Narcissa

I should take your cue, dog geek. Lately, my online purchases have been a little disappointing. Even writing to an online company to ask which kibble size is the smallest (as they do repackaging services, in order to keep the dog food fresh), they won't reply except when I make an order and simply skimp over the question I asked before. Some stuff from eBay I did not receive, but most eBay sellers are happy to resend/reinmburse, but on one occasion, it didn't really help as I ordered 1.5 months in advance for a present for my niece's birthday and I still got it late (despite paying AU$40 for "expedited international shipping"). This is soooo true! When I foster kittens and place their pictures/videos online for adoption, I get all sorts of "requests", like "all white ragdoll", "persians", "long haired with blue eyes", "bushy-tailed", etc. I get so annoyed because we rarely have pure breed kittens (in Singapore anyway) and my post is obviously for a DSH so I have no idea what sort of "service" people think I run! When I write back politely to tell them a kitten has been adopted, I get flamed and told that they are doing me a favour by taking the cats off the street and they have soooo much money, they can own all sorts of pure bred cats but chose my scraggly cat instead, so how can I possibly refuse them because they have such big, generous hearts? This is why I really empathise with breeders getting all sorts of strange emails and responses!

Sending you some very hopeful thoughts. You're so incredibly brave and strong, and your positivity amidst everything is such an inspiration.

I think what's worse is other Singaporeans' reaction to it. Comments like:

Now I can't stop crying after seeing the pictures. >< I feel terrible about it. Sorry to those who were distressed.

OMG! My sincere apologies to those who were disturbed by the pictures. They were not there earlier, except for a small thumbnail! I'M SORRY! I clicked it again and SHOCK AND HORROR. ugh, now I feel quite sick.

Nope, it's in Singapore where I am right now. Would rather be back in Australia though! http://www.k9kulture.com/ - it's also a daycare center and holds training/agility programs.

What are the possible health problems you get with a dog so abnormally small? Just curious.

The third in this month. Very sad indeed. Singapore news: http://news.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne%2BNew...820-232974.html The other cases are linked within. Online Petition: http://www.petitiononline.com/20082010/petition.html RIP little one. So sorry no one helped you. "A DOG found dead in Sengkang on Wednesday evening is believed to have been beaten to death, said the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). A preliminary examination of the Pomeranian by a vet showed injuries to its head consistent with trauma, said the SPCA's executive officer, Ms Deidre Moss. Police said they received a call at about 7.40pm informing them that an animal carcass had been found at Block 267B, Compassvale Link. The SPCA was notified later and its staff collected the carcass. The dog was found with a leash on. Ms Moss believes that the incident might have been witnessed by people at a nearby coffeeshop. A hawker from the coffeeshop told Shin Min Daily News that a man in his 40s had earlier approached him, asking to borrow a knife. The man had been leading the dog. When the hawker turned him down, the man led the dog to the void deck and bashed it repeatedly against a wall. SPCA's examination of the dog found that it had been microchipped. Microchipping - the implanting of a tiny electronic device between the animal's shoulder blades - can help link a dog back to its owner. The carcass was handed over to the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) for further investigations yesterday. An AVA spokesman told my paper that the dog's microchip number was not registered with them and a post-mortem is underway. Ms Moss said: "This is an outrageous, violent act. We hope the person who did it can be apprehended soon, as he or she might be a danger to both people and more animals." Sengkang resident Sarah Koh, 32, said she was shocked to hear about the act, as it was carried out so close to her home. She said: "I keep thinking of how helpless the dog must have felt and who could have done such a terrible thing." The maximum penalty for animal abuse is a $10,000 fine and a one-year jail term." » Neighbour films woman beating dog The dog frequently howls in the early mornings and sometimes in the afternoons. Its howls could be the reason why its owner, a woman who lives at at Woodlands Block 683D, frequently canes it. An eye-witness living in the opposite block said: "The female owner frequently canes and abuses the dog, easily several times a week. The lady should be contacted for animal abuse." In a video posted on a citizen journalism website, the woman is seen scolding the dog, holding it by the snout, then rapidly caning it several times. In another recent case, a video of a woman disciplining a dog by hitting it on its head repeatedly with wooden sticks was circulated online on popular video sharing website YouTube and social network Facebook.com. The woman's actions has come to the attention of Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) and the case is still being investigated. Her actions have also drawn much criticism from netizens. Facebook users have made their anger very clear in more than 450 comments about the video on SPCA 's Facebook page alone. If anyone is convicted of animal cruelty under the Animals and Birds Act, the offender can be fined $10,000 and/or imprisoned for 12 months." » Dog hit repeatedly with wooden sticks A video of a woman hitting a dog on the head is now under investigation by the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA). The video is currently circulated on popular video sharing website YouTube and social network Facebook.com. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) told AsiaOne that the owner of the dog - not the woman in the video - contacted them and stressed the importance of getting the dog to the vet. In an e-mail to AsiaOne, AVA says SPCA has given them information on the "identities of the parties involved" and currently investigating. However, both AVA and SPCA have declined to reveal this information until investigations are completed. Further information on the location of the abuse has yet to be clarified. In the video, a woman disciplines a dog by hitting it on its head repeatedly with wooden sticks. The dog reacts by barking and cowering away from the woman. The dog also tries to get out of her way but is unable to because it is cornered. Its crime? Chewing on a cushion. A boy can be heard telling the woman to stop by saying "enough already". But the woman does not listen to him and continues hitting the dog and threatening it. If the woman is convicted of animal cruelty under the Animals and Birds Act, the offender can be fined $10,000 and/or imprisoned for 12 months. Spokesperson for SPCA Ms. Deirdre Moss said that when the officers at SPCA viewed the video together they were very shocked and "there's no doubt that the dog is not only being beaten but also terrorized". "We just hope the authorities will get to the bottom of this and that the person behind the beating will be identified and action be taken against them." SPCA also hopes the dog can be removed from the possibility of this happening again and is recommending to the authorities the dog be rehomed. A vet should also examine the dog to determine if it has suffered any physical injury. The SPCA also promotes positive reinforcement instead of negative reinforcement like physical abuse. "It does not teach a dog how to behave... (and instead may bring about) a host of other problems like aggression and fear and may have an adverse effect on the dog." The woman's actions have drawn much criticism from netizens. Facebook users have made their anger very clear in more than 450 comments about the video on SPCA 's Facebook page alone. Many have called for action by authorities. Says Facebook user Angelynn, "No matter what get this woman first and save the dog first". A latest check on Tuesday evening showed a Facebook page dedicated to raising funds for this case. According to the page, the funds will be a reward to "any individual who contributes the most effort in tracking down the culprit and bringing her to justice." Individuals can be nominated by fans of the page and the winner will be chosen by the most number of "likes" - a function that Facebook users click on to show their support. Anyone with information on the case can contact AVA at 64717198 or e-mail [email protected] or the SPCA at 62875355 extension 9. » Watch the video" ETA: Warning: Graphic pictures! Because of nature of pictures, have cut/pasted the story(s) for those who cannot bear to view such acts of cruelty.

It's apparently a legitmate site - they sell dogs to celebrities, like Paris Hilton who traded in her Chihuahua Tinkerbell because it got "too big" and now have Bambi. Guess the "breeders" do stand by their guarantee afterall. I think the Yorkie won the title according to height (2.8"), the Chihuahua won by length (6").

It's raining, stormy, the cat and dog have taken most of my bed. But I am planning to bring Maxey to this K9 cafe tomorrow where they serve dog cuisine and I pay $12 for him to swim in the pool for an hour...

So, stumbled upon this travesty of a website, which at first looked quite good - lifetime replacement(!), puppy starter pack, genetic/non-genetic/health guarantee etc, till I saw their designer dogs, teacups, tiny teacups, micro teacups, lifetime size guarantee (if it grows bigger than they say it would, they would replace or give a full refund), and "Buy It Now" buttons with the claim: puppies are sold to the first person who submits a purchase. Then, a maltepoo adult named Samson, who is going for US$1,000,000.00. They claim it's the world's smallest dog, though I thought that title was held by a Chihuahua. It has a stipulation that his new owners must be comfortable with media attention too. Don't think I'm allowed to link. Makes me feel for all the breeders who strive for type, sound, healthy, well-socialised dogs; improving the breed; driven by love of the breed; put in their heart and soul when they consider potential pet homes, whelpings, matings; juggle their work, children, marriage, dogs, showing; and consider themselves lucky when they break even, much lest become a millionaire with the sale of one dog!

I agree - she's a big gorgeous girl, and she definitely suits a sweet dainty name. Like Milly, Miley, Lorellei, Mitzi, Elle/Ella, Elise, Maia.

Oooh, congrats! Such a sweet little thing. Keep us posted with pics!

Yeah, I guess "hate" is a pretty strong word. But I was a little annoyed at the reaction. Especially in Singapore, which is multicultural, I go out of my way to make sure people are comfortable - I telephone cafes first to make sure my pup is allowed at their alfresco area, I get off the pathway, or carry the dog and make way, when I see Muslims walking my way. I try to be considerate to people who dislike dogs and those who do over-zealously (kids coming over and carrying Maxey and refusing to let go even after 30mins, and letting him run off leash etc, ugh). There just wasn't any more I could do being stuck in a lift. And they weren't Muslims.

What an interesting thread - I just did A LOT of googling. So jealous that you guys get to see so many different breeds.

Sounds like a nightmare process. I'm glad that at least your boyfriend will be able to bring Prada with him. It might be a little more stressful for Prada making the trip though, considering the change of environment, fostering, wru Mummy and Happy, etc. Many changes for her to adjust to. What makes your boyfriend and not your brother eligible for importing Prada to China? Dogs are very adaptable, so just give it time. I was lucky with mine. Maxey just bounded out of the crate, greeted everyone and quickly found his sleeping spot. But the process to Singapore is a lot easier, as well as flight time (from Perth). Weather is hot and humid here so Maxey gets air condition whenever he wants.

OMG! This sounds like a horror movie! How is your sister? I hope everything is okay.

In my apartment here in Singapore, which we assured was dog-friendly before we moved in (ie. many dogs living in the apartments). I understand Australian laws about pets in apartments - I had such a hard time looking for pet-friendly places when I was living there. Had to write countless nice letters, offered free carpet cleaning every 3 months, monthly inspections, extra pet bond etc when I was renting. Things became so much easier when we had our own villa with a yard (surrounded by dog-haters though). Kids were sopping wet because they came from the pool on the 3rd floor. Could be... But pretty sure the looks were at me, because they had their eyes in that slitty glare lol! I think I would be more understanding if I had some huge dog! Had Maxey in that "Paris Hilton-Tinkerbell" (ugh hate to use her as a reference) dog hold, so was glad that at least he wasn't on the floor of the lift or it would have scared them more. I think I simply expected the parents to react a little differently, not feed the phobia more? I may be way off my mark here, since I don't have children but I can imagine myself saying "oooh look kids , it's a puppy!" or something. Not a biggie, but I was just really surprised at that reaction - you never expect something like that when the lift doors open! A huge to those parents having to deal with children's phobias, and those just wanting to spend the day at the dog beach with their dogs!

Oh, I understand real phobias - I don't see why the parents had to be so rude and encouraging of such behaviour - they could have apologised for their kids' outburst but they stared at me with such hatred!

Aww, I really feel for you. Chin up, for if you survive this with grace, you'll attain a patience that rivals Dalai-Lama's. Keep working with her.

So, I am in the elevator, waiting to go down to the basement carpark, when it stops at another floor. The doors open, revealing two dripping wet kids (like puddles of water at their feet!) and their parents. The kids start screaming and shrieking (one was close to tears) because I have a Chihuahua in the lift, on a leash, AND carried in my arms. This is a 2kg dog. The parents proceed to hug and shield their children and calm their fears about this scary dog, looked at me incredulously as I just scared their kids half to death, and told me stiffly that they'd wait for the next lift. Deep breath. Om.

Ooh, I'm quite the online shopper. For unique accessories (collars, tags) and toys: try www.etsy.com for homemade stuff. They always come beautifully wrapped and a great way of supporting an artist. I use eBay a lot for good deals. A pet stroller that cost $100 I managed to get for $5.99 on eBay. A lot of it is watching and bidding. Or if you're into personalised collars (about $6US), leads, bowls, blankets, snuggle beds, etc - those are much cheaper than in stores. Dealsdirect is another good bargain place. Assortment of cheap beds, crates etc. Shipping is very reasonable too, and timely. If you're looking for a super premium food that isn't stocked at your local pet store, try http://www.pookinuk.com.au - they have Candidae, Artemis, Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance, Ziwi Peak, Eagle Pack Holistic, Royal Canin, and they charge a flat delivery fee of $5.

Interesting theory about Neoteny. I always wondered why I am such a coddling "Mummy" to my Chihuahua, when I've always treated my previous dogs, well, like dogs - best friends. I was more of a big dog kinda girl, having had about 17 dogs in my life till I get this tiny Chihuahua and I'm baby-talking and buying him all sorts of crap I never imagined myself to get (clothes, bling collars, necklaces, spend hundreds on imported toys, etc). He even has designer bags so I can conceal him nicely when we go out to the mall. He's also a puppy my fiance got me, so there's a lot of Mummy and Daddy reference, and my parents refer to themselves as Maxey's grandparents. Strangely, I feel more maternal to the dogs, than to other people's kids. Like, I would ask to pet someone's dog but would never coo to a stranger's baby.

Haha HeavyPaws, I've got Hide-A-Squirrel coming too! As for OP's question, it really depends on the dog. Maxey is neither food motivated (seriously, throw him a hamburger and he'd look away), or a destroyer (tears up plush and stuffing in minutes), so Kongs, Boredom Busters, i-Cubes, Nylabones, are all out. He gets bored real quick with plush toys with no squeaker too. Ignores rope toys or stiff rubber toys. He must have toys with sound - so squeaky plush, especially those with a wiry texture are his favourites. Also squeaky stuffing -ree toys that resemble roadkill (Skinneeez - great for those dogs who love tugging and destroy their toys in minutes), cat Mylar balls for the crinkly sound, Kong Wubba for cats. He also has a penchant for balls so Ho-lee ones are great(soft texture, great bounce, easy to grip with tiny mouths), Air Kong squeaky ones. He also loves digging under covers to find a toy so we're getting him Egg Babies (squeaky eggs hidden in animal's belly) and yes, Hide-A-Squirrel. I think I may go look for this Mr. Bee... For dogs who are food motivated and love challenges (or you need to keep them preocuppied), interactive puzzle toys are great, like those from Nina Ottosson:

I've always had a soft spot for ellz's suggestion of Satine. How about Caressa? Estrella/Estelle is beautiful too (Spanish for Star). Mercedes is pretty posh too! Not french, but Cassia means Champion in Greek, and Danica is "morning star" in Hebrew. Such a gorgeous girl!