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Do Not Disturb Young Hares

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Do Not Disturb Young Hares

Tips on how to help young wild animals

A little brown hare, alone and abandoned on the roadside? Usually no need to worry – because his mother is usually not far. FOUR PAWS gives tips on what you should do when you find young wild animals.

Dangers for young hares

Like many other domestic wild animals, hares can have their offspring as early as January. Hidden in shallow hollows on top of the ground, the hare gives birth to an average of three young. The newborn hares are born with fur and open eyes, and are left by their mother shortly afterwards. The female hare visits and suckle their offspring regularly, but only briefly and a few times a day. In this way, she prevents predators become aware of the young animals. The young hares are precocial (meaning that they are already relatively mature at a young age) and can leave their hole at only two or three days old. While waiting for their mother, they crouch in hiding places or nibble on their first green herbs.

However, many young animals die from predators or extreme weather conditions. Cats and dogs who poach on their forays or are on walks also hunt for the young hares.

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Leave healthy animals alone

Most young hares are neither orphaned nor sick. If the animal is not injured or in danger, it must not be taken under any circumstances. But do not worry, their mother is likely very close to the young animals and can continue to take care of their offspring. Walkers should considerately walk away and keep dogs on a leash!

Should a young animal be in a very unfavourable place, e.g. sitting in the immediate vicinity of a street, you can carefully pick it up and release it again 30 meters from the site. And don’t be worried that the mother does not accept the offspring again: the mother instinct is stronger than the fear of the human smell. To be on the save side, an animal that has been touched can be gently rubbed with some grass, leaves or soil.

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Source: Four Paws

EFSA Says Serious Animal Suffering is Unavoidable on Fur Farms

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EFSA Says Serious Animal Suffering is Unavoidable on Fur Farms

Findings confirmed in its scientific opinion as part of the Fur Free Europe ECI process

It is not possible to ensure good animal welfare or to mitigate the serious welfare concerns in the cage-based systems in fur farms, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has confirmed, in its scientific opinion as part of the Fur Free Europe ECI process. Global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS and other animal protection organisations urge the European Commission (EC) to address this opinion by banning fur farming in the EU, as demanded by millions of EU citizens.

The EFSA findings confirm what scientists have been stressing for years: fur farming is fundamentally incompatible with animal welfare. It highlights the severe welfare consequences faced by mink, foxes, raccoon dogs and chinchillas in fur production, including restriction of movement, isolation stress, tissue lesions and lameness, while it asserts that the complex behavioural and physiological needs of these animals simply cannot be met within the fur farming industry.

Given that the only currently-used farming system relies on wire mesh cages, this conclusion aligns with a broad body of existing research highlighting the harmful impact of caging animals, whether domesticated or not.

As scientific evidence highlights that no enrichment or change to the system can respect the welfare needs of animals farmed for fur and with the industry being in a state of decline, the EC should seize the opportunity of the current revision of the EU animal welfare legislation to acknowledge the calls of the ECI and adopt:

  • A ban on fur farming
  • A ban on the placement of farmed fur products on the European market, to ensure that fur produced under similarly cruel conditions in third countries is not sold within the EU.

This call has also been supported by The Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE), representing 330,000 veterinarians across 39 countries, who asserted that fur farming is not future-proof and urged a full ban on farming and the sale of fur products in the EU.

“The practice of confining millions of animals in small wire cages for the production of non-essential fashion items is outdated and fundamentally incompatible with contemporary ethical standards. EFSA has now provided detailed scientific evidence that the existing cage systems for fur animals are incompatible with animal welfare standards. We once again urge the European Commission to take action and swiftly present a comprehensive ban on fur farming and the trade in fur,”

Dr. Martina Stephany, Director Animal Welfare Issues at FOUR PAWS

“The newly published EFSA opinion brings no real surprises: confining inherently wild animals in cages for a luxury product that serves no essential purpose violates the most basic principles of animal welfare. In light of this new EFSA assessment, and given the well-documented public health and environmental risks associated with fur farming, we urge the European Commission a ban across the EU, in line with the demands of citizens”, commented Reineke Hameleers, CEO, Eurogroup for Animals.

FOUR PAWS was one of the major signature contributors to the ‘Fur Free Europe’ European Citizens’ Initiative. Read more about the efforts and achievements of FOUR PAWS on ending fur farming in the EU here.

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#FurFreeEurope

Timeline of activities and achievements

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Source: Four Paws

Importance of urinary health

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Importance of urinary health

Urinary issues in cats are often lifelong conditions that require lifelong care. Many of these issues can be triggered by stress or various environmental factors, driving a wedge between cats and their owners. Fortunately, urinary cat food can play an important role in managing these issues, helping to reduce the risk of future urinary accidents and get cats back to their litter box.

As part of a comprehensive care plan including creating a soothing home environment, cat food for urinary health can help cats get back to their day-to-day lives.

UNDERSTANDING A MISUNDERSTOOD CONDITION

Because urinating outside the litter box is commonly mistaken for a behavioural problem rather than a medical condition, this and other urinary issues are among some of the most misunderstood health conditions in cats. Sadly, these issues can sometimes put a strain on the relationship between even the most loving cats and their owners. That’s why it’s important to be able to recognise the signs of your cat’s urinary issues so you can make more informed decisions about their urinary health.

SPOT THE SIGNS OF YOUR CAT’S URINARY ISSUES

As stressful as your cat’s urinary issues can be for you, they are often just as painful for cats. Because cats tend to suffer in silence with urinary problems, they may struggle for some time before anyone notices and diagnoses the condition. Here are a few key signs you should look out for if you suspect your cat may be suffering from a urinary disorder.

ACCIDENTS IN THE HOUSE

If your adult cat is having frequent accidents or urinating in unusual places, this could be a sign of several common urinary conditions that often are manageable with the help of your vet.

YOWLING WHEN URINATING

If your cat is straining to urinate or is making pained, uncomfortable noises in their litter box, this could indicate feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), bladder stones in cats or even urethral plugs.

BLOOD IN URINE

Schedule an appointment with your vet if you discover blood in your cat’s litter box or urine. A cat peeing blood is a serious sign of FIC, bladder stones in cats or a urethral plug, all of which need to be addressed quickly. 

FREQUENT URINATION

If your cat is urinating small amounts and spending more time in the litter box than usual, address your concerns with your veterinarian immediately. This could be a sign of a urethral obstruction, which is a medical emergency.

COMMON URINARY ISSUES IN CATS

Although many assume that urinary tract infections are to blame when a cat is experiencing urinary issues, there are other more likely conditions that could affect your cat — everything from stones to plugs to FIC, which make up 85% of feline lower urinary tract signs. Depending on your cat’s diagnosis, treatment can vary on a case-by-case basis, but urinary care cat food is an important part of their long-term care to help manage future urinary issues.

MANAGING YOUR CAT’S URINARY ISSUES

When it comes to urinary conditions, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why it’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your cat’s unique needs.

In general, cats diagnosed with urinary disorders benefit from a comprehensive approach that may consist of everything from urinary cat food to medication and even surgery, if needed. But remember, even with the best treatment, some cats may have recurring signs or periodic episodes.

NUTRITION

For most feline urinary conditions, nutrition is the standard of care, as it can help to reduce the risk of future episodes. Urinary health cat food will moderate their intake of certain minerals like calcium, phosphorous and magnesium that can cause crystals to form in the urine. Some foods are even formulated to help pets prone to stress so as not to trigger their urinary problem.

ENVIRONMENTAL ENRICHMENT

It’s not uncommon for environmental stressors to trigger urinary episodes. You can help soothe a stressed-out feline friend by creating a quiet home environment, providing your pet with a scratching post and vertical climbing space and even simply giving them extra love and affection.

MEDICATION

Depending on your cat’s particular needs, a veterinarian may prescribe medication to help your pet through an acute episode. Typically, this medication is intended to help your pet manage any pain associated with their condition while you get them on the right track with proper nutrition and environmental enrichment.

RESOURCES AND TIPS

Feline urinary conditions are often tricky to manage, and much is still being studied about these complicated conditions. For more information on your cat’s condition — and to help provide them with the best care possible on the journey ahead — check out these helpful resources from our team of veterinarians.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Extinguishing Heat Exhaustion in Cats

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Extinguishing Heat Exhaustion in Cats

Are you a pet parent living in an area with hot summers? If you don’t have air conditioning, you may be worried about your cat getting heat exhaustion. There may be a flurry of questions going through your mind: What will happen while you’re gone during the day? Will your kitty sweat — or suffer?

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to keep your home cool enough for your feline friend.

Hot Town, Summer for the Kitty

When temperatures start to rise, your cat might be more comfortable than you think: according to The Washington Post, her average body temperature stays around a toasty 38 degrees Celsius. Since her ancestors evolved in the desert, she can also get most of her moisture from food.

However, this doesn’t mean she’ll be safe and comfortable locked in a warm house. Cats can’t sweat as humans do. Instead, your feline friend needs to release heat continually by laying on cool surfaces, panting, and drinking cold water.

Make sure your kitty is comfortable by doing a few precautionary things around the house:

  • Water, water, everywhere: Since water will evaporate faster in the summer — and your cat might be disinclined to trek around the house — it’s a good idea to keep several bowls of cold water throughout your home. If you live in a multi-level house, keep a bowl on every floor. Putting them under a chair or away from sunlight and cat food might make them more appealing. You can even place some empty pet bowls in the freezer overnight and fill them in the morning to help the water stay colder longer.
  • Homemade ice pack: Leave a homemade ice pack where your cat likes to lounge. If your cat gets too warm, a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel is a good daytime nap buddy. (Remember to put it back in the freezer when you return home.) Never leave your cat alone with a commercial ice pack, since the chemicals in it could be dangerous to her if it pops or leaks.
  • Close the curtains: By darkening a few rooms, you can limit the amount of sun and heat that enters your home during the day. Not only will your feline friend be thankful for the shade, but you also won’t be hit with heat the minute you walk in the door.
  • Keep a fan running: A small fan or two in the right spots can help circulate air and keep your cat cooler throughout the day. You can also consider using a timer for the fan if you don’t want it running all day.
  • Make her a cool cave: Cats love to cool down under furniture, so consider putting your bed on risers to give her lots of room to relax and sleep comfortably. Alternatively, putting a tablecloth on your kitchen table might give her a breezy hideaway on a cool tile or wood floor.

Safety Tips

Cats need water and fresh air to keep cool — but more isn’t always better. Make sure your cat doesn’t have access to large tubs of water or swimming pools. Never leave your tub full of water or large buckets of water out for your cat since this can create a drowning hazard. If you have a pool, make sure your cat can’t access it when you’re not at home.

You should also be careful not to leave windows wide open. Since cats can push out screens and escape — or a heavy window could close on them suddenly — you should not leave low-to-the-ground or heavy windows open while you’re not at home. Do leave at least one window that your pet can’t reach cracked for fresh air. Blocking a small open window with a fan can also help circulate air while keeping kitty from getting any ideas.

Heat Exhaustion in Cats: Warning Signs

Even when you do everything you possibly can to help keep your kitty cool, heat exhaustion in cats is still a possibility. Heat stroke in cats is actually more common in certain breeds than others. Since Persians and other flat-faced cats can’t pant as well as other breeds, they have a harder time naturally cooling down their bodies and are more susceptible to heat exhaustion, according to Preventive Vet.

If you notice excessive panting, a rapid heart rate, sunken eyes, or little to no urine in your cat’s litter box, she may be dehydrated and suffering from heat exhaustion. Check her hydration levels by gently pinching the skin between her neck and shoulders: Does it stay “tented”? Is it slow to smooth down? If so, she is likely dehydrated, and it’s important to get her to the veterinarian right away. They may then need to administer intravenous fluids before the condition gets too severe.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends that cats with very flat faces and those who are elderly, obese, or have lung or heart issues be watched closely for heat exhaustion. If your cat has one of these conditions — and you have tried ways to keep her cool without air conditioning — you may want to talk to your vet. The most important thing to remember is to be proactive and observant when the thermometer climbs so you can spot the signs of heat exhaustion quickly and resolve them.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Vitiligo – How and why?

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Vitiligo – How and why?

While we Choose to mostly focus on topics that our special breeds are prone to and educate our fellow bulldog lovers to help them keep their bullies happy and healthy, I thought Vitiligo would be an interesting condition to include in this month’s letter. While this condition is uncommon in dogs altogether, it is appearing more frequently now.

Vitiligo is a skin disorder that can affect not only animals but Humans too. This gradual skin condition leads to the benign lightening of the skin in dogs and other animals. Dogs that are affected exhibit distinct patches of depigmented or white/pink skin, typically on their face and muzzle.

Fortunately, vitiligo is primarily a cosmetic concern, causing no harm or damage to the affected dogs, although it may pose a source of confusion for their owners. This condition tends to be more prevalent in young adult dogs, with most cases diagnosed in dogs under the age of 3.

As per PetMD, the majority of vitiligo cases in pets have a hereditary basis, with specific dog breeds having an elevated genetic susceptibility. Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the loss of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the skin. In dogs, the exact cause of vitiligo remains elusive, but it is believed to have both genetic and environmental factors. Certain breeds, such as Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds, seem to be more predisposed to developing vitiligo, however a number of French bulldogs have also been diagnosed with the condition. Genetic factors play a crucial role, as some dogs may inherit a genetic predisposition for autoimmune including vitiligo. Additionally, environmental factors like  stress, trauma, and hormonal imbalances might trigger the onset of vitiligo in genetically susceptible dogs. The primary symptom of vitiligo in dogs is the development of depigmented (white) patches on the skin, nose, lips, and even the coat.

These patches typically appear slowly over time and can vary in size and shape. While vitiligo is not painful or itchy for the dog, the drastic cosmetic changes may concern some pet owners.

One distinctive feature of vitiligo in dogs is that the depigmentation is often symmetrical, meaning it occurs on both sides of the body. The loss of pigment can also extend to the inside of the mouth, the footpads, and the genital area.

Diagnosing vitiligo in dogs involves a thorough examination by a veterinarian. The vet may perform skin biopsies to rule out other potential causes of depigmentation, such as fungal infections or autoimmune skin diseases like lupus.

Differentiating Vitiligo from other skin conditions is vital, as treatment approaches may vary. Accurate diagnosis ensures that the dog receives appropriate care tailored to its specific condition.

While there is no cure for vitiligo, several treatment options can help manage the condition and reduce its impact on a dog’s appearance. Treatment goals often focus on controlling the progression of depigmentation and addressing potential underlying causes.

Topical Therapies: Topical corticosteroids and tacrolimus may be prescribed to help re-pigment affected areas. These medications aim to modulate the immune response and promote melanocyte regeneration.

Dietary Supplements: Antioxidant-rich supplements, such as vitamins E and C, may be recommended to support overall skin health and potentially slow the progression of vitiligo.

Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and minimizing potential triggers, such as stress, is crucial. Stress reduction techniques, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle can contribute to managing the condition.

Vitiligo in dogs, while uncommon, is a manageable condition that primarily affects the skin’s pigmentation. Pet owners should consult with a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. While there is no cure, ongoing research may lead to advancements in understanding and managing vitiligo in dogs, offering hope for affected pets and their owners.

However, while many may find the colouring distressing, and be put off by it, I can’t help but ask – aren’t they beautiful?

Source: English & French Bulldog Rescue SA – October 2024 Newsletter

What happens when temperatures soar?

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What happens when temperatures soar?

CHPA have always checked the weather conditions on a daily basis. 

When extreme weather conditions are expected, CHPA notify the cart horse owners via our WhatsApp group and verbally to all we have contact with.  However, there is no law that states they cannot go out or go out and work with their horses.  The majority do comply, but there are a few that unfortunately don’t.

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Inspector Lindt Os inspecting the load and condition of the horse on 18 January. Once all cleared, the driver was asked to please go back home, slowly.

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Another horse found on the road in the heat. They said they had to go out and work, slowly, as they needed to collect scrap for the day to feed the horse and their family. The majority of the cart horse community, live hand to mouth.

CHPA have to cover a large area where the cart horses work and we cannot be in all the areas at the same time. CHPA have been proactive and partnered, and even trained, some of the Neighborhood Watch Groups in the same areas, to also look out for horses working in the heat. They are a huge help to us, as we only have three vehicles patrolling in extreme weather conditions, 30 degrees and above!

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Rocket is very well looked after and has a great owner who always puts him first!

Folks, on 17 January, Rockets owner spent quite some time at the scrap yard, as there were alot of people waiting to sell scrap metal that day. Rockets owner asked a few shops on his way home if they could offer him some water for his horse. They were not so obliging! Rockets owner then came to CHPA in Epping and asked us for water. He wanted to make sure Rocket was hydrated for the trip back home. After Rocket drank two buckets of water, they started their slow trip home.

For the public to continuously slate the cart horse owners and our Inspectors, with no real evidence, proper knowledge of the cart horse industry and not really understanding our Mandate, is grossly unfair!  CHPA is a small organization, with limited funds and resources and are doing the best we can within our means, always putting the cart horse first!

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO HELP KEEP OUR INSPECTORS ON THE ROAD

Source: Cart Horse Protection Association