Weaning Your Baby Bird Off Porridge Made Easy!

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Are you a proud owner of a baby pet bird, but now it’s time to transition them from porridge to solid food? Don’t fret! Weaning your feathered friend off porridge can be a smooth and rewarding process with the right approach. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to transition your baby bird to a wholesome diet, ensuring they grow up healthy and strong.        
 
  1. Timing is Key: Start the transition process when your pet bird has 80% to 90% of its body covered in feathers. At this stage, they are more developmentally ready to explore solid foods and can better handle the transition.
  2. Choose the Right Food: Our high-quality, nutritionally balanced bird food Nature’s Nest Avian Wholegrain is the perfect product for the transition process. This product provides essential nutrients and a wholesome blend of grains that will support your bird’s growth and development.    
  3. Prepare the Food: Add a small amount of water to the bird food to create a crumbly texture. This will make it easier for your bird to pick up and eat. Additionally, consider adding a colorful assortment of roughly chopped fruits and vegetables to entice your bird’s interest.
  4. Encourage Exploration: Place the prepared food in your bird’s bowl and observe their behavior. During the first week or two, your bird may be more interested in playing with the food rather than eating it. Don’t worry if this happens; continue offering the porridge alongside the solid food.
  5. Maintain Freshness: Even if your bird doesn’t immediately take to the solid food, it’s essential to provide fresh food daily. This encourages them to explore and eventually consume the new diet.
  6. Monitor Progress: As time progresses, you’ll notice your bird becoming more comfortable with the solid food. They will gradually transition from playing with the food to actively eating it. Once you observe this shift, you can begin to reduce the amount of water added to the food and eventually offer it dry.
  7. Gradual Transition: Once your bird is comfortably eating the dry food, you can begin introducing other varieties such as Avian Deluxe or Avian Complete. These options are also a comprehensive blend of nutrients and flavors, ensuring your bird receives a balanced diet. But your pet bird might just like the Avian Wholegrain as is. 
  8. Patience is Key: Remember, every bird is unique, and the transition process may take time. Be patient and consistent in offering the new food, and your bird will eventually adapt to their new diet.
In conclusion, weaning your baby pet bird off porridge can be a gradual and rewarding process. By following these steps and providing a nutritious diet, you’ll ensure that your feathered friend grows up healthy, happy, and full of energy. So, embrace the journey of transition, and enjoy watching your bird thrive on their new diet!
 
Source: Natures Nest

The power of prevention: Acknowledging World Veterinary Day

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The power of prevention

Acknowledging World Veterinary Day

World Veterinary Day takes place this year on Saturday 27 April. Created in 2000 by the World Veterinary Association (WVA) to highlight and promote the lifesaving work performed by veterinarians around the globe, as well as  their advocacy for preventive care, this day shines a spotlight on a crucial aspect of responsible pet parenting – regular veterinary check-ups.

As members of the family, our pets’ health is a priority. However, many pet parents miss their pets’ regular veterinary visits. “This is not for lack of love for our pets, but rather busy lives that often lead to vet visits falling by the wayside,” explains Dr. Guy Fyvie from Hill’s Pet Nutrition. 

Pets can be masters of disguise when it comes to hiding pain or illness. “They rely solely on us to look after them. Besides providing good, nutritious food, affection, an enriching living environment, regular exercise and a safe and warm place to live, annual vet check-ups should be a priority.”

“Prevention is better than cure and it’s much less stressful taking your dog or cat for their yearly check-up versus them having to go through scary treatments that will ultimately require a lot more vet visits and may be costly.”

The importance of preventive care

Preventive care encompasses a range of measures designed to keep pets healthy and thriving. This includes routine physical examinations, vaccinations, parasite control, dental care, and tailored nutritional advice. While these may seem like small steps, they play a monumental role in safeguarding our pets against a myriad of health issues.

“Think of preventive care as an investment in your pet’s future,” suggests Dr. Fyvie. “Just as we visit our doctors for annual check-ups, our pets deserve the same level of attention to ensure they lead happy, healthy lives.”

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Regular check-ups: A pillar of responsible pet parenting

“During a routine check-up, vets can detect subtle changes in your pet’s health that may go unnoticed at home,” explains Dr. Fyvie. “From weight fluctuations to early signs of dental disease or arthritis, these visits allow us to address issues proactively, often before they escalate into more serious conditions.”

Furthermore, preventive care extends beyond physical health. Behavioural concerns, nutritional needs, and age-appropriate care are all aspects that vets assess during these visits. This holistic approach ensures that every facet of your pet’s well-being is considered and optimised.

The role of nutrition in preventive care

Nutrition stands as a cornerstone of preventive healthcare for pets. Tailoring a diet to meet the specific needs of individual pets can mitigate the risk of obesity, allergies, and other health issues. Dr. Fyvie emphasises the significance of quality nutrition in maintaining optimal health.

Empowering pet parents through education

As we celebrate World Veterinary Day, Dr. Fyvie reiterates the importance of empowering pet parents with knowledge. Knowing what simple steps to take, such as regular exercise, proper grooming, and a balanced diet, can significantly enhance a pet’s quality of life.

“Education is key to fostering a strong bond between pets and their parents,” says Dr. Fyvie. “By providing resources and guidance on preventive care, we empower pet parents to make informed decisions for the well-being of their pets.” Tempting as it may be for a pet parent to self-diagnose, or treat their pet at home, and avoid a vet visit, this isn’t ideal. “There is a lot of misinformation on the Internet and looking at your pet’s symptoms in isolation can be dangerous. The experience of a veterinarian allows for a holistic and comprehensive approach that can never be replaced,” Dr. Fyvie concludes. 

For more information from Hill’s visit their website: www.HillsPet.co.za 

Source: Hills Pet

TEARS urges pet owners to vaccinate their pets as it records an increase in Infectious Canine Hepatitis cases

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TEARS

TEARS Animal Rescue has announced an increase in laboratory confirmed cases of Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH), which results in a 95% death rate in unvaccinated animals or if they receive treatment too late. Due to the infectiousness of the disease TEARS is urging pet owners to speak to their local vet regarding the risks to their pets and confirm if their vaccinations are up to date.

ICH (which does not affect humans) is a fatal disease affecting dogs. It is caused by canine adenovirus 1 (CAV-1), which occurs worldwide, and is most commonly found in the environment because it can last up to three months in ideal conditions.

Says TEARS Head Veterinarian, Dr Tania Heuer, “We have a responsibility to do everything we can to prevent the spread of the disease and limit the negative impact in our communities and the unnecessary suffering of animals. While vaccination has been successful at reducing the prevalence of this disease, once it occurs in a community it’s extremely challenging to manage the spread and prevention of the disease. The vaccine for ICH forms part of TEARS’ community vaccination programmes, but we continue to see a general lack of compliance from many community pet owners because of our mandatory sterilisation and vaccination requirement. Puppies are most at risk but older dogs can also contract the disease if not vaccinated.”

The incubation period usually occurs between two to five days, but it can take up to 14 days to manifest. The virus is present in the urine, nose and eye discharges of infected animals with transmission occurring by direct contact with these infected materials between animals. Symptoms of the disease ranges from mild to severe and can be non-specific or even indistinguishable from, for example, “kennel cough”.  Lethargy, increased thirst, no appetite, coughing with nose and eye discharge, red eyes (conjunctivitis), abdominal pain, oedema (the swelling of soft tissues due to fluid accumulation), vomiting (including vomiting blood), yellow mucous membranes, and signs of internal bleeding due to liver necrosis (cell death) are commonly seen. Prognosis is poor if the animal’s symptoms have developed to the point of liver failure and internal bleeding. Dogs that recover from the disease will continue to shed (spreading the virus in the environment) via their urine for another six months.

TEARS

Says Dr Heuer, “ The TEARS Veterinary Hospital is seeing more of these cases which indicates that there is a worrying re-emergence of this disease in our communities. We suspect that this is largely due to the reduction of administering routine vaccines during and post the Covid Lockdown, and because of pet owner complacency when it comes to ensuring puppies and adult dogs receive their required vaccines. “

Last month the TEARS Veterinary Hospital and Mobile Clinics vaccinated 641 community pets as part of its welfare mandate. Protection lasts for many months but it decreases with time and adult booster vaccination is required. In addition to the pets that were vaccinated in March, TEARS also conducted 507 free sterilisations, 824 veterinary procedures, rescued and admitted 71 homeless/surrendered pets to the TEARS Kennel and Cattery, and delivered 1460 pet meals as part of its Feed Hungry Pets Programme.

TEARS Head of Fundraising, Lara Van Rensburg emphasises the importance of financial support in order for TEARS to carry out its’ 2024/25 Veterinary Outreach Programme.

“TEARS relies 100% on donations to provide a vital lifeline to vulnerable pets. It costs the organisation R10M to sterilise and vaccinate 6000 at-risk companion animals over a 12-month period, reducing the spread of disease, uncontrolled breeding, and suffering.  Our welfare mandate is to combat animal homelessness and prevent the spread of zoonotic and other deadly animal diseases in the under-resourced communities of the Southern Peninsula that we serve,” she says.

TEARS

Capetonians can help by donating to the TEARS’ Veterinary Outreach Fund which enables the TEARS Mobile Clinics to continue their sterilisation and vaccination drives and protect more animals. To donate please click here:  www.tears.devman.co.za/devman/online/vetoutreach/ or visit www.tears.org.za

TEARS is a recognised Level 1 B-BBEE contributor and Public Beneficiary Organisation. Donations to TEARS are tax deductible, with donors receiving a Section 18A tax receipt.

Source: TEARS

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month: DIY Wire Paw Print

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Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month: DIY Wire Paw Print

April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month, emphasizing the ongoing need for animal welfare. Wire Fence promotes awareness by creating a wire paw print designed to accompany the official emblem, the orange ribbon.

What is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month?

The ASPCA initiates Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month, raising awareness about animal welfare issues globally. It advocates for responsible pet ownership, fights against factory farming, wildlife trafficking, and abuse in the entertainment industry. Despite legislative efforts, challenges persist, highlighting the crucial role of education and advocacy in fostering compassion and ethical treatment of animals.

Important facts

  • One animal suffers abuse every minute.
  • Over 110 million animals are killed in U.S. laboratories each year.
  • Each year, the U.K. food supply results in the slaughter of 6.4 billion land and sea animals.
  • The animals most commonly reported for abuse are dogs, cats, horses, and livestock.

DIY wire paw print step by step

If you believe in the power of small actions to make a big difference, you can show your support for Animal Cruelty Awareness Month by wearing the orange ribbon logo. This blog will guide you through creating your own wire paw print which can be worn alongside the logo. Simply follow the step-by-step instructions provided below.

OVERVIEW

  • Experience Required: Low
  • Tools Required: Protective Gloves, Pliers, Wire Cutters, Glue Gun, Safety Pins, Black Paint (optional) 
  • Materials Required: Tensioning Wire, Orange Ribbon

Other ways to get involved

  • Choose Ethical Products: Opt for cage-free eggs and grass-fed beef to support animal welfare.
  • Adopt from Rescues: Adopt pets from rescue centers instead of buying from breeders or pet stores to reduce demand for animals bred in harmful conditions.
  • Report Abuse: Report suspected animal abuse to authorities or welfare organisations.
  • Support Laws: Advocate for animal-friendly legislation and policies to protect animals from cruelty and exploitation.
  • Educate: Spread awareness about the well-being of animals within your circle of friends and family.
  • Volunteer: Offer time to animal shelters for care, socialization, fundraising, or administrative tasks.
  • Fostering : Provide temporary homes for shelter animals awaiting adoption to ease overcrowding.
  • Promote Spaying/Neutering: Support responsible pet ownership by advocating for spaying and neutering to reduce overpopulation.

Organisations to support

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
For over 150 years, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has been dedicated to preventing animal cruelty, rescuing abused animals, and advocating for better laws nationwide. Help support their mission by donating to create a safer, more compassionate world for animals.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA)
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is a leading organisation in England and Wales dedicated to preventing animal cruelty, rescuing animals from harm, enforcing animal welfare laws, encouraging accountable care for pets. You can contribute to their vital mission by donating to help them to alleviate animal suffering.

Animal Equality UK
Animal Equality UK is at the forefront of the fight against the cruel practices of the animal agriculture industry. They are committed to saving as many animals as possible and to reducing the enormous suffering animals endure on factory farms. You can support their crucial work to create a world in which all animals are respected and protected.

Animal Aid UK
Animal Aid UK  vision is a world where animals are free from exploitation, with their rights protected by law. While striving for this long-term goal, they also campaign against all forms of abuse and promote cruelty-free living. You can help them supporting their campaigns to end animal cruelty.

World Animal Protection
World Animal Protection organisation is dedicated to transforming the global food system and stopping the exploitation of wild animals and creating a new world where they live free of suffering. With your help they can move the world for animals.

Together for Animals
Together for Animals is committed to improving the welfare of animals through collective action and support. They tirelessly provide essential aid, advocacy, and nurture for those in need, aiming to foster a world where all beings are esteemed and safeguarded. With your help they can change the lives of pets and working animals in need.

Four Paws
Four Paws is a global animal welfare organisation committed to safeguarding animals under direct human influence by exposing their suffering and rescuing them. Their vision encompasses a world where humans treat animals with respect, empathy, and understanding. You can contribute to create a better world for animals.

Freedom for Animals
Freedom for Animals focuses on ending the suffering of animals held captive in circuses, zoos, and aquariums, as well as those exploited in the entertainment industry, live animal displays, and the exotic pet trade. You can show your support for their tireless efforts by making a donation.

Naturewatch Foundation
Naturewatch Foundation mission is to end animal cruelty and improve animal welfare standards around the world. Through campaigns, advocacy, and education, they strive to establish a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals. You can contribute to making the world a fairer place for all living creatures by joining their cause.

The Humane League
The Humane League is a leading force in combating animal abuse within the food industry. Their efforts have spurred a significant wave of corporate commitments to cage-free practices, positively impacting millions of hens and advancing animal welfare standards in the industry. One donation one step closer to end the abuse of animals raised for food.

Animal Free Research UK
Animal Free Research UK is a pioneering charity focused on promoting and funding innovative, animal-free research methods to replace animal testing. By funding research projects and raising awareness, they aim to accelerate scientific progress while reducing animal suffering. You can help build a brighter future for humans and animals.

Source: Wire Fence

WSAVA Unveils Updated Global Vaccination Guidelines

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WSAVA Unveils Updated Global Vaccination Guidelines

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has updated its Global Vaccination Guidelines, which set out the latest scientific thinking on the vaccination of dogs and cats globally. The Guidelines have been produced by the WSAVA’s Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG), and are now available for free download from the WSAVA website, following peer-review by the Journal of Small Animal Practice, the WSAVA’s official scientific journal. 

The new version includes a range of updates and additional content including:

  • A revised definition of ‘core’ vaccines
  • A new section covering maternal antibody (MDA)
  • Updated sections on current and emerging topics in canine and feline clinical vaccinology and on the use of vaccines in shelters and sanctuaries.

The VGG has also produced sets of Regional Vaccination Guidelines for veterinarians in Asia and Latin America and is currently undertaking a four-year project to boost understanding of infectious disease across Sub-Saharan Africa and to advise veterinarians on optimal vaccination practice. As part of this project, it will conduct a review of infectious disease prevalence and current vaccination practice in the region and will provide continuing education on vaccination. In 2026, it will publish a full set of Regional Vaccination Guidelines for Sub-Saharan Africa.

Setting global standards for companion animal veterinary care is one of the WSAVA’s key goals. The VGG is a team of experts from around the world, working to provide evidence-based scientific advice to the global veterinary profession on the vaccination of dogs and cats. It comprises Dr Mary Marcondes from Brazil (Chair), Dr Richard Squires (Australia), Dr Cynda Crawford (US) and Dr Nathaniel Whitley (UK).

Commenting on the launch of the new Global Vaccination Guidelines, Dr Marcondes said: “We’re thrilled to announce the publication of the 2024 WSAVA Global Vaccination Guidelines. They are the culmination of several years’ work by the VGG and provide the very latest thinking on vaccination practice for dogs and cats. “We hope that the scientific evidence embedded within the Guidelines will ensure that they are a valuable and practical resource for veterinarians worldwide and that they will contribute to the welfare of companion animals globally.”

She added: “We are very grateful for the support of the VGG’s long-term partner MSD Animal Health, which enables us to carry out our important work.”

Dr David Sutton, Global Technical Director at MSD Animal Health, said: “Evidence-based scientific vaccination guidelines are essential to ensure optimum vaccine practice for dogs and cats. We are proud to support the work of the WSAVA’s Vaccination Guidelines Group and these important new Guidelines which will help prevent the spread of infectious disease and further the wellbeing of small companion animals.”

MSD Animal Health has been the Sole Partner of the VGG since its inception in 2006 and has recently become a Diamond Partner of the WSAVA.

The WSAVA represents more than 200,000 veterinarians worldwide through its 116 member associations and works to enhance standards of clinical care for companion animals. Its core activities include the development of WSAVA Global Guidelines in key areas of veterinary practice, including pain management, nutrition and vaccination, together with lobbying on issues affecting companion animal care worldwide.

Source: WSAVA

Dine for dogs – helping the homeless pets of Khayelitsha

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Dine for dogs – helping the homeless pets of Khayelitsha

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha is thrilled to announce its first ever Gala Dinner taking place on April 27th at the prestigious Durbanville Hills Wine Farm in Cape Town. This exclusive event aims to raise vital funds for the animals of Khayelitsha, while offering guests an unforgettable evening of entertainment, gourmet dining, and philanthropy.

Event organizer and fundraiser, Kelly Arendse says, “We are very excited about this event. Dine with dogs gala dinner is going to be an evening of dining and philanthropy not to be missed.”

The Gala Dinner promises an enchanting atmosphere, uniting like-minded animal lovers in support of Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s mission to improve the lives of animals in Khayelitsha. Guests can anticipate a delightful two-course dinner, complemented by table wine, as well as an array of captivating entertainment and informative talks throughout the evening.

The Clinic helps up to 1500 sick, injured and homeless pets of Khayelitsha on a monthly basis. “Our clinic and shelter are bursting at the seams and this requires a lot of funding. Our yearly cost is just under 15 million rand and we need all the support we can get from the public to help us care for the animals. We hope that we can sell out at our gala dinner to raise much needed funds for the pets who rely on our services,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive.

Renowned radio presenter and emcee extraordinaire, Liezel van der Westhuizen, will grace the event with her impeccable style and wit, guiding guests through an evening of laughter and camaraderie. The entertainment line-up includes the comedic brilliance of South Africa’s top ventriloquist, Conrad Koch, whose performances promise to leave guests in stitches. Adding to the ambiance, the Isibane se Afrika Choir will serenade attendees with exquisite harmonies, setting the stage for a memorable evening of giving back.

Central to the event is an exciting auction featuring exclusive items and experiences, providing guests with the opportunity to bid on coveted treasures while supporting a worthy cause. From a luxury getaway to unique collectibles, the auction offers something for everyone, with all proceeds directly benefiting the animals of Khayelitsha.

“We are incredibly excited to host this event and invite our community to join us for an evening of compassion and generosity,” says Kelly Arendse, Fundraiser for Mdzananda Animal Clinic. “Every ticket purchased not only ensures a memorable experience for our guests but also makes a tangible difference in the lives of countless animals in need.”

Tickets for the Gala Dinner & Auction are available for purchase on Quicket at www.qkt.io/galadinner2024 at R750 per head. For those unable to attend, donations are gratefully accepted, further supporting Mdzananda’s ongoing efforts to provide essential care and support to animals in Khayelitsha. To reserve tickets or to inquire further, please contact Kelly at fund@mdzananda.co.za.

“Mdzananda Animal Clinic extends its deepest gratitude to all supporters and sponsors for their generosity and commitment to animal welfare. Together, we can create a brighter future for the furry friends of Khayelitsha, one paw at a time,” says du Plessis.

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About Mdzananda Animal Clinic (www.mdzananda.co.za)
The Mdzananda Animal Clinic is a permanent, veterinary council registered, NPO animal clinic in Khayelitsha. The clinic serves an average of 1500 animals per month through consultations, hospitalisation, general and orthopaedic surgeries, sterilisations, mobile clinics and an animal ambulance. Mdzananda has a strong focus on community empowerment and education to ensure responsible pet ownership into the future.

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic