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Christmas can be hazardous for pets – here’s what to look out for

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jacqueline-boyd-178858">Jacqueline Boyd</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/nottingham-trent-university-1338">Nottingham Trent University</a></em></p> <p>Christmas is a wonderful time to relax with family and friends, both two and four legged. But it can be a scary and dangerous time for pets. Food, presents, decorations and even visitors to our homes can all become hazards. Vets typically report the festive season as being one of their <a href="https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1136/vr.j5760">busiest times of year</a>.</p> <p><a href="https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.j5890">Knowing the dangers</a> is key. It is also important to let everyone in the house know what is safe and what is not for family pets. Prevention is always better than cure.</p> <p>Visitors can be advised on pet etiquette, too. Some pets can get distressed by changes to their routine and anxious in the presence of unfamiliar people. Unfortunately, this has been <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159121001829?via%3Dihub">exacerbated by the pandemic</a>. Be especially aware of leaving dogs unsupervised around <a href="https://injuryprevention.bmj.com/content/25/4/290">excited or unknown children</a> as bites are a real risk. Providing your pet with a safe, quiet space might be important to protect both your visitors and your pet.</p> <p>Festive foods are a particular problem. A tasty treat for us can be fatal for some pets, so beware of sharing your festive meals with your pets. Some animals will be sensitive even to slight dietary changes, perhaps showing signs of digestive upset and discomfort.</p> <p>Dogs tend to be less discriminating in their food choices than cats. This means that our dogs might be more likely to eat things they shouldn’t, but care should be taken with cats, too.</p> <p>Pancreatitis is a painful and distressing condition often seen in dogs who have <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2808289/">consumed fatty foods</a>. Avoid giving leftovers to your pets to reduce this risk. Cooked bones can also cause significant injury, so make sure they can’t get into the bins to steal scraps.</p> <p>Mince pies, Christmas cake and puddings are full of <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jvim.15884">raisins</a> – which are toxic to dogs. Grapes, currants and sultanas are also dangerous for dogs and are hidden in many festive recipes. And macadamia nuts are a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10670081/">health hazard</a>, causing a range of symptoms including weakness, vomiting, stiffness and depression. Other nuts and seeds can pose a choking risk.</p> <p>Alcohol needs to be strictly limited to human-only consumption. <a href="https://europepmc.org/article/med/11757994">Rotting apples</a> have even caused alcohol poisoning in dogs, so keep food waste and leftovers out of harm’s way, too. Access to <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1435-6935.2003.00068.x">raw bread dough</a>, blue cheese and salt-dough ornaments should also be avoided as they contain compounds that can cause significant illness.</p> <p>Similarly, <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2016.00026/full">onions, garlic and chives</a> contain chemicals that are toxic to cats and dogs – and cooking doesn’t make them safer. As little as a single spoonful of sage and onion stuffing can cause harm.</p> <p>Sweet treats are no safer. Chocolate is a significant concern, and holidays are associated with an increased risk of <a href="https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1136/vr.104762">chocolate toxicity</a>. Even artificial sweeteners, such as <a href="https://www.vetsmall.theclinics.com/article/S0195-5616(11)00219-1/fulltext">xylitol</a> – which is commonly used in chewing gum – should be avoided.</p> <h2>Not just food</h2> <p>Wrappers from sweets and chocolates can pose a risk if consumed. Indeed, digestive <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-5827.2009.00783.x">foreign bodies</a> are a common problem for dogs and cats, often requiring emergency surgery. If consumed, toys, gifts and decorations can cause intestinal blockage and damage.</p> <p>Be aware of plant hazards, too. Needles from Christmas trees can penetrate paws, causing pain and infection. Other festive plants such as poinsettia, mistletoe and holly berries are toxic if consumed. The leaves, petals and pollen of lilies are especially <a href="https://doi.org/10.1053/j.tcam.2010.09.006">dangerous for cats</a>.</p> <p>Antifreeze is another <a href="https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1136/vr.h6831">hazard for cats</a> with the ingestion of small amounts potentially fatal. Colder temperatures mean antifreeze is commonly used on our vehicles and spillages can occur. Occasionally it is also found in some decorations, such as snow globes, so care should be taken to prevent inadvertent access by our pets.</p> <p>In any case, where you think your pet has eaten or otherwise been exposed to something potentially nasty, it is best to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. By taking a bit of care over the festive season, we can all make sure it is a safe and restful time for us, our pets and our pets’ vets.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/173345/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jacqueline-boyd-178858">Jacqueline Boyd</a>, Senior Lecturer in Animal Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/nottingham-trent-university-1338">Nottingham Trent University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/christmas-can-be-hazardous-for-pets-heres-what-to-look-out-for-173345">original article</a>.</em></p>

Family & Pets

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"You've been bumped": Vietnam vet slams Qantas for booting him from business class

<p dir="ltr">Qantas has come under fire for booting a Vietnam war veteran from his paid seat in business class so that a young Qantas "tech" – later revealed to be a pilot – could travel in the luxury seat in his place.</p> <p dir="ltr">Stephen Jones, 78, and his wife were travelling home to Adelaide after a holiday in Christchurch. Their flight was passing through Melbourne on its way to their home in Adelaide, and the pair were enjoying coffee in the Melbourne airport lounge – just 30 minutes before they were set to continue their journey – when they were given the bad news by Qantas staff.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I went up to the desk and the Qantas employee there said, 'I've got some bad news for you, you've been bumped'," Mr Jones told Melbourne’s <em><a href="https://www.3aw.com.au/vietnam-war-veteran-booted-from-business-class-for-younger-qantas-employee/">3AW</a></em> radio program with Ross &amp; Russ. </p> <p dir="ltr">"It didn't register at first," continued Mr Jones. "I wasn't quite sure what 'bumped' meant... I said, 'What?', and she said, 'Yes, I'll have to re-issue your ticket for economy class. We have a tech who's flying to Adelaide and his contract states that he must fly Business Class."</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Jones then explained that while he retreated to his economy seat, the Qantas employee was seated next to his wife up in business class, and that "he wouldn't even look at her".</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Jones went on to explain that, after filing a letter of complaint, he was offered 5000 Frequent Flyer points in return for the downgrade and an apology.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Jones, who served in Vietnam in a combat unit in the 1960s, claimed he turned down the offer of 5000 points, saying, “I don’t think anything is going to change until there’s ramifications for Qantas, or costs for Qantas when they upset their customers.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Justin Lawrence, Partner at Henderson Ball Lawyers, later told the 3AW radio show hosts that there’s little customers can do about such a move by the airline and said it was “standard operating procedure”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Unfortunately, their terms of carriage allow them to do this sort of thing – this happens so often they’ve actually got a term for it, buckle up, they call this 'involuntary downgrading,'” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“They’ll overprescribe business class or first class, they will need to bump someone out, and they’ll do it almost immediately prior to the flight – not just Qantas, they all do it."</p> <p dir="ltr">“Any time you go to a travel agent or online to Qantas to buy a seat, and we think we’re buying a seat in a particular class, there are no guarantees that when that plane takes off, you’ll be sitting in that class.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Jones said he understood that Qantas pilots were entitled to rest comfortably on their way to another flight, but the ordeal was “unsettling and made me a little irritable”.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Vets share their 5 best tips for safer dog walks – and 5 things never to do

<h2>Dogs need exercise</h2> <p>Dogs need physical exercise –  and as their owner, those daily steps add up for you, too. A 2017 study published in BMC Public Health found that dog owners walk an average of 22 extra minutes per day. That’s exercise that counts toward The Heart Foundation’s recommended 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity exercise.</p> <p>Walking outside has some major health perks for you…and, says veterinarian, Dr Megan Conrad, regular walks provide excellent mental stimulation for your pooch.</p> <p>However, Dr Conrad and some fellow veterinarians told us there are some definite do’s and don’ts of dog walking that’ll help keep you and your pup safe and strolling happily for ages to come.</p> <h2>Do: Know your dog’s walking needs</h2> <p>In general, daily walks are recommended for most dogs, Dr Conrad says. Still, “the length of your walk very much depends on breed, age, and overall physical health.” A young border collie can go for several kilometres, while an older mini poodle is likely to need a shorter walk.</p> <p>The average adult dog needs about 20 to 45 minutes of moderate exercise twice a day, which can include a brisk walk, says veterinarian, Dr Whitney Miller. But, Dr Miller says, it’s a good idea to check with your pet’s veterinarian to determine his or her individual exercise needs.</p> <h2>Don’t: Walk too much too soon</h2> <p>“Just like we would not go out and run a marathon without training first,  you cannot expect your dog to go long distances right away,” Dr Karwacki says. When you’re establishing a walking routine, go short distances first and see how your dog is doing before you tack on more mileage.</p> <h2>Do: Make adjustments for the weather</h2> <p>“The general rule is if it’s too hot or too cold for you to be outside, it’s too much for your dog as well,” says veterinarian Dr Amber Karwacki.</p> <p>This is especially true for breeds like French bulldogs, pugs, or Boston terriers that don’t handle high temperatures well. One way around the heat is to aim for early morning or nighttime walks – just make sure to equip yourself and your dog with high-visibility gear like reflective clothing and lights (and carry a torch!).</p> <p>If possible, choose an area or route that allows your dog to walk on soft grass or dirt, as this helps prevent damage to their paw pads, Dr Miller says. “If you are walking on cold ground, booties can help prevent your pet’s paws from injury, keep snow and ice from getting stuck between the pads, and provide a barrier against ice melt,” she adds.</p> <p>If you’re walking on pavement during the summer, using paw protection (and bringing plenty of water!) is a good idea, too.</p> <h2>Do: Watch your dog’s behaviour</h2> <p>“Dogs may slow down, look in your direction, or outright refuse to move if they are feeling tired or don’t want to walk,” Dr Conrad says – and it’s important to respect this cue. Take notice of any excessive panting or unusual fatigue as well, Dr Miller adds, as these are clear signs to end the walk.</p> <p>If you sense that your dog is peeing more than usual, you should contact your vet – this could be a sign of illness.</p> <h2>Do: Let your dog sniff around</h2> <p>“Behaviourally, there’s nothing wrong with your dog frequently stopping to sniff their environment, and it can be good enrichment for them,” Dr Miller explains. “Sniffing is one of the main ways your dog experiences their environment, and there can be lots to take in on a walk, even in a familiar area.”</p> <h2>Do: Use positive reinforcement</h2> <p>Avoid reprimanding your dog or using other forms of punishment, even if it seems mild, like pulling on their collar, Dr Miller says. Research, such as one 2020 study, has shown that aversive-based training can cause stress and confusion in dogs, and this can lead to poor behaviour – possibly only because they don’t understand.</p> <p>“Positive reinforcement is proven to be effective,” Dr Miller says. “It promotes a focus on teaching dogs what we want them to do, such as having good manners, rather than focusing on behaviours we deem undesired.”</p> <p>You can use treats to reward your dog when they stay politely at your side, when they observe other dogs calmly instead of charging after them, and when they return their attention to you after something distracts them.</p> <h2>Don’t: Use retractable leashes</h2> <p>Retractable leashes allow too much freedom to explore in places that may be dangerous, Dr Conrad says – and they can make it difficult to keep control of your dog. Some larger breeds of dogs may even be able to break them, and they’re known for causing skin burns, Dr Karwacki adds.</p> <p>Here, it’s also important to note the findings of an April 2023 sports medicine study at Johns Hopkins University. A team of doctors analysed 20 years’ worth of national data and reported that on average, around 21,000 people per year seek treatment for injuries related to walking their pups on leashes. The data suggests that the majority of these injuries occur in individuals between age 40 and 64, and the most common reported injuries are finger fractures, traumatic brain injury, and shoulder sprains and strain.</p> <p>That’s one more reason to choose a stable leash (not a retractable one), pay attention to your walk (don’t lose your focus by looking at your phone or getting otherwise distracted), and be mindful of the size of dog you’ll be able to manage for the coming years when you’re looking to bring a new canine companion into your life.</p> <h2>Don’t: Let them off the leash</h2> <p>Unless you’re in a dog park, “it is essential to always keep your dog on a leash when out on a walk,” even if they’re well-behaved and trained, Dr Miller says. “You may encounter local wildlife and other people or dogs that could react negatively toward an off-leash dog or could distract your dog.”</p> <p>Dr Miller recommends using a no-pull harness that’s well-fitted (meaning it doesn’t restrict your dog’s range of motion) to encourage good behaviour and limit accidental negative reinforcement, like pulling on their collar. “If your dog gets excited and pulls during the walk, simply stop walking and reward them when they are exhibiting the desired behaviour of a loose leash,” she explains. “Continue to reward while walking when your dog is at your side and not pulling. Patience and consistency are important for reinforcing good manners.”</p> <h2>Don’t: Approach other dogs without permission</h2> <p>“Some dogs are reactive or nervous around other dogs, and having a strange dog come up to them can be intimidating and scary,” Dr Conrad says.</p> <p>Plus, not every person will be comfortable with you interacting with their pet, so be sure to over-communicate and seek permission, adds Dr Miller. (Also, stay fully focused – on-leash greetings can cause leashes to tangle up, presenting safety risks for both the dogs and the walkers.)</p> <h2>Don’t: Walk right after they eat</h2> <p>Avoid going on a long walk with your dog if it’s within an hour of them eating a large meal, Dr Miller says. This reduces the risk of stomach bloat, which can be harmful to your dog. (Besides, is there any feeling more satisfying than putting their breakfast bowl in front of them right after your morning walk? We think not.)</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/food-home-garden/pets/vets-share-their-5-best-tips-for-safer-dog-walks-and-5-things-never-to-do" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Travelling with pets on planes

<p>Travelling with your pet on the plane to jet-set on a holiday isn’t just for the rich and famous anymore. Increasingly airlines are making it easier for you to take your furry friend flying. Virgin Australia, for example, allow cats and dogs on domestic flights. But whether you’re planning on vacationing with the whole family or you’re relocating interstate, there are a few things to prepare before transporting your pet by air. Here are 5 things to consider to ensure the trip is safe and comfortable for both you and your furry companion.</p> <p><strong>Check with the airline</strong></p> <p>Find out all the requirements and restriction for the specific airline you are travelling with. Not all airlines takes pets or some types of animals and breeds may be prohibited. Rules vary between airlines so ensure you are familiar with the pet policies.</p> <p>Book early as they are usually limited amount of space for pets. It is recommended to book a direct flight as changing planes can cause your pet undue stress.   </p> <p><strong>Visit the vet</strong></p> <p>Make sure your pet is checked out by your veterinarian before air travel. Your vet will be able to tell you if your pet is fit, healthy and able to cope with air travel. For pets that are easily anxious or stressed, flying by plane might not be the best option. Confronted with an unfamiliar environment, they might be too agitated to fly.</p> <p><strong>Prepare your pet</strong></p> <p>Get your dog or cat used to being in their travel crate well before the flight. Containers should have enough space for your pet to stand, sit and lie naturally. Choose a container that is well-ventilated and has a water container to ensure your furry companion is well-hydrated during the flight.</p> <p>Make your pet feel comfortable and safe in their crate by providing them with their favourite toys and one of your old shirts so they have a familiar scent.</p> <p><strong>Up-to-date ID</strong></p> <p>Ensure all your contact information is with your pet including mobile numbers and destination address and number in case they escape. It is a good idea to affix a photo of your pet on their crate for identification purposes as well.</p> <p><strong>Before take-off</strong></p> <p>Do not feed your pet right before take-off as it could make them nauseous and sick on the plane. The rule is generally to feed them 4 hours before the flight. Take your pooch on a long walk before you leave home and try to let them relieve themselves as close to take-off as possible. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Travel Tips

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Vet reveals 5 dog breeds he would never own

<p dir="ltr">Choosing a dog breed is a difficult decision and it is important to research the breed you intend to get. </p> <p dir="ltr">Not every dog is going to be the right fit, and one UK vet has named the 5 breeds he’d never own and why. </p> <p dir="ltr">The vet, known as Ben the Vet on TikTok, posted the video alongside the caption, "I love dogs, I promise, I'm just fussy!"  </p> <p dir="ltr">"All I can say is that I think working in veterinary just makes you really fussy when it comes to dog breeds.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The first on his list was the Dobermann.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Now, I've met many lovely, lovely Dobermanns but it is shocking how many of them get a kind of heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">The next breed on Ben’s list was the Border collie. </p> <p dir="ltr">"Now, they are quite healthy, they are a bit prone to epilepsy, but I just find they're a dog breed that doesn't adapt very well to the sedentary life of being a pet,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">The vet noted that Border collies require constant stimulation as they want to work and be active.</p> <p dir="ltr">The third breed was a boxer.</p> <p dir="ltr">Although he admitted he has met lots of “sweet ones,” there is a long list of problems. </p> <p dir="ltr">He showed a book containing data on the health conditions dog breeds have and explained, ”The boxer has 74 diseases in their section, yes, 74.”</p> <p dir="ltr">"I've seen too many boxers with all of these problems to count," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Number four on the list was the Great Dane. </p> <p dir="ltr">"I think I'm just not a 'big dog' person at heart," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ben listed a few reasons including the size of his car and house, as well as the hefty vet bills due to all medical drugs being dosed according to weight, so a lot of procedures would cost more for Great Dane owners. </p> <p dir="ltr">He also noted that Great Danes often don’t live to the age of 7, saying it would be "quite hard to love a dog and then lose them in that short space of time."</p> <p dir="ltr">The last breed to make the cut were flat-coated retrievers. </p> <p dir="ltr">"This is a really hard one," he said, "they're a wonderful family dog, but I just know too much.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The vet said those dogs were prone to a type of aggressive cancer called histiocytic sarcoma.</p> <p dir="ltr">"They are the poster child of this disease. Around 50 per cent of all flat coats die of cancer," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">TikTok users were quick to flood the comments, with many agreeing with Ben’s list.</p> <p dir="ltr">"100% agree on the border collie. I have a border collie/Kelpie mix, he was bred to herd cattle. He is not a typical pet. He needs a job to be happy," one wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">Another Border Collie weighed in, writing, "They're not for the faint hearted. We didn't do our research and thus our lives had to change dramatically!”</p> <p dir="ltr">"100% on the boxers, we've lost too many too young," another dog owner commented.  </p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-65ee70b6-7fff-f53a-c316-79f2a6013593"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: TikTok</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Woman's $940k theft from vet hospital to play pokies app

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A woman has pleaded guilty to stealing $940,000 from her employer, after using the funds to fuel her addiction to an online gambling game that doesn’t pay out real money.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tasmanian woman Rachel Naomi Perri appeared before Hobart’s Supreme Court on Monday facing 25 charges of computer-related fraud and one count of fraud.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Perri, 49, stole the money over the three years she worked at the Tasmanian Veterinary Hospital as an account manager.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The “anomalies” in bank transactions were only discovered after Ms Perri was made redundant.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The full extent of her theft was uncovered after a full investigation.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Crown prosecutor Simone Wilson told the court that Ms Perri made 475 fraudulent transactions over the course of three years and four months, with the final amount totalling $940,221.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Wilson told the court that Ms Perri was the only person managing the hospital’s bank accounts and transferred money from the accounts to a variety of credit cards, personal loans, and other bank accounts in her name.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Police also discovered that Ms Perri had fraudulently taken out a $30,000 credit card in her husband’s name in 2015, racking up $24,000 in debt without her husband’s knowledge.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When she was interviewed by police in 2019, Ms Perri “immediately said, ‘I’m guilty’.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The court heard that Ms Perri told police she had been playing a game called Heart of Vegas for the past four years, which is where all of the money had gone.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It is similar to playing pokies and you shop to purchase coins or credits,” Ms Wilson told the court.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“[But the] credit purchased never turned into actual money. She couldn’t explain why she was playing that game when there was no return.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Heart of Vegas claims to feature “real Vegas slot machines just like the ones you know and love”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Its terms and conditions also state that players “may be required to pay a fee to obtain virtual items”, but that “virtual items may never be redeemed for ‘real world money’”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Wilson read out Ms Perri’s interview with police to the court and said she was in her “own little world” while playing.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I got myself into so much trouble but decided I’d keep going until [I] got caught,” she </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-23/woman-pleads-guilty-to-stealing-940k-from-her-workplace/100639450" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">said</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in the record of the interview.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I knew I couldn’t get away with it. I was waiting for a knock on the door from police.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Greg Barns, Ms Perri’s lawyer, told the court that the accused had a “lengthy history of gambling” that started when she turned 18 in Launceston.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“She began to use poker machines and she won $26 from placing a dollar into a machine and, as she described it, it went from there,” he told the court.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mr Grant said his client had moved from Launceston to Hobart for a fresh start, but began gambling 2008-09.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“She described spending consecutive hours on poker machines,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“One session she spent 16 hours continuously playing on the machine.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When Ms Perri discovered Heart of Vegas, Mr Barns said she became so addicted that she would keep spending money just to “keep playing the game”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“She got so addicted that she’d play it first thing in the morning,” he told the court.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“She would set it up at night so it played in auto.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Perri was diagnosed as having a severe gambling disorder by forensic psychiatrist Dr Michael Jordan.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“He considered that Perri’s gambling disorder was the most significant factor in her fraud activity,” Mr Barns told the court.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“[Her gambling was mindless, with no hope of any financial gain.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mr Barns told the court that Ms Perri voluntarily entered therapy and would need to continue once she was in prison.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">He said it was unlikely that his client would be able to pay back the veterinary services, after they instituted civil proceedings to recover the money.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Wilson said the accused’s behaviour was “planned” and “calculated”, and that she only stopped because she was made redundant.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The prospects of her recovering are slim to non-existent,” she told the court.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Perri has been remanded in custody until she is sentenced next month.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Getty Images</span></em></p>

Legal

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Why dogs often need extra magnesium

<p><span class="d2edcug0 hpfvmrgz qv66sw1b c1et5uql lr9zc1uh a8c37x1j keod5gw0 nxhoafnm aigsh9s9 d3f4x2em fe6kdd0r mau55g9w c8b282yb iv3no6db jq4qci2q a3bd9o3v b1v8xokw oo9gr5id hzawbc8m">It’s well-known that dogs need all the vitamins and minerals we do and one of the key nutrients is magnesium because a lack of it can cause all sorts of symptoms in dogs - in fact e</span>very time your pet moves a muscle, experiences a heartbeat or has a thought, magnesium is needed to help them achieve this.</p> <p>It’s little wonder many of our pets are deficient in magnesium because they share the same deficiencies as their human masters. Magnesium is very very depleted in the foods we eat these days, especially when processed. We live in a fast-food world of packets and tins, where you can bet that this type of food provides little or no magnesium benefit.</p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="/nothing.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/4ebccce85d434292a659825f62146daa" />Even fresh produce can be lower in magnesium than it should be simply because the soils have become depleted of magnesium. You only have to add to this the fact that we humans and our animals lose more magnesium when we’re under stress and you can see why magnesium deficiency is very common.</p> <p>Many vets are aware of the importance of magnesium: <a href="https://www.shailenjasani.com/about-me/">Shailen Jasani</a> is a veterinary surgeon specialising in Emergency and Critical Care in the UK. He says magnesium can be used as a medication with an escalating role in critical care medicine, and: “Magnesium plays a pivotal role in cellular energy production and cell-specific functions in every organ of the body.”</p> <p><strong><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="/nothing.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/85906281a5614ccabe340ad9dba28740" /><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844389/dog-magnesium-7-um.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/85906281a5614ccabe340ad9dba28740" /></strong></p> <p><strong>Some symptoms of magnesium deficiency in dogs are:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Muscle weakness or trembling</li> <li>Hyperactive or improperly triggered reflexes</li> <li>Difficulty walking</li> <li>Muscle pain</li> <li>Heart arrhythmia</li> <li>Lethargy or abnormal behaviour</li> <li>Constant scratching or itching</li> <li>Difficulty sleeping</li> </ul> <p><strong>Causes of magnesium deficiency in dogs:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Excessive stress, trauma or injury</li> <li>Chemical and toxic exposures</li> <li>Malnutrition</li> <li>Diabetes</li> <li>Kidney damage</li> <li>Treatment with diuretics</li> <li>Digestion problems and disease inhibiting absorption of nutrients</li> </ul> <p><strong><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="/nothing.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/c55421473c194494a9d4b17c12776f85" /></strong><strong>More serious symptoms of heart arrhythmia:</strong></p> <p>If you feel your dog is showing signs of magnesium deficiency, this should be checked out quickly to avoid serious problems. Take your dog to the vet and they’ll listen to your dog’s heart. If any abnormality is detected they’ll probably order an ECG.</p> <p>An ECG is a medical device which displays the patterns of your dog’s heartbeat on a screen using terminals taped to your dog’s chest. This is a simple machine and most vets have one. The classic signs of low magnesium are prolonged PR intervals, widened QRS complexes, depressed ST segments and peaked T-waves.</p> <p>Lower magnesium levels are also associated with hyperactivity, anxiety and agitation. You can tell if this applies to your dog if it’s hard for your dog to relax and calm down.</p> <p><strong>Other minerals are also affected by magnesium deficiency in dogs</strong></p> <p>Sure, there are other electrolyte minerals required by both humans and dogs. We need sodium, potassium and calcium as well, but these are all dependent to some degree on the action of the magnesium because magnesium underpins and leverages their effect.</p> <p>The main electrolyte team in addition to magnesium – sodium, potassium and calcium – is necessary for some very important functions, including muscle movement, proper heart function and nervous system signalling.</p> <p>For example, if you or your dog have plenty of magnesium, your body doesn’t need quite as much calcium to get the calcium jobs done because magnesium organises and controls calcium’s use in the body. It turns out magnesium is the ‘Master Mineral’ electrolyte regulator in the electrical system. If it drops too low, calcium can cause a lot of havoc as free calcium depositing where it shouldn’t, or over-stimulating muscle cells.</p> <p>Therefore, as magnesium drops lower, it can lead to the other three minerals losing effect. Studies have shown potassium suffers when magnesium is too low, as we can lose too much potassium due to membrane ‘leakiness’ when magnesium is deficient. If you lose too much potassium from inside the cell it can cause heart attacks. The potential knock-on effects are muscle weakness and tremors, as well as heart arrhythmias. As these issues escalate, they can become fatal.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.40454995054404px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844390/dog-magnesium-6-um.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/c55421473c194494a9d4b17c12776f85" /><strong><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="/nothing.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/9af68fa91aa74ea2b77b8d6ace500442" /></strong></p> <p><strong>What does all of this mean for your dog?</strong></p> <p>People who own racing dogs have seen how much magnesium helps. They often apply magnesium oil to the legs of their dogs so they can recover better from their events. Without the extra magnesium the dogs develop intense and involuntary muscle tremors and spasms. This is also a helpful strategy for all athletes who undertake extreme sports and gruelling training.</p> <p>If your dog is behaving strangely and seems to be in pain or having trouble walking, take your pet to a vet straight away so they can check exactly what’s happening. Sometimes it might be a toxin from a tick or snake bite which is causing these issues, because these types of toxins block the electrical system.</p> <p>Magnesium deficiency is something which tends to grow over time. You’ll be able to notice symptoms creeping in slowly, and escalating if left untreated.</p> <p>If you’re worried about your dog’s health because he/she is behaving strangely with symptoms like sensitivity to stress or noises, anxiety, muscle weakness and changes to gait, or skin issues with constant scratching not due to fleas, then your vet will likely order a blood electrolyte test.</p> <p>This measures the amount of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, calcium and sodium in your pet’s blood, in addition to some other common electrolytes. So, once you’ve done this you’ll be able to see what your dog is low in.</p> <p><strong>Treatment of magnesium deficiency in dogs</strong></p> <p>If you’re feeding your dog with a variety of fresh food, but suspect magnesium deficiency (perhaps due to stress or exertion), then you can test this by applying magnesium as a magnesium spray, lotion or cream on the underbelly or legs – wherever you can get it past the fur to the skin.</p> <p>Avoid application of the cream to broken skin as it may sting, but rather apply to surrounding area. Apply regularly every day until the inflammation subsides.</p> <p>You can also add food grade magnesium chloride flakes to your dog’s drinking water every day. You can make these changes and then check to see if the symptoms they’ve been showing tend to ease.</p> <p>Or you can use a transdermal magnesium cream and find a way to rub this on your dog’s skin. Dogs usually love a massage so just rub in one or two teaspoons of <a href="https://www.elektramagnesium.com.au/shop/magnesium-pet-cream-50g-jar/">Magnesium Cream for Dogs</a> (Pet Cream). If your dog has developed magnesium deficiency, it’s best to keep applying the cream regularly, as well as adding the <a href="https://www.elektramagnesium.com.au/shop/magnesium-flakes/">Magnesium Chloride Flakes</a> to their drinking water, to prevent the magnesium deficiency symptoms from coming back.</p> <p><em>Images: Shutterstock</em></p> <p> </p>

Family & Pets

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Anxious pet owners ask vets to put down their pets over coronavirus fears

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> <div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> <p>Hysterical and anxious pet owners are preemptively asking vets to put down their pets over fears that their animals will contract the deadly coronavirus.</p> <p>Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic in St Peters, Sydney, has received three calls from owners asking to have their pets euthanised.</p> <p>"They’re scared their dog could catch coronavirus and bring it home and be a risk to their family," Dr Sam Kovac told<span> </span><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://10daily.com.au/news/a200304hcuyk/vet-refuses-to-euthanise-pets-over-coronavirus-fears-as-misinformation-spreads-20200305" target="_blank">10 daily</a>.</p> <p>"I had one client say to me 'dogs are in lock down in China, should I be putting Cheto into quarantine at home?'," he said.</p> <p>The World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged for caution as the virus is unable to spread from dogs to humans.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronavirus</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>) Myth busters via World Health Organization (WHO) <a href="https://t.co/AEmAbgitac">pic.twitter.com/AEmAbgitac</a></p> — UNICEF New Zealand (@UNICEFNZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNICEFNZ/status/1234313741988245511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>Dr Sam Kovac has said he has refused to put the animals down.</p> <p>“If you'd ask the same clients if they'd euthanise their grandma, they'd say no. Why have a pet and treat it differently to how you'd treat another family member?” he explained.</p> <p>"I am worried about people going elsewhere to euthanise pets because there are unscrupulous people out there that would profit from putting animals down."</p> <p>He also said that people shouldn’t stop taking their dogs to dog parks out of fear.</p> <p>“If my dog Clara had been infected with [COVID-19], I would isolate her, I would wear protective equipment while interacting with her and feeding her and isolate her for a few weeks.”</p> <p>"There’s a good chance that if she catches it, she’ll recover."</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Family & Pets

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Vets implore those living in bushfire areas to consider their pets safety

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Australia’s national vet association are appealing for pet owners to consider their pets’ safety and wellbeing this bushfire season.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“People living in bushfire zones will have planned ahead and be prepared for such emergencies, but we can’t stress enough how critical it is that pets are also included in any emergency plans,” said Dr Julia Crawford, President of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA).</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dr Crawford also urged pet owners to ensure that they take the necessary steps to look after their animals in extreme heat. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It's crucial to remember that our pets can't perspire in the way humans do and produce only a tiny amount of sweat through their footpads. They cool themselves down by panting, but sometimes this isn't enough, and they start to overheat.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Heat stress can occur rapidly, and signs can include noisy panting, seizures, drooling and collapse.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Heat stress can kill your pet, it is an emergency in itself, so it is critical to know the signs and get your pet to a vet as soon as possible,” said Dr Crawford. “This might not always be possible during a bushfire, so it is equally essential that you know how to assist your pet until you can get to a vet”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Place your pet in front of an air conditioner or a fan and put wet towels on the hairless parts of their body, such as footpads and the groin, to help them cool down, and ensure they have access to plenty of cool fresh water.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The AVA recommends an emergency kit for pets ahead of time in case evacuation becomes necessary, which includes non-perishable food and water in spill-proof containers.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“If it starts to look likely that evacuation may be necessary, try to confine your pets to the safest enclosed room of the house, such as the bathroom, where they can be quickly collected. Make sure you also have your pet’s carry cages and leads on hand, so you don’t have to search for these if the decision is made to leave” said Dr Crawford.</span></p>

Family & Pets

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5 secrets your vet won’t tell you

<p>Pet tips and cautionary tales. We reveal advise and opinions from animal experts, ie vets, that may just save time, trouble and trauma for the whole family.</p> <p><strong>1. The dogs that scare vets the most are the little Chihuahuas</strong></p> <p>“People always ask, ‘How do you handle pit bulls and rottweilers and big German shepherds?’ The truth is, the dogs that scare me most are the little Chihuahuas. They’re much more likely to bite.” — Mark Howes, veterinarian, owner and medical director of an animal hospital.</p> <p><strong>2. Please respect that we’re trying to work</strong></p> <p>“If you’re visiting your pet in the hospital, and we say something along the lines of ‘OK, it’s time to let Fluffy sleep now,’ often what we really mean is that you’re in our way, and we’re trying to treat other patients.” — Jessica Stout-Harris</p> <p><strong>3. We don’t want your pets to be in pain</strong></p> <p>“A lot of veterinarians have told me matter-of-factly that they still don’t use painkillers for procedures that we know are painful. They think that dogs and cats don’t need it or that feeling pain after surgery is good because it keeps them from moving around too much. But research has shown that pets who are in less pain heal faster, sleep better, and don’t move around as much.” — Dennis Leon, veterinarian</p> <p><strong>4. Every time we help a pet, we help a person</strong></p> <p>“The classic example is the 80-year-old grandma who has nothing in life but her cat. She’s a widow with very limited social contact, and the cat is what connects her to life. So when we help her cat, she’s really the one we’re helping.” — Phil Zeltzman, veterinarian</p> <p><strong>5. I hate retractable leashes</strong></p> <p>“The stopping mechanism pops open so easily, and suddenly the pet is flying to the end of it, and maybe it’s into the street or into the jaws of another dog. I’ve had people bring in a pet who got hit by a car because they were using a retractable leash and the stopping mechanism broke.” — Bernadine Cruz, veterinarian</p> <p><em>Written by Michelle Crouch. This article first appeared in </em><span><a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/pets/44-secrets-your-veterinarian-wont-tell-you"><em>Reader’s Digest</em></a><em>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, </em><a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=articles&amp;utm_campaign=RDSUB&amp;keycode=WRN93V"><em>here’s our best subscription offer.</em></a></span></p>

Family & Pets

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What you need to know before getting a pet, according to a vet

<p>As a veterinarian, one of the things that upsets me a lot is when clients bring in new pets that have obvious problems.</p> <p>This animal can have the problem for the rest of its life, but the owners are already emotionally attached to it.</p> <p>The pet has often been purchased with the problem and the breeder or pet shop often relies on this emotional attachment to evade its responsibilities to sell a happy healthy pet.</p> <p>These problems can be the result of poor breeding or care by the breeder or pet shop, or obvious faults that should have been picked up by an experienced breeder or veterinarian. Such examples include:</p> <p>1. Conformational issues such as retained testicles, hernias, heart murmurs, undershot jaws and joint issues that include arthritis and kneecap problems. I have also seen fractured legs in newly purchased kittens.</p> <p>2. Disease issues that commonly include gastrointestinal upsets, giardia, cat flu, scabies and ringworm.</p> <p>New owners or those considering buying a new pet should strongly consider the following:</p> <ul> <li>Do your research: Are you aware of any genetic disorders the breed might have and if you are buying from a breeder, check with the relevant breed society.</li> <li>Don't be impulsive: There is often a reason why that one is the last puppy or kitten in the pen at the pet shop. Make sure you also assess the temperament and general body condition.</li> <li>Always take your new pet to your own vet as soon as possible and get it checked. A new pet is no different to buying a secondhand car and can be just as expensive, but if you take it early, you hopefully won't be too attached.</li> </ul> <p>So while I know it's hard to do, make the seller put the problem right or give you your money back. Do not be fobbed off by supposed short-term guarantees,</p> <p>If you go to the local pet shop, do not be talked into a kitten that is sneezing or a kitten or puppy with diarrhoea, you could end up with a lifetime of costs and a sick pet that you struggle to enjoy.</p> <p>At the end of the day, it is your decision as the pet's owner, but my strong advice is, if it is a long-term or permanent condition, make them put it right or take it back.</p> <p>That way, you will avoid a lot of potential heartache.</p> <p><em>Written by Alan Probert. Republished with permission of <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></strong></a>.</em></p>

Family & Pets

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“We remember”: Auschwitz survivor and Vietnam vet on what ANZAC Day means to them

<p>Anzac Day means different things to different people. </p> <p>Frank Smolen, who turns 100 in October, survived Auschwitz. When Nazi Germany occupied his country, Frank joined the Polish Resistance. He spent about three years in this infamous concentration camp after the Gestapo discovered his allegiance to the resistance. </p> <p>Frank admires how Australians come together to remember the brave people who served their country in war. </p> <p>“Australians do it well. No other country in the world recognises their returned soldiers and diggers like that. They haven’t forgotten.”</p> <p>Frank moved from Poland to Australia after World War II. He met his future wife, Hedwig, on the boat trip to Australia and they enjoyed a happy life in Melbourne suburb, Footscray, before she passed away about 10 years ago. He has only recently started talking about some of his experiences.</p> <p>Today, he lives at VMCH aged care residence, St Bernadette’s in Sunshine. Frank’s family describe him as a treasure. </p> <p>“He’s just an adorable man and we love him to bits,” his daughter-in-law, Ina, says.</p> <p>While ANZAC Day was not something the family have been a part of in the past, Frank was moved when he was asked to be part of St Bernadette’s Anzac Day service last year.</p> <p>“St Bernadette’s asked him to lay the wreath for their Anzac Day service because he was the oldest one in the centre,” Ina, said. </p> <p>“He was so emotional and so proud. I really think that is the closest he’s ever come to somebody acknowledging what he’s been through.” </p> <p>Ina says Frank is in good health and the family hope to record his experiences during World War II to make sure his memories and important story is not lost. She sees parallels between his reasons for joining the Polish Resistance and what the ANZACs did. </p> <p>“We have asked him why did he do it? ‘Why were you part of the underground?’ He said, ‘I did it for Poland. I did it for the love of my country.’ That’s exactly how we look at our ANZACs and what they have been through at Gallipoli.  They just do it because it’s for their country,” she said.</p> <p>For Gary McNabb, 66, ANZAC Day is an important day to remember people who did not come back from war.  </p> <p>A Vietnam War veteran, Gary marches in the ANZAC Day Parade in Melbourne every year.</p> <p>“I can’t get over the amount of people there … all cheering. I am proud to march. But you still remember everyone that’s been your mates that are not with you anymore,” he says.</p> <p>Gary is a volunteer at St Bernadette’s. He started volunteering after his mum moved into St Bernadette’s about eight years ago. While his mum passed away a few years ago, Gary still volunteers. He loves to chat with residents and help out during the regular bingo games. </p> <p>Gary says he does not like to talk about his time during the Vietnam War. </p> <p>“I have locked it and thrown the key away,” he said. </p> <p>He says he only started marching in the Anzac Day parade in the ‘90s at the insistence of an aunt. But, now he enjoys the day and recalls the first time he joined the parade.</p> <p>“I met blokes I hadn’t seen in years and years. It felt fantastic.”</p> <p>It is the stories and sacrifice of people like Frank, Gary and countless others that continue to make days like Anzac Day so important to Australians.</p> <p>Lest we forget.</p>

Retirement Life

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Dr Chris Brown’s Bondi Vet replacement revealed

<p>It’s hard to imagine <em>Bondi Vet </em>without Dr Chris Brown, but the beloved series is about to get a big shake-up with not one, not two, but four new hosts.</p> <p>Dr Chris announced he was leaving the show earlier this year to focus on other TV commitments (<em>The Living Room</em>, <em>The Project</em> and <em>I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!</em>), sparking an extensive, nationwide search – but it was never going to be easy to find someone to fill the Logie winner’s shoes.</p> <p>After thousands of applications and nominations, producers were so overwhelmed with the talent on offer, they couldn’t reach a decision. So, they settled on four new faces – Drs Alex Hynes, Danni Dusek, Lewis Hunt and Peter Ricci – <strong>who you can see in the gallery above</strong>.</p> <p>“Each of the four new Bondi Vets has a unique skill set and story to tell,” said WTFN director of content Steve Oemcke. “Their love of pets and animals shines through and there is a great chemistry between them.</p> <p>“Their work in front of the camera has been outstanding, and we know that fans will really get behind them as they take the show in an exciting new direction.”</p> <p>Despite its name and that iconic location, the new-look series (which will air next year) won’t actually be based in Bondi. Dr Alex works in Brisbane, Dr Danni works in Mentone, Victoria, Dr Lewis works in Sydney’s northern beaches and Dr Peter works at Perth Zoo.</p> <p>Tell us in the comments below, what do you think of the new recruits? Will you be tuning in?</p>

TV

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Why dogs turn around in circles before lying down

<p><em><strong>Bondi Vet’s much loved veterinarian, Dr Chris Brown reveals the reason why dogs turn around in circles so much before they lie down.</strong></em></p> <p>It seems like everyone has a pre-sleep routine. While the human version might include brushing your teeth or reading a book, the hairiest member of your family does something quite special. They spin around in circles before lying down. But have you ever wondered why?</p> <p>Well, it's taken until 2016 to find out. The 'bed circles' were previously thought to be an instinctive call-back to a time where dogs needed to search around their sleep spot for predators. But researchers now believe that it's got more to do with ensuring a smoother sleep. Basically, dogs are spinning as a way of making their bed more comfortable. Thousands of years of sleeping in long grass taught them that circling is the best way to make a smooth, flattened 'nest'. And while their lives have become a lot more luxurious of late, this behaviour still remains when they take a lie down in your lounge room. I guess now everyone can rest easy...</p> <p>Want to test the theory? Try putting a toy or ball UNDER their bed. Chances are when they climb in, they'll spin even more in an attempt to 'iron-out' the bump...</p> <p>For more tips on your pets, follow Dr Chris Brown on <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/dcbpets/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook here.</a></strong></span></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/09/infographic-explains-cat-behaviour/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Infographic explains cat behaviour</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/09/15-pet-faces-too-cute-to-stay-mad-at/"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>15 pet faces too cute to stay mad at</em></span></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/family-pets/2016/08/why-you-shouldnt-kiss-your-dog/"><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Why you shouldn't kiss your dog</strong></span></em></a></p>

Family & Pets