Being a blogger and putting your life out there for people to see you inevitably get questions so I thought it would be a great idea to answer them here and Frequently asked Questions on Friday has a nice ring to it.
The most common question I get these days is “Is it hard to Keep Chickens?” it is up there with “Are you mad ?” and “How many eggs do you get ?”
Well we have 4 chickens, we have had them about a month now and I read a lot about them before I went ahead with my crazy plan and I waited for at least a year before I took the plunge into chicken ownership
So let me introduce the girls in my first blog video –
So as you can see the girls are friendly but as you can also see expect them to poop A LOT !!
So here are my tips for keeping chickens
- First things first, if you are thinking of getting chickens you will need a coop and this will be your biggest outlay. You can expect to pay a minimum of 120 euros for a small coop in Ireland. I was lucky I searched Done Deal and Adverts and found someone in my town selling one which was a big coop and can fit 9 chickens not that I am getting 9 chickens! But I like the girls to have room.
|Gertie in the Garden|
- Decide on what type of chickens you are after – are you looking for pure breeds ? Or Hybrids ? Or Rescues – there are lots of ex-battery hens looking for a home and LittleHill Animal Rescue regularly do Chicken Runs throughout the year.
|Tikka and Doris in the House.|
- You better be okay with poop because you will be cleaning up a lot – The good news is it is great in my compost -The bad news is the little madams will poop in the house if they get in, which they do occasionally.
- You need to keep your coop clean – we clean out the poop daily and the sawdust and straw in the nest boxes weekly and sprinkle with mite powder monthly.
- You need to feed your chickens of course – we use a combination of chicken mash and greens like spinach and rocket but you can get pellets or make up your own mix. You can also provide your chickens with oyster grit this helps them grind up their food and helps form their eggs.
- Provide them with a dust bath and they will be very happy chickens I am actually getting some old tires and will be making some chicken baths soon but, for now, they are happy with a hole I lined with a layer of sand that is in an old flower bed.
- Be prepared to stop eating chicken – the weird thing is you find it very hard to eat chicken when you keep chickens,as you find out very quickly that they have lovely little personalities.
- They will eat the slugs, caterpillars and other nasty bugs in your vegetable garden but they will also eat your veggies – as I said my girls love Spinach, Rocket , Salad Greens I know because they decimated my crops – they don’t seem to like peas, courgette, tomatoes and corn because that is all that they left ! So you will have to keep them out of your vegetable garden !
- Prepare for A LOT of Eggs !! If you treat your girls well they will provide you with lots of lovely eggs we get at least 4 a day and of all sizes. But they tend to lay in the Spring and Summer and less so in Autumn and Winter.
- You will have to protect them from predators – we are lucky our back garden is totally enclosed and the only predators would be our cats or dogs, lucky for us and the chickens our pets are not a bother to the chickens, they just don’t care as you can see.
- You also need to protect them from parasites like worms and mites – we treat the girls monthly for mites and worms every three months.


In memory of my beloved dog, GINGER
GINGER - May 9, 2003 to November 3, 2015
IN MEMORY OF GINGER - If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever!
On November 3, 2015, my beloved dog, GINGER, passed away. She was ill and, much to my regret, had to be put to sleep. Ginger was cremated and I have her ashes in a special urn (photo below) in my office.
Ginger, I will miss you VERY much but believe that pets do go to heaven and I hope to be reunited with you one day.
My children's book, MY DOG'S WORLD (originally published in 2008 and then reprinted in 2013 with actual photos of Ginger), although a children's book of fiction, was "inspired" by my dog Ginger.
The last photo on this page is of my other dog, Bella. Bella is, according to the North Shore Animal League (where my younger daughter got her from), part Australian Cattle Dog. Bella was born in 2011 and, although about seven years younger than Ginger, they were great friends!
Urn containing Ginger's ashes


Travelling with pets
Regional travel in New Zealand is guided by the Covid Protection Framework (or 'traffic light system'). Under this framework, you can travel with your pet as checked-in baggage between all parts of New Zealand.
Air New Zealand carries animals in accordance with the current standards published in the IATA Live Animal Regulations. This includes the use of a pet carrier that must allow the animal to naturally stand, sit up, turn around and lay down.
Air New Zealand allows domestic cats and dogs (excluding any transported for profit e.g. racing greyhounds) and small birds to travel as checked in baggage on all domestic flights. For any other type of domestic pet or livestock, please visit our cargo section.
How to let us know that you're travelling with a pet
We're trialling a new way to tell us you're travelling with a pet. If you've booked a domestic flight and are flying with your pet, please email us with the details below. This trial will run until 12pm (NZST) on 29 July 2022.
- Flight booking reference (can be found on your confirmation emails and itinerary)
- Pet name
- Pet age
- Pet type
- Weight of pet
- Weight of cage
We'll respond to your email within 48 hours. If your travel is within that timeframe and you've booked direct with us, please contact us and let us know the above details.
If you've booked through a travel agent (including any Air NZ agent) and you and your pet are travelling within 48 hours, please contact your agent with the above details.
Before you travel to the airport
Due to space limitations on Air New Zealand Link services with flight numbers in the 5000 and 8000 series, only one carrier per customer can be accepted for travel. If you have more than one, you will need to pre-book your pet to travel as cargo.
When you travel:
- please check-in 60mins prior to your departure
- from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Nelson or Queenstown, your pet must be in their carrier before arriving at the terminal
- from a New Zealand regional airport (excluding Nelson), your pet can be on a leash and placed in the carrier at check-in
For your pet's comfort:
- the carrier must include appropriate and proportionate absorbent material e.g. paper, shredded newspaper
- you can include a blanket in the carrier
- please ensure they have had food and water prior to travelling
Important: No food or toys are permitted in or attached to the carrier.
- Up to 3 animals if less than 6 months old and from the same litter not exceeding 9kg
- Up to 2 adult animals of comparable size, not exceeding 14kg each who are used to cohabitation
- Only 1 animal if exceeding 14kg
- Dogs exceeding 40kg are not permitted in a rigid plastic carrier, speciality carriers with two secure door fasteners on each side must be used
- Must allow for the animal to naturally stand, sit, turn around and lay down
- Is limited by the aircraft cargo door dimensions:
A320 and A321 - 90cm H x 80cm W (bulk hold only)
ATR - 150cm H x 120cm W
Q300 - 150cm H x 120cm W
- Fibreglass, metal, rigid plastic, welded metal mesh, solid wood, and plywood carriers are permitted
- Must have adequate ventilation:
Openings are only permitted on the upper half of three sides (excluding the door)
The door must be open and covered with welded mesh, bars etc., nose and paw proof
- The door must form the whole of one end of the carrier (can be sliding or hinged) and can't be accidentally opened
- The floor must be solid and leak proof
- Interior must be smooth, no protrusions
- Spacer bar must be fitted in the middle on three sides (not the door)
- Handles should allow easy carriage of the carrier
- Wheels are permitted but must be removed or inoperable when carried
- Separate food and water troughs must be fitted however no food or water is permitted on flights less than 4 hours
- Entirely welded mesh, open wire, popup hatch style carriers
- Ventilation on the upper and lower sides of a carrier
- The top and bottom of a plastic carrier must be fixed together using either 'bolt tightened' or another 2-step method e.g. screw and dial
- Minimum fasteners include one at each corner and at least 1 down each side, carriers longer than 60cm must have minimum of 2 fasteners each side
- Door hinge and locking pins on rigid plastic carriers must engage the carrier by at least 1.6cm beyond the horizontal extrusion above and below the door opening
- Cable ties must be attached to all four corners of the carrier's door to prevent it from being prised open by the animal
- Latches fixing the top and bottom of plastic carrier
- Restraint straps etc., securing a carrier
- Doors that have a 'twist clip' around the locking pins
Permitted carrier for pets not exceeding 40kg
- Adequate ventilation – three upper sides (not including the door)
- Top and bottom fixed together e.g. tightened bolt and screw at each corner. Min 1 fixing on sides for carriers under 60cm, exceeding 60cm minimum 2
- Space bar fitted on three sides
- Leak proof floor
- Locking pins must extend a minimum of 1.6cm into the top and bottom lips
- Separate food and water carriers
Permitted carrier for pets exceeding 40kg
- Two secure door fasteners on each side of the speciality carrier
Ventilation on the lower half of carrier
- Must not be applied through ventilation holes
- Must not be cut short as they pose a risk of injury to your pet
- Airport staff may use a cable tie as a secondary means of securing a cage if required
Speciality carriers are available or a size appropriate cat/dog carrier may be used, provided the required perch/perches are fitted.
Most members of this group rest by perching. For those birds that do, the carrier must include round perches that:
- are large enough for the birds to grip firmly and comfortably (relevant to the species)
- allow for all birds (if more than one) to perch comfortably at the same time
- are placed so droppings do not fall into food or water troughs
- are placed at such a height that the birds can leave the perch without their heads contacting the roof, nor the tail with the floor while perching
- are not placed too high within the carrier for the birds to become upset during transport.
For Parrots (psittacine), that do not rest by perching, suitably sized smooth rails fixed to the floor must be provided so that the birds can feel secure.
- Up to 25kg: NZD $75
- 26kg and over: NZD $100
The pet carriage fee:
- reflects the special treatment required to ensure the safety of your pet
- includes the pet and carrier
- is only payable at the airport
Each checked in animal and carrier is counted as one 'piece' of baggage. If the carriage of your pet results in you exceeding your baggage allowance you can pre-pay for the extra bag prior to arriving at the airport.
If you choose not to pre-pay for the extra bag, then the excess baggage charge and the pet carriage fee will both be payable at the airport.
Your pet will be carried into the baggage arrival area by one of our team. This may be during or after other baggage has been delivered to the baggage claim area.
On international flights, pets are not permitted as checked-in baggage and must travel as cargo. They must be booked with an approved pet transporter or an IATA agent. We will transport live animals on certain flights to certain destinations.
For further information go to our international cargo pets section.


A client recently asked me what I thought about having their dog involved somehow in the ceremony. I let them know it’s not about me; your ceremony is all about you guys. Special things, stories, and people can all be part of the ceremony, and if your four legged friend is a big part of your life then let’s have them there too.
A few things I do discuss with clients when thinking about having animals as part of their big day are:
Is your pooch comfortable with crowds? If not, they can become overwhelmed unpredictable. Make sure you have someone they know and trust close by so they can take over. Maybe go for a walk. If possible have them wondering around as guests arrive. This way they don’t really notice the crowd coming together.
Food and Treats, these can be used to distract or reward them as needed. A water bowl ready. As most weddings are held in the afternoon, it’s a good idea to keep a container full of water handy.
Make sure that your pet has gone for a big walk and/or play beforehand. Tired is better at the ceremony than a bounding pooch full of energy.
Also check with your venue if they allow animals.
Have you got any other suggestions/ideas when having pets at the ceremony?


Summertime heat can be unbearable sometimes, and that’s for humans. Can you imagine how your pup feels when those temperatures climb? Ugh! Poor canine companions! But good news—you can keep your doggies safe and well-protected from the summertime heat with a rundown read of this article how-to.
Keep your Dogs Indoors During the Hottest Hours of the Day, i.e. Mid-Day and Dusk
Pups are prone to overheating quickly. This is all-breed inclusive, but thick-haired canines are especially prone and in danger of becoming too hot. Hence, the biggest reason to keep your dogs indoors during those sweltering times of day, like mid-day and dusk.
Tip: Check your pups for ticks when they come in from outdoors. You should also use organic mosquito control around your yard to ensure you and your dogs are safe from bloodsucking pests.
Water, Water, and More Water—It’s ALL About Hydration When Summer Rolls Around
Dogs … Read more


At wagNwalkies we treat every guest as one of the family and love to see every dog socialise, play and relax in safety. Our dogs spend their time walking in open countryside, snoozing on comfy couches and playing with friends old and new, all the while supervised by fully trained and experienced permanent staff.
Offering a full range of services to suit every pet, owner and schedule, wagNwalkies really is a home from home. Be it a young puppy needing careful socialisation, an older dog looking for company during the working day or a more boisterous hound needing to let off steam – wagNwalkies has it covered. We assist owners with dietary advice and our chosen brand of Green Dog Food is hugely popular among our furry guests.
We welcome friendly, social dogs and know each and every one individually. Our atmosphere is fun, safe and social allowing owners to relax in the knowledge that their pet is enjoying their time with our adoring staff.


enclosure for one Brown Anole is a ten gallon aquarium. They can not be housed in a plastic, cardboard, or wooden box. Add
ten gallons per every extra Anole. Appropriate substrates include; reptile carpet, newspaper, paper towels, compressed coconut
fiber, shelf liner, and tile.
can be maintained by misting the enclosure at least 3 times daily, providing a reptile fogger, reptile mister, or water drop
mechanism. The ideal humidity should be kept between 70% and 80% to low or two high can cause medical problems. Do not let
the humidity fall below 60 or be over 80. Your Anole will drink up the droplets left on the leaves and decorations in the
enclosure after misting. You also need to provide a small water dish for drinking and bathing. Replace the water daily.
needs to be kept between 75˙F (24˙C) and 80˙F (27˙C) during the day and between 70˙F (21˙C)
and 75˙F (24˙C) at night and a basking temperature (near the heat light) of 90˙F (32˙C). Like with all other diurnal (awake during the day) lizards. They will need a UVB producing light. This
light needs to be on for 10-12 hours a day. During this time, the light will provide enough UV rays for proper digestion and
release appropriate amounts of vitamin D3 to allow for calcium absorption. Without a UVB light it is extremely likely for
your pet to get a medical condition called MBD. This stands for Metabolic Bone Disease which is fatal if not caught early
and adults can eat a staple of crickets (no bigger then the space between their eyes) with a variety of butter worms, super
worms, and silk worms. Adults and juveniles need to be fed daily. Dust the crickets and other food items with a calcium/multivitamin
supplement. This is crucial to your pet’s health and needs to be done to all food items every other feeding. Dust the
insects with a calcium/D3 supplement at least once a month.
have a colorful dewlap (flap of skin under the chin that expands to look like they are puffing their throat) this is extended
to show threatening behavior and its also used as a demonstration to attract mates. Females can have dewlaps as well but never
as big or as colorful. There will also be two enlarged scales on the underside of the males near the vent area.
List / Minimum Requirements:
- An enclosure as mentioned above with a screen
- Plenty of fake or real plants and branches logs
and other items to climb on
- A UVB producing fluorescent light
- A heat lamp, or a ceramic heat emitter (this
basking light should be outside of the enclosure so the Anole does not get burned)
- A digital Hygrometer (humidity gauge)
- A digital Thermometer (the stick on plastic dials
can be up to 20 degrees inaccurate )
- A reptile mister (spray/mist bottle for water)
or a water drip mechanism
- A small water dish
- Substrate (above)
- A nocturnal /red heat
bulb or a ceramic heat emitter to maintain night time temperatures
many items that Anoles should not have. Heat Rocks and Heat Caves can severely burn your lizard’s
stomach and feet and should be avoided for all lizards. The only advantage to using a Heat Pad is to keep the substrate warm
for humidity purposes they use over head heat not ground heat to stay warm. Do not use any Sand, Gravel, or Repti-Bark substrates. Do not feed mealworms, their hard exoskeleton can easily cause impaction they are
also very low in nutrients and aren’t healthy for your pet.
reach 5 - 7 inches with females reaching about 6
inches in length and usually live 3-5 years if taken care of properly.
are very fast and are hard to catch. They should not be handled and aren’t for young kids. They don’t play and
should remain in their enclosure unless its time to clean it out.


My cat is a cold blooded killer and my dog is his accomplice. Let me preface this by telling you that I live in the middle of 106 acres and my closest neighbor is a 1/2 mile away. We live on a gravel road y'all. So wildlife is in abundance on the farm. We have a shit load of rabbits on our property along with snakes,coyote, moles, voles, deer, fox, turkey and all sorts of birds especially annoying whippoorwill's. But that is another story.
So this morning I got up early to POAS and decided to go for a short run. I have been running pretty regularly since my D&C. It helps clear my head, and I go slow, so I don't think it hurts. Anyway the dog and I take off and the cat trotted down the driveway to see us off.
I had a good run, with new tunes on my i.po.d. As I make the turn up my driveway I see my cat with a small rabbit in his mouth. I yell at him to drop it, and my dog promptly swipes the rabbit out of the cat's mouth. The rabbit is still alive dude. The dog drops it, and it runs, but it's injured so it can't go fast enough. My dog thinks this is game and catches it and throws it up in the air. I am yelling drop it, drop it!! He of course looks at me like I am crazy. The cat looks miffed that the dog stole his rabbit. Now the rabbit is dead and next to my husband's truck. I am pissed b/c I have to deal with this right now, or it will be an ordeal with the carcass.
So I stomp inside and get the animals their animal food, of which they prefer over dead rabbits. Then I have to go down and shovel this poor bunny into a bag and put him in the garbage to take to the dump. All this before 7AM sheesh. I do not condone my cat killing rabbits, but my feeling is that if my lazy kitty can catch a bunny, we have way way too many rabbits. He is not the most agile hunter. So if the bunny can't escape my cat then there is no way he will make against all the other predators on our land.
The stick was darker this time than yesterday, I hope that means my numbers are going up.


The disturbing issue that can come in after you have enjoyed the good service of the wood flooring is a case where your dog starts to spoil the appearance of your good floor by making unpleasant scratches on it. Because you like the pet as much as you like your wooden floor you will not like to lose any. A pet is necessary in your house in case you like playing with it, it can make your day brighter. Sometimes the pets especially the dogs like scratching the floors. There are minor scratches that they can make while walking and they skid hence make the scratches while trying to regain balance from falling. In this case it is easily to prevent further scratches as you will need to improve your wooden floor and make it non skid.
Here are some important methods you can employ to step the dogs from scratching your precious floors.
1.Grooming the claws of the dog
Big claws are the one making the dog be able to scratch the hard wooden floors. To avoid it just make a point of grooming the claws and having them short or blunt. This will make the dog feel uncomfortable when trying to dig the floor and it will stop the habit. This is also beneficial to you when playing with the pet. It will a void the pet from scratching you in case it makes jovial jumps on you. For more convenience you can make use of veterinaries in Singapore who will do the job perfectly for you.
2. Buying the dog booties
There are small booties designed for dogs to wear. In case you do not want to lose the toe nails of your dog this can be the best solution. They may cause the dog some discomforts at first but with time the dog will get used to them. After getting used to them it can even walk and play outdoors comfortably while wearing them.
3. Placing non skid mats at the entry to your house with wooden floors
In case you discover your pet likes scratching at the entry you can make use of this method to stop the behavior. The mats will cover the floor completely and the dog will not get access to scratching the floor any more. It is advisable to buy a hard mats that the dog will get some discomforts in trying to scratch. This will make it hate and stop the behavior completely. In case the dog is scratching other parts of the house with the wood flooring the solution can be using carpet runners. This will ensure maximum coverage of the wooden floor exposed for the dogs to scratch.
These are simple method you can employ to get rid of the awkward behavior in your dog. Wooden flooring is an important interior decoration method in your house, in case the dog makes scratches on it ,it can lead to some added expense on your part as you will need to purchase other materials to replace the floor. A replaced floor may also not look as appealing as the original floor. Because getting rid of your favorite pet completely is hard try and implement any method that will be best for you.


Sunday, December 22, 2013
Spencer's First Christmas....With Us
When you buy a shelter dog you never know what you're getting. You don't know who their previous owners were or how they were treated. You don't know if they've had a good life or a bad life. You don't know what will trigger a panic attack that sends them running for cover.
Spencer is a shelter dog. We got him this past May. He was found wandering the streets and in need of urgent veterinary care. The day we went to the shelter to look at dogs he'd just completed a course of antibiotics and was cleared for adoption. They judged his age to be around five years old and his breed is mixed, as you can tell - miniature poodle/cocker spaniel.
Spencer fits into our family perfectly. Introducing him to a harness and leash had him wiggling with excitement so we knew he was used to going for walks. He'd never seen a dog door before but, with some assistance, had it down pat after only a few tries. We weren't sure whether or not he'd ever been to a groomer and the groomer come to our home so we could be on hand in case she got into trouble. He was as good as gold, so another tick mark. He'd obviously been to the groomers.
The longer we had him the more we wondered what had happened to him. He's well-behaved and house trained, likes to go for walks and loves people. We're sure someone misses him. Not that we'd give him up now. We figure he probably got loose when tourists were passing through and they couldn't find him so had to leave without him.
When the Christmas season arrived and we took the tree out of the shed (I have asthma so can't have a real tree), we weren't sure how he'd react to it. Some dogs are petrified at this big thing looming high over their heads, some attack it or bark at it. We put it up, got the lights working and draped the skirt around the bottom, all without incident. Spencer just watched. When it was time to start hanging the decorations we realized that not only was he not the least bit apprehensive, he figured it was his. He grabbed his toys and brought them under the tree, where they stayed until we screwed things up for him by laying presents under it.
Now that the decorations are up and there are presents under the tree, he's careful not to step on the gifts. But he races around just under the edges when he's playing and sets the balls swinging and the lights twinkling and rocking.
Yup, Spencer loves Christmas just as much as we do.


This may be shocking, but babies and condoms are made of different material
"no homo" the teenage boy whispers as he pulls away from kissing his friend. he gently strokes the other males face "full bi" he adds in a sensuous tone.
can that be abbreviated FBI?
My mom’s friend adopted this lovely dog after he was abandoned by his previous family. His name is Shaun. Shaun had always been very good at eating all his food. Every last bit that was, he ate it. One day he started leaving a little bit behind. He wouldn’t eat everything, no matter what. He always left a little behind. Every morning when my mom’s friend checked Shaun’s bowl, the food was gone. That was very strange, because Shaun always spent the night by her side.
One night she decided to investigate the food situation. She waited quietly by the food bowl and then, in the middle of the night, a cat came through the window and ate the remaining food. She noticed the cat was actually pregnant. A week or so later the cat came into her house and gave birth to 6 little kittens. Shaun took care of them as if they were his own babies. My mom’s friend adopted the cat too (her name is Meow) and they took care of the kittens until they all found a loving home. Nowadays Meow and Shaun live happily together as a family and they each have their little bowl of food.
interracial couples are always cute
Oh my god that is so precious.
KITTENS YOUR DADDY IS A DOGGIE. YOU ARE SOME LUCKY BABIES.
I’m sorry but
too cute to not reblog. I literally tried not to reblog this but my heart wasn’t having any of it. lol.


We are bunny lovers and started with just one pet bunny, Bunbun. She became a good friend of us and she is the reason today we are a hobby breeder. Initially we started breading Bunbun and gave the babies as gifts for friends and family who loved bunnies. We added another female Lilly and started breading her too. As the fluffy family started growing we thought of selling the babies when they are 6 weeks old for a very reasonable price that would help all bunny lovers to have a wonderfull friend.


Dogs experiencing separation anxiety as owners return to work
By Melissa Couto Zuber/The Canadian Press
Sharon Robinson scours the house for her shoes, then has to sneak past the guard at her front door before she can leave for work each day.
Her dogs — a two-year-old terrier named Summer who steals her footwear and a 12-year-old poodle named Poppy who blocks the doorway like a curly-haired Sphinx — have made mornings difficult for the library assistant from Richmond Hill, Ont., since she returned to work three weeks ago.
“I call them ‘Needy’ and ‘Needier’ because they’re just glued to me when I’m home,” Robinson said of her dogs, both rescues. “So when I leave, they’re completely stressed out.”
Robinson has had Poppy for about a decade and Summer joined her family a year ago. While the dogs have had issues with separation anxiety before, Robinson has noticed a recent rise in the behaviour.
Dr. Ian Sandler, a Toronto-based veterinarian, expects that among dogs — and cats, to a lesser extent — as people return to work after months at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our pets have grown accustomed to having us around, Sandler explains, and they’re forgetting how to handle solo situations.
A dog who panics when his owner puts on a jacket or reaches for the car keys isn’t so much fearing abandonment as he is anxious about his new routine being disrupted, Sandler says.
“Oftentimes people anthropomorphize or try to relate very humanistic feelings to (animal) behaviours, but I think a lot of this is just a comfort in the dependence,” he said.
“(The behaviour) depends on how young the puppy is, the kind of relationship they have with the owner, how much time they spend with that owner. So it’s a comfort thing and it’s a routine thing as well.”
Plenty of factors contribute to separation anxiety, and a broad spectrum of symptoms includes barking or howling, chewing or scratching at the door, pacing, drooling and urinating or defecating when the owner leaves the home.
Cats, meanwhile, express anxiety in other ways, such as refusing to eat for a day or two, urinating outside of their litter box or acting aggressive towards other people.
‘Not just a puppy thing’
Andre Yeu, a dog behaviourist and founder of the When Hounds Fly training facility in Toronto, says separation anxiety cases can range from mild to severe.
And even adult dogs who previously had no issues being left alone can suddenly develop it.
“You see it with schoolteachers who are off during the summer and then go back in September,” Yeu said. “General lifestyle changes can cause dogs to develop separation anxiety so it’s not just a puppy thing.”
But puppies are more likely to develop separation anxiety, says Sandler, which is why it’s important to introduce young dogs to other people and animals.
That’s easier said than done during COVID-19, as new dog-owner Sean O’Leary can attest. He and his girlfriend have difficulty socializing their five-month-old black lab Guinness while trying to keep physically distant from others.
“He’s a bit too young for dog parks, he kinda gets trampled,” O’Leary said. “So we’ve just tried socializing with friends on their lawns or with people walking their dogs.”
O’Leary, who’s been working from home since March, saw the lockdown as a perfect opportunity to get a pup. But he does have concerns about leaving Guinness alone when he eventually does go back to his office.
New pet owners should work on minimizing separation anxiety before it starts, Yeu says. Dogs already showing signs can be treated, but it could take months to correct behaviour.
At first, the pet shouldn’t be left alone at all, Yeu advises, which could mean using a doggy daycare or sitter when needed. Separation is gradually introduced in what Yeu calls Phase 2 or “confinement and isolation training” — where a dog is put in a crate or a blocked off area of a room, but still in sight of the owners, for a set amount of time.
Phase 3 would be physically leaving the pet, gradually increasing the time away until you get to a full work day.
“It’s about making a level of isolation tolerable to the dog,” Yeu said.
Ignoring the problem is not a solution, he added.
“Separation anxiety is extremely stressful. It’s a panic attack,” Yeu said. “Daily bombardment of stress hormone can be really harmful.”
Making sure a dog gets enough exercise is another way to lessen anxiety, and limiting interaction with the pet before leaving the house and upon returning home can also help.
Sandler says dogs notice cues their owner is leaving and are especially anxious about 10-15 minutes before they’re left alone.
“It’s really important to downplay the pet during that time,” Sandler said. “You don’t want to work them up by calling their names as you’re getting ready to leave.
“And it’s the same thing when you come back.”
Humane Canada, which represents humane societies and SPCAs across the country, says its data suggests a 40-70 per cent increase in fostering and adoption rates at the height of the pandemic from mid-March to late April.
The Toronto Humane Society, meanwhile, says it facilitated adoptions on all 140 dogs admitted from March to July for a 100 per cent adoption rate, compared to 89 per cent (387 of 434) last year.
That apparent increased demand for dogs is a good thing, Sandler says, because it means people are sticking with their pets and not trying to re-home them.
But with most people still working from home or only gradually returning to a pre-pandemic existence, Sandler says the veterinarian community is worried about what might happen when people can no longer care for the pets they recently took in.
“There’s two things that concern veterinarians and humane societies and SPCAs,” Sandler said. “One is the folks’ financial ability to pay for treatments like spaying, neutering, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and No. 2 is the commitment. Pet ownership is not just for comfort during the pandemic.
“But I think a very positive thing that we’re seeing is the reality that the human-animal bond is so strong, and we’re seeing it reinforced in a positive way through the pandemic. There’s so many benefits of having a pet in the household, so I think the good will outweigh the bad.”
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Foods Dogs Can Eat Kidney Disease
Fellow Dog Owner, If You'd Cry If Your Dog Died, Then You Need To See This!
Discover The Deadly Secret The Dog Food Industry Spends Millions To Make Sure You Never Find Out!
Foods Dogs Can Eat Kidney Disease In this article Foods Dogs Can Eat Kidney Disease I will be exploring the world of industrial dog meals and detailing precisely how harmful they can be. Feeding your pet dog food could be just about the same as giving your dog poison. You may be giving your pet poisonous pet food and killing your dog at the same time without realizing it. In the following paragraphs I will give you the data you need to know about industrial canine meals, so you could steer clear of doing this type of terrible thing to your pet.What can you say if I said that the deaths of thousands of canines every day in the usa come from the commercial dog food that they are eating? You probably would not wish to believe it. The unfortunate part is, it's true. Another unfortunate factor is that these canines are dying a very unpleasant death. There are very few industrial dog foods which are really wholesome for the canine. A lot of people believe if the dog food package promotes the dog food is nutritionally complete and balanced, that it is. This isn't Foods Dogs Can Eat Kidney Disease accurate most of the time. If your dog doesn't seem like his or himself and appears to be laid back constantly there's a good possibility this is because of your dog food you're feeding your dog. The preservatives in commercial canine meals can cause your canine's internal organs to fall short, especially it is kidneys.
Foods Dogs Can Eat Kidney Disease
Foods Dogs Can Eat Kidney Disease Exactly why most major Foods Dogs Can Eat Kidney Disease pet food businesses use preservatives in their dog food products happens because the chemical preservatives boost the personal life of the dog meals which efficiently utilizes your dog food companies' earnings. An additional scary thing is that a lot of these dog meals contain a minimum of six lethal chemical substances which have been prohibited from individual meals. They were prohibited from individual foods since they're recognized to cause the following health issues: skin cancer, renal system most cancers, vesica most cancers, spleen cancer, stomach most cancers, liver organ cancer, liver disorder, birth defects, immune system fall, the leukemia disease, severe allergy symptoms, blindness, hair thinning, persistent diarrhea, major body organ failing, and behavior issues. Labels on dog food packages which say possibly "preservative-freeInch, Inchchemical substance-totally free", or "all-natural ingredients" are not always telling the truth. Most main pet food businesses have discovered loop-holes which permit them to print these false claims on their dog food product's packaging. ethoxyquin, which is the most effective of all the preservatives, can be found in most dried out dog foods. It also could be the most poisonous of the chemical preservatives which cause health issues in canines. Like the majority of preservatives ethoxyquin will probably not even be printed under the ingredients around the dog food bundle. I'd highly recommend that anyone who enjoys their dog ought to stop providing them with food commercial dog food unless of course they're 100Percent sure that the dog meals they purchase is healthy for his or her canine.I discovered which dog food products are healthy through a course called "Pet Food SecretsInch. Dog Food Secrets and techniques provides you with a list of healthy industrial canine meals. Additionally they give you a large assortment of healthy, well-well balanced pet food quality recipes. They explain how the dog's grow older, size, and type matters when it comes to diet. The quantity of calories from fat that are consumed by your dog each day can also be important to your dog's health. Essentially, the Dog Food Foods Dogs Can Eat Kidney Disease Secrets program is really a step-by-step survival manual which helps your dog to live an extended and more healthy life. Your Dog Meals Secrets and techniques program is excellent simply because it doesn't only show you all unfavorable things that could harm your dog, it shows you all the good steps you can take to ensure your pet life an extended and healthy existence.In conclusion Foods Dogs Can Eat Kidney Disease I think it could be safe to say the dog food you're buying could be eliminating your dog. Studying your dog Food Secrets course is the first and most important step you need to take to start increasing the nicely-becoming of the dog. Teaching other people who love their canines can also be very important because most people don't know of the dangers of most commercial canine foods. Proper understanding of dietary facts can produce a huge difference in how long your dog can reside. I'd certainly recommend the Dog Meals Secrets and techniques program to anybody who enjoys their dog. I would also suggest asking the vet a lot of questions regarding how you can improve your dogs wellness.
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Auckland is blessed when it comes to great parks, reserves and beaches. But they’re not all created equal when it comes to choosing where to walk your pooch.
After living with dogs for many years in Auckland, we thought we’d round up our favourite places to walk them. Here’s our pick of the best off-leash dog parks in Auckland. So when it’s time to choose where to walk your four-legged friends, you’ll know where to go!
Best Dog Parks in Auckland Central
If you’re living in the city, chances are you don’t have a lot of outdoor space at home to let your dog run around in. Luckily, the CBD is bursting with dog-friendly parks and facilities. Here are some of our favourite central Auckland dog parks.
Meola Reef Dog Park, Western Springs
A centrally located, fully fenced and off-leash dog park in Auckland that’s open year-round, it’s no wonder Meola Dog Park is a popular choice with dog owners! Located on a grassy headland, a short drive from Ponsonby, it’s the ideal spot to socialise your dog and let them have a good run around.
There is also a walking path leading around the edge of the headland for on-leash dogs and an area for them to swim. Note that the water quality is not suitable for human bathers so it’s advised you give your dog a good wash down afterwards.
There is free parking available (the lot gets busy on weekends), water is on hand to fill up water bowls and bottles, and there are toilets nearby.
Big King Reserve Dog Park, Three Kings
The last of the ‘Three Kings’ that gave this inner-city Auckland suburb its name, Big King (Te Tatua-a-Riukiuta) is a grassy volcanic cone with beautiful views across the city. At the top, you’ll find an off-leash area that’s very popular with the locals.
There are a couple of flat areas and plenty of space for dogs to run and play in safely. But it’s not fenced, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on your charges.
There are poop bags & bins available, and there is a small parking lot near the main entrance off Duke Street.
Orakei Basin Dog Park, Orakei
If you’ve got a water-loving pooch, they are going to love this dog-friendly walking track in Auckland. The Orakei Basin is a tidal lagoon on the edge of Remuera, so it’s a hit with local families. While not an off-leash dog park per se, the majority of the track is off-leash, so dogs can enjoy a good sniff & swim as you walk around the perimeter.
The entire loop is about 4km long and will take up to an hour to complete – making it a great exercise for both dogs and their owners. Off-leash areas are well sign-posted and the track is clear and easy to follow.
Park on Upland Road and walk down to the basin. You can then walk the track in either direction, but we’d recommend going counter-clockwise and wearing the dogs out on the grassy foreshore first.
Waiatarua Reserve Dog Park, Remuera
An expansive wetland on the outskirts of central Auckland, Waiatarua Reserve offers one of the best dog-friendly walking tracks in Auckland. Complete with doggie paddling pond and large open spaces, there’s not much not to love.
The main track leads you around the reserve in a loop that takes around an hour to stroll (slowly). Just do be aware that the centre of the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife and dogs are advised to stay on the leash if you decide to take one of the shorter tracks that cut across the park.
Park in the car park near the Waiatarua Reserve playground on Grand Dr, or the larger car park on Abbotts Way. There are toilets near the playground, bins, and water provided.
Owairaka Domain Dog Park, Mt Albert
Another of Auckland’s dormant volcanoes, Owairakara (or Mt Albert) is today a recreational space near the central city. As well as a sports field, and a pleasant on-leash walk, it’s also one of the most dog-friendly parks in Auckland due to its dedicated & fenced off-leash dog area.
It’s not as popular as some other central Auckland dog parks, so it’s a good place to head to if you’ve got a shy dog. Or you simply want to let them let off some steam after a day cooped up inside.
Park at the small car park at the end of Summit Drive and follow the path. Just note that dogs aren’t allowed on the sports field, and there are sometimes cars on the ring road around the park.
Coyle Park, Point Chevalier
A grassy headland that juts into the harbour, Coyle Park dog park is a beautiful place to walk your dogs in Auckland. Apart from the area around the playground (you must keep 10m away), the park is an off-leash dog walking area.
Walk the circular track around the park before having a game of fetch in the middle. Or even wander on down to Pt Chev beach for a dig in the sand and a paddle in the water. Just do keep in mind the restrictions around dogs on Auckland’s beaches. You can find those here.
Park at the car park at the end of Point Chevalier Road and the park is directly in front of you. Toilets, bins, and a water fountain are provided.
Do note, that this dog park isn’t fenced, so if you’re looking for enclosed dog walking areas in Auckland, or a park that’s less popular with dog-free people, head next door to Meola Reef Dog Park instead.
Western Park, Freemans Bay
While we wouldn’t necessarily classify Western Park as one of the best dog walking parks in Auckland, it’s a handy place to let your dog has some off-leash fun in the central city. The park connects Freemans Bay to Ponsonby and is a popular hang-out for lunching locals, families, and dog-walkers.
There’s a small off-leash area within the park, but dogs must be kept away from the playground area.
It’s a great option for a weekend walk after grabbing a coffee-to-go from a nearby cafe. Parking is easier at the Freemans Bay end of the park, and there are public toilets and water fountains available.
Best Dog Parks West Auckland
Less populated and wilder, West Auckland is a great place to seek out some of the best dog walking parks in the city.
Dog walking in West Auckland allows you to visit some spectacular spots that are often off the radar to everyone except the locals.
Craigavon Park, Blockhouse Bay
Compact but convivial, Craigavon dog park in West Auckland offers something for every pooch. Although the park is multi-use, there’s enough space for everyone to do their own thing, and the children’s playground at the entrance to the park is fenced off, making it safe for all.
There is a fun agility set up for dogs, with lots of obstacles, and plenty of bush paths should you want to venture away from the main gravel route. Just be warned that it can get a little soggy in winter!
The entire trail is only a little over 1km long, but there’s also exercise equipment for the humans if you want to make it more of a workout!
Park at the free car park on Connaught Street and follow the lasoo-shaped path through the bush. There are public toilets in this dog park.
Heron Park, Waterview
Another good option for those living in the West is Heron Park. This all-weather dog park in Auckland has a paved track leading in a loop around the park, and plenty of space to run around in between.
The park is varied and interesting, with bush areas breaking up the monotony of large grass fields. You do need to keep 10m away from the children’s playground, but that’s not hard to do.
There is plentiful parking at the end of Cadman Ave which offers direct access to the park, and there are public toilets nearby.
Bomb Point Dog Park, Hobsonville
Although the off-leash area at Bomb Point isn’t the largest dog park in Auckland, you can combine a run around here with a great walk along the coastal trail (on-leash). The off-leash area is clearly signposted, so you’ll be able to find it easily.
The Hobsonville dog park is fully enclosed, making it a fun and safe space for dogs to let loose, and the addition of park benches means their human companions can take it easy.
You can park at the Hobsonville Point car park at the end of Launch Road and walk the coastal walkway to the park. There are bins provided, but no toilets within the park.
Best Dog Parks in Auckland East
East Auckland is blessed with many beautiful white sand beaches and large green reserves, making it a haven for dog lovers. There are many dog-friendly walks in Auckland’s Eastern suburbs, but here is our pick of the best off-leash areas to enjoy.
Macleans Park, Bucklands Beach
A stunning and well maintained off-lead dog park in Auckland’s Eastern suburbs, Macleans Park is a winner in more ways than one. There’s more than ample space to run around and play with other dogs, places to splash around in the water, and varying routes so the human walkers don’t get bored either.
At around 36 hectares, you could easily spend an afternoon exploring all the dog walking tracks and nearby beach. Wander down into the bush where you’ll find the watering hole, take in the breathtaking views over Eastern Beach, and play a game of fetch in the open fields.
Do note that there’s a picnic area closer to the beach where dogs should be on-lead (for obvious reasons).
There are several ways to enter the park, but your best bet (except for the height of summer) is to park in the beach car park at the end of The Esplanade where the only public toilets are located.
Churchill Park, Glendowie
At around 40 hectares, Churchill Park has a space for everyone – including a great off-leash dog park. The off-leash area covers most of the park, except around the school. Although you do need to take care if your dog is skittish around farm animals, as there are grazing cattle within the park, but they’re easily avoided.
The park offers great dog walks through rustic terrain. The entire track will take about 40 minutes to walk (1.8km), but much longer if you stay and play a while. The native bush areas are lovely to wander through, and a little stream keeps things interesting.
The loop track starts on Riddell Road, where there is a decent-sized car park. There are bins in this park, but no other facilities we could see.
Best Off-Lead Dog Parks in North Auckland
There aren’t a lot of dedicated off-leash dog parks in Auckland’s northern suburbs, however, there are many beaches where dogs are allowed to run free. Find dog-friendly beaches in North Auckland here.
Manuka Reserve (Bayview Dog Park), Bayview
The first purpose-built North Shore dog park, the Manuka Reserve dog park (also commonly referred to as the Bayview dog park), is fairly centrally located for those living in Glenfield, Takapuna & Beach Haven.
The dog park consists of large open playing areas, and bush walks around the perimeter. But the best bit? A fun agility exercise area for dogs! This is by far one of the best places to walk dogs in the northern suburbs, and your dogs will love exploring all the sights and smells.
The only area that’s off-limits for dogs is the immediate vicinity around the playground, but that’s located to one side, so easily avoided.
Park at the end of Manuka Road where you’ll find toilets, the playground, and a path leading to the dog park. Bins and poop bags are provided.
Sanders Reserve Dog Park, Albany
Sanders Reserve in Albany is one of the few fenced dog parks Auckland has to offer. The entire reserve is very large, allowing for mixed usage – including mountain biking, horse riding, and of course the off-leash dog park.
While the designated dog area isn’t huge, it does allow for a good run and play, and you can relax knowing your pet isn’t going to get lost! And because of the park’s relatively secluded location, it’s not a dog park that gets overrun.
Take care when exploring outside of the fenced area and be respectful of the other activities in the park. Those wanting to cool off could walk their dog (on-lead) down to the headland where you’ll find a small swampy bay suitable for dogs to have a splash in.
Parking is available within the park, in a designated lot, and there are public toilets there too.
Off-Leash Dog Parks South Auckland
Although fenced dogs parks are harder to come by in South Auckland, there are still a good number of off-leash areas to explore. Our favourites are listed below, including Auckland’s most popular garden – that attracts visitors from all over the region!
Auckland Botanic Gardens Dog Park, Manurewa
Perhaps unexpectedly, the Botanic Gardens are home to one of the biggest dog parks in Auckland. The entire gardens are dog-friendly, providing your pooch is on the lead, but there’s also a large area that’s been designated for off-leash dog walking.
You’ll find this area at the Northern end of the gardens and its the perfect place for zoomies. Large open fields, bushy areas, streams for water play and always plenty of four-legged friends to play with.
Go straight to the Everglade entrance of the gardens where you’ll find a car park. This way you’re much closer to the off-leash area and can avoid the crowds in the main car park. There are bins and toilets in the gardens, as well as an onsite cafe for that post-walk coffee!
Te Tauranga (Onehunga Bay Reserve) Dog Park, Onehunga
A great dog walk in Auckland for water-loving pups, Te Tauranga is encompassed by a circular walkway that’s been designated as an off-leash zone. You’ll be able to enjoy the fabulous grassy banks, as well as the calm waters of the lagoon itself.
It’s not the most peaceful walk, being right beside the motorway, but it’s a neat place for a stroll nonetheless. The addition of trees for shelter on hot days and open spaces for a game of fetch secure its place as one of the best off-leash dog’s areas in Auckland.
Park at the car park on Beachcroft Ave and follow the path. There are public toilets and bins at this dog park too.
After years of owning and walking dogs in Auckland, I’m sure we’re yet to discover all of the best off-leash dog parks. Feel free to add more suggestions in the comment box below!


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The Bonaire Animal Shelter has launched a web cam — or what it calls "the Kenoffel Cat Cam" — to allow feline fans a view of adoptable cats in the Bonaire shelter.
The Kenoffel Cat Cam
The cat cam is called the Kenoffel Cat Cam because the cam was donated by Bonaire residents and cat lovers Lourae and Randy Kenoffel and their cat Bandit (a former Shelter resident). Lourae and Randy wanted to do something for our feline friends on the island and thought that a catcam was a great idea. More cats would be adopted and the shelter could raise funds and donations with the Kenoffel Cat Cam. Unfortunately, Randy passed away in July 2014 and was not able to see the catcam in action.
Adopt a Bonaire Cat
Watch our Kitty Cam and see what fun our feline friends are up to! You might see cats exploring, kittens playing hide and seek, or just taking a cat nap. All the cats are available for adoption. Animal Shelter Bonaire has wonderful cats and kittens of every color, age and size. We hope you will consider adding one of them to your home. You'll receive a lifetime of love for it!
Help the cats (and dogs) on Bonaire
If you enjoy this cam, please consider making a donation to the Animal Shelter Bonaire who not only make the lives of rescued dogs and cats so much better, but take the time and effort to provide these live cams. The web page will also have spots available for sponsors which board members hope will eventually bring in extra funds for the Animal Shelter Bonaire.


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Breeders reported soaring demand during the pandemic with working from home making dog ownership a possibility for more people.
But increased dog ownership has coincided with the number of dog bite wounds being treated in hospitals rising by almost a third in the last year – the highest annual rise since 2011.
Experts say there has been an increase in behavioural issues, including aggression, in dogs taken on as pets during the pandemic.
Lockdown owners were more likely to be first-time dog owners. They were also less likely to seek out breeders that performed health testing, or view their puppy in-person, while the pandemic made dog training more difficult.
READ MORE: Breeders fear puppy prices ‘will never go down’ after pandemic demand
NHS data shows there were about 190 episodes of patients being treated in hospital having suffered bite wounds in the former NHS Norfolk and Waveney CCG in the year to March 2023 – up from 145 the year before.
Cases included a woman who was mauled and needed plastic surgery after being attacked by an American Bulldog in Norwich.
Its owner was banned from walking it in public parks after admitting being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control.
READ MORE: Woman had skin ‘ripped off’ in Norwich dog attack
In other incidents, a runner was bitten three times in Gorleston, while a young girl was attacked as she walked on the beach at Hunstanton.
Notoriously aggressive breeds like Rottweiler and Staffordshire Bull Terrier were among 31 dogs to have been seized after being considered “dangerously out of control”.
Owen Sharp, chief executive of the Dogs Trust, said most bites happen within the home.
“Basic training of dogs is not enough; close supervision of children and dogs while interacting is the most effective way of preventing incidents,” he said.
READ MORE: Dozens of dangerous dogs seized as postal workers attacked 400 times
Separate data shows 1,700 children nationally were admitted to hospital in the last year because of a dog bite incident.
Dr Samantha Gaines, head of companion animals at the RSPCA, said: “We don’t ever expect our own dogs to bite, but all dogs can – it doesn’t matter what size or breed they are.
“Parents and guardians naturally love the idea of their child having a close bond with the family dog, and in many cases, they do, but having a close bond doesn’t mean that the dog will never bite.”
Read the full article here


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Are you looking for a trainer that gets results while still maintaining a great relationship with your dog? Paws Companion Dog training has been working with people and their pets in the river valley since 2016. In that time the world has become increasingly challenging. Our work and school lives have been forever changed. Because of these changes, many of us are spending more time at home with our pets. We also know that humans and their canine companions can often have competing motivations which can create discord thus adding to those challenges. Our desire is to show pet owners that a well mannered dog is possible through compassionate, effective training. In the same vein, we also want to show your dogs how to navigate our often confusing rules with clarity and kindness. In the years that we have been training, we have seen countless dogs have astonishing behavioral transformations, and many happy pet owners that have told us that we have helped bring harmony to their home. We hope that you give us the opportunity to work with you and your pups and bring a little bit of that harmony to your home as well!
Theres no bond like the one between us and our dog!
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Your home is probably littered with cat toys, you always keep the best cat treats on hand, and more than likely, there is a dedicated place where he sleeps. There are hundreds of types of cat food and each one claims to be the best for a variety of reasons. If your cat is an indoor cat, his nutritional needs are different than that of an outdoor cat, which necessitates that you purchase food made with his specific needs in mind. We reviewed dozens of cat foods for indoor cats to identify the best of the best. We looked at nutritional information, ingredients, common cat problems such as hairballs the foods could help clear up, dry versus wet food, and more. After all of our research, we narrowed our picks to the top 25 cat foods for indoor cats.
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Please make sure that you are posting in the form of a question. Please enter a question. Your cat may be getting older, the need for love and interaction doesn't change. This mature cat food made with natural ingredients contains a special blend to help keep older cats agile and more alert, along with vitamin E, omega-3s and omega-6s to support healthy skin and fur. Natural fibers and easy-to-digest ingredients are used to help cats with sensitive stomachs, and balanced minerals promote bladder and kidney health in your older cat.


Check out this sweet gal:
We kind of accidentally became dog owners this afternoon. We’ve wanted a dog for almost as long as we’ve been dating and definitely as long as we’ve been married, but always planned to wait until we moved out of the city (check) and it was spring (not check). Since we wanted a pup next spring, we thought it would be good to meet a breeder* near us to find out when he might have a litter, maybe get on a waiting list, etc.
So he has a litter now. We went to Braveheart Kennels in Point of Rocks, MD. (Our wonderful dear friends from Love and Six-Foot Leash recommended this breeder.) Dan and his wife specialize in Vizlas, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shorthaired Pointers (GSP). After doing our homework, we realized we wanted a GSP. They’re sociable energetic gun dogs who tend to be less high-strung than Vizlas. We will train our pup to hunt and a GSP can bird in the field as well as retrieve in water.
So we got over to Braveheart and see these beautiful puppies. We walked around for a while with the pretty lady we eventually took home, telling ourselves the whole time, “we need to wait until spring.” Clearly, you can see how well that little pep talk worked. This gal had a lot going for her and all signs apart from the season pointed to yes, so we decided to nab her.
Now we just need a good name. Current contenders include Isla, Murron, Banjo, and Lima Bean (her litter name was Lime Green). Thoughts? Suggestions?
*We knew from the beginning our first dog would probably come from a breeder. We want to do breed-specific things that mean a rescue would not have been the best fit. But. Part of the Master Plan includes a second dog. You can sure bet that I’ve already been lobbying for a rescue. For about a year.


*Currently I do not have any puppies available and my reservation list for my 2021 litters is full for now.
If you would like to be added to my waiting list for 2022, with the possibility that I may have puppies available late Fall/early Winter 2021, please feel free to contact me.
Below are some pictures of our sweet Havanese puppies who are now in their forever homes.
Below are some of our beautiful Yorkshire Terrier puppies who are now in their forever homes.
Saint John, NB


Hylan Animal Hospital
Family owned and operated full service Veterinary Hospital in Staten Island, NY. We have highly trained, experienced and professional team that will treat your best friend and family member as our own. Our professional and personalized Veterinary services include: wellness visits, vaccinations, digital x-ray, ultrasound diagnostics, laser surgery (orthopedic, spay-and-neuter, tumor removal, oral and ear surgery, feline laser declaw, specialized surgery for the Bulldog and Shar Pei), dental cleaning and polishing. Please call us with any questions at (347) 934-3377.
- Страна: Соединенные Штаты
- Штат/область: Нью-Йорк
- Город: Стэйтэн Айлэнд, Hylan blvd, 1200
- ZIP код/Почт. индекс: 10305


Barking is a extremely regular habits of pet dogs as it is their method of communicating withtheir human companion and other animals. Pet dog typically bark to express their feelings to their humancompanion. So, periodically even a effectively acted canine can startbarking continually. There are a great deal of reasons that could trigger a canine to bark and theirbarking can be very irritating.Dogs typically bark to cautiontheir human companion of a suspicious activity or a suspicious individual. Canines may likewise bark because they do not trust weird individualsor they are uneasy with the presence of strange individuals in their house. Some pets are used by their human buddy to cautionthem of intruders and other kinds of dangers. But often constant barking can be extremely frustrating and disturbing dueto the fact that if your canine is barking all through the night, itcan have an negative effect on individuals living in the exact same home as the canine and their next-door neighbors. A dog that is barking persistently can trigger a considerable boost in the stress levels of the people in the pet's environment,this can result in loss of sleep.
One of the most popular ways of managing barkingproblems in canines is making use of barkcollars. Bark collars is one of the most tender ways of managing relentless barking in canines. It is likewise an efficient way of controlling barking issues in dogs. A bark collar isalso an efficient method of training a dog, although it is not as commonly utilized as favorable support.
TYPES OF BARK COLLARS
There are numerous kinds of dog collars in the market today, however the 3 most typical kinds of dog collarsinclude;
1. ELECTRIC SHOCK BARK COLLARS COLLARS
The electric shock bark collars are one of the oldesttype of bark collars on the market. They work by offering the canine a mild static electrical power once the vibrations from its singing cables and barking noises are identified by the sensors of the bark collars. The electric shock dog collars sends out electrical existing to dog's muscles whenever he barks. The integrated prongs is usually used to provide the moderate electrical shock which can changed inintensity according to the size of the canine and the training requirements. However the precise technique that each private electrical shock bark collars works depends on the model and themanufacturer of the electric shock bark collar. Most sort of electrical shock barkcollars release a moderate electriccurrent when it senses that the pet is barking.Some individuals state that the electrical shock bark collarsare harsh because of the mild electricalcurrent that is sent out to the canine's body but it isnot most likely harm your dog in any way. The electrical shock bark collars is frequently usedto teach a dog to just bark when it is required and not just barking incessantly. Individuals that are using the electric shock bark collar for the very first time ought to begin with a low level setting and increase it slowly as thesituation needs.
The use of electrical shock bark collars iscontroversial, however it is extremely efficient for managing perpetual dog barking as long as the user has adequateknowledge about it. And also prevent setting theintensity of the electrical shocks too high however rather set it to an intensity that is just undesirable enough to prevent the canine from barking. Likewise some electric shockbark collars make use microphone to sense when the pet isbarking. Some collars however utilize both vibration sensing units and microphones to sense when the pet is barking.
2. ULTRASONIC BARK COLLARS
The ultrasonic bark collars are one of the most popular bark collars in themarket today. This type of bark collars are utilized to dissuade pet dogs from barking usingan irritating yet totally safe sound. Ultrasonic bark collars frequently workby no bark collar launching a high pitched ultrasonic noise that is said tobe irritating to prevent the dogfrom barking. They are also one of the most effective method of controlling a canine's constant barking. The bark collar emits a noise when its microphone senses the pet dog'sbarking that startles the pet dog without leading to any sort of physical damage. Themicrophones in the ultrasonic bark collars are developed to sense distinct barking, which stops the high pitched ultrasonicsound from mistakenly going off as aresult of other noises. The high pitched ultrasonic sound produced by the ultrasonic bark collars can not be heard by people but they can be heard by pet dogs, and it just lasts for a couple of seconds. Current research studies have shown that this type of barkcollars does not have any type of negative effect on the canine sincethe duration of the high pitched ultrasonic sound is controlled. Several brand names of ultrasonic bark collarshave a favorable tone function that functions asa favorable reinforcement when the canine stopsbarking.
3. CITRONELLA SPRAY BARK COLLARS
The citronella spray bark collars work by squirting out citronella unto thedog's snout whenever the dog startsbarking. The citronella spray frequently go for the pet dog's sense for quick outcomes. The citronella spray barkcollar are created to make the pet dog link the smell of citronella with barking, so the dog will find out this here stopbarking because he does not desire smell thecitronella that is often launched as a consequence forbarking. This is typically reliable due to the fact that the aroma of citronella is extremely displeasing to pets howeverit is also absolutely harmless. Citronella is typically utilized as an insect repellentby humans however it does not bother human beings.
When the dog begins barking, themicrophone will notice the barking and the citronella spray bark collarwill launch the harmless citronella aroma. It does notrequire any human intervention to function and it has no unfavorable effects on the health of the pet dog, instead it has a relaxing impact on the pet. It also click over here now make the mostof dogs severe hatred of natural services. The quantity of citronella released ought to just suffice to stop the dog from barking.
The only disadvantages of using the citronella spray bark collars isthat the scent of the citronella may adhereto the pet's body for numerous minutes or hours insome events.


独立写作: Children can benefit from an important way of taking care of pet animals. Do you agree or disagree?
2.用于食物储藏（for food storage）
3.用于领导人居住（for leaders to live）
2. 发现壁炉（fire place）,庄稼会容易着火（catch fire）
Children can benefit from an important way of taking care of pet animals. Do you agree or disagree?
1. 宠物在家里会给予孩子安全感。（They are always loving and their mere presence at home can help provide a sense of security in children.）举例论证：由于父母工作，不能常常陪伴孩子，宠物可以缓解孩子的焦虑。（Having an ever-present pet can help ease separation anxiety in children when parents aren’t around.）
2. 宠物会帮助孩子与别人建立良好的关系。（Kids who are emotionally attached to their pet are better able to build relationships with other people.）举例论证：孩子会愿意和他们的朋友分享玩具，对别人会更有爱心，性格会更加开朗。（Children will be willing to share toys with their friends, and be more loving. They also have the cheerful personality.）
3. 宠物会让孩子爱上运动。（Children are in favor of doing exercise.）举例论证：如果家里养了一只宠物狗，孩子会愿意带它们到户外活动，这对孩子和宠物的健康都非常有好处。（Studies have shown that dog owners are far more likely to meet their daily exercise requirements—and exercising every day is great for the animal as well. It will deepen the connection between children, eradicate most behavior problems in dogs, and keep pet fit and healthy.）
1. 孩子的抵抗力还比较弱，养宠物有可能会传染疾病。（Children’s resistance is weak, taking care of pets is likely to spread the disease.）
2. 宠物可能会伤害到年龄比较小的孩子。（Pets would hurt kids.）
1. Improving schools is the most important factor for the successful development of a country.
2. Some people say that we should use clean energy to protect the environment, but others say that we should use traditional energy sources such as coal and oil because they are less expensive. What is your opinion?
成都朗阁 课程咨询，欢迎拨打免费热线： 400-028-4300


ALL WE DID TODAY WAS PARTY ,DRINK SODA ,AND EAT SWEETS !!! I GAVE MY SELF A MUSTACHE AND BEARD MADE OF SHAVING CREAM ,DRANK 5 CUPS OF SODA ,SPILL COKE ON MY FACE ,SLIPPED ON THE FLOOR A FEW TIMES ,ATE 2 DOUGHNUTS ,1 BROWNIE ,AND A CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE AND I GOT OUT OF SCHOOL AT 10:30 ! 0 0 U
And Mittens our cat is expecting now Too
I know you don’t know who Cami is. She’s one of my new dogs. Not a puppy, she’s grown. At first she was super bad. She chewed up the wiring in my uncle’s car. She didn’t have a collar. So we got a collar and a leash. Then we took her for a walk every day. Now she’s a good girl. And now we don’t walk her any more.
Enjoy more photos


Forest Hills Pet Care
About the Blogger
Friday, October 23, 2015
Do More With Your Dog
Do More With Your Dog is the brainchild of Kyra Sundance. Kyra is a dog trainer and dog lover, and she has assembled all sorts of ...
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
I recently heard a spot on the radio about Utah's Living Planet Aquarium --specifically, about the Gentoo penguins housed there. A re...
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Lost Pets and Pet Amber Alert
hollowcrown_ / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND I recently saw a printed fax for a kitty that came from a service called Pet Amber Alert . &...
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Take a look at this Huffington Post compilation of "cats who have mastered the art of collecting some TLC." It will melt yo...
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Diet and Exercise--for your pet, too!
Today reported on this dachshund that lost 80% of his body weight with the help of a loving owner--simply through diet and ...
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
A good friend of mine recently got an adorable new kitten. It is sweet and playful in the way that only kittens are. The other night I was...
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
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I read an article that cats don’t understand death the way humans do, so they don’t fear it like we do… I think they understand better than we do, and therefore don’t fear it like we do.
Some kind of tragic loss happens somewhere between kitten and cat, between child and adult, between innocence and ego.
Cats are adorable violations of the laws of physics.
Cats are sleeping art.
She named the kitten Rose — fur soft as a petal, claws sharper than thorns.


My dogs anal glands
My dog is not a year old yet. Speak with your veterinarian about elimination diets or the creation of a balanced and appropriate diet that may address any possible food sensitivities and improve poor stool consistency. Dogster HQ. We have 2 indoor and 2 outdoor cats. I recently took my jrt to the vet for frequent butt scooting.
Dina. Age: 21. Please visit my website for 5 galleries of real and recent photos!
Let’s Talk Dog Anal Glands — Common Issues and How They’re Treated
Anal gland impaction in dogs: treatment & prevention
The anal glands, technically called anal sacs , are two small pouches of tissue located just under the surface of the skin on either side of a dog's anus. Thanks for the in-depth directions! But at least you'll be able to detect and identify any issues quickly and hopefully save your dog from the pain and discomfort of anal gland problems. If the expressed fluid is thick, chunky or colored green, yellow or gray, this is abnormal and could indicate an infection or other problem. An improper expression can be very uncomfortable for your dog. Anyone else go this route, and what do you think about the idea? November 28, pm.
Zarina. Age: 30. Gentlemen, Let me start off by saying your pleasure and relaxation is my top priority. I cater to gentlemen that love to indulge in adventures and naughty fantasies!
Dog Anal Glands: The DIY Solution To Stinky Problems
Impaction results from blockage of the duct leading from the gland to the opening, with the gland usually becoming non-painful but swollen. In severe or recurrent cases, adding low-dose oral steroids may speed recovery and reduce inflammation. July 8, am. Changing your dog food brand can make a huge difference, as well as giving him daily supplements that help with digestive health. Dogs normally express their anal sacs when walking or during normal defecation.
He puts all his knowledge into free recipes, blogs and organic products to help share his approach to canine health. My dog is a Shih poo. DNM Partners. Dog Anal glands … a very stinky problem with an easy and cost-effective solution. His stool seems fine to me, but he has to have these expressed about every month or so.


Find A Pet Insurance Deal That You Can Trust
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During the year, the dogs rest for about 4 months (from mid-April to mid-August). This allows us to treat minor injuries that appear during the season.
Training starts in mid-August with ATVs that have no engines as well as good brakes and tires. Short 2 km rides per day allow the dogs to get slowly back into shape. In the fall, we start to train the dogs to calm them before the season starts. When they see us take their harnesses out of the camp, they all want to come at the same time... me, me, me, don’t forget me!!!
We gradually increase the distance each day. Usually, when there is snow and it is time to take out the sleds, the dogs can already cover a distance of 600 to 1000 km, depending on the fall weather. In the spring, the dogs can run a distance of at least 2500 km.
During the winter, the dogs’ diet is different from the one in the summer. A high-protein, high-fat diet with supplements is essential and as important as the dogs’ training in the fall. Every musher believes in their miracle recipes... I've created my own recipe and I can see that my dogs are stronger than before during long rides. Just as us, dogs must eat many times a day!!! And they must drink a lot of water.
The greatest secret to effective dog sledding is to love, respect and trust your dogs. Dogs must know that they have ONE master only to obey. I don’t take in adult dogs that I haven’t myself trained or seen grown up. It is easier this way, because the dog knows only my way of pack living and my requirements.
Mushers are passionate people. You can’t leave a dog in the garage like a motorcycle. They are there everyday and they depend on you during the molt, fur brushing, nail cutting, deworming, ear cleaning, mud stuck in their equipment, flies in the summer, heat rounds and much more… you have to love what you do.
Dogs with balanced lifestyles are happy dogs. There are no bad dogs, just bad masters!
Come and live this passion with me.
Experience positive emotions and adventures with Sled Dog Adventures.


Living with a dog will enrich your life in ways you can only imagine. Dogs do come with their own set of needs in the living space. Whether you are buying a new home, building a new home, or simply remodeling your current home here are some ways to make it dog friendly.
Dogs love spending time outside when the weather is nice. Some dogs would never come inside if given the chance. How can you make the backyard a haven for your pooch? Start with the basics, a fenced in backyard is the best way to keep your pet safe from wandering off. Make sure the fence is tall enough and sturdy enough for the breed you have. A small decorative fence won’t keep an escape artist in.
Your dog will need somewhere to cool down when the days are too warm. If you have trees providing shade that may be enough. If you have an open, shade free yard you can put up an awning, umbrella or even a doghouse. Make sure to also provide plenty of water to keep Fido hydrated. Some dogs would also get great pleasure from having a small pool or sprinkler set up for their play. Outdoor spigots will allow easy access to fill their bowls or to hose them off after a dirty day of playing. Consider adding a dog door so your pooch has easy access to come inside when the heat is too much.
As much as dogs love being outside it is important to have your indoor space prepared for those days they will need to be inside.
Hardwood or laminate flooring is the best bet for those dogs with claws that tear everything up. Carpets are prone to tearing and staining and even the best dog can have an accident. You will want flooring that you can easily clean up.
Can you add a dog wash station to your mudroom or garage? Bathing a dog in a bathtub can be hard on your back. A special doggy shower can make this messy task a lot easier to handle.
Window screens are a must to prevent a pup from falling or jumping out of a window. If you have a dog that is determined to roam keeping your windows closed may be the best option.
When considering your layout make sure to plan for your pooch’s gear. Will you have a space for their beds and dishes? You do not want to trip over those items if they end up in the walkway.
You can make your pet friend feel more at home with these tips. Make sure you tell your dog I said hi!
Christina Thrun is the executive officer of the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association. The CVHBA is a free resource available to all homeowners building or remodeling a home. For more information please call 715-835-2526 or email firstname.lastname@example.org.


Otto is a Beaglier – that’s half Beagle and half Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Beagliers are actually an Australian-developed breed, especially created as “Companion Dogs”.
Otto is a very friendly dog, determined to remain young and quite stupid, despite hours and hours of training. He totally loves chasing kangaroos and rabbits, but also really enjoys meeting new people.
If you’d like to meet Otto, please ask our staff: he isn’t at Get Well Clinic every day, but he’d be delighted to lick you if he is around!


DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
Doggy Bathroom x Keith Haring Collection:
Where Functionality Meets Iconic Art
PHOTOGRAPHY: MOMO YANG
In a groundbreaking fusion of art and pet care, Doggy Bathroom, the trailblazing pet brand known for its innovative solutions, is thrilled to unveil its latest creation: the Doggy Bathroom x Keith Haring collection. This exclusive assortment marries Doggy Bathroom’s acclaimed products with the vibrant spirit of Keith Haring’s iconic artworks, resulting in a unique blend of utility and creativity that is set to redefine pet care aesthetics.
Doggy Bathroom has taken the concept of a dog litter box for small breeds, including those male dogs that have a penchant for leg-lifting, to a whole new level. The brand’s ingenious design integrates custom pee pads, purposefully fashioned for vertical use, making it an unparalleled choice for pet owners seeking both convenience and innovation.
The journey of Doggy Bathroom began in 2019 when Alain Courchesne, an award-winning interior designer, founded the brand. Alain’s inspiration stemmed from personal experience when he adopted Sterling, his Italian Greyhound. Sterling’s reluctance to brave the frosty Canadian winters for his ‘business’ needs led Alain to devise a stylish and functional indoor alternative - thus, the Doggy Bathroom was born.
Available exclusively on DoggyBathroom.com, this limited edition collection invites pet owners to embrace a new paradigm in


Angel, our other Dog (a.k.a. the drama queen) she's part German Shephard and part Labrador Retreiver
Finding a Suitable Mate
The first thing about breeding is you have to find a suitable mate.
Angel was already a mixed breed, being part german shephard and part lab. And believe it or not, some of the muts truely have the best personality.
We knew of a sweet Rhodesian Ridgeback that didn't live too far from us - that Angel kind of liked. His name is Harry (Yeah another Harry!). He was about the same size and weight as our Angel, and decided he was a good choice.
Anyway, Angel and Harry already knew each other, but they needed time to be alone. I left her overnight for a few days. The first time we tried it we took her over in the first few days of her heat. A bitch's heat will come twice a year and last about 14 days.
This actually didn't work. Six months later, we tried it again. This time, we waited until about day 11. We left her there again and we thought it worked. The next thing we knew,
Angel was getting morning sickness. We could tell when she didn't feel good because she'd lay on her back. We thought she was pregnant. I was going to go out and get her an early pregnancy test (works on humans why not dogs?) but I couldn't figure out how to get her to go on the strip. Anyway, we decided to wait. Angel started drinking a lot of water and began to fill out and her nipples (is there a technical term for that?) got larger.
She was also warm to the touch. The standard gestation period of a canine is 63 days. Please click on the link below for a really cool canine pregnancy calculator:
I had plugged Angel's date of whelping into the canine pregnancy calcular above
and knew approximately when she was due.
Ethan and I decided to make her a whelping box as the date grew close.
We just took a big open box,
cut place for Angel to step into, and put newspapers on the bottom. Not that the newspaper lasted very long, but that's what the internet
said to do. She couldn't have timed the birth any better. She waited for the weekend when Ethan was off school and we weren't so busy
at the farm. It was a Saturday and Angel laid on her back on the couch all day. She was also cool to the touch. She
is an inside dog so we decided the whole family was going to sleep in the kitchen with her just in case
she had her puppies. About a stroke after midnight, she woke is all up. She was going around in her box
in circles. The next thing you know a puppy popped out. She instinctively knew what to do. This is kind of gross but there was actually no mess at all for us.
She cleaned up after the whole birth.
We moved the just birthed puppy out of the big box and into the little warm
box (we had a clean towel in the bottom of that one) to make room for Angel to have another puppy. She ended up with nine puppies all together.
Six were black, 2 were brown, and one actually looked like a Rottie as in a Rottweiler. Four had ridges after Harry the Rhodesian Ridgeback = dad , 5 did not. We named them
leftie, my puppy, buddy, shaggy, rottie, dark brownie, light brownie, puppa bear, and nobody. Some were born as few as 5 minutes apart and the most was
50 minutes. Did you know that the first puppy looks most like the mom and the last puppy looks most like the dad?? That theory held true.
Please keep in mind that inbetween puppy births, you do need to let them feed with the mom. When they are first born they need to eat at least every 2 hours.
After everyone was born, we just left all the puppies in with the mom. You'd think she'd lay on them or something, but they all survived.


Garak von Heksterhorst owned by Leslie Greenson
One thing I often forget, and I'm sure others too, is that our dogs need rest. Sometimes we get so excited about the progress our dog is making that we forget to stop and give them a break. Then, next thing you know, you are set back because your dog is injured or physically burned out.
After a strenuous training or exercise session, think about whether your dog may be sore from their efforts. If you think yes, they worked very hard, give them time to rest and recover. The Extreme Canine help keep the inflammation and discomfort at bay and help them recover quickly. The body, however, needs time to heal. So always keep in mind, give them appropriate rest, because they will go until they cannot go anymore. That's their heart and drive pushing them! When you have a dog that puts self preservation second to their work, we, as their handlers, have to be their voice of reason and good sense.


We would like to congratulate Laura Wang on winning this year's Sandy Paws drawing. Laura and her husband both work as surgical technologists in the Portland area and recently purchased a home in Vancouver. Laura enjoys skiing, painting and photography in her spare time, so we are sure to get a fantastic picture for the label.
The dog that will grace the label is a black German Shepherd named Taka, which means "noble" in Japanese. She is 11 months old and dwarfs over all the dogs at the dog park. Taka lives up to her "noble" name and enjoys to play Frisbee and swim. As a puppy Taka somewhat resembled a black lab leading Laura's husband to question if they had actually purchased a German Shepherd--then the ears popped up and all doubt disappeared.
Thank you to everyone who entered the drawing. We raised over $2,000 for the McMinnville Education Foundation.