Dogs Life Dog-a-Blog

City2Surf Guide Dogs Puppy Challenge

2011-06-24T15:00:00.009+10:00

So waking up at the crack of dawn to go on a 14 km run on a cold August morning may not appeal to most people. Especially when the annoying beeping of your alarm goes off that morning.
But, once you get past that 'I'm awake' stage, participating in the annual City2Surf can actually be quite fun! I took part last year and while I have to admit I took the challenge on a whim and did absolutely no training and couldn't walk for about 2 days after the event, I found it really rewarding. The part I enjoyed the most was fundraising for a charity of your choice. Last year I raised over $150, which considering my lack of training was a huge ask of my friends and family.

Guide Dogs NSW and ACT have come up with a plan to raise up to $50 000 to recruit 50 new guide dog pups. The non-government funded charity has enlisted celebrities such as Kerri-Anne Kennerley, The Two Fat Tradies from The Block and Israel Folau from the GWS GIANTS AFL team to pep talk all of us to firstly take part in the City2Surf and secondly to choose Guide Dogs NSW and ACT as our charity to fundraise for, and when you look at the cute pups and know that they are going to give so much independence to a vision impaired person, the choice is easy.

If you aren’t entering the City2Surf, you can visit the Puppy Challenge fundraising page
here – www.fundraise.city2surf.com.au/GuideDogsPuppyChallenge

Or you can even donate to some of the noted Guide Dogs Puppy Challenge runners here:
Mitchell Smith, guide dog user from Coogee
http://www.fundraise.city2surf.com.au/mitchell_smith_5
Martin Z’Graggen, guide dog user from Eastwood
http://www.fundraise.city2surf.com.au/kaylah_zgraggen_family
Leonie Wolff, guide dog user from Matraville
http://www.fundraise.city2surf.com.au/Leonie_Wolff_0487
Heike Fabig, who's young daughter Billie has cerebral palsy and is benefiting
from having Jenna, a Pets As Therapy dog for companionship
http://www.fundraise.city2surf.com.au/heike_fabig_5

Written By: Alexandra Lazcano

Is now the time to adopt a dog?

2011-03-24T15:26:00.003+11:00

Hi there dog lovers,

If you've ever considered adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organisation, now could be the perfect time. The Animal Welfare League's New South Wales shelters are currently full to bursting, with more than 180 dogs and puppies desperately looking for their forever homes.

"AWL has been taking in surrendered, abandoned and neglected animals for over 50 years, however we are now stretched to capacity and may have to start turning animals away," says AWL CEO Maryann Dalton. "We are appealing to the community to consider adopting a pet from one of our shelters to help us help them."

Unfortunately, AWL's predicament reflects the struggles faced by rescue organisations all over Australia - so if you don't live in NSW, there are plenty of dogs in your state looking for someone to love. Pets are surrendered for a range of reasons, including unwanted pregnancies, lack of pet-friendly rental accommodation, family members who develop allergies and, sadly, owners who can't afford to properly care for their pets.

Of course, a pet is for life and AWL doesn't want prospective owners to make snap decisions - you need to give adoption considerable thought and know that you have the time and commitment to bring a new pet into your home.

The AWL's plucky resident pooches - along with more than 140 cats and kittens - can be viewed at its Ingleside (11 Cicada Glen Rd) and Kemps Creek (1605 Elizabeth Drive) shelters. You can also view the animals online.

If you've adopted a dog, post a comment and let us know what makes your four-legged friend so fantastic!

Laura.

Nice to meet you!

2011-02-03T10:33:00.003+11:00

Hello dog lovers!

Oops, I'm afraid I've been a bit tardy about introducing myself: I'm Laura, and I've recently become the new Editor of Dogs Life magazine.

I'm not the only one making introductions around here at the moment. I've recently expanded my 'fur family' with the addition of a 12-week-old puppy called Delilah. She's a real character and absolutely gorgeous - the trouble is, my three-year-old male dog, Tex, doesn't seem to agree! He's been a bit grouchy towards his new little sister and I'm currently on the lookout for ways to restore harmony to our home.

I'd love to hear about your experiences of introducing a new pup to your resident adult dog. How did you ensure your four-legged friends became best pals?!

2011-01-25T15:58:00.000+11:00

PIAA Pet Recovery Fact Sheet – Dogs
How to care for your dog over the next 30 days
· Disease and bacteria is the largest threat to dogs during floods
· Treat your dog for flees, worms and ticks as a priority during floods
· Be aware of the growing numbers of mosquitoes. Owners can use animal repellent or mix
citronella with baby oil. Wipe on lightly to skin surface
· Restrict your dog to dry land and prevent it from playing and living in the flood waters
· Ensure your dog has clean water to drink – drinking flood water can result in sickness such
as diarrhoea and vomiting
· Monitor your dog for any skin irritation
· Regularly wash and clean your dog to limit any disease, especially their paws where they
can easily pick up infections
· Monitor your dog for any distress
· Ensure your dog has shade to relax
· Where possible, ensure your dog gets the daily exercise required
· If you require advice or assistance with your dog, consult your closest vet

For more info visit www.PIAA.net.au

RSPCA Needs treats and toys

2010-12-09T09:57:00.002+11:00

Due to the influx of additional animals being surrendered during the busy festive season, the RSPCA Sydney Shelter is once again experiencing a shortage of treats and toys for the animals in its care. As such, Shelter Staff are asking for donated treats and animal-friendly toys in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

“The summer season, particularly the weeks before and after Christmas, is our busiest time of year,” said Animal Wellbeing Support Coordinator Hannah Burfitt. “RSPCA shelters across NSW will receive nearly three thousand additional animals during this time – this is above and beyond the number of animals that are already in our care,” said Ms Burfitt.

Treats are consumed more rapidly during this time, as they’re used as part of the Shelter’s positive reinforcement training methods with the animals. “We work with the animals on a daily basis, and treats provide a reward system for obedience training,” said Ms Burfitt. “We use toys to provide mental and physical stimulation, but also comfort to animals during their stay in an unfamiliar environment.”

Specifically, the Shelter is in need of dog and cat treats, pet-friendly toys (no beanie toys), blankets, pet beds and kitty litter.

All treats and toys can be dropped off at the Sydney Shelter, located at 201 Rookwood Road in Yagoona, between 9.00am and 8.00pm. Items can also be purchased directly from the Shelter’s retail store (closed Wednesdays) and the RSPCA Care Centre located at the Rouse Hill Town Centre

Temporary Tick Anti Venom Shortage

2010-12-06T09:44:00.003+11:00

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has advised that with higher than average rainfall, this is proving to be one of the worst tick seasons on record.

The season started early and has been widespread. Whilst the mild winter and wet conditions have been ideal for ticks this year, the previous years of drought have hindered laboratories’ ability to produce enough anti venom to cope with the onslaught of ticks this year.

The anti venom is a natural product and not synthetic, so the process to produce it is very involved and time consuming. The anti venom can only be made during tick season and due to the dry conditions last year, there was not enough stock to cope with the demands of the season this year.

This has resulted in a shortage of anti venom, with veterinary wholesale distribution companies reporting that the anti venom is currently out of stock.

Bayer Animal Health is therefore appealing to pet owners across the east coast of Australia, where paralysis ticks are found, to use preventative treatments, such as Advantix for dogs, fortnightly during tick season to make sure that their dogs don’t get bitten by ticks.

“The holiday season is approaching and many pet owners will be traveling to coastal regions with their pets where paralysis ticks are common. We love our pets and wouldn’t want anything terrible to happen to them, and whilst laboratories are working hard to produce enough anti venom to alleviate the shortage in the next few weeks, it is important to understand the risks and symptoms of tick paralysis and how to prevent your pets falling victim to these dangerous parasites,” said Dr Bob Rees, Bayer Animal Health Technical Services Veterinarian.

Help Homeless Pets This Christmas

2010-11-30T11:42:00.002+11:00

Hi All,

The Paws & Claus Christmas Appeal helps homeless pets enjoy a merry Christmas. Everyone can help by donating at any Better Pets and Gardens store.

Each year, the Paws & Claus Christmas Appeal gives thousands of Better Pets and Gardens customers the opportunity to donate gifts of food, bedding and toys to help animals less fortunate than their own much-loved pets.

In every Better Pets and Gardens store this December, there is a Paws & Claus Christmas tree and shoppers are asked to purchase a gift - or if they prefer, bring one in from home - and place it under the tree. A name-tag will be attached to the gift so individual generosity doesn't go unnoticed.

After Christmas, the staff at each store collects all the donated goodies and delivers them to a specific pet rescue group in their local area. A total of 15 organisations will receive support this Christmas.

The items people can donate might be new or used blankets, jackets or bedding, as well as foods and worming treatments. However, even toys, bowls, leads and collars will be gratefully received.

To find your nearest store to donate to the Paws & Claus Christmas Appeal, log on to www.betterpetsandgardens.com.au

Pawclub.com.au roadshow

2010-11-24T10:27:00.003+11:00

G'day dog lovers,

New dog care website pawclub.com.au has launched a colossal Australia-wide challenge to find out exactly how much Australians "heart" their dogs, with a travelling dog pod roadshow that will visit more than 200 dog parks on the eastern seaboard.

The dog pod team will travel from town to town inviting dog owners to take the "heart your dog" challenge while providing them with tips on how they can love their dogs more... as well as the chance to win a share of over $20,000 in prizes!

This weekend the dog pod roadshow will be in
QUEENSLAND
Friday 26th November
ANZAC Park, Toowong 3-5pm
Monoplane St Park, Ashgrove 5-7pm

Saturday 27th November
Elanora Park, Wynnum 9am-12pm

Sunday 28th November
Victoria Park, Spring Hill 10am-12pm
Obedience Dog Club of Brisbane, Oxley 8am-10am

SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Saturday 27th November
Salisbury Park, Salisbury 8am-10am
Canterbury Reserve, Canterbury Dve, Salisbury Heights 10am-12pm
Jenkins Reserve, Salisbury Park 2pm-4pm
Happy Home Reserve, Waterloo Corner Rd, Salisbury North 4pm-6pm

Sunday 28th November
Unley Oval, Unley 8am-10am
North Unley Play Park, North Unley 10am-12pm

Christmas with the Animals

2010-11-17T10:07:00.002+11:00

This year AWL's annual event 'Christmas with the Animals - Pet Santa Photos' has partnered with Westfield and PETBARN to bring the event to the community. Have a photo with your family and pet, buy a Christmas gift for your pet, activities for kids and more....

Sat 20 November – Westfield Penrith

On the Joan Sutherland lawn, off High Street Penrith

10am – 3pm

Sun 28 November – Westfield Burwood

Green level car park P4, entre via Wilga Street top ramp

10am – 3pm

Sat 4 December & 5 December – Petbarn Brookvale

60 Winbourne Rd, Brookvale

10am – 3pm

Sat 11 December – Crossroads Homemaker Centre

Cnr Beech Road & Camden Valley Way, Casula

11am – 2pm

Sat 18 December – Crossroad Homemaker Centre

Cnr Beech Road & Camden Valley Way, Casula

11am – 2pm

For more information visit www.awlnsw.com.au or call 8899 3333 7 days per week between 10am – 3pm.

Seeing Eye Dogs Australia Open Day

2010-11-15T10:12:00.002+11:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

Seeing Eye Dogs Australia (SEDA) is preparing for a paw-fect Open Day on November 21 at its headquarters in Kensington, Melbourne.

Everyone is invited to come along and witness first-hand the important work SEDA does and the amazing difference that Seeing Eye Dogs make to people's lives.

The day promises to be action-packed with lots of activities and attractions to entertain the whole family. There will be dog demonstrations, veterinary health checks, entertainment, food, and Eadie the Trick Dog will showcase her amazing talents.

Best of all, SEDA's special 50th Anniversary Golden Litter of seven-week old pups will be on show in the breeding centre.

For more information, call 1300 84 74 66 or visit www.seda.org.au

Stop Healthy Homeless Pets From Dying

2010-11-12T09:14:00.002+11:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

If you're a dog owner in the south-east Qld area, here's a cause you might like to support. On Saturday November 27, a group called Non Human Rescue are staging a public rally outside Logan City Council Animal Management Centre.

From this council facility, healthy re-homeable pets are transported to the University of Qld for terminal dissection and experimental operations. This unethical and inhumane practice has been stopped by other Qld councils, as well as Sydney and Melbourne Uni.

If you would like to stop this, get along to the rally from 10am on November 27.

Cartoon Dogs

2010-11-10T10:38:00.002+11:00

Hi All,

Just a quick question for you... Who is your favourite cartoon dog?

There are plenty to choose from - Huckleberry Hound, Santa's Little Helper from The Simpsons, Brian from Family Guy, Muttley and stacks more.

My personal favourite is Scooby Doo - I used to love watching him every morning solve some pretty mysterious and scary cases. I could also relate to his love of food and thought his "scaredy-cat" nature was hilarious.

On top of all that, what a great theme song!

Who is your favourite cartoon pooch?

Start the new year by helping Animal Aid

2010-11-05T09:31:00.005+11:00

Leading animal welfare organisation, Animal Aid, has created an enchanting 2011 pet calendar, showcasing some of the adorable animals that have been adopted by Animal Aid. All proceeds will support the work of Animal Aid, at all three shelters across Victoria.

Each month showcases a beautiful and loveable animal with its own adoption story to share.

Miss February, Lisa, a Coolie x, was not claimed from a regional pound and was brought to Animal Aid where she successfully found a new home.

For Miss October, Bindi the rabbit, was one of many unwanted bunnies that arrive at Animal Aid. Fortunately, she is now very spoilt and pampered in her new loving home.

According to Animal Aid General Manager, Nell Thompson, the concept of creating a beautiful and visually appealing calendar keepsake filled with gorgeous images of animals was a fitting tribute to the tireless work that Animal Aid has committed to since its inception in 1948.

“For me, the calendar is a lovely way to celebrate some of the success stories at Animal Aid. The calendar showcases the animals’ beauty, amazing stories and the positive future that they found at Animal Aid. What better way to celebrate the lives of thousands of innocent animals than to share those stories with Victorians through this gorgeous and affordable calendar. ” she said.

“For all Animal Aid staff, the calendar is a true labour of love as we each know the animals in the calendar intimately and are so pleased that they have gone to loving and forever homes.”

The calendar will be available in November at www.animalaid.org.au or at all Animal Aid shelters for $15.00.

Pet News

2010-11-03T08:46:00.002+11:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

Here's the latest batch of doggy news stories from around the globe...

UK House of Commons gives award to 'Best Political Dog'...
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-11673507

The oldest dog in the world?
http://www.upi.com/Science_News/2010/11/01/Woman-claims-dog-is-25/UPI-17331288647748/

A dog blog from the New York Times...
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/11/02/all-the-good-dogs-youve-loved-before/?partner=rss&emc=rss

Top dogs pose in 2011 police calendar as cancer fundraiser...
http://www.vancouversun.com/life/dogs+pose+2011+police+calendar+cancer+fundraiser/3762745/story.html

Halloween - a doggy nightmare

2010-10-28T09:31:00.002+11:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

Vets are cautioning pet owners to be aware of the stresses and dangers of Halloween and to keep their pets safe. Pets see Halloween as a stressful time of parties, endless doorbell ringing, loud and scary noises in the night and a stream of strangers visiting the home. Sadly, pets are also often injured, terrorised and even killed at this time of year.

"Black cats are often the target of malicious acts and should be kept inside during this holiday," says Troy James, Operations Manager of the Animal Referral Hospital (ARH), a 24-hour veterinary hospital in Strathfield and Baulkham Hills

During Halloween, the ARH often sees pets suffering from injuries, accidents and poisoning. Parties have loud music and often fireworks, which result in gates being left open and animals that are noise-phobic escaping, which then leads to lost pets and animals hit by motor vehicles, James says.

"I cannot stress enough the importance of ensuring your pet's microchip details are kept up-to-date on our national databases, as the emergency service teams are often confronted with animals presenting after-hours that have injuries with non-valid microchips," he says. "When owners cannot be located and consent obtained, treatment options become limited to basic first aid and stabilisation."

Vets also see animals fed candy and chocolate, which are toxic and can result in a range of symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, pancreatitis, seizures, coma and, in extreme cases, death, says vet Dr Alex Hamilton.

"Chocolate contains a substance known as theobromine that has effects on the nervous system, heart, kidneys and muscles," Hamilton says.

Gum, boiled sweets and lollies should also be avoided. "These sweets usually contain high levels of sugar, which can cause dental disease and intestinal upsets if fed too much. Instead, feed treats designed purposely for pets. Although they may not seem appetising to us, a well-prepared liver treat is often as palatable to a dog as any chocolate or candy that we may give them," he says.

Wet Nose Day for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT

2010-10-27T12:50:00.005+11:00

Celebrating the great work Guide Dogs NSW and ACT do for people with vision impairments, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT is hosting the very first Wet Nose Day on November 7th!

Sydneysiders and their four-legged friends to support and celebrate the incredible role guide dogs play in our community. The pawsome event starts at 7am to 12pm. It is a free event with a range of fun and educational activities for the whole family. Making for a pawfect Sunday out.

With no government funding, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT relies entirely on the generosity of the community to continue to provide its vital services free of charge.

Enter your pooch in a fancy dress competition, see some cute puppies and watch guide dogs go through their paces or hear some inspirational talks from people whose lives have been changes by their guide dog.

Plenty of fun for everyone and for a great cause! For more info click here

Where: Loch Avenue South, Centennial Park

When: 7:00am - 12:00pm, Sunday November 7th

Who is your favourite canine movie star?

2010-10-11T10:01:00.002+11:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

Just a quick question today...who is your favourite canine movie character?

There are heaps to choose from: think of the slobbering Dogue de Bordeaux from Turner and Hooch, the loveable pup in Milo & Otis, and who could forget Lassie.

For me, you can't go past the gorgeous St Bernards in Beethoven. I absolutely loved that series of movies when I was growing up and I was so happy when, last year, we had some St Bernard puppies into our studio for a photo shoot. They were friendly, playful and covered me with slobber.

Who is your favourite movie dog?

It's Dogtober!

2010-10-01T09:33:00.005+10:00

Dogtober is the month dedicated to celebrating your dog and all dogs around Australia, as well as raising much needed funds and awareness for Assistance Dogs Australia.

This Dogtober, the Assistance Dogs in training (otherwise known as the Super Pups!) want to raise $500,000 - enough to train another 20 pups to help people with physical disabilities.

So why not join in and create your own event or sponsored challenge? Just as all dogs come in all shapes and sizes, so too can your event or activity.

You can do it alone, include family, friends, colleagues, school pals or the whole neighbourhood if you wish!

To register and join in the Dogtober festivities please visit www.dogtober.org.au

Top 10 Peeves Dogs Have With Humans

2010-09-21T09:23:00.002+10:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

This article on the top 10 things us humans do that annoy our dogs will be sure to give you a chuckle or two - http://www.petplace.com/dogs/top-10-peeves-dogs-have-with-humans/page1.aspx?utm_source=dogcrazynews001et&utm_medium=email&utm_content=petplace_article&utm_campaign=dailynewsletter

Is there anything you think should be added to the list? What do you do that drives your dog crazy?

Raising Money For A Worthy Cause

2010-09-15T10:02:00.003+10:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

Looking for a unique way to keep a lasting memory of your pet while at the same time raising funds for a worthy cause? Then I might have just the thing for you.

Max Allen has perfected a unique technique to insert personalised photos into the top barrel of a timber and synthetic combined pen. These pens make great gifts for dog lovers and are the perfect memento of your canine companion.

Max donates all profits from the sale of these pens to the Hunter Children's Medical Research Institute, which supports research into terminal and debilitating illnesses that affect children. Over the years, Max has raised $10,000 for the institute.

So...if you're looking for a clever gift idea or just something that will keep your pet close by at all times, contact Max...

16 Burdett St

Tinonee, NSW 2430

Ph: 02 6553 1431

Email: max_allen@live.com.au

Australia Behind in Animal Law

2010-09-14T10:24:00.002+10:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

US law experts believe that the development of laws for the protection and welfare of animals is considerably behind in Australia. Check out this link to find out more - http://www.lawyersweekly.com.au/blogs/top_stories/archive/2009/04/22/australia-behind-on-animal-law.aspx

This ties in well with an article in our current issue on whether the punishment for animal cruelty in Australia fits the crime. Pick up a copy of our latest issue to read this story.

What do you think? Should we introduce harsher penalties for those who commit crimes against animals or are our laws already tough enough?

What's the craziest thing you've ever done for your dog?

2010-09-06T10:33:00.002+10:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

What is the most bizarre / way out there / crazy thing you've done for your dog? What's the one thing you've done that, although it seemed perfectly normal to you, would seem silly to a non dog-owner?

Maybe you've forked out thousands of dollars for medical treatment, maybe you let your dog sleep in your bed or perhaps you push him around in a pram? Whatever it is, I'd love to hear about it.

The one thing that I do for Max that people who aren't animal lovers don't seem to understand concerns food. I'm happy to spend plenty of money on super-premium gourmet food for him, while just as happily sitting down to a bowl of cereal for my own dinner.

What's your story?

Help Make Ziggy's Birthday Wish Come True

2010-08-23T09:43:00.003+10:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

For well over half his life, Kelpie cross Ziggy has lived at the RSPCA Sydney shelter. Surrendered in December last year as a five-month old, Ziggy recently celebrated his first birthday. But his ultimate birthday wish would be for a new family and a loving home.

"A gentle natured boy, Ziggy hasn't seen much of the outside world so a staff member is currently fostering him. This will help to ensure he's happy, socialised and well adjusted to life outside the shelter," said Adam Farrugia, RSPCA Sydney Shelter Supervisor.

A sweet, affectionate and well-mannered boy, Ziggy has lots of energy and so requires daily walks and playtime. "As he's still quite young he does like to chew, so will need plenty of toys to play with," stressed Adam.

As Ziggy has spent most of his life at the shelter he's looking for a patient family who will introduce him slowly to new people and different environments.

"He can sit and has begun toilet training, but for Ziggy to continue being a happy and well-mannered dog, his new owners should continue with his obedience training."

An energetic dog, he's best suited to a home with children over 10 years. Do you have room in your heart for Ziggy?

$300 to adopt, Ziggy has been behaviourally assessed, desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, wormed and health tested. The RSPCA Sydney Shelter, 201 Rookwood Rd, Yagoona, is open 6 days (closed Wednesdays) for adoptions.

For more info, head to www.adoptapet.com.au or call (02) 9770 7555.

Dog News

2010-08-10T12:09:00.002+10:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

Here's a few news stories you might like to check out.

Are you a dog person or a cat person?
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/you-can-love-cats-and-dogs-says-animal-expert/story-e6frf7kx-1225903180228

A story on dancing with dogs at the Royal Qld Show...
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/dancing-with-the-dogs-at-the-ekka-20100809-11rfu.html

A dog census in India...
http://timesofindia.timesofindia.com/city/ahmedabad/Trial-run-for-dog-census-begins-in-city/articleshow/6284162.cms

Dog wakes owner during house fire...

http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/08/09/1768563/dog-wakes-owner-during-fire-at.html

Dogs Day Out Manly

2010-08-02T09:36:00.002+10:00

G'day Dog Lovers,

If you're a dog owner that lives on Sydney's Northern Beaches, I'm pleased to announce that Manly Council's hugely popular Dogs Day Out event will return to Clontarf Reserve (off Sandy Bay Rd, Clontarf) from 10:30am to 2:30pm on Sunday, August 8.

There will be a huge range of exciting ring and track events to enjoy as well as plenty of informative pet experts on hand to offer advice. The Norwest Thunderdogs Flyball Team will do their thing, there will be demonstrations of obedience and agility, and even a NSW Police Dog Squad demonstration.

The ever-popular fancy dress and look-alike competitions will take place once again, as will the Jack Russell Racing track event.

The day is all about family fun and promoting responsible pet ownership.

For more info, contact the Manly Visitor Information Centre on 9976 1430 or log on to http://www.manly.nsw.gov.au/Dogs-Day-Out.html