http:// 2013-05-15T23:17:00Z 2013-05-15T23:17:00Z 25-years-on-the-banksia-awards-innovates-again

When the Banksia Awards first commenced in 1988, recognising environmental excellence was a unique concept. After 25 years it has become mainstream and Australia no longer sees environmental matters in isolation. “Today, it is important to reflect the interdependency between environment, society and the economy and the resulting excellence that comes from meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” says Graz van Egmond Chief Executive Officer, Banksia Foundation. “So to mark its 25 Anniversary, the Banksia Awards (now known as the Banksia Sustainability Awards) has acknowledged this vital step forward and the Awards in 2013 will reflect a sustainability approach throughout the various category awards”. To demonstrate this expansive area there will be 21 Awards in total. New awards added in 2013 to the portfolio are: 1.       The Banksia CEO Award - recognising an individual executive's contribution towards the economic, social or environmental sustainability achievements of the organisation or company they work for and which has collateral benefits for the globe. 2.       The Banksia Technical Awards including:a)      Waste Minimisation Soil Remediation & Improvementb)      Energy Efficiency and Carbon Managementc)       Transportationd)      Climate Adaptation 3.       The Banksia Business and Not-for-Profit Award – recognising leadership in implementing projects, strategies and initiatives that demonstrate capacity building, measurably enhancing the long-term social, economic and environmental state of the community and implementation of relevant solutions. This is seen through the full application of shared sustainability principles and practices throughout joint activities, demonstrating societal value add. 4.       The Banksia Local Government - Sustainable Procurement Award 5.       The Banksia Local Government - Sustainability Award To cater for this array, the awards presentation program format needed to be changed. This has allowed for specific awards and areas to be spotlighted. The Banksia CEO Award will be presented at the inaugural Banksia CEO's Corroboree. A breakfast gathering of Non-Executive Directors, CEOs and Senior Bureaucrats designed to provide the opportunity to discuss where their respective sector will be under the sustainability umbrella in 10-15 years. Providing an opportunity to focus on the technical aspects of sustainability, the Banksia Technical Awards will be presented at a lunch. The traditional Category Awards, the GPT Group Community Grant, the Banksia International Award and the Banksia Gold Award will be bestowed at the evening awards function.The Banksia Foundation acknowledges that the Awards are not just for the recipients but should be made accessible to as many as possible to learn and be inspired by the amazing examples of excellence. To enable this accessibility, the Awards Presentation program will be associated with the Australian Sustainability Conference and Exhibition, in Melbourne (9 – 10 October 2013). The Banksia Foundation is pleased to be working with Sustainability Business Australia (SBA) to reach Australian businesses and assist them in these challenging times. Entries are now open for the 2013 Banksia Sustainability Awards, providing Australians a great opportunity to showcase our innovation and leadership in the various areas of sustainability. – ends –

2013-05-06T05:33:04Z new-australian-aviation-record

Tim Howes, who took his first flight at age 13 years old, has smashed the Australian record for the most number of take offs and landings in a day. He achieved 122 – exceeding the previous record of 102. The record was achieved on Saturday, 4 May at a private air strip near Lismore using an open cockpit ultra-light aircraft called a Drifter. "The day was destined for success from 6:16am, the first take-off time. The conditions were perfect. ‘Lil Popsy’, the aircraft, hummed away all day with no issues, the dogs were angels, and the Friends of the Hound support staff were amazing. We couldn’t have asked for more!" said Tim. Tim dedicated circuit number 103 (the record breaking circuit) to Wayne Fisher who passed away while completing a test flight at Lismore Airport on 24 March 2013. Wayne, “Mr Drifter”, was an extraordinary man and aviator. Wayne was also instrumental in preparing Tim for the record attempt. By breaking this record, Tim also hopes to raise awareness of the plight of Greyhounds and how great they are as pets. As a proud owner of a Greyhound adopted from ‘Friends of the Hound’ six years ago, raising awareness about these dogs is close to Tim’s heart. Friends of the Hound Inc. is a non-profit, volunteer based group whose aim is to promote the breed’s suitability as family pets and companions and raise awareness and educate the public about Greyhound welfare. Money raised from the event will help Friends of the Hound to continue its work to save the lives of Greyhounds. “It is a record that I have wanted to crack for some time now. I also wanted some way of letting people know about Greyhounds as pets. So this was a perfect opportunity to do both”, explained Tim. “Greyhounds are gentle, friendly and really affectionate. They are quiet, great with kids and other animals, and surprisingly lazy,” Tim said. Lisa White, President of Friends of the Hound said, “There are still misconceptions about the breed and we are extremely grateful for Tim’s help in promoting Greyhounds as pets and changing the perception of them as ‘just a racing dog’.” Tim hopes his achievement will help raise funds for Friends of the Hound. For more information or to donate, go to fly.friendsofthehound.org.au. Contacts 0416 194 864 – Lisa White, President, Friends of the Hound Inc. 0401 099 163 – Tim Howes, record breaking pilot enquiries@friendsofthehound.org.aufly.friendsofthehound.org.au facebook.com/friendsofthehound twitter.com/fothrescue   About Friends of the Hound Inc. ·         Non-profit, volunteer based group. ·         Rescue, rehome, and promote greyhounds as pets. ·         Rehomes over 100 greyhounds a year. ·         Aim to raise awareness and educate the public about greyhound welfare and the breed’s suitability as family pets and companions. ·         More than 40 volunteers across NSW and QLD.

2013-04-30T06:36:57Z professional-perth-photographer-warns-don-t-trust-your-cherished-memories-to-an-amateur

Perth, WA, April 30, 2013 - In a recent blog post on his website, Perth photographer Geoff Fisher gave a long, detailed answer to a frequently asked question: “Why should I hire a professional photographer?” Fisher, who has been the owner of Fisher Photography for the past 35 years, holds “Master Photographer” status, awarded by the Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP). In addition, he has won a Gold Award, and many Silver Awards, and has been named AIPP Western Australian Portrait Photographer of the Year. In the post, Fisher explained some of the pitfalls of hiring an amateur photographer, and described some of the factors that differentiate professional photographers from amateurs. Since the advent of digital cameras, amateur photographers have had access to much better equipment than they used to. Unfortunately, this has inspired many amateur photographers to buy the most expensive camera at their local department store, take a few pictures, and offer their services to friends and acquaintances as photographers. While some of the more expensive digital cameras on the market do, indeed, take great pictures, they are still, by nature, point and click devices. The amateur photographer simply points the camera, waits for it to focus, and snaps a picture. While this can produce the occasional good picture, professionals view the default settings on any camera to be a starting point: not a finishing point. Professional photographers use equipment that is far more expensive and elaborate than the cameras at the local department store. Professional photographers use their own lighting. Their studios are designed to allow for perfect lighting, and their cameras allow for more adjustments. Professionals pay close attention to variables such as angles, exposure time, distance, and different lenses. Professionals undergo extensive training, and then add experience to that training. Fisher, for example, has personally trained everyone in his studio, regardless of their past experience. Professional photographers leave nothing to chance. Their protocols ensure that there’ll be no surprises, such as cameras without batteries, or lights that don’t work. Amateur photographers, even those who mean well, are simply lacking in the equipment and experience to provide a product on the level of a professional photographer. Fisher believes that the risks are too high and the rewards are too low for anyone who needs professional photos to trust them to anyone but a professional photographer. According to Fisher, “Your photographs are extremely important. While amateurs are certainly capable of taking decent photos, they cannot come close to producing the kind of quality your professional photographer can. Professional photographers have years of training and experience, and they have access to equipment that outclasses anything an amateur can buy.” Fisher continued, “We have been taking professional photographs for over 35 years. We have seen every situation, and have taken photographs for all kinds of people. All of this experience has taught us how to consistently uncover the best of anyone’s inner qualities, and allow them to come to the surface to be photographed. When those photographs are taken under controlled conditions with professional equipment, they always turn out perfect.” Fisher concluded, “Professionals have the best training, the best equipment, and the most experience. If you want professional results, hire a professional photographer.”Fisher receives a lot of testimonials; a recent one comes from CJ Halvorson, who is Vice President of Strategic Accounts in Asia, Pacific, and Japan for a major IT Company: “Hi, Geoff: Love the photo and getting great reviews already.” Fisher Photography provides professional photography in Perth and the surrounding area. They offer many services, including portrait photography, family photography, and corporate photography to their Perth area clients. For more information, call (08) 9381 2233 or visit their website: http://fisherphotography.com.au/

2013-04-18T06:08:25Z new-website-for-the-world-poultry-congress

With billions of chickens being farmed for food every year it was time for the world poultry congress to create a new website. The poultry industry is constantly booming with famers, corporations and big businesses working side by side to provide the world with poultry produce. The aim of the world poultry congress is to provide a platform where people working within the industry can come together and learn all about recent advances, news updates and everything else relating to the world of poultry. The world poultry congress website is a great way for workers to stay connected and up to date with changes in the industry. Every year there are new ideas, innovative techniques and new health and safety regulations imposed on the poultry industry. The new website serves as a one stop shop to explore these changes and keep up to date with new ideas and techniques merging from across the globe. Not only does it provide a platform for learning but the new website from the world poultry congress www.wpc2012.com also provides a place to educate. For workers or industry professionals who have had ground breaking ideas or simply want to share their techniques this can all be done through the new and exciting website. Working within the poultry industry means that each worker has a dedicated duty to provide the world with high quality and safe produce. The world poultry congress can help workers and industry professionals meet these needs. The new website hosts a range of benefits and the overall aim of the world poultry congress is to educate, inform, connect and ensure the world enjoys gold standard poultry produce. This all starts with the launch of the new website dedicated to the world poultry congress and supporting the poultry industry.

2013-04-17T01:57:24Z record-breaking-flight-helps-greyhound-plight

Tim Howes, who took his first flight at age 13 years old, is reaching for the skies to break a new Australian aviation record. Tim plans to set a new Australian record for the number take-off and landings completed in a single day – all in the name of helping greyhounds. He will attempt to beat the current record of 102 take offs and landings aiming for 120. He’ll complete the feat in an open cockpit ultra-light aircraft called a Drifter near Lismore, on May 4, 2013. As well as breaking records, Tim also hopes to raise awareness of the plight of greyhounds and how great they are as pets. As a proud owner of a greyhound adopted from ‘Friends of the Hound’, raising awareness about these dogs is close to Tim’s heart. Friends of the Hound Inc. is a non-profit, volunteer based group that aims is to raise awareness and educate the public about greyhound welfare and the breed’s suitability as family pets and companions.  Money raised from the event will help Friends of the Hound to continue its work to save the lives of greyhounds. “It is a record that I have wanted to crack for some time now. I also wanted some way of letting people know about this cause. So this was a perfect opportunity to do both”, explained Tim. “Greyhounds are gentle, friendly and really affectionate. They are quiet, great with kids and other animals, and surprisingly lazy,” Tim said. Lisa White, President of Friends of the Hound said, “There are widespread misconceptions about the breed and with Tim’s help we can promote greyhounds as pets and change the perception of them as ‘just a racing dog’.” Tim hopes to achieve this record and raise funds for Friends of the Hound with help of friends and sponsors. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information and sponsorship opportunities go to fly.friendsofthehound.org.au.

2013-04-05T05:06:56Z st-ives-beauty-therapist-s-monday-mission-to-help-dogs-in-need

One St Ives-based beauty therapist is on a mission to help rescue dogs find loving and lasting homes, and she is setting aside the next four Mondays from 15th April to do it.That beauty therapist is Lowena Wong, owner of Lowena Beauty and Nails at EHB Hair Studios St Ives. As an animal lover devastated by the destruction of thousands of homeless dogs in Sydney each year, Lowena decided to do something really special to help Sydney’s dog rescue charity, DoggieRescue.com, also known as Monika’s Doggie Rescue.“I have always had pets growing up and have a beautiful old dog that is part of my family,” said Lowena. “It upsets me that so many homeless dogs are destroyed each year in Sydney, so I really felt compelled to do something about it and that’s what inspired me to develop ‘Doggie Mondays at Lowena’s’!”Doggie Mondays at Lowena’s will be held over four Mondays, from 15th April until Monday 6th May, and 30% of the salon’s takings from those days will be donated directly to DoggieRescue.com. Thanks to the help of dedicated volunteers, DoggieRescue.com is a charity that saves hundreds of dogs from death row across Sydney and rehomes around 500 or so dogs and puppies each year. Over 10,500 dogs have been rehomed since the charity was formed in 2001.With such a huge job on her hands, charity founder Monika Biernacki was delighted to learn of Lowena’s idea to raise money for her important cause.“This is such a beautiful thing that Lowena is doing,” says Monika. “Showing a heart at a time when business is not easy, really shows dedication and commitment. Thank you Lowena, from all the doggies!”To get behind this great cause and help Lowena on her mission to raise money for DoggieRescue.com, book your appointment at the salon for any of the four Mondays from 15th April. The salon is located at 101/164A Mona Vale Road, St Ives and bookings can be made by calling Lowena directly on 9488 8222. A donation tin will also be available every day at the store, so feel free to donate anytime!ENDSFor Further Information: Lowena Wong – Owner, Lowena Beauty and Nails at EHB Hair Studios St Ives Telephone: 02 9488 8222 Website: www.lowena.com.au

2013-04-04T05:16:14Z gouldian-finch-bird-watching-tours

Experience The Wild is booking tours to see the endangered Gouldian Finch in the Top End of Australia for the upcoming dry season. Many birdwatchers consider the Gouldian Finch to be the most colourful and spectacular bird in Australia. Unfortunately, much of the natural habitats of the Gouldian FInch has been destroyed, and now only about 2,500 finches are remaining. Mike Jarvis, one of the most respected birdwatching tour guide operators in Australia, is organising tours to sight the Gouldian FInch in it's native environment in the Top End of Australia. With limited places, Mr Jarvis is encouraging birdwatching enthusiasts to get in quick to avoid disappointment. Experience The Wild offers a wide range of tours, from half-day tours, to 10 day Top End experiences. Visit the Experience The Wild Bird Watching Tours website for more information.

2013-04-03T03:44:37Z green-planet-grass-wows-smart-ideas-home-show

Malaga, Western Australia, April 3, 2013 - On 1st March through 4th March 2013, the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre hosted the Smart Ideas Home Show. For the fifth consecutive year, Green Planet Grass put their exclusive artificial grass products on display for a very enthusiastic audience. Their presentation was very well-received, and two of their synthetic turf experts were on hand to answer questions.Green Planet Grass is a Perth company who design and distribute synthetic grass in Australia. The core value of Green Planet Grass is to provide an outstanding product and service that is delivered professionally, ethically and with integrity. Every Green Planet Grass product is manufactured in an environmentally-responsible manner, and great pains are taken to preserve environmental integrity throughout the entire process of creation, installation, and maintenance of any Green Planet Grass product.Green Planet Grass manufactures an extensive line of synthetic grass products for residential, commercial, and sport-related use. While they did field a few enquiries concerning commercial and sport-related use, the majority of their time was spent demonstrating products for residential use to Perth homeowners.Green Planet Grass manufactures three main systems for residential use: the Landscape System, the Play Grass System, and the Pet Grass System. The Landscape System is intended for general residential and light commercial use. It consists of five basic artificial grass products. These products are named after planets: Earth, Mars, Saturn, Neptune, and Jupiter. The shortest are 36 mm in length, and the tallest are 42 mm.They also offer the Green Planet Grass Play Grass System. True to its name, Green Planet Grass can customise an artificial lawn for use in background sports, including but not limited to, tennis, football, rugby, or golf.Green Planet Grass also offers their exclusive Pet Grass System, which is designed to make pet ownership as easy as possible on both the owner and the pet. The GPG Pet Grass System is manufactured for extremely efficient drainage of pet waste, is repellent odours  as well as pests such as fleas and ticks, and is very easy to maintain and clean.Justin Everley, Director of Green Planet Grass, thoroughly enjoyed exhibiting his company’s products at the Smart Ideas Home Show: “First of all, on behalf of Green Planet Grass, I would like to extend my appreciation to all of those who made this great event possible. This includes not only the staff at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre, but all of our employees and everyone who visited our booth over the weekend.”Everley continued, “The Smart Ideas Home Show is always a great event, and there is nothing like demonstrating our extensive line of synthetic grass products to the people of Perth. We reconnected with a lot of old customers and made a lot of new friends over the weekend, and we were again happy to have a chance to demonstrate the continued evolution of Green Planet Grass synthetic grass products.”Everley concluded, “Thanks again, and we’ll see you all next year.Green Planet Grass manufactures, distributes, and installs artificial lawns and other synthetic grass products in Perth and surrounding areas.To find out more about their environmentally-friendly synthetic grass products, call 08 9209 2669 or visit their website: http://www.greenplanetgrass.com.au/.

2013-03-21T05:01:11Z online-pet-accessories-implores-pet-owners-please-keep-your-pets-safe-from-disasters

Ellenbrook, Western Australia, March 21, 2013 - It’s been a rough year for natural disasters in Australia. More often than not in 2013, a typhoon, a flood, or a bushfire has been in the news. Online Pet Accessories, who distribute discount pet supplies, such as dog collars and dog toys, have found themselves put into the position of being an authority on keeping pets safe and healthy.This is even more important and more difficult during and immediately following a natural disaster. Whether a family stays at home during a disaster, or whether they evacuate, it creates a new and unfamiliar set of circumstances for both the family and their pets.Online Pet Accessories carries a full line of products for most pets, including most supplies that are necessary to keep pets safe during natural disasters. Consequently, they often find themselves in the position of offering advice to their customers. In the spirit of helping people keep their pets safe, Online Pet Accessories recently published a blog post designed to serve as a guide for pet owners who are either enduring or fleeing from natural disasters.Their first piece of advice is to make sure that every pet has a collar and tag with the pet’s name, and the household address and phone number. They also mention the availability of microchips which can be implanted into a pet, thus allowing the pet to be located at all times.Online Pet Accessories also recommends that pet owners compile a list of places where they can take their pets in case of a natural disaster. They suggest that the list include facilities from many different areas, as those in the local area will be sustaining the same natural disaster as the pet owners, and therefore would not be of much use. Suggestions include motels, hotels, grooming facilities, boarding kennels, and veterinary clinics which may open their doors during a natural disaster.Another suggestion is to take at least one week’s supply of food for any pet. Dry food should be kept in waterproof, airtight containers. If the food is canned, it cannot be left out in the warm air, as it can cause pet food poisoning. The post also reminds pet owners to make sure that they have a can opener that works, or cans with pull-tops.The blog post goes on to provide the makings of a disaster plan template for keeping pets safe. Jason Balchand, owner of Online Pet Accessories, provides a strong voice as an advocate for the rights and safety of animals: “Years ago, we established Online Pet Accessories for one basic reason: we love animals. Since then, we’ve been fortunate enough to be in a position where a lot of people ask us for advice on how to take care of their pets.”Balchand continued, “When a natural disaster strikes, people are somewhere between stressed out and panicking, and sometimes it’s difficult for them to remember everything they need to do to ensure their pet’s safety.”Balchand concluded, “We carry all the pet supplies necessary for your disaster kit. We hope you never have to use it, but it feels a lot better knowing that you are prepared for any emergency that arises.”Online Pet Accessories is an online retail outlet which provides discount pet supplies, and accessories such as dog toys and dog collars. Call them at (08) 9296 7544 or visit their website for more information http://www.petshop-online.com.au/.

2013-03-19T22:23:46Z international-happiness-day-revealing-the-key-to-happiness

20 March 2013: On International Happiness Day, a new survey from online experience retailer RedBalloon has found 87 per cent of respondents are happy with life overall, and when it comes to what makes us smile we need to get back to basics.Regardless of age, gender, where we live, how much we earn or how happy we are with life overall, the one thing that united all 2489 respondents*, and was guaranteed to put a smile on their faces, was spending time with family and friends.It was the number one activity leading to happiness in every category of the survey, including:•    Age – from under 18 to over 60 years of age, this activity received 44 per cent of the vote. It spiked for the under 18 group with 69 per cent of the vote, and the over 60s at 53 per cent.•    Gender – 41 per cent of men and 44 per cent of women say time with their loved ones is the key to putting a smile on their dial.•    Income – no matter their combined household income, from $50,000 to $150,000 a year plus, 44 per cent of respondents enjoy time with those dearest to them.•    Location – Western Australia is the happiest state, followed by NSW, Victoria, South Australia then Queensland. But overall it doesn’t matter where respondents live, spending time with family and friends gathered 44 per cent of the vote.•    Happiness with life overall – regardless of their level of happiness (ranking from “extremely unhappy” to “very happy”), 46 per cent just want quality time with their loved ones.According to RedBalloon CEO Kristie Buchanan, the findings indicate a desire for the simple things in life, like more time to create memories with our loved ones.“RedBalloon is in the business of creating happiness, so we wanted to find out what gives people joy,” Ms Buchanan said.“We asked what would put a smile on their face, and most people – regardless of age, gender, financial situation or any of that other cosmetic stuff – just want to spend time with those dear to them.“What a great message to see on International Happiness Day.”To celebrate International Happiness Day on March 20, RedBalloon, a brand synonymous with fun, embarked on finding out what makes us happy. The other key findings were:•    Happiness levels in the different areas of life are:        o    Home life – 89 per cent are “mostly” or “very” happy        o    Where we live – 77 per cent are “mostly” or “very” happy        o    Social life – 75 per cent are “mostly” or “very” happy        o    Health – 70 per cent are “mostly” or “very” happy        o    Work life – 67 per cent are “mostly” or “very” happy        o    Finances – 48 per cent are “mostly” or “very” happy. This was the most unhappy category overall.•    Only 8 per cent of respondents ranked themselves as “very happy” when it came to their personal appearance, with 62 per cent saying      they would be happier if they were slimmer. 20 per cent are satisfied just as they are.•    88 per cent of women and 85 per cent of men are “mostly” or “very” happy with life overall•    To be happier at work, 34 per cent of respondents want more money and 18 per cent want more recognition.•    When ranking which aspect of life they put the greatest importance on in terms of happiness, the average ranking was:               1.    Home life               2.    Health               3.    Financial situation               4.    Work               5.    Social life               6.    Personal appearance* The survey was conducted with 2489 respondents via an online survey between 28 February and 14 March 2013.                                                               - Ends -For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact: Lauren Ashton, RedBalloon PR & Communications Specialist – 02 8755 0034/0404 136 765/lauren@redballoon.com.au About RedBalloonRedBalloon has started a happiness revolution - one amazing experience at a time! We believe everyone deserves to have fun, feel good and be happy. We believe happiness starts with a drop, becomes a ripple and creates a wave. And we believe happiness is amplified when shared. Put simply, we are in the business of fun and are passionate about giving people more good times. RedBalloon Experience Vouchers, Gift Certificates and Gift Boxes can be purchased online or in selected retail outlets.

2013-03-18T14:40:05Z hop-and-scotch-melbourne-presents-dog-day-care-and-grooming-services

Hop and Scotch, care providers for dogs in Melbourne, Australia, is happy to announce several important services to help busy households take care of their pet dogs better. Hop and Scotch will take care of your dog as well as its grooming needs when you cannot be there because of work or any other commitments. They provide dog walking and daycare as well as dog washing and grooming services to prevent your dogs from spending long and boring hours, patrolling the fence or sleeping away, till you get back home. Hop and Scotch is a great way to repay your dog's limitless devotion to you in a world ruled by the clock.With Hop and Scotch around, you don't have to about your busy schedules to take the dog for a walk, to the groomer or panic when you have to take part in some unannounced weekend activities like going on a trip out of town. Hop and Scotch eliminates the need to make depressing visits to kennels as well as desperate calls to friends or family members at the last moment. Moreover, you need not feel guilty that you don't have the time or the stamina to give exercise to your pet dog to the extent you would like to. You can be sure that professionals at Hop and Scotch will do everything to make you and your beloved pet happy.Services offered by Hop and Scotch are as follows:Dog Day Care: Your dog will be kept active as well as given all the care needed to be happy in Hop and Scotch day-care in Melbourne when you are away.Dog Grooming: Hop and Scotch provides dog washing, grooming and clipping services to relieve you of the stress of finding a groomer and the ordeal of taking your dog to him/her. At Hop and Scotch, your dog can run, play and socialize inside a secured and monitored play area and they will be pampered and groomed by qualified as well as certified dog groomers. Your dog will return home looking gorgeous and relaxed.Holiday Stays: Hop and Scotch offers another great package - a dog hotel in Melbourne where dog loving families take care of your dog when you are away on business, holiday or romantic getaway. Dogs are provided with warm as well as comfortable accommodation, cuddles on the couch, occasional treats, etc. In short, it will be like leaving your dog at a five star hotel when you are not there.Pick up and Drop off: Your dog will experience all the benefits of the pick-up and drop-off services from Hop and Scotch. You don't have to worry about anything; your dog will picked up from your house, taken to Hop and Scotch for a day of play and fun and dropped back at your home in the evening when you are back.Hop and Scotch has firsthand experience of the problems faced by dog owners who lead increasingly busy as well as demanding lives in suburban environments. Hop and Scotch has, therefore, designed their services to fill in this need. For additional information on the services offered by Hop and Scotch, please visit their website at www.hopandscotch.com or contact them at 9877-0044. You can also reach them by filling in the contact form available on their website.

2013-03-05T10:23:03Z love-my-pet

Love my pet is a general supplier of pet medicine and other accessories used in pet keeping and training. Specializing in dogs and cats, they provide a one stop shop for all your pet needs. Love my pet was established in 1997 and is among the most trusted online suppliers for pet needs. Over one million products have been sold since its inception. Products such as veterinary supplies, toys, training aids and healthcare tips feature as some of its benchmark commodities. A more pet-specific look on its products and services is as follows:DogsShopping categoryUnder the shopping category for dogs, the store offers products such as:Dog coats - these are offered in a wide range of designs which are specifically manufactured keeping in mind their compatibility with Australia's climate. These coats are appropriate especially in shielding dogs from cold. Each one of them is manufactured from high quality textile material with tummy straps and rump darts to ensure comfortable and non-restrictive fit.Dog life jackets - love my pet manufactures a variety of life jackets for different uses either in swimming pools or at the beach. These products are of high quality and quite affordable. Considering their 15 year experience in providing pet solutions, these products can be trusted to deliver what they promise.Dog training aids - important accessories such as thunder shirts to ease dog anxiety and silent dog whistles for training are among some of the aids provided by love my pet. These are essential in ensuring dogs relate properly with both humans and other dogs.Other products include toys such as dog fetch balls, Frisbee discs and heated pads for sleeping during winter.Pet informationLove my pet provides important information on dog health and some of the common ailments from which they suffer. Ways of detection, diagnosis and relief for diseases such as arthritis in dogs are available on their website. Also provided is important information on diets, grooming and health.CatsTraining aidsLove my pet provides essential training aids such as sprays which produce pacifying properties of cat pheromones and medical adhesives which prevent cats from destroying furniture by applying where cats may scratch.Also supplied are veterinary solutions for cat diseasesCat resourcesUnder resources and information for cats, different sections provide information on different areas such as:Cat breed listings - this is a list of the different cat breeds available for keeping as pets for first time pet keepers. These breed types are such as the American bobtail, the American wirehair, the Balinese and Bengali cats, the Devon rex and the Egyptian Mau, to name just a few.Cat behavior - information is provided on different cat behavior for the pet owners to understand their cats better.Cat diets - love my pet provides pointers on how to keep cats maintained on a proper diet. This not only include diets that keep your cat healthy but also those that prevent cat obesity.Cat grooming - despite the common belief that cats are natural groomers and can easily take care of themselves, it is important to have information on a few basics of cat grooming and scents and treating cat odors.Apart from these, love my pet also provides tips on solving cat health issues and taking care of kittens.

2013-02-20T06:13:50Z evidence-mounts-in-favour-of-therapy-pets

Recently, the Children’s Hospital in Westmead threw a 10th anniversary party for the Delta Society, marking the tenth year that the Delta Society has brought therapy pets into the hospital to visit patients. For many, pet therapy is something new, but pet therapy has been around since 1945.The first therapy dog was named Smoky. Smoky had been rescued from a battlefield in New Guinea by Corporal William Wynne. Wynne was hospitalised with fever, and some of his fellow soldiers brought Smoky in to help cheer him up. Doctor Charles Mayo, of the Mayo Clinic, served in the hospital where Corporal Wynne was taken, and noticed the effect Smoky had on Corporal Wynne, and decided to take Smoky with him on his rounds.Smoky would eventually serve as a therapy dog for 12 years, and Dr Mayo had a great story to tell his father, founder of the Mayo Clinic. However, it would be nearly 60 years before the Mayo Clinic would have their first and only, as of this writing, facility-based service dog.A US nurse working in England, Elaine Smith, would create the first organised program for dog therapy in 1976, after she noticed that a chaplain at the hospital where she worked brought along a golden retriever and got better results than other chaplains did. Smith’s dogs mainly visited hospitals.In 1982, a non-profit organisation called Tender Loving Zoo was established by an ex-Los Angeles Zoo employee named Nancy Stanley. When Stanley worked at the zoo, she noticed the effects of animals on the handicapped, and started researching therapy pets.Her first therapy pet was Freeway, her miniature poodle. She took Freeway with her to the Revere Developmental Centre, a facility for the severely handicapped. Stanley would eventually start TLZ with $7,500 of her own money, and eventually persuaded owners of a local pet store to loan her various animals to take to hospitals and convalescent homes. Stanley generally gets credit as the first person to use an animal other than a dog as a therapy pet.Australia wouldn’t have a pet therapy program until 1997, when the Delta Society was founded. The Delta Society is a registered charity, and depends on charitable contributions for funding. The pets and their owners are all volunteers, as are the officers.Jason Balchand, Owner of Online Pet Accessories, wants to see more funding for pet therapy: “There are so many programs out there that don’t get half of the results that pet therapy produces when pets are taken to hospitals and facilities for the elderly. There is a lot of research that points to many benefits for patients who spend time with therapy pets.”Balchand continued, “Some of the documented effects include rises in oxytocin and dopamine, and lowering of cortisol. The net effects are a decrease in blood pressure, higher self-esteem, and even more effective communication with doctors, nurses, and other patients. With medical costs going through the roof, why can’t our medical system or government find more money for something that is so inexpensive, but works so well?”Balchand concluded, “If a doctor at one of the world’s most powerful hospitals knew that our pets can help us heal almost 70 years ago, why hasn’t the medical community embraced pet therapy on a larger scale?”Online Pet Accessories supplies dog toys, dog collars, and various discount pet supplies through their online pet shop.For more information, please call 08 9296 7544, or visit their website http://www.petshop-online.com.au/.

2013-02-20T03:41:30Z your-pet-has-a-new-second-best-friend

Associate Professor Pauleen Bennett, of La Trobe University, was recently chosen as president of the ISAZ. Bennett is on a mission to increase pet ownership in Australia, and to convince politicians to repeal many laws restricting ownership of pets.Bennett believes that pets benefit not only their owners, but their communities as well. According to Bennett, “Pets help us to feel better about our lives, and when we feel better about our lives, we feel more motivated to do great things for our community.” Bennett remarked that her “grand plan to save the planet is to have more pets.”Bennett has a lot of support from colleagues across Australia. Recently, the ISAZ held a workshop in Melbourne, which was attended by around thirty of those colleagues. Nearly all agreed with her position that more urbanised living and tougher pet laws are having a negative impact on communities, and depriving too many of the benefits of pet ownership.Many communities and apartment buildings don’t allow pets. In addition, almost no nursing homes or similar senior housing allows pets. Some seniors even have to have their pets put down because they have nobody to take them. This causes profound sadness and stress, adding guilt and loneliness to the powerless feeling a senior gets when taken to a group home.Bennett feels that only through more research will politicians become convinced that pet ownership provides health benefits, and should be encouraged whenever possible. Consequently, she has formed the Australian Anthrozoology Research Foundation (AARF).AARF was formed to promote and fund more research into how pet ownership affects both humans and animals. Through her affiliation with Monash University, and now La Trobe University, Bennett has created and mentored eight studies about pets and owners.Bennett likes to cite a lot of other research, too. Various studies have found that pets increase humans’ levels of such beneficial neurotransmitters and hormones as serotonin and oxytocin, thus elevating mood. There have also been studies indicating that pet ownership has a positive effect on blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, and depression. Recent work indicates that pets help delay the effects of ageing.Bennett estimates that pet ownership saves the Australian health system as much as $2.2 billion in a year, but she sees a disturbing trend: “about two-thirds of households…have at least one pet... but Australia’s pet population stopped growing (10 years ago).”Between 1994 and 2009, Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data indicates that the number of dogs declined by close to 10% and the number of cats declined almost twice that much. Professor Bennett and her colleagues want to reverse that trend.Jason Balchand, owner of Online Pet Accessories, an online discount pet supplies store, fully supports Bennett’s agenda, and is glad that she is getting some recognition for her work: “We are in this business because we love animals, and we are all for anything that can quantify the benefits that pet owners gain from their pets.”Balchand concluded, “We have long thought that too many politicians treat pets like they are a nuisance, and refuse to even listen to anyone who suggests that there is anything positive about pets. If Professor Bennett, through the AARF, can provide scientific information to prove to the public what pet owners already know, we will all benefit.”Online Pet Accessories has an extensive inventory of discount pet supplies, including a wide selection of different dog toys, dog beds, and other pet supplies. Visit their website here http://www.petshop-online.com.au/ for more information, or call them at 08 9296 7544.

2013-02-18T02:22:26Z western-australia-commits-more-funds-to-the-great-southern-food-and-wine-festival

On 30th January, Tourism Council WA announced that the IGA Taste Great Southern Food and Wine Festival would be receiving more funding from the WA State Government through their Regional Events Program.CEO Evan Hall expressed appreciation to Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls and Tourism Minister Kim Hames, and expressed that the extra funding could be a boon to tourism in regional WA.According to Hall, most regional tourism operators have had to make do with small budgets and rely mostly on volunteers to boost tourism in their regions. Hall feels that the extra funds will be a great help to some of the more cash-strapped and overworked tourism operators, and will help them attract more tourists to their various regions.Hall is of the opinion that even a moderate amount of extra funds can help publicise regional festivals so that they are noticed in Perth or some of the bigger cities on the East Coast. Hall is cognisant of the effect of events like the Great Southern, and acknowledged that the festival is “highly effective at getting tourists… spending money on local accommodation… and tourist attractions.” Hall went on to call the increased funds for the festival a “great use of Government funding.”Proprietors of accommodation and restaurants in the Denmark and Albany areas are especially excited, since most of the events associated with the festival are either in Denmark or Albany. The first event was Saturday 9th February in Denmark, and the final event will be Sunday 24th March in Denmark.Some of the Denmark venues include the Forest Hill Winery, The Lake House Restaurant and Winery, the TASTE Beach BBQ at a location that will be announced on February 27, the MadFish Winery, Yilgarnia Wines and Wildflowers, Chimes Spa Retreat, and Singlefile Wines. Albany will use their Entertainment Centre for many of the events, and while more will be conducted in the Albany area. For more information, they invite you to visit their website, where the full schedule can also be found.Brendan Laing, Owner of Denmark luxury accommodation William Bay Country Cottages, is excited about the news, and is in full festival mode: “We love Great Southern, and we are glad to see the festival getting more funding from the state. We say this a lot, but once someone visits us, they want to come back. Anything that helps us get more visitors will help us get more who visit us on a regular basis.“Laing continued, “The Great Southern events are all wonderful, and a great drawing card, but we always hope that as many people as possible decide to check out some of the other things the Denmark area has to offer, too.  Many of the events are at our local wineries, for example, but there are many more. We also have world class restaurants, luxury accommodation, and a lot of parks, beaches, and natural attractions.”Laing concluded, “A person could spend an entire year down here just sightseeing and trying out different attractions, but we think one week at our cottage accommodation in Denmark is a great place to start. You could visit a couple of wineries, a few restaurants, and take one or two days to just hang out in your cottage or maybe walk down to the beach.”William Bay Country Cottages provide luxury holiday accommodation in Denmark WA. For reservations or to check on holiday accommodation, please call 08 9840 9221 or check out their website: http://www.williambaycottages.com.au/.