What Actually Is “Ethical” Horse Breeding?
“Ethical breeding” is a phrase that’s widely used, but rarely clearly defined. In practice, many breeding decisions are still driven by market trends, aesthetics, or tradition rather than welfare, long-term soundness, or the future quality of life of the horse itself (McGreevy & McLean, 2010). Ethical horse breeding is not about producing more horses. It […]
The Importance of Slowly Introducing a New Cat
Bringing a new cat into your home is an exciting moment, but for the cat, it can be one of the most stressful experiences of their life. Cats are territorial animals that rely on familiarity, scent, and routine to feel safe. A slow, methodical introduction to a new household is not optional, it is essential […]
Which Pet Insurance Plans Cover Animal Behaviour in South Africa?
When your pet struggles with fear, anxiety, reactivity, or other behavioural challenges, getting the right professional support can make a world of difference. But many guardians wonder: Does pet insurance in South Africa cover behaviour consultations? The answer is sometimes, and it depends heavily on the insurer and the plan you choose. Below is a […]
Advocating for Your Horse When Working With Service Providers
When you practise reward-based (R+) horsemanship, your training methods, your expectations, and the way you want your horse handled can look very different from traditional approaches. While many owners are shifting toward kinder, science-backed handling, not all equine service providers—like farriers, vets, bodyworkers, or dental technicians – are used to working with R+ trained horses. […]
Hosting for the Holidays With a Reactive Dog
The festive season brings joy, celebration, and… visitors.For many dogs, especially reactive ones, this can feel overwhelming. New smells, new voices, unpredictable movement… it’s a lot to process. But with a bit of planning and empathy, you can make holiday gatherings safer, calmer, and far more comfortable for both your dog and your guests. Why […]
Christmas with Cats – Holiday Hazards
The festive season is a time of warmth, celebration, and decorating our homes with beautiful, shiny things… which, to your cat, look like toys, climbing frames, and hunting targets.It’s completely normal for cats to be curious during the holidays, but with that curiosity comes a few risks. Knowing what to avoid – and how to […]
Dominance Theory Is Dead: What Modern Science Says About Horse Behaviour
For decades, horse training was built on the idea that horses are always trying to climb a social ladder – and that humans must act as the “alpha,” “lead mare,” or dominant persona to earn respect. But research and science have made one thing very clear: Dominance theory is outdated, inaccurate, and often harmful to […]
The Hidden Dangers of Feeding Raw Food to Puppies and Kittens
Raw feeding has become a popular trend, with many owners believing it’s “natural,” “healthier,” or closer to what dogs and cats would eat in the wild. But when it comes to puppies and kittens, a raw diet can be far more dangerous than people realise. Young, growing animals have delicate nutritional needs, immature immune systems, […]
Why Is My Cat Spraying in the House? Causes, Solutions & What to Do
Cat spraying is one of the most frustrating behaviours for cat owners and one of the most misunderstood. While many people assume spraying equals “dominance,” it’s actually a form of communication. Understanding why your cat is spraying is the first step to fixing it for good. In this guide, we’ll break down the common reasons […]
Top Tips for Puppy House Training: A Complete Guide for New Dog Parents
House training a puppy is one of the first big challenges new dog owners face – and one of the most important. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, your puppy can learn quickly and confidently. Below is your complete guide to house training a puppy, packed with proven tips, positive-reinforcement methods, and expert advice […]