4 Legs & A Tail Lebanon Spring 2019

FR

EE

Mud Season 2019 Central NH & VT

Celebrate National Pet Week A Holistic Approach to Our Cats’ Golden Years Acclimate Your New Dog How Horseback Riding Can Help with Speech What’s New at the Westminster Dog Show

Treat them like family

er th e Al l -New D v o c s i d o g Ho u s e Re Charlie Hutchinson, DVM

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Inside this issue of 4 Legs & a Tail

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3. Precious

A hero dog who saved a couple from burning home in

Pg. 3

Barnstead, NH now needs help herself.

4. Helping Dogs One Walk at a Time, Karen Sturtevant

The

inspirational story of two girls who are making a difference.

6. Westminster Dog Show Welcomes Two New Breeds to the Competition Janine Puhak 8. Watching The Lights Go Out

A preview of the new book by local author Tom Farmen as he shares the story of his dog's battle with blindness.

12. Celebrate National Pet Week M. Kathleen Shaw, DVM

The first week of May is a great time to celebrate the bond and provide your pets with all that they need for a healthy and enriched life every week of the year.

14. Green Mountain Animal Defenders Celebrates 35 Years of Helping Animals Karen Sturtevant, Volunteer 16. Will Feral’s Journey to His “Furever” Home Laurie Waterman

How

a feral cat became a permanent member of the family.

18. Tools for New Dog Introduction Karen Sturtevant

Step

Pg. 16

by step tips when you get that new dog.

22. Best Pet Reptiles for Children

Kids are fascinated by reptiles, but which ones are best for your kids?

24. Biofilm… The Health Risk Lurking in Your Pet’s Food and Water Bowl Jill Feinstein

Pg. 32

27. The Difference Between Your Dream Dog and the Dog You Actually Have and What You Can Do About It Paula Bergeron 28. Should My Dog Be Eating Senior Food?

Not all older dogs eat senior food, and some younger dogs eat a senior diet. Find out what’s right for your dog.

30. Do You Have Good Petiquette?

Some basic etiquette that comes with being a respectful pet owner.

32. Reminiscing About My First Days in Beekeeping Shane Howard Spring 2019

www.4LegsAndATail.com 1

Inside this issue of 4 Legs & a Tail

®

34. Buyer’s Guide to Native Plantings Catherine Greenleaf

Pg. 36

Expert

tips to keep those backyard birds happy.

36. Pop Goes the Weasel Scott Borthwick

Last

year it was squirrels. Could this be the year of the weasel?

38. 10 Great Reasons to Have Chickens!

40. Therapeutic Riding & Speech Pathology Sue Miller

Learn

how horseback riding can help with speech..

Pg. 47

44. Equine Metabolic Syndrome Nicole Sicely

EMS

is a group of abnormalities that lead to a risk of laminitis.

Learn the signs and treatments

47. Hyperthyroidism in Cats Catherine MacLean, DVM

How

a simple blood test can treat your feline friend to all nine lives.

50. Teeth Don’t Always End Up Where They Should When a Puppy Grows Up Sandra Waugh, VMD, MS

52. Beaver Fever! John Eustis, DVM

Keeping

your pet healthy this spring

54. Alternatively Speaking: A Holistic Approach To Our Cats’ Golden Years Dr. Anne Carroll DVM, CVA 57. Brownie the Town Dog of Daytona Beach Kate Kelly

Pg. 54

Follow the adventures of the King of Spring Break

4 Legs & a Tail Volume L.119 P.O. Box 841 Lebanon, NH 03766 603-727-9214 TimH.4LT@gmail.com 2 4 Legs & a Tail

Publishers: Tim Goodwin, Tim Hoehn Graphic Design: Kristin Wolff Kate Kurtz Sales: Karyn Swett Scott Palzer

If you have a tale about a tail or a photo that will make us smile, we’d like to hear from you. 4 Legs & a Tail is published quarterly and distributed free of charge throughout Central VT & NH. 4 Legs & a Tail, Inc. is locally owned and operated and acts as a moderator without approving, disapproving or guaranteeing the validity or accuracy of any data or claim.

Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited.

Spring 2019

A Hero Dog Who Saved a Couple from Burning Home Now Needs Help Herself T

his winter, our friends at WMUR TV told you about a deaf dog who alerted her owners that their Barnstead home was on fire.

Now that dog needs help, after saving something else from the rubble of the burnt house.

“How do you turn your back, literally, on a dog that just saved your life?” said Donna Gagnon.

Her home on Beauty Hill Road burned to the ground on Dec. 29.

Gagnon says saving her 3-year-old border collie, Precious is not an option, it’s a duty.

“We credit Precious more than you could ever imagine,” she said.

The dog alerted her and her significant other that their home was on fire.

Spring 2019

“That dog came up, woke up all the other dogs, woke us up and, literally, she’s the reason we got out of the house, and I mean that. She is totally the reason we got out of the house,” Gagnon said.

Now, Precious needs help herself.

Gagnon said Precious made her way to the rubble of their home on their property and started digging.

Gagnon’s significant other went to see what the dog was doing.

“He found a kitten that debris must’ve moved and the kitten was trapped in that spot,” she said.

Now, not only had their dog saved them but their kitten, too. But Precious also got severely injured in the process, skinning her leg on the debris.

She will require a lengthy stay at a

Portsmouth animal hospital, skin grafts and lots of care with a price tag of $9,000 to $12,000.

Now, a family who watched their home burn to the ground has a hero animal to save. “She’s beyond everything,” Gagnon said.

If you’d like to help cover the cost of Precious’ surgery, you can send donations made out to Donna Gagnon, 491 Beauty Hill Road in Center Barnstead, NH 03225. Donations can also be made to a GoFundMe campaign set up for Precious.

How to help: GoFundMe for Precious the Dog

Dear 4 Legs & a Tail, Your life-saving story in the winter issue prompted me to share another event where a female Yellow Lab named Sandy was the star. Seven-year-old Sandy was a constant companion to our son Clark, also seven years old. One summer when Clark and some of his friends were playing in the Brown Creek in Underhill Flats, VT, a heavy rainstorm suddenly occurred.

The river's swollen water trapped the young boy against a wind-fall and he could not break free. His canine companion quickly realized his peril and jumped into the backwater pool. Sandy swam toward Clark and as she turned, offered her “otter” tail for him to grab.

He did just that and Sandy pulled him to safety onto the riverbank. It is quite possible that she saved Clark from drowning that day.

Sincerely, Harold Sargent, Barre, VT

www.4LegsAndATail.com 3

Helping Dogs -

One Walk at a Time Karen Sturtevant

T

hink back to the day you turned five years old. What gifts were you hoping for? Can you even recall? Sarah Hall, now 11, remembers well. She didn’t want video games or an iPad. She had her heart set on helping dogs and asked for money. The result: $200 happily donated to the Chittenden County Humane Society. Her love of animals continued well after this annual celebration.

Sarah was enjoying life with her dog Henry and thought if one dog brings her this much joy, two would be fantastic.

Her dad agreed, but only if she paid.

Having a strong, can-do attitude, Sarah dug in with allowance savings and with a little bit of help, Henry soon had a new doggie friend in Oscar. Together with lifelong friend and fellow entrepreneur, ten-year-old Mason Bauer, who also shared a love of animals, they teamed up to create M.A.P.S. Dog Walking.

Originally Sarah’s sister, Anna, and Pierce, Mason’s brother, were involved, lending their initials to complete the business name: M (Mason), (A) Anna, (P) Pierce, (S), Sarah. They have since moved on to other endeavors including helping behind the scenes with social media exposure, while Sarah and Mason remain on the front lines in their mission of helping dogs in any way they can.

Not only is this energetic duo exercising dogs for the mental and physical wellbeing of the canines, but all money earned is donated to Vermont non-kill shelters and rescues, $100 at a time. Not rain nor snow nor change of season will keep these animal aficionados from their dedication. M.A.P.S. recently marked a milestone of reaching a total gifted amount of $1,000!

Their rates, which have stayed the same since the very first step, are reasonable: $4 for one dog; $6 for two.

Walking routes span from a half to two and a half miles. With carefully outlined Essex trails, clients can choose which fits their dog best. No dog is too small or too big––all breeds welcome.

These canine professionals can handle walking multiple dogs at a time. Don’t be surprised to see Sarah and Mason walking up to seven dogs at once!

Open-minded junior executives, they 4 4 Legs & a Tail

are always welcoming recommendations on how to make their systems better and more efficient. Their work keeps them modest, especially when tripping on a curb and landing with a hand in a pile of dog poop! Yes, that really did happen!

Every situation is a learning experience and part of fulfilling the objective.

In addition to leading neighborhood tours, Sarah and Mason spend time in their kitchens making homemade paw wax with all natural ingredients including, Shea butter, beeswax, and olive, coconut and essential oils. M.A.P.S. Marvelous Paw Protection is great for humans too! (Full disclosure, I use it on my hands.) Lavender scented was the prototype as this fragrance is noted to aid in relaxation for both two- and fourlegged beings. Recent additions are the scents of orange and peppermint. Each is packaged in a practical and functional tin priced at $5 with all profits destined for a shelter or rescue on their list.

Now in their fourth year, their clientele is loyal and growing. This is serious business, just look at their custom t-shirts and bandanas! Sarah and Mason are meticulous record keepers evidenced by their business binder chronicling walks, payments, flyers, business cards, trails, and shelter information.

Spring 2019

When they’re not building their dog walking empire, Mason practices the saxophone, enjoys spending time with Abby, his Chihuahua mix, plays baseball and is available for cat sitting. Sarah trains Henry and Oscar, plays clarinet, enjoys soccer, volleyball and lacrosse and dog sits for neighbors. Past summers have been spent selling lemonade in Sarah’s front yard with road signs directing traffic to their stand. As much as $40 a day has been earned––one fifty cent cup at a time.

As they get older, they both plan to continue working with animals in the medical, training or grooming fields.

Time will tell. Whatever they decide, with their quick smiles, sweet personalities, and passion for pups, the futures of Sarah Hall and Mason Bauer shine brightly. As for the opinion of their four-legged clients, (Peggy, Mazie, Hattie, and Berkley––just to name a few) by the looks of their wagging tails and warm welcomes, they wholeheartedly agree.

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To support Sarah and Mason’s efforts with a donation or purchase of M.A.P.S. Marvelous Paw Protection, please contact them via their website: https:// sites.google.com/vt.etsd.org/mapsdog-walking/home.

Spring 2019

www.4LegsAndATail.com 5

WESTMINSTER DOG SHOW WELCOMES TWO NEW BREEDS TO THE COMPETITION Janine Puhak - Fox News

Escher, left, and Rhett, center, Nederlandse kooikerhondje, and Juno, right, a grand basset griffon Vendeen, are shown at the American Kennel Club headquarters in New York on Jan. 10, 2018.

The two breeds are eligible to compete in the Westminster Kennel Club dog show for the first time in 2019. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

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fficials for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show are welcoming two pawesome new dog breeds into the elite competition this year.

Hounds representing the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen and the Nederlandse kooikerhondje breeds made their debut at the annual dog show in February.

New breeds appear at Westminster after getting recognized by the American Kennel Club. The process takes years and includes setting standards and having hundreds of dogs spread around the country.

Brielly Cipriotti, the owner of Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen Buzz Lightyear competing in the show, says that the breed is certainly worthy of the opportunity. “They’re extremely sweet, and they have a big, goofy attitude,” Cipriotti told the Associated Press.

She’s excited about the exposure that the breed — a low-slung, long-eared, hardy hound developed in France to hunt rabbits and hare — stands to gain from Westminster.

Rod Beckstead, the owner of a 2-yearold Nederlandse Kooikerhondje named Bandit, had similarly good things to say. Describing the breed as “the Pied Piper of the dog world,” the merry, clever Nederlandse Kooikerhondje was initially trained to help Dutch duck hunters. Today, the versatile breed is easy to teach sports and tricks; some even some even serve as cadaver dogs, Beckstead said.

Spring 2019

About the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

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First, let’s deal with the name. Roughly translated, it means “Large, low, shaggy dog of the Vendée” and is pronounced “Grand-Bah-SAY Gree-FOHN VON-day-uhn.” Now, let’s have a look at the dog: He’s a sweet-faced, long-eared fellow in a shaggy coat whose mustache, beard, and profuse eyebrows suggest the look of a worldly but amiable Frenchman. Beneath the Grand’s Old World charm is a rugged, sturdily-built bruiser who is deceptively quick and light-footed. The stamina and courage of these longer-than-tall hunters is the stuff of Gallic legend.

Temperament: Independent, Happy, Outgoing AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks of 193 Height: 15.5-18 inches Weight: 40-45 pounds Life Expectancy: 13-15 years Group: Hound Group

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603-795-2747 Juno, a Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen, is shown during a news conference at the American Kennel Club headquarters in New York. The grand basset griffon Vendeen, developed in France to hunt rabbit and hare, is one of two breeds eligible to compete in the Westminster Kennel Club dog show for the first time in 2019.

(AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

About the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje

Nederlandse Kooikerhondje Escher, left, and Rhett are shown during a news conference at the American Kennel Club headquarters in New York. The Nederlandse kooikerhondje, originally a Dutch duck-hunting dog, is one of two breeds eligible to compete in the Westminster dog show for the first time in 2019. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

The Kooikerhondje (Koi-ker-hondyuh)—the “little white and orange dog with a big heart”—is a sporty, eyecatching fellow with a silky all-weather coat of white with red patches. They are instantly recognizable thanks to their large, black-tipped ears and the richly feathered tail they wag proudly.

The breed has the sturdy bone structure expected of a serious hunter, but the overall picture is that of a harmoniously built dog of smooth, flowing contours and springy gait.

The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje Club of the United States has served as the AKC Parent Club to represent the Kooikerhondje since April 2014.

Temperament: Friendly, Alert, Quick AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks of 193 Height: Dogs 16”, Females 15” Weight: 20 - 30 lbs Life Expectancy: 12-15 years Group: Sporting Group Spring 2019

www.4LegsAndATail.com 7

Watching the Lights Go Out Before We Begin When my wife, Ashley, and I visited the kennel in a rural New Hampshire town to select a chocolate Labrador puppy we had some reservations. The parents of the litter were described as healthy purebred Labs, but the mother was mysterious, aloof and detached, not to mention that her hair was falling out. The father was out of the picture, apparently having disappeared like a deadbeat dad who had slipped out of town before the police arrived.

Then the kennel’s owner opened the small pen and eight adorable Lab puppies poured out, slipping and sliding all over each other like fish from a net. All except one. The last pup peered out at us, inched her way into the sunlight and parked herself softly on Ashley’s feet. That’s the day we fell in love with Bessie. She was just seven weeks old and we already knew we had

Bessie

the perfect dog. This book begins four years later when Bessie’s perfection began rising to new levels.

1 – Time Remaining

The afternoon knows what the morning never suspected. - Robert Frost Turning sixty-one was a wonderful surprise. Simple pleasures were magnified, I became a better listener, judgments were forgotten and forgiven, and I talked less because there was really not much point. By sixty-one a person has experienced most of the personal and universal joys and heartaches life can serve up, either directly or with one degree of separation. By sixty-one you get it, or you should.

There’s a faint drumbeat in the room when a person passes sixty. It’s called TR, Time Remaining. You realize how quickly time has passed between forty and sixty, and understand that by some esoteric law of physics the next twenty years will be a blur.

But even with all of this life experience I am stunned when Ashley returns from a routine visit to the veterinarian with unsettling news.

Our silly four-year-old Bessie is losing her sight. According to her doctor this sweet dog will be blind in twelve months. She has something called progressive retinal atrophy, an inherited disease that causes a degeneration of the retinas and results in permanent blindness. Impossible! Bessie can run down a batted ball 250 feet from home plate. From across a room she spots a Continued on Page 10

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Spring 2019

Spring 2019

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peanut dropped on the floor at a cocktail party. She comes to a screeching halt when out of the corner of her eye she notices a squashed salamander on the side of the road. This dog has radar and yet in twelve months, according to her doctor, she’ll be lights out, pitchblackness blind. I cry when I look at her, and then I laugh because as with most things in her life beyond food, chasing balls or loving us, Bessie is wonderfully unconcerned.

The doctor speculates that she currently has approximately 85 percent of her vision in daylight and 50 percent when it’s dark. On walks after sunset she bumps into things, stumbles occasionally and takes it slow. I had thought that was just Bessie’s style, but now I know better. When the sun comes up she is fearless and full-speed. Yet with each morning walk I look for a hint of fading glory. Almost subconsciously I realize Bessie is my GPS for the coming years of advancing age.

The research Ashley has done tells us that without the proper support, understanding and guidance Bessie could become depressed as she sees less and less. This dog has never had a bad day and now she may become depressed? I doubt it. That gene’s just not in her DNA. The book Ashley purchased about blind

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Tom Farmen and Bessie

dogs also tells us we should bring Bessie with us when we go out so she doesn’t feel abandoned. (Let’s hope our favorite restaurant will buy this wisdom.) And we learn that Bessie will likely need to be accompanied when she leaves the house in order to sustain her confidence.

Knowing Bessie as I do, none of this advice seems particularly relevant.

At the moment Bessie has a tennis ball in her mouth, imploring me with her bright eyes to throw it into the dark backyard. She will bound after the ball with enthusiasm, run past it several times and finally find it with her nose more than her eyes. She is coping with her life-changing transition seamlessly, with the poise and style of a dancer who can no longer hear the music but continues to move by habit and memory with complete grace. The melody is buried deep in her soul.

Olivia H, a 7th grader from Thetford caught her dog, Ollie in a pose. No homework tonight!

Spring 2019

BESSIE’S STORY-

Watching the Lights Go Out T

om Farmen of New Hampshire recently penned and self-published a book about their chocolate Labrador, Bessie, who has progressive retinal atrophy and is now completely blind at nine years of age. BESSIE’S STORY - Watching the Lights Go Out chronicles her slow fade to sightlessness and provides life lessons for all ages. Bessie continues to live life to the fullest, joining us on daily hikes in the woods, off-leash, as she skillfully navigates the world around her. She also continues to retrieve on land and in the water using her heightened senses of hearing and smell.

When Tom presents (pro bono) at schools, with Bessie in attendance, he stresses three main concepts for the students: • We all have insecurities and flaws that can hold us back if we let them. Accept your weaknesses, deal with them and move on.

• Asking for help and giving help are essential to being successful and happy.

• Being around people with physical or intellectual handicaps or disabilities should bring out the same characteristics Bessie elicits. Share your genuine interest, offer assistance and show affection.

And he concludes with…….BE LIKE BESSIE!

In support of independent bookstores, BESSIE’S STORY - Watching the Lights Go Out is available at Violet’s Book Exchange (Claremont, NH), Morgan Hill Bookstore (New London, NH), Gibson’s Bookstore (Concord, NH), The Toadstool Bookshops (Keene, NH) The Yankee Bookshop (Woodstock, VT), The Norwich Bookstore (Norwich, VT), Village Square Booksellers (Bellows Falls, VT) and the Hickory Stick Bookshop ( Wa s h i n g t o n Depot, CT). The book can also be ordered online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Please contact the author (bessiesstory@ gmail.com) to have personalized/autographed copies delivered locally or mailed.

To learn more please visit www. bessiesstory.com Spring 2019

www.4LegsAndATail.com 11

Celebrate National Pet Week!

M. Kathleen Shaw - DVM Vermont Veterinary Medical Association

12 4 Legs & a Tail

Spring 2019

A

lways the first full week in May, National Pet Week is dedicated to celebrating the over 200 million pets that enrich our lives. This is especially true in Vermont, which tops the nation in pet ownership per capita. Created in 1981 by the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Auxiliary AVMA, National Pet Week is a time to honor the many roles pets have in our lives and to promote responsible pet ownership.

Whether your pet is a horse, bird, cat, dog, rodent, or any other of the amazing creatures in our world, our pets are there for us and don’t ask much in return. During National Pet Week, we encourage pet owners to celebrate the bond and provide their pets with all that they need for a healthy and enriched life every week of the year.

Keeping your pet happy and healthy involves providing three important things: proper housing and nutrition, appropriate exercise and environmental enrichment, and providing medical care to keep them healthy and disease free.

Many of our pets have been domesticated from their wild roots, and so it is important to provide them with ways

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to keep their minds and bodies active.

Make the time to play with your cat or walk your dog several times a day.

Buy or make them a new toy and use interactive play to help them keep their minds busy. Owners of birds and exotic pets can research ways to modify their pets’ living space to provide variety and entertainment. This doesn’t have to be buying expensive toys - appropriate homemade toys are just as good.

Nutrition and medical care are an important part of responsible pet ownership. One aspect that many pet owners should consider before adopting a pet of any type is the ability to afford veterinary care to prevent parasites and disease and treat any that may occur in the pet. Annual physical exams and preventative medications are not without cost but are critical to pets’ well-being. Before you get a new pet or if you have one and aren’t sure what its needs are, talk to your veterinarian. They can provide you with accurate information to help you keep your pet healthy and happy.

So, whether your pet is a horse or a gerbil or any size animal in between,

take time during National Pet week to celebrate the bond! Take your dog for a walk, brush out your horse and go for a ride, play with the cat, or make some additions to your caged pets’ environment to challenge their minds! They give us so much love and comfort: let’s make sure we provide what they need this week and every day of the year.

For more information, go to www.petweek.org

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Green Mountain Animal Defenders Celebrates 35 Years of Helping Animals Karen Sturtevant - Volunteer

I

GMAD president, Sharon M., comforting rescued baby goat, Ilsa

n an ever-changing world, the commitment of Green Mountain Animal Defenders (GMAD) remains constant.

GMAD has not only withstood the challenges of a changing society but has grown to be a prominent voice in Vermont’s animal-protection movement.

As we celebrate over 35 years of animal activism for bunnies and beavers, cats and cows, dogs and ducks, goats and giraffes, and all other animals, GMAD encourages everyone to make humane choices.

Green Mountain Animal Defenders’ statewide network of resources includes assistance and referrals for low-cost, spay-and-neuter services; consulting on wildlife issues; working with local authorities, and sharing alerts on lost and found animals. GMAD’s reach is wide, with a dedicated group of like-

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minded people putting the needs of animals first. From tabling events to the halls of Vermont’s capitol building, GMAD’s efforts shine a light on the importance of protecting animals.

GMAD focuses on five main areas of animal protection: wildlife, companion animals, animals used in entertainment, farmed animals, and animals used in laboratory experimentation. To ensure the success of each ongoing campaign, they require leadership, commitment and the continuous effort to educate members and the public. When people learn the truth about inhumane and cruel practices that cause suffering to innocent animals, they want to make a difference.

As the famous poet, Maya Angelou said, “I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better.”

Some of GMAD’s notable accomplishments include the following: • Help to facilitate the spay/neuter of over 79,000 cats (domestic and feral), dogs, and bunnies. This achievement was largely made possible through the incredible efforts of Drs. Peggy Larson and Roger Prior.

• Prevent carnivals/midway operators at all Vermont fairs from awarding live animals as prizes. This change has already saved the lives of thousands of goldfish and other small animals.

• Through our pet food drive, we’ve been able to collect and distribute over seven tons of pet food to local food shelves, low-income families, and feral-cat colonies throughout Vermont.

• Rescue of 18 goats (16 babies and 2 adults) from a farmer who had no use for them. GMAD stepped in to save the goats from impending slaughter.

They were treated by a veterinarian, all the males were neutered, and all found forever, loving homes.

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• Collaborate with the University of Vermont, condominium associations, and municipalities to replace deadly beaver traps with humane alternatives.

Spring 2019

• Build dog houses, feral-cat shelters, wildlife platform feeders, and wildlife nesting boxes through our Providing All-Weather Shelters (PAWS) program. We are proud to have donated two insulated doghouses to the Clarina Howard Nichols Center which provides services to survivors of domestic violence and their companion animals.

For more information: www.GreenMountainAnimalDefenders.org or www.facebook.com/GreenMountainAnimalDefenders Sign up for our e-alerts: http://bit.ly/ealert Donate or become a member: http://bit.ly/donategmad Find help for an animal: info@gmad.info or 802-861-3030

• Honored by the Humane Society of the US as Grassroots Guardians: http://bit.ly/GMADhonoredbyHSUS. • Implement a Lost-Pet Project to get the word out about lost or found pets on GMAD’s Facebook page, Front Porch Forum, and through alerts to our members via email. Families searching for lost cats, dogs, chickens, rabbits, a miniature horse, guinea hens, and a duck have benefitted from this service.

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In addition, GMAD supports the efforts of Vermont’s licensed wildlife rehabilitators by donating cages, medication, food, and other lifesaving supplies. We also provide information and referrals to the public on how to help injured or abandoned wildlife and offer humane ways to solve human-wildlife conflicts. From my own personal experience, when I found an unresponsive groundhog on my porch in the middle of a hot July day, I was provided with a precise plan to help the little one. She was saved, and I was relieved, thanks to GMAD! We invite you to join us in giving animals a voice. By becoming a member, volunteering, or making a contribution, you can make a difference for animals!

Spring 2019

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Will Feral’s Journey to His “Furever” Home Laurie Waterman

I

n January 2015, Will Feral showed up on the doorstep of the Sullivan County Humane Society’s Director’s home during a good old New England cold snap; where temps were getting as low as -15 degrees. The Director could see that he was in rough shape; fur matted & dirty, ears raw & bleeding, paw pads froze & chapped. He was freezing, hungry and intact (phew!). However, he just wouldn’t allow her near him so she could help him. In order to get him the help he needed, the decision was made to trap him. Once trapped, it was clear that he was not going to let anyone touch him.

Any attempts to touch him or reach into his crate to feed him were met with a swift attack that even Kevlar gloves could not protect against.

16 4 Legs & a Tail

It was clear the cat was scared, but we had to do something to help him.

His wounds needed time to be treated and heal, and he had to get neutered before he could be let back outside.

With the warmer weather at least two months away it meant we had to find him somewhere to live until spring.

That is when the director of the shelter contacted me and asked me if I would consider fostering this poor kitty. You see, I have a room in my home that is dedicated to fostering and at the time I had a vacancy. The alternative was having him stay in a medium size dog Laurie and Will crate for 2 months, and I couldn’t have that. At the very least we figured he’d hide while I fed and cleaned up after him but he would have the whole room to himself. Our plan was that when spring came we would reassess the situation and decide his future. At least, for the time being, he’d be safe, warm and fed. In our hearts, we hoped that maybe just maybe, I’d gain his trust and get a chance to tame him. So, after a brief stay in the director’s basement, a quick stop at the spay/neuter clinic, he came to my foster room. Which soon became his foster room.

The first few weeks William (as I’d come to call him) didn’t come out at all when I’d go into the room. At first, I’d only go in to give fresh food, water, bedding, blankets and clean his litter box. Then I started spending more time in the room with him at night. I’d sit in the room while taking my online class, doing homework, reading and sometimes just sitting in there. While he would watch from across the room, or under the desk, I’d read out loud, fiddle on my phone or just talk to him. After several weeks, I’d try and sit closer to him when he got his night time feeding and wet food was the trick here! While he would scarf his wet food, I’d nudge closer. Then after several days, I’d try to touch him (quickly) while he ate.

Fast forward several more days and I could touch him the whole time he ate.

William’s and my foster journey went on for several months; every little step seemed to take weeks. I still remember lying in front of his litter box because Spring 2019

he was hiding in it and wouldn’t come out. So I got the idea to lie in front of it, head on a pillow right in front of it, and I read my book out loud to him until he got brave enough to leave the box and walk by me. It took almost two hours but it happened and I can remember trying to resist the urge to reach out and touch him as he walked right past my head. But, I resisted and it was worth it because, after that, we had so many more milestones! Like the first night, he reached up and put his front paws on my leg while I was reading to him. Like he wanted to sit in my lap! And he did! I could go on and on.

As you probably guessed, he became my foster failure about three months after. William really began to thrive once he became acclimated to the rest of our five cats and realized he now had a family. Now, here we are, four years later; January 2019. Will Feral prefers his formal name of William. With his six kitties and two dogs as siblings he no longer has to feel alone. He comes to bed in the middle of the night for snuggles and loves to groom my head while I’m sleeping. There’s no longer any fear in him with us. In fact, when we bend down to pick him up, he actually reaches up and will place a paw on each shoulder for a hug. I mean, sure, I took a few serious bites and needed antibiotics and there may even be a scar or two. But, it has been worth every trying time, doctor’s visit, late nights in the foster room, and even tears, just seeing Will Feral’s transformation into William.

Susan Tullar, DVM

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Tools for New Dog Introduction Karen Sturtevant

S

tatista reported an astounding 89.7 million dogs lived in households in the United States during 2017. As an over-the-top dog lover (and owner and rescue volunteer), I unequivocally understand how much we love our pups and wasn’t that surprised at this number. However, I do wonder at the doggie dynamic of households with two or more canines.

Chances are both dogs did not arrive on the same day. When two dogs meet for the first time, the outcome could be positive, disastrous or long-term work in progress. Rarely do dogs immediately become fast friends. Like all connections, even canine relationships require proper introduction and slow cultivation. We will put a few tips and tricks in our canine toolbox to help ensure a safe and successful foundation for canine companionship.

Resident dogs are instinctually pro-

18 4 Legs & a Tail

Penney and Tilley

tective of their turf. When introducing a newcomer, meet on neutral ground, a place where neither dog will feel territorial. Each dog should be on a leash with the handler exhibiting a calm and focused state of mind. Dogs are very intuitive.

The more relaxed the person, the more the dog will be at ease. A tense owner

translates into an anxious dog. A leisurely, side-by-side walk with a safe distance between the two is an excellent first step. This method is meant to acclimate them to each other, with no perceived threat.

During the walk, allow the dogs to sniff each other (the equivalent of a human handshake). If they show friendly behavior or show little interest, move the duo in an enclosed area. Keep the leashes secured and allow them to move closer to each other. Watch their body language to determine the level of hostility and friendliness. If either tries to bite, snap or lunges with teeth showing, separate them immediately and conclude the lesson. Some uncertainty with either dog is typical and can be sorted out without any of our interference. However, if the action becomes concerning, a break will be called for.

Spring 2019

One of the biggest mistakes enthusiastic dog owners make is to immediately allow both dogs full range of their yard and house. Meeting in this manner may be fine for some, but dreadful or harmful for others. Keep the first few meetings controlled and supervised.

Dogs listen to our voices and the inflection of our words. They may not understand English or French, but they will react to the tone of voice. A high pitched and happy, “Good boy,” compared to a low, loud “No,” get different results.

Our words have power. We tend to say too much when training and teaching.

Think about what are the most important words you want your dog to hear and do away with the others. Instead of, “Come here, little buddy, so Mommy can give you a hug!” to “Come.” Simple is best. Choose your words carefully.

When a newcomer dog is brought into the house, some trainers suggest giving the resident dog first dibs on everything from entering the house, getting fed, and receiving pats of attention. Sharing toys and resources is a skill we teach toddlers, not dogs. The canine pack, whether two or twenty, will determine their hierarchy system and will tell you who is top dog.

Tips

for the

Canine Tool Box

• Secure leashes on both dogs inside the house during the early days. If a scuffle ensues, a grab of the leash and correction can be done quickly and efficiently.

• Add a crate for each dog (in separate rooms), complete with a water bowl, toys, and cozy blanket. Keep the door open and allow the dog to retreat to this safe space when he feels threatened.

• Know the body language of dogs. A wagging tail doesn’t always mean carefree and happy.

• Invest in a trainer or behaviorist.

• Keeping dogs separated by a gate or barrier that neither can jump is often a safe, gradual way of introduction. They can sniff through the openings without fear of confrontation. As strongly as we want that instant firework of doggie friendship, don’t be dismayed if it doesn’t suddenly happen.

• To eliminate fighting over food, consider feeding dogs in their individual crates.

• Accept that one dog will want to establish his dominance. This is a necessary step in the canine to canine connection.

• Are the dogs spayed or neutered?

Dogs that are, tend to be less aggressive and challenging.

• Be patient and observe interactions until you feel comfortable that both have found their place in the home and have established their natural order.

• Keep a jar of coins and a spray bottle filled with water handy. If the dogs get in an altercation, never try and grab collars or harnesses to separate. Their sharp teeth won’t discern between your hand and their opponent. The risk of injury is too high. Instead, distract by spraying water in their faces or shaking the jar near them to change their focus. Immediately separate and place them in their crates or separate rooms to allow them time to decompress.

Continued Next Page

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The addition of a new scruffy friend takes patience and knowledge for a winning outcome. Ask friends for trainers or behaviorists they recommend.

You may experience no issues during a time and then, of out of nowhere, fights and aggression rear their ugly heads. Having a professional’s information for your toolbox is a wise move. All dogs will have occasional disagreements (even the most mild-mannered), but if these acts escalate to putting your family and other pets at risk of injury, call the professionals.

Dogs are like potato chips, we don’t want to stop at just one. If a solo pup gives us unlimited pleasure, two must be just about as much as our hearts can imagine, right? Possibly. Having a sense of what will be needed to properly indoctrinate a newcomer to a resident dog can be a lot of work and a continuing project. The outcome of having well-adjusted, social, and content canines is a pat on the head to the owners. With knowledge on how to handle situations before they start, having professionals in the toolbox and a good dose of patience and realistic expectations, including multiple dogs as part of a family can be very rewarding on many levels, including the heart.

MoMo

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Hannaford in West Lebanon had 2 supply drives in 2018 for the Upper Valley Humane Society. In total, they raised over $2,000 in supplies and cash. More are planned for 2019 but no dates have been set yet.

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Spring 2019

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ids are fascinated by reptiles, but not all reptiles make good pets for children. Understanding what reptiles need is the first step in choosing a good snake, turtle or lizard for a child’s pet, and there are several types of reptiles that can be ideal for young pet owners.

Before Buying a Reptile A child may love reptiles, but before opting for a reptilian pet, it is important to understand some basic characteristics of reptiles in order to choose an appropriate pet.

Adult Size: Many reptiles hatch as cute, tiny creatures, but not all of them stay small sizes that are manageable by kids. Not only can reptiles grow to large, heavy sizes, but as they mature they will need larger, stronger cages and more overall space. If that is not available, a reptile may not be the best pet choice.

Lifespan: Reptiles can live for many years, but children might lose interest in their pets long before the animals die a natural death. Furthermore, children’s interests change as they mature, and once they are ready to leave home for college, the military or their first apartment, they may not be able to take a large pet reptile along.

Play Expectations: Children often want interactive pets they can play with and that will respond to them by learning tricks or playing games, but reptiles often do best when left alone or with only minimal interaction. If a child really wants a pet they can play with, a reptile isn’t the best choice.

Best Reptiles for Kids Just like any animal, some reptiles are more difficult to manage in captivity than others, and different care needs and personalities can make some reptiles more suitable as children’s pets.

The top types of reptiles that can be good pets for kids include…

• • • • • • • •

22 4 Legs & a Tail

Ball Pythons Bearded Dragons Corn Snakes King Snakes Leopard Geckos Painted Turtles Russian Tortoises Red-Footed Tortoises Spring 2019

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No matter what type of reptile you choose for a child’s pet, there are some steps that can make it easier for kids to be responsible reptile owners.

Discuss Responsibility: Before adopting any pet, parents should discuss the child’s responsibilities for caring for the animal, cleaning its tank or cage and feeding it. At the same time, discuss the consequences if the child does not take care of their pet properly.

Study the Pet: Before bringing the pet home, take time to research its growth, diet, health concerns, habits and behavior. Help the child select library books or visit websites to learn about their pet, and get in touch with an appropriate veterinarian for emergency care.

Choose the Best Breeder: Purchase the pet from a reputable breeder who has healthy, captive-bred animals that are used to human care and handling.

If possible, ask to see the reptile’s parents or learn about its breeding history to be sure it is healthy.

By taking the right steps to choose the best reptile for a child’s pet and ensure they are ready for the responsibility of pet ownership, it can be easy to add a reptilian member to any family.

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Biofilm…

The Health Risk Lurking in Your Pet’s Food and Water Bowl Jill Feinstein

A

well-balanced diet and readily available water are critical to the health and well-being of our pets. They are the sustenance that keeps them happy and healthy. As pet owners, we work hard to be sure our pets not only survive but that they thrive.

But could it be we are overlooking a potential danger in their food and water bowls? Something that could make them and us sick? If you aren’t thoroughly cleaning those bowls, the answer is yes. Do you know that slime you feel when you rinse out the bowl? That’s called biofilm, and it has a lot of bacteria that can cause illness if you’re not careful.

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What is biofilm?

Biofilm is defined as a thin, slimy film of bacteria that adheres to a surface in a wet environment. It can form on almost any surface exposed to bacteria and water, like a food or water bowl. Those microbes excrete a glue-like substance that helps them to thrive. It keeps them attached to the surface which helps the bacteria to survive and reproduce. Biofilms can be found all around us. We come in contact with these colonies of bacteria every day.

Where are biofilms found?

Not only is your pet’s bowl a breeding ground, but your bathroom is too. Do you know the slime at the bottom of the shower curtain? That’s a biofilm. The slime in your sink drain… yup, biofilm. Your own mouth is fertile ground for biofilm. In fact, dental plaque is nothing more than a biofilm that builds up on teeth. It too contains disease-causing bacteria, bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease.

What are the risks?

Our pets don’t have clean mouths. Dogs eat all kinds of things they’re not supposed to. They lick the bottoms of their paws. That’s like licking the bottom of your shoe. And the germs they pick up are harbored in their mouths. Cats, even if they’re not outside, put their mouths where they shouldn’t. They lick their paws too… and other body parts. It’s inevitable when our pets eat and drink, the bacteria in their mouths end up in their bowls. This is how that gooey biofilm forms. The bowl is wet from their tongues giving the microbes a nice place to call home. The biofilm can contain many species of bacteria including Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and Legionella. These four can make you and your family very sick. And if allowed to excessively build up in those bowls, can pollute your dog’s food and water and make them sick too.

But there are also some good bacteria in the biofilm that can be beneficial to your pet’s immune system and digestion.

Continued ON Page 26

Spring 2019

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www.4LegsAndATail.com 25

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But because we don’t have the immune systems our pets do, we must take precautions. Particularly if our kids feed and water our pets. If you have elderly relatives living with you, the same concerns exist. Older people don’t have the resilient immune systems that younger adults do. And you certainly don’t want your pet to get sick because their water and food bowls are laden with bacteria.

Minimizing the biofilm risk There are things you can do to keep everyone healthy and minimize the biofilm risk. First, avoid plastic bowls. They scratch making it more difficult to get them clean. Most importantly, clean those bowls well. Here are 4 tips to be sure no one gets sick.

• Clean bowls regularly – Your pet’s food bowl should be washed after every meal and the water bowl, twice a day.

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• Don’t wash the bowls in the kitchen sink – Germs can be transferred to your dishes and utensils. The bathtub’s not a good idea either because you don’t want to be soaking in these bacteria. Use a bathroom or utility sink.

• Scrub with an abrasive first – The biofilm needs to be broken up before you disinfect. You can use something as simple as salt on a sponge (but not the sponge you use on your dishes), or the scruffy side of a two-sided sponge.

• Disinfect – Mix one-tablespoon household bleach to one gallon of very hot water. Fill the pet bowl with the solution and wipe around the outside of the bowl with it too. Let it soak for 2 minutes. Wash out well to remove all bleach residue. If you would rather not use bleach, use the sanitize cycle on your dishwasher. If you’re using the sanitize cycle you can wash the bowls with your dishes. Also, it’s important to clean the floor where your pet eats, and any stand or mat under your pet’s bowls. Bacteria can grow in these areas too.

And always be sure to use designated sponges and dish towels for your pet’s bowls, never the ones you use on your dishes and utensils. Some might say don’t sanitize the bowls daily because the good bacteria can be beneficial to a healthy dog. But the downside of all the bad bacteria may outweigh any benefits from the good bacteria… something to discuss with your vet.

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Spring 2019

The Difference Between Your Dream Dog and the Dog You Actually Have and What You Can Do About It Paula Bergeron - Grafton, NH

I

t is rare to find an owner who is not ready to wax poetic about their bundle of fur whether it be an expensive pedigree or a pup found on the streets. However, if you listen long enough you will begin to hear about antics that are more problematic than endearing which can contribute to feelings of disappointment and frustration.

How fortunate or disappointed you feel depends on your personal expectations of the role your dog is to play in your life.

These expectations vary greatly depending on the owner. Owner A might want a very active dog who will go running or accompany them as they bike a trail, owner B may want a dog who is comfortable being home alone or happy to cuddle on the couch at the end of the day. Some people need their dog to be able to tolerate a varied routine, lots of commotion with children coming and going, others desire their dog to be able to socialize easily with the dogs of their extended family.

While there are dogs out there who seem to be able to go with every flow, most dogs do not thrive in every environment, so what can we do when we realize that our dog is not ideal? Well the most effective thing to do is to think before you adopt or buy your dog. Research of the breed or breed mix, along with a realistic look at your life as it is now and how you predict it might change in the next 10 years can prevent both frustration and heartache, however even a careful decision might not prevent problems that arise from a dog's personality, quirks, or an exaggerated submissive or dominant nature.

Training can help you and your dog learn to navigate those activities your dog does not tolerate well, a good exercise habit can help a dog handle your active lifestyle, and diminish unwanted destruction or behavior coming from frustration and boredom. Structure in your routine can help anxious dogs be more at ease, and clear leadership can harness dogs who feel the need to guard. But no amount of training or exercise is going to make a timid dog desire to be the center of attention or widely active dog enjoy being still on the couch for a whole weekend... so what do we do? Well, sometimes the best thing to is not to try to fight mother nature and adjust our expectations. Begin by looking at your dog’s true temperament without judgment as to whether it is good or bad, Spring 2019

then consider the possibility that your dog may be in your life to gift you with some new understanding, skill, or activity that will enrich your life. Maybe the needs of your less than ideal dog will require you to organize your schedule, become more of a leader, to get out and be more active, or to slow down and be still. Maybe once you are able to adjust some of your expectations, you will discover this dog that is requiring more out of you is truly your dream dog after all.

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Should my dog be eating senior food?

T

his is a question people ask frequently. People with small dogs generally think about it later but people who own large breeds may think about it sooner.

But what is the right age?

In some ways, age really is just a number. There is absolutely no cut and dried answer. I think the better question is, what are a couple of nutritional factors that you might find in a senior formula food?

• Senior formula food will usually be lower in fat content. Most animals see a slow in their metabolism or may have a lower activity level and it gets tougher to keep extra weight off.

• A premium producer will probably add high-quality glucosamine and chondroitin to keep aging joints healthy.

If you have a large breed your normal adult food may already have an adequate dosage added in your food.

• Did you know pet food has salt? A senior formula will have a lower amount of sodium to avoid hypertension.

• Added Seaweed and fibers to promote lower tartar and healthy teeth.

• Added Nutraceuticals such as stabilized Vitamin C and Taurine. These are strong anti-oxidants to preserve healthy cells and provide good cardiac health.

• Balanced Calcium and Phosphorus for healthy bones.

• Provide a good fiber source for healthy digestion.

So, if you are reading through this list and thinking; ”those things sound like healthy things for just about any dog” …

You are not necessarily wrong. Not all older dogs eat senior food, and some younger dogs eat senior food. Let’s talk about some examples of when this might happen.

Some examples of when to consider a senior formula for a younger dog include: • A dog with kidney problems needing a lower protein to energy ratio • A dog with any type of cardiac disease, regardless of age. Some pet owners will be advised to choose food with a low sodium level.

• Dogs with pancreatic problems need to eat food with low-fat content. Pancreatitis or other pancreatic disorders can make it difficult for a dog to process fat.

• Some dogs that do not have a high activity level and are seeking a lowfat option for weight control may choose a food with the attributes of a senior formula. The low-fat content coupled with the likely addition of joint supplements are both positive things for a pet carrying extra weight.

A couple of examples of older dogs that might not have their needs best met by a senior formula include: • Dogs with cancer or other chronic illness that make it a struggle to keep weight on might prompt looking for a more robust recipe.

• An active pet needing more energy content.

28 4 Legs & a Tail

The easy answer…. ASK AN EXPERT. You can’t just go by the name or even the label if you want to know everything. Therefore, it is important to work with a pet nutrition expert to match the nutrition to the needs of your pet. A pet food expert understands how these ingredients react in the body of an animal and under what circumstances they will benefit an individual pet.

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www.4LegsAndATail.com 29

Do You Have Good Petiquette?

W

e have talked about dog behavior here before. What we will be talking about now is DOG OWNER behavior.

A perfectly behaved dog can have an owner that does not follow some basic etiquette that comes with being a respectful pet owner and it really gives dogs a bad reputation.

You would not think you would need to be a “seasoned” dog owner to have common sense. Yet there are some basic common courtesy type things that many pet owners just do not respect. Let’s talk about a couple: It is never OK to walk your dog off leash. The only public area designed for off-leash activity is the dog park; otherwise, use your private enclosed property.

It is likely not just rude but illegal to do otherwise. The responses that people

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think make it OK…” my dog is friendly”, “my dog listens to me”. Perhaps if these dog owners could understand the number of issues that this can cause to other pet owners as well as their own pet, we can reduce the incidents of this happening.

When other dogs see your dog, especially if your dog is approaching them off leash their behavior can change.

The on-leash dog recognizes they have a restriction and that can give them a feeling of vulnerability. If another animal (dog or human) presents defensive or fearful energy your own dogs’ behavior can also change, it is an instinct. So, the norm for behavior is thrown out the window and this can cause a dangerous situation for the humans and the dogs.

For a moment, consider what other dogs and humans might have experienced in their past. Dogs that have worked to overcome issues with fear around other dogs can digress from having made progress by having an altercation with an off-leash dog. These dogs and their owners are entitled to enjoy being out following the rules without the threat of an off-leash dog.

There are many people that have had bad experiences with dogs and are fearful of them. An off-leash dog can be terrifying for them trying to enjoy a walk as well.

Good Petiquette On-Leash. Do not assume other people or dogs want to engage with you and your dog. Always ask a pet owner if they and their pet want to say hello. If you see an approaching owner and pet that are trying to re-route to avoid engagement try to be accommodating. When passing by walkers keep your pet on a short enough leash that they do not jump on the passing person…not everybody is a dog person.

Make sure your pet has tags just in case they get out. A dog getting loose from their owners’ home should be the exception. Owners need to be responsible for the care of their pets, this includes making sure they are safe and secure even when you are not home. If you have a gate, make sure it has a lock and is locked when you leave. If your dog digs under the fence or is a jumper and can jump over the fence YOU NEED TO MITIGATE THIS. If you are leaving your Spring 2019

house to take your dog for a ride in the car, make sure they are secured in the car before you open the garage door. If you are opening your front door, make sure your dogs are secured or on a leash. So, let’s assume you have done everything right securing your home and something terrible happens and your pet gets out.

They need to have a quick and easy way for a good Samaritan to get them safely back in your care. Being able to call you on a cell number listed on their tag is the best way to do this. It is great to have your dog chipped but please also make sure they have tags. It will make it that much easier for a stranger to call you instead of animal control.

Your pet is in danger if it is out too. It could be hit by a car, attacked by a wild animal. Frankly, people will do anything to defend themselves or their pets up to and including macing or shooting your pet if they feel they are in danger.

Let’s Talk Poop. It is such a common problem…WHY? I live in a neighborhood that provides poop disposal stations stocked with free poop bags and people still don’t scoop their poop. This just gives your neighbors a bad taste in their mouth about dogs in general. The two previous examples of unattended dogs only perpetuate this problem. I am a crazy dog person and I actually look at poop pick up as an opportunity to see that everything in my pets’ body is working as it should…I know this is not the norm. The norm is that it is stinky to pick up poop…but come on people just do it.

In a nutshell DOGS ROCK. Let’s make sure that humans don’t make them look bad. We get these precious souls in our lives and our responsibility is to care for them and keep them safe.

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Reminiscing About My First Days in Beekeeping Shane Howard

I

remember my first thought of keeping bees, it was mid-January four winters ago. I came upon an advertisement in a free paper, offering bees for sale. As many of you can relate January in Northern New England is a great time for making plans, so I began mine. I placed a call to reserve my bees. I was told my bees would be ready Mother’s Day. With only four months to spare I quickly made a trip to the local store

to buy beekeeping equipment. I purchased one of everything; Tyvek suit, veil, leather gloves, complete 10 frame hive and the coolest piece of equipment a smoker! (which honestly took me two years to figure out how to keep lit). The excitement to keep bees, fueled by anticipation, fear and anxiety brought many questions to mind: Would I get stung to death? What would I do with all the honey the bees were going to make me? Are

there Honey-Badgers in New Hampshire?

Spoiler alert, I did not die that year, nor did I harvest any honey and there are no Honey Badgers in the USA. As Mother’s Day approached I prepared my equipment and myself for my maiden voyage into beekeeping. I sanded and stained my newly purchased equipment, twice. I made multiple calls to the beekeeper who was selling me my bees. I asked, what seemed to be, to me, quality questions. I asked him if he could tell me what it felt like to get stung, How would I know which bee was the queen and of course. “How much honey will I get?”

He entertained these and many other questions with admirable patience.

Sunday, May 10th, 2015, Mother’s Day had arrived and I was up before the sun.

I hopped in the truck and was headed to get my bees. I traveled approximately 60 miles to the end of a dirt road in rural Vermont. I arrived at a rustic farmhouse with a small bee yard; at exactly 8 AM.( I again point out my new found mentor's patience). After inspecting a few with me I realized I was to make a decision as to which I would be taking home. I agreed to the very next hive after being shown both the queen and her eggs. After I chose my bees he screened the entrances, loaded my bees up and assured me I could call with any questions. This last promise is one I am sure he regretted for at least a couple of months.

Arriving at home I got right to work setting my hive in its new home, opened the screen entrance and sat in the grass to watch “my” bees. I can still recall with almost crystal clarity thinking to myself “I am a beekeeper” This made me smile almost as much then as it does now.

When Shane isn’t a busy bee tending to the hive, he’s managing the Lebanon Pet & Aquarium Center.

32 4 Legs & a Tail

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Buyer’s Guide to Native Plantings I

Catherine Greenleaf

magine you’ve worked all day and are hungry, so you drive to the nearest supermarket to find some food to bring home for dinner. You walk inside the store and all of the shelves are empty. You get in your car and you drive to another supermarket, but that one is empty, too.

So you drive far out of your way to an adjacent town, only to find that grocery store has also sold out of food.

Increasingly, this is the scenario for wild birds and pollinators like bumblebees and butterflies, according to the latest study conducted by The Smithsonian’s Conservation Biology Institute. As more and more native woodlands are bulldozed and replaced with sprawling urban centers filled with non-native plants and ornamental trees,

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the more birds and pollinators, like bumblebees, are starving and unable to successfully rear their young.

The new research indicates your typical backyard needs to contain at least 70 percent native trees and plants in order to help birds survive. Planting natives with their abundant pollen and nectar, in turn, help the pollinators, who lay their eggs on specific native plants to ensure the survival of their young.

These insects then, in turn, help feed the birds.

The study also confirms that birds prefer protective cover, so plant placement is crucial. Think layers, locating bushes and plants close to trees so you are creating a safe place where birds can stay hidden from predators.

When adding native trees to your yard think about creating a canopy by planting several close together. Tree canopy provides birds with protection from the elements, blocking winds from blowing down nests, and providing shelter from deep freezes and ice storms.

If you’re headed to the garden center to look for natives, it’s important to define your terms so you aren’t misled: NATIVE: These are true native plants that have co-evolved and adapted to their local and regional environments over the millennia. They are the hardiest and most resilient and they provide the best nutrition for birds and insects, say scientists.

NATIVAR: A nativar is not a true native plant, according to some researchers. Rather it is a cultivated variety of a native, bred for selected traits like petal shape or bloom time.

Nativars are certainly much hardier and more drought tolerant than nonnative cultivars. Do nativars benefit birds and pollinators? Perhaps. Some purists would argue that once the structure of a native is altered, birds and insects no longer recognize the plant as useful. If wildlife is starving they will eat anything, of course, but some scientists say the nutritional value of nativars can be sub-optimal.

CULTIVAR: Cultivars are plants you will see labeled with special names, such Spring 2019

as Bearded Iris “Beverly Sills.” These plants are the result of horticultural professionals who are devoted to creating the perfect version of a particular species of a plant through continued hybridization. This industry relies on the belief that bigger is better and often sacrifices pollen quality and nectar quantity for big, show-stopping blooms that birds and insects will be drawn to only to find no sustenance available.

Unfortunately, just because the gimmicky plant ID label says, “Attracts hummingbirds” doesn’t mean the plant will actually provide any nectar.

The truth is most native plants cannot compete with the flashy and showy hybridized cultivars sold at nursery centers by the millions every year. Many mail-order catalogs have conducted extensive marketing campaigns over the last several decades to draw our attention

away from beneficial natives in order to appeal to our baser instincts, like planting so-called “one-of-a-kind” ornamentals from exotic countries sure to impress the neighbors. Keeping up with the Joneses has exacted its toll, resulting in a continuing rapid die-off of most of our favorite songbird species. One example is the very popular and flamboyant Japanese Nandina bush. This plant’s berries are poisonous and result in the mass poisoning and deaths of many songbirds, especially Cedar Waxwings.

ORGANIC OR CONVENTIONAL: Trees, plants, and perennials that have been raised without the use of harmful chemicals like neonicotinoids are considered organic. They are the safest choice for supporting birds and pollinators, not to mention humans. Raising conventionals, however, can include the use of insecticides and herbicides.

Catherine Greenleaf is the director of St. Francis Wild Bird Center in Lyme, NH If you find an injured bird, please call (603) 795-4850.

Below is a sampling of nurseries, garden centers and organizations in the New England area offering natives for sale: New Hampshire State Forest Nursery 405 Daniel Webster Hwy Boscawen, NH (603) 796-2323 Cedar Circle Farm 225 Pavillion Rd East Theford, VT (802) 785-4737 Northeast Pollinator Plants Fairfax, VT NortheastPollinator.com Fedco Clinton, Maine (207) 426-9900

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Wild Seed Project Portland, Maine www.wildseedproject.net New England Wildflower Society 180 Hemenway Road Framingham, MA (508) 877-7630

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Goes the Weasel Scott Borthwick - Canaan, NH

L

ast issue I wrote about the squirrel population growth increase due to an increase in food sources and how an increase in the prey population increases the predator population. No predator has proved this more than the Short-Tailed or Least Weasel. I have never had as many calls in all my years of Nuisance Wildlife Control work as I have this year about weasels in people’s houses.

This tiny predator can follow a mouse into a house with ease. Anywhere a mouse can go, they can go. Measuring a mere 12” or less and weighing between 2 to 4 oz. gives them the ability to go pretty much anywhere they want. If you want to protect your chickens you should use a ¼” to ½” galvanized screen for fencing. Chicken wire will keep out many predators just not weasels.

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otter. Of this bunch only the skunk is omnivorous. The rest are pure meat eaters preferring fresh meat. They are all furbearers as well. Weasel fur is called Ermine because no one wants a weasel coat just like a skunk is called Alaskan Sable for the same reason. Ermine pelts were used in Europe for centuries as ornaments on the robes of Monarchs.

These creatures are the ultimate hunters. Brown in the summer months and white in the winter they blend in perfectly. Like most predators, they cover a large area in search of prey. However, they will stay in one area if there is a large food source. Which is why they are in people’s homes. One caller told me they have been seeing this weasel in their house for over a month. When people call the first thing I ask is do you have pets smaller than a cat and/or chickens?

If the answer is no then I suggest leaving it alone. There is no better or more natural way to remove mice from your house than a weasel. They do not get trapped in the house. They come and go as they please and will leave when the food source is gone. Far more efficient than a cat and far cheaper than paying someone like myself.

Finally when a weasel pops up in your house consider what I have said. If you are uncomfortable with a weasel in your home we can remove it however you may want to wait until the mice are gone.

Scott Borthwick owns Estate Wildlife Control. He lives in Canaan, NH with his wife Donna, two dogs, a couple of horses and one tough old chicken named Henrietta.

36 4 Legs & a Tail

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www.4LegsAndATail.com 37

10

Great Reasons to Have Chickens

Great-Tasting, Nutritious Eggs We all love our dogs, cats, and fish, but do they actually produce something edible? Or pay their own way? Chickens do, and once you’ve dined on their eggs you’ll never reach for a dozen in the supermarket again. They’re so much more flavorful, in no small part because you’ll eat them when they’re only minutes or hours old, not weeks or months.

You’ll even see the difference in the yolks, which are a healthy orange - not the pale yellow you’re used to.

Plus, you can feel good about the organic eggs you’ll be feeding your friends and family. All it takes to get organic eggs is organic chicken feed!

Research shows that chickens allowed to roam freely and eat grass lay eggs that are higher in Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E and at the same time lower in cholesterol than store-bought, too.

(Think of your hair and skin...)

Chickens Have Personality Galore -- Seriously!

Each chicken has its own completely unique quirky, kooky and endearing personality. They’re stunningly beautiful too, parading around in a variety of colors, patterns, shapes, and sizes. You’ll name them, spoil them with treats, and pick them up and hug them any chance you get.

Get One Step Closer to Sustainable Living Do you find it disconcerting how far removed we all are from the animals and plants we need to survive? How our fast-paced lives and ever-increasing demands are trashing the planet that sustains us? Believe it or not, keeping a few chickens in your backyard equates to taking a stand against all this.

A Healthy Lawn without the Chemicals Chickens LOVE to range freely, and allowing them to do so kills the proverbial two birds with one stone: they’ll eat any garden pest they can get their beaks on (earwigs, grubs, beetles, even moles) and they’ll turn it all into treasure in the form of fertilizer. Say goodbye to toxic, costly pest control solutions and wasteful bags and bottles of store-bought fertilizer. Chickens will even cut down on the amount of mowing you do because they love to eat grass.

That’s right -- you sit in a lounge chair with your mint julep while they do the hard work for you.

One Man’s Unappealing Leftovers are another Chicken’s Feast Chickens can eat almost anything people can, and they adore “people food” -- so you can throw those unwant-

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Restoration.

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ed leftovers into the chicken run. No more feeling guilty about letting them rot in the fridge or throwing them out!

Watch out for the garlic and onion, though, unless you want your eggs tasting funny.

A Balanced Compost Pile Composting is a wonderful way to reduce your ecological footprint, and a nitrogen-rich compost pile is a healthy compost pile. What better to provide the nitrogen than chicken poo? Eggshells are a great addition, too, especially in areas where there’s lots of clay in the soil. At the end of the composting process, you’ll have “black gold” soil, so called because it’s so rich and fertile.

Be the Coolest Kid on the Block Despite their many merits, backyard chickens are still relatively uncommon.

Wow, neighbors, friends, and family by being the first person they know to have chickens. Amaze them with the green eggs from your hens. Confound them by scooping up your pet chicken and cuddling it. Astound them when your chicken falls asleep in your arms after you’ve lovingly stroked its comb and wattles. Make them green with envy at the lawn your flock has made effortlessly fabulous.

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Handy Leaf, Weed, and Grass Clipping Removal Leaves, weeds and grass clippings are a treat for Gallus gallus domesticus.

They’ll happily dig through whatever you give them, eat what they can, and pulverize the rest. Give a small flock a heap of the yard and garden debris and a week later it’ll be gone without a trace. No need to bag it and pile it by the curb!

Save a Chicken from a Factory-Farm Life If you’re aware of conditions in factory farms, even in some of the so-called “free range” farms, we needn’t say more.

If you’re not, please research it. Factory farming is terrifyingly cruel. The good news is that by keeping a few pet chickens of your own, you’re reducing the demand for store-bought eggs and sending a message to those factory farms that you don’t want what they’re selling.

The Very Definition of Low-Maintenance Chickens don’t need to be walked, brushed, or fed twice a day. Essentially all you have to do is gather eggs daily, fill their food and water containers a couple of times a week and change their bedding once a month!

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Therapeutic Riding & Speech Pathology Sue Miller

O

Amanda Posner

B.F.A., L.M.T., N.C.B.T.M.B.

603-542-1254 Cornish Flat, NH

40 4 Legs & a Tail

ver the years High Horses has been enjoying time with Geisel students from Dartmouth medical school. The third-year medical students came to visit the High Horses Therapeutic Riding Program to get a better idea of what is offered in this modality and how it can help clients on different levels. If the opportunity arises we can sometimes get the medical student’s horseback so they can experience first-hand how much the movement of the horse and riding in different positions can affect the rider in several ways simultaneously.

The question of speech was brought up. How can horseback riding help with speech? Speech is a fine motor skill that can be developed with more practice. Breathing and breath control

Miranda LeBrun and Pal

are often overlooked areas of riding as they happen naturally.

Riders that have enjoyed the sport of horseback riding for a while will all testify to how important breathing and breath control can be to be an effective rider. Breath control and support refer to how we stabilize our bodies for air f low. Breath control is how we regulate and coordinate airf low for different activities. Riders learn to take deeper diaphragmic breaths instead of short shallow breaths. Breath f low powers our voice for conversation. We inhale to fill our lungs then exhale when we speak. The longer the word, phrase, or sentence, the more air we need.

There are different ways to help an individual improve breath support and control. Some target skills include: Increasing the lung capacity or available breath supply. Practicing breathing patterns for speaking, exercising, relaxing, holding breath and letting the breath out slowly… taking in more air or using bigger breaths and breathing from the diaphragm or “belly” instead of shallow “chest” breathing where the shoulders raise up. Placing and holding the hands on Spring 2019

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Chiropractic Care for the Whole Family the ribcage is another technique to increase awareness of breathing. Work on strengthening and coordinating muscles for posture or position of the head or body are all pieces to better riding posture that instructors work on when riding horses. We cannot disconnect our breathing from our emotions and most therapies will use breathing awareness to create a more relaxed state of mind, yoga,

Spring 2019

reiki, aikido, and tai chi all put great importance on methods of breathing to enhance both calmness and focus.

Language is the systematic, meaningful arrangement of symbols which provides the basis for communication. There are two hemispheres to the human brain. The left hemisphere is verbal, speaking, reading, thinking,

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INC.

Mona Rooney, DVM Ginny Prince, DVM Timothy Sileo, VMD 242 Elkins Road • Elkins, NH 03233 603-526-6976 www.pleasantlakevethospital.com

reasoning and processes one piece of information at a time. The right hemisphere is nonverbal, deals with spatial relationships, patterns, drawing recognition, music, emotional expression and processes information holistically. The frontal lobe is also involved with personality, speech, and motor development while the Temporal lobes are responsible for memory, language and speech functions. Horses communicate almost entirely in a nonverbal manner. Even if a rider has no spoken language skill, the horse and human can still communicate with their body language and touch. This is one of the reasons therapeutic riding can be so beneficial. The nonverbal rider can still form a deep bond with the horse that transcends speech.

Great exercises that can be done horseback are increasing one’s awareness of breath, taking bigger breaths, keeping a steady breath when speaking and using a louder volume. Blowing exercises like trying to blow a feather, a pinwheel, or blowing bubbles.

Speech exercises like holding a vowel sound, singing songs and functional exercises like relaxing and taking a deeper breath. As stamina increases these exercises can be done at faster

gaits on the horse. Blowing a whistle or blowing up a balloon are great exercises that can be done away from the horses as horses tend to dislike loud noises or the sudden pop of a balloon.

Speech and language require highly complicated postural, motor, and brain organization and integration.

Establishing integration between the mouth, eyes, and hand, and control of graded respiration. People often focus too much on the spoken word, while horses have a perceptive capacity to the mental, spiritual & physical state of a person and are not always convinced by the spoken word, especially if not congruent to the feeling/ emotion they receive from the person.

Horses have an immense capacity to help us find a place of calm so we can take a much-needed deep breath to help us rebalance in our lives. It is not uncommon for parents to tell us that their youngsters uttered their first words horseback or that after riding the participants’ speech was more f luent.

Sue Miller is a PATH Registered Instructor & ESMHL, PATH Vermont State chair and Vice President of VHSA.

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Equine Metabolic Syndrome Nicole Sicely - Custom Equine Nutrition

E

quine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is defined by a group of abnormalities that lead to a risk of laminitis. The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIN) states that EMS is defined by meeting the following three criteria: Generalized obesity in specific locations, Insulin Resistance (IR) and a predisposition toward endocrinopathic laminitis. Let’s break these three criteria down. #1) Obesity The most common system used to score a horse’s body condition is the Henneke System. A horse is given a score from 1 (emaciated) to 9 (obese).

The definition of obesity is a body condition score of >7.

Adipose (fat) tissue located on the neck (cresty neck) or tail head can be indicative of laminitis risk.

Score 0

Description

No visual appearance of a crest

(tissue apparent above the ligamentum nuchae).

No palpable crest.

1

No visual appearance of a crest, but slight filling felt with palpation.

2

Noticeable appearance of a crest, but fat deposited fairly evenly from poll to withers. Crest easily cupped in one hand and bent from side to side.

3

Crest enlarged and thickened, so fat is deposited more heavily in middle of the neck than towards poll and withers, giving a mounded appearance. Crest fills cupped hand and begins losing side to side flexibility.

4

Crest grossly enlarged and thickened, and can no longer be cupped in one hand or easily bent from side to side. Crest may have wrinkles or creases perpendicular to the topline.

5

Crest is so large it permanently droops to one side.

Source: Carter et al., 2009

44 4 Legs & a Tail

In the early 1960s, a geneticist named James Neel had a theory that certain ethnic groups had a propensity towards diabetes so it would be easier to store body fat for times of short food supply. This was coined the “thrifty gene theory”.

Specific breeds are prone to this thrifty gene (AKA easy keepers); Welsh ponies, Morgans, Tennessee Walkers, Saddlebreds, Arabs, and Paso Finos.

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of IR. Low insulin values do not rule out IR. If the insulin levels are normal, yet the horse shows clinical signs such as adipose tissue, it is recommended to try a dynamic test such as the Oral Sugar Test (OST).

“low starch” to make your head spin.

But this is all relative, one company’s “low starch” feed may still be too high for an EMS/IR horse. Look at the guaranteed analysis for sugar and starch, these need to be under 10% combined.

If a company does not list this on their Treatment label or website, call and ask.

Preventing insulin surges is the pri- Pasture should be avoided for EMS/ ority for treatment. The gold standard IR horses. If you feel you must put your for treatment is diet and exercise (if horse on pasture turn out at a safe time, the horse is able). early morning. Remove your horse from pasture in the afternoon when the Diet The goal of treating EMS through Continued Next Page diet is controlling blood glucose levels.

The lower glucose levels stay, the less insulin the pancreases will produce.

Foods with high sugar and starch safe forage cannot be predicted by the type of hay or appearance. Forage analysis is the only way to know how safe your hay is. Test the ESC (sugar) and starch levels. Combined ESC and Starch should be under 10%. If hay is above 10%, it should be soaked, or alternative safe hay should be used.

Soaking in cold water for 60 minutes can help reduce carbohydrates by 30%.

As for concentrates, there are currently enough products on the market labeled

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#2) Insulin Resistance Horses with Insulin Resistance (IR), have a low body response to insulin. The pancreas secretes higher levels of insulin to trigger the body’s response. But the cells are resistant to insulin’s signal to take up glucose.

In normal cells, insulin transports glucose into the cells via thousands of receptors. When insulin attaches to a receptor, it opens a door to allow the glucose into the bloodstream. When a horse is IR these receptors are not working correctly. Resulting in high levels of circulating insulin. The body becomes “resistant” to insulin. #3) History of Laminitis In a perfect world, a horse will be diagnosed with EMS prior to having a “History of Laminitis”.

Diagnostics EMS is diagnosed by having a history of laminitis, physical exam, and blood tests.

History of laminitis can include a full-blown laminitic episode or signs of subclinical laminitis. Laminitic rings visible on the hoof wall may indicate previous episodes of laminitis. The reduced concavity of the sole dropped soles and widened white line are all other potential indicators of subclinical laminitis.

For physical exams, the Henneke Body Condition Score and amount of adipose (fat) tissue located on the neck or around the tail head.

The most common blood test is Baseline Insulin. This test can have a lot of influences: stress, pain, recent feed change, schedule variations etc.

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sugar/starch content is higher. Spring and fall pastures are the most dangerous. Katy Watts (www.safergrass.org) has written a fun jingle to help remember when it a good time to let your horse on pasture:

Can this be prevented?

Lets recap: EMS is defined as having the three following phenotypes: Obesity, insulin resistance, and a history of laminitis. It is unfortunate that a history of laminitis is considered a risk factor.

Ideally, EMS should be identified prior When you wake at the crack of dawn to any laminitic episodes.

What if we could change the definiGraze your pony on your lawn tion of EMS by taking control of certain But sugars rise in the afternoon, factors? What factors are in our control?

For foundered ponies, this spells doom. It would benefit horses and owners to access their risk and proceed accordWhen frosts cause sugars to increase ingly. If your horse is a breed that tends Your ponies grazing now must cease. to be genetically predisposed, an easy Hold off a day, or maybe more. keeper with a cresty neck, turned out on pasture and enjoys 3lbs of grain per Or else your pony may get sore. day, you have a very high-risk horse and its time to take control.

Exercise Exercise has been shown to improve Start by removing your horse from insulin sensitivity in healthy horses for pasture. Create a dry lot or track system (paddock paradise). Test your hay and as long as 24hr after a single bout. soak if it’s over 10% sugar and starch.

If your horse is not in pain, exercise as Medication Diet remains the cornerstone of treat- often as possible. ment for EMS. If diet and exercise (if Nicole Sicely owns Custom Equine your horse is able) alone are not showing Nutrition, LLC. Nicole is an equine improvement, then medication would be a reasonable next step. Metformin and nutritionist offering consulting services Levothyroxine are most often prescribed. and formulated Vermont Blend forage balancer and Omega-E.

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Hyperthyroidism in Cats Catherine MacLean, DVM - Grantham, NH

H

yperthyroidism is the most common hormonal abnormality diagnosed in cats. It typically affects cats 7 years of age and older. The most classic clinical sign of hyperthyroidism is a cat that is losing weight despite an excellent appetite. Other clinical signs include restlessness, vomiting, increased water consumption, increased urination, a hair coat that looks unkempt, agitation, and increased vocalization.

The thyroid hormone is comparable to an engine in a car. It tells the body systems how fast or slow to go. When a cat is hyperthyroid it speeds everything up. Their appetite is increased and so is their metabolism. That is why despite eating well, the affected cat will continue to lose weight. If hyperthyroidism goes untreated it can lead to serious side effects such as kidney and heart issues.

To confirm hyperthyroidism in cats, blood work needs to be done. Most likely your veterinarian will do a full blood panel that will not only look at your cat’s thyroid level, but will also look at your pet’s red and white blood cells, major organ function, and a urine sample. Occasionally after blood work is run, the most common thyroid level that is checked may be in what is called the grey zone. This is where the thyroid level that was checked is within the normal range, but on the higher end of normal.

If your veterinarian is suspicious that your cat has hyperthyroidism, she may suggest testing additional thyroid levels.

The good news is that if your cat is diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, it is a treatable condition. There are several treatment options involved.

These include: • Daily oral or topical medication.

This will help reduce your cat’s thyroid hormone levels. Your cat will need to be on the medication for life and will need blood work monitoring to access if your pet is getting the right dose and if his Acupuncture • Laser Therapy body is handling it ok.

Wellness Care • Dental Care • Therapeutic diet. There is a prescription diet available. This diet Sick Patient Care restricts the amount of iodine in Grantham, NH your cat’s diet. It must be fed excluSurgery • Emergency 603-865-5532 sively and often means cutting out most treats.

• Surgery. This would involve removing the thyroid. There are side effects and complications that can occur.

We Treat Your Pets Like Family

Dr. Catherine MacLean Dr. Andrea Brown Dr. Lisa Colgan

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Spring 2019

www.4LegsAndATail.com 47

• Radioactive iodine treatment. This is considered the gold standard of treatment. This is not inexpensive.

It involves your pet going to a clinic that is allowed by state law to administer the radioactive iodine (there is one located in Concord, NH). Your cat will be given an injection under the skin of the radioactive iodine and then stay at the hospital for up to five days. After this treatment, your cat will no longer need medication.

when I was in veterinary school. Jack picked me, and he was really lucky that he did because he is an expensive cat. He gets urinary stones, so he needs to be on a special prescription diet and he also has dental issues which needs frequent dentals. In early June I brought Jack to work with me to extract a bad tooth.

Whenever Jack needs dental work he gets blood work done. While at the clinic it was noted he had lost about 1.25 lbs in the course of a year. This was strange to me because we measure out our cats’ My own personal cat Jack was very food and he is the dominant cat in our recently diagnosed with hyperthyroidhouse (i.e. he’s always shoving Misty ism completely by accident. I adopted away from her bowl so he can eat her Jack from a shelter over eight years ago food after he finishes his). When his blood work came back the next day, I saw that the thyroid level we commonly look for was in the grey zone. I ordered additional thyroid testing and it came back that Jack was hyperthyroid. I had no idea! If we had never weighed him and done blood work, I would have never known since he wasn’t having any of the typical clinical signs.

We started Jack out on pills because he’ll eat anything in a pill pocket. The problem for my family is that we travel a lot and we’re not always around to give a pill twice a day. So after Jack was on Visit us at our store or we will deliver to your home pills for about six weeks, we made the Call us at 603-526-2088, visit our website at unleashednh.com Local. Support Local. or email us at delivery@unleashednh.com for more info decision that due to his relatively young age of nine, and our lifestyle, that radioactive iodine was the best treatment for him. In late July Jack went to Concord to get treated. My husband and I got to be crazy pet parents and checked in on him with the pet camera that they had set up in his room while he had to stay there. After several days, his radiation levels were low enough that it was safe for him to come home. Jack was happy to return to being king of the house and keeping everyone in line.

Most cats with hyperthyroidism when treated, get to have a happy ending. If you suspect your cat may have hyperthyroidism or is diagnosed with it, you and your veterinarian can discuss which treatment option is best for you and your cat.

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Dr. MacLean completed her Bachelor of Science from Penn State University, her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Atlantic Veterinary College, and her pet acupuncture certification from Chi Institute. Her areas of special interest include general practice and acupuncture. She opened Sugar River Animal Hospital in 2013, and she has been practicing veterinary medicine since 2010. Dr. MacLean’s family consists of her husband Matt, her daughter Katarina, and their three pets: Jack and Misty, two cats, and Arrow, a dog.

Spring 2019

Ready For Adoption!

The Sullivan County Humane Society is a community engaged nonprofit committed to improving the quality of life for animals within our county and to putting an end to animal overpopulation, abandonment, and neglect.

Meet Freddy

I am 5-year-old Freddy. I am a sweet, talkative love bug. I was found on a very cold night in December by a man while he was out plowing. He took me home and tried to find my owner, with no luck. Sadly, I did not like his resident cat-probably because I was not yet neutered and felt a need to be the alpha cat-so I was brought here. I am now neutered and ready to go! I am vet checked, neutered, vaccinated for rabies and distemper, treated for fleas and worms, microchipped and FIV/FeLV negative! I am a diabetic so will need insulin twice a day.

Meet Dhara

I am 3-year-old Dhara. I showed up in a neighborhood and spent a few days hanging out in the middle of the road. The residents were afraid that I would get hit by a car so called for help and here I am! I am a sweet, laid back girl! I am vet checked, spayed, vaccinated for rabies and distemper, treated for fleas and worms, microchipped and FIV/FeLV negative!

Meet Zuri

I am 6-year-old Zuri. I was found by animal control in obvious distress. I was rushed to the vet and it was discovered that I had an infected uterus. I had an emergency spay and recovered fully! Now, I need a family of my own! I am a sweet girl. I am missing the top of my ear from frostbite so am hoping that my new family will never let me be cold again! I am vet checked, spayed, vaccinated for rabies and distemper, treated for fleas and worms, microchipped and FIV/FeLV negative!

Meet Gala

I am 2-year-old Gala. My dad surrendered me because he realized that he could no longer care properly for me. I am a good girl and would love a quiet family of my own! I am vet checked, spayed, vaccinated for rabies and distemper, treated for fleas and worms, microchipped and FIV/FeLV negative!

To help us continue helping cats like Freddy, Dhara, Zuri and Gala, please consider a donation.

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Teeth Don't Always End Up Where They Should When a Puppy Grows Up Sandra L Waugh VMD, MS

Recently I have seen a number of puppies

with teeth and/or jaws that are growing incorrectly. I would really like to see these puppies as soon as the problem starts to occur, which means both the owner and the veterinarian being diligent in observing the mouth. For the owners, teach your puppy to let you touch all the teeth and pull up the lip, in addition to doing the same with the feet. For veterinarians, take a look inside the mouth every time a puppy comes in for vaccinations. I know, puppies squirm and resist, but if problems arise the sooner they are corrected the more likely a good outcome will result. Big changes occur every week.

In the short time of 5 months, a puppy goes from having no teeth to having baby teeth appear, to having a mixture of baby teeth and adult teeth to eventually having a full set of adult teeth. Most dogs manage to grow and loose baby teeth, grow and retain adult teeth, and grow the jaws in a normal fashion and have a mouth that closes properly. Dogs and cats have 4 jaws: a right and a left upper jaw and a right and a left lower jaw. Each of these jaws grows independently of the others. In a dog with a normal shape to the skull and a normal bite, the position of the lower canine teeth between the upper canine and the corner incisor is called dental interlock. If this normal positioning is maintained while the skull grows and teeth are erupting, the teeth act as a natural retainer system.

If the upper jaw starts to push forward, its growth is retarded by the pressure of the lower canine teeth on the upper canine teeth. At the same time the upper canine teeth are pressing forward on those lower canine teeth, prompting the lower jaw to grow as well. Conversely, if the lower jaw pushes forward, it will put pressure on the upper incisors, pushing the upper jaw to grow forward while at the same time that same pressure will retard the growth of the lower jaw. This constant Push-Pull of the jaws on one another keeps them in synchrony.

Lower Canine Tooth

These are adult teeth and are a good example of how close the upper canine, lower canine and corner upper incisor are when the mouth is closed. In many dogs there is 1mm of clearance between these teeth! The lower canine teeth are very long and can be very painful if they are positioned inside of the mouth.

Upper Canine Tooth

Upper Corner Incisor Tooth

Of course, it does not always go perfectly and then problems can arise. The problems that do occur divide into three basic groups: The jaws are in a normal position but one or more teeth are in an abnormal position, the lower jaw is shorter than the upper jaw, or the lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw. In veterinary medicine we are concerned that the mouth close with no pain, rather than creating a perfect bite. If teeth are not in perfect alignment but are otherwise not causing any pain then it is perfectly OK to leave them alone.

Baby teeth are meant to fall out as soon as the adult tooth pokes through the gum. If they do not fall out promptly they can put pressure on the erupting adult tooth and push it into an abnormal position. The baby teeth that are most likely to not fall out (be persistent) are the baby canine teeth. Since the canine teeth are so important in keeping those 4 jaws in good alignment as the puppy grows, persistent baby canine teeth can cause big problems. The baby canine teeth on the lower jaw are positioned to the side of the adult tooth, and will push the adult tooth inside of the mouth. These adult teeth will then be hitting the roof of the mouth, even if the lower jaw is the correct length.

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Spring 2019

Lower Canine Tooth

This dog is 5.5 months old. The adult incisor tooth erupted awhile ago and is fully erupted. The adult canine teeth have just erupted. It will take 2 months for them to have their full length.

The lower canine tooth is hitting the gum inside the mouth.

The lower jaw may be too short when compared to the upper jaw. If the lower jaw does not move forward in synchrony with the upper jaw, the lower incisors and canine teeth will start to impact the roof of the mouth (hard palate). Baby teeth have very sharp points, will dig into the tissue and will actually anchor the lower jaw and stop its forward growth. This can be seen in puppies as young as 8 weeks of age so it is important that the mouth be checked continuously as the puppy grows. This can result in lower canine teeth that are inside the mouth and hitting the roof of the mouth. These dogs cannot close the mouth without pain.

Upper Canine Tooth

This puppy is 3 months old. The lower jaw is severely shortened in comparison with the upper jaw.

Both baby lower canine teeth are impacting the roof of the mouth on the inside of the upper canine teeth. The hole created by the impact of the lower left canine tooth was already quite deep.

Impact Hole

Lower Canine Tooth

The lower jaw may be too long when compared to the upper jaw.

These dogs will have lower canine teeth that are hitting the upper incisors and upper incisors that will hit the roots of the lower incisors. Again, the dog is unable to close the mouth completely. This is not as painful as lower canines that are hitting the roof of the mouth but it does create discomfort.

Upper Canine Tooth

Upper Corner Incisor Tooth

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This dog is 5.5 months old. The adult incisor tooth erupted awhile ago and is fully erupted. The adult canine teeth have just erupted.

It will take 2 months for them to have their full length. The lower canine tooth is hitting between the middle and corner upper incisors. There are also two baby canine teeth which should have fallen out (red arrows)

Lower Canine Tooth

This is a small sample of the kinds of problems that arise. If you have a growing puppy, keep an eye on those teeth and seek prompt attention if the teeth are not lining up correctly. If you are not sure, have your veterinarian examine the teeth as well. All of these dogs had procedures performed to correct the various problems.

Upper Corner Incisor Tooth

Spring 2019

Upper Canine Tooth

Dr. Waugh is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She also holds a Masters Degree from Washington State University of Veterinary Medicine and is owner of Windsor Veterinary & Dental Services. www.4LegsAndATail.com 51

Beaver Fever Dr. John Eustis, DVM, Orchard Veterinary Hospital - S. Burlington

S

52 4 Legs & a Tail

pring is here, and with the warmer temperatures we start to see many dogs that are either vomiting, have diarrhea or both. A few years ago I think I figured out why we seem to see this epidemic of GI problems in the spring. My theory is that all the birds, mice, chipmunks and anything else that has died over the winter, in addition to various animal feces that had been frozen for the winter, has now thawed.

For many dogs this is a treat they just can’t resist! Many times these tasty little treats are badly decomposed and contain many different forms of pathogenic bacteria. Also, all of the ponds and lakes thaw, and dogs start drinking out of them again.

Finally, there are several diseases that affect puppies and are more easily transmitted between dogs in the spring when they are outside and mingling more with other dogs.

Most of the time, the first thing that you will notice is vomiting, diarrhea or both. This usually occurs within 6-24 hours of ingestion of the contaminated material. Sometimes the dog just vomits the material up and that is the end of it. Unfortunately, what usually happens is the dog vomits at first and then begins to have runny, watery and sometimes bloody diarrhea. At this point it is a good idea to get your four-legged friend to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

When a dog is vomiting he’s not able to keep anything like water or food down long enough for it to be absorbed. When he is simultaneously vomiting and having diarrhea, he can become severely dehydrated very quickly. Puppies can be even more quickly and severely affected, as they have little reserves of fat to call on when they can’t eat. Dehydration can lead to kidney failure and death very quickly if left untreated.

Diarrhea in dogs can be caused by many different types of bacteria, several different types of parasites and several types of viruses, some of which can be fatal. Besides eating putrefied remains and feces, dogs drinking from puddles, ponds and streams can get organisms that can cause diarrhea.

One of the parasites that commonly causes diarrhea is call Giardia. It is also known as “beaver fever,” and is the reason that you are told not to drink the water from lakes and rivers when you are camping. While not all dogs that drink from these sources will get sick, some may, and occasionally it can lead to severe and even life-threatening diarrhea and vomiting. There was a vaccine for the prevention of Giardia, but in my experience it didn’t work very well and has been taken off the market.

Giardia can be prevented by commercial filters used for camping or by drinking only bottled or tap water. With some dogs though, it is impossible to prevent ingestion, as they are swimming dogs and will be ingesting the water no matter what. In these cases I recommend just monitoring your dog. As I said, most dogs will not have any problems.

In puppies there is a virus called Parvovirus that can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting and even death very quickly. Fortunately, Parvo is a very preventable disease, and is one of the core vaccines that all puppies should get every 3-4 weeks beginning at about 6-8 weeks of age, and continuing until they are 16-20 weeks old.

Regardless of the pup’s vaccine status, if your puppy begins having any of these symptoms, get him to your veterinarian immediately. As I said, puppies have very little reserves and can get very sick, very fast.

Treatment for any of these diseases will depend on what your veterinarian finds when they examine your dog, as well as examining a fecal sample.

Many times all that is needed is antibiotics or an anti-parasitic, for mild to moderate cases. In more severe cases where there is dehydration and severe vomiting and diarrhea, the dog may need to be hospitalized and given intravenous fluids, injections of antibiotics and anti-nausea medications.

Spring 2019

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Prevention of these infections can be as simple as a vaccine for Parvovirus, but can be more problematic in some dogs that insist on eating anything they find on the ground, or drinking out of every puddle or pond they come across. I have several patients that, unfortunately, need to wear a basket muzzle every time they go outdoors. They will eat anything they find, and become sick almost every time. One owner tells me that whenever her dog is in the woods, he comes back with the basket muzzle packed with dirt and leaves!

Cats can also have most of these same problems, but fortunately cats seem to have them less often. I think because it’s true what they say about cats, they’re finicky eaters.

While not every dog is going to get sick every time it eats something off the ground, many will. With diarrhea and vomiting it’s no fun for the dog, and no fun for the cleaning crew! If your dog is showing these symptoms it is VERY important to get them to your veterinarian as soon as possible. You can speed the diagnosis and become one of your vet’s favorite clients, if you bring a fresh fecal sample along with you.

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Alternatively Speaking: A Holistic Approach To Our Cats’ Golden Years Dr. Anne Carroll DVM, CVA

S

pring is on the way! As we all look forward to warmer outdoor activity, pets head to the vet to update vaccines and begin parasite protection. However one animal is often left out of this important time for wellness planning, and that is the family cat. Veterinary associations recognize that even though cats outnumber dogs in our households, they receive less medical care, and this has a major impact on the quality of their lives. Without wellness visits, the importance of dietary fluids and carnivore nutrition is not discussed as a tool to maximize health in younger years, developing issues go undetected through middle age, and then declines seen in the older cat are mistaken for ‘normal aging’, and go untreated. This is not due to neglect. It is partly the erroneous belief of the independent cat not needing vet care, and partly a lack of recognition of the tiny clues that signal there is a problem. In addition, car travel is not easy for most cats, and many fear it is too stressful for their older felines. But if there was any one group of animals that most need their annual checkup, it is our aging cats. So in this article, we will discuss holistic management of their geriatric concerns, but let’s first look at how to overcome that hurdle of getting them to the vet.

Unlike dogs, cats do not really get ‘trained’ as kittens to be crated or ride in cars. Maybe it is the notion that cats dictate to us what they are going to do and when not the other way around. But cats are highly trainable, and being comfortable in their carrier provides vital access to their health care. No one wants to force cats unwillingly into carriers, then hear the sad cries or worse get car sick on the winding drive there. A little training can avoid all this for many cats. We won’t go into all the nuances of training here. Your veterinarian should have good tips for that. But do know that there are options if you have a timid cat or one too adverse already to the car ride. Skipping all food before travel, using pheromone aromatherapy, homeopathic travel remedies, or even medication for nausea or anxiety can make the trip much less stressful for everyone and it will pay off in spades over your cat’s lifetime.

So you have made it to the veterinarian, well done! The conversation from our holistic perspective is all about diet and strategic vaccination to minimize inflammation. Cats are just not designed to eat dry cat food, and the harmful effects of this are magnified if they become overweight. For more information on how and why this occurs, you can read about it on the 54 4 Legs & a Tail

Spring 2019

www.catinfo.org website. For older cats, a diet is a tool for reducing digestive stress and losing excess weight while maximizing protein to keep up muscle mass, and reducing inflammation that can affect kidneys, thyroid, and arthritic joints. While making diet changes may seem impossible for the older cat who has eaten only dry food his whole life, there are stress-free ways to slowly convert these cats to a healthier meal. Take Moody, for example. He came to us at 14 years young, struggling with mouth ulcers. Part of our approach was to try to wean him off dry food, not only to reduce inflammation but to reduce the oral bacteria associated with dry cereal residue in the mouth. This also gave us more control over his protein sources in case part of the issue was allergies. After persistently offering wet ‘appetizers’ when he was most hungry, as well as using other tricks, he now snubs dry food and will only eat canned, much to his owner’s amazement, and he is working on eating more dehydrated fresh food. Each cat’s needs are individual, and making a change slowly enough to avoid stress or rapid weight loss is essential, so talk to your vet before embarking on a diet change. But as you will see, diet is involved in all our aging cat’s health concerns.

Moody’s mouth brings up one of the biggest reasons to have your older cat get a physical – dental disease. Dogs and cats do not show dental pain, and will quietly suffer a broken tooth or a dental abscess in ways that still astound me. While cats can develop tartar, gingivitis, and abscesses like dogs, they also have the more serious problem of resorptive lesions, also called enamel erosions. Holes form in the hard tooth enamel just under the gum, exposing the nerve which is painfully sensitive.

This condition is genetic, and may also be related to other factors including low Vitamin D levels. Removing the affected teeth relieves a toothache and allows us to use supplements to try to prevent other teeth from suffering the same fate.

Because even if silently tolerated, the stress of chronic untreated pain does wear on cats. You may see urinary or behavioral issues, but sometimes nothing dramatic.

Take Franklin for instance. At age 16 his appetite was off some and he was losing weight, but he seemed ok overall.

His owner thought he would have more symptoms if something was really wrong so attributed his decline to ‘old age’, and expecting the worst she brought him in when he seemed to have reached the end.

An exam found infected teeth, and dental x-rays showed it had spread to the bone of his jaw. Happily, antibiotics and dental work allowed him two more happy years.

Keeping an eye out for changes in breath Spring 2019

Moody

or grooming habits, and having routine exams, avoids the stress of chronic dental disease and reduces the need for dentistry at an advanced age, which are big impacts on an elder cat’s quality of life.

Franklin’s only issue was his teeth, but many older cats have other conditions that can be harder to manage if they have a painful mouth. Most common are an Continued Next Page

www.4LegsAndATail.com 55

over-active thyroid and decreasing kidney function. Kidney issues stem from immunologic damage from over-vaccination as well as dietary inflammation. Also contributing are a cats’ own requirements for a high protein diet combined with a low motivation to drink. Hyperthyroidism is similarly related to inflammation that contributes to a tumor in the thyroid gland, which drives up metabolism, burning calories and causing a rapid heartbeat, like someone on caffeine. The fast heartbeat increases blood flow to the kidney which improves its filtering of waste into the urine even when the kidney is not working up to par. While this may seem like a

good thing, the high blood pressure causes damage to the filters over time, and the body can’t handle the racing metabolism.

We carefully monitor the kidneys when treating the thyroid, since as blood flow normalizes they lose their extra support and this can unmask or trigger kidney failure. But with care, these conditions can be managed well for years. We adjust the diet slowly while using nutritional supplements, acupuncture, and if needed, herbs to reduce inflammation and maximize a healthy kidney blood flow. Thyroid therapy in early stages can involve diet and herbs, while in later stages medication is needed.

Surgery and targeted radiation therapy are other options to consider. For either condition, a simple blood test can make the diagnosis to explain drops in weight, decreased or increased appetite, and increases in thirst or urination. Even better, routine screening can foresee an issue before any health effects manifest, and early detection gives you the maximum treatment options, whether conventional or holistic and can keep your aging cat feeling well for far longer.

The last issue senior we will touch on is arthritis. Being small and agile, cats can manage to navigate stairs and jump up and down fairly normally even with back or hip pain. But as in all cat symptoms, with close attention, you may see

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very small changes in habit or routine.

They may be avoiding being petted or perhaps stop doing routine things. Early intervention with raw foods, bone broth or arthritis supplements are effective for cats just like dogs and come in cat-friendly chew treats. For more advanced arthritis issues, diet, acupuncture and herbal therapies can be used and if needed on bad days, there are a few pain medications that cats can safely take.

Anyone who has the privilege of having a cat friend knows they are unique, keeping their feelings and affections to themselves so that when shared, we feel very special. But this trait puts the responsibility on us to watch carefully so we know when they need medical care, and not discount small signals as harmless. In the meantime, their annual exam can often identify issues that can go unnoticed at home, and this early detection is vital given that their potentially long lifespan amplifies the impact of missed wellness care on the quality and number of senior years they can experience. Equally valuable is the opportunity the visit gives to talk about what changes to look for, and how to make small dietary shifts at leisure while in good health to pro-actively reduce metabolic and inflammatory stress. We see so many cherished aging cats in our practice and love how with a little support they manage to thrive as the years pass, even in the face of physical fragility, and maintain that dignified status only a cat can own.

Dr. Anne Carroll is the owner of the Chelsea Animal Hospital where she and her associates practice conventional medicine and surgery as well as several alternative modalities including traditional Chinese acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. For more information on alternative veterinary medicine visit their website at www.chelseaanimalhospital.com .

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56 4 Legs & a Tail

Jango is still waiting for spring!

Spring 2019

Brownie the Town Dog of Daytona Beach T

he stray dog must have been about a year old when he wandered down Orange Avenue to Beach Street in Daytona Beach in 1940. The junction of these two streets brought him to a central location in town right across from the marina. White sands…beautiful weather…a few people nearby…nothing wrong with this.

An additional attraction at that corner was the presence of the Daytona Cab Company, owned by Ed Budgen, Sr. who was having his lunch when the dog stopped by. Ed offered to share. All these elements were enough to say “home” to Brownie, as the taxi drivers began calling him.

Brownie the Dog Brownie (1939-1954) is described as a short-haired brown dog with a white chin.

Some locals felt he had a bit of Labrador retriever or Rhodesian ridgeback in him.

While he headquartered at the cab company, he patrolled several blocks along Orange Avenue and Beach Street. There was a pool hall, Liggett’s drugstore, a barbershop, and a bank. There was also a bus stop at that corner so there were always people around. Brownie got to know his new neighbors and let them know he was always available to help with anything they weren’t going to eat.

As the weeks passed, Ed Budgen decided that if Brownie was staying he needed a house. He and a couple of drivers used an old moving box and created a decent-sized dog house.

Kate Kelly When the taxi driver returned to the taxi stand, he posted a note: “Brownie has been hurt and is at the veterinarian’s. Would you like to help out with his hospital bill?”

According to a write-up in the local paper, $32 came in during the first 30 minutes the note was up. The funds continued to grow, so there was plenty of good news: Brownie was getting better, and he was going to be able to pay for Orange and Beach, a small crowd waited the care he received. to greet him. There were dinner scraps and Real Doghouse a pork chop or two, all with a “Welcome While Brownie was in the hospital, Home” feeling to it. the taxi drivers opted to make a “real” doghouse for their favorite mutt. They A Bank Account for Brownie built a new house out of plywood with As a responsible caretaker, Ed Budgen his name written large across the front. knew that a time might come when Brownie needed funds again. He took the It was Brownie’s house indeed.

A few days later when it was time for remaining money from the donation box Brownie to leave the vet, the drivers drew and established a bank account for Brownie lots to see who got to bring Brownie home. at the Florida Bank and Trust Company When the winning driver escorted down the street (account number 3318, Brownie back to his favorite corner at Continued Next Page

Daytona Cars Even in the 1940s, Daytona Beach was place where people brought their fancy cars and enjoyed driving them. In 1947, Brownie—who had a tendency to wander into the street—got hit by a car. A taxi driver saw the accident, immediately stepped out of his cab and scooped up Brownie to take him to the vet.

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www.4LegsAndATail.com 57

complete with Brownie’s own bank book). When there were vet bills or Brownie needed some dog food, the money was there for Brownie’s use.

Package shop owner, C.P. Miller always took care of Brownie’s dog license, and of course, it was important to the town that Brownie get License #1.

At some point the town put out a proclamation making Brownie the official Town Dog. Did he have to go to a city council meeting to be so honored? He might have, if there were treats.

With the business of life taken care of by others, Brownie was free to live up to his official responsibilities of patrolling his streets. There were always people around, going in and out of stores or sitting on the bench waiting for the bus. Brownie liked to lie in the shade under the bench, his head was within easy reach of hands that could give him a pat or an ear scratch.

The taxi company ran an all-night service and both Brownie and the night drivers were happy they were there together.

As one local said, “He was nobody’s dog but he was everybody’s dog.”

Brownie’s Fame Grew Daytona Beach draws tourists throughout the year, and soon visitors realized that Brownie was a “town regular.” He was written about in newspapers and magazines nationwide, and visitors arrived looking for him. They sent him Christmas cards and packages, too.

An enterprising local businessperson realized that Brownie needed something to send in return, so he created a postcard with Brownie’s picture on the front. Of course, these also sold well to tourists, adding a little additional cash to Brownie’s bank account. There was also a Christmas version of the card so Brownie had a way to thank all who remembered him.

In 1949, a local columnist for the Daytona Beach Morning Journal, Fred Langworthy, reported that a nurse rushed into the cab stand one morning shortly after her night shift ended at 7 a.m. She always waited for the bus at that corner and was greeted by Brownie. Today he was just lying in his house. Was he OK? Brownie was fine… it was February. He probably saw no need to make an early start to the day.

seemed fine. He was sporting a red ribbon someone had tied around his collar, and another friend left him a poem: “Trusting old Brownie, you’ve done all a dog can do.

Faith to your highest instinct, ever loyal, kind and true.

And I think when you have ended your career of canine cares, I shall hear your pattering footsteps as you climb the Golden Stairs.

Then I think that some bright angel at Heaven’s gate will bear you through.

For you never were disloyal, that’s as well as any dog can do.”

Langworthy concludes: “Old Brownie, canine king and patriarch…has weathered another year and passed another jolly Christmas.”

Another Year, Another Report A year and a half later, Langworthy was back with another report: (May 11, 1952): Brownie was under the weather. It turns out Brownie had heartworms but was never adequately treated.

The vet was starting a series of 14 treatments to try to make the town dog better.

Langworthy writes that the first treatment seemed to help.

Brownie was back patrolling the street again. He ”tagged along at the heels of police patrolmen,” watchfully sniffing at the warm sounds and smells of Orange Avenue, and keeping everything well under control.

The End Comes Brownie became ill in early October of 1954. For 20 days there were regular reports in the local paper as to how he was doing. As we all know, dogs never live long enough. Finally, Brownie breathed his last. It is estimated that he was 15 years old by that time.

Led by the taxi drivers, the citizens of Daytona did right by Brownie. The remainder of his bank account was used to settle his vet bill and cover funeral expenses. Two taxi drivers built a small casket for the body. He was to be buried across the street in Riverfront Park.

That Saturday morning about 75 mourners came to pay respects. The mayor gave the eulogy. He had many nice things to say about Daytona’s loyal citizen, concluding with “Wherever it is that good dogs go, Brownie has already gone.”

Elsie Borden and her Calf Come to Town Daytona Beach was a popular community, but who would have guessed that among the visitors would be the Borden cow and her offspring? The Borden family must have come in for several guest appearances, but the Fort Lauderdale News (12/30/50) noted that Elsie, Elmer and their calf Beauregard were “vacationing in Florida for the winter.”

While Elmer may have been relaxing, Elsie and Beauregard were out and about.

One afternoon the press was invited to Brownie’s corner. Elsie was bringing Beauregard to meet Brownie.

It was planned that Brownie and Beauregard would walk down the street together. Beauregard would wait while Brownie stepped into the bank to withdraw a few bucks.

Then calf and dog walked on to Liggett’s Drugstore where Brownie purchased a vanilla ice cream soda for each of them. Perfect!

Reports as Brownie Aged As Brownie grew older, the local reporters seemed to pay more attention to how he was doing. In 1951, columnist Fred Langworthy reported (12-27-51) that over the course of the year, two aggressive mutts picked a fight with Brownie This sent him to the vet for a couple of days, drawing down a bit on his bank account. But as December came along, Brownie 58 4 Legs & a Tail

Spring 2019

Life Moves On Like all towns, the people of Daytona Beach moved on. A Brownie #2 took up a home at the post office and is buried there, but over time, the townspeople forgot about Brownie the Town dog.

With the store’s name honoring Brownie, Eddie and Alvin have taken on other Brownie-related responsibilities. They are working on a website that will have Brownie’s full story, the grave-tending is now something they see to, and they are also working with the town council. They would like funds for two statues—one statue will be Brownie the Town Dog; the other will honor Post Office Brownie.

Then and now, Brownie is a great town representative and builder of a community.

As Fred Langworthy wrote in the 1950s: “There’s something mighty wholesome about a City whose people can pause …to remember an old and beloved dog.”

I am indebted to Eddie James for telling me about Brownie. I’ve always said, “If dogs just left diaries…” Eddie has sent me so much material on Brownie (and Brownie was so loved during his lifetime) that I almost feel like Brownie did leave a diary.

If you are in Daytona Beach, please stop and say hi to Eddie and Alvin!

This article first appeared on the website, www.americacomesalive.com America Comes Alive publishes more stories about American dogs and other animals. Visit the website and sign up for “American Dogs” to receive the stories in your In Box. Or email Kate Kelly at kate@americacomesalive.com

Brownie Grave Re-Discovered Then in 1994, members of the Daytona Civic Association were cleaning up Riverfront Park. Some volunteers found Brownie’s grave site and decided the old dog deserved to be remembered.

Several years later, a local woman, Brenda Gibson, took responsibility for maintaining Brownie’s grave. From that time on, it was always well tended and often decorated for an upcoming holiday.

Gibson died in June of 2017, but fortunately, good people come along when needed. Two weekend residents of Daytona Beach, Eddie James and Alvin Almodovar, decided to move to the community full time.

Alvin is a scientist and Eddie is a technology consultant, but they shared a love of animals. Between them they always have several dogs and cats, and often, rabbits and chickens, too. They felt Daytona Beach could use a specialty dog store, named after Brownie of course.

Brownie’s Dog Boutique Brownie’s Dog Boutique was born in July 2016. Eddie describes it as a home store for people with pets. While they sell practical supplies like leashes, collars, and Florida-made dog treats, they also feature crafts and vintage items that are attractive to dog owners.

Spring 2019

www.4LegsAndATail.com 59

WHAT’S DIFFERENT?

WORD SCRAMBLE What Is Your Breed? emasesi

Did You Know?

• To survive, every bird must eat at least half its own weight in food each day.

• Many hamsters only blink one eye at a time.

• Armadillos have four babies at a time and they are always all the same sex.

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• Iguanas are able to hold their breath for up to 30 minutes.

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• A garter snake can give birth to 85 babies.

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• Ferrets are currently the third most popular pet in the US. There are an estimated eight to ten million ferrets in the United States being kept as pets.

• A goldfish can live up to 40 years.

edsayldlce Happy Easter from 4 Legs & a Tail

It’s a Frog and a Horse.

Can You See Both?

Two dog owners are bragging to each other about how amazing their respective pets are. The first says, “my dog is so clever that he waits by the front door every morning for the paperboy to deliver the paper, then brings it to me in the kitchen to read while I eat breakfast.” “I know,“ says the second. “My dog told me.”

Word Scramble: Siamese, Himalayan, Chihuahua, Schnauzer, Arabian, Clydsedale What's Different: No shadow upper left corner, extension cord gone, scuffs on chair leg gone, pink flowers on rug now blue, brown eyebrows now black

60 4 Legs & a Tail

Spring 2019

Treat them like family

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