VIP Specials & Spring tips - ABBA Newsletter

Hello from ABBA

To all of our special friends (furry or otherwise).
We at Abba Kennels and Cattery would like to wish you a happy and safe Spring!
Many Melbournians are planning their Christmas holidays and we look forward to the fun we'll have taking care of your furry friends whilst you're away.

Daylight savings has arrived and already the weather's warming up.
Our pets love to play outside and will get bored and into mischief if not occupied when you're at work. Keep you and your pets happy this Spring and drop them off at ABBA during work hours. They can socialise with other dogs, exercise and have fun with the their friends at daycare with our experienced carers.
From the team at ABBA
 

SPRING VIP MEMBER SPECIAL

Receive 20% off all accommodation for any 2 days or more until the 31st October. Present this newsletter to receive your special offer.

 

SPRING FACEBOOK CELEBRITY

And the winner is....

Suzanne Kay Monty
Congratulations Suzanne Kay Monty, our Spring Facebook Celebrity prize is a FREE 2 night sleepover for your pet at the time of your choosing. Please contact us within the next two weeks to claim your prize!

Do you want to be a winner?
We love reading the feedback and comments on our Facebook page. To say thank you for your valued contribution to our online community we will be choosing one loyal follower each season as the winner of our Facebook celebrity award.

REST IN PEACE A.J.

All of the staff at ABBA would like to express our condolences to Alan on the sad passing of A.J.

As told by Alan....
"I have just returned from being on holidays and, for the first time, realised I did not have to visit ABBA to pick up A.J.

Sadly we had to put A J Superdog to sleep when paralysis set in. He was nearly 18 years old, had a good life but, importantly, had given much pleasure and affection to me and my late wife.

He was widely liked because of his very friendly disposition to all. During his early years as a master escapologist, the people who kindly found him for us very often wanted to keep him.
Over a number of years he had regular sojourns at ABBA both at the new and old premises. He always looked forward to piddling on your doorstep! For me, I knew he was well and lovingly looked after.

Thank you all for your kindness".

Alan has been bringing A.J. to stay with us at ABBA for many years. We all enjoyed looking after A.J. when he was with us and he will be very sadly missed!
 

DOGGY DAYCARE AT ABBA

Did you know that your furry friend(s) could have fun every week at ABBA?
In Spring many dog owners want to catch up with friends and have some much needed "time out" after the cold miserable days of Winter. Our pets also want to have fun, enjoy doggie company and play outside. Your friends at ABBA love spending time with your pet and will make sure they are happy and fully occupied.

Book your dog in to spend a day or two a week at ABBA - drop your pet off before 9 and pickup at 5 (or arrange pickups), your dog will thank you for the playtimes and extra attention during the day. Don't feel guilty when you go out or leave for work! Call us to book!
 

MELBOURNE CUP DAY

Don't forget that Melbourne Cup weekend is creeping up! Please give us a call as soon as possible to book in you pet! Remember to check and make sure all vaccinations are up to date well before your check in date.
 

ABBA PET CELEBRITY
Guaranteed to be a real "Wag of a Tail"!!

MEOW MEOW JAMES

Q. What is your name?
A. Meow Meow James, is my official name, but mum and dad call me moo, fur face and kitty... not sure why they can't get it right.

Q. How old are you and what is your breed?
A. Oh, I am 20 in November, how's that for a domestic kitty.

Q. What's your favourite food?
A. All my food is now warmed up, so nothing cold, and just love the new soup brands mum and dad call my McDonalds (in between snacks).

Q. What about treats? Any favourites?
A. Oh yeah, just go nuts for Greenies.

Q. What's your favourite hobby/pastime?
A. Sleeping with dads arm under my chin. I must have his touch for me to fall asleep.

Q. Do you like to play? What are your favourite toys?
A. I used to play, but now getting out of bed and outside is my playtime.

Q. Do you have any friends or sworn enemies?
A. No fur friends,(I look after 20 fish) but sworn enemy of my neighbours cat. The orange boy from over the road annoys me and has even tried to come inside using my cat door.... wasn't happy with him.

Q. What's the naughtiest thing you've ever done?
A. Poo'd in mum's shoe. I forgot where they kitty litter was, so thought I could contain it..... At least it was easier to clean up.

Q. What's the funniest thing you've ever done?
A. I like my dads attention, so wherever he is, I am there. Inside I walk all over his computer keyboard and sit in front of his computer so he pats me and when he is outside, I follow him and meow until he pats me.

Q. Do you do any tricks for your human? What are your best ones?
A. Every morning I wake up mum anytime from 4.30am, as I sit outside the bedroom window and meow until she opens the curtains, (so I know she is awake) then I wait for her to open the front door, (where she lets me in and gives me a pat), I then wait for breakfast to be warmed and served. mmmm a great start to the day. I also wait to be invited to sit on dads or (if I have too), mum's lap. They have to put the towel down first, make sure its nice and tight, then pat the towel, and its ready for me to sit on.

WHAT GARDEN DANGERS MUST I PROTECT MY PET FROM
Some of the most common garden dangers that pets need to be protected from include:

Fertilisers

Fertiliser products generally contain varying amounts of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) compounds. Fertilisers may be in a liquid, granular or solid form. They may have additives such as herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, iron, copper and zinc. Because fertilisers are usually a combination of ingredients, the effects following ingestion may differ.

In general, fertilisers cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal irritation which may involve signs such as vomiting, diarrhoea, hypersalivation, lethargy and abdominal pain. In most cases the effects are self-limiting and resolve within 24-48 hours with supportive veterinary care.

Symptoms may be more severe if a large amount of fertiliser is ingested or if additives such as insecticides and iron are part of the fertiliser mix. Some fertilisers contain a significant amount of iron which can result in iron toxicity. Though heavy metals such as iron are generally not readily absorbed into the animal's system, they can pose a hazard when dogs ingest large amounts. A few fertilisers also contain insecticides such as disulfoton, a highly toxic organophosphate which when ingested can cause a sudden onset of seizures and pancreatitis.

Fertilisers can also be caustic, which irritates the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. In some cases ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal ulceration. Impaction (gastrointestinal blockage) with fertiliser material may also occur in some cases.

Some other types of fertiliser, such as bone meal and blood meal, are attractive to dogs. If they are eaten in large quantities they can cause significant gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, constipation) and possibly pancreatitis. Certain fertilisers may also contain bacterial or fungal toxins which can have serious side effects if ingested.

If you suspect your pet has ingested fertiliser you should contact your local vet immediately for further advice.
 

Rodent poisons (rat or mouse bait)

These are one of the most common causes of pet poisonings. Most rat and mouse bait products use warfarin-like compounds (anti-coagulants) that kill animals by causing uncontrolled bleeding. All rodent poison products should be used with extreme caution. They are designed to be attractive to animals, so attempts to prevent your pets from accessing baits by placing them in hard to reach places are often unsuccessful. Try substituting poison baits with other more humane methods of pest control.

If you must use rodenticides or insecticides, keep the packets safely locked up and only use them in areas of your property that are inaccessible to your dog, cat and other pets.

If you suspect your pet has ingested a rodent poson or eaten a poisoned rodent, immediate veterinary attention is required.
 

Snail and slug bait

Metaldehyde is one of the active ingredients in slug and snail baits (molluscicides). Snail and slug baits come in a variety of forms and may be mixed with other toxins. Ingestion can be fatal and there is no antidote. The effects of metaldehyde ingestion include anxiety, elevated heart and respiratory rates, inco-ordination, severe muscle tremors and death. With increased muscular activity, there is an increase in body temperature. Other poisons may be present in snail and slug bait products causing damage to other body systems such as the liver. Immediate veterinary attention is required.
 

Insecticides

Insecticides such as organophosphates and carbamates are readily available for home and commercial use and are highly toxic to pets. Signs of insecticide poisoning may include: vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, muscle tremors, and seizures and may be fatal. Immediate veterinary attention is required.
 

Poisonous plants

Many indoor and outdoor plants are toxic to pets. Some examples include:

Lily plants including the Easter lily, Day lily, Tiger lily, Japanese show lily and the Rubrum lily can all cause acute kidney failure in cats
All parts of the Castor Bean or Castor Oil plant are toxic
Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow Brunfelsia bonodora (syn. B. australis, B. latifolia) is toxic, especially the berries. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, muscle tremors, staggering and seizures
Please see the attached article 'Where can I find out about plants that might be poisonous for my pets?'. If you suspect your pet has ingested poisonous plant material or if you are unsure of a plant's toxicity please contact your local vet.
 

Xylitol - sugar substitute

This low-carbohydrate sugar substitute is used as a sweetener in products such as chewing gum, some toothpastes and baked goods. While safe for human consumption, its is differently metabolised by dogs. After xylitol ingestion, dogs can become acutely hypoglycaemic (develop low blood sugar) leading to seizures and death, if not treated immediately. In some dogs xylitol consumption causes liver failure and clotting problems, also carrying a poor prognosis.
 

Tree or plant fruit stones (these may become an intestinal obstruction)

Many garden trees and plants drop fruit stones, berries or seeds. Dogs (and sometimes cats) will eat these parts of the plant. Unfortunately ingestion of fruit stones, berries and seeds can lead to serious intestinal blockages/obstructions which can be fatal. In addition, some fruit stones, berries or seeds may contain toxic compounds which can be poisonous to your pets. Please remove any tree or plant stones/seeds/berries from your garden to prevent pets from ingesting them. Please see the attached article titled 'Where can I find out about plants that might be poisonous for my pets?' for more information.
 

Garden mulch - cocoa mulch

Cocoa Mulch is also known as 'Cocoa Bean Mulch' or 'Cocoa Shell Mulch' and is used as a mulch in home gardens in some countries. It is a byproduct of the manufacture of cocoa powder and other chocolate products. There have been several reports of pets being poisoned by cocoa mulch in other countries such as the United States and United Kingdom. As far as RSPCA Australia is aware cocoa mulch is generally not available in Australia however, it is possible that some small domestic chocolate manufacturers could sell cocoa shell mulch as a waste product from their chocolate manufacturing process. Therefore, while it is unlikely, it is still possible that a dog could have access to cocoa shell mulch in the Australian context.

All parts of the cocoa bean contain "theobromine", a methylxanthine compound that has similar properties to caffeine and is toxic to dogs and other pets at certain doses. It is this chemical that is the cause of chocolate poisoning, a problem that occurs mainly in pet dogs but also occurs occasionally in pet cats or other pet animals.

The level of theobromine varies with the type of chocolate; baking chocolate and dark chocolate contain the most theobromine. Cocoa bean shells may contain relatively high levels of theobromine, and some reports suggest that, for a medium-sized dog, consuming about 250 grams of mulch could be fatal.

The symptoms of theobromine ingestion vary with the dose consumed. At lower doses, the pet may develop gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting or diarrhea but should recover with supportive veterinary care. If the pet eats a toxic dose the symptoms are more serious involving muscle tremors, restlessness or hyperactivity, elevated heart rates, seizures and possibly death. Symptoms may not develop immediately, but will begin to appear as the toxin is absorbed into the body. Immediate veterinary attention is required.

Unfortunately the chocolate aroma of the mulch makes it a popular choice for gardeners and also highly attractive to pets as something to eat. It is also common for this mulch to develop a coating of mould as it decomposes; depending on the type of mould that develops and this may represent a further risk of mould toxicity to pets.

RSPCA Australia recommends that pet owners do not use any cocoa-containing mulch products.

Any persons using cocoa mulch should ensure that any animals in the area cannot gain access to the cocoa mulch. Please note that cocoa mulch is highly attractive to dogs due to the cocoa scent and flavour so pets may try to access the mulch for e.g. by jumping over fences around garden beds or by breaking open bags kept in sheds. Adequate precautions should be taken.

It is also important to note that there are generally no label warnings about the potential toxicity to pets on the packaging of cocoa mulch so owners may not be aware of the serious risk these products pose to their pets.

HEROIC DOGS AND HOW THEY SAVED PEOPLE

People have always seemed to have a soft spot for heroic dogs. Whether it's TV classics like Lassie or heart-warming family films like Homeward Bound, the idea of dogs rescuing their human masters (or even complete strangers) captures our love and affection as few other things do. So it's only natural to love hearing about dogs who save people in real life! Here are some true accounts of dogs that saved people from perilous circumstances.

Brutis

Brutis was a 7 year old golden retriever when he became a hero in 2004. That's when the loveable pooch snatched up a coral snake as it was slithering dangerously close to a young child, suffering a near-deadly bite from the snake in the process. His heroics did not go unnoticed however, as Brutis was promptly flown to Los Angeles to receive the National Hero Dog award.
Said the committee who awarded the medal, "when we give an award like this, we're looking for something extra, something that would make people wonder why a dog would do that.

Zoey

Everyone knows that smaller dogs have to display in attitude what they lack in size, and Zoey is living proof. A five pound chihuahua from Colorado, Zoey made headlines in 2007 for rescuing a one year old child from an approaching three foot rattlesnake when the snake got too close for comfort. While Zoey sustained a small wound from a snakebite above her eye, she eventually recovered and the snake was killed.

Moti

2007's Dog of the Year winner was Moti, the five year old German Shepherd who literally took a bullet for his human family. When a masked intruder made his way into the Patel household, Moti wasted little time, leaping to his feet and barking to draw the gunman's attention. Faced with the angry pooch, the gunman shot him and ran off without harming any of the Patels. Luckily, this furry hero is making a full recovery!

Honey

Honey was the 2006 Dog of the Year, an award she earned by saving her owner from a violent car accident. When she and Michael Bosch found their SUV rolled over and stuck upside down in a deep ravine, Bosch was trapped and knew that Honey was his only hope. With all his strength, he managed to release the dog and hope that she would somehow find help. Sure enough, the then 5 month old English Cocker Spaniel got the attention of a man about a half-mile away and brought him to the scene of the accident. Rescuers concluded that had it not been for this, Bosch would have died.

Hero

In a truly heart-warming story, a four year old Golden Retriever was credited with saving a paralysed man who got his wheelchair stuck in the middle of a muddy field. When Gareth Jones found himself unable to move, the former soldier's service dog was ready to answer the call, dutifully pulling the rope Jones threw to him until the wheelchair was pulled free.
Said Jones, "He didn't let go until I was clear. He knew exactly what he was doing."

Trakr

Trakr owns arguably the most prestigious rescue on our list. Together with police officer James Symington, Trakr helped dig through some 30 feet of unstable debris at the World Trade Center "ground zero" site and locate the last human survivor of the attack. The dog's bravery was so celebrated that he is going to be cloned for use in other police rescue forces!

PET RECIPES

Pumpkin Pie Bites

INGREDIENTS
1 cup oats
2 cups whole-wheat flour
1/4 cup powdered milk
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup pumpkin
1 egg
2 tablespoons coconut oil
3/4 cup water

DIRECTIONS
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl until it makes a dough.
Spoon dough mixture into a mini muffin tin or onto a baking tray.
Bake at 180 for 25 minutes.
Makes approximately 48 bites Cooking time 25 minutes.
These small bites are seriously tasty and aren't too crunchy, making them a lovely treat for older pups.

Organic Cat Treats

INGREDIENTS
225 grams of steamed, organic, boneless and skinless chicken thighs
1 cup spinach leaves
1 cup quick-cooking oats
1 egg
1 tablespoon organic catnip
1/4 cup flour

DIRECTIONS
Steam the chicken thighs until cooked through and then let the chicken cool for 20 minutes before the next step.
Place the chicken, oats, spinach leaves, egg, and catnip in a blender or food processor and pulse on low until the mixture blends together.
Place the mixture into a bowl and add the flour. Use your hands to knead the dough until it's no longer sticky and then place on a flour-dusted board.
Use a rolling pin to create a rectangle of dough. With the help of a pizza cutter or small cookie cutter, create small shapes for the finished treats.
Bake for 20 minutes and then cool until room temperature.

NOTE
If your cat isn't a fan of chicken, use salmon or tuna.

PROPERTY LAWS OF THE DOG

1. If I like it, it's mine.
2. If it's in my mouth, it's mine.
3. If I can take it from you, it's mine.
4. If I had it a little while ago, it's mine.
5. If it's mine, it must never appear to be yours in any way.
6. If I'm chewing something up, all the pieces are mine.
7. If it just looks like mine, it's mine.
8. If I saw it first, it's mine.
9. If you are playing with something and you put it down, it automatically becomes mine.
10. If it's broken, it's yours.

JUST FOR A GIGGLE
Hey Mum...play with me I'm way cuter than your iPhone.

AND ANOTHER GIGGLE
If the Vet's busy or the desk is unattended "Sit and Stay"....

Inspiration & Sources

http://www.popsugar.com/pets/Homemade-Organic-Cat-Treats-30776974
http://www.popsugar.com/pets/Pumpkin-Pie-Dog-Treats-32508981
http://wreg.com/2013/10/23/
http://kb.rspca.org.au/What-garden-dangers-must-I-protect-my-pet-from_314.html

Image Credits

http://www.popsugar.com/pets/Homemade-Organic-Cat-Treats-30776974
http://www.popsugar.com/pets/Pumpkin-Pie-Dog-Treats-32508981
http://galleryhip.com/spring-animal-photos.html
http://qltyctrl.com/pics-of-cats-and-dogs-asleep/