Animal Talk - July 2019

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Your guide to responsible pet ownership

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ED’SNOTE
your guide to responsible pet ownership
OUR EXPERTS
KATHERINE BROWN
I am a dog and cat behaviour consultant, with
We want you to share
an honours degree in psychology (UJ, 2008)
and five qualifications from Ethology Academy
your memories from
(2009). I am pursuing an ADip in Canine
Behaviour Management (PetSense College). over the past 25
I am a member of the ABC of SA.
years with us for our
SAMANTHA WALPOLE anniversary edition.
I am an accredited behaviourist, Vice Chair of the
Animal Behaviour Consultants of South Africa
and practising member of SABCAP and the Pet
Professional Guild. I own my own behaviour
business, Be The Dog.
Excitement overload
DR DORIANNE ELLIOTT
I qualified as a veterinarian from the Onderstepoort
Faculty of Veterinary Science in 2002. I began
working in the Bird and Exotic Animal Hospital
directly after qualifying and am now
the head veterinarian. We recently decided to add two new On another exciting note, we will be
kittens to our family of two children celebrating Animaltalk’s 25th edition
and two dogs (do you see the pattern of in October and we will be featuring
WENDY WILSON
I qualified as a Ttouch practitioner in 2009, but twos?). It wasn’t a decision taken lightly; some of our best moments over the past
decided there was so much more to learn and went
on to complete my COAPE Diploma in Companion we’ve been pondering the thought for 25 years. We want you to share your
Animal Behaviour and Training. I am one of the
founding members of COAPE SA.
a while. memories with us by emailing your
We had to decide whether we should story to animaltalk@panorama.co.za.
adopt rescue kittens or choose a specific We will choose the best stories and
VANESSA MCCLURE breed. We finally decided to go the publish it in the October edition, so best
I am a senior lecturer and internal medicine
clinician in the Companion Animal Clinical adoption route. And so our journey you email them before 31 July 2019.
Studies Department, Faculty of Veterinary
Science, Onderstepoort.
started – finding the ideal feline Back to this edition – we’re looking at
companions for our household. your frequently and not so frequently
Long story short, two kittens stole our asked questions and we asked experts
NOLEEN FOURIE
After a 13-year journalism career, which included
hearts and the adoption process began. to answer them. This edition is filled
being the editor of Animaltalk, I decided to become We had to wait a week for the house with interesting questions and answers.
more hands-on with animals and recently qualified
as a canine behaviourist. I share my home with check to be conducted – the longest Remember to send that question that
my Chihuahua Benji, Chinese Crested Jessie
and kitty Joey.
week of our lives! We were all so excited bugs you so much to animaltalk@
and adrenalin rushed through our veins panorama.co.za and we will ask experts
in anticipation – will we be the ideal to answer it as well.
Mientjie
new fur parents? But, it was all worth Mientjie Kleinhans | Editor
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OF ANIMALTALK | TWO DECADES OF MAKING A DIFFERENCE ...
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thismonth Your guide to responsible pet ownership

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FOCUS ON
07 Can my cat overdose on catnip?
48
07 Is it possible to change my dog’s name?
08 Do donkeys make good pets? How do bees

13 Why is a laser light toy bad for my pets? pollinate flowers?
ow ?
12
14 How can I stop my dog from jumping up?
REGULARS How do
04 Your letters
Reader comments
goldfish
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29 Dog breeders’ gallery
Find your ideal dog 12
40 Your free poster

ESSE
42 Crazy critters
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ANSW
Your pets in the spotlight!
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44 Kids’ pages fun facts!
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TO O
48 Wildthings
All your wild animal questions answered AAm I
65 Training
FAT?
How can I teach my dog to sleep in his own bed?
70 Animaltalk Top Dog 100 ratings and news
73 Book reviews and pet products 10 When is a dog’s

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74 Pet mall unacceptable?
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79 In the next issue MY D
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80 The adventures of Brak TIME
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2 Animaltalk | July 2019

JULY 2019 | VOLUME 25 NUMBER 07
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BREED PROFILES
What do 26 Pomeranian
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CATSLIFE
32 Do you have to keep a Burmese
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NTIAL 34 Can I alter my cat’s feeding times?
ESTIONS 37 Why should I groom my cat

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WEREDU WANT
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Plus
W AND MORE!
O !
• Can I teach my cat to join us on outings?

• Why should I sterilise my dog?
• How often should I deworm my dog?
• How strong is the mantis shrimp?
Are donkeys • Are cats good at problem-solving?
good pets? • Does the vampire bat really live on blood?
• How often should I handle my gerbil?
• Should I brush my guinea pig’s teeth?
• How much vegetables should I feed my rabbit?
N CATS BE VEGAN? | SHOULD I BRUSH MY Y • How do goldfish stay afloat in the water?
NEA PIG’S TEETH? | CAN I CHANGE MMY DOG’S
OG S • When is the best time in the morning to feed my pet?
ME? | IS SNIFFING DURING WALKS GOOD
GOO FOR OR
DOG? | HOW CAN I STOP MY DOG FROMFRO • Do I need a prescription for prescription food?
MPING UP? | CAN I ALTER MY CAT’S FEEDING
FE G • Is it dangerous for a hamster to stuff his mouth?
ES? | HOW CAN I TEACH MY DOG TO SLEEP
S
HIS OWN BED? • How many species of dinosaurs have been found around the world?

yourletters
HAVE YOUR SAY
Send your letters to:
Yes to raw The Editor, Animaltalk, Private Bag X4, Kyalami, 1684
or email: animaltalk@panorama.co.za
no dog, or animal, cooks his food – it is always Please include your name and address.
BEST raw. I also feed my dogs pellets sometimes. It We reserve the right to edit letters for space and clarity.
LETTER
is so convenient, especially if someone else has
to feed them.
Raw food: my dogs get pork trotters, chicken ICONS AS GUIDANCE
feet, ox tripe, and sometimes mince with cooked These are the icons you will see
rice or millet to which I add some raw greens throughout your Animaltalk
out of my vegetable garden. All of this food is
meant for human consumption – so it is fairly
clean. Incidentally, the moment I feed my dogs The DIY icon will help you
Slightly amused and with interest I read the pellets, great hair shedding takes place. Most of to do something yourself.
‘The raw truth’ article about what to keep in my dogs come/have come to a ripe old age. So
mind when feeding raw food in the April issue there is nothing wrong with raw food, if you
of Animaltalk magazine. consider what is in the food.
My argument has always been that in nature Margret, via email We know you know, we
just want to remind you
with this icon.
For senior citizens
I married a dog lover. The one thing that
drives me nuts is that retirement places/ Sometimes you need an
extra warning to take note
lodges/estates don’t allow pets on their of a situation.
properties. It is of great concern to me, but
luckily, we still live on our own and don’t
need anyone’s permission to keep pets. I
know an elderly couple who just moved Don’t you just love lists?
These checklists will make
from one estate to another, at great cost, life easier for you.
because the neighbours had dogs. He even
The letter of Ina Pretorius in the Animaltalk sued the neighbours for the smallest petty
issue of May 2019 refers. We share her things that the dogs did.
worry as senior citizens owning dogs as I do love this magazine and my wife buys The planning icon will help
well: wondering who will look after them, it for me whenever it appears on the shop’s you when you need to
plan ahead.
and that they may outlive us. And I would shelves. And yes, please consider the senior
so much like to have another dog, or maybe citizens in your articles as well.
a few more, but reality doesn’t allow that. Kallie du Plessis, via email
All my life I had dogs and when I married, When you see this icon,
it is all about responsible
pet ownership
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interesting advice.
PATCHES
Crazy Critters images, and other pictures and You will notice Patches
telling you things throu ghout
videos we find interesting. Animaltalk. He is there not
only as entertainment, but
For all those readers who have requested Make sure to follow us on both Instagram to draw your attention to
what your dog might want
it, we now have an active Instagram page, and Facebook, and share your funny stories, you to know.
animaltalk_magazine. We’ll be posting some pictures and videos with other readers.

PETTALK
fun questions
DID YOU KNOW?

If your cat loses her appetite, it
might be a sign that she is in pain.
Sniff, sniff
Should I allow my dog to
sniff around when we go for
a walk in the park?
D ogs first and foremost ‘see’ the world through
their noses, exploring, investigating and learning
through olfaction. Taking a dog for a walk and not
allowing him to smell is the equivalent of taking a friend
to a movie blindfolded. It’s easy for your dog to walk
from scent to scent when off lead; if you are on a leashed
walk you will need to compromise, allowing your dog his
own ‘sniffari’, which is highly stimulating and positively
impacts well-being.
Samantha Walpole, behaviourist
tely
d e libera Asian
een me
e s have b ters of so stop the
i a
Gupp in the w tempt to like to
se d n at pies ng
FAST FACTS relea tries in a aria. Gup e, reduci
REQUIRED HEALTH CHECKS coun d of mal ito larva ria-
u
FOR SENIOR PETS sprea on mosq r of mala .
h be ies
munc the num ing mozz
1 Senior pets require a full
physical exam every six
months.
sprea
d
2 They should be monitored for

weight changes.
3 The vet should discuss age-

related diet changes.
4 Chest and abdominal x-rays,

an electrocardiogram and
a blood pressure measurement
(especially with cats) should be
done yearly along with full blood
work so that age-related diseases
like kidney and heart disease Ideal treat sizes
and arthritis can be identified
early and treatment can be
How big should the treats be that
implemented. I use when training my dog?
5 Dental cleaning as needed
should also be performed at
each visit.
P ea-sized soft treats are ideal for most dogs. You
can make them slightly bigger for large dogs
and smaller for little dogs. Smaller sized treats mean
6 Vaccinations should still
continue as normal. you can reward your dog more often during a training
7 Regular deworming and tick session without overfeeding him. Treats should be
and flea control programmes small enough for the dog to chew and swallow quickly.
should be maintained.

Are whiskers hair?
A cat’s whiskers are much harder
than the rest of her coat. Are
whiskers made of hair?
Y ou’ll be forgiven for thinking that whiskers are hair and part of
a cat’s coat, but this is not true. Whiskers are not hair and are
embedded deeper in the cat’s body than her coat. There is a follicle loaded
with nerves at the root of the whisker, and this connects the whiskers to
the muscular and nervous system. These sensors send information about
the cat’s surroundings to her nervous system, which help her to navigate
her way around.
Small animal veterinarian
Catnip overdose
My cat goes completely crazy over catnip, which is really funny to
watch, but is it dangerous?
C ats are unique in their reaction to catnip, and the response can be very dramatic in some
cats – rolling, licking, rubbing, drooling, jumping, running and growling. Other cats appear
to become very sedate after exposure. And then there are the few (up to 30% of the cat population)
who don’t respond at all to catnip. In any case, for all of the (sometimes entertaining) behaviours
seen, catnip is completely non-toxic to cats.
If a large quantity of fresh catnip is consumed, you may see some vomiting or diarrhoea, but this is rare
and self-limiting. If your cat experiences this, limit or withhold the catnip.
Time-consuming
New name I’m thinking of getting a parrot, but are
Can I change my adopted dog’s name to something easier they time-consuming pets?
M
for us to remember? Will it confuse the dog if we do? uch time needs to be spent on a
I t is possible to change a dog’s name and can be done,

especially if the name is long, sounds like a cue such as sit, or
similar to another family member’s name. Ideally, a name should
parrot. Apart from cleaning his
cage and feeding him, a parrot needs
a lot of love, attention and training.
be two syllables, easy to pronounce and not embarrassing when A parrot never ‘grows up’ to look
you call your dog in public. after himself and will never be
To change your new dog’s name is quite easy. Start by carrying independent. He needs a lot of
treats with you. Wait until the dog is relatively close to you, then attention and if
call out the new name in a happy, excited tone of voice. As soon you are single
as your dog looks at you, immediately give him a treat. Do this and spend much time
often the first few days. He will quickly learn that the word means away from home, then a
something good and he will respond when you call his new name. parrot may not be
You can gradually reduce the frequency of treats, but always for you.
praise him when he looks at or comes to you when you call him. Small animal veterinarian

PETTALK
fun questions
Keep active
Why should I keep my pet active?
J oints that don’t move become stiff and painful

and the muscles around them become weak.
Bones also get weaker when not exercised, as
they need gentle loading for maintained density
Grooming is
and strength. Regular exercise helps to prevent
obesity, which is a risk factor of osteoarthritis, so
relaxing
inevitably you are delaying if not avoiding the onset How can grooming my pet be
of osteoarthritis by keeping your dog active and therapeutic?
healthy. It is also a very good form of stimulation
and helps to burn off energy which may otherwise
cause them to become destructive or depressed at
R esearch has revealed that caring for
a pet can be therapeutic for owners.
Just stroking or rubbing a pet can help to
home. I also believe that this is as important for pet lower stress levels, calm you and prevent
owners to get outside and decompress from the depression. Regular grooming means that
demands of everyday life. A good way to exercise you’ll be ‘up close and personal’ with your
without stress on your joints is swimming, which is pet and able to keep an eye out for unwanted
also cardio intensive and can assist in kick-starting parasites. You will need to find out exactly how
your metabolism. much grooming your cat or dog needs, based
Katherine Brown, behaviourist on his coat type and length.
Make time for attention

I’m very busy and don’t have much
time to spend with my dog. How can
A pet
I make more time for him? donkey?
T here are various ways to make time for your
dog and to make the minutes count:
Do donkeys make
• A five-minute sniffing walk. good pets?
• Two minutes of playing during an
advertisement break.
• Training while you’re making dinner.
D onkeys are long-lived
animals, so the decision to
get one as a pet shouldn’t be taken
• Sitting in the garden instead of scrolling through without careful consideration.
pointless rants on social media. They are very social, with a
Hours of fun with your dog are for weekends – dog-like temperament, and don’t
minutes make all the difference during the week. enjoy being on their own. A donkey
Also, you don’t have to do everything advised here will enjoy the companionship of
at once. Start with one thing and once it’s an easy his human caregiver and other
habit, add something else. Go at your own pace. animals, including goats, sheep
Katherine Brown, behaviourist and other donkeys.

PETTALK
fun questions
DID YOU KNOW?

Tiny puppies sleep around
20 to 22 hours a day.
Car safety Even in w

in
still need ter, your pet
s fresh w
We don’t drive often, but how can I drink eve ater to
ry day.
ensure that my pet is safe in the car
while driving?
P ets must be properly restrained in a

vehicle. In the event of an accident, your
unharnessed pet will likely be thrown from the FAST FACTS
car, and could suffer serious or fatal injuries. YOUR DOG IS DEHYDRATED
Use a pet travel crate or a seat belt harness WHEN HE SHOWS THESE
designed for the size and weight of your dog. SYMPTOMS:
Cats should be secured in a cat carrier. The • Pale, dry and sticky gums
carrier can be placed behind the front seats • Loose skin with poor elasticity
• Dry nose
or secured on the seat with a crate harness
• Dry mouth
connected to the seatbelt. Small pets can be • Sunken eyeballs that appear dry
transported in a travel carrier placed behind • Increased heart rate
the front seats. • Lethargy
Small animal veterinarian • Constipation
If you think that your pet might be
dehydrated, offer him some water, but be
careful that he doesn’t gulp it down. Take
him to the vet immediately.
Important
rules
Big enough bowl

How do I know if my
cat’s food bowl is big
enough for her?
D on’t only consider the size of
your cat’s mouth when you
buy a new food dish, think of her
whiskers too. Your cat’s whiskers are
extremely sensitive and if there is not Are rules really important when raising a puppy?
enough space for her whiskers to fit
into the bowl as well, she might avoid
using the bowl. One sign that the bowl
Y ou may be in love with your new puppy, but you will need to set some boundaries
to ensure your dog grows up to be the companion you want. If you don’t want your
Saint Bernard to sleep on your bed, don’t put him there as a puppy. Consider the house
is too small is when your cat uses her rules you want to enforce, then start (and stick) with them while your dog is still a puppy.
paw to get the food out of the bowl. Obey the rules set by others, like keeping your dog on lead in a public park if required, or
Small animal veterinarian not walking on a beach with your dog if they aren’t allowed there.

PETTALK A happy dog is ...
behaviour
DID YOU KNOW?

Gerbils live on average
between two and four years. ... loved.
Handling
gerbil
How often should I
handle my gerbil?
G erbils are social
animals, so they should
be handled daily. Wash your
hands before picking up your
gerbil to prevent spreading
germs. Don’t pick him up by his
tail, and support the underside
of his body with one hand.
Laura McKeen
Resource guarding
When is a dog’s resource guarding unacceptable?
R esource guarding is a natural behaviour
and is necessary for survival in any
species, including humans. If we didn’t guard
Fido, that is not acceptable. A situation like this,
for example, could be managed and prevented
by separating the dogs when they are eating,
our resources, we wouldn’t survive. Dogs may picking up the food bowls when they have
resource guard their food, food bowls, bones, finished, putting the bowls away and only then
toys, beds, furniture and even people. None of allowing the dogs to be together.
these are unusual. That said, resource guarding Resource guarding can usually be prevented,
can escalate, become extreme and dangerous, addressed and managed. I would recommend
and it can result in harm to another animal or contacting the Animal Behaviour Consultants
person. It then becomes unacceptable and the of SA for a referral to a qualified behaviourist if
reason it is happening needs to be looked at, you are unsure about this and for more specific
addressed and managed. Resource guarding is advice for your situation.
very stressful for the dog. Alyson Kingsley-Hall, behaviourist
If Rover is happily enjoying his evening meal
and Fido comes along and tries to take it, Rover
will probably growl or snap at Fido. Rover
has every right to do this. He is protecting his
resource, his food – acceptable behaviour.
However, if Rover viscously attacks and injures

First kitten
introduction
What is the best way to
introduce my children
to the new kitten?
W hen introducing children to
your kitten, ask the children
to sit quietly and offer the kitten
tasty treats when she comes near
them. They must be told not to grab
at or hold her. This could result in
the child receiving a nasty scratch
and the kitten having a lifelong fear
of children. Children should never be
allowed to chase the kitten. However,
children and kittens generally get on
well together and form strong bonds.
Wendy Wilson, behaviourist
Garden digging
Why do some dogs dig holes?
M any dogs love to dig for various reasons. Some do it to find
a cool spot to lie in; others are digging to unearth prey like
moles, for example; others may just dig for fun. If they are digging
as a predatory behaviour, the only way to stop that would be to
get rid of the prey. If you feel your dog is digging for a cool place
to sleep, you can provide a bed in a shady spot or maybe a paddle
pool (Labradors usually love water). If your dog is digging just for
fun, there are a few things you can try. Providing the dog with a
dedicated digging area could help if you have the space. You can
encourage him to dig in a specific area by hiding treats only in
that area. This will also involve a bit of management on your part,
as you will need to keep a close eye on the dog, and if he starts
digging in another area, you will have to distract him. This will
hopefully allow him to learn where he can and cannot dig.
You can also give him toys to play with. Toys filled with food
work well. Freezing tinned food inside a Kong can keep him busy
for a long time. You can also take an empty 2ℓ plastic bottle and
cut holes in it, and then fill it with regular dog pellets so the dog
has to roll it to get the treats out. Just remember to factor the
food you give as treats into the daily food requirement so that you
do not overfeed your pet.
Dr Vanessa McClure, veterinarian

PETTALK FAST FACTS
behaviour
CHEWING RELIEVES TENSION
Look for a chew that your dog can enjoy safely when you’re
not home – stuffable toys such as Kongs are a good option.
Otherwise, provide chews when you’re home to supervise.
Oh so jealous!
My two dogs get jealous of each other when I spend time
Calming my pet with one of them playing or training. What can I do about it?
How can I calm my pet down
when I have to go to work? W ithout knowing the specifics of what
‘jealous’ behaviour is being displayed,
food could work well. Keep this item only for this
occasion, take it away when you have finished
A dog’s nose is a magical thing, and it

needs to be worked. Sprinkle lavender
and chamomile around the garden for a
here are a few general suggestions that may
help. If there is someone else available when you
are spending time with one dog, have that person
playing with or training the other dog, and don’t
give it to the dog at any other time. By doing this,
your dog will form a positive and pleasurable
calming effect, or hide some treats for your take the other dog for a walk for around the same association with you spending time with your
dog to search for. This is a great activity to length of time you will need with the other dog. other dog and the item you use will become very
leave for your dog to do as you’re going out. If that isn’t possible, provide the dog with valuable. Another option would be to look at safe
Katherine Brown, behaviourist something really special to chew on or play with. ways to play with the dogs together.
An interactive-type toy that can be stuffed with Alyson Kingsley-Hall, behaviourist

A content cat is ... PETTALK
behaviour
... well entertained.
Inappropriate toy
Why is a laser light toy
bad for my pets?
L aser lights can cause significant distress
to both dogs and cats, to the extent that
some animals develop severe compulsive
disorders. They may stare at walls or floors,
or chase reflections and shadows. In some
animals, this behaviour reaches the point
that normal functioning is inhibited, and their
Upstairs
attention cannot be redirected. Extensive
behaviour modification and sometimes
psychotropic medications are required to treat
the behaviour. This is because dogs and cats
are ‘chasing’ animals – they are stimulated by
What is the best way to teach my Dachshund puppy to go up rapid movement to chase. And this is exactly
or down the stairs? why it seems like a fun game!

But the confusion and frustration that result
F irstly, I would advise that you chat to your

vet about your puppy’s safety on stairs while
his little body is still growing, as the Dachshund is
As soon as pup looks happy climbing up one
step, you can move on to the next one. The most
important thing is that you never force your pup –
from never being able to ‘catch’ the light is the
big issue here. The chase is never satisfyingly
fulfilled. While it may seem that the animal is
prone to developing back problems. resist the urge to pick him up and put him on the enjoying themselves, and initially this may be
Grab some yummy treats for your pup. Start next step. Respect the fact that the stairs appear the case depending on the individual, they’re
at the bottom step, going up – many pups find very high for him and might be really scary! not. In some cases, just being exposed to
climbing down the stairs a bit more intimidating Picking him up will not ‘show him that it’s not so a laser light once is sufficient to cause an
and we want to make it as easy as possible for bad’ but rather increase his fear. intense compulsive reaction, so it’s best to
him. Show him the treat, and then simply place The same technique applies when teaching him avoid ever using one to play with an animal. If
it on the first step. It’s okay if pup can reach the to go down the steps, although it might take a little you already do, throw it away! Throwing toys
treat without jumping up the stair – we are taking longer (going down the steps can be more daunting for dogs and teaser toys for cats are the best
this slowly. Start to gradually move the treat than going up). Keep your training sessions short options for fulfilling the need to chase safely –
further away, until the pup has to jump up the step and light-hearted, and be very patient with pup. and make sure they get to catch and keep the
to get to it. Praise your pup enthusiastically every Allow him to progress at his own pace, and before toy during the game to prevent frustration!
time he takes the treat. Now take a break and do long the stairs won’t be an issue anymore. Katherine Brown, behaviourist
the same thing again later. Noleen Fourie, behaviourist

A happy dog is ...
... loved.
Stop the begging

Why do dogs beg and how can I stop my furball
from begging?
D ogs learn to beg because they get fed titbits. If they never got the treat they wouldn’t carry on
begging. The ideal is to start off your puppy as you mean to go on. If he begs at the table, when
you’re having coffee or whenever, NEVER EVER give him something you are eating.
But most of us can’t resist it when he is a cute cuddly puppy. So now we need to teach him a new
behaviour because you can never ‘unlearn’ something, you have to teach something else to replace it.
There are two ways to stop the begging:
1. No one is to EVER give him a titbit again. But beware of the extinction burst when he can’t
understand why what he previously did is no longer working. This causes him to try harder to get your
attention to give him the morsel. Don’t give in to this. If you do then he has learnt the behaviour still
works, he just needs to try harder.
2. Physically keep him out of the room while the family is eating. It is a good plan to give him
something to keep him busy, so that he doesn’t whine or bark – something like a stuffed Kong will keep
him busy.
Jumping up
What can I do about my dog who
always jumps up when he sees me?
T he first thing to remember is that jumping up is a natural greeting
behaviour in dogs, so you need to teach him another way of
greeting you and your visitors. The best is to teach Fido an alternative
behaviour, something that he can’t do at the same time as jumping up – a
‘sit’ is a good example as he can’t jump up and sit at the same time.
First you need to teach Fido to ‘sit’. When he is really good with the
exercise, ask a friend to come over, but explain to her what you are trying
to achieve. This way she won’t mistakenly pet Fido if he jumps up. Put
Fido on lead so that you can control him and ask your friend to knock on
the door. At the same time take Fido a little bit away from the door and
ask him to ‘sit’. Have a pocket full of treats and reward him for sitting
down. As your friend comes in, reward Fido continually for staying seated.
Take him to greet your friend still on lead and reward him for being calm.
You can also just ignore the jumping up and, because dogs only do what
works for them in order to get attention, he should eventually stop. But it is
much kinder to teach Fido what you want him to do than just teaching him
what you don’t want.

e
m ust b ed
n
Pets restrai
erly le.
prop a vehic 9 for
Holiday planning
in e
pag . We’re planning a holiday at the end of the year, but
to y our dog will still be a puppy then. What should I
Turn ar safet keep in mind?
c
S o you have found pet-friendly accommodation
and are taking your puppy on holiday with you,
which is fantastic, but there are some things you need
to keep in mind:
• Make sure all his inoculations are up to date and that
he is being treated with an effective tick and flea control
product. If you are going to a public place like a beach, he
needs all three of his puppy vaccinations before he is safe
in a public area.
• He needs to have identification on his collar/harness and
also a microchip with your cellphone number linked to it.
• If you are driving make sure he is safe. It is very unsafe
for the driver, and the puppy, if he is free in the car. The
best idea is to get him used to a dog crate before you leave
so that he can travel in his crate. He will also feel much
safer in his ‘den’.
• You need to plan to take breaks about every two hours
for water, a snack and toileting. Make sure he is on lead at
all times. Big trucks can frighten pups and you don’t want
him taking fright and running off.
Separation related distress

My dog suffers from separation related distress. What can I do?
M any dogs become anxious when their owners leave home because their owners are their ‘safe place’
and the world can be a scary place when you’re alone.
You need to start to get your dog used to the idea that you are going out, but you are most importantly,
coming back. Start with putting up some sort of visible signal, like a set of windchimes or a brightly
coloured vase. The trick is that when the signal is up you don’t interact with Fido. Start putting the
signal up for one minute, no interaction, take the signal down and make a fuss of Fido. Slowly
lengthen the time the signal is up to five minutes and then 10 minutes. You should still be in the
same room just doing something else like reading, but not interacting with him. Once he is fine
if you don’t interact with him for over 10 minutes put up the signal and go to another room.
Ideally he should not follow you but if he does that’s in order, just ignore him. Come
back, take the signal down and make a big fuss of him.
Once you can go to another room for 10 minutes with the signal up and without Fido
coming to find you then start putting the signal up and leaving the house. Start with
short periods away and slowly lengthen the time away.
Why does this work? It works because you have reinforced over and over to
Fido that if the signal is up you are going to go away BUT you are always going to
come back – so there is no need for him to be anxious.
You also want to give Fido something to keep him busy while you’re away – like a
stuffed Kong or a flavoured ice brick. Be mindful not to only give him
these treats when you are going out because that can
become a signal for him that you are going, so give
him them when you are at home for the day as well.

19 22
For more on the various WHY SHOULD I WHY DO DOGS BARK?
breeds of dogs available in STERILISE MY DOG?
South Africa, visit
www.animaltalk.co.za, 20 23
consult SA’s Dog Directory HOW IS IT POSSIBLE TO WHY DOES MY DOG
or visit www.coolmags.com OVERFEED YOUR DOG? KEEP LICKING HIS PAWS?
dogtalk I’m the happiest when

I’m with my owner and
the more he knows
Dogs are man’s best friend about me, the better
and every responsible he looks after me.
pet owner wants the best
for his dog. These pages
include information that
will assist you in choosing
an ideal breed for your
family, and raising a dog
who is healthy, nutritionally
balanced, well behaved,
and overall a happy dog.
WHAT DO YOU NEED

TO KNOW?
Sometimes we don’t even know that we’re lacking
knowledge of certain aspects about our dogs. So
turn the page and see if there is something new
Photo: Adamdo
that you can learn today.
SA Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind breeds and trains dogs to be assistants to humans.
For more info visit www.guidedog.org.za or phone 011 705 3512.

Eating soil
Is there a reason why my dog suddenly eats soil?
T here are several possible reasons why your dog would suddenly start to eat soil. One is that it is due to a
!
deficiency of a mineral substance in his diet. Any diet that is labelled as a complete dog food should contain all
the nutrients required by a dog.
d to
goo
Another possibility is that although his diet is not lacking any nutrients, your dog has a problem with his
py, metabolism that is preventing absorption, preventing the use or increasing the loss of these minerals. Although not
bree d pup n
iant whe an emergency I would suggest that he is taken to your veterinarian. Some useful parameters to find out before you
la rge or g screening eek go are the amount that he drinks – has it changed at all (increased or decreased)? Is his appetite normal? And also
a y w
have t laxit ’s 12-
If you a hip join your puppy tected,
any other changes in behaviour. Note these and take the info along to your vet.
ule r de s
sched e the vet fo ip laxity is physiodesi
u se If h sy m ve nt
yo in a t ion. le pubic he lp pre
vacc ve juveni edure to can be
ntati proc sia) e
preve (a simple hip dyspla l before th
r y to e l
surge es related heduled w eks.
issu ed and sc at 16 we
der iod
consi cut-off per
Stay with me
What is separation anxiety?
FAST FACTS
SIGNS YOUR DOG MAY HAVE WORMS
• Scooting
S eparation anxiety is a condition in which a dog
exhibits excessive anxiety when left on his
own. Possible signs include your dog digging holes
• Biting or licking around the anal area
in the garden, chewing objects that are not his toys,
• Diarrhoea with/without blood
• Faeces covered in mucus continuous barking and other destructive
• Weight loss behaviour. If you find your dog is being
• Dull coat destructive and you don’t know how to deal
• Unthrifty pups who don’t put on weight with the situation, then it is best to call in a
• Inappetence/extreme hunger qualified canine behaviourist, who should be
• Weakness and lethargy able to teach you how to teach your dog to cope
• Vomiting (sometimes worms can be seen)
when left on his own in a safe manner. If you
• Coughing
• Pneumonia work all day and don’t have someone at home
• Itchy skin rashes to help you with your dog, you might like to look
If you suspect that your dog has worms, speak to at putting your dog into a daycare facility while
your vet for the best possible treatment. you are in the teaching phase.
Gillian Pirow, behaviourist

DOGTALK
q&a
Ash in food
What’s the deal with ash in my dog’s food?
A sh is a commonly misunderstood item on the pet food label. Ash is not an ingredient used to bulk
up the food, it is a measurement of the food’s mineral content. When major nutrients like protein,
carbohydrates and fat are incinerated for the food’s nutritional analysis, all that remains are inorganic
minerals like calcium and phosphorus. The average ash content for dry pet food is between 5% and 8%,
and for wet food about 2.5%. In some cases, a diet with a higher than average ash content may not be
appropriate for your pet, so speak to your veterinarian if you are concerned about your pet’s current diet.
Reason for
sterilisation
Why should I sterilise my dog?
I t is better to have your pets sterilised to avoid
unwanted pregnancies, especially if you are
not a registered breeder. Intact males roam to find
females who have come into season, which then
increases their risk of coming into contact with other
animals who may carry parasites and/or infectious
diseases. Intact males often injure themselves trying
to get to females who are in season. If they are
roaming the streets, they may even be involved in a
car accident, which can be fatal.
Dogs and cats who have not been sterilised have
a higher risk of developing cancer as they get
older – males can get testicular or prostate cancer
and females can get mammary or ovarian tumours
or severe uterine infections, which can be fatal.
The risk of your dog developing these problems is
Deworming frequency dramatically decreased by having them sterilised at

a young age.
Routinely, dogs and cats are sterilised when
How often should I deworm my dog? they are six months old. Older animals can be
P ets must be dewormed every three to six months, or if your dogs are in regular contact with other dogs
(or their faeces), deworm every three months. A broad-spectrum dewormer which covers a number of
worms, including the deadly Spirocerca lupi, is advised. If you have a Collie-type breed, always check with
safely sterilised, but the risks involved become
greater as they get older. Many veterinary practices
recommend that a pre-anaesthetic blood test is
your vet first before administering any dewormer. Ivermectin, an active ingredient in some dewormers, must done before an older pet is put under anaesthetic to
be avoided in dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation, which is generally more common in the herding breeds. ensure that there is no underlying internal problem
Small animal veterinarian that may increase the pet’s risk.
Dr Amanda Haechler, veterinarian

DOGTALK
q&a
If dogs
ar
neuter e not spaye
ed, a f d or
her yo e
ung ca male and
years, n
produc , in just six
e as m
67,000 any as
dogs.
Overfeeding pets
How is it possible to overfeed your dog?
I t is actually quite possible to unintentionally overfeed your dog.
Here’s how:
• Free-feeding You keep your pet’s food bowl topped up all day. Animals
don’t always know when enough is enough, so if the food is there your pet will
probably eat it. Measure the amount of food required for breakfast. Don’t add
more food to the bowl until you add the measured amount for dinner.
• Food scavenging Your dog may scavenge food that may have fallen from
trees in the garden, such as nuts or fruit. They may also scavenge for food in
the neighbourhood dustbins if left to wander around.
• Stealing food If one pet in the family nicks food from another pet’s bowl,
separate them at feeding time. Some pets even steal food from a human’s plate.
If your dog is sneaky around food, put him away during family mealtimes.
• Double meals To avoid pets getting fed twice, make sure all family
members know who is responsible for feeding the pets and on which days.
• After sterilisation Sterilisation slows the metabolism and increases
appetite. Sterilisation itself does not make animals fat, but overfeeding after
sterilisation will lead to weight gain. Speak to your vet about decreasing
kilojoules after sterilisation.
Holiday essentials
What should I pack when my dog
accompanies us on a road trip?
M
•
ake sure that you have
the following:
Pet carrier
• Leash
• Food
• Treats
• First aid kit for your dog
• Roll of toilet paper
• Some plastic bags
• Your dog’s vet card
• Prescribed medication
• Water and food bowls
• Blankets and a bed
• Toys

Healthy eyes
Are there any supplements that
will nourish my pet’s eyes?
A lthough these supplements can help nourish your
pet’s eyes, you should consult with your vet to
diagnose the necessity and get advice on dosages.
• Vitamins A, C and E
• Bilberry extract
• Zinc
• Lutein
• Mixed carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin
• Astaxanthin
More affection Removing

What can I do to show my stitches
dog affection? Can I remove my dog’s
B esides the traditional ways of showing your
affection, try these:
• Be a responsible pet owner and provide your
stitches myself?
pets with the best possible care. Pets should
be kept clean and parasite free – follow a good
deworming and tick and flea regime. Also provide
your dog with a safe, warm and dry place to
sleep. Visit your vet for an annual check-up and
necessary vaccinations. Buy the best food you
can afford.
• Attend positive reinforcement training classes
with your dog so you both can learn to understand
each other.
• Learn how to touch your dog in a way he
enjoys. Some dogs don’t like being patted on the
head. If your pet doesn’t like to be touched in one
T his task should be left to your vet, as
it also gives him the opportunity to
check that the wound from the surgery is
area, he will try to move away. healing well.
• Play with your dog. Some dogs can play fetch Most veterinarians do not charge for the
for hours, others prefer squeaky toys or food- suture removal appointments, so the only
dispensing toys. A daily walk is of great benefit to requirement on the part of the pet owner is
you and your dog – take it slow and let him enjoy the time scheduled for the visit.
the new smells and the experience. Small animal veterinarian

DOGTALK FAST FACTS
q&a ANIMALS DON’T SHARE THESE
EMOTIONS WITH HUMANS:
• Guilt • Obsession
• Spite • Shame
• Hate
Dog shelter
Is it really necessary to provide shelter
for my dog outside?
D ogs are vulnerable to changes in the

weather and if they are outdoors,
even during the day while you are at work,
you need to provide a place of safety and
shelter from all types of weather.
The Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962
is national legislation. Section 2 of the
Act states that it is an offence to keep an
animal in conditions of confinement or in
a manner that causes them unnecessary
suffering or in any place that lacks
space, ventilation, light, protection or
shelter from heat, cold or weather.
How the provision of shelter is
undertaken is the key. A cosy kennel
in a draught-free area with decent
bedding and the floor of the kennel
lifted slightly above ground level would
be considered acceptable.
Christine Kuch, NSPCA
Bow wow
Removing
that tick Vocal dogs
What is the best way to Why do dogs bark?
remove a tick?
C auses can include alerting to a stranger or
threat in the dog’s territory, distress,
frustration, irritability, separation distress, anxiety,
boredom and insecurity, to name only a few. For the
owner, it is quite acceptable when a dog barks at an
intruder or at other intruding animals, but it becomes a
big problem when the dog reverts to excessive barking,
apparently for no reason, becoming an irritant to his
owner and the neighbours. However, it must be strongly
I f you can handle the gross-factor, you

can carefully remove ticks from your dog
yourself. Use a tick removal tool or simply
noted that there is ALWAYS a reason why a dog barks
excessively and it is not because the dog wants to
irritate humans or is being a naughty dog!
your thumb and index finger. Taking care not Some breeds of dog inherently have a more vocalised
to squash the tick, apply gentle pressure disposition than others; that is what they were bred for,
close to the mouthparts of the tick, which will thus the behaviour is contained in their DNA. It is essential
cause it to let go. Drop it in alcohol to make to always do research on the breed that you are interested
sure it’s dead before you dispose of it. in, as this will give you an idea of the barking behaviour
Small animal veterinarian you can expect.
Anlé Allison, behaviourist

DOGTALK
q&a
DID YOU KNOW?

A dog’s noseprint is so unique that it
can be used to identify him.
Enough
licking only occur during certain times
of the day or after a stressful situation,
water
for example a visit to the vet or grooming
parlour, behavioural modification might be
the answer. If only one paw is affected, it could
be a broken toenail, a thorn or splinter, arthritis What is the ideal amount of
affecting only that joint, or even skin cancer in water that my dog should
the case of older dogs. Keep an eye out for ear
infections, discharge from the eyes, generalised
drink in a day?
Toe nibblers hair loss all over the body or rashes on the stomach
area which could indicate allergies, fleas or
Why does my dog keep contact sensitivities. Your vet might suggest blood
tests, skin scrapings or biopsies to find the cause
licking his paws? of the problem and advise you on appropriate
I f your pet nibbles his paws excessively, it can

either be due to paw irritation or it has become
a way for your pet to deal with boredom and
treatment. Should all four paws be involved,
allergies are the most common cause. Think about
possible causes like household disinfectants,
stress. It can also be a combination of both and grass pollen – especially during certain seasonal
can become either a generalised skin problem or changes – as well as food-related allergies.
never progress beyond the toe region. Should paw- Dr Letitia Swartz
O n average, your dog should drink

about 30 to 50ml of water for every
1kg of his body weight. That means a
10kg dog should drink 300 to 500ml a day.
Some dogs will naturally drink more water,
especially if they are active, on a hot day,
or if their food is dry. If your dog is fed wet
food, and he is a couch potato, he might
drink less water. Some days he might drink
more than other days.
Another factor that might influence your
dog’s intake of water is salty food, such
as biltong, dry wors and processed meat.
Excessive salt is bad for your dog, will make
him thirsty and he will drink more water.
Depressed doggy FAST FACTS

COMMON SIGNS OF SPINAL PAIN INCLUDE:
• Trembling and panting.
Do dogs experience depression like people do? • Drinking more water than usual.
• Struggling to get up or lie down.
D epression in dogs is very similar to depression

in humans. Most of what we know about the
action of the various neurotransmitters that affect
be seen by performing a functional MRI scan or
post-mortem, are the same in humans and animals.
Of course, we cannot ask the dog how he is feeling,
• Reluctance to go up and down stairs.
• Reluctance to go on walks, sometimes unable to finish.
• Temperament changes.
depression – the most important being dopamine but nearly everything we know about the origin and • Abnormal posture.
– is due to experiments carried out on animals. progression of depression came from animal studies. • Crying or more vocal than usual.
Physical changes in a depressed brain, which can Wendy Wilson, behaviourist

THE SEVEN
DOG GROUPS
Willing
Working dogs
Do owners need to keep Working
dogs occupied?
W orking dogs are exactly that – dogs who
need a job. Working dogs were bred to guard
livestock, herd sheep, drive cattle or carry or pull
equipment in arduous conditions. While many of these
large, powerful breeds are still used in their working
capacity today, they are equally suited to life as
devoted family companions. They will avidly take part
in and excel in many different types of dog sports. They
need plenty of opportunities to work off their abundant
energy levels. These dogs have great stamina and
endurance, and are intelligent and versatile.
Space for Herding dogs

Why do Herding dogs need lots of space? Cute Toys
Were Toy dogs bred for a
specific reason?
T he Toy group includes
many of the smaller
breeds. Although most group
members were originally bred
as companion dogs, some
were bred as working dogs to
control pests or as watchdogs
to alert their owners when
intruders approached. Many
breeds within the group
have an athletic, energetic
D ogs who fall into the Herding group are known for their
ability to work with livestock. They have plenty of energy
and stamina to work all day in the field. Many of the dogs in
nature. They respond
well to training and enjoy
exercise, especially walks
this group still work in their original capacities today and still to the park. Dogs in the
possess the qualities which make them outstanding in their Toy group are a good choice
field. While these traits are sought after on the farm, they may as companions for the elderly,
be difficult to deal with in a suburban setting. Herding small but their small size doesn’t
children, cyclists, other pets and possibly even nipping the necessarily make them the
heels of guests may be a challenge for pet owners. However, ideal dogs for children. Some
when mental and physical needs are channelled correctly, a Toy breeds have coats that
Herding breed can make an outstanding companion and devoted, require a high level of care, so
affectionate family friend. These are highly intelligent breeds, do your homework before you
who are easy to train and who learn new things quickly. select a breed.

A happy dog is ... DOGTALK
breed profile q&a
The Yo
rk
in the shire Terrier
Toy gr falls
... trained and entertained. in the oup,
Terrier and not
group.
Good-natured
Gundogs
If Gundogs were originally
bred to hunt, are they
aggressive dogs?
G undogs were bred to assist the hunter in
finding his quarry, but in general, dogs
in this group are mostly loyal, reliable, sporty
and relaxed. Some dogs were bred to flush out Terrier
or retrieve game, while others were bred to
track game, keep it at bay and alert the hunter
to its location. Retrievers, Spaniels, Setters and
trademarks
Pointers fall into this dog group. Gundogs make Where does the Terrier group’s
suitable companions for people from different name come from?
walks of life. They are naturally intelligent
and their easy-going nature and willingness
to please make them a popular choice for dog
T erriers were originally bred as ‘jacks of
all trades’. They were vermin catchers,
hunters, guard dogs, farm dogs and family
enthusiasts around the world. companions. Some breeds were bred to follow
their quarry underground into their holes, hence
the name ‘terrier’ from the Latin terra, meaning
‘earth’. Others were bred for their coat type which
Hardy Hounds enabled them to go deep into the underbrush, with

good outer protection. They are dogs with high
energy levels, inquisitive characters and a high
What are Hound dogs typically like? prey drive. Terriers can be headstrong and need
H ounds are mostly even-tempered, loyal, sensitive, affectionate dogs who were bred
as hunting dogs, both for sport hunting and to put food on the table. Some Hounds
have an excellent olfactory sense for tracking and others have unique body shapes that
early socialisation and training. Terriers are mostly
independent, courageous, feisty and tough.
are built for speed, which enable them to pursue and secure their prey. Scenthounds, like
the Bloodhound and Beagle, use their noses to find their quarry, while sighthounds,
Utility dogs
like the Afghan and the Whippet, use their sense of sight, speed and agility
to track and locate their targets. Hounds make
peaceable family pets who thrive on love and
companionship. Just as size and coat
types differ considerably in this group, Which dogs fall into the
temperaments differ between
members of the group and the
Utility dog category?
individual breeds.
T he Utility group is a mix of breeds who
don’t fit comfortably into one of the other
groups. It’s a broad combination of big and
small breeds and dogs with short and long
coats. While most of the group’s members are
companion dogs today, many have at some
stage of the breeds’ development been working
dogs. Exercise, grooming, living conditions and
intelligence differ according to the breed.

DOGTALK
breed profile q&a
‘Toy
‘Minia Pom’ and
ture
incorre Toy Pom’ ar
ct e
the Po names for
Pomeranians
meran
ian.
What makes
the Pomeranian
a good pet for
older people?
T he Pomeranian is ideal for older
people who spend much time indoors
and who want a small dog who they can
handle and take care of. Some senior people
enjoy grooming a longhaired breed as it is
therapeutic. As a walk in the park is good
enough for the Pomeranian, most people can
handle that level of activity, but do keep it in
mind when looking for a new dog.
FAST FACTS How would you describe the

FAMOUS PEOPLE WHO OWNED A POMERANIAN:
• Nicole Richie • Hilary Duff
Pomeranian’s personality?
• Paris Hilton
• Eva Longoria
• Kelly Osbourne
• Gwen Stefani
• Elvis Presley
• Sylvester Stallone
T he Pomeranian doesn’t realise how small he actually is. In his brave heart, he thinks he can
take on much larger dogs. But overall, this is a loving and intelligent dog who is eager to
learn, he is friendly, has a lovely temperament and is a happy-go-lucky companion. He is also very
curious and a loyal dog.
Can the
How much
grooming is Pomeranian
stay in an
required with the
Pomeranian?
Y ou’ll have to brush

this fluffy dog daily
to keep his coat free from
apartment?
mats. His stand-off double
coat is straight and harsh,
with a soft fluffy undercoat.
I f you have a small apartment and want
a lap dog, then you can consider the
Pomeranian, but make sure that you take him
His eyes and ears will need for frequent walks. A small garden where this
regular cleaning. In terms furball can play is a bonus, as he is a bouncy
of shedding, the undercoat dog full of vivacious energy. If you stay in a
sheds twice a year. complex you need to keep in mind that the
Pomeranian has a high tendency to bark.

DOGTALK
breed profile q&a
Dachshund FAST
Will the Dachshund FACTS
cope in the city? FAMOUS PEOPLE WHO
OWNED A DACHSHUND:
H e adapts well to city life, but he needs some

form of exercise on a daily basis. He is not
ideally suited to flats and townhouses as he is a noisy
• Doris Day
• David Hasselhoff
• David Bowie
dog with a loud bark. • Clint Eastwood
• Audrey Hepburn
• Elizabeth Taylor
• John F Kennedy
• Marilyn Monroe
OF
T YPE SHUND
• Pablo Picasso
S
DACH tandard
d, S
ture Wirehaire Smooth-
Minia
d, Miniat
ure , Is there any special
Wirehaire ard Smooth-haired
and
haired, St Longhaired and care to be taken with
Stan ard Longhaired
d the Dachshund’s
Miniature
long back?
T he longer back of the Dachshund means
that this dog is prone to suffer from
disk problems and care should be taken,
How much exercise does especially when he is still a puppy. Ideally,

he shouldn’t stay in a home with many
the Dachshund need? stairs as it will place strain on his

back. He should also not jump from
or onto furniture, but rather be picked
D achshunds can be seen participating in many dog shows.

Overall, he doesn’t need that much exercise, but he will
enjoy daily walks and it will also prevent him from getting bored.
up if he is allowed on the furniture. Also,
keep the dog’s weight in mind as extra
weight can also cause back issues.
When he does get bored, he may develop bad habits, like digging and
chewing objects that he can find.
What is the
Dachshund like?
T his small dog has a big sense of humour. He is also very clever
and very alive. If you want a dog who is bold, hardy and don’t mind
a strong-minded dog, consider the Dachshund. This vocal breed is quite
affectionate and he is a trainable dog, but he can be distracted due to his high
prey drive.

DOGTALK
breed profile q&a
Skye Does the
Terrier Skye Terrier

need regular
exercise?
I f you take the Skye Terrier
for a daily walk and combine
it with play, it will satisfy his
exercise needs. Skye Terriers
are chasers, so any off-lead
exercise must be in a secure
area. They need consistent
training and they thrive with
fair, positive training methods.
How old is the Skye Terrier breed?

T he Skye Terrier breed is one of the oldest Terriers known today. In the early 1600s, a Spanish ship
ran aground off the island of Skye in the Scottish Hebrides. The Maltese dogs onboard the ship
survived and mated with local Terriers, resulting in the Skye Terrier breed. From there the breed developed
into a determined hunter who was used in fox and otter hunting, and soon caught the attention of Queen
Victoria. She fell in love with the breed and the Skye Terrier soon became a popular breed.
How would you describe the

Skye Terrier’s personality?
T his is a dog with a huge personality packed
into a small package that is low to the
A
ground. He is a fearless little dog, but clever and
moving story about a dog who wouldn’t
good natured. He is also loyal and loving with a
leave his owner’s side, even after
bold and spirited nature. This dog wants to be the
death, is that of Bobby, the Skye Terrier from
centre of attention and he wants to interact with
Edinburgh, Scotland. After his owner died,
his family.
Bobby lived in the graveyard, close to his
master’s grave, probably living off rodents and
Is the Skye Terrier’s coat hard

birds. But one o’clock every day, he would go
to town to get lunch, just like he used to with
to maintain?
his owner when he was still alive. A baker took
pity on him and fed him morsels of leftovers.
When Bobby died, the citizens were so moved
that they buried him close to his owner and
erected a statue and drinking well for dogs in
H e should be brushed daily to prevent mats if his coat is kept long. His double coat has a long,
straight, hard outer coat and a soft, woolly undercoat. The long outer coat hangs on each
side from the parting down the middle of his back, from his head to his tail. To keep his coat in good
the town. condition, he should be groomed regularly.

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34 37
CAN I ALTER MY CAT’S WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE DANGERS
FEEDING TIMES? FACING AN OBESE CAT?
35 37
DO CATS SWEAT LIKE WHY SHOULD I GROOM
HUMANS? MY CAT REGULARLY?
For people who share their

homes with cats. These pages
will help you understand
her unique personality and
requirements, and help you
choose the ideal breed for
you and your lifestyle. Make
life more rewarding with
your special cat with the
information you need to keep
her in tip-top condition.
You want me to do
what? Is the scratch
post as soft and comfy
as the couch?
GOOD TO KNOW
Sometimes you need a little bit of expert advice, like
how to introduce your cat to a new scratch post, or how
to use a litterbox. Turn the page for interesting expert
guidance on all sorts of challenges.
Photo: Nikolay Petkov

CATSLIFE
breed q&a
RIP GRUMPY CAT

DID YOU KNOW? You will always be in our hearts
It takes five years for the and will still make people smile
Siberian Cat to mature. all over the world.
Intelligent
Burmese
Do you have to keep a
Burmese cat entertained?
A s with all highly intelligent

cats, the Burmese’s mind
needs to be stimulated through
interactive play to keep boredom
at bay. Puzzle and feeding toys,
and reward-based games are
some of the ways to keep her
mind occupied. She can be vocal
at times and will talk to you in a
low, rumbling voice. This is not a
cat to be left on her own. When
you’re not at home, it is best to
ensure that she has other animal
friends to keep her company.
IAN
SIBER TS
AC
CAT F e Siberian
h
called t t.
• Also a
Fores C Russia.
t
f rom
ates
• Origin related to the
ly
• Close n Forest Cat.
ia d
Norw g tancy is aroun
e
x p ec
• Life e to 14 years.
11 8kg.
s up to
• Weigh
Selkirk Rex’s beauty

What is distinctive about the Selkirk Rex?
T his cat has a distinctive look that is enhanced by
a thick coat with ringlets. Her coat can be long- or
shorthaired and any colour or pattern is acceptable. The
shorthair has a soft, plush, full curl that is dense, while
the longhair isn’t as plush. The tail curls of the longhair
are plumy and stand away from the tail. The degree of
curl varies with the length of her hair, age and gender.
The curliness increases around her neck, tail and stomach.
Her intelligence shines through in her big, round eyes,
which can be copper, gold, yellow, green or blue.

Shiny coat
How do supplements make my cat’s
coat shiny?
I t is so crucial that your cat consumes important nutrients, and all of the
essential supplements should be contained in her food. A balance of
omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids is essential, as well as vitamins and trace
minerals with biotin, zinc, copper and selenium playing a major role.
There are various supplements, mainly in oil form, on the market that can
assist with a healthy coat. All of these mainly contribute to the omega-6
and omega-3 requirement. Oils high in omega-3 are especially helpful in
giving a healthy, shiny coat. However, a scientifically balanced and complete
commercial diet should not need any further supplementation – especially if
you feed your cat a diet designed to promote a healthy coat.
t- or It can take anywhere between four and eight weeks into supplementation
c a n be lef t to see a difference in your cat’s coat, but in some cases, it can take a bit
Cats awed, jus
right-p umans.
longer, depending on the coat condition prior to supplementation.
like h Suretha van Breda, nutritionist
Causes of deafness
What are the common
causes of deafness in cats?
T he most common cause of deafness in cats is a
genetic disorder, usually associated with white
fur and blue eyes. These cats are born deaf. Other
causes of acquired deafness are ageing, disease,
certain drugs, industrial noise and trauma. Whatever
the cause, the management of a deaf cat is the same.
Cats with hereditary deafness should not be bred
Feeding time
with and sterilisation is strongly recommended.
Deafness due to genetics, ageing, medication or
noise cannot be treated, but if the cat has a
Can I alter my cat’s feeding times? severe middle ear infection that is causing
S tick to certain feeding times and don’t keep your

cat’s food bowl filled. Serve the right amount of
food to prevent her from overeating. This will also make
deafness, this can be corrected medically
or surgically by a veterinarian.
Dr Vanessa Mcclure,
it easier to see if she has gone off her food. The label on veterinarian
the packaging will give an indication of how much your
cat is supposed to eat. If she wants more food, or is not
eating the required amount, speak to your vet.

A content cat ... CATSLIFE
q&a
... eats nutritionally balanced food.
Sweaty paws Outdoor cat

Do cats sweat like humans?
C ats sweat through the glands in their paws to keep them cool
on a hot day. But when your cat stresses, she might also sweat
space
through her paws and you might be able to see her little paw prints What is a catio and why is it
on surfaces where she walks.
ideal for cats?
A very popular way to allow your cat to

breathe in fresh air and soak up the sun
without typical outside dangers is a catio, aka
cat patio. It is essentially a huge cage that can
be any size, shape or fixed structure attached
in some way to the house. Cats can have easy
access in and out of the catio through a cat flap,
open window or even a tunnel.
You can decorate your catio and make
it interesting for your cat with different
‘obstacles’, such as fixed platforms, scratch
posts and even stairs. She will also love
cat-friendly plants where she can hide, and
a substrate that she can claw into. The more
Safe room
interesting the catio is, the more your cat will
enjoy her little kingdom.
Make sure the catio is sturdy and made of
Why is a safe room important for a kitten on arrival at her new home? good, safe material, such as chicken wire, that
Y our kitten should have a safe room prepared

for her when she arrives at your home. The
room should contain a comfortable bed, food
well as some catnip to encourage the use thereof
(a much better option than your curtains).
If your kitten is your only companion animal,
won’t allow your cat to escape and offers her
protection from dangerous elements. It is very
important that she has an area that she can use
and water bowls (not too close together – cats she can start exploring the rest of your home for shelter from the rain and sun, and a perch to
prefer their drinking water separated from their after about a day. If you have other animals, observe the world from a height.
food), and a litter tray with fine litter (for delicate introductions will have to proceed gradually and There are so many ideas on the internet on what
little paws!). The litter tray should be completely positively, with your kitten remaining in the room a catio can look like and what it should contain,
isolated from food, drinking, sleeping and when supervision is not possible and until safety and it doesn’t have to be expensive either.
playing areas. It’s a good idea to get your kitten is ensured. Small animal veterinarian
a scratching post and a cat gym for climbing, as Katherine Brown, behaviourist

CATSLIFE
q&a
Your cat
’s p
as shock aws act
a
and help bsorbers
her to ha
soft land ve a
ing.
Feline
leukaemia
Is there preventative
treatment against the feline
leukaemia virus (FeLV)?
T here is an optional vaccine that is highly
recommended against this dreaded
virus. This vaccine is not given routinely, Ideal scratch
mainly due to the increased cost involved, so
it is a good idea to specifically ask your vet
options
about it if they don’t mention it.
FeLV is a very common and highly contagious
I would like to get
viral disease for which no treatment exists, my new kitten a
and once infected a cat can’t be cured, only scratch post. What
medically managed. And most of these cats
will die from FeLV-related causes.
should I consider?
Some cats may become carriers of the virus
and never get sick, but are then able to infect
other cats. However, the majority of cats who
I t’s extremely important to ensure that your cat has multiple appropriate scratching options. There are
many different scratch posts and cat gyms available on the market, as well as DIY options online, but it’s
important to obtain or make one that is suitable for your cat’s needs:
do become infected will become sick. • The vertical scratching surface must be long enough to allow your cat to stretch out to her full length.
These vaccines can be given any time from • Some cats also enjoy horizontal surfaces, and these should be provided as an alternative option. Corrugated
nine weeks of age and the initial vaccination cardboard scratch pads are cheap and easily available for this purpose. And don’t throw out any suitable
should be followed by a booster four weeks branches when you’re trimming the trees in your garden – place them in outside areas as a natural
later. Before your kitten is given this vaccine, scratching pad.
it is a good idea to have her tested to make • It must be stable, as a wobbly post could startle a cat.
sure she hasn’t already been exposed to • Texture is also important, and sisal is a commonly used material which most cats find tempting, and it is
FeLV. It is a fairly simple blood test that your also effective at keeping claws healthy. Carpet materials are not as effective, as cats can get their claws
vet can do in-house before they administer stuck in carpeting.
the vaccine. • The position of the post or gym is a vital factor. Keep scratching options in high-traffic cat areas. Putting a
Dr Le-Anne Kleynhans, veterinarian post in a dark corner of an unused room is unlikely to attract your cat’s attention.
Katherine Brown, behaviourist

CATSLIFE
q&a
Obesity
dangers
What are the possible dangers
Pet expo facing an obese cat?
T here are a number of diseases that
may be linked to obesity. Some of
What can we expect to see at WODAC? these include:
A t this year’s World of Dogs and Cats Pet Expo (WODAC) pet owners will once again be entertained
with a variety of shows and exhibitions. Besides the lovely cat show with a variety of breeds on
display, you can also participate in or watch the Animaltalk Top 32 SA-Bred competition, where the top
• Insulin resistance (cells fail to
respond to the normal actions of the
hormone insulin, leading to type-2
South African-bred show dogs will compete for the top spot. This is also a great opportunity to meet the diabetes)
Animaltalk team and get special offers on a variety of products. Other entertainment include dog jumping • Diabetes mellitus
and agility, dog carting, dog dancing, cat shows, horse parades and WODAC Dog Olympic Games. The • Hyperlipidaemia (elevated levels of
expo will take place from 19 to 21 July at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg. fat-soluble molecules in the blood)
WODAC organisers • Osteoarthritis and orthopaedic
disease
• Dermatitis (skin inflammation)
• Oral disease
• Lower urinary tract disease
• Cardiovascular (heart and blood
vessel) changes
• Renal pathology (medical diseases of
the kidneys)
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the
pancreas)
• Neoplasia – mammary cancer, and
bladder cancer associated with
obesity
Lorren Barham, animal hydrotherapist at
Pet Wellness Worx
Cat grooming Shedding again

My cat sheds so much hair. How
Why should I groom my cat regularly? do I know if it is becoming a
R egular cat grooming allows you to spend quality time bonding with your pet and gives you the
opportunity to check her body condition and spot any unusual signs that might indicate health
problems, such as lumps or bumps. Grooming is very important for your cat’s coat:
health issue for her?
W hen she sheds more than normal
or if she has bald patches on
• Circulation is stimulated. her coat, you should consult the vet.
• Muscle tone is improved. Abnormal shedding can be due to various
• Fur is smoothed down for better insulation. factors, such as stress, poor nutrition or
• Glands at the base of the coat are stimulated to waterproof the fur. even parasites. If you’ve ruled out poor
• Sebum is spread evenly, which helps to waterproof and protect the coat and skin. nutrition and the presence of parasites,
• In hot weather, the saliva spread when she grooms herself helps to keep your cat cool. then you should definitely consult the vet.
Try to start grooming your cat from an early age so that it becomes a normal part of her routine. Small animal veterinarian

Another cat?
Our dog doesn’t allow cats on the property anymore, but he loved
our cat who died a few years ago. Can we have a cat again?
I would definitely be very cautious when getting a new cat! Many dogs will chase unknown cats, but
live happily with a cat who is introduced correctly and carefully. Cats coming onto the property are
intruders, whereas a companion cat is not a stranger or a threat. If your dog has chased cats, however,
I would be wary of introducing a new cat – if he has practised the behaviour for a few years, learning
has occurred and he may behave similarly with an introduced cat.
Your best option, should you desire to adopt a cat, would be to discuss his behaviour with a positive
Problem solvers reinforcement behaviourist who can objectively assess the risks involved. The safety of the cat is
always the first priority and much thought and care should go into deciding whether to adopt a cat into
Are cats good at a home with a dog.
problem solving? Katherine Brown, behaviourist
C ats are good at solving problems

and also have the ability to combine
a learnt skill with insight into solving a
Cat fangs
problem – whether it is jumping from one Why do today’s cats need fangs?
platform to another to find a treat hidden
in a jar, or pulling boxes on wheels. In a
test of pulling boxes, cats were able to
A lthough domestic cats can potentially live without canine
teeth (if fed the correct diet), they are still true carnivores,
and given the opportunity, will hunt and kill small prey. The
teach themselves that by pulling a box to canine teeth (fangs) are used to kill and shred the prey. They can
an area where food was suspended out of also use these teeth to shred any large pieces of meat they get
reach, the box could be used as a platform fed. When cats chew food they use a cutting rather than grinding
to gain access to the food. action, and their sharp teeth are used for this purpose. Cats also
Small animal veterinarian use their teeth for self-defence and will bite if threatened.
Dr Vanessa Mcclure, Veterinarian

CATSLIFE
q&a
Cats h
odour ave 200 m
- i
their sensitive c llion
noses ells in
have fi ; humans o
Oh, so vocal
nl
Bed wetting
ve mil
lion. y
Are cats more vocal than dogs? My 12-year-old cat suddenly started urinating
C ats can make over 100 different vocal sounds, to go away. Spitting is usually accompanied by a on my daughter’s bed. What could be the
while dogs can only make about 10. These quick forward swat and retreat. Cats who are trying reason for her behaviour?
sounds encompass a variety of meows, purrs,
gurgles and ‘meeps’. The more you talk to your cat,
the more your cat will talk back and extend her
to avoid being attacked or who are protecting their
young display this sort of behaviour.
All cats purr at the same frequency of 25 cycles
T here can be a number of different reasons
for your cat’s inappropriate urination,
from medical causes to behavioural problems.
vocabulary. This will help deepen your bond too. per second. Exactly how they do this remains Because your cat is in her senior years, I will
Hissing, spitting and growling are obvious signs of a mystery. strongly recommend you take her to your vet for
hostility. In other words, your cat wants the threat Small animal veterinarian a health check to ensure she does not have a
medical condition that is causing this behaviour.
Diseases like chronic kidney disease, bladder
infections and diabetes, to name a few, could
all be causes for her urinating on the bed.
Once medical causes have been ruled out, a
behavioural cause is more likely.
Meow Ensure she has access to clean litter trays
at all times. If you have other cats, you should
have a litter box for each cat plus one extra;
for example, if you have two cats, you should
have three litter boxes at various points around
the house. Also, make sure there are no other
reasons why she will not use the litter tray,
like another cat who chases her, or possibly a
litterbox that is in a high-traffic area.
Dr Vanessa Mcclure, veterinarian
Vegan cat
Can my cat be a vegan?
T here are many expert vegans who have prepared exclusive balanced vegan diets for their cats.
However, unlike dogs, cats are obligate carnivores, which makes the consumption of meat
essential, and it is our opinion that a vegan diet for cats is inappropriate.
Taurine is essential for all animals, but because it is absent in plant material, herbivores
and omnivores must synthesise it from other amino acids in their diet. In order for
obligate carnivores to get enough taurine, they must eat other animals that contain
taurine in their meat and organs. Cats need taurine in their diet.
Also, the digestive tracts of animals give clues as to what kind of diet they can
eat. The shorter the length of the small intestine, the less capable the animals
are of digesting plant materials. If you compare the length of the small
intestine in a cat (obligate carnivores) with that of a dog, the cat’s small
intestine is shorter relative to the animal’s body length. This
confirms that cats have less ability to digest vegetable and
plant matter and are meat dependent.
Paul Jacobson, pet nutrition company owner

The koala
60-85cm
length.
14kg
weight.
1kg
food consumed
in one day.
About 12
years
average age in
the wild.
.
. interesting
quest for knowledge
VERY
the magazine that surprises
.Photography: rickyd
Refresh your mind
The koa
la
in Austr can only live
alia and
eucalyp pre
tus leav fers
breakfa es fo
st, lunc r
and dinn h
er.
i d
K es s ’ Dolphin’s design
How are dolphins adapted to their
aquatic lifestyle?
Pag
1. Torpedo-shaped bodies allow them to glide through the water.
2. They have no external ear flaps – they receive sound through their throats.
3. Their conical teeth capture prey while they move at speed.
4. They can slow their heart rate to conserve oxygen, allowing them to dive deep.
5. Dorsal fins prevent them from unintentionally spinning.
6. Eyes on either side of their head allow for two fields of vision.
Multiple hearts
and brains
How many hearts
and brains does an
octopus have?
A n octopus has three hearts
to help him pump oxygen
through his body and to the gills.
Bloodsucking vampires
Does the vampire bat really live on blood?
He also has blue blood that is rich
in copper, but what makes him
super special is his nine brains.
T hey do eat blood, and they are the only mammals
who survive purely off blood. But the feeding
process is a little more civilised than you might think.
There is one ‘main’ brain and then During the day, they spend their time sleeping in pitch-
one brain in each of his eight arms. black caves, hanging upside down from the roof. When
Is that impressive or what? the night is at its darkest, they come out to hunt, usually
targeting sleeping cattle and horses. They do this by
approaching their prey from the ground, on all fours. A
sensor on the nose helps them to find a spot where blood
is flowing just beneath the prey’s skin. Then, they do not
simply dig in and suck, like your typical vampire! Instead,
they use their razor-sharp teeth to bite the animal, after
which they lap up the flowing blood with their tongues. A
substance in their saliva prevents the victim’s blood from
clotting. They do not take enough blood at a time to harm
their prey, but the bites can cause infections and diseases.
After feeding, bats can almost double in weight,
as they have distensible stomachs – almost like a
mosquito. This can make it a bit difficult for them to
take flight again, but they have springy forelimbs to
assist with this problem. These can propel the bat into
the air at a speed of around 2m/s.
Rhino horn
What is the purpose of a rhino’s horn?
D ue to rhino poaching, many rhinos have been dehorned for their own safety and they’ve
managed to survive without a horn. A rhino’s horn, which is made of keratin, serves many
purposes, from digging for water in dry riverbeds to breaking branches and uprooting plants. It
is also used for behavioural functions, such as fighting with other males, defending themselves
and their young, and guiding their babies.

Strong,
stronger,
strongest ants One of the smallest
mammals in the world
Are ants really so strong? is the Kitti’s hog-nosed
bat, also known as the
I f you compare the size of an average ant and the weight
he can carry to that of a human’s ability, an ant is very
strong. But some species of ants are even stronger. The
bumblebee bat, who
only weighs 1.5g and
leafcutter ant can lift material that is 50 times heavier than measures between
his own bodyweight. Asian weaver ants can lift around 100 2.5cm and 3cm.
times their own weight. It is estimated that a field ant’s neck
can support 5,000 times his own weight. The best part is that
they don’t only pick up the weight, they also carry it over long
distances. Now that’s what we call strong!
Dinosaur world The co

n
silkwo tinuous thre
How many species of dinosaurs have been found around the world? betwe
rm’s c
oco ad of a
en 300 on measures
S o far, scientists have found about 700 species of dinosaurs all over the world. The latest discovery
was in the Free State, South Africa, last year where they found a 12-tonne dinosaur fossil. Scientists
Somet
imes it and 900m.
ca
named him Ledumahadi mafube, which is Sesotho for ‘a giant thunderclap at dawn’. It is believed that 1km lo n even be
there are many more dinosaurs waiting to be discovered. The 40m Argentinosaurus was the longest ng.
dinosaur, while the Lesothosaurus was the smallest – about the size of a chicken.

TRUMP CARDS
that
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Do you have th so far? If you missed a set, ord
we have p ublish ed email to
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WHITE
HOW TO PLAY
28 29
ELEPHANT 20
published cludes:
RHINO GIRAFFE
Two or more people can play the February edition

game. Shuffle the cards and deal all cards in
edition
January
the cards face down. Hold the pack
bellow trumpet hum
so that only one card is visible at a Average lifespan:
Estimated weight:
45 years
2,300kg
Average lifespan: 60 years Average lifespan: 20 years
time.The starting player reads out

36
Estimated weight: 6,500kg Estimated weight: 1,800kg
Approximate height: 180cm FUN FAC FUN FAC FUN FAC
ER
Seco rges T Approximate height: 380cm
Largest landT Approximate height: 550cm Tallest landT
Top speed: LESS nd-la
50km/h
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mam Top speed: 40km/h Top speed: 55km/h mammal 33
54kg SHBA mal WILDE-
Average feed: mammal
BLACK T
35 BU Average feed: >90kg Average feed: 34kg
one of the lines of information.The

Level of danger: 7 32
ET Level of danger: 7
ILDE- BEES
VERV EY
Level of danger: 4
K BLUE W T
34 MON N
31
BEES
AFRICA O
person with the highest number of CAPE N
BABO
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the corresponding information takes

all the cards and places them at the r
cr y FUN FACT
Can jump 2m
snort
chatte
bottom of their pack.Where there is
4 years (high and far!)
Average
lifespan: 200g
ORYX (A
KA bellow
aaBOK)
weight: GE
maMS
n: 20 years FUN FACT
Estimated height: 20cm d) Average lifespa
e (unconfirme 37 Also known
t: 110-180kg white-tailedas the
20 years FUN FACT Approximat 30km/h Estimated weigh
more than one winner, all the cards

rmed)
bark Average
lifespan:
weight:
6kg
They are tree
dwellers
Top speed: :
Average
feed
<5g (unconfi Average lifespa
n:
t:
20 years
290kg
ELAND
FUN FACT
Annually migrates
: 90cm-1.2m
Approximate height 80km/h
gnu.
Estimated height: 40cm 3 Estimated weigh 800km for food. Top speed: 38 3kg (unconfirmed)
e Level of dan
ger: n: 20 years : 1.15-1.45m
22 years
FUN FACT Approximat 40km/h Average lifespa FUN FACT Approximate height Average feed:
lifespan: Their canines are
Top speed: :
onfirmed) Estimated weigh
t: 590kg 80.5km/h 4
KUDU
are placed in the middle until there is
Average 40kg longer than a lion’s <1kg (unc : 1-1.7m
Can kill lions. Top speed: 4kg (unconfirmed
) Level of danger:
weight: Average
feed Approximate height 56km/h Average feed: 39
Estimated height: 75cm ger:
4
6
Approximat
e
50km/h d) Level of dan Top speed: 11kg (unconfirmed
) Level of danger:
d: onfirme e feed:
Top spee <1kg (unc Averag
another winner. The person with the

9
Average
feed: 8 Level of danger:
edition
ger:
Level of dan
snort
most or all of the cards at the end
wins the game. March BLUE
41 TSESSEBE
42
Average lifes
Estimated
Top speed:
weig
pan: 18
Approximate ht: 240kg
height: 128c
years
m
FUN
Can sur FACT Average lifes
pan: 18
click
bark
40 T Average feed 75km/h the de vive in Estimated
weig years
ZEBRA
WILDEBEES Level of dang
: 3.6kg
sert Approximate ht: 700kg
height: 170c
IES
er: 5 Top speed: m Average lifes
pan: 15 FUN
Average feed 40km/h Estimated years FA
weig Can jum CT
Level of dang
: 10kg (unconfir Approximate ht: 260kg 3.5m p
er: med) height: 145c high
5 Top speed: m
R
55km/h
SNAKE
Average feed
:
SE
Level of dang 3.8kg (unc
er: onfirmed)
5
W whis tle April edition

NE
grunt
FUN FACT
bray Fastest antelope
COLLECTION
years
Average lifespan: 15 in Africa
Average lifespan: 16
years HONEY
Estimated weight: 140kg 43 CAPE 44 CAPE
BADGERate height: 120cm 45
Average lifespan: 25
years FUN FACT Estimated weight: 250kg Approxim
90km/h PANGOLIN PORCUPINE
Estimated weight: 340kg They’re black with Approximate height: 140cm Top speed:
3.6kg (unconfirmed)
white stripes. 80.5km/h Average feed:
Approximate height: 130cm Top speed: 4
64km/h Average feed: 4.2kg Level of danger:
Top speed:
Average feed: 5kg (unconfirmed) Level of danger: 6
Level of danger: 4
PES
VENOM TY lls of an animal.
nom kills th ce
e May edition rattle
Cytotoxic ve nom destructs nerve tissue

huff rattle
June edition
Average lifespan: 26 years FUN FAC
Average lifespan: 20 years T
Neurotoxic it kills the animal faster.

Average lifespan: 8-12 years They are Africa’s
ve
Estimated weight: FUN
14kg They’re tougFACT Estimated weight: 15kg Estimated weight: 10-24kg
largest rode
nts.
Approximate height: h,
30cm and ferocioufearless Approximate height: 40cm Approximate height: 60-100cm
Top speed: 29km/h s.
Top speed: 5km/h Top speed:
Average feed: <3kg (unconfirmed) 3km/h
e
Average feed: <200g
or
Average feed:
ef
>2kg (unconfirmed)
er
Level of danger: 8
th
Level of danger:
and
3 Level of danger: 3
46 47 48
RINKHALS BLACK MAMBA PUFF ADDER
Average lifespan: 20-25 years FUN Average lifespan: 12-20 years FUN FAC Average lifespan: 15 years
Estimated weight: 7-9kg Pretends to FACT Estimated weight: 1.6kg Africa’s long T Estimated weight: 6kg FUN FAC
be de
Approximate length: 1.2-1.5m avoid confrontat ad to Approximate length: 2.5m poisonous sn est
ake. Approximate length: 1m Long fangs T
ion. of
Level of danger: 9 Level of danger: 10 Level of danger: 10 12-18mm
Prey: Toads and small mammals Prey: Rodents, bats and birds Prey: Rodents
Venom: Neurotoxic and partially cytotoxic Venom: Neurotoxic Venom: Cytotoxic

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WILDTHINGS
animal facts
DID YOU KNOW?

The difference between a male and female
shark lies in the shark’s claspers. Male sharks
have modified pelvic fins, but females don’t.
Butterfly diet
What does the monarch
butterfly eat?
W hile the monarch butterfly is still a caterpillar, he mostly feeds on
milkweed. This is why the monarch will always lay her eggs on
this plant, so that the newly hatched caterpillar has immediate access
to his food. The milkweed contains a toxin that gets stored in the
caterpillar’s body, ensuring that he tastes horrible to potential predators.
As an adult butterfly, the monarch enjoys sipping nectar from flowers.
Such an
‘old’ baby Pollinating
For how long do
orangutan mothers look
flowers
after their young? How do bees pollinate
O rangutan mothers care for their
infants longer than any other flowers?
FAST FACTS
5 reasons why you shouldn’t tame wild animals
animals in the world, as they have
much to learn from her about how to
survive in the forest. The little one
B ees collect nectar and pollen from the flowers of a
plant. The male reproductive organ of a flower is
called the stamens. Some of this organ’s pollen sticks to
• You can’t domesticate a wild animal.
• Wild animals carry diseases. will cling to his mother’s belly fur as the hair on the bees’ bodies. When they visit other plants,
• They don’t stay little forever and can she climbs through the trees, and the pollen gets rubbed off on the female reproductive
become dangerous. once he is a little older he will ride on organ called the pistil, which contains the stigma (the tip
• They may not need rescuing. her back. This goes on for the first six of the pistil). This allows the seeds of the plant to develop
• Your actions fund organised crime. years of the baby’s life. and turn into fruits or flowers.

WILDTHINGS
animal facts
DID YOU KNOW?

Common octopuses collect shells
and other objects, which they use to
build ‘fortresses’ around their dens.
Ocean’s
superman
How strong is the
mantis shrimp?
T he mantis shrimp has
a very strong punch.
Two very powerful front
claws are used to punch
prey with vicious force.
In fact, their claws are so
strong that the force they
punch with is equal to over
150kg. The force that the
mantis shrimp punches with
is easily 2,500 times his
own body weight. In human
terms, that means that if we
were able to punch with the
same force, we would easily
punch through steel.
Animaltalk opposes the keeping of exotic pets, as they

are intricate animals who need special care, they are
Distinctively
not domesticated and belong in the wild – unless you
are a professional with extended knowledge.
caracal Beware the spider

How does one identify a
caracal in the wild? Do tarantulas ever feel threatened?
T he caracal has very distinctive markings.
The first marking is black tufts on the tips
of black ears. There are also black lines above the
L ooking at the behaviour of a tarantula can show you when he is feeling
threatened. The first sign is that he will adopt a ‘passive
defensive’ stance. This is when
eyes, with a black nose with white around and the spider lifts one or two legs
under the mouth. Like cheetahs, caracals also and his body remains relaxed.
have a black line from the inside of the eye to the This stance is considered as the
nose. The black line between the ears can vary in first warning sign and gives the intruder
size, and the furry coat can vary between tawny- enough time to escape if he wishes to.
brown and brick-red. The second sign that you should back
Caracals have a medium build with strong and away is usually when his first two
lengthy hind legs, enabling them to jump 3m legs and pedipalps (pinchers)
into the air with exceptional timing, balance and are fully extended into the air.
precision, to catch prey. Caracals are fast cats The thorax (between the neck and
and can run up to 80km/h, which means they can abdomen) is usually also lifted, which indicates
outrun antelopes and ostriches. the seriousness of the situation. The stance is
This almost fearless cat will attack animals usually followed by a strike. Tarantulas do not
three times his own size. Sometimes the caracal usually bite, but if someone tries to approach the
will hide his prey in a tree to return to at a later spider in this stance, chances are that he might
stage – just like leopards do. feel those fangs.
Animaltalk | July 2019

DID YOU HEAR?
WILDTHINGS Earlier this year, Lord Ashcroft revealed
how bad the captive-bred lion industry is in
o
lion conservation
t
South Africa. He called on the South African
n o
government to do something to protect the
y
lions and asked the UK government to ban
Sa cub
the imports of lion trophies. Read more about
it at https://prn.to/2VZ2xQ9.
l i o n g !
t t i n
pe
More and more captive lions

There seems to be more and more cases of lions kept in
disastrous conditions and canned lion hunting in South Africa.
Why do we hear about so many cases?
T here do seem to be more and more cases coming to light about

lions being mass bred and kept in appalling conditions across
South Africa. Although we have been told that the number of lions killed
in canned hunts have dropped, we believe that the number of captive
lions killed for their bones have risen dramatically as the demand
from South East Asia has increased. As the shooting of wild tigers
is prohibited in Asia, the skeletons of lions bred in South Africa are now
being exported to supplement the ‘tiger bone trade’. These bones are
utilised for medicinal and aphrodisiacal purposes in the production of
what is called ‘tiger wine’ and ‘tiger cake’, and also for use as ‘tiger
bone jewellery’.
From a welfare perspective, the lion bone export industry is extremely
concerning, as animals shot for their trophies in canned hunts are at least
required to be in a reasonably good condition, whereas nobody cares
about what lions bred for the bone export trade look like, and many are
bred in shocking conditions on private farms hidden from the public eye.
As more and more people are becoming aware of this awful industry, so
more and more cases are now being publicly exposed.
Pippa Hankinson, Director, Blood Lions

WILDTHINGS
lion conservation
If you haven’t done so yet, watch the documentary

Blood Lions for some insightful information –
You ca http://www.bloodlions.org/screenings/.
n ma
in lion ke a differen
educat conservatio ce
Public
ing n by
why th other people
ey shou a
cubs or ldn’t pe bout
walk w t lio
ith lion n
help
s.
What can the general public

do to prevent lion abuse and
canned lion hunting?
T here are many ways the public can
Preventative legislature
create awareness around the captive
lion breeding and canned hunting industry, and
to prevent lion abuse. Firstly, we recommend
Is there any legislation in South Africa that can prevent canned lion hunting? that as many people as possible watch
U nfortunately, the laws around hunting captive-

bred lions are very confusing. As we discovered
when we were filming Blood Lions, legislation around
Environmental Affairs, who legislates mostly
on wild species and for biodiversity objectives.
They consider this to be the responsibility of the
the film Blood Lions (www.bloodlions.org/
screenings/); become fully informed through
the film, our website and social media platforms
captive-bred predator hunting states that ‘canned’ Department of Agriculture who – although they do – including our Facebook page, www.facebook.
hunting is prohibited, but that ‘captive’ hunting is have a sub-division which deals with wildlife ranching com/BloodLionsOfficial/ – and visit our ‘Get
allowed. When asked to differentiate between the two, involving minimal human intervention – seemingly involved’ page on our website to see the various
neither the Department of Environmental Affairs nor don’t have the resources to cope with the captive ways they can assist: www.bloodlions.org/
the Professional Hunters’ Association of South Africa lion breeding industry as they predominantly deal get-involved/.
(PHASA) were able to give us a satisfactory answer. with farmed animals such as cattle, sheep and pigs. We urge members of the public:
Sadly, captive-bred lions are not adequately So, the provinces set their own regulations regarding • to not support any breeder or operator
protected in South Africa, as the laws concerning this industry, and the welfare of these big cats falls to who contributes to the cycle of breeding,
these animals seem to fall through the the Wildlife Unit of the NPSCA, which has to date had exploitation and senseless killing of predators,
legislative ‘cracks’ in South Africa. Their welfare is very little support from either Department. including those who offer cub petting and
not adequately covered by the Department of Pippa Hankinson, Director, Blood Lions ‘walking with lions’.
• to endorse ethical and responsible
Inconsistent regulations
interaction with Africa’s wilderness and
wild animals, thus promoting South Africa
as an authentic, wild and rewarding tourism
What does our legislation say about keeping lions in general? destination.
A s each province sets their own norms and

standards with regard to the breeding and
keeping of captive-bred predators, there appear
are no accurate up-to-date figures available
of exactly how many captive lions are existing
today, nor how many of these facilities there are.
• to support endeavours toward wildlife
conservation and economic development across
Africa by promoting the formal conservation
to be a number of inconsistencies pertaining to Estimates currently range from 8,000 to 12,000 community in their endeavours to secure the
the regulations of each province, including, for animals, on between 130 and 180 farms across survival of Africa’s predators in the wild.
example, enclosure sizes, fence requirements the country. Internationally recognised lion ecologists and
and also the ‘put and take’ laws. This term Unfortunately, as long as South Africa views conservation agencies concur that the captive
applies to the time from when a captive lion wildlife as a ‘resource’, the increasing demand lion breeding industry has no conservation
is removed from his enclosure, to when he is for wildlife products will not only lead to the value. And the reality is that without wild
released into a larger enclosure on a hunting farm increased mass breeding of these animals to lions and the rest of the predator guild extant
to be shot in a canned trophy hunt. This varies meet that demand, but will also inevitably put in functioning ecosystems, there will also be
from 30 days in one province, to a mere 96 hours pressure on wild populations as poaching and the no African tourism industry – a calamitous
in another province. Although a government audit illegal trade in animal body parts intensifies. situation for many economies.
of these breeding farms has been called for, there Pippa Hankinson, Director, Blood Lions Pippa Hankinson, Director, Blood Lions

VETTALK
health
A cat s
leep
betwee s on average
n 13
hours a and 14
day.
Osteoarthritis in cats
Do cats also suffer from arthritis,
and what are the symptoms?
C ats, especially older cats, most definitely do suffer
from osteoarthritis (OA). The reason why most people
don’t know that cats can get OA is because they usually
don’t exhibit lameness like dogs do. The most common signs
that cats will show are a change in behaviour and lifestyle,
particularly reduced activity levels and reluctance to jump
up onto objects due to joint pain. These changes tend to
develop gradually, so owners often misinterpret these signs
as ‘normal’ due to ageing. OA becomes more prevalent with
age, so we recommend that all cats over the age of six years
should have a complete health check by a vet on a yearly
basis so that the development of OA can be picked up early
and treatment can be started early to make these cats more
comfortable for longer.
FAST FACTS
5 tips to manage ringworm and mange
1. If you suspect any type of mange or
Swollen eyelids
ringworm on your pet, visit your vet for a The outside of my dog’s eyelids seems slightly swollen. Is this an eye infection and what should I do about it?
B
proper diagnosis. lepharitis is a term that refers to inflammation tumours that can cause blepharitis originates
2. Your vet will treat your pet accordingly. If of the eyelid. The outermost layer of the eyelid from the glands of the eyelids. These tumours are
it is mange, the treatment may consist of a
is made up of skin and hair follicles; the middle layer usually benign, however, another kind of tumour,
medical dip, a topical cream, tablets or even
injectable medication to kill the mites. is made up of connective tissue, muscles and glands. called a mast cell tumour, is far more dangerous
If it is ringworm, the treatment might be These glands produce an oily secretion that helps and can also cause blepharitis. Other causes of
in the form of an antifungal topical cream to lubricate the eyes. Blepharitis can affect one or blepharitis include external trauma, localised
gently rubbed onto the lesions, or maybe both eyes. The affected lid is usually red, swollen mange caused by Demodex or Sarcoptic mites and
an oral antifungal if the condition is serious. and itchy. Your dog will tend to blink a lot and rub at nutritional disorders.
Antifungal shampoos might also help. his eyelids or face. This usually leads to secondary Your vet will conduct an eye examination and
3. Your vet may also prescribe an anti-itch
trauma and even more swelling. There may also be a perform diagnostic tests to be able to find the
cream to stop the itching.
4. If your vet suspects a secondary bacterial discharge from the eye which can be clear, mucoid or underlying cause of the blepharitis, and also evaluate
infection in the lesions, he will prescribe cloudy, depending on the cause of the inflammation. your pet for any evidence of systemic disease. The
antibiotics. Common causes of blepharitis include allergies, treatment will depend on the cause and severity
5. Sterilise your dog’s bedding, blankets, infections, tumours and occasionally other of the clinical signs. In general, most cases will be
grooming equipment and toys with non- inflammatory disorders. Allergies to insect bites, able to be treated successfully, but it is important
harmful chemicals and in very hot water. inhalant allergens or food may cause blepharitis. to consult your vet immediately to enable early
Remember to wear gloves when you
Bacterial infections may cause eyelid abscesses or detection and treatment of the disease.
apply treatment to your dog to prevent
cross-contamination. general infection of the eyelids. The most common Dr Letitia Swartz, veterinarian

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VETTALK
health
DID YOU KNOW?

A 10 to 15 minute walk
every day can help to keep
your pet in shape.
Old cat vet visits

Should my cat see the vet
more than once a year for a
check-up as she gets older?
T he American Association of Feline
Practitioners (AAFP) and American
Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) have made
recommendations that all cats should get an annual
wellness examination, and these examinations
should become more frequent in senior and geriatric
cats. A cat is classified as senior when she reaches
the age of about 10 years and geriatric at about 15
years of age. Cats are very good at hiding pain and
disease, so owners may not be aware of changes
in the cat’s health until it is too late to do anything.
So the reason for these frequent visits are so that
the vet can identify changes or abnormalities in the
cat’s health status early on, and interventions can
be implemented in the course of a disease to ensure
the cat lives a long and happy life.
Veggies for
my bunny
How much vegetables
should I feed my rabbit?
B unnies love fresh vegetables
and these can safely make up
30% of their diet. There are numerous
websites such as The House Rabbit
Society that provide lists of suitable
fresh foods to offer your companion.
Avoid foods high in carbohydrates
and sugars as these will imbalance
the natural bacterial flora of the gut.
Dr Dorianne Elliott, veterinarian
54
VETTALK
health
of
st mouthful
fir lean
A cat’s purely to c
is
water er mouth.
h
Brushing
guinea’s teeth
Should I brush my guinea pig’s
teeth, and if so, how often?
G uinea pigs do not need tooth brushing. Their teeth, unlike ours, grow
continuously throughout their lives and are not prone to developing
cavities as ours are. Their high fibre diet also helps to keep the teeth clean.
It is, however, extremely important for both the health of your pet’s teeth and
his digestive tract that a high fibre diet is fed. This means that the majority
of the diet should be grass hay with a measured amount of high-quality
extruded pellets (not muesli) and some healthy greens. Guinea pigs can also
develop tooth problems if they do not get enough vitamin C in their diet,
which is why we recommend that proper guinea pig pellets are fed. Rabbit
pellets do not have enough vitamin C for guinea pigs to remain healthy.
Warm hamster
How can I ensure that my
hamster is warm in winter?
H amsters who become too cold may slip into a
hibernation-like state that can be hazardous
to their health. The best way to help them keep
warm is to provide them with a fairly small box for
sleeping and large amounts of nesting material.
They will stuff the sleeping box with this bedding
and can then remain toasty warm. Try to keep
the cage in an area of the house that does not
experience rapid temperature fluctuations.
Please be careful of the type of bedding used. The
fibres of cotton wool or fluff-type bedding may wrap
around a leg and cut off the blood supply which
can become severe enough that the leg needs to be
amputated. We recommend shredded paper towels
as a cheap, absorbent and safe bedding material.
A non-responsive hamster should always be slowly
warmed up to establish whether he is in fact dead
or whether he is in a deep state of hibernation.
| July 2019 55
Caring for
senior rabbits
Do rabbits show specific signs of ageing and do
older rabbits need specific care?
A geing pets require different care. The average lifespan of

a healthy rabbit is 10 to 12 years. We consider them to be
‘seniors’ from seven or eight years old. Older rabbits commonly suffer
from arthritis of the joints, kidney problems and tooth problems. They
also tend to be less active and often have less glossy coats.
Your older bunny friend does need some special attention. We
recommend yearly health checks with an experienced rabbit vet to
pick up any problems before they become severe. This will include
a full physical and dental examination and possibly some routine
blood tests as needed. It is critical that your older rabbit eats a
healthy diet consisting of good quality grass hay with a limited
amount of high quality (not supermarket) rabbit pellets and some
greens and vegetables.
Hamsters Cause
and fleas for concern
Can I use a dog or
cat product to When does vomiting in cats and dogs become a concern?
What do I need to look out for?
prevent fleas on
my hamster? V omiting is one of the most common symptoms veterinarians see in dogs and cats. It
can be as innocuous as expelling a hairball, eating too fast or eating an insect. If your
F irstly, a hamster is highly unlikely to get fleas. Hamsters

spend much time grooming. Sometimes the grooming
may look excessive and be interpreted as itching or scratching.
pet returns to his normal self after vomiting and there does not appear anything unusual
about his behaviour or wellbeing, then your dog or cat is probably okay. On the other hand,
if vomiting continues and you notice signs such as the following, you need to visit your vet:
If there is no physical evidence of skin disease, for example • Persistent salivation and swallowing • Bloated abdomen
hair loss, rashes, flaky skin, swollen extremities and ulceration • Not keeping meals down • Drinking more or less than usual
or bleeding, there may in fact be nothing wrong. If hamsters • Blood • Lethargy or dullness
do have fleas, they are incidental hosts just like people can be. In addition, if your pet is very young, old or has existing medical problems such as chronic
Hamsters can suffer from various skin disorders that can cause kidney disease or cancer, then seek veterinary attention.
scratching, the symptoms of which are noted above. Points to consider when visiting the vet are:
These disorders are most notably allergies, dermatophytosis • What does the vomitus look like? (Digested or undigested food, colour?)
(fungal infection of the skin), mites, skin cancer and even • How soon after eating and how frequently does your pet vomit?
stress. It is important that these conditions leading to clinical • Was your pet introduced to a new food that he is not accustomed to?
signs are not self-diagnosed. They are best treated by a • Was there any unusual objects or contaminated food found in the garden?
veterinarian as some of the treatments may be dangerous to • Does he like to chew toys, search the garbage and the like?
the hamster. • Do you feed your pet bones?
Dr Jurie Grobler, veterinarian • His vaccination status.
Dr Roger Palmer, veterinarian

VETTALK
health
DID YOU KNOW?
Many exotic pets suffer cruelty
or death at the hands of
owners who don’t realise how
much care they need.
Staying
afloat
How do goldfish
stay afloat in
the water?
G oldfish have a gas-filled bag
at the centre of their bodies.
This swim bladder helps to keep
the fish buoyant at any level in
the water. When air is withdrawn
from the bag, the fish will sink to a
lower level. The swim bladder also
aids balance and amplifies sound.
Bloody nose
FAST FACTS
What are the possible causes of nosebleeds in dogs and what

actions should be taken if this happens?
I f your dog has an episode of epistaxis, or in
layman’s terms a nosebleed, this could be
due to many things. Often the cause is either
foreign body up his nose by accident, his nose
might come off second best.
You can attempt first aid at home. Firstly, keep Choosing a healthy mouse
blunt trauma to the nose or a bacterial or fungal your dog calm. Secondly, try to place some ice When you choose your new pet mouse,
infection of the upper airways and nasal cavity. wrapped in a damp cloth over the bridge of his look out for these signs that he is as healthy
If it persists it is best to take your dog to your vet nose. This will decrease the blood pressure and as possible:
• The mouse is energetic and full of life.
for further tests as the cause could be something help constrict the blood vessels in the nose to
• Eyes are bright and shiny.
more serious. Any condition that decreases the hopefully stop the nosebleed. If it persists you
• The coat is smooth and clean.
blood’s ability to clot can result in a nosebleed. should definitely pay your vet a visit so that the • No discharge near the nose, and the mouth
This includes liver disease, tick-borne diseases like necessary tests can be done and correct treatment and anal area should be clean.
ehrlichiosis and some cancers, to name a few. If be given. Small animal veterinarian
your dog happens to sniff a grass seed or any other Dr Kristen Lachenicht, veterinarian

HEALTHTALK A content cat is ...
nutrition
... a well-fed cat.
Ideal food?
How do I know that my dog’s food is the right choice for him?
T here are various ways to find the right diet for your dog. You can
choose a brand of food based on:
• Your dog’s age – foods that are nutritionally balanced for dogs of a
certain age.
• Your dog’s size – mini, small, medium, large or giant breeds.
• Your dog’s breed – a diet formulated to the needs of the breed, taking
into account any specific problems noted.
• Your dog’s lifestyle – sporting/working dogs have different nutritional
needs to companion animals.
• Your dog’s health – a therapeutic diet for a current or chronic illness
(as diagnosed by a vet).
Evaluate your dog’s current food based on the categories above and see
which category the food fits into and if it meets the immediate nutritional
needs of your dog. Consider how much you pay for the current food
and how much you can afford. Never choose a product based on price
alone. Always check the ingredient list and know what you are paying
for. Cheaper foods may contain fillers that don’t provide good nutrients.
Premium foods may cost more than supermarket brands but the higher
nutritional content is more valuable for your pet. Aim to feed your dog the
best quality food you can afford.
Safely
storing food
How long can I keep an If you
open tin or pouch of dog r pe
his foo t doesn’t fi
food in the refrigerator refrige d, immedi nish
before it goes off? rate it ately
or ca
C
dispos re
anned pet food or food in
e of it fully
pouches should be treated .
as you would any perishable
food item. Open cans can be kept Toxic for birds
safely in the fridge for up to three Can I feed avocado to my parrot? What other human food should I avoid?
days. Remove the lid and seal the can with
a plastic can lid to protect the food. The lid will also keep it from
drying out and prevent odour in the fridge. Place a sticker on the
T he most dangerous of the common human foods for these birds is the
avocado. Even a mouthful or two of avocado can cause severe heart
damage in a parrot. Chocolate, dairy products and
lid and write down the date of opening. Always use a clean spoon anything containing caffeine, alcohol or lots
to scoop food from the tin. Pouches should be resealed along the of salt and spices are not suitable for birds.
plastic zipper. If the pouch does not have a re-sealable zip, remove Grapes and raisins, just like most other fruit,
unused food and place it in a sealable plastic container. Add a are safe.
sticker with the date of opening. Dr Dorianne Elliott, veterinarian

HEALTHTALK
nutrition
GOOD TO KNOW!
When considering feeding a raw
diet, ensure that you thoroughly
wash your hands, work surfaces and
utensils after handling raw meat.
Feeding instructions
Why should I stick to the feeding instructions on the bag?
N ot keeping to the feeding instructions is a common mistake pet

owners make and it can have a negative effect on your pet’s health.
Always follow the recommended daily allowance printed on the pet food bag
or tin, unless your vet specifically advises you to change it based on your
pet’s individual needs.
Pet food manufacturers have calculated the daily energy needs of the
pet and what is provided by the food. By following these you can ensure
that your pet is getting what he requires. If you feed more than the
recommended amount, your pet may gain weight which can lead to obesity.
Feeding less can lead to poor body condition.
In most cases the manufacturer indicates the total required grams the pet
needs per day and you need to split this into the number of meals you feed
your pet. Don’t guess the amount either, rather measure it out so you know
exactly how much to give.
Hamster’s stuffed mouth

Is it dangerous for a hamster to stuff his mouth?
H amsters store food in their cheek pouches. These pouches fill up and stretch and
can make your hamster’s head look twice its normal size! When wild hamsters
forage for food, they pack food into the pouches to take back to the den for storage.
Your pet hamster may do the same or even move bedding around his cage this way! This
doesn’t mean that cheek pouches can’t cause health issues. Cuts can lead to an infection
inside the pouch, which may lead to an abscess. If the cheek pouch doesn’t empty
properly, it can become impacted. If your hamster’s pouches look filled for an extended
time, rather have it checked by your vet.
Food for
fussy bird
What should I do with my African Grey who
only wants to eat fruit and nothing else?
A ll pets need a balanced diet and in the case of African Grey parrots, they need to eat a variety of
foods to supply correct levels of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. A combination
of fruit and vegetables (including green veg) should only account for around 20 to 25% of your bird’s diet.
First up, your need to rule out possible illness, so see an avian veterinarian for a full health check.
A seeds-only or fruit-and-veg-only diet isn’t a balanced diet for parrots. The introduction of a quality
organic pellet, manufactured from a combination of fruit, vegetables and seeds, will greatly improve your
pet’s current diet.
Getting a fussy bird to try them can be a challenge, but to start with, mix in the pellets with chopped
pieces of fruit and vegetables that your bird will eat. You can also try hand-feeding the pellets or look for
fun ways to entice him, like hiding pellets inside fruit he enjoys.

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Special treats
Treat time provides the ideal opportunity
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and healthy. Our Dentacare range is made
with clove, mint and lemon extracts that your
dog will love and will also reduce tartar and
plaque build-up with the added benefit of
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treats contain natural prebiotics which
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range contains omega 3 and 6 for healthy
skin and coat and our Jointcare treats contain
glucosamine and chondroitin which provides
– your total mobility support. Because dogs, like people,

benefit from daily supplements, no matter
pet wellness solution

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We are also here to help to keep your tick
and flea situation under control with a variety
A
t Bob Martin, we pride ourselves in Our cat food is available in dry food and of Bob Martin dips, sprays and shampoos to
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your pet happy and healthy. We have is fortified with DHA for healthy brain three-step cycle and we guarantee your pets
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Our dog food is 100% nutritionally complete having to buy additional hairball products. for sensitive skin with over nine shampoos
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d y fibre, and carrots for healthyy vision. Condition
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d t o tab ets
60 Animaltalk
al alk | June
u e 2019
HEALTHTALK
nutrition
n
purr whe
also or
Cats are sick
y
the pain.
in
Prescribed food
Do I need a prescription for
prescription food?
W hile you don’t need a prescription
for ‘prescription’ diets, this should
not be used as a way to avoid seeing your
vet for a proper diagnosis of your pet’s
condition. The importance of correct diagnosis,
medical treatment and laboratory testing to
monitor progress is paramount. Vets promote
therapeutic diets as an aide to mainstay
treatment. Depending on the pet’s illness, other
tests may need to be regularly done. In some
cases, the foods may contain higher or lower
amounts of certain nutrients, and it may not
provide a balanced diet for healthy pets. If you
think your pet needs a therapeutic diet, first
discuss this with your vet.
Best feeding time

When is the best time in the morning to feed my pet –
just after he wakes up, or should I wait a while?
I t really doesn’t matter, so whatever fits in with your schedule
will be fine. Or in the case of a cat, you will fit into
her schedule! Cats are better at controlling their own
energy intake and therefore will want to eat on demand
– usually three times a day. Their start can be pretty
early since they are essentially nocturnal animals,
so breakfast for them is not as clearly defined as
for humans. It is not uncommon for our own cat,
Timmy, to place his order in the wee hours of
the morning. Feeding dogs at dusk may
help them to settle in better for the
night, giving you a good night’s
rest as well.
Dr Donald Leask,
veterinarian

DOGTALK A happy dog is ... Teaching vs
training
training
Is there a difference between

... well behaved. teaching and training a dog?
W hen referring to training, the
implication is an approach and
methods that are based on scientific
evidence and principles; that don’t involve
force; that rely on the use of positive
reinforcement; and most importantly, that
consider the needs, abilities and emotional
state of the dog at all times.
The word ‘teaching’ is therefore preferable
to ‘training’. Training implies commands,
obedience and strict boundaries. Teaching
revolves around guidance, clear cues and kind
instruction that seeks improvement in the
teacher rather than the student when mistakes
are made. It’s a win-win situation. So training
your dog is important, but teaching your dog
would be a much better option for both of you.
Katherine Brown, behaviourist
Socialising puppy
What is important to remember about
socialising and habituating a puppy?
W hen socialising and habituating your pup, care must be
taken to prevent one-event learning. This is when just
one bad experience can affect a dog for the rest of his life.
Therefore, all experiences that you expose the pup to during
socialisation and habituation must be positive. Do this by
pairing these experiences with yummy treats, and always make
sure that you don’t force pup into something he finds scary.
The job is not done once your dog is 16 weeks old. Keep on
socialising him for the rest of his life. If your puppy has not
received proper socialisation in the three- to 16-week time
period, it’s best to get the assistance of a qualified
behaviourist.
Noleen Fourie, behaviourist

FAST FACTS DOGTALK
BENEFITS OF BEING OUTSIDE training
• It provides your cat with healthy, fresh air.
• It allows a change of scenery which provides enrichment.
• Your cat keeps fit while playing, stalking and chasing bugs.
• It stimulates her mind when new games are introduced.
Nutritional value
How do you work out the
nutritional value of
treats so that you don’t
overfeed your dog?
T his is a difficult one – if you are feeding
biscuits or his kibble as treats, it is fairly
easy to work out how much he has had during
training and deduct that from his daily ration.
If you are treating him with things like chicken,
Perfect treat timing

you are adding extra protein but not extra carbs,
so that should not have a huge impact on his
overall weight. The best thing to do is to weigh
him before you start a new training/treating
Exactly when in the training process should you give your dog treats? regime and then keep an eye on him to see if
I t depends on the training method you are using.

If you are using a clicker or a short word like
‘yes’ to mark the required behaviour, the treat
mark the behaviour, the treat must be given at the
exact moment that the dog or puppy performs the
behaviour, so that he realises that what he is doing
he picks up or loses weight. Remember with
training he is going to be using more energy, so
he will need some additional calories.
can be given a few seconds after the marker. at that moment is the behaviour you are rewarding. Wendy Wilson, behaviourist
However, if you are not using a clicker or a ‘yes’ to Wendy Wilson, behaviourist
“Sit, boy.”
Why should I teach my dog to sit?
M any people, when they get a puppy, proceed to teach the pup to sit on cue
without understanding why they should do it. Actually, the sit is one of the
most useful things you can teach a dog. And with a bit of practise, one of the easiest.
Think of it this way: while a dog is sitting, he can’t do anything else. He can’t
jump up on people, he can’t trip someone who is going up or down the stairs, he
can’t bolt out of the car when you take him somewhere, and the list goes on. For
this to work, we need the dog to sit consistently every time we ask him to. This
is done by making it worthwhile for the dog – hence the use of treats. Using the
correct training technique will help the dog associate the action of sitting with
good things happening, and he will be more enthusiastic about sitting for you in
the future!
Never teach your dog the sit by pressing down on his hindquarters. Forcing
a dog to do something will not make him want to do it for you in the future. The
correct way to do it is to give the dog a choice – he chooses to go down in the sit
position because of the reward he will be getting afterwards.

PETTALK
training
DID YOU KNOW?
It is possible to train fish, but you’ll
need buckets full of patience and time.
Cockatiel
Teaching my cat training
Is there anything that I should keep in
Can I teach my cat to join us on outings? mind when training my cockatiel?
T his very much depends on your cat’s personality and the extent of training and socialisation
that you’ve achieved with her. A cat who is ill-prepared for the world outside her home is going
to struggle to cope, or possibly even panic, if taken away from the environment she is used to.
T
•
here are a couple of things that you should
keep in mind, including:
If at any time the bird seems stressed, stop the
Before embarking on any adventures with your cat, I would highly recommend consulting with training and carry on when he is more relaxed.
a qualified cat behaviourist who can assess your cat’s readiness to enjoy outdoor activities. • Make sure the reward is a great motivator and
Leash-training is essential, as is a high rate of responsiveness – meaning that your cat responds to your bird will do ‘almost’ anything to get it.
cues from you quickly and easily. Your cat will require the experience and confidence to cope with • Have several small sessions a week.
whatever she may encounter outdoors. • Persistence and repetition – focus on one
Don’t just throw a harness on your cat and leash her up for a walk in the hills. This could go horribly particular lesson and reinforce with repetition
wrong, so make sure you have the go-ahead from a reputable behaviourist as well as your vet before and on a regular time schedule.
leaving home. The same activities aren’t available for cats that are available for dogs, so what you • Patience – don’t expect immediate results.
choose to do with your cat is largely up to the two of you! • Consistency – use simple, consistent
Find out what your cat enjoys: does she prefer a quiet walk around the neighbourhood, or a stroll on commands.
the beach? If you have a particularly active cat, ask your local dog trainers if you could make use of • Have fun, pay attention to the bird’s body
their agility equipment when no dogs are present (it wouldn’t be fair on the dogs) for some training fun! language and keep things simple.
Katherine Brown, behaviourist Small animal veterinarian
Teaching older cats

When is it safe to teach an older cat?
O lder cats may have health concerns, so it’s important to first consider your cat’s health and well-being before
commencing with training.
• When your vet gives your cat a clean bill of health, she eats a healthy diet and her vaccinations are up to date, then
there is no reason not to give training a go.
• If your cat is currently being or has recently been treated for an illness, you’ll have to give her a few
weeks to make a full recovery before starting a training programme.
• But, if your cat has been diagnosed with a chronic illness or long-term health issue like arthritis
or joint problems, you’ve hit an obstacle. Always check with your vet about your cat’s condition
and if what you want to teach her is an appropriate activity or not. For example, cats with
severe arthritis would not benefit from vigorous obstacle course training.
Animaltalk | July 2019

Off the bed!
How can I teach my dog to sleep in his own bed?
T hink about reinforcement for a second – sleeping on the bed is
comfortable, it smells like his people, he’s close to his people, perhaps
he gets cuddles on the bed too. Sleeping in his own bed simply does not have
that, reach your arm out to him and gently touch him, and tell him he’s a good boy!
He’s probably going to get on the bed at some point – that’s fine, leave him.
Simply don’t give him any attention when he’s on the bed. No cuddles, no
that level of reinforcement! So you’re going to have to change that, but it must chatting, nothing. But any time you see him in his own bed, a treat will magically
be done very gradually. Just throwing him off the bed would be unfair and could appear and he’ll get loads of attention. See what’s happening here? You’re
cause significant stress. changing the reinforcement from your bed to his bed. You’re making his bed the
Get prepared: put his bed right next to yours, within arm’s reach, and keep some greatest place to be and your bed kind of boring. Be patient, don’t rush your dog
tasty treats in your bedside table (out of reach!). What you’re going to do is direct and most importantly be consistent – don’t confuse your dog by giving the odd
him to his bed at bed-time, and give him a treat. If he stays in his bed, you’re going cuddle on the bed. Cuddles are for his bed only!
to continue giving him a treat about every 30 to 60 seconds until lights out. After Katherine Brown, behaviourist
No punishment
What should I do when my puppy had
an accident?
I f your pup has an accident in the house,
don’t shout at him or dish out punishment.
He is simply following natural instincts. He
doesn’t know what he did wrong – you are
just scaring him. If an accident happens in
the house, just keep calm and clean it when
pup is not looking. Always use a product that
doesn’t contain ammonia, as ammonia smells
like urine and will encourage pup to use the
same spot again.

PETTALK
activities
DID YOU HEAR?

Agility trainers sometimes use
a dog’s natural prey drive to
get him to run (drive) forward.
Fetch, Fido
How can I teach my dog to play fetch?
F etch seems to be the most natural game to play with your dog
– a game that only requires a ball or a toy. It is an easy game
that provides great exercise for you both. Ensure that the ball is big
enough so that Fido won’t swallow it in his excitement.
Less energetic people get the chance to become more active
while Fido gets a good workout. Even older dogs can play a game of
fetch as they need exercise too while having fun. It is also a fun way
to teach your dog commands like ‘fetch’ and ‘give’.
STEP 1 – Introduce the ball or toy to your pet in the garden. Most
pets instinctively know that they should retrieve the ball if you start
throwing it. You might have to coax him and run after the ball a few
times to show him what to do.
STEP 2 – Once he retrieves the ball, call him to bring it back to
the spot where you are standing. Encourage him to ‘drop’ the ball –
you can swop it for a treat or even another ball. Every time that he
brings the ball back to you and drops it, praise and reward him. This
makes the game more fun!
You can play this game outdoors or indoors provided that the room
is uncluttered. Puppies and children can play the game.
Starting agility
At what age can my dog start agility training?
T he good news is that any dog who is physically healthy can
start agility training – even puppies of four months and
older – as the initial training does not involve strenuous physical
exercise. It is not advisable for puppies or beginner dogs to perform
actual obstacles until they are physically capable, and trained, to
do so.
Agility trainers often start with training called ‘groundwork’,
where the dog performs tasks with all four feet in contact with the
ground – no jumping or negotiating of contact obstacles. Depending
on the age of the dog, this period may be shortened or extended.
A training session is usually kept short, and it may vary
depending on the dog’s age. Stopping while your dog is enjoying
himself, rather than being completely exhausted, means that he will
be keener and more interested the next time training starts.
Rob Hall

PETTALK
activities
Agility
is
that ar a series of s
e taugh kills
and the ti
n chain ndividually
ed toge
ther.
Time for
doggy yoga
Do flyball
Who can enjoy flyball?
A ny breed of dog can partake in flyball. As
long as the dog can fetch a tennis ball and
has a solid recall, he can join in the fun. Obviously,
suffering from an ailment such as hip dysplasia, it
is highly recommended that you consult with your
vet first before exposing your dog to such a high-
the dog has to be fit, healthy and able to run as paced sport.
fast as possible. If you have a senior dog, or a dog Christine Broadbent, Flyball Infinity member
Game rules What is doggy yoga and how

Are there any rules to follow when playing games with my dog?
does it work?
B efore participating in any games, both you and your dog need to understand that all games have
rules that should be adhered to. Because pets don’t always understand the human rules, we have
to teach them the rules. D oggy yoga is a fun dog exercise class
where we help dogs build healthier bodies.
RULE 1 – Humans control games and therefore you should start and end the game on your terms. You The focus is on improving flexibility, balance and
should initiate the game when you are ready. Set the tone of the game and if it gets too rough, end the strength in a positive and safe way. Doggy yoga
game. also emphasises calmness and focus. Doggy
RULE 2 – Play with durable toys and not human limbs – teach your pet that your limbs are not prey yoga classes start off with a guided massage
items. session, during which the owner learns to identify
RULE 3 – The toy belongs to the human. At the end of a game, put the toy away – offer your dog a potential problems in their dog through touch.
high-value treat in exchange for the toy and when he drops it, say a word like “drop”. He will eventually This is followed by fun yet challenging exercises
respond appropriately to “drop”. using a variety of equipment, including exercise
Always end the game on a positive note. This way your dog will look forward to your next play balls and balance beams. At the end of the class,
session. Remember that your dog will not always be in the mood to play, especially if he is tired. owners are guided through a stretching session
Respect that and don’t force him into a game when he doesn’t feel like it. for their dogs.
Small animal veterinarian Ansi van der Walt, physiotherapist

TOPDOG
100 ratings
Check out the latest Top 100 The Animaltalk Top Dog 100 Ratings are hugely popular with
results and show events online at dog show enthusiasts, and the coveted title of Top Dog is
highly sought after. The winners will be honoured at the Top
Dog function which will be held in January 2020.
Queries should be addressed to As always, the Top Dog, Top Bitch, Top SA-Bred Dog and
Carol Immelman by email cruella@iafrica.com Group winners will all be individually recognised.
BOLD print indicates group leaders AS AT 17 MAY 2019

RED indicates imported dogs Including Whale Coast and Overberg, which were inadvertently omitted from the previous points.
Rnk Pts NAME BREED Rnk Pts NAME BREED

1 1812 LUCIA’S DREAM STEELSHEEN AT TARTANSKYE SCOTTIE 51 133 GETWICK FANCY THAT ML DACHS
2 1153 GAITEWAI A FALCON FLIES OF FAIRMOOR GREAT DANE 52 132 LORDSETT ALMOND JOY ENG SPRINGER
3 1001 SHODAN QUEEN NALA BULL TERRIER 53 130 RAVILAIS CASTIEL’S MOTH IT GREYHOUND
4 957 TRACESTAR RING LEADER POMERANIAN 54 125 WIKABRU ARTHUR BULLDOG
5 950 DALLMALLI DUCKS IN A ROW DALMATIAN 55 123 TANTALIKA HARRY DASH AFGHAN
6 869 GONDWANA I AM A FIREBALL RIDGEBACK 56 120 CALMADY ELIJAH PEKINGESE
7 767 KELEV MORNING STAR STAFFORD 57 116 KOKOMO ANYTHING GOES OF ARYLLMAR LHASA APSO
8 754 FLEETWIND THUNDERSTRUCK SALUKI 58 114 KASAAN’S SWEETER PIECE OF FORTUNE MALAMUTE
9 718 TULLAMORE AUGUST RUSH GSP 58 114 STELIZANE DANIEL CRAIG STD POODLE
10 663 SHARNDAH ENCORE ENCORE AT MACKLAND SHELTIE 60 113 AILSABUTE FORCE OF NATURE SKYE TERRIER
11 656 RISING STAR OF MONTALA BOXER 60 113 AILSABUTE PRINCIPLE ASSET OF ROSANTE SKYE TERRIER
12 644 SEASYDE SUNSET STRIP AT WHITESQUALL POINTER 62 107 WHIRLWINDS STAIRCASE TO HEAVEN OF XAMNER YORKIE
13 604 UNDER THE STARS OF HELLO YORKIES YORKIE 63 104 HIGHLEIGH BILLY ELLIOT PEMB CORGI
14 577 CASSOM LEANDRO COCKER 63 104 ZIMZALA DREAM PRINCESS FLAT COAT
15 569 XANTAH DOUBLE IMPACT POMERANIAN 63 104 SWEETWELL ROYAL ACCLAIM ML DACHS
16 505 COME AND GET IT ART MIRONOFF AKITA 66 103 DANIEN BALTHASAR IT SPINONE
17 468 CREME ANGLAISE’S PINK PANTHER WHIPPET 66 103 XANTAH NOW IS THE TIME POMERANIAN
18 462 STONE RIDGE LONG LIVE COWBOYS AT CHARISMA AUST SHEPHERD 68 102 MELHAVEN WASIM RAFIQ SALUKI
19 412 RAMINARTUS SALTAN OF SWAT STAFFORD 69 101 DINNYESVAROSI SWEET CHILD O’ MINE AT BATAIREACHT KERRY BLUE
20 395 MYSTICLIGHT I’M SO HANDSOME AUST SHEPHERD 70 100 ARDMORE SYDNEY’S RILEY OF SOUTHERNSTAR IRISH SETTER
21 382 GLENGARRIF PEYTON WOLFHOUND 70 100 DALLMALLI DONE AND DUSTED DALMATIAN
22 366 STILYSH PRINCESS GRACE OF RHOSWYN MIN POODLE 72 98 LORDSETT CHERRY ALEXANDER ENG SPRINGER
23 352 KONPARA ALTA MODA OF CAPREESE AFGHAN 73 92 CHITEM BRAVE HEART LC CHIHUAHUA
24 351 SARANGRAVE UR THRONE AWAITS OF MORNINGHUNT BEAGLE 73 92 TASDALE HEAR MY HAKA OF STAPPHIRE AUST TERRIER
25 308 TERRADONEY BOOGALOOH AT CHALDONNE DOBERMANN 75 91 ASHLAREN AMAZING GRACE AT GATEBEAUTIFUL WEIMARANER
26 302 VOXCREEK MAXIMILLIEN BEAGLE 76 89 EUKLEIA AURORA SPARKLE OF SIVHANA STAFFORD
27 295 KAMCHATKA A GOLDEN STAR SIBERIAN 77 87 DAMARANLOR DREAM DANCER OF MONTETI PHARAOH
28 294 FID DE SIECLE FANDANGO POLAND GT SCHNAUZER 78 84 TIDALWAVES PALAZZO BASSET
29 292 REITHSON’S FLYING SOLO OF CORDARE BULL TERRIER 78 84 BUNNICHEM CHIMBORAZO LABRADOR
30 275 LIGHTFOOT AZULAY AZAWAKH 80 83 QUILLQUEST MOWGLI GOLDEN
31 263 GANDHARA DUKE DOUGLAS SCOTTIE 81 82 DANONINA BULLFELLAS GOLD HAUS JOVANOVIC OF PIESKI FR BULLDOG
32 241 TANJO JEDI KNIGHT ENG SPRINGER 82 81 LUDERE VELIA’S SONG OF SUNRAIGE BULL TERRIER
32 241 TODDIGTON DONEGAN OF BALLEYASKETILL WOLFHOUND 82 81 BARRASSY’S SAINT PADRAIGH OF DUROSS WOLFHOUND
34 223 AMBERHALL ARIELLA RIDGEBACK 84 78 EUKLEIA KEAMIE CARLO OF TOLMIROS STAFFORD
35 221 DOTCOM SAND IN MY SHOES STD POODLE 85 77 SLEEYHOLLOW CLOUD DANCER WHIPPET
36 219 HERONSWAY SILVER DOLLAR OF EVERLEIGH PEMB CORGI 86 76 ZAIDA-JIN CUNAMI FOR KIMEKAI CHOW CHOW
37 204 CHALDONNE RAKA DOBERMANN 86 76 DELATRO CLOEH WHITE SWISS
38 184 ANNAN BURNING AMBITION SAMOYED 88 75 TANJO WAR LORD ENG SPRINGER
39 181 TULLAMORE SUNDANCE KID GSP 89 73 WALDGROENDER DOUBLE DUBLIN BULLDOG
40 180 EVERLEIGH BORN TO PERFORM PEMB CORGI 89 73 VENRON MONARCH OT GLEN BORDER COLLIE
41 165 ALISTAIR’S RENAISSANCE AT ASHVALE BEARDIE 91 71 BUBBLETON POLICY OF TRUTH AT MERRYMEAD PULI
42 158 DREAMRIDGE DRAGONS SHANTI HAVANESE 91 71 MELHAVEN KAREEM HASSON SALUKI
42 158 SOLETRADER CHIP N’ PIN PBGV 91 71 RADOST ZHIZNI ZLATOZAR OF ANNAN SAMOYED
44 156 VON SHINBASHI FAITH HOPE LOVE AT KAIKOURA CH CRESTED 94 69 VON GRECO JOSHUA OF JAMEELKELP ML DACHS
45 150 WHIZZBANG’S ALL THEY TALK ABOUT OF MIRAIN FLAT COAT 94 69 AUVA STAR OF NEEVA AFGHAN
46 146 SUMMERSIM BLACK N GOLD PUG 96 68 EUKLEIA CYMRY POLAR STAR STAFFORD
47 141 DUNSTARS DIAMONDS N DUST OF CAPREESE SHIH TZU 96 68 KAMAHI LOREAL LADY AT WAYDACK SH DACHSHUND
48 138 MIDNIGHTDREAM PICTURE PERFECT SHIH TZU 98 67 YAW ADYUBA ROC AFELLA FOR GONDWANA RIDGEBACK
49 136 CRAVONMARK ELLA-MAE OF MONETROUGE STAFFORD 98 67 FEATHERSCENT SHE’S THE ONE FLAT COAT
50 135 SVORA SZARINA SERENA BORZOI 100 66 BELDIGO NEVER SAY NEVER IRISH SETTER

DOGTALK
q&a
Show dog Champion

How does a dog become a champion?
I n order to earn the title of Champion, a dog has

to win five Challenge Certificate (CC) points. CC
points are earned at championship shows in breed
in each breed, one for males and one for females.
Depending on the number of dogs competing for the
CC, it carries a value of one or two points. If there are Accumulating points
classes, in other words, where the dogs compete more than 10 competitors, the CC winner is awarded What makes a Grand Champion?
against their own breed.
Provided that the judge believes the competitors
are worthy of a Champion title, two CCs are awarded
a two-point CC. The CC points only count if a dog is
over nine months of age, and at least one CC has to
be won at over 18 months of age.
G rand Champion points are earned by
winning:
• Champions Class – one point
• Best of Breed – two points
• Best in Group – two points
• Best in Show – two points
• Reserve Best in Show – one point
Dogs need to earn 50 points to become a Grand
Champion and the points must be earned in at
least three provinces.
Show dates
Where can you see dogs earning
their titles?
You can see how Champion titles are earned at
one of these championship dog shows.
DURBAN: 5, 6 & 7 JULY
All Breeds. Gelofte Skool, Caversham Road, Pinetown
Biggest achievement WINDHOEK: 26 & 27 JULY
What makes a Supreme Champion? All Breeds. GSD Club Grounds, Frankie Federicks
Street, Windhoek
T he recently introduced Supreme Champion

title is the epitome of achievement for a show
dog. The title is awarded to dogs who have earned
other words, in competition with dogs of different
breeds. The points must be earned in at least four
provinces and the dog must have won at least
EAST LONDON: 31 JULY, 1 & 2 AUGUST
All Breeds. Cambridge Primary School, Queen Street,
150 points based on the same points table as Grand one All Breeds Best in Show award. Finally, the East London
Champions, but that’s not all that is required. The dog must also be DNA profiled and earn a Bronze
DURBAN: 9, 10 & 11 AUGUST
dog also needs to have won at least 30 of those Canine Good Citizen award in order to earn this very All Breeds. Ashley Sports Club, Russell Street, Pinetown
points in Group or Best in Show competitions, in special title.

shoptalk Animaltalk’s news hound found
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He is here to share some of his
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Pets are family, therefore they deserve to be well taken care of. Thee Dog and Cat Food has
over 22 years of experience in the development and manufacturing of premium and ultra-
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Thee Dog Food is nutritionally balanced to meet dogs’ requirements. The quality protein
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For more information on the products go to www.candycolours.co.za or send an email to irectory.
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RAISING A PUPPY
pet skin and fur range ideal for pets with Whether you are adopting a rescue dog
itchy skin. The team behind Dr Zoo has a or getting a new puppy, you need some
background in creating natural products for guidance that you can trust. You’ll find tips
humans and as you may know, pets share and advice from experts in the Southern
some of the same skin problems as humans, Africa’s Dog Directory 2019. This directory
but their skin is a little bit different than contains all the information you need to help
ours. Therefore the company modified their you make the right choices and to help raise
products by adjusting the pH to suit pets. your puppy into a wonderful adult dog.
The company team is passionate believers It tells you about choosing the right breeder,
in letting pet owners know exactly which how to survive the first few nights, food
ingredients are used in the products. That requirements, potential behaviour problems,
way, owners can research the ingredients training and sport opportunities, and crucial
themselves to make sure they are healthy for health information. The Breedfinder has all
their pets. Most pets lick themselves silly, so the information you need to choose the ideal
it’s very important that the ingredients are breed for you and your family.
100% natural and ‘lickable’. This must-have directory is available now
RELIEF FROM ITCHY SKIN For more information and places to find the in retail stores and at leading newsagents. If
Does your pet suffer from an itchy skin? Your range, go to www. drzoo.co.za. you cannot find it in store, send an email to
solution might be with Dr Zoo – a natural animaltalk@panorama.co.za.

PET MALL

CLASSIFIEDS
ANIMALTALK CLASSIFIEDS
The classifieds offer a range of services and products, from animal behaviourists and training, hydrotheraphy, kennels
and catteries, pet-friendly accommodation and restaurants, to travel and a wide range of breeders.
200 SERVICES
202 ANIMAL BEHAVIOURISTS & TRAINING 400 CATS 600 DOGS
401 CLUBS 603 BREEDERS
SACC
BEAGLES
SOUTHERN AFRICA CAT COUNCIL CHRISBE BEAGLES

Top quality registered puppies.
Imported and Champion bloodlines.
For Cattery / Stud / Kitten Registrations

Chris 083 258 9970
Forms in connection with the above chrishartman0@gmail.com Pretoria
Information on Breeders and Studs
Availability of Kittens
Show related enquiries
Affiliated Cat Club Information
HOUNDBROOK MR NEO ANDERSON AT EKARA

THE SOUTH AFRICAN CAT REGISTER
Tellington TTouch
P.O. Box 28732, Kensington, 2101
Training: Tel: 011 616 7017; Fax 086 616 8294;
Works gently with e-mail: sacatreg@iafrica.com
cats, dogs & equine www.tsacc.org.za
071 400 3048
for both behavioural (Office Hours: Mon. to Fri. 09h00 - 13h00)
ekarabeagles@gmail.com
& health related www.ekarabeagles.com
problems. Bred for type and temperament DIRK TIJSSEN
011 884-3156 | info@ttouch.co.za | www.ttouch.co.za 403 BREEDERS
PERSIANS AND EXOTICS
206 BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERIES
Pets Paradise
Pet Boarding, Grooming
&
EL’Vee Persians
Exotics
CFSA Registered Photo: Linn Currie
Parlour and Pet Shop. Kittens sometimes available.
Contact Lisa Venter
Cell: 073 308 4673 Cell 071 602 0515
Email: petspar@iafrica.com www.el-vee.com
Web:www.petparadise.co.za DID YOU KNOW?
Some pet medical aid insurance
KATMANDU. A specialised boarding cattery. policies even provide cover towards
Lammermoor, near Lanseria. 083 457 3381 preventative care such as vaccinations,
www.katmandu.co.za. Also see KATMANDU CAT
flea, tick and worm control, sterilisation
HOTEL on facebook.
and teeth cleaning.
217 PET-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION
To advertise, contact Nora on 011 468 2090
BOERBOEL
MPUMALANGA
DULLSTROOM L’Unique
PERSIANS
THE 6 SLEEPER FARMSTEAD & 2 SLEEPER
& EXOTICS
THE NEST is nestled among rolling hills, waterfalls &
streams on THE FARM FIELD & STREAM. Fishing, JOHAN VAN EEDEN
hiking, mountain biking & clay-pigeon shooting. 082 459 3025
086 435 2704
Greg 083 443 4567 fieldandstream@mweb.co.za
johanveeden01
johan.van.eeden@hotmail.com
KWA ZULU NATAL
BLYTHEDALE BEACH NORTH COAST
MINIVILLAS. BEACHFRONT SELF CATERING DID YOU KNOW?
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION www.minivillas.co.za Cats of either sex, neutered or
minivillas@mweb.co.za | 032 551 1277. Limited number entire, may spray inside when feeling
of dogs, acceptance subject to our Pet Policy.
threatened or anxious. AFRICAN
218 PET-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS LONG–LEG
BOERBOELS
With audited, Puppies available and adult
Boerboels available
guaranteed circulation, SABBS registered
Contact
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WELCOME! coffee books jams waffles get results! Cell +27 82 966 0701
Nikki Vakis Cell+ 27 76 537 7162
Equifox Park, 137 Crocus Road, Kyalami, 073 100 9282

BORDER COLLIES JACK RUSSELL TERRIERS
CLASSIFIEDS
DOGO ARGENTINO
THE JACK RUSSELL TERRIER Club of SA
Border Collie Alfonsia Dogo Home of the Original Jack Russell.
rescue Argentino’s www.jackrussellsa.co.za
CHARLMAR KENNELS. Registered pups. Short leg.
Beautiful Border Collies of all ages eagerly
Imported bloodlines. Tan & White, Innoc, Springs
awaiting their approved forever homes.
Tel 011 395 2259 Cell 082 887 9668 073 162 2624
See us www.bordercollierescue.co.za
Non profit org 006 620 NPO Neil Carr Cell 071 102 1890 ⎜neilgarth@gmail.com LABRADOR RETRIEVER
www.alfonsiadogs.co.za ⎜alfonsiadogos.co.za
BULLDOGS
ENGLISH MASTIFFS Conkasha LABRADORS
WESTBERG KENNELS
Breeder of quality English
& French Bulldogs Pups
sometimes
KUSA registered puppies available
available
Rina vd Westhuizen
Cell: 084 585 5657 DelPicasso all three
colours.
Email: westbergkennels@gmail.com ENGLISH MASTIFFS
HEALTHY BULLDOGS. Quality breeder for www.dogsdogs.co.za

Sharron Brown – Lanseria
more than 10 years. Kusa reg puppies occasionally
"Properly trained, a man can be
available. Louise 082 888 1248 k.kinetika@gmail.com
healthybulldogs.co.za dog’s best friend." LAMBRADA LABRADORS
Corey Ford For Type & Temperament
CAIRN TERRIERS FOX TERRIER
KAMBULA Lizette 083 555 5480 lambrada@telkomsa.net www.lambrada.co.za

SMOOTH COAT FOX TERRIERS
KUSA registered inoculated,
dewormed & micro chipped
puppies available from champion Marsabet
blood lines. Show Quality! Labrador Retrievers
Natasha 072 651 2770 natasha.basset@gmail.com
Contact
FRENCH BULLDOGS Annette
Thalu Kennels Rostel French

083 375 1565
secdogs@mweb.co.za
Registered Cairn and West
Highland Terrier pups available
Thariza van Rensburg
Bulldog’s NEAPOLITAN MASTIFFS
Cell 083 379 7111 KUSA registered puppies

We breed since 1994, for
occasionally available.
Email 1969thariza@gmail.com Contact Jan Vorster
quality and distinction and
strive for excellent true
Booking deadline for September 2019 – 05 July 2019

082 929 9024 Italian type and sound
CHIHUAHUAS temperament. We recently
imported various new dogs
Bronties Chihuahuas
Long and Smooth coat
Toshiro Kennels
Ken ls from Italy and Belgium, to
enhance our breeding.
Chihuahua Breeders KUSA registered Bookings essential.

French Bulldogs. Contact
www.bronties.co.za
DelPicasso
Linda @ 072 650 2726 or
Chihuahuas and
Hettie – 072 478 3471 Yorkies.
info@delpicasso.com
visit us at
Marieza – 071 013 5612
Email – hettiev@gmail.com Ronita Loots 082 850 4806
www.neapolitan.co.za NEAPOLITAN MASTIFFS
VAN WILLMICH FRENCH BULLDOGS. KUSA PAPILLON

DACHSHUNDS: LONG-HAIRED & MINIATURE reg puppies available to approved homes occasionally.
Breeder of Blues and traditional colors. Contact
Michelle 084 500 1716 or mvanniekerk646@gmail.com
GERMAN SHEPHERDS
SILBERSCHATTEN GSDs
• Federation registered, vacc.& dew. pups:
• SABLE, PITCH-BLACK, BLACK & TAN;
• Lovingly home-reared for superb
temperament as ideal family companions; 082 374 5251 |
• Our GSDs' HIPS AND ELBOWS “A” GRADE;

• Excellent imported German Show and
Working bloodlines;
• Pre- & post-sales advice & support; DID YOU KNOW?
• Pups placed with approved dog-lovers only.
Mark von Sendling VA (SA) GISELA: 072 555 7123 / 072 080 3278 (near JHB) Change and diversity are important
criteria when choosing a diet for your
GREAT DANES
SANTITIA Miniature dachshund puppies. KUSA pet bird. He’ll not only have a greater
registered. Long haired and smooth haired from BROLLOXON GREAT DANES. Quality registered chance of acquiring critical nutrients
imported stock. Vaccinated and dewormed. Contact puppies occasionally available. Contact Estelle Nienaber
083 793 0403. Email brolloxongreatdanes@icloud.com that may otherwise be lacking in the
Sandra Nieuwoudt at 082 550 2476
GAITEWAI Quality Fawn/Brindle Great Danes diet, but his emotional health will also
ZILLENBERG DACHSHUNDS miniature smooth altawait123@gmail.com improve – different food choices help
haired. Kusa Registered Tel Caroline Barclay GATONFORD Quality Blue/Black Great Danes
to relieve boredom.
011 967 2350 / 082 325 3521 danielvanwyk@gmail.com.

CLASSIFIEDS
POMERANIANS SCHNAUZERS
FORSAN POMERANIANS
KUSA registered
MIJOY
Puppies from imported and local
Yorkshire & Biewer Terriers
champion bloodlines sometimes available. Imported Biewer Terriers
p • Pocket •
eacu M in
Susan Lombaard 0824494491
i n T Call Joyce iat
ing
Email: susan@forsantoypoms.co.za
072 234 0791 u r
Website: www.forsantoypoms.co.za is
Email mijoy@wam.co.za
i al
es
ec
ize
All pups are registered and carry
Pomelene Pomeranians
Sp
health guarantees.
s
“Home of quality Pomeranians and many homebred
Champions from our Ch. Import and/or local Ch. bloodlines”
MUTTERLIEBE KENNELS When

only the
SINCE 1990
BEST will do
www.mijoy-yorkies.co.za • www.mijoybiewerterriers.co.za
Contact Charlene Booysen “Most popular colours are YSTERBERG MASTIFFS

082 785 0894 available including rare
pomelenepoms@gmail.com blacks and whites”
www.pomelene.co.za.
Breeder of happy and healthy Black and Silver, and Salt and
KOBCO Kobus 072 424 5328
Corrie 072 454 3278
kobco@acenet.co.za
STUD
POODLES Pepper Miniature Schnauzer puppies. KUSA Registered www.kobcoysterbergmastiffs.webs.com
Anneli du Preez Cell nr. 082 567 8093 www.facebook.com/kobcoysterbergmastiff
Email address: anneli.dupreez.adp1@gmail.com
WAYLOR Website address: www.mutterliebeschnauzers.com
TOY & MINIATURE POODLES
KEYSTONE. Miniature Schnauzer puppies from the
All dogs are KUSA registered best show lines in the world occasionally available to
Breeders of top quality pups. approved homes. Raised in a loving home.
Lorraine 083 459 9785 www.miniatureschnauzers.co.za 0833423734 – Francois
waylorpoodles@hotmail.com
RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS DID YOU KNOW?

A female badger is called a ‘sow’.
Kulima Rhodesian Ridgebacks

SHIBA INUS
Bred for quality SHILUAN SHIBA INUS. KUSA Registered Puppies

sometimes available to approved homes. Anita 021
and temperament
856 3231 Cell 082 659 3231
rottlerhof@webmail.co.za
Expose your breed to
Obrè van Heerden www.shiluanshiba.moonfruit.com 136,000 people nationwide
Tel 082 859 2790 YORKSHIRE TERRIER
obre@isat.co.za
LOVETHEMALL
To advertise, contact Nora on 011 468 2090
www.kulima.co.za
YORKIE BREEDERS
DID YOU KNOW? Bred and raised with love
The world’s oldest verified dog was a
Terrier with the name Max, who lived a
KUSA Registered
staggering 29 years and 282 days Contact: Ina Jansen Van Vuuren
(in the USA). Cell: 072 267 3527
love.them.all.yorkies@gmail.com
www.lovethemall.co.za
ROTTWEILERS
Rottlerhof Rottweilers DID YOU KNOW?

Pursuance of excellence a breed of dignity
KUSA registered puppies • There are believed to be over 60 million
sometimes available
Contact Details feral cats in the USA.
Anita Esterhuizen
T: 021 856 3231 | C: 082 659 3231
Email rottlerhof@webmail.co.za
• Dogs are the only animals to exhibit Contact Nora 011 468 2090
www.rottlerhof.co.za social intelligence. There is no better way to keep your
CAMELWEST ROTTWEILERS. KUSA reg puppies, • All house cats are descended from as kennel foremost in potential puppy
breeder for 35 years. Susan 082 953 7134 few as five female African wild cats. buyers' minds than with a regular
www.camelwestrottweilers.co.za
• A cat’s normal body temperature is 38.6 advertisement and high quality
CHARLMAR KENNELS
Rottweiler Pups. Imported Bloodlines. Available with or degrees Celsius. picture of your dogs in Animaltalk
without KUSA Registration Springs 073 162 2624.

nextissue AUGUST ISSUE ON SALE 22 JULY 2019
AVAILABLE AT ALL GOOD NEWSAGENTS, PICK N PAY, CHECKERS, WOOLWORTHS, SPAR, FOOD LOVER’S MARKET, CNA AND PNA
Pick
me!
CHOOSING A CAT
Whether you want to rescue a cat or adopt a kitten – you have to read
our article on how to choose a cat who will fit in with your family.
THE NEXT MOVIE STAR

Your questions Yes, with some training and lots of patience, your Fido can become a TV star and
feature in adverts too! Find out what you can do for Fido to become famous.
answered
• How can I teach my dog to walk on a leash?
• On whose side is the law when it comes to pets?
• Is Spirocerca lupi really that dangerous?
TRENDY CHICKENS
Keeping chickens is the latest craze. Whether you want
a different pet or just want some companionship, this is Fat
attack
what you need to know about keeping chickens.
Say no to obese pets. Fat causes a plethora of

health issues and can be damaging in the long
run. Be responsible – find out what you can do to
prevent obesity and why it is so dangerous.
BREED PROFILES
▲
Who’s a clever dog? We take a look at these brainy companions: German Shepherd Dog, Poodle and Siberian
Husky. Also read about the beautiful Maine Coon cat.
BRAKTALK A happy dog is ...
the adventures of Brak
... loved and well cared for.
in winter
Cosy and warm
Don’t forget about your pets this winter – they also feel the cold, even though they have furry coats. Bring
them into the home at night and let them sleep in a comfy, warm bed. Take extra care with fireplaces and
heaters. Accidents can happen.

animaltalk
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JULY 2019 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 07 BREEDERS & CLASSIFIEDS ADVERTISING COPYRIGHT

PRINTERS Business Print

Rowena Singh | Rowena@panorama.co.za 92 Campolino Road, Kyalami.

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Animaltalk | July 2019 1

thismonth Your guide to responsible pet ownership

08 Do donkeys make good pets? How do bees

40 Your free poster

70 Animaltalk Top Dog 100 ratings and news

73 Book reviews and pet products 10 When is a dog’s

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20 How is it possible to overfeed

NTIAL 34 Can I alter my cat’s feeding times?

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• Can I teach my cat to join us on outings?

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J oints that don’t move become stiff and painful

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Car safety Even in w

P ets must be properly restrained in a

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12 Animaltalk | July 2019

... well entertained.

or down the stairs? why it seems like a fun game!

F irstly, I would advise that you chat to your

Animaltalk | July 2019 13

Stop the begging

14 Animaltalk | July 2019

Separation related distress

Animaltalk | July 2019 15

dogtalk I’m the happiest when

WHAT DO YOU NEED

that you can learn today.

Animaltalk | July 2019 17

18 Animaltalk | July 2019

Deworming frequency dramatically decreased by having them sterilised at

Animaltalk | July 2019 19

20 Animaltalk | July 2019

More affection Removing

Animaltalk | July 2019 21

D ogs are vulnerable to changes in the

I f you can handle the gross-factor, you

22 Animaltalk | July 2019

DID YOU KNOW?