https://www.scmp.com/rss/11794/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Owning a dog or a cat is a hugely rewarding experience. Few welcomes can beat a pet showering you with affection each time you walk in the door. However, taking care of a furry friend requires owners to be constantly alert when it comes to the health of their pet. While temperatures are rising in Hong Kong and your pet may become more prone to insect bites, Dr Hugh Stanley, of Dr Hugh's Veterinary Hospital, advises owners to stay vigilant year round. FIERCE FLEAS Without appropriate flea... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/article/1729903/fleas-and-ticks-can-pose-grave-danger-your-animal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/article/1729903/fleas-and-ticks-can-pose-grave-danger-your-animal?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Mar 2015 12:16:10 +0000 Cristy Lee has a hard time convincing her friends about the endearing qualities of her hedgehog, Siu-Dak, which means 'Pokey' in Chinese. Every time she introduces her nine-month old spiny mammal to them, he curls up into a ball. 'When I first got Siu-Dak, he wasn't that scared,' Lee says. 'But since he's got older, he's become more scared of sounds, and if a stranger goes near him, he'll curl up into a ball, so he's very challenging to play with [when friends are around]. But whenever he does... https://www.scmp.com/article/1001405/prickly-characters-need-hands-approach?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1001405/prickly-characters-need-hands-approach?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 19 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Living in harmony with two or more cats in your home can be a rewarding experience. But when one feline starts to urinate outside the litter box, it can anger the most loving cat owner and prompt an eviction to the nearest animal shelter. Veterinary surgeon and animal behaviourist Cynthia Smillie, at the Animal Behaviour Veterinary Practice, offers helpful advice on how to notice the signs and deal with problems associated with multi-cat households. 'Most owners only become aware of a problem... https://www.scmp.com/article/1000800/when-claws-are-bared-home-front?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1000800/when-claws-are-bared-home-front?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 12 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000 It's no surprise dogs and cats are the most popular pets in Hong Kong. But which animal takes third spot? According to a survey conducted by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Hong Kong, hamsters and terrapins are tied as the third most popular pet in the city. Based on a random sample of 537 respondents to reveal attitudes towards buying a pet, adoption and pet preferences, 37 per cent of people would choose a dog, 23 per cent a cat and 11 per cent a hamster or a... https://www.scmp.com/article/1000164/russian-dwarf-hamsters-big-hit-families?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1000164/russian-dwarf-hamsters-big-hit-families?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 05 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000 If you think your pet behaves in bizarre ways, veterinarian Hugh Stanley, of Dr Hugh's Veterinary Hospital in Tin Hau, helps explain the reasons behind some of canines' most puzzling behaviour. MAKING ITS MARK When it's time to go for 'number 2', have you noticed that many dogs turn in a circle before crouching down? Stanley explains: 'It's a behaviour to mark their territory. They are selecting the best spot to leave a marker for other dogs.' Another explanation for the circling harks back to... https://www.scmp.com/article/999500/making-sense-bizarre-world-canines?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/999500/making-sense-bizarre-world-canines?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 28 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 The most anticipated moment of any wedding is, undeniably, seeing the bride - and the dress that she's wearing - for the first time. The dress says so much about the bride's personality and style that choosing the right gown can take months of searching. And, because grooms can spend nearly as long choosing their outfit, we turned to the experts for tips on this year's trends and which wedding looks never go out of style. 'Since last year, tulle has been really strong. It has an airy feeling,... https://www.scmp.com/article/999438/dare-be-different?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/999438/dare-be-different?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 No wedding is complete without flowers. Floral designer and founder of Gary K, Gary Kwok, says fresh blooms add colour, life and fragrance to the big day. 'They can help make table settings more beautiful, and can transform a dull space into a gorgeous personality-filled one,' says Kwok, who helped set up Armani Fiori in 2002. Couples should first decide on their colour scheme and floral and style preferences. Kwok says: 'By having a consistent theme match a venue that is well-planned, you will... https://www.scmp.com/article/999442/blooming-good-time?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/999442/blooming-good-time?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Everybody dreams of the perfect wedding day. But with countless people involved in planning the big event, you can almost expect something to go wrong. 'Planning your wedding is a stressful time and an emotional experience, so you need to maintain a sense of humour. Sometimes people get too caught up in the details,' says Sonya Yeung, founder and creative director at Bliss Creations. 'Try to be lighthearted and keep calm. You don't want the events leading up to it to be a nightmare. Remember... https://www.scmp.com/article/999443/sealed-kiss?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/999443/sealed-kiss?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Turtles can be fascinating for people looking for a pet other than a cute cuddly cat or canine. While owning a cold-blooded creature may not require as much hands-on time as a furry animal, turtles require owners to pay careful attention to their living conditions and diet. Veterinarian Gillian Hung, at Happy Pets Veterinary Centre in Tai Hang, identifies some common problems to ensure your turtle lives a long and healthy life. In Hong Kong, the most common turtles are red-eared sliders and... https://www.scmp.com/article/998827/cold-blooded-creatures-require-care-and-attention?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/998827/cold-blooded-creatures-require-care-and-attention?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Dogs are known as friendly, tail-wagging creatures that will do almost anything to please their owner. However, every animal can act out when it's scared or placed in an unfamiliar environment. Foster Wong, a certified professional dog trainer from the American Karen Pryor Academy, provides insights on how to handle a canine that suddenly turns aggressive. 'Aggressive behaviour in dogs is very common. It's definitely one of the top five issues owners have, on top of other issues like pulling on... https://www.scmp.com/article/997636/fear-unknown-can-make-dogs-aggressive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/997636/fear-unknown-can-make-dogs-aggressive?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 A growing number of domestic cats are tipping the scales at unhealthy weights. According to veterinarian Samuel Wong at North Point's Cosmo Pet Service Centre, 25 to 40 per cent of pet cats are overweight, while about 5 per cent are obese. 'Long term, obesity will affect the health of a cat,' he says. 'But rarely, will owners bring their cat to see a vet solely for its weight problem. If it's fat, but still playful, eating and happy, most people will think it's normal for a cat to be... https://www.scmp.com/article/997095/fat-cats-may-be-cuddly-theyre-not-healthy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/997095/fat-cats-may-be-cuddly-theyre-not-healthy?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 31 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Today, growing numbers of lifestyle and furniture companies are catering to parents who want to extend their design ideas from 'adult areas' into children's bedrooms. The days when cartoon characters dominated children's furniture are long gone, and concern for the environment is increasingly a priority. 'People are spending more time at home and want an extension of their environment and taste in the children's bedroom,' says Kate Babington, managing director of Tree furniture boutique. Late... https://www.scmp.com/article/997072/parents-know-best?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/997072/parents-know-best?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 House training a new dog is a top priority. Whether it's a playful puppy or an adult, it requires time, energy and discipline. Trainer and animal behaviour therapist Rosemarie Tang, at the Animal Behaviour Veterinary Practice, provides some tips on training your dog to relieve itself at the right time and place. 'House training is very easy, but it's all about committing your time,' says Tang, a certified trainer from the San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.... https://www.scmp.com/article/996540/house-training-easy-it-can-take-time?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/996540/house-training-easy-it-can-take-time?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 24 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Thinking of getting a furry, feathered or exotic pet as a new member of the family? Across Hong Kong, hundreds of adorable and loving animals are waiting for adoption. 'If someone is considering getting a pet, they should ask themselves if they can spend time with the animal. Do they work 12 to 16 hours a day - that will affect the kind of animal they choose,' says Faye Wong, welfare operations manager at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Hong Kong. Dogs need... https://www.scmp.com/article/995758/animal-adoption-require-genuine-commitment?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/995758/animal-adoption-require-genuine-commitment?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Cynthia Smillie's 11-year old dog named Tao-tao unexpectedly started to 'virtually break down the door' when she went to bed. Every night, when it got dark, Tao-tao would become more and more anxious, and try to hide. Eventually, Smillie suspected the cause of her pet's distress was the low-battery sound coming from a mobile phone. With a condition called separation anxiety, some dogs that are left alone suffer anxiousness and negative behaviour. 'Separation anxiety is a fairly common... https://www.scmp.com/article/995051/panic-attacks-can-hit-dogs-just-easily-humans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/995051/panic-attacks-can-hit-dogs-just-easily-humans?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 In a centuries-old tradition you can still see men around Hong Kong taking their pet bird for a walk in the park. 'Birds have always been popular in Hong Kong,' says veterinary surgeon Tony Matthews, of Acorn Veterinary Hospital in Sai Ying Pun. With nearly 500 varieties in the city, Matthews adds the most common pet birds are cockatiels, budgies, lovebirds and large parrots, such as cockatoos and African Greys. If you are thinking about becoming a pet bird owner, the vet advises ... https://www.scmp.com/article/994353/be-certain-buying-bird-not-just-flight-fancy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/994353/be-certain-buying-bird-not-just-flight-fancy?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000 There's no denying that rabbits are cute and adorable, which makes them a popular choice for pets in Hong Kong. However, while these small mammals may seem like hardy creatures that can survive harsh climates, they need attentive care for their delicate skin, spine and system. Veterinarian Gerry Pahl at Victoria Veterinary Clinics in Tuen Mun offers some helpful grooming advice on how to keep your little Thumper in tip-top condition. Known for their acute senses and rapid reproductive rate,... https://www.scmp.com/article/993658/rabbits-need-care-and-attention-stay-condition?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/993658/rabbits-need-care-and-attention-stay-condition?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000 If your pet suddenly starts having problems breathing in the middle of the night, who should you call? A handful of veterinary clinics and hospitals around Hong Kong offer 24-hour emergency service for those scary moments. At Peace Avenue Veterinarian Clinic in Mong Kok, about 10 to 15 animals are treated every night. 'Most nights are busy, but generally the waiting time is short,' says veterinarian Anthony Hollis. 'We sometimes need to prioritise cases, but people expect and understand... https://www.scmp.com/article/993005/help-always-hand-should-emergencies-arise?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/993005/help-always-hand-should-emergencies-arise?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 18 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000 If you are thinking about getting a dog, but have never owned one before, what should you get? A big dog, small dog, smart dog or simple-minded dog? Rosalind Cheung at HK Dog Training provides some insight on which of Hong Kong's most popular dog breeds may be best for you. 'Some breeds are more active than others,' says Cheung, who graduated from the San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in 2002. 'If you get a smaller dog, they can run around your apartment, but... https://www.scmp.com/article/992352/pick-dog-breed-suitable-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/992352/pick-dog-breed-suitable-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000 With the recent spell of cool weather, it's a good time to take your dog out for a nice, long walk. And if you want some company - that is, more than 1,000 dogs and their owners - the Hill's x SPCA Family Wag 'n' Walk 2012 takes place from 8am today at Hong Kong Disneyland. Organised by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), the pet walk was previously called Dogathon, inaugurated in 1976. Over the years, it has been held across the city, from Tai Tam Country Park and... https://www.scmp.com/article/991715/magic-kingdom-welcomes-dogs-and-their-walkers?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/991715/magic-kingdom-welcomes-dogs-and-their-walkers?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Judy Kei can tell when her cat, Kit-Kat, isn't feeling well. It moves around less than normal, seems lethargic and then nibbles on a planter of cat grass in her apartment. 'Occasionally, Kitty would get an upset stomach, so it would eat the grass and make itself sick,' Kei says. 'I think sometimes the food is too rich for it. And it seems better after vomiting; it's like taking natural medicine for cats.' Some cats can't seem to resist the odd blade of grass, while other felines will turn... https://www.scmp.com/article/990749/plants-pose-danger-feline-health?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/990749/plants-pose-danger-feline-health?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Are there times when you think your pet has an extra dose of eau de animal? If that's the case, think twice before rushing your smelly furball to the bathtub or booking an appointment at the groomers. Veterinarian Hugh Stanley, at Dr Hugh's Veterinary Hospital, untangles some misconceptions and offers helpful advice on when to bathe your pet. For furry felines that may smell as if they have been hanging around the litter box a little too long, reaching for cat shampoo may not be the best... https://www.scmp.com/article/990155/think-twice-turning-taps?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/990155/think-twice-turning-taps?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 14 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000 Many people are starting the year with a new addition to the family: a dog or puppy. And, as these furry four-legged companions bring joy to the household, they require effort and training to be your perfect pet. Dog trainers Rosemarie Tang (www.petbehaviourhk.-com/follow-up.html) and Welshman Mark Peters (www.wishyouwereherehk.com) share their top canine tips. One of the most important things to remember in teaching your dog, says animal trainer and behaviour counsellor Tang, is to stop... https://www.scmp.com/article/989561/positive-reinforcement-key-dogs-and-domestic-bliss?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/989561/positive-reinforcement-key-dogs-and-domestic-bliss?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000 The Chinese have been breeding carp for thousands of years and mutations of the Prussian carp have turned into the wonderful spectrum of goldfish. As many believe an aquarium in the home brings good luck, managing director Gilbert Chow at Wellon Aquarium Products provides some insight. Most novices believe maintaining an aquarium is a complex undertaking but Chow disagrees. 'If you keep your water in good condition, then it's very easy to feed your fish,' he says. 'If you add regular tap... https://www.scmp.com/article/988897/push-your-luck-colourful-home-aquarium?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/988897/push-your-luck-colourful-home-aquarium?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000 With Christmas Day only a week away, now is the time to get your pet a little something special. For the dog or cat that has everything, here are a few Christmas ideas to bark about. At Whiskers N Paws (www.wnp.com.hk) in Ap Lei Chau, the Dog Gone Smart Bed is virtually stain-resistant. It's made of a material that repels water, grime and coat oil, so any accident or plain doggie dirt simply washes off. The bed, in various colours and sizes, also has a bacteriostatic feature that reduces ... https://www.scmp.com/article/988027/santas-stocking-full-fun-all-our-furry-friends?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/988027/santas-stocking-full-fun-all-our-furry-friends?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Two years ago, Peggy Li's 11-year old Golden Retriever Coco started to show signs of ageing. 'It was a gradual decline but for the last six to nine months it got worse and worse. Coco couldn't control his muscles in his feet and couldn't walk,' Li says. 'He started crying and screaming in pain all the time, and eventually he didn't recognise who we were.' During Coco's physical decline Li started preparing for the inevitable. She visited numerous pet funeral and cremation parlours to find out... https://www.scmp.com/article/987427/its-never-easy-say-goodbye-old-friend?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/987427/its-never-easy-say-goodbye-old-friend?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000 There are several ways to help your dog or cat live a longer and healthier life. Veterinarian Kitty Wong from The Ark Veterinary Hospital in Sai Ying Pun shares some tips on getting your pet to its golden years. Preventative medicine is the best solution when it comes to fighting disease and illness so vaccinations are a top priority for puppies and kittens. Your pet should receive its first vaccinations at six to eight weeks, then its second round at 10 to 12 weeks, and a third round at 14... https://www.scmp.com/article/986696/steps-ensure-animals-get-most-out-life?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/986696/steps-ensure-animals-get-most-out-life?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Food and rewards are powerful reinforcers to teaching your dog who's boss. Dog trainers Mark Peters and Rosemarie Tang share some insights into becoming leader of the pack. 'Eating before the dog is to communicate to it in dog language. [You can] establish natural pack hierarchy by having the leader and ranking pack members [family members] eat first,' explains Peters, a Welshman who runs dog training, pet-sitting and pet-relocation services at Wish You Were Here. 'It's not about just eating... https://www.scmp.com/article/985993/follow-simple-tips-become-leader-pack?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/985993/follow-simple-tips-become-leader-pack?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 26 Nov 2011 16:00:00 +0000 When you are eating, does your dog or cat transform into the cutest, most adorable creature that also wants a bite? If you want to keep your four-legged friend healthy and happy, don't give in to your pet's please-feed-me eyes, advises Jane Gray, deputy director of veterinary services at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Hong Kong. 'We don't encourage or promote giving human food to your pet, unless under strict veterinary control,' Gray says. 'We recommend a... https://www.scmp.com/article/985332/keep-family-and-animal-meal-times-separate?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/985332/keep-family-and-animal-meal-times-separate?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 19 Nov 2011 16:00:00 +0000 If you have had your pet for a while, you probably know its personality and how it's feeling. But do you know how well your companion sees its environment? Veterinarian Hans Westermeyer, from the Peace Avenue Veterinary Clinic in Mong Kok, offers insights into your pet's eyesight and its perception of the world. 'There's a variation across the animal kingdom, with dogs and cats having poorer eyesight than humans,' says Westermeyer, a veterinary specialist in ophthalmology. 'If we were to talk... https://www.scmp.com/article/984624/dogs-are-long-sighted-birds-can-spot-details?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/984624/dogs-are-long-sighted-birds-can-spot-details?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 12 Nov 2011 16:00:00 +0000 At a yoga studio in Sheung Wan, a small group of students and their instructor, Suzette Ackermann, are giving new meaning to 'downward facing dog', a yoga pose based on a natural stretch by a dog. For an hour-long session, these students have brought along their pampered pooches for a class of dog yoga or 'doga'. 'I've been practising yoga for many years, at home and in a studio, but with dog yoga you feel a special bond,' says Wendy Chan, founder of Pawette (www.pawette.com), a pet boutique... https://www.scmp.com/article/983957/pampered-pooches-join-humans-doga-classes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/983957/pampered-pooches-join-humans-doga-classes?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 05 Nov 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Earlier this month, Sally Andersen, founder of Hong Kong Dog Rescue (HKDR), had to re-home a dog that was the surviving member of a household. 'A Chihuahua was found in its apartment after the owner had already been dead for two days,' she says. The dog was taken to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department where it stayed for a month, before Andersen took it to the HKDR. According to Andersen, since the dog was microchipped and licensed to the owner, it was considered property... https://www.scmp.com/article/983274/there-can-be-legal-problems-rehoming-animal-when-its-owner-dies?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/983274/there-can-be-legal-problems-rehoming-animal-when-its-owner-dies?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 29 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Every year, an estimated 400 new fragrances are launched, each competing to be your new best friend. And, with a constant slew of new celebrity and designer fragrances hitting the shelves, it's hard to resist their allure. While it takes between one to three years to produce a fragrance, more pretty little bottles are now being created than 10 years ago, according to Rochelle Bloom, president of the New York-based Fragrance Foundation, which was established by six perfume leaders - Elizabeth... https://www.scmp.com/article/982972/making-scents?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/982972/making-scents?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 26 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Do you think your pet simply has a little extra puppy fat, or is it more serious, warranting a trip to the vet? Hugh Stanley, veterinary surgeon at Dr Hugh's Veterinary Hospital in Causeway Bay, offers advice on how to notice and reduce any unwanted weight in dogs and cats. 'Obesity is a big and increasing problem,' Stanley says. 'Depending on where you live [in the world], some experts estimate that 20 to 30 per cent of pets are clinically obese.' The term obese is defined as 20 per cent ... https://www.scmp.com/article/981981/tough-love-key-keeping-obesity-bay?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/981981/tough-love-key-keeping-obesity-bay?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 15 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Little furry rodents make wonderful pets. These include rats, mice, rabbits, gerbils and ferrets, and the most popular are hamsters and Guinea pigs. They are so loveable and cute, and many can even fit in your pocket. Veterinary surgeon Tony Matthews, at Acorn Veterinary Hospital in Sai Ying Pun, shares some tips on how to keep these hand-sized pets happy and healthy. 'Hamsters and Guinea pigs are ideal first pets as they are easily tameable and sociable little creatures, especially if handled... https://www.scmp.com/article/981341/popularity-pocket-sized-rodents-rise-make-sure-they-have-enough-space?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/981341/popularity-pocket-sized-rodents-rise-make-sure-they-have-enough-space?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 08 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 In 2009, Tommy Ho and his Standard Poodle show dog named Michael stepped into the ring at a dog show for the first time. 'I was very excited and nervous. It was my first experience and I didn't know how to walk with him,' Ho says. 'When the judge came to touch him, Michael started backing away. He was very nervous, too.' As the owner of three other dogs - a Mini Poodle named Soda, a Schnauzer named Lucky and a Golden Retriever named Sky - Ho believes a dog show is a fun game of discipline,... https://www.scmp.com/article/980744/animals-feel-thrill-performing-quest-best-show?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/980744/animals-feel-thrill-performing-quest-best-show?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 01 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Some say cats are known as solitary creatures that only want your attention for their basic needs. The rest of the time, felines are quite happy to laze around and sleep. But do they need more stimulation than getting up to eat and relieve themselves? 'Particularly in Hong Kong, a lot of cats spend time indoors, and there is a real risk of frustration when their needs are not being met,' says veterinarian behavourist Cynthia Smillie, at Animal Behaviour Veterinary Practice. 'Cats can suffer... https://www.scmp.com/article/980001/give-cats-mental-stimulation-recreating-challenges-hunting?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/980001/give-cats-mental-stimulation-recreating-challenges-hunting?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 24 Sep 2011 16:00:00 +0000 As a dog trainer, Rose Tang has to regularly cut the nails on a dog's paw. However, for some nervous pooches that would rather skip their pedicure, Tang uses a technique called TTouch (pronounced t-touch) to help them relax. 'If they are resistant, the more you hold onto them the more they fight you. And you will never succeed in cutting, trimming or grooming them,' says Tang, who started training dogs in 2000. 'But if I use TTouch they stop their resistance, and it helps your movements being... https://www.scmp.com/article/979356/alternative-therapies-and-techniques-can-help-relax-anxious-dogs?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/979356/alternative-therapies-and-techniques-can-help-relax-anxious-dogs?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Sep 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Do you think your cat has a unique personality, or is it just like others of the same breed? 'Some cats are more aloof and act like they don't really need you, then you have others that are the complete opposite - as soon as you touch them they start purring,' says Michelle Temple, co-founder of Hong Kong Alley Cat Watch. As the owner of seven mixed-breed animals, aged between 10 weeks and eight years, and a few foster cats at any one time, Temple believes neutered males are 'without a... https://www.scmp.com/article/978644/cat-breeds-can-have-wildly-differing-personality-traits-even-within-same-litter?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/978644/cat-breeds-can-have-wildly-differing-personality-traits-even-within-same-litter?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Sep 2011 16:00:00 +0000 The official days of summer may be coming to an end, but Hong Kong's killer temperatures linger on. For dog owners who want to cool off with their furry friends, two retreats offer much needed respite. At Petworld (www.petworldhk.com) dogs, from Yorkshire Terriers to Poodles, can revel in this slice of doggie heaven. Located in Yuen Long, it's a day-retreat and hotel, with two swimming pools- to separate big and small dogs- grass area, party room, barbecue pit, grooming facilities and kennel,... https://www.scmp.com/article/978071/heavenly-havens-dogs-offer-pooches-spot-summer-pampering?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/978071/heavenly-havens-dogs-offer-pooches-spot-summer-pampering?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Sep 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Almost everyone knows that if a dog is wagging its tail it's happy, right? Wrong. Being able to read what your furry friend is thinking and feeling takes more than a simple wag. 'A common misconception is that a dog wagging its tail is a happy dog, but that's not at all the case. It depends on a variety of things,' says Stanley Coren, psychology professor and neuropsychological researcher at the University of British Columbia, and specialist in the intelligence and mental abilities of dogs.... https://www.scmp.com/article/976699/tell-tale-signs-show-owners-whats-going-through-their-dogs-mind?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/976699/tell-tale-signs-show-owners-whats-going-through-their-dogs-mind?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 20 Aug 2011 16:00:00 +0000 If you love your pet, the chances are you'll want to pamper your precious pooch or furry feline with a gift on special occasions. Here are some pet-friendly products and ideas that you can find around Hong Kong. For dogs to look and smell their best at all times, Hong Kong-based online shop Copa Cabbana (www.copacabbana.com) features its own line of natural dog-care products called Bow Wow. All of Copa Cabbana's products are hand-blended in Thailand and produced one kilogram at a time to... https://www.scmp.com/article/976090/brighten-those-special-occasions-gifts-are-healthy-and-fun?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/976090/brighten-those-special-occasions-gifts-are-healthy-and-fun?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 13 Aug 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Janice Jensen seldom has a quiet morning. After emerging from her bedroom, she is greeted by conversation starters - such as, 'Good morning, how are you?' - from her African Grey parrot, Stanley. 'African Greys are very interactive birds,' says Jensen, director of Hong Kong Animal Speak. 'They have been put on the same level of intelligence as chimps and dolphins. And they don't just mimic [speech], they comprehend and use it in context.' When Stanley deliberately misbehaves for acts... https://www.scmp.com/article/974897/longevity-and-lifestyle-key-considerations-when-getting-parrot?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/974897/longevity-and-lifestyle-key-considerations-when-getting-parrot?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 30 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Fung Wai-yuk remembers standing outside her Lantau house when she was five and hearing her aunt scream. She looked down and noticed a green bamboo snake was trying to crawl up her leg. Within seconds, Fung's father appeared and grabbed the venomous reptile before any harm was done. 'From what I remember, my dad and aunt thought I was very scared, but actually I wasn't at all,' Fung says. Instead of killing the snake, her father kept it as a pet to ensure Fung always felt comfortable around... https://www.scmp.com/article/974280/snakes-alive-research-vital-keep-your-scaly-friend-happy-and-healthy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/974280/snakes-alive-research-vital-keep-your-scaly-friend-happy-and-healthy?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 23 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Chances are that if you wore a fur coat all summer in Hong Kong your skin would get hot, sweaty and itchy. For dogs that leave the confines of an air-conditioned apartment, summer can bring a host of skin problems. 'Any dog that isn't looked after properly, can get skin problems, more so in the summer, particularly secondary skin infections,' says veterinarian Catherine Sen at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. With heat and humidity in the summer, says Sen, yeast and... https://www.scmp.com/article/973656/hot-spots-can-lead-host-summer-skin-problems-dogs?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/973656/hot-spots-can-lead-host-summer-skin-problems-dogs?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Two years ago Dominque Frebourg moved from France to Hong Kong. She brought all her worldly possessions, including her three cats. Adhering to Hong Kong's animal import regulations, she vaccinated them before leaving France for a variety of diseases, including rabies. 'We did a lot of paperwork before we came and all the vaccines were done,' explains Frebourg. Until a month ago, she believed all her furry felines were in good health but then noticed seven-year old Nanaki had a lump on... https://www.scmp.com/article/973089/vaccinations-prevent-variety-diseases-can-be-dangerous?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/973089/vaccinations-prevent-variety-diseases-can-be-dangerous?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 09 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Most people like to keep clean by taking a daily shower or bath. The same goes for Guinea pigs. 'I bath my Guinea pigs every day in a very shallow bowl with lukewarm water and a small drop of shampoo - to get them clean underneath and rinse them. They seem to enjoy it,' says Josee Colley, who owns two long-haired Guinea pigs named Fluffy and Curly. Another part of their regular care includes changing the bottom of the cage - lined with pulp paper and newspaper - every two days. 'They are a lot... https://www.scmp.com/article/972378/cleanliness-vital-fragile-guinea-pigs-enjoy-stress-free-lives?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/972378/cleanliness-vital-fragile-guinea-pigs-enjoy-stress-free-lives?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 02 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0000 When Sheila McClelland picked up a Pug named Obi a year ago, he had a three-centimetre tumour on his front leg. Immediately, McClelland took him to see a veterinarian. 'It turned out to be cancer, and amputation was the only option,' says McClelland, who is the founder of Lifelong Animal Protection, a charity that rescues companion animals in Hong Kong. 'Initially, I was very upset but when we found out the tumour was localised and it could be dealt with [through an amputation] I was happy... https://www.scmp.com/article/971706/amputation-can-offer-disabled-dogs-new-and-active-lease-life?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/971706/amputation-can-offer-disabled-dogs-new-and-active-lease-life?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Jun 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Many dog owners like to think they have the smartest dog on the block. And, while your dog can bark on command and roll over, just how bright is your furry four-legged friend? A study by psychology professor and neuropsychological researcher at the University of British Columbia, and author of The Intelligence of Dogs, Stanley Coren compiled a ranking of 110 dog breeds based on a survey by more than 200 professional dog obedience judges. 'There were some surprises. A few breeds were higher or... https://www.scmp.com/article/970950/smarter-average-pooch-border-collies-iq-sees-them-come-top-class?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/970950/smarter-average-pooch-border-collies-iq-sees-them-come-top-class?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 18 Jun 2011 16:00:00 +0000 Sarah Yeung has a special routine for waking her white-haired cat named Snow. Instead of putting a hand on her furry feline, she first taps the surface he is sleeping on. When Snow looks up, Yeung touches him. As 15-year old Snow is deaf, Yeung says she is careful not to startle or surprise him. 'You have to approach [him] from where he can see you. You can't put your hand on his back without letting him know first,' she says. 'If not, he'll freak-out. He might hiss or spit at me, look around... https://www.scmp.com/article/970323/purebred-white-haired-cats-tend-be-more-susceptible-congenital-deafness?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/970323/purebred-white-haired-cats-tend-be-more-susceptible-congenital-deafness?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Jun 2011 16:00:00 +0000