Christmas with the Animals

This year AWL's annual event 'Christmas with the Animals - Pet Santa Photos' has partnered with Westfield and PETBARN to bring the event to the community. Have a photo with your family and pet, buy a Christmas gift for your pet, activities for kids and more....

Sat 20 November – Westfield Penrith

On the Joan Sutherland lawn, off High Street Penrith

10am – 3pm

Sun 28 November – Westfield Burwood

Green level car park P4, entre via Wilga Street top ramp

10am – 3pm

Sat 4 December & 5 December – Petbarn Brookvale

60 Winbourne Rd, Brookvale

10am – 3pm

Sat 11 December – Crossroads Homemaker Centre

Cnr Beech Road & Camden Valley Way, Casula

11am – 2pm

Sat 18 December – Crossroad Homemaker Centre

Cnr Beech Road & Camden Valley Way, Casula

11am – 2pm


For more information visit www.awlnsw.com.au or call 8899 3333 7 days per week between 10am – 3pm.

Pet News

G'day Dog Lovers,

Here's the latest batch of doggy news stories from around the globe...

UK House of Commons gives award to 'Best Political Dog'...
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-11673507

The oldest dog in the world?
http://www.upi.com/Science_News/2010/11/01/Woman-claims-dog-is-25/UPI-17331288647748/

A dog blog from the New York Times...
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/11/02/all-the-good-dogs-youve-loved-before/?partner=rss&emc=rss

Top dogs pose in 2011 police calendar as cancer fundraiser...
http://www.vancouversun.com/life/dogs+pose+2011+police+calendar+cancer+fundraiser/3762745/story.html

Dog News

G'day Dog Lovers,

Here's a few news stories you might like to check out.

Are you a dog person or a cat person?
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/you-can-love-cats-and-dogs-says-animal-expert/story-e6frf7kx-1225903180228

A story on dancing with dogs at the Royal Qld Show...
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/dancing-with-the-dogs-at-the-ekka-20100809-11rfu.html

A dog census in India...
http://timesofindia.timesofindia.com/city/ahmedabad/Trial-run-for-dog-census-begins-in-city/articleshow/6284162.cms

Dog wakes owner during house fire...

http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/08/09/1768563/dog-wakes-owner-during-fire-at.html

R.I.P. World's Ugliest Dog

Miss Ellie, a hairless Chinese Crested that was crowned the world's ugliest dog, has died at the age of 17.

This dog with a face for radio won the World's Ugliest Dog Contest last year thanks largely to her bug eyes, pimples and droopy tongue. Miss Ellie was adopted when she was 7 years old and lived with her owner and 13 other rescue dogs.

As well as taking out the ugliest dog title, Miss Ellie helped her owner raise thousands of dollars to help other rescue animals.

In the city of Pigeon Forge where she lived, November 12 has now been declared "Miss Ellie Day" in her memory.

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/ondeadline/post/2010/06/former-worlds-ugliest-dog-dies-at-age-17/1

What's on in Centennial Park

G'day Dog Lovers,

This is a message for all you Sydney dog owners.

If you live near Centennial Park and have a pooch in need of some training, there are obedience training classes being held within the parklands on
* June 6, 20 and 27
* July 4, 11, 18 and 25
* August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

There is also a fantastic program on Thursday, July 8, called "Can I Pat That Dog?" which is aimed at 3-7 year olds. This class aims to teach children about how to approach a dog, what is involved in looking after a dog and how to train a dog. Kids also get to meet Harry the chocolate Labrador and see him perform his tricks.

The goal of this program is to educate people about responsible dog ownership, both within the park and beyond its boundaries. Craft activities will also be run by an Education Ranger following the program.

Log on to www.centennialparklands.com.au or phone (02) 9339 6699 to find out more.

Make your pet a superstar

G'day Dog Lovers,

Want to put your dog in the spotlight? Hallmark is giving Australian and New Zealand pet owners to have their dog or cat feature on the front of its cards.

The "Make your pet a Hallmark superstar" competition invites pet owners to upload their funniest, cutest and most endearing photos of their pets, plus optional accompanying text for their chance to win.

12 winners, selected by a panel of Hallmark designers, will each have their furry friend's image featured on a Hallmark card, which will be sold in over 2,000 stores. It's then up to the public to vote online for the ultimate pet superstar.

On top of making their pet famous, winners also receive $500 cash and a Hallmark prize pack valued at $500, while the ultimate pet superstar receives $1000 and a Hallmark prize pack - plus they can all bask in the pleasure of having their pet immortalised on a famous Hallmark card.

Entries close 30 June - to enter and to view the full terms and conditions, visit www.hallmarkcards.com.au/competitions

How much does it cost to raise a dog?

G'day Dog Lovers,

Ever wondered how much it costs to raise a dog? Well, new research from Bankwest shows that Aussie families spend more than $25,000 on their pet dog over its lifetime.

The "Family Pooch Index" revealed that the average Australian family outlays $2,452 per year for the care of their canine, on top of their initial purchase of the pup for $585. Over the average 10-year lifespan of a dog, this adds up to more than $25,000.

Pet food and other gourmet treats eat up the bulk of the annual cost - $1200. Veterinary costs weigh in at $450 per year and additional dog care, such as grooming, dog walking, dog dietician and a dog trainer, contribute $405 to the overall cost each year.

Some media figures and news articles have expressed shock at these figures but, as all dog lovers know, our pooches are worth every penny.

2010 Pedigree Adoption Drive

G'day Dog Lovers,

Every dog deserves a loving home but sadly over 100,000 unwanted dogs are euthanised in Australia every year. To improve this terrible statistic, Pedigree has partnered with PetRescue to enlist the help of Australians nationwide for the 2010 Pedigree Adoption Drive.

The initiative, which runs from June 4 to July 30, encourages Australians to lend their support by visiting pedigreeadoptiondrive.com.au and either adopting a homeless dog, donating online or buying Pedigree.

Vickie Davy from renowned rescue organisation PetRescue says that, with increased support, initiatives like this can make a real difference. "Rescue dogs are just like any dogs you'd find in pet shop windows - they reflect the popular breeds of the time. Some are puppies whereas others are playful old mates. Most dogs are up for adoption through no fault of their own, which means there is an abundance of happy, healthy dogs across the country, waiting for a second chance. I hope Australians heed the call this year and either adopt, donate or volunteer via the Pedigree Adoption Drive website," she said.

Over the course of three years, the drive has raised over $675,000 towards improving the life of homeless dogs. In 2009 alone, over 3000 dogs were rescued and, in 1010, the drive will seek to home at least 4000 dogs and grow the donation figure by at least another $100,000.

If you'd like to get involved, log on to www.pedigreeadoptiondrive.com.au to adopt, donate or volunteer. For every specially marked Pedigree can or dry food purchased during this period, a donation will be made to PetRescue.

Sydney Royal Easter Show

G'day Dog Lovers,

I spent yesterday afternoon wandering around the dog judging area at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. It was a great way to spend a warm, sunny afternoon watching some beautiful canines in action.

The first breed I saw was the Neapolitan Mastiff. These gorgeous, gentle giants attracted plenty of admiring onlookers with their droopy "sad-sack" looks, imposing size and slightly funny run.

The next ring along played host to some junior handlers strutting their stuff. These guys and girls, some as young as about 10, were very impressive dressed to the nines as they moved their dogs around the ring.

I also got to watch the judging of one of my favourite breeds, the French Bulldog. These funny little clowns are impossible not to love and mangaged to attract a decent crowd as well.

The Easter Show runs until April 14, so there's still time to head along and watch some beautiful show dogs in action. Head to http://www.eastershow.com.au/ for more info

Dog News

G'day Dog Lovers,

Here is another batch of dog news stories that have caught my attention...

This terrible story from NZ about the slaughter of 33 dogs is horrifying...
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/01/28/2803536.htm?section=world

The German Shepherd jumps up to number two on the list of the favourite dogs in the US...
http://www.nationalpost.com/life/story.html?id=2491741

Will the eating of dogs and cats in China be banned?
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/china/2010-01/27/c_13153405.htm

Lucky escape for dog trapped on ice floe...
http://af.reuters.com./article/oddlyEnoughNews/idAFTRE60Q3EJ20100127

Bentley the epileptic dog helps save his owner...
http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/herefordandworcester/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8483000/8483670.stm

Dog News

G'day Dog Lovers,

Here is a selection of fascinating canine news for this lovely Tuesday morning...

Dog genes that code pets for their signature characteristics have been identified...
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-01-11/dog-genes-code-dachshund-s-stumpy-legs-shar-pei-s-wrinkly-skin.html

Watch the video of a dog being rescued from an icy pond...
http://www.koco.com/irresistible/22208104/detail.html

Meet the Staffy cross named Shapei who took on a brown snake and won...
http://www.dailymercury.com.au/story/2010/01/12/brave-dog-tackles-snake-and-kills-it/

Is this Cocker Spaniel the oldest dog in the world?
http://www.dailybreeze.com/lifeandculture/ci_14165158

Another Jack Russell goes missing in the UK...
http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/4844688.Wareham_dog_added_to_missing_tally_of_Jack_Russells/

The Dogs of Mosman, Part 3.

G'day Dog Lovers,

The news today is that Mosman's dogs may be down but they are not yet out in their battle to have access to Mosman's cafes. The NSW Opposition has announced it will intoroduce a private member's bill to overturn the ban on dogs in cafes when parliament resumes next year.

From the Sydney Morning Herald:
The little-known prohibition on dogs in food service areas, which applies across the state, was brought to the attention of Mosman Council in October after two residents complained about dogs in Balmoral cafes. In one incident, a diner had put their pet up on the table next to them.

Mosman's deputy mayor, Simon Menzies, said the council felt "boxed into a corner".

"Personally I'm greatly relieved that I can see a light at the end of the tunnel on this issue, because Mosman prides itself on being a dog-friendly suburb," he says.

FOR THE FULL STORY, GO TO http://www.smh.com.au/national/any-chance-of-a-doggie-bag-latteland-lepers-get-a-paw-in-the-door-20091203-k8uw.html

Canine News

Love dogs? Well then cast your eye over these canine news stories from all over the world!

The off-leash dog battle in the Port Phillip Council area continues...
http://port-phillip-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/backlash-triggers-dog-rethink-in-port-phillip/

Atlanta's International Airport now has a dog park...
http://www.ohmidog.com/2009/11/30/atlantas-airport-adds-a-dog-park/

Meet America's cutest dog...
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/11/30/americas-cutest-dog-is-a_n_374105.html

A fascinating story about police dogs in Uganda...
http://allafrica.com/stories/200911301207.html

This is a sad one about losing a dog...
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1231872/I-loved-man-After-losing-dog-Wilfred-writer-wonders-shell-feel-love-like-again.html

Meet Coco, the Labrador trained to detect Addison's Disease...
http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/4768501.Coco_the_dog_is_Broadstone_woman_s_life_saver/

Dog News Bulletin

G'day Dog Lovers,

Here's the latest batch of doggy news stories...

Firefighters use a mini oxygen mask to save a dog from a house fire...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=335057

A Guide Dog-in-training who went missing has been found safe and well...
http://www.lodinews.com/articles/2009/11/08/update/guide-dog_091109.txt

Have you ever been to a pet-friendly church service?
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/pawprintpost/post/2009/11/bring-your-dog-to-church/1

Meet the man who rescued one stray dog and ended up with a whole litter...
http://www.ajc.com/lifestyle/man-rescues-dog-from-186139.html

Check out this great story of a rescue flight transporting 14 dogs to safety...
http://www.salisburypost.com/Area/110809-Animal-Rescue-Flights

Mosman Council - continued

G'day Dog Lovers,

A couple of weeks ago I wrote about Mosman Council's plans to ban dogs from their cafes.

Now Mosman Council is considering a scheme to construct a statue of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, in Mosman Square. The statue would be a tribute to local pets and the area's many residents who love their animals.

The Mayor of Mosman, Anne Connon, said she supported the move provided the monument, which will cost between $10,000 and $20,000, was not paid for out of the council's purse.

While I'm all for this statue going ahead, it's a shame that dog-owners can no longer enjoy a morning coffee outside one of the area's many cafes with their canine companion at their feet.

Hero Dog Gives CPR

G'day Dog Lovers,

Have you heard the amazing story of Teka, the dog who knows CPR?

Two years ago, Jim Touzeau suffered a heart attack and collapsed at work in Queensland. His Cattle Dog Teka jumped up and down on her owner with her front two paws and barked in his face, which caused Jim to wake up. She also ran outside and jumped up and down to attract attention to her owner's plight.

For her amazing efforts, Teka received an RSPCA Animal Achievement Award last week.

Read the full story here - http://www.gympietimes.com.au/story/2009/10/29/teka-the-life-saver-to-receive-just-award/

Has your dog ever done something heroic?

World Dog Games This Weekend!

G'day Dog Lovers,

This is another reminder that the World Dog Games are happening this weekend!

The PURINA® World Dog Games is a brand-spanking-new event that celebrates all the things we love about dogs. The Games will be held across 31 October and 1 November at Sydney’s Acer Arena and the event is set to be the biggest canine extravaganza ever held in Australia.

The country’s finest canine athletes will compete for the title of "Top Dog" in a range of sports including agility, canine disc, flyball and diving dogs.

There will also be a vibrant "Dog Fest", where dog lovers can immerse themselves in all things canine — with experts from Australia and around the world, a dog breed showcase, lectures, demos, competitions and exhibitions to keep the whole family entertained!

Log on to www.worlddoggames.com.au for more info.

Christmas gifts that helps our furry friends in need

Hi pet lovers,

As you know, the festive season is fast approaching, which means that it's time to start thinking about what to get your loved ones for Christmas.

If you want to bring joy to a friend or family member who adores animals, why not get them something that they can treasure for ever and that also goes toward helping our furry friends in need - like the Hunter Animal Rescue's 2010 fundraising calendar? For just $10, your precious pet will be featured in the special calendar, which will be available before Christmas and will make a great stocking filler for dog lovers big and small.

Other pawtastic animal welfare organisations such as Assistance Dogs Australia, the RSPCA and the Animal Welfare League also have a great range Christmas gift ideas and fundraisers during the silly season that will help them continue with the important work they do.

Another worthy cause that you might like to get behind in the lead up to Christmas is the Sydney Aquarium Conservation Fund's (SACF) Adopt an Animal Program. Although it isn't directly related to our favourite four-legged friends, here at Dogs Life, we love all animals and think it's important not only to help our canine companions, but other animals that may need our support too.

Dangerous Dogs

G'day Dog Lovers,

With the latest attack by a Pit Bull Terrier over the weekend, the media is once again starting to work itself into a frenzy over Dangerous Dogs laws. Hugh Wirth, President of RSPCA Victoria, has called for a national approach to eliminating breeds classified as dangerous.

He says that laws in all states aimed at controlling and eventually eliminating such breeds were failing and being openly flouted by illegal breeders, who were selling dangerous dogs across state borders. "They are still being bred, which is illegal, and still being openly advertised for sale," he told The Australian.

Wirth went on to claim that the failure of dangerous dog laws meant states should now consider banning Pit Bulls, which would mean the mass euthanisation of all such dogs in Australia, he said.

That is a pretty alarming statement and I definitely don't think it's the right way to go about reducing dog attacks. Whatever happened to "punish the deed not the breed"? Are there any owners of breeds out there who have a reputation (whether deserved or not) as being dangerous that are worried their breed will be next?

Dog News

G'day Dog Lovers,

Check out these latest dog news items from all four corners of the globe...

A UK Search & Rescue dog must serve 6 months in quarantine after helping search for survivors following the Indonesian earthquake...
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/essex/8306976.stm

Check out Montreal's dog-friendly church service...
http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5j67_DKCGv6Jlkuus4Hcf2NYMQzQg

A dog named Monster saves his family from a house fire...
http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local-beat/Dog-Alarm-Save-Family-From-Flames-64095017.html

The 2010 Honda Element looks like being a great dog-friendly car. If only they'd introduce it to Australia...
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/unleashed/2009/10/2010-honda-element-dog-friendly.html

Meet Boomer, the world's tallest dog...
http://www.worldrecordsacademy.org/nature/tallest_dog-world_record_set_by_Boomer_90371.htm