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Lost cat reunited with his family after seven years: The power of a microchip

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cat

Lost cat reunited with his family after seven years: The power of a microchip

Last week, an international cat was reunited with his family after seven years, thanks to TEARS Animal Rescue Community Cat Project and the power of the microchip. This cat was unique in that he was born in Dubai and was brought to South Africa with his family where, a few years later, he ran away.

Padfoot was a tiny, malnourished kitten when Cathy Bird’s young daughter, Kira, found him next to a dirt truck on the streets of Dubai and rescued him, in 2009. The family relocated to South Africa, bringing their beloved Padfoot with them. Three years later, the family got a new puppy. As the puppy grew, Padfoot disliked it more and more and eventually ran away. The Bird family searched for their cat but didn’t find him. They never stopped talking about their Padfoot and his beautiful unique “cat eyeliner” markings. They often wondered how he was doing, and, at times stopped their cars when they saw cats that resembled Padfoot, but it wasn’t him.

For the next seven years, Padfoot lived at a nearby caravan park and survived thanks to residents, Sandra Brice van Eyk and another lady, who fed him. He was feral and spent most of his time outside but would come into Sandra’s home when it was cold. He’d even sleep on her bed. Although his carers knew him as an affectionate and loving cat, he was a big male, and eventually, someone in the area asked the TEARS Community Cat Project to catch him. Sandra was also worried about him as he had lost a lot of hair around his nose. However, he was too feral to ever be put in a box to take to the vet, maybe he was still traumatised from being in a box on the long trip from Dubai.

Claire Shadbolt, TEARS Animal Rescue’s Cattery Coordinator, put out a trap for the cat. “We assumed he would be an aggressive, unneutered male but when we got him, we saw that he had been neutered and he had a microchip,” she says. “Initially, we couldn’t track the chip as it had been done in Dubai.” Claire took photos of him and posted them on all the animal groups and community pages.

“I woke up to a voice note from Sandra saying she’d been feeding him for about seven years. She wanted to know where he was, and I had to reassure her that the cat was safe. Then I got a message from Tara Bird, Kira’s sister, who came to the vet with the microchip number so we could make 100% sure that it was Padfoot. Kira, who is currently in Japan, also called me to say it was definitely Padfoot. “She was delighted,” says Claire. “He’d been living about 50m away all this time, being fed by Sandra and another neighbour. The family couldn’t believe it!”

cat

Cathy Bird, Kira’s mom, still lived in the same house. In the interim, the dog has died and Padfoot could return as an only-pet to the home. The whole family is elated about finding Padfoot. “Cathy’s husband has recently passed away and she feels that in her grief she has regained a long-lost family member,” says Claire. 

“The family is delighted. Thanks to the Community Cat Project another cat is off the streets and back in a comfortable home. This shows the importance of microchipping all your pets. It is the best way to be reunited with them should they get lost. As animal rescue workers there is nothing more satisfying than reuniting pets with their loving owners. We are so happy for Padfoot. We have given him a full vet check and the cat is in perfect health, with a bit of sun damage on his nose,” she says. “We have also updated his microchip.”

Cathy Bird explained that the irony of the years that have passed since she and Padfoot last saw each other was that she has a view of the trees in the caravan park from her home. “I look onto the caravan park and I wonder if Padfoot ever sat in those trees looking back at me,” she says.

Microchip your pet or donate TEARS Animal Rescue to sponsor a sterilization and microchip of a stray animal that will be adopted out through TEARS.

Source: TEARS Animal Rescue

Important: Virbac Backhome joins ChipnDoodle

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Virbac

Important: Virbac Backhome joins ChipnDoodle

In the interest of reuniting even more missing pets with their owners, Virbac is pleased to announce that

Virbac

All Backhome Microchips that have been registered on the Backhome database will now be available for searching for Pet Owner contact details, on ChipnDoodle.

Please note that this is only a Search Engine.

All Backhome microchips, still need to be registered on the Backhome database on www.backhome.co.za, to be available on ChipnDoodle.

Backhome microchips can also be searched on

Virbac

a microchip lookup tool for vets and welfare organisations.

Should you have any queries, please email backhome.support.external@virbac.co.za

Virbac

Source: Virbac

 

Pet theft is on the rise!

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Pet theft is on the rise

Pet theft is on the rise!

Why Pet Theft occurs and how WE can better protect our beloved companions!
Pet theft is a distressing and concerning issue that has been prevalent in society for many years. It involves the unlawful taking or abduction of animals that are considered to be someone’s beloved pets or companion animals. Pet theft causes pain and suffering to both the stolen animals and their loving owners. The motivations behind pet theft are diverse and complex, but several key factors contribute to this unfortunate phenomenon. Understanding the risk of rising pet thefts and how you can minimize the risk.

Why are Pets stolen?

  • Financial Gain: One of the primary reasons for pet theft is the potential for financial profit. Thieves may steal valuable or purebred pets to sell them to unknowing buyers. Some stolen animals end up in illegal breeding operations, where they are used to produce offspring for profit. Some just sell them on the street because the public tends to buy them to “save” them. They may also be stolen and sold as bait animals.
  • Demand for Specific Breeds: Certain dog breeds, especially those considered rare or trendy, can fetch high prices on the black market. As a result, these breeds become prime targets for thieves seeking to cash in on their desirability.
  • Emotional Value: Pets hold significant emotional value for their owners, and sadly, some individuals steal pets out of malice or to cause emotional distress to the owners. These perpetrators may derive satisfaction from the suffering they cause to both the pet and their human companions.
  • Reselling or Ransom: In some cases, thieves may aim to resell the stolen pets to their rightful owners or demand a ransom from the distraught owners in exchange for their safe return.
  • Dog Fighting, Bait Animals, or Illegal Hunting: Tragically, stolen animals can be used as bait animals in dogfighting rings, where they are pitted against aggressive dogs for training or entertainment. In the context of dogfighting, thieves may steal certain “powerbreeds” dogs to use them in dog fights. Some breeds might be stolen for hunting purposes.
  • Loneliness and Companionship: Some individuals may steal pets due to feelings of loneliness or a desire for companionship. They might believe that taking someone else’s pet will alleviate their emotional emptiness. We also have issues with people finding a lost pet and then just decide to keep them and not go through an adoption process. We consider this theft too.
  • Opportunistic Theft: Pets left unattended in yards, tied outside shops, or in unlocked cars become easy targets for opportunistic thieves.
  • Inadequate Laws and Penalties: Weak laws and lenient penalties for pet theft may not deter criminals from engaging in such activities.
  • Personal Use or Experimentation: In rare cases, pets might be stolen for personal use, even as food or for experimentation purposes, which is an especially alarming prospect.
  • Witches do live among us:  In our very town, there are individuals who would steal cats for offerings. This is one of the many reasons we believe your cat should also be kept safe in your yard and there are ways to do it!

How are animals stolen?
Animals can be stolen in various ways, and pet thieves often employ cunning tactics to carry out their crimes. Some common methods of pet theft include:

  • Unattended Pets: Pets left unattended in yards, tied up outside shops, or in parked cars are vulnerable targets for thieves. Sadly, irresponsible owners let their pets roam the streets too. They may quickly snatch the animal and flee the scene before anyone notices.
  • Petnapping: Petnapping involves physically taking a pet from its owner while they are walking the animal or playing in a park. Thieves may use distraction techniques or even threaten the owner to make their escape.
  • Breaking and Entering: In some cases, thieves might break into homes or vehicles to steal pets. This method is riskier for the criminals but may be employed if they believe valuable or specific breeds are inside the property.
  • Fraudulent “Buyers”: Thieves may pose as potential buyers to gain access to pets advertised for sale. Once they have the animal in their possession, they disappear without completing the transaction.
  • Online Scams: The internet provides a platform for thieves to exploit unsuspecting pet owners. They may create fake listings for lost or found pets to lure owners into revealing personal information or arrange meetups where they steal the animals.
  • Dog Walking or Pet Sitting Services: In rare cases, unscrupulous individuals offering pet services may steal animals while in their care.
  • Staged Accidents and Snares: Thieves may stage accidents involving pets to create confusion and chaos, allowing them to take the animal while the owner is distracted. Snares and traps are used to catch cats in fields.
  • Thieves Lure Animals to Them: Pet thieves lure dogs to fences/ walls or gates with food and once they are in reach, they will grab them and pull them over the wall or throw a rope around the dog and pull them over even high walls. They may also use tranquilizers before snatching the animal. A bitch in heat is used to lure a dog out of their property.

Offering rewards for lost pets can unintentionally create an incentive for pet theft, albeit in a limited number of cases. While the primary intention behind offering a reward is to encourage people to actively search for and return the lost pet, it can also attract unscrupulous individuals who see an opportunity to make quick money. Ultimately, while rewards can be a useful tool in finding lost pets, it is essential to use them judiciously and in combination with other methods to increase the likelihood of a safe and honest reunion with your furry companion.

A POISONING RISK IS HIGH WITH HOUSE BREAK-INS – Get your poison rescue packs for around R50 at your local shelters.  This can buy a few extra minutes to get your pet to the vet.

Pet theft is on the rise

Preventing Pet Theft:
Preventing pet theft requires a combination of vigilance, responsible pet ownership, and community awareness. Here are some practical tips to help safeguard your beloved animals from potential thieves:

  • Supervise Your Pet: Always keep a close eye on your pet when outside, especially in public places. Avoid leaving them unattended in yards, tied up outside shops, or alone in parked cars.
  • Avoid Unnecessary Trips in the Car:   Do not take your dogs for unnecessary trips in the car. If your vehicle is hijacked your dog will be taken as well.
  • Secure Your Property: Ensure that your home and yard are secure. Use sturdy locks and gates to prevent unauthorized access. Consider installing security cameras to monitor your property. If possible it is even safer for your pets if you ensure that your dogs cannot be lured to the front wall or gate.
  • Microchip and ID Tags: Microchip your pet and keep the contact information associated with the chip up-to-date. Additionally, have visible identification tags on your pet’s collar with your current contact details. I do not encourage putting the pet’s name on the tag because then thieves can call them by name. Microchips and tags can help increase the chances of recovering a stolen animal if they do go missing and proving ownership.
  • Be Cautious with Strangers: Be cautious when dealing with strangers interested in your pet, purchase, or to pet them. We don’t support the selling or giving away of animals, but always meet potential buyers in public places rather than at your home.
  • Avoid Sharing Too Much Online: Be careful about sharing detailed information about your pets on social media or online platforms. Posting specific details about your pet’s location or routines may inadvertently expose them to potential thieves.
  • Spay/Neuter Your Pet: Spaying or neutering your pet can reduce its desirability for thieves looking to breed animals illegally and neutered males will be less likely to wander off. Your spayed female will not attract males and cause them to roam the streets.
  • Training: Teach your pet reliable recall commands so that they come to you when called. This skill can help in situations where your pet may be getting too far from you or is approached by a stranger. Teach them to not take food from just anyone and to be careful of strangers.
  • Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings when walking your pet. Stay alert to any suspicious individuals or activities in the area. Do not let young children or older individuals walk pets alone. Don’t be on your phone when walking your pet or listen to music that you can’t hear things happening around you.
  • Join or Start a Neighbourhood Watch: Participate in or create a neighbourhood watch program that includes pet owners. This can foster a sense of community and encourage people to look out for one another’s pets.
  • Report Suspicious Activity: Get to know your neighbours and their pets, if you suspect something seems off, contact your neighbours or report it to the local community watch group.
  • Support Stronger Laws: Advocate for stronger pet theft laws and penalties in your community and country. Engage with local authorities and lawmakers to address this issue effectively.
  • Educate Others: Spread awareness about pet theft and prevention methods among fellow pet owners, friends, and family members.
  • Limit Access by Others: If someone other than your family has access to the gate like a domestic worker, builders, or garden service, then have a stern talk about not leaving the gate open or letting the pets out. I do not leave my animals in such circumstances unless I can trust those individuals.
  • Let Pets Sleep Inside: A survey done under jailed thieves showed that the top deterrents that keep most from breaking in are: CCTV cameras, Detection beams, Electric fences, and most of all, animals that sleep in the house! Not only will they be able to alert you, but you will be able to protect them as many animals get killed, hit, cut, or poisoned during or before these robberies. It is not your pet’s duty to protect you, you must protect them.

By taking these proactive measures and staying cautious, you can reduce the risk of pet theft and increase the chances of reuniting with your pet if they do go missing. Remember, prevention is key to keeping your furry friends safe and secure.

Pet Theft NOT high on Police priority list:
In our country the police for the most part struggle to catch rapists, killers, and house thieves, so there is no way for us to believe that pet theft is high on their priority list. Pet theft is often a low-risk, high-reward crime for perpetrators. The covert nature of the act makes it challenging to gather concrete evidence, leaving law enforcement with few leads to follow. Unlike other crimes that may leave behind clear trails, pet theft can be difficult to trace, especially if the animals are sold through illegal channels, allowed to roam the streets or taken to different jurisdictions.

To address these challenges, law enforcement agencies must recognize the seriousness of pet theft and allocate sufficient resources for investigations. Creating specialized units or task forces dedicated to handling pet theft cases can help streamline efforts and improve outcomes. Additionally, establishing a unified database and reporting system for stolen pets nationwide would enhance information sharing and facilitate the tracking of stolen animals and identifying patterns. Additionally, communities and law enforcement should work together to raise awareness, tighten legislation, and impose stricter penalties on those involved in pet theft to discourage such criminal activities.

If YOUR pet is stolen:

  • If you suspect your pet is stolen, please report it to the nearest SAPS, alert your community and neighbourhood watch.
  • Contact neighbours with cameras to look for possible evidence.
  • Follow our lost and found animal guide.
  • Check lost and found pages from nearby towns as animals may be taken, sold or dumped there.

If you see what appears to be a suspicious sale happening, we advise you follow from a distance and contact your local welfare organizations to advise further steps. If it is safe to do so, take photos as evidence. Don’t just buy the animal and let the thieve be as this incentivizes further theft.

Collaboration with animal welfare organizations, community watch groups, and vigilant citizens can also strengthen the fight against pet theft. Organizations that work to prevent pet theft and reunite lost pets with their owners play a vital role in mitigating the impact of this crime. By supporting these organizations, raising awareness, and advocating for stricter laws, we can collectively strive to protect our beloved pets from falling victim to theft. Engaging the public in reporting suspicious activities and providing relevant information can be instrumental in identifying and catching pet thieves.

Pet theft is on the rise

Ultimately, pet theft is not only a violation of the law but also an assault on the bond between humans and their animal companions. Responsible pet ownership includes the duty of keeping our pets safe and protected. When we bring a pet into our lives, we become their guardians, and it is our responsibility to ensure their well-being and safety. By acknowledging the gravity of this crime and implementing proactive measures, we can work towards a safer environment for our beloved animal companions and bring those responsible for these heartless acts to justice.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source: The Bulletin

You need to make time to learn about your pets and their needs!

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You need to make time to learn about your pets and their needs!

Image: Pixabay

Education is KEY to helping animals and their owners and for changing animal welfare in the world!
Sadly, most people don’t spend nearly enough time educating themselves on how to improve their pets’ lives or how to help other animals or animal welfare organizations.

Since many are still enjoying the holidays, here is a reminder on how to prioritize SAFETY for your pets during the holidays. Many people are already on holiday and others are getting ready.  Whether you are staying home or going away, remember that the busy holidays and travelling can be stressful and cause anxiety for your pets and their safety is your responsibility.

MICROCHIP YOU PETS – Before you do anything, I suggest you make sure your pets are microchipped, the microchip is registered on multiple databases and is in working order. 

ESCAPE PROOF YOUR YARD – If you are away and you are leaving your pets behind with a responsible pet sitter, you still need to make sure your yard is extra secure.  There are constantly pets in the streets and this holds many dangers in a cruel world. We understand that accidents happen and some animals are really escape artists, but one of a few reasons why animals get out is because IT IS EASY! You get climbers, runners, jumpers, diggers, chewers, some learn to open gates or some pets use a combination of the above.

TRAVEL WITH PETS – Travelling with your animal family members can create wonderful memories, but it’s not always easy. Make sure you’re well-prepared before you hit the road. There are many things to consider before you take your pet on a road trip, including the temperament, size & safety of your pet.

EASTER PET HAZARDS (by Dr. Karen Becker)

EASTER is around the corner and with Easter comes family gatherings, chocolate, Easter egg hunts and gifts. Please don’t use this occasion to give your children chicks and rabbits just because they asked for them and think that they look “cute.” Pet ownership is a huge commitment and responsibility and it’s not something that should be done on impulse. In addition, Easter, like every holiday, involves potential hazards for your pets, that every pet parent should be aware of, so make sure your pets avoid Easter goodies and decorations to avoid unexpected heartaches.

YOUR PETS CAN BE HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER IN 2023! HERE ARE OUR PAWSOME PET NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS……IF YOU MISSED IT!

A new year brings new goals, renewed hope and 365 days of opportunity for you and your pet to bond, develop healthier habits and discover new ways to live a full life. An important first step is to avoid becoming overwhelmed thinking you need to make big changes overnight. The important thing is to make a plan and move steadily forward.

Image by The Paw Company

Included in your pet new years resolutions should be regular HEALTH CHECKS. Our pets might get sick or injured and need veterinary care, but we can also add many tools to our toolbox, like health checks at home, to help prevent conditions from occurring in the first place or manage them better to allow our pets to live long and happy lives. Being informed and understanding what illnesses and conditions our pets might face is key to longevity. It is important to do regular health checks on your pets by inspecting their body from head to toe every week and making notes. 

Between vet visits, you can keep a close eye on your pet’s health by conducting an at-home physical exam. Physical “inspection” touch with some positive re-enforcement on a regular basis can also help make vet visits more comfortable.

HEALTH CHECK-LIST

  • Behaviour
  • Body condition
  • Skin & coat
  • Eyes & ears
  • Nails & paws
  • Nose & mouth
  • Stool check
  • Vitals (heart rate, breathing, body temperature etc.)
  • Weigh your pet and review their diet

ARE YOU HELPING YOUR PET COPE DURING STORMY WEATHER?
There is always an increase in lost and injured pets after stormy weather or fireworks. In many cases, it is the same animals that are out in the streets and it is PREVENTABLE! Creating an environment that is free from fear and distress is essential for their well-being. Not only is it important to provide them with the necessary physical comforts and to ensure that their mental health is taken into consideration, it is your moral duty.

Noise phobia is a reality and many cats, dogs and other animals can suffer from it.  The good news is that you can do something about it if you care enough for those animals. I understand that we can’t control the weather, but you can do a lot to help them cope better with weather or other noise phobias.

You need to make time to learn about your pets and their needs!

Image by Dr. Karen Becker

DO YOU KNOW WHAT IS NATURAL DOG BEHAVIOUR?
Dogs are social animals and have a wide range of natural behaviours. These behaviours are instinctive and are used to communicate with other dogs and humans. Common natural behaviours in dogs include barking, digging, chasing and chewing. Dogs also display behaviours such as jumping, licking, marking and play-bowing. These behaviours are all natural and help dogs to interact with their environment and with other animals. It is a way to communicate with those who are willing to listen!

What may look like naughty behaviour to you is often just your pet behaving as their species do. There can also be breed-specific traits which are not their fault, like Terriers that dig and will likely always dig!Do you want to better understand your dog and improve your relationship?  Then learn about their behaviour.  When you know what is natural behaviour you can easily know which “naughty” behaviour to address. One of the five freedoms of animal welfare includes the freedom to express natural behaviours! Read more about some natural behaviours here.

Aggressive behaviour is probably the most common behavioural problem in dogs seen by behaviour professionals and the most dangerous one seen in companion dogs.  Many behaviours that people perceive as aggressive are actually normal forms of communication. Behaviour is a common reasons why people surrender animals, especially dogs to shelters and aggression is one of them. The lack of understanding of basic and normal animal behaviour remains part of the problem!

DID YOU PICK THE RIGHT ANIMAL FOR YOUR FAMILY WHEN YOU LOOK AT ENERGY LEVELS?
Dogs, just like people have unique personalities and energy levels (mentally & physically) and it can affect the way your dog responds to you. Dogs that have a lot more energy than their humans often don’t get enough exercise. This is why it’s very important to know your energy level, understand how to determine the dog/pet’s energy level and then choose the right fit for your family taken into account your lifestyle routines too.

Dogtime shares how high-energy dogs are those who are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as a retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. Low-energy dogs on the other hand are the canine equivalent of a human couch potato, content to doze the day away.

Energy levels matter because if you can’t meet that animals’ needs, then it will cause frustration for you and in return the animal pays a price too.

CAN YOU READ YOUR DOG’S BODY LANGUAGE FROM HEAD TO TAIL?
Most animals use body language as well as sound and smell to communicate with one another.  Body language is the movements of animals’ including facial expressions, eye behaviour, posture, and the movement of their body parts and is inherent in all creatures including humans. When we understand body language, we can better understand our pets and meet their needs which will deepen our relationship. Dog bites and fights can also be prevented by better understanding and predicting behaviour.

You need to make time to learn about your pets and their needs!

Image: Pixabay

Many people think that it is easy to ‘read’ their dog, but there are so many subtle signs that are missed. Decoding your pet or another pet’s body language is not as straightforward as looking at a tail wag or the ears. For one, many of these gestures happen at once and context is important too. On top of that, a breeds’ physical appearance can make it even more difficult.

Your pets are your responsibility. You need to know how to meet their needs and give them the best possible life. If you can no longer care for them, please surrender them to the SPCA or a reputable animal welfare organization. If you can’t afford to properly care for them or have the time to meet their needs, then don’t get them.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source: The Bulletin

Pets & Microchips

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How much do you know about your pet’s microchip?
When your pet goes missing, you can drastically improve the chances of being reunited with them, by having them microchipped!

Some sources suggest that 1 in 3 pets will go missing at some point during their life. Studies suggest that dogs with microchips were twice as likely to be reunited with their owners as those without and cats a whopping 21 times more likely.

Shockingly more than 50% of owners do not know much about their pet’s microchip and how it works. Many do not even know whether and where it is registered

Microchips are rice grain-sized, safe and hurts no more than any inoculation. The procedure can be done by a Veterinarian, a qualified animal welfare worker or a registered microchip service provider representative.

A responsible Veterinarian will scan for the microchip before any other procedure is done. They should scan the whole body if the chip is not found immediately. Just in case it migrated.  It is important that animals be scanned at their yearly check-ups as well as, before moving or possible traumatic events (thunderstorms or festive times when fireworks can be expected) to ensure that their chips still work. 

When choosing a provider, apart from research on the microchip, providers and their platforms, you can also ask your Vet and local shelters which one is commonly used in your area or can easily be scanned by local shelters or Vet’s scanners.  Always choose an anti-migrating microchip.  

Microchips are not as expensive as people think. Prices can vary from R180 at some SPCA’s to R450 at a Veterinarian. Divide even the most expensive ones by 10 years, it is only R45 a year for peace of mind and double the chance of your pet being reunited with you after being lost. That is money well spent! 

Some countries use different frequency microchips. So, if you are travelling abroad or emigrating with your pet, make sure you check this!

The important part after microchipping – REGISTRATION! 
No one else, but you are responsible to make sure the microchip is registered after the procedure.  A microchip is not a GPS and only stores an identification number.  If this is not linked to your information on a database, it is useless!  The Vet or service providers do not do this automatically.   

You should be able to register any brand of microchip across multiple registries/databases/platforms and in most cases it is free. Registries are however not required to share owner information, so if a Vet or shelter does not search on all databases, they might not find the owner. Owners must ensure their pets are registered across all platforms.  

Details required by platforms can include Pet details, medical information, owner details, medical insurance details, breeder details, photo, second/third contact person, your Veterinarian’s contact details, injector’s ID number or practice number. Make sure you have these details prior to avoid frustration or delay or incomplete info when registering. Add a photo on all databases which has this feature and make sure it appears in the search.  

Some of the popular databases in SA include: 

Virbac (backhome), Identipet, GetMeKnown, FivestarID, Petlookup, KUSA and others. The two main search platforms we use are Chip-n-Doodle and Animal Microchip Lookup Africa (AMLA).  

EXAMPLE: We have 3 pets. 2 with Identipet and 1 with Fivestar chips. They are registered on GetMeKnown, Virbac – BackHome, FivestarID and Identipet platforms. If we search for them on Chip-n-Doodle then it shows “found” under FivestarID and GetMeKnown only. If we search for them on Animal Microchip Lookup Africa they are “found” under Idetipet and Vibrac. Make sure you are registered on at least one of each of these search facilities. 

You can download a certificate op registration from all sites to keep it safe.

What about a collar ID?
A collar with a tag, in addition to the microchip, is advisable. An ID collar might get your pet home faster, so never underestimate its value, however, a collar ID can fall off or be removed by animal thieves. We only prefer an updated contact number without the pets’ names on the tag, for safety reasons.  Cats should have break-away collars to prevent them from getting stuck or injured.

IMPORTANT! Microchip your pets, register their chips on a few databases and keep the information up-to-date! 

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER! 

Source: The Bulletin
Website: www.thebulletin.co.za

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The big chill: make sure your pets are properly taken care of this winter

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The Big Chill

Just like people, our pets can feel the cold too. Unfortunately, unlike us, our pets aren’t able to speak out when they’re in pain or sick and, with winter around the corner certain underlying conditions, such as arthritis, and cold weather illnesses like sniffles, can become problematic. “That’s why it’s extremely important to keep your furry family members warm, safe and healthy throughout the next few months so as to prevent any emergency vet visits and unnecessary costs, especially during these uncertain economic times,” explains David Roache, Managing Director of dotsure.co.za.

Roache provides the following tips to advise pet parents on how to care for their pets during the winter months:

Take your pet for a check-up – Under Level 4 of lockdown, vets are open for all non-emergency procedures and appointments. Dr. Lara Brown from Pinetown Veterinary Hospital explains that along with their vaccines your vet will do an overall physical and, if your pet has any underlying conditions that may flare up in winter, such as arthritis, they can advise you on a treatment plan. “A yearly check-up is important for all pets to update their vaccinations and to evaluate their overall health.  In older patients or those on chronic medication, a check-up every six months is even more beneficial.  Conditions such as heart murmurs and dental disease are often picked up at these check- ups before owners are even aware of a problem. This can allow for earlier treatment and management of any problems before they have progressed significantly.  A check-up before winter also gives you the chance to ask about any signs of arthritis in your pet and the vet can then guide you on treatment and diagnostic options available.”

Pain management – If your pet does have arthritis, their aching joints, and colder outside temperatures, will mean that they may become less active. This can lead to weight gain, which then puts extra strain on already sore joints. “There are many joint supplements available for senior pets which can be hugely beneficial to managing arthritis, even in very early stages.  Chat to your vet about what supplement is right for your pet,” adds Dr. Brown.

Long hair, don’t care – It’s advisable not to cut or shave your pet’s coat too short during the winter months. A longer coat and fur will provide your pet with extra warmth, however, with a longer coat comes added grooming needs, so make sure you brush your pet regularly to minimise the risk of their fur knotting and becoming matted.

Keep your pet indoors – Temperatures are at their coldest in the early mornings and at night, so it’s recommended to keep your pets indoors during these times. If your dog or cat isn’t a ‘sleep on the bed’ pet, why not create a warm, cosy nook for them in the kitchen or TV room? A soft bed with a couple of blankets and their favourite toy is perfect.

Warm threads – Some pets won’t wear a jersey, no matter how chilly they may be. In fact, when it comes to cats, they’re unlikely to wear an extra layer. However, if your dog will tolerate it, a jersey can help, especially when they are outside. It is important to remember though that your pet loses most of his body heat through the pads of his paws, ears, and respiratory tract, so there’s a limit as to how much warmth a jersey can provide.

ID tag, chip and insurance – Lost. Accident. Hurt. It’s words like these that make pet parents panic. Even just the thought of it is too much. However, it’s important to have all your ducks in a row for any possible situation. Make sure the information on your dog’s ID tag is up to date so you’re able to be contacted if he gets lost. If your cat refuses to wear a collar, make sure his chip details are current, and if he isn’t chipped, consider getting this done. In the event of an accident, unexpected illness, or injury, pet insurance is a necessity when it comes to getting your pet the best possible care, without leaving you wondering how you’re going to afford it.

Fewer baths – Unless your dog is visibly dirty, there’s no need to bath him too often in winter. Frequent washing can remove essential oils from your dog’s skin and increase his chance of it becoming dry and flaky. If bathing is the only option, your vet will be able to recommend a moisturising or medicated shampoo and rinse.

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dotsure.co.za is the first and only insurance provider in South Africa to insure cats, dogs and a range of exotic pets. dotsure.co.za is a product of Oakhurst Insurance Company Limited (FSP 39925) and Oakhurst Life Limited (FSP 44793), authorised financial services providers. www.dotsure.co.za

Source: dotsure.co.za

Microchip reunites pet and owner

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Microchip

Edenvale SPCA inspector Jade Nel and SPCA staff member Chelsea Meyer at the entrance to Edenvale SPCA.

A Dowerglen resident and her dog were reunited by Edenvale SPCA with the assistance of a microchip.

The dog, Karma, was brought to the SPCA by a man who found it wandering near Centenary Road on August 13.

“When the labrador was first brought to us, we estimated it to be about four years old because it was in a good condition,” said Edenvale SPCA inspector, Jade Nel.

“After further assessment and scanning for a microchip, we learnt that the dog was in fact 12 years old.

“When the NEWS spoke to Nel, she said the staff were amazed at the dog’s age because of how good it looked.”

Manager of the SPCA Marita Acar said the area near Centenary Road appears to be a dumping ground for dogs.

“In our opinion, it is a quiet spot, out of the way and a lot of the animals we find there are never claimed,” said Marita.

After scanning the microchip, the SPCA staff were able to obtain the contact information of the pet’s original owner.

Armed with this information, they set the wheels in motion to reunite the dog with its owner.

Microchip

Edenvale SPCA staff member Chelsea Meyer scanning one of the office cats at Edenvale SPCA with a microchip scanner.

Nel said on August 23, Karma was reunited with her owner at the SPCA.

“Since the reunion, everything is going well.”

She said the dog owner and the man who found it, made donations to the SPCA.

Nel said a microchip for pets is roughly the size of a grain of rice and is inserted between the animal’s shoulder blades with an injection.

“If a pet is too stressed for the procedure, it is microchipped when it is under anaesthesia for its sterilisation.”

Nel said all animals adopted from the Edenvale SPCA are microchipped.

When the microchipping process is done, contact information, home address and information about the dog is supplied by the owner of the pet.

“Some companies such as Identipet allow you to upload photographs of your animal and send an alert on application if your pet goes missing.”

Nel said it is important to microchip pets as it allows pets and owners to be reunited quicker.

Community members can have their pets microchipped at Edenvale SPCA for R200.

Nel said microchipping can only be done at Edenvale SPCA by appointment.

Contact Edenvale SPCA on 011 974 9268 or email manager@edenvalespca.co.za to make an appointment.

Source: Bedford and Edenvale News

Stand Up for Your City & Give Disadvantaged Animals the Gift of Good Health

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Stand Up for Your City

The saying goes, “Dog is a man’s best friend”. This is true for everyone, regardless of age, race, sexuality, or financial status.

Sadly most disadvantaged dog owners cannot reciprocate financially and, as a result, are unable to get their dogs vaccinated annually or even sterilised.

To ensure that everyone can benefit from the unconditional love of a pet, fellow Capetonians need to band together to make sure that our city is a healthy and happy place for both two-legged and four-legged residents.

According to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abraham; “It is absolutely vital to have your pets vaccinated in order to protect them from potentially fatal diseases such as Canine Distemper or Parvo Virus. By assisting disadvantaged pets to receive much-needed needed vaccinations, we can help keep pets across the city healthy.”

Another important aspect to consider when attempting to boost local pet health and vitality is sterilisation. Sterilization is the best way to prevent unwanted litters and reduce the drastic amount of homeless animals currently roaming in and around Cape Town.

Abraham also notes; “There is a growing concern that when animals go missing they often end up at shelters with no means of locating their owner. We highly recommend the use of Identipet’s microchip technology as a proven means of keeping your pet safe.”

“What better gift to give one’s pet than a voice when they are lost?” asks Identipet’s Angela O’Neale. “With the value-add of microchip TraceBackTM, 24 hour database management, RapidAlert and SOS alerts, the Identipet microchip system is a sure way to protect your pet and give them the love they deserve.”

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA, Identipet and atFrits Pet Hotel & Daycare Centre have now joined forces to introduce the annual Cape Town Pet Upliftment Project (CTPUP) every last Saturday of every month at De Waal Park, Molteno Road.

The first CTPUP will be on the 31st August 2019. The average cost of a vaccination and microchip ranges from R400 to R700. But full vaccination, sterilisation and micro-chipping can be purchased for only R450 at atFrits, your local vet and selected pet stores. Capetonians can now ‘paw’ it forward with this initiative, by purchasing a voucher for a disadvantaged person during the month and on the last Saturday of every month the voucher can be redeemed at the SPCA mobile unit in De Waal Park.

This way we can all ensure that dogs making use of public pet spaces are healthier and safer to be around each other- a win-win for all pet owners. “A healthy animal means a healthy community”, says Yanic Klue, owner of atFrits Pet Hotel and Daycare Centre.

In relationship with the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, atFrits will become the official CTPUP port of call for homeless people seeking medical attention for their animals and will help facilitate followup vaccinations as well as pick-ups and drop-offs of the tended to animals. This is a lifelong commitment, where all parties involved strive to create a safer space for all animals, whether they are fortunate enough to benefit from regular veterinary care or not.

“With this initiative we can change the lives of so many in Cape Town, and my biggest wish is that events like CTPUP be embraced the world over. By standing together and making sure that animals are afforded the opportunity to be healthy and happy, we are contributing to the beautiful spirit of the city and acting as a true community”, says Klue.

Proceeds raised will go towards the Cape of Good Hope SPCA so that they can keep doing amazing work for disadvantaged animals in dire need of love and veterinary attention.

Stand Up for Your City

Source: SPCA

Whiskas urges South Africans to get their pets microchipped this ‘chip your pet’ month

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Whiskas

May is Chip your Pet Month and Whiskas urges pet owners to get their furry friends microchipped to increase their chances of being found if they wander off.

Whiskas senior brand manager Nivashnee Moodley says some pets are natural wanderers, but others will only wander if the opportunity arises, like when a gate is left open. “Other pets wander when they become stressed by incidents such as fireworks. This is why is it so important to make sure they can be identified in the event they are picked up by a caring citizen.”

Consider the case of Skabenga, the resident feline at The Oyster Box in Umhlanga Rocks, KwaZulu-Natal, who has shot to fame with his own Facebook page and a book describing his various adventures.  

A nomad at heart, Skabenga, which is slang for hooligan or vagabond in Zulu, wandered onto The Oyster Box property many years ago and decided to make it his mostly-permanent home – largely due to the incredibly delicious tidbits of food and loving attention he was getting from the venue’s employees and patrons.

Every now and then, however, his wanderlust takes over and he heads off in pursuit of adventure. The first time it happened, he disappeared for several days, to the dismay of his ardent fans. Fortunately, he re-appeared a few days later, in good health, thanks to the contact details on the brass name-tag around his neck.

As an additional precaution, Skabenga was microchipped in July 2009, in case he loses his collar on future adventures.

Moodley says Skabenga’s story is a familiar one to many pet-owners. “It is devastating when a pet goes missing. By putting collars with identity tags and microchipping our furry companions, we stand a much better chance of celebrating a happy reunion.”

To create awareness during Chip your Pet Month, WHISKAS and Skabenga have decided to share some FAQs around micro-chipping:

What is a micro-chip?

A micro-chip is a tiny electronic chip that is the size of a grain of rice. This is implanted just under pets’ skin between their shoulder blades. The microchip is read by a scanner which will display an identification number.

What information is in the microchip?

Microchips store your pet’s identification number, your name, contact number and address. It does not contain a GPS tracker to help find your pet. It has to be scanned at a vet or animal shelter to find out who the owner is and how to get a hold of them.

How do I find my pet’s microchip identification number?

When you adopted your pet, you should have received documentation for your microchip from your vet or the animal shelter if they were previously microchipped. If you don’t have these documents, ask your vet to scan your pet to see if they have a microchip or to get the number and keep it somewhere safe so that you can update the details when you need to.

How do I change my details on the microchip?

If your address, email or phone number have changed, it’s important that you update this information at the company holding your cat’s microchip details. Firstly, check Identipet, Five Star and BackHome to find out which company has your cat’s microchip records. Then contact them and fill in the online form to update your cat’s details.

Is a microchip a replacement for a collar and ID tags?

No. Collars and ID tags (with a name and phone number) are still a good idea for pets, especially for adventurous pets like Skabenga, as they are at much greater risk of going missing. Collars can be removed and some pets are skilled at escaping from them, unlike a microchip which is a permanent ID tag.

Visit us on the Whiskas Facebook page, tell us about your cat’s greatest adventure, and stand a chance to win a Whiskas hamper, as well as a voucher to get your furry friend microchipped. Now that’s something to ‘meow’ about!

Source: WHISKAS®

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Drive to microchip pets this Guy Fawkes

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Drive to microchip pets this Guy Fawkes - images

THE Animal Welfare Society, in partnership with Identipet, are running a campaign to microchip pets so owners can be tracked should their pets go missing. Picture: Tracey Adams African News Agency (ANA)

The feeling of having your beloved pet go missing is harrowing and, with Guy Fawkes just around the corner, it is even more daunting. To help alleviate the stress of losing your pet The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa (AWS SA) with Identipet will be running a mass pet microchipping drive open to all pet owners between October 15 and November 4.

“Thanks to this preferential deal (with Identipet) we are able to offer the service for a mere R100 per pet. This represents a meaningful saving and will be of benefit for the lifespan of the pet. The process is quick and painless and we have decided to run the campaign on a first come first served basis. The actual microchip is roughly the size of a grain of rice or smaller and suitable for all pets, not only cats and dogs” said Allan Perrins, spokesperson for AWS SA.

The campaign will be run from its headquarters in Papkuilsvlei Road, Philippi, and the microchips will be professionally inserted by para-veterinary personnel.

“Too many revellers ignore the law and are completely indifferent regarding the negative effects of letting off fireworks especially in residential areas resulting in what can best be described as a mass pet panic. All pets – not only dogs – are terrified of fireworks, especially loud crackers. A dog’s hearing is reportedly seven times more acute than that of a person so the sound of a cracker is significantly amplified, causing them immense distress and often triggering their instinctive flight reaction sometimes with fatal consequences as they try to escape the perceived or even real danger,” said Perrins.

The injuries sustained are often severe and life-threatening. He said the welfare had seen and treated dogs with horrific injuries who had jumped through window panes, been involved in motor vehicle accidents, become impaled on fence posts and worse. “Many pets simply engage their flight mode and run and keep on running and in the process get lost and injured.”

Angela O’Neale from Identipet explained with the chip it would be easy to source the owner of the lost pet because of the managed database. Owners are immediately informed via SMS when their pet’s microchip is scanned at a vet or welfare organisation. An anti-migration cap is also fitted to ensure the chip does not move from the site of the implant. The Identipet app lets owners update their details should they move.

The motivation for the campaign is because many pets have no, inadequate or unreliable identification which severely hampers the lost and found department process and the massive increase in the number of stray animals admitted over the Guy Fawkes period and New Year and this year they are determined to pro-actively reduce the number.

“We felt that we had to do something to mitigate this untenable situation which seems to get worse, not better with every Guy Fawkes. We subsequently decided to approach Identipet to see if they would be willing to partner with us and are delighted to confirm their participation and willingness to drastically rebate the cost price of their microchips,” said Perrins.

Since the partnership, the welfare organisation has microchipped tiny hamsters and a wide variety of pets other than cats and dogs.

TEARS Animal Rescue’s Leone Gradidge said there is a definite increase in the number of animals that are brought in lost during Guy Fawkes and microchips “are very safe for pets and once they are registered on the database it becomes easier to find their owners”.

Source: IOL