Turkey is an enchanting, magical land of romance and mystery; a country that surpasses all our expectations of the exotic. This mélange of European, Western, Eastern and Islamic influences is rich in scenic beauty, agricultural wealth and recreational possibilities.
Straddling the narrow straits of the Bosphorus dividing Europe and Asia is Istanbul — a precious architectural jewel of a city with an astonishing array of artistic and recreational resources. The dominant center of local culture and power, Istanbul is the only city in the world to straddle two continents. It is also a sensory feast. From the aromas of herbs and spices wafting through the marketplace, to grand mosques and shrines, to the sight of vast flocks of Wheeling storks or majestic eagles soaring past minarets, the city presents an unparalleled, unforgettable experience for any traveler.
The Aegean shores of Turkey are among the most charming landscapes in the country, offering sun, fun and new experiences. Perhaps the most enchanting coastal town is the yachting port of Bodrum. Set on twin palm-lined bays and dominated by the medieval Castle of St. Peter, Bodrum is famous for its Museum of Underwater Archeology and for the grand Tomb of King Mausolus—the original Mausoleum. Bodrum is a favorite resort for Turkey’s artists, writers and the yachting set, so the cafés are fashionable and the nightlife is very vibrant indeed.
Turkey’s diverse terrain includes mountains, rivers, coastal plains, forests and rich agricultural valleys. The nation is home to some eighty thousand animal species; twenty-three of which are currently threatened with extinction. A bird watchers wonderland, Turkey is home to nearly four hundred and fifty species of birds, like the Birds of Paradise of Lake Manyas National Park, and the wildly beautiful flamingos (yes flamingos!) nesting in the river valleys of the Aegean and the Mediterranean.
As old as civilization, as modern as cell phones and the Internet, the country has been electrified by the vitality of a young population ready to participate in the endless possibilities of a booming economy. City centers are full of pet shops selling not only puppies but also all the paraphernalia of dog ownership. Despite the lack of awareness regarding the stray dog and cat populations, the general public loves animals, and these days, dogs are in fashion. The streets and parks are full of proud owners, walking their Collies, poodles and bulldogs.
Turkey’s only recognized dog breed is the Kangal Köpeˇgi, a dignified and obedient dog who has lived for centuries as a herder. These lovely dogs have a calm and docile disposition towards people, but are transformed into an animal of formidable ferocity at the sight of wolves. The Kangal has a highly developed sense of smell. It can recognize each one of a herd of three hundred sheep, so there is no chance of animals going astray or any strange animals mingling with the herd. Being acknowledged as a pure breed by several organizations, including the American and British Kennel Clubs, has fueled the dog’s international recognition and the value of the Kangal has soared. Thus, while Turkey has more than one indigenous breed, the Kangal is the most famous and exporting Kangals is now forbidden as a conservation measure.
The Ankara Cat is the Turkish Angora—a natural breed, not man-made—and one of the most ancient and pure of longhaired breeds known to exist. Though people have used the word ‘Angora’ to signify any longhaired cat, but the only true Angora is the Turkish breed, a line that traces its ancestry back many centuries. In recent years, due to new importation from Turkey, the Turkish Angora has again taken its rightful place in the roster of the world’s pedigreed felines. Currently, much like the Kangal, the Turkish government is trying to protect the breed by not allowing these white beauties to be exported from the country.
According to Turkish painter and dog lover Emre Erturk, pets are increasingly thought of as part of the family, and pet stores are craving high-end luxury products. Now living in Manhattan, Emre has launched “Emre New York,” a luxury leather accessories line for dogs and people alike (left). His collection includes leashes, collars, bone-shaped waist bags and key rings with matching bands for the owners.
A firm believer in mysticism, Emre uses “evil eye” beads that are believed to keep evil spirits and bad fortune away. Horseshoes also hold significance to Emre, who asserts they “are magical and lucky.” Besides being chic, who wouldn’t want a guardian angel protecting them and their pets? Dog travel bags made with elegant leathers and various patterns are also available—just the thing for the pooch packing for a trip to Turkey. Who knows? If you ask nicely, Emre might just tag along. What could possibly be luckier than that?
For more information on where to find the Emre New York collection, visit the following stores in Manhattan: Henri Bendel, Zitomer Z Spot, Doggie-Do, and Le Chien; or call 646-865-0198. For more information on travel to Turkey, log onto www.turkey.organizations
By Rosaly Grunberg
For the Best that Pet Lifestyle has to offer follow Wendy Diamond on Facebook, Twitter, and right here at AnimalFair.com!