Pet Prints Magazine May/June Issue

Welcome

ISSUE 2, 2021 EDITORIAL

As a dog and cat mom, I rejoice in the fact that we are normalizing the celebration of our “parenthood”, with those who have human children. For many, this is still an abstract concept, but I feel that the majority of people are starting to get it. Being a parent and celebrating Mother or Father’s Day means taking a day to feel proud of the fact that you are caring and compassionate, and that you are taking care of someone or something, that is relying on you and cannot take care of themselves.

With merchants realizing the potential of this market, we are seeing many entrepreneurs rising and that makes me extremely proud.

We need to support these small businesses and help them to reach their full potentials. If you find a small business you feel merits a mention, don’t be afraid to tag us with their service or product on social media.

A newly proud dog dad is Schalk Bezuidenhout, featured on this issue’s cover.

Schalk and his fiancée, Mica, adopted their very first dog, Otis, during lockdown, and as many of you may have seen on social media, Otis is the beau of the ball. He goes to

school, takes his dad on walks and is a truly lucky boy. To read more about this adorable relationship, head on over to page 10.

To those who are thinking of gifting someone with flowers during these celebratory days, please don’t forget that there are potentially poisonous flowers out there. This might seem a little obscure to some, but poisoning, due to pollen from certain flowers, is far more common than you think. We will highlight some of these flowers on our social media pages to help educate you on the perfect bunch.

As always, don’t forget to tag us in your social media posts. We love hearing from you!

Marise Burger Gerhard Maritz Nelda Cilliers Sharnelle van der Merwe Gaironesa Atkins PHOTOGRAPHY Emma O’Brien Photography PRINTING Optic Printers CONTRIBUTORS

Until next time!

Marise

Get-to-Know Dr Coetzee de Beer from Centre for Avian Reptile and Exotics Top Tips for Looking after your Senior Pets - Bryony van Niekerk Going Natural - Jenni Davies

The Project Earth Mission Each person has the power to make a difference in this world. As a magazine focused on animal welfare, we firmly believe in this statement. Our passion for animals has taken us on a whirlwind adventure and we are proud to say that we have been actively involved in paying vet bills, donating food and shelter and even volunteering our time to help the animal welfare organizations that work tirelessly to fight for animals. You can be part of this project by supporting us. The bigger our network, the more animals we will be able to help.

“The universe does not give you what you ask for with your thoughts; it gives you what you ask for with your actions.” Dr Steve Maraboli ON THE COVER

CONTACT DETAILS

FEEDBACK AND LETTERS mail@petprints.co.za

Marise Burger 071 382 7795 marise@projectearth.org.za

@petprintsmag

Pets need a break too - Brian Berkman Choosing compatible fish for your aquarium - Dr Sasha Saugh Managing Mud Fever - Dani McNeill Dr Travis Gray - Tygerberg Animal Hospital COPYRIGHT: All rights reserved. Pet Prints is published by Umsebeni Emhlabeni (Pty) Ltd t/a Project Earth. All profits go towards assisting non-profit animal welfare organisations in need. The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this magazine. While every effort is made to ensure editorial and factual accuracy, no responsibility is accepted for any errors.

Contents 36

Content Page 16 Going Natural Page 20 Siouxsie Page 24 Fascinating Ostrich Facts

Page 4 Get To Know Dr Coetzee De Beer From Care Center For Avian, Reptile & Exotics Page 6 From Our Readers Page 8 Schalk Bezuidenhout & Otis Simply Outstanding Page 14 Tip Tops For Looking After Your Senior Pets

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Page 28 Community Page Page 34 Lifestyle - Gifts For All Occasions Page 36 Pets Need A Break Too Traveling With Brian Berkman & Julie Page 42 Choosing Compatible Fish For Your Aquarium - Dr Sasha Saugh

Page 44 Horsing Around Managing Mud Fever Page 46 Ask The Vet With Tygerberg Animal Hospital

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Page 48 Adoptions

Page 50 Breed Specific Adoptions Labrador Rescue Page 52 Welfare Directory

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Get to Know Dr Coetzee de Beer

from Care Centre for Avian, Reptile & Exotics

state of the art equipment to make sure that our patients receive the best international levels of care. As we have grown, I have expanded the practice to have satellite locations in Steenberg, Seapoint, Sunset Beach, Worcester and Langebaan. Dr Maryke van Zyl joined my team in January 2020 and, due to increasing patient numbers, a further 2 vets, Dr Peta-Danielle Muller-Deibicht and Dr Kyle Perrin, have also joined the practice.

I

I was born, and spent my early years, in the Free State where my dad, Dr Deon de Beer, had his own veterinary practice specialising in avian medicine. As a result, I grew up surrounded by birds and have always been fascinated by them. We moved to the Western Cape where I attended Paarl Boys High, and then went on to University of Pretoria, before moving to Australia to undertake my veterinary degree.

I graduated from the University of Queensland with honours. After graduating, I worked in a busy avian and exotics only clinic, The Unusual Pet Vets, in Perth. I was also lucky enough to locum at a few other well-known avian practices, gaining more knowledge and experience from internationally recognised specialists. This meant that, in addition to my passion for birds, I was able to pursue my love of working with the whole range of exotic species, including reptiles, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, rats and mice.

The whole team at CARE is amazing, from the reception staff, at the front desk, to the nursing and veterinary staff, we really are a family.

Our team doesn’t just consist of the human members however, with new practice pets joining the family on a regular basis!

In addition to our individual client practice, rescue work is also very important to me and the CARE team. Currently we work with rescue organisations for rabbits, birds and squirrels, providing emergency and ongoing treatment for the animals they care for. We see a lot of wildlife come through the doors and we are also fortunate enough to be the official vets for Eagle Encounters sanctuary.

As a professional I really enjoy the human-animal bond. I enjoy building relationships with my clients and watching their animals become part of their family. I believe that education and communication is key - the more the client knows, the better/healthier the pet will be. Explaining concepts and educating the clients can also improve the lives of others through word of mouth.

Outside of work, I really enjoy tennis and even though I may not be that good at playing, I love watching it. My ultimate dream is to attend all the Grand Slams in one calendar year.

Three and a half years after graduating, I completed my examinations to become a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Avian Health, so becoming a registered avian veterinarian. After achieving my membership, my dad called me and informed me that he wanted to retire, and asked if I was interested in moving back to South Africa. Setting up my own avian and exotics practice in South Africa had always been my dream, and in August 2018, I opened the Centre for Avian, Reptiles and Exotics (CARE) in Klapmuts.

CARE has quickly built a strong reputation for delivering the highest standards of practice for avian and exotic patients and has become ever busier. As a result, we have enlarged the premises, and acquired

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

TO A L L T H E A M A Z I N G

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FROM OUR READERS Mieuw Hello, I am Mieuw, a grey cat – so grey that I glow! Two and a half years ago, I made my appearance from beneath a heap of iron bars. So, forget Iron Man – say hello to Iron Cat! I have quite a number of hobbies. I spend hours in the veld next to my house, hunting, just waiting for that perfect, juicy mouse. When I do catch him and take him home, my mom is NOT amused. I also like to take frogs home that I catch in the garden. Needless to say, these days the windows are closed early in the morning to prevent unwanted “guests.” Climbing trees provides hours of fun, especially when Mom is nearby, as it is imperative that I impress her with my agility. Watching TV is also one of my hobbies.

My favorite place in the evenings while watching TV, is Mom’s lap. I just love having my head scratched! When I get up, re-energized, it’s playtime with Dad. I dance around the scratching post and Dad chases me with the feather duster. And of course, don’t forget about my cardboard box – a cherished toy! My eating habits include cat food, and that perfect, juicy mouse. The newest is canned, spicy fish – finger licking good! I really can’t complain about my life. Nice chatting to you! Till next time, Mieuw xxx – Chris Kemp

Angel

Tigger

Angel is my pretty pitty girl. She is the baby of my pack, despite being the oldest at 7 years old, and is incredibly patient with the young hooligans and their zoomies. Since she was a pup, Angel loves to play with her rope toys and to sleep comfortably under the blankets, no matter what the weather. When Angel came into my life, a small little bundle, I didn’t know how amazing and gentle bully breeds could be. She is the sweetest little girl, and I could not imagine my life without her cuddles, that super cute underbite and her pitty kisses! – Danielle Botha

In August 2017, my daughter and I started following 4 foster pups that had needed to be bottle fed from 3 days old, on Facebook. From the first time we saw their photos, Leah was in love with Tigger, but because we already had 2 dogs, I always tried to talk her out of it.

Until the day we saw that out of the 4 pups he was the only one left and we knew that he was meant for us! I phoned Caron and asked if she thought he would be a good match with my other boys, as she has known all my animals from day one. She did not even hesitate to say: “Yes”! And she was happy to do the introduction. He was adopted through Grace Animal Sanctuary.

When I picked him up that first day, I could not believe that one puppy could have so many wrinkles and such big paws. The introduction went well as my Schnauzer, Eben, was extremely happy to have someone smaller than him, and my big boy, Ben, just looked at him in a very funny way the whole time. I think he was just so confused with this funny looking thing his mom had brought into the house. Nevertheless, it was love at first sight from the whole family.

We still do not know what his breed is (Labby x basset x we don’t know), but he is just the most adorable/funny/weird/lazy/lovable boy in the house. We think every house should have a Tigger! – Juanita van der Merwe

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

Roxy

Sir Rodger

Rodger was born in Upington on the 12/9/2019. We collected him on the 8/9/2020, in Springbok, from a lady who rehomes unwanted and ill-treated animals. Rodger was a mentally abused and ill-treated dog. He slept outside with no shelter or blankets and very little food and water. In the beginning he would cower and run from us if we raised our arms in excitement. When my husband, Basil, picked up thin wooden poles to finish building our fence, Rodger would whimper and run and hide. His first night at our home, he picked up his food bowl and threw the food on the floor to eat, clearly this was the way he had received his food at his other home. It took a week for him to eat from his bowl. He was petrified of men, but with lots of love, it took him 6 weeks to trust men. He trusted me from the beginning and followed me everywhere. The first month he slept very poorly and had many shivering tremors in his sleep. With love we have helped him to sleep soundly. The first night he would not sleep in his bed in our room, but rather on the floor. The second night our bed was his bed. Rodger has now been with us for 6.5 months and is a very happy, loving boy. He now loves Basil taking him for walks and loves to be chased around the yard. He has a completely different life now and loves all the attention and hugs! - Sharon Dawn Higgs

Our beautiful Roxy, also known as Schnoekles, Schnoekie Pie or Schnoekie Wookie – Lauren-Leigh Sterrenberg

The Senator The Senator is a Portuguese Water Dog imported from Perth, in Australia. He arrived at the age of 12 weeks. I had no plans of him being a show dog until a friend of mine, Mandrie Haupt, insisted that I show him. Mandrie, having many years of experience in the show ring, kindly offered to be his handler. Well, his success was virtually instant and now he is an International Champion. He has the most amazing nature, loves children and must be part of the family. His front paws are webbed as the Portuguese Water Dogs were bred for helping fishermen pull in the nets and carrying messages from one boat to another. He is loved by all who meet him! - Hannah Andrade

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA O’BRIEN WORDS BY MARISE BURGER AND SCHALK BEZUIDENHOUT 8

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

SIMPLY OUTSTANDING

B

eing a funny guy and being a comedian are two very different things. Most people assume that someone in the profession of comedy is just a funny guy who hears jokes and tells them to their audience. The truth, however, is that nothing could be further from the truth.

Comedians are some of our most intelligent counterparts. The slightly twisted truths they tell are funny

because they hit home and are so well constructed that we don’t even realise that we are listening to a speech that is exactly that… constructed.

We dismiss the jokes for wittiness and quite honestly, sometimes don’t really think about exactly how valuable the information is until we think about it the next day.

are, amongst others, topics that feature in all the sets of the mainliners we love. They don’t shy away from the things that make the average person uncomfortable. They talk about their, and everybody else’s, feelings, financial situations and even bodily functions; things you would rarely discuss to someone you know, let alone an auditorium of 2000 people, or the internet.

Politics, the royals and the economy

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Schalk Bezuidenhout is and has been a household name for many in South Africa for several years now. He features on television series, commercials and loves working on stage. His lifelong passion has always been that of entertainment. From formulating elaborate stories about his mom being a spy while he was growing up in an Afrikaans neighbourhood in Kempton Park, to finding ways to watch his favourite comedian, Casper de Vries, at his friend’s house because he was too young for the show’s age restriction to watch it at his own house. There simply was never another choice when it came to what Schalk wanted to do with his life.

Schalk started out his career with smaller parts and learning from his peers and idol, Casper de Vries, while they collaborated in a show called “Schalk en Cassie hou konsert.” From there Schalk went on to study Drama at UCT and scored his first stand-up gig at a strip club. Sometimes, you need to do what you have to, to make it in the business of comedy.

Schalk joined us in Delta Park donning his best 80’s inspired ensemble, consisting of a button-down short-sheeve floral shirt with polyester-mix shorts, moon bag and characterful cat socks with sneakers. This style is what’s made Schalk one of the most noticeable characters in South African entertainment. This, along with his wild hair and moustache has become his signature look.

I asked Schalk what his most memorable show was. “That’s difficult. There have been so many. If I had to choose one, I would say opening for Trevor Noah was very memorable. We stayed at Monte Casino for a month and had a show every day.

Walking out on that stage was amazing. People were shouting and screaming, and I felt so welcome. But, doing one-man shows are also amazing, because you know the audience is there to see you. I’ve been very fortunate to be so well received.”

Schalk has also become a “dog dad” in the last year and has been showing off his pride and joy all over social media. Otis, the lucky pooch who gets to listen to Schalk’s jokes all day, is a rescue from Dogtown and was taken in by Schalk and Mica just as lockdown started in 2020. Being busy individuals who must travel a lot, Schalk and Mica decided to not adopt an animal until they felt the time was right and they had enough time to spend with them.

Lockdown was exactly the opportunity, since both would need to be home for three weeks and they could help their new puppy settle in.

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

OTIS THE STAR When adopting a puppy from a rescue, you’re never quite sure what you will be getting, and Otis is a prime example of just how many breeds can be mixed into one dog. His colouring suggests a bit of German Shepherd, his build points toward a Sighthound, but his Mutt Mix results have come back with a host of other names, including that of a Yorkie and Chow-chow. This, however, doesn’t mean a thing in the Bezuidenhout home, where Otis is loved for who he is and accepted for all the diversity he brings to the table.

He will get under the covers and lie on our pillows and when that doesn’t work, he will start taking things out of the suitcase just to prove his point. He is a real mommy’s boy.”

As a first-time pet-owner I wanted to know what surprised Schalk the most about being a new “Dog Father”. The answer: “I didn’t know just how much I would love Otis. I remember driving around with my manager, Erns, and I would listen to him talking to his wife about going out or going to a braai and it would turn into these lengthy conversations about whether the dogs would be able to go along and if they did not take the dogs, they would only be able to go out for three hours or something like that. Then one would say; ‘Oh no, but they don’t get along with that couple’s dogs, so maybe we should only take one of the dogs, because those two get along’.

I thought they were a little crazy! But now I get it. It’s a perfectly logical conversation to me now.”

Just like Schalk, Otis is an only child. He spends his days lapping up attention from his mom and follows her everywhere. He gets taken to school in the morning, where his dad picks him up after running his errands. His favourite thing to do though is to go for a walk or a run. The park is where you get to sniff flowers and play with sticks and bugs. What pup can resist?

Otis definitely has the best life a dog can ask for except when his mom needs to go away for a work trip. “His biggest nightmare is when Mica needs to go away for work. Otis will sulk as soon as he sees that suitcase come out of the closet. He will mope and look at you as if you’ve taken away the best present you’ve ever bought him.

I thought this was quite the fitting answer for Schalk and Otis since they were turning heads as far as we walked. From a personality point of view, Schalk is a pretty serious person and can be quite deep at times. So, I asked him if he had the chance to do it over, would he adopt Otis

again? “Absolutely, we love Otis and I couldn’t imagine our lives without him. If anyone considers adopting an animal, they must always consider where they are in their lives. If you are adopting a dog to just have cute pictures on Instagram, you should leave it. They must be a part of your life and you should consider all the things that come with owning a pet.

Leaving a pet alone at home all day, for instance, is not okay. I feel really strongly about the fact that people should evaluate their lifestyle before bringing a pet into it. That said, it is one of the most rewarding experiences imaginable, and I would definitely recommend adopting a dog or cat if you find yourself in a situation that allows for it.”

It’s quite obvious to me that we will be seeing a lot more of Schalk and Otis in the future and I really hope that Schalk works on some material to highlight what it’s like living with a rescue dog.

At the moment you can catch Schalk on stage with his stand-up show called “Feeling Good’. This is something that Schalk’s been working on for a while and he is very proud of. He is performing around the country and it is definitely worth the trip. The groups are small and the venues well-spaced.

Don’t miss out on catching this one!

Brackenfell P

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS Shop No.31, Brackenfell Centre, Old Paarl Rd, Brackenfell 13

BY BRYONY VAN NIEKERK

TopTips

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For Looking After Your Senior Pets

In your eyes, your dog will always be a puppy or your baby; even as their muzzles slowly start to grey, they can no longer walk as far as they used to, or they aren’t as agile as they once were.

It almost seems to sneak up on you- one day you are buying young adult food (1+), then you blink and find yourself reaching for aging (12+).

It is a tough pill to swallow and difficult to acknowledge that our pets are getting older, especially when converting to the dreaded human years.

So how does one know when their pet has reached senior status? This is largely dependent on the size of the animal; small breeds are considered senior between 10-12 years, medium breeds between 8-9 years and large and giant breeds between 6-7 years. Similar to small breed dogs, cats are considered senior between the ages of 11-14 years.

Don’t despair just yet though. The right combination of diet, environment and preventative care can extend the lives of our fur kids. While we might not like to admit it (hands up if you are happily living in denial), it is important that you take note and pay attention to your pet’s changing needs.

We may not be able to stop them from aging, but we can prolong their quality of life, and keep them behaving like the puppies we still think they are, for years to come.

DIET Nutrition plays a vital role in your pet’s wellbeing. I firmly believe in feeding them the best you can afford from day 1, whether that be home cooked meals, raw, kibble or a combination thereof.

Senior pets can often have dietary issues such as loss of appetite, difficulty chewing, obesity and other digestive problems. You may have to move to soft food, add more fibre to their diets, decrease carbohydrates or add supplements. This is best discussed with your vet who can advise you based on your pet’s specific needs.

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

REGULAR VET CHECK UPS It is recommended that you take your senior pet for a check-up at the vet at least twice a year. This will help your vet to identify any issues early on before they become major health problems.

This is something I am personally working on. I generally only go to the vet when I notice something is wrong or a pet is a bit off, so I am trying to do better.

Don’t skip the dental. Dental care is very important, and I cannot stress this enough. Bad dental hygiene can lead to major issues beyond the mouth, such as kidney, liver and heart disease. It can even cause strokes. Make sure to keep their pearly whites in tip top condition.

SUPPLEMENTS I am a firm believer in herbal/ homeopathic supplements for pets and have had great success with them.

Don’t get me wrong, I also believe in modern medicine, but herbal remedies can be gentler on their systems and can often be given in conjunction with chronic medication.

Senior pets can benefit from essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and omega-6).

These improve overall condition and aid in brain function, boost the immune system and have anti-inflammatory properties which are highly effective at reducing the severity of arthritis. Probiotics promote good gut health by restoring ‘good’ bacteria which can be killed off by medication.

Before giving your pet any supplement, it is best to do your research and consult with your vet.

EXERCISE Just like in humans, the less you move, the more achy, stiff and creaky you feel.

That is why it is vital to keep continuing exercising your senior dog, unless otherwise directed by your vet.

Exercise helps to keep them lean and maintain their weight, keeps their joints and muscles healthy, as well as keep their minds alert.

Just be sure to tailor your dog’s exercise needs to their requirements i.e., shorter walks, slower pace. Mental stimulation can also be achieved by allowing them to sniff their environment on walks. Or you can introduce them to food puzzles or brain games.

SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS Just as one baby or puppy proofs the home, you may now need to make your home ‘senior friendly.’

Dogs who are prone to hip dysplasia or IVDD (intervertebral disc disease) would benefit from the use of ramps or stairs leading to couches or beds.

This makes it much easier for them to still access these areas and helps to prevent injury.

I have steps around the house and both dogs and cats make use of them (even the ones who don’t need them).

Orthopaedic beds can soothe joint pain and

CBD is also claimed to treat and assist many ailments, from fostering a healthy appetite to alleviating pain and treating seizures and cancer.

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arthritis and the addition of non-slip mats will provide traction on tiled floors and prevent your pet from slipping and potentially hurting themselves.

Also consider keeping furniture and food and water bowls in the same position, particularly if your pet’s eyesight is failing.

BE OBSERVANT One of the best tools you have is knowledge. You know your pet better than anyone else, so take note of any changes in behaviour, appetite, growths etc.

I make notes on my phone so that I can accurately remember what happened and discuss it with my vet if need be.

KNOW YOUR BREED Some breeds are genetically predisposed to certain conditions: Hip dysplasia is common in German shepherds, Labradors and Rottweilers, IVDD in Dachshunds, Bassets and Beagles.

Knowing your breed and recognizing symptoms of common conditions can help you to prevent them from occurring by implementing preventative measures from an early age.

GOING NATURAL

We want our pets to live their best lives and, in order to help them, we’re increasingly looking to alternative and natural therapies.

But, with little clarity on what these actually are, and how they work, it can get rather confusing.

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

BY JENNI DAVIES, DIP. PHYT. UK (REGISTERED PHYTOTHERAPIST)

MODERN MEDICINE AND THE ALTERNATIVES The absence of disease is not the same as good health (picture a garden - nothing’s flourishing: the soil is dusty, nothing’s growing, snails are eating the plants. It’s not diseased, just in poor health). Modern mainstream medicine is focused on treating conditions: it targets symptoms (e.g., anti-inflammatories for pain), suppresses reactions (e.g., antihistamines for allergies), or removes problems (e.g., antibiotics or surgery). This form of medicine is very necessary and can work wonders, but there are limitations, e.g., side effects, contraindications, longterm use restrictions, etc. In the garden example, mainstream medicine would get rid of the snails and damaged plants, the garden recovers on its own. But what if it needs extra care or the cure is destructive to everything else? That’s where complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) come in. Back to the garden: this means, not just getting rid of snails and plant damage, but finding out why there are so many as to prevent them in future, providing water and fertiliser, and repairing damage. CAMs aim is to treat the whole body and support its own healing abilities - treating the patient, rather than just the condition. The great thing is that, today, we have the option of both mainstream and complementary, which often work well together, offering a multifaceted approach to keep our pets (and ourselves) healthy. Let’s look at the top complementary and alternative treatments for pets.

HOMEOPATHY Homeopathy is popular for pets as it is easy and safe - you can’t overdose, and incorrect remedies won’t cause damage (they just won’t work). By using highly diluted substances that, at full strength, would produce the symptoms of the illness in a healthy animal, the body’s healing ability is triggered.

For example, a substance that causes vomiting in high doses would be used homeopathically to treat vomiting.

Remedies are derived from plants, minerals and many other substances. Tissue salts fall under the banner of homeopathy.

Popular options include Arnica for bruising and inflammation, Sulphur for itching, Silica for abscesses and Nux vom for upset tummies. Homeopathy is free from side effects, except that conditions may flare up before improving.

remedies are said to help heal, particularly emotional conditions, such as anxiety from fireworks or pain. They are 100% safe, have no side effects, and can easily be given to pets.

ESSENTIAL OILS Essential oils are highly concentrated aromatic, plant extracts with medicinal properties used in aromatherapy, either diluted in a base (e.g., cream or oil) and applied to skin, or

PHYTOTHERAPY Phytotherapy (‘phyto’ - plant) is the practice of herbal medicine. It uses plant chemical constituents and their effects on body tissues to bring about healing and is highly effective if used correctly.

Remember that natural does not necessarily mean 100% safe - plants can be poisonous or have poisonous parts, like oleander or castor seeds, or may be safe for humans, but not for animals.

Because this is actual pharmacology, with a measurable effect on the body, it is possible to overdose and there can be medicine interactions. Therefore, it is important that herbal products are formulated by experts and administered correctly (stick to the dose, etc.). The good news is that there are many safe herbs for pets, such as rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) for itching, Calendula officinalis for wound healing, and milk thistle (Silybum marianum) for liver support. (Note: Correct Latin names: 1st word = upper case; 2nd word = lower case)

FLOWER AND GEM REMEDIES By using the vibrational energy imparted by specific flowers or gems, these

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vapourised in oil burners or humidifiers.

Popular essential oils include tea tree (antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral), lavender (relaxing, skin healing), and neem (insect repelling). If used correctly, essential oils are highly effective, but these powerful substances have a high toxicity risk if used incorrectly, especially on animals, as they are more sensitive and have different metabolic pathways.

Undiluted essential oils should never be applied directly to skin or mucus membranes, nor ingested. Do not use near reptiles, fish, or birds. And keep pets well away when using oil burners or humidifiers. Basically, if you aren’t well-versed in aromatherapy for animals, consult an expert, stick to reputable, ready-to-use products, or avoid using them altogether.

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

MASSAGE, HYDRO- AND PHYSIOTHERAPY

SAFETY FIRST! Always check with a veterinarian before giving your pet medication, CAMs or supplements. Treating animals is complicated: what is safe for one species may not be safe for another, and dosages depend on size and age. Very old or young, pregnant or lactating, ill or injured pets, and those with diagnosed medical conditions, or on medication, may react differently, and some remedies may be contraindicated.

Do not stop prescribed medication without prior consultation with your vet.

Suddenly stopping some medicines can be dangerous.

You may need to taper it off or complete the prescribed course.

Massage therapy is the manipulation of the body’s soft tissues in order to heal. It consists of a group of manual techniques, including applying pressure and moving the body to relax muscle, improve circulation, and aid lymphatic drainage.It is usually used on pets with joint and muscle problems. Aside from the physical aspect, simply touching the animal conveys a feeling of caring, which helps to comfort them. Tellington Touch® is a special form of massage developed for animals, involving light, gentle movements to ease stress, anxiety and fear. The great thing about TTouch® and other massage therapies, is that you can learn to do them yourself to help your pet.

Physiotherapy has some techniques in common with massage, but is focused on rehabilitating muscle and joint function; hydrotherapy is similar, but is done in water, removing pressure from joints while providing gentle resistance to build strength. They’re ideal for joint and muscle injuries, paralysis and stiffness, but best performed by a qualified practitioner. They are becoming increasingly popular, and

some veterinary practices even offer hydro- and/or physiotherapy, or work with companies that do, so chat to your vet for advice.

VETERINARY CHIROPRACTIC Chiropractic uses a combination of deep tissue massage and spinal joint manipulation to treat mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system and their effects on the body as a whole. It is particularly popular for performance animals (e.g., racehorses) and those prone to spinal problems, like Dachshunds, but is growing in popularity for general household pets, too. It’s ideal for biomechanical and neurological conditions like hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, neck stiffness and pain, incontinence related to the autonomic nervous system, etc.

Legally, only qualified veterinary professionals that are registered with the South African Veterinary Council may treat animals (even if the person is qualified in a complementary medicine for humans).

There are vets and vet nurses who study further to specialise in CAMs. Therefore, if you prefer to go natural for your pets, look for one of these professionals in your area.

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

This is definitely not a ‘DIY home treatment’ - animals must be properly diagnosed first (usually with x-rays), and veterinary chiropractic can only be performed by a qualified practitioner, otherwise serious damage can be done.

ACUPUNCTURE AND ACUPRESSURE In Traditional Chinese Medicine, health depends on the balanced functioning of qi (life force) which flows through the body and is concentrated in channels beneath the skin (meridians).

Acupuncture is the art of inserting special needles into the skin at specific points along

Pets prints advert_REPRO.pdf

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these meridians in order to remove blocks in the flow of qi and, in so doing, improve healing. It is often used for pain and circulatory problems.

Acupressure works on similar principles, but, instead of using needles, the practitioner presses on the points with their fingers.

Acupuncture should only be done by a qualified practitioner, but While you can use acupressure is complementary medicine to something pet support recovery, provide first parents can easily learn to aid, or improve overall health, do at home. you cannot leave the animals Many veterinary to suffer as this is both cruel physiotherapists and against the law. If the and chiropractors condition requires veterinary also offer these treatments, as care, get veterinary care. they work well together.

2021/03/19

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

SIOUXSIE BY: KATHERINE ORR

Siouxsie, Pronounced Suzy,

Was found wandering the streets in the South of Johannesburg; matted, dirty and skinny. After a short stay at the vet, where she was bathed, vaccinated and spayed, she found her way to Border Collie Rescue as an unclaimed stray.

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

Border Collie Rescue is known for going to extreme lengths to help Border Collies in need, and a few Honorary Border Collies, too.

Siouxsie was an instant hit with everyone at their kennels, and the photos that were posted on their Facebook Page were of a happy, smiling, fluffy dog.

She will always be more suspicious of new people, but Siouxsie has shown her that children and new people are just friends you haven’t yet met.

Siouxsie loves to run. It took a short while for her to figure out that chickens and cats do not enjoy company while they are running.

We enjoy taking long weekend breaks at a pet friendly cottage in the Northern Drakensburg.

It is a magical hideaway without electricity and kilometres away from the nearest people.

With both our dogs being unclaimed strays, I did worry about them disappearing in the mountains. So, after checking their microchips and making sure their tags were firmly attached to their collars, we set off on our first journey to our favourite place on earth.

They loved it! On subsequent trips, I have given up being such a mother hen and allowed them to explore more freely. Holly seldom loses sight of me, but Siouxsie loves nothing more than to dive into the gullies, running into the trout dams and digging in the mud until she is completely unrecognisable.

She always comes back and takes no notice of Holly chastising her.

hite with a couple of black patches, she was the reverse image of my other rescue dog, Holly, who is fluffy and black with a few white patches. I made an appointment to go and meet her, as soon as possible, although I had already bought her a bed and some toys of her own - I was certain she would be coming home with us.

There is a very common belief that rescue dogs are damaged and difficult, and while this is sometimes true, many are just nice dogs who have found themselves without a home.

All they need is some time to adapt to their new environment and a little basic training to help them be good canine citizens.

Siouxsie was horribly car sick on the longish drive from Centurion and was a little subdued when she arrived home to meet the cats.

Holly was annoyed that her playdate had followed us home and wanted nothing more to do with her. Getting car sick is the one thing that still bothers Siouxsie. We manage it by not letting her eat before any trips in the car. Holly’s annoyance lasted 5 days, after which she decided that Siouxsie was “her”

dog and she continues to treat her as such.

There is no such thing as the perfect dog, of course, but my two dogs come pretty close! I am very fortunate to have my Pilates studio at my home, seeing clients at home and being able to spend most of the day at home with my furry family. This does mean that the dogs (nobody ever tries to tell a cat what to do) need to be good around people coming and going, and quiet during sessions.

Siouxsie took to her new duties like a duck to water. Every client would fall completely in love with this new member of the family, and Siouxsie would fall equally in love with them.

Even people who were not particularly fond of dogs would bring special treats for them, because Siouxsie had won them over.

Though Holly had been coping quite well in the 5 months prior to Siouxsie’s arrival, I had to watch her with strangers and particularly children. She had snapped at a couple of people who had not respected her space, so I was always ready to warn people to keep their distance. Over time, watching Siouxsie greet new people with such joy, and having attention lavished on her by visiting children, Holly began to interact more.

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We recently added a rescue kitten to our family, and predictably, Siouxsie became her playmate and protector. The kitten leads the dogs in a mad dash down the long passage and is unphased by the thundering feet threatening to mow her down. My 17.30 Pilates clients are treated to a bout of WWE wrestling every afternoon, while dogs and kitten have their few minutes of madness before dinner!

Although we went to Border Collie Rescue to give a home to a dog in need, she came home to rescue us. Siouxsie is always calm and collected, always in a good mood, always happy to see friends and never takes anything personally. She reminds us all that life is meant to be enjoyed, rather than endured.

Now that lockdown restrictions have eased, I would like to take Siouxsie to Therapy Dog training. I believe that her generous spirit deserves to be shared.

Every family has that one member who is the glue that holds the family together. Siouxsie is our glue. She will always push her nose into your lap and quietly remind you of how special you are. She is our family ambassador, my studio ambassador, a Border Collie Rescue ambassador, and an ambassador for dogs.

Everywhere we go people stop to ask us what breed of dog she is, and she will gaze into their eyes as though they are the most important person in the world. She brings out the best in everyone she meets.

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

ARE YOU A RESPONSIBLE PET OWNER? Become one of SA’S greatest pet parents...

Most pet parents already know the responsibilities that come with being a good pet owner: training, exercise, giving your pets love and attention, and of course, keeping their health in tip-top shape.

Unfortunately, being a responsible pet parent can also come with unforeseen costs that aren’t budgeted for until it’s too late. While a standard check-up at the vet generally costs around R400, these costs can skyrocket into the thousands for pets who are injured or develop conditions such as feline leukaemia, parvo, uterine infection, or tick bite fever.

“Veterinary care is costly as everything today is costly, and responsible pet owners must plan for those times when their pet gets sick,” says Dr. Kerry French, a veterinarian at the Animal Anti-Cruelty League. Dr. Trudie Prinsloo, a veterinarian and lawyer who founded LegalVet Services, agrees, “It’s heart-breaking to euthanize a sick or injured pet because the owners cannot afford the treatment.

Pet insurance is one of the best developments for pets and their owners in the past few years.”But pet insurance isn’t only there for you when your pets get sick – it can also cover their basic primary health care like vaccinations, deworming, and sterilisation.

“You wouldn’t think twice about paying for a comprehensive medical aid plan for you and your family, so why should providing for our furry family members be any different?” asks David Roache, Chief Operating Officer of dotsure.co.za, South Africa’s #1 rated pet insurer on HelloPeter.com* and winner of The Star Reader’s Choice for Best Pet Insurance Company 2020.

Starting from R77 per month**, dotsure.co.za offers various plans that consider pet owners’ unique budgets and lifestyles. Some of the benefits that make up their range of plans include: THIRD PARTY Liability Cover against any liability for injury or damage that your pet might inflict on someone else or their property.

ACCIDENTAL COVER Veterinary services expenses incurred for the diagnosis and/or treatment of your pet’s accidental injury.

ILLNESS COVER Cover for vet bills arising from the treatment and/or diagnosis of an illness.

WELLNESS BENEFITS Vaccinations, heartworm, faecal testing, deworming, microchipping, flea control, nail trimming, elective sterilisation/neutering, dental check-ups.

HEREDITARY TREATMENT Cover for vet bills resulting from hereditary illnesses.“Until recently, pet insurance was a relatively unknown offering with very few affordable options available,” says Roache, “Being a responsible pet parent is a life-long commitment to giving your pets a healthy and happy life.”

With pet insurance, pet parents can enjoy the peace of mind that if, and when, something happens to your fur babies, you don’t have to choose between your pet’s life and your finances.

Scan this code for an obligation free quote or visit dotsure.co.za today and get in on the secret that thousands of pet parents already know. Follow dotsure.co.za

*As rated on HelloPeter.com since December 2019. **T&Cs apply. Risk profile and policy dependent. Dotsure Limited (Registration number 2006/000723/06) is an authorised financial services provider (FSP39925).

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

FASCINATING OSTRICH FACTS: THE SCIENTIFIC NAME FOR THE COMMON OSTRICH IS GENUS: STRUTHIO AND SPECIFIC NAME: CAMELUS.

The ostrich, which is flightless, is the world’s largest bird.

This makes the binomial name for the ostrich Struthio camelus. Loosely translated from ancient Greek, the scientific name means thrush / sparrow camel.

AN OSTRICH CAN WEIGH ANYTHING BETWEEN 70KG AND 140KG, AND MEASURES BETWEEN 1.2M AND 2.7M IN HEIGHT.

cooling and balance.

Ostriches’ wings reach a span of about 2 meters and are used in mating displays and to scare off predators.

Ostriches also use their wings as rudders for maneuvering their bodies and changing direction as they travel at high speeds.

WHEN TURNING, BRAKING OR RUNNING IN A ZIG-ZAG, OSTRICHES RELY ON THEIR WINGS TO STAY BALANCED AND IN CONTROL. A group of ostriches is called a flock of ostriches.

OSTRICHES HAVE THREE STOMACHS. THE OSTRICH HAS THE LARGEST EYES OF ANY LAND ANIMAL, MEASURING ALMOST 5 CM ACROSS. ONE EYE CAN WEIGH ABOUT 60 GRAMS.

Ostriches could be found roaming in Asia, Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, but today they’re limited to the woodlands and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa.

There are two species of ostrich; the common ostrich and Somali ostrich

An ostrich has a long, bare neck, long sturdy legs and a bulky body that is covered with feathers. The male ostrich is called a rooster and the female ostrich is called a hen.

Males and females have different coloured feathers – males have black feathers with white tails, and females are mostly between grey and brown, which is perfect for camouflage when sitting on the nest.

Both sexes have small heads, short, wide beaks and big brown eyes, protected by long, dark lashes.

These long, dark eyelashes help shield their eyes from the sun. Ostriches can’t fly (being so heavy), but rather use their wings for

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They have brilliant eyesight which means they can see an object as far away as 3,5km during the day, which makes it perfect in allowing predators and any threats to be seen from a great distance.

UNLIKE ALL OTHER LIVING BIRDS, THE OSTRICH SECRETES URINE SEPARATELY FROM FAECES. Whereas most birds have three to four toes on each foot, ostriches are unique in that they only have two on each foot. The big toe is on the inside and has a big, sharp nail for protection. The smaller toe is on the outside for balance.

Ostriches are the fastest runners of any birds or other two-legged animal, and can sprint at over 70 km/h. When running at full tilt, it takes strides of up to 3 to 5 meters.

When threatened, an ostrich would normally run away.

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

FACTS If running away from danger is not an option, ostriches will use their powerful legs to kick. With a 10 cm talon on each foot, their downward kicks can cause serious harm to potential predators.

GROUPS OF OSTRICHES WILL OFTEN GRAZE AMONG OTHER ANIMALS LIKE GIRAFFES, ZEBRAS AND ANTELOPES. THEIR PRESENCE IS USEFUL, BECAUSE THEY ALERT OTHER ANIMALS WHEN DANGER IS NEAR. In the wild, ostriches live an average of 30 to 40 years, but in captivity they’re able to live anything from 50 to 70 years and, will continue to breed well into old age.

Ostriches are mainly vegetarian, eating anything from grass, plants, fruit, roots, leaves, flowers and seeds. They will also eat insects and reptiles and other small creatures.

Ostriches can’t choke on their food.

Since they lack teeth, they swallow small stones to grind and crush the food they take in. This is done in a part of the throat called the gizzard. An adult ostrich carries nearly 1kg of pebbles in its stomach, which helps with food digestion.

OSTRICHES CAN GO WITHOUT WATER FOR SEVERAL DAYS, AS THEY CAN SOURCE METABOLIC WATER FROM THE PLANTS THEY EAT. Ostriches drink by scooping up water into their gular pouch and then lifting their heads to let the water move down their throats.

They enjoy water and frequently take baths where possible, and will drink a fair amount of water when available. During the mating season (normally between June - November) the male ostrich’s beak and legs turn red/pink to attract the female for mating.

MALE OSTRICHES DO A MATING DANCE FOR FEMALES TO IMPRESS HER. IF THE DANCE IS GOOD ENOUGH A FEMALE WILL MATE WITH THE PARTICULAR MALE.

All of the herd’s hens will place their eggs in the dominant hen’s 3m-wide nest, though her own are given the prominent center place.

LURE THEM AWAY FROM THE YOUNG.

Each female can determine her own eggs amongst the others.

Within days, the chicks leave the nest to follow their parents, who protect them from the hot sun or rain by keeping them huddled under their body or outstretched wings.

The dominant female may lay up to 11 eggs, and the other hens lay between two to six eggs.

Chicks are born with a spiky, greyish-brown down. They grow brown feathers after 4 months.

THE COMMUNAL NEST MAY END UP CONTAINING AS MANY AS 60 EGGS.

By the time the young ostriches are 18 months old, they are fully grown.

The alpha male and dominant female will take turns looking after the nest.

Contrary to popular belief, ostriches do not bury their heads in the sand.

MALES COMPETE WITH ONE ANOTHER FOR CONTROL OF SEVERAL FEMALES (OR HENS), AND THE WINNER BECOMES THE LEADER OF THE HERD.

The ostrich is farmed around the world, particularly for its decorative feathers (feather dusters) and also for its meat, which is marketed commercially, and its skin which is used for leather products.

An ostrich’s eggs are the largest of any bird at up to 15cm long and weighing up to 1.4kg.

The ostrich’s egg might be the biggest in the world, but interestingly enough, it is the smallest egg in the world when compared to its body size.

The eggs are incubated by the dominant female by day and by the male by night, using the colouration of the two sexes to escape detection of the nest, as the drab female blends in with the sand, while the black male is nearly undetectable in the dark.

THEY ARE ALSO THREATENED BY HABITAT LOSS DUE TO HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND AGRICULTURE. The wild ostrich population has declined drastically in the last 200 years, with most surviving birds in game parks or on farms.

One ostrich egg is equivalent to 24 hen’s eggs.

A SINGLE OSTRICH EGG CAN TAKE UP TO 1, 5 HOURS TO BOIL.

When the eggs hatch after 35 to 45 days of incubation, the male usually defends the chicks or hatchlings and teaches them to feed, although males and females cooperate in rearing chicks.

Although chicks can run as fast as 55 km/h at one-month-old, they are still vulnerable to predators like lions, cheetahs, hyenas, leopards and hunting dogs.

WHEN CONFRONTED, ADULTS WILL TRY TO DISTRACT PREDATORS OR

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NEW, STATE-OF-THE-ART PRODUCTION FACILITY TO RAISE THE STANDARD OF PET FOOD IN SOUTH AFRICA In households around the world, pets are cherished by their owners and considered a part of the family. South Africans are no different – we’re known to be a nation of animal lovers. Euromonitor International’s latest report on pet care in South Africa, shows that the country’s pet population consists of no less than 10.5 million dogs and 3 million cats. Our pets love us unconditionally and they bring us endless joy and genuine affection.

In turn, we work to give them the kind of care they deserve, and that includes exceptional nutrition. A recent development heralds some exciting news for the pet food industry and pet parents across the country. The production facility behind several of South Africa’s best loved pet food brands, such as the legendary JOCK Dog Food brand, has moved house – all aimed at providing superior nutrition and consistent quality to pet owners everywhere.

Afrique is proudly South African and sources the majority of its raw materials from local suppliers and producers. MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS 26

Afrique Pet Food sets a new pace

The newly named production facility, Afrique Pet Food, is situated in Isando, Johannesburg. The facility is equipped with state-of-theart equipment and technology, and an expert team of highly skilled operational nutritionists and experienced staff ensures the continuous betterment of pets’ wellbeing and pet parents’ satisfaction.

The team lives and breathes the Afrique vision – to produce high quality food for cats and dogs with love and care and make a real impact on the mental and physical wellbeing of pets. The culture at Afrique Pet Food is characterised by innovative entrepreneurship and a customercentred business focus.

Accredited and local

Your four-legged best friend deserves only the best food to ensure a healthy and happy life. Afrique Pet Food therefore only uses the highest quality ingredients to preserve the nutritional integrity of the pet food produced for your furry friend. The facility is also accredited with the highest production standard accreditations.

“We’re targeting a strong future growth for Afrique business through operating by our philosophy of quality and customer relationships,” says Liezel van Bergen, sales and marketing executive for Afrique. “The enhanced manufacturing capabilities of the new facility will not only boost customer satisfaction, but also enable our brands to supply consistent, top quality pet food.”

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS For more information, visit Afrique’s27website at www.afriquepetfood.com

By Linda van der Walt / Photos by Pam Knipe

The new premium Agrimark Pet Store, located at Portside Shopping Mall in Green Point, Cape Town, hosted the COOLEST EVENT EVER for DOGS on 6 March 2021.

Thirty of the COOLEST Instagram Dog Influencers took their furkids for an awesome walk on the Sea Point Promenade prior to arriving at the unique Agrimark Pet Store Event! The Instagram Dogs arrived at Agrimark, in Green Point, with their finest bandanas, bow ties and happy smiles. They were so excited to see each other and have their caricatures sketched by International Cartoonist, Gavin Thomson!

COOLEST EVENT

FOR DOGS!

It was then time, between slurping a Puppaccino together from the in-store VIDA Bar, to be photographed by Professional photographer, Pam Knipe, who spent the mornings ‘capturing moments’ with the hoomans and their fur-kids.

The event also included give-away goodie bags for the thirty Instagram Dog Influencers, again all shapes and sizes, and the public. These were supplied by South Africa’s premium pet food company, ACANA ORIJEN. The fur-kids were amazed to find toys, treats, food measuring cups and shampoo & conditioner in each bag that they took home to explore! They also received goodie bags from COOL DOGS Ice Cream and, yes, in the COOL bags, there were treats for the hoomans as well.

Just in case you thought that the COOLEST fur-family event couldn’t get any cooler, @mrmiyagee pulled up in front of Agrimark Pet in his VW Beetle! He even let all his furbuddies have their photos taken in his car.

The Agrimark Pet store is specifically designed with the fur-family in mind. Pets are welcome to go into the store and shop with their owners, have a sniff around and choose their own treats and toys.

Be sure to pop into the new Agrimark Pet store, where you are bound to find the perfect products for your pet….. shhhhh…your furkids as they trot through the store!

Lookin’ forward to the next COOLEST Event at Agrimark Pet Stores!

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Do you want to help a shelter animal keep warm this winter?

Pop in to the Brackenfell Pets Store and make your donation.

All blankets will go to AACL in aid of the wonderful work they do!!

Brackenfell

See page 13 for contact information

m o r e th an ju st a p e t s to r e

PP

E E

TT

SS

lanket Drive

SMS DOG TO 38919 Help us take care of the rescue dogs of DogtownSA Costs just R10

www.barkingmad.co.za 29

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

C

LAW BOSS! ‘How Beautiful the Ordinary Becomes’ Introducing a brand new collaboration with BOSS Dog Food, Emma O’Brien, dog photographer, and CLAW (Community Led Animal Welfare), to help twenty shelter dogs find their forever homes. None of these dogs have pedigree papers, and they range in size from tiny to mighty and in every shade and combination of black and brown.

Bobbi - Winner of the best model of the day award, Bobbi is smart, attentive and eager to join her forever family to play ball and have fun. She’s very well mannered, comes with bags of love to share and will do very well at dog training.

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At first glance, these mixed breed mutts may seem quite ordinary, but take a closer look and you will see that each and every dog is unique.

Each of their markings; ears, eye colour, fur, tails and, most importantly, personalities are completely different. These dogs have a hidden beauty that deserves to be recognised and appreciated, especially if you consider that they were all unwanted by their previous owners and many of them have been at CLAW for months!

The aim with a shelter dog shoot is to get as many people as possible to see the photographs and to make the images as shareable as possible on social media. The greater a network image like this can reach, the higher the chance of the dogs getting homes. Emma came up with the idea of photographing the dogs like fashion models with an elaborate and colourful set to create show stopping and attention-grabbing portraits.

Photographing the CLAW dogs was as fun as it looks, although the florists were in a constant state of panic as the dogs repeatedly crash landed on the flower set ups and some even attempted to eat the flowers.

Now the work really starts. Over the next few weeks, we will be sharing the images and videos of these dogs across our social media platforms, until each and every one of them finds their forever homes.

Bumble - Beautiful Bumble has been at CLAW for months and has been overlooked again and again by potential adopters (black dog syndrome is a reality folks). She arrived at CLAW with her sister who sadly passed away recently, leaving Bumble lonely and lost. We’d love to see her join her forever family soon.

Harvey - Life didn’t hand Harvey the best

of starts and shortly after arriving at CLAW he had to have an operation to amputate an injured back leg. He’s a petite little fella which means he’s more than capable of living life to the fullest on three legs. Harvey gives great cuddles, making him the perfect winter snuggle buddy.

Pringle - Literally fun on four legs, Pringle

is the happiest dog you could ever imagine.

He’s got lots of energy, so he’ll be best suited to a busy household with older children. He’s great with other dogs, is incredibly eager to please and if waking up to this smile doesn’t light up your day, we don’t know what will.

Trixy - Yet another of our momma dogs, Trixy came to CLAW with a litter of puppies who, of course, got adopted, leaving her behind. Trixy was very at home on our ottoman meadow, so we have no doubt that she’ll take to your couch like a duck to water.

Bumble

Yoda -

If time spent at CLAW equates to wisdom levels, Yoda is very wise indeed. This is the second BOSS campaign he’s starred in, so brace yourself for a limelight hogger of note. He’d like a home where he gets his own instagram account as well as his own spot on the couch please.

If you’d like to meet these cute dogs, please call Michelle on 083 395 3011.

Meet The

Dogs:

Pringle

Trixy 31

Harvey

Yoda MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

Get Cozy with

PawBoys

This Mother’s & Father’s Day!

PAW B O Y S A P PA R E L Because 4 legs are better than 2

w w w. p a w b o y s . c o . za MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

SERENDIPITY DOG ACCESSORIES Dog Accessories

R45

> Exclusive dog accessories, designed & made by dog obsessed humans. Proudly South African www.hellopretty.co.za

R980

Gifts for all OCCATIONS

JELICO Gizmo

> This modern scratch pad will serve as a design feature in your house, whilst also allowing your cat to exercise his natural instinct to sharpen his claws. www.jelico.co.za

R195

DOGINI Dog Ramp

From R1390

> The Dogini Regular Dog Ramp is suitable for small dog breeds to reach most couches and beds up to 45cm high, whilst still being compact in size. Stylish design, made from durable pine timber and high-quality brown ribbed carpet. www.dogini.co.za

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

PET PRINTS Pet Prints Buff Turquoise

R695

R135

> As keen runners and safety aware individuals we thought that our readers might appreciate an alternate option to the, now very common, face mask when leaving the house. www.petprints.co.za

PET HEAVEN Scruffs Wilton Pet Carrier - Blue

> The Scruffs® Wilton is produced using a quilted outer fabric, stitched in a diamond pattern. The pet carrier has been lined with luxurious plush fur, providing warmth & comfort. www.petheaven.co.za

FROM THE BARKERY CBD Pet Tincture

R460

>Our CBD Pet Tincture is specially formulated for dogs of all sizes, and comes in a 30ml bottle, with a 1ml dropper. www.fromthebarkery.com

PET PRINTS The Dog Father Hoodie

> These hoodies are locally manufactured and printed with water-based ink to be as environmentally friendly as possible. www.petprints.co.za

R300

PAW HUB Custom Dog Socks

> An absolute must have for any pet owner! PawHub custom dog socks make the perfect gift for yourself or others. By wearing your very own custom socks you’re able to take your special fur-baby with you wherever you go! www.pawhub.co.za

CANINE AND CO

Rogz Dog Jersey WolfSkin > A soft knit dog jersey. The perfect pullover for a chilly day when you want to cuddle. www.canineandco.co.za

R285.80

All prices are subject to changed and not guarenteed. Please only use these prices as a guide in your shopping experience.

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

BY BRIAN BERKMAN

FROM A LARGE COUNTRY HOME FOR EXTENDED-FAMILY STAYS TO ONE OF THE BEST HOTELS IN THE WORLD, BRIAN BERKMAN WANTS JULIE TO COME ALONG.

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

araway Estate, a moment outside the town of Villiersdorp, is set up against the mountain. It is a palatial home for gatherings of between 6 to 20 people, and pet-friendly. Built with entertaining in mind – each downstairs reception room opens into the next with French doors everywhere. 20 people can sit around the main dining table. The walled pool with loungers and covered dining area, keeps the wind away while a tennis court, croquet set, billiards room and mountain walks are there for those who want to stay active. A walk-in, restaurant-sized cold room and an ice-maker, along with all the mod-cons, make the kitchen a dream for foodies. There is a cellar (with another huge table), five fire places throughout the house and a zillion places to braai.

didn’t stop raining. The true success of a getaway is that it can still be marvellous, even when the weather isn’t, and this property really succeeds.

Even Julie, our mixed-breed darling (although some people say she is a Canis Africanas, and when I look at photos of Canis lupus familiaris, she seems to, at least, in part to fit - her nose and short-coat the most characteristic attributes among them) loved it. She was more than happy to hang out with us. I suppose, with a property as palatial as this one, having so many indoor spots to explore, kept her busy. We did venture out, but after an hour we were all soaked and our shoes and paws muddy. Thankfully, we had left a fire burning in one of those fabulous ceramic fireplaces in the kitchen, that safely contain sparks, and it was toasty when we arrived back.

We chose two days in early March during which it 38

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

“

“

I suppose, with a property as palatial as this one, having so many indoor spots to explore, kept her busy. We did venture out, but after an hour we were all soaked and our shoes and paws muddy.

Thankfully, we had left a fire burning in one of those fabulous ceramic fireplaces in the kitchen, that safely contain sparks, and it was toasty when we arrived back.

Set on a working apple, pear and stone-fruit farm, high up against the mountain, this is the ideal place to holiday as an extended family or with friends. It is also a popular wedding venue. The main manor house accommodates six people in absolute luxury, and there is a standalone cottage and loft space that accommodate five people and six people respectively, suited to a young family or close friends.

The main house (sleeps six) is available from R6000 per night for a minimum of a two night stay.

Despite Julie’s humble beginnings (rescued from Kleinmond Animal Welfare), she has taken to luxury travel with alacrity.

We cannot wait to return. https://www.farawayestate.com

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

THE 12 APOSTLES HOTEL & SPA IS A DELUXE, MULTIPLE AWARD-WINNING RED CARNATION PROPERTY WITH TABLE MOUNTAIN’S 12 APOSTLES RANGE AS YOUR BACKYARD, AND THE ATLANTIC OCEAN AS YOUR FRONT ROOM. JULIE IS ALWAYS THE STAR OF THE SHOW WHENEVER WE TRAVEL WITH HER, AND I DON’T MIND TELLING YOU, SOMETIMES I AM A LITTLE JEALOUS OF ALL THE POSITIVE ATTENTION SHE RECEIVES.

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t the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa, dogs and cats are welcome to dine in the Leopard bar. The hotel has an especially designed branded plinth into which food and water bowls fit, and the plushest of plush royal blue cushions on which to sleep.

Our suite had direct access to the lawns and mountain, so we didn’t think it wise to let her be off-lead, even when taking in the afternoon sun while

overlooking the sea. Julie seemed especially fond of chasing Rock Hyrax, which are a protected species.

The beauty of the Leopard Bar at the 12 Apostles, is that while they have an extensive list of alcoholic drinks (gins seem a particular favourite), they also have an equally long list of alcohol-free drinks, including some botanicals that they have made themselves.

And, the menu at The Leopard Bar, serving food from breakfast through to late in the evening, is affordable and delicious.

Of course, there is a well-equipped gym, but with direct access to

the “Missing Link” contour path on Table Mountain - a favourite with mountain bikers - you have every opportunity to be as active as you wish. Sloth is, however, equally encouraged here.

There is a small luxe cinema with jars of candy and posh popcorn, and the spa is rightly well loved and acclaimed. The spa is always popular and numbers are being limited to ensure Covid-19 compliance, so book ahead. In 2002 The 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa was purchased by the Tollman family’s Red Carnation Group and renovated into the magnificent and awardchart topper hotel it is today, with 55 gracious rooms and 15 sumptuous suites, each individually decorated.

The Red Carnation trademark is much more than a buttonhole. In previous years, rooms offered a well-equipped stationery drawer, now replaced by USB charging outlets and light-speed Internet. A helium-filled balloon is another Red Carnation tradition, a touch of whimsy within the deeply luxurious and elegant interiors.

The most important signature is less easy to see, but almost instantly felt.

There is a warmth and generosity of spirit in the hospitality offered at each Red Carnation Hotel encountered, that makes the guest experience stand head and shoulders above its competitors.

Although the interiors at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa are stunning, with museum-quality South African oil paintings and a full collection of Cecil Skotnes lithographs as you approach the Azure restaurant, it is what lies outside that really takes your breath away.

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The beauty of the Leopard Bar at the 12 Apostles, is that while they have an extensive list of alcoholic drinks (gins seem a particular favourite), they also have an equally long list of alcohol-free drinks, including some botanicals that they have made themselves.

with a local vet. Pet beds, emblazoned with the 12A hotel logo, and elegant food and water-bowl holders, are available at no extra cost if you let the hotel know at the time of your reservation that you are traveling with four-legged family. https://12apostleshotel.com

There is a bark-a-licious and a Cat Purr-fect menu created by the hotel’s executive chef, Christo Pretorius, in conjunction

Choosing compatible fish for your aquarium

BY DR SASHA SAUGH

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E

ver wonder which fish species are suitable to include in your aquarium? You may be surprised to know that there are a variety of factors to consider before setting up your community aquarium or introducing a new species to your current setup. These include water chemistry, temperature, aquarium size and dimension, décor and plants, fish species (varying temperament and origin), fish age, size and gender, the quantity of fish, dominance hierarchies, the presence of predatory fish, the presence of breeding fish and the diet. This article provides an overview of important factors to consider when populating your aquarium, and it is recommended that you consult with a knowledgeable retailer when purchasing fish and other aquatic animals for your aquarium.

cover, should be provided.

Fish of similar size should be used, including newcomers which should be the same or larger sized than the more aggressive fish in the tank. Fish do feed opportunistically and smaller-sized fish can be easily targeted as a meal.

It is important to research the specific needs of the species of interest, before including it in your aquarium, including the dietary, water chemistry, temperature range, and space requirements. The community aquarium setup should provide an ideal environment for all species included.

Dominance hierarchies can be established in your aquarium where fish become territorial and may attack other fish, usually the smaller sized ones. Removing the aggressors is not a long-term solution since the next dominant fish will continue the behaviour. This can be avoided by ensuring the aquarium is large enough to accommodate all the fish in the aquarium, with enough hiding cover, especially for newly introduced fish.

Juvenile fish of aggressive species do relatively well in a community tank where they become accepting of other tank mates as they grow and mature when they are introduced at the same size as their potential prey species.

Male fish are usually more territorial, especially during mating time, and can be managed by not having more than one male of the same or closely related species which are territorial. This is more so if females are present.

Schooling fish usually do better in larger numbers and are less likely to be singled out for being weaker or submissive compared to other more dominant tank mates, therefore get groups of six or more fish. Examples are tetras, danios, catfish, tiger barbs and clown loaches, to name a few.

Fish of different species and from different locations may communicate slightly differently. Ideally one would want to stock fish from the same region, more so if they are naturally aggressive or territorial.

Furthermore, some species are not compatible with members of their own kind or closely related species. Cichlids, loaches and mormyrids are some examples to name a few. Therefore, members of these species are best separated. However, if they are to share the same aquarium space, a large enough tank, with enough

Dr Sasha Saugh BSc (UKZN) BVSc (UP) CertAqV (WAVMA)

Durban, South Africa

Fish that practice parental care can become defensive at breeding time, resulting in large areas of the aquarium being dominated, whilst other tank mates become secluded to other parts of the tank. You may want to have a separate breeding tank for breeding fish.

Predatory fish such as catfish, certain gobies, bichirs and leaf fish, to name a few, are naturally predatory fish that will feed on fish small enough to eat. This should not be confused with aggression.

Décor and plants provide boundaries and “personal space” which are needed by the fish. Territorial fish, for example, cichlids, use these to define their territories.

When introducing new fish (especially

with territorial fish) include new plants and décor in addition to rearranging existing decor to remove already established territories.

Too small aquarium size can cause crowding of fish, which may result in increased aggression. Consider the space requirements, taking into account the volume occupied by the substrate and décor in the aquarium as well. A general rule of thumb is an inch of adult fish per gallon of aquarium capacity as a minimum. More active fish species for example danios and barbs prefer a wider aquarium since they are active fish, compared to less active species like discus, angelfish and gouramis, who can be managed with taller, narrower aquaria, that provide less swimming space.

Fish that are given time to settle into their new environment and continue to be aggressive (after putting appropriate measures in place, as recommended), should be removed from the aquarium and relocated. Always have a plan for relocating fish that need to be removed from your tank due to incompatibility.

Looking at an aquarium favourite, the common and fancy goldfish: these are most compatible with other goldfish and koi fish. They may do well with loaches, catfish, danios, White cloud minnows, Japanese rice fish, Murray cod, knife fish, Silver and Golden perch, shrimp, yabbies and crabs.

These are merely guidelines and generalisations, and it is important to consider that fish can behave differently to what is expected of their species or group.

Therefore, be prepared for the unexpected.

There are compatibility charts available online which can be consulted for specific species (an exhaustive list is outside the scope of this article).

As highlighted above, do sufficient research before acquiring new fish for your aquarium.

Mobile aquatic veterinary services Prioritizing fish and aquatic animal healthcare 43

aquaticvet@hotmail.com

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

+27 82 226 8222

By Dani Mc Neill

Managing Mud fever

Mud fever is the bane of many horse owners’ lives during the wet months. Here we find out from a few vets what to look for, how to treat it and, most importantly, how to prevent it from setting in.

Mud fever is a complicated skin reaction that affects horses’ lower legs and has many different causes. It is more correctly termed “equine pastern dermatitis” and is also called “greasy heel” or “cracked heel”. It is, most commonly, the result of a bacterial infection. As the name suggests, mud fever is most frequently seen in horses during wet, muddy conditions, but this is not always the case. The condition is more common on the hindlegs and tends to affect the back of the pastern, causing an inflamed, scabby area that may be itchy and painful. It is more common in the feathered breeds but can affect any horse, pony or donkey.

KNOWING THE SIGNS OF MUD FEVER

The first signs of mud fever are inflammation and thickening of the skin at the back of the horse’s pastern or heel. This may then progress around and up the leg. The lesions usually only go as far as the fetlock, but in extreme cases the whole lower leg can be affected. To begin with, there may be some hair loss and crusting, but as the infection progresses, this becomes more pronounced within the horizontal skin folds. There may be a wet, greasy look to the leg where serum oozes from the affected skin and this may progress to a white, pus-like discharge. These discharges dry and harden into thick crusts that harbour the bacteria.

More severe cases will become extremely painful, the whole lower limb will become swollen and hot and, worst-case scenario, the horse may become lame.

Occasionally, the bacteria may also infect the skin over the quarters and along the back of a horse, causing scabs that look a bit like paintbrush marks.

This is known as rain scald and is treated in a similar way to uncomplicated mud fever.

CLEAR AS MUD

If the skin is damaged in any way, micro-organisms can take hold and cause infection.

Other causes of mud fever include: Leg mites or wet conditions. Lots of work in sandy arenas can be traumatic to the skin. Pastures with copious rough

vegetation or spiky weeds may cause skin damage.

Excessive leg washing weakens the skin and removes the natural grease that acts as a barrier, resulting in cracks that possibly allow the entry of bacteria.

Certain bedding can act as an irritant, both physically (straw) or chemically (high ammonia from urine in deep litter). Boots and bandages incorrectly placed or inappropriately used may cause damage to the skin barrier. Sunburn or photosensitisation on areas of pink skin on the legs. Photosensitisation has been known to be caused by ingestion of certain plants such as St John’s Wort, as well as liver problems. It causes the skin to become ultra-sensitive to sunlight, leading to raw, oozing areas of skin that become crusty and then slough away. The damage caused to the skin enables bacteria to enter. Diseases such as Cushing’s disease can reduce your horse’s immune system, making it easier for bacteria to gain a hold.

FEVER RELIEVERS

Most mild cases of mud fever can be treated without having to contact your vet first unless you need advice or you think there may be an underlying cause that needs treatment. The basis is to treat any underlying conditions, such as mite infection or contact allergy, remove the infection and then allow the skin’s natural barrier to heal.

Usually, this will involve stabling your horse to protect him from mud contamination and the wetdry cycle that damages the skin barrier. Turnout in an arena may be possible if it is dry, but sand can be an irritant and your horse may still get chapped skin.

Heavily feathered horses will benefit from having their legs clipped. This allows easy visualisation of the area affected, and permits the hair and skin to dry faster. In addition, the scabs will come away more easily from the affected part, and topical treatments can reach the necessary areas, rather than being stuck in the hair.

Traditionally, bacteria were thought to live within the scabs and, therefore, by removing them we would remove bacteria from the site. However, we now understand that it is an anaerobic bacteria (it cannot survive in the presence of oxygen) that is usually found living underneath the scabs.

Consequently, scab removal is still important, as it allows oxygen to the affected area as well as

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facilitating effective cleaning with anti-bacterial solutions.

Here’s how to do it: 1. Soak your horse’s legs in warm water and diluted Hibiscrub (chlorhexidine), then remove any scabs that come away easily (without forcing them).

Hibiscrub has excellent antibacterial and some antifungal properties if used appropriately. It should never be used neat – the ideal dilution is 0.1% and your vet will be able to advise you how to dilute it appropriately, as it can be bought in different strengths.

2. Rinse your horse’s legs well with warm water.

3. Use clean towels to dry his legs thoroughly afterwards. Ideally use a different towel for each leg, to avoid spreading the infection around.

4. Antibacterial cream such as silver sulfadiazine (flamazine) may be applied daily, and after washing his legs.

5.Repeat the scab removal process every 3–4 days.

Doing so more often will dry out the skin too much.

A CLOSER LOOK

If after a couple of weeks the mud fever isn’t improving or has worsened, it’s time to call your vet. They will want to examine your horse, and will ask you lots of questions regarding his management and whether there are other horses on the yard who are affected or have mites.

Veterinary treatment for mud fever varies depending on the cause. There are many treatments available and no one cure is a cure for all. Some treatments that your vet may prescribe on a case by case basis include: • Systemic antibiotics • Topical antibiotics • Pain relief and anti-inflammatories • Mite treatments • Stabling • Steroids If the condition does not respond to treatment, or your vet is suspicious of a tumour or sarcoid or immune mediated condition, they may decide to take a full thickness skin biopsy. This will be sent to a laboratory, where the structure of the skin cells and layers will be examined under a microscope by a specialist.

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

PREVENTION AND PROGNOSIS Although mud fever is associated with mud coating the legs, many horses who live in muddy fields continue through the whole winter without developing any signs of the condition. This leads us to believe that it is not just the mud, but instead the constant wetting and chilling of the skin that is at the root of the problem.

This theory is supported by the fact that mud fever can often be a real issue on yards where the horses’ legs are washed on a frequent basis throughout the winter months and left wet for long periods of time, whereas yards that never wash horses’ legs rarely suffer from mud fever.

In most cases, the prognosis for a full recovery is very good, providing that the appropriate treatment is carried out. However, mud fever can be tricky to treat and may take a while to clear up, so the best course of action is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. The following tips will help you keep the problem at bay: • Rather than daily washing, a better course of action is to leave the mud to dry naturally on the legs and then brushing it off.

• Leaving the lower legs unclipped was thought to protect them from infection, but we now realise that mud fever is more common in horses with hairier legs, because they take longer to dry out and this makes it very difficult to identify early lesions, so trimming them up is a good idea.

• Waterproofing the lower limbs, particularly before turnout or exercise, is good practice.

Barrier creams such as Sudocrem, are effective for this. However, it is important to ensure that your horse’s legs are clean and dry before application, otherwise, the area between the wet skin and the greasy cream will provide the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

• The rotation of paddocks, to avoid poaching, and the use of electric fencing to block off particularly muddy areas, such as those around gateways, will help to minimise the risk of mud fever.

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

Ask the Vet

Q

Q: Hi Doctor Travis, I have a female Chihuahua who is 10 years old. I was at the Vet on Saturday and they picked up that she has a heart murmur and early stages of congestive heart failure along with a tumour. What can I do to improve her well-being at home?

Tumour palliation can be tricky and depends on the type of tumour. Again, a good quality diet is important, preferably higher in protein and lower in carbohydrate.

&A

A: I am very sorry to hear this about your little Chihuahua!

Q: Hi Doc, is there a way you can teach me to see if my rat is male or female?

A: In very young rats, sex determination can actually be quite difficult. To figure it out, you will need to look at the anogenital distance. That is the distance between the anus and the opening of the genitals (vagina in females, penis in males).

To start off with (for the sake of other readers) a heart murmur is not the same as heart failure. A murmur is a sound that can be heard when there is turbulent blood flow through the heart. Congestive heart failure is the disease progression in which the heart is struggling to pump blood around the body. This can have several consequences including rapid weight loss, fluid in the lungs or abdomen and fainting spells.

The best way to manage this condition is by making sure she gets all her medication. This will help control her blood pressure and prevent water building on her lungs. It is also important to make sure that she is being fed a good quality diet to mitigate her weight loss. This diet must be low sodium to keep blood pressure down! I would also advise to avoid stress or strenuous exercise.

It’s also very important to keep an eye on your pet and inform your vet if anything changes. I encourage my clients to keep an eye on their pet’s breathing patterns. If the patient has deep, slow breathing while asleep, then we probably have things under control. Ideally the breathing should be less than 40 breaths per minute while the patient is fully at rest. If the breathing rate exceeds this, then something is not being managed correctly and it is time for a check-up.

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To do this; lie your rat on their back. The anus is the opening right under the base of the tail. Further up the belly, there will be a second opening. That is the genital opening. In male rats, the distance between these two openings will be twice as long as in females. As male rats get older, testicles will appear in this area, which make it easier to tell the genders apart. This only happens around 2-3 weeks though.

Here is the link to a really nice source with great pictures and advice: https://www.wikihow.com/Sex-a-Rat-from-Birth Q: Dear Doctor, I recently adopted a couple of chickens.

They are digging up my yard and I’m not sure if I’m giving them the correct food. A friend told me that they are looking for minerals and doing this because of that.

What is the most nutritional food I can feed them to stop them from scratching up the grass in search of the right nutrients?

MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

A: Scratching and foraging behaviour is quite normal for chickens. In the wild, jungle fowl have been shown to spend up to 61% of their time with this behaviour, and that doesn’t seem to change, even when adequate nutrition is provided. Some sources believe that preventing this behaviour may lead to other abnormal behaviours such as feather pecking.

Regarding diet, a balanced commercial diet for adult chickens should provide adequate nutrition. Try to avoid diets that contain any antibiotics or coccidiostats. Fresh green plants can also add some variety to the diet, and mealworms can be given as a very occasional treat.

Q: Hi Doctor Travis, even after cleaning my dog’s ears they still smell really bad. What could the cause be, and should I be worried?

A: If the smell in your dog’s ears is still persisting after cleaning, then the ears are probably infected. Most of the time, it is a yeast infection, but some nasty (and very resistant) types of bacteria can be a problem too.

ONLINE SHOPPING FOR ALL YOUR PET &VET SUPPLIES

I would advise that you take your dog to your local vet to do an ear smear. This will be the easiest way to know what is growing in the ears that is producing the smell. Your regular vet will also take a look into the ear to see if the canal is swollen as that may be interfering with your cleaning. Once the root of the issue has been identified, the smell should resolve. Then you can continue cleaning the ears from time to time to prevent the problem from coming back.

In ears that are under control, I usually advise cleaning no more than once a week. Any more frequent cleaning could dry the ear canal and cause more harm than good.

If you would like to ask the Vet a question, please send an email to mail@petprints.co.za.

Please include as much information in the description as possible.

Dr Travis Gray

WWW.VETPRODUCTSONLINE.CO.ZA TEL: 033 263 1608

thevet@vetproductsonline.co.za

Tygerberg Animal Hospital

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

James

Ash Ash comes from Mitchell’s Plain. He was locked in a room without food and water so that he could die of hunger! Ash is 3 years old with SUCH a forgiving heart. He trusts humans again, big and small. He is a sweet boy who truly deserves to be shown what real love feels like. He needs to be the only dog, though and deserves to be doted on.

Jamesis3yearsold.Hewasfoundin Macassarwherehewasnearlystonedto deathbychildren.Ananimalangelpicked himupandtookhimformedicalattention.

Jamesisconfidentthesedaysandgetting betterwithtrust.Hecanbeagoofballand lovestoplay.Withagoodintroduction,he canbewithalargebreedfemalewhoiscalm andsubmissive.

Jock

Hazel

Jock came to us at 6 months old. He is almost 2 years old and is still with us. He is one amazing dog and loves people big and small. He is very affectionate - he just wants to be loved and played with and more love and treats and some more love.

Jock loves outdoor activities and will fit in perfectly with an active family.

Hazel was found in Blouberg. This scarred girl is very nervous of strangers. It takes time for her to warm up to you, but once this happens, you’ll have a companion for life. She will shower you with love and affection. If a potential adopter is interested, we would recommend they works with us to gain Hazel’s trust. Hazel is 1 year old.

Sandy

Chico Chico-Lookingforyourveryowncuddlebuddy andadventureBFF?LooknofurtherthanChico, thecourageous,charming,happy,playful goofball,wholovescuddlesandspendingtime withhumansbigandsmall.Chico,wastiedupin anabandonedscrapyardfor2.5months, survivingonlyonrainwater.Heisaninspiration toallofus,showingusourpast shouldnever defineusandweneedtolovelifeand livelifeto thefullest.

SandyisfromKhayelitsha.Shewas9monthsold whenshewasusedtobreed.Herpuppieswere handedout at4weeksoldbytheowners.She wasemaciatedandmalnourished.Sandyhadto scavengeforfoodforherselfandherpups!Sandy is3yearsold.Willbefinewithotherdogswith goodintroduction.Goodwithchildren.Nocats

Contact details:

adopt_ct@gudwulfsprojects.co.za Contact : Ciel-Marie 079 809 4135 Adoption fee : R1 000 Includes: Updated vaccinations, Microchip, Sterilisation, De-wormer

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Systems Cheddar

Edison Edison is the sort of cat that is just missing his Top Hat. He wears a shiny and meticulous suit, and a pure white sock on each foot. He is charming and housetrained and very polite. A kitten by day, and a bond cat by night. He is socially skilled with a great resume! If you are a smart cat, adopt Edison today!

Cheddar is a gorgeous Yorkie x Pom. He loves playing with other dogs and loves cuddles from his human. He is not a needy dog as when he has had enough play time, he goes to lay down quietly. He will make another pooch a great companion.

Cheddar is around 4 years old, great with cats, kids and dogs.

Sophie

Fudge

My name is Sophie and I have the most incredible markings. I am less than a year old and I am just another baby that needs a new forever home. Sadly, my family need to downscale and cannot take me. I absolutely love kids and I love walks too. My dream would be to go to a forever home!

Fudge was born in 2013. She is taller than a Jack Russel and Cocker Spaniel. She absolutely loves children and loves to cuddle with them. She is great with other dogs, but we are not sure about cats, but she is such a love bug.

She loves swimming and for her family members to be around.

Lilly

Maxi Maxi was born in November 2013. She is called a gentle giant. She has the softest hair and when brushed, it’s like velvet. She is great with other dogs and also loves kids and loves to sing with them. She loves for her family to be around.

Virginia Meet gorgeous Virginia with her bat ears.

She has the sweetest personality and is used to loads of other doggies that she lives with at her foster home. Virginia is now 11 months old, has been sterilized and is up to date with her inoculations.

Lilly - If you are looking for a gentle oldie, Lilly is your girl! She is around 7/8 years old and wow, what a wonderful girl she is. Lilly is great with dogs, but not with cats. She would make a wonderful companion for any home. She is in perfect health and is up to date with inoculations.

For dog adoptions contact: Michell 0837347867 or email michell@leaps.co.za For cat adoptions contact: Bronwyn 072 283 7521 or email bronwyn@leaps.co.za

Adoption fee R950. Includes Sterilization, Inoculations and de-worming up to adoption Cats and Kittens also include Fev and aids testing

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

L

abrador Rescue was started in 2009 and was originally part of the Labrador Retriever Kennel Club (LRKC), but as it rapidly grew, a decision was made to separate the two and, although still affiliated, Labrador Rescue would operate as a separate entity.

Labrador Rescue South Africa (LRSA) is a registered NPC (Not for Profit Company) as well as a PBO (Public Benefits Organisation).

We operate nationwide with area teams of dedicated volunteers. Although LRSA is a breed specific rescue, we rehome many Labrador cross breeds as well as their other breed family companions. LRSA works in close cooperation with other rescue organisations.

On average, LRSA rehomes between 5 to 10 dogs each week, or over 500 per year.

Labradors are consistently voted the most popular breed in the world, but often people do not research the breed before getting a puppy, and they then find themselves unable to cope with an untrained, boisterous, landscaping, chewing demolition machine. People get a cute little Lab puppy ‘like in the toilet paper advert’ and then see the stunning dog leading and assisting a visually impaired person and think that this miraculously happens. Labradors are known to be fantastic family dogs and are great with children, they are often the first choice for a young family, who don’t

Adopt a

Labrador necessarily have the time or experience to train what is essentially, a working breed. Labradors need training, lots of it. They are very intelligent dogs and very high energy, so if that energy is not channelled…. Big problems!! And they shed. They seriously shed hair, or magic fibres of love and light, as we like to call it.

When adopting, we do request an adoption fee to try and cover the costs of sterilization, vaccinations and other costs incurred. The adoption fee is higher for puppies as there are generally more vet costs with young dogs. All our dogs are vaccinated and sterilized before going to their new homes.

Several vets countrywide support us with special rescue rates, but we are still battling financially and often donations from present and new owners are not enough to cover these costs.

LRSA does not have its own kennels and has to rely on a few special kennels that give us reduced rates when they can, but even so, kennelling is expensive, but necessary, when we have to find a safe space for dogs that cannot stay in their homes until rehomed. Some of these dogs have been abandoned, neglected, abused or need some rehabilitation work before finding a new home.

We have an active Facebook page ‘Labrador

50

Rescue South Africa’ with over 30,000 followers and an interactive website www.labrescue.co.za where you can see the dogs who are looking for homes, fill in an adoption form and even surrender your dog, all via the website.

LRSA desperately needs more special people to offer foster homes or help with home checks, admin or transport. If you are not able to help with your time, please consider making a donation, preferably on a monthly debit order basis, to help us have a predictable fund base to cover costs and allow us to plan ahead rather than operating on a ‘wing and prayer’ system. Our future is in jeopardy as our monthly expenses often exceed our income, so we are appealing to all our supporters to help us keep this work going and help us save as many dogs as we can. We are tax exempt, which means that we are able to issue Tax rebates for the donations we receive.

Should you wish to sponsor, donate or offer any services to LRSA please contact Ashli Smukler on ashli@labrescue.org.za or 064 659 7464.

Our banking details are as follows.

Labrador Rescue SA Standard Bank | Branch: Rivonia Branch Code: 00 12 55 Account No: 22 00 26 610 MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

UP FOR ADOPTION Archie

Archie is a gorgeous 1 year old Golden Retriever. Archie loves all dogs and children.

He does not know cats.

Raven

Raven is a beautiful 5 year old male Labrador cross. He loves people and other dogs. He does not know cats.

Goofy

Siya

Goofy is a 3 year old male Labrador. This special boy loves other dogs and people. He does not know cats.

Siya is a 1 year old male Labrador. This young boy loves people and other dogs. He does not know cats.

Rexi

Rexi is a 2 year old male Labrador. He is very sweet and loves people and other dogs. He does not know cats.

Jack

Jack is a 6 year old male Labrador. He is very well mannered and loves other dogs and people. Cats unknown.

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

Never turn a blind eye to animal abuse or neglect The organisations in this list have made themselves available 24hours a day to assist when abuse or neglect is reported.

To assist these organisations to do their work, report on the location of the incident or situation as specific as you can. Take photos when you can, but do not get involved in altercations with the abuser if possible. Try to stay with the animal needing assistance until help arrives.

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MAY 2021 | PETPRINTS

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