Happy Father’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day!

We’ve scoured the high street and online to find the best Father’s Day gifts for all ages, tastes and budgets…

RADIO DA-DA

Dad can relax and listen to music anywhere with the Groov-e Milan splashproof DAB radio with Bluetooth.
£34.99 groov-e.co.uk

PARTY ON

The Groov-e Soundbar 20 is portable and compact with LED lights and Bluetooth.
£29.99 Currys

STOP LOSING THINGS!

Attach the Galaxy SmartTag+ to belongings in order to locate them instantly.
£39 samsung.com

LIVING THE DREAM

Why not club together and get dad the Ultimate Driving Gift Box for a supercar driving experience he’ll never forget.
£99.99 redletterdays.co.uk

STAY COOL

He won’t lose his cans with the Rock On Gold Headphones Stand.
£20 large menkind.co.uk

FOR VIP DADS

This tasty Trio of Treats includes delicious Raisins in Milk Chocolate, Coffee Beans in Dark Chocolate and Malt Whisky Fudge.
£15 cartwrightandbutler.co.uk

GREAT SKIN

He’ll thank you for L’Oréal Paris Men Expert Power Age Revitalising 24H Moisturiser. £15.99 superdrug.com

READY FOR BED

Spoil him with these fun M&S Collection Pyjamas.
£19.50 marksandspencer.com

DAD’S DRINKS

Busy dads will smile when they see this Manic Dad Day Mug.
£10 sassandbelle.co.uk

FABULOUS FLAVOURS

The life and soul of the pantry – Tracklements Father’s Day Bundle with five moreish products!
£21.95 tracklements.co.uk

FANCY A PINT?

Lager-drinking dads will appreciate this Stella Artois Bottle & Chalice Gift Pack.
£5 Tesco

CUTE KEEPSAKE

Personalised Wooden Shirt Keyring.
£9.99 gettingpersonal.co.uk

A GLASS OF RED?

Surprise him with his favourite tipple – Tesco Finest Block 18 Cabernet Sauvignon.
£8 Tesco

FUNNY FEET?

Have a lark with these Andy Sock- Hole Socks. £9 notjustashop.arts.ac.uk

SUPER STORAGE

He’ll love this cute Dad in a Billion Beer Crate with a handy opener on the side!
£3.99 homebargains.co.uk

The making of our King

The making of our King

As the nation prepares to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III, we take a look at his life, his work and family, as well as the history that shaped his rule

His namesakes…

King Charles I was the second son of James VI of Scotland. He became heir apparent in 1612, following the death of his brother, Henry Frederick, Prince of Wales. King Charles I ruled from March 1625 until his execution in 1649. His belief in the divine right of kings made him unpopular with Parliament, who deemed him tyrannical. He dismissed Parliament several times and the constant unrest led to the English Civil Wars (1642-1651) – a series of battles between the Royalists and Roundheads (Parliamentarians). The first two wars ended with a Parliamentarian victory and Charles I was beheaded in January 1649. He is the only English king to have been executed for treason.

In 1660, the English monarchy was restored when Charles II was brought back to the UK from exile in Europe and crowned in 1661. Charles II’s lavish lifestyle earned him the nickname the Merry Monarch. With no legitimate children, his younger brother James II (James VII in Scotland) succeeded him after his is death in 1685.

The Prince of Wales

The investiture of Charles III as the Prince of Wales took place at Caernarfon Castle on 1 July 1969. He was 20 years old. Charles spent nine weeks learning Welsh at Aberystwyth University and was able to give a speech in both Welsh and English in which he pledged to associate with as much of the life of the principality as possible. There were 4,000 guests in the castle and around 90,000 people watching outside. The ceremony was broadcast live on TV with a UK audience of around 15 million and 500 million worldwide.

A military career

Shortly after his investiture, Charles followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the Royal Navy. In 1971, he headed to Cranwell in Lincolnshire to train as a Royal Air Force jet pilot, then enrolled at the Britannia Royal Naval College for a six-week course.  His military service began on HMS Norfolk and he later served on HMS Minerva and HMS Jupiter. In 1974, he qualified as a helicopter pilot, and in 1976, he was given command of the minehunter, HMS Bronington, where he learnt to fly military aircraft. His active service ended in the same year, but Charles did parachute training in the late 70s and continued to pilot occasionally.

Charitable giving

Using his severance pay from the Navy, Charles set up The Prince’s Trust, a non-profit supporting disadvantaged young people in the UK. To date, the Trust has helped more than one million young people with life skills, education and transition into work (princes-trust.org.uk). Today, King Charles III and The Queen Consort are president or patron of more than 500 organisations. Some of the charities have branches in Australia and Canada and he frequently tours these countries to help a plethora of worthy causes.

Sustainable living

King Charles has strong views on architecture and in 1984, made headlines after a speech to the Royal Institute of British Architects in which he called the proposed extension to the National Gallery in London a “monstrous carbuncle on the face of a much-loved and elegant friend”. The scheme was dropped.

Passionate about sustainability and the environment, Charles designed the development of Poundbury in Dorchester, commissioning architects and planners to create his vision. He stuck to his beliefs despite endless criticism and the building work, begun in 1993, is scheduled for completion in 2026. Intended as a sustainable community and a pleasant place to live and work, Poundbury is home to more than 4,000 people and has created jobs for another 2,000.

Awards and recognition

Climate control has been a cause for concern for King Charles from when he became Prince of Wales and was appointed chairman of the Welsh Countryside Committee. In the 1980s, he became interested in organic gardening, launching Duchy Originals, a brand of sustainably produced products, with profits going to his supported charities. Before becoming King, Charles received many awards from international organisations for his contributions to the environment, including organic farming, climate change, architecture, conservation and ecology, gardening and contemporary arts, and his lifetime achievement awards include the Rainforest Alliance Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008 and the Lifetime Achievement Award for Contributions to Farming by Farmers Weekly in 2020. In Glasgow in 2021, the then Prince of Wales was a figurehead at COP26 Climate Summit, delivering a powerful speech to world leaders and decision-makers on the environment and sustainability.

The Sportsman

A lover of action sports, King Charles is an accomplished polo player, a game often considered synonymous with the Royal Family, and both his children share his passion for this fast-paced team sport. When he was younger, he enjoyed a variety of sports and hobbies, including skiing, rowing, scuba diving, surfing, sailing and horse racing. Nowadays, he enjoys fishing and walking, often trekking for miles, always ahead of the group, and for this reason he’s fondly referred to by The Queen Consort as a ‘mountain goat’.

Record-breaker

When Princess Elizabeth became Queen in 1952, Prince Charles became first in line to the throne at the age of three. He remained heir apparent for 70 years and 214 days before becoming King on the death of his mother. Charles took his role as heir apparent seriously, dedicating his time to making countless contributions for the good of the country.

Reshaping the monarchy

In recent years, Charles has intimated that he plans to restructure and ‘slim down’ the monarchy. This will result in fewer public roles for extended family members. The working royals who will feature prominently in his reign are The Queen Consort, Prince William and Kate, Prince Edward and Sophie, and Princess Anne. A streamlined royal family will ensure that taxpayers’ money will not be used to support non-working royals.

The King is also aware that many of the royal residences, including Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and Balmoral, are not fit for purpose as homes in the modern world and the costs of upkeep are unsustainable. It’s thought that he may decide to transform these grand private residences into public spaces for everyone to enjoy. In contrast to the late Queen, we suspect that King Charles will not want to be seen as an impartial figure on matters of importance and will be more vocal in expressing his own opinions on social
and environmental issues, specifically climate change and conservation.

Royal relationships

The past three years have been challenging for the new King. He’s suffered the loss of his parents, as well as having to contend with the fallout after his brother Andrew was disgraced. Another cause of sadness has been Harry and Meghan stepping away from their roles as senior royals. The release of Harry’s memoir, Spare, in January, only exacerbated the estranged relationship between father and son. However, Charles has the support of Camilla and a strong relationship with his siblings, especially Princess Anne. A doting grandfather, Charles has been said by Prince William to take his role as ‘Grandpa Wales’ very seriously.

Time to party!

Time to party!

The coronation of King Charles III takes place on 6 May and if you’re planning on celebrating with family, friends and neighbours, we’ve got you covered!

For the delicacies

Royal Coronation carriage-shaped treat stand. £18 daisypark.co.uk

The Royal touch

Gold Crown Coronation glass topper decorations. £3.99 pack of ten gingerray.co.uk

Special treat

Ice-cream cups. £6 for eight talkingtables.co.uk

Ready-made delights

Union Jack deluxe cupcakes. £12.50 box of four sendthemcupcakes.com

Say it with balloons!

Coronation party balloon arch decoration. £17.99 pack of 65 gingerray.co.uk

A Royal cuppa

Sophie Allport King’s Coronation mug. £14.50 sophieallport.com

Set the scene

Patriotic red, white and blue festoon lights. £24.99 for 20 lights4fun.co.uk

No washing up!

King’s Coronation paper plates. £5 eight pack talkingtables.co.uk

Royal decorations

Coronation triangle bunting. £3.69 ten flags 20ft therange.co.uk

 

Blooming marvellous

Blooming marvellous

A pot tower is a simple yet wonderfully decorative idea for any garden, terrace or balcony. We show you how…

This is such a great way to showcase colourful bedding plants in a relatively cost-effective and space-saving way. If done properly, you won’t see the pole at all and the kids will think it is magic!
The multiple pots at varying heights and angles will add interest to any space, inside or out, and be a great way to show off your favourite plants. You could also use these jauntily displayed pots to grow herbs, strawberries or even the tumbling variety of tomatoes! The choice is yours. You can use any pots you have for this, but it is advisable and preferable if they diminish in size the higher they go, as this will ensure they balance safely.

How to make it

The construction is quite simple, and the weight of the pots makes the tower surprisingly stable.

1. Firstly, ensure that the pole is in the ground securely.

2. Tip the pots so each leans to the opposite side of the one below.

3. Once in place, fill each pot with compost and your desired plant.

You will need

A steel fence pin
– we have used a fence pin here with a hook so you will need to feed the pots from the bottom before you secure the pin in the ground.

A mallet to ensure your pin is deep enough into your soil to hold it safely in place – remember, it’s not just the pots it will be supporting but the weight of the plants and soil, too.

Pots – measure the holes in the base of your pots with the pin BEFORE you secure it. If you need to, it is relatively simple to drill wider holes with an electric drill. We have used glazed ceramic pots, but you can opt for anything you want.

Soil/potting compost
Plants – this display includes (from the top down) fuchsia, dianthus, campanula, armeria and osteospermum.

Let’s get physical

Let’s get physical

Regular exercise is essential for the well-being of most pets. Experts at national pet charity Blue Cross have some top tips to maintain the physical – and mental – health of your furry friends

Dogs

Dogs’ exercise needs change with age and vary depending on their breed and size. It helps to think about what they were bred for when determining the quantity and type of exercise they need. For example, Greyhounds are sprinters, so will benefit from two short off-lead runs per day. Terriers were bred to sniff out vermin and will enjoy off-lead exercise sniffing and digging. Retriever breeds will enjoy playing fetch. Active dogs, such as Border Collies, need lots of mental stimulation as well as physical exercise, and it is a good idea to consider activities like agility or obedience classes to keep them stimulated. All dogs will get much more out of 30 minutes off the lead in a safe, traffic-free environment, than they will from a 30-minute walk along a pavement on a lead.

Puppies’ bones are still soft and joints are still developing, so hard exercise and games that make them twist and turn suddenly are not advisable. For older dogs, regular short walks and gentle exercise will keep them mobile and fit. If you get a young dog as company for an old one, exercise them separately sometimes, as their needs will differ.

Exercise with your dog

Most dogs enjoy running, so if you’re heading out on a jog, you can take your dog along with you. However, it’s not a good idea to put a puppy’s body under the strain of jogging at a human pace because of the potentially life-long impact on their bones and joints.

Agility is fantastic physical and mental exercise for fully grown dogs, and great for growing the relationship between you, too, but the jumping, twisting and sprinting involved is not suitable for youngsters.

Dogs cannot enter agility competitions until they are 18 months old. Some agility clubs take older puppies from around nine months to introduce them to the sport, and will start with age-appropriate training, but for most, it’s from around a year. If in doubt, ask your vet.

Cats

All cats need exercise to help them stay healthy, happy and relaxed. How active your
cat is will depend on:

  • Age
  • Any health conditions Weight
  • Personality
  • Whether they are indoor or outdoor cats.

Outdoor cats usually get their exercise by
exploring, jumping and pouncing. However, play inside the home is still beneficial to your cat, as it is a great way of bonding with your pet and providing further mental stimulation.

Indoor cats need more opportunities to be active, as being bored may lead to unwanted behaviours. Actively encourage your cat to play and spend plenty of time every day playing with them. Kittens need lots of opportunities to be active. This keeps them occupied and builds strong muscles. They also need to learn skills such as chasing and climbing.

As your cat becomes older, they may slow down and their hearing and eyesight may get worse, so it becomes harder for them to exercise safely outdoors. Encourage gentle play indoors instead and your older cat will continue to enjoy it. It is really beneficial to keep cats active into old age.

Small animals

Small animals are often forgotten, but it is important that they are kept physically and mentally stimulated.

Rabbits need access to a run that will allow them to display their full range of behaviours, such as hopping, stretching and playing. They enjoy exploring, digging, running through tubes or pipes – some may even push around little plastic cat balls. You could try hiding small amounts of food around their housing to help keep them alert and active, but remember to remove any that doesn’t get found. You can also try cutting an entrance and exit hole in an old cardboard box so your rabbit can hop in and out of it.

Guinea pigs also require a run. They enjoy exploring boxes and running through tubes or pipes. You could hide small amounts of food around the cage to keep your guinea pigs alert and active.

Remember

Rabbits and guinea pigs are very social and it is important that they have a friend of their own kind and are not kept alone. However, you should never keep a rabbit and guinea pig together.

For more details or to find your nearest Blue Cross centre or hospital, visit bluecross.org.uk

 

Carry on camping

Carry on camping

The UK has rediscovered its love for camping, meaning there’s never been a better time to get reacquainted with nature. Travel editor Tristan Parker picks three campsites, all with something different to offer

When it comes down to it, there really is no better way of experiencing the British countryside than by camping. It lets you see glorious pockets of the UK up close and can give you access to places you wouldn’t otherwise find.

At a time when so many people need to cut costs, camping can offer a cheaper getaway than almost any alternative. A basic grass pitch on a campsite can be a welcome financial respite from expensive hotels. And activities can remain cheap and/or free if required. Most campsites will be within easy reach of hiking trails, national parks, woodland or beaches that can be enjoyed at little or no cost. Another advantage of camping is the sheer range of options available, so if you are keen to upgrade your trip and spend a little more, there’s no shortage of higher- end accommodation out there – from pre-pitched tents to spacious bell tents to plush cabins to luxuriously converted American school buses, there’s always a new camping experience to be had.

With that in mind, we’ve found three campsites from across the UK that offer all kinds of enhanced camping experiences, alongside tent-only pitches for when you need to keep it simple. Each is in a beautiful location and each has easy access to a huge range of outdoor excursions, historical sights, restaurants, pubs and other great activities to suit all budgets. You’re sure to leave each site a far happier camper than when you arrived.

Purple badger camping and fishing lakes

Set on the border of west Rutland and east Leicestershire, Purple Badger is nestled among towering trees and wildflower meadows, giving it a secluded, tranquil feel. There’s lots of open, car-free space for kids to roam, and a small number of tent pitches means it never gets too crowded. Each pitch has its own fire pit for toasting marshmallows, and bell tents are available if you want to upgrade. Or go a step further and book one of the super- cosy shepherd’s huts, each with bathroom, fridge, electric hob and wood burner. The campsite is also perfectly placed for exploring Rutland. There are no cities nearby, but with several pretty market towns and an abundance of wildlife, you certainly won’t miss them. A great resource for local information and more activities is discover-rutland.co.uk.

Purple Badger Camping & Fishing Lakes, Croxton Road, Beeby, Leicestershire LE7 3BH. Bookable through pitchup. com, from £125 per night for a shepherd’s hut, based on two people sharing. Grass tent pitches start from £35 per night for two adults.

Nearby activities

NORMANTON CHURCH

This medieval church is Rutland’s most famous landmark and makes for a cinematic sight with its island-like setting that juts out into the water. It’s now deconsecrated and not open to the public, but the appeal is in seeing it from the outside, giving the impression that it is floating on water. Arrive at the right time (sunset is good) for a great photo opportunity.

OAKHAM CASTLE

You’ll find no turrets or drawbridges here; in fact, you might mistake Oakham Castle for an elaborate church. That’s because the single remaining structure is the castle’s Great Hall, one of Europe’s most impressive examples of domestic Norman architecture. Step inside this grand 12th-century structure and you’ll find a 230-strong collection of horseshoes decorating the walls, some the size of tyres. It stems from a tradition that visiting peers of the realm must donate a horseshoe to the Lord of the Manor. Elsewhere, there are 12th century sculptures, a cafe and activities for children.

HOP ON A BIKE

Cycling is a great way to experience Rutland, and a good place to start is at Rutland Water, one of Britain’s largest human-made lakes and a focal point for many activities and experiences. You’ll have 23 miles of traffic-free trails and 3,000 acres of countryside to explore at leisure. Grab a bike from the Whitwell branch of Rutland Cycling, on the north shore of the lake.

AQUA PARK RUTLAND

Make a splash at this huge water feature. It’s a great day out for families (kids from six), and features tons of obstacles to navigate around and clamber over, as well as slides, trampolines and climbing walls. Wetsuit hire is available on-site.

THE GRAINSTORE BREWERY

Visit to this buzzy brew pub to find out why it’s loved by locals. A 90-minute guided tour will show you the ropes and allow you to taste some signature beers. The Brewery Tap is open all day and hosts jazz and blues bands, plus comedy and quizzes. It’s also a popular spot for food.

Petruth paddocks, Somerset

This relaxed and friendly site angles itself as the ideal place to escape urban life and wind down. It’s located in a particularly scenic part of the West Country – in the village of Cheddar and on the edge of the Mendip Hills – so neither of those things should be difficult. Standard pitches are reasonably priced, or you could go for power or a hardstand if you’re bringing a caravan or campervan. If you prefer glamping, there are bell tents, shepherd’s huts, bowtop wagons and an American school bus converted into luxury accommodation for up to six people. Whatever you chose, the good news is you’ll have the countless charms of Somerset on your doorstep.

Petruth Paddocks, Labourham Drove, Cheddar, Somerset BS27 3FS. petruthpaddocks.co.uk

Nearby activities

WOOKEY HOLE CAVES

This complex of limestone caverns can be navigated through a series of chambers like the Witch’s Kitchen and Cathedral Chamber. Daring individuals can go deeper via a Wild Wookey experience, involving abseiling and crawling. Non-cave-related fun includes adventure golf, a 4D cinema and an extensive play area for kids.

GLASTONBURY AND GLASTONBURY TOR

Glastonbury is not just about a gargantuan music festival. It’s an artsy, historic place with a lovely high street. Once you’ve taken in the town, take a trip out to Glastonbury Tor. A tower on this 158m-high hill is all that’s left of the 14th-century Church of St Michael. The walk is bracing but the views across Somerset are fantastic.

MENDIP HILLS

As Petruth Paddocks straddles the edge of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’d be a mighty shame not to explore it. The terrain is made up of gorges, steep hills, grasslands and clusters of rugged rockfaces, and the area is a haven for wildlife and nature. There are also many picturesque villages scattered around its 200sq km.

The loft glamping and camping, Moray, Scotland

For a unique campsite experience, try pitching up on a 388-acre family farm that grows barley for the local whisky trade. But despite the wonderful USP, this is no novelty stay. The Loft – set on the edge of the village of Kinloss – is an extensive and professionally run site with accommodation for all. There are electric and non-electric grass pitches in the Wilderness Campsite that are suitable for tents and campervans, and a sizeable selection of luxurious glamping options, including ensuite wigwam pods and sheiling cabins with hot tubs, meaning you can still take an alfresco dip in the chilliest of Scottish weather. There are also traditional wigwam pods with shared facilities and electric pitches for motorhomes. The site is also packed with activities, including hiking and nature trails and a fairy trail for smaller legs, plus it’s close to the Moray coast.

The Loft Glamping & Camping, East Grange Farm, Kinloss, Moray IV36 2UD. theloft.co.uk

Nearby activities

DISTILLERIES

Being in Moray, you’re in premium whisky territory, so a visit to a local distillery is a must. One of the nearest and best is Benromach, which offers a choice of tours. Or try the Malt Whisky Trail.

DUFF HOUSE

This Georgian mansion was built as the chief seat for the Earl of Fife. It was later used as a hotel, sanitorium and prisoner of war camp in the Second World War. After falling into ruin, it was opened as a gallery in the 90s and is still a great place to see art.

DOLPHIN SPOTTING

Around 200 bottlenose dolphins call the Moray Firth home. There are a number of viewing hotspots, with Chanonry Point one of the best, alongside Fort George and Burghead.

ELGIN

For an easy day trip, head east to Elgin, Moray’s largest town. It’s an attractive place with several key historical attractions, top of which is the 13th-century Elgin Cathedral.

Top tips for hassle-free camping

WEATHER WATCH

Check the weather well in advance and keep checking up to (and including) the day of travel. Bad weather may mean you need to reinforce a standard tent, but it will also determine a few of your planned activities, whatever your accommodation.

EXTRAS AND ESSENTIALS

If you’re glamping or staying in enhanced accommodation, check what is included. Some luxury stays require you to bring your own towels, bedding and crockery.

MAP OUT MEALS

Almost all camping stays require some degree of cooking, so plan meals and bring ingredients with you in case shops at your site don’t have what you need.

SHOP SMART

Camping gear can be expensive, so if you’re planning a trip far in advance, try to buy equipment out of season when sales are on.

TRAVEL LIGHT

Bring torches! These will always come in useful, particularly if you’re in any kind of tent.

STAY COSY

Bring extra blankets if you’re in a tent, no matter what tog your sleeping bag may be. Similarly, even glamping pods and cabins can get cold, and bringing extra bedding never hurts. An eye mask and ear plugs can also be invaluable in getting a solid night’s sleep.

PACK LIKE A PRO

Load your car strategically before you leave. This means packing so that the first things you’ll need when you arrive at the campsite are readily available and not buried deep within the boot.

 

The usual suspects

The usual suspects

This month Blue Cross looks at the most common medical conditions vets see in dogs and cats

Many medical conditions can be quickly and easily treated, so it’s always better to seek the advice of a vet sooner rather than later if you’re concerned about the health of your pet. They will be able to advise on the best course of treatment.

SKIN AND EAR DISEASE

An ear infection is an irritating and painful overgrowth of bacteria or yeast in the ear canal, usually caused by an underlying condition such as skin conditions, ear mites or excess earwax. Ear scratching, pain and head shaking are all common symptoms of an infection, while a head tilt or loss of balance could signal that the infection has moved deeper into the ear. Symptoms including rashes, sores, fur loss and dry skin can be caused by fleas, allergies, infections and mites, and left untreated, could become more difficult to rectify. If you notice any symptoms, then contact your vet for advice as soon as possible on the best remedy. Most can be quickly treated, but the majority are caused by allergies needing long-term treatment.

BEHAVIOURAL PROBLEMS

Behavioural problems, which have a welfare impact on you and your pet, can manifest as physical disease in cats and dogs – for example, diarrhoea, urine infections or skin irritation.

You may notice that they react to other animals or noise differently and become more sensitive, which can be caused by underlying health problems.

If you notice changes in your pet’s behaviour, it is best to seek the advice of
a trained behaviourist or vet as soon as possible, so that the right course of treatment or training can be put in place, as the problems are likely to worsen over time.

OBESITY

Being obese puts your pet at risk of health problems and is likely to impact on their life expectancy. It’s important to know what your pet’s ideal shape is and recognise when it changes. You can use guides such as this to help you make sure your pet is in good shape – ukpetfood.org/resource/dog- weight-size-o-meter

A healthy diet and exercise are key to controlling your pet’s weight. If you’re struggling with your pet’s weight or notice any dramatic weight changes, then always contact your vet for help.

ARTHRITIS AND OSTEOARTHRITIS

  • Arthritis causes inflammation in the joints, making movement painful and difficult.
  • In cats, you may notice they become less active or more withdrawn, as well as reducing their grooming.
  • In dogs, you may see your pet starting to slow down, take it easier on walks, or no longer go up stairs or jump on a chair.
  • Book your pet in for a vet check up if you notice any of these signs, as they can be caused by other health conditions as well, or if you notice any limping, stiff gait or licking or chewing of particular areas that may be painful.
  • The condition is mostly caused by wear and tear on the joints, but can also be the result of an injury, hip dysplasia or under-developed joints.
  • There is no cure for arthritis, but the pain can be managed with anti-inflammatories and/ or painkillers, along with a healthy diet. It is important that your pet maintains a healthy weight to reduce any strain. You can also provide your pet with a soft, comfortable bed.

Top tips to maintain good health

  • BOOK ANNUAL HEALTH CHECKS AND VACCINATIONS
    A yearly visit to the vet for a check-up will make sure all is okay with your pet and ensure you are up to date with essential vaccinations, flea and worming treatments.
  • MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT
    The amount you need to feed your pet depends on their size and exercise level. Follow the feeding guide on the packet or tin, but if you have any concerns then consult a vet.
  • GOOD TOOTHCARE
    A build-up of plaque can become a potential source of infection, so cleaning your pet’s teeth every day really can make a difference. You can buy special toothbrushes and paste to use on your pet’s teeth.
  • GROOMING AND BATHING
    Regular grooming keeps your pet’s coat tangle- free, as well as removing dead hair, dirt and dandruff. It’s essential in long- haired cats to do this daily and for short-haired cats to do this regularly. For a short-haired, smooth-coated dog, grooming should be done at least once a week. A rough- or long-coated dog will need more regular grooming and will often require clipping every four to 12 weeks, with regular – usually daily – maintenance brushing and cleaning. Terrier types and some other breeds may need ‘stripping’ rather than normal grooming to remove dead hairs in the coat, as these dogs don’t shed hair as well as others. Dogs have sensitive skin and bathing them too often can cause skin irritation. When bathing your dog always use a special dog shampoo, which is gentler on their skin than human products.
  • CHECK YOUR PET’S EARS
    Most have healthy, clean ears, but if you notice any black wax or discharge, then it’s worth contacting your vet for advice.
  • NAILCARE
    Claws naturally wear down, so generally shouldn’t require trimming, but any that are curling round and could damage the foot should be trimmed. This can be a problem in older pets, so contact your vet for advice.
  • IDENTIFYING CHANGES IN BEHAVIOUR
    Pets show pain and suffering in different ways. Changes in your pet’s behaviour could be an early sign of illness or pain.
  • NEUTERING
    This will prevent unexpected litters and can also avert certain illnesses and diseases.

We’ve lots of pet advice on our website, bluecross.org.uk, but if you’re concerned about your pet, we’d always advise contacting your vet for help as soon as possible so that a quick solution can be found.

 

Mum’s the word!

Mum’s the word!

It’s Mother’s Day on 19 March, when we say a huge thank you to our mums and grans.

Here’s a guide to the perfect gift, sure to suit all tastes and budgets…

Spa for R&R

Ragdale Hall gift voucher or e-voucher.
From £25
ragdalehall.co.uk

In the bag

Totes ladies novelty cat bag, sock & mirror set.
£25
totes.co.uk

Nature inspired

New National Trust Orchard Blossom silk scarf.
£20
shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

Fancy a cuppa?

Sass & Belle Blue Willow Mum mug.
£9.75
sassandbelle.co.uk

Fabulous fragrance

Elizabeth Arden 5th Avenue.
£19.99 for 125ml EDP
homebargains.co.uk

Health and happiness

Self-Care for Every Day – filled with simple tips and quotes.
£7.99
Amazon, Waterstones, bookshop.org

Soft and gentle

Organic-hemp face towel.
£14
notjustashop.arts.ac.uk

From the Grandkids

A cute personalised gift for Nanny.
£12
Amazon Handmade

Sweet treats

Luxury fruit cake selection.
£22.95 incl delivery from 1 March
originalcake.co.uk

Beautiful blooms

Wilko faux-sunflower bouquet in ribbed vase.
£13
wilko.com

Bee embellished

Velvet hand-beaded coin purse.
£15
joebrowns.co.uk

Perfect pebbles

Family of Four handmade pebble art picture.
£35
Amazon Handmade

Valentine’s cocktails

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Fall in love with romantic cranberry inspired cocktail and mocktail recipes this Valentine’s Day… 

Red and pink are the colours of passion and love.  Wondering how to add seasonal flair to your Valentine and Galentine’s Day celebrations this year?  Look no further than Cranberry & Raspberry juice drinks to create a vibrant red or feminine pink hue to your insta worthy cocktails.

Available in supermarkets nationwide Cranberry juice drinks are the perfect mixer for mocktails, cocktails and Valentine’s smoothies. So why not rediscover the versatile cranberry and blast those taste buds with a ‘spot on’ blend of crisp, clean tasting cranberries in a romantic-inspired drink, perfect for lovers, friends and the sober curious to enjoy this Valentine’s Day.

Cran-Rasp Passion Potion Frozen Margarita

Ingredients

(Optional) 2 salt or granulated sugar rimmed, chilled glasses

4 oz good quality tequila such as Patron Reposado

10 oz frozen raspberries

8 oz Cranberry & Raspberry juice drink

Juice from 1/2 lime

Agave to sweeten if desired

Lime rind for edge of glasses

Pomegranate seeds to garnish

Method

Blend all on a smoothie setting in your blender. Sweeten to taste. Pour into chilled glasses (dipped in lime and salt or granulated sugar optional). Twist some lime rind for decoration and top with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds.

Cupid’s Cranberry Flirtini

Valentine’s cocktails don’t get much better than this. Omit the vodka for a non-alcoholic version.

Ingredients (serves 1)

1 shot (25ml) vodka

75ml of Cranberry Classic OR for a lighter version, Cranberry No Added Sugar juice drink

Splash of Ginger Ale

Ice cubes

Lime and granulated sugar for rim of glass

Haribo heart sweet on cocktail stick for decoration or a heart inspired ‘stirrer’ for that cute touch

Method

Dip the rim of the glass in lime and then in granulated sugar

Over ice, mix together Vodka, a squeeze of lime and the cranberry juice

Add a splash of ginger ale and thread a Haribo heart sweet onto a cocktail stick for a cute garnish

Casanova’s Cranberry & Banana Smoothie

Perfect for a Valentine’s Day breakfast…

This super-creamy cranberry, strawberry and banana smoothie recipe is so delicious and so simple to make in just five minutes. Use either fresh or frozen strawberries — it’s the perfect protein-packed breakfast smoothie to kick off your morning or to sip on as an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

250ml Cranberry Classic OR for a lighter version, Cranberry No Added Sugar juice drink

150g frozen strawberries

1 ripe banana

240ml plain Greek yogurt or, for a plant-based version, coconut yoghurt

Honey (or sweetener to taste)

1 handful ice if not using frozen fruit 

Method

Add all of the ingredients to your blender / Nutribullet and blend until smooth

Pour into two glasses or some cheeky little glass milk bottles and enjoy!

Recipe’s courtesy of Ocean Spray

 

Home alone

Home alone

We can’t take our dogs everywhere, so leaving them at home alone is sometimes necessary. But how do you ensure that they don’t suffer separation anxiety? Blue Cross has the answers

Dogs are very social animals who would naturally live in family or friendship groups and have evolved alongside humans to work and live with us as our companions, so they can struggle to be left alone.

  • The idea is to teach them that being alone isn’t scary at all; it’s a time to relax and feel comfortable.
  • Prepare an area where they can be relaxed and comfortable and where they will be left. You can also use a stairgate to section off an area that they can use as this safe space.
  • Put a comfortable bed and water in this area, and chew items, too, should your dog need them (chewing is a calming activity).
  • Many dogs will benefit from a radio on low and some clothing that you’ve worn may also increase your dog’s sense of security during the following training and when they are left alone.

Training

  • Randomly during the day pop your dog in the area or behind the stair gate with a tasty chew or treat such as a Kong toy stuffed with treats or pâté.
  • Close the stairgate and go about your day-to-day business as normal.
  • After a few minutes, open the stairgate – ideally you want your dog to be relaxed and still engrossed in the treat.
  • If your dog struggles with this, stay in the room with them but don’t interact act with them. Once they are used to the idea of being in the room with you (but not interacting with you!), you can start shutting the stair gate for a few minutes.
  • Over a period of days, gradually increase the time your dog is left behind the stair gate until you get to a point that they feel relaxed enough for you to wander out of sight completely.
  • Build your dog up to being left in this area for up to half an hour while you are busy elsewhere in the house.
  • Once your dog is comfortable with this, you can begin to get them used to short periods
    of time alone in the home.

Leaving the house

Prepare the area as normal and follow the same routine as before. Once your dog is comfortable and tucking into something tasty, leave the house. Return after a few minutes and repeat over the day if your dog is comfortable. Gradually increase the time you leave your dog alone to about 30 minutes over a period of days. If your dog struggles, take a few steps back and start from when they were last comfortable. Some dogs will take longer than others to remain calm and relaxed when they are left alone.

‘Desensitising” your dog

If your dog looks worried when you grab your keys or put on your coat, you will need to spend some time ‘desensitising’ them. To do this, regularly pop your dog in the area during the day as before and get them used to seeing and hearing you pick up your keys, coat or bag. At this point, do not to leave the house – just allow your dog to get used to these sights and sounds while relaxed and comfortable. Once they look calm when they see or hear these things (it may take several days), you can start again, leaving the house for short periods. Keep greetings friendly and predictable on your return, even if you find your dog has chewed something or toileted. Punishment won’t help your dog – just go back a few steps and start

Spotting the signs of separation anxiety

If your dog is showing any of the symptoms below when you leave them home alone, you should talk to your vet who can refer you to an animal behaviour and training council- accredited behaviourist.

  • Your dog becomes distressed when you leave. They may show physiological signs of fear – increased heart and breathing rate, panting, salivating, increased activity and, sometimes, a need to go to the toilet.
  • Your dog may try to follow you as you leave, scratching at doors and carpets
    or jumping up at window sills to look for a way out. Alternatively, your dog may bark, whine or howl to try and persuade you to come back.
  • After the frantic period, your dog may settle down to chew something that you have touched into small pieces and curl up on the debris, forming a ‘barrier’ of your scent around them for security.
  • When you return, your dog may be elated and excitable. They may be wet, from salivating or excessively drinking due to stress.
  • When you are home, your dog may attempt to follow you wherever you go.
  • They may begin to display anxious behaviours when they see you preparing to leave the house, such as panting, pacing, drooling, howling and barking.

For more details or to find your nearest Blue Cross centre or hospital, visit bluecross.org.uk