K9 Magazine

Tips For Pet Owners For Living in an Allergy Free Environment

admin — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 22:34:55 +0000

One in three Britons are affected by allergies and ironically it’s the place we view as a safe haven that can be our worst enemy – our homes.

Triggers for a number of common allergies including various respiratory and skin complaints have become more apparent, with the house dust mite, mould and bacteria being prime culprits.

As hosts to these offenders, what steps we can take to make our surroundings as trigger free as possible?

In Victorian homes allergy levels were lower – fewer soft furnishings and cold draughty stone-floored homes discouraged dust mite populations.

Today, we provide the perfect surroundings for these offenders; warmth because we turn up the heating as opposed to putting on an extra jumper and humidity when we insist on drying our washing inside and refuse to open the windows.

Thick piled carpets, sumptuous bedding, decorative cushions and fabrics provide the perfect habitat and multiply the causes and triggers of common allergies.

A massive sevenfold increase reported in some types of allergy is forcing the population to find solutions.

Even architects and developers are experimenting with house designs that minimise exposure to allergens. ‘Sick office syndrome’ has long been recognised, but ‘sick house syndrome’ could also become widespread unless necessary changes are made to our environment.

These new house designs offer anti-allergy heating systems that minimise humidity, carpets are banned, with laminated flooring allowing easy cleaning, air circulation systems clean the air and vacuum sockets prevent the need for a standard cleaner, which redistribute mites rather than sucking them up!

It goes without saying that this all comes at a price and for most of us buying an anti-allergen house is not realistic. However, there are still a number of steps we can implement to make our home healthier.

Total Hygiene DM1 works by eliminating dust mites, mould, bacteria and fungi already present as well as killing the food source, which prevents re-infestation for up to 6 months. Its benefit is threefold – allergy sufferers often witness a reduction in symptoms, fabric feels better and is kept newer for longer.

As a complement to this a range of anti-allergen bedding has just been launched, which helps reduce the 2 million dust mites you share a bed with every night.

Tips for a ‘Home Sweet Home’:

1. Choose laminate, wooden or vinyl flooring

2. Replace heavy fabric curtains with blinds that can be wiped clean

3. Spray your mattress, soft furnishings, carpets and curtains with Total Hygiene DM1 every 6 months

4. Ventilate your home regularly by opening windows and doors

5. Invest in some pre-treated anti allergen bed protection

6. Keep humidity levels as low as possible – don’t dry clothes indoors

7. Turn your central heating down by just 1oC to reduce humidity

8. Reduce the number of cushions, soft toys, fake flowers and other fabric accessories from the home

9. Invest in a high filtration vacuum cleaner

10. Wipe surfaces with a clean, damp cloth rather than a duster
Although some scientists are unsure why allergies are increasing, it’s comforting to know that there are simple ways we can ensure our homes are healthy homes.

Could Dogs Help With Childhood Obesity?

admin — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 11:12:18 +0000

Having a pet could be the key to fighting family flab and getting kids off the couch and into the park, according to a research project carried out by a pet food manufacturer.

With an international study claiming that British children are amongst the laziest in the world, the findings offer crucial information in Britain’s high profile fight against flab.

The research claims that over four in ten families have found that their kids play more actively now they have a pet. Over a quarter of those questioned reported that their children’s interest in sedentary activities such as TV watching and playing computer games had decreased since their pet’s arrival.

It is widely accepted that dog ownership leads to greater levels of exercise, however, the research shows that increased levels of active play and a decrease in sedentary activity are apparent amongst children who own dogs.

In addition, pet ownership could be the key to improving family stress levels. Over a quarter of pet owners questioned admitted that they have been less stressed since having a pet in their lives.

80% of parents believe that their pet has made their children very or extremely happy. Nearly half of all respondents think that their pet has made their child feel loved, more friendly towards others and relaxed. Whilst nearly three quarters of respondents felt that their children were more caring as a result of having a pet.

Mums as well as kids feel that they benefit from pet ownership with over a half admitting that their pet plays a crucial role in offering them emotional support and companionship.

Specialist in Human Animal Companion Bond research, Dr June McNicholas is not surprised by the results: “This survey shows that pets may help combat some of the “modern” problems of childhood, such as obesity and lack of exercise. Pets really do help motivate children to get away from the TV or the computer and take an active role in exercising and caring for their pet. The more involved children become in learning about their pet’s needs for a healthy diet and exercise, the more they can learn about keeping themselves healthy.”

Justine Hare, spokesperson for the pet food company that carried out the survey, comments; “It is clear from this research into pet-owning families that the benefits of having a pet permeate throughout the family and are tremendously positive, dynamic and more far-reaching that perhaps one would first think.”

It's not just humans who are struggling to beat the bulge. There is widely circulated data now showing that dog obesity is set to claim more canine lives than ever before.

First Puppy Farming Conference Announced

admin — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:51:57 +0000

On Saturday 31st March 2012, some the UK dog world’s most respected names are gathering in Gregynog Hall in Powys, to speak at the first Conference on Puppy Farming in Wales, hosted by C.A.R.I.A.D. (Care And Respect Includes All Dogs).

The keynote speaker is Professor Sheila Crispin who will discuss why puppies cannot be farmed. Professor Crispin Chairs the Advisory Council on the Welfare Issues of Dog Breeding.

Other veterinary professionals speaking on the day include noted veterinary surgeon and animal behaviourist Kendal Shepherd, animal welfare scientist Rowena Packer, and Dr Muriel Brasseur who is animal behaviourist and zoologist at Oxfordshire Animal Behaviour Centre. Representing the welfare issues associated with uncovering what really goes on in puppy farms is the founder of Puppy Love Campaigns Veronica Lambert, and discussing the rescue and rehabilitation challenges of ex puppy farm dogs will be Eileen Jones who is the founder of Friends of the Animals RCT.

Founder of C.A.R.I.A.D. Linda Goodman is covering the topic of mixed media messages and the public confusion that results. The conference is not an awareness exercise in what puppy farming is all about.

Those attending are all too aware of what it entails. But each speaker is coming at the subject from a different perspective and has years of experience to share with their audience. The objective being that a stronger and more united strategy will come from the one-day event and that this message will be more easily assimilated into the public arena across all areas of animal welfare.

Tickets for the one-day conference, sponsored by ecotricity, are a very reasonable £45 which includes morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea in the beautiful surroundings of Gregynog Hall.

Tickets are available by emailing cariadevents2011-campaign@yahoo.co.uk before 15th March 2012.

For more information on the conference agenda visit: http://cariadcampaign.wordpress.com/2012/01/25/the-first-wales-puppy-farming-conference-31-march-2011-book-now/ For more information about the work of C.A.R.I.A.D. visit: www.cariadcampaign.wordpress.com

Fund Raising For Dogs For The Disabled

admin — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:54:25 +0000

Raise the most with coffee and toast at a Big Dogs Breakfast

The most important meal of the day is getting even tastier! Get together with friends, family or colleagues and raise the most with coffee and toast at a Big Dogs Breakfast for Dogs for the Disabled.

Holding a Big Dogs Breakfast is a simple and fun way to get people together, have breakfast and ask for a donation to help Dogs for the Disabled train more assistance dogs for people with disabilities.

With or without dogs, it’s incredibly simple. Big or small, at home or at work, at the crack of dawn or mid morning, invite your friends, family or colleagues and tell them it’s for a great cause. Despite the name, dogs are optional!

It’s your breakfast your way! Once you’ve decided on the date and venue visit the Big Dogs Breakfast website where you’ll find a toolkit packed full of fun ideas and downloadable materials to help promote your event and entertain your guests no matter their age.

There’s something for everyone, including your canine pals! Materials include posters and invites, table mats, quizzes, face painting guides, dog recipes and much more.

Big Dogs Breakfast week – 21 – 27 May

A Big Dogs Breakfast can be held at any time of the year but you may want to join in Big Dogs Breakfast week which will take place from 21-27 May 2012. Find out more at www.dogsforthedisabled.org/bigdogsbreakfast

Dogs for the Disabled creates life-changing partnerships between specially trained assistance dogs and people with physical disabilities and families with a child with autism. These amazing dogs offer freedom and independence to those facing a lifetime of challenges.

People like eighteen year old Emily Mair. Emily’s needs are complex, requiring both physical and emotional support for a rare condition which leaves her in constant pain and with limited mobility. Emily has been paired with Simpson, a black Labrador, since 2009.

Emily and Simpson.jpgSarah, Emily’s mother says: “Laughter can now be heard from Emily’s room as Simpson helps her get ready in the morning. He helps by picking up things she needs, and sometimes a few other items she doesn’t like her slippers or the TV remote! Simpson has greatly enhanced life for Emily as she is now able to do the things she wants independently without the need to rely on my help all the time.”

Dogs for the Disabled currently supports over 260 partnerships across the UK, each one costing £18,000 throughout its lifetime. The charity relies entirely on voluntary donations to carry out its work and there are hundreds more lives the charity could transform with your help.

To organise your own Big Dogs Breakfast visit: www.dogsforthedisabled.org/bigdogsbreakfast

Moving Abroad With Your Dog

admin — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 14:27:13 +0000

K9 Magazine, a digital lifestyle magazine for modern dog lovers, has stepped up to help meet the increasing demand from its readers who are interested in moving abroad with dogs.

Editor and publisher Ryan O'Meara explains:

"Over the past 5 years we have seen a real rise in the number of readers who have asked us for information on what to do when moving overseas with their dogs. This trend reflects global movement as more and more people seek to experience alternative lifestyles in foreign lands. The big difference now though is, particularly for British dog owners, it is more accessible than ever for dog owners to travel abroad with their pets in tow thanks to the relaxation of regulations under the Pet Travel Scheme."

The Pet Travel Scheme is the system that allows pet dogs, cats and ferrets to enter the UK without quarantine as long as they meet the rules and people in the UK to take their dogs, cats and ferrets to other countries and territories, and return with them to the UK without the need for quarantine.

For dog owners thinking of moving overseas with their pets, K9 Magazine advises to focus on four main areas of research:

- Climate

- Culture

- Convenience

- Location

Further, the guide explains:

"It is imperative to bear in mind that other countries, even those in the EU have very different laws regarding property and acquisition. It's also important to become familiar with local laws and by-laws as they relate to dogs and people. Some countries have different laws on certain types of dogs and pet ownership regulations change from country to country."

The guide: How To Move Abroad With Your Dog, is available to access via K9 Magazine's website.

100 Ways to Extend Your Dog’s Life (& more!)

admin — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 22:03:55 +0000

For those of you lucky enough to be K9 Magazine Premier members, here's what you've got to look forward to in the next issue (no 49) of K9 Magazine (and for those of you who haven't yet seen the light…go here, sign up and enjoy the full benefits for a special price!)

Spot The Symptoms of Canine Cushing's Disease
Puppy Paper Training: An Introduction
Older Dog Care
K9 Health: Skin Problems in Dogs
Dog Spaying & Neutering: A Surgical Guide
How to Dog Proof Your Home
Can Dogs Get Fleas in Winter?
Is Your Vet Ripping You Off?
Dog Cold Weather Care Tips
K9 Kitchen: Healthy Homemade Dog Treats (Part III)
Tellington Touch For Dogs (special members-only report)
100 Ways to Extend Your Dog's Life (you can buy this book for £14.99 – or get it for FREE as a K9 Magazine member)

K9 Magazine Premier members receive a FREE eBook and a special canine report every month, along with a whole host of additional member benefits as well as K9 Magazine delivered monthly.

Spot The Signs of Canine Diabetes, Save Your Dog’s Life

admin — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 21:27:51 +0000

If you have a dog that suddenly develops a higher than normal thirst level or urination, it's important to keep a close eye for signs of diabetes.

Many people are unaware that diabetes in dogs is a serious and potentially fatal disease, but it can be prevented if the symptoms are recognised early.

Excessive drinking and urination are two of the first signs to be aware of.

Even the colour of the dog's urine can offer a tell tale sign as a symptom of diabetes mellitus and canine diabetes insipidus.

Sudden urination in the house should be referred to a vet for closer inspection.

Diabetes can be more common in older dogs and often this new habit of suddenly urinating in the house can lead owners to mistakenly believe the dog is simply showing signs of old age.

In actual fact, the onset of urination in the house can be a result of the dog drinking more, which in turn can be a symptom of canine diabetes itself.

Dogs suffering with diabetes can be prone to becoming dehydrated, particularly in hot weather.

Spotting The Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs:

- Sudden weight gain
- Sudden excessive thirst
- Increase in panting and wanting to go outside to urinate

These three common diabetes pointers can be harmless, symptoms of nothing more than ageing. But if it is an early pre-curson to diabetes, spotting it early and getting it treated can very well save your dog's life.

K9 Magazine's Ryan O'Meara:

"Diabetes is killing more dogs than it should. Knowing how to spot the signs and working to ensure your dog's diet and weight are properly matched to their age, breed and lifestyle is something well worth talking to your vet about."

– Article distributed by petbuzz :: social media for pet brands.

What’s Inside K9 Magazine Issue 47?

admin — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 09:03:17 +0000

Inside K9 Magazine issue 47 we've got a veritable treasure trove of useful articles and information.

Take a look….

Night time dog walking safety tips
http://www.k9magazine.com/k9-insider-september/

Our pick of the best dog collars for 2011
http://www.k9magazine.com/best-dog-collars/

How to teach the recall using a whistle – K9 Magazine's Ryan O'Meara tells us how to teach a dog to recall using the whistle
http://www.k9magazine.com/dog-whistle-training/

Dog personality test: how well do you REALLY know your dog?
http://www.k9magazine.com/dog-personality-test/

Why our friend the dog is the world's greatest salesman
http://www.k9magazine.com/dogs-in-advertising/

How much you should you be feeding your dog?
http://www.k9magazine.com/how-much-should-i-be-feeding-my-dog/

K9 Kitchen: Make your own healthy homemade dog treats
http://www.k9magazine.com/homemade-dog-treats-part-ii/

I find dead people
We spend a day with a cadaver dog handler

Canine Osteoarthritis A Growing Dog Owner Problem

admin — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 21:57:05 +0000

Canine osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that reduces a dog's mobility. A new report has suggested the problem is a growing concern for dog owners.

Arthritis in dogs is on the rise according to a study published by K9 Magazine.

The condition, which affects the mobility and joints of dogs of any age, is said to be increasing inline with the growing pet obesity problem which has seen more dogs than ever gaining weight and being above the normal healthy BMI for their age and breed.

Experts have suggested that canine osteoarthritis will continue to rise unless pet owners can gain control of their dog’s weight.

One of the key causes of arthritis in dogs is breed type and weight. It’s been claimed that as many as 1 in 4 dogs are above their natural weight.

Canine osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, meaning there is no cure. However treatment and management of arthritis in dogs is readily available, meaning a diagnosis doesn’t have to mean the end of a dog’s ability to enjoy life, go for walks and suffer in pain.

Learn more: https://www.prbuzz.com/home-a-garden/55209-arthritis-in-dogs-concerns-owners.html

Notice: We’re Moving!

admin — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 11:16:39 +0000

After some 5 years, DogMagazine.net is on the move.

We're delighted to announce we've decided that we're heading off this .net domain name and on to a brand spanking, shiny .com.

We're re-naming the site MyDogMagazine.com with a greater emphasis on user comment, opinion and more articles from dog owners.

We'll be using the site to gather opinions on the type of content we should be covering in K9 Magazine as well as offering more functionality and a cleaner, faster layout.

You can update your bookmarks already to www.mydogmagazine.com and if you're subscribing to our DogMagazine.net RSS feeds, don't

Source: DogMagazine.net – the K9 Magazine blog

Notice: We’re Moving!