GREAT STORIES, HEALTH & BEHAVIOUR ADVICE AND MUCH MORE!

GSP (-ology) Energetic Why should I and Loving insure my dog? Crufts

2020 SIGHT & SOUND Oliver had Can your dog bigger plans!. watch TV? DESTRUCTIVE CHEWING HOW TO MAKE IT STOP!

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Cover STAr Handsome Loki, owned and adored by Elani van den Heever & Sjaak van der Laanl Photography by Marnique Mika Majoor - Major & Me IN EVERY ISSUE 4. UPFRONT ASK THE VET What's new in the wonderful 34. Focus on gastric dilatation world of dogs and volvulus syndrome in dogs (bloat and stomach torsion) 8. YOUR PHOTOS We asked for your cutest dog 40. THE BREED photos – and we got 'em! German Shorthaired Pointer (-ology) 10. ASK THE EXPERTS 10 Energetic, versatile and loving Your behavioural problems answered RUFF STUFF 46. Rewards for much-loved 14. DOGS 101 canines and their owners Dealing with destructive chewing 50. ADORABLE ADOPTABLES FEATURES Meet a few winsome charmers now in shelters countrywide 16. Crufts 2020 18. Sight and sound ADVICE AND MORE 14 22. Winter safety 32. Washing a dog's belongings 36. Why should I insure my dog?

FOREVER HOME 24. Leaving on a jet plane 26. Max's moment 29. Oliver had bigger plans! 18

22 40 Dog talk

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Sharon Dale ere we women “sweetie” or “honey”. I must [email protected] Hare in say, I’m a bit confused now about ASSISTANT EDITOR April already! how to refer to people with dogs. Aidan Wiggill This year has I personally use and like the word [email protected] simply flown “pet parent”, so I’ll have to change DESIGN/CREATIVE EDITOR by, and as we that to “companion parent” or “dog Ian James

head into our parent”. Dogs and cats deserve our COPY EDITOR winter months, respect, love and care, but I worry Glyn Price please make that the world we live in is becoming EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS sure that your fur kids are prepared so very and overly politically correct. Patti Baron-Lowe for winter and that they’ll be warm What are your thoughts on this? Julie Bezuidenhout and snug, especially at night. My One of my favourite pastimes is (Accredited Animal Behaviourist) Dr Larry Kraitzick (Veterinarian) heart breaks when I think about all spending long, lazy afternoons and Celia McCulla (Accredited Animal Behaviourist) the dogs who have to be outside evenings cuddled up with Drake Tracy McQuarrie (Dogtown SA) during freezing cold weather. It’s and Holly and watching movies safer for your doggo to be inside and series on television. I found the PHOTOGRAPHY with you at night – safer and more article researched by Assistant Editor Emma O’Brien, Marnique Mika Majoor comfortable for your dog and safer Aidan most interesting. Now I know MARKETING MANAGER for you, as they can alert you to any that they can actually enjoy watching Devon Wiggill lowlifes trying to get into your home. a movie with me, although, I must [email protected] When writing and editing the admit, they both tend to snooze for ACCOUNTS/ADMIN/SUBSCRIPTIONS articles in Canine Zone, I’m always the duration of our television time Telephone – 011 475-1536 careful about the language I use, and and pay no attention at all. Not even Email – [email protected] when referring to dogs, I use the when I spent a lovely long weekend PRINTED BY words “dog” (obviously), “fur kid” in March glued to the television House of Print or “doggo” (a cute and fun word). watching Crufts on YouTube. (If ADVERTISING QUERIES Chelsea Blake But now, animal rights activists you missed it, download the clips to Tel: 011 475 1536 are calling for people to stop using watch on your pad or laptop during [email protected] the word “pet” when referring to load shedding.) CIRCULATION dogs and cats they own. Appearing We really hope that you enjoy Francis Olivier - RNA on Good Morning Britain recently, the articles in this issue. Remember Email - [email protected]

Jennifer White of People for the Eth- to keep sending us your adoption ical Treatment of Animals (PETA), stories and your gorgeous photos for argued that saying the term “pet” is our Your Photos page. Sometimes the derogatory and patronises the dog or hardest part of my job is choosing the cat. Instead, PETA is calling on peo- best photos, as they’re all absolutely ple to use words like “companion”. adorable. We now put the names of “A lot of people at home who have the dogs with the best photographs dogs or cats will call them pets and (it’s the best photograph that counts refer to themselves as owners, and here – all dogs are the most beautiful!) Published by E-Biz Solutions cc this implies that the animals are a in a box and randomly draw the Telephone – 011 475 1536 possession, like a car, for example,” winner. Email – [email protected] White said. Remember to visit our Facebook Website – www.caninezonesa.co.za “When you refer to animals not page as well as our Instagram site Facebook – www.facebook.com/CanineZoneSA as the living beings as they are but regularly for news on our upcoming COPYRIGHT: as an inanimate object, it can reflect mini expos and dog festivals. Until All rights reserved. No editorial matter published in this magazine may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publishers. While our treatment on these animals.” our next issue, may you, your family every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the content of this publication, the The comments come after PETA’s and your fur kids stay safe, warm Publishers and Editors do not accept responsibility for omissions or errors or their consequences. Any advice contained within cannot and is not intended to founder, Ingrid Newkirk, made a and healthy. be a substitute for professional veterinary or behaviourist advice. Canine Zone assumes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs and manuscripts. Views similar remark when she compared expressed in editorial are not necessarily those of Canine Zone, the Publishers calling animals “pets” to calling Sharon or Editors.

4 | APRIL MARCH 2020 2016 | CANINE | CANINE ZONE ZONE

UPFRONT Brought to you by UPFRONT

FUN INDOOR IDEAS TO KEEP YOUR DOG ENTERTAINED By Hazel Imrie, Managing Director of PETport

decide to bestow on your pooch – they will love it.

ONE, TWO, HIDE! Time to put your dog’s nose to the test in the ultimate game of hide-and-seek. Hide treats or their favourite toys around the house and set your dog off on a tail wagging adventure. While it’s up to you to determine the difficulty of the game, we recommend placing it at their eye level or lower to give them a fair chance of locating the highly sought-after goodies. For a fun twist, have your partner keep your pooch busy while you hide. Once you’ve found the perfect hiding spot let the dog loose to come find you. You’ll be amazed at how quick the game will be over!

THAT’S THE SPOT… Let’s face it, no one can resist some well-deserved TLC - even your dog! Contrary to popular belief, it’s a tough job being a dog: 1) you need to protect your home night and day, 2) greet your human enthusiastically when they return Taking your dog for a walk, playing keep them content. from work every day and 3) always give fetch outside or watching them stalk the biggest snuggles and licks when little critters in the garden are all great TRICKS AND TREATS cuddling on the sofa. So yes, dogs activities for your pup. Until the weather Who says old dogs can’t be taught new deserve some pampering. takes a bad turn! Or worse, when there’s tricks? In fact, dogs are innately good Start off the session with a nice a pandemic like Coronavirus (COVID-19) learners. They’re constantly observing lukewarm bath, followed by brushing floating around. Now’s the time to get their environment and respond according and finish with a doggy massage. Now creative to help ensure your fur friend to what they see, smell and hear. this sounds like doggy heaven! receives the energetic outlet they crave. Try simple “sit”, “down” or “paw” While there might be sunny skies We’ve come up with three fun ways to commands and reward your pooch for ahead, there’s bound to be days when help keep your dog entertained when their efforts. As you will undoubtedly the clouds roll in and you’re stuck inside venturing outside simply isn’t an option. know, they respond particularly well to trying to find something fun to do. One After all, while us humans are more than treats, but a vigorous head rub works thing is certain: no matter how you happy to curl up on the couch watching just as well. It’s a great bonding choose to spend the time, we’re sure Netflix, our pets need a little more to experience and whichever “treat” you your doggo will have a ball!

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UPFRONT

HAVING FUN AT BRYANSTON SHOPPING CENTRE

he annual Canine Zone, Bryanston Shopping Cen- Ttre Crazy Pawsome Love expo took place on the 29th of February and the 1st of March. Aside from the Nutribyte and Pawsome Raw sponsor stands, visitors could also visit the Lionel’s Choice, Walkease, Starplex, Jewel Paws, Arco360, Dogtown SA, Woodrock Animal Rescue and Paws 4 U stands. Spot prizes from Nutribyte, Lionel’ s Choice, Arco360 and Regal Pet Health were handed out during the day, and people visiting the mall were enter- tained with dog obedience shows by Manderston Canine Academy, Paws 4 U and the Joy Dogs. Bryanston Shopping Centre is dog friendly, so we had a great time meeting all the beautiful dogs who came along on the Saturday and Sunday. A big thank you to our sponsors, Nutribyte and Pawsome Raw, as well as to Bryanston Shopping Centre.

WOOLIES HAS ALL THE SPOILS FOR YOUR FURRY FRIENDS

For the unconditional love they give us, brand which has combined creativity, new ethical products globally that we the snuggles and companionship, our design knowledge and a love of animals always wanted to provide for our fur pets deserve the world. And now, with to develop a fresh, contemporary pet babies,” she explains. a selection of stylish accessories and product range. Bucking the trend of pet “Our vision is simple. At Urbanpaws, homeware items, you can truly spoil accessories only being available in garish we aim to design and sell quality prod- them and make every day a “good boy/ colours and wild prints, monochromatic ucts, and we’re committed to selling girl” day! That’s because Woolworths patterns and clean lines form the basis ethical and environmentally conscious Homeware has collaborated with two of Urbanpaws’ pet accessory aesthetic, pet products that are kind to your local brands – Urban Paws and Benji adding a timeless elegance to home pooches and the environment,” Lara + Moon – to bring you a new range of interiors. says. adorable and practical items for pets, in- “Our whole team is obsessed with In order to bring a full complement of cluding chic dog collars, tasteful feeding their pets,” says Lara Butilon of Urban- products to our customers, Woolworths bowls, extra-durable leads and luxurious paws. “Now, we get to express this love has also collaborated with Benji + Moon. beds. through designing exciting, bold, fresh The Benji + Moon range supports local Urbanpaws is a lifestyle pet accessory and edgy new products and sourcing artisans and offers a handcrafted and

8 | APRIL MARCH 2020 2016 | CANINE | CANINE ZONE ZONE UPFRONT functionally designed collection for the by donating a portion of every sale from Woolworths. Find the range in se- much-adored furry members of your to CLAW (Community Led Animal lected stores, countrywide, or visit www. family. Welfare),” says Karen Carr of Benji woolworths.co.za to shop online. “We believe that every dog and cat + Moon. deserves the best life, and we’re com- The dog days really are over, with mitted to changing shelter animals’ lives such a variety of choice available

2020 PET TRENDS

pets. CBD could help pets who are suffering from anxiety, loss of ap- petite, cancer, etc. This area is still being actively researched, and it’s important that pet parents discuss any treatment with their vet. • Microbiome. As we’re seeing in human healthcare, there’s signifi- cant focus on gut health, and this is the case for our pets too. A healthy gut can be linked to all elements of health, from immune systems, cancer to mental health. It turns out microbiotics is as important as genetics, and our growing under- The pet care industry continues to grow and, with this, there are several exciting standing of probiotics, prebiotics at a rapid rate, fuelled by a rise in pet trends that have emerged. Bath sights and postbiotics is creating powerful parenting across the globe. the below trends as her top five to keep leaps in food technology for millions Carla Bath, Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s mar- an eye out for in South Africa: of pets with ongoing gut issues. keting manager, says that it’s encour- • Tech-focused healthcare. Tech- • Humanisation isn’t slowing. From aging to note that both millennials and nology is becoming an important pet gender reveals and first birthday baby boomers are rapidly growing pet part of better veterinary medicine. shoots to luxury hotel accommoda- parent markets. Millennials are seeing Trackers and wearables can provide tion, specific TV channels, blueberry pet ownership as good practice for their vets with important information facials, massages at the parlour and young families, and baby boomers in like frequency of scratching and dating apps to help your pet meet the 70+ age category are embracing improvements in mobility. There other pets – we’re cementing their companion animals. In addition to are also amazing advancements poll position in the family. Thankful- these two demographics, multiple pets’ with 3D printing for prosthetics and ly, getting them into a good school households are now far more common surgical training models, as well as is one challenge you don’t need to than they used to be. Plus, we’re seeing a rise in telemedicine using smart- face. cultural shifts in perceptions on pet phone video call features for fast • Pet enrichment – pet parents are parenting in different parts of the globe, veterinary care into your home. beginning to focus more and more with China, India and Latin America set • Rise of cannabidiol (CBD) being on creative and varied stimulat- to be central at boosting dog and cat incorporated into pet care products. ing environments for their pets. ownership. Interestingly, this trend seems to Food bowls beware – food puzzles, There’s constant evolution and come at a time when stress is also snuffle blankets and lickimats are innovation in this fascinating industry, being recognised as a real thing for coming!

CANINE ZONE | APRIL 2020 | 9 Your Photos SACHA – Please WINNER don’t disturb me... I’m relaxing! I’m 13, so I’m allowed to. – NATASHA BRICKMAN

STONE COLD, aka iCe (American Bully) – I’m wearing my hat; let’s go to the beach! – AMANDA DUMONT

PIPPA, our approximately six-year-old GSD/Collie? rescue dog, just loves her family. The caption is “I’m so BENSON was rescued th pretty”. In the photo, Pippa had just come back from the from the 9 Day. He’s now groomers, but the ribbons didn’t stay in for long! 16 months old and adores – VANJA INGOLD my grandson Skye. – DEBBIE PICKETT

COLA was adopted in 2012 from the SPCA as a two-month-old pup. His favourite hob- by is to go for walks, and he also loves treats. Cola is very gentle with a sweet JASMINE – This face nature. Everyone who says it all – Jasmine just meets him falls in love loves life! with him. – JO BLANCKENBERG – TRUDENE OTTO

10 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE WIN! If your photo is the winning photo, you will receive a fabulous prize from Complete Pet. To enter, e-mail your photo and a sentence or two about your dog/s to [email protected] Brought to you by

PAT, aka Mr Bones/Patbones, turned 16 in November. He’s our little ray of sunshine, and he’s very active for his JOCK & PEA celebrated Valentine’s Day in style. age. – SUNE VAN DER MESCHT Jock is such a good boy, and Pea, believe it or not, is eight years old already but still acts like a puppy. They keep us entertained and on our toes. – JOLEYNE LOVE

ODIE & SKYLA are twins, and they’re inseparable. They love each other so much, and they’re adorable and very precious to us. – TAMMY CROSS

STELLA & VEGA are my active Hungar- ian Vizslas. They spend their days running in the garden and playing with each other. They always know how to smile for the camera! – GEORGIA VAN DER WALT

BRUTUS PHOENIX is our gorgeous 13-year-old thinks this is American Staffie girl who’s blind and has de- definitely his mentia. I love her so much. She’s a big, cuddly best side. baby, and although she’s blind, she’s still full – RETA SEWDAN of beans. – SHELLY GARRIOCK

CANINE CANINE ZONE ZONE | MARCH | APRIL 2016 2020 | | 11 ASK OUR EXPERTS GOT A QUESTION? E-mail us at [email protected] and we will forward your mail to our behaviourists Julie Bezuidenhout Help! and Celia McCulla to answer MY DOG SLEEPS TOO MUCH

walk him, he’ll lie down weren’t taken away from the den too and not move, so we have early. I always think it’s a good idea for to carry him back home. dogs to have companions, especially in He won’t catch a ball or your case if it’s really the only play tug-of-war either. The stimulation that’s getting him excited. only time he looks happy You might find that some positive or excited is when our son reinforcement training might get him brings his Jack Russell over to play, and they’ll then excited. Tasty treats can motivate dogs play together. Is our Bobby to learn, and this will also help to build a just bored, and does he bond between you and your dog. As for need a playmate? the walks, perhaps you could encourage him We have a two-year-old Bulldog who’s – MARISA BURNS to go for a walk when the Jack Russell is always been quite lazy, but for the last CELIA SAYS – visiting. I don’t have enough information six months or so, all he wants to do is The vet check is very im- portant, as it’s unusual for a dog to sleep to go on, but it sounds like he might be sleep. We’ve obviously taken him for a reluctant to go home, or he might be full veterinary check-up and changed his for such long consecutive periods. Dogs exhausted. If he’s sleeping a lot, then diet (he’s not overweight), but Bobby tend to sleep 12-14 hours a day, but they literally wakes up in the morning, eats wake up from time to time. It sounds like he might not be fit enough for a lengthy his breakfast, goes outside to do his he enjoys the company of the Jack walk. A Bulldog has a brachycephalic business then comes back in to sleep Russell, and one has to consider that face, which means that his muzzle is until he goes outside again at around 1 dogs are social and enjoy the company much shorter. These types of dogs over- and then at around 5, just before dinner. of their own, provided that they spent heat very quickly, and perhaps shorten- Then it’s back to bed. When we try to enough time with their siblings and ing the walks might help. MY DOG JUMPS IN THE POOL CONSTANTLY

We have a two-year-old Labrador named so she’s then stuck in Nellie who lives with three other smaller the pool area for the dogs. We moved into a new home in rest of the day. We’re December, and our new home has a now keeping her inside swimming pool – something we’ve never when we go to work had before. The pool has a metre-and- or aren’t at home, but a-half fence around it. Obviously, we it’s not ideal. Do you introduced the dogs to the pool with have any advice for lifejackets, initially, and Nellie thorough- me? ly enjoyed swimming. So much so that she now leaps over the fence and into – KELLY ROBERTSON the pool when we’re not at home or JULIE SAYS – Most not looking, which is very worrying. She Labradors love to swims well, of course, and we purchased swim and can navigate steps for her to get out, but I’m so con- their pools very well. cerned that she’ll bump her head or hurt Try and discourage her from jumping – perhaps mandate an experienced dog herself while swimming alone. Oddly, over the pool fence by teaching her that trainer to assist you with that. Alterna- once she’s jumped over the fence and it’s not an acceptable behaviour and tively, raise the pool fencing so that she had her swim, she can’t jump back over, she may only go through the pool gate can’t jump over it.

12 | APRIL MARCH 2020 2016 | CANINE | CANINE ZONE ZONE Brought to you by

MY DOGS GET THE "ZOOMIES"

I recently adopted two Bull Terriers when JULIE SAYS – Zoomies their owners moved into a retirement are a sudden release village. Amy is ten and Baba is four. Since of energy in dogs. It’s a I’ve had them, every single evening, just common behaviour (es- after dinner, they go absolutely crazy. pecially in young dogs), They run around like maniacs, jump on and it’s simply a way for the couches and beds and chase their dogs to release pent-up tails in circles. They also bark frenetically. energy. Any dog can get It only goes on for about five minutes, the zoomies, but they’re but it’s intense. Evidently, they didn’t most commonly seen do this in their old home, but then they after a bath, during play, were outside dogs at the time. A friend after meals or late at told me that this is typical of all dogs, night. The scientific term for that sudden of their activity and barking, perhaps and especially Bull Terriers. Apparently, burst of energy is frenetic random activ- separate them for a short time after it’s called the “zoomies”, and it shows ity periods (FRAPS), but many refer to feeding. Alternatively, you could manage that the dogs are happy and having fun. them as the rips or zoomies. the activity by encouraging them to slow I’m very concerned that they’ll injure Zoomies are quite common and gen- down by perhaps giving them a chew toy themselves. Is this normal behaviour? erally nothing to be concerned about. filled with a bit of peanut butter straight – CHANTELLE COETZEE Should you wish to reduce the intensity after dinner. THE WALKING DILEMMA

but on more than one occasion there’s be dangerous, as you’ve mentioned. I been drama with other dogs running in myself have had experiences with dogs the street. I’m also 68, and she’s a bit rushing out of their yards and becoming strong for me now should anything go aggressive towards me and my dogs. wrong. If one doesn’t take a dog for a One is always tense on the walk, and it walk in the neighbourhood and there becomes a stressful experience instead are no empty fields or parks in the area, of a relaxing one. I ended up planning what’s the best way to exercise your my routes. I walked around my area dog? Is it vitally important to walk your without my dogs and figured out the dog like some people say? Will Faith’s life best route. I also walked my dogs when be empty if she doesn’t go for walks? Or there were lots of people out and about. I’ve recently read a lot of research and is it okay to just play with her in the back Have a chat with your local schools; watched videos about how walking your garden, take her for drives, and give her some allow dogs, and this could be an dog in neighbourhoods isn’t recommend- lots of love and attention? alternative. Dogs can adjust to changes in their routines provided that they have ed. I’ve also read articles that say how – KIMBERLY BUTLER vitally important it is to walk your dog alternative activities. Playing games CELIA SAYS – It’s wonderful to hear at home will engage your dog, and it every single day. We have a one-year-old that you’ve been training and socialising provides a time of fun and bonding with Rottweiler cross who’s been to sociali- your dog. Socialisation and training are your dog. Scenting games are awesome. sation and puppy training. Our trainer both an ongoing endeavour, and yes, They can tire a dog out just as much as a has also recommended not walking in it is important to continue. Walking long walk. Hide and seek, fetch and find suburbs due to the risk of dogs running helps continue the socialisation your are also great games. Build an obstacle out of open gates and attacking my dog is getting. If he’s kept home with- course for your dog at home – this can dog, as well as dog theft. He mentioned out any outdoor trips, then the things be inexpensive if you use household that all good training and socialisation he was used to in the past might start items. Cones are inexpensive, and you can “go down the drain” if a dog has an to become frightening to him, and this can have your dog walk around cones, unpleasant experience on the road. To experience becomes unpleasant for him. jump over boxes, crawl under chairs, etc. be honest, I used to take Faith for walks, I agree that walking in your suburb can Your imagination is the limit here.

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CANINE ZONE | MARCH 2016 | 15 DOGS 101 DEALING WITH DESTRUCTIVE CHEWING By Celia McCulla ADIPCBM (UK), Canine Behaviour Specialist (Accredited Canine Behaviourist and Trainer – SABCAP), Pet Sense College/Happy Pack Dog Training and Behaviour Management

e love dogs. That’s why From a young age, pups should be a learned behaviour. One has we get them. We plan given guidance on how to behave. to take into account that some Won sharing our homes This includes teaching them breeds are more likely to be more and our love with them. As we which items are appropriate to destructive than others. For ex- share our lives with them, we chew on in the home. They don’t ample, Retrievers usually like to discover that some behaviours know any better and will happily have something in their mouths. can become a nuisance. Common chew on a wooden table leg. It’s When they’re bored, you might behaviour problems are natural only when we see the damage find that they’re likely to start behaviours for our furry friends, that something is done about it. chewing on things to keep them- such as jumping, barking, chewing, selves busy. digging, etc. These natural Chewing and licking are behaviours become a problem behaviours which the dog finds From an early age, or when you when they start to cause a distur- rewarding due to a bio-feedback get your new dog, encourage bance, or become destructive or mechanism which reinforces the the dog to chew on appropriate harmful. Luckily, dogs are quite behaviour. Before embarking items such as a varied selection clever and can be trained, there- on dealing with destructive of indestructible chew toys. Pups fore many common behaviour chewing, we need to understand are naturally curious and explore problems can be resolved or the various causes, such as the world with their mouths. improved or redirected. In this boredom caused by a lack of Whenever you see your dog or issue, we’ll deal with destructive physical and mental exercise, puppy chewing on anything that chewing. separation anxiety, teething in you don’t approve of, call your the case of puppies, stress or dog to you and show him the FROM THE BEGINNING… frustration, and sometimes it’s better alternative. Praise your dog

16 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE Brought to you by

Destructive chewing is one of the most common behaviour problems

for chewing on the correct items. around. The dog doesn’t know the opportunity to chew on any This type of training is conditioning that you paid one thousand rand shoes while she was a pup. She’s the dog to chew on acceptable for the sneakers. To him, it’s a now 10 years old and she won’t things in your home. Teething smelly and soft item that’s go- touch the shoes lying around. pups will find comfort from ing to be very satisfying. If you However, if she happened to start chewing on soft toys to alleviate pack your shoes away, the dog showing interest in my shoes, I’d the discomfort. won’t be able to destroy them. make sure to put them away. I’ve Remember that if a dog does heard of some very crafty dogs KEEP YOUR PROPERTY SAFE something once, he’s likely to who’ve figured out how to open Don’t leave your shoes lying do it again. My dog never got cupboard doors to get to shoes! If you’re faced with such a crafty dog, you’ll have to outsmart your dog.

PREVENT BOREDOM Bored dogs tend to be more destructive than those who are exercised. Exercise includes walking your dog regularly, playing with them when you’re home and engaging them in stim- ulating games such as scenting or find, fetch, and fun training games. Both physical and mental stimulation goes a long way to prevent unwanted behaviours.

If you suspect that your dog may have separation distress or anxiety, call in a qualified and accredited behaviourist to assist you. Destructive chewing is a symptom of this; however, it’s usually accompanied with oth- er behaviours such as non-stop barking, urination and defecation indoors, etc.

Remember that my philosophy is training. Whenever you use punishment, essentially, we’re not training, just suppressing. Training teaches a dog how to behave, and you have to let them know, in every scenario, how to behave.

CANINE ZONE | APRIL 2020 | 17 TITLEFEATURE TITLE

CruftsBy Gabriella Németh2020

rufts is the biggest and Show at a Kennel Club-affiliated Papillon called Dylan. most widely recognised Open or General show. This Cdog event in the world. Or- alone can take months or even Maisie was chosen as the best ganised by The Kennel Club, the years of dedication and training of seven finalists after being UK’s largest organisation dedi- to achieve. chosen as the winner of the cated to the health and welfare of hound group. The other six dogs, the show celebrates every THE BIG WINNERS finalists were: aspect of the role that dogs play ● Terrier group winner – Pizie in our lives. Crufts is centred on a Crufts consists of several competitions, with the main (Kerry Blue Terrier) championship conformation ● Utility group winner – Frankie attraction being the hotly show for dogs, but also includes (Miniature Poodle) contested Best in Show award. a large trade show of dog-related ● Toy group winner – Pablo goods and services, and smaller Around 26,000 dogs take part in (Bishon Frise) competitions in dog agility, the four-day event, including just ● Gundog group winner – Elsie obedience, flyball and heelwork over 3,000 dogs from outside of (Irish Setter) to music. the UK. ● Working dog group winner – Drago (Bull Mastiff) HOW TO COMPETE AT CRUFTS This year’s overall champion, or ● Pastoral group winner – Zonki Crufts is not an open competition. best in show, was a wire-haired (Old English Sheepdog) First, a dog will have to place in Dachshund by the name of Maisie. the top three of his/her relevant The title was awarded on the final The winner of best in show class at a Kennel Club day of Crufts 2020 on Sunday, receives a replica of the solid affiliated Championship, or March 8. Maisie is the first Dachs- silver Keddall Memorial Trophy, achieve Best in Show, Reserve hund to win the coveted title, with and £200. Although, for the vast Best in Show or Best Puppy in the previous year’s winner being a majority of breeders, it’s about

18 | APRIL MARCH 2020 2016 | CANINE | CANINE ZONE ZONE TiTle TITLE Brought to you by

the prestige, not the money.

RECEPTION The four days of Crufts spanned over 15 hours of television coverage, which was aired on Channel 4 in the UK, with the Crufts YouTube channel alone bringing in over 200,000 views. Dog shows are more popular than ever in 2020, with Crufts seeing more and more attendees and viewers every year. If you want to watch the Crufts 2020 and previous year’s highlights, visit the Crufts channel on YouTube.

CANINECANINE ZONE ZONE | MARCH | APRIL 2016 2020 | | 19 FEATURESIGHT AND SOUND

e all know that dogs have may not affect your pet, there are and prolonged exposure to loud incredible hearing. But several other potentially irritating music and other strong sounds Wif a dog can hear four sounds in the background that can of course be harmful, and the times the distance of a human you simply can’t hear. A dog can same can be said for people who with normal hearing, how does a hear sounds up to 50,000 Hz, walk around blasting music into speaker playing an action movie which is double that of a human earphones all day long. or your favourite song on repeat at 20,000 Hz. So, if you feel like a affect your fur kid? particular sound is a bit much for While there are little to no reports you or your pet, chances are that online of dogs being injured due Well, it’s a difficult question to you’re completely correct. to loud music or movies, there answer, as it does depend on a are thousands of cases annually wide range of factors. Every dog HOW DOGS HEAR SOUNDS where trauma and injury had is unique, and while a gun being occurred due to fireworks and fired for five minutes straight Despite the more impressive gunshots. So, if your dog does during your eleventh viewing range of a dog’s hearing seem edgy, or if your dog tends of Die Hard may not affect your capabilities, the way we hear to bark when a particular song or dog, another dog that’s afraid of sounds is actually quite similar. loud noises, such as fireworks, Soundwaves cause the eardrums to scene is playing, you may want may feel differently. vibrate and results in movement of to turn down the volume. This is the bones in the middle of the ear. especially important for young There’s also the question of The vibrations then make their and elderly dogs. music. Dogs can hear frequencies way to the cochlea within the that we cannot, and while the inner ear. As with humans, dogs’ TV FOR DOGS instrumental portions of a song ears are naturally very sensitive, If you’ve ever noticed your dog

20 | APRIL MARCH 2020 2016 | CANINE | CANINE ZONE ZONE FEATURE

Do music or movie soundtracks affect your dog, and can they actually watch television?

staring intently at the TV screen, So, is watching TV okay for your DogTV has since proven itself to you’ve probably wondered if dog? Well, the short answer is be highly stimulating for most they’re actually getting anything yes. As with humans, sitting dogs, with programming from it, or if they’re just staring around all day watching TV is not finetuned to best fit a dog’s out of boredom. TV has come a healthy, nor is it a replacement visual and auditory perception. long way in a very short time, for play and companionship. There's also tons of YouTube and technical specifications have However, even with a pet sitter, content tailor-made for dogs that been upgraded substantially with or a friend to play with, dogs can you can leave on a playlist before faster refresh rates, better colours, still get bored. This can result in you go to work in the morning. and higher resolutions. As we’ve destructive behaviour. Watching changed in the way we watch something stimulating on TV can CONCLUSION television, so have our pets. actually help with that. So long as Just like with humans, any form your pooch isn’t a couch potato, It turns out that for a very long of media in excess can be harmful there’s absolutely nothing wrong time, dogs were unable to see a to your dog’s health. It’s all about with letting your pet watch The picture displayed on a TV at all. moderation. Special care must be Back when we were all huddled Bachelor with you. given depending on what’s good around CRT or “bubble” TVs, the or bad for your specific dog. screen resolution was so small CHOOSING A CHANNEL Every dog is unique, and while or pixelated that the image was In 2012 Ron Levi and Guy some can listen to heavy metal more or less impossible to see, Martinovsky founded DogTV, music at max volume, some may especially when considering that a channel specifically catered to be irritated by the sound. a dog can actually see a screen dogs. refreshing in real time. It’s important to watch your dog carefully when sounds are high If you’ve ever looked at a TV so that you can better screen through an old digital understand when the camera, you’d have noticed that sound is above there are lines going up the their comfort screen constantly; this is level. TV can how your dog would see actually be the screen. This has all quite good changed with the jump for your dog, to HD and the once again in subsequent leap to higher moderation. resolutions like FHD and even 4K! “There’s been Your dog a shift in technology, and now, because may not televisions are find every digital, dogs can show or see what is on the movie interesting, screen,” says but tailor-made renowned dog pet-friendly content expert Victoria is available out Stillwell. there.

CANINE ZONE | APRIL 2020 | 21 Brought to you by

ADVERTORIAL LIONEL’S CHOICE GIVING BACK

in disguise and cross-breeds pretending to be Huskies” as possible. This event will have a fun-fair/carnival feel and will coincide with an Easter fun weekend. • April 19 - Trinity Triathlon where the Husky Rescue SA team will participate. • May 9 - Mother’s Day Market - market and teas/cupcakes/vegan donuts, gins etc. Independent stall holders/crafters. • May 16 - CrossFit fitness camp • May 21 - Paint Night - paint a masterpiece (under direction); all materials supplied. Includes a meal (pizza or similar) and ere at Lionel’s Choice we WHY LIONEL'S CHOICE? beverage. pride ourselves on provid- The partnership with Husky Hing a quality dog food at an Rescue SA started over three years For more information on these affordable price, and this is why a ago when one of their veterinarians events, please email - number of dog shelters in South Af- recommended Lionel’s Choice, [email protected] or visit their rica work with us and purchase our and founder of Husky Rescue SA, website on www.huskyrescue.org.za food. They do so because whilst they Joanne van Niekerk, has been a fan Remember to follow the Lionel’s of Lionel’s Choice for a while now as are getting the best value for money, Choice Facebook, Instagram and Twit- they feel that our food is of excellent they are also keeping the dogs in ter pages for information on Lionel’s quality, nutritious, good value and Choice, as well as handy pet care tips. their care happy and healthy and suits their Husky’s needs. ensuring quality and affordability All the Husky Rescue SA kennels to people who adopt from them and pride themselves on giving their continue feeding Lionel’s Choice. rescues/surrendered dogs the best possible environment. They provide HUSKY RESCUE SA plenty of space, large, warm Wendy Houses that they can sleep or shelter One of the many shelters we work in, and each dog has a 12m x 12m with is Husky Rescue SA, a non-profit, run with a shell pool and a shady all-volunteer rescue and adoption area. All the dogs have toys to play organisation that has developed a res- with, and shelter managers like cue programme to accommodate to pair dogs in the runs (male and unwanted, abandoned and very female) so they have a companion to play with. often abused dogs. Husky Rescue works across South Africa and Husky DIARISE TO SUPPORT Haven is situated in Lanseria, • April 4 - Relocation Programme Johannesburg. The beautiful dogs - This is for the non-Husky/ featured on their website are in crossbreeds in the shelter.The Husky Haven and also in various aim of this campaign is to re- locations around the country. home as many of their “Huskies

CANINE ZONE | APRIL 2020 | 22 TiTle TITLE

CANINE ZONE | MARCH 2016 | 23 ADVICE WINTER SAFETY

threat for outside-only dogs. infections, especially in the winter. Luckily, living in South Africa, Brushing is also important, as re- our winters aren’t too bad, but moving old fur will allow a fuller chances are that if you’re freezing coat to grow in. A full, clean coat your nose off, so is your dog. will insulate better and will take Especially smaller dogs or dogs less time to clean and dry. with thin fur. A warm bed inside the house will go a long way in HOUSEHOLD SAFETY keeping your dog happy and, During winter, there are two most importantly, safe. In general, major risks that aren’t usually outdoor time should be limited in there – active fireplaces and bitterly cold or wet weather. heaters. Dogs will often seek heat during cold winter weather by BLANKETS AND BEDDING snuggling too close to heating During the winter months, it’s sources. Heaters should be kept usually a good idea to replace at least 1.5 metres away from thin blankets and covers with your dog, and someone should thicker ones. When dogs get preferably be around to make cold, they usually like to burrow sure that they aren’t getting too inter is just around the into their blankets or cover their close or knocking them over. Oil corner, and it’s important noses while they sleep. We tend heaters are particularly dangerous, Wto make sure that your to forget that dogs are lower to because there isn’t one obvious dog is safe and comfortable. the ground than us, so if an icy area for your pet to instinctively breeze comes from under a door, avoid. Fireplaces also pose a COATS AND JERSEYS we may not feel it, but your pet, major threat, so please make sure Unless your dog has a naturally who’s lying close to the floor, you have a pet-proof system in thick coat, you’ll most likely need definitely will. place to avoid serious injury. to go out and get some winter clothing. There are doggy coats GROOMING AND and jerseys in so many interesting HYGIENE designs and styles these days, If you bath your dog but remember that your pooch during the winter doesn’t care all that much for months, special fashion. Warmth and comfort precautions must be are the only priority. Also bear taken. Towel drying is in mind that wearing extra-thick still effective, but you clothing in winter can make your may want to break dog a little thirstier. Hydration is out the hair dryer for always very important for your dogs with thicker fur. dog’s ability to regulate its own Special attention must body temperature. also be given to the ears. If ears are not OUTDOOR TIME completely dry, your In the dead of winter, frostbite dog will be more and hypothermia are a very real susceptible to

24 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE TiTle TITLE

CANINE ZONE | MARCH 2016 | 25 FOREVER HOME LEAVING ON A JET PLANE

By Tammy Peyper

us through so much, so when we had the opportunity to emigrate, there was no question that they’d be coming with us.

MAKING THE ARRANGEMENTS The first port of call we made was to our vet, who cleared them, saying that they were in great health and age was no issue. But, being flat-faced and Pugs, they needed to lose a bit of weight to ensure that they could travel safely. After the vet said “A-OK”, I had to find a pet transport company. I googled, read everything I could and asked other South Africans who’d transported their Pugs. I settled on PETport, and they provided us with a schedule of everything we had to do and invited us and the Pugs to a tour of their facilities. Cheryl at PETport was amazing and immediately made us feel at ease.

In terms of the schedule, there are a number of tests and injections e’re leaving on a jet Winnie, are also senior citizens that must take place at specific plane, don’t know (Fergus 12, and Winnie 11). times for three months before “Wwhen we’ll be back Winnie and Fergus are both from they fly, and boy oh boy, you again” – this was what I was Pug Rescue SA, and we adopted have got to keep to that schedule. singing to my two Pugs on the them 10 years ago. I’d always I was emailing PETport almost way to the kennels before they wanted Pugs, and after we every day with a never-ending were due to fly to New Zealand. married, Thinus fulfilled my list of questions – I was like the lifelong dream and took me off most overbearing parent To be honest, they looked rather to see Cheryl and Malcom. We’ve imaginable, but this didn’t bother more taken aback by my out- never forgotten that day and Cheryl. The importer on the of-key yodeling, interspersed sometimes have a good laugh at New Zealand side was Dogtainer, with snivelling, but otherwise how like deer in the headlights and they were also fantastic. non-fussed. I, on the other hand, we were when we took Winnie Everyone was pulling for these was a wreck. You see, these two and Fergus home. These two are two senior citizens and their intrepid pioneers, Fergus and part of our family and have seen certifiably neurotic owner.

26 | APRIL MARCH 2020 2016 | CANINE | CANINE ZONE ZONE FOREVER HOME

Our little family is united in our new home country

no cargo at all! After a few desperate calls and a rather pointed email, I found out that the wrong day was given to us and that the Pugs would only arrive the following day.

Fast forward to the next day and the crates were waiting for us with our two slightly disorientated elder statesmen safe and sound. The car trip home was an absolute joy. These two rather sleepy souls were jumping around, on the seat, on the floor, barking, tails wagging like the Pugs they were in their youth. READY TO GO! – our babies were safe and in As time got closer, the vet checks Auckland! We’ve been here for eight months increased, and I’m glad to say now, and as I’m writing this, I’m both were slim and trim enough I cried and cried. It was like the looking at Fergus over my for travel. I looked at their grey weight of the world had been computer, and Winnie is sitting faces and just knew that they’d be lifted. They were doing very well like a Madame on Thinus’ lap. fine, but that’s not to say I didn’t – a little overwhelmed but eating They’re both well and in good worry. These are senior citizens and drinking. Auckland Quarantine spirits, and we are happy. Very after all. Winnie and Fergus spent posted almost daily photos of happy. Our little family is united the last seven days before their them on their Facebook page. in our new home country. flight at PETport. During this time, they taught them to be calm WE’RE HOME… and relaxed in their travel boxes. I After ten days in received photos regularly, showing quarantine they Winnie and Fergus in good spirits, undertook the and on the day that they were to last leg of their fly, I received regular updates on journey – the their progress. final flight to Wellington! We One of the tips I got was to track were waiting at the plane so I could see where the cargo section they were. I watched the little of the airport in plane on my phone following the anticipation… arch of the earth. I checked its and we waited… altitude, wind speed and time and waited… until destination with something and I got more like an obsession, and then, after anxious. No 23 hours, I received the email Pugs – actually,

CANINE ZONE | APRIL 2020 | 27 again, I would do it again in a flash!”

FOREVER HOME Max’s Moment

By Erika Weichselbaumer

even touch his bowls once food was laid out, and he’d gulp down his food. Time went by, and eventually Max started to trust me, and he now eats slowly and calmly without rushing.

When I got him, his skin was in a terrible condition and he had very little hair. I used coconut oil on his skin, and he now looks beautiful. Max also had to have an operation for a fractured penis.

When I moved to Germany, obviously Max came with me. My boy goes absolutely everywhere with me, and people often say he’s one of the most loving dogs they’ve ever met. One of his ax’s rescue story started subsidised treatment and favourite things to do is to go for in Botriver, in the Cape, assistance. long walks with me in the beautiful when he was rescued forests where we live. Max is M home, and he’ll only know love by R.A.D. As a stray, he was in I saw Max’s beautiful face on a dreadful state, suffering from Facebook and immediately for the rest of his life. severe malnutrition and a skin contacted Nicola at R.A.D. He infection, as well as having a was flown to Johannesburg, and I fractured penis. R.A.D. focuses picked him up from Lanseria. on outreach work in poorer communities and facilitating the THE HEALING BEGINS sterilisation of domestic animals, When I first got him, I wondered covering Botriver and Grabouw. what I’d got myself into. That first night, he only wanted to be They sterilise on average 50 pets outside, where he cried until he a month, and their focus remains fell asleep on the table. In the responsible pet ownership, where beginning, nobody could come sterilisation is a prerequisite for near his eating bowls – I couldn’t

28 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONEE TiTle TITLE

CANINE ZONE | APRIL 2019 | 29 30 | MARCH 2016 | CANINE ZONE FOREVER HOME OLIVER HAD BIGGER PLANS! By Stella Meldau (Woodrock Animal Rescue) & Cindy Laufs

roller coaster ride. FINDING A FAMILY We posted Levi’s profile up on When this little guy appears a bit Facebook in our search for a stronger, we take him back to our committed family. Then a call shelter. Our clinic sister feels that from Cindy and Mike comes to leave him at the shelter over through, and we just know in our the weekend would be dicey, so hearts that we’ve hit the jackpot! she takes him home with her. Levi had found his forever home. Cardinal sin, as she quickly falls Not just any home, but one of the in love with him. best that we could only dream of. We leave the tale up to Cindy to fill When Levi returns to the shelter on you in on Oli, as he’s now known Photography by Emma O'Brien Emma by Photography the Monday morning, he’s not doing by his adopted mom and dad. well, so we take him back to his is the tale of a boy who Broederstroom Vets, only to discover ADOPTING OLIVER rose despite all the odds that he now has biliary too. Tstacked against him. This is a I was scrolling through my Facebook tearjerker, so get those tissues out! OLIVER PULLS THROUGH feed on the evening of the 22nd AGAINST ALL ODDS of December and saw a video of A scrawny black pup arrives Days later, the vet feels that Levi Oliver (Levi) posted by “Mommy terribly ill at Woodrock Animal Estelle”. We already had three Rescue. How, where, when? Upon is out of the woods, and we drive through to collect our little soldier. magical rescues, and getting a a prayer and a wish, we give the fourth was out of the question. puppy a name – we call him Levi, Again, three of Woodrock’s staff take the victory journey to collect meaning “a gift from God”. He Well, the next day we were at has no body fat or muscle. our boy. We did it! Woodrock’s door before they

even opened. I just knew that I So, we take him along to But, upon arrival, our hopes are Broederstroom Vets, hoping that dashed once again. Levi is limp and was meant to be that little nugget’s his suffering is short. We pray appears to be ailing. When we say: Mommy. The running joke that love, care, good nutrition, “No more – no more pain, no more amongst our friends is, “How did inoculations and dewormers will watching the poor fellow suffer,” you get your husband to agree to make him well again. All three we ask the vet to do the kindest a fourth dog?” and my response senior staff members look at Dr thing. Our tenacious vet, however, is always: “I didn’t – I just woke Lee-Anne, anticipating some stands her ground and asks for him up and told him to get in the rational explanation. Nothing is just one more day. That “one more car, as we’re going to fetch our going according to plan. At no day” was the best decision; Levi new fur baby.” point is our spirit being lifted. survived and showed us all – never, ever give up! We loved Oliver from the moment we A worm infestation has caused Levi saw him. He was so tiny and such to come down with pneumonia, To invest so much heart and soul, a weak little thing; my heart sank making his struggles harder. He not to mention money, on “just and I had a moment of panic, not stops eating and collapses with another street dog” was so worth knowing if I had what it took to every puppy disorder one can it. Skin and bone with big paws help nurse him back to health. His think of. The pain, the heartache, that are unsteady, shaky, and little body was so weak that I had the helplessness we feel is over- very much a Mr Plod, Levi then to support his tiny neck. I spent whelming. We’re on an emotional began his journey of recovery. the first week waking him up and

CANINE CANINE ZONE ZONE | MARCH | APRIL 2016 2020 | | 31 FOREVER HOME

How a street dog survived against all odds and found his happily ever after

feeling his little heartbeat. Despite difficult situation that you can’t dog can light up so many lives the incredible care he received, overcome. All you need to do is and make all who meet him fall I was so scared that he wasn’t look into that cute little face and in love? going to make it. Week two rolled tell yourself, “Buddie, if you can Perhaps around, and Oliver showed us get through all that and still be this story what he’s really made of. filled with so much love and pure will joy, I can do it too!” We’ll always encour- Oliver is a true fighter in every be eternally grateful to everybody age more sense of the word, and I call him who fought Oliver’s battle with people to my “warrior baby”. Living with him and was victorious. Oli – we adopt from a little creature that has such an love you, and your adorable ears shelters incredible will and determina- are just the cherry on the cake. and give tion to overcome what seems to hope to so be insurmountable challenges GIVING HOPE many other changes you as a person. There’s Did the Universe shine on Oli? street dogs simply just no future challenge or How does it happen that a street out there. TiTle TITLE

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Suitable for all life stages

CANINE ZONE | MARCH 2016 | 33 ADVICE WASHING YOUR DOG’S BELONGINGS

Tips for keeping your dog’s bedding, toys, leads and collars squeaky clean and hygienic

aving a dog in the family means living a life mattress in a large plastic bag and then put a cover of unconditional love, constant compan- over the bag. Hionship and, to be honest, a lot of cleaning. Because we love our dogs so much, it’s important to Vacuum the bed daily or use a pet hair sticky roller clean key items of theirs regularly and thoroughly to remove stubborn hair. Make a deodoriser spray to prevent them from getting sick. Pet-loving bacteria with some baking soda, essential oil (lavender, thrives on their blankets and beds, in their bowls lemongrass) and water, and spray the bed daily. and even on their toys. BUT WHAT ABOUT TOYS AND BOWLS? HOW TO PROPERLY WASH YOUR DOG’S BEDDING One in five pet parents who responded to a new Depending on your dog’s activity levels, you’ll most survey by Petco in the USA admitted to waiting at likely need to wash bedding once every two weeks. least a month to clean their pets’ eating and drinking The recommended method is to wash all blankets bowls. However, bowls should be washed daily with and covers on a full cycle at 60° Celsius using dishwashing liquid and hot water to avoid illnesses. detergent or bleach. If, however, your washing Pet toys can be a source of bacteria (including Staph machine doesn’t have a temperature gauge, or if bacteria), yeast, and mould. While you won’t need your machine is only fitted for cold water, you may to clean all of your pet’s toys as often, it’s still a good need to hand-wash. Remember to remove as much idea to give them a soak in hot water every now and hair as possible before washing with a vacuum or then. As always, if a toy is broken or altogether too rubber gloves to avoid hair clogging drains and dirty to clean, you might want to grab a new one. washing machine components. LEASHES, HARNESSES AND COLLARS After you’ve finished, you’ll definitely want to Leashes and harnesses should be washed every few dispose of any rubber gloves that were used in the weeks. You can throw these in the washing machine process, as well as wash your hands thoroughly when you do your dog’s bedding, but avoid putting with soap and warm water. A good way to make genuine leather leashes and harnesses into a sure that your hands are clean enough is to sing washing machine, as it could damage them. Rather the birthday song twice whilst washing up. It’s hand-wash these items. also important to clean out your washing machine if it was used to clean dog bedding. Simply run an Collars should ideally be cleaned weekly. Have a empty cycle with a small amount of bleach and then spare collar around for when your dog’s collar is another single rinse cycle to flush any excess bleach being washed and dried. They can also be washed in from the machine. your washing machine, but as with leather leads and harnesses, leather collars should be hand-washed. KEEPING BEDS CLEAN People often buy a dog bed by how it looks and how well it will blend with their home décor. How easy it will be to keep clean should be your primary concern when you’re going to purchase a dog bed. Check the cleaning instructions on the tag of the dog bed to know whether the cleaning methods and material of the dog bed are suitable for you or not.

The best solution is to buy beds with a removable, washable cover and a good zipper. If your dog tends to have wetting issues, try enclosing the

34 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE CANINE ZONE | AUGUST 2019 | 35 ASK THE VET Brought to you by GASTRIC DILATATION AND VOLVULUS SYNDROME IN DOGS

BEFORE By Dr Larry Kraitzick, Bruma Lake Veterinary Clinic

flow and oxygen uptake leads to damage to the cardiovascular system and decreased perfusion. Perfusion is the process of delivering nutrients via blood in the arteries to the body’s tissues. Insufficient perfusion may lead to cellular damage and even organ death.

If the stomach then twists, this causes the stomach to dilate further, and blood vessels in the abdomen also are twisted. This severely decreases and may even shut down blood flow to organs, resulting in injury and/or astric Dilatation and Vol- occurred in pups, the inci- death to parts of or entire organs. vulus syndrome (GDV) is dence is rare, and the risk of There’s a build-up of toxins and a life-threatening condi- developing GDV increases metabolic by-products from the G decreased blood flow and from tion that occurs in dogs. In this with age. cell damage. This further disease the stomach dilates and compromises the already may then twist. This resulting CONTRIBUTING FACTORS weakened body. condition is commonly called Contributing factors for a dog to gastric bloat and stomach torsion. develop GDV include – SYMPTOMS • Eating or drinking excessively. CAUSES Symptoms of GDV include – • Increased activity shortly • Anxiety or depression. While we remain uncertain as after a meal. • Abdominal pain and distention. to the exact cause, veterinary • Underlying gastrointestinal • Drooling. science believes that there are conditions. • Vomiting, or more common- particular factors which predis- • Eating foods that may cause ly, repeated, unsuccessful pose or contribute to GDV. These foam production, for exam- attempts to vomit. include – ple, legumes. • Difficulty breathing. • GENETICS – dogs whose • Rapid heart rate. close relatives have devel- COMPLICATIONS OF GDV • Collapse and death. oped GDV are more likely to The stomach’s ever-increasing experience this condition. distension leads to increased DIAGNOSIS • SIZE AND ANATOMY – pressure within the abdomen GDV is suspected when a dog large and giant-breed dogs (against the muscle between the shows symptoms associated with may be at higher risk, espe- chest and abdomen, which plays cially deep chested breeds a role in breathing) and in the such as great Danes, German chest cavity. This causes difficul- Shepherds, and Standard ty breathing and reduced blood Poodles. flow from the abdominal organs • AGE – although GDV has to the heart. Decreased blood

36 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE By Dr Larry Kraitzick BVSc MRCVSTiTle TITLE Facebook: @drlarrykrait

Commonly called “bloat” or “stomach torsion”, all dog owners should be aware of this dangerous condition

PREVENTING GDV • Divide food into two meals a day, or, if your dog is pre- The following are key strate- this condition. It’s then confirmed disposed to GDV, serve your gies to prevent your dog from by taking X-rays and sometimes dog multiple meals during experiencing Bloat. using ultrasound to rule out other the day in smaller portions. conditions. If the patient’s life is • Don’t use an elevated food • Always keep fresh water in danger, a large catheter may bowl. available. be used to deflate the stomach • Don’t let your dog exercise • When switching dog foods, before any diagnostic procedures for at least an hour before do so slowly over a few days. are performed. or after eating. • Promote friendly bacteria us- • Slow down your dog’s eat- ing probiotics such as Protex- Other tests may be required to ing. There are special bowls in, which is available in most help guide supportive treatment. you can buy, or simply add pet stores. These include checking levels of a large clean rock to the • Don’t let your dog drink too certain electrolytes (minerals ), bowl, so your dog has to much water, too fast. Espe- metabolic products (including eat slowly rather than gulp cially after exercising or a lactate) in the blood, as well as down big portions. meal. analysing urine.

CANINE ZONE | FEBRUARY 2020 | 37 ADVERTORIALTITLE TITLE WHY SHOULD I INSURE MY DOG?

hy is insurance important? all the ships when travelling over policy and could not be resolved. It When a person has treacherous waters to limit their may also be congenital – something Wexpenses, they use a losses (the proverbial not having which the dog has had from budget to allocate funds to cover all your eggs in one basket). birth. This may result in a all those known costs. The unknown Modern insurance, however, can permanent or temporary exclusion expenses, like a gastrointestinal be tracked back to London and on your policy, depending on the illness or injury to your pet, the great fires of 1666. Nicholas problem. For example – your dog cannot be budgeted for unless Barbon was the creator of the first was born with a cleft palate; this you do have insurance where fire insurance company, which would be permanently excluded. your premium is a known cost. later morphed into accident cover. Or, your dog was hit by a car and Insurance is, in principle, risk From meagre beginnings, the broke its leg; this would result in mitigation: taking your potential insurance industry has flourished a temporary exclusion. risks and reducing the severity of and suffered, but developed in par- the financial implications if those allel with civilisation and its needs. Genetically predisposed risks are by chance realised. problems: These are issues WHAT DO ALL THE TERMS MEAN, that are found to occur in more THE HISTORY OF INSURANCE AND HOW DOES IT AFFECT ME? breed-specific dogs. For example, Insurance has a historical back- When choosing medical insurance spinal conditions in Dachshunds ground recorded from the times of for your pets, it’s important that you and Pekinese. the ancient world of the understand the terms and conditions. Babylonians and Chinese Traders Pre-existing: This is any disease Pre-Authorisation vs Emergency: some 3,000 years ago. Merchants or musculoskeletal issue that If an initial situation presents would divide their goods between occurred before inception of the with your cat or dog, this would

38 | APRIL MARCH 2020 2016 | CANINE | CANINE ZONE ZONE Don’t be Penny-wise and Pound-foolish!

be deemed emergency, as you as or person uninvolved with the brokers. They strive to innovate the owner are not qualified to insured pet, like a strange dog in their business model by working assess the severity of the issue. a park or a person walking past with specialist partners who Any further diagnostics or you on the beach. It’s imperative bring unique insurance solutions treatment would be classified that all reasonable effort is made to the market that solve pressing as emergency if they had to be to keep independent parties safe, risk challenges. performed immediately for the like keeping your dog on a lead welfare of the dog. In the case of in a public place. Arco360 offers fantastic pet any diagnostics, treatments or insurance products, powered by surgeries only having to be at- WHO IS ARCO360 AND GENRIC Genric Pet, which includes cover tended to in the future, by special INSURANCE COMPANY? from Accident or Hospital only appointment, pre-authorisation Arco360 is an Insurance Broker to full comprehensive cover. would need to be obtained. specialising in Equine and Pet With the escalating veterinary products. The team always strives costs, this is a must-have for your Chronic Conditions: These would to provide a personal and fur-kids, and with a multiple pet be conditions that develop and professional service with an discount is totally affordable! often don’t resolve. In general, unmatched passion and love in Unless you can afford to carry after a period of three months, the industry for all our your own risk, insurance is a any issue that requires continued companion animals. Operating necessity when owning anything treatment of medication would since 2014, Gen McNeill and of value. As the saying goes, be deemed Chronic. For example, Candice Hobday partnered to don’t own anything you can’t skin allergies and Osteo-Arthritis. establish the brokerage, taking a afford to lose, but if you do, then Routine Care: This is a product wealth of equestrian experience insure it! that would cover you for those and equine insurance background regular and expected veterinary to evolve the company into a Visit www.arco360.co.za for more expenses like sterilisation, front runner. With an ethos information, email pets@arco360. deworming, tick and flea control, committed to their clients, co.za or call them on 082 3206724. vaccinations, dental scaling, Arco360 has been extremely Arco360 (Pty) Ltd is an Authorised Finan- microchipping and anal gland invested in the industry as well cial Services Provider FSP: 45883. GENRIC expression. It would be imperative Insurance Company Limited (FSP: 43638) is as in the welfare of all of our four- an Authorised Financial Services Provider and that the above be prescribed, legged friends. Arco360 is proud to registered Short-term insurer. dispensed, performed or be powered by Genric administered by a registered Insurance Company. veterinarian. Genric Insurance Company is a market Public Liability: This product is leader focused on specifically designed to cover an bringing innovative incident involving your insured and niche insurance pet and a third party. This third solutions to the market party cannot be a person or object by partnering with that is commonplace in the pet’s specialist underwriting environment, like the gardener, management agencies dog trainer, or damage to your (UMAs), start-up own property. The claim would businesses, insure- have to be related to a situation tech innovators and

CANINE ZONE | APRIL 2020 | 39 ADVERTORIAL Brought to you by SCOTTIES IN DUBAI

By Bronwen McKerchar

y PETport adventure to me, as I was already in Dubai cheer, despite me being sleep kicked off in February and not able to simply jump in my deprived from shift work and M2019. I say adventure car and meet anyone in person or my plate well overflowing with because, unbeknownst to me have a lengthy phone call. a recent immigration and the at the time, it was going to run challenges of forging a new life in the course of a year and involve From there I was assigned to a new country. Lohandri was also not one but four of my precious Lohandri, who’d be my point impeccable with paperwork and fur family members, otherwise of contact for the next year. She picked up a few vital known as “The Thug Squad”, fielded my barrage of questions administrative requirements that moving headquarters from about moving my babies, to could have turned things upside Johannesburg to Dubai. My mob amendments of quotations, flight down. Another challenge, although of four paws and tails are a family options, entry requirements, vet very worthwhile, was that I did of Scottish Terriers – dad Doug, and vaccination information, all the paperwork for the Dubai mom Lucy, and two daughters, import application data and side as well as their collection Ellie and Milly. more, as I worked through how I from the cargo terminal in order was going to get all four dogs to to keep costs down. Contacting PETport and getting a Dubai in an affordable and quotation was really as simple as a timeous manner. Lohandri made Doug and Lucy were the first to quick email. This was a key factor it seamless and always with good fly in July 2019, and Ellie and

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CANINE ZONE | MARCH 2016 | 41 BREEDOLOGY

GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER (-ology)

42 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE Photography by Kim Gensler Photography Brought to you by

Energetic, versatile and loving

he beautiful German Short- chase after and “hunt” the family mealtime would be after physical haired Pointer reflects the cat and other small creatures. activities are through for the day. Tversatility, athleticism and Their lifespan ranges from 12 to stamina of a decathlete. This is a HISTORY 14 years on average. Grooming a strong and energetic but extremely German hunters spent generations GSP is easy, with an occasional loving breed of dog. crossing various breeds with the bath and daily brush being all aim of perfecting a versatile bird that is required. The above being said, the German dog. The German Shorthaired Shorthaired Pointer is a wonderful Pointer was created in Germany choice for very active families. If in the mid- to late 19th century you’re the kind of person who’s to be a multipurpose hunting always in the outdoors and wants dog. A key player in the early your dog with you, there are few development of this breed of better canine companions. The noble bearing was himself a GSP is a wonderful companion nobleman, Prince Albrecht zu for children. Solms-Braunfels. The GSP was probably derived from the German However, if you underestimate the bird dog crossed with various need to keep this dog exercised in German scent hounds. English body and mind, then you and the Pointers were brought in to give dog will both be very unhappy. the new breed additional elegance. Left to his own devices, a bored German Shorthaired Pointer who HEALTH AND CARE doesn’t get the exercise he needs The German Shorthaired Pointer will take matters into his own is a relatively healthy breed, paws and become very destructive. but they can sometimes be Take your GSP for a couple of predisposed to conditions daily half-hour walks, hikes or runs, or teach him to run along- such as hip dysplasia, side your bicycle. He’ll also enjoy although it’s less common playing fetch or training for a dog in GSPs than in many sport. other breeds. Because the breed is subject to These dogs need daily sessions bloat, they should not of heart-pumping exercise; the be fed immediately more the better. They also need after running or training to control that energy, other vigorous and they’re highly intelligent and exercise, nor easy to train. It’s vitally import- should they be ant to train and socialise the GSP allowed to run from an early age. Big, strong and or exercise for enthusiastic, this breed needs to at least an hour be taught how to behave around after eating and the children he adores, and he drinking. The may need to be trained not to ideal evening

CANINE ZONE | MARCH 2016 | 43 BREED OWNER STORIES

MY LIFE WITH GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTERS BY ELAINE WILSON

I’ve owned and bred this breed for 22 get one if you’re thinking of emigrat- next morning to a kitchen strewn years, and presently I have three. I’d ing or moving to a smaller property with bits of wood and straw and no never want to own any other breed in the next 15 years. chairs left at all. – but beware – the GSP is one of the GSDs are often very destructive lrrigation will probably be a thing few breeds still retaining its working as puppies and don’t mature until of the past in your garden, and if you ability, and this must be taken into they’re about two years old. I have treasure your plants, it’s probably account when thinking of acquiring one female who’s 14 years old now, best to keep a part of the garden for one. Well-bred GSPs think nothing of and in her first year she cost me your dog and a part just for you. ranging up to a kilometre away from R15,000.00 in damages! She chewed Please think very carefully before their owners, so space is required to up several cell phones, remote controls, acquiring a GSP. Go along to one of exercise these dogs. They live to hunt, CDs, camera cables, and so on, but the training days at the Transvaal which can be very disconcerting for two incidents stand out. Hunt, Point and Retrieve Field Trial the new owner who hasn’t researched I had a new fridge freezer Club, or find someone in your area the breed. They’re also excellent delivered and plugged it in to check if who owns a GSP and go out with retrievers but can also turn into it worked before placing it in position. them before committing to adopting compulsive retrievers; another pitfall I went out of the room momentarily, one yourself. new owners fall into. and as I came back in, I saw this little Properly handled, GSPs can make puppy chewing the wiring. There was very good running companions, as a bang, and she got thrown out of the they’re very hardy, high-energy dogs. back door. She was never scared of They’re wonderful with children, fridge freezers but was very wary of and a well-bred, properly brought- doorways for a long time. up GSP will not show aggression to The second incident happened other dogs or people. They often live overnight; I went to bed owning to be 13/14, and the known record is three kitchen chairs – the wooden 15 years and 10 months. Please don’t type with straw seats. I woke up the

OUR PRECIOUS RUFUS BY RENSKE FITZJOHN

Rufus came to us as a seven-month- as I do from home, Rufus comes to always have some deposit of energy old rescue, almost two years ago. We say hello very often, sometimes bring- somewhere to draw from; they go asked ourselves, why would anyone ing me a tennis ball to throw for him, from 0 to 100 in two seconds. Luckily, give up such a beautiful dog?! But other times just wanting a chat or a their deposit of affection and love is we soon knew, as he’d destroy things cuddle before lying down under my just as deep. the moment we weren’t around. He desk by my feet. had a serious case of abandonment Sadly, our other two dogs passed anxiety. Luckily, he began to attach away over the last two years, and he himself to us as a family over the next struggled a bit, coming to my desk few months, and we saw less and less very often for that catch-up. This destruction. At night he loves to lie led to us getting him a GSP sister a with our daughter until she’s asleep, few months ago, and they love each then he comes and lies with us other to bits. downstairs on the couch. We love the GSPs need lots of human interaction, fact that they’re short-haired, as sharing interaction with other dogs, and a couch or a bed is a breeze. space! Space to chase birds, butterflies We could never have prepared and geckos – a solid fence is non- ourselves for the almost human negotiable. Our pool comes in handy personalities of these dogs, and I find for hot days too, as Rufus will go myself having conversations with and sit on the pool steps, almost Rufus all the time. Those eyes and fully emerged, head out, at least floppy ears are irresistible. Working ten times a day to cool down. GSPs

44 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE MY ROLLER-COASTER RIDE WITH THE SPOTTED DURACELL BUNNY DOG BY CHARNÉ PAXINOS

strings, and for some reason I felt answering the questions, feeling the that special connection – that feeling tears creep up. I carefully gave as you get once in a while, the one much detail as possible. I was making where you instantly know that this good work of the questions until dog is something special! I was a they asked about his character – cue bit confused, as I’ve had this feeling ugly cry. After a break, followed by with only a few dogs, and they were another ugly cry and another break, I all power breeds. I’ve always liked tried to complete the form. Pointers but never really wanted one – I was a Pit Bull girl. Despite what I One of the final questions involved knew of myself, I felt what I felt, and writing a note to the new family. I I always listen to that inner voice. So, wrote: From the moment I saw a picture our new journey started, and I started of Elvis he grabbed at my heart; he had doing a lot of research on GSPs. that something special that comes along Elvis was so excited to be done with very rarely. Through his sad, depressed city life. Back on the farm, he ran and eyes I could see a special dog, hidden but sniffed and ran and sniffed. He was not gone. In the beginning, his tough so grateful for literally everything – start showed every so often, and it would you could see it in his eyes. The way break my heart every time something his face lit up, the sparkle in his eye; frightened him. Then I would see how he’d jump for joy and dance around he’s changed and how happy he is and for every single new experience. I reminded myself that that was your past One sunny afternoon, I was out began feeling things – things that I didn’t want to feel for a dog that I and I should not dwell in it. Elvis, you working on the farm with the dogs are a wise soul and you will touch lives at my feet. It was a day like so many possibly wouldn’t be able to keep. wherever you go. You bring light into others, until I received an SMS once The subtle signs were there that he the darkness, and you will be a great gift again requesting help to rehome a might not be able to have the desired dog, followed by the usual reasons behaviour for farm life. I tried to keep to whomever gets to have you. I hope and explanations. I didn’t give it my distance and stay objective, as his that they will allow you to blossom and much thought, as there’d been so happiness was more important. grow into the exceptional dog that you many others before this dog named Before long, the dangers of farm are destined to become. Although I…. Elvis, but I responded with: “Sure, life began to become a reality, and And that’s when a power-breed send the details and I’ll start net- some of the challenges of the breed girl realised that her heart had silently started to peek their nose into my working to find him a home.” been stolen by a spotted dog. Despite secret love affair. I soon realised that In my inbox appeared a picture of the challenges, I’ve learned to work I might be starting “Mission Impossible” a dog that looked right through the with what I have. Elvis stayed and is screen into my soul, and I instantly with this crazy sniffing Duracell bun- now a jumpy, lumpy teenager who’s thought: “Oh boy, I’m in trouble.” ny dog. Every time he’d run off and With three terriers already living in respond slower to me, I’d become slowly but surely starting to blossom my home and hardly any spare time, more nervous. Every time he’d pick into an obedient adult dog. This is a I knew that taking on a young un- up a scent, he’d enjoy it more and breed that will make you fall in love trained GSP on an open game farm ignore my commands. I’d wait in with life and give you something to would be next to impossible. I didn’t panic for the worst to happen, smile about. Their sensitive souls know how he’d fit into our life – all questioning myself as to where I’d and care-free nature have something I knew for sure was that he needed gone wrong. After even more to teach us. I’m grateful that Elvis research, phone calls, practice, immediate help, or he’d end up in crossed my path – he’s a daily even worse circumstances. I decided obedience training, crying, and reminder that, despite our past, to take in this little pup, build his numerous chats with GSP Rescue, I daily challenges, and dangers, you confidence and train him. And if he finally decided it would be safer for didn’t settle into life on a game farm, him if I signed him over. should dance to the joys of life! Find I’d find him a home better suited to After the dreaded phone call, the good in every day; there will his needs. feeling like the worst person on the always be something to make you Elvis definitely pulled on my heart planet, came the forms. I started happy.

CANINE ZONE | APRIL 2020 | 45 BREED OWNER STORIES

OUR VALENTINE'S DAY BOY BECAME THE LOVE OF OUR LIVES BY LOKI AND KINGSLEY'S MOM, AKA ELANI VAN DEN HEEVER

Many people say your life will never he’d just shaken out of his bed. There lucky to be near him to teach him be the same after having children, was no toy that was resistant to a six- that these dancing sticks are not his but the same can be said when plus-month-old GSP, and Loki had friends. getting your first GSP. Despite the proven many people with well- He’s forever keeping us on our toes fact that we’d researched the breed intended suggestions wrong in this by stealing socks, sneaking food off and joined the Transvaal HPR (Hunt, regard. Especially if he didn’t get a the counter, or hunting so hard that Point, Retrieve) Club before we even good run during that day to burn the vet has on one occasion had to had a dog, we had no clue of what some of his never-ending energy. remove a thorn from his paw, but we was to come. Our GSP family helps us a lot and wouldn’t trade him for the world. Loki was born the day before can laugh with us when our dogs In fact, we love him so much that Christmas and joined our family on embarrass us by forgetting their we got another GSP, Kingsley, in Valentine’s Day, 2018. The smallest manners at the most inopportune September 2019 to join our very busy of his litter, born long after all his times. family. We look forward to being brothers and sisters and when his But despite all the times he’s embarrassed, entertained and loved mother’s parents thought there were embarrassed us, the damage to our by this very special breed of dog for no more pups to come. This, how- property, the muddy paws from many years to come. ever, didn’t stop him from being the having “zoomies” in the house and busiest – and a pup with a hell of a all over the furniture, he makes us lot of hunting drive. wonder what we did with our time Loki doesn’t know how to walk and money before we had him. or “chill” – he runs where he needs Loki is his human dad’s shadow, to be, only for a short while, then especially inside the house. If he runs to the next place. Many of our moves, Loki moves; if he’s watching friends have asked us if he ever a movie on the couch, Loki is walks or rests. He doesn’t. Not often, cuddled up beside him. at least. He’s the friendliest dog who’ll play Now, like any relationship there’s a with anything that moves. He retrieves very trying time, and a GSP and his the chameleons and even tiny baby parents’ relationship is no exception. rabbits in our garden so softly that When Loki was about six months we can return them to their homes old, I was convinced that he had unharmed after he’s shown them a mission to break my spirit. He’d off to us. Once, he even tried to play destroy any bed I bought him within with a dancing stick (Rinkhals). We minutes of me buying it. Looking so had to quickly recover from what proud surrounded by the white fluff felt like a mild heart attack but were

THE ADVENTURES OF ALFIE AND LIVING WITH GSPS BY IZAK, MARLIZE, ALFIE, BHEKA AND NEEMA ELOFF

Growing up with Labradors, I always Luckily, they hosted a Fundraiser from her. knew that I wanted a gun dog. As walk on the 12th of November We then decided that we’d take newlyweds, we started doing some 2017, so we decided to join the Alfie and Rose for the fundraiser research on GSPs, and after numerous walk (without any dogs). Before the walk. Alfie’s whole posture changed long nights watching YouTube videos walk we saw two lovely rescues on the second he saw the ball that we and reading online articles, we the website, Leah and Rose. Upon had. He was obviously obsessed decided that we were up for the chal- arrival we visited the lovely kennels with playing fetch. lenge of adopting a highly energetic at Boavida and saw a very shy dog After the lovely day at the fundraiser hunting dog to fit our active lifestyle. called Alfie. It was evident that Alfie it was set in stone that we definitely Doing more research, we discovered didn’t trust me, but he approached wanted a GSP as our family dog, and the GSP Rescue NPC Facebook page. my wife slowly to get some affection Alfie stole our hearts with his soulful

46 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE eyes and soft, loving nature. Little There’s no such thing as did we know that my wife, Marlize, half pace for a GSP; they do shared a post from the SPCA of Alfie everything at 300%, whether when he was picked up as a stray it’s sleeping, loving, hunting dog months ago. We truly believe or playing. They’ll go all-out Alfie was one day destined to all-day long, and then settle become an Eloff. for a comfortable position Seeing a rescue dog develop and really close, if not on, their gain confidence every day must be owner. They love cuddles and one of the most rewarding things sleeping in late in the mornings. that a person can experience in their Being German, they learn lifetime. your schedule very quickly Since we adopted Alfie in 2017, we’ve learned so much from this and adapt accordingly. breed. They’re highly intelligent, Since Alfie’s adoption we’ve extremely energetic and inseparable adopted two beautiful girls from their human beings. Your usual from GSP Rescue SA – Bheka stroll around the block will definitely in 2018 and Neema in 2019. not be sufficient exercise for an adult We love our three four- GSP, and they can become destructive legged children to bits and should they not receive enough couldn’t have asked for a exercise and mental stimulation. better breed.

SO YOU WANT A GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER? BY LESLIE VAN DER MERWE

There are few sights as beautiful as gamebird has walked, nose close to breeding, and it’s the reason they’re a GSP in full flight, running through the ground, and then off again at full very good hunters. To the outsider it the Highveld grass, noses held high speed. Suddenly, it’s as if they’ve might appear that they’re obsessive, searching for scent. Pausing for a hit a wall; they slam onto a point, but when channelled correctly, this moment to sniff out where a frozen, one front leg in the air and behaviour is exactly what makes the tail straight out. them excellent hunters and keeps My thirty-five-year love affair them running through the veld for with GSPs began with Sweempie, a hours searching for birds, or swimming hard-headed girl that exasperated hundreds of metres to retrieve a me. Daily. She would seemingly join duck. in the conversation around a braai, They have a lot of energy to burn. looking intently at someone as if she They also need to have their brain understood them. Actually, it was stimulated. If they’re not exercised always a person holding a sandwich, and stimulated daily, believe me, or a piece of boerewors, and when they’ll create their own exercise and this person’s attention was diverted, find their own stimulation. she’d sneak a bite without the person They’re working dogs, great pets, noticing. Until they wanted to take a wonderful with children and not bite, that is. aggressive towards people. They’re I’ve subsequently owned GSPs for highly intelligent and easy to train, almost 40 years. Each dog has had its and I wouldn’t own any other breed. own distinctive character, and I have However, a German Shorthaired a collection of stories too long to Pointer is not for everyone. If you’re share in this article. Somehow each used to a dog that’s content to sleep dog has been an improvement on the all day, bark when they’re supposed previous one. Perhaps it’s that I’ve to, and play with your children, rather learnt something over the years – or get a Labrador or similar breed as a is it that the dogs have trained me? pet. You’ll be a lot happier, and so GSPs have a lot of drive. This is their will your dog.

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CHICKEN OR BEEF? TREAT YOUR PET WITH CBD PET OIL DROPS

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48 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE TIPS & WHISPERSTiTle TITLE

DOWNLOAD, REGISTER AND RECEIVE ABSOLUTELY COMFORTABLE

REWARDS Winter is here, and all dogs deserve a nice warm and comfortable bed. We love the Wagworld Dream Pod beds, available from Have you downloaded Absolute Pets. Suitable for small, medium or large breeds, as the Complete Pet App well as in different colours. The beautiful designs will complement and registered yet? You your personal décor while offering your hound the best possible don’t want to miss out on support for a comfortable sleep. The outer bolster is made from being part of their fantas- a soft, water-resistant canvas with a linen look and filled with tic loyalty programme! If recycled shredded fabric to offer a comfy you download their app pillow. A zipped removeable pillow and register you’ll get cover with luxurious coral fleece makes your 12th bag of dog food absolutely FREE, get a handy store this bed easy to keep clean. Visit www. locator and a monthly newsletter. You’ll also receive more fan- absolutepets.com to find a store near tastic loyalty rewards that will become available throughout the you, or you can order your Wagworld year. If your smartphone is Apple or Android enabled, please Dream Pod bed online. use the following steps to download the Complete Pet App to your phone – Go to Google Play for Android, or App Store for iPhone. Search for the Complete Pet App and then simply STAYING WARM AND STYLISH download it to your phone and register. It’s that easy! Visit www. Dog’s Life is one of South Africa’s largest pet completepetfood.co.za for more information, or follow them fashion and accessories brands, specialising in on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. dog fashion, designer collars and bedding. The dog clothing lines include dog coats, dresses, AUTOMATIC SELF-RELOADING SMART TOY jumpers, hoodies and t-shirts. We absolutely love YOUR DOG WILL LOVE the DL Gangster Faux Leather Biker Jacket – your dog will comfortably ride out any winter weather The Foobler® is the world’s first electronic timed treat dispenser while looking cooler than a cat in this faux leather that will keep your dog stimulated and mentally engaged for biker jacket with an embossed diamond pattern and up to eight hours of entertainment. It features six treat com- meltingly warm velboa lining. This jacket is fastened partments, which you can fill with dry food, treats or kibble, with secure DL press buttons to ensure a perfect fit. effectively like having six puzzle toys in one! The Available in various sizes from XS to 6 XL. We also Foobler® can be set to dispense one of its treat love the Mr Cloud Sweatshirt, which will keep your compartments at 15-, 30-, 60- or 90-minute darling pooch cosy and stylish this winter. Visit www. intervals. At the pre-set time a bell will chime to dogslife.co.za for more information or to order. alert your dog that it’s time to play, and a treat compartment will be released. Spreading your pet’s meals throughout the day, the Foobler® PUT THAT SPRING BACK IN YOUR DOG'S works perfectly as a slow feeder and helps combat against bloating and overeating. STEP - NATURALLY To order, visit www.caninezonestore.com WALKEASE® is a 100% natural and biologically active form of undenatured type II collagen that provides effective, real pain CANINE ZONERS LOVE PETZONE relief from sore, stiff and damaged joints. It reduces inflammation in the joints, improves joint mobility and flexibility, promotes Petzone by Westpack Lifestyle has become the store of choice healthy, working joints and facilitates ease of movement and for many dog parents. With fantastic prices and a wide selection of agility. WALKEASE® encourages weight loss due to an improved products, Petzone is a one-stop store for all your dog’s needs. ability to exercise and is totally natural and safe with no side For example, they stock warm winter blankets that every dog effects. Significantly enhance your dog’s quality of life with needs to keep the chill away, and their Grey Acrylic Stripe renewed activity and playfulness. Containing UC-II®, which is Blanket, measuring 150 x 200cm, is priced at R109.90. With a patented, biologically active form of collagen derived from winter here, shelters across South Africa struggle to keep chicken sternum, means that the structure and activity of the the dogs in their care warm. Perhaps UC-II® have not been altered by heat or when you pick up these good- any other physical or chemical processes. quality, long-lasting blankets for your The UC-II® is taken in its biologically active own dogs, you can throw in one or form and works naturally with the body’s two extras to donate to a shelter near systems. UC-II® is significantly more effec- you? Visit www.petzone.co.za for a store tive in reducing symptoms of pain than the near you. combination of Glucosamine and Chon- droitin – up to twice as good. Visit www. EXERCISE CAN BE FUN gracepharmaceuticals.co.za/walkease for more information.

The Rosewood Dog Agility Slalom is a great way to exercise and train your canine friend; it keeps your dog’s senses sharpened, body exercised, and brain occupied. Slalom or weave poles are probably the most difficult piece of agility equipment to negotiate and require great skill and dexterity. It’s a really pop- ular dog sport that is fun, relatively easy to learn and enhances the bond between you and your dog. The set consists of five slalom poles, which are flexible for safety, and five ground spikes to make it easy to set up in a field or garden. The entire kit fits comfortably into the carry bag, making it easy for you to carry or place in the back of your car for days out with your pet. Visit www.caninezonestore.com to order yours.

Entries close on the 30th of June 2020 CANINECANINE ZONE ZONE | MARCH | APRIL 2016 2020 | | 49 TITLE TITLE

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CANINE ZONE | MARCH 2016 | 51 ADORABLE ADOPTABLES Looking for Love A nation’s worth of canine cuteness is yours to take in… right now!

GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER RESCUE (COUNTRYWIDE)

DIESEL is a very handsome, GHUNI the goofball is CHOCOLATE & TANYA DOBBY & KINO - This three-year-old, solid black GSP looking for his forever family. were surrendered, as they’re a beautiful pair need to find a with the most soulful amber He’s three years old and a formidable double act. Sweet home together as they are a eyes. He’s loving, friendly typical young GSP. Full of and lovely girls, together bonded pair. The boys are used and full of energy. His best energy, he loves to play and is they were double trouble. to sleeping inside, they don’t friends were young children, very affectionate. Ghuni would Absolutely no cats or small like cats, and they haven’t had as he loves playing with like to be part of an energetic dogs, or any small animals, any formal training. Dobby and them. Diesel would do well and outdoorsy family. Whilst because Chocolate got into a Kino are regular blood donors in a home with larger female Ghuni is good with children, dogs, but no cats, please. His lot of trouble for her abilities for other fur kids in need. They we would suggest a meet-and- to “hunt”. Although the sisters don’t like thunder or fireworks ideal family would be active, were surrendered together, we adventurous, outdoor people. greet with existing dogs in the and will need reassurance. He’s based in Gauteng and family. No cats, please. If you feel it’s in their best interest to And while they’re extremely needs a secure property. Can have it in your heart to give be separated, as they “gang” affectionate and are good with you offer this very special boy Ghuni a home, please contact up. children, they haven’t had lots of a forever home? us. exposure to smaller dogs.

ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY (PORT ELIZABETH)

ZAYNI is the cutest brindle- RASCAL is a lively, playful ROSEMARY is a little MARSHALL is a lovely six- coloured teenager. Sadly, he’s and sweet young crossbreed all-white Jack Russell girl of year-old crossbreed boy. He’s a the last of his litter left to be male, 10 months old, and about one-and-a-half years friendly dog who loves going for adopted. He loves going to the so eager to learn. Rascal is old. She’s a friendly girl who walks. Marshall has a relaxed beach and even joined us on looking for a home where he’ll enjoys playing with other dogs. and easy-going personality, and a visit to a retirement home have a furry friend to play with Rosemary was found with her he’d like to have a female dog as where he was well-behaved during the day, and he’d enjoy furry sibling, Jasmine, who can a bestie. He’s fine with children and loved to spend time with a home with children and lots be adopted with her. This little too. Marshall has been at AWS the residents. Zayni will enjoy of outings. sweetheart would like to be in since July, and after six months, a home with children and a home with another dog to he’s ready for his forever home. other dogs, and he’s fine with play with. She’s a gentle girl cats as well. who’s great with children.

52 | APRIL 2020 | CANINE ZONE ADORABLE ADOPTABLES

DOGTOWN SA (JOHANNESBURG)

MONTANA came from a CHIPZ is a super-friendly and LAURA - We assume Laura got DUFFY is a super-friendly life where the safest place affectionate boy who, although scared of fireworks, ran onto a girl with a spring in her step, so she could find for her babies he’s not a youngster anymore highway and got hit by a car. Her she’ll need a secure property. was a storm water drain in and is 90% blind, deserves a leg was broken and she needed Because she’s very social and a township. She’s one of the loving home to live out his surgery and lots of rest, but gets along with other dogs, lucky ones who was rescued precious life. He can come she’s now ready for a new start she’ll need fur-siblings to play from that life, along with two across as shy, but if you show in life. This beautiful girl has a with. Duffy is about five years of her puppies who’ve since him love and patience, he’ll be wonderful temperament. She’s a old and probably has some been adopted. Montana is only your best friend in no time at all. cuddle bug who loves people and Labrador in her. She enjoys about three years old, social He needs a quiet home without other dogs. She may have a grey going for walks, being cuddled with other dogs and loves steps and without an open pool. hair or two, but don’t be fooled – and made a fuss of. Laura would humans big and small. Please Please consider giving Chipz a she’s very playful and active. Are love to be part of your family. be the hero in her story. chance. you Laura’s fresh start?

WHERE TO FIND THEM…

GERMAN SHORTHAIRED up with these precious dogs placed under website on www.awspe.co.za. For adoption POINTER RESCUE our responsibility. Our core members queries, please contact Kathryn Schmelzer are situated in Gauteng and Cape Town, (Adoption Specialist) on Kathryn@awspe. (COUNTRYWIDE) and we have an extensive network and co.za support system covering most regions of DIESEL, GHUNI, CHOCOLATE, South Africa. To adopt any of our dogs, TANYA, DOBBY & KINO please email [email protected] and DOGTOWN SA We are a volunteer-based organisation they will send you an application form to (JOHANNESBURG) with our main focus on the rescue start the process. You can also visit our and responsible rehoming of Pointing website on www.gsprescue.org.za MONTANA, CHIPZ, LAURA & dog breeds: mainly (but not restricted DUFFY to) German/English Pointers and ANIMAL WELFARE Vizslas in South Africa. We focus on At Dogtown SA, our mission is to rescue, purebred dogs from these breeds, as SOCIETY (PORT ELIZABETH) rehabilitate and rehome. Nestled in the well as obvious cross breeds. We also ZAYNI, RASCAL, ROSEMARY & Hennops mountains is the most remarkable network lost and found Pointing dogs; sanctuary for dogs who’ve lost their arrange for the safekeeping of stray MARSHALL families or have been rescued from dire dog; assist with information to support The Animal Welfare Society Port Elizabeth situations. Every day the dedicated team prospective and existing owners of (AWS PE) is an open shelter which at Dogtown provide individual care to these breeds; and arrange walks to offers a safe place for unwanted, lost or each of these dogs in a peaceful, tranquil be enjoyed by owners and dogs. To abandoned animals. AWS PE was founded setting while they wait for their forever facilitate responsible rehoming of in 1971 as a result of the difficulty that homes. There’s often a misconception that Pointing dog breeds in South Africa to the municipality in Port Elizabeth was all rescue dogs are going to be damaged homes that understand and love the experiencing in coping adequately with in some way, but that’s simply not true. breeds and can offer a home in which the number of stray animals and cruelty There are plenty of wonderful dogs at these dogs’ needs will exceedingly be cases in the city. Our catteries and kennels Dogtown SA who, through no fault of their met. We rehome dogs surrendered house stray and surrendered pets who own, have found themselves homeless to us in a responsible manner. Our are available for adoption. We accept all and are just hoping for a second chance adoption donation ensures that each animals brought to us and run a 24-hour at a new life in a loving home. For more dog rehomed through us is sterilised, service to deal with the many cases of information, visit www.barkingmad.co.za, microchipped, vaccinations are cruelty and neglect which are reported to or to adopt, contact [email protected]. updated, if needed, and dewormed. us. Anyone who’d like more information Telephone Dogtown SA on 076 044 1979 Home checks are done, and we follow can follow us on Facebook, or visit our for any enquiries.

If you would like to find and adopt a rescue dog anywhere in South Africa, please email [email protected] or contact Patti on 082 922 3820 after 14h00 daily. Remember that even if one of our Adorable Adoptables is not in your area, most rescue shelters can make arrangements to get the dog to you. TITLE TITLE

Tried, tested and endorsed products at unbeatable prices! 10 percent of profits go to a different shelter every month. Visit our store at www.caninezonestore.com

You can't buy LOVE but you can RESCUE IT

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