: Monday to Friday 10am until 4pm.

Saturday and Sunday 12 pm until 6pm For directions and bookings please call: 259-2024/423-9616

Volunteering at the ‘Over the years, the RSPCA has hosted hundreds of dukers as they complete their various Awards.

At the centre volunteers are engaged with the care of the animals in every way. Here are some accounts from Award participants on their experiences.’— The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Barbados Percival Rojas, Open Group, Bronze participant I started my first day volunteering at the RSPCA on December 19th 2015. When I walked into the kennel, there were a lot of different breeds. The dogs were really excited to see us.

When I saw how many dogs were in the kennels, I felt a bit sad thinking how many dogs were rejected and abandoned by their owners. But at the same time I felt a bit of joy, as they seemed excited to see someone who would take them out of the kennels for a few minutes, and show then some love and affection. I encourage everyone to visit the RSPCA and adopt one of the lovely dogs or cats that desperately need a home and your love today.

Joshua Brathwaite, Lodge School, Bronze Participant Going to the RSPCA to volunteer was a very life-changing experience. Being able to help the animals opened my eyes to a whole new world. In spite of many tough chores such as cleaning up after the animals and washing down the cages, interacting with them was a reward all by itself. I had a slight fear of dogs at first, but after a few weeks my fear slowly subsided. All of the cats were friendly and loving. They used to cuddle my feet and blocked me from leaving. The RSPCA has made me a better person. Before volunteering I was self-centred, but now I see that helping others in need is a wonderful experience.

Shanice King, UWI, Bronze Participant During my final semester at the University of the West Indies, I was searching for a service in order to complete my bronze level. Upon a suggestion from my group leader, Georgina Trew, I headed down to the RSPCA. I was given a variety of small tasks such as walking the dogs, burning surgical materials and other waste, feeding the cats and dogs, and changing their water. My favorite task of all was bathing the puppies. Every time I went I would hope that the puppies needed a bath. Puppies are a playful bunch, and they reminded me very much of small children. While I would soap one another would be running off. As I went to catch the wandering puppy the soaking wet one would climb out of the tub and proceed to roll its chubby wet body in the dirt, requiring me to wash it all over again. I am a cat lover at heart, and before I left I always made sure to find myself in the cat pen, to give the kittens some much needed cuddles and attention. There was never a time that I did not find one kitten that I badly wanted to adopt.

The few short weeks I spent volunteering at the RSPCA were enjoyable and rewarding. I greatly admire the hard work and dedication put into the daily running of the organization.

Cara & Parker O’Donnell, Queen’s College, Bronze participants Cara O’Donnell: All of the dogs love attention and want to run at super speed around the yard to play with them. The cats love to rub up against your legs and are always vying for attention. Although we have been volunteering for our bronze award, I’m sure we will continue to volunteer at the RSPCA because we enjoy it so much.

Parker O’Donnell: I really enjoy volunteering because I can help the animals at the shelter and get to spend time with lots of sweet dogs and cats. It’s fun to play with them. We start by feeding and watering the cats and kittens and then clean up their area. We always make sure to play and pet them. I hope that people will read this article and come by the RSPCA to pick out a pet to take home.

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USEFUL NUMBERS VETS Animal Care Clinic 423-1098 Massiah Street, St John Dr. Shelly A. Boyce 230-4222 Mullins, St. Peter Central Veterinary Clinic 436-3530 Lower Estate Complex, St George Dr. Katherine Clarke 262-9838 Mt Standfast, St James Content Animal Clinic Content Plantation, St. Thomas

438 7099

Eastern Veterinary Clinic Sunbury, St Phillip

423-0493

Dr. Derek L. V. Griffith 426-4884 Ashgrove Strathclyde Cres Trinity Animal Clinic Woodbourne, St Phillip

420-7894

Dr. Rosina Maitland Carter’s Gap, Christ Church

428-2897

Northern Veterinary Clinic Speightown, St Peter

233-8681

Total Loving Care 427-3135 Brittons Hill Main Rd, St Michael Dr. Nicole Tull 231-2546 Ealing Grove, Christ Church The Veterinary Clinic 437-0478 Graeme Hall Pk, Christ Church

HORSE DENTIST Emily Kinch 233-4012

ANIMAL SHELTERS Barbados Sea Turtle Project 230-0142 HORSE Charity 422-0400 RSPCA

426-3077

RSPCA Emergency 426-3962 The Ark 435-4108

BOARDING KENNELS Paws R Us 836-1668 RSPCA

426-3077

Woodbourne 420-1104

PET TRANSPORTATION Pet Transportation 243-0420

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