The Ragdoll cat has a tendency to go limp when picked up, hence the breed’s unusual name. This relatively new breed originated in America in the 1960s and today’s Ragdolls have inherited more than their fair share of gentle characteristics. Ragdolls can be very dog-like, following their owners around the house like a lovesick puppy. […]

The British Shorthair is a cat with a humble past. After arriving in Britain in Roman times, the cats were tolerated by humans as handy mousers. The cats ran wild until the 19th century when author and artist Harrison Weir decided he liked these street cats for their looks and smarts. Weir began a breeding […]

The Miniature Pinscher is a wonderful little dynamo of a dog – spirited, clever and very alert. The “Min Pin” (as these dogs are affectionately called) was originally bred in Germany to hunt vermin in stables. This required pluck and speed and Miniature Pinschers have both in spades. Although they resemble the Doberman Pinscher, these […]

Question: Can you give me some tips for plucking my eyebrows? Anon. Answer: Before you begin, take a long look at your natural brow shape in a mirror. It’s best to pluck straight after a bath or shower, when pores are open due to the heat. If you have a low pain threshold, apply a […]

Question: How do you use cream or gel blush and are they better than powder blush? Liza. Answer: Gel blush is more suited to smooth, younger skin, while a more creamy blush is much better for dry or mature skin. Both kinds blend easily. Powder is the most popular form of blush but it can […]

Question: How can I curl my straight hair at home and make the curls stay in for the whole day? Jenny. Answer: Curling tongs are great for creating spring-like curls. Use small-diameter tongs for short hair or to make tight curls, and large tongs to create looser curls. After shampooing with a volumising shampoo, towel […]

The Pomeranian is a favourite among toy dogs and it’s easy to see why. Lively, bold and intelligent, ancestors of this fluffy dynamo were companions for Marie Antoinette, Mozart and Michelangelo. The Pomeranian is part of the Spitz group of dogs and the breed’s family tree begins with larger sled dogs from Iceland and Lapland. […]