• Pets help reduce stress and associated diseases, saving Australia some $2 billion a year in medical costs, according to the Petcare Information & Advisory Service.
• For the workaholics and couch potatoes, a dog will force them to take a break and get some exercise.
• Animals make great icebreakers, as they are often a catalyst for meeting new people.
• Pets give you unconditional love.
• A bad day in the office very often dissolves when there is an exuberant pet awaiting your arrival when you return home.

Garlic: its bite can be worse than its bark

Garlic may have antisocial effects on your breath, but it is also well known for its health giving qualities; it is credited with the power to enhance the immune system, lower cholesterol levels and act as an antioxidant.

However, while garlic may be good for humans, it is not a good idea to feed it to your pet dog - quite apart from the effect on it's breath, consuming garlic - even garlic extracts - can cause severe inflammation and damage to a dog's gastric mucosa.

Garlic induces oxidative damage in the dog's red blood cells (erythrocytes). It causes the formation of eccentrocytes, deformed red blood cells.

This is an extract from an article in 'Chemistry in Britain" May 2002. The full article is on the notice board in the club house.

• Find joy in being able to run and jump - not everyone can.
• Always be happy about getting a treat.
• Play more .... Worry less.
• You don't have to win a blue ribbon to be a champion.
• The size of the heart is more important than the size of the body.
• Good breeding shouldn't make us snooty.
• Try walking on water to cool off an overheated ego.
• You don't have to be rich or famous or powerful to be loved.
• It never hurts to smile.
• Being kind is more important than being important.
• Take time to enjoy the smells, sounds and sights around us.