PETMAGFNQ

Edition 1, May/June 2010

Celebrating Pet Ownership in the Far North

KEEPING YOUR
KIDS! ARE YOU PET HEALTHY
AN ANKLE Give Ticks the Flick!
BITER YET?
Join Joe Pug for GIVE-AWAYS,
Puzzles and MORE...

IS YOUR PET
DOG-GONE
LAZY?
Why keeping your
AVOID THE dog fit is important

PUPPY STAGE
PETMAG's Top 10 Reasons
to Adopt

PETMAG FNQ
EXCLUSIVE
FREE PET
MAGAZINE
WE TALK Be One of the First to Receive
this Limited Release Edition
TO CAIRNS
WILDLIFE
DOME
Caring for your snake as the
weather cools down

RSPCA 2010
MILLION PAWS
WALK
Welcome to the Roar of the
HAS YOUR PET Cairns Million Paws!

GOT YOU
SCRATCHING?
Ask Josie your baffling pet questions

PETSTOCK SPECIALS
...DON'T MISS OUT!
PETMAG is fully recyclable
EDITOR’S CORNER IN THIS EDITION
Greetings from the Editors and 4 Profile: Phil Barber, Cairns Wildlife
Congratulations!
Dome - Winter Snake Care
By flicking through these pages you have As winter approaches, perhaps it is time to start preparing your
become an official PETMAG FNQ reader. slithery friend for the change in weather - Leigh Fraser-Gray
Welcome to our First Ever edition. Relax, investigates winter snake care at the Cairns Wildlife Dome.
curl up in your favourite chair with your
doggy, or moggy and enjoy some down 5 Pet Fish
time. We've put in a bit of everything for the
discerning furry, purry, feathered, scaled 6 RSCPA Million Paws Walk 2010
or finny pet owner. We will get bigger and better quickly so keep on The RSPCA’s annual Million Paws Walk takes place again
reading. This edition is just a small preview of what to expect in the nationwide. We give you details as to when it takes place and
how you can take part.
following months. As they say... "From little things, big things grow".
(Especially if you are a Neapolitan Mastiff pup!).
6 Pet of the Month: Missy
We have a cracking team here who run all about the place, tripping With the RSPCA’s major fundraiser taking place this month, we
over each other, trying to meet deadlines, juggling working life, honour a pooch that has thrived despite a shaky start in life, all
partners, kids and pets. PHEW! The one thing we all have in common thanks to the RSPCA Pet Adoption Program. Katy McKay tells all.\
is our love of animals. PETMAG FNQ celebrates pet ownership and
promotes responsible care of pets. 7 Top 10 Reasons to Adopt a Rescue
We hope to share in the lives of some of your pet experiences along Dog
the way. PLEASE CONTACT US with your stories, pictures, drawings,
anecdotes, recollections, facts and figures. Cairns, we need to know 8 Has You Pet’s Fitness gone to the
where to find the cutest, most intelligent, the best trick performer and Dogs?
even the naughtiest pet in town (don't get Katy started about her Pug, Exercise is a vital part of responsible dog ownership. Rachel
Joe.) We are a community-based magazine and welcome your Popp reports on things to consider when exercising your pooch
contributions. For businesses out there who would love to support us and how to avoid injury to your best mate.
- YES! We still have some advertising space for left for sale – but be
quick! It seems there are a lot of pet lovers in town. 9 Does Your Pet’s Health Regime Tick
Now, we are off to gallivant jauntily through the neighbourhoods of All the Boxes?
Cairns in search of our next story. With tick season upon us again, Vet, Vanessa Rhodes, reminds us
of signs that your pet may have a tick and what prevention
Enjoy your first edition of PETMAG FNQ: Celebrating Pet methods are available.
Ownership in the Far North. Until next time, Katy and Leigh
9 Cats Hot Topics
PETMAG CONTACTS
Editors: Leigh Fraser-Gray and Katy McKay
Photography: Paul Walden - paul@paulwalden.com.au
10 Ask Josie
Our resident Vet Nurse, Josie Shaw, answers questions from
Guest Writers: Vanessa Rhodes, Rachel Popp, Josie Shaw
Advertising and Sales Manager: advertising@petmag.com.au bewildered pet owners.
Accounts Manager: accounts@petmag.com.au
Editorial Enquires: info@petmag.com.au 11 Ankle Biters’ Club
Photos, Stories, Contributions: anklebiters@petmag.com.au Kids, meet Joe Pug, and enjoy his puzzles, drawings, photos and
On-line Subscriptions: info@petmag.com.au
competitions each edition.
Publisher: LOTSA - cairns@lotsa.com.au

COVER
PHOTO

Model: Joe,
Pug, 19months

Owner: Katy, Cairns

Photography: Paul Walden,

Paul Walden Photography

3
PET SNAKES
Profile: PHIL BARBER
Cairns Wildlife Dome Winter Snake Care
L. Fraser-Gray, research & article
P.Walden, Photography

Herpetology n. The Branch of

Zoology that deals with Reptiles and
Amphibians [Greek herpeton, reptile
(from herpein, to creep).

Phil Barber Background:

This Herpetological Keeper at Cairns
Wildlife Dome, can recall his interest
in all that slithered, crept and crawled
from the tender age of five or six.
Raised in rural Victoria, Phil's Mother
agreed to accept his first snake into
the house... a decade later. Aged
close to sixteen, Phil presented a 6
month old, juvenile slip of a boa
constrictor, measuring about 30cm in length and a finger's breadth in
diameter. A cheeky grin appears as he says how those initial fragile
proportions helped seal the tentative deal. Oh, just a tiny wee slip of a
snake. Where’s the harm in that? Fast forward twelve years later
however and dear snake had grown to an impressive 11 and a half
feet (close to four metres in metric) and weighed in at 8KG. This
particular snake sadly died of an unusual injury at the age of twelve,
whereas Phil cautions, the average lifespan of a captive snake can be
25 years.

Snakes as Pets Vital Information: The way Phil tells

it, not much could have dissuaded him from owning snakes and
various creepy crawlies. He just knew they were for him, even as a
youngster. As pets go, Phil argues snake-keeping can assist with the
development of responsibility around pet and animal care. That is,
there exists a wider margin for a lapse in acute maintenance. Snake
enclosures need infrequent cleaning as faecal deposits occur after
feeding... and feeds can occur weeks, sometimes months, apart. Of
course, a budding herpetologist must be willing and able to replicate
their snake's natural habitat in their enclosure which caters for their The requirements to owning a pet reptile in
specific exothermic needs. Snakes derive their energy from external Queensland:-
sources such as heat and light. Each snake - depending on their 1. One recreational Wildlife Licence SEE:
region of origin - has slightly different environmental needs. For http://www.epa.qld.gov.au
example, a longer, horizontal, rectangular shaped enclosure would
better suit a ground dwelling snake; a high and vertical shaped
enclosure would better house a slithery tree dweller. Phil 2. One record book from the Environmental
recommends the adoption of the herpetologist's motto 'Know Thy Protection Agency.
Snake' through an initial heavy and protracted investment in
RESEARCH. A licence is also required (see below for more info).
3. Minimum age of the Licence holder:-
Teenage snake owners need Guardian approval.
· Must be over 13 years of age.
Know Your Snake General Winter Care: There is · Must have a parent or guardian's approval for
actually no one rule that fits all for snakes... one snake is not as good children between 13 and 18 years.
as another. There is some variation in breed needs and that is why
initial and on-going research, knowledge development and support 4. No previous knowledge or experience required.
are VITAL when keeping snakes and reptiles. A captive snake
depends on its owner to provide an adequate false habitat that best
meets its specific biological needs. Generally speaking however, 5. No tests or appraisals required to gain the
most snakes require a 'cooling off period' even in our tropical Licence.
surrounds. The heat lamp is turned OFF, food intake is either greatly
reduced or ceases and the snake will enter a state of semi-dormancy,
or partial hibernation. This period can last for weeks up to months PETMAG FNQ knows there is a strong herpetological following in
depending on the particular type of snake. This protracted 'down Cairns and surrounds. We welcome your feedback and
time' helps a snake to remain healthy. In some cases, longevity may contributions. We also extend a HUGE thank you to Phil and the
be threatened should the snake not be afforded some 'cooling off'. staff at Cairns Wild Life Dome for their great support. Katy & Leigh.

4
PET FISH
Introducing Fish to Your
Aquarium
Getting Your New Fish into Their New
Home Safe 'n' Sound
L Fraser-Gray
ADAPTED FROM: http://www.firsttankguide.net/introduce.php

So.... you have bought your NEW fish? Congratulations! There are
several steps that you can take to help ensure a healthy transition to
your fish tank...

1. FLOAT: When you get home with the fish, put the plastic bag
holding the fish in your tank and let it float unopened for fifteen to minutes. You will probably need to close the hood on an edge of the
twenty minutes; bag to keep it from spilling its contents into the tank;

2. RE-DECORATE: Now is a good time re-arrange the
'decorations' in your tank. Moving things around will help to break up
the territories of fish you already have, which will result in less fighting
as the new swishy fishies try to find their place in their new aquatic
playground;
3. ADD WATER: After an initial 20 minutes of floating, the water
temperature should have stabilised and your fish has acclimatised to
the the new tank's temperature. You are now ready for the next step.
DO NOT MIX THE WATER FROM THE STORE INTO YOUR TANK.
Carefully open the bag and scoop an equal amount of water from the
tank into the bag ( use a clean cup) resulting in twice as much water in
the bag. Let the bag float in the tank for another fifteen to twenty
4. CATCH & RELEASE: After the bag has been fully rested
(30 - 40 minutes in total) and your fish are really anxious to get out of it
into the tank, you are ready to release them. Carefully net the fish out
of the bag one at a time and place them gently into the water of your
aquarium. Prevent the bag water from getting into your tank. This
ensures any nasties contained in the water stay behind in the bag &
do not come to live in your tank with your new fish;
5. FISH-TEL CHANNEL SURF: Now, sit back, relax, watch
and enjoy!
Love your Swish Fish? Send pictures and your stories to:
info@petmag.com.au
MILLION PAWS WALK 2010
Get Up, Get Moving & Join the Dash:
RSPCA Million Paws Walk 2010,
Cairns Esplanade
Today marks the 16th anniversary of the RSPCA's largest, annual
fundraising event, the RSPCA Million Paws Walk 2010. Last year, in
Queensland alone, this fundraising event raised in excess of $120,000.
This year, nationally, the RSPCA aims to break the Million Dollar and
Million Paws barrier. Two and four legged participation along with hard
earned fundraising dollars could help make this impressive achievement
a reality. The Million Paws walk continues to be a favourite outdoor event
for Cairns' animal lovers and their furry friends. So after your stroll enjoy
the great entertainment, food and drink, exhibitors stalls and animal
demonstrations.

Feline fur babies need not fret! The fun and interactive virtual world that is
Million Purrs ensures that Puss is involved in fundraising too (SEE:
https://millionpurrs.com.au). Million Purrs runs from February until the
end of May 2010, so you still have time to purr-ticipate!

PET OF THE MONTH

A Canine Fairy Tail: Rescue Dog to
the Canine `Queen of the Esplanade’
Katy McKay, Research and Article.
Paul Walden, Photography

NAME: Missy
BREED: Australian Kelpie/Breed Unknown
COLOUR: Black with white

BACKGROUND: It was alleged that Missy was owned by a fisherman. When in

port, Missy’s owner would leave her alone on his boat for days. She would be left with no
food and limited water supply. Missy, who was just a young pup, would be abandoned
and left starving. Fortunately for Missy, neighbouring boat owners took pity on her and
would give her morsels of food enabling her to survive. Eventually, Missy’s owner
surrendered her to the RSPCA - an act that probably saved her life, by the very man who
had neglected her for so many months.

In 2007, at approximately 1 year of age, Missy’s life turned around. She was adopted by
her current owner Dina. Dina recalls, it was Missy’s beautiful eyes that drew her in and it
has been love at first sight ever since. Missy has turned out to be a wonderful
companion to Dina, rarely leaving her side, and Missy has become a great watchdog.
In fact, Dina has had to put a bell on Missy’s collar as once too often she has crept up
behind Dina, causing her to trip over! Missy is a kind and loving girl, who hasn’t a nasty
streak in her body (unless you are a little white fluffy dog – Missy’s only vice!) Dina
strongly believes that `if you love your dog, it will love you back’ and when seeing this
pair together, it is obvious that she is right!

INTERESTING FACTS: Here are a few more personal details about our pet of the month:

• Missy is affectionately known as `The Queen of the Esplanade’. You will see her taking her daily stroll nearly every day and can guarantee
her tail will be held high and wagging. Missy knows the esplanade like the back of her paw!
• Missy talks a LOT! This is something the PETMAG crew have experienced firsthand. Once Missy decides she wants a chat, nothing will
stop her! - well, nothing short of a few treats anyway (she has it all worked out!)
• FINALLY...Missy was this year’s `Miss January’ in the Cairns RSPCA Friends of Group Calendar! Way to go Missy – strut your fur!

6
PETMAG’S TOP 10
Reasons to Adopt a Rescue Dog
When buying a dog or searching for your special furry kid, (or any
pet, for that matter) those of the RESCUE variety may be worth
serious consideration. There are MANY potential benefits to
adopting an adult dog into your pack:

D Bypass the puppy stage.

Yes, puppies are cute, really really cute, but the work that
comes with one is exhausting and intensive. Adult dogs are
ready to roll (walk / run / ride etc).

D Temperament -
tested/assessed.
Most rescue dogs have been in a holding or foster situation
so their habits are well known. Some may have their own
quirky habits, but with proper training, some patience and the
devotion of a loving new family, most will settle in well.

D Friends forever!
Most dogs re-bond very quickly. Dogs have strong pack
instincts and most breeds re-home very quickly with great
results.
D They’ll love you LOTS!
Rescue dogs are often enthusiastic, and very happy to have a
home... no one likes being in limbo: a Forever Home is Best.
D No breeding here!
Dogs available for adoption through shelters and dog rescue
organisations are de-sexed, if at the appropriate age. Let’s
face it; we don’t need more animals in our already
overcrowded shelters.
D Wormed, tick & flea free, &
vaccinated.
Often this comes as part of the complimentary package of a
re-homed dog - Kind of your reward for a good deed.
D Save a life!
In some cases you will save your dog from being euthanized
and give them a second chance to have a GREAT life.
D No house training (mostly!)
Often re-homed dogs are toilet ready and know how to keep
their toileting outside.
D Dogs CAN fly!
There exists pet freight and transport companies so you are
not restricted to finding a dog in your local area. Potential
owners can view many dogs to choose from online nowadays
and rescue a pooch from interstate.
D AND FINALLY...
For all the breed snobs out there (that’s what Katy calls
herself despite the fact she cares for all creatures’ great and
small) many breed specific organisations have rescue
programs which rely on public donations to survive. Here
you can purchase a pedigree dog that needs a new home.
After all, it’s not just the cross breeds of the world who find
hardship in life.
Here in Far North Queensland we have several animal refuges.
When buying an animal from a shelter, you often support that
cause and organisation, helping them to cover their huge
expenses. The RSPCA shelters of Queensland receive
government funding, however even that is extremely limited.
Give an animal in need a fresh start in life and support those
organisations that spend hours caring for them. See the list below
for our local refuges:

• YAPS http://www.yaps.org.au/dogsx.html /
• RSPCA http://www.rspcaqld.org.au/adoptions/
• PAWS AND CLAWS
http://www.pawsandclaws.org.au/LostDogs.htm
• INNISFAIL ANIMAL REFUGE
http://users.qld.chariot.net.au/~sanjo/index.html

Good luck to the pets out there looking for their Forever Homes...
your new owner may be on their way!

7
PET HEALTH
Has Your Pet's Fitness
Gone to the DOGS?
Rachel Popp, Cert IV Vet Nurs, Article

Providing regular exercise for your dog is a vital part of

responsible pet ownership. Dogs need to get exercise to
complete their healthy mind-body life structure. Proper
exercise will improve joint and bone health, as well as heart
and lung function. These health improvements are in addition
to the obvious reduction of obesity, which is a huge problem in
our dog population today. Of course, it isn’t just the dog that
will benefit from regular exercise. You are also creating a
healthier lifestyle for yourself by walking your dog!

In Cairns, the climate plays a large role in determining when

we exercise our pets. It is important that dogs are not
exercised during the heat of the day. It is best to plan your
walks for early mornings, or late in the evening when the
weather is cooler. The canine body does not have as efficient
cooling systems as that of us human beings. Certain breeds,
such as the Pug, Pekingese and Boxer are particularly prone
to overheating, which can result in respiratory distress and
ultimately death! On a hot day, it is a good practice to hose
your dog down before and after exercise to reduce the
likelihood of heat stress.

Swimming is a very effective form of exercise which most dogs

enjoy. It is important to understand though, that not all dogs
instinctively know how to swim. Bulldogs, Dachshunds and
Bassett Hounds are just some breeds that may need to be
taught how to take that first doggy paddle! Pet specific
hydrotherapy pools are great for general fitness, especially
when rehabilitating from injury. A 15 minute swim in a
hydrotherapy pool is the equivalent to a 1 hour walk.
A simple daily walk will do wonders for your dog’s mental
stimulation. A dog that receives a sufficient amount of daily
exercise will be calmer and more relaxed. Regular exercise
reduces issues such as anxiety, destructive behaviours and
problem barking. Enrichment, through the form of a
neighbourhood walk can do wonders for your pooch’s
demeanor. Being exposed to a variety of smells, meeting new
people, having the opportunity to play with other dogs and
experiencing new environments, all contribute to the
formation of a happy well adjusted dog.
It is important however, that we do take precautions
when exercising our dogs and moderation is the key.
Games such as ball throwing and retrieving can be
great fun and stimulating for your dog. However, it is
important when playing these games that we
remember to keep the throws low to the ground,
avoiding the dog’s need to do whopping jumps which
may result in an awkward landing. Dogs, like their
owners can suffer from over-exertion. Duration and
intensity of exercise will often be influenced by breed,
age and the fitness level of your dog. It may be a good
idea to seek veterinary advice prior to commencing
your dog on a new Doggy Boot Camp Regime, to
ensure they are in tip top condition.

Overall, fitness and exercise are an essential and

enjoyable part of dog ownership. If you find it difficult
to cater to your best friend’s needs, there are many
great local services in the Cairns local area that may
be able to lend a hand.
8
PET HEALTH
Does Your Pet's Health Regime TICK All the Boxes?
Vanessa Rhodes BVSc., Article
Ticks are huge health concern for our pets in Far North Queensland
especially during the months May through to January. This is the
paralysis tick's preferred breeding time and, consequentially, the
busiest time for Vets to treat nasty Tick infestations. Tick cases
however do occur in our tropical climate ALL year round. Whilst the
brown dog tick and bush tick can cause ill health and spread blood
born disease, by far, the most concerning problem is the Paralysis
Tick. This grey coloured parasite often hitches a ride into our
backyards and parks on the back of bandicoots and other small
wandering marsupials. From there it can latch on-
board our four legged canine friends. NOT GOOD!
The ticks burrow into the dogs skin from where it
sucks blood and expands to about ½ the size of a
small fingernail. As it reaches full size the tick
injects a strong poison into the dog’s blood. The
poison circulates and causes a progressive
ascending paralysis syndrome involving
weakness and then paralysis of the back legs. This
eventually spreads to the respiratory or heart
muscles. If left untreated, this can be fatal. Vet
treatment is vital!
COMMON SYMPTOMS OF PARALYSIS TICK PRESENCE:
• Hind leg weakness, wobbliness Z inability to stand
• Vomiting, retching or gagging
• Poor appetite or difficulty eating
• Panting
• Lethargy
• Dilated pupils
It is most important that if you find these signs in your pet that you
seek urgent veterinary advice as the paralysis can be rapidly
progressive.
HOT TOPIC
Cats: Should they live inside or out? We present some arguments...
PRO OUTDOORS
• Fresh air and sunshine is a GREAT thing for the average feline;
• Cats deprived of 'natural' ways to exercise predatory, hunting
instincts can vent frustrations on your house and/or YOU;
• The yard is the least expensive litter box;
• Cleaning up less fur and mess, means more time for cuddles and
playtime;
• An exercised and mentally stimulated cat is a HAPPY and healthy
cat.
PRO INDOORS
• SAFEST and lowest RISK option in terms of protecting the cat from
health hazards and harm. May lead to a longer life span;
• Can easily simulate sources of stimulation found in the wild (ie
outside) without going to great cost;
• Cats indoors best protects the native wild life;
• Provides peace of mind - you know where Puss and Sox are during
the day and night;
• Scratching posts are all that is needed to protect furniture from
bored claws!.
If performing a tick search on your dog make sure to search the whole
of the dog including around his bottom, feet and ear. If a tick is found
remove the whole thing from as close to the skin as possible and put it
in a plastic jar or container so it can be identified by the vet. This can
be difficult with animals with thick coats. VETS may opt to shave the
dog to check for ticks.
Whilst ticks are a nasty co-habitant of our region there are many
things you can do to prevent your dogs getting sick. The best
prevention is a product called ADVANTIX which is a spot-on ointment
applied to the skin of the dog’s neck every 14 days which gets
absorbed into the blood stream and kills ticks as
they latch on. It is toxic to cats but very effective
prevention for dogs and also works well at
controlling the pesky flea.
Other tick prevention regimes are listed below but it
is important to note than nothing is 100% foolproof
so daily tick checks and monitoring of your dogs is
imperative. Also, ask your vet for information
regarding pet insurance as many companies will
cover dogs for the cost of treating paralysis tick
syndrome which is often very expensive.
• Tick collars - need to be changed monthly and the product
tends to work only around the collar rather than protecting the
whole dog
• Tick and flea shampoos - only last on the coat a maximum of 3
days so need to be used very regularly
• Permoxin rinse - must be used at least once a week at the
correct dose and ideally in combination with a collar
• Proban tablets - cheap but require regular tabletting and less
effective than Advantix
• Frontline spray - used every 3 weeks is the only product
suitable for cats
MIDDLE OF THE ROAD VIEW
Responsible cat ownership can be
generally defined as: ensuring your
(average domestic) cat is desexed, free
from parasites, has access to appropriate
foods and fresh water and can enter and
exit a well ventilated outdoor area
containing natural sunlight. It is
recommended in some cat circles that
the outdoor area be contained and
enclosed allowing the native wildlife to
live free from a cat's predatory nature.
This of course also fully protects your beloved Puss from any
potential hazzards and forms of harm. It is also suggested that your
cat will find means and ways of expressing their particular preference
for outside or inside environments.
What do YOU think? Send us your pictures and stories:
info@petmag.com.au
Native wildlife concerns or queries? CALL FNQ Wild Life Rescue
(07) 4053 4467 SEE: http://www.fnqwildliferescue.org.au/
9
PET QUESTIONS
ASK JOSIE
Welcome to Josie our resident Vet
Nurse who is here to answer all
your weird and wonderful pet
queries.

Q. My 4 year old Staffy, Bob,

always seems to stink! We bath
him regularly and he smells okay
for a day or so, but then the smell
comes back. Should we bath him more often, or is there
something else we can do?
Phil, Edmonton.

A. Phil, dogs can be bathed once a week. Unless you have a
bad flea problem, or a medical problem, I would not
recommend bathing Bob more than that. Too much bathing
can strip your dog’s coat of natural oils. What type of shampoo
do you use? It is not recommended to use human shampoo
on dogs. It is tempting as it makes them smell wonderful, but
the PH of a dog’s skin is different to ours and it can cause more
problems. If Bob remains smelly, a vet check may be in order.
A skin condition such as mites can cause our dog to smell bad
constantly and a problem like this needs attending to for
attention.
Q. I have a Sulphur Crested Cockatoo named Barney. Do I
need to worm my cockatoo and if so how often?
Jim, Gordonvale.
A. Jim, all birds need to be wormed, just like our dogs and
cats. This is especially true if your bird is situated where wild
birds can get to its cage. Wild birds will bring in worms via
faecal droppings and your bird could become cross
contaminated. I suggest that your bird should be wormed
every 3 months. There are several good products on the
market for worming birds. I recommend a liquid that you mix
with their drinking water. You replace their normal water dish
with the wormer mixed with water for 24 hours. These
products can be purchased at any pet shop or VET clinic.
Q. I have a 5 month old Ragdoll kitten called Claudia. I am
wondering, do cats need to be bathed?
Megan, Kanimbla.
BILLY IS PET FRIENDLY
In 2009 Cairns Post Readers voted Billy’s Coffee as the BEST
coffee in Cairns. This is quite an achievement when you
consider the number and quality of coffee outlets and talented
baristas in the city. Billy and wife Sokara, have a loyal following
of coffee connoisseurs that visit them at Crate 59 on Sheridan
Street, or at Rusty’s Market on weekends. Both venues
provide a unique coffee experience.
If you have never enjoyed a Billy’s Coffee at Rusty’s, you must!
Sit back with your coffee, read the weekend newspaper and
enjoy the buzz of the early morning market rush. Alternatively,
come on down and visit the PET FRIENDLY (yes you heard
right!) - Crate 59. The open plan venue is an Art Gallery for
local artists who share the venue with Billy’s Coffee. The décor
is simple, yet comfortable and you can enjoy the best coffee in
Cairns while sitting on a cushioned crate with your best mate!
The Gallery is always changing with the talents of local artists
and the atmosphere created by Billy and Sokara… always
warm and friendly and ready to chat.
So if you love your morning walk with your dog and love great
coffee, head down town and double the pleasure at Billy’s
Coffee.
Location:
Crate 59 - Sheridan St, Cairns (Weekdays)
Mon - Fri: 6:30 am - 12:30 pm
Rusty's Markets (Weekends) Sheridan St, Cairns.

A. Hi Megan! It is a good idea to bath your cat. Most cats do

not like to be bathed so getting them use to it from a very early
age is a good idea. They can be bathed weekly or fortnightly. It
is really important that when you are purchasing a shampoo or
rinse for your cat that you check the label and ensure the
product is cat friendly. There are some washes that are not for
use with cats and can actually result in death. Please read the
labels carefully. If the reason for bathing your cat is fleas and
your cat does not like to be bathed, then there are flea and tick
products available that do not require bathing. Spot on
treatments placed between the shoulder blades of the cat are
usually very good at hindering the flea breeding cycle.

To get your questions anwered by Josie send your

email to: askjosie@petmag.com.au
10
PET ANKLE BITERS
Ankle Biters’
Club
With Joe Pug
Giveaway!
PETMAG FNQ has 3 G-Force
Hey Kids... I'm Joe Pug. When I am Pencil Case sets to giveaway!! All
not terrorising my Human Family you have to do to win is complete
or defending my 'Naughtiest Pug the WORDSEARCH puzzle and
Ever' title, I hound this section of COLOUR the Foal and be one of
PETMAG FNQ. Come join me the first 3 correct entries to be
every edition for fun & puzzles, received. Final entries received
jokes & competitions. Send us your pet pictures, drawings 26 May. 2010. Send to: COMP @
and stories: info@petmagfnq.com.au (with the help of your PETMAG FNQ, P.O. BOX 702,
parents, of course EARLVILLE 4870. GOOD LUCK!!

Joe’s Jokes
Q. What is DRY on the outside; filled with WATER; and
BLOWS up buildings?
A. A FISH TANK!

Q. What bird is with you at every meal?

A. A swallow!

Q. Which fish is most MUSICAL?

A. The Tune-A-Fish!

Q. What bird is always out of breath?

A. A puffin!

There were two snakes talking. "Sidney, are we the type of

snakes that wrap ourselves around our prey and squeeze and
crush until they’re dead, or are we the type of snake that
ambush our prey and bite them and poison them?". Sidney
Snake says “Cecil, why do you ask?” Cecil replies: “I just bit my
lip!”

A old snake goes to see his Doctor. “Doc, I need something for
my eyes…can’t see well these days”. The Doc fixes him up
with a pair of glasses and tells him to return in 2 weeks. The
snake comes back in 2 weeks and tells the doctor he’s very
depressed. Doc says, “What’s the problem…didn’t the
glasses help you?” “The glasses are fine doc, I just discovered
I’ve been living with a water hose the past 2 years!”.

Q. What kind of snake is good at math?

A. An adder.
Name:

Q. What do you do if you find a black mamba in your toilet? Address:

A. Wait until he’s finished.

Q. What do you get if you cross a snake and a Lego set?

A. A boa constructor! Phone No.: Age:

Disclaimer: The articles contained in this magazine are for information and entertainment purposes only. They are not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, or to be
considered reliable for diagnosis and/ or treatment purposes. Always seek the advice of a qualified veterinarian if you suspect your pet may be suffering from a medical condition.
No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied without the permission of the editors. While every effort is made to ensure information contained within this magazine is 11
correct, PETMAG cannot accept responsibility for any errors, or omissions.
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