Latest news with #Pets
The Sun
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
Home Bargains is selling 79p dog accessory that's the ‘ultimate solution' for keeping your pet cool in 30C heat
HOME Bargains has a cheap dog accessory for sale that is perfect for keeping your pet cool over the summer months. As temperatures rise, it is important to ensure pets remain safe from the heat at all hours of the day. The Pets Cooling Bandana from Home Bargains is the "ultimate solution" for pet owners, which can even provide relief when they need to be left alone. Selling at just 79p, this pet item is both useful for helping them in 30C heat, as well as being a stylish accessory that is cheap. As the retailer suggests, it is crucial to ensure pets do not overheat because "if you're hot, your pets are no, panting isn't a vibe." The cooling bandana works by being made from a cool touch 100 per cent polyester material. As stated in the product's description, it is "the perfect accessory to ensure your pet stays comfortable during those scorching days." Available in small, medium or large, this accessory can be used on cats or dogs of various sizes. On top of that, it is not the only cheap cooling solution that Home Bargains is providing for pets this summer. The discount variety store also has a range of other budget-friendly items that can be useful for keeping pets cool. Among those include a range of cooling mats, that are priced between £3.99 and £5.99 depending on size. They also have an Aquapaw Pet Bathing Sprayer that is significantly discounted, and useful for keeping your dog cool and clean. How to keep pets safe during a heatwave With an 82 per cent discount, the Aquapaw Pet Bathing Sprayer now costs just £3.99 from Home Bargains, rather than its original price of £22.99. It is an "innovative wearable tool" that combines a sprayer and a scrubber that can be turned on and off at the press of a button. Advice for pet owners in the summer From the British Veterinary Association Summer can be a wonderful time of the year, with time spent outside enjoying the sunshine and warmer weather. However, like us, our pets are also vulnerable to heat-related problems and illnesses. Each year, vets see pets suffering from heat-related conditions like heatstroke, breathing problems, burnt paw pads and sunburn. Dogs lead the pack in the number of cases vets see, followed by rabbits and cats. Even on overcast or humid summer days, cars and spaces like conservatories can quickly heat up and our pets can be at risk of overheating. If you're concerned about any animal, always speak to a vet as quickly as possible. Heat-related illnesses can be fatal but early intervention can save lives. The British Veterinary Association has some top tips on how to keep our pets safe in hot weather. Check access to water and shade Make sure that all pets, from dogs and cats to birds, rabbits and guinea pigs, always have access to fresh water to drink, adequate ventilation, and shade from direct sunlight. Never leave animals in cars, conservatories, outbuildings, or caravans on a warm day, even if it's overcast or just for a short while, as this can be fatal for them. Provide pets with a cool mat and fan and keep frozen water bottles covered in towels in their living space. For rabbits and guinea pigs, you can provide extra shade by covering the top of wire mesh runs with damp towels. Lightly misting rabbits' ears with cold water is also an effective way to help cool them, as long as this doesn't stress them. Don't forget the wild animals that visit our gardens - keep out a bowl of fresh, clean water for wildlife such as birds and hedgehogs. Keep dog walks to cooler times of the day Dogs won't stop playing and running if it is hot, so it's up to owners to take action to prevent them overheating. This includes making sure they aren't walked or exercised in the middle of a hot day. Stick to early morning or late evening walks when its cooler. Breeds such as English or French bulldogs and pugs are at greater risk in summer. Their flat faces can make breathing difficult, and they struggle to cool down by panting, which is the main way for a dog to reduce its body temperature. Take extra care when walking flat-faced breeds, older or overweight dogs, and dogs that you know have heart or lung problems. Do the five-second tarmac test before taking a dog out for a walk: if it feels too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Never leave animals in cars or conservatories Never leave your pet inside a car or conservatory, even for a quick trip to the supermarket, as 'not long' can prove fatal. Leaving the car windows open and a bowl of water is not enough. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, it is best to dial 999 and report it to police. Protect against sunburn It's not just people that need to protect themselves from sunburn. Some breeds of cats and dogs, particularly those with light-coloured or finer fur, may also benefit from it. Apply a 30 SPF (or above) pet-safe sun cream, especially on the ear tips and noses, which are prone to sunburn. Ask your vet for advice if you have any questions about this. Check for flystrike Flystrike is a life-threatening risk for rabbits and guinea pigs in the warmer months. Check their bottoms twice a day to make sure they are clean and to spot any early signs of fly eggs or maggots. A 'sticky bottom' is not only at much higher risk of flystrike, but it may also be due to a problem with your rabbit's teeth or digestion. Flystrike is an emergency with rapid deterioration so if in any doubt call your vet straight away. Speak with your vet for advice on how reduce the risk of flystrike. For more tips and advice on taking care of your pets during hot weather, visit the British Veterinary Association's website.
Telegraph
24-06-2025
- Telegraph
The ultimate global guide to flying with animals
Flying with your pet on holiday is about to get much easier. Keir Starmer's 'Brexit Reset' deal will grant greater freedoms to our furry friends with the return of pre-Brexit 'Pet Passport', a simpler and cheaper alternative to the current legislation. However, despite the deal being announced in May, its launch date is yet to be confirmed – so for now, your tabby or terrier's holiday preparations should involve an Animal Health Certificate, microchip and vaccinations, at the very least. If you plan to fly further afield, or to take a small or exotic animal overseas, then expect the paperwork – and costs – to rise. While transporting a pet via train, road or sea is often preferable to flying, sometimes air is the only option – especially if you're relocating or embarking on a long-haul (and lengthy) break. It can be a complicated business – so we've tried to make it simpler, delving into the rules and requirements of flying with animals, and the potential costs involved. I'm going to Europe on holiday – can my dog or cat fly with me? Absolutely, though you'll need to abide by the rules of your destination and airline – as well as the UK's on your return journey. Note, your pet may not be able to travel in the cabin with you (see guidance below). Good news: compliance with the EU's Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) means your pet won't need to quarantine at either end of the journey. Under the UK's current rules, your companion must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before they travel, when they must be at least 12 weeks old. If they're already vaccinated, they may need a booster. You must also have an Animal Health Certificate (AHC), issued by an official vet. You'll need a new one every time you travel; they're valid for 10 days after issue for entry to the EU, and cover up to five animals. Prices range from £90 to £200, so shop around. For example, Easy Pet Travel in Kent charges £99 per AHC plus £25 for any additional pet, or £69 per AHC for repeat customers. If you're flying your dog to Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway, you'll also need proof of tapeworm treatment. Different rules apply when travelling to Northern Ireland: see below. At your destination, your documentation will be checked at the relevant point of entry for animals; failure to comply may lead to fines, a lengthy quarantine or refusal of entry. Your destination may also impose its own individual rules: to check, visit its government website. Note that some breeds, such as dangerous dogs, may be prohibited outright. The above rules also apply to assistance dogs. What are the rules for cats and dogs flying home to the UK? If your pet resides in the UK, you must follow the UK Government's rules when travelling back from your holiday too. These include using an approved route, microchipping, vaccinations and travel documents. For the full list, and the destinations that won't entail quarantine on return, see the UK Government's guidance on bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret to Great Britain. The UK doesn't currently allow animals to enter the country when flying in the cabin on commercial flights. They must be travelling in the hold or on a charter flight; check the list of approved airlines and airports that offer this service. Where can my dog or cat fly in the cabin with me? Rules on cabin travel for animals vary by airline: some allow it with caveats such as weight and breed, while others (such as British Airways) only accept pets in the hold. Some – for example Virgin Atlantic, Easyjet and Ryanair – don't accept any pets, even in the hold. However, be warned that even if your pet is permitted in the cabin when travelling outbound, animals must travel in the hold when flying into the UK – arriving via cabin is forbidden. In Europe, KLM, Lufthansa and Air France allow dogs and cats to travel in the cabin, though this depends on the route and aircraft type. They will need to be transported in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you, and weighs no more than 8kg – including your pet. They'll have to stay in the bag for the whole flight. Lufthansa adds: 'your pet must be obedient to your commands and behave appropriately (e.g. no barking or growling). If [it] does not behave in an appropriate manner, Lufthansa may transfer it to the cargo hold at an additional cost or refuse to transport it.' If you're travelling on a codeshare flight, check the rules with the carrier that is operating it. Some airlines also refuse to carry certain breeds either in the hold or cabin, such as aggressive dogs and brachycephalic (snub-nosed) cats and dogs – for example pugs and pekingese, because of the danger of breathing issues. Different rules apply to assistance dogs. According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), airlines must accept assistance dogs free of charge. Many airlines seat passengers with guide dogs in the front row so they have extra space. My holiday is outside Europe – can my dog or cat fly with me? Yes, though again the rules of your destination, airline and re-entry to the UK will apply. To leave the UK, you will also need an Export Health Certificate (EHC), and to complete an Export Application Form (EXA). Compulsory quarantine may also apply. Rules for transporting animals outside the EU vary by destination. For example, if you're taking a dog from the UK to the US they'll need a microchip, health check and CDC Dog Import Form (free). They must be aged at least six months, and can only travel in the hold. If you're travelling to Abu Dhabi, you can take your cat or dog in the cabin with Etihad – though it'll need to be at least 16 weeks old and weigh less than 8kg (including carrier). You'll also need to comply with the UAE's entry rules, which include providing a UAE Health Certificate for your pet and proof of certain vaccinations. To check your destination's rules, visit its government website. When you're returning home, you must follow the UK Government's rules on importing pets: these include using an approved route, microchipping, vaccinations and travel documents. For the full list, see Should I use a pet travel service? If your animal is flying in the hold, an animal travel service acts as a 'middleman' between you and the airline – it's not obligatory, but can help you to avoid falling foul of the red tape involved. They can ensure all paperwork is in order, supply the travel crate ahead of time, provide exercise areas and kennels at either end of the journey, and arrange onward travel by land. Of course, this will be more expensive than if you liaise directly with the airline; expect to pay anything from 5 to 20 per cent more, depending on the pet, level of service and complexity of the journey. How much does it cost to fly a dog or cat? Naturally, that depends on your route, and whether your animal is in the care of an airline or travel service. For example, Air France charges €125 (£106) to fly a pet in the cabin in Europe, or €200 (£170) in the hold. Meanwhile, to transport a small dog from London to Istanbul, Turkish Airlines charges £78 in the cabin or £155 in the hold. Looking longer-haul, taking your cat or dog to Abu Dhabi with Etihad costs USD1,500 (£1,108) in economy, or USD1,500 plus the cost of an extra seat in business class. If taking your cat to Doha or Dubai on Qatar Airways or Emirates, expect to pay £1,400–1,600 with an animal travel service, advises UK-based transporter Fetch A Pet. Taking a small dog to the US can cost from £1,400 with American Airlines, rising to £6,000 for large breeds and more complex flight routes. All prices are one-way. What's it like for pets in the hold of an aircraft? Don't worry, your pet won't be thrown in with the suitcases. 'Airlines have strict protocols to ensure the safety of animals, including secure travel crates and careful handling,' says animal travel service PetAir UK. 'Pets are typically loaded last and removed first, minimising their time in the hold.' The aircraft hold is pressurised, well ventilated, and approximately the same temperature as the cabin. 'Noise levels are not significantly higher than those in the passenger cabin, and pets are protected from the effects of turbulence,' adds PetAir UK. Your airline or pet travel service will be able to provide a travel crate, which must adhere to certain standards. They are hard-sided, with good ventilation and a secure door, and should be big enough for the animal to stand, move and lie comfortably. You should also add an absorbent pad, as your pet will need to stay hydrated during the flight. 'Travel boxes must be fitted with a water bowl that is the correct size for your pet to get to,' advises TUI. 'The water and a funnel needs to be fitted to the outside of the container so water can be added prior to departure.' How can I prepare my pet for travelling in the hold? It's vital to familiarise them with their travel carrier before the trip, to help ensure they feel safe and calm while in transit. Try setting it up at home as a bed, with familiar toys, blankets and food, allowing your pet to become familiar with both the space and the water dispenser. Just prior to travel, IATA – the International Air Transport Association – recommends that you: Reduce the quantity of food the day before but give [your dog] enough water Take your dog for a walk before leaving for the airport and again before check-in Give them a light meal two hours before tendering the animal to the carrier, to help calm it Check with your airline or pet travel service, as they may have additional guidance. Should you use tranquilisers if your pet is flying in the hold? Absolutely not, says IATA: '[using tranquilisers] without frequent or continual observation of the animal can lead to situations where the animal's life can be threatened.' This could be via obstruction of the airway or breathing difficulties due to abnormal postures, or loss of balance making them more susceptible to injury. However, calming sprays are commonly used by pet travel services and airlines. For example, TUI recommends herbal calmers for animals in the hold, while animal travel service Fetch A Pet treats uses pheromone sprays Adaptil or Feliway. I have a small or exotic pet – can I take it abroad with me? Potentially, yes – but should you? 'Cats, rabbits and small animals who aren't familiar with travelling and visiting new places shouldn't be taken on holiday, because the experience is likely to be too stressful for them,' says the RSPCA. However, if you're emigrating or relocating long-term then flying your small or exotic pet could be a viable option. Note that the Government's guidance on taking cats and dogs to/from the UK also applies to ferrets, because they're thought to have the same rabies risk. Check the entry/exit rules of your destination, as well as the UK for your return. They vary according to animal species; for example, to take your rabbit to Spain you will need an Export Health Certificate (9005), while if you wish to take your snake to France, you'll need a Reptile Health Certificate (9027) and potentially a CITES permit, depending on its species. Most small and exotic pets must travel in an aircraft hold. Those with more specialist needs or sensitive dispositions may benefit from the assistance of a specialist travel service. However, some airlines have surprising exceptions: for example, Qatar Airways allows passengers to travel to Doha with one pet falcon in the cabin; priced USD270 (£198) per bird in economy class. Does pet travel insurance cover animals flying abroad? Yes, in some instances – depending on the type of animal, and factors such as age and pre-existing conditions. For example, Sainsbury's Pet Insurance for cats and dogs covers overseas travel to all countries for which the UK Government doesn't require quarantine. Always check the small-print of your policy. I don't want to put my pet in the hold – is there an alternative? Could you travel by land or sea? While pets aren't permitted on the Eurostar to/from London, they're welcome on Eurotunnel LeShuttle if you have a vehicle – including dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, amphibians and reptiles. For onward travel, pets can travel on EU rail services such as TGV, Renfe and Italo, though restrictions and fees may apply. Various ferry services to/from the UK also accept animals. For example, Irish Ferries offers dedicated 'Pet Den' lounges with water dispensers and snack service on its UK-France and UK-Ireland crossings, while Brittany Ferries features pet-friendly cabins and dog kennels on selected ships. The same entry/exit rules apply for your destination and return, but your animal will be able to travel with you. I think of my pet as an emotional support animal – can it fly in the cabin with me? While different rules apply to assistance dogs (see the CAA's guidance), 'emotional support animals' – ie pets that help with anxiety or depression – have no official protections. Some airlines have allowed them to travel in cabins in recent years, however, they're under no legal obligation to do so. Your animal will be treated exactly the same as any other pet. Emotional support animals were originally popularised in the US, where more relaxed flying laws saw them accepted in aircraft cabins. While cats and dogs are most common, other notable instances have included US passengers flying – or trying to fly – with pigs, spiders, frogs and goats. In 2018, Delta Airlines reported that some travellers had 'attempted to fly with comfort turkeys, gliding possums known as sugar gliders, snakes, spiders and more'. The airline, and others in the US, have since tightened their pet policies. What about flying with my pet in the UK? For the stress that flying will likely cause you and your pet, it's almost certainly a better plan to drive or take the train to your destination. If you're travelling to Northern Ireland, there are some entry requirements for dogs, cats and ferrets – regardless of whether you're arriving by air or sea. They must be microchipped and you'll need a Northern Ireland Pet Travel Document (free); you should need no further documentation for your return to Britain, but check the advice of NI's Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
How to have the best Sunday in L.A., according to Bryce Dallas Howard
Third-generation actor and director Bryce Dallas Howard has a lot going on — so much so that when The Times caught up with her recently, she was just getting over laryngitis. 'Last week, it was like I would open my mouth and it was air coming out,' she said, admitting that it's challenging for her to be disciplined about, say, not speaking. But you can't really blame her: Talking is part of the business. And there's a lot of business to attend to. On Thursday, Howard's action comedy "Deep Cover" arrived on Prime Video. Howard stars alongside Orlando Bloom and Nick Mohammed as three improv actors recruited by the police to help with sting operations, hilariously committing to the bit. Prior to that, Howard directed and produced the Disney+ documentary "Pets," which examines the relationship between people and their furry friends. She's starred as Claire Dearing in the "Jurassic World" franchise ('If the team would ever have Claire back, I'll be there in a heartbeat,' she says), appeared in the acclaimed TV show "Black Mirror" and directed episodes of "The Mandalorian" and "Skeleton Crew," to name a few recent career highlights. (In her spare time, she's getting a degree from an online fine arts school.) The ideal Sunday, then, for this NYU grad — whose first onscreen appearance at age 7 was as an extra in her dad Ron Howard's "Parenthood" — includes lots of hot chocolate ('I always say I should have a T-shirt that says, 'Powered by hot chocolate' ') and delicious food ('I like to eat little yummy things throughout the day'). There's also time with her husband, Seth Gabel, their kids, Theo, 18, and Bea, 13, and their beloved pets. And don't forget, she has to finish that portfolio for art school! This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity. 7 a.m.: Rise and hot chocolate time I love to sleep, but I've got cats and dogs, and they don't really let me sleep, and I sort of feel my best when I'm waking up around 7. So an ideal Sunday would definitely start on the early side. I can't drink coffee anymore. I used to love it, and now my tummy is too middle-aged for it. But I do hot chocolate, nice hot chocolate. That's my coffee or tea. I've got one of those little Hotel Chocolat [hot chocolate makers]. You put chocolate powder in milk, and it froths. I got it as a gift, actually, from the producers on "Deep Cover." 8 a.m.: Doughnuts and a dog walk at Dockweiler Beach I love Dockweiler Beach. I filmed an M83 music video that I directed there with Lily Collins years ago; it was my first introduction to the beach. I just love to drive down there and then just walk around. It's so beautiful. We have two dogs, but I would only take [the younger] one. The other has a shorter walk. She's been very clear with us: She's a little older; message received. The younger one is a little over a year old. We can do up to three miles together, and then she's very, very happy. My favorite Sunday food situation is definitely Sidecar Doughnuts. They have gluten-free doughnuts, like a weekly special, and they have a vegan doughnut that's also usually gluten-free, so I'll get both of those and take them to the beach. My favorite is the Old Fashion — whenever it's Old Fashion I get very excited — or the Celebration Cake. 11 a.m.: Art and art supply shopping My favorite art supply store in Los Angeles is called Graphaids in Culver City. It's a family-owned art store, and they have just a wonderful selection of supplies. In October, I'm going to be graduating from an online fine arts school called Milan Art Institute. It's been very rewarding and very fun. You learn all of it — art drawing, oil painting, mixed media. I'm in the portfolio stage, so I do a lot of mixed media, and then I usually do a layer of oil over it. Graphaids has been there through the entire journey. I started the program in October of 2023, when I was going into the store not knowing what anything meant, and then getting to know the folks who work there. They're all artists. They want to save you money. They care about hobbyists; they care about professionals. They care about students. It's beautiful. Now I go in the store and I'm like,"Could I have this solvent, please? And I would love this medium, please." It's much more "you know what you're after" now. On a Sunday, I would be working on my portfolio at home, and then — this isn't Los Angeles, but it's California — I love to take online Case for Making classes. Those are watercolor classes. My kids will usually join in if they're around and the social calendar permits it. 1 p.m.: Brunch and walking and shopping in Culver City or Venice Destroyer in Culver City is really, really good. They've got a great plant-centric menu, which is good because one of my kids doesn't really eat meat, and I also like that it's kind of elevated. I like the raw oatmeal soaked in date-almond milk. I also love Gjelina in Venice; it's elevated, but it's also relaxed. Ideally I'd go with my family, and my best friend — we've been best friends since we were 15 — lives in Venice. So we would definitely meet up at Gjelina. Part of the fun there is you're waiting to get in, so you can walk up and down Abbot Kinney. My favorite makeup store in Los Angeles, Apple Doll, has a storefront on Abbot Kinney. They have this Nectar Salve that I'm obsessed with. If we have brunch in Culver City, afterward I would probably go to Arcana. I love that bookstore. So I would go there with my best friend on this perfect Sunday. The reason we like these areas is they're really walkable. I was raised mostly on the East Coast and I went to NYU, so being able to walk places — it's very important. 4 p.m.: An afternoon chocolate fix When we moved to the Westside, I got really into John Kelly Chocolates [in Santa Monica]. It's high-end chocolate. On a dream Sunday, absolutely, I would go there. And I'm also going to Sprinkles and getting red velvet, gluten-free cupcakes. 6 p.m.: Dinner in — or more snacks out I love to order delivery from Burger Lounge that my son will then go and pick up because he likes saving money on delivery. I love the classic burger. They have really great gluten-free buns. I also like going to AOC winebar, sitting at the bar and not ordering a big meal. Their bacon-wrapped dates are really, really delicious. 8 p.m.: Pajama walk around the neighborhood I think we might've made this up — I don't think I read about it anywhere — when the kids were younger, we would do this thing I would call pajama walks. It was a way for me to force them to get into their pajamas before it got dark and to keep a schedule according to the cycle of the sun and get us all outside after dinner. Now it's basically my husband's and my way of sneaking out of the house. We'll invite the kids, and a lot of times they'll want to come. If they don't, it's just a great way for my husband and me to get a little bit of one-on-one time together. I'll still wear pajamas; I'll just throw a coat over it. The world has more loungewear these days, so you can't even tell. 9 p.m.: 'Landscape Artist of the Year' and a little painting before bed I'm actually pretty careful about screen time during the weekend if I can help it, but my husband and I like to watch "Landscape Artist of the Year," the British feel-good show. Then usually I will paint, and that's usually when I'm working on my portfolio stuff. (On an ideal Sunday, we're not having to stress last-minute about our daughter having homework.) I love to listen to audiobooks while I'm painting. I've been relistening to books that I read when I was younger. I just did a third time through "A Movable Feast." It's so fun to just listen to the stories. The next day, I've got to be up at 7, so I'll paint until about 10:30 and then just go to sleep. Sign up for The Wild newsletter to get weekly insider tips on the best of our beaches, trails, parks, deserts, forests and mountains. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Los Angeles Times
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
How to have the best Sunday in L.A., according to Bryce Dallas Howard
Third-generation actor and director Bryce Dallas Howard has a lot going on — so much so that when The Times caught up with her recently, she was just getting over laryngitis. 'Last week, it was like I would open my mouth and it was air coming out,' she said, admitting that it's challenging for her to be disciplined about, say, not speaking. But you can't really blame her: Talking is part of the business. And there's a lot of business to attend to. On Thursday, Howard's action comedy 'Deep Cover' arrived on Prime Video. Howard stars alongside Orlando Bloom and Nick Mohammed as three improv actors recruited by the police to help with sting operations, hilariously committing to the bit. Prior to that, Howard directed and produced the Disney+ documentary 'Pets,' which examines the relationship between people and their furry friends. She's starred as Claire Dearing in the 'Jurassic World' franchise ('If the team would ever have Claire back, I'll be there in a heartbeat,' she says), appeared in the acclaimed TV show 'Black Mirror' and directed episodes of 'The Mandalorian' and 'Skeleton Crew,' to name a few recent career highlights. (In her spare time, she's getting a degree from an online fine arts school.) The ideal Sunday, then, for this NYU grad — whose first onscreen appearance at age 7 was as an extra in her dad Ron Howard's 'Parenthood' — includes lots of hot chocolate ('I always say I should have a T-shirt that says, 'Powered by hot chocolate' ') and delicious food ('I like to eat little yummy things throughout the day'). There's also time with her husband, Seth Gabel, their kids, Theo, 18, and Bea, 13, and their beloved pets. And don't forget, she has to finish that portfolio for art school! This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity. 7 a.m.: Rise and hot chocolate time I love to sleep, but I've got cats and dogs, and they don't really let me sleep, and I sort of feel my best when I'm waking up around 7. So an ideal Sunday would definitely start on the early side. I can't drink coffee anymore. I used to love it, and now my tummy is too middle-aged for it. But I do hot chocolate, nice hot chocolate. That's my coffee or tea. I've got one of those little Hotel Chocolat [hot chocolate makers]. You put chocolate powder in milk, and it froths. I got it as a gift, actually, from the producers on 'Deep Cover.' 8 a.m.: Doughnuts and a dog walk at Dockweiler Beach I love Dockweiler Beach. I filmed an M83 music video that I directed there with Lily Collins years ago; it was my first introduction to the beach. I just love to drive down there and then just walk around. It's so beautiful. We have two dogs, but I would only take [the younger] one. The other has a shorter walk. She's been very clear with us: She's a little older; message received. The younger one is a little over a year old. We can do up to three miles together, and then she's very, very happy. My favorite Sunday food situation is definitely Sidecar Doughnuts. They have gluten-free doughnuts, like a weekly special, and they have a vegan doughnut that's also usually gluten-free, so I'll get both of those and take them to the beach. My favorite is the Old Fashion — whenever it's Old Fashion I get very excited — or the Celebration Cake. 11 a.m.: Art and art supply shopping My favorite art supply store in Los Angeles is called Graphaids in Culver City. It's a family-owned art store, and they have just a wonderful selection of supplies. In October, I'm going to be graduating from an online fine arts school called Milan Art Institute. It's been very rewarding and very fun. You learn all of it — art drawing, oil painting, mixed media. I'm in the portfolio stage, so I do a lot of mixed media, and then I usually do a layer of oil over it. Graphaids has been there through the entire journey. I started the program in October of 2023, when I was going into the store not knowing what anything meant, and then getting to know the folks who work there. They're all artists. They want to save you money. They care about hobbyists; they care about professionals. They care about students. It's beautiful. Now I go in the store and I'm like,'Could I have this solvent, please? And I would love this medium, please.' It's much more 'you know what you're after' now. On a Sunday, I would be working on my portfolio at home, and then — this isn't Los Angeles, but it's California — I love to take online Case for Making classes. Those are watercolor classes. My kids will usually join in if they're around and the social calendar permits it. 1 p.m.: Brunch and walking and shopping in Culver City or Venice Destroyer in Culver City is really, really good. They've got a great plant-centric menu, which is good because one of my kids doesn't really eat meat, and I also like that it's kind of elevated. I like the raw oatmeal soaked in date-almond milk. I also love Gjelina in Venice; it's elevated, but it's also relaxed. Ideally I'd go with my family, and my best friend — we've been best friends since we were 15 — lives in Venice. So we would definitely meet up at Gjelina. Part of the fun there is you're waiting to get in, so you can walk up and down Abbot Kinney. My favorite makeup store in Los Angeles, Apple Doll, has a storefront on Abbot Kinney. They have this Nectar Salve that I'm obsessed with. If we have brunch in Culver City, afterward I would probably go to Arcana. I love that bookstore. So I would go there with my best friend on this perfect Sunday. The reason we like these areas is they're really walkable. I was raised mostly on the East Coast and I went to NYU, so being able to walk places — it's very important. 4 p.m.: An afternoon chocolate fix When we moved to the Westside, I got really into John Kelly Chocolates [in Santa Monica]. It's high-end chocolate. On a dream Sunday, absolutely, I would go there. And I'm also going to Sprinkles and getting red velvet, gluten-free cupcakes. 6 p.m.: Dinner in — or more snacks out I love to order delivery from Burger Lounge that my son will then go and pick up because he likes saving money on delivery. I love the classic burger. They have really great gluten-free buns. I also like going to AOC winebar, sitting at the bar and not ordering a big meal. Their bacon-wrapped dates are really, really delicious. 8 p.m.: Pajama walk around the neighborhood I think we might've made this up — I don't think I read about it anywhere — when the kids were younger, we would do this thing I would call pajama walks. It was a way for me to force them to get into their pajamas before it got dark and to keep a schedule according to the cycle of the sun and get us all outside after dinner. Now it's basically my husband's and my way of sneaking out of the house. We'll invite the kids, and a lot of times they'll want to come. If they don't, it's just a great way for my husband and me to get a little bit of one-on-one time together. I'll still wear pajamas; I'll just throw a coat over it. The world has more loungewear these days, so you can't even tell. 9 p.m.: 'Landscape Artist of the Year' and a little painting before bed I'm actually pretty careful about screen time during the weekend if I can help it, but my husband and I like to watch 'Landscape Artist of the Year,' the British feel-good show. Then usually I will paint, and that's usually when I'm working on my portfolio stuff. (On an ideal Sunday, we're not having to stress last-minute about our daughter having homework.) I love to listen to audiobooks while I'm painting. I've been relistening to books that I read when I was younger. I just did a third time through 'A Movable Feast.' It's so fun to just listen to the stories. The next day, I've got to be up at 7, so I'll paint until about 10:30 and then just go to sleep.
Travel Daily News
10-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
Irish Ferries launches lounges for pets and owners
Irish Ferries launches complimentary 'Pet Den' lounges, enhancing pet-friendly travel with indoor comfort, sea views, and outdoor play areas on key UK-Ireland routes. Pet travel has just been upgraded with the unveiling of Irish Ferries' brand-new 'Pet Den' lounges. And, while dogs, cats, and even ferrets have always been welcome onboard Irish Ferries vessels, they can now travel in elevated comfort and style in dedicated spacious lounges alongside their owner, completely free of charge*, making for a very com-fur-table crossing. Irish Ferries is the only ferry company offering a 'Pet Den' lounge on both UK-France and UK-Ireland crossings. The Pet Den offers ample indoor lounge space for pets to enjoy their journey just as much as their owners. The pet dens are light and airy and offer great sea views, seating and tables equipped with leash hooks, snacks and beverages lounge service, as well as water dispensers, so that owners can enjoy their journey with their beloved pet by their side. The Pet Den lounges are complemented by access to dedicated outdoor deck walk-way areas complete with an area with artificial grass and posts, as well as plenty of fresh air and sea views, allowing both humans and their pets the opportunity to stretch two or four legs. Together with the freedom to pack as much luggage as your vehicle can take, multiple dining options onboard and an altogether more relaxed way to travel, there's now more reasons than ever before to book a spot for a VIP (very important pet) and enjoy the Furriendliest of journeys in optimum comfort with Irish Ferries. Pets can avail of Irish Ferries' Pet Dens onboard: Dover – Calais* – Isle of Inishmore and Oscar Wilde Holyhead – Dublin, onboard the James Joyce from June 21 and onboard Ulysses from July 1 (both already available to book online from these dates) Pembroke – Rosslare, Isle of Innisfree Nora Costello, Consumer Marketing & Sales Director, Irish Ferries said, 'The introduction of complimentary pet dens on the majority of our crossings is great news for people who want to travel with their pets. It's just one of the many advantages of travelling with Irish Ferries. We know from our research that leaving a pet behind can be lonely for both the pet and their owners, with boarding kennels often adding hugely to the cost of a holiday. Irish Ferries is doing things differently and setting new standards for pet travel, offering more options than any other provider on the English Channel and Irish Sea.' So, whether you're taking a weekend break or em-barking on a month-long adventure, grab both you and your pet's passports and get ready to Sea Travel Differently with Irish Ferries. Dr. Bobby Ortiz's Expert advice Ahead of the busy summer travel season, Irish Ferries has teamed up with well-known veterinarian Dr Bobby Ortiz (@dogtor_bob) to offer some expert insight and advice for people travelling with their pets. Dr Ortiz commended Irish Ferries for its new pet den facilities, describing them as the best he has ever seen for helping ensure pet travel is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Optimise your pet's journey by never travelling on hot days and always at the coolest part of the day such as late in the evening, early morning or overnight, where possible. While visiting the vet for your pet's requisite vaccinations, always make sure a 'fit for travel' pet health check is performed to ensure the pet is in fit condition especially if older or is prone to illness or heat stroke. While visiting the vet for your pet's requisite vaccinations, always make sure a 'fit for travel' pet health check is performed to ensure the pet is in fit condition especially if older or is prone to illness or heat stroke. If you are leaving your dog in your vehicle rather than using the pet den, cabin or kennel facilities, make sure there is sufficient ventilation for your pet. Creating a flow of fresh air can be helped by opening both the driver and passenger's front windows. However, take care to ensure that your dog cannot escape from their carrier or your vehicle. If you are taking your dog to an onboard kennel, make sure you take some bedding and perhaps some familiar items, such as dog toys/treats so that they are comfortable. Make sure your dog's water container is full with clean fresh water that's accessible throughout the ferry crossing. Make sure your dog's water container is full with clean fresh water that's accessible throughout the ferry crossing. Try to get your pets introduced to travelling inside of their crates/carriers weeks before their traveling date. Place the crate in an accessible area of your house and allow the pet to walk in and out of it freely and hide treats inside frequently. This allows them to become more comfortable with the crate and recognise this as being a safe place. Pet Passports Pets should ideally be added at time of booking to ensure availability of facilities. Passengers are asked to familiarise themselves with pet passport and government regulations applying to pet travel and to ensure that all documentation, anti-parasitic treatments, micro chipping and any requisite inoculations are in place, and terms and conditions for travel met. * A charge for travelling with a pet applies on the Dover – Calais route. There is no additional charge for travelling in the Pet Den lounge area.
