Question Not every woman wants to flaunt their midline. I’d love to find a pair of long pants that are not hipsters but go to the waist without cutting into the “in-between”. Where should I be looking? Answer You’re in luck this season as the pant waistline is finally getting a rise! Some great brands […]

Question With all the lovely summer dresses out there, why can’t I find one with sleeves to cover the top of my arms? People with flabby upper arms find this so frustrating. Answer With the Christmas party season in full swing, there is nothing more appropriate to wear than a summer dress. However, many of […]

Question I’ve got a recipe here for an Asian-style fruit salad and it calls for rambutans and lychees — I don’t know what they are or where I can buy them! Please can you help me. Answer Rambutans and lychees, native to south east Asia, are close relations in the wonderful world of tropical fruit. […]

Question: My three-year-old golden retriever insists on clawing at the carpet like a cat. We clip his nails each month yet he is unstoppable. Why does he do it? Colleen Answer: Whereas scratching is a normal behaviour for cats, it’s quite abnormal for dogs. I would say that, instead of scratching, he’s actually digging. And […]

Question: I taught my cat to come to a whistle by using it when I was giving him a cuddle and a feed. Now when I call him in for the night, nine times out of ten he arrives home. I have trained three cats the same way. Answer: Helen

Descended from the Lhasa Apsos of Tibet, which in turn were crossed with the Pekingese, the resultant Shih Tzus were often presented as tributes to the Emperor of China and lived a life of luxury in the Imperial palaces. The breeding of these lively little dogs was supervised by court eunuchs, who vied with each […]

By Dr Chris Brown The courage of a two-legged dog stuns veterinary science and helps inspire people. Meet Faith, a dog I came face-to-face with on a trip to the Midwest US state of Oklahoma. Faith is no ordinary dog. This Chow-Labrador cross has fascinated the world and become a celebrity. E-mails, websites, television shows […]

Question: My dog was attacked by my ex-boyfriend’s dog four months ago and needed stitches. He told me that he had taken the dog to the vet to have them removed, yet I just discovered that they are still in my little girl. Can they do any serious harm? Amanda Answer: Those stitches, like the […]

The Nine Network’s resident vet joins Woman’s Day to help solve your pet problems. What made you want to become a vet? When I was growing up, a vet was the last thing I was going to be. My dad’s a vet and I didn’t want to be seen as following in his footsteps. But […]

By Lucy Hine Nothing beats the feeling of coming home and being greeted by an excited pet. Instantly a lousy day at work can be transformed into an enjoyable evening. However, this is a pleasure unknown to some asthma and allergy suffers. Symptoms such as sneezing, itchy, red and watery eyes, rashes and wheezy breathing […]

Question: My 8-year-old Tortie appears to have developed bulimia over the past year. She guzzles down her food and usually looks at guzzling down my other cats’ food as well whenever she gets the opportunity. She is the only one that begs at our dinner table and is a real greedy-guts. Then she vomits a […]

Queensland's theme parks are a great way to entertain the whole family on holidays. Dreamworld, Space Walker and Sea World will turn everyday reality into fantasy.

Question It’s that time of year and I’m busy in the kitchen preparing Christmas treats galore, however, I’m having trouble achieving the perfect Christmas fruit cake. After it’s cooked, I find that the bottom of the cake is burnt and the top of the cake has large cracks in it. Can you tell me what […]

Question: If you want your bunny to eat more hay I suggest a hay roll. Cut a paper towel roll, when empty, into quarters and stuff it with hay. Rabbits generally love to pull the hay out. It is also good if your bunny likes to wee in his/her hay. Answer: Lisa

Question: Recently one of my cockatiels died and the other one that was in the cage with him has turned very nasty ? like attacking people and flying at our head and body to attack. I thought they were both male birds, but maybe I was wrong. How can we get the bird to calm […]

Question: How far can a missing pet travel, or will they generally stay in the vicinity from where they escaped? I had an inside only Burmese cat, that escaped whilst on a breeding visit. I don’t know whether to keep to the same area or expand the search. I have covered all other options I […]

By Lucy Hine The Keeshond (Keeshonden, plural) is a handsome dog with an alert and intelligent fox-like appearance. Of Arctic origin, in the eighteenth century it was known as “dog of the people”. Around the time of the French Revolution, the Keeshond was seen as the symbol of the common and middle-class Dutchmen, who were […]

Question I need a sundress to take me right through summer that can be worn to various occasions — bbqs, beach trips, parties etc. Do you know where I can find one? — Kim. Answer We’ve found a great one! It’s by Ladakh and we think it’s the perfect Summer dress! It’s a fun colour […]

Question: I have a 7-year-old female Maltese Terrier that has a hard lump on the right top nipple. At first it was the size of a 5-cent piece, now it has grown to a 10-cent piece. She has not been de-sexed and the only other dogs she plays with are her mother and her sister […]

Question: You don’t have to buy toys for your cat to be happy. My cat loves the foil from the top of wine bottles, a cardboard box that has holes he can stick his paws out of, dry leaves, and alfoil rolled up into balls. Answer: Marisa

Known as the Pearl of the Orient, Shanghai has always been a sophisticated and elegant city. Today, it sizzles with style, blending East and West, modern and colonial under a spectacular scifi skyline

Question I am unable to wear heels of any height due to foot problems. Any ideas what I can wear when a “dressy” occasion arises? Answer High heels and the summer party season do not need to go hand in hand. This very common fashion dilemma can be easily solved with a pair of jewelled […]

This summer is definitely the season of the dress. With a plethora of choices to choose from, the AWW Fashion Team understands that the task of choosing the perfect summer dress to suit your body type can often be a little daunting. If there’s such a thing as the universal dress to fit and flatter […]

By Lucy Hine If you’re wondering how to lose those few extra kilos, grab your dog and a leash and get walking. Physical exercise is vital to the health and wellbeing of you and your dog. Exercising together not only develops the bond you have with your pet but also stimulates your mental health, concentration, […]

By Lucy Hine The Borzoi is an elegant dog that is also known as the Russian wolfhound. Bred for wolf hunting by the Russian aristocracy, its name comes from the Russian word “borzii” which means swift. The method of hunting the Russians used with the Borzoi was quite unique. Russian hunters rode on horses in […]

Question: I have a six-year-old Doberman who likes to chase the car tyres whenever we drive out. We have tried everything. Can you help us please? — Sam Answer: Tyre chasing is quite a common hobby of active dogs, particularly those of a territorial nature. The movement sets off some sort of predatory behaviour inside […]

Question: Cats are natural carnivores and most of our pet cats just love a good munch on something meaty! Some butchers have the odd chicken neck floating around, this does sound gross but your cat will love you! (Make sure to serve outside to minimise mess.) Answer: Grace

Question: Our dog Jazz is a two-and-a-half-year-old Weimeraner x who we picked up from the pound two years ago. She had been mistreated for the first three months of her life then lived at the pound for the next two months before we adopted her. She’s a lovely dog, however, she is constantly edgy and […]

Question What are the fashion must-haves for the spring-summer season this year? Answer With summer just around the corner, here is a list of this season’s must-have pieces: ¾ length Bermuda shorts Nautical-inspired striped t-shirts Espadrilles Broderie anglaise lace sun dress Metallic strappy sandals Perfect white shirt Crisp white wide-leg linen pants Print skirt, graphic […]

Every woman is constantly searching for the perfect pair of jeans. Here is The Australian Women’s Weekly’s easy guide to help you find the perfect pair of jeans. The perfect jeans to flatter your bottom A pair of straight-leg jeans in a rigid denim will accentuate your curves without exaggerating them. Top stockists: Sussan, 1300 […]

Question: While brushing my Chihuahua recently I noticed lots of little flecks of dandruff-like dry skin on him. Is there such a thing as anti-dandruff shampoo for pets? Or could this possibly be a skin condition? ? Emily Answer: Dry flaky skin is common in pets and could be a sign of several skin conditions, […]

By Lucy Hine The Australian silky terrier is a versatile little dog which is adored by people all over the world. Extremely loyal, affectionate and gentle, the silky terrier is a perfect family dog that learns quickly and is willing to please, making it an easy dog to train and a great companion. The silky […]

Coming up to summer it is important to keep your dog cool. A great way to do that and keep them entertained at the same time is with frozen bone treats. All you have to do is get some smaller sized bones from your butcher, place them in a plastic cup, add a few dog […]

Question What is celeriac? Answer Celeriac, a member of the celery family, is a tuberous brown-skinned root with white flesh that has a very earthy, more pungent celery-like flavour. Sometimes called knob celery, celeriac is the cooking celery of Northern Europe. Although it’s not winning any awards for prettiest vegetable, it’s very versatile — it […]

Three tricks to keep your relationship happy and strong: Get gorgeous: Everyone knows a couple where one person looks trim, taut and terrific, and the other has let themselves go physically or just doesn’t pay attention to their grooming. This is dangerous territory — it’s difficult to feel attracted to someone who doesn’t seem to […]

Question I’m desperately looking for a fitted, single-breasted rain or trench coat that’s showerproof. Where can I find one? Heather, via e-mail Answer Many fashion labels are including the trenchcoat in their latest collection as it continues to be a fashion classic and a winter wardrobe must have. But just because it looks good on […]

What are the fashion must-haves this winter? Answer Here’s a list of everything you must add to your wardrobe this season: Trench coat Long cardigan Round-toe boots A long-sleeved print dress Jeans Tailored blazer Full skirt (to wear with your boots) Happy shopping! The AWW Fashion Team

Question I’ve bought a strappy black dress with white spots and a big black bow at the front for a formal I’m attending in two weeks. What accessories should I match with it? Madeleine, via email Answer Your choice sounds fabulous—very classic chic. Try to keep the accessories simple and black. Match a pair of […]

Question I’m quite short and thin and everytime I try on a pair of jeans (even skinny leg) they’re always very loose and baggy around my bum and legs. Generally I’m a size 7-8, depending on brands. Where do I start? Madeline, via e-mail Answer Look for jeans made from a stretch denim to ensure […]

The best thing I have ever done for my kitten is to buy a ball of wool and create little balls she can bat around, play with and chase. I add in a long hanging piece which I can swing around for her to leap at. They’re so much fun. My three-year-old and five-year-old cats […]

Question: I have a six-month-old labrador who is really naughty. He pulls the washing off the line consistently. I have tried every punishment, and praise when he doesn’t do it, yet he still does it. The dog has lots of toys and is well exercised. I am running out of ideas. Krystal Answer: Labradors are […]

Question: My boyfriend and I live in an average-sized two bedroom flat. We have recently adopted a kitten (she’s roughly three months old) and are worried that she gets bored when we’re not around. She has heaps of toys and things to play with but seems to mainly sleep when we’re not around and goes […]

Question: My miniature shelty has a really bad flea allergy. Other vets said he might be allergic to a number of things. It’s got to the stage were he’s ripping his hair out near his backside. I bath him every two days but there are still lumps and he’s constantly scratching and also has anxiety […]

Question: Our golden retriever pup kept chewing everything well past her first birthday. She even destroyed the carpet in the lounge room. We sought the advice of a dog behaviourist and his first response was to check her mouth. Sure enough, she was having a lot of trouble cutting wisdom teeth. Answer: Just like some […]

Question I have cropped, boy-short hair. I love the military style that is in this winter, as well as the vests and hats. How do I wear these and look feminine at the same time? Jess, via e-mail. Answer To keep your look feminine with these winter trends make sure you add a feminine element […]

Question: I live in a small apartment and I travel with work — up to four days a week. Is there a pet suitable for me? Kate Heyman Answer: This is a difficult one because most pets want love and attention which means a commitment to being around. However, they are adaptable and will get […]

Question: Please advise how we can control our cat fighting with the neighbour’s cat. He has been neutered about two months ago but still goes over to the neighbour’s house from time to time to “pick a fight”. We keep him indoors at night and do not want to keep him indoors all the time. […]

Question: My eight-year-old Maltese terrier barely eats a thing when either my Mum or I aren’t at home. He is a very slow eater anyway and won’t eat outdoors, so when Mum is out for the night — especially if she’s away for longer — it worries me that he won’t eat enough. Nicole Answer: […]

Question: Our little Bassett hound is four months old and tends to wake up every morning around 5.30am barking. The only way to stop him barking is to get up and “entertain” him. The neighbours get upset with us when we just let him bark. Is there any quick way we can teach him to […]

If you have a hound like mine, who loves to chew everything and likes chillies and the bitter sprays, try Dencorub or similar — they hate the smell and won’t go near it! It has saved me from replacing the dog door for the third time —and this is a dog who gets every toy/bone/ball […]

Question I’m 14 and am attending my auntie’s non-traditional wedding soon. I’m wearing a simple short white dress with silver heels. I was wondering, what jewellery would look best with it? Meg, via email. Answer I would suggest to follow the direction of your shoe choice and keep all your accessories silver. Try to keep […]

Question I work as an executive assistant to the MD in a large corporation and need to look businesslike and corporate but find this extremely difficult in the hot and steamy weather. Do you have any suggestions on what I can wear that is both cool and businesslike? I am also a plus size. Karen, […]

Question Does the mother of the bride have to wear a hat? My daughter is getting married on Sydney Harbour later this month and I do not suit hats and I hate having ‘hat hair’, particularly if I need to take it off for dancing later. Dorothy, via e-mail. Answer These days dress codes are […]

Question I’m attending a black tie function and I’m after a simple plain black clutch bag. I’ll be wearing a floor length black satin dress. Kim, via e-mail. Answer Try the following bag companies. You can call them to find out your closest stockist. Olga Berg, Ph: 03 9419 6711 Reidels, Ph: 03 9383 6644 […]

Question I am 14 and I really want to decorate my room. The only thing I don’t know what to do with is my wardrobe. Should I organise it in sections, colours or what goes with what? Jess, via e-mail. Answer We suggest breaking it up into sections. Try these sections which you can then […]

I have found the best way to maintain my dog’s coat so that it is healthy and shiny is to give her a couple of eggs with a splash of olive oil once a week. It works really well — even for a 14-year-old corgie. Keryn

Question What is buttermilk and how do you use it? Carolyn Axelsen, via email Answer The name buttermilk was originally the term given to the slightly sour liquid left after butter was churned from cream. Today, buttermilk is intentionally made from no-fat or low-fat milk to which specific bacterial cultures have been added during the […]

Question I have been hearing about a root called galangal, similar to ginger root I think. Would you mind telling me how it is pronounced, if it tastes like ginger, if it’s used like ginger and if I can grow it in a pot. J Madden, Mudgeeraba, QLD Answer Also known as Ka, Thai or […]

Question: My 17-year-old son has bought, with our permission, a Staffy puppy. But boy are we getting some negative comments. She is now 10 weeks old and a fully-fledged part of our family, but why this reaction from people — are there any grounds for it? Karen Answer: Unfortunately Staffies (Staffordshire bull terriers) do suffer […]

Question: Just today I have noticed a build-up on my three-year-old cat’s back teeth. I removed it with minimal ease. How often should cats have their teeth cleaned? Jo Answer: Most pets have some tartar build-up by the time they reach three years. It occurs on all surfaces of all teeth (including under the gum […]

Question: We have two cats, Khloee, two years, and Kahlua, nine weeks. Khloee was recently stolen and dumped far from home and I believe they mistreated her as well. She was terrified of all humans when I got her back. We have recently got another kitten for Khloee to play with but she hasn’t really […]

Question I bought some white radish from the supermarket, I have never seen it before. Can you please give me some ideas on how to eat it? It looks like a big white carrot. J. Petrolo, Warranwood, Vic Answer White radish is also known as daikon (a Japanese word meaning “large root”) and is a […]

Question: We have a big, hairy breed of dog who is really feeling the heat of summer. We give him plenty to drink and he has lots of cool, shady spots to sit in during the day. He doesn’t like the water and won’t lie on a wet towel. How can we help him beat […]

By Lucy Hine Grooming your pet can certainly be a drama, particularly if your cat or dog wasn’t trained or handled very often when they were younger. Understanding your pet’s needs regarding hygiene and cleanliness is the first step to ensure your pet remains healthy and happy. Cat owners often watch with wonder at how […]

By Lucy Hine An aquarium is a soothing and relaxing way to calm stress levels after a busy day at work. Purchasing an aquarium makes sense, as fish and aquatic life are known for their therapeutic qualities and are one of the most popular pets purchased in Australian households. Aquariums range from basic fish bowls […]

Question: Ever since I have had my lab de-sexed she doesn’t like men. The vet that de-sexed her was a male and since then, when a male comes up to pat her she gets very scared and barks. She is not like this with women. Is there anything I can do? Jessica Answer: She may […]

Question: My sister recently bought an adorable fluffy white Poodle Maltese cross puppy. However, within about four weeks of having her, the poor little thing got two ticks and was terribly ill and nearly died. Now my sister is too paranoid to take her out and won’t let her anywhere near any grass when she […]

Question: My dog has just turned one year old and she has a barking problem. We have tried all sorts of discipline and she still doesn’t learn. She is a very yappy dog, which obviously gets annoying very quickly. What strategies could we use to stop our dog barking? Amy Answer: Firstly you need to […]

Question: My eight-month-old Labrador is frightened of the vacuum cleaner and the lawn mower. I have tried giving her treats while the noise is occurring but it has not helped. Strangely, she is fine with other loud noises such as thunder and trucks. She is a guide dog puppy and I am concerned that these […]

Question: I am a 70-year-old lady living alone and am considering buying a female Dogue de Bordeaux for company and security. Would appreciate your comments. Leigh Wilson Answer: The Dogue De Bordeaux, also known as a French Mastiff, has been used over the centuries as a guard and hunting dog, so they do indeed make […]

Question Is it appropriate for the mother of the bride to wear a black dress? If not, what would you advise? I don’t want to wear a fuddy duddy suit as everyone seems to be suggesting. Sue Thomas, via email. Answer Traditionally, black would not be the ideal colour for the mother of the bride. […]

Question I am going to the beach on the weekend and I haven’t lost any weight since I having my baby so I am quite large. What should I wear in the water? My thighs are covered in cellulite and I am a size 18. Brianna, via email. Answer Stripping down to your swimmers can […]

Question What colour and style heels would best suit a pale yellow, shimmery cocktail dress? Kim, via email. Answer Sounds like you need a strappy, gold or bronze shoe. Silver could also work if you had some silver jewellery to tie it all together. Look in stores like Zu, Betts, Mollini, Myer, David Jones, and […]

Question: I was wondering what we could do with our 10-month-old puppy. She is a border collie named Misty and whenever light comes into the house or there are shadows on the ground from lights, she tries to dig the light up. We have tried distractions but she goes back to the same thing. Our […]

Question: What is the lifespan of mice? Danuta Elliott Answer: Poor little mice don’t grace this earth for very long. The lifespan of the average pet mouse is 18 months to two years, but they occasionally live up to three or four years. While some people shriek at the sight of them or think they […]

A little grated cheese sprinkled on top of their food will encourage fussy cats to eat. Works for my fussy Ragdoll! Lynette Harper

By Lucy Hine The beautiful Persian is a quiet, gentle and sweet-natured cat that is well-behaved. Most think this is a cat that only enjoys a life of luxury, but the truth is this breed is happy to be anywhere where it’s loved and cared for. The Persian’s soft and luxurious fur comes in a […]

Question: I am really interested in getting a Pomeranian; however, I have been told they are a ‘yappy’ dog. Is this so and is it possible to train and change this characteristic? Julie Answer: Pomeranians, like a lot of toy breeds, are famous for being yappy. They certainly are quite brave and protective little dogs […]

If you want to give your dog a yummy, healthy treat without the risk of your dog choking, try fresh raw chicken necks! It may sound horrible but they are very cheap, easy to find (at any butcher or supermarket) and due to the soft cartilage are very difficult to choke on. Plus, they help […]