Local beach listing

Many of the beaches require parking fees — anywhere from $2 to $8 per vehicle.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Fees:

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Knights hold off Dogs

Jarrod Mullen has sent a blunt message to NSW Origin selectors after guiding the Newcastle Knights to a tense 22-14 defeat of a fast-finishing Bulldogs side at EnergyAustralia Stadium on Sunday.

Mullen, unlucky to be overlooked for the Origin opener in Melbourne on Wednesday night, was the architect of a brilliant first-half Newcastle attacking display, setting up the Knights’ opening three tries as they raced to what appeared to be an unassailable 20-0 half-time lead.

But the Bulldogs can …

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When It Comes To Exercising Your Dog, How Much Is Needed?

I see many overweight dogs at the dog park. So even though you take your dog out – then still need some form of exercise.

In humans, the importance of exercise has been proven time and again. But what about our canine friends? Is it enough to just feed them properly and give them occasional walks? What are the benefits of exercise to dogs?

All dogs need exercise

Studies as well as experience have shown that dogs who are getting adequate exercise are healthier and happier. They are also more social when they are in public places. When dogs are given regular exercise, they are more calm at home and are less restless when left alone. However, just like feeding, choosing the right amount of exercise for your dog should depend on several factors. These factors are age, size, and type of breed.

Age: Puppies require daily exercise for proper muscle development. Their high energy levels need to be released in some form of constructive activity, and giving them their daily exercise is the best way to do it. Not being able to release their pent-up energy can lead to destructive behavior such as chewing or digging. On the other hand, a mature, aging dog needs less exercise because of their lower energy levels.

Size: Large dogs do not necessarily need more exercise than small dogs. In fact, many large breeds like the Mastiff or Great Dane would rather relax and sit on the porch all day then go out for a 2 mile run. Nevertheless, they also need their daily exercise, perhaps one or two 30 minute walks everyday. On the other hand, many types of small breeds such as the Jack Russell Terrier or Chihuahua still keep on going even after a three-mile walk.

Type Of Breed: Your dog’s breed is also a big factor on the amount of exercise required. For instance, dogs that were originally bred to herd such as the Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie, and German Shepherd need to be exercise daily. Another example of a breed that requires daily exercise are those that were originally bred to hunt (hunting dogs). Examples of these dogs are the Beagle, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and German Hunt Terrier. And finally,sled dogs such as the Siberian Husky, Samoyed, and Alaskan malamute share the same high level of energy as the herding dogs and hunting dogs and therefore, need to be exercised on a regular basis.

7 Ways To Improve The Life Of Shelter And Rescue Dogs

We are supporters of rescue and shelter dogs. So here are some tips.

There are many dogs out there that are, for several reasons, left without a home and end up being displaced at a shelter. If you are thinking about helping these homeless dogs but aren’t sure what to do, the best way to improve the lives of shelter dogs is to adopt one.

Giving these dogs a good home is the most important thing that you can do. But if adopting a dog is just not an option right now, there are other things that you can do to better the lives of shelter dogs.  Below are several suggestions to keep in mind.

1. Visit your local shelter and spend some time with the dogs. Donating some of your time to simply hang out and play with these canine residents can make a huge difference to their lives. Most of the time, shelter staff are very busy with their work and they do not have the extra time to interact with the dogs. Shelter employees can always use the help of others to come and play and socialize with their residence. They are more than happy to show you around and figure out what you can do to help out.

As a volunteer, you can take the dogs for a walk around the block, give them a little pampering by brushing their coats, or just be there and hang out with them.  Shelter dogs get very little attention, and a short visit with them does a lot to improve their well-being.

2. You may volunteer to take these dogs to an obedience class that will better their chances for an adoption.

3. Take one day of the week to help wash and groom the dogs and then bring them to adoption fairs.

4. Sponsor a fund raising party and donate the cash to your local rescue organization. You may also ask for donations of items that you can bring to the shelter.  These include blankets, food and treats, collars, leashes, toys, kennels, etc.

5. You may also volunteer to be a foster parent and keep the rescued dog at your house until he or she finds a permanent home.

6. Inform people about dog adoption and being a shelter volunteer by placing an ad in your local paper or putting up signs on bulletin boards and at dog parks.

7. And last but not the least, keep in mind that the best way to prevent shelter overcrowding is to spay or neuter your pets and to spread the word about the benefits of getting these house pets fixed.

Stitches – Domestic Shorthair

Cat Breed: Domestic Shorthair

Motto: Just Taking it easy!

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Bella – Domestic Shorthair

Cat Breed: Domestic Shorthair

Motto: Mew!

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Szkaradnica -

Cat Breed:

Motto: Szkaradnica

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Junior – Domestic Shorthair

Cat Breed: Domestic Shorthair

Motto: I live life to purrfection

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kitty-no-tails – Manx

Cat Breed: Manx

Motto: I’ll love you forever if you scratch my belly

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Picasso – Persian

Cat Breed: Persian

Motto: mini-lion

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