Category: Community Stories

Featuring stories from real pet owners and resources for all thing pets

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Community Stories

Where Should Your Pet Go When You Are On Holiday

@mr.pokee

Sometimes, you just might need a break from Singapore or just a break from work or school with a mini staycation, but you are in a dilemma as to where to bring your furry friend. Even the most popular pet influencers have to be banned from most holiday areas that are strictly out of bounds to pets. But fret not, as here are some words of advice to follow when you are troubled about holiday plans with your favourite fur-friends:

Bring It Along With You

It is good news to know that more and more staycation destinations are now pet-friendly! From huge chalets to luxurious hotels, a quick online check will list out quite a few recommended options. So if you can’t stand the thought of your pet separating from you, why not bring it on a mini getaway with you too? If you are considering a more expensive long-term stay overseas, you can also opt to bring your pet on a flight as some airlines are pet-friendly.

However do note that it is costly, and a lot of time has to be spent on logistics and ensuring that your pet will get used to the unfamiliar destination and sensations of being on a plane ride. Some countries also enforce a quarantine period, so do research properly on the destination country’s laws and regulations regarding pets.

Find A Trusted Temporary Owner

If you have little choice but to take a break without bringing your fur-friend along, a most budget-friendly option will be to find a trusted loved one to take care of your pet temporarily. However do remember to delegate responsibilities wisely, and ensure that you do not miss out on anything before your trip. The last thing you might want is your pet to suffer in the hands of someone who might not be trustworthy.

Experienced Daycares and Pet Hotels

To find someone with more relevant experience might also be a good option, despite it being more expensive. But it is always good to be careful, especially with the recent controversies about inappropriate treatment of pets at daycares and pet hotels. Looking out for good reviews online or from word-of-mouth is always advisable, and it is also good to check out the amenities and staff before making a final decision. Different places might also have different types of “schedules” or “experiences” for your pet’s stay, such as the type of food and playtime options offered to your pet, so also ensure that your pet is comfortable with such relevant experiences!

If you make a wise decision after considering all your options (and considering which option your pet is the most comfortable with), you do not need to worry that your fur-friend might feel upset that you are going on a trip. In fact, your furry companion might enjoy its time just as much as you!

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Community Stories

Keeping beach outings fun and safe

@_missygigi_

The sun’s out, and now that we are able to visit the beach again, many of us are excited to bring our dogs to the beach! However, it is very important that us dog owners maintain good hygiene for the benefit of both our furkids and ourselves.

There have been recent reports on four individuals who visited Sentosa and developed skin irritation. And we know that our furkids are also susceptible to such infections. Here are our 5 tips to ensure that you and your furkid have a fun & safe beach outing.

1. Watch what they drink

Sometimes furkids end up drinking saltwater when they’re playing around in the sea. Drinking of salt water can lead to diarrhoea and an upset tummy so do be careful and keep a close eye on your pup while he plays in the water. 

Make sure you bring plenty of fresh water to keep your furkid hydrated. Pack along a collapsible bowl or a water dispenser in your bag the next time you visit the beach.

2. Wash up thoroughly after your outing

With Covid-19 still prevalent, we all have to continue being vigilant and maintaining good personal hygiene that keeps both hooman and furkids safe! 

For hooman, if you are having a picnic by the beach do remember to sanitise your hands before eating. Wash your hands regularly as well and clean up before heading home(especially if you took a swim).

Similarly for our furkids, bathe them thoroughly before heading home – use soap for a more thorough cleanse. Dogs may get a build up of sand and salt in their fur that can cause skin irritation. So remember to scrub them down to avoid any skin irritation or flare ups. 

3. Prevent sunburn

Our furkids are susceptible to sunburn just like us and it can cause a risk of skin cancer. Breeds that have light skin & fur or have a short coat are more prone to getting sun burnt. Take special care around the ears and nose as these areas are more sensitive. 

Avoid staying in the sun for too Long. My recommendation is for sunlight exposure to be less than an hour. If your pup is prone to getting sunburn, find a shady area and let your pup rest in the shade intermittently while playing in the sun. 

4. Look out for open wounds

We have all heard that salt water is good for wounds right? Yes that is true! But sea water is not equivalent to salt water. In addition to salt, seawater also contains bacteria which can be harmful. These bacteria can lead to the wound becoming infected.

Before your pup goes running into the sea, check his body for any open wounds. Dogs with open wounds are not recommended to go Swimming in sea water. 

Have some fun in the sand instead, keep the wound dry and Ensure proper follow up care. If the wound is serious, bring your dog to the vet for proper treatment.

5. Jellyfish alert!

Earlier this year, there were reports of people getting stung by the deadly box jellyfish at various beaches in Singapore. This creature has been spotted at Sentosa, Lazarus Island, East Coast Park and St John’s Island. The boxed jellyfish is a venomous marine creature whose sting can be fatal to both dogs and humans.

It is very very crucial to be vigilant when visiting the beach and swimming in the water. Look out for any possible sightings of the boxed jellyfish and keep your furkid away from the water. If you spot one of these jellyfish, warn those who are swimming of the danger. 

If you or your furkid gets stung by a boxed jellyfish, go to the vet or hospital immediately to get treated. For emergency first-aid, soak the stung area in seawater, vinegar or a 70% alcohol solution. If the tentacles are still stuck around your furkid, pull off the remaining tentacles with a stick or towel but be careful not to rub them or touch them with your bare hands.

With these tips, you will be ready and equipped for your next beach outing! With preparation and caution, you can both enjoy a great day at the beach. Do remember to maintain social distancing and be responsible while having fun. 

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Community Stories

Importance Of Training Your Pet

Pet training can come in many different varieties—from basic toilet training, to complex tricks and skills that will make your furkid impress your family and relatives. Today we will be sharing some information on the importance of pet training.

Your pet can make more friends.

This is relevant to your ordinary pet influencer—be it a dog influencer or a cat influencer—or just an active, friendly furkid who is eager to expand its social circle. Bringing your pet outdoors, going to pet events, and even just bringing another furkid home (temporarily or permanently) requires your pet to be able to handle the unfamiliar situation of meeting new people and animals. If your pet have had adequate training in staying calm, non-aggressive and approachable when meeting new friends, it will be a delight to bring your pet out as not only will you find it enjoyable, your pet will feel the same way too. In contrast, fear or aggression towards strangers will give you little choice but to narrow your pet’s chances of meeting new furfriends.

 A well-trained pet means encountering less danger.

Training your pet to stay calm and close to your side is essential, but most pet owners might not realize it till its too late. Often, your pet might be very curious and sensitive to new situations and triggers, such as loud sounds or going to a new environment. Even your most well-trained pup may be tempted to follow a stranger home without you noticing sometimes! Thus, it is important to train your pet to stay by your side at all times, even if it’s just the basic “heel” trick that ensures that your pet walks at your pace, and stops when you stop on a walk. Your pet will know to follow your instructions, and will be prevented from encountering more danger outdoors.

 You will have an easygoing pal in the household!

Last but not least, a well-trained pet also means a much more comfortable experience at home. Your pet will be less prone to causing damage at home (broken and bitten furniture), and/or causing unnecessary distress to your family and neighbours. Remember that pet training comes in all aspects; even the basics, such as eating a meal properly and regularly will require some form of discipline and training for all pets!

While there are many different styles and forms of pet training, do remember that pet training should also not necessarily be tough and uncomfortable for your pet. It is important to seek advice from other pet owners and professionals, and if your pet seemed to be experiencing discomfort from the training, it is best to switch to other methods or even a different professional trainer. 

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Community Stories

How To Spend More Quality Time With Your Pet

As we are consumed by work, it is inevitable that we spend merely a few hours with our most precious furry companions every day. However, rather than thinking that this should be the least of our concerns, we should realize that even our most popular dog influencers and cat influencers can get stressed out and sad due to loneliness as well. Here are some tips you should follow to ensure that your favourite fur-friend gets to spend quality time with you:

Go on pet-friendly outings!

One easy way to do so is to take out some time during the weekends just to spend it exclusively with your pet, and what better way to do so than to bring your pet to pet-friendly areas and events? Be it just a neighbourhood walk at the park or a large-scale pet-friendly event, your pet will definitely enjoy its time socializing with new (human and animal) buddies, and exploring rather than being cooped up at home alone. You don’t necessarily have to organize social outings with other owners and pets, but do take note that pet-friendly areas are often crowded during weekends!

 Do things for your pet

Doing things for your pet is an indirect way of spending some good bonding time with your fur-friends. Be it cooking up a new treat recipe, or making something for your pet like DIY-ing a pet collar, your pet and you can enjoy the quality time spent. Not only will your furry companion appreciate its new gift, but you might also be able to pick up a new hobby and make some new friends along the way. Many pet owners and pet-related companies post up free recipes and tips online, and some of them may also organize affordable workshops for such activities.

 Spend more time with your fur-friend (literally)

If you can’t afford to take the time and energy out when you are on a tight schedule, just remember that even a few minutes alone with your fur-friend everyday will make it happier than usual. Be it just allowing your pet to cuddle up next to you or a short 15-minute walk, such little moments together can also contribute to improving your overall relationship with your furry friend.

Most importantly, do remember that you should never make any excuses when it comes to spending quality time with your pet. No amount of Instagram likes, followers and comments can replace actual bonding moments and make your pet happier.

Photo by Helena Lopes from Pexels

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Community Stories

Importing your pet into Singapore

Having a pet is a life-long commitment. The second you decide to bring a furbaby into your life, it’s imperative to follow it through and care for it to your best ability, even if it means traversing across the world with it.

I adopted the two-month-old Simba whilst pursuing my bachelors degree in Brisbane, Australia. Funnily enough, I have always thought of myself as a dog person (sometimes I think I still do!), and would never have imagined I’d become this “crazy cat lady” that all my friends identify me as.

Simba kept me company in my 2 years in Australia, and when it was time for me to come home to Singapore, I knew I had to bring him along. My inexperience in the due processes of bringing my furry best friend home left my helpless and dejected. Thus, I hope that, through my sharing, pet-owners would be less clueless when it comes to importing your pet into Singapore. After all, no one should be separated from their furbabies!

Pre-flight Preparation 

First of all, you need to be prepared to commit time applying for permits (both import and export), bringing your pet to various appointments (i.e. vaccinations, health check-up, etc.), and buying the necessary logistics etc. You will need a Singpass account in order to apply for the import permit, search for “Licence to Import/Export/Transship Animals, Birds, Eggs and Biologics” at this website. Special note for dog owners, you’ll need to apply for a dog licence as well! (not applicable to cats). 

Here are some of the things I prepared for Simba for the flight! 

Airline Approved Pet Carrier
I spent about $120 on this as I had to get the large size. Simba weighed about 8kg back then (yeah he’s a huge cat ?).You can find such carriers at pet supplies shops such as Pet Lovers Centre or Kohepets. 





Feliway Calming Spray
I used this when Simba was younger whenever he was placed in a stressful situation, such as when going to the vet. This spray replicates the natural facial pheromone that reassures, comforts and calms your cat, providing a sense of security in the environment it is located at. It costs around $30 and you can find them easily at Perromart or Nekojam. 
His favourite toy! Put into the cage a toy that your furbaby likes to keep him/her company! Simba loved this snake toy when he was younger. Look how well he slept hugging his favourite friend ?

General Timeline

Potential Costs

Secondly, be prepared to set aside at least $1500-$2000 for this whole process. This includes expenses like license application, vet visits, buying of logistics and flight ticket. The final cost will depend on your export location, and the number of quarantine days required for your pet (~$50 per day for Singapore). Other potential costs may also include food that is being fed to your pet while he/she is in quarantine. The exact number of quarantine days is dependent on which country you are importing your pet from (see table below, click on the link to find out more information). Simba did not require any quarantine as he came from Cat A country, so I was able to bring him home straight away after we disembarked. 

Category A
Countries/Region of export free from rabies		Category B
Countries/Region of export with negligible risk of rabies		Category C
Countries/Region of export with controlled risk or low incidence of rabies		Category D
Countries/Region of export with undetermined risk of rabies
Australia, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, United KingdomCayman Islands, Denmark, Germany, Hong Kong SAR, Iceland, Japan, Jersey, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, New Caledonia, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, USA (Guam and Hawaii only) Austria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Italy, Latvia, Netherlands, Slovakia, Spain, Taiwan, United States of America (except Guam and Hawaii)All countries not listed in Categories A, B, and C.
NParks: Veterinary Conditions based on Country of Import

Cautionary Note

I may not have all the answers, but I will be happy to provide advice on any questions that you may have as well! It’s been 2.5 years since Simba and I came back to Singapore. At the end of the day, despite all the effort and money spent, I did not regret it for one second, and every cent spent was well worth it. Because Simba is my family (or as the Aussies call it – Rellie!), and I will never leave him behind.

The above article is written by the hooman of @simbathemonstercat.

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Community Stories

Famous International Pet Influencers

@mayapolarbear

When people think about pet influencer marketing, dogs and cats with thousands of likes on their photos often come into the picture. However, the world of pet influencers is a creative and vibrant community that is inclusive of many diverse pets and animals. Here is a shoutout to three internationally famous pets that are extraordinarily unique.

MacGyver the Lizard (@macgyverthelizard)

This giant Argentine red tegu lizard-doggo, is a cutie staying in the United States. MacGyver is indeed doggo size (or even larger), and has charmed the Internet when animal fans online saw that MacGyver behaves just like a dog. He responds to his name, cuddles with his owners, and shares a bed with them. 

Juniper the Fox (@juniperfoxx)

Juniper is a North American red fox that goes by the tagline of being “the happiest fox”. As she was born in captivity and is genetically different from other wild foxes, she was unable to be released into the wild, thus giving Juniper the opportunity to become an online sensation as she lives and behaves in a dog-like manner at home. Juniper is so popular on Instagram that he has 2.9 million followers, and even has its own website selling related merchandise! Its owners also rescue other exotic animals, and donations towards their good cause are always welcome.

Hamlet the Pig (@hamlet_the_piggy)

Pet pigs might seem rare, but the heartwarming story of the popular Hamlet the Pig from Nashville shows that they are good companion animals. Hamlet was the one pet that saved her owner from the stress and suffering from experiencing epilepsy in life. Melanie, Hamlet’s owner, started Hamlet’s Instagram account to document Hamlet’s life moments, but the account grew in popularity as people realised that pigs are the most adorable therapy animals! Hamlet’s Instagram posts generate tens of thousands of likes, and she also has her own website with merchandise such as shirts and pins featuring Hamlet’s cute face.

Evidently, this list of unique pet influencers shows that any pet, be it common or not, can become an Internet celebrity, as online netizens are attracted to the quirkiness and cuteness of every animal.

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5 Effective Tips to Train your Dog

@mydogsadventuressg

We know that training your fur kid on your own can sometimes be frustrating and difficult… As such, we want to change that for you and help you through the process. Recently, we have collaborated with a professional dog trainer, Darren Yew (@MyDogsAdventuressg) to share some dog training tips with our pawrents. He was aspired to become a dog trainer since young and finally got to pursue his dream career as a dog trainer!

The top five areas of concern that our pawjourr pawrents face with their fur kids are: Potty training, giving healthy praises and scoldings, conducting basic commands, dealing with aggressive behaviour and separation anxiety. Read on to find out what tips Darren has been using to tackle these issues.

  1. Tips on potty training: For a start, pawrents can begin toilet training their dog by ‘crating’ him or her up during their puppy stage. Gradually, expand the ‘crating’ area as their dog grows up. Once their dog becomes an adult, they may choose to forgo the crate as they have already mastered potty training.
  2. Tips on giving healthy praises and scoldings to pets: Pawrents should give praises only when their dog is obedient or calm. As for scoldings, simple ones like “Hey!” and “No!” will do. Forbid slamming things or shouting at them.
  3. Tips on how to conduct basic command trainings: Pawrents can give treats to their dog like kibbles or small size snacks. An advice that I would give is to start conducting basic command training at home instead of holding it outdoors – safety comes first nonetheless! This is to avoid distractions that will more likely occur outdoors from things like birds and cars etc. Of course, pawrents can transition to training their dog outdoors but only when their dog is more advanced.
  4. Tips to deal with aggressive behaviour: When pawrents think that their dog is aggressive, they are not. Rather, they may just exhibit emotions like fear, uncertainty and defensiveness. When pawrents are faced with such situations, they should observe their dog’s body language. If their dog expresses fear, then pawrents should refrain from approaching them until their dog is more comfortable like if their dog starts sniffing or displaying curious behaviour.
  5. Tips to help with pet’s separation anxiety: Pawrents with anxious dogs should start to build a comfort place for their dog to rest like a mat. Their dog should not be following them around the house but learning to stay put in their comfort place. If their dog keeps following their pawrents around the house, this means that the hooman has become their comfort place instead, which would lead to separation anxiety.

We hope that you have found what Darren shared to be useful. To Darren, dog training is a constant learning process because each dog is unique in terms of their temperament. What matters most is for pawrents to be patient and never give up.

These tips are based on my own experience. There is no right or wrong training method because there are many ways a dog can be trained. These tips that I am sharing happen to work for me, and I truly hope that they would work for you too!

– Darren