Ball Python - Scale Rot

The little ones!

The other passangers on the Titanic...................

To cute!!

Have fun shopping......

Basic needs for a domesticated Hedgehog!

All you need to know about Hedgehogs Part 1

Final part of - Which dog is right for you?

Is a rat the right pet to have??

Children and their pets...........

Let them sleep..............

                    There is nothing more beautiful than watching your pets take a nap…….

The WODAC Pet Expo

2013 Venue : GALLAGHER CONVENTION CENTRE, MIDRAND, JOHANNESBURG

19 Richards Drive, Midrand

19 - 21 JULY 2013

GPS – South 26 degrees 00.145’ - East 28 degrees 07.849’

 

 

The Australian Silky

Did you know?

The Australian Silky Terrier’s country of origin is Australia!

This dog was developed in Australia in the early part of the 20^th century. The breed is a cross between the Australian terrier and the Yorkshire terrier but forms part of the toy group of dogs.

Temperament:

The Silky is an inquisitive and friendly breed.  This do is robust, feisty, alert and sprightly.

Lifestyle:

This dog is perfect for city dwellers, a small garden is adequate. The Silky makes a good companion for active seniors.

General Care:

A lustrous, silky coat hangs straight down presenting a well groomed appearance. A daily brush is required to keep the coat in good condition.

Exercise needs:

Moderate, exercise is needed. Keep your Silky on a leash they do like to wonder.

Life expectancy:

14-15 years

Height:

23-26cm

Weight:

4-5kg

The Biewer Terrier

Did you know?

The Biewer terrier was developed in Germany in the early 1980’s.  The breed is gaining swift popularity. The coast is white and blue-white broken and closely blue, absolute or black, without colouring. The belly and legs are white and the head should be white, blue or gold and symmetrically coloured. This breed is part of the Toy group although it is called a Biewer terrier.

Temperament:

An energetic, loyal and brave dog. The Biewer Terrier is a self-confident dog who gets on well with other dogs.

Lifestyle:

Suited to apartment or townhouse living. An active alert breed who makes a good little watchdog.

General Care:

Body hair hangs evenly and straight down.  The straight hair grows long enough to reach the ground.  The coat is shinny and fine and silky. There is no undercoat.  He needs a fair amount of grooming to keep his coat in good condition.

Exercise needs:

A daily walk and or play is the garden is adequate.

Life expectancy:

14-15 years

Height:

20-25cm

Weight:

2-3.5kg

 

What every pet owner should know! about an emergency!!

What should you do in an emergency?

Even pet owners need basic first aid knowledge in order to help their pets in an emergency situation.

Confident, swift and reliable action will alleviate unnecessary suffering for your pet.  Basic knowledge will help owners to identify problems before the animal’s condition deteriorates to dangerous levels.

A good rule in any situation is never to give human medicine to your pet, human medication can severely damage your animals liver. 

 

What to do if your dog has a profusely bleeding wound:

·         The primary aim is to stop the bleeding and prevent infection.

·         You need to work quickly in cleaning and bandaging the wound.

·         You can rinse the wound with warm water.

·         A sterile gauze or pad should be placed over the wound.

·         Do not use cotton wool directly on the wound as the cotton may get stuck in the wound.

·         Even if the blood seeps through the gauze do not remove it just add more gauze on top.

·         Press down firmly and bandage.

·         This animal should be taken to a veterinary hospital immediately.

·         Your vet will discuss treatment and if stitches are needed.

What to do if your dog has a possible fracture:

In all cases of a fractured  or broken bone medical attention is required.

Your dog will not allow you to touch the area as it is very painful.

It is not easy to detect a fractured bone, your vet will do X-rays, however signs to look out for are:

·         Your pet will refuse to put any pressure on the limb, there may be serve swelling in the area.

·         A fractured jaw bone will prevent the animal from opening or closing his mouth. High levels of drool will drip from the dog’s mouth, do not attempt to touch his mouth as this is extremely painful.

·         A fracture of the rib cage may cause laboured breathing, and can cause damage to the lungs.

What to do if you suspect a fracture before you take your pet to the vet:

Do not try to set the fracture, keep your pet calm, phone your vet and inform them that you are bringing your pet in and that you suspect a fracture or broken leg.

What to do if you suspect poisoning:

Try to identify what your pet has eaten. This will help your vet neutralise and stabilise your pet.

How to identify that you’re pet has been poisoned:

·         Excessive salivation or foam around the mouth

·         Vomiting (take note of the content of the stomach will help to identify the poison)

·         Painting or difficulty breathing

·         Seizures

·         Constricted pupils

·         Pain in the abdomen region

·         Uncoordinated movements

·         Weakness and slow movement

·         Aggression

·         Frequent urination

Chocolate poisoning

Dark chocolate and cocoa are very toxic for dogs.

Symptoms:

Excessive thirst, vomiting, spasms, diarrhoea, seizures

Alcohol poisoning

Alcohol contains ethanol which is toxic to dogs.

Depending on the size of the dog and the amount of alcohol consumed this can be lethal to your dog.

Symptoms:

Confusion, staggering, hyperactivity, vomiting and seizures.

Transport your pet to the vet immediately

If your vet telephonically instructs you to induce vomiting here is what you need to do:

1         Make up a solution using activated charcoal (follow the instructions on the package)

2         Use a syringe to squirt the mixture into the side of the animal’s mouth. This will prevent the mixture from entering the lungs. 

Beestings, what to do?

Dogs can have a serious allergic reaction to beestings, so don’t take chances.

• If he looks like he may be in discomfort check the area around his mouth, his body and paw pads. 
• If you find the sting, use tweezers to gently pull it out. 
• Do not squeeze toxins from the stinger into the skin this will worsen the situation.
• Clean the area with saline and a little vinegar. 
• Apply some antihistamine cream. 
• If you notice major swelling in the area, call your vet and take your pet in right away.

Snake bites, what to do?

Dogs do get bitten by snakes. If you do not respond quickly your dog will die.

• If at all possible it is best to try get a picture of the snake. You will need to show the vet so an identification can be made.
• Keep your dog calm, wash around the area of the snake bite to try remove any additional venom.
• Take a bandage and wrap it slightly tight above the bite area. This will slow down the blood flow and the absorption of the poison.
• Do not let your dog run around, carry your dog to the car and keep him/her calm.
• Phone your nearest vet and inform them of your situation.
• Once you arrive show the vet the picture or give a description of the type of snake.
  

  

Do I need a pet first aid kit?

If you have pets then the answer is most definitely yes!

You can make your own pet first aid kit, here’s what you need to include in your kit.

·         Gauze (large pack) for cleaning and applying pressure to wounds

·         Bandages (crepe and conforming)

·         Micro pore tape (to secure bandage in place)

·         Cotton wool

·         Cotton buds

·         Tweezers

·         Small scissors

·         Sterile eye wash

·         Antibiotic cream (ask your vet for this)

·         Antiseptic wipes

·         Eyedropper

·         Syringes (all sizes)

·         Rectal thermometer (digital if possible)

·         Saline solution

·         Lubricating jelly

·         Latex gloves

·         Leash

·         Claw clippers

·         Pain relief pills (ask your vet)

·         Tick remover

·         Soft muzzle

·         Ice packs

·         An old towel and cloth

·         Corn-starch (stops bleeding on a torn nail)

·         Activated charcoal tablets (for poisoning)

·         A card with details of your vet emergency contact numbers, physical address

·         Nearest animal hospital to you

Part 2 - Which dog is right for you?

Part 2

Which dog is right for you?

The Toy group

The Toy is an affectionate, sociable, lively and happy spirited dog.  This group is made up of many of the small breeds.  These were bred as companion and worker dogs.  Used to control pests such as mice and rats.  They were also used as watch dogs to warn owners of intruders.  Many breeds within this group have athletic, energetic nature. They are clever little dogs and respond well to training. Some Toys have coats that require high levels of care.  These dogs are also known for their longevity.

 

A Toy breed may be right for you if:

You want a small dog with a big personality

You don’t have a large garden

You don’t mind paying attention to grooming

You are prepared to work on anxiety problems of separation

You don’t mind if you Toy barks

 

 

The Terrier group

The Terrier is an independent, courageous, feisty and tough dog.  Terriers were originally bred as ‘jacks of all trades’  They were used to catch rats and mice, guard dogs, hunting dogs, farm dogs and family companions.  Some Terrier were bred and trained to follow small hunts underground into their holes. Terra is the Latin word meaning ‘earth’ hence the name ‘terrier’.  These are dogs with high energy levels. They inquisitive and headstrong and need good early socialisation and training. Without this they may become aggressive towards other dogs and may develop behaviour problems, like chewing , barking and digging.

A Terrier may be right for you if:

You like a dog with a low-maintenance, short or wiry coat. That does not require major grooming.

You want an intelligent dog and you willing to spend time training your young dog.

You can spend time getting involved with dog sports and can exercise your dog.

You enjoy a playful spirt.

Did you know?

Did you know?

The Papillon is thought to have originated in Spain.  Italy and France helped to develop the popularity of this dog. The name Papillon means butterfly in French and relates to the erect, fringed, mobile ears and the facial markings.  The Papillon was a much loved companion of Mari Antoinette.

Temperament:

This is a dainty, elegant and lively little dog with a happy, loveable and alert nature.  An intelligent breed, and is often in tune with his owners moods.  This dog makes a fine therapy dog and loves company and attention.

Lifestyle:

The Papillon makes the perfect house dog and companion.   This dog is equally suitable to singles, seniors or as a family pet.

General care:

The long, straight, silky coat can be brushed twice weekly. Excessive barking must be discouraged from an early age.

Exercise:

The Papillon is an energetic dog, who should be walked daily. They can be trained in agility.

Life expectancy;

13-15 years

Height:

20-28cm

Weight:

4-5kg

Part 1; Which dog is right for you?

Part 1:  Which dog is right for you?

In South Africa there are 7 different groups of dogs, characteristics like temperament and physical appearance of a dog may dictate into what group the breed is placed.  A dog’s individual temperament may be related to the socialisation and upbringing from an early age.

Organisations and registration bodies around the world have their own rules and regulations with regards to how dogs are categorised.

Here are the first 2 groups:

Good-natured Gundogs are loyal, reliable, sporty and relaxed.  These dogs were bread to assist the hunter, including flush out and retrieving game. Retrievers, Spaniels, Setters and Pointers fall into this dog group.

This dog may be right for you if:

• You are a sporty person keen on exercising with your dog.
• You want a dog that gets on well with other dogs and children.
• You want an active dog.
• You don’t mind a dog that requires grooming or that sheds.

 

 

Hardy Hounds are even-tempered, loyal, sensitive and affectionate. Hounds were bred for sport hunting. They have an excellent olfactory sense for tracking, they are built for speed, enabling them to pursue and secure their prey. Dogs in the hound group are the Beagle, Afghan and Whippet. Hounds make peaceable family pets that thrive on love and companionship.  In the hound group size and coat types differ considerably and temperaments differ.

This dog may be right for you if:

• You want a dog that needs exercise.
• You don’t mind working harder in training.
• You have a safe, secure garden – they like to dig and jump
• You don’t mind a dog that likes to bark or howl

Did you know?

Did you know?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback’s country of origin is South African!

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a descended from the ridged Hottentot Hunting dog, crossed with various continental breeds brought to southern Africa by settlers from Europe. The dogs were later taken to Rhodesia and used to track lions.  The Rhodesian Ridgeback was named by the Rhodesian breeders in 1924 and KUSA recognised the breed and was classified as a hound.

Temperament:

A gentle, sensitive and loyal breed with a confident and intelligent nature.  These dogs enjoy human companionship.

Lifestyle:

This is a well-mannered dog, good with children and other pets.  A protector of people and property.

General  Care:

The smooth, dense, sleek coat is easy to groom. Occasional bushing will help assist with shedding.

Exercise needs:

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has great stamina and does require exercise.  Good socialisation and training is recommended as the breed needs careful discipline and handling when young.

Life expectancy:

12-14 years

Height:

63-69cm

Weight:

33-45kg