Category: Specific

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Eight Below – and Counting

Celebrity chef Kunal Kapur’s pack of eight

If you haven’t ever watched (late) Paul Walker’s “Eight Below,” you my friend, have been living in a cave. Every time we (at BuddyLife) watch it, it warms our hearts. If you are a genuine pet lover and haven’t yet watched Eight Below, put this up right at the top of your bucket list.

Meanwhile, not far from home, we chat up celebrity chef Kunal Kapur (a.k.a. KK) who too is a fervent dog lover and has eight dogs! Read on.

BL: We believe that you have as many as eight dogs as pets, which is rather unusual and incredulous. It must be taking some serious time, space and attention portioning skills. How do you manage it?

KK: Having pets is like having kids.

So it’s like having eight kids in your family. But even if there were just one kid, you know, there is no single parent that could take adequate care of the kiddo all by themselves. The entire family has to chip in.

Sometimes you know, you got to talk to your friends, your communities, to kind of come together, to help raise awareness, as well as bring them up in the right manner.

So if I were to say, it’s a one-man job, I’d be lying.

The help should come from within your family or household. Together, make sure the nutrition and health and the emotional well being of your pet is taken care of.

So it’s it’s not something that I do alone. It is something that the entire family comes together for, and takes responsibility of each and every kid that we have (after all they are our fur babies).

BL: You make it sound so easy. Surely it isn’t a mean feat. How do you really deal with eight pets with each of them having a bladder that has a mind of its own? Are there any tricks to managing their bio breaks or, they keep going out and coming in, one after another?

KK: You know, this is kind of interesting.

My first adoption was a stray, and ever since I got him, it was like magic because he was already like a three or a four year old dog. Every time his bladder got full and he had to go out, he would paw the door and I was like, huh, maybe he needs to go out. He’d relieve himself and come back.

Then came the 2nd, and the 3rd adoption at different ages and then others followed on, the youngest of whom being a wee four month old puppy (who obviously you wouldn’t expect to have any bladder control), to our surprise, all of them when they grew to about 9 to 10 months old, they just followed the older one.

They will hold on to their bladder, but they’ll never ever do anything inside the house, even when it’s raining 24/7. Isn’t it magical?

I’ve never had any toilet training problems; really, they go by themselves, they come by themselves. You don’t need to accompany. It’s not as if they’re doing their business somewhere in the middle of the road, they have designated places for it.

If the kiddo is small, obviously there has to be somebody to accompany him. We eventually figured out that rather than everybody go at different times, a pre defined schedule for the whole pack would work better. Morning this time around , everybody wakes up, including all eight of our fur brats.

So we take them out four or five times and make sure that they don’t litter outside of the designated spaces. We pick up every little litter, keeping the outside hygienic, and don’t give anyone a reason to complain about. It has almost become like this system and I did not have to put in a lot of effort training them because they just followed the older dog and they all do the same. I’m telling you, it’s magical!

BL: Wow, it definitely sounds so. How about their other activities? Are all the activities a single group activity or there are multiple groups within, depending on their activity level or age?

KK: I think you correctly put it. Every one of them is an individual and everything isn’t necessarily hunky-dory amongst all of them. It’s like kids quarreling amongst themselves.

Incidentally, one of our dogs is blind from both the eyes and she’s very old. It takes a lot of effort on her part to just walk and she’s somebody who needs care a 100%.

When you take her out, she has to be taken alone, because she just cannot see, but her sense of smell is very heightened. Her sense of hearing too is very heightened. So she knows where to go.

At the same time, there are these two very aggressive younger puppies, so we need to take them separately because they just become this Jai and Veeru (of Sholay) together and then they just go beserk on seeing every other dog! Holding them back becomes an issue sometimes.

I think a lot of times your pets are a reflection of who you are. They imprint.
If you are somebody who is very aggressive, or somebody who’s very dominant, they kind of latch on to your personality a bit as well. I think if you are calm with them, they kind of figure it out that they have to follow a certain line. They have to follow a certain pattern.
Are there days when they do just the reverse and do what they want?

Yes, but does that happen all the time? No.

BL: How about their movement in the house?Do you have a single rule book that applies to all of them, or do you have some rules for, you know, the lapdog kind of smaller dogs, but you don’t allow the bigger dogs on beds or sofas or all of them move about freely and share all the space?

KK: So one of the things that we have done earlier on is that we’ve never chained the dogs. We’ve never confined them to a room. If a guest or somebody is coming to visit us, we say that it is their (our dogs’) house that you’re coming to. So I encourage people that when you come, let them sniff you, let them feel that you are not a threat.

Let them be OK around you.They may just put the their two paws on you and try and be friendly, but let them do that for 5 minutes. Once satisfied, they go their ways.

That’s generally what happens.

And in terms of places, there is this one fellow who is super spoilt and is allowed to go wherever he wants, climb the bed, sofa, etc. But all the others have specific mats which they go back to. Wherever we place the mat, is where the dog will sit.So let’s say if it’s winter, during the daytime, wherever the sunlight is, we’ll place the mat there for them to bask. And because there are different ages, some would play, some would just chill, Occasionally they growl at each other.But you know the good part is rarely, do they bark. It’s only when somebody is at the door or on the sound of the doorbell. They bark basically alerting you. Otherwise they don’t bark at all – and they’re very talkative. They have their own language and they communicate all the time, so that’s something that I enjoy.

BL: Do they ever create a ruckus or pandemonium and when they seem to be out of control?

KK: Yes, definitely.It’s a happy ecosystem, They create chaos every once in a while.The two dominant males try to outdo each other at times, especially if one of the females is in heat.

At such times, you tell them that this is something that is not acceptable, whether it’s by raising your voice, by sending them out of that room, or whether, it’s by sometimes restraining them or yanking their chain just to show them that they have done a bad thing; a tap on the nose with a very stern voice and a stern face too works.They all gather and understand. So yes, there is always a tussle.

BL: We are curious. How do the group dynamics work? Is there an hierarchy amongst the dogs? Is there a pecking order, for example, when one dog is around, the other dogs simply cower away or something like that? Also, do you have a chief troublemaker dog?

KK: There are no enemies. The interesting part is that they feign hostility and growl at each other to assert themselves when the food is being served. But the moment there is a movement outside the house or the doorbell sounds, one dog will dash and all the others follow and then the pack is strong again.

So they may have their differences, but when it comes to guarding the house, they all are together as one. Which kind of defines what brotherhood is. You may be having certain quarrels and you don’t like to see each other. But if there is a problem you stand together as one family. So I kind of admire that.

We haven’t had a case where one is super dominant and one is super submissive. They all have their different zones and things to do and I’m fine with it.You know, you don’t need to get along with everybody all the time, it doesn’t matter so long as you stay in harmony with the others. It’s my house, my rules. That’s what you have to abide by – and they understand that. Chief troublemaker dog you ask? I actually have two of them!

BL: Any interesting anecdote or experience that you might want to share with our readers?

KK: Yes, indeed. Unfortunately a lot of people think of pets as a social status symbol. It’s something that they like to boast about – that I have a certain breed of dog, and it becomes almost like how you flash your new car or a new house or any vacation that you went to – the poor pet becomes a thing to showcase.

You might be putting in a lot of effort in keeping your pet physically fit, but one must remember that there is also an emotional need of the pet. More the time that I spend with them, the better I get connected with them. Sometimes when I have to travel, I can sense a distance growing between us.

You just come back from a seven day tour and they don’t even acknowledge your presence in the same room. So it’s very important that you keep connecting with your dog all the time and it’s very important for their emotional well being.One should make an effort to spend as much time as possible with their pet – not because it’s something to flash, but because it brings you joy. If it’s for flaunting, then I am sorry, you have a pet for a very different reason than what I believe in.

BL: We also have come to know that you feed as many as over 100 strays. How do you manage this?

KK: Yeah. I think this started as something which I used to do where I used to feed dogs just outside my house which was quite straight forward. But when Covid hit, I then had all the time in the world. And that’s when I realized that because there was no movement outside, and mostly stray dogs would eat whatever we would throw as garbage, there was not much of garbage coming. Whatever garbage was coming, may not be very healthy for the strays, and that’s where I started feeding.

Umm, you know, dogs in and around my area where I stay in Delhi, and it so happened that it kind of grew to a number of 50, then to 80, and then to about 100 dogs. I wasn’t counting.

What do you do?

You can’t leave them on the road, Delhi winters especially, can be very harsh. Oh, and then there is this traffic and other elements compounding the challenges, so you help them get adopted. Several accidents routinely occur, where dogs have been run over and nobody takes care.
So, you know, I have made contacts in the right hospitals where you could send them for treatments, or whether it be for their immunization, or whether getting them spayed or neutered. It’s very important that you also take care of the dogs or whichever animals, whether it’s dogs, cats, cows, donkeys or whatever stray animals that you find outside, they all have the right to, you know, dignity and food.

As a kid, I remember when my grandmother used to make any food, especially anything which was Methi or Palak. The stems were never discarded. She used to say, “bachaa kar rakho, kal subah jub gaaey aaegi, toh unhe khilaangey” (Tr: Save the stems, we shall feed it to the feral cows, should they come by tomorrow morning). So I think my entire upbringing has always been to feed animals – just making sure that they are fed.Your waste could be a treasure to somebody else. So I think it just grew from there and today I’m able to do that.

There are multiple organizations that I’m in touch with, who help me or ask for my help.

BL: Would you like to share your experience on how you keep your pets healthy and hygienic and safe?

KK: Yes, another important aspect with keeping pets at home is hygiene. How do you make sure that your floors are clean and hygienically sanitized for yourself, for your kids and for your pets as well? Cleaning the floors happens in my house at least three to four times in a day, minimum three. And when we have time, we’ll do the fourth time as well and that’s because of the sheer magnitude of movement.
I’ve been using ITC Nimyle, which delivers 100% natural actions.
A lot of floor cleaners leave some chemical residue. Not mine. Nimyle does not leave any such chemical residue. As a habit dogs like to lick whatever and wherever they are.

Sometimes their paws, or sometimes there’s food on the floor. They’ll lick it. So it’s safe for them. At the same time, Nimyle is eco-friendly and has the goodness of Neem and it is biodegradable as well. So make sure you are using a product that is safe for your pets as well as for you and your children. Pets at home often climb on your bed, sofa, chairs, literally everywhere. So you’re floor needs to be super duper clean.
Not just be limited to superficial cleaning, be sure to use a proper product that helps you get rid of the germs and the bacteria.

Full disclosure: Kunal Kapur is brand ambassador for ITC Nimyle.

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Bow Wow to Your Hospitality

Aditi and Vishal Kamat’s home throngs with joy as tails and feathers lap their love.

An avid animal lover and environmentalist Vishal Kamat, executive director, Kamat Hotels India is parent to three canine kids. Despite a busy schedule of steering top notch hotel brands like Orchid, VITS, Jadavgadh and Lotus Resorts he and his wife Aditi, a restaurateur and chef, have fun time rearing the fur babies. A formidable pack of four including Bubli, a German Shepherd, Pedha, a lively Labrador; Tara, an extremely intelligent indie accompanied by the witty chatter box Johnny the African Grey Parrot, keep the household exhilarated. Vishal and Aditi’s love for their fur balls is intense, packed with unconditional affection which the pooches reciprocate with their loyal companionship and playful antics.

Team BUDDY LIFE in a tête-à-tête with the couple.

Inputs by Mr Vishal Kamat, Executive Director, Kamat Hotels India Ltd. and Ms. Aditi Limaye Kamat, Restaurateur and Chef Have you always had a pup at home? Were you raised in a family of animal lovers?

While having a pet, especially a dog, is almost every child’s dream, it wasn’t looked upon favourably in our house when I was growing up. When I married Aditi, she already had two pets, Masti, a Labrador, and Pugli, a pug. Aditi’s wish was to have them in our house, and when we moved into our own home, they became a part of my life, full-time. Initially, it was challenging for me to adjust, but Masti and Pugli’s very human-like nature won me over. They made me realize what I was missing in my life – the joy of having someone who’s always happy to see you, even if you’ve been away for just a few hours.

What are your earliest memories of having dogs around?

I used to enjoy playing with dogs at my friend’s house, but I was generally quite scared of them. I don’t recall meeting any adults who tried to help me overcome that fear. Consequently, I make it a point to encourage young children and even adults who are scared of dogs to interact with our current three playful companions: Bubli, a German Shepherd; Pedha, a lively Labrador; and Tara, an extremely intelligent indie. Removing misconceptions about dogs during childhood is essential for fostering more accepting and compassionate individuals as they grow up.

How and when did you get the three fur babies at your home?

Masti went through a traumatic incident when she was attacked by street dogs, which led her into depression. My wife, Aditi, found Bubli through a friend during this challenging time, and brought her home. Bubli’s mischievous nature, while initially bothersome to Masti, ultimately helped her recover from her depression, and from then on, we never looked back. Pedha came into our lives coincidentally after Masti passed away, and a friend, Sonia, wanted to give him away, insisting that it had to be us. Despite initial reservations, we couldn’t say no, and he won over my reluctant mother-in-law, Smita. Tara’s story is more dramatic – I found her as a 15-dayold puppy during a cyclone in Mumbai, abandoned and alone. When I reached my building, I saw this little puppy alone in a corner. The drivers in our building around that time also didn’t know where the puppy came from. We went looking for the pup’s mother and any trace of the rest of the litter, but to no avail. I spoke to Aditi and it didn’t feel right to just leave the puppy to herself, and so we decided the best would be to bring her home and give her a temporary shelter, at least till the storm passed and then search for the mother. Initially, we didn’t plan to keep her, but she turned out to have a phenomenal personality, and we ended up becoming the parents of four incredible dogs, including Pugli, who passed away 9 months later.

Do you groom/ bathe your fur babies? What part do you play in their grooming?

We used to bathe them at home, but now we “prefer taking them to a professional salon because they do an excellent job, including nail trimming, and make them look better than our home washes. There are also professional groomers who come to our home equipped with grooming kits, offering convenience for pet owners interested in at-home grooming.

Are they allowed on the couch and most importantly, the bed?

Before our house renovation, they were allowed almost everywhere. However, post-renovation and under the strict instructions of our dog trainer, they are not allowed on the sofa or other places they used to sit on, especially Pedha. Yes, they are allowed on the bed, but Bubli prefers to sit in the corner like a diva, while Pedha thinks the bed is his domain, and we are guests.

Where do you draw the line when it comes to pampering them with treats? What is their favourite food and treat?

Pampering our dogs with treats is not about making us feel good, but rather using treats as a reinforcement tool for good behaviour. Discipline in us is more important than discipline in our furry friends. Many pet owners feed their pets just for the sake of it, but we use treats as rewards for desirable behaviour. Our dogs are well-behaved and social, thanks to the training we received initially. Every dog owner should actively participate in the training process to earn their dog’s respect.

While you have at home, virtually a “mini zoo” with Bubli, a German Shepherd, Peda, a labrador, Tara an indie and Johnny, an African Gray parrot, your Orchid Hotels allow dogs only? Any plans to include other pets?

While I love animals, extending our love and passion to places where many others gather can be challenging. During the lockdown, we made our hotels pet-friendly, but there were several challenges, such as not all pet owners being diligent about their pets’ behaviour. Additionally, those without pets or with concerns about someone else’s pets may not be comfortable, leading to conflicts or negative experiences. Hence, we prefer to keep our hotels neutral in this regard. However, I do occasionally visit pet-friendly hotels, which tend to attract like-minded families and pet parents.

Please share a list of all your pet-friendly hotels.

None of our hotels are currently pet-friendly. However, I can tell you that during the lockdown, our pets enjoyed their time at Fort Jadhavgadh and Lotus Murud Dapoli in Konkan. There has been a lot of popular demand from my staff at these hotels to welcome the kids again, especially Pedha.

Have you ever taken your fur babies for vacations at your hotels? How was your personal experience?

Like I mentioned, we have taken them to two of our hotels and our personal experience has been positive. We don’t hesitate to clean up after them, as some pet parents unfortunately neglect this responsibility. I must say that many pets are more well-behaved than some people’s children.

You have conducted various pet adoption camps at the Orchid Hotels. How was the response?

We conduct an annual adoption drive at The Orchid Hotel Pune in collaboration with an organization dedicated to finding homes for dogs. It has been highly successful, with many on-the-spot adoptions taking place. We are fortunate to have spacious lawns at The Orchid Pune, spanning 50,000 square feet, which allows us to host such events. We aim to expand this initiative to other hotels wherever there is space to conduct similar activities.

Have you ever adopted or had a rescue pup at home? Or maybe a homeless?

Yes, as I mentioned earlier, we adopted Tara when I found her as a puppy during a cyclone in Mumbai. Additionally, my wife, Aditi, and her restaurant team at Home Chef Dadar recently adopted an abandoned Pomeranian named Snow. Snow was found by Aditi’s friend, and not knowing what to do, they decided to adopt her. Snow has turned out to be a well-brought-up and enthusiastic biker dog, enjoying rides with the staff. Snow likes to sit on the bike whenever she January sees the staff go around with their materials for work. She claims her own role and sits and balances perfectly while the bike zigzags through traffic.

Do you see yourself as an animal advocate? Have you ever spoken up for animals that needed to be adopted, or in support of animal rights?

I don’t consider myself an advocate, but I believe in leading by example. I prefer to inspire others through my actions rather than imposing my thoughts on them. Rescuing animals from cruelty is something I strongly advocate, but it’s crucial to strike a balance between helping animals and ensuring they don’t become a public menace when left on the streets. There are a lot of people who are misguided in my opinion, about what it means to speak up for animals and animal rights. Rescuing those who cannot speak from the clutches of cruelty is something I advocate strongly but at the same time allowing animals on the road to become public menace is again not right, so there has to be a balance between things.

We actively support various initiatives, including helping birds at our hotels and protecting turtles in Orissa. Our contribution extends beyond our home to society and the environment. All our hotels help grow the population of Sparrows, Parrots, Mynahs and even Crows for that matter because all are an important part of the environment that we live in. We also have a lot for deers at Fort Jadhavgadh, especially in the summer when water is scarce on the plains around so they come and drink from the lake within our property and we also keep some food for them which helps.

In Orissa at Lotus Konark, where all the Olive ridley Turtles come, we do Turtle Protection Drives and Beach clean-ups so that our contribution is not limited to our home but to our society and the world at large.

What’s that one quality that makes a dog so endearing to you?

The unwavering loyalty and boundless joy that a dog brings are unmatched. No one, not even your children or spouse, can match the sheer energy and affection a dog showers upon you within the first few seconds of entering your home. There have been times when I’ve waited for our three dogs to return from their evening walk because I couldn’t bear to enter an empty home without their warm greeting.

Who looks after your pooches when they fall ill? Any favourite vet?

We’ve been fortunate to have fantastic veterinarians in our lives, thanks to Aditi. Additionally, our house helpers, who love our dogs as much as we do, play a crucial role. They ensure the dogs receive their medicines on time, monitor any changes in behaviour, and make sure they are never bored. Our house helpers even enjoy traveling with us when we take the dogs to Lonavala or pet-friendly malls.

There are many stray dogs and cows roaming the streets. Do you plan to build a shelter for these creatures in the near future?

Rather than building our own shelter, I prefer to support existing initiatives led by dedicated individuals. We regularly donate food to shelters and assist in finding homes for strays. I believe it’s more effective to bolster the efforts of those already doing remarkable work in this field than to start something anew. Our goal is to contribute positively to society and the world at large.

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Precious parents pawsome pooches

Someone who is golden hearted loves family which includes pooches. Such people are affectionate and giving, like Jyoti Saxena, our cover girl. Love your parents, love your pooches. It’s all one soul.

A Daughter’s Love Shines Bright on Her Mother’s Special Day and that is for actress Jyoti Saxena on the most important day of her life, that is on her mother’s birthday. As we always say words can never express what our moms mean to us. Their unconditional love, sacrifice, and support make us sail through all the ups and downs. Actress Jyoti Saxena on this special day took to social media to express her love and gratitude for her mother. Jyoti also expressed her love for her mother on her special day as she surprised her mother with a special birthday gift which we all as children always aim for.

Jyoti Saxena has a special gift for her mother on her birthday, Actress gifts an international trip to her mom

Jyoti Saxena says, “My mom is my world she is my guiding light, my confidant, and my biggest cheerleader. Her love has been my greatest strength. I would just like to thank my mom for being there for me on all the ups and downs, for believing in my dreams, and for teaching me the true meaning of love and resilience. You are my biggest blessing ever. Today, on her special day, I just wish her all the happiness and love in the world. Happy Birthday, Mumma, I love you the most.”

My mother has taught me the true meaning of love and resilience, she is my biggest blessing”, says actress Jyoti Saxena on her mother’s birthday

She further expressed, “We all do something special on our birthday, but I make sure to do something or other special for my mother’s birthday, I wanted to make her day as special as she has made every day of my life. I surprised my mom with a special international trip to Thailand. I booked the flights, arranged luxurious accommodations, and planned an itinerary filled with exciting activities and sightseeing for us. From exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok to relaxing on the pristine beaches of Phuket, I have made sure to make my mother’s birthday trip nothing short of magical.”

Jyoti’s heartfelt gesture not only showcased her love for her mother but served as a beautiful reminder that no matter how busy life gets, the love and appreciation we have for our parents should always take center stage.

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Going Places

Meet Jyoti Saxena, a rising star on the Indian entertainment scene. It is easy to be enamored of her glamourous looks and well sculpted body, but there is much more to her. Contrast her brilliant portrayal of the plain Jane “Sursuriya” in the film “Laachhi”, with her sizzling looks in the music video “Khoya Hun Main” and you get a glimpse of her versatility. She most surely is going places. Interestingly, Jyoti is an ardent dog lover too. Jyoti shares her delight of having a pooch at home with Buddy Life.

Would love to take him on sets with me, as he would be my source of motivation and my stress buster.

Are you from a family of animal lovers? Who was your first pet?

Yes, I belong to a family of avid animal lovers. My very first pet was a dog. I had always wanted someone younger than me who I could pamper and shower my love on. My dad saw this and got me this Pomeranian pup. We named him Mowgli. Unfortunately he passed away very soon. I was very young then and it broke my heart. And now after so many years I have this small pup which was a gift from my friends. It did take some mustering of courage after the loss of Mowgli.

Who is your four-legged baby now?

After Mowgli’s demise, I never dreamt of having another dog, but my friends and close ones knew how crazy a lover I was of dogs and so they gifted me a pup. I wanted him to have a unique name, so I named him Cuddle.

What breed is Cuddle and how old is he?

Cuddle is a pure breed pug. He was about 8 weeks old when I got him. He is almost 4 months old now.

How pampered is he? Is he allowed on the bed and the couch?

In my house its just about Cuddle and only Cuddle the entire day. My brother and I are nobodies. He is a pampered child and yes, he is allowed everywhere including the bed and the couch. At night he sleeps in his crate which is his ‘me time’.

How much time do you spend with Cuddle and does he experience separation anxiety when you are not around?

I make sure to spend a lot of time with my baby but due to work commitments I need to travel around and during those times I miss him a lot. Actually I miss his presence around me always. But I make sure whenever I am at home I give him as much time, love and kisses as I possibly can. At present he does not have separation anxiety issues since my mom is at home with him. Actually it is I who has the separation anxiety when I am away from him!

In my house its just about Cuddle and only Cuddle the entire day. My brother and I are nobodies.

How often does he accompany you for holidaysor shoots?

I would love to take him on sets with me, as he would be my source of motivation and my stress buster.This little munchkin is very small now so he hasn’t been on the sets yet but will soon be.

Walks and exercise are very important for our pooches too. Do you take him for walks?

Yes indeed. Walks are very important and Cuddle goes for it twice a day. Once up, early in the morning, when he can also soak in the warmth of the sun and walk freely on open grass and for a second time at night. In the morning my domestic help takes him for a stroll and I train him with some small exercises like shake hands, salute, and roll. But he will do those only when he is in the mood for it, else he just ignores us and walks off. At night time usually I am around and I take him out to play with his ball.

Do you bathe and groom him?

Does he like to be bathed and groomed?As advised by his vet, we bathe him once every 12 days which usually happens at the groomer’s. Sometimes the groomer makes a house call. Alternatively, my domestic help bathes him. He likes baths but hates when it comes to grooming or cleaning.

We need to have a strong law protecting animal rights and their right to healthcare and wellbeing.

What food and treats do you give him?

Being a typical Punjabi and like my mother, I believe that a dog shouldn’t have to survive solely on kibble and dog food. Instead we make sure to supplement his dog food (which is wet or dry Pedigree) with fruits and vegetables (like watermelon, cucumber, carrot, etc.),We also give him hot rotis and Dahi (yoghurt), but all are approved by his vet.

Do you have any plans to work for strays and the shelterless?

Oh yes! I would love to do something for strays. I have a plan to set up a shelter for them someday. Their state especially during monsoons is very heart breaking. I’d like to set up a shelter where they can be treated well, fed well and have a proper place to rest.

How do you rate the veterinary facilities in our country?

I feel the veterinary facilities in our country lack in many ways and are not up to the mark. Yes, a lot of people have started to come forward expressing their kindness and concern for strays. Social media posts has helped boost support and care. While household dogs and other pets have access to vets and adequate treatment, sadly the strays on the roads go uncared for. So yes, I do as much as I can personally for animals on the streets but I feel we need to have a strong law protecting animal rights and their right to healthcare and wellbeing.

A dog shouldn’t have to survive solely on kibble and dog food. Instead we make sure to supplement his dog food (which is wet or dry Pedigree) with fruits and vegetables.

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Travel Furrend

The travel is planned on a bike to give Maggie mesmerising memories in her last days as told by Rajat Parashar

A dog is said to be a man’s best friend. But it takes loads of love, care, attention and dedication to make a dog feel that a human is his best friend! I met Maggie nearly 13 years ago when she was slightly bigger than the palm of my hand. Bringing her home was met with frivolous remarks from friends and family. As the years passed by, the bond between us only grew stronger. As I developed from a nonchalant boy to a responsible young adult, Maggie accompanied me in every phase of my life. Life was filled with ups and downs, but Maggie stood firm as a pillar for me.

That’s when the tumour was diagnosed. You only see such stuff in movies and TV shows never for once considering the possibility that it may happen to you. It was a devastating blow for me. I never felt so helpless in my life and the future looked bleak. But how could I let my one source of light go out into the darkness without a fight? That’s when I planned it. The Journey of 2 Best Friends

We had done everything together for as long as I could remember. And when it felt like the time had come to part ways- I was determined to have one more journey together. I decided to explore the country along with my best bud.

Life was filled with ups and downs, but Maggie stood firm as a pillar for me.

I wanted to give her the happiness and thrill of the journey while at the same time creating memories that would etch forever in the minds of the people who would be touched by us. But there was one burning question- How to go about it? It wasn’t as easy as it seemed. There were many factors to be considered. The route, the finance, the timeline and above all- our bond and willpower to go through the journey unscathed. Keeping all this in mind- I founded Doge biker.

As I was driving with a steady pace, I was stopped by three guys in the middle of the road. I even get goosebumps while typing about it.

Doge biker

Doge biker was the name I gave to my dream. My dream of creating mesmerising memories with Maggie. I set up all my social media handles with the same name and it helped me generate funds with the help of few sponsors. It was the start of something new, something fresh with my friend. We both embarked on a journey that would bring us even closer. On our journey we had many setbacks, many obstacles- but it was only the power of our friendship that saw us through.

Still remember that fateful night. We were on the road and it was around 8:30 PM. The road was deserted and there was no sign of any other vehicle on either side of it. As I was driving at a steady pace, I was stopped by three guys in the middle of the road. I even get goosebumps while typing about it. They couldn’t see Maggie because she was perfectly wrapped in her carrier. I told them to take whatever meagre amount I had in my wallet. I was concerned about Maggie’s safety and didn’t want them to know that I had her with me. But they started exploring the bike and my bags and that’s how they unclipped Maggie’s carrier while removing the blanket that covered her.

Out came my best bud with full ferociousness and rage as she saw me being surrounded by three goons. She barked at the top of her voice and caught them by surprise. I snatched away my bike keys, placed her back and left in a hurry. We didn’t stop till we reached our destination.

On another occasion, both I and Maggie were staying in Pathankot transit camp. We were woken up from our slumber pretty soon because of the sound of the trumpets. One soldier was kind enough to bring us tea and also told us that more breakfast would be served to us pretty soon. The whole atmosphere was magnificent. Since

it was an army camp; I wasn’t allowed to record anything. So, I just clicked a few good photos for memory and bid adieu to the new friends I made on this journey. When I left Pathankot, I had no clue about the journey ahead. So, I resumed my journey without any worry in my mind. It was when I reached a suitable distance ahead that it struck my mind that the SIM of any other state wouldn’t work in J&K. I waited till 12 PM for the shops to open up so I could refill the fuel in my bike. The last check post in Punjab was where all my COVID-19 vaccination-related documents were verified. I purchased a new SIM card that cost me around Rs 500. People around that shop gathered around us and started taking photos with Maggie. The temperature kept on dropping. I gave ample water to Maggie and drank enough myself so I wouldn’t need to stop amidst my journey.

Since the cold was starting to show its effects, my hands had literally started to freeze. I covered Maggie in a blanket and made sure that she was warm while we continued our journey. We stopped in a hotel in Udhampur and I felt that it would be a good idea to give Maggie some non-veg food. I went to a place where some people were drinking but since it was the only shop where non-veg was being served, I had no choice but to give it a visit.

I parked my bike and went inside to get some fresh food for Maggie. When I returned, to my surprise, Maggie was not there. I searched for less than a minute when I found out that the people who were drinking behind the shop were trying to give her some food. I went there to take my companion back when one guy from the group said to me- “Your friend will betray you, hand her to me.” I replied-“I will feed her on my own, you do not need to help.” He tugged at her strap but I brought her back with me and fed her. He kept on abusing me in the local language but I started packing my stuff and going back to my journey when I heard the guy reversing his car and then driving it towards us at full speed. Then suddenly I heard a screeching sound as hand brakes were applied and the car came to a halt. I was afraid at that time. But deep down I knew that if needed, I would have fought for Maggie till my last breath. I had never expected Kashmir to be this dangerous. Shrugging off this event, I continued with my journey….

This was one such incident where my best bud had my back, even without me asking her to. It was a long journey filled with many such incidents. Incidents that brought us together and proved to me just how strong the power of a friendship is.

By God’s grace, we were able to have the tumour operated up on and removed. Now Maggie and I look forward to have more journeys together. We know that with new journeys would come new challenges, new curveballs and many new obstacles. But if you have the support of your best friend- no power in the world can harm you in any way whatsoever.

The New Journey

As we both embark on our new journey, I thank God every day that I got an opportunity to have many more memorable moments with her. I thank my friends and family for their support. I thank my subscribers, my sponsors for their help without which I couldn’t have completed my dream.

A dream to give my best bud the journey she deserved. A dream to share the road with my best friend.

A dream to be on a journey- not a journey of a man and his dog. But a journey of 2 best friends!

Follow him on:
www.instagram.com/dogbriker?igshid=ZDc4ODBmNJlmNQ
www.youtube.com/@dogbiker

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Arthritis Management in Dogs

Arthritis is a common condition that affects dogs. However, with proper management, the symptoms of arthritis can be minimized, improving the quality of life for affected dogs

Arthritis is a common condition that affects dogs, especially as they age. It causes inflammation and degeneration of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. However, with proper management, the symptoms of arthritis can be minimized, improving the quality of life for affected dogs. In this article, we will explore various strategies for arthritis management in dogs.

Veterinary Care: The first step in managing arthritis in dogs is to consult a veterinarian. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend a suitable treatment plan. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the progression of the disease and make necessary adjustments to the management approach.

Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for dogs with arthritis. Excess weight puts additional stress on the joints, exacerbating the symptoms. A veterinarian can suggest an appropriate diet and exercise routine to help your dog achieve and maintain an optimal weight.

Exercise: While dogs with arthritis may be less active, regular exercise is still important. Low-impact activities such as short walks, swimming, and controlled play sessions can help keep the joints mobile and maintain muscle strength. However, it’s crucial to avoid overexertion, and exercise routines should be tailored to the individual dog’s needs.

Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can be beneficial for dogs with arthritis. Techniques such as hydrotherapy, massage, and range-of-motion exercises can help reduce pain, improve flexibility, and strengthen muscles. Consult a professional veterinary physical therapist for guidance on suitable exercises and techniques.

Joint Supplements: Certain supplements can support joint health and reduce inflammation. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate are commonly used to promote cartilage repair and improve joint function. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate pain. Discuss with your veterinarian to determine which supplements are appropriate for your dog.

Medications: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to alleviate pain, but they should only be administered under veterinary supervision due to potential side effects. Other medications, such as corticosteroids or disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs), may be recommended in certain situations.

Comfortable Environment: Creating a comfortable environment for your arthritic dog is crucial. Provide a warm and well-padded bed where they can rest comfortably. Consider using ramps or stairs to help them navigate elevated surfaces, such as stairs or furniture. Non-slip surfaces can also be helpful to prevent accidental falls.

Assistive Devices: Various assistive devices are available to support dogs with arthritis. Orthopedic beds, joint-supporting braces, and mobility aids like carts or harnesses can help alleviate pressure on the joints and provide stability during movement. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if any assistive devices would be beneficial for your dog.

Alternative Therapies: Some dog owners explore alternative therapies to complement traditional arthritis management. These may include acupuncture, laser therapy, or herbal remedies. While research on their efficacy is limited, some dogs may experience relief from these treatments. Discuss with your veterinarian before trying any alternative therapies.

Monitoring and Adjustments: Arthritis is a progressive condition, and its management needs to be regularly evaluated and adjusted. Monitor your dog’s symptoms closely and communicate any changes to your veterinarian. They may recommend modifications to the treatment plan, including medication adjustments or additional therapies.

Last but not the least, managing arthritis in dogs involves a multi-faceted approach that focuses on veterinary care, weight management, exercise, supplements, medications, a comfortable environment, assistive devices, alternative therapies, and regular monitoring. By implementing these strategies, you can help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall well-being of your pooch.

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Labrador Retriever, a friend forever

Known for their friendly temperament, intelligence, and versatility, Labradors have captured the hearts of millions of people worldwide

The Labrador Retriever, often referred to as the Lab, is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Known for their friendly temperament, intelligence, and versatility, Labradors have captured the hearts of millions of people worldwide.

The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada, where they were initially bred as working dogs. Fishermen relied on these dogs to retrieve nets, haul ropes, and retrieve fish from the icy waters. Their exceptional swimming ability, webbed paws, and water-resistant coat made them ideal for such tasks. In the early 19th century, Labradors were imported to England, where they gained popularity and were further developed as versatile sporting and family dogs.

Characteristics: Labradors are medium to large-sized dogs with a strong, muscular build. They have a broad head, expressive eyes, and drop ears. The breed’s coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which helps keep them warm and dry even in wet conditions. Labradors come in three primary colors: black, yellow, and chocolate. Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them excellent family pets and companions.

Temperament: One of the defining characteristics of Labradors is their friendly and gentle nature. They are known for their exceptional temperament and are often described as “gentle giants.” Labradors are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable. They have a natural affinity for people, including children, and get along well with other animals, making them an excellent choice for families.

Versatility: Labradors excel in various activities and roles due to their intelligence and athleticism. They are widely used as service dogs, search and rescue dogs, therapy dogs, guide dogs for the visually impaired, and assistance dogs for individuals with disabilities. Their remarkable sense of smell and trainability also make them successful in scent detection work, such as drug detection or search-and-rescue operations.

Exercise and Training: As active dogs, Labradors require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They have high energy levels and thrive in environments where they can engage in physical activities. Daily walks, play sessions, and interactive games are essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Labradors also respond well to training and enjoy learning new skills. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to ensure they grow into well-mannered dogs.

Grooming: Labradors have a double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year and heavily during shedding seasons. Regular brushing helps to remove loose hair and keep their coat in good condition. They are generally considered a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. However, attention should be given to their ears, teeth, and nails to prevent infections and maintain overall hygiene.

Health: Labradors are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they are prone to certain health conditions. Common issues include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), exercise-induced collapse (EIC), and obesity. Responsible breeders conduct health tests on their breeding stock to reduce the risk of passing on hereditary diseases. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and regular exercise are essential for maintaining their overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, the Labrador Retriever is a remarkable breed known for its friendly temperament, intelligence, and versatility. Whether as a working dog, family pet, or assistance animal, Labradors continue to win the hearts of people around the world. Their loyal and affectionate nature, coupled with their adaptability and trainability, make them cherished companions in many households. If you’re considering adding a Labrador to your family, be prepared to provide them with love and care.

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Take a look at these child-friendly dogs

Dogs are usually amiable, but if there are small kids at home one has to be doubly careful while choosing any animal as a pet with due consideration for the safety of the child.

Dogs are most desirable when it comes to safety of the small children, but even amongst those, not all breeds are child-friendly. It is important to choose the friendliest breeds when there is a child at home.

Usually dog breeds like beagles, cocker spaniel, golden retriever, pugs, poodles, german shepherds, Labradors and Dalmatians are considered to be friendly breeds, but there are few that are most child friendly and safe to be around children.

1. Pomeranian

Pomeranians are extremely friendly dogs and adjust very fast to all humans. They are world’s most popular toy dog breed. Their fluffy coat makes them look the cutest among all other breeds.

They are easy to train and tend to have a good rapport with kids. They are intelligent and affectionate. It is seen that they tend to get protective towards small children.

 

2. Pug

Pugs are very intelligent and clever. Even though small in size they are very intelligent. They are extremely enthusiastic and even though their facial features are different their sparkling eyes and wrinkled faces make them lovable. They are joyful dogs and good to cuddle. Moreover they are pretty low maintenance which makes them a great favourite if you have babies or small children at home. They don’t bark that much and are happy with a snuggle or with a snooze. Overall, they are considered to be very amicable dogs.

 

3. Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers are one of the most popular breed. It is a Scottish breed of retriever dogs of medium size. Their nature is very gentle and affectionate with golden furry coat-reflective of its name. That’s why they are the most chosen breed among dogs. They are intelligent, sharp and faithful in nature and are really good with kids.

That’s why they are the most chosen breed among dogs. They are tolerant, playful, fun-loving and friendly dogs. They are intelligent, sharp and faithful in nature and are really good with kids.

 

4. Beagle

Beagles are called as family dogs for their friendly nature. They are also known for their friendly and energetic nature.

Beagles weigh maximum 30 to 35 pounds. They are curious and are good playmates. This breed can be called tireless playmates. They also make good guards who immediately warn their masters about any suspicious thing if found.

 

5. Labrador

Labradors are friendly dogs that are intelligent enough to grasp quickly. They are easy to train and have vast knowledge of hunting, dock, diving. They are obedient and showing and tracking when required. They are very lovable and friendly with kids.

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Feeding Fido

Dogs are super resilient, but that doesn’t mean we can nutritionally abuse them by not feeding them their speciesappropriate diets, says Manssi Saha

Confused about what puppy food to choose? Good! This means no particular advertising or marketing has ‘gotten’ to you yet! This is good news for your puppy and for you. Let’s break the suspense right away: There is no processed ‘Puppy Food’ you should choose from. There is a variety of foods, ingredients, micronutrients that you should feed your puppy and we will walk you through all of them. Most people will get their first bit of advice from the breeders.
Then there will be advice from friends and family. Of course, as soon as you post your new puppy there will be advice from social media followers and then there is the big one – advice from the internet.
The internet is full of dated conventional wisdom that they get from the previous guy that wrote the puppy blog. But science has moved on. Research has moved on. And if you read the same old thing, you will do the same old thing. Read the latest! Read what else has someone got to say? Who are they and what makes them say what they are saying? Are they backing up their claims with anything other than “I think so” or “everyone has always done it like this.”
Look for credibility, look for who is saying it, look for professionals, and look for holistic advice based on sound science. Pet food companies will say their food is the best. The Vets that sell it will say that it is the best. The breeder will say this is what I have always done… But what’s always been done has led to an epidemic of cancer, obesity, diabetes, organ failure, congenital heart diseases, and Inflammatory joint conditions. So perhaps it’s time to not do what has always been done, and do what research is now showing that should be done. Are you prepared for the new puppy?
I hope that you did some research into a puppy and what it entails before you got the puppy home, or perhaps this is your research.

Carbohydrates (grains and starches) can be completely eliminated from your dog’s diet and form a very small part of it in the form of some really nutritious vegetables.

“I founded Doggiliciouus so I could start making a difference to more dogs than just mine! I continue to learn various aspects of holistic health management, dog behaviour, body language, natural remedies for pain management, including aromatherapy for dogs, and try to evolve so I can aim to bring the best of what I know to the life of each dog I work with.” – Manssi Saha

Nutritionally what you need in your home to be able to feed the puppy right and help them grow up strong is most likely already there. Since we are in India, and there is a vast majority of vegetarians, it is possible that home-cooked diets will not provide your puppy with the protein needs that dogs have. Vegetarian sources of protein provide very little protein at the cost of very high carbohydrate consumption in the process. For example, lentils and pulses are considered high protein. And that is a very relative term because compared to chicken it is a negligible amount of protein.
However, in order to get that 5 gm of protein, one must consume upwards of 70% of the calories in the form of carbohydrates. So when you look at the meal structure of let’s say Daal + Rice/oats + Veggies + some paneer (Indian Cottage cheese) with some coconut oil or ghee, it will look something like this – 75-80% carbohydrates, 5-8% protein, 5-10% fats and 5-6% fiber. THIS is not a good diet for dogs. Certainly not for growing pups. What it should look like at a minimum is 20-30% Protein, 10-20% Healthy Fats, 10- 15% Fibre, and only 25-30% Carbohydrates. Having said this, Carbohydrates (grains and starches) can in fact be completely eliminated from your dog’s diet and form a very small part of it in the form of some really nutritious vegetables.
Nutrition in puppyhood Let’s look at the macros and what they do in the body, and then look at the growth stage of a puppy and see what they “need” during this stage.
Carbohydrates – Dogs actually have a small need for complex carbohydrates for brain function, which is easily achieved with vegetables. It is true that they have genetically adapted to producing more Amaltyse (an enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates) than their ancestors would have produced to digest carbohydrates. And more often than not, this is looked at as a need for carbohydrates. What we have to look at is, why this mutation happened when dogs started living with humans and were fed on scraps. This was a mutual benefit relationship and as the dogs lost their inclination to hunt, and they started living exclusively with humans, they also had to survive on whatever food the humans could spare them. Starving to death would have made the species extinct. So they evolved and mutated. But their bodies did not mutate or evolve to have any real need for large amounts of carbohydrate/starch, and neither did they evolve to stop needing protein. I know this story is a little like… “Yes this is true, but this, and but that!” and it may leave you, the reader, wondering what to make of it. So bear with me and I hope to make things clearer.
So what does all this carbohydrate do inside the dog’s body? It primarily does what it does inside our bodies. It spikes insulin, converts into glucose (sugar), some gets used as immediate energy, most, however, is stored in the muscles and liver as glycogen. These glycogen stores are little packets of energy available to the body as and when they are needed at a later date. However, as the dog’s body will prefer protein and fat as a primary source of energy, these little packets almost always go unused, and often there are way too many of them to be used anyway. Eventually, through a process called De Novo-lipogenesis they are converted into fat because fat stores have a much longer shelf life, and the liver and muscles then go on to store new little glycogen packets that keep coming in with every meal. Making sense so far? This is my biggest concern with dogs on a high carbohydrate diet. Sooner or later we will end up with fat dogs. Which is what we have today world over. Excess weight and obesity are an epidemic. Because processed food is very high in carbohydrates and so is unbalanced fresh food.
Protein: Now coming to protein, what does protein do in your dog’s body? Protein is the building block of everything inside the body. It builds muscles, connective tissues, ligaments, tendons, hair follicles, and nails. When we read this, most people do not understand the vast expanse protein covers in our bodies – Muscles are connective tissue, the skin is connective tissue. It is found everywhere in the body between organs, including the nervous system. Ligaments are a form of connective tissue that is elastic and binds bones to other bones forming a joint, and tendons are connective tissue that binds joints to muscles and keeps them in place, keeping them mobile; so fairly important I’d say. (How important are strong ligaments and tendons in arthritis and HD?) Hair is made up of a type of protein, think about that the next time your dog’s hair is not soft and shiny. Protein is essential for life itself. When we think about a growing baby or puppy, needless to say that their need for protein is fairly high.
Fats: If you thought that protein is everywhere in the body due to connective tissue, fat is in every single cell membrane! No one needs to be told that a healthy cell membrane is the very foundation of a healthy body. Unhealthy cell membranes will effectively make the whole body, including organs unhealthy since they replicate themselves and all their imperfections. Fats are dangerous when they are not good fats, and with the entry of “refined” fats, the whole world was thrown into a whirlwind of bad fats. Fats also need to be fresh. Stored fats over time get oxidized and go rancid. Rancid fats can cause a lot of damage to the body at a cellular level. This is why you don’t want to feed Kibble with “added Omega 3” and so on!
All in all – fats are super important, Good fats are important – fresh fats are important! The top five types of fats that your puppy absolutely needs to grow up healthy and stay healthy are:
#1 Linoleic Acid (LA) LA is an Omega-6 fat, found in hempseed, soybean, safflower oils. Deficiency of LA is linked to coat and skin issues and can make your dog sluggish.
#2 Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA) ALA is an Omega-3 fat found in flaxseed, chia seed, hemp seed and walnut oils. Dogs primarily use ALA to make EPA and DHA, which are essential for body, brain and eye health.
#3 Arachidonic Acid (AA) AA is an Omega-6 fat found in meat, poultry and eggs. AA is a brain fat and lack of AA in a puppy’s diet can have a serious impact on cognitive development. Found in all meat, chicken, eggs, and fish are particularly high in it.
#4 Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) EPA is an Omega-3 fat found in oily fish like salmon, herring and sardines. EPA is considered a powerful anti-inflammatory fatty acid.
#5 Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) DHA is an Omega-3 fat, also found in oily fish. DHA is essential for the brain and eyes. This is a Polyunsaturated Fatty acid, and they are all fragile. They must be protected from oxidation or they can do more harm than good to your dog.
Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are called the macros of nutrition. These are the three major categories that our foods fall into. With this brief, albeit simplistic explanation, we can see how each of them behaves in the body, and the functions they carry out. Puppies are building their whole body and getting bigger essentially with the help of protein. The quality of the build, as we all know, depends on the quality and quantity of the raw material. Bad quality protein, just builds a bad quality structure. Kibble is a bad quality protein. Fats not only need to be good quality but also fresh. And there really needs to be a well balanced mix of the five types of essential fatty acids. These fatty acids also help utilise fat-soluble vitamins from the food.
What is the impact of bad nutrition on puppies?
I kind of feel like this is covered, but just to sum it up, I’d like to say that the impact of bad nutrition is like sentencing your dog’s body at a cellular level to nutritional deprivation. I do not know how to say more, so I will quote Dr Karen Becker, who is the world’s most followed Holistic Vet, who has spent a fair few years doing “conventional practice” till she realised how wrong it all was. And has now spent several years educating people about the importance of holistic natural wellness for dogs and cats. In one of her Vlogs, about dogs on a vegetarian diet, she says “ …Some animals can be nutritionally abused more than others. For instance, a hummingbird. If you were to feed it anything other than nectar, the bird will die in 24 hours! But dogs are super resilient. And one can nutritionally abuse them and they don’t die instantaneously, but their bodies degenerate over time. And because they can take the abuse, it does not make it ok to not feed them their speciesappropriate diets.”
The writer is a Canine Nutritionist and Founder & CEO, Doggiliciouus
Web: www.doggiliciouus.com
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Email: Woof@doggiliciouus.com
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