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Celebrating the Unbreakable Bond: Dogs as Companions and Our Responsibility

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dogs

Celebrating the Unbreakable Bond: Dogs as Companions and Our Responsibility

FOUR PAWS South Africa marks International Dog Day with a call for compassion, commitment, and responsible pet ownership.

As the world prepares to honour our four-legged friends on International Dog Day this 26 August, FOUR PAWS South Africa is spotlighting the deep companionship dogs offer—and the importance of being responsible guardians in return.

Whether curled up at our feet or standing loyally by our side, dogs bring joy, comfort, and unconditional love into our lives. But this special relationship comes with responsibility. This International Dog Day, FOUR PAWS is urging South Africans to not only celebrate their dogs, but to reaffirm their role in providing safe, loving, and cruelty-free homes to the animals they care for.

“Dogs aren’t just animals we share our homes with—they’re family,” says Fiona Miles, Director at FOUR PAWS South Africa. “In South Africa, dogs play vital roles in communities as companions, helpers, and guardians. Responsible pet ownership means ensuring these animals are protected, healthy, and treated with the dignity they deserve.”

Through its community outreach projects, FOUR PAWS South Africa has witnessed firsthand the impact of irresponsible pet ownership—ranging from overpopulation and untreated disease, to neglect and abandonment. As part of its work, the organisation provides free sterilisation, vaccinations, and education programmes across rural and underserved communities to promote long-term change.

What Responsible Pet Ownership Means:

  • Providing clean water, proper food, shelter, and veterinary care.
  • Spaying or neutering your pets to prevent overpopulation and suffering.
  • Ensuring pets are kept safe, not left to roam or chained for extended periods.
  • Understanding the emotional needs of your dog—companionship, love, and mental stimulation.
  • Committing to your dog’s wellbeing for their entire life.

Beyond physical care, dogs need mental enrichment, companionship, and protection from harmful environments. Abandonment, abuse, and backyard breeding remain serious challenges in South Africa, but they can be prevented through education and community-led solutions. “This day is a celebration—but also a reminder,” says Miles. “A reminder that when we take a dog into our homes, we make a promise: to love, protect, and care for them responsibly. Let’s make sure we live up to that promise.”

FIVE Ways to Celebrate International Dog Day Responsibly:

  1. Adopt, don’t shop – Choose to give a rescue dog a loving home.
  2. Vaccinate and sterilise your pets to prevent unnecessary suffering.
  3. Volunteer at a local animal shelter or support a mobile outreach clinic.
  4. Speak out against animal cruelty and report neglect or abuse.
  5. Celebrate your dog’s life – share your story using #InternationalDogDay and tag @FOURPAWSSA.

For more information, visit our website www.four-paws.org.za 

Source: Four Paws

70 Southern White Rhino Translocated to Akagera National Park, Rwanda, Marking First Cross-Continental Move for African Parks’ Rhino Rewild Initiative

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Rhino

70 Southern White Rhino Translocated to Akagera National Park, Rwanda, Marking First Cross-Continental Move for African Parks’ Rhino Rewild Initiative

African Parks, in collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), announces the translocation of 70 southern white rhino to Akagera National Park in Rwanda. This translocation was completed in two phases, each comprising 35 rhino, spaced three days apart. This significant move, part of African Parks’ Rhino Rewild Initiative and made possible with funding from The Howard G. Buffett Foundation, aims to bolster Akagera’s white rhino population so that it can contribute more meaningfully to regional conservation efforts and reinforce Rwanda’s growing role in global rhino conservation efforts.

The objective of the Rhino Rewild Initiative is to rewild over 2,000 rhino to safe, well-managed protected areas across the continent. This will ensure the establishment of several viable populations of southern white rhino, thereby de-risking the future of the species and playing an important role in restoring ecosystems.

In 2021, African Parks moved 30 southern white rhino to Akagera National Park. This initial population has increased to 41 animals today. Building on this success, the additional 70 animals will now play a crucial role in ensuring the presence of meta-populations across the continent, presenting opportunities for future range expansion. 

Rhino

To improve their ability to adapt to their new home, the rhino were initially moved within South Africa from the Rhino Rewild site to the Munywana Conservancy.  The Munywana Conservancy is a collaboration of community and private landowners, including the Makhasa Community Trust, the Mnqobokazi Community Trust, andBeyond Phinda and ZUKA Private Game Reserves. This preliminary stage of rewilding exposed the rhino to naturally occurring diseases such as Trypanosomiasis and climatic conditions similar to Akagera. The final phase of the 3,400 km journey involved the rhino being transported by truck in individual steel crates from the Munywana Conservancy to King Shaka International Airport in Durban. They were then carefully loaded by cranes into a Boeing 747, flown to Kigali International Airport, and finally transported to Akagera National Park by road. The entire journey from the Conservancy to the Park took approximately two days for each of the two groups of rhino, with continuous monitoring of their well-being by veterinary teams.

Rhino

Translocations are highly complex operations that demand months of meticulous planning and thorough risk assessments by world-renowned translocation and veterinary experts prior to implementation. Now that the rhino have been released into Akagera National Park, a dedicated veterinary team will closely monitor their health and behaviour for several weeks to ensure proper adaptation to their new environment and management of any stress associated with the move. 

Rhino

This translocation is the largest of its kind and was made possible through close collaboration between the Rwanda Development Board, African Parks, the Munywana Conservancy, and teams of experts—demonstrating essential strategic collaboration in tackling such large-scale conservation challenges. The translocation was funded by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation while the Rob Walton Foundation and Pershing Square Foundation are the founder funders of the Rhino Rewild initiative.  

Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board: “This historic translocation reflects Rwanda’s growing contribution to global conservation efforts. Our commitment to protecting endangered species is closely tied to our vision for sustainable tourism, where thriving wildlife and well-managed protected areas like Akagera National Park create long-term value for both visitors and communities. This milestone reinforces our dedication to strengthening Rwanda’s protected landscapes and enhancing the country’s appeal as a destination for conservation-based tourism. We thank our partners for their continued collaboration and shared commitment to safeguarding Africa’s natural heritage.” 

Peter Fearnhead, CEO of African Parks: “We greatly appreciate the Rwanda Government’s partnership and visionary conservation efforts, along with the invaluable support from The Howard G. Buffett Foundation, in making this translocation a reality. The arrival of these rhino to Akagera is just the beginning of this multifaceted, long term and complex conservation intervention. There are numerous risks that still remain, but with the safe arrival of all 70 animals, and with a dedicated Akagera park management team, they have a real opportunity to thrive.  The coming months of intensive monitoring will be critical to ensuring the long-term adaptation of these rhino to their new home”. 

Dale Wepener, Warden and Conservation Manager of the Munywana Conservancy: “Conservation collaborations like this rhino move are proving to be increasingly important in ensuring the survival of these special and threatened animals. We are proud to have been able to facilitate a part of this project as it directly embodies the ethos of the conservancy in expanding green frontiers and assisting in the establishment of new populations of species of conservation significance. The Munywana looks forward to long-lasting likeminded partnerships like these in caring for our planet.”

Source: African Parks

The Remarkable Third Eyelid: Understanding Your Parrot’s Eye Protection System

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Parrot

The Remarkable Third Eyelid: Understanding Your Parrot’s Eye Protection System

The nictitating membrane, commonly known as the third eyelid, is a specialized translucent structure that serves as a crucial protective mechanism in your parrot’s eye. Moving from the upper inner (dorsonasal) to lower outer (ventrotemporal) corner of the eye, this membrane adjusts its speed in response to environmental stimuli, increasing movement when exposed to dust, water, or potential irritants.

The membrane’s precise control stems from an intricate muscular system. The pyramidalis muscle works in concert with the bursalis muscle through a sophisticated pulley mechanism, all coordinated by the abducens nerve (cranial nerve VI). This nerve also innervates the lateral rectus muscle, allowing precise coordination between eye movement and protective reflexes. This synchronized system ensures your parrot maintains clear vision while protecting its eyes.

A complex glandular system maintains eye health and function. The Harderian gland plays a vital role in local immunity by producing immunoglobulins, while both it and the lacrimal gland contribute to tear production, ensuring eye lubrication and defense against pathogens. The resulting tear film consists of three distinct layers: a mucin layer against the eye’s surface, an aqueous (watery) middle layer, and a protective lipid outer layer. This sophisticated system maintains corneal hydration through even tear distribution across the eye’s surface.

During activities like preening, flying, or bathing, your parrot’s nictitating membrane works in harmony with the regular eyelids. While the regular eyelids provide full coverage when necessary, the nictitating membrane offers continuous protection without obstructing vision—essential for activities that demand visual awareness. The membrane’s movement frequency increases in challenging conditions, such as dusty environments or during water exposure.

Understanding normal membrane appearance and function helps monitor your parrot’s health. A healthy membrane should be translucent to slightly bluish, moving smoothly and regularly across the eye. Various conditions can affect this system:

  • Vitamin A deficiency may alter membrane thickness and secretory function

     

  • Bacterial conjunctivitis can cause inflammation and irregular movement

  • Neurological disorders or nerve damage might affect movement patterns

  • Changes in membrane appearance or function often indicate systemic health issues

Regular observation of your parrot’s nictitating membrane movement and appearance provides valuable insights into their overall health. Any changes in the membrane’s appearance or function should be promptly evaluated by an avian veterinarian, as early detection can prevent serious complications affecting your parrot’s vision and overall health.

– Mieke Steyn

Source: Cheeky Beaks

Shoebills Stepping Out

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Shoebills

Shoebills Stepping Out

Over the past year, the Shoebill Nest Protection Programme — a unique initiative that comprises a nest protection element and a captive rearing facility — has taken significant strides toward ensuring the long-term survival of these iconic birds. From ground-breaking releases to deepened community involvement, offering hope for both the shoebills and the communities working to conserve them and the landscape on which so many species depend.

Read about the inception of the programme here

Shoebills

One of the most exciting achievements in 2024 was the successful soft release of Sam and Bwalya, two shoebill chicks raised in captivity who are now navigating Bangweulu’s wetland’s. This innovative method, which gently acclimates the birds to their natural habitat before full release, was successful. Both chicks have remained near the release site and have taken up fishing—marking an important step toward their full reintroduction into their natural habitat. Their adaptation signals a promising future for the programme’s rewilding efforts.

Meanwhile, it is clear that the programme’s approach to captive rearing is paying off. Three other chicks—Bona, Malaika, and Happy—have been transitioned to soft-release enclosures on the Lumbatwa River. These enclosures allow the birds to develop while providing a safe environment to prepare them for eventual release. Happy even demonstrated his growing independence by catching and eating a snake in his enclosure—an impressive display of natural behaviour that signals his readiness for rewilding.

But the programme’s success has gone beyond the birds themselves. Over 800 community members from multiple chiefdoms recently participated in vital awareness raising meetings, where the Shoebill Programme’s conservation message was shared. The engagement didn’t stop there: chipupilas (spiritual leaders) and village headmen from Chitambo Chiefdom joined in discussions on how to tackle the biggest threats to shoebill habitats, such as fire and human encroachment. The result? Strong support from these leaders, whose influence is crucial in safeguarding the wetlands for future generations.

Behind the scenes, the programme has been strengthening its infrastructure to ensure the continued success of these initiatives. The installation of a new borehole pump at the Chikuni facility guarantees a reliable water supply, supporting the birds’ health and highlighting the programme’s commitment to creating a sustainable environment for conservation efforts.

The Shoebill Programme is not just saving birds—it’s supporting communities in their efforts to conserve their natural heritage.

Source: African Parks

Ethiopian Government Commits to Protection of Gambella National Park

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Protection

Ethiopian Government Commits to Protection of Gambella National Park

It is with great pleasure that I announce a landmark partnership agreement with the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) and the Gambella Peoples’ National Regional State for the long-term management of Gambella National Park. This collaboration marks a momentous step for both African Parks and the Government of Ethiopia as we embark on a journey to restore and conserve one of Africa’s most significant landscapes, creating new opportunities for Ethiopia’s people and its wildlife.

The 10-year renewable agreement was signed at an event held in Addis Ababa on the 11th of December and attended by notable ministerial and state members, including H.E. Selam Kasahun, Minister of Tourism; H.E. Ato Silesh Girma, State Minister for Tourism; Kumara Wakjira, Director General of EWCA; and H.E. Ms. Alemitu Umod, President of the Gambella State.

Gambella falls within the Greater Boma-Gambella Landscape and this new management agreement adds to the potential to safeguard these protected areas and their migrations at a transboundary level, building on work done in Boma and Badingilo national parks.

As part of our commitment to Ethiopia, significant investment will be made into the region. This will help unlock the full value of Gambella as a national park to support local communities by enabling socio-economic development through local procurement, job creation and regional tourism.

Our partnership will begin with a 12-month transition period to gather vital information necessary to ensure conservation efforts are sustainable and the needs of the communities living around the park are understood. This will include completing baseline assessments, defining a human resources transition plan, undertaking necessary environmental and social assessments and setting up governance structures, as well as conducting extensive stakeholder mapping and engagement. In this way, we will strengthen our partnerships and relationships in the Gambella Region, while tailoring plans and strategies to the local context. 

Gambella National Park is the 23rd protected area to be managed by African Parks, adding approximately 450,000 hectares to the over 20 million hectares we manage in partnership with governments and communities. We are extremely proud to be taking on this management responsibility as we work towards our goal of managing 30 protected areas by 2030, in line with the global goal to conserve 30% of the planet by 2030.

We are deeply grateful to all that have made this vital partnership possible, including the commitment of the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority and the Gambella Peoples’ National Regional State, the immense generosity of our donors – the European Union, the Hempel Foundation and The Wyss Foundation – and the dedication of the entire African Parks team.

To read more about Gambella please visit our website.

Source: African Parks

Correctly remove ticks

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ticks

Correctly remove ticks

Due to the mild weather, ticks are now active almost all year round

The small arachnids love our dogs and cats as a source of food but they can transmit dangerous pathogens such as borreliosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis and TBE. In order to protect our pets, the tick should be removed as soon as it is discovered as these diseases can have fatal consequences. Not only does time play an important role in removing ticks, but also the aids you use.

Necessary aids
Before the tick is removed, the following aids should be available:

  • Tip Tweezers
  • Disposable gloves
  • Disinfectants
  • Treats

Gloves as a protective measure
Disposable gloves provide good protection against pathogens carried by ticks, which can enter the human bloodstream through injured skin.

Soothe dog and cat
In order to remove the tick quickly, the infected animal must remain calm. This is easier said than done as it’s not always easy to keep dogs and cats still, especially when they are subjected to an unusual ‘intervention’. Ideally, a second person should be present to help keep the animal still and calm or distracted with a few treats.

Animals must never be forced to keep still as some may become frightened or react aggressively if they cannot get away. If the animal is not still, there is also the added danger of only removing part of the tick, leaving the remainder under the skin.

Applying tweezers correctly
Tweezers with fine tips are recommended when removing ticks. They should be applied as close as possible to the animal’s skin without crushing it. The closer the tip of the tweezer is to the skin, the greater the chance of being able to pull out the entire tick.

Remove tick
The parasite must be fixed with an even pressure but do not squeeze the tick as this may cause it to release its infectious saliva into the dog or cat. Jerking or pulling out the tick, or – as was common in the past – twisting the tick, can be counterproductive as it may leave the head or mouthpiece (the proboscis) in the animal’s skin. It is better to pull the tick straight and upwards with a slow, even movement. A look at the area will show whether it has been completely removed. If part of the tick is still visible in the animal’s skin, a veterinarian should be consulted to remove the rest immediately.

Disinfecting the bite site
The bite site should be treated with a disinfectant recommended by the veterinarian for such purposes. Keepers must keep an eye on the affected area and on their animal. If the skin remains reddened and inflammation develops at the site, the animal must be seen by a veterinarian, especially if the affected dog or cat shows symptoms such as fever, fatigue or swollen lymph nodes, etc. Please ensure you dispose of the tick correctly by putting it in a sealed container and placing it in a suitable bin.

Protecting your own animal      
Measures should be taken to protect dogs and cats from tick bites; a veterinarian will be able to discuss which protection is most suitable for the individual animal.

Source: FOUR PAWS

Your Dog’s Basic Needs

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Dog

Your Dog’s Basic Needs

Water
Ensure that all your animals have unlimited access to fresh, clean drinking water at all times. Keep water bowls out of the sun and clean them regularly.

Food
Depending on his age and breed the nutritional requirements of your dog will differ. You can divide the daily rations into 2 parts and feed morning and evenings. Puppies require 4 feeds a day, reducing this as they mature. Do not keep your dog too hungry or too slim – this can increase aggression in some breeds, and behaviour problems. Treat your dog as an individual, not strictly according to amounts on food bags – if your dog exercises a lot, he will require more. If you have any questions please consult your vet. Be aware that some foods we humans enjoy can have disastrous consequences for your pet. (See section on poisonous foods). What type of food to give your dog is also quite controversial with many schools of thought – pellets versus home made meals. We suggest you research this area yourself well. More discussed on this later. Further information on diets and feeding is on this site.

Things to chew on
Dogs love and need to chew. Provide your puppy or dog with appropriate chews or he will find something you would rather keep “un-chewed”. Cow hooves, dry pig ears, rawhide chews, kong toys stuffed with food or big meaty raw beef bones are all suitable(joints please not the long bones) Please remove chews that have become too small and can be swallowed. Try and establish where the chew are made – imported chews are often made in China with dubious ingredients…..get local.

Access to green grass
Dogs often eat grass as a digestive aid and will chew on and then vomit up again. This is natural.

Shelter
Ensure that your pet has access to appropriate, comfortable shelter to protect him against heat, cold and rain at all times. Clean out kennel periodically and wash bedding every few weeks. Keep your dog’s sleeping quarters and bedding clean and free of parasites .Air bedding in the sun often and you can dust with diatomaceous earth for parasites. See below under parasites.

Companionship
Dogs are highly social animals, who need social interaction with your family and other dogs. They thrive on your attention. Please do not sentence your dog to a lonely life in your backyard or on a chain. A dog needs to be part of the family and even an outdoor dog benefits greatly from some time indoors.

Exercise
Dogs need mental stimulation and daily physical exercise to maintain their well-being. Games can be a great source of exercise and fun for both you and your dog. If you are unable to take long walks, just a daily walk around the block at least gives your dog mental stimulation to another world outside – let him sniff along the way as much as needed. These daily outside excursions are very important if your dog is unable to see outside – have at least one gate or opening where your dog can check what is happening outside – this is important for their mental health.

Training
Please teach your dog good manners. Only a dog that has been taught how to behave is a free dog – free to accompany you and be part of your life. Decide as soon as you get your new puppy or adult dog what is acceptable behaviour for you in your circumstances and teach your pet what you expect of him. In a nutshell, shape desired behaviour through reward and encouragement and ignore bad behaviour. Distract your dog if he engages in things you do not want him to do and get him to perform an easy command for you for which he can be rewarded. If you get a puppy it is absolutely essential to enroll him into a good puppy class, where he can be properly socialized and prepared for all the things he will encounter in his future as a family pet. Note that puppy classes are not training classes and after socialising it will be necessary to go onto training for dog discipline! See contacts elsewhere on this website.

Boundaries
Dogs need boundaries and is up to you to set and maintain them.

Vaccination and veterinary care
Especially puppies need vaccinations to keep them safe from possibly fatal diseases. Speak to your vet about a suitable vaccination schedule.

Sterilization
All dogs and cats should be sterilized before they have a chance to have a litter. Please play your part in helping us reduce the huge number of unwanted animals. Be aware that It is also illegal to breed your dog unless you are a registered breeder. Please acquaint yourself with the new municipal bylaws in your area. They have been upgraded and are quite strict now.

Protection against internal and external parasites
Use suitable products against ticks and fleas and follow a deworming schedule as recommended by your vet. Be aware of the risk of serious illnesses caused by ticks and consult your vet immediately if your dog goes off his food. Another tell tale sign for biliary (tick bite fever) are pale gums and lack of visible bloodvessels on the eye balls.

Shampoo with Ultrum plus from a vet
There is the herb pyrethrum in this which kills fleas – try and keep the shampoo on for 10 min.. There are other herb shampoos that are flea repellent.

Identification
Please make sure that your dog wears a collar with your contact details. Collars should fit in such a way that you can fit three fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. Adjust collars as your dog grows. A microchip is a great way to identify your animal permanently and makes the job to reunite you with your pet so much easier. A microchip the size of a grain of rice is injected into your dog’s neck and can be read via a scanner at nearly all vets and animal welfares.

Protection against harm
Keep your pet out of harm’s way and make sure they are safe even if you are on holiday. A dog should be kept in an enclosed garden AND BE ABLE TO SEE OUTSIDE for his mental health. Please arrange an opening if you have a solid wall with no view for your pet!! They will dig less!! Also See house sitters below.

Source: Hermanus Animal Welfare

 

Protect Your Dog’s Paws from Hot Surfaces in Summer

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Paws

Protect Your Dog’s Paws from Hot Surfaces in Summer

Many owners like taking their dogs on walks, but many of them forget about one important detail: hot surfaces can burn a dog’s paws.

It can be tempting to take your dog everywhere you go, but it can cause serious harm to your dog if you are not careful. Remember that if it feels way too hot for you to leave your hands comfortably on the ground for at least 10 seconds, it can result in severe burns on your dog’s paw pads, especially if you have a new puppy with tender young paws.

Your dog’s paws have footpads that can usually handle whatever a stroll or walk in nature throws at them. But a lot of human-made surfaces can burn your pooch’s paws, including concrete, metal, pavement, sidewalks and asphalt.

Symptoms of burned paws may include:

  • Limping or avoiding walking
  • Licking or chewing feet
  • Paw pads are darker in colour than usual
  • Pads are visibly damaged
  • Blisters or redness

If you suspect your dog has burned paw pads you should:

  • Flush the foot with cold water or use a cold compress
  • Try not to let your dog lick the injured pad
  • Take your dog to the vet as soon as you possible because burns can become infected.

Depending on the severity of the burn, your dog might need antibiotics or pain medication.

Tips to keep your dog or puppy from getting burned this summer:
These tips will help your dog stay safe and uninjured this summer from the dangers of hot surfaces.

Walk your dog in cool temperatures
The best time to walk your dog is in the morning or late evening, when the pavement is cool. Avoid walking your dog in the afternoon when the sun is high in the sky or early evening, because the pavement will be hot.

Walk your dog on the grass
If you end up taking your dog out during the warmer times of the day, be sure to stay on the grass and stick to shady areas. To avoid burning, stay away from sidewalks or any paved areas.

Moisturise your dog’s paws
Minor injuries such as cuts, cracking, or peeling of the paws can make your dog’s paws more susceptible to burns and other serious problems. Moisturising your dog’s feet with a veterinary approved product for your dog on a daily basis, will help prevent these injuries.

Paw wax
Paw wax is designed to protect your dog’s feet from hot surfaces and potentially harmful chemicals like road salts and can easily be smeared onto your dog’s paw pads to protect them from harmful surfaces.

Dog shoes
Not only do these booties look cute, but they are also one of the best ways to protect your dog’s paws from heat and potential injuries. If your dog will wear them, be sure to buy shoes that have rubber soles to offer the best protection. Be aware that not all dogs can get used to dog shoes, and some might have a hard time walking in them. There will definitely be an adjustment period for your dog with dog shoes. If you can get your dog used to using them, nothing else offers better protection. Disposable dog booties are also a great short-term fix for the summer heat. Dog booties can provide good protection from the heat, and are a great temporary solution if you need to take your dog out on a hot day and your dog is willing to wear them.

Peel and stick paw pads
Another solution to minimising heat damage to your dog’s paws in summer are peel and stick paw pads. They are easy to put on and they can be cut to the perfect size for paws and can be reused.

Check their paws regularly
Check your dog’s paw pads daily for any signs of damage and wash his paws frequently. If you do happen to see a problem, or if your dog is acting strangely on his feet, take your dog to your nearest vet for medical assistance.

Source: Cape of Good Hope SPCA 

Ensuring Your Pet’s Health: The Importance of Deworming and Preventing Tick and Flea Infestations

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Health

Ensuring Your Pet’s Health: The Importance of Deworming and Preventing Tick and Flea Infestations

As pet owners, we strive to provide our furry companions with the best care possible. However, there are crucial aspects of pet health that often go overlooked: deworming and preventing tick and flea infestations. Parasites can pose significant risks to our pets’ well-being and even impact our own health. In this article, we shed light on the importance of deworming and using preventative measures against ticks and fleas. We also recommend four leading products—Bravecto, Seresto, Triworm, and Revolution—to help keep your pets protected.

The Hidden Threats: Internal Parasites, Ticks, and Fleas:

Internal parasites, ticks, and fleas are common threats to dogs and cats. These pesky invaders can cause a range of health issues, from discomfort and skin irritation to severe diseases and infections. Furthermore, certain parasites, like ticks, can transmit dangerous illnesses to both pets and humans, making prevention crucial.

Why Deworming and Preventing Tick and Flea Infestations Matter:

  1. Comprehensive Pet Health: Regular deworming and preventative measures against ticks and fleas are vital for your pets’ overall health and well-being. By addressing these issues proactively, you can help prevent a host of problems and ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy.
  2. Preventing Disease Transmission: Ticks and fleas are notorious for transmitting diseases such as Lyme disease and Bartonellosis. By taking preventative measures, including tick and flea control, you significantly reduce the risk of these illnesses affecting your pets and your family.
  3. Promoting Comfort: Tick and flea infestations can cause itching, irritation, and discomfort for your pets. By using preventive measures, you provide a safe and comfortable environment for them to thrive.

Recommended Products for Deworming, Tick, and Flea Prevention:

Bravecto:

  • Bravecto offers comprehensive protection against fleas, ticks, and internal parasites, providing up to 12 weeks of coverage.
  • Its easy-to-administer chewable tablets ensure convenience and effectiveness in deworming and preventing infestations.
  • Bravecto’s trusted reputation and positive customer reviews make it an excellent choice for protecting your pet from parasites.

Seresto:

  • Seresto is a leading brand for tick and flea prevention, offering long-lasting and convenient protection.
  • Its innovative collar design provides up to 8 months of defence against fleas, ticks, and sarcoptic mange in dogs, and up to 7-8 months in cats.
  • With Seresto, you can trust that your pet is shielded from harmful external parasites, reducing the risk of infestations and associated diseases.

Revolution:

  • Revolution is a versatile spot-on treatment that protects against fleas, ticks, heartworms, and various intestinal worms.
  • Its monthly application ensures continuous defence against these common parasites, promoting a parasite-free environment.
  • Revolution’s broad spectrum of protection and user-friendly application makes it a popular choice among pet owners.

Triworm:

  • Can be administered directly, or mixed/crushed with a small amount of food.
  • Feeding or fasting before treatment is not necessary.
  • Regular deworming at intervals of 3 or 6 months is advised in order to control worm infestations. Kittens should be dewormed every month until 6 months of age.
  • Can be given safely to all cats including old cats and young kittens.
Deworming and preventing tick and flea infestations are vital components of responsible pet ownership. By prioritising regular deworming and utilising preventative measures, you safeguard the health and happiness of your beloved dogs and cats. Remember, prevention is the key to maintaining a safe and parasite-free environment for your entire family.
Consider incorporating leading products such as Bravecto, Seresto, Revolution, or Triworm into your pet care routine. These trusted brands offer effective solutions for deworming and comprehensive protection against ticks and fleas. By using these preventative measures, you provide the best care for your furry friends and reduce the risk of diseases and discomfort.

Choose the path of proactive pet care and let your pets enjoy a healthy, parasite-free life with Bravecto, Seresto, Revolution, or Triworm by their side. Prioritise their well-being and make prevention a top priority.

Source: TEARS Animal Rescue

How do you know if a cart is overloaded?

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cart

How do you know if a cart is overloaded?

The below mentioned guidelines include the cart, passengers and load. If you are unsure, the easiest way to tell is to watch the horse start or stop the cart. If the horse struggles to pull away or stop it with ease, then it is most likely too heavy for the particular horse!

  • Small pony (11-12hh) – a maximum of 600kg
  • Medium pony (12-13hh) – a maximum of 750kg
  • Big pony and horses over (13hh) – a maximum of 1000kg
cart
 

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