Well, folks they are here and FLYING out the door..literally. The dog costumes are so freaking funny and this year we at Woofles and Meowz have a great but quickly diminishing supply of:
The dinosaur
The Skunk
the Witch
The witche's hat with hair attached hanging underneath
The spider
The pig
...of course the HOTDOG outfit...too freakin' funny
The tuxedo outfit
The Lion
The convict...
......all too funny and all sizes being purchased.....come and get'em!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Thursday, October 1, 2009
HALLOWEEN COSTUMES FOR DOGS!!!
YAY!! the Halloween costumes are here for 2009 and we are stoked!
Now, a wee bit of backtracking in that I am not one to dress up dogs in a fluffy manner for everyday type walking around rather I like cold weather equipment used properly to keep dogs dry and warm when needed. Nothing to get in the way of the "smell test" of other dogs in my opinion but here is where I sound like a hippocrate because I really have fun with the dressing up of Fido for a fun night of Halloween.
There are some considerations to factor in with regard to safety and they are pretty important:
NO MASKS on the dogs that are made of plastic and could impede vision or safety....no dangly bits that could be caught up in anything or be swallowed when chewed.
If the dog is panting or distressed by the costume after wearing it for 5-6 minutes then forgo the option and maybe just throw on a fun bandana in a Halloween print...easy-peasy!
For those who have dogs that like the interaction and attention and dig the costume I offer the concept of themed duos.......Imagine Sonny and Cher with your dog in a black wig and moustache....you KNOW that long black wig is just waiting for you...........and ya KNOW you wanna!
Either way have a great time with the festivities!
Here at the Pet store Woofles and Meowz we have about 14 different types of costumes from Dinosaurs to Fellons and from Lions to Cheerleaders........different sizes and styles.
Stop by before October 31st for the best selection...........last year was an absolute blast.
Also check out the article in LOV Magazine theres always cool stuff in there!
Happy Haloweener dog!!
WOOF!
Now, a wee bit of backtracking in that I am not one to dress up dogs in a fluffy manner for everyday type walking around rather I like cold weather equipment used properly to keep dogs dry and warm when needed. Nothing to get in the way of the "smell test" of other dogs in my opinion but here is where I sound like a hippocrate because I really have fun with the dressing up of Fido for a fun night of Halloween.
There are some considerations to factor in with regard to safety and they are pretty important:
NO MASKS on the dogs that are made of plastic and could impede vision or safety....no dangly bits that could be caught up in anything or be swallowed when chewed.
If the dog is panting or distressed by the costume after wearing it for 5-6 minutes then forgo the option and maybe just throw on a fun bandana in a Halloween print...easy-peasy!
For those who have dogs that like the interaction and attention and dig the costume I offer the concept of themed duos.......Imagine Sonny and Cher with your dog in a black wig and moustache....you KNOW that long black wig is just waiting for you...........and ya KNOW you wanna!
Either way have a great time with the festivities!
Here at the Pet store Woofles and Meowz we have about 14 different types of costumes from Dinosaurs to Fellons and from Lions to Cheerleaders........different sizes and styles.
Stop by before October 31st for the best selection...........last year was an absolute blast.
Also check out the article in LOV Magazine theres always cool stuff in there!
Happy Haloweener dog!!
WOOF!
Rain coats for dogs.
Ok, yesterday or so I was looking out the window and fully expected an ARK to float by! It was not helped by the fact that the overhang of the KIDS MARKET was barely handling the rain pouring off the roof. It was pretty darn wet...a type of weather that we actually rarely get here on the coast.
It was the type of rain that I have experienced in Alberta or Ontario. Here when it rains it is that misty type stuff that unless you are wearing a fur coat it does not actually soak through......fur coat......nice segue huh?!??
Of the many people here in the pet store I would have to say that most were in the market for a good rain jacket for their dog.
We carry a variety of styles and from my searches around the other stores we carry a HUGE selection. Two of my favourites come from one of my favourite suppliers that make the METRO SLICKER (a rip-stop nylon shell with a rubber polymer coating that is both tough and flexible while being pretty stylish to....this one lasts forever and I know as I never, ever washed my dogs Metro slicker in several years and it looked pretty great! The other one is a fabric with Gortex type technology and a fleece lining......super warm and waterproof to cover all the bases for short haired animals or those is other provinces or in the interior.
We seem to be the main supplier for people from Edmonton and Calgary......literally 1000s of warm weather items go there from our store on Granville Island.........and we and the warm, dry dogs thank you for it!!
It was the type of rain that I have experienced in Alberta or Ontario. Here when it rains it is that misty type stuff that unless you are wearing a fur coat it does not actually soak through......fur coat......nice segue huh?!??
Of the many people here in the pet store I would have to say that most were in the market for a good rain jacket for their dog.
We carry a variety of styles and from my searches around the other stores we carry a HUGE selection. Two of my favourites come from one of my favourite suppliers that make the METRO SLICKER (a rip-stop nylon shell with a rubber polymer coating that is both tough and flexible while being pretty stylish to....this one lasts forever and I know as I never, ever washed my dogs Metro slicker in several years and it looked pretty great! The other one is a fabric with Gortex type technology and a fleece lining......super warm and waterproof to cover all the bases for short haired animals or those is other provinces or in the interior.
We seem to be the main supplier for people from Edmonton and Calgary......literally 1000s of warm weather items go there from our store on Granville Island.........and we and the warm, dry dogs thank you for it!!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Woofles and Meowz Pet Bakery and LOV magazine
Recently we(well, me) here at the store were approached to do some editorial work for Living Out Magazine. (www.lovmag.com)
This magazine was looking for some insight into the Vancouver pet scene from someone on the inside and I try to do them justice in that arena. Check out the September issue entitled "A DOG BY ANY OTHER NAME".
It's a commentary on mixed breed dogs, purebreeds and the benefits of both.
In the next month we will talk about all the FUN of Halloween with your favourite four footed friend....stay tuned!
This magazine was looking for some insight into the Vancouver pet scene from someone on the inside and I try to do them justice in that arena. Check out the September issue entitled "A DOG BY ANY OTHER NAME".
It's a commentary on mixed breed dogs, purebreeds and the benefits of both.
In the next month we will talk about all the FUN of Halloween with your favourite four footed friend....stay tuned!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Granville Island and the oasis that is Woofles and Meowz.
Lately I have been experiencing severe tennis elbow in my right arm and was wondering what the heck the reason is.
It came to light recently when my sister mentioned that i am making thousands of biscuits, cookies and other treats in our organic fresh baked line here at the store.
What a lovely problem to have!
Added to the roster of biscuits this past month is one that I cannot keep in the store and make fast enough and that is the organic bison and bacon biscuits. Now, I admit that these smell pretty darn yummy when I am baking them so it is no surprise that they are going fast...almost too fast suggests the pain in my arm.
Again. a pretty nice problem to have. I am always looking for new directions and suggestions when it comes to the treats so if anyone has an idea I welcome the input.
Until then I will keep making the 20 or so menu items and wear the wrist and elbow brace...and try to not complain about it too much..
all my problems should be so deliscious!
It came to light recently when my sister mentioned that i am making thousands of biscuits, cookies and other treats in our organic fresh baked line here at the store.
What a lovely problem to have!
Added to the roster of biscuits this past month is one that I cannot keep in the store and make fast enough and that is the organic bison and bacon biscuits. Now, I admit that these smell pretty darn yummy when I am baking them so it is no surprise that they are going fast...almost too fast suggests the pain in my arm.
Again. a pretty nice problem to have. I am always looking for new directions and suggestions when it comes to the treats so if anyone has an idea I welcome the input.
Until then I will keep making the 20 or so menu items and wear the wrist and elbow brace...and try to not complain about it too much..
all my problems should be so deliscious!
Cat grass..whats the deal.
This is something that almost all cat owners ask themselves, and a question which nobody, including vets, have a clear answer to. However, one thing is certain - grazing is something that comes naturally, not just to domestic cats but also to feral and wild cats.
Eating grass isn't for the nutritional value. Grass is pretty indigestible to cats, and low in nourishment anyway. Grass is mainly fibre and the cat's stomach doesn't have the enzyme needed to digest it. However, grass can help a cat's digestive process by inducing regurgitation of undigested matter. For example, feral cats might nibble on grass blades between mouse snacks. From a cat's point of view a dead mouse is a fiddly thing, and it is impossible for the cat to septe fur and bones from the meat. Therefore the cat gulps down the entire mouse. Once the meat has been digested the hair and bones remain in the cat's stomach. Eating grass makes the cat vomit, and this brings the grass back up, now neatly wrapped around undigested mouse parts. This is probably safer for the cat than passing spiky little bones through its intestines, which might get punctured or blocked.
Domestic cats, especially exclusively indoor cats, will seldom have the chance to digest live prey (your ankles don't count). But even these cats still will nibble on grass if it is provided - and it should be. Remember that cats groom themselves extensively, and their tongues are equipped with little hooks which scoop up loose hair. However, the disadvantage of this is that cats end up swallowing a considerable proportion of the hair they lick off their coats. Hair is not digestible and it can bundle up in the stomach to create a furball. Eating grass may aid in removing the furballs through vomiting before they become unmanageable. A furball on the carpet is no-one's favourite sight, but it is infinitely better than a blockage in the intestines which is painful and traumatic for human and cat and often needs surgical intervention to remove.
Those who make a profession of watching wild cats have noted that when prey is killed and ingested, the first bit of the carcass to be eaten is the intestine. The explanation often given for this is that the intestines contain lots of nutrients needed for good health. That may be also partially true for grass. Although mainly an indigestible fibre lacking almost everything the cat needs in its diet, grass does have a lot of moisture, some trace minerals and the vitamins A and D. Grass also contains chlorophyll, which before the discovery of antibiotics, was a remedy for pain, infection, ulcers, skin diseases, and anemia. Cats, like most other animals, are very skilled in controlling their needs for particular nutrients and finding healthy diet supplements, some of which can come from grass.
Finally, cats may nibble on grass blades for the same reason as country yokels do it. It is quite palatable, and they may enjoy the taste.
Some cat owners make the mistake of preventing their cat from eating grass. There are various reasons for this, one being that it makes their cat vomit. Since most cats make sicking up their stomach contents a major dramatic production, it is hard for the distressed human to understand that eating grass is done precisely to achieve this effect. It is actually highly advisable that cats have access to grass. Many florists and pet stores now offer grass in pots or as seeds which you can grow indoors. Outdoor cats will probably choose the garden lawn as their grass snack bar, so make sure that the grass does not have weed killers or other pesticides which might be harmful. Indeed it may be safer to have grass available in the house even if your cats are outdoor cats, so they have a source of healthy grass.
For whatever reason, or combination of reasons, cats like eating grass. If the cat can't get grass she may try your house plants for taste instead. This could be dangerous because some house plants and flowers are toxic to cats, whilst other sources of fibre, including fabric and wiring are also likely to case distress to human and cat alike. At the same time if a cat starts bingeing on grass followed by frequent vomiting, it is definitely time to consult the vet.
Eating grass isn't for the nutritional value. Grass is pretty indigestible to cats, and low in nourishment anyway. Grass is mainly fibre and the cat's stomach doesn't have the enzyme needed to digest it. However, grass can help a cat's digestive process by inducing regurgitation of undigested matter. For example, feral cats might nibble on grass blades between mouse snacks. From a cat's point of view a dead mouse is a fiddly thing, and it is impossible for the cat to septe fur and bones from the meat. Therefore the cat gulps down the entire mouse. Once the meat has been digested the hair and bones remain in the cat's stomach. Eating grass makes the cat vomit, and this brings the grass back up, now neatly wrapped around undigested mouse parts. This is probably safer for the cat than passing spiky little bones through its intestines, which might get punctured or blocked.
Domestic cats, especially exclusively indoor cats, will seldom have the chance to digest live prey (your ankles don't count). But even these cats still will nibble on grass if it is provided - and it should be. Remember that cats groom themselves extensively, and their tongues are equipped with little hooks which scoop up loose hair. However, the disadvantage of this is that cats end up swallowing a considerable proportion of the hair they lick off their coats. Hair is not digestible and it can bundle up in the stomach to create a furball. Eating grass may aid in removing the furballs through vomiting before they become unmanageable. A furball on the carpet is no-one's favourite sight, but it is infinitely better than a blockage in the intestines which is painful and traumatic for human and cat and often needs surgical intervention to remove.
Those who make a profession of watching wild cats have noted that when prey is killed and ingested, the first bit of the carcass to be eaten is the intestine. The explanation often given for this is that the intestines contain lots of nutrients needed for good health. That may be also partially true for grass. Although mainly an indigestible fibre lacking almost everything the cat needs in its diet, grass does have a lot of moisture, some trace minerals and the vitamins A and D. Grass also contains chlorophyll, which before the discovery of antibiotics, was a remedy for pain, infection, ulcers, skin diseases, and anemia. Cats, like most other animals, are very skilled in controlling their needs for particular nutrients and finding healthy diet supplements, some of which can come from grass.
Finally, cats may nibble on grass blades for the same reason as country yokels do it. It is quite palatable, and they may enjoy the taste.
Some cat owners make the mistake of preventing their cat from eating grass. There are various reasons for this, one being that it makes their cat vomit. Since most cats make sicking up their stomach contents a major dramatic production, it is hard for the distressed human to understand that eating grass is done precisely to achieve this effect. It is actually highly advisable that cats have access to grass. Many florists and pet stores now offer grass in pots or as seeds which you can grow indoors. Outdoor cats will probably choose the garden lawn as their grass snack bar, so make sure that the grass does not have weed killers or other pesticides which might be harmful. Indeed it may be safer to have grass available in the house even if your cats are outdoor cats, so they have a source of healthy grass.
For whatever reason, or combination of reasons, cats like eating grass. If the cat can't get grass she may try your house plants for taste instead. This could be dangerous because some house plants and flowers are toxic to cats, whilst other sources of fibre, including fabric and wiring are also likely to case distress to human and cat alike. At the same time if a cat starts bingeing on grass followed by frequent vomiting, it is definitely time to consult the vet.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The Pet Blog and why it is so great!
Since learning the ins and outs of dog training back in the 80s and keeping abreast of what is new and exciting in the industry I have noticed alot of changes in the business of both training and selling of retail goods.
The common denominator that I adhere to is good common sense and the truth in sales instruction. So many people have told me over the years that they are told a toy is "indestructable" (there is no such thing)or that one food is better than the other and you "have " to use what they are using for their dog for your dog as well.
I like to keep it open and find out as much as I can about the type of dog, how old and what are the basic living conditions that the dog is experiencing.
This gives me a better understanding of what the dog needs and how I can help.
As mentioned before...I am all in favour of talking someone OUT of buying an item if I think they may be wasting their money or if the benefits are not as promised.
Harnesses are one of those items. It is also helpful though if someone communicates what they need....if I have to drag it out of them or repeat a question because they are not being communicative...then that sometimes happens. I only want to know what is best for my customers so they don't waste their hard earned money. I want them to come back as often as they like........and with the (literally) thousands of repeat customers we get I think that tact is working.
It is interesting to note that some people do not understand the simple asking of a question does not imply someone is doing something wrong with their pet..not at all. Everyone has their own style and technique..........some good and some...well, less than effective.
As most of my readers know I would not purposefully challenge anyone in my store however if someone does start calling names or acts out they are free to leave. Its interesting to note that sometimes people who misconstrue an exchange feel the need to call back and talk at length about something that may have nothing to do with them.
The blog stays.
Its not about you.
Nobody was named.
Threats are recorded.
Take a breath and be nice.
My point on your attitude was confirmed by the call but if it makes you feel any better I am sorry that you thought that simply asking you questions to help you was in any way not to your liking. The other lady in the store thought I was being inquisitive and trying to help someone who was not interested in an exchange....no problem. I understand completely. Bring your dog in for a treat sometime!
The common denominator that I adhere to is good common sense and the truth in sales instruction. So many people have told me over the years that they are told a toy is "indestructable" (there is no such thing)or that one food is better than the other and you "have " to use what they are using for their dog for your dog as well.
I like to keep it open and find out as much as I can about the type of dog, how old and what are the basic living conditions that the dog is experiencing.
This gives me a better understanding of what the dog needs and how I can help.
As mentioned before...I am all in favour of talking someone OUT of buying an item if I think they may be wasting their money or if the benefits are not as promised.
Harnesses are one of those items. It is also helpful though if someone communicates what they need....if I have to drag it out of them or repeat a question because they are not being communicative...then that sometimes happens. I only want to know what is best for my customers so they don't waste their hard earned money. I want them to come back as often as they like........and with the (literally) thousands of repeat customers we get I think that tact is working.
It is interesting to note that some people do not understand the simple asking of a question does not imply someone is doing something wrong with their pet..not at all. Everyone has their own style and technique..........some good and some...well, less than effective.
As most of my readers know I would not purposefully challenge anyone in my store however if someone does start calling names or acts out they are free to leave. Its interesting to note that sometimes people who misconstrue an exchange feel the need to call back and talk at length about something that may have nothing to do with them.
The blog stays.
Its not about you.
Nobody was named.
Threats are recorded.
Take a breath and be nice.
My point on your attitude was confirmed by the call but if it makes you feel any better I am sorry that you thought that simply asking you questions to help you was in any way not to your liking. The other lady in the store thought I was being inquisitive and trying to help someone who was not interested in an exchange....no problem. I understand completely. Bring your dog in for a treat sometime!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The best dog toys on the market at least at Woofles and Meowz.
A lot of people ask me what is the most popular toy(s) for dogs right now.
I have to respond with of course, "The Scrambler" (damn! I only with I thought of it myself)
Interactive toys like the "chuckits" which are great in that they excercise the dog with your help and one of my favourite is the "Tirebiter" rubber tire. Harder to chew up than a Kong toy (and seriously...what the heck IS the design of the Kongs?!?...it looks like a giant butt plug....uh I mean...I've HEARD it does)..but I digress. The Tire is also great to use as a "Treatball" in that you can put treats....perhaps with one of our handmade, organic treats baked fresh right here at Woofles and Meowz .....shameless self promotion eh?!
The treat or biscuit balls are great to get the pooch to DO something to earn a reward. I am not a big fan of simply piling on the treats willy-nilly or using treats for constant training but I do not mind the dog having to figure out how to get a treat out of a toy and working toward a goal.
The Tirebiter toy is also cool because it is (and this is really important) it is easy to keep clean.
Its a pretty bet the dog will take to it with a bit of peanutbutter smeared on the inside and some of its kibble stuck to it.............mmmmmmm kibble goodness!
Remember..make 'em work for the treats.
I have to respond with of course, "The Scrambler" (damn! I only with I thought of it myself)
Interactive toys like the "chuckits" which are great in that they excercise the dog with your help and one of my favourite is the "Tirebiter" rubber tire. Harder to chew up than a Kong toy (and seriously...what the heck IS the design of the Kongs?!?...it looks like a giant butt plug....uh I mean...I've HEARD it does)..but I digress. The Tire is also great to use as a "Treatball" in that you can put treats....perhaps with one of our handmade, organic treats baked fresh right here at Woofles and Meowz .....shameless self promotion eh?!
The treat or biscuit balls are great to get the pooch to DO something to earn a reward. I am not a big fan of simply piling on the treats willy-nilly or using treats for constant training but I do not mind the dog having to figure out how to get a treat out of a toy and working toward a goal.
The Tirebiter toy is also cool because it is (and this is really important) it is easy to keep clean.
Its a pretty bet the dog will take to it with a bit of peanutbutter smeared on the inside and some of its kibble stuck to it.............mmmmmmm kibble goodness!
Remember..make 'em work for the treats.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Martingale Dog collars and the benefits of good equipment.
Recently a woman came into the store here at Woofles and Meowz and was browsing our selection of "soft" harnesses.
I asked her what type of dog she had, after a quick info shpiel on the benefits of using that particular type of harness, and why she was wanting a harness.
She said that she was presently using a strap harness on her 3 month old dog and I asked her why she wanted a soft harness...."I dunno" she shrugged with a wry smile.
"Ok what is the concern with the other harness?" I asked her with a knowing smile.
"I dunno..I just don't like it" was her response.
"Do you prefer a harness over a collar?"
"I'm not sure" she gave with a bit of a flip of the head.
*sigh*
".............ok, well, harnesses don't work as well as a collar with walking on a lead" I started
"but it CHOKES!"she blurted.
".............um...............yes.....to a point...........that..............it how................the dog...........learns that you ..........want...........them to mind you" was all I could get out as she scowled at me.
Needless to say the rest of the exchange was less than productive though I did try to explain that I would like her to know that I often talk people out of buying items that I think they would not use or need to use............she would have none of it though as there was a bit of a quietly defensive nature I was dealing with so I just let it go. Sometimes you just have to do this.
Now, at this point I knew it was a lost cause....this type of person was the same type that I used to see in dog class who would refrain from doing ANY kind of behaviour control and WONDER why their dog was so misbehaved.
The blog could go on for several more paragraphs on the proper exchange of intent in teaching dogs but in this blog I would like to focus on one thing that she was sorrowly lacking besides good sense and that is good equipment.
Harnesses while great for some things are NOT great for teaching proper lead control and sitting, staying techniques.
As harnesses distribute weight throughout a larger area the dog is uncertain to what you need he/she to do when a simple,short,twitch is used to correct behaviour.
We are NOT talking about choking or mangling a dog's neck we are talking about getting their attention.
A MARTINGALE collar is a great tool in this regard for a few reasons...one is that it gives a gentle squeeze to the dog when and only when the dog pulls excessively.
Two is that it does the same thing when a a quick jerk of the lead is used and it releases immediately.
Three is that the chained kind rather than the "soft" Martingale gives a clicking feel and noise that indicates after a while not to pull.
********
Martingale Dog collars are also known as Greyhound, Whippet or humane choke collars. The Martingale dog collar was designed for Sighthounds because their necks are larger than their heads and they can often slip out of buckle collars. These collars have gained popularity among other breed owners in the recent past with many trainers now recommending them instead of choke chains or buckle collars.
Martingale Dog Collars are fitted to the exact size of the dog's neck when the collar is pulled closed. Properly fitted, the collar will be comfortably loose when not in use. When the Martingale control loop is pulled, the two slides (hardware on the small control loop of the Martingale Collar) should pull close together but the two slides should never touch otherwise the squeezing is not effective.
THIS is what the woman should have been using on her dog but somewhere, somehow, someone told her that her pooch should not have anything around its neck....that it was a bad idea. She was ans is ill informed and unfortunately will not be able to control her dog as well as she should.
The right tools used in the right manner have always produced results and this is so true with dog equipment as well.
Cheers and WOOF!!!!
I asked her what type of dog she had, after a quick info shpiel on the benefits of using that particular type of harness, and why she was wanting a harness.
She said that she was presently using a strap harness on her 3 month old dog and I asked her why she wanted a soft harness...."I dunno" she shrugged with a wry smile.
"Ok what is the concern with the other harness?" I asked her with a knowing smile.
"I dunno..I just don't like it" was her response.
"Do you prefer a harness over a collar?"
"I'm not sure" she gave with a bit of a flip of the head.
*sigh*
".............ok, well, harnesses don't work as well as a collar with walking on a lead" I started
"but it CHOKES!"she blurted.
".............um...............yes.....to a point...........that..............it how................the dog...........learns that you ..........want...........them to mind you" was all I could get out as she scowled at me.
Needless to say the rest of the exchange was less than productive though I did try to explain that I would like her to know that I often talk people out of buying items that I think they would not use or need to use............she would have none of it though as there was a bit of a quietly defensive nature I was dealing with so I just let it go. Sometimes you just have to do this.
Now, at this point I knew it was a lost cause....this type of person was the same type that I used to see in dog class who would refrain from doing ANY kind of behaviour control and WONDER why their dog was so misbehaved.
The blog could go on for several more paragraphs on the proper exchange of intent in teaching dogs but in this blog I would like to focus on one thing that she was sorrowly lacking besides good sense and that is good equipment.
Harnesses while great for some things are NOT great for teaching proper lead control and sitting, staying techniques.
As harnesses distribute weight throughout a larger area the dog is uncertain to what you need he/she to do when a simple,short,twitch is used to correct behaviour.
We are NOT talking about choking or mangling a dog's neck we are talking about getting their attention.
A MARTINGALE collar is a great tool in this regard for a few reasons...one is that it gives a gentle squeeze to the dog when and only when the dog pulls excessively.
Two is that it does the same thing when a a quick jerk of the lead is used and it releases immediately.
Three is that the chained kind rather than the "soft" Martingale gives a clicking feel and noise that indicates after a while not to pull.
********
Martingale Dog collars are also known as Greyhound, Whippet or humane choke collars. The Martingale dog collar was designed for Sighthounds because their necks are larger than their heads and they can often slip out of buckle collars. These collars have gained popularity among other breed owners in the recent past with many trainers now recommending them instead of choke chains or buckle collars.
Martingale Dog Collars are fitted to the exact size of the dog's neck when the collar is pulled closed. Properly fitted, the collar will be comfortably loose when not in use. When the Martingale control loop is pulled, the two slides (hardware on the small control loop of the Martingale Collar) should pull close together but the two slides should never touch otherwise the squeezing is not effective.
THIS is what the woman should have been using on her dog but somewhere, somehow, someone told her that her pooch should not have anything around its neck....that it was a bad idea. She was ans is ill informed and unfortunately will not be able to control her dog as well as she should.
The right tools used in the right manner have always produced results and this is so true with dog equipment as well.
Cheers and WOOF!!!!
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Keeping your dog cool with Woofles and Meowz
Be a Cool Owner: Don’t Let Your Dog Overheat
Working up a good sweat in the hot summer months may be good for you, but it can lead to heat stroke in your dog and kill him in a matter of minutes. Heat stroke is a dangerous condition that takes the lives of many animals every year. Your dog's normal body temperature is 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If it rises to 105 or 106 degrees, the dog is at risk for developing heat exhaustion. If the body temperature rises to 107 degrees, your dog has entered the dangerous zone of heat stroke. With heat stroke, irreversible damage and death can occur. Here are some cold summer facts: The temperature in a parked car can reach 160 degrees in a matter of minutes, even with partially opened windows. And any dog exercising on a hot, humid day, even with plenty of water, can become overheated. Overheating often leads to heat stroke. As a pet owner, you should know the dangers of overheating and what to do to prevent it.
You should also know the signs of heat stroke and what to do if your dog exhibits those signs.When humans overheat we are able to sweat in order to cool down. However, your dog cannot sweat as easily; he must rely on panting to cool down. Dogs breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth, directing the air over the mucous membranes of the tongue, throat and trachea to facilitate cooling by evaporation of fluid. Your dog also dissipates heat by dilation of the blood vessels in the surface of the skin in the face, ears and feet. When these mechanisms are overwhelmed, hyperthermia and heat stroke usually develop.Dogs who have a thick coat, heart and lung problems or a short muzzle are at greater risk for heat stroke. Others at risk include
Puppies up to 6 months of age
Large dogs over 7 years of age and small dogs over 14 years
Overweight dogs
Dogs who are overexerted
Ill dogs or those on medication
Brachycephalic dogs (short, wide heads) like pugs, English bulldogs and Boston terriers
Dogs with cardiovascular disease and/or poor circulationWhat To Watch For If your dog is overheating, he will appear sluggish and unresponsive. He may appear disorientated. The gums, tongue and conjunctiva of the eyes may be bright red and he will probably be panting hard. He may even start vomiting. Eventually he will collapse, seizure and may go into a coma.If your dog exhibits any of these signs, treat it as an emergency and call your veterinarian immediately. On the way to your veterinary hospital, you can cool your pet with wet towels, spray with cool water from a hose or by providing ice chips for your dog to chew (providing he is conscious). Veterinary Care Heat related illness is typically diagnosed based on physical exam findings and a recent history that could result in overheating. Your veterinarian may perform various blood tests to assess the extent of vital organ dysfunction caused by overheating. Intensity of treatment depends upon the cause and severity of the heat illness.
Mildly increased temperature (less than 105°F) may only require rest, a fan to increase air circulation, fresh water to drink and careful observation.
Markedly increased temperature (greater than 106°F) must be treated more aggressively. Cooling can be promoted externally by immersion in cool water or internally by administering a cool water enema.
Underlying aggravating conditions, such as upper airway obstructive diseases, heart disease, lung disease and dehydration may be treated with appropriate medications, supplemental oxygen or fluid therapy.Home Care Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. Check your dog's temperature rectally if you suspect heat stroke. If it is over 105 degrees F, remove your dog from the heat source immediately and call your veterinarian. Meanwhile, place a cool, wet towel over your dog or place him in a cool bath. Do not use ice because it may cause skin injury. Spraying with water from a garden hose also works well.
always...always carry water with you on super hot days like it is in Vancouver this past few weeks...its important for both you and your dog...
WOOF!!
Working up a good sweat in the hot summer months may be good for you, but it can lead to heat stroke in your dog and kill him in a matter of minutes. Heat stroke is a dangerous condition that takes the lives of many animals every year. Your dog's normal body temperature is 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If it rises to 105 or 106 degrees, the dog is at risk for developing heat exhaustion. If the body temperature rises to 107 degrees, your dog has entered the dangerous zone of heat stroke. With heat stroke, irreversible damage and death can occur. Here are some cold summer facts: The temperature in a parked car can reach 160 degrees in a matter of minutes, even with partially opened windows. And any dog exercising on a hot, humid day, even with plenty of water, can become overheated. Overheating often leads to heat stroke. As a pet owner, you should know the dangers of overheating and what to do to prevent it.
You should also know the signs of heat stroke and what to do if your dog exhibits those signs.When humans overheat we are able to sweat in order to cool down. However, your dog cannot sweat as easily; he must rely on panting to cool down. Dogs breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth, directing the air over the mucous membranes of the tongue, throat and trachea to facilitate cooling by evaporation of fluid. Your dog also dissipates heat by dilation of the blood vessels in the surface of the skin in the face, ears and feet. When these mechanisms are overwhelmed, hyperthermia and heat stroke usually develop.Dogs who have a thick coat, heart and lung problems or a short muzzle are at greater risk for heat stroke. Others at risk include
Puppies up to 6 months of age
Large dogs over 7 years of age and small dogs over 14 years
Overweight dogs
Dogs who are overexerted
Ill dogs or those on medication
Brachycephalic dogs (short, wide heads) like pugs, English bulldogs and Boston terriers
Dogs with cardiovascular disease and/or poor circulationWhat To Watch For If your dog is overheating, he will appear sluggish and unresponsive. He may appear disorientated. The gums, tongue and conjunctiva of the eyes may be bright red and he will probably be panting hard. He may even start vomiting. Eventually he will collapse, seizure and may go into a coma.If your dog exhibits any of these signs, treat it as an emergency and call your veterinarian immediately. On the way to your veterinary hospital, you can cool your pet with wet towels, spray with cool water from a hose or by providing ice chips for your dog to chew (providing he is conscious). Veterinary Care Heat related illness is typically diagnosed based on physical exam findings and a recent history that could result in overheating. Your veterinarian may perform various blood tests to assess the extent of vital organ dysfunction caused by overheating. Intensity of treatment depends upon the cause and severity of the heat illness.
Mildly increased temperature (less than 105°F) may only require rest, a fan to increase air circulation, fresh water to drink and careful observation.
Markedly increased temperature (greater than 106°F) must be treated more aggressively. Cooling can be promoted externally by immersion in cool water or internally by administering a cool water enema.
Underlying aggravating conditions, such as upper airway obstructive diseases, heart disease, lung disease and dehydration may be treated with appropriate medications, supplemental oxygen or fluid therapy.Home Care Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. Check your dog's temperature rectally if you suspect heat stroke. If it is over 105 degrees F, remove your dog from the heat source immediately and call your veterinarian. Meanwhile, place a cool, wet towel over your dog or place him in a cool bath. Do not use ice because it may cause skin injury. Spraying with water from a garden hose also works well.
always...always carry water with you on super hot days like it is in Vancouver this past few weeks...its important for both you and your dog...
WOOF!!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Green, organic, sustainable dog treats.
Recently over a dinner party it was discussed about the benefits of being "Green". More than a few people all agreed that it was a necessary direction that we all move towards but I asked "why...what does it mean to you to be green?"
One person suggested that his Prius was the green choice over my Jaguar as it was "less impact on the environment".
I asked "why?"
..."because it obviously takes less gas and throws less carbon emissions into the air" he said smug smile on hs face.
"Ahhhh but"... I countered "Your car in new...had to be made new with batteries that require special handling...plastics that take oil reserves. shipping of the new car...resources lost to manufacturing and a $4500. premium that he will have to drive the car 10+ years to recoup the gasoline savings"......the perplexed look on his face was brilliant! ..while the intent is a great one I continued...I bought MY car with 41,000 kms on it...second hand so there was no need to make a new car......I saved money buying second hand......I dont have to store mercury and lead batteries when It goes to the scrap heap...if ever...the hand built panels can be hammered out if dented and not simply replaced with more plastic and it looks damn hot to boot!
Your choice I said is being "sustainable"..not being "green"....if you wanted to be be green you would have bought a bike or walked.
The point to this story is not to show that one choice is better than another (although admittedly who would not want to drive a Jaguar convertible instead of a Prius...HELLO!?!?) but it is more to the point that we have choices to be more consumer savvy when it comes to how we trade our dollars.
Here at Woofles and Meowz I make great efforts to buy organic ingredients that are local and items that are made in Canada or BC, Plastics that are biodegradeable and choices on how you can purchase items.
Nobody is perfect and nobody should say that anyone MUST live a "green" or sustainable lifestyle but it is important to try if you want to and get the proper information on the products that we take home. Don't just jump on the bandwagon and subscribe to the buzz words and catch phrases of the day and make yourself feel better by not using a bag to put that bottled water into........buy from true organic, local producing places like Woofles and Meowz and for that matter most of the stores here on Granville Island.
..............just sayin'!
WOOF!!!
One person suggested that his Prius was the green choice over my Jaguar as it was "less impact on the environment".
I asked "why?"
..."because it obviously takes less gas and throws less carbon emissions into the air" he said smug smile on hs face.
"Ahhhh but"... I countered "Your car in new...had to be made new with batteries that require special handling...plastics that take oil reserves. shipping of the new car...resources lost to manufacturing and a $4500. premium that he will have to drive the car 10+ years to recoup the gasoline savings"......the perplexed look on his face was brilliant! ..while the intent is a great one I continued...I bought MY car with 41,000 kms on it...second hand so there was no need to make a new car......I saved money buying second hand......I dont have to store mercury and lead batteries when It goes to the scrap heap...if ever...the hand built panels can be hammered out if dented and not simply replaced with more plastic and it looks damn hot to boot!
Your choice I said is being "sustainable"..not being "green"....if you wanted to be be green you would have bought a bike or walked.
The point to this story is not to show that one choice is better than another (although admittedly who would not want to drive a Jaguar convertible instead of a Prius...HELLO!?!?) but it is more to the point that we have choices to be more consumer savvy when it comes to how we trade our dollars.
Here at Woofles and Meowz I make great efforts to buy organic ingredients that are local and items that are made in Canada or BC, Plastics that are biodegradeable and choices on how you can purchase items.
Nobody is perfect and nobody should say that anyone MUST live a "green" or sustainable lifestyle but it is important to try if you want to and get the proper information on the products that we take home. Don't just jump on the bandwagon and subscribe to the buzz words and catch phrases of the day and make yourself feel better by not using a bag to put that bottled water into........buy from true organic, local producing places like Woofles and Meowz and for that matter most of the stores here on Granville Island.
..............just sayin'!
WOOF!!!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Interbred dogs.
Recently and more frequently I have been introduced to bizarre and baffling diseases that animals have that are coming into the store. People have been telling me that their carnivors cannot eat meat..that they are unable to take stairs or run or wear a collar for fear of choking.
With a perplexed mindset I started looking up the major factors to why there is such a problem with animals bred for the "doggy set".
I admit that I had and have my own suspicions with so many years of dog and cat connections but I was enlightened beyond what I expected.
To sum it up in a nutshell.....and without fear of making an overly broad statement I have to come to the conclusion that we have, in the past 100 years, overbred certain "pedigreed" dogs to the point that they have unusual and debilitating physical problems.
Recently it was passed in the UK that breeding standards were to be changed after pressure from the BBC which broadcasts the major dog showing there.
The BBC pulled out of the dog show after it was embroiled in the row over the welfare of pedigree dogs, leaving the event untelevised for the first time in 40 years.
Pedigree Dogs Exposed, a BBC1 documentary last year, claimed some of the Kennel Club's standards were effectively encouraging dog owners to breed ill-health into their pets.
Related Articles
Kennel Club dog breeding shake-up 'not radical enough', RSPCA says
Crufts presenter Peter Purves 'saddened' by BBC's decision to axe coverage
Dog winched to safety after cliff fall
RSPCA fights dog fashion
Inbred pedigree cats suffering from life-threatening diseases and deformities
BBC tightens rules ahead of new series of University Challenge
It revealed that decades of inbreeding has caused epilepsy and cancer among some entrants at the event, described by a leading vet as showcasing "a parade of mutants".
The corporation subsequently suspended coverage of the Crufts dog show in 2009 after The Kennel Club refused to comply with the BBC's demands that 14 'at risk' breeds be excluded from the competition.
Crufts attracted 150,000 visitors last year and an average of three million television viewers each day.
The Kennel Club has now said it will change the standards – the ideal which show dogs must try and match - to ensure that all dogs are "fit for their original function". It will also ban the breeding of close relatives.
There are a number of breed specific amendments, for 78 breeds.
They have been revised so that they will not include anything that could in any way be interpreted as encouraging features that might prevent a dog from breathing, walking and seeing freely.
Under the "strict new rules", the standard for Shar Pei dogs will no longer include exaggerated folds of loose skin across its neck, skull and legs and breeders must stop encouraging "excessive weight" in Labradors.
Owners of Clumber Spaniels will be banned from "exaggerating substance" – the size of a dog's body and muscle – so that they would be fit for their original purpose of working in the field.
Marc Abraham, Kennel Club veterinary advisor, said: "The changes that have been announced today will leave breeders and judges in no doubt about their responsibilities to safeguard the health and welfare of dogs, first and foremost."
The Kennel Club denied suggestions that the new guidelines were bought in as a result of the BBC decision to suspend coverage of Crufts.
The Kennel Club is tied into a contract with the BBC until 2010, meaning it cannot offer the rights to a rival broadcaster. The BBC pays an annual six-figure sum to the Kennel Club for the television rights and could face a legal battle if it decides to suspend payment for the coming year.
Concerns raised by the documentary have already led to the withdrawal of Pedigree, the main sponsor, and the RSPCA. The animal charity welcomed the BBC's decision, describing current breed standards as "morally unjustifiable".
Mark Evans, the RSPCA's Chief veterinary adviser, said watching Crufts was "like seeing a parade of mutants".
He said: "Many characteristics which are considered desirable in pedigree dogs – as defined by the breed standards which the Kennel Club promotes – are actually shocking deformities which affect the welfare and quality of life for hundreds of thousands of dogs.
"There are now recognised to be more than 450 inherited diseases suffered by pedigree dogs and we believe the intentional breeding of deformed dogs and close inbreeding is morally unjustifiable and must stop."
Kennel Club spokesman Caroline Kisko said: "We said in the autumn that a new review standards would be bought out, long before the BBC pulled out of Crufts. As far as we're concerned, we're looking for different broadcasters. We're currently under BBC contract, whether they choose to broadcast for the next year or not."
The revised standards will be used to judge dogs in Crufts 2009.
A BBC spokesman said Crufts would not be shown in March. He added: "We remain open to the idea that Crufts will return to the BBC and this is an interesting development."
Here in Canada we are not too far behind the ill breeding of pets but for a slightly different reason. Traditionally, dogs were bred to do certain tasks and bred into those dogs were physical traits that warranted doing the work asked of it. Here in North America primarily we are seeing physical traits of dogs that are only useful for simple esthetics. Super small dogs called teacup this and teacup that and superfat, long eared breeds that would certainly not be able to attack any task asked of them. The excellent nose on certain hounds are only as good as the short time it takes for the overly fat and loose skinned dog to become too tired to continue. Overheating on dogs unable to breathe through the folds of their nasal cavities simply because someone thought the face should be flatter is beyond comprehension!
Because dogs in the UK have often been bred in pedigreed kennels from Mother to Son and sibling to sibling bad traits are often exaggerated.
Here it seems to be an uneducated eye (read backyard breeder) that "tries" breeding a separate lineage into a family and finds unwanted results and therefor not truly "pedigreed" dogs being sold for serious dollars.
Interestingly enough.......the mixed breeds (NOT the designer dogs..ie:puggle,everything-doodle, etc) are living healthier lives because the right genes are taking up the stand and creating less health related problems.....yay!
Now.......I loves me all kinda dogs....whether mixed breeds or so called pure breeds...I just want to see them live for a loooong time without pain, health problems or chronic digestive issues.
Be careful what you ask for!
WOOF!!!
With a perplexed mindset I started looking up the major factors to why there is such a problem with animals bred for the "doggy set".
I admit that I had and have my own suspicions with so many years of dog and cat connections but I was enlightened beyond what I expected.
To sum it up in a nutshell.....and without fear of making an overly broad statement I have to come to the conclusion that we have, in the past 100 years, overbred certain "pedigreed" dogs to the point that they have unusual and debilitating physical problems.
Recently it was passed in the UK that breeding standards were to be changed after pressure from the BBC which broadcasts the major dog showing there.
The BBC pulled out of the dog show after it was embroiled in the row over the welfare of pedigree dogs, leaving the event untelevised for the first time in 40 years.
Pedigree Dogs Exposed, a BBC1 documentary last year, claimed some of the Kennel Club's standards were effectively encouraging dog owners to breed ill-health into their pets.
Related Articles
Kennel Club dog breeding shake-up 'not radical enough', RSPCA says
Crufts presenter Peter Purves 'saddened' by BBC's decision to axe coverage
Dog winched to safety after cliff fall
RSPCA fights dog fashion
Inbred pedigree cats suffering from life-threatening diseases and deformities
BBC tightens rules ahead of new series of University Challenge
It revealed that decades of inbreeding has caused epilepsy and cancer among some entrants at the event, described by a leading vet as showcasing "a parade of mutants".
The corporation subsequently suspended coverage of the Crufts dog show in 2009 after The Kennel Club refused to comply with the BBC's demands that 14 'at risk' breeds be excluded from the competition.
Crufts attracted 150,000 visitors last year and an average of three million television viewers each day.
The Kennel Club has now said it will change the standards – the ideal which show dogs must try and match - to ensure that all dogs are "fit for their original function". It will also ban the breeding of close relatives.
There are a number of breed specific amendments, for 78 breeds.
They have been revised so that they will not include anything that could in any way be interpreted as encouraging features that might prevent a dog from breathing, walking and seeing freely.
Under the "strict new rules", the standard for Shar Pei dogs will no longer include exaggerated folds of loose skin across its neck, skull and legs and breeders must stop encouraging "excessive weight" in Labradors.
Owners of Clumber Spaniels will be banned from "exaggerating substance" – the size of a dog's body and muscle – so that they would be fit for their original purpose of working in the field.
Marc Abraham, Kennel Club veterinary advisor, said: "The changes that have been announced today will leave breeders and judges in no doubt about their responsibilities to safeguard the health and welfare of dogs, first and foremost."
The Kennel Club denied suggestions that the new guidelines were bought in as a result of the BBC decision to suspend coverage of Crufts.
The Kennel Club is tied into a contract with the BBC until 2010, meaning it cannot offer the rights to a rival broadcaster. The BBC pays an annual six-figure sum to the Kennel Club for the television rights and could face a legal battle if it decides to suspend payment for the coming year.
Concerns raised by the documentary have already led to the withdrawal of Pedigree, the main sponsor, and the RSPCA. The animal charity welcomed the BBC's decision, describing current breed standards as "morally unjustifiable".
Mark Evans, the RSPCA's Chief veterinary adviser, said watching Crufts was "like seeing a parade of mutants".
He said: "Many characteristics which are considered desirable in pedigree dogs – as defined by the breed standards which the Kennel Club promotes – are actually shocking deformities which affect the welfare and quality of life for hundreds of thousands of dogs.
"There are now recognised to be more than 450 inherited diseases suffered by pedigree dogs and we believe the intentional breeding of deformed dogs and close inbreeding is morally unjustifiable and must stop."
Kennel Club spokesman Caroline Kisko said: "We said in the autumn that a new review standards would be bought out, long before the BBC pulled out of Crufts. As far as we're concerned, we're looking for different broadcasters. We're currently under BBC contract, whether they choose to broadcast for the next year or not."
The revised standards will be used to judge dogs in Crufts 2009.
A BBC spokesman said Crufts would not be shown in March. He added: "We remain open to the idea that Crufts will return to the BBC and this is an interesting development."
Here in Canada we are not too far behind the ill breeding of pets but for a slightly different reason. Traditionally, dogs were bred to do certain tasks and bred into those dogs were physical traits that warranted doing the work asked of it. Here in North America primarily we are seeing physical traits of dogs that are only useful for simple esthetics. Super small dogs called teacup this and teacup that and superfat, long eared breeds that would certainly not be able to attack any task asked of them. The excellent nose on certain hounds are only as good as the short time it takes for the overly fat and loose skinned dog to become too tired to continue. Overheating on dogs unable to breathe through the folds of their nasal cavities simply because someone thought the face should be flatter is beyond comprehension!
Because dogs in the UK have often been bred in pedigreed kennels from Mother to Son and sibling to sibling bad traits are often exaggerated.
Here it seems to be an uneducated eye (read backyard breeder) that "tries" breeding a separate lineage into a family and finds unwanted results and therefor not truly "pedigreed" dogs being sold for serious dollars.
Interestingly enough.......the mixed breeds (NOT the designer dogs..ie:puggle,everything-doodle, etc) are living healthier lives because the right genes are taking up the stand and creating less health related problems.....yay!
Now.......I loves me all kinda dogs....whether mixed breeds or so called pure breeds...I just want to see them live for a loooong time without pain, health problems or chronic digestive issues.
Be careful what you ask for!
WOOF!!!
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Woofles and Meowz Pet bakery and boutique.
Having a super group of regular customers at the store as well as dedicated, returning travellers. (which amazes me that people come back each year to the same store for items for their pets...that ROCKS!!!) I love when people send me photos of their pets.
Christie Cameron recently sent me a pic of her and her dog "Rose" kayaking. There they were floating along cool as could be...what more could you ask for huh?!??
I'll post a pic of them on the right side of the blog.
Thanks for the pic Christie!
Christie Cameron recently sent me a pic of her and her dog "Rose" kayaking. There they were floating along cool as could be...what more could you ask for huh?!??
I'll post a pic of them on the right side of the blog.
Thanks for the pic Christie!
Spay and Neuter your pets.
So there is a customer of Woofles and Meowz that came into the store with his wife and dog several months ago proudly displaying his remarkable new dog. This dog was already 9 months old and he was getting pressure from his wife and friends to get the dog "fixed" as there was some aggressive tendancies being exhibited. After a short conversation where I asked why he was against the procedure he suggested that by neuturing his dog it ..and I quote.."make him less of a man". "You mean..less of a stud dog" I countered. "Yeh, thats what I mean" he said with his wife rolling her eyes in the background.
"Well" I said.."it is fine if you plan on breeding this dog in controlled circumstances, with other pedigreed dogs in the hopes that you can offer the pups for sale after you have created enough space, time, vet prep, innoculations,community connections within that breed standard....."
"oh I guess it can't be that he does the business and comes back home?
At that point I took a hard look at him and said with full backbone up "you know, don't you that a stud dog has amny more needs and requirements than a neutered dog right?....it can be the dog will mark and be territorial towards male dogs and possibly aggressive to people who he feels the need to dominate...that includes your kids and wife right? Not to mention the stress of a dog that will be constantly in a state of need to mate right? The fact that the dog stills has it's "berries" has no connection or suggestion of lack of manhood in it's owner right?!??
He just looked at me.
"Seriously, dude, what is the deal? I went on..."what is YOUR connection to his balls...what makes his ability to breed..to carry on a line by amateur dog fanciers so important to you? Are you a dog show watcher?"
"No."
"Do you or have you ever bred dogs before?"
"NO"....he is starting to get angry now.....his wife is grinning ear to ear.
"See the babe behind you?? she's a total fox dude..and she picked you....yer ALREADY a stud! Get over it!! (sometimes being a redneck gay man lets me get away with murder)
Deal with the aggressive behaviour that your dog is showing and talk to a breeder (I gave him a name) and see what they say to do in regards to timing of the "fix."
I recommend that it is later than some other people say to do so providing you can adequately handle the emotional state for the dog up until then. Too early can also be a problem with regards to health factors.
Fast forward several months:
Here he is with his dog all grins and happy to report that his dog DID get some advanced training and he noticed that all the GOOD traits of the dog were kept and all the bad ones were for the most part culled after the neutering.
"Welllll DUH!!!! I couldn't resist as I fed the dog a big 'ol treat....good on ya!
"Yahhh " he said..."and I'm getting divorced!!
"WHAT?!??!??"
"Just kidding!"
well I was on the floor with laugher! He had let go of silly notions and was happy enough to zing me with a good joke.
Sometimes I love my work.....
The following is an article I read on this subject recently>>>
Bringing home a dog is the easy part. Taking care of and being responsible for the dogs in our care is the part that separates the responsible owners from the irresponsible ones. One of the most frequent topics that arise in alignment with responsible dog ownership is about spaying and neutering our dogs.
What I hope to accomplish in this short article is for you to determine when is the best time to spay or neuter your dog and the ramifications if you do not do this: both for the health of your dog and the responsibility you accepted just by bringing this dog home with you.
I really hope you'll read this all the way through and then understand that I am not against spaying and neutering but rather I'm about being responsible for all aspects of your dog's care. I've recently discovered from a veterinarian friend, that our animals are being spayed and neutered far too young for their long-term health and longevity. If we continue to neuter or spay them before they are fully mature the problems with immune-mediated diseases - due in part also to poor nutrition and overvaccinating – will only grow worse. Hormones are in our bodies and those of our dogs for a reason. Hormones play key roles in the overall health and longevity of the life of our dogs. Therefore it just makes sense that neutering or spaying too young could certainly lead to long-term health problems in our dogs.
What I am not saying here is to forgo the responsibility of spaying and neutering your pet animals. Really I think that breeding should be left up to the responsible, ethical breeders who care about the structure, health, temperament, and so on of the breeds they are breeding. I do not think the average person who has a purebred or mixed breed dog should breed their dogs. I also feel that the responsible thing to do is to neuter or spay our dogs to alleviate the needless euthanasia and waste of animals that end up in shelters. The only thing I am questioning here is when they should be spayed or neutered. I believe dogs need to mature fully before being spayed or neutered to insure their long-term good health. If we neuter a giant breed male dog at six months for example, rather than at eighteen months to two years, we are almost insuring this dog will have structural or joint problems fully manifested by age six or seven thereby effectively shortening the quality and length of the dog's life.
This does fly in the face of what we're being told now by shelters and rescues but again, part of that is propaganda being taught at all levels of animal husbandry. Rather than turn this article into a political statement I'd rather focus on the positive reinforcement of responsible dog ownership. Before bringing a dog home, determine the best possible age for spaying or neutering your dog in advance so you will be prepared to protect your pet prior to being spayed or neutered. For help on this subject go to Dr. John Symes, DVM website at www.dogtorj.net . He can help you to determine the best age for you to neuter or spay your breed of dog. Remember though, it will be up to you to make certain your dog is contained in an area where he or she cannot propagate their species: meaning not being able get out or loose to breed. Once your dog reaches maturity then spaying or neutering would be the right course of action on your part.
http://dogs.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_responsibility_of_dog_ownershi#ixzz0HhIInoNp&C
"Well" I said.."it is fine if you plan on breeding this dog in controlled circumstances, with other pedigreed dogs in the hopes that you can offer the pups for sale after you have created enough space, time, vet prep, innoculations,community connections within that breed standard....."
"oh I guess it can't be that he does the business and comes back home?
At that point I took a hard look at him and said with full backbone up "you know, don't you that a stud dog has amny more needs and requirements than a neutered dog right?....it can be the dog will mark and be territorial towards male dogs and possibly aggressive to people who he feels the need to dominate...that includes your kids and wife right? Not to mention the stress of a dog that will be constantly in a state of need to mate right? The fact that the dog stills has it's "berries" has no connection or suggestion of lack of manhood in it's owner right?!??
He just looked at me.
"Seriously, dude, what is the deal? I went on..."what is YOUR connection to his balls...what makes his ability to breed..to carry on a line by amateur dog fanciers so important to you? Are you a dog show watcher?"
"No."
"Do you or have you ever bred dogs before?"
"NO"....he is starting to get angry now.....his wife is grinning ear to ear.
"See the babe behind you?? she's a total fox dude..and she picked you....yer ALREADY a stud! Get over it!! (sometimes being a redneck gay man lets me get away with murder)
Deal with the aggressive behaviour that your dog is showing and talk to a breeder (I gave him a name) and see what they say to do in regards to timing of the "fix."
I recommend that it is later than some other people say to do so providing you can adequately handle the emotional state for the dog up until then. Too early can also be a problem with regards to health factors.
Fast forward several months:
Here he is with his dog all grins and happy to report that his dog DID get some advanced training and he noticed that all the GOOD traits of the dog were kept and all the bad ones were for the most part culled after the neutering.
"Welllll DUH!!!! I couldn't resist as I fed the dog a big 'ol treat....good on ya!
"Yahhh " he said..."and I'm getting divorced!!
"WHAT?!??!??"
"Just kidding!"
well I was on the floor with laugher! He had let go of silly notions and was happy enough to zing me with a good joke.
Sometimes I love my work.....
The following is an article I read on this subject recently>>>
Bringing home a dog is the easy part. Taking care of and being responsible for the dogs in our care is the part that separates the responsible owners from the irresponsible ones. One of the most frequent topics that arise in alignment with responsible dog ownership is about spaying and neutering our dogs.
What I hope to accomplish in this short article is for you to determine when is the best time to spay or neuter your dog and the ramifications if you do not do this: both for the health of your dog and the responsibility you accepted just by bringing this dog home with you.
I really hope you'll read this all the way through and then understand that I am not against spaying and neutering but rather I'm about being responsible for all aspects of your dog's care. I've recently discovered from a veterinarian friend, that our animals are being spayed and neutered far too young for their long-term health and longevity. If we continue to neuter or spay them before they are fully mature the problems with immune-mediated diseases - due in part also to poor nutrition and overvaccinating – will only grow worse. Hormones are in our bodies and those of our dogs for a reason. Hormones play key roles in the overall health and longevity of the life of our dogs. Therefore it just makes sense that neutering or spaying too young could certainly lead to long-term health problems in our dogs.
What I am not saying here is to forgo the responsibility of spaying and neutering your pet animals. Really I think that breeding should be left up to the responsible, ethical breeders who care about the structure, health, temperament, and so on of the breeds they are breeding. I do not think the average person who has a purebred or mixed breed dog should breed their dogs. I also feel that the responsible thing to do is to neuter or spay our dogs to alleviate the needless euthanasia and waste of animals that end up in shelters. The only thing I am questioning here is when they should be spayed or neutered. I believe dogs need to mature fully before being spayed or neutered to insure their long-term good health. If we neuter a giant breed male dog at six months for example, rather than at eighteen months to two years, we are almost insuring this dog will have structural or joint problems fully manifested by age six or seven thereby effectively shortening the quality and length of the dog's life.
This does fly in the face of what we're being told now by shelters and rescues but again, part of that is propaganda being taught at all levels of animal husbandry. Rather than turn this article into a political statement I'd rather focus on the positive reinforcement of responsible dog ownership. Before bringing a dog home, determine the best possible age for spaying or neutering your dog in advance so you will be prepared to protect your pet prior to being spayed or neutered. For help on this subject go to Dr. John Symes, DVM website at www.dogtorj.net . He can help you to determine the best age for you to neuter or spay your breed of dog. Remember though, it will be up to you to make certain your dog is contained in an area where he or she cannot propagate their species: meaning not being able get out or loose to breed. Once your dog reaches maturity then spaying or neutering would be the right course of action on your part.
http://dogs.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_responsibility_of_dog_ownershi#ixzz0HhIInoNp&C
Top selling dog toys.
At Woofles and Meowz we don't have alot of room to carry stuff that does not move. As one of Vancouver's first pet Boutiques and the first bakery for dogs in town we utilyze a wonderful old CP Rail caboose. This makes for space being a premium to say the least and it gives me a huge incentive to only have the best of the best and the most popular items I can find to maximize the merchandising options. If something does not move in this store, it is out!
One of the most often asked questions is "what is the most popular toys that you sell?"
I usually follow up with "what kind of dog do you have and what age is it presently?"
This makes, obviously, a big difference in what is "popular".
For big dog breeds the MOST popular toy we carry is "The Scrambler" an egg shaped toy mentioned in an earlier blog.
For medium sized dogs that are quite active and love to retrieve we have a super cool slingshot from "Hyperdog" in two sizes that will throw a ball 150-220 feet depending on the size....GREAT for those hyper dogs who love to chase.
For the active player/chewer we carry the firehose toys and one of my favourites called "Egg babies"..a cute and yet slightly macabre toy that has a plush toy with an opening that the dog can dig out squeeking eggs.....cute and saves the toy from being shredded..at least that is the theory. Remember. <<>>
and we proudly display that sign in the store
One of the most often asked questions is "what is the most popular toys that you sell?"
I usually follow up with "what kind of dog do you have and what age is it presently?"
This makes, obviously, a big difference in what is "popular".
For big dog breeds the MOST popular toy we carry is "The Scrambler" an egg shaped toy mentioned in an earlier blog.
For medium sized dogs that are quite active and love to retrieve we have a super cool slingshot from "Hyperdog" in two sizes that will throw a ball 150-220 feet depending on the size....GREAT for those hyper dogs who love to chase.
For the active player/chewer we carry the firehose toys and one of my favourites called "Egg babies"..a cute and yet slightly macabre toy that has a plush toy with an opening that the dog can dig out squeeking eggs.....cute and saves the toy from being shredded..at least that is the theory. Remember. <<
and we proudly display that sign in the store
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Cat harnesses and clothes....why bother?!?
At Woofles and Meowz we spend alot of time chatting with other trainers, handlers and owners of dogs but the only interaction I have with Cat owners is to listen to what they like in the way of treats, equipment and toys so I can order for my store. In fact all the stock in my store for Cats is requested by my regulars who have 100% say in what I bring in. It makes my job a wee bit easier.
The oft asked question I get on one piece of equipment for cats is.."will my cat wear this?"
I always respond half jokingly........"what do YOU think?"
This usually gets the answer most people were looking for as the REAL question in the query is "will my cat take off my skin if I try to cram him into this $60.00 sweater and can you tell me that he will wear it having never seen my cat so to support my intent to torment my feline into wearing something even for the 5 minutes it will take to get the picture"
.....pretty much the truth in that.
"what do YOU think" always settles the matter.
This also goes for people who want to put Fluffy in a harness and go for a walk. Some will find it ok and most will not. The trick for harnesses is to put them on when they are kittens. It always seems far too foreign for older cats.
Bless all the little kitties in their own furry sweaters.
meowwwrrrrwwrwrw!
The oft asked question I get on one piece of equipment for cats is.."will my cat wear this?"
I always respond half jokingly........"what do YOU think?"
This usually gets the answer most people were looking for as the REAL question in the query is "will my cat take off my skin if I try to cram him into this $60.00 sweater and can you tell me that he will wear it having never seen my cat so to support my intent to torment my feline into wearing something even for the 5 minutes it will take to get the picture"
.....pretty much the truth in that.
"what do YOU think" always settles the matter.
This also goes for people who want to put Fluffy in a harness and go for a walk. Some will find it ok and most will not. The trick for harnesses is to put them on when they are kittens. It always seems far too foreign for older cats.
Bless all the little kitties in their own furry sweaters.
meowwwrrrrwwrwrw!
Dog life jackets.
Last year I was told a GREAT story from a family that was purchasing a life jacket for their dog.
The dog being a pug was in sorry shape for cutting through the water being the dense body type it was.....and no don't send me emails saying "all dogs can swim and pugs are great swimmers". I know all dogs CAN swim but some are better at it than others and some are actually really poor swimmers in the water.....pugs, boston terriers, boxers....bulldogs are bricks in the water!!
So, the story goes that a gentleman and his dog head off from Horseshoe Bay here near Vancouver to their home on Bowen Island in their sailboat. This was a crossing that the well seasoned boater had made several times with his dog and was well known by the locals both on Bowen and at Horseshoe bay. He was and is a good boater and a sensible one who with some foresight put a lifejacket on his Labradore Retriever (GREAT swimmers). Heading west to Bowen the boat listed enough that with a silent splash unloaded a probably relaxed dog from the deck into the water. The boat carried on and one can only assume that the boater was either below for a moment or looking the other way. The dog finding itself closer to the dock at Horseshoe Bay headed that way.
As the boat came into harbour the baiter received a call on his cell "hey did you lose anything?"
"Ummmm no...did I leave the fenders down?" A typical jab at boaters from other salty dogs is the fender jab.....never leave the floats flopping along in the water while sailing...very lazy and tacky.
"Yeah, nooo yer dog just swam, barely back up to the deck here and is having a snack" said the caller. "We watched him swim from far off in the distance thinking it was a seal and saw him exhaustedly just float the last quarter mile in"
Needless to say the owner of the dog was surprised and embarrassed but happy that the dog was indeed safe and only due to the bouyancy of the floatation device did the dog survive.
Yes, dogs are great swimmers but like any animal not born to the water heat loss, exhaustion and disorientation are all factors in an easy trip to the bottom. This Lab had all but stopped moving and the wash from the ferry had pushed it the last bit towards the shore while the lifejacket kept its head above the water line.
The best part of the story is, of course, the dog lived and indeed I had sold the lifejacket to the dog's owner not 3 weeks before the event. I knew who they were talking about and let them spill the story. Admittedly each time I hear it the tale gets a bit more heroic but in the end the equipment worked!
Super WOOF!!!
The dog being a pug was in sorry shape for cutting through the water being the dense body type it was.....and no don't send me emails saying "all dogs can swim and pugs are great swimmers". I know all dogs CAN swim but some are better at it than others and some are actually really poor swimmers in the water.....pugs, boston terriers, boxers....bulldogs are bricks in the water!!
So, the story goes that a gentleman and his dog head off from Horseshoe Bay here near Vancouver to their home on Bowen Island in their sailboat. This was a crossing that the well seasoned boater had made several times with his dog and was well known by the locals both on Bowen and at Horseshoe bay. He was and is a good boater and a sensible one who with some foresight put a lifejacket on his Labradore Retriever (GREAT swimmers). Heading west to Bowen the boat listed enough that with a silent splash unloaded a probably relaxed dog from the deck into the water. The boat carried on and one can only assume that the boater was either below for a moment or looking the other way. The dog finding itself closer to the dock at Horseshoe Bay headed that way.
As the boat came into harbour the baiter received a call on his cell "hey did you lose anything?"
"Ummmm no...did I leave the fenders down?" A typical jab at boaters from other salty dogs is the fender jab.....never leave the floats flopping along in the water while sailing...very lazy and tacky.
"Yeah, nooo yer dog just swam, barely back up to the deck here and is having a snack" said the caller. "We watched him swim from far off in the distance thinking it was a seal and saw him exhaustedly just float the last quarter mile in"
Needless to say the owner of the dog was surprised and embarrassed but happy that the dog was indeed safe and only due to the bouyancy of the floatation device did the dog survive.
Yes, dogs are great swimmers but like any animal not born to the water heat loss, exhaustion and disorientation are all factors in an easy trip to the bottom. This Lab had all but stopped moving and the wash from the ferry had pushed it the last bit towards the shore while the lifejacket kept its head above the water line.
The best part of the story is, of course, the dog lived and indeed I had sold the lifejacket to the dog's owner not 3 weeks before the event. I knew who they were talking about and let them spill the story. Admittedly each time I hear it the tale gets a bit more heroic but in the end the equipment worked!
Super WOOF!!!
Dog Bakery ...is it necessary??
At Woofles and Meowz we are hard pressed to keep up with the manufacturing. It is the best problem to have trying to do all the baking that our four footed friends seem to desire and need.
Some people might ask..."NEED"?!?? The truth is a little more complicated than a smple yes or no. Does a dog NEED an organic, hand made treat with ingredients that most average people do not ingest? The simple answer is sometimes.
Sometimes the animal has developed internal problems that require dietary restrictions of certain ingredients.
Sometimes having a place that actually makes the recipes IN HOUSE lets people know what is in the treats.
Most times department store or grocery store brands are full of fillers (acceptable or not) whereas ours are not.
Sometimes people just want to be sure that what they are giving their pet will not make them barf at 3 in the morning.
Sometimes a well made treat with probiotics and/or good ingredients can add a healing component to the dog's diet.
Sometimes people just want a pretty, cute, well made, tasty looking, good for the pooch treat.
Most times it is really hard to find that elsewhere.
Organic cheeses, Lamb, chicken, vegetables etc are really NOT that more expensive to buy so I do and am happy to use them in our recipes.
Good stuff passed on to you and your dog and/or Cat in the case of our Signature Sardines (TM) and Shaved Smokin Tuna (TM).............mmmmmmm YUMMY!!!
woof!
Some people might ask..."NEED"?!?? The truth is a little more complicated than a smple yes or no. Does a dog NEED an organic, hand made treat with ingredients that most average people do not ingest? The simple answer is sometimes.
Sometimes the animal has developed internal problems that require dietary restrictions of certain ingredients.
Sometimes having a place that actually makes the recipes IN HOUSE lets people know what is in the treats.
Most times department store or grocery store brands are full of fillers (acceptable or not) whereas ours are not.
Sometimes people just want to be sure that what they are giving their pet will not make them barf at 3 in the morning.
Sometimes a well made treat with probiotics and/or good ingredients can add a healing component to the dog's diet.
Sometimes people just want a pretty, cute, well made, tasty looking, good for the pooch treat.
Most times it is really hard to find that elsewhere.
Organic cheeses, Lamb, chicken, vegetables etc are really NOT that more expensive to buy so I do and am happy to use them in our recipes.
Good stuff passed on to you and your dog and/or Cat in the case of our Signature Sardines (TM) and Shaved Smokin Tuna (TM).............mmmmmmm YUMMY!!!
woof!
Pet safety..keeping your dog and cat safe.
We have all heard the stories of the dog that was left in a car without adequate ventelation or the cat locked in the metal shed in the intense heat and the prevention of such scenes seems pretty easy to implement. Even easier than that is the simple remembering of water.
Last weekend we were riding on a warm, sunny day out at the Iona spit near the airport here in Vancouver and we came across a gentleman with his dog that looked like a cross between a Corgi and a small Shepherd. Lots of fur and short legs on the trip out to the end of the spit (which is 4 kilometers long) saw to it that the dog was pooped and panting to the point of alarm...and there was still the 4 kilometers back. The distance did not seem to daunting for the owner or us who were lucky to have bikes but the dog was seriously in need of some relief. Lucky for me I have a thoughtful partner who after asking if it was ok gave the dog a drink from his water bottle (so thinking this man IS, I have to say)
It seemed like a simple thing but the truth is that all animals need some water on a hot day. We carry at Woofles and Meowz a great selection of water bottles that make it super easy for Fido to have a wee drink when in need............simple right?!??
Last weekend we were riding on a warm, sunny day out at the Iona spit near the airport here in Vancouver and we came across a gentleman with his dog that looked like a cross between a Corgi and a small Shepherd. Lots of fur and short legs on the trip out to the end of the spit (which is 4 kilometers long) saw to it that the dog was pooped and panting to the point of alarm...and there was still the 4 kilometers back. The distance did not seem to daunting for the owner or us who were lucky to have bikes but the dog was seriously in need of some relief. Lucky for me I have a thoughtful partner who after asking if it was ok gave the dog a drink from his water bottle (so thinking this man IS, I have to say)
It seemed like a simple thing but the truth is that all animals need some water on a hot day. We carry at Woofles and Meowz a great selection of water bottles that make it super easy for Fido to have a wee drink when in need............simple right?!??
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Green pet toys and treats at Woofles and Meowz.
Lately I have been asked the question "is this product made locally?" or "is this organic?".
I have seen, heard and felt the change in the market with regard to people wanting sustainable products.
Being a manufacturer of products as well as an owner of a pet boutique I have made it my special interest to buy from local producers, small companies that use organic ingredients, buy organic ingredients to make our famous treats and employ local producers as best as possible.
Right now Woofles and Meows is a store that carries at least 50% locally or Canadian content...which.........is REALLY hard to do let me tell you.
Now, do not get me wrong. I am no tree hugging fanatic bent on wearing rough woven clothes and never touching anything plastic.....I just believe that we can do as much as we can faced with the choice to do so if it is available. That is the tipping point for me.....if I have the choice between a regular bag or a biodegradeable one even if it is twice the cost (for now) I will go for the "green" option. I think my customers really appreciate that fact.
I KNOW that the organic nature of our biscuits is very much a selling point for many folks here so it makes sense that other avenues are safe to follow.
I have been diligent though in fact finding in what is actually green. Everybody is jumping on the bandwagon to get that dollar out of your pocket and into their till and being "ECO friendly" seems to be the way to go and makes for brilliant marketing. This is unfortunatley where people simply see that something is sustainable and go with the flow without finding the 5Ws of it.
My recent experiences go like this:
Yes that recycled paper from London Drugs is good...but it comes from Brazil so it took resources and oil to get it all the way here....so not good in the long run.
That pretty Japanese pastry is organic but it is wrapped in a plastic container with a plastic label then put into a paper then a bag......soooo not good in the long run.
My oven cleaner is supposedly CFC free! and that should make us want and need it right? well CFC were banned decades ago and so it is a moot point...though we all feel better regardless huh!
Lets not get all crazy on ourselves and jump on the martyr train but I am gonna do MY part by reducing packaging when I can here in the store and buy locally as much as possible and make good things with good ingredients.
There is also a great website you can check out .. www.ethiquette.ca They seem to have some good info...and thats a start right?!??
cheers,
MEOW!!!!
I have seen, heard and felt the change in the market with regard to people wanting sustainable products.
Being a manufacturer of products as well as an owner of a pet boutique I have made it my special interest to buy from local producers, small companies that use organic ingredients, buy organic ingredients to make our famous treats and employ local producers as best as possible.
Right now Woofles and Meows is a store that carries at least 50% locally or Canadian content...which.........is REALLY hard to do let me tell you.
Now, do not get me wrong. I am no tree hugging fanatic bent on wearing rough woven clothes and never touching anything plastic.....I just believe that we can do as much as we can faced with the choice to do so if it is available. That is the tipping point for me.....if I have the choice between a regular bag or a biodegradeable one even if it is twice the cost (for now) I will go for the "green" option. I think my customers really appreciate that fact.
I KNOW that the organic nature of our biscuits is very much a selling point for many folks here so it makes sense that other avenues are safe to follow.
I have been diligent though in fact finding in what is actually green. Everybody is jumping on the bandwagon to get that dollar out of your pocket and into their till and being "ECO friendly" seems to be the way to go and makes for brilliant marketing. This is unfortunatley where people simply see that something is sustainable and go with the flow without finding the 5Ws of it.
My recent experiences go like this:
Yes that recycled paper from London Drugs is good...but it comes from Brazil so it took resources and oil to get it all the way here....so not good in the long run.
That pretty Japanese pastry is organic but it is wrapped in a plastic container with a plastic label then put into a paper then a bag......soooo not good in the long run.
My oven cleaner is supposedly CFC free! and that should make us want and need it right? well CFC were banned decades ago and so it is a moot point...though we all feel better regardless huh!
Lets not get all crazy on ourselves and jump on the martyr train but I am gonna do MY part by reducing packaging when I can here in the store and buy locally as much as possible and make good things with good ingredients.
There is also a great website you can check out .. www.ethiquette.ca They seem to have some good info...and thats a start right?!??
cheers,
MEOW!!!!
Spaying and neutering your animals.
Recently I was reading in the "Bark" magazine that the BCSPCA puts out and it was explaining some reasons and facts on animal reproduction.
I particularly like the simple math equation that says :
At two litters a year and six kittens per litter an unspayed cat can produce in seven years....wait for it......420,000 cats!!!
I am all for taking care of your animals and if still undecided there are a few question and answers that the American humane society was very happy to answer:
WHAT IS IT??
Spaying is a general term used to describe the ovariohysterectomy of a female animal. Neutering is a general term used to describe the castration of a male animal. However, neutering is used in reference to both genders. The surgical procedure, performed by a veterinarian, renders the animal incapable of reproducing. Here are answers to some questions you may have about this beneficial procedure.
When can I have this procedure done?
Both procedures can be performed as early as six weeks of age. American Humane is a strong proponet of "early" neutering since this guarantees that the animals will not be able to breed and populate within a community.
Why should I have my pet neutered?
Animal shelters, both public and private, unfortunately are faced with an incredible burden: What to do with the overpopulation of dogs and cats that they cannot find homes for. Estimates across the country indicate that over 10 million animals will be humanely euthanized at shelters each year, due to the sheer fact that there are not enough homes. Having your pet neutered ensures that you will not be adding to this tremendous burden.
What are some of the health benefits?
Through neutering, you can help your dog and cat live a happier, healthier, and longer life. Spaying eliminates the constant crying and nervous pacing that is a sign that a cat is in heat. Castration stops the mating drive in males, reducing the urge to roam, which in turn, reduces the risk of fights, injury, poisoning, accidents, and contracting diseases. If you have more than one pet in your household, all the pets will get along better if they are neutered.
A long-term benefit of neutering is improved health. Early neutering nearly eliminates breast cancer, and totally prevents uterine infections and uterine and testicular cancer.
Isn't it true that you only need to "fix" female dogs or cats?
Absolutely not! A male animal can father thousands of offspring in his lifetime. Roaming tomcats fighting other cats are a neighborhood nuisance and are prone to develop infections and abscesses from their fighting. An intact male may also develop the bad habit of marking its territory by urine marking.
Neutering just costs too much!
The cost of caring for a pet, including providing veterinary care, should be considered before acquiring an animal. If you would like to provide a good home for a pet, but cannot pay for the neuter, call your local animal shelter. They will be happy to provide information on low-cost neutering. The costs of having a litter are often more than the cost of neutering. There could be complications requiring hospitalization or surgery. You will be faced with finding homes or keeping the offspring yourself or placing more animals into your local shelter. The cost of the well-being of not just your companion animal but of future generations should be considered.
Can't I allow my purebred dog to have just one litter?
Mixed breed or purebred -- there just aren't enough homes. Animal shelters receive purebred animals everyday. Responsible purebred breeders have homes for their dogs before they are born.
I don't even own a pet! Why is this my problem?
All of us are affected by animal overpopulation. Millions of tax dollars are spent annually to round up lost, abandoned, and unwanted pets. Much of that money is spent to destroy these animals when homes cannot be found. Health is threatened by the danger of transmittable diseases, including rabies, animal bites, and attacks. Property may be damaged and livestock killed when pets roam in search of food. Animal waste, proving a serious environment hazard, foul yards and parks. It is only when all of us assume the responsibility for pet overpopulation that we will see any decrease in the problem.
Isn't it wrong to deprive an animal of the natural right to reproduce?
No, it's wrong to allow these animals to reproduce millions of unwanted offspring that are eventually killed because there aren't enough responsible homes.
If I find homes for my pets' litters then I won't contribute to the problem, right?
Wrong. Only a certain number of people want pets. So every home you find for your pet's offspring takes away a home from a loving animal already at a shelter.
Shouldn't every female pet have at least one litter before being spayed?
No. In fact, your pet will be healthier if she never sexually matures. Her personality will not improve either. She is just as likely to become less social and more aggressive after having a litter, as she is to become calmer and gentler.
Shouldn't children experience the miracle of birth?
No. A more important lesson to teach your child would be responsible pet ownership and concern for life by explaining why their pet should not have babies.
Doesn't neutering alter an animal's personality?
No. Personality changes that may result from neutering are for the better. Not being distracted by the instinctual need to find a mate helps your pet stop roaming and become calmer; though not less protective of their territory.
Won't animal shelters take care of the surplus animals?
No. Shelters do their best to place animals in loving homes, but the number of homeless animals far exceeds the number of available homes. This leaves many loving and healthy animals in our community that must be euthanized as the only humane solution to this tragic dilemma. Only spaying and neutering can end the overpopulation problem.
I think there are probably many more questions but if in need please feel free to contact your local SPCA.
WOOF!!!!
I particularly like the simple math equation that says :
At two litters a year and six kittens per litter an unspayed cat can produce in seven years....wait for it......420,000 cats!!!
I am all for taking care of your animals and if still undecided there are a few question and answers that the American humane society was very happy to answer:
WHAT IS IT??
Spaying is a general term used to describe the ovariohysterectomy of a female animal. Neutering is a general term used to describe the castration of a male animal. However, neutering is used in reference to both genders. The surgical procedure, performed by a veterinarian, renders the animal incapable of reproducing. Here are answers to some questions you may have about this beneficial procedure.
When can I have this procedure done?
Both procedures can be performed as early as six weeks of age. American Humane is a strong proponet of "early" neutering since this guarantees that the animals will not be able to breed and populate within a community.
Why should I have my pet neutered?
Animal shelters, both public and private, unfortunately are faced with an incredible burden: What to do with the overpopulation of dogs and cats that they cannot find homes for. Estimates across the country indicate that over 10 million animals will be humanely euthanized at shelters each year, due to the sheer fact that there are not enough homes. Having your pet neutered ensures that you will not be adding to this tremendous burden.
What are some of the health benefits?
Through neutering, you can help your dog and cat live a happier, healthier, and longer life. Spaying eliminates the constant crying and nervous pacing that is a sign that a cat is in heat. Castration stops the mating drive in males, reducing the urge to roam, which in turn, reduces the risk of fights, injury, poisoning, accidents, and contracting diseases. If you have more than one pet in your household, all the pets will get along better if they are neutered.
A long-term benefit of neutering is improved health. Early neutering nearly eliminates breast cancer, and totally prevents uterine infections and uterine and testicular cancer.
Isn't it true that you only need to "fix" female dogs or cats?
Absolutely not! A male animal can father thousands of offspring in his lifetime. Roaming tomcats fighting other cats are a neighborhood nuisance and are prone to develop infections and abscesses from their fighting. An intact male may also develop the bad habit of marking its territory by urine marking.
Neutering just costs too much!
The cost of caring for a pet, including providing veterinary care, should be considered before acquiring an animal. If you would like to provide a good home for a pet, but cannot pay for the neuter, call your local animal shelter. They will be happy to provide information on low-cost neutering. The costs of having a litter are often more than the cost of neutering. There could be complications requiring hospitalization or surgery. You will be faced with finding homes or keeping the offspring yourself or placing more animals into your local shelter. The cost of the well-being of not just your companion animal but of future generations should be considered.
Can't I allow my purebred dog to have just one litter?
Mixed breed or purebred -- there just aren't enough homes. Animal shelters receive purebred animals everyday. Responsible purebred breeders have homes for their dogs before they are born.
I don't even own a pet! Why is this my problem?
All of us are affected by animal overpopulation. Millions of tax dollars are spent annually to round up lost, abandoned, and unwanted pets. Much of that money is spent to destroy these animals when homes cannot be found. Health is threatened by the danger of transmittable diseases, including rabies, animal bites, and attacks. Property may be damaged and livestock killed when pets roam in search of food. Animal waste, proving a serious environment hazard, foul yards and parks. It is only when all of us assume the responsibility for pet overpopulation that we will see any decrease in the problem.
Isn't it wrong to deprive an animal of the natural right to reproduce?
No, it's wrong to allow these animals to reproduce millions of unwanted offspring that are eventually killed because there aren't enough responsible homes.
If I find homes for my pets' litters then I won't contribute to the problem, right?
Wrong. Only a certain number of people want pets. So every home you find for your pet's offspring takes away a home from a loving animal already at a shelter.
Shouldn't every female pet have at least one litter before being spayed?
No. In fact, your pet will be healthier if she never sexually matures. Her personality will not improve either. She is just as likely to become less social and more aggressive after having a litter, as she is to become calmer and gentler.
Shouldn't children experience the miracle of birth?
No. A more important lesson to teach your child would be responsible pet ownership and concern for life by explaining why their pet should not have babies.
Doesn't neutering alter an animal's personality?
No. Personality changes that may result from neutering are for the better. Not being distracted by the instinctual need to find a mate helps your pet stop roaming and become calmer; though not less protective of their territory.
Won't animal shelters take care of the surplus animals?
No. Shelters do their best to place animals in loving homes, but the number of homeless animals far exceeds the number of available homes. This leaves many loving and healthy animals in our community that must be euthanized as the only humane solution to this tragic dilemma. Only spaying and neutering can end the overpopulation problem.
I think there are probably many more questions but if in need please feel free to contact your local SPCA.
WOOF!!!!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Woofles and Meowz getting some print time!
Recently the fine folks over at the Province Newspaper did an article in the "money" section that covers small businesses. As most of my friends and customers were asking about it I thought I would show a link to it below.
http://www.theprovince.com/Life/Bakery+truly+project/1268606/story.html
Since this small article came out I have noticed a huge boost in our already large sales of organic treats and I got some very valuable feedback to what people are looking for in fresh made items.
One of the things that I was reluctant to make was Birthday cakes for dogs as the ingredients used were usually either second rate or simply ones that people could do up in their own kitchen(like the popular use of mashed potato for icing) for much less money that is being charged at other locals.
Now, I understand the benefit of time saved being money saved as well so I have decided to add to our line-up of hand made organic treats...a "BIG BONE BIRTHDAY COOKIE".
This is an item that we will be able to personalize with a half hours notice (we prefer a call the day b4) to say Happy Birthday Fido or something like this.
The cool thing about this item is the lack of mess and the ability to dole out only parts of it as needed and it will be much better priced.
Fresh, storeable, great ingredients, organic, and totally yummy!
One more item for the part of us that is the Woofles and Meowz dog bakery now I just have to figure out how to make a delish sardine roll for the cats!
http://www.theprovince.com/Life/Bakery+truly+project/1268606/story.html
http://www.theprovince.com/Life/Bakery+truly+project/1268606/story.html
Since this small article came out I have noticed a huge boost in our already large sales of organic treats and I got some very valuable feedback to what people are looking for in fresh made items.
One of the things that I was reluctant to make was Birthday cakes for dogs as the ingredients used were usually either second rate or simply ones that people could do up in their own kitchen(like the popular use of mashed potato for icing) for much less money that is being charged at other locals.
Now, I understand the benefit of time saved being money saved as well so I have decided to add to our line-up of hand made organic treats...a "BIG BONE BIRTHDAY COOKIE".
This is an item that we will be able to personalize with a half hours notice (we prefer a call the day b4) to say Happy Birthday Fido or something like this.
The cool thing about this item is the lack of mess and the ability to dole out only parts of it as needed and it will be much better priced.
Fresh, storeable, great ingredients, organic, and totally yummy!
One more item for the part of us that is the Woofles and Meowz dog bakery now I just have to figure out how to make a delish sardine roll for the cats!
http://www.theprovince.com/Life/Bakery+truly+project/1268606/story.html
Easter Eggs on Granville Island.
Woofles and Meowz is simply the coolest train caboose converted into one of Vancouver's first Pet bakery. Things have changed in the past few years as it was first opened as a Pet Deli that sold raw food for dogs and cats waaaaay ahead of the trend. Later it stocked toys and treats baked right here in the caboose and since I have bought it I have packed it with equipment, toys, treats, gifts and products for both cats and dogs. I love that we sell items for both cats and dogs as I sometimes think with all the purse doggies purchased in the past few years that retailers have forsaken our feline friends....not so here!
This morning another animal was busy at Granville Island and especially around the Kids Only Market and that was the EASTER BUNNY!!
As I left the parking garage to head to work I noticed a whole slew of easter eggs all over the island tucked into nooks and crooks. It was the most charming sight and one sorely needed on this very rainy day!
I could not help but open up one of these colorful toys so see that there was a wee sticker and a cute saying inside.
Whomever did the work for this project I have to say a BIG THANK YOU!!!! It was the sweetest thing and watching the young'ins laughing up a storm while searching for them was wonderful!
Happy Easter everybody from Woofles and Meowz.
This morning another animal was busy at Granville Island and especially around the Kids Only Market and that was the EASTER BUNNY!!
As I left the parking garage to head to work I noticed a whole slew of easter eggs all over the island tucked into nooks and crooks. It was the most charming sight and one sorely needed on this very rainy day!
I could not help but open up one of these colorful toys so see that there was a wee sticker and a cute saying inside.
Whomever did the work for this project I have to say a BIG THANK YOU!!!! It was the sweetest thing and watching the young'ins laughing up a storm while searching for them was wonderful!
Happy Easter everybody from Woofles and Meowz.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Cat toys supreme.
Some people like to give great feedback about what and how their cat will play with and won't touch when it comes to toys. We here at Woofles and Meowz absolutely LOVE this feedback as we order all our Cat toys and treats based on this feedback and what is asked of us by these fine folks. All I can say is that when it comes to cats...there is one constant and that there IS NO constant. Everybody seems to have a different case when it comes to their furry friends. Soooo we will keep ordering what people like and hope we get the best!
Dog bakery..Pet bakery....its all good!
Theres NEW things baking at Woofles and Meowz here on Granville Island. Now that we are the closest bakery for the Kitsilano crowd we have decided to expand our already great organic baked goods line to include...Birthday Bones that say "Happy Barkday" and given enough time...usually an hour or so...we can put the doggy's name on it as well. As we use only organic ingredients we like to use a yogurt and cacao mixture to write with instead of the potato mixture some others are using.
mmmmmmmmmmmmm Dog bakery at its finest!
mmmmmmmmmmmmm Dog bakery at its finest!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
The hottest dog toy on the market!!!!
At Woofles and Meowz I get an offer on a new item that is "guaranteed" to be a good seller at least once a week. I usually try to be open to the possibilites of certain items and I have been surprised a couple of times on things that go against my first impressions either way, good or bad, but.....not very often.
That is, until I came across the "Scrambler"....a toy that resembles what the old "Leggs" pantyhose containers looked like but more substantial...much more substantial.
"This toy is gonna be a hit" said the rep...."a sure fire seller!"
...yyyyeeeeehhhhhh suuuurrreeeee....I thought to myself. What is the attraction of these plastic eggs?...What gives?
Being not all knowing contrary to popular belief I like to keep the options open to the possibilites so I took a few of the Scramblers both small and large.
I think they lasted in the store about 14 minutes. I am not kidding!
Whether it was the bright colours or the shape I am not sure but I was ordering more the next day and continue to do so every two to three days. Damn!!! why did I not think of this thing!
I decided to take the large size to the Nelson street dog park in the westend of Vancouver to see what was the workability of this toy and I was met with a friend whos dog instantly started herding the egg shaped toy around and as it moved erratically it attracted at least 6 other dogs. This of course was not without its perils at a full dog park but because the gist of the toy being that it cannot be held or bitten there was no one dog dominating the item or any other dog for that matter.
"Hey..where didya get that thing...its great" was the first comment.
"Oh I think there is some at the caboose on Granville Island...Woofles and Meowz I think they are called" said I casually.
"Yeah my dog rips apart everything...that looks perfect" second offering.
"I can at least see that in the snow"...third comment.
"They really seem to like that thing" fourth said.......and the list went on.
I will go on record and say I was wrong in my skepticism on this product and of course it makes sense! Where was my foresightedness...why did I not see that a toy that cannot be bitten also cannot be destroyed???
Of course...there is NO SUCH THING AS AN INDESTRUCTIBLE TOY...but damn..this thing is the closest thing I have ever come across.
I am a fan to say the least and several hundred units later so are many of my customer's dogs.
That is, until I came across the "Scrambler"....a toy that resembles what the old "Leggs" pantyhose containers looked like but more substantial...much more substantial.
"This toy is gonna be a hit" said the rep...."a sure fire seller!"
...yyyyeeeeehhhhhh suuuurrreeeee....I thought to myself. What is the attraction of these plastic eggs?...What gives?
Being not all knowing contrary to popular belief I like to keep the options open to the possibilites so I took a few of the Scramblers both small and large.
I think they lasted in the store about 14 minutes. I am not kidding!
Whether it was the bright colours or the shape I am not sure but I was ordering more the next day and continue to do so every two to three days. Damn!!! why did I not think of this thing!
I decided to take the large size to the Nelson street dog park in the westend of Vancouver to see what was the workability of this toy and I was met with a friend whos dog instantly started herding the egg shaped toy around and as it moved erratically it attracted at least 6 other dogs. This of course was not without its perils at a full dog park but because the gist of the toy being that it cannot be held or bitten there was no one dog dominating the item or any other dog for that matter.
"Hey..where didya get that thing...its great" was the first comment.
"Oh I think there is some at the caboose on Granville Island...Woofles and Meowz I think they are called" said I casually.
"Yeah my dog rips apart everything...that looks perfect" second offering.
"I can at least see that in the snow"...third comment.
"They really seem to like that thing" fourth said.......and the list went on.
I will go on record and say I was wrong in my skepticism on this product and of course it makes sense! Where was my foresightedness...why did I not see that a toy that cannot be bitten also cannot be destroyed???
Of course...there is NO SUCH THING AS AN INDESTRUCTIBLE TOY...but damn..this thing is the closest thing I have ever come across.
I am a fan to say the least and several hundred units later so are many of my customer's dogs.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Dog and cat treat safety.
One of the things we take very seriously here in Vancouver is our health...at least for the most part we are not using bacon fat for buttering the toast as was the habit of certain relatives of mine while growing up on the prairies. (try it sometime though..mmmmmm baconnnnnn ughgughguhgughgu....)
Our healthy eating habits usually extends to our pets which is why our organic treats are so popular for both Dogs and Cats.
We do go a wee bit overboard sometimes when I am sourcing organic lamb meat from Granville Island for some biscuits or wild salmon from the local docks. I know.....crazy but in a good way I hope.
Lately I have been asked two big questions with regard to our treats and that is..."what is Melamine" and "is the peanut butter safe".
Firstly lets look at what Melamine is:
Melamine is an organic compound that is often combined with formaldehyde to produce melamine resin, a synthetic polymer which is fire resistant and heat tolerant. Melamine resin is a very versatile material with a highly stable structure. Uses for melamine include whiteboards, floor tiles, kitchenware, fire retardant fabrics, and commercial filters. Melamine can be easily molded while warm, but will set into a fixed form. This property makes it ideally suited to certain industrial applications.
Melamine resin is manufactured by mixing urea with formaldehyde under heat and pressure. The substances begin to polymerize and are forced into a mold which will create the desired shape. Under pressure, melamine releases water, which could make the plastic unstable if it is not removed. The materials finish polymerizing and create a finished product, melamine resin.
Melamine resin is known as a thermoset plastic, because the plastic is fixed after molding. If exposed to enough heat, melamine will melt. For this reason, melamine dishware should not be exposed to high temperatures like those in the oven and microwave. However, the plastic is able to withstand higher temperatures than other plastics. Because it is a thermoset plastic, melamine resin is difficult to recycle.
Melamine can be made into a foam product. Melamine foam has a distinctive structure composed of stacked bubble shapes, which are extremely hard and therefore can easily clean a wide variety of substances. Melamine foam is marketed under a variety of commercial names including Magic Eraser, a cleaning tool well known for removing scuffs and dirt from a wide range of surfaces.
Melamine resin is used in Formica and similar construction products made from composite materials. Formica is made using melamine resin, which is used to coat the fibers in the upper layer of the construction product. The melamine resin makes the end result heat resistant, so that hot objects can be set on the counter without concern. The surface of the material is designed to be easily wiped and cleaned, creating a long lived household product.
Melamine also plays a role in a wide range of flame resistant materials. These include textiles used in upholstery and the uniforms worn by firemen. Thermal liners, heat resistant gloves, and aprons to protect from splashback of hot substances are made using melamine. Melamine will protect a wearer from heat hazards, and will help to resist the spread of fire in aircraft and buses by providing a fire blocker.
Melamine is also used in the manufacture of some filters. The material is porous and will admit substances to pass through, but can be used to filter out particles of a particular size. Melamine filters are capable of handling a high capacity and can be used in hot environments due to the heat resistance of it. Melamine filters are also extremely efficient.
Aside from common commercial uses, melamine became a topic of much discussion in early 2007, when veterinary scientists determined it to be the cause of hundreds of pet deaths, because of pet food contamination. Prior to these reports, melamine had been regarded as non-toxic or minimally toxic. However, because of the unexplained presence of melamine in wheat gluten added to mass-produced dog and cat foods, it is the most likely cause. Pet owners report symptoms that are commonly associated with renal failure, which could be explained by the ammonia that may result from the digestion of the melamine.
Now...these were only manufacturers from China. We never did or ever will import food items from China mainly because we exercise due diligence in examining the sales and manufacturing sheets that accompany toys to keep certain materials away from our store..... but as we all know now with the FURTHER travesty of Chinese milk products having Melamine fillers in them it is almost impossible to comfirm quality of Chinese products.
Yeh, yeh. I know I will get comments about this but I direct those who do send them to read the obits of the children and unhappy pet owners who have suffered the loss of their pooch. nuff said!
As for the peanut butter scrae that is going on we do not use peanut butter from the plant that is in Georgia as we use a fully Canadian pruduct. I have also called up the supplier and/or manufacturer of any product that has peanut butter in it to confirm that it is not on the recall list.
Just a wee little thing to do for our tail waggin' friends.
I think they are worth it don't you?!?!?
Besides is is just too easy to KNOW what goes into the treats when we make them here right?
...just sayin'.............WOOF!
Our healthy eating habits usually extends to our pets which is why our organic treats are so popular for both Dogs and Cats.
We do go a wee bit overboard sometimes when I am sourcing organic lamb meat from Granville Island for some biscuits or wild salmon from the local docks. I know.....crazy but in a good way I hope.
Lately I have been asked two big questions with regard to our treats and that is..."what is Melamine" and "is the peanut butter safe".
Firstly lets look at what Melamine is:
Melamine is an organic compound that is often combined with formaldehyde to produce melamine resin, a synthetic polymer which is fire resistant and heat tolerant. Melamine resin is a very versatile material with a highly stable structure. Uses for melamine include whiteboards, floor tiles, kitchenware, fire retardant fabrics, and commercial filters. Melamine can be easily molded while warm, but will set into a fixed form. This property makes it ideally suited to certain industrial applications.
Melamine resin is manufactured by mixing urea with formaldehyde under heat and pressure. The substances begin to polymerize and are forced into a mold which will create the desired shape. Under pressure, melamine releases water, which could make the plastic unstable if it is not removed. The materials finish polymerizing and create a finished product, melamine resin.
Melamine resin is known as a thermoset plastic, because the plastic is fixed after molding. If exposed to enough heat, melamine will melt. For this reason, melamine dishware should not be exposed to high temperatures like those in the oven and microwave. However, the plastic is able to withstand higher temperatures than other plastics. Because it is a thermoset plastic, melamine resin is difficult to recycle.
Melamine can be made into a foam product. Melamine foam has a distinctive structure composed of stacked bubble shapes, which are extremely hard and therefore can easily clean a wide variety of substances. Melamine foam is marketed under a variety of commercial names including Magic Eraser, a cleaning tool well known for removing scuffs and dirt from a wide range of surfaces.
Melamine resin is used in Formica and similar construction products made from composite materials. Formica is made using melamine resin, which is used to coat the fibers in the upper layer of the construction product. The melamine resin makes the end result heat resistant, so that hot objects can be set on the counter without concern. The surface of the material is designed to be easily wiped and cleaned, creating a long lived household product.
Melamine also plays a role in a wide range of flame resistant materials. These include textiles used in upholstery and the uniforms worn by firemen. Thermal liners, heat resistant gloves, and aprons to protect from splashback of hot substances are made using melamine. Melamine will protect a wearer from heat hazards, and will help to resist the spread of fire in aircraft and buses by providing a fire blocker.
Melamine is also used in the manufacture of some filters. The material is porous and will admit substances to pass through, but can be used to filter out particles of a particular size. Melamine filters are capable of handling a high capacity and can be used in hot environments due to the heat resistance of it. Melamine filters are also extremely efficient.
Aside from common commercial uses, melamine became a topic of much discussion in early 2007, when veterinary scientists determined it to be the cause of hundreds of pet deaths, because of pet food contamination. Prior to these reports, melamine had been regarded as non-toxic or minimally toxic. However, because of the unexplained presence of melamine in wheat gluten added to mass-produced dog and cat foods, it is the most likely cause. Pet owners report symptoms that are commonly associated with renal failure, which could be explained by the ammonia that may result from the digestion of the melamine.
Now...these were only manufacturers from China. We never did or ever will import food items from China mainly because we exercise due diligence in examining the sales and manufacturing sheets that accompany toys to keep certain materials away from our store..... but as we all know now with the FURTHER travesty of Chinese milk products having Melamine fillers in them it is almost impossible to comfirm quality of Chinese products.
Yeh, yeh. I know I will get comments about this but I direct those who do send them to read the obits of the children and unhappy pet owners who have suffered the loss of their pooch. nuff said!
As for the peanut butter scrae that is going on we do not use peanut butter from the plant that is in Georgia as we use a fully Canadian pruduct. I have also called up the supplier and/or manufacturer of any product that has peanut butter in it to confirm that it is not on the recall list.
Just a wee little thing to do for our tail waggin' friends.
I think they are worth it don't you?!?!?
Besides is is just too easy to KNOW what goes into the treats when we make them here right?
...just sayin'.............WOOF!
Stray cat strut......
Here at the store I have found there are three different types of music that work wonders with the sales #s.
There seems to be only a vague common denominator in that they usually have the same BPM or beats per minute and within that, a happy tempo.
The first is Big Band music. Y'know those old band guys were really swingin' cats waaaay before we all figured it out. Even the most junior shopper seems to bop along to a post war tempo and tap their feet to Dorsey, Miller, Basie or Goodman. This music also gets a knowing smile from anyone with a snowy head of hair. "Nice music young man" I have heard more than a few times and the smile I get from being called young man at 42 stays with me until the next blood sugar ebb.
The next is ABBA. Say what you want about the popular foursome from Sweden but there is a continued following that spans a few generations now with the hit Mama Mia catching the ear of the young'ins and the lyrics are almost always lip synched by anyone feeling nostalgia for the 70s.
Its happy music for sure.
The third is a combination of sorts between The Spice Girls and Stray Cats. The two would seem far away in relation except that both appeal to the 30 smething crowd with the Spice girls getting the win from most girls and the nod towards the Stray Cats from the guys. Both these groups give good beat with toe tapping potential.
Pop music gets a bad rap sometimes simply for being popular which would be contraindicated would it not?! Someone has to be listening to this stuff right??
Evertime someone comes into Woofles and Meowz and sings along I think to myself .."yer busted!"....I'm not the only swingin' cat going.
There seems to be only a vague common denominator in that they usually have the same BPM or beats per minute and within that, a happy tempo.
The first is Big Band music. Y'know those old band guys were really swingin' cats waaaay before we all figured it out. Even the most junior shopper seems to bop along to a post war tempo and tap their feet to Dorsey, Miller, Basie or Goodman. This music also gets a knowing smile from anyone with a snowy head of hair. "Nice music young man" I have heard more than a few times and the smile I get from being called young man at 42 stays with me until the next blood sugar ebb.
The next is ABBA. Say what you want about the popular foursome from Sweden but there is a continued following that spans a few generations now with the hit Mama Mia catching the ear of the young'ins and the lyrics are almost always lip synched by anyone feeling nostalgia for the 70s.
Its happy music for sure.
The third is a combination of sorts between The Spice Girls and Stray Cats. The two would seem far away in relation except that both appeal to the 30 smething crowd with the Spice girls getting the win from most girls and the nod towards the Stray Cats from the guys. Both these groups give good beat with toe tapping potential.
Pop music gets a bad rap sometimes simply for being popular which would be contraindicated would it not?! Someone has to be listening to this stuff right??
Evertime someone comes into Woofles and Meowz and sings along I think to myself .."yer busted!"....I'm not the only swingin' cat going.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Cat toys, cat treats, cat equipment
Every once in a while I get someone in the store who is gonna take their cat for a walk on a lead and the cat is gonna like it, darn it!
I do sell harnesses for cats for those who are in the need of taking their cat out but there is a very distinct difference in who is walking whom when dealing with a cat.
A cat will only want to go as fast as they deem fitting...not you
Unlike dogs who are constantly in need of excercise and a place to piddle and poop, cats will never do so on command and rarely when you want them to so that option is out.
Puting a harness on the cat to tether them outside for fear of them running away is a good option as long as there is nothing to catch them up.
Most collars whether they are breakaway ones or not should be fitted properly so that will still allow the cat to slip out of them in the case of getting hung up..........a rare and often urban myth. I say often because I have only heard of it once. With a harness there is no possibility of slippage which is why one would want one I suppose.
We sell alot of the "breakaway" collars because someone, somewhere said "oh the cat will get hung up while climbing a tree"..........yeah cats are smarter than that.
As for toys the rule of thumb for our store is that a toy that your cat will play with is the right one for you.
Sometimes it is as simple as a rolled tinfoil ball that has some turkey fat that was originally on the thanksgiving bird, that will be Fluffy's favourite or some extravagant catnip laced, hand sewn pillow...you will never know!
As for treats......there is no such thing as a picky dog rather one who KNOWS that if he won't eat the hamburger you will give him filet Mignon...so more of an opportunist.
Multiply that attitude by 10 and thats a cat.
Trust me when I say....wait a good while when a cat will not eat a particular treat. Give it a few days. If then the treat is not eaten then they do not like it. Having said that I have to remind myself that cats I have had sometimes change their tastes as they grow.
So! the whole point to this blog???
Cats are VERY different, wonderful,loving, sometimes frustrating animals that are NOT dogs so ask yourself..."do I want a Cat or a Dog.............or maybe just a plant?
But I digress.
I do sell harnesses for cats for those who are in the need of taking their cat out but there is a very distinct difference in who is walking whom when dealing with a cat.
A cat will only want to go as fast as they deem fitting...not you
Unlike dogs who are constantly in need of excercise and a place to piddle and poop, cats will never do so on command and rarely when you want them to so that option is out.
Puting a harness on the cat to tether them outside for fear of them running away is a good option as long as there is nothing to catch them up.
Most collars whether they are breakaway ones or not should be fitted properly so that will still allow the cat to slip out of them in the case of getting hung up..........a rare and often urban myth. I say often because I have only heard of it once. With a harness there is no possibility of slippage which is why one would want one I suppose.
We sell alot of the "breakaway" collars because someone, somewhere said "oh the cat will get hung up while climbing a tree"..........yeah cats are smarter than that.
As for toys the rule of thumb for our store is that a toy that your cat will play with is the right one for you.
Sometimes it is as simple as a rolled tinfoil ball that has some turkey fat that was originally on the thanksgiving bird, that will be Fluffy's favourite or some extravagant catnip laced, hand sewn pillow...you will never know!
As for treats......there is no such thing as a picky dog rather one who KNOWS that if he won't eat the hamburger you will give him filet Mignon...so more of an opportunist.
Multiply that attitude by 10 and thats a cat.
Trust me when I say....wait a good while when a cat will not eat a particular treat. Give it a few days. If then the treat is not eaten then they do not like it. Having said that I have to remind myself that cats I have had sometimes change their tastes as they grow.
So! the whole point to this blog???
Cats are VERY different, wonderful,loving, sometimes frustrating animals that are NOT dogs so ask yourself..."do I want a Cat or a Dog.............or maybe just a plant?
But I digress.
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