Green-ish

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Latest post on 01 December 2011 - 04:25

Are you still with us lenamilius? :D I'm going to copy and paste the last post I wrote. I'm getting tired replying to all of these current puppy threads. ;) From the last thread... http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=165982 http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=165776 http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=166012 Here are three recent ones I've been using as a forum for my soapbox. PLEASE do not buy locally...Animal World is up there amongst the MOST vile of the pet shops I ever saw in Dubai. PLEASE do not buy via the internet. PLEASE do not buy from any breeder who won't make it hard for you. If it's easy to buy a pup, you are supporting a vile and cruel industry. On behalf of the dogs, I beg you to research thoroughly and choose wisely.

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Latest post on 01 December 2011 - 04:20

http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=165982 http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=165776 http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=166012 Here are three recent ones I've been using as a forum for my soapbox. :D PLEASE do not buy locally...Animal World is up there amongst the MOST vile of the pet shops I ever saw in Dubai. PLEASE do not buy via the internet. PLEASE do not buy from any breeder who won't make it hard for you. If it's easy to buy a pup, you are supporting a vile and cruel industry. On behalf of the dogs, I beg you to research thoroughly and choose wisely. :) <em>edited by Green-ish on 01/12/2011</em>

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 15:52

Is this thread not done yet??? Bored of it now. Is it not biscuit time? LOL. I picked up my son from school today. He had a FREAKIN GIANT plastic Xmas stocking full of freakin chocolates and sugary cr*p in his hand. The adopted "class granny" had bought them for all of the kids. Yeah, yeah, sweet thought. But I'm not happy! More than happy to help with the disposal of said items :D LOL! I'll ship them over to you! :D

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 15:47

Is this thread not done yet??? Bored of it now. Is it not biscuit time? LOL. I picked up my son from school today. He had a FREAKIN GIANT plastic Xmas stocking full of freakin chocolates and sugary cr*p in his hand. The adopted "class granny" had bought them for all of the kids. Yeah, yeah, sweet thought. But I'm not happy!

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 15:44

Did you check if you need rabies shot? don't want to scare you, but better safe than sorry. I had the misfortune of being badly bitten by two separate strays while in Dubai. On each occasion the Dr's said there's no need for rabies shots in the UAE. [url=http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php'>[img'>http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-shocked009.gif[/img'>[/url'> GET A RABIES SHOT ASAP!!!!!!!! Why? What's with the scare-mongering CAPITAL LETTERS? The UAE is, by all official bodies internationally, considered rabies free. There has been ONE diagnosed case (and death) from rabies a few years ago...and he contracted the disease BEFORE coming into the country. The Dr's I spoke to are often recommended here, knowledgeable and cautious. People in animal rescue get bitten quite often unfortunately. NONE have contracted rabies.

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 15:25

Did you check if you need rabies shot? don't want to scare you, but better safe than sorry. I had the misfortune of being badly bitten by two separate strays while in Dubai. On each occasion the Dr's said there's no need for rabies shots in the UAE. ETA: Oops! I hope you're feeling more comfortable soon Kristina. :) <em>edited by Green-ish on 30/11/2011</em>

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 14:59

Umbrella strollers with true one-handed operation really are the best option when you have to consider public transport. My Maclaren Quest is getting a bit old now but it never lets me down. It's rated to 25kg. Having just had a really quick search, I can only see the Quest Sport online which is 15kg. There may be something else in the range that will carry more?? I've used mine for 5 yrs now, it's been on numerous flights, thrown in and out of cars, I can open and fold it and get it in & out of the car with one hand while holding a baby if necessary. In-built 5 point harness, fully reclining seat, big enough basket underneath. The only downside I have found is that it tips over backwards way too easily if there's anything hanging on the handles. Maclarens are built to last, lightweight and worth every penny. :)

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 14:47

By the time my older daughter was turning three, we had a newborn in the house and my son was at school. Every day she was happy to go to bed for rest time while the baby slept...she slept almost every day until she was at least three & a half. Now she's four & a half and she still has an afternoon nap at least twice a week. My son stopped day sleeps about the time he turned three, I think. My memory of that time is getting hazy! He's six now and no matter how knackered he is, if I suggest a daytime rest he looks at me like I poked him in the eye with a sharp stick. lol

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 14:40

Australia is another relatively young country...the Aus we know now was 'born' in 1788, making it 223 yrs old. It was inhabited for up to 60,000yrs before that though. I think the oldest dated cave/rock art found in Aus is about 40000yrs old. :D ETA: I'm so far away but really excited about the UAE's 40th birthday! I still have one of those flags for the car window...would love to have the courage to fly it here on Friday. :D Maybe I'll send it to school with my son for his show & tell. :D <em>edited by Green-ish on 30/11/2011</em>

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 12:54

My husband has sent his wish list to Santa. the only thing on it was a Maxpedition messenger bag. Given that he's doing FIFO work and it's pretty awesome for frequent flyers, I guess Santa will get it for him. http://www.maxpedition.com/store/pc/GLENEAGLE-MESSENGER-BAG-Large-58p1233.htm

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 12:47

Wow, reading some of these posts was really interesting, Nscm7859- your post just gave me shivers. Some real eye openers!! Hopefulyl ppl will be more tolerant. I could be wrong, but I think I remember her posting a warning (about allergies and eating out) when it happened. Just SO awful. :(

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 12:41

I know Air Hostie...it's the same problem worldwide, just different breeds. That's the exact reason why I try to encourage people to source genuinely ethical breeders. When I was working at K9 in Dubai, one of the most common pure breeds (or first crosses) that came to the shelter was huskies. In weather that's over 40 degrees for 8 months of the year????? FFS!! Apart from those who were family pets prior to Dubai, what the h*ll are huskies doing in Dubai?? And sold as fast as the FOUL pet shops can get them in. :( :( :( One more important thing to consider in your UAE preparations, is to set aside money specifically for emergency relocation. One of the things about life in Dubai is that circumstances can change in the blink of an eye and you want or need to leave in a hurry. It costs a small fortune to relocate pets and there's quite significant paperwork and vet requirements. Make sure you know from Day 1 what's required and be have money and a plan. :) Again, I hope you find the perfect dog for you.

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 12:26

Awww...I'm thinking there's going to be a happy ending all round here. :D

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 12:17

There are some really eye-opening stories on this thread. Thanks to everyone for raising awareness. I'm sure there are lots of us who would have sent in cakes etc without thinking too much about it, but have now been educated and will never do it again. :D Whew...some listen take something away from it all.

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 12:16

Green-ish: where the h*** did I say to lock up the allergic kids!!!! I'm sorry Keila. I did unnecessarily over-dramatise what you said. My point was simply that you said the anti-cake brigade will never listen because 'we' "can't see the logic..." It seems, neither will you.

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Latest post on 30 November 2011 - 08:17

apart from allergies, what is wrong with children having a slice of cake for someone's birthday? Seriously they are children.... let them enjoy it. Oh yes don't start again... too many posters are so against it that they can't even see the logic in others threads... Is that not also true of your "send the cake to school and lock up the allergic kids" attitude? Before I had a school age child, I used to watch other Mums prepare cup cakes for their childrens' birthdays and send them into school. I used to think, "Wow, never did that in my day." AND that I couldn't wait to do that for my little munchkins. Then two things happened... - We started attending birthday parties where my son would come home so high on sugar that he was simply unable to control his own behaviour. As a result of that I like to keep an eye on what he eats. Sure my kids have treats regularly, but I get to control how much and how often. My oldest is only 6 after all. - Then I spent more time talking to other school mums who also really resented their children being given food without their knowledge. Some may think it sad/pathetic/OTT, but don't we as parents have a right to decide what's best for our own kids? I don't send cake. I don't like it that other parents do. I'm disappointed that other parents think it's ok to do whatever the h*ll they like with no consideration for others. I should be able to decide what is best for MY child. YOU don't get to. BUT, when it happens, all I do is groan and prepare myself for the battle ahead for the rest of the afternoon. Thanks for that cake-sending-Mums. ;) Why is that these discussions come up, people spend time writing considered responses and the vast majority choose to keep on their merry way or, worse, take the mickey out of each other. Is it not half the point of these discussions to think, "I'd never thought of it like that. Next time I'll do x y z." ? There's what, ONE poster below who's acknowledged a rethink of her previous attitude? LOL...I'm not saying I expect everyone to come around to my way of thinking though. :D

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 15:13

apart from allergies, what is wrong with children having a slice of cake for someone's birthday? Seriously they are children.... let them enjoy it. Lol...and the thread starts again!

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 15:12

haha.. i think she means 'and so to bed'...lol so to bed; lets go to bed - whatever it's called.... that shop that is so bl00dy expensive it knocks you out anyway :D LOL!! And he's still fat, inconsiderate, not-so-D and rude!

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 15:07

I'm wondering if any of the mothers who have enjoyed sending cake to school in the past are now wondering how many parents they upset? As was suggested somewhere in this epic thread, how many actually check with other parents before sending the food in? If I have children to play at our house, I always talk to the parents about food, swimming, TV etc. In my view, classmates' parents surely deserve the same respect? I never say anything to my children, but I seethe when my son comes home from school with the third piece of sugar and fat for the week. (ETA - not to mention that I either have to upset him by splitting it with the other two children or have them in tears because they missed out) Lol...it's almost like sending a vegetarian child to play at Aunt Hilda's house then finding she hid meat in the veggie curry. ;) Sending cake to school is clearly not an issue for some. It clearly is a massive problem for others. (ramble ramble) Now that you're aware it's an issue for some, I wonder if anyone has had a re-think or if you will continue to do your own thing regardless. <em>edited by Green-ish on 29/11/2011</em>

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 14:55

I am one of those mother who likes the idea of having a little celebration with classmates and obviously a nice cake at school. Many posters here do not favor the idea of having a cake for many reasons. One of those is regarding children's allergies which is of course a good reason for the ban. I favor a specialised school for children with allergies problems. A school where the teachers are qualified for these cases, where the canteen offers appropriate or even personalized lunches, where the ban of a birthday cake will be implemented, etc etc... The other schools could have all kind of parties, different kind of cakes, etc etc... without any complains from any mothers. Anyway.... So we should go back (in some countries) to all children with special needs being shut away from the rest of 'normal' society? Not only excluded from certain celebrations and food sharing, but physically removed and labelled as different/inferior? I really do see your point....well, I'm hoping I see that you actually mean well...but that would never work. It would just alienate the kids you want to see out of 'regular' society. ETA - not to mention that what you're suggesting is a little insulting to teachers. Well-trained teachers ARE "qualified for these cases" and deal with them every single day in every single tolerant, inclusive, understanding classroom. <em>edited by Green-ish on 29/11/2011</em>

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 14:29

... I only wish there were as many passionate replies about seat belts being mandatory and ENFORCED and high rise window safety in Dubai. But, it another day in paradise! edited by americanfamily3 on 29/11/2011 Lol...have you not read any of those threads?! Yeah...I guess I have read those threads ;) I recently started one all riled up about school buses and their stop signs. Apparently not the law to stop outside 4-5 countries worldwide. I almost got killed from behind trying to stop for one once. lol! Imagine that? An optional stop sign in Dubai! Hee Hee edited by americanfamily3 on 29/11/2011 Imagine that! :D

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 14:21

... I only wish there were as many passionate replies about seat belts being mandatory and ENFORCED and high rise window safety in Dubai. But, it another day in paradise! edited by americanfamily3 on 29/11/2011 Lol...have you not read any of those threads?!

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 14:11

Thanks Green-ish again for your great advice. I will look into the dog trainers and dog behaviourist - is there anyone you would recommend? I will also speak to the girls again tonight about the puppies and saluki crosses. We do have friends that have salukis and they keep on jumping up on youngest daughter which worried her slightly, but I know all dogs are not the same. Thanks again. Oh puppies can be such little monkeys for jumping. It's REALLY easy to never let it start though, then you never have to correct the problem. Your friends are actually the problem, not the dogs. :D Before you actually have a dog, I'd recommend getting in touch with Verity. She's an animal behaviourist so (to my understanding) works more on the people than the dog. She LOVES dogs and will talk until she's blue in the face about everything you need to do to end up with a healthy, happy dog. You can contact V - cdotrosewarne1atbtinternetdotcom or (mob) 050 three one two four four two zero. Once you have your new family member, there are a few trainers around who come highly recommended on this forum. I've only seen Ange74 in action...and she's really great! Lots of EW members also say Neil at Homely Petz is brilliant. I have met his dogs and they certainly are a stellar example! I know there are others, but names escape me at the moment.

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 11:15

This was actually what i posted about the 1st DAY i joined EW. I was asking for help to report, and got very much "shouted" by EW police :P saying that if place is licensed i have to stay away. Was many months ago :) Yes, FB can be reported, but takes a few people to do it for it to work i think. Lol....I think really they were all saying that if the business has a license and is therefore operating within the bounds of the law, you'd almost be mad to take them on personally. Wasta and all that... Have you or any of your animal advocate friends had any success approaching any of the powers that be about the business?

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 11:07

wyddfa...it warms my heart that you still have shelter dogs on the potentials list. :D Your best bet is to keep in touch with Kristina & all of the various groups and let them know what you are looking for. As you would have found with K9, their first priority is to find a home good enough for one of their dogs. ;) None of them will let you take home a dog that's not a perfect fit for you. Keep in mind that most of them have waiting lists of people looking for "small" dogs. With regard to breed...dogs are 'dogs' first. The little personality they grow up to have is almost completely dependent on the way they are raised. Especially with mixed-breeds, YOU will determine the temperament and behaviour of any dog that comes into your home. Sure when you first meet them you'll probably want to avoid the really nervous or shy ones and the hyper ones, but most pups are just ready to fit in and try to please you. Part of your homework with your girls could be to study and understand dog behaviour and training. If the humans get it right from the second a new dog walks into the home, the dog will almost always get it right. :D There are some great trainers and an awesome dog behaviourist in Dubai. Perhaps you could all meet with one of them in preparation for the arrival of your new family member? Any of the saluki crosses at the shelters are perfect!! They are friendly, happy, gentle, often knee-height-ish dogs that are perfect for the climate. Good luck!!

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 10:53

Also AH...with apologies for being repetitive...rescue groups do get puppies too. *If* that happened to be your personal reason, it's a reason no longer. ;) Actually, I'm yet to hear a good reason for not adopting from a shelter or rescue group. I will always harp on about rescues. In my Utopia every dog would come from either rescue groups or those rare breeders who will make you jump through hoops to get a pup. If it's relatively easy to get a pup, the buyer is supporting a cruel, vile industry using living things as nothing more than a commodity. That includes every single pup in pet shops or advertised in newspapers and on websites, worldwide. EVERY ONE of those breeders is unethical and supporting them is shameful. (in my humble opinion ;) )

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 10:39

Hi muurtje. I'm sure there are lots of happy and healthy cav's in the UAE. I know for a fact that there are also lots who suffer severely in the heat and cost their owners a fortune in vet bills. I met a woman who imported one from the UK and she actually had to let it 'toilet' IN the house during the summer. Literally five mins in the heat and the dog would go into heat stress. Imagine being a dog and not being able to go outdoors for MONTHS on end!!!! Many people don't consider that it's not just the heat, it's the very high humidity. Cav's already can't pant efficiently. Add high humidity so that the panting they can do is pretty much useless...high humidity = very low evaporation = extremely low ability to cool themselves. My point is that Cavaliers, like any other brachycephalic breed, are a bad choice for the climate. Any breeder who would sell one to a family moving to such a climate would be my definition of unethical. People bringing a pet they already had in their life before Dubai, I wholeheartedly applaud!! Assuming of course they take its needs into account and cater for the dog, they are being truly responsible pet owners. (We [u'>should[/u'> be taking on a pet and considering its needs for life. For me, choosing a Cavalier (or any other brachycephalic breed) before a planned move to Dubai is as bad as choosing a husky. It does NOT show considered research. I have stressed that I have lots of respect for people who put a lot of thought and research into choosing the right dog. Part of that research MUST include climate suitability. In this case, if the information I've given doesn't convince someone to look at another breed, then I'm afraid I lose my patience. Sorry!! Rambling now. :D You, Air Hostie, have said you'll have a re-think! :D I hope you do find a breed that's right for the climate and feels right for you. <em>edited by Green-ish on 29/11/2011</em>

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 08:16

Actually, Cavaliers are one of the spaniels most affected by brachycephalia. It's the ridiculous show standards to which these animals are bred that demands the 'pushed in' face. http://www.cavalierhealth.org/brachycephalic.htm Cocker spainels are an equally adorable breed, but do not have the pushed in nose & elongated soft palate. English cockers have a longer (healthier) snout than American cockers. Of course both, like all spaniels have the ears prone to moisture and infection. ETA - of course cav's commonly have mitral valve disease too...again, generations of BAD breeding. Heart disease + brachycephalia...recipe for disaster, esp in a hot climate. <em>edited by Green-ish on 29/11/2011</em>

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 02:04

Hi Air Hostie. Great news that this is a considered decision for you...better news for your future pup! Please do have a look at the puppy thread. I'm feeling a little lazy and can't be bothered typing out a whole lot of the 'breeder choice' information again. :D My mum has a rescue CKC re in Aus...ex puppy mill brood b1tch. :( There's no doubt CKC's are gorgeous wee dogs! I really think they are not a good choice for any hot climate though...especially one that is so hot AND humid as UAE. Like the puppy thread about boxers, CKC's are a brachycephalic breed. Their 'squished in' face means that they are pretty hopeless at cooling themselves by panting. Heat stress (and death) are very real risks for CKC's in the UAE. As Nomad mentioned, they and any other dog with hairy, floppy ears will struggle with ear infections in the humidity. Of course there will be happy, healthy CKC's in Dubai, but they will require commitment and work to keep them so. For what it's worth, "rescue" does not have to mean mixed-breed dogs. In the UK, as in every other country with half a conscience, there will be lots of breed-specific rescue organisations. In supporting them and adopting through them, you support their work in shutting down unethical breeders. Have a really good think about your breed choice. Read up on brachycephalic dogs. When you've chosen your breed, please consider starting with the breed rescue groups. Best wishes!

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 01:49

PS - I have three children (6, 4 & 2) and the dogs are wonderful with them. :D

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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 01:48

NOT EUROPUPPY!!!!! Please don't even give them another thought. They are essentially brokers for numerous puppy farms!!! They are THE definition of a vile, immoral business. They trade live animals over the internet without a care in the world for the breed stock or the pups. VILE! Oh their website makes them sound sooooo fabulous and some ignorant people here have fallen for their trap. In a nutshell, unless a breeder makes you really work to proove you deserve one of their beloved dogs, they don't genuinely care about their animals. :( Here's a little thought outside of the box... Have you considered a greyhound?? Here in Aus I'm currently fostering for greyhound rescue and I have two dogs here at the moment. They are THE most placid, calm, gentle, gorgeous dogs!! They are perfect for the UAE climate...especially as a good part of the year dogs must be inside in AC. Greyhounds are the perfect apartment couch potato. They are not too different in build to the local salukis...so a far better choice than many other breeds. If you contact a greyhound rescue group, maybe in the UK (???) they'll still want to know a lot about you before they agree to let you adopt a dog. If you adopt a greyhound you will have the perfect family dog who will reward you with a lifetime of love...and you've saved a precious life. :D I don't know any of the UK rescue groups but here's just one that came up on a search. LOOK at those faces!! http://www.celiacross.org.uk/ :D <em>edited by Green-ish on 30/11/2011</em>

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 18:03

wyddfa...I have much respect for the thought you are putting into this. If only everyone would do the same! I am almost 100% opposed to the breeding of dogs for pets but, I do believe there are (few and far between) some ethical breeders out there. Finding a good one is going to be a long task. DO NOT buy a local puppy...I would guarantee it was bred purely for money and the breeders will have taken no steps to ensure they are breeding ethically. By ethically, amongst other things I mean ONLY for the betterment of the breed and not to some ridiculous show standard. An ethical breeder will only produce pups when they have exactly the right match of dog and b1tch and they will have waiting lists of pre-approved homes before even getting the b1tch pregnant. An ethical breeder will ask LOTS of questions about you; be very wary of selling a pup to people overseas; expect you to sign documents insisting of the return of the dog to them should you ever become unable or unwilling to care for it; probably insist on meeting your whole family...then they may agree to sell you a pup from a future planned litter. If someone has a pup they can sell you tomorrow and they don't want to put you through the hoops first, please don't buy from them. Don't become a supporter of the industry. It's probably best for you to start contacting breeders in your home country. Even via email you'll soon get a good feeling for their 'ethics'. Keep in mind, some breeders just have over-inflated egos and can be arrogant sods...does not mean they breed for the right reasons. When you find the right breeder for you, you can go on a wait list which sometimes requires a deposit to be paid. A pup will not be allowed to travel to the UAE until it's four months old so you will have time to make all arrangements for travel after the litter arrives. Even better if you can go 'home' and spend as much time as possible with the pup before travel then fly home with it. Good luck with your search.

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 17:50

Europuppy or similar? That's the one. Hideous, vile business.

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 17:49

hiccup...has your son been assessed for possible surgery? Poor little fella.

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 17:47

Well said Sue. Asking every child to show consideration for just one is a good life lesson.

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 17:45

And people wonder why diabetes, obesity and other problems are major issues here now. If children are getting sweet stuff left, right and centre at school, where is the parents right to decide what their child is eating? The schools and government are battling to monitor healthy diets and what is being offered in schools, how can they possibly do this when junk is being sent in all the time. *nodding in agreement*

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 17:44

Organics F&C at Dubai Mall?

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 17:41

I am not sure when the trend for cakes started ... but when I was a kid about 20 yrs back, children did bring in little toffees and chocolates as birthday treats. And IMO there is absolutely no harm in a little treat once in a while! ... It's not "once in a while" though is it. With the short time they are at school in a year an 25+ kids in every class, it's often more than once a week. My kids get treats...but by definition, a "treat" is not an every-other-day occurrence is it?

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 17:38

Well hands up - I'm a mum who doesn't agree with cakes or treats at school. Not for any allergy reason, which is serious reason enough but simply - why? Why do parents feel the need to send in cakes to celebrate their LO's birthday? When did this all start? I certainly never had it at school. I'd far rather my DD's ate their lunch I have packed for them rather than be fussed about a sugary cake/lollipop/whatever that the teacher has to then dish out to everyone when they could be doing something else like LEARNING. Well I'm one of the Mums that does send in a cake for my child's birthday so she can celebrate with all her friends rather than have to spend a fortune on a party for 40 kids of which 3/4 lack the decency to turn up. What the is wrong with sending in some cupcakes from time to time. It's not like it's everyday and at our school, it is given after lunch! There's no need to have a big expensive party though is there? We never did as kids? What's wrong with a play & picnic in the park or a simple party at home? Just a celebration with family and a select few actual friends? It's a horrid trend that's caught on in Aus too. There's not a week goes by that my son doesn't come home with some sugary creation. What's wrong with 30 mums sending in cupcakes etc for each of their darlings' birthdays? Classroom time (partic in UAE it seems) is precious enough as it is. No need for 30 extra interruptions throughout the year.

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 17:34

Well hands up - I'm a mum who doesn't agree with cakes or treats at school. Not for any allergy reason, which is serious reason enough but simply - why? Why do parents feel the need to send in cakes to celebrate their LO's birthday? When did this all start? I certainly never had it at school. I'd far rather my DD's ate their lunch I have packed for them rather than be fussed about a sugary cake/lollipop/whatever that the teacher has to then dish out to everyone when they could be doing something else like LEARNING. Hear! Hear!

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 17:24

Almost as bad as the people who buy from mail order internet sites and claim how wonderbar it is........remember that one Greenish? Yep....all too well unfortunately. :( Haven't seen her around for a while.

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 13:09

Thanks Jill, Em and VP. I really am very, very pleased with my progress. Still a little way to go and I will get there!! The thing about this program is that Michelle stresses you can't get any long term results without getting your eating right. She's all about 'clean eating' and, while she's a tad inconsistent (says diet versions with fake sugars are ok!!!), most of her nutritional advice is sound and sensible. I've literally only done a third of the exercise component. I'm full of excuses and it's just too hard for me when my husband is away. That one week a month that he's here, I'm out running or bike riding every morning and LOVING it!!! I wonder how I would have gone if I'd gotten all of the exercise in?? :D I'm going to join Round 1, 2012. SO excited that I'll be at my goal weight by April at the very latest. Only 8 kg to go, but I know they can be the hardest to shift!

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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 11:33

How did you go sourcing that Christmas present farfaraway?? I hope your research showed you where the locally available pups come from - http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=165915 - and that you have started on overseas search for an ethical breeder (of another breed I hope).

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EW EXPERT

Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 11:31

lisalou...before you consider any locally sourced puppies, PLEASE look at this thread... http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=165915

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EW EXPERT

Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 11:29

There are several puppy mills all the pups drop dead within a few weeks of parvo, more fool the idiots buyers who keep then in business. COULDN'T AGREE MORE!!!! And people wonder why I go off my tree when anyone asks for pups in the UAE!!! These mills (or ones just like them overseas) would be the sole sources of pups in every local pet store. People who buy animals from UAE pet stores are FOOLS!!! HOW can anyone who claims to love animals not do their (THOROUGH) research before making a lifetime investment in another living thing?? FFS...the whole thing just makes me ANGRY AND SICK!!!

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EW EXPERT

Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 11:22

hoy! i wanted to borrow a trolley!!! :-P Actually only need it for one day and didn't want to go spending a fortune on one. Though not even sure how much they cost..... Personally I think it's nice that as a community we can lend each other things and help each other out. :) trolleys here are fairly cheap, but they break easily, so if you borrow one, make sure it is not all wiggly after use... LOL. Seriously, that is why I would not borrow. I would feel oh-so embarrassed if it was not in the same condition. Same here! A friend recently sent my son home from a playdate with a ginormous pile of books to borrow. I've read the few stories the children wanted to hear...poor kids banned from touching the books...and now have them all stacked on a HIGH shelf where the sticky-fingered little monsters can't get at them. I can't wait to get them back to my friend. Oh the stress!! :D

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EW EXPERT

Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 11:18

I am always more than happy to loan things to people I know and trust but, in recent years, only when I offer it first and only if I know I can do without it if it's lost/damaged etc. I'm generous to a fault (and modest to boot) and have had valuable items borrowed, trashed and returned with barely even a thank you. I am a little conflicted when people ask to borrow car seats/strollers/mixing bowls/cups of tea on EW. I like that we're clearly a bit of a community and people are comfortable asking (and almost always get what they need); I accept that many people here come from other cultures where borrowing/sharing are the norm. My middle class, Aussie upbringing always makes me cringe a little too though...I would never in a bazillion years ask to borrow a strangers' 800 dirham car seat for some random visitor's child to wipe food, snot and wee all over. ;) Hire one people! Cars?? Apartments??? REALLY?? far out VP...time to reassess your social circles. ;) xx I love the need to mention *middle class* lol :D I need it to be clear I don't have spare cars or apartments. :D <em>edited by Green-ish on 28/11/2011</em>

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EW EXPERT

Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 11:18

Cars?? Apartments??? REALLY?? far out VP...time to reassess your social circles. ;) xx She does not speak to me now...lol......how strange LOL!!

2340

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EW EXPERT

Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 11:15

I am always more than happy to loan things to people I know and trust but, in recent years, only when I offer it first and only if I know I can do without it if it's lost/damaged etc. I'm generous to a fault (and modest to boot) and have had valuable items borrowed, trashed and returned with barely even a thank you. I am a little conflicted when people ask to borrow car seats/strollers/mixing bowls/cups of tea on EW. I like that we're clearly a bit of a community and people are comfortable asking (and almost always get what they need); I accept that many people here come from other cultures where borrowing/sharing are the norm. My middle class, Aussie upbringing always makes me cringe a little too though...I would never in a bazillion years ask to borrow a strangers' 800 dirham car seat for some random visitor's child to wipe food, snot and wee all over. ;) Hire one people! Cars?? Apartments??? REALLY?? far out VP...time to reassess your social circles. ;) xx

2340

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 06:36

You're welcome. Hope the move and settling is going smoothly. xx Now...just to get everyone else to be such a responsible pet owner. :D

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