Welcome to our new-look newsletter - I hope you will find it informative and interesting. This month we look at the risk of Bloat in certain breeds of dog and the effect of asthma in cats. Find out what is happening to Michael Jackson's menagerie and how pets may help children with autism in Pets in the News and recent happenings at LPC.

Look out for our newsletter specials in each edition, shown on the left. This month we are offering all dog owners who haven't used our regular dog walking service before FOUR FREE WALKS as an incentive to give it a try - just call 1300 CUDDLE to book.

Have a great day
Justin Cofield

Pet Health

Is your dog at risk from Bloat? Also known as Gastric Dilation-Volvulus, this life-threatening condition is usually associated with large breed, deep-chested dog breeds being fed once a day. How can you minimise the risks? >>

Cats and Asthma. Asthma is quite common in cats and cats are very good at hiding early signs of respiratory problems. Signs are coughing and rapid breathing >>

What's happening at Lonely Pets Club?

Did you know... That you need to give mouth to mouth to pets through their nose? Franchisees and staff learnt how to give mouth to mouth to dogs and cats at a pet first aid course last month. Hopefully they won't need to any time soon!

Referral program... For every new member you refer, you will receive one FREE visit off your next booking. Just ask your friend to mention your name when they book and we'll record your free visit in our system.

New franchisees - Lonely Pets Club now has three franchisees - Liz Quinn in South Melbourne, Justin Cofield in Brunswick and Julie Fisher in Ascot Vale. All franchisees started as Lonely Pets Club carers and are animal lovers dedicated to providing a fantastic service. All bookings will continue to come through the support office as usual and franchisees will be following the same high standard of care you expect. If you are a responsible animal lover considering a lifestyle change, read about becoming an LPC franchisee >>.

Pets in the News

Michael Jackson's sudden death has left an array of exotic pets orphaned, with some of them unaccounted for and even his beloved chimpanzee Bubbles depending on donations >>.

Pet Therapy for autistic children - research has shown that animals can have a calming effect on autistic children, and help them learn and communicate better. If you missed it, read 60 Minutes' story transcript here >>.