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Tag: dogs

  • Chagee Brews a Unique Blend: First Pet-Friendly Tea Store Launches in Southeast Asia

    Chagee Brews a Unique Blend: First Pet-Friendly Tea Store Launches in Southeast Asia

    Chagee, a Chinese tea chain, has broadened its horizons with the unveiling of its inaugural pet-friendly store in Eastwood City, Manila, in the Philippines. This ground-breaking concept in Southeast Asia has been designed to appeal to both pet owners and their beloved fluffy friends.

    Embracing Pet-Friendly Experiences

    The novel store offers an alfresco seating arrangement, complete with weather-resistant benches. The floor has been designed to be non-slip to ensure a pet-friendly environment. The store is also equipped with air purifiers and incorporates various safety-oriented aspects to cater to pets. Notably, the entrance is marked by a rooftop cat fixture and a dog sculpture, signifying the store’s pet-loving ethos.

    Additionally, pets are welcomed by the provision of free water served in specially designated bowls. The store also takes into consideration the tea lovers’ needs. An encased tea bar with transparent glass panels allows customers to observe their drinks being prepared while keeping the tea safe from pet fur and dander.

    The store also prioritizes cleanliness and hygiene. It boasts a cleaning station equipped with wet wipes, lint rollers, and trash bags. An inside handwashing station is also available to further promote sanitary practices.

    Creating Community-Oriented Spaces

    According to Christopher Tiong, the General Manager of Chagee Philippines, the launch of this new concept aligns perfectly with the ongoing surge in pet ownership. The initiative mirrors the company’s ongoing effort to create more community-oriented spaces.

    “We have always used our tea to bring people together, and the bonds we share with our pets are equally special”, Tiong said. “With this innovative store, we aim to merge tea culture and pet companionship in a warm, welcoming space that everybody can enjoy.”

    Chagee sets itself apart through its distinct luxury-leaning, minimalist brand identity. The chain is renowned for its commitment to using real tea leaves, fresh milk, and refraining from the use of any artificial sweeteners.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Chagee’s pet-friendly store concept?
    Chagee’s pet-friendly store concept is a novel space designed to cater to both pet owners and their pets. It offers alfresco seating, non-slip flooring, air purifiers, and safety-focused features. Pets are provided with free water and there is an enclosed tea bar for customers.

    Where is Chagee’s first pet-friendly store located?
    Chagee’s first pet-friendly store is located in Eastwood City, Manila, Philippines.

    What differentiates Chagee from other tea chains?
    Chagee differentiates itself by using real tea leaves and fresh milk in their drinks while avoiding artificial sweeteners. Its brand identity is minimalist and leans towards luxury.

  • Vietnam Cracks Down on Pet Policy: Harsher Fines for Free-Roaming Dogs and Cats on the Horizon

    Vietnam Cracks Down on Pet Policy: Harsher Fines for Free-Roaming Dogs and Cats on the Horizon

    Beginning December 15, a new government decree in Vietnam is set to impose stricter regulations and heftier fines against pet owners who allow their animals to roam freely in public spaces or those who graze livestock and poultry within residential complexes. Violators could face fines up to VND1 million (approximately US$38).

    New Regulations on Pets and Livestock

    The government decree, which pertains to administrative penalties in security, public order, and societal issues, significantly increases the existing fine for loose pets. Previously, the fine was between VND100,000 and VND300,000. With the new regulation in place, the fine will range from VND500,000 to VND1 million.

    The same penalties will apply to individuals who permit their pets, plants or other items to obstruct public spaces such as sidewalks, roads, parks, or communal residential areas.

    Heavier Penalties for Property Damage and Unauthorized Content

    The authorities plan to enforce tougher penalties on pet owners whose animals cause injury or damage property. Fines for such violations will fall between VND2 and VND3 million. In addition, individuals who deface public property such as walls and power poles, or attach unauthorized images or content to these structures, will face the same penalties.

    Regulations against Grazing Livestock in Residential Areas

    For the first time, clear rules have been established against the practice of grazing livestock or poultry within apartment buildings. The decree also outlines the penalties that will be imposed on pet owners whose animals cause harm to people or property.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the new regulations for pet owners in Vietnam?
    Pet owners are now required to prevent their animals from roaming freely in public spaces and grazing livestock within residential complexes. Failure to do so could result in fines of up to VND1 million.

    What are the penalties for property damage caused by pets?
    Pet owners whose animals cause injury or damage will face fines between VND2 and VND3 million.

    Are there penalties for obstructing public spaces with pets, plants, or other objects?
    Yes, individuals who allow their pets, plants, or other items to obstruct public spaces such as sidewalks, roads, parks, or shared residential areas will face fines similar to those for free-roaming pets.

  • Real Pet Food Pledges $1.3m For Safety Upgrades After Epa Directive Following Acid Spill Incident

    Real Pet Food Pledges $1.3m For Safety Upgrades After Epa Directive Following Acid Spill Incident

    Real Pet Food, also recognised as Australian Pet Brands, is set to expend over $1.3 million on safety improvements and equipment upgrades. This decision comes following a directive from the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) after a phosphoric acid leakage incident at the company’s Dubbo location.

    Details of the Incident

    A defective valve is reportedly to blame for the spillage of around 300 litres of phosphoric acid within the production tower of the facility. The acid, a chemical agent used to extend the shelf-life of pet food, spread across several levels of the building. Emergency Hazmat crews were deployed to manage the clean-up operation.

    Company’s Response and Legal Obligations

    In response to the incident, the EPA accepted a legally binding Enforceable Undertaking (EU) from the company. As per this agreement, Real Pet Food is required to disburse over $1.38 million to implement preventive measures against such incidents in the future. Jason Gordon, EPA’s executive director of regulatory operations, emphasised the gravity of the incident, stating that while no environmental harm transpired, the risk potential was significant.

    Enforced Changes

    The impending changes, according to Gordon, will not only enhance safety for the site’s workers but also augment environmental protection by improving how chemicals are stored, monitored, and managed. The company is expected to move its acid dosing system from the top to the ground floor and automate previously manual systems, such as dosing products’ valve controls and holding tanks. Furthermore, it is required to bolster spill containment measures and enhance its training and inspection procedures.

    In addition, as part of its agreement with the EPA, the company will donate $75,000 to the Wambangalang Environmental Education Centre. The funds will be used to carry out repairs and improvements to the centre’s model wetland teaching space.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the changes that Real Pet Food needs to implement as per the agreement?
    The company is required to relocate its acid dosing system from the top to the ground floor, automate manual systems, strengthen spill containment measures and improve training and inspection procedures.

    What was the reason behind the phosphoric acid spill at the facility?
    A faulty valve was identified as the cause of the leakage of approximately 300 litres of phosphoric acid within the facility’s production tower.

    What will be the use of the $75,000 that the company will pay to the Wambangalang Environmental Education Centre?
    The funds will be utilised for repairs and enhancements to the centre’s model wetland teaching space.

  • Nectar of the dogs expands into Southeast Asia

    Nectar of the dogs expands into Southeast Asia

    Australian pet supplement brand Nectar Of The Dogs – which launched in the Australian market in 2021– is now expanding to meet the needs of overseas dog owners. Through a partnership with Asia Pet World, Nectar Of The Dogs is now available for online purchase and distribution globally, with pet owners in Singapore able to purchase the products in store.

    The partnership marks a dramatic milestone for the Sydney based start-up, which until now has been available to purchase only within Australia. Partnering with Asia Petworld means Nectar Of The Dogs can now reach the distributor’s network of over 500,000 households, and will be stocked on the shelves of Singpet Superstore – Singapore’s largest pet store.

    Partnering with natural health experts, veterinarians, food technologists and dog lovers, Nectar’s range of medicinal water supplements are made in Australia with high-quality, human-grade, plant-based ingredients. Nectar’s formulations are aimed to assist pet parents with the top health concerns for today’s dogs, including joints, immune system, calming the nervous system, and supporting skin health, gut and digestive system. The five products from Nectar’s range will be available to dog owners throughout Singapore.

    The growth of the brand represents rising demand for high quality, natural supplements for dogs, not just in the Australian market. Formulated in Australia by a team of food technologists and complementary health experts, Nectar Of The Dogs offers human grade, plant-based supplements that dogs find delicious.

    “We’re experts in supplements for dogs and people,” shares Nectar of the Dogs Founder, Gabriel Perera. “With Nectar, we’ve created a range of products that we wanted for our own dogs, with each ingredient painstakingly formulated to deliver maximum benefit, based on clinical evidence in dogs that tastes amazing.”

    More than just a healthy dog supplement brand, plant-based and Australian-made Nectar is better for the planet. All of Nectar’s formulas are carefully packaged in recyclable and compostable packaging, avoiding any single-use plastics.

  • Amazon Australia invites dogs into the workspace

    Amazon Australia invites dogs into the workspace

    Amazon Australia will now permit employees to bring their pooches to work at its Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Canberra offices. The global Dogs at Work (DAW) program currently has 8000 registered pooches. Having dogs at the workplace is shown to reduce stress levels, increase interaction between employees and boost morale.

    Independent research commissioned by Amazon Australia found that 23% of Australians welcomed a dog into their family during the pandemic while seven out of 10 dog owners want to take their pets to work.

    One in two owners feels anxious to leave their pets at home while more than 57% think their dogs will struggle when they return back to the office.

    Senior human resources business partner Laura Nemaz said the DAW program is already proving a ‘massive hit’ with employees.

    “Dogs add to our dynamic and collaborative workplace and we’ve found they are an unexpected mechanism for connection.”

    The most popular dog breeds among Amazon Australia employees are Labradors and King Charles Cavaliers. Other breeds that have been registered include Samoyeds, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Border Collies, French Bulldogs, Vizslas, and Boston Terriers.

    In order to participate in this workplace benefit, dogs must be registered. Employees need to provide the dog’s name and breed, registration form, microchip, and vaccination certificates.

    Once registered, DAW pooches will each receive a ‘Woof Pack’ that includes a branded bag, a doggy mat for them to lie down, a water bowl and a key chain along with treats at each reception.

    Dogs will also have their own designated lift from the loading dock of the facility in order to not impact the other residents/tenants of the building.

  • Waze adds cats and dogs voices and moods, car icons to its app

    Waze adds cats and dogs voices and moods, car icons to its app

    More voices are coming to one of the most popular navigation app, Waze. This time we have something special to talk about, as Waze is adding cats and dogs voices to its mobile apps. So, regardless of whether you’re a cat or dog person, Waze now has you covered.

    From today for a limited time, Waze users can choose between two navigation voices that personify a dog or a cat. But we’re getting a lot more than just two voices, as each is themed toward a different mood.

    The dog voice is upbeat, positive, encouraging, and excited (distracted too!), while the cat voice is c, but also funny and irreverent. So it’s up to each user to choose the theme they like.

    In addition to the new voices, Waze introduces new car icons that can be used on the live map, such as the Meow Mobile and the Woof Wagon. There are also meant to show the user’s pet preference as they’ll have to change their mood to Cat or Dog.

    Keep in mind that the Cat & Dog theme will be available in English, French, and Spanish for a limited time, so make sure to download them before they’re gone.

  • Pagerie releases what it bills as world-first luxury accessories for dogs

    Pagerie releases what it bills as world-first luxury accessories for dogs

    The brand, which bills itself as the world’s first “luxury fashion house for pets”, makes each piece by hand using sandy-hued, full-grain French leather and marine-grade stainless steel normally reserved for making yachts.

    “I just always found it odd when I’d see people dressed immaculately but then their dog is sporting a bright red plastic leash from a chain pet store,” founder Mandy Madden Kelley told Dezeen.

    “Our pets are a reflection and extension of ourselves and I realized there was such a gap in the market for products that live up to that connection.”

    The Sahara collection shuns an overly cutesy or utilitarian look in favor of a minimalist design and form-fitting silhouette reminiscent of equestrian equipment.

    “Everything about Pagerie’s styles, shapes cuts, and patterns is meant to conform to the shapes and contours of our dogs,” said Kelley.

    “Other pet accessories tend to be too sporty, masculine or they tend to cover the pet’s entire body. What I was looking for was something more sensual. I wanted to create designs that highlight the gracefulness and elegance that pets have.”

    At $380, the Dórro collar is the cheapest item in the collection and comes with a buckle that can be adjusted to its wearer on first use.

    From then on, the collar can be fastened and unfastened in a process “as seamless as opening and closing your Birkin”, Kelley explained, simply by closing the steel turnlock and securing it by flipping down the hook at the center.

    The matching Tascher leash can be set to three different lengths and used for two dogs simultaneously. It also comes with a cylindrical pouch for doggie bags or treats, rendered in the same sand-colored leather as the other pieces.

    As the most expensive piece, the $720 Babbi harness is modeled after a horse’s saddle and even comes with a removable, quilted lining similar to the saddle pads worn by horses.

    Kelley, a former lawyer and current beauty influencer, argues the collection’s price tag is justified because it will encourage slower, more considered consumption.

    “I would be shocked walking into someone’s homes if they had several different leashes and collars simply because they weren’t able to come across something high quality that they love,” she said.

    “Quality costs more but it can last a lifetime. When my team and I developed the designs for Pagerie, we made them to be timeless, high-quality pieces that would never go out of style or need to be disposed of or replaced.”

    The Sahara collection is the first release by pet wear label Pagerie

    Choupette, the famed cat of late fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, also made its first foray into pet accessories this year, releasing a woollen, hammock-style cat bed in collaboration with German brand LucyBalu.

    Elsewhere, Asif Khan’s contribution to the Architecture for Dogs exhibition at London’s Japan House saw the British architect add a circular crater to the top of a felt-covered table to allow dogs to snuggle up in it.

  • Link’s Stanley Plaza launches seaside speed-dating for dogs

    Link’s Stanley Plaza launches seaside speed-dating for dogs

    Link’s Stanley Plaza is presenting Hong Kong’s first seaside speed-dating event for dogs. Now in its eighth year, the Paws by the Sea 2019 event will involve a series of events held at the plaza on the weekends from March 23 to 31, including the doggie speed-dating activity. Dog owners and their dogs are invited to attend together to find their true love, and loving dogs-in-waiting will have the chance to be adopted into a new family.

    The events constitute part of Link’s Stanley Plaza’s commitment to providing innovative services for customers and their pets as Hong Kong’s first pet-friendly shopping mall.

    Stanley Plaza and the Society for Abandoned Animals will hold a “Walk the Dog Experiential Tour” for people who are considering adopting a dog to assess their chemistry with the dogs being considered for adoption. On March 31, Link will also host the “Doggie Wedding Gown Exhibition and Design Competition”, in which dog owners can design a unique wedding dress for their doggies and dress up them as a model in the catwalk show. At the same time, there is a dog wedding exhibition which collects various dog marriage information for each dog owner.

    Stanley Plaza will also challenge the Guinness world record for the “Longest Line of Glass Bottles” again on March 24, where dog owners will write love letters to their dogs and decorate their own “love bottle” to add to the line. After the event, owners may take their bespoke bottle home as souvenir.

    Several large-scale dog photo spots, exciting activities and workshops are also being arranged concurrently, including a photography tour, a “Love the Dogs Educational Workshop”, a “Pet Doctor Workshop Doggie” and “Love Is in The Air Carnival Exhibition”.