Latest news with #MacMillan
Daily Record
4 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Record
'I'm a vet - you should leave your dirty laundry behind for your pet when you travel'
If you're pet can't make it on this year's holiday, this tip can help their well-being Many Scots heading on holidays this summer will want to leave the house spick and span for their return. After all, deep cleaning the house means you don't need to worry about catching up on chores straight off the plane. However, pet owners should maybe think twice about leaving no mess behind them before they leave for the airport. In fact, vets have issued surprising advice for dog and cat parents - leave your dirty laundry behind. As 36 per cent of Brits say they're planning more holidays in 2025 than last year, owners are already counting down to their getaways. But what if the key to a calm pet while you're away is leaving your house a little messy? New research from TrustedHousesitters reveals that more than half of UK pet owners worry their pets feel abandoned when they travel. But vets say small steps – like leaving familiar smells around the home – can make a surprisingly big difference to pets' happiness and wellbeing. "Everyone likes their home comforts - pets included," Dr Rebecca MacMillan explains. "Pets thrive on familiarity and routine; it helps them to feel secure. Staying in an environment where they already feel safe will often mean they cope better when their owner is gone." Dr MacMillan adds that pets take comfort from having the smell of their owner around, plus their own pheromones which they will have marked around the home. "Even small sounds like the ticking of the kitchen clock or hearing the hum of the boiler starting up in the morning will be cues that your pet associates with their home," she went on. "Owners should still leave a clean, welcoming home for any sitter, family, or friend coming to watch pets. But when it comes to helping furry friends feel secure, leaving a few familiar items with your scent can make a big difference." Vet-approved ways to help your pet stay happy while you travel Dr MacMillan recommends these simple yet effective approaches for pet owners heading off on holiday. Don't deep clean before you go "Consider leaving a couple of items of clothing that you have worn for them to smell and snuggle with," Dr MacMillan explained. "This will help them to feel comforted in your absence." "Leaving your pet's bedding, toys, and even some clothes destined for the laundry basket around can help them feel connected to you." Keep routines as normal as possible Ask your sitter to stick to your pet's usual feeding times, walk times, and sleep schedule. "Keeping your pet in a routine as close to their normal one as possible will help them to feel more settled," advises Dr MacMillan. Use calming aids if needed Consider using a synthetic pet pheromone product to help act as an additional calming agent in their environment. "Plug-in diffusers are available, or you could use an impregnated collar or food supplement," suggests Dr MacMillan. If adding to your pet's diet, make sure to consult your vet first. Brief your sitter properly "Leave your sitter with plenty of instructions so that they understand your pet's daily schedule, likes and dislikes," says Dr MacMillan. "Creating a simple welcome guide with all essential information helps your sitter provide the best care possible. Include emergency contact numbers and your pet's medication schedule if applicable. "Feeding instructions, and notes about your pet's favourite spots, habits and any little quirks that make a difference day-to-day should also be noted." Minimise disruption Try not to make big changes like moving furniture or changing pet beds right before you leave. "Even if it feels messy to you, it'll likely be comforting for your pet until you return," Dr MacMillan added. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
This American cat breed will ‘slot in well to most homes' and can be found in 80 color combinations
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. American Shorthair overview Other names: Domestic shorthair (although they are not the same) Life expectancy: 15-20 years Size: Between 6–15 lb in weight and up to 12–15 inches in length Coat: Tabby, solid, or tortoiseshell, and comes in black, brown, red, cream or silver Eye colour: Gold, green or hazel Temperament: Gentle, companionable, robust, quiet and playful Origin/native country: North America American Shorthair cats are up there for being one of the oldest cat breeds in the United States. It's believed that British Shorthairs were used to breed American Shorthair cats, with the first record of breeding dating back to 1904. Fast forward more than a century later and these lovable cats are now considered to be one of the most popular felines in America, too. Easy-going, adaptable and independent, American Shorthairs won't require all of your time and energy. They're also one of the longest living cat breeds and can live for up to 15–20 years. As is the case with any other breed, no one American Shorthair is the same. But with more than 80 color combinations to choose from, these beauties really are one of a kind. Despite them being originally bred to protect crops from vermin, today, they are known as one of the most gentle cat companions to grace this earth. Considering bringing one home? Dr Rebecca MacMillan shares everything you need to know about this much-loved breed. Like all other cats, American Shorthairs are obligate carnivores. 'This means they need a diet that is rich in animal protein to get all the nutrients needed to maintain their health,' Dr Rebecca MacMillan explains. 'They don't need anything particularly special compared to other cat breeds. Just make sure you feed your American Shorthair on a good quality complete diet that is appropriate for their life stage, such as kitten, adult or senior.' For example, the best dry cat foods feature a high-quality protein source as the first ingredient and have nutritious recipes to keep your cat healthy. The same goes for the best cat food for senior cats that will keep your older feline happy and healthy. Despite the fact that American Shorthairs are short-haired cats, they have thick coats and tend to shed quite often throughout the year, especially in the spring and fall. Therefore, they are not considered to be hypoallergenic. However, according to Dr MacMillan: 'Regular grooming and a good quality diet can help to reduce the amount of hair shed in your home.' If you're looking for a fur friend who won't shed too much, it's worth reading up on the non-shedding cats and even the bald and beautiful hairless cat breeds that are practically void of hair. If you suffer from allergies then hypoallergenic cat breeds, like a Devon Rex or Russian Blue, will ease your symptoms if you're reaching for the tissues every time you're near a feline. Primarily bred to keep pest numbers down, these keen hunters are excellent at catching mice and rats, and as such, this makes the American Shorthair a well-muscled and active cat. 'They will enjoy plenty of playtime to let them practice their natural hunting instincts,' Dr MacMillan says. Therefore, according to the expert, American Shorthairs need around 30 minutes of activity every day, which is similar to most other cat breeds. 'This can be broken down into a few shorter play sessions,' Dr MacMillan says. 'Make sure that they have plenty of interactive cat toys, as these cats will entertain themselves as well as enjoy play sessions with you.' For example, the best automated cat toys can give your feline something fun to play with, even when you're not around. While the best cat toys can help you bond with your kitty. If you're thinking of adopting this breed, you'll be pleased to know that the American Shorthair is generally healthy compared to many other pedigrees, especially those with more extreme features. Therefore, the conditions that commonly affect the American Shorthair, like obesity and dental disease, could also affect any other cat breed. 'In my experience, one of the most diagnosed issues is obesity,' Dr MacMillan says. 'If your cat becomes overweight, it could be more at risk from other complaints, such as diabetes mellitus, arthritis, and cancer.' According to Dr MacMillan, the American Shorthair can also suffer from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is an inherited heart condition that causes breathing issues and collapse. 'Sometimes a murmur is detected on a routine exam, but I have seen many affected cats go undiagnosed until they present in an emergency,' the vet says. To keep your American Shorthair healthy, you should ensure they are on an appropriate diet. 'This means feeding them the correct amount of a good quality complete diet,' Dr MacMillan says. 'Always check the manufacturer guidelines and make sure you weigh the food out accurately.' While the best cat treats can brighten up your fur friend's day and help you train them, Dr MacMillan recommends avoiding giving your cat too many snacks or table scraps as these will lead to weight gain over time. American Shorthair cats are a low-maintenance breed. However, they will still need weekly grooming to keep their coat in pristine condition. Dental hygiene is also really important for American Shorthairs. 'Try and introduce teeth brushing from an early age and make sure you attend regular checkups with your vet,' Dr MacMillan says. 'Make sure your American Shorthair also has all of the recommended preventative care, such as vaccinations, neutering, and anti-parasite treatment, especially if they are an outdoor cat that hunts.' Wisdom Panel Cat DNA Test | Amazon Not sure exactly what breed your cat is? This kit screens for 70+ breeds, 45 genetic health insights and 25+ physical traits – because knowing every detail about your cat helps you understand how best to care for them. View Deal In the US, an American Shorthair cat can cost anywhere between $500–1,500, depending on the state and breeder you go to. Cats with registered pedigrees will be towards the higher end of this scale, along with rarer colors and patterns. Therefore, American Shorthairs are seen as mid-priced cats as they aren't known as the most expensive cat breeds, but neither are they the most affordable. The great thing to note about American Shorthair cats is that they are brilliant all-rounders. They are mild-mannered, playful and great with children and even other pets you may have, like a dog. They also thrive with any time spent with their human counterparts, whether this is playing with toys or snuggling up on the couch. But, perhaps, above all, they are easy-going cats which makes them one of the best breeds for first-time owners. 'The American Shorthair is not too demanding, though, and they will also happily amuse themselves,' notes Dr MacMillan. 'They will slot in well to most homes and are generally good with children and other pets with the right socialization.' Taking Care Of An American Shorthair | Amazon This book covers even more about general cat caring, grooming, nutrition, and common disorders of American Deal Read next: American Shorthair cat facts Edited by Georgia Guerin.
The South African
5 days ago
- The South African
A vet reveals why a 'little mess' can help keep your pet happy
With travel on the rise again, many people across the globe are planning their next adventure – and pet owners are no exception, eager to ensure a happy pet while they're away. People always plan to travel. And whether you're based in London, Lagos, Cape Town, or Calgary, one thing remains constant: the emotional bond between people and their pets. For many animal lovers, that excitement about a well-earned getaway is tempered by a nagging worry – how will my pet cope when I'm gone? According to new research from TrustedHousesitters, more than half (53%) of UK pet owners worry that their animals feel abandoned when they travel. But veterinary experts say there are simple, science-backed steps that pet owners anywhere in the world can take to help their furry companions feel safe, secure, and loved – even in their absence. 'Everyone likes their home comforts, pets included!' says Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, a UK-based vet. 'Pets thrive on familiarity and routine. It helps them feel secure. Staying in an environment where they already feel safe will often mean they cope better when their owner is gone.' Dr. MacMillan explains that familiar smells – especially those of their owner – can go a long way toward helping pets feel calm. Pets are also attuned to small, everyday sounds like the ticking of a clock or the hum of the boiler. These cues remind them that their environment is still 'home.' While it's important to prepare a clean and comfortable space for sitters, friends, or family watching your pet, experts recommend leaving a few well-loved items behind to keep your pet grounded and calm. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or a two-week tropical escape, here are five simple yet effective tips from Dr. MacMillan to help ensure your pet's emotional well-being while you're gone: Avoid deep-cleaning everything before you leave. 'Leave an item or two of unwashed clothing for your pet to snuggle with,' advises Dr. MacMillan. 'Pets take comfort in their owner's scent.' Their bedding, favourite toys, and even laundry-bound items can help them feel close to you. Ask your pet sitter to keep meal times, walks, and bedtime as close to your pet's normal schedule as possible. Predictability gives pets a sense of control and safety. For pets prone to anxiety, synthetic pheromone products can help. Plug-in diffusers, collars, or calming supplements may ease stress. However, always check with your vet before introducing anything new into your pet's diet. Leave clear instructions for your sitter, including your pet's schedule, medical needs, favourite hiding spots, and quirks. Emergency contacts and vet info are a must. A well-briefed sitter is a confident one – and that translates into calmer care for your pet. Try not to rearrange furniture, switch pet beds, or introduce new environments right before departure. 'Even if it seems a bit untidy to us, pets find comfort in their familiar surroundings,' Dr. MacMillan says. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Herald Scotland
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
A masterly synthesis of old & new: Review: Perth Festival, Ora Singers
St John's Kirk, Perth The opening concert of this year's Perth Festival of the Arts was a festival debut for the Ora Singers, 18 unaccompanied voices under the direction of Suzi Digby, but the choir made such varied use of the fine acoustic of St John's Kirk they might have been based there. The programme, which drew an excellent first night audience for this year's event, was the now-familiar mix of Renaissance polyphony and contemporary responses to such early music, framed by the Miserere settings of Allegri and Sir James MacMillan. The former began the programme in a transept of the building with most of the choir then processing around the audience while an unseen quartet of voices answered them. Ora Singers conducted by Suzi Digby at St John's Kirk in Perth (Image: free) The theatre of that opening found further echoes throughout the evening, especially a central sequence where male voice plainchant, Alma Redemptoris Mater, preceded a sextet singing Cecilia McDowell's setting of the same text. That mirroring technique also ran through the programme, an Ave Marie by Victoria followed by Mark Simpson's, which is full of arresting chords and interesting rhythms and showcased the bedrock of lower male voices that is a real strength of this ensemble. Among the more familiar Marian Latin words, two settings of the Song of Solomon's Sicut Lilium, from Renaissance France (Antoine Brumel) and by John Barber were more unusual offerings, and they were preceded by Francis Poulenc, whose voice was, as always, singularly distinctive. Another outlier was the recent commission in the programme, An End Without End by Electra Perivolaris, who is based on the Isle of Arran and was mentored in Ayrshire by MacMillan. Her setting of 17th century Scots poet William Drummond was more fragmentary in style, using solo voices, duet, trio and quartet as well as larger ensemble. Read more Digby's direction of these details was light-touch, while she was very old-school in her conducting of works like Palestrina's Assumpta est Maria, which was all the better for her rigorous time-keeping. David Bednall's setting of the same text was another highlight, with ear-catching syncopations and a rich choral climax. The MacMillan, however, could be the only choice to end the concert, its masterly synthesis of old and new in a class of its own, and the point at the evening when the six sopranos of the Ora Singers demonstrated a sectional solidity not always evident earlier.
Vancouver Sun
22-05-2025
- Business
- Vancouver Sun
Rats! Infestation at Fraser Downs leads to closure, lawsuit from horse owners
Harness Racing B.C. and a member who owns nine racehorses have filed a lawsuit to try to stop a scheduled closure of the Fraser Downs horse racetrack in Surrey that operators say is necessary to control a rat infestation. The association has requested a B.C. Supreme Court judge hear its case to stop the shutdown of the racetrack for 60 to 90 days beginning May 30, and a hearing has been scheduled for early next week, said association president Kelly MacMillian, who breeds standardbreds in Kelowna. The harness racing season finished at the end of April and is to resume again in early September. Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sunrise will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. But MacMillan said Fraser Downs, B.C.'s only harness racing track, is needed for six days a week during June, July and August to train the young horses, if they are to be ready for the fall. 'For breeders and owners, it (the shutdown) is total decimation,' he said. He said he when he sells his colts, people buy them for about $40,000 each and then train them over eight months at a cost of $10,000 to $15,000, in the hopes of recouping their losses in the stake races in the fall. Without the possibility of those big purses, the season is a 'total wipeout,' he said. And the knock-on effect of the losses will be felt in future because there will be no one to buy the yearlings next year, he said. After the challenges of the COVID years, 'the closure of the racetrack's stabling barns and the training facilities is as demoralizing an event as I could imagine for our industry,' he said in an affidavit filed with the lawsuit. The lawsuit's named plaintiff, Margaret White, the owner and trainer of nine horses, seven of which she stables at Fraser Downs, said in her affidavit there is only one other small private stable in B.C. equipped for the required training and it doesn't have room for all the horses that would be displaced. She has found a field for her horses, but said the horses couldn't be trained there and could be susceptible to disease outside of the stables, it said. She also said the number of workers she employs, including groomers, vets, people to exercise and to ride her horses, and stable cleaners would be without work during the shutdown. MacMillan in his affidavit, there are 75 to 100 workers employed at the track leading up to the fall season, and he said those workers include those who live with mental disabilities and enjoy meaningful work in the industry. She and MacMillan agreed the rat infestation needs to be controlled, but they said they have consulted exterminators who say it can be done without requiring the stables to be vacated for up to three months. MacMillan said there's no question the rats are a problem and he has seen 30 rats at a feeding trough while the horse stands in the corner. But he said he has managed rats at his own farm over the years and said the track operators should have acted sooner to control the infestation. Neither of the named defendants, Orangeville Raceway and the Great Canadian Gaming Corp., have filed a response to the lawsuit. Chuck Keeling, a vice-president of Great Canadian Entertainment, said in an email that he wouldn't comment about the lawsuit, which he said was commenced 'to seek to impede our pest control efforts.' 'We intend to vigorously defend the litigation so that we can ensure the health and safety of HRBC (Harness Racing B.C.) members, our team members and guests.'
