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Why Teaching Your Dog The Emergency Stop Is So Important

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stop

Why Teaching Your Dog The Emergency Stop Is So Important

An emergency stop is an important command for your dog to learn as it can be used in urgent situations that need immediate intervention.  

For example, this could be used to stop your dog from running up to a potentially reactive dog, running across the road, or if your dog has become overstimulated How to calm down an overstimulated dog. The command helps to get their focus back to you and can stop a situation from escalating.

To teach the emergency stop, we will be using food as a reward. It’s helpful to find what motivates your dog, such as a high value treat like chicken or cheese.  ​

Step 1
Start with your dog a small distance away from you. Using a treat or verbal cue, encourage your dog to come towards you. As they do, raise a treat up high above your head.  
Before they reach you, throw the treat behind your dog so that they stop, turn back and fetch the treat. Continue practicing this until your dog starts to slow down or stop when you raise your hand, anticipating the treat.

Step 2
You can now introduce a verbal cue. Repeat step one, but this time say ‘stop’ as you throw the treat. You should see that your dog will expect the treat to be thrown and will prepare to stop and turn to get the reward.  

Keep practicing this until your dog stops immediately when you hold your hand up and say ‘stop’.

Step 3
Continue practicing, but now when your dog stops, walk over to give them the treat. This will encourage your dog to hold their stop position, rather than relying on you to throw the treat behind them.  

Remember, the aim is for your dog to stop in their tracks and stay where they are.

Step 4
Now you can start to increase the distance between you and your dog. With your dog at a distance from you, call them over and raise your hand and say ‘stop’. When your dog follows your instruction, walk up to them and reward them with a treat.
​
Step 5
Finally, you’ll need to practice the behaviour in different environments and with added distractions, to ensure that your dog will reliably stop when asked, no matter what the circumstances.  
For example, if you have a friend to help you, get them to walk past your dog. Using your verbal cue and hand signal, encourage your dog to stop. If they end up following the friend, your dog may need some more practice.  
Once you’re more confident, you can also try practicing in various locations. If you’re worried about practicing an emergency stop in a new environment, you could use a long line lead.

courtesy – www.battersea.org.uk
Battersea is one of the best known shelters in the UK. All shelters and rescue organizations really need our help. Please do all you can to support your favourite shelter – financial may not be an option, however, there are so many other ways to help – donating to their charity shop, baking or donating books or similar to help them raise much needed funds. Just take a little time and go any give a dog or cat some love – take a dog for a walk – ask them what you can do for them – they do soooo much for all the animals in their care!

Source: Friends of the Dog

The Last Rhinos of Lombardini: One Man’s Mission to Keep Them Safe

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Rhinos

Justin Terblanche, the guardian of the crash, with Tiffany and Brittany. (Image credit: Joubert Grigor)

The Last Rhinos of Lombardini: One Man’s Mission to Keep Them Safe

Eastern Cape, South Africa – In the quiet rural stretch between Patensie and Humansdorp, where citrus orchards roll into game reserves, lives a young conservationist whose life has been shaped by the heartbeat of the wild.

Justin Terblanche (27), affectionately known as the “Rhino Whisperer,” has launched 83333a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to raise R176,000 for a thermal drone that could be a crucial tool in the fight against rhino poaching.

His campaign, titled “Eyes in the Sky for Our Last Rhinos,” has already raised over R47,000 through the support of 37 donors — but there’s still a long way to go, and the urgency couldn’t be greater.

From boyhood wonder to boots-on-the-ground protector

Rhinos

Justin Terblanche, the guardian of the crash. (Image Credit: Justin Terblanche)

Justin’s love for animals started long before he ever saw a rhino. Growing up in Patensie, he was the child who stopped to help injured birds or nursed stray animals back to health. That instinct only deepened with age.

“My early fascination with the natural world led me to a career in anti-poaching, where meeting my first rhino solidified my dedication to their survival. Now, as the co-founder of Rhino Whisperers NPC, I fight to ensure these majestic creatures can thrive in safety.

Our mission is to save the lives of these critically endangered creatures before they vanish forever. This isn’t just about saving a species — it’s about preserving a legacy. Rhinos play a vital role in their ecosystem, and their extinction would leave a gaping hole in the wild, one that can never be filled. If we don’t act now, future generations will never know the majesty of rhinos roaming free,” says Justin.

A bond built in silence, accepted into the crash

Rhinos

Justin Terblanche, the guardian of the crash. (Image Credit: Pierre Gerber)

When Justin joined the anti-poaching unit at Lombardini Game Farm in the Kouga region, it was home to 19 rhinos. Years of relentless poaching and illness have reduced that number to just four: Amanda, the cautious matriarch; Brittany and Tiffany, inseparable best friends; and a young newcomer, Herbie.

“I saw what these gentle giants go through just for existing,” Justin shares. “Poachers don’t care about the suffering. They take what they want and leave death behind. That was it for me. I knew I had to give everything I had to keep them alive.”

But rhinos are wild and traumatised. They don’t trust easily — especially after witnessing the loss of their companions. Protecting them meant more than just patrolling the fences. Justin needed to be close enough to intervene — but for that to happen, they had to accept him.

So he stayed. He left his family and former life behind, moving into the bush to protect them.

“I started spending time out in the bush, far beyond my normal shifts — sometimes for days, sometimes weeks. I didn’t talk. I didn’t move too fast. I just stayed present,” he says.

It took a year and six months of patience, silence, and consistency before the turning point came. The rhinos began recognising him — not just visually, but by his scent, his voice, his energy. They stopped running. They started watching him with curiosity instead of fear.

“That’s when I knew,” he says. “I had been accepted into their crash. They had accepted me as one of their own.”

From that moment, Justin became their protector from within. He can now walk beside them, monitor their movements, and respond immediately to any sign of danger. He’s learned their rhythms, moods, and quirks — their behaviours and personalities — like Amanda’s quiet watchfulness, Brittany’s playful nature, Tiffany’s loyalty, and Herbie’s youthful curiosity.

A species on the brink

Rhinos

Justin Terblanche and Amanda (Image Credit: Adri Krige)

Rhinos are being slaughtered at an alarming rate, with poachers driving these gentle giants towards extinction. In recent decades, their population has plummeted by more than 90%, and every loss brings the species closer to disappearing forever.

“At Rhino Whisperers, we are the last line of defence,” says Justin. “We risk everything to protect them, because if we don’t — no one will.”

Why a drone is critical for their survival

Despite these deep bonds, the threat of poaching — especially at night — remains constant. The farm receives no government support and relies entirely on donations. To close the surveillance gap and protect the rhinos during their most vulnerable hours, Justin is raising funds for a thermal drone.

“This drone will let us see what we can’t hear. It gives us eyes in the dark — and eyes in the sky,” he explains.

Supporters are invited to make once-off or monthly contributions via BackaBuddy and will receive updates on the rhinos’ well-being and campaign progress.

“Even just sharing our story helps. The more people who know Amanda, Brittany, Tiffany, and Herbie, the harder it becomes for the world to let them disappear.”

Source: Rhino Whisperers NPC

This Mandela Day, Give More Than 67 Minutes

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Mandela

Cape Town, South Africa |  FOUR PAWS South Africa hands over 67 Kennels and care packages with Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayaletsha for Mandela Day.

This Mandela Day, Give More Than 67 Minutes

FOUR PAWS calls on South Africans to give shelter, food, and care to pets in need

Building on the success and heartfelt response of the 2024 Mandela Day initiative, global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS is proud to announce the launch of its 2025 Mandela Day campaign ’67 Kennels of Hope’. A powerful tribute to Nelson Mandela’s legacy of service, compassion, and dignity. This year, we invite South Africans to go beyond symbolic gestures and make a lasting impact on the lives of animals in need.

Mandela

Cape Town, South Africa | Site visit to Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha in Cape Town in South Africa, where FOUR PAWS will be giving 67 kennels to the community as part of Mandela Day in July 2024. Pictured is Karabo Masedi and Blackie
Mandela

Cape Town, South Africa |  Queen, a Khayelitsha dog, sits on a worn armchair as its community anticipates the “67 Kennels of Hope” project by FOUR PAWS South Africa and Mdzananda Animal Clinic.

In collaboration with Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha, this campaign aims to bring warmth, comfort, and care to 67 beloved pets by providing:

  • 67 dog kennels to protect pets from the elements
  • Nutritious dog food supplies for well-being and vitality
  • Dog collars for their safety
  • Essential tick and flea treatments for continued health

Every recipient animal will be from a home vetted by Mdzananda to ensure they are under the care of responsible pet owners, with up-to-date vaccinations and majority of the pets have been spayed or neutered through the efforts of Mdzananda.

Mandela

Cape Town, South Africa | 2025 06 04 | Team members, Bertha Moteane, Karabo Masedi and Tanya van Tonder-Huysamen from FOUR PAWS South Africa walk through Khayelitsha, preparing for the distribution of kennels in their recurring “67 Kennels of Hope” campaign.
Mandela

Cape Town, South Africa | 2025 06 04 | A dog seeks shelter in rudimentary structures in Khayelitsha, underscoring the impact of the “67 Kennels of Hope” campaign by FOUR PAWS South Africa and Mdzananda Animal Clinic.

“Working in the heart of the Khayelitsha community, we know the need of animals, especially during winter. One of these is shelter and we are so grateful to FOUR PAWS for partnering with us to provide much-needed kennels to 67 community pets. This will ensure that pets from underprivileged families are kept dry and warm during winter. Even though many people have the opinion that pets aren’t loved in townships, we experience the opposite. People adore their pets; they often just lack education or resources. With this initiative we will be helping people and educating at the same time, ensuring for better pet lives into the future,” says Marcelle Du Plessis, Fundraising & Communications Executive at Mdzananda Animal Clinic

“In the spirit of Madiba, this campaign is about more than giving — it’s about restoring dignity and providing care to animals who mean the world to the families they belong to,” says Fiona Miles, Director at FOUR PAWS. “By supporting 67 animals this Mandela Day, we honour the unbreakable bond between people and their pets — especially in communities where resources are limited but love is abundant.” Whether you’re an individual, corporate, school, or community group, your 67 minutes can become a gift of comfort, care, and dignity.

Mandela

Cape Town, South Africa | Tanya van Tonder-Huysamen, a team member from the joint FOUR PAWS South Africa and Mdzananda Animal Clinic initiative interacts with Ben, a dog in Khayelitsha, during preparations for the “67 Kennels of Hope” campaign.

Call to Action

This Mandela Day let’s reinforce the values of respect, empathy, and understanding through collective giving. Together, we can ensure that every pet supported by this campaign receives more than survival — they receive safety, nutrition, and love.

For more information please visit our website www.four-paws.org.za or donate here.

Source: FOUR PAWS

Your Animals Deserve Better

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Animals

Your Animals Deserve Better

YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ANIMALS YOU FORCE TO LIVE IN YOUR WORLD.

Even though most people are having a festive time, the animal welfare industry faces its worst time of year!  This happens due to the failure of the animal guardians (owners). If everyone took better care of the animals they choose to take in, then animal welfare would not have to clean up the mess year in and year out!

Do your animals deserve a better guardian?

If your animals are in the streets, they deserve a better guardian. Animals left to roam without protection face numerous dangers, including traffic, predators, and harsh weather. It’s our responsibility to provide a safe and loving environment for them.

If your animals aren’t groomed regularly, they deserve a better guardian. Neglecting grooming can lead to painful matting, skin infections, painful feet, and overall discomfort. Regular grooming keeps them healthy and happy.

If your animals are left alone for long periods, they deserve a better guardian. Pets are social creatures that thrive on companionship. Loneliness can lead to anxiety and destructive behaviours. If you go away without someone checking in on them regularly during the day, they deserve a better guardian. Ensure they have proper care and interaction, even when you’re not home.

If your animals are left outside in bad weather conditions, they deserve a better guardian. Exposure to extreme temperatures, rain, cold, heat, or storms can lead to serious health issues. Every pet should have a safe, warm place to stay, regardless of the weather.

If your animals don’t have adequate shelter, they deserve a better guardian. Every pet needs a safe, comfortable place to rest. Proper shelter protects them from the elements and provides a secure environment.

Animals

If your animals are fed unhealthy food, they deserve a better guardian. Nutrition plays a vital role in their health and longevity. Choose high-quality, nutritious food that meets their specific needs, and avoid feeding them harmful products, including cooked bones. This doesn’t have to break the bank!

If you do not provide them with safe, fresh, cool water, they need a better guardian. Access to clean water is vital for their health, especially in hot weather. Ensure they have plenty of fresh water available at all times, so they can stay hydrated and healthy.

If one of your animals were killed by another animal in your care, they deserve a better guardian.  We often hear stories of the dog or cat that ate the bird, the dog killed the cat, or one dog bit the other one.  Your animal should never have been set up to get injured or killed or to fail by killing another in your care.

If your animals don’t receive regular vet checks, they deserve a better guardian. Routine veterinary care is essential for preventive health. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, tick and flea treatment, and deworming keep them safe from diseases and suffering.

If your animals lack clean bedding, they deserve a better guardian. A clean and comfortable resting space is essential for their well-being. Dirty bedding can lead to infections and discomfort. When you change your bedding, change theirs too.

If you don’t spend quality time with them daily, they deserve a better guardian. Building a bond through play, exercise, training, and simply being together is essential for their emotional well-being. Every pet deserves attention, enrichment, and love.

Animals

If your animals don’t have a variety of safe toys, they deserve a better guardian. Toys provide mental stimulation and encourage healthy play. Without safe toys, pets may become bored or resort to destructive behaviours.

If your animals are not trained, they deserve a better guardian. Proper training helps keep pets safe, makes them feel more secure, and improves their behaviour. Remember, you can’t blame them if you don’t train them. Training doesn’t have to be formal; simple commands and positive reinforcement can build a strong bond and promote good behaviour.

If you use choke chains, shock collars, anti-bark collars, or any adverse tools on your animals, they deserve a better guardian.  These tools are there to make it uncomfortable or painful for an animal.  They are cruel tools.

If you breed or allow your pet to have a litter, which is never for her health, they deserve a better guardian. Any litter in our current welfare situation contributes to the massive overpopulation crisis and causes stress for the mother. Responsible guardianship includes spaying or neutering to prevent health issues and ensure a better quality of life for them.

If your animals don’t get vet treatment when injured or sick, they deserve a better guardian. Prompt medical attention is crucial for their recovery and well-being. Delaying care can lead to worsening conditions and unnecessary suffering. If you can’t afford to provide for the animals, then it is unfair to them to have them.

If you don’t allow your pets to be in environments and enclosures that meet their needs, they deserve a better guardian. Every animal requires an appropriate living space that provides safety and comfort.

If you don’t allow your pets to do what their species do, like digging, chewing, or barking, they deserve a better guardian. Engaging in natural behaviours is essential for their mental and emotional well-being.

If you use your animals only as tools for protection rather than companions whom you should protect, they deserve a better guardian. They are sentient beings, not security systems, and should be treated with the dignity and compassion any family member would receive. Although they can alert you, it’s your responsibility to protect them!

If you do not help your animals cope in stressful situations like thunderstorms and fireworks, they deserve a better guardian. If we force animals to live in our world, then it is our moral obligation to help them cope. This can be done by desensitizing them before the events, helping them during the stressful events, and destressing them afterward.

Animals

If you do not include them in your plans to move, they need a better guardian. Pets are part of the family, and they should be considered in every significant life change. Planning for their inclusion, transportation, and comfort during a move is crucial.

If you do not have an emergency plan that includes your pets, they need a better guardian. In times of crisis, having a clear plan for your pets is essential. This means knowing where they will go, who will care for them, and how they will be transported. Your animals deserve not to be left behind or abandoned in difficult situations. This also includes having a plan for them if you die. Are they included in your will?

If your animal is at the end of their life or suffering, you have the duty to help them over the rainbow bridge. It is a difficult decision, the worst I ever had to make, but an important last gift which you can give them. If you are not willing to make that decision because of your feelings, then they need a better guardian.

They are not “just animals”, they are sentient beings who feel pain and emotions. Animals need more than just love, food, and water; they need thoughtful guardianship that encompasses every aspect of their lives, including emergency preparedness and transitions. It’s our duty to ensure their safety and well-being in all circumstances.

Also, read why love is not enough for your pets.

The Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare

Ensure your pets enjoy the Five Freedoms of animal welfare:

  1. Freedom from Hunger and Thirst: Ensure access to fresh water and a proper diet.
  2. Freedom from Discomfort: Provide an appropriate environment, including shelter and bedding.
  3. Freedom from Pain, Injury, and Disease: Prevent and treat health issues.
  4. Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour: Allow them to engage in natural behaviours.
  5. Freedom from Fear and Distress: Ensure a safe and secure living environment.

Animals

Every animal deserves a loving and responsible guardian. By evaluating your care practices and making improvements where needed, you can ensure your pets live happy, healthy lives. They depend on you—let’s make their world better. Thank you to each who takes this responsibility seriously!

Animals are not just companions; they are beings with their own needs, emotions, and rights. We have a moral obligation to ensure they thrive in the world where they were forced to live in, not merely survive. If you cannot meet ALL their needs, then you should reconsider bringing them into your life. Each pet deserves a guardian who fully commits to their well-being, providing not just the basics, but a nurturing environment where they can flourish. Let’s be the responsible stewards our animals need us to be—because they rely on us to make their lives better. It’s time to step up, advocate for their welfare, and truly honor the trust they place in us.

If every person was a good guardian, then rescuers would not be overwhelmed.  You, not being a good guardian, might have been the reason that a rescuer quit or committed suicide. Your actions have a ripple effect.  Think about that.

After this, I hope you intend to be a better guardian next year.  Join us for the next three weeks as we share some pawsome ways you can do better for them.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source:  The Bulletin

Come on, it’s not that hard, people!

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Come

Come on, it’s not that hard, people!

THERE ARE NO GOOD EXCUSES FOR NOT KEEPING YOUR PETS SAFE IN YOUR YARD!

Every day, many lost dogs, or cat post goes up, even birds. Another frantic social media post circulates. Another animal ends up on the streets, vulnerable to traffic, predators, or worse. They may also become a nuisance to others, especially cats. Why? Because someone, somewhere, didn’t take the responsibility of pet ownership seriously enough to keep their animal safe. It is silly that I have to but I will add yes, there are some exceptions when animals get out, but the amount of animals out and about doesn’t share that story, it showcases a story of irresponsible owners. I am not even going down the avenue of the irresponsibility surrounding puppies/kittens or power breeds in the streets.

We understand that accidents happen and some animals are really escape artists, but one of the 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. We have seen fox terriers climb trees to get out. Below we will share a solution for each!

But first, let me be clear on the following: Some people claim that they “have done everything” to keep the animal in…… IF YOUR ANIMAL IS IN THE STREET THEN YOU HAVE NOT DONE ALL YOU CAN TO KEEP THEM INSIDE. If you have, then they will not be in the streets. How do other people do it?

If your pet keeps escaping your yard, it’s not because they’re a mastermind worthy of a Hollywood heist movie. It’s because you’ve failed to put in the effort to make your yard secure enough. Sure, pets are curious and resourceful, but nine times out of ten, their escapes highlight owner shortcomings, not their genius (although I think many pets might be smarter than their owner).

And if you’re the type who’s shrugged off a neighbour’s complaint or ignored the dangers of a busy road nearby, ask yourself: Do you truly care about your pet’s wellbeing? Would you let a toddler wander onto the highway because they figured out how to open the gate? Or they know their way home. No, you wouldn’t. So why is it acceptable to leave your animal’s safety to chance?

As someone who is part of the lost and found animal team in our community, I am sick and tired, and this year will not be a year of asking nicely!  During our whole “holiday” time and most weekends, our team members, and all the other organizations everywhere are running behind and worrying about someone else’s animals. This is 100% preventable and will lighten the load on animal welfare. 

That is on top of the lousy excuses for giving up animals during this time of year (well any time). Mentally and physically, we start the year exhausted because someone else was irresponsible.

Thank you to those who pick up lost animals and keep them safe instead of dumping them on the already overwhelmed system, or expecting that someone else should do something. Thank you to those who already joined the foster network.

If you want to help even more, please JOIN THE FOSTER NETWORK HERE.

A MATTER OF RESPONSIBILITY

Pets are not wild animals; they rely on us to provide them with safe, controlled environments. A secure yard, a sturdy harness and leash, and a little common sense go a long way in preventing tragedy. If you’re too lazy or indifferent to do the bare minimum, then perhaps you should reconsider whether you’re fit to have animals at all.

ANIMALS DESERVE BETTER

At the end of the day, your pet’s safety is your responsibility. They didn’t choose you; you forced them to live in your world. So, stop making excuses and start making changes. Because the next time your pet gets out, they might not make it back. That is on you!

And how on earth do you not have a photo of your pet?

It’s time to do better. It’s not that hard. Read more here on whose animals deserve better.

Now, let’s look at some solutions so your pet doesn’t outsmart you.

ESCAPE-PROOF YOUR YARD AND KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE.

Secure your yard, but also take these PRECAUTIONS:

  • Sterilize your pets which helps reduce roaming.
  • Meet their needs in terms of enrichment (mentally, physically, etc).
  • Don’t leave them alone for too long or consider daycare.
  • Make your garden their happy place. (Sandpit, sensory garden, etc.)
  • Microchip them and register the microchip on more than one database.
  • Add a collar ID with your number on it.
  • For cats a break-away collar with ID tag.
  • Have a recent photo ready.
  • Get a responsible pet sitter when you are away.
  • When the garden services come, keep your pets inside.
  • If possible, keep them in your backyard, away from the street, or only in the front yard with supervision.
  • If your cleaner or gardener has a key, have a stern talk about keeping the gate closed.
  • Always check your yard for foreign objects and poisons that may endanger your pets.
  • Keep them away from gates & fences and out of sight to prevent theft.

Come

Petology provides guidelines to equip you with plausible methods to secure your yard and The Paw Company on how to keep your cats in. This can be possible with little investment and effort. 

JUMPERS & CLIMBERS

  • Have large fences and high walls that can’t be easily climbed (no easy foothold).
  • Choose solid panel fences without anywhere for your dog to stick his/her paws.
  • Metal fence panels or palisades can work but you’ll need to make provisions to prevent them from digging under or slipping through.
  • Make sure there’s nothing near the wall/ fence that your dog can use to give themselves a boost, like planters, benches, birdbaths, garbage bins, etc.
  • Alternatively, you can add an extension to make the fence taller or you can install a 45-degree angle lean-in section (overhang) onto the upper part of your fence/wall with brackets.  This tilts in to deter pets from getting over it.
  • Another alternative could be to add a roller bar (a.k.a Coyote rollers) made from PVC or Metal, which dogs’ paws can’t hold onto.  Both angled fences and roller bars work well for keeping cats in or out too.

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DIGGERS, CHEWERS & SLIP THROUGH-ERS

  • If you have palisades, you can add safe doggie bars that do not have sharp edges.  You can also use a durable welded wire mesh overlay and secure it with cable ties.  Not the plastic ones!
  • If they squeeze through or dig underneath you can buy or custom-make metal dig-defence barriers with spikes, which go deep into the ground.  If your fence is secure, but not your gate, consider a gate plate.
  • You can pour a concrete footer along the perimeter of the fence and bury/mount the bottom of the fence into the mixture.
  • Install an L-Footer/skirt/apron along the bottom of the fence, facing inwards.  You can use a wire mesh fence, hardware cloth, or a piece of chain-link fence attached to the base of the fence.  Bury it so that it is not visible, or lay it on top of the grass and hold it down with pins/stakes, rocks, gravel, mulch, or even planters.
  • Some people use “bumper collars” which prevent the pet from slipping through, but I do not support this method.

Come

RUNNERS

  • Runners are those who dash out of the yard as soon as the gate opens. This means you will have to get creative to keep them in and it might require more planning and effort, but the effort can never outweigh the safety of your pet.
  • In this case, you can consider getting the help of a qualified behaviourist/trainer. Rewarding good behaviour is more important instead of punishment or fear-based training.  If you call them back and they come, give them a treat or lots of praise (not punishment)! Teach them to sit and wait, when the gate opens.
  • Try to limit their access to the driveway or main gate. You can install a double gate, which means you create an enclosed area in the yard. If someone wants to come in or out, they have to go through one gate, then the other gate.
  • You can use a temporary fence, portable playpen, enclosed area outside, or a kennel/run to put them in when you know the main gate will be opened.
  • If your housing arrangement does not allow the above, then lure your pet into the house when you know the gate will open.

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KEEPING CATS IN

  • Higher walls (around 2m).
  • As mentioned above, roller bars and angled fences work well for cats.
  • Use nets
  • Build a Catio
  • Plant certain species of plants that cats dislike, but which are not poisonous to cats. Some cats seem to dislike the smell of rue, lavender, pennyroyal, coleus canina, and lemon thyme. Some cats also seem to not like strong citrus cents.
  • Trim trees regularly and wrap them with plastic or PVC “dividers”, so they cannot climb high enough to get out.
  • If you really cannot apply any of the above, try creating a routine for your cat, for example, a lick of wet food in the morning to make sure they “check in” and again in the evening. Once they are in for the evening, close the doors/windows until the morning.
  • Create entertainment for your cats to keep them indoors more.
  • Invest in a good quality cat harness. Acclimatize your cat to the harness from a young age. With patience and persistence, older cats will also get used to it.

Come

Remember to never punish your pets when they come back.  This will not take away the desire to escape but will make them afraid of returning home.  Always find out why your pets try to get out and address the root cause.  If it is a behavioural issue, contact a qualified behaviourist. Remember there is a difference between a trainer and a behaviourist.

If your pet does get out, follow our lost and found guide and make sure you post on your local groups (Verlore Diere Secunda (TEKS) Facebook group.) for our area.

IT IS NEVER ACCEPTABLE FOR YOUR PETS TO ROAM THE STREETS. Where there is a will there is a way! Don’t let your pets outsmart you!

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source: The Bulletin

Keep your Pets Safe from Theft

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Pets

Keep your Pets Safe from Theft

Stolen dogs are becoming a significant problem in many countries

Dogs disappear in front of shops where they wait for their owners on a leash or are stolen from cars, gardens or while out on walks.

Especially in danger of being stolen are pedigree dogs and popular breeds such as French bulldogs, Dachshund and Pugs. These dogs are stolen either for resale due to the high prices they fetch online or for breeding purposes so the puppies can be sold on for substantial profits. The increase in demand for pets especially during the lockdown period and subsequent increase in the price of puppies/dogs sold online has made the situation even worse with a significant increase in dogs being stolen in many countries. This type of theft is very distressing for both the owners and their pets, so we have put together some tips for you to help keep your pets from being stolen. 

Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe from Theft 

  • Never leave a dog unattended outside shops or other public places, this provides the perfect opportunity for pets to be stolen.
  • Avoid leaving dogs on their own in cars dog thieves have been known to break into locked cars to steal dogs (and never leave a dog in a car on a warm/hot day!)
  • Avoid leaving dogs in outside kennels and check holiday boarding kennels have appropriate security measures in place to keep your pet from being stolen.
  • Ensure rear garden gates are locked at the top and bottom with a shoot bolt and padlock. Consider fitting a bell or gate alarm as well.
  • Ensure the garden boundary (fence, hedge etc) is secure so that no one can gain entry or pull your dog over the fence or out through the hedge. Make sure your dog can’t escape as well on their own and that the fencing is secure.
  • Ensure your dog is microchipped (this is now a legal requirement in many countries) and registered with up-to-date information on the microchip database.
  • Ensure that your dog wears a collar when out with a tag on it (don’t put your dog’s name on the tag use your surname and a mobile number).
  • Take plenty of good, clear photographs of your pet so that your dog can be easily identified if lost or stolen and you can produce lost posters/banners.
  • Consider driveway alarms to alert you of visitors or use monitored CCTV/Alarm/Camera systems to outside areas. These will alert you if anyone is on your property.
  • Be aware of and report all suspicious vehicles or people to the authorities. Ask your neighbours to do the same.
  • When out walking your dog always know where your dog is. Be mindful of anyone who may be trying to distract your attention away from your dog or attract your dog’s attention away from you. They may be doing this so that they can steal your dog.
  • If using a dog walker, ensure that they are aware of and have taken appropriate security advice to protect your dog when in their care.
  • Report all missing/stolen dogs to local authorities so that if found they can be reunited with their owners.
  • Don’t give details of your or your pet location, or your walking locations on your social media sites.
  • Notify pet-friendly communities online if your pet is stolen as they will share and increase awareness of the theft and the number of people looking out for your pet.

Keep your pets safe!

Source: FOUR PAWS

The Dangers of Foot Tethers for Parrots and Why a Parrot Harness is One of Several Safer Alternatives

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Parrot

The Dangers of Foot Tethers for Parrots and Why a Parrot Harness is One of Several Safer Alternatives

  • Have you ever wondered what options are available to take your parrot outside without a cage?
  • Has the idea of fastening a leash on your parrot’s ring popped to mind?

Let’s look at the basics of tethering, the dangers thereof, as well as safer alternatives.

Firstly, a very brief introduction to the world of Falconry:

Falconry is the art (and sport) of training and hunting with birds of prey. If you’ve ever seen such an event or even watched a movie featuring a tame bird of prey, you might have noticed the straps attached to said birds’ legs. These straps are made from leather and are called ‘Anklets’ and ‘Jesses.’

Falcons (including other birds of prey) get removable leather anklets that are secured just above the bird’s ankle – these anklets each have a hole on the tab where the Jesses are threaded through. The Jesses are strips of leather that tethers a bird to a falconer on a glove, or in other cases, perches.

This is done with extensive training and it’s not necessarily to prevent a bird from getting away, since their birds do get to fly freely, but rather to prevent said bird from trying to take off and chase something that it’s not supposed to.

The basic concept of Jesses and Anklets are commonly known as ‘tethering’.

Parrot

Why is Tethering considered safe in the world of Falconry?

The main reason is the anatomy of birds of prey; these birds are built to hunt and survive by using their legs and feet extensively. You might have seen some footage or heard of Hawks snatching animals off the ground, killing and carrying them to take to a spot to eat.

These birds have extremely well-developed muscles in their legs and feet and they are built to do some heavy lifting and work. Because of the strength in these birds’ legs, tethering them can rarely cause any damage or be harmful – especially with proper training.

Why is Tethering not considered safe for Parrots?

Long story short: Parrots are not Falcons.

Although parrots do have strong legs and grip relative to the rest of their bodies, their muscles are different from a bird that literally hunts for a living. Their bones are fragile compared to birds of prey.

Parrots are strong and they can climb, hold on to branches or your hand, and even play whilst hanging upside-down, but that still does not take nearly as much effort to accomplish compared to diving at full speed to catch a heavy animal that’s running for its life and ultimately killing and eating it.

Oftentimes it is also seen that people tend to just tie a chain/leash to a bird’s identification ring. This is a big problem for a few reasons. A chain or leash on a metal ring attached to a parrot’s leg is not the same as a leather strap on a Falcon’s leg. As soon as some weight pulls on the metal band or frequent movement occurs, chances are that you’ll be dealing with some nasty wounds of metal-against-skin, amongst other issues.

That being said; whether you have a Falconry setup, or a leash and band setup on your parrot, if the bird tries to fly or gets startled and launches itself away from you, the possibility of the leash tightening up and forcefully pulling the bird back becomes very real. This can lead to your bird taking an uncontrolled nosedive and some serious injuries.

By assuming Falconry practices are safe for parrots, a lot of people run the risk of some very serious injuries especially if done with little thought into the matter:

  •  Fractured legs (and other bones)
  • Dislocated legs
  • Amputations
  • Death

Tethering an Eagle or similar bird compared to a parrot is essentially tying a leash to a sturdy post, and tying a leash to a twig.

Disclaimer: There are exceptions to most rules; there are a few cases where, if approached the right way, tethers can be safe for some parrots, and some individuals think these are secure, while others think they are risky. These are viewed as an alternative to standard harnesses for birds that are resistant to them.

If you are still considering it – using a bungee-type leash can be an option to aid in softer landings and less force tugging at your bird’s leg if needed. Please first consult with a trusted avian vet specifically about your bird and this method and take great care into discussing other options and finding the best method.

What other options do I have?

Parrot

Assuming you want a ‘freer’ approach compared to just bringing your parrot outside in a cage, you can consider the following methods:

1. Harnesses: Taking your bird outside in a harness (even if they’re clipped) is probably the safest way that you can offer them a bit more freedom and keep them safe.

There are various harnesses available specifically for parrots. These harnesses are designed with safety and comfort in mind and allows for safe flights and landings with even distribution of ‘force’ if a bird takes off or reaches the end of the leash.

We recommend that you use a bungee-type leash along with the harnesses that will allow a bit more play on movement should a bird reach the full leash length. This method also requires proper training, but is by far one of the safest ways of offering your companion a taste of freedom.

2. Free Flight Training: Not for the faint of heart. This method involves extensive training eventually leading to your parrot flying free in open outdoor spaces and returning to you on command. Recall training forms the basis of this method.

This can be extremely rewarding, but has its own dangers. Keep in mind that this method includes many factors beyond your control – never attempt Free Flight without the necessary training.

If you’re interested in exploring this option for your own bird, You can look at the following resources

  • Parrot behaviorist, Jezenia Ali has a freeflight course available and hosts weekly freeflight sessions in Centurion, Gauteng. https://www.naturallycaptive.com
  • Chase Dean Watkin-Jones, has released an online course and you can check it out on his website, www.gonefreeflying.com.

3. Pet backpack: This mention might seem a bit strange, but it can prove to be an option for those with smaller birds whose focus is rather on a shared outing than ‘more freedom’.
 
This might be useful for disabled birds or birds that are scared easily and that might prefer the safety of an enclosure on an outing.

Keep in mind that a pet backpack should have adequate ventilation and space for your bird. You should also keep in mind that this might not be a good idea if you have a parrot that likes chewing on things.

Ultimately you should make a choice that benefits your parrot before it does you. Talk to your vet, ask questions, look at examples and the experiences of others. Take the time to do training and don’t just pick the option that seems like the fastest one. Set your bird (and yourself) up for the best chance at success.

Source: Cheeky Beaks

Holiday hazards for mischievous pets

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Holiday hazards for mischievous pets

As the festive season approaches, our hearts are filled with joy and anticipation. It’s a time for celebrations, friends and family – including the four-legged family members. But, amid all the holiday cheer, it’s crucial to remember that pets may be exposed to unexpected hazards. Here are some to watch out for:

Holiday decorations hazards

Many Christmas decorations, such as tinsel, baubles and Christmas lights, can be tempting playthings for curious pets. Cats may find shiny, dangling objects particularly intriguing. Unfortunately, if chewed or swallowed, these can lead to gastrointestinal problems.

Sharp plastic or glass ornaments can also cut pets’ gums or tongue if chewed. Make sure they are out of reach, or use pet-friendly alternatives, such as wooden or fabric tree decorations and shatterproof baubles.

Secure the Christmas tree properly to prevent it from toppling over if your pet decides to climb it. Some pets may chew on tree needles, which can be irritating to their stomachs.

On the topic of plants, although poinsettias are traditional Christmas plants, they can be harmful to pets. The stems and leaves contain a milky sap that can irritate your pet’s mouth and throat. Red roses are a great alternative.

Christmas lights can result in a nasty shock if your pet chews on a dangling electrical cord. Keep cables hidden or covered to prevent accidental electrocution.

No scraps off your plate!

Traditional holiday roasts, like turkey, chicken and lamb have bones which should not be given to pets. Apart from the danger of choking, cooked bones can splinter and cause serious internal damage. Without emergency veterinary treatment, your pet could even die if a sharp bone pierces the intestines.

Onions and garlic are commonly used in holiday cooking, but can be toxic to pets. They can cause indigestion, vomiting, lethargy, and even more serious health problems.

Theobromine and caffeine in chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats. Dark chocolate is especially dangerous. Ensure that all chocolate treats are stored securely and out of your pet’s reach.

Summer fruit is often a staple during our holidays, but please know that grapes (and raisins) can lead to kidney failure in dogs. Avoid letting your pet reach any plates or platters (such as a cheese board) that may contain this seemingly innocent fruit.
Alcoholic beverages should never be accessible to pets. Alcohol can cause poisoning, leading to symptoms such as disorientation, vomiting, and even coma.

Even if you’re aware and careful yourself, you need to make sure your family and guests adhere to rules about not feeding your pets from the dinner table. Instead, provide pet-friendly treats and toys to keep the furry members of the family engaged during the festivities.

By taking these precautions, you will ensure that your pets enjoy a safe holiday season. If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic immediately. Remember, a little extra vigilance can go a long way in keeping your furry companions happy and healthy during this wonderful time of year.

Source: Durban & Coast SPCA

Household Objects Can Be Dangerous for Dogs

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Objects

Household Objects Can Be Dangerous for Dogs

Dogs explore their world by tasting and chewing and as a result, they may swallow foreign objects that can potentially make them sick. Although some objects may be small enough to swallow and pass through the digestive tract with minor consequences, others may get stuck or do damage at some point—in the mouth, throat, oesophagus, stomach or intestines and time is of the essence.

Recently, a dog came through to our animal hospital with a canned tin lodged in his mouth, after attempting to lick into the tin to get the last bits of food. The dog was sedated and examined. The opening of the lid had lacerated the dog’s tongue, however due to timeous and appropriate treatment the tongue was thankfully able to be salvaged. With a few days of medical care and hospitalisation, the dog was able to go home with its tongue intact.

Help! My dog ate an aluminium can. What should I do?

If your dog eats something sharp and pointy, such as cooked chicken bones, or a tasty canned tin that he found digging through the waste, you’ll want to prevent further damage by taking them to your nearest vet as soon as possible. Anything a dog swallows can be dangerous and can kill them, so it’s important to go to the vet as soon as possible. Attempting to treat your dog at home could have irreversible consequences.

Objects

Tips for Preventing Your Dog from Eating Dangerous Household Objects

Although it’s almost impossible to stop dogs from putting things in their mouths, here are some preventive measures you can take:

  • Always supervise your dog while they’re chewing on toys or treats.
  • Avoid keeping moisture-swollen (well-chewed) dog chews around your home that can break apart easily.
  • Be diligent in picking up items like socks and underwear.
  • Remove large pips from fruit and dispose of them safely.
  • Take away chew toys and natural chews before they reach a size small enough to fit fully inside your dog’s mouth.
  • Don’t leave dog toys lying around when you are not home to supervise.
  • Place your waste in places that they cannot rummage through to avoid them from ingesting foreign objects.

Our SPCA Animal Hospital in Grassy Park offers affordable rates for pet owners who can’t afford the services of private vets. The cost of treatment will depend on your income.

In the event of an emergency, your sick and/or injured pet can be brought to the hospital between 8am and 4pm weekdays.

Our hospital can be contacted on 021 700 4145 or email hospital@spca-ct.co.za

Source: Cape of Good Hope SPCA 

No hot dogs, please!

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No hot dogs, please!

Every summer there are cases of dogs dying after being left locked in a car for ‘just a minute’ while their owners pop into a store or run an errand. This is a tragedy that should never occur.

Durban summers can be brutal but even when the temperature is a comfortable 22º, inside a parked car it can soar to 47º within an hour. Humans can sweat to regulate body temperature, but dogs can only cool themselves by panting. Those with thick fur or short skulls (brachycephalic breeds) are particularly susceptible to heatstroke; they can suffer brain damage or die from heatstroke in just 15 minutes.

Signs of heatstroke in dogs

In the early stages, dogs may be unusually thirsty and pant a lot. Without intervention, they may become too weak or exhausted to move, or may collapse during a walk in the heat. Look out for these warning signs:

  • Excessive panting and drooling, often with very thick saliva
  • Dizziness – your dog may not be able to walk properly, or he may collapse
  • Vomiting and diarrhoea
  • Muscle spasms or seizures
  • Loss of consciousness

Left untreated, your dog could suffer organ damage and die. This can happen quite suddenly and without much warning, so you need to be aware of how your dog is coping in the heat of summer.

What to do if you suspect your dog has heatstroke

You’ll need to bring down your dog’s temperature and make sure he’s properly hydrated. First, remove him from the hot environment. If he’s unable to move, carry him to shady spot in the garden or take him inside, especially if you have air conditioning or cool tiled flooring.

Wet the dog’s coat with water from a bucket or hosepipe. If you have a fan, let it blow over the damp skin. Don’t plunge the dog into a bath of ice-cold water, which may result in shock or cause blood vessels to constrict too rapidly.

If he’s lying outside, you can also wet the ground around him, or have him lie on a wet towel. But don’t cover him with the towel, as this prevents heat from escaping.

Place his water bowl within easy reach and top up as often as necessary.

When to see the vet

If there’s no improvement, or the dog’s condition worsens, get him to a vet as soon as possible. Your dog may need intensive care and treatment with intravenous fluids, oxygen, nausea and diarrhoea meds, pain meds, cardiac meds or antibiotics to help him recover.

Other tips to keep your dog safe in summer

  • Don’t walk your dog on hot cement, sand or tar.
  • Opt for early morning or late afternoon walks.
  • Apply sunblock to your dog’s ears and nose, especially if he has a white coat.
  • Put an ice cube in your dog’s water bowl and be sure to top it up throughout the day.
  • If your dog lives outside, provide a shady area.
  • If your dog is struggling in the heat, hose him down with cool water.
  • Never keep a dog in a garage or shed on a hot day.

What about cats? Can they also get heatstroke?

Although heatstroke is less common in cats, it is possible in very hot weather. If your cat is able to move freely from inside to outside the house, they will unerringly find the coolest spot, and stretch out instead of curling up to keep themselves cool.

However, if they are enclosed in a small, hot room, they may not be able to escape the heat. Older, pregnant or overweight cats, and those with chronic conditions, are more at risk.

Unlike dogs, cats don’t usually pant to cool themselves down. They cool themselves by licking their fur; as the saliva evaporates, it provides a cooling effect. Symptoms of heatstroke in cats are similar to those in dogs. Your cat may even pant, which is not normal behaviour.

Even though most cats dislike water, the best treatment is wetting their fur and offering plenty of water. If your cat doesn’t seem interested in drinking water, feed wet food rather than nibbles, or add water to their dry food.

As a pet owner, the best way of keeping your furbabies safe from the summer heat is to be aware of how heat may affect them, and take steps to ensure they are cool and comfortable.

Source: Durban & Coast SPCA