Tuesday, 23 December 2014
Wednesday, 17 December 2014
November Gallery Winners: Womble & Moomin
Womble & Moomin are the winners of our October Gallery on our Facebook page! Thank you to everyone who submitted a photo, and to everyone who voted! We're now taking entries for December.
Tuesday, 4 November 2014
October Gallery Winner: Olive
OIive is the winner of our October Gallery on our Facebook page! Thank you to everyone who submitted a photo, and to everyone who voted! We're now taking entries for November.
Each month in 2014 we'll be compiling an album of your beloved animals. The picture with the most likes at the end of the month, will win a fantastic Hubble & Hattie book of your choice, and feature in our monthly newsletter!
How to submit photos:
Post photos directly on to our Facebook page.
Tweet us your photos
Email your photos
Each month in 2014 we'll be compiling an album of your beloved animals. The picture with the most likes at the end of the month, will win a fantastic Hubble & Hattie book of your choice, and feature in our monthly newsletter!
Post photos directly on to our Facebook page.
Tweet us your photos
Email your photos
Tuesday, 28 October 2014
Freshly baked bread
We love this poem by Jacki Gordon, compiler of our fab book My Dog, my Friend – Heart-warming tales of canine companionship from celebrities and other extraordinary people. The book is available now from the Hubble & Hattie website.
She snuggles up.
I adore her.
She looks out for me.
She is devoted.
She seems to know my every need.
Side by side we are strong.
I miss her when we are apart
I love her.
I think we are alike, her and me.
Sometimes I behave like she is my
own flesh and blood.
She smells of the outdoors.
Of almonds.
Of lavender, sometimes.
She says I smell
of freshly baked bread.
People laugh when she says that.
They say
Dogs don't smell of freshly baked bread.
Looka does, she says.
The full interview with Jacki Gordon, talking about the book, her gorgeous girl Looka, and our love of dogs, is now available to watch over at our YouTube Channel. Be sure to check it out!
I adore her.
She looks out for me.
She is devoted.
She seems to know my every need.
Side by side we are strong.
I miss her when we are apart
I love her.
I think we are alike, her and me.
Sometimes I behave like she is my
own flesh and blood.
She smells of the outdoors.
Of almonds.
Of lavender, sometimes.
She says I smell
of freshly baked bread.
People laugh when she says that.
They say
Dogs don't smell of freshly baked bread.
Looka does, she says.
The full interview with Jacki Gordon, talking about the book, her gorgeous girl Looka, and our love of dogs, is now available to watch over at our YouTube Channel. Be sure to check it out!
Friday, 24 October 2014
They ate what?!
Ever found your furry friend eating something they shouldn't? You're not alone! Each year, Veterinary Practice News holds an X-ray competition between veterinary hospitals to showcase the most bizzare things our pets ingest when we're not looking.
Remember: Seek veterinary help immediately should you suspect your pet of having swallowed something inappropriate.
Here are a few of our favourites ...
To find out more about the contest, and for the full list of winners, take a look at the Veterinary Practice News website.
Remember: Seek veterinary help immediately should you suspect your pet of having swallowed something inappropriate.
Here are a few of our favourites ...
To find out more about the contest, and for the full list of winners, take a look at the Veterinary Practice News website.
Tuesday, 14 October 2014
Paws for a cause – Cats Protection's National Black Cat Day
There's a certain amount of stigma surrounding black cats. They hang out with witches; they're bad luck; they're 'boring.' Of course, this is all nonsense, and yet black and black-and-white cats looking for forever homes are often overlooked. That's why Cats Protection is urging people to 'paws' for thought on Thursday 30th October and show support for National Black Cat Day!
The aim of the day is to raise awareness of the many unwanted black and black-and-white moggies in
Cats Protection’s care, many of whom wait longer to find their forever homes – overlooked by potential families in favour of their more colourful counterparts.
“Black and black-and-white cats make up around half of all the cats in our care – and sadly they wait
much longer to find their forever home than the average cat,” said Gemma Smith, Cats Protection’s Digital Communications Officer. “They are just as loving and fun as torties and tabbies, and will make the perfect addition to any home, so now it’s time for us to stand up and show our support for them.
"If you love cats just as much as we do, why not consider adopting a black cat, entering our competition or taking part in our campaign?"
To help raise awareness of the many black cats in need, the charity is encouraging people to enter its
National Black Cat Day competition to win a professional photoshoot, which starts on Monday 6 October.
To enter the competition cat lovers are being asked to take a photo of their beloved black rescue cat and upload it to Cats Protection’s Facebook page, alongside their adoption story. The charity will shortlist its favourites and will be asking Facebook fans to get voting by liking their preferred selfie and story. The photo with the most votes will be crowned National Black Cat Day Champion and will win a professional photoshoot, as well as the honour of becoming the ‘poster cat’ for future rehoming appeals!
The fun doesn’t stop there, however, and there are many different ways to take part on and around the
day. More information can be found on the Cats Protection website and social profiles, and by following the #CPBlackCats and #BlackCatSelfie hashtags on Twitter.
To find out more about adopting a black or black-and-white cat, visit the Cats Protection website, or call the the helpline on 03000 12 12 12.
The aim of the day is to raise awareness of the many unwanted black and black-and-white moggies in
Cats Protection’s care, many of whom wait longer to find their forever homes – overlooked by potential families in favour of their more colourful counterparts.
much longer to find their forever home than the average cat,” said Gemma Smith, Cats Protection’s Digital Communications Officer. “They are just as loving and fun as torties and tabbies, and will make the perfect addition to any home, so now it’s time for us to stand up and show our support for them.
"If you love cats just as much as we do, why not consider adopting a black cat, entering our competition or taking part in our campaign?"
To help raise awareness of the many black cats in need, the charity is encouraging people to enter its
National Black Cat Day competition to win a professional photoshoot, which starts on Monday 6 October.
To enter the competition cat lovers are being asked to take a photo of their beloved black rescue cat and upload it to Cats Protection’s Facebook page, alongside their adoption story. The charity will shortlist its favourites and will be asking Facebook fans to get voting by liking their preferred selfie and story. The photo with the most votes will be crowned National Black Cat Day Champion and will win a professional photoshoot, as well as the honour of becoming the ‘poster cat’ for future rehoming appeals!
The fun doesn’t stop there, however, and there are many different ways to take part on and around the
day. More information can be found on the Cats Protection website and social profiles, and by following the #CPBlackCats and #BlackCatSelfie hashtags on Twitter.
Friday, 10 October 2014
September Gallery winner: Chip
Chip is the winner of our My Dog, my Friend themed September Gallery on our Facebook page!
Thank you to everyone who submitted a photo, and for everyone who voted!
We're now taking entries for October.
Each month in 2014 we'll be compiling an album of your beloved animals. The picture with the most likes at the end of the month, will win a fantastic Hubble & Hattie book of your choice, and feature in our monthly newsletter!
How to submit photos:
Post photos directly on to our Facebook page.
Tweet us your photos
Email your photos
Thank you to everyone who submitted a photo, and for everyone who voted!
We're now taking entries for October.
Each month in 2014 we'll be compiling an album of your beloved animals. The picture with the most likes at the end of the month, will win a fantastic Hubble & Hattie book of your choice, and feature in our monthly newsletter!
Post photos directly on to our Facebook page.
Tweet us your photos
Email your photos
Celebrating spiders!
Love 'em, hate 'em, or run screaming at the sight of them, it's spider season! Spiders get a bad press because a lot of people find them frightening or creepy (eight legs does seem a bit much ...), but our resident spider supporter, Kev, has taken some fantastic photos that prove spiders aren't that bad ... in fact, they can be rather beautiful! Read on to find out more about some of the fascinating eight-legged beauties local to H&H HQ. Be warned, though ... here there be spiders!
Argiope bruennichi, Wasp spider
"Being so large and colourful, they’re easily spotted, and quite a spectacular find when out walking. The females are now, and a few of them have large egg sacks – and I do mean large; the largest of the two I’ve seen locally was just under 4cm in diameter, and was being tended by a slightly smaller female.
"The webs are usually found quite low down, about 20-30cm above the ground, and have a unique
‘zig-zag’ section running vertically through them. No one knows quite what this is for, but there are several theories. It may be that it helps attract insects by reflecting UV light. It may also act as a deterrent to ward off predators; when the web is shaken, the zig-zag creates a bright, blurry shape to animals which see in the UV range."
A sea of webs ...
"These webs on the tips of grasses and bushes are mostly Garden spider
webs. The name isn’t too helpful here, as Garden spiders aren’t just
garden dwellers, and pretty much live everywhere. They also fall into
the orb-web family, which also contains our largest by weight native
species, Araneus quadrata, which, along with the similar but slightly
smaller Araneus diadematus, are the ‘classic’ garden spiders, and – as
you can see from the photos – they’re doing very well this year! On a
dewy morning, you can see literally thousands of these webs, and they
really are a spectacular sight … just make sure you keep to the paths,
though!"
Argiope bruennichi, Wasp spider
"The Wasp spider is a member of the orb-web spider family,
and whilst it can be found across much of Europe and North Africa, it’s
only in the last decade that it's appeared in the UK. These photos show
a female, which is much larger and more colourful than the male. In
fact, they can be disconcertingly large, compared to most indigenous
species; the largest of the three individuals I found was about 8cm with
its legs outstretched (this feels MUCH larger when it’s only a few
inches from your face!) They do bite, but they’re not poisonous to
humans.
"Being so large and colourful, they’re easily spotted, and quite a spectacular find when out walking. The females are now, and a few of them have large egg sacks – and I do mean large; the largest of the two I’ve seen locally was just under 4cm in diameter, and was being tended by a slightly smaller female.
‘zig-zag’ section running vertically through them. No one knows quite what this is for, but there are several theories. It may be that it helps attract insects by reflecting UV light. It may also act as a deterrent to ward off predators; when the web is shaken, the zig-zag creates a bright, blurry shape to animals which see in the UV range."
A sea of webs ...
"These webs on the tips of grasses and bushes are mostly Garden spider
webs. The name isn’t too helpful here, as Garden spiders aren’t just
garden dwellers, and pretty much live everywhere. They also fall into
the orb-web family, which also contains our largest by weight native
species, Araneus quadrata, which, along with the similar but slightly
smaller Araneus diadematus, are the ‘classic’ garden spiders, and – as
you can see from the photos – they’re doing very well this year! On a
dewy morning, you can see literally thousands of these webs, and they
really are a spectacular sight … just make sure you keep to the paths,
though!"Tuesday, 30 September 2014
Paws for a cause – Samaritans
Samaritans began in 1953 in London, founded by a vicar called Chad Varah. Throughout his career Chad had offered counselling to his parishioners, and wanted to do something more specific to help people struggling to cope, and possibly contemplating suicide.
When Chad was offered charge of the parish of St Stephen in the summer of 1953, he knew that the time was right for him to launch what he called a '999 for the suicidal.' He was, in his own words, "a man willing to listen, with a base and an emergency telephone."
Chad knew he would need to get word out about the service. Luckily, he wrote and illustrated articles for children's comics, so he knew many of the journalists who worked on national newspapers. The service received lots of press coverage and on December 7th, 1953 the Daily Mirror coined the term 'Telephone Good Samaritans' and although Samaritans is not a religious organisation, the name has stuck and become synonymous with the idea of people being there for others struggling to cope.
The newspaper coverage worked and Chad received many calls and visits from people wanting support, as well as people wanting to help as volunteers. Initially, the volunteers’ duties were to sit with the callers whilst they waited for their appointment, offering them someone to chat to, but it soon became clear that their role was much more central to the service. The simple act of listening and offering non-judgemental support was enough for most callers, and Chad realised the power of the service was in providing a safe space so people could talk and be listened to, without judgement.
This is still the guiding principle behind Samaritans, which continues to help people in the UK and Ireland, 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. Its dedicated volunteers are always there to listen, without interruption, for as long as the caller wants, and as many times as they like.
The service is completely confidential, offering a safe place for people to turn without fear of
repurcussions, or the worry of burdening friends or family. This in itself can bring much-needed relief.
Samaritans also works in the local community, reaching as many as 228,370 people a year in schools,
hospitals, prisons and on the street, offering support and education on suicide prevention.
The foreword of our book, My Dog, my Friend, is written by Professor Stephen Platt, Samaritans Trustee, who is a firm believer that dogs can enrich our lives and benefit our mental health:
"We believe that My Dog, my Friend will increase awareness about the important role that animals – and dogs in particular – can play in helping people who are struggling to cope as well as symptoms of physical and mental ill-health. What is striking from the contributions in this book is the many different ways that dogs support us in our daily lives."
All author royalties from My Dog, my Friend are being donated to Samaritans. To find out how you can help support this fantastic cause, visit the website. Or, if there's something troubling you, then get in touch by calling 08457 90 90 90. For more ways to contact Samaritans, click here.
When Chad was offered charge of the parish of St Stephen in the summer of 1953, he knew that the time was right for him to launch what he called a '999 for the suicidal.' He was, in his own words, "a man willing to listen, with a base and an emergency telephone."
Chad knew he would need to get word out about the service. Luckily, he wrote and illustrated articles for children's comics, so he knew many of the journalists who worked on national newspapers. The service received lots of press coverage and on December 7th, 1953 the Daily Mirror coined the term 'Telephone Good Samaritans' and although Samaritans is not a religious organisation, the name has stuck and become synonymous with the idea of people being there for others struggling to cope.
The newspaper coverage worked and Chad received many calls and visits from people wanting support, as well as people wanting to help as volunteers. Initially, the volunteers’ duties were to sit with the callers whilst they waited for their appointment, offering them someone to chat to, but it soon became clear that their role was much more central to the service. The simple act of listening and offering non-judgemental support was enough for most callers, and Chad realised the power of the service was in providing a safe space so people could talk and be listened to, without judgement.
This is still the guiding principle behind Samaritans, which continues to help people in the UK and Ireland, 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. Its dedicated volunteers are always there to listen, without interruption, for as long as the caller wants, and as many times as they like.
The service is completely confidential, offering a safe place for people to turn without fear of
repurcussions, or the worry of burdening friends or family. This in itself can bring much-needed relief.
Samaritans also works in the local community, reaching as many as 228,370 people a year in schools,
hospitals, prisons and on the street, offering support and education on suicide prevention.
The foreword of our book, My Dog, my Friend, is written by Professor Stephen Platt, Samaritans Trustee, who is a firm believer that dogs can enrich our lives and benefit our mental health:
"We believe that My Dog, my Friend will increase awareness about the important role that animals – and dogs in particular – can play in helping people who are struggling to cope as well as symptoms of physical and mental ill-health. What is striking from the contributions in this book is the many different ways that dogs support us in our daily lives."
All author royalties from My Dog, my Friend are being donated to Samaritans. To find out how you can help support this fantastic cause, visit the website. Or, if there's something troubling you, then get in touch by calling 08457 90 90 90. For more ways to contact Samaritans, click here.
Friday, 26 September 2014
#MyDogMyFriend selfies!
The H&H team are dotty for dogs. Check out these great #MyDogMyFriend selfies from Kim and Liz, with their pooches (past and present), and a brief explanation of how their dogs have brought joy to their lives ...
Got your own selfie with your dog? We want to see it! Simply upload your photo through Twitter, Instagram or pop it on our Facebook wall using the #MyDogMyFriend hashtag and we'll feature our favourites!
Friday, 19 September 2014
My Dog, my Friend – Jacki Gordon interview (full-length)
New video! Watch this full-length interview with Jacki Gordon to find out what inspired her to compile
My Dog, my Friend, why she decided to pledge all her author royalties to Samaritans, her favourite photos from the book, and why she chose Hubble & Hattie as her publisher.
My Dog, my Friend – Heart-warming tales of canine companionship from celebrities and other extraordinary people. Compiled by Jacki Gordon.
A kaleidoscope of vivid, moving and highly entertaining accounts of the delights and benefits of dog ownership: an anthology of stories, freely contributed, from TV personalities, broadcasters, politicians, writers, and many others. Brought to life with colour photographs of the writers and their beloved canine companions, this is an ideal bedside or coffee table book that can be read cover-to-cover, or simply ‘dipped into.’ It conveys the key message that dogs can – and do – have a positive impact on the way we feel and live. All author royalties go to the charity Samaritans, to support its invaluable work of alleviating emotional distress and reducing suicidal behaviour.
Contributors include –
• David Blunkett • Esther Rantzen • Lynne Truss • Jenni Murray • Rankin • Alan Titchmarsh • Antony Worral Thompson • Mohamed Al-Fayad • Charlie Dimmock • Simon Callow • David Shrigley • Brix Smith-Start • Jon Landau • William Mcllvanney • Stanley Coren • Quintin Jardine
Click here for more info about the book.
My Dog, my Friend, why she decided to pledge all her author royalties to Samaritans, her favourite photos from the book, and why she chose Hubble & Hattie as her publisher.
A kaleidoscope of vivid, moving and highly entertaining accounts of the delights and benefits of dog ownership: an anthology of stories, freely contributed, from TV personalities, broadcasters, politicians, writers, and many others. Brought to life with colour photographs of the writers and their beloved canine companions, this is an ideal bedside or coffee table book that can be read cover-to-cover, or simply ‘dipped into.’ It conveys the key message that dogs can – and do – have a positive impact on the way we feel and live. All author royalties go to the charity Samaritans, to support its invaluable work of alleviating emotional distress and reducing suicidal behaviour.
• David Blunkett • Esther Rantzen • Lynne Truss • Jenni Murray • Rankin • Alan Titchmarsh • Antony Worral Thompson • Mohamed Al-Fayad • Charlie Dimmock • Simon Callow • David Shrigley • Brix Smith-Start • Jon Landau • William Mcllvanney • Stanley Coren • Quintin Jardine
Click here for more info about the book.
August Gallery Winner: Mollys
Mollys is the winner of our August Gallery on our Facebook page! Thank you to everyone who submitted a photo, and for everyone who voted! We're now taking entries for September.
Each month in 2014 we'll be compiling an album of your beloved animals. The picture with the most likes at the end of the month, will win a fantastic Hubble & Hattie book of your choice, and feature in our monthly newsletter!
How to submit photos:
Post photos directly on to our Facebook page.
Tweet us your photos
Email your photos
Each month in 2014 we'll be compiling an album of your beloved animals. The picture with the most likes at the end of the month, will win a fantastic Hubble & Hattie book of your choice, and feature in our monthly newsletter!
Post photos directly on to our Facebook page.
Tweet us your photos
Email your photos
Competition Time!
We're giving away five copies of our fantastic book, My Dog, my Friend! To be in with a chance to win a copy, just answer this simple question:
(Here's a hint – you can find the answer in this blog post!)
Email your answer and your name to us at prize@hubbleandhattie.com. We'll announce the lucky winner in October's Animal Magic. Good Luck!
Monday, 15 September 2014
My Dog, my Friend – out now!
The day has finally arrived ... our fantastic new book, My Dog, my Friend is out now!
My Dog, my Friend – Heart-warming tales of canine companionship from celebrities and other extraordinary people, is a kaleidoscope of vivid, moving and highly entertaining accounts of the delights and benefits of dog ownership: an anthology of stories, freely contributed, from TV personalities, broadcasters, politicians, writers, and many others.
Brought to life with colour photographs of the writers and their beloved canine companions, this is an
ideal bedside or coffee table book that can be read cover-to-cover, or simply ‘dipped into.’ It conveys the key message that dogs can – and do – have a positive impact on the way we feel and live.
All author royalties go to the charity Samaritans, to support its invaluable work of alleviating emotional distress and reducing suicidal behaviour.
What the press are saying ...
We're over-the-moon at the response this book has already had and the buzz that's being generated! Check out this great article by Clare Allan on the Guardian website, and if you're a Times subscriber, you can read a simply brilliant aritcle from Deborah Ross here!
Contributor Marion Janner and her support dog Buddy were invited to the BBC Breakfast sofa for a
fantastic interview ...
Not to mention the fantastic reviews we've had coming in ...
Brought to life with colour photographs of the writers and their beloved canine companions, this is an
ideal bedside or coffee table book that can be read cover-to-cover, or simply ‘dipped into.’ It conveys the key message that dogs can – and do – have a positive impact on the way we feel and live.
All author royalties go to the charity Samaritans, to support its invaluable work of alleviating emotional distress and reducing suicidal behaviour.
What the press are saying ...
We're over-the-moon at the response this book has already had and the buzz that's being generated! Check out this great article by Clare Allan on the Guardian website, and if you're a Times subscriber, you can read a simply brilliant aritcle from Deborah Ross here!
Contributor Marion Janner and her support dog Buddy were invited to the BBC Breakfast sofa for a
fantastic interview ...
What YOU are saying ...
We're even more delighted by the comments we've been getting from our fabulous readers. Here are some that made our tails wag from the 5-star reviews received so far on Amazon.co.uk ...
If you're eager to get your paws on this fantastic new book for yourself, pop over to the Hubble & Hattie website, where it's available to buy right now!
Friday, 22 August 2014
Get your motor tweeting!
Westover car technician Jon Brooks was about to begin an oil change on the car when he heard chirping. Looking behind the bumper, Mr Brooks and his colleagues saw a nest balancing on part of the car’s undertray. The nest was carefully removed, and the RSPCA was called to collect the tiny birds, who had travelled about five miles to the dealership!
Inspector Graham Hammond, the RSPCA officer who arrived to take care of the birds, said: "We’re very grateful to Mr Brooks and all the staff at the dealership for acting so quickly and carefully to protect these tiny birds. Thanks to them they have been given the best chance of surviving, but you do have to feel a little sorry for the parent birds who would have come back to find not only their nest, but the whole car gone."
In normal circumstances, if you find fledglings, the best course of action is to leave them alone, as their parents will return to them. For more information on what to do if you find a fledgling or baby bird, visit the RSPB's page by clicking here, or you can check out the RSPCA's press release here.
Tuesday, 19 August 2014
Kitten Diaries II
Veloce author Lindsay Porter is not only a car enthusiast, but also a huge animal lover! In this latest instalment of the kitten diaries, we find out what Lindsay and his wife, Shan, decided to name their new arrival ...
"We were starting to worry about our new arrival – despite our efforts, she wasn’t going to the toilet. A trip to the vet (and a thermometer up her bum!) soon put our minds at ease – apparently, kittens can go a couple of weeks without pooing. In celebration that all was well, we named the kitten Alice.
And then, a couple of days later, the inevitable happened … we were about ready to hang out the
bunting as Alice did her first poo! After much wiping of her bottom with a warm, damp cloth by my wife, Shan, she went into the cat litter, strained comically for a while, then shrugged her shoulders and walked off – at which point, out it came! She looked at it with considerable disgust before deciding it had nothing whatsoever to do with her.
Playing games with a kitten after the 4am feed is a real test of stamina. If I was still working full-time, I don’t know how I’d do it! But the daily improvements in Alice were amazing. She’d clamber smoothly over small obstacles that had been a major impediment to her only the day before. The rapid change in her we put down to her making up ground, since she was so small when we found her.
Back at Sapey Common, the place Alice was rescued from, the mom cat and other kittens made their
return. Our friend, Fi, spotted them within a metre of her when she went to put food down for them. We planned to continue feeding them regularly, and then add some worming powder to the food to help keep the family healthy.
One of the kittens had a ‘gungy’ eye – not unlike Alice when we found her – but at least they were
returning, both physically, and in their confidence with us! If, as it seems, the mom was at some point a domestic cat, we were certain it would help enormously in making friends with her. Fi told us that the mom look excited when the food was being put down, suggesting she’s had some previous contact with humans.
We moved a few items from the abandoned shed in which they were being fed to make it less dangerous for them, but didn't want to alter too much for fear of scaring mom off again … time would tell if our efforts made a difference …"
Next time: From strength to strength
"We were starting to worry about our new arrival – despite our efforts, she wasn’t going to the toilet. A trip to the vet (and a thermometer up her bum!) soon put our minds at ease – apparently, kittens can go a couple of weeks without pooing. In celebration that all was well, we named the kitten Alice.
And then, a couple of days later, the inevitable happened … we were about ready to hang out the
bunting as Alice did her first poo! After much wiping of her bottom with a warm, damp cloth by my wife, Shan, she went into the cat litter, strained comically for a while, then shrugged her shoulders and walked off – at which point, out it came! She looked at it with considerable disgust before deciding it had nothing whatsoever to do with her.
Playing games with a kitten after the 4am feed is a real test of stamina. If I was still working full-time, I don’t know how I’d do it! But the daily improvements in Alice were amazing. She’d clamber smoothly over small obstacles that had been a major impediment to her only the day before. The rapid change in her we put down to her making up ground, since she was so small when we found her.
return. Our friend, Fi, spotted them within a metre of her when she went to put food down for them. We planned to continue feeding them regularly, and then add some worming powder to the food to help keep the family healthy.
One of the kittens had a ‘gungy’ eye – not unlike Alice when we found her – but at least they werereturning, both physically, and in their confidence with us! If, as it seems, the mom was at some point a domestic cat, we were certain it would help enormously in making friends with her. Fi told us that the mom look excited when the food was being put down, suggesting she’s had some previous contact with humans.
We moved a few items from the abandoned shed in which they were being fed to make it less dangerous for them, but didn't want to alter too much for fear of scaring mom off again … time would tell if our efforts made a difference …"
Next time: From strength to strength
Friday, 15 August 2014
Paws for a cause – Serbia's Forgotten Paws
While there are groups and individuals who already assist with the provision of food, vaccinations,
kennels, and care of dogs and cats in Serbia, the volunteers of Forgotten Paws, motivated by the powerful images and distressing stories of Serbia’s strays online, felt they could make a huge difference by improving these animals' quality of life.
Primarily, the hope is to rehome as many animals as possible through adoption in the UK and Europe.
For those animals that are unable to be rehomed, Forgotten Paws hopes to improve their living conditions. The volunteers are busy raising funds to purchase land around the two sites to allow the construction of warm, safe, permanent enclosures, where the dogs can interact with each other and with their human carers.
Forgotten Paws also hopes to raise awareness in the UK and beyond of the terrible cruelty faced by
animals in Serbia, and to encourage the Serbian government to improve the current situation.
If you would like to learn more about the work of Forgotten Paws, adopt or sponsor a dog, or other ways you can help, why not visit the website.
Tuesday, 12 August 2014
Competition time with PetFocus magazine!
We all want to give our pets the best life possible, and truly appreciate the time we have with them, but sometimes their complex needs and wants can be a mystery.
PetFocus magazine offers a guide to being a responsible owner and understanding the needs of our pets. It gives guidance on what to do in an emergency, ideas for creating a pet-friendly garden, potentially harmful things your pet should avoid, and much more.
Landing on the doormat four times a year, PetFocus opens up a world of heartwarming stories about our animal heroes, the latest celebrity pet news, and top tips for keeping your pet happy and healthy.
Experts provide essential knowledge on, for example, helping your car-sick dog, how to slim down your overweight cat, and protecting rabbits from fly strike – covering all pets from cats and guinea pigs to horses and bearded dragons!
Not just for adults, PetFocus’ pull-out children’s section bulges with games, posters, weird and wonderful facts, cut-out animal masks, and fun features to help them learn more about animals.
Hubble & Hattie has teamed up with PetFocus to offer a year’s free subscription to one lucky animal lover. For your chance to win, simply answer this question:
PetFocus magazine offers a guide to being a responsible owner and understanding the needs of our pets. It gives guidance on what to do in an emergency, ideas for creating a pet-friendly garden, potentially harmful things your pet should avoid, and much more.
Landing on the doormat four times a year, PetFocus opens up a world of heartwarming stories about our animal heroes, the latest celebrity pet news, and top tips for keeping your pet happy and healthy.
Experts provide essential knowledge on, for example, helping your car-sick dog, how to slim down your overweight cat, and protecting rabbits from fly strike – covering all pets from cats and guinea pigs to horses and bearded dragons!
Not just for adults, PetFocus’ pull-out children’s section bulges with games, posters, weird and wonderful facts, cut-out animal masks, and fun features to help them learn more about animals.
Hubble & Hattie has teamed up with PetFocus to offer a year’s free subscription to one lucky animal lover. For your chance to win, simply answer this question:
Which breed of dog features on the cover of the above issue of PetFocus?
Email your answer and your name to us at prize@hubbleandhattie.com. We'll announce the lucky winner in next month's Animal Magic. Good Luck!
For more information on PetFocus, visit the website, and remember to like the Facebook page for all the latest news, photos and competitions!
For more information on PetFocus, visit the website, and remember to like the Facebook page for all the latest news, photos and competitions!
Tuesday, 5 August 2014
My Dog, my Friend book trailer video
Check out this 1 minute trailer video for the forthcoming book, My Dog, my Friend (published by H&H, September 2014) ...
My Dog, my Friend – Heart-warming tales of canine companionship from celebrities and other extraordinary people. Compiled by Jacki Gordon.
A kaleidoscope of vivid, moving and highly entertaining accounts of the delights and benefits of dog ownership: an anthology of stories, freely contributed, from TV personalities, broadcasters, politicians, writers, and many others. Brought to life with colour photographs of the writers and their beloved canine companions, this is an ideal bedside or coffee table book that can be read cover-to-cover, or simply ‘dipped into.’ It conveys the key message that dogs can – and do – have a positive impact on the way we feel and live. All author royalties go to the charity Samaritans, to support its invaluable work of alleviating emotional distress and reducing suicidal behaviour.
Contributors include –
• David Blunkett • Esther Rantzen • Lynne Truss • Jenni Murray • Rankin • Alan Titchmarsh • Antony Worral Thompson • Mohamed Al-Fayad • Charlie Dimmock • Simon Callow • David Shrigley • Brix Smith-Start • Jon Landau • William Mcllvanney • Stanley Coren • Quintin Jardine
Click here for more info about the book.
A kaleidoscope of vivid, moving and highly entertaining accounts of the delights and benefits of dog ownership: an anthology of stories, freely contributed, from TV personalities, broadcasters, politicians, writers, and many others. Brought to life with colour photographs of the writers and their beloved canine companions, this is an ideal bedside or coffee table book that can be read cover-to-cover, or simply ‘dipped into.’ It conveys the key message that dogs can – and do – have a positive impact on the way we feel and live. All author royalties go to the charity Samaritans, to support its invaluable work of alleviating emotional distress and reducing suicidal behaviour.
• David Blunkett • Esther Rantzen • Lynne Truss • Jenni Murray • Rankin • Alan Titchmarsh • Antony Worral Thompson • Mohamed Al-Fayad • Charlie Dimmock • Simon Callow • David Shrigley • Brix Smith-Start • Jon Landau • William Mcllvanney • Stanley Coren • Quintin Jardine
Click here for more info about the book.
Friday, 1 August 2014
Kitten Diaries II
Veloce author Lindsay Porter is not only a car enthusiast, but also a huge animal lover! A good example of this is this great story Lindsay shared with us a while ago, about a little stray kitten in need of a loving home ...
"It all started when we received a call from our friend Fi, who was looking after her dad's and step-mom’s house while they were on holiday. The call was to say there were some surprise visitors at the house in the form of a mother cat and her kittens.
We went round to see what we could do. The mom and two or three of the kittens shot off at the sight of us, but one was too weak. Naturally, we brought her home. That evening, Shan, my wife, took her to the emergency vet in Ludlow to get checked out (aside from being tiny, she had some discharge from her eyes). We were given antibiotics to add to her food, and some drops for her eyes. The vet reckoned she was about three weeks, but, since she was very much smaller than her siblings, she might have been four.
The vet suspected she had cat flu, and wasn’t certain that she'd get through that first night. We set her
up in a large dog cage in the garage, with heated pads and all mod cons! This was the same crate we used to ‘civilise’ another of our cats, Daisy, who was also feral, but about six months old when she came to us.
Our new addition was a fighter, and the next morning she was beginning to find her paws. She’s a very fussy little thing – touches your face with her paws, washes your nose (perhaps she thinks we might regurgitate something nice for her to eat!), and is very lovable. Well, except when she needs to go to the little kitten's room – did you know that young kittens can't go to the toilet on their own? You have to stroke the appropriate department with a damp, warm cloth to mimic mom's washing ... who knew!
We decided not to name the kitten until we were confident she was going to make it. Cat’s Protection
advised us that she’d need feeding during the night as well as the day for ten days or so, so early to bed for us!
Sadly, the mom and other kittens seemed to have disappeared – she was obviously feeling threatened – but what can you do? Our friend, Fi, continued to put out food and water for the family, and Cat’s Protection was on standby, should we make contact again …"
Next time: A name fit for a kitten ...
"It all started when we received a call from our friend Fi, who was looking after her dad's and step-mom’s house while they were on holiday. The call was to say there were some surprise visitors at the house in the form of a mother cat and her kittens.
We went round to see what we could do. The mom and two or three of the kittens shot off at the sight of us, but one was too weak. Naturally, we brought her home. That evening, Shan, my wife, took her to the emergency vet in Ludlow to get checked out (aside from being tiny, she had some discharge from her eyes). We were given antibiotics to add to her food, and some drops for her eyes. The vet reckoned she was about three weeks, but, since she was very much smaller than her siblings, she might have been four.The vet suspected she had cat flu, and wasn’t certain that she'd get through that first night. We set her
up in a large dog cage in the garage, with heated pads and all mod cons! This was the same crate we used to ‘civilise’ another of our cats, Daisy, who was also feral, but about six months old when she came to us.
Our new addition was a fighter, and the next morning she was beginning to find her paws. She’s a very fussy little thing – touches your face with her paws, washes your nose (perhaps she thinks we might regurgitate something nice for her to eat!), and is very lovable. Well, except when she needs to go to the little kitten's room – did you know that young kittens can't go to the toilet on their own? You have to stroke the appropriate department with a damp, warm cloth to mimic mom's washing ... who knew!We decided not to name the kitten until we were confident she was going to make it. Cat’s Protection advised us that she’d need feeding during the night as well as the day for ten days or so, so early to bed for us!
Sadly, the mom and other kittens seemed to have disappeared – she was obviously feeling threatened – but what can you do? Our friend, Fi, continued to put out food and water for the family, and Cat’s Protection was on standby, should we make contact again …"
Next time: A name fit for a kitten ...
Tuesday, 29 July 2014
Paws for a cause – Peace by Piece
Animals Asia is taking over custody and care of the bears, leasing the land and facilities. This will be the largest rescue of its kind in the world – a remarkable project to turn the old bear farm into a home for these amazing animals. Not only that, the site will also house a sanctuary and education centre. By uniquely working with the Chinese government, Animals Asia will also ensure that this new sanctuary will provide meaningful jobs to the nine existing farm workers, who are being retrained to become skilled bear carers at this new groundbreaking sanctuary. So, this isn't just a bear rescue, it's a landmark initiative to help change the hearts and minds of other farmers in the region.
The farm will be transformed into an amazing sanctuary, with cosy dens where the resident bears cansleep at night in hanging-basket beds, and retreat for shade and rest during the day; pools to play and relax in; a special indoor/outdoor cub area with climbing structures to keep them happy and active, and a play area with ever-changing enrichment toys to challenge the cubs and keep their intelligent minds stimulated. Additionally, there will be an onsite veterinary clinic, bear kitchen (where the bear's healthy meals of chopped fresh vegetables, grains, dog food and fruit are prepared), and an accommodation and training centre for our onsite vet and bear care team, including the retrained farm workers.
The project has had a lot of attention from celebrities, including Dame Judi Dench and Olivia Newton
John. Even the cast of Downton Abbey is helping to spread the word!
To find out how you can help, or to learn more about the project, visit the Peace by Piece website.
Friday, 25 July 2014
Have a pet-safe summer!
Dogs die in hot cars
To see just how hot a car can get, check out this incredible video of a vet experiencing what it's like for a dog trapped in a car:
For more advice on what to do if your dog suffers from heatstroke, or if you see a dog locked in a car on a hot day, visit the RSPCA's dedicated site by clicking here.
The trick to ticks
It's tick season, so be on the lookout for these bloodsuckers on yourself and your pets, particularly if you've been out walking in long grass or wooded areas. Check around the eyes, ears, legs and underside in particular. Ticks should be removed as soon as possible to avoid the spread of disease, and they must be removed properly to prevent any part of the tick remaining in your pet, and to avoid stress to the tick itself. A stressed tick can regurgitate the contents of its stomach, heightening the risk of infection in you or your pet!
Invest in a tick removal tool like this, which you simply slide under the tick, twist and lift gently. The tick should let go of its own accord after a few twists.
Sticks and stones ...
What dog doesn't love to play fetch when you're out and about? It's great fun ... but make sure you're playing with safe toys and not sticks or pebbles. Sticks can shatter and get lodged in your dog's throat, and stones and pebbles can chip their teeth and block their windpipe if accidentally swallowed. Instead, why not take your dog's favourite frisbee, a tennis ball, or even a Kong Safestix, which are not only safe, but float, too, for seaside fun!
Don't forget your suncream!
Pets can get sunburnt just as easily as we can! Ask your vet about pet-safe suncream, particularly if your pet has light colouring. Pink noses and white ears are especially susceptible, so take care to keep them covered!
Finally, always make sure your pets have access to fresh, clean water, and cool, shaded areas if the heat gets too much. When you're out and about with your dog, make sure you take a bottle of water and something for your dog to drink from, and avoid going out at the hottest part of the day.
Most importantly, have a fun, safe summer with your pets!
Finally, always make sure your pets have access to fresh, clean water, and cool, shaded areas if the heat gets too much. When you're out and about with your dog, make sure you take a bottle of water and something for your dog to drink from, and avoid going out at the hottest part of the day.
Most importantly, have a fun, safe summer with your pets!
Tuesday, 8 July 2014
Competition time with Kong!
Email your answer and your name to us at prize@hubbleandhattie.com. We'll announce the lucky winners in next month's Animal Magic. Good luck!
You can view the full range of Kong toys on the website, and remember to like the Facebook page for all the latest news, photos and competitions!
Friday, 20 June 2014
Paws for a cause – Margaret Green Animal Rescue
Established in 1965, Margaret Green Animal Rescue is the oldest and largest animal rescue charity founded in Dorset. Every year, the charity cares for over 1200 animals – many of whom have been abandoned, unwanted or ill-treated – and rehomes them to loving owners. With two centres in Dorset (Lincoln Farm and Church Knowle) and one in Devon (Wingletang Rescue), there is always a large variety of animals looking for forever homes, including dogs, cats, rabbits, donkeys, goats and pigs, to name just a few!
Margaret Green, founder of the Charity, was an amazing lady with incredible strength and determination. She passed away on Christmas Eve 2009, age 94. Despite being hospitalised for some weeks prior to her death, she still wouldn’t stop thinking of animals. Even on the night before she died, she insisted on checking that arrangements had been made for her annual Christmas donation of carrots for Angel and all the other horses at the Church Knowle Centre.
Margaret Green, founder of the Charity, was an amazing lady with incredible strength and determination. She passed away on Christmas Eve 2009, age 94. Despite being hospitalised for some weeks prior to her death, she still wouldn’t stop thinking of animals. Even on the night before she died, she insisted on checking that arrangements had been made for her annual Christmas donation of carrots for Angel and all the other horses at the Church Knowle Centre.
Margaret devoted much of her life to the rescue and care of animals, and everyone involved with the charity promises to continue her good work for the sake of all the animals in their care.
Margaret Green Animal Rescue receives no government funding, and relies heavily on donations to continue carrying out its important work. Every penny of every pound donated goes towards animal welfare.
Check out this video to find out a little more about the folk at Margaret Green Animal Rescue:
Check out this video to find out a little more about the folk at Margaret Green Animal Rescue:
The Church Knowle centre near Wareham, Dorset, is free to visit, and has a great visitor's centre. It's also the place to go if you're thinking of adopting an animal such as a cat, rabbit, guinea pig or field or farm animal. Give them a call on 01929 480474, between 10am and 4pm every day for details.
Church Knowle also hosts an annual companion dog show and family fun day on Sunday 3rd August between 11am and 4pm. Why not enter your hound in the pedigree and novelty classes; enjoy the stalls; enter the raffle or grand draw, and enjoy something to eat and a glass of Pimms!
Church Knowle also hosts an annual companion dog show and family fun day on Sunday 3rd August between 11am and 4pm. Why not enter your hound in the pedigree and novelty classes; enjoy the stalls; enter the raffle or grand draw, and enjoy something to eat and a glass of Pimms!
If you are thinking of giving a dog a loving forever home, please call the staff at Lincoln Farm Rescue & Rehoming for Dogs, Blandford on 01929 471340, or if you are thinking of rehoming a cat or a dog and you are based in Devon, please call the staff at Wingletang Rescue & Rehoming Centre for Cats & Dogs, near Tavistock on 01822 810215.
For more information on any aspect of the work carried out by the Margaret Green, or to rehome an animal or make a donation, please contact your local Margaret Green Animal Rescue Centre. Alternatively, email ck@margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk or visit the website.
Tuesday, 10 June 2014
Jenga cat!
If you've not seen this video yet of a
cat playing Jenga, then you are in for a real treat! This clever moggy
is even better at the game than we are!
Click here to check it out. Altogether now ... "Ahhhhh!"
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