4 Legs & a Tail Keene Winter 2018

FR

EE

Southern NH & VT Winter 2019

Squirrels!

Chinook: The Official State Dog Does Your Cat Have Diabetes?

Controlling Your Pet’s Weight This Winter Inspirational Stories from Around the World

Inside this issue of 4 Legs & a Tail

®

2-3. Inspirational Stories From Around the World 4. Diabetic Alert Dog Permits Teacher to Live Normally Kate Kelly 6. A Squeak in the Dark Beth Clifton

A kitten's harrowing journey from New York to New Hampshire

7. Animal Drug Safety Warning 8. Liz Makes a Comeback Suzanne Allard

The almost miraculous recovery thanks to CDB oil

10. Going the Distance Cathy White

One local rescue goes to extraordinary lengths to save Asian Sighthounds from a tragic fate

11. Be a Hero for a Senior Pet! Lindsey Ennis, MHS Shelter Tech

Four great reasons to adopt a senior pet this winter

Pg. 10 12. Keeping Your Dog Safe AND Legal Annie Guion

Why you should get your dog licensed 13. Cooking for Fido and Felix Jen Risley

Let dinner begin from your own pantry 14. Winter Water Nicole Sicely

Pg. 16

The importance of proper equine hydration during winter months

16. From Head to Tail: Balanced or “Stuck”? Dorothy Crosby 18. My Dog Helped My Anxiety Rylee Hayes

How the bond between a woman and her dog is winning th battle against mental illness

19. Ask Reese Aimee Doiron

Answers to some of our readers most popular questions

20. Common Myths About Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats Sandra Waugh, VMD, MS 22. Diabetes in Dogs and Cats Catherine MacLean, DVM Know the signs. Learn the treatments

24. Weight Control for Dogs in Winter Months Patrick Sturgeon & Ben Burroughs A comprehensive plan to keep your pet fit

25. Taking Care of Business in the Winter

Helpful tips to get your dog to take care of business fast

26. Chinook: The History of the New Hampshire State Dog Jack R. Murray 28. Squirrel Apocalypse Scott Borthwick

Will

this be the Year of the Squirrel?

4 Legs & a Tail Volume K.418 P.O. Box 841

Pg. 26

Publishers: Tim Goodwin, Tim Hoehn

Lebanon, NH 03766

Sales Manager: Karyn Swett

603-727-9214

Senior Editor: Scott Palzer

KarynS.4LT@gmail.com

Graphic Design: Kristin Wolff, Kate Kurtz

Winter 2019

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 Southern NH & VT. 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.

www.4LegsAndATail.com 1

Dolphin Lifeguard

Todd Endris, a professional surfer, narrowly escaped death thanks to the help

of some dolphins. In August, while conquering the waves, Todd was attacked by a great white shark which was almost 16.4 ft (5 m) long.

After several attempts to get away from the fierce predator, Todd almost lost the strength to keep fighting, but suddenly a group of dolphins came to his aid. They formed a protective ring around the injured surfer, keeping the shark at a distance. This amazing team of unexpected rescuers accompanied Todd to the shore, allowing him to get first aid.

GEO, A TRULY HEROIC DOG G

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eo is a charming half-breed of German Shepherd and Collie who saved the life of his ten-year-old owner, Charlie Riley.

Charlie was playing on the street with his pet when suddenly a truck rushed onto the pavement at high-speed, racing straight at the boy. The dog instantly pushed Charlie aside and took the brunt of the blow from the advancing truck. Geo was thrown onto the road, and the truck, trying to escape from the scene, ran down the poor animal one more time.

The brave dog miraculously survived, but he received several internal injuries, and his legs and spine were broken. Thankfully, timely veterinary care saved Geo from death, but he had to undergo lengthy treatment and rehabilitation. Now, the dog is completely healthy. He enjoys life among his family that is infinitely grateful to him for saving their son.

Winter 2019

t s u J e Th Lions

photo by Jill Canillas Daley

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t turns out that even a ruthless predator like a lion can show empathy towards other animals or even people.

In Ethiopia, a group of men kidnapped a 12-year-old girl in order to marry her forcibly to a member of their community. A week later, the girl was found in the jungle under the protection of three lions. It turned out that when the lions saw the men beating the girl, they kicked away the intruders and guarded her. When the police found the little girl, the lions retreated. However, they went back to the jungle only when the girl safely returned home.

In her testimony, she said that lions protected her until the police came.

Dasher to the Rescue

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his wonderful German Shepherd, Dasher, lives in Mildura in Australia. When Dasher was a seven-month-old puppy, he earned the title of hero. The dog spent more than 14 hours in a forest during a storm protecting his owners’ child.

When two-year-old Dante Berry walked out of the family, Dasher was the only one who noticed. The child wandered all over the place, but luckily his faithful friend followed close behind him. Eventually, they lost their way in the forest about 1.8 miles (3 km) from home. It took a long time for Dante’s parents to notice that their child was missing. They called the police and started looking for Dante everywhere, but a terrible storm broke out that night.

It paralyzed traffic on the roads, and the search was postponed until better weather.

The next morning, 15 hours after it was noticed that the child was missing, Dante and Dasher were found in the forest. The lucky kid didn’t have a single scratch.

Dasher helped Dante weather the storm and protected him from predators.

Winter 2019

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Diabetic Alert Dog Permits Teacher to Live Normally Kate Kelly

I ja is a trained service dog (diabetic alert dog) who signals her owner when

on training diabetes alert dogs. This article is to recognize the importance blood glucose levels are changing and then of service animals in our society and alerts her as to whether the levels are ris- is part of International Assistance Dog ing or falling so appropriate action can be Week (August 3-9). taken. Ija has made it possible for teacher The Onset of Diabetes Lisa Loftis to live more easily with type Unlike most with this disease, Lisa 1 diabetes.

Loftis’s symptoms appeared later in life.

“Before Ija, my glucose levels would In her mid-40s, she found herself in an sometimes change dramatically enough emergency room, and the diagnosis did that I would have to pull out of a classroom not take long. Her blood sugar was very for 15 minutes or so until the insulin took high, but even doctors were quite surprised effect,” says Lisa Loftis, who teaches lan- to see a full-blown case is Type 1 diabetes guage arts in a high school in Albuquerque, present in someone her age with no hisNew Mexico. “Clearly this was not permit- tory of diabetes. ting me to be the teacher I needed to be.” Perhaps because she was older, Loftis After a good deal of research, Lisa Loftis immediately began doing research. She decided that a diabetes alert dog would knew little about what causes glucose variamake her life safer and easier. tions (primarily diet, exercise, and stress) Ija was obtained from Assistance Dogs and why her body was no longer able to of the West, where she was trained by produce insulin.

Sue Barnes, who is co-author of a book “The doctor sent me home with syringes

4 4 Legs & a Tail

and vials and I monitored my diabetes with finger pricks throughout the day…. it was all very cumbersome for someone just learning to manage the disease.”

She researched by talking to other patients and attended conferences. Her doctor was very open to some of the new ideas she brought in with her.

“With my daughter leaving for college, I began thinking that a diabetic alert dog would make it safer to live alone, Loftis says. “But I didn’t know how to get one until I was at a conference where I learned about that Assistance Dogs of the West.”

From Idea to Diabetic Alert Dog Ultimately it took about 18 months for Lisa to apply for and get a dog trained to help her. The cost of training a dog at this school is currently stated as $15,000; clients are expected to pay about one-third of the cost, though assistance is available.

Before embarking on her effort, she checked with her school to be certain a service dog could be accommodated.

As a result, the school community got behind the effort. The Key Club had a bake sale and as friends heard about the project, she received donations.

“It was incredibly wonderful to have this support,” says Loftis.

How a Diabetic Alert Dog Works Dogs smell a change in a person’s molecular makeup, so diabetic alert dogs are trained to warn one’s owner of alterations in the body’s blood sugar level. Ija nudges Lisa when she detects a change.

When Lisa makes eye contact with Ija, Ija sits if the glucose level is going up. She lies down if the level is falling.

“Ija is very persistent,” says Loftis.

“Sometimes I don’t respond to her immediately because I’m busy with a student but she keeps nudging me and will even let out a short bark if I wait too long.”

Loftis wears a continuous glucose monitor at all times (and it has to be calibrated to a blood sample twice daily), so she has been able to compare what Ija thinks with the science behind what is going on in her body: “Ija is ahead of the monitor by about 15-20 minutes which makes all the difference in the world. If my levels are low, I know to grab a juice box so I can just keep going.” (A glucose monitor works with a small sensor placed under the skin and it transmits readings via radio frequency to a display monitor.)

“The variations can be so extreme that at times. If I had waited for the monitor, I would have to pull out of the classroom and sit down for ten minutes or so in order to recover before going on. This way I can make the adjustment in stride,” says Loftis.

Diabetic Alert Dog in the Classroom Before Ija arrived, there was a change in principals, but Loftis says the school remained supportive: “There was a lot of paperwork they are required to have on Winter 2019

Ija Gets into Halloween Spirit for School

file, but I had it all, and there have been no problems.

“Our school is unusual in that the layout is open and it’s the teachers who move around, so I’m very active during the day, and this can affect insulin levels,” says Loftis.

The students enjoy having Ija at school, and their only disappointment is that they are not permitted to pet her. “I tell them all that when they graduate they will have petting privileges, and some students actually do come back to visit Ija and pet her.”

After two years with Ija accompanying her, the school has had no complaints about students with allergies, but Loftis notes that Ija is bathed and groomed regularly and brushed often to minimize dander, which is what causes an allergic reaction.

Ija’s Life Ija, now 4, goes everywhere with Loftis. At school her leash is attached to Loftis’ belt loop so that Loftis’ hands are free.

“Ija gets a lot of exercise because my job is so active,” says Loftis. “At the end of the day, another teacher or I will throw tennis balls for her for a bit, but she is always on duty. If my insulin changes, she still stops to tell me. And honestly, at the end of the day she is perfectly happy to go home. She’ll be fed, nap on the sofa a bit, and may play with the cat if she feels like it.

“We knew she would need time off, so the decision was made that nights were her own to get a good night’s sleep. I rely on the continuous glucose monitor then. Blood sugar doesn’t tend to alter that much then, and the CGM is adequate for that time.

“I also sometimes give her a marrow bone, and then, too, she gets to be off duty to thoroughly enjoy the bone.”

All in all, Lisa Loftis and Ija seem very content with their partnership.

To check on Ija, visit her FB page.

This article first appeared on 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 Winter 2019

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A Squeak in the Dark Beth Clifton

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t was a squeak of fright and hunger piercing through the night and into the open windows of the living room. Two cats jumped to the window to look out but my ginger kitten was not in the room. My first thought was that he had gotten outside again. I went to the door to get him, but he was on the inside. Outside on the porch was a wee little black ball of fuzz with two piercing green eyes and a terrified squeak.

When I opened the door, she bolted into the darkness, blending into the night. All I could do was put out some chow in the hope that she would come back.

The following morning the squeaking started again. We went out to the yard and looked under the car but no kitty. Rob insisted she was under the car; I insisted she was not because I was in my pajamas, on my hands and knees in the driveway, and looking under the car where I saw nothing. Then inspiration hit. Rob got the

car keys and unlocked the car and I popped the hood. There were two little green eyes stuffed into the engine and staring back at me. I talked to her, cajoling and calm but she wouldn’t move. I lowered the hood without latching it and waited. We talked so she could hear our voices and when I lifted the hood again she had moved to the top of the engine. Still calmly speaking, I reached in and offered a finger to sniff then gently stroked her cheek until I could grab her. The squeak turned into a howl to wake the dead as I carried her through the house and to the screen porch where she would be safe. We provided food and water and a cozy blanket to curl up in and let her rest. We stayed on the porch talking and just being near her.

There are no feral cats in my neighborhood so the best we can figure is that she rode to my house in Rob’s engine. He had his car serviced earlier in the day at a

Who, Me? - Rob Fountain

service station where a feral cat population thrives behind the building. Rob picked up his car, drove home and packed then drove to the Upper Valley and she must have been in the engine for the three-hour trip! It was about an hour after he arrived that we first heard the squeak in the dark.

That afternoon I decided to buy her a trip to the vet. She was clearly malnourished and had the potential to be carrying parasites that I didn’t need introduced to the boys. The vet said she needed a name for their records so we called her Squeak after the sound that alerted us to her presence. The vet stated that she could only be about a month old but declared her free of parasites. We purchased kitten supplies, returned home, and gave her a bath to remove engine grease.

The next job was to find her a home, but that came to a screeching halt the morning Rob texted me and said he thought the name Lily Squeak would be perfect for her. However, having three older brothers does not seem to suit her. She took to pooping in the living room when she knows that the litter boxes are downstairs.

We began to search for a new home for her and found one with two older sisters, but her sisters are not kitties, they are dogs and strangely enough she seems to be settling in with them. I can’t help but be happy that she found a place. We will miss our scrappy Lily Squeak but we will be able to visit her in her new home.

Beth Clifton is a nurse at Alice Peck Day with two mostly grown children, three house cats plus a wee kitten. Free time is spent cleaning litter boxes and hauling dead mice from the house.

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Winter 2019

Animal Drug Safety Communication: FDA Alerts Pet Owners and Veterinarians About Potential for Neurologic Adverse Events Associated with Certain Flea and Tick Products

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he U.S. Food and Drug Administration is alerting pet owners and veterinarians to be aware of the potential for neurologic adverse events in dogs and cats when treated with drugs that are in the isoxazoline class.

Since these products have obtained their respective FDA approvals, data received by the agency as part of its routine post-marketing activities indicates that some animals receiving Bravecto, Nexgard or Simparica have experienced adverse events such as muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures. Another product in this class, Credelio, recently received FDA approval.

These products are approved for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations, and the treatment and control of tick infestations.

Cooper in Her Wagon Karen Shore, Keene

Winter 2019

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Liz Makes a Comeback!

Suzanne Allard

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hat we know of Liz before she came to us is an all too common story of abuse and neglect. She had been sold to be a fighting dog, she then passed to drug dealers, was stolen and ransomed, she survived a house fire only to pass to an owner who kept her locked in a small room and fed sleeping pills so she would be a “good companion”. She was aggressive at times, but mostly fearful; It took many months for her not to cower whenever one would try to pet her head.

It took a lot of love and a lot of hiking. My husband loves the peace and Suzanne & Liz breadth that walking into the forest imbues, and he goes for miles every day. It was Liz’s second chance, every day a dog’s paradise. Imagine a giant pit bull leaping over log after log like a deer with that pibble smile ear to ear. Grace and power. She also loved the water. Oh, she loved to swim, and I with her.

Everyone says their dog is so smart, but I swear, we have to spell certain words. Silly bone,

8 4 Legs & a Tail

Winter 2019

swim, and bath are on that list. We can’t even spell w-a-l-k without her getting excited. Now I can’t say CBD without her getting excited.

Three years ago we noticed her limping, but thought not too much of it, then I noticed the difference in the size of her back legs. In her puppy-like excitement to go for her w a l k, she had hidden it from us. She had a torn MCL. The vet gave us three options. Amputation and surgery were both out of the question, the first for obvious reasons, the second came with an “it might not work”. We went with the least invasive, carprofin (ibuprofen for dogs) which ended up being ineffective and very expensive, not to mention a short-term solution.

She never stopped walking, she just didn’t want to go as fast or as far. She began to walk three -legged after a time, and there were days she couldn’t even stand up without help. Her leg began to atrophy. We kept telling ourselves she’s more than just her leg pain, she’s happy and alive... We were heartbroken to take her anywhere. We were heartbroken to leave her. Every day she would get so so excited to go where we went, only to return in obvious pain. In a cost/benefit analysis, we still thought outdoors and exercise were better for her whole well being.

Last fall we had a friend who was making CBD massage oil, and had stopped her place by to pick some up for my bad shoulder. Her dog was the shiniest happiest bounciest dog. We asked if she had gotten a new rescue. Nope, same dog, and Orbit was eight! We asked what she was feeding him and she said it was the CBD massage, no change in diet since last time...We had nothing to lose.

I’ve been massaging Liz with a CBD beeswax and coconut oil blend since October 2017. She now stands tall again, and the energy she has is almost immeasurable. I can only imagine how joyous it is to be free from that pain. The healing took time, but we noticed the effects immediately. We swear at nine years old she’s getting to live those puppy years her sad start never gave her.

We have our treatment time about every two days, and each time the jar comes out she thumps her tail and gets into super dog position. Thuuuper doooog! I massage her bad leg, then her good one and all around her shoulders. I get under her armpits in the summer when they get red and chafed, and if she has a sore or bite I just rub a little bit on. She licks the areas she can, and I give her just about a 1/4 teaspoon on her tongue. Happy puppy.

CBD is an affordable palliative medication. It is far less expensive than all those supplements we tried. It far less frightening than sedation and surgery. Our Liz jumps with all her feet off the floor when we spell w- a- l- k, now with that pibble smile ear to ear.

DEFINITION OF

Pibble

Pit bull lovers and the internet at large have mobilized to rebrand the maligned breed—they're saying "Pit bull" is out; "Pibble" is in! Urban Dictionary defines Pibble as “the more refined and less aggressive form of pit bull".

Winter 2019

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GOING THE DISTANCE

Doe

One Local Rescue Goes to Extraordinary Lengths to Save Asian Sighthounds from a Tragic Fate Cathy White - Walpole, NH

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hile most Americans find the idea of consuming dog meat repulsive, in many nations, it’s commonplace.

China and Korea are the largest consumers of dog. Surprisingly, any breed, from Golden Retriever to mutt will suffice, their meat value determined solely by their weight. Canines can and do come from anywhere. Street strays are snatched, pets (despite collars and tags) are stolen, “breeders” raise dogs specifically for meat. Dogs over a certain height are even seized by the government. Greyhound racing exists in the margins of legality, particularly near Beijing; but when dogs have outlived their usefulness as racers/ breeders, they land, at best, in overfull shelters. At worst, they are jammed onto trucks with other dogs on a twelve plus hour journey to vast slaughterhouses near the Korean border.

In Chinese shelters, dogs aren’t spayed or neutered. They live in large, open pens, fending for themselves. The strongest get food, the weakest don’t. Few are adopted.

And they all breed.

So what hope do these dogs have?

For some fortunate dogs, that’s where Fast Friends Greyhound Rescue (FF) in Swanzey, NH comes in.

FF has previously worked with international adoptions; initially importing Irish racing greyhounds and Spanish “galgos” (rabbit-hunting sighthounds closely related to greys). But rescuing greyhounds from Asia was a unique challenge.

It began when Sharron Thomas, FF’s director, became aware of and reached out to a British sighthound organization, Candy Cane Rescue (CCR), who had established ties in Beijing.

Bringing dogs from China to New Hampshire is no small feat. Numerous volunteer organizations need to work cohesively to make this long-distance rescue possible.

10 4 Legs & a Tail

Given the horrific circumstances dogs were suffering in Asia, Sharron couldn’t look the other way and began to examine what it would take to get greyhounds here. Turns out, it takes an awful lot.

CCR works with other organizations, chief among them Plush Bear in China, which physically intercepts canine transport trucks en route to the slaughterhouses and purchases dogs on the spot.

The stats are horrific: In a country with a population of 1.4 billion, 25% consume dog meat (that’s not including other Asian nations). Ten million dogs in China alone are butchered yearly for meat.

Additionally, according to Plush Bear, “... there is currently not a single animal protection law that exists in China.”

CCR pulls sighthounds from Plush Bear’s interceptive missions. Not all are greyhounds; lately, FF has also been rescuing Borzois. (Think “feathery” greyhounds.)

The process of getting them here is a logistical marathon. Once the dogs are obtained from Plush Bear, they are then housed and cared for by CCR in Beijing.

They go to a variety of global sighthound rescues from there, with CCR determining the best fits for each organization.

The number of rescues, governments, customs, airlines, layovers, quarantines, facilitators and ultimately even the USDA that must necessarily be involved are mind-numbing. Without a veritable army of volunteers and devoted FF staff, none of this would be possible; even a human “air patron” is required for every five dogs exiting China.

While dogs travel in a climate controlled cargo hold, that doesn’t make their journey any less grueling. Four hours are spent flying from Beijing to Taipei, where

Alfie

they then endure a three-hour layover.

Sixteen hours aloft again lands them at Chicago’s O’Hare. Their day in the air is followed by a road-trip, manned by two FF staff/volunteers who drive the dogs to Swanzey in the relative comfort of a special van. The dogs, who are anywhere from 7 months to 5 years old, have a bit of freedom in the back of their transport for this leg of the trip, but it’s still another endurance test.

Upon arrival, the dogs are fed, bathed (which they don’t always appreciate), and quarantined (voluntarily by FF). They are checked over thoroughly by one of two local veterinarians, who inspect them head to toe and also perform cultures, swabs, and checks for canine influenza as part of their physicals.

The dogs don’t know a word of English, only Mandarin; and they have had very little socialization with people or other dogs. But the staff at FF make it a priority to work extensively with them. Sharron says that “Our mantra here is never set them up to fail”, which means heaps of love, individual attention, snuggles, and socialization for these exhausted pups.

Sharron adds: “Our staff is everything.

Every staff member loves every dog that comes through these doors.”

Personifying that sentiment is Amy Roy, FF’s development director, who most recently shepherded their latest transport (a litter of Borzoi puppies, so neglected by their Asian “breeder” that he surrendered them to CCR) through the seemingly endless maze required to bring these Asian immigrants to their loving forever homes.

She’s been to China on rescue missions five times this year!

It’s this dedication that sets FF apart.

They’re now the model that other sighthound rescues countrywide look to in the hope of saving Asian dogs from the meat market.

Their absolute commitment is reflected by their fantastic success rate in placing these beautiful dogs in happy homes. Keep flying, Fast Friends!

Cathy White lives in Walpole with her husband Jeff and Labradors Harry and Pippa. Cathy is a Boston University alum, with a degree in Journalism.

Winter 2019

Be a Hero for a Senior Pet! Lindsey Ennis, MHS Shelter Tech

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hen people describe the animal they want to adopt it’s often: adorable, good-tempered, happy, and … let’s face it...young. While all animals need loving homes and facilitating an adoption of a puppy or kitten is still a wonderful thing, sometimes it’s hard to watch another kitten leave with a loving family as they walk right past the personable senior cat who’s spent months awaiting that same chance.

It’s understandable why people opt for younger pets over older ones, but what if I told you there are just as many awesome reasons to adopt a senior pet? Let me explain.

I’ll start with a story about one of our recent senior dogs … Sophie. Sophie is a longhaired dachshund that came to MHS at the ripe age of 14 after her loving owner fell ill. She had some dental issues and vision problems that accompany old age, but still had a bunch of spunk that we knew made her a great candidate for the right home.

She spent some time at the shelter receiving love and care from staff members and volunteers but was becoming stressed due to the nature of shelter life. Everyone at the shelter loved this little lady and hoped for the right adopter to walk through the doors. Unfortunately, most people aren’t looking for senior pets, so she would get passed over for a younger dog quite often.

Then Carol showed up and knew Sophie was the girl for her! She adopted her officially in October after fostering her for a bit. Carol reports that Sophie has opened up so much and is no longer tucking her tail or panting a lot from stress, something we never saw at the shelter. This sassy senior truly found her hero!

You can be that hero for another senior pet awaiting their chance in a shelter near you. Worried about adopting an older pet?

Don’t be! Here are 4 great reasons why senior animals make amazing pets:

pets tend to have lower energy levels and aren’t searching out mischief due to boredom like their younger animal friends.

Because of this, you don’t have to put as much work into keeping them happy and out of trouble. Most senior pets are happy to sit back and relax with you and give *you* their undivided attention instead.

Sophie

3.) Senior pets have a harder time getting adopted so you are truly saving and restoring a life. It’s no secret that older pets aren’t as easily adoptable as younger animals. This means they often sit in shelters which can cause them to shut down a bit due to the stress of shelter life. When you adopt a senior pet you are not only saving a life, but also restoring it. You can expect to see your senior pal open up and flourish in your home and become themselves once again through your love, care, and commitment.

train than younger animals. Because they have been around humans for a long time, along with more established physical and mental abilities, they are much better at understanding the requested commands and pick up new tasks much faster than puppies or kittens.

Adopting a pet from a shelter is a noble thing to do regardless of the age of the animal. All animals in shelters need loving homes and love and appreciate their adoptive parents all the same, but the need to adopt senior pets is much higher. So, if 4.) You CAN teach an old dog (or cat!) you’re thinking about adding a new furry new tricks. Senior pets are often already family member to your pack, why not be trained and may be good at performing a hero to a senior pet when you consider basic commands. The great news is that pet adoption? Sophie thanks you, and so even if they’re not, they are much easier to do all of us at MHS!

1.) What you see is what you get. Senior animals come with fully formed personalities so there is little-to-no guesswork involved with knowing what kind of pet they will be. You can usually know at the time of adoption, to a degree, things like: Are they housebroken? What kind of toys/food/treats do they like? What’s their energy level? Are they good with kids/dogs/cats?

2.) They need less undivided attention and less work. Senior pets don’t need your undivided attention. You won’t need to have all eyes on them at all times or risk them chewing up your favorite shoes or getting into things they shouldn’t. Senior Winter 2019

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Keeping Your Dog Safe AND Legal L

Annie Guion - Brattleboro, VT

icensing your dog is that yearly task that often gets forgotten or never done at all. Towns don’t do a lot of education about this law and they don’t often have the staff to enforce it. People sometimes do it once, not realizing it must be done every year. Of course, it makes no sense to do it once since dogs live much shorter lives than we do. If only they did live for-

ever, we could license them once and not have our hearts broken when they die.

Having worked in animal welfare for 10 years, it feels to me like most people think licensing their dog is just a nuisance and a way for town government to get more of your hard-earned money. So why is it important and how does it help you, the pet owner?

A dog license is the best way for an Animal Control Officer (ACO) to get a dog back home quickly and safely, without ever having to go to the local pound. Since 17 of the 23 towns in Windham County contract with the Windham County Humane Society (WCHS), most dogs will end up at the WCHS. The towns that don’t contract with WCHS (Londonderry, Somerset, Stratton, Wardsboro, Whitingham & Windham) are required by State Statute to have a local “pound” to hold stray animals. Often times the local pound is the ACO’s home or barn.

While the WCHS is a nice place to stay and wait for mom or dad to get you out of doggy jail, it is even nicer to go straight home with your town’s ACO, the number one reason to license your dog.

By requiring a license, towns are also able to ensure that dogs have been vaccinated for rabies. While this is a good thing, the incidence of rabies has altered dramatically since vaccination programs were started in the ‘40s. The last report from the CDC in 2015 cited just 67 rabid dogs in the U.S. Domestic animals accounted for just 7.6% of rabies cases, 92.4% being wild animals (bats 30.9%, raccoons 29.4%, skunks 24.8% and foxes 5.9%). Human deaths from rabies are 2 or 3 on average each year.

Four dollars of your license fee supports the Vermont Spay Neuter Incentive Program (VSNIP), which provides a voucher to spay or neuter your cat or dog for just $27 at a full-service vet. However, you have to have paid less than $75 for the animal to qualify for the VSNIP program. Towns can tack on a $10 fee to the yearly license if they have an established rabies control program, “for the sole purpose of funding the rabies control program.” Given that rabies is much less of an issue than it once was, and that Vermont has a major issue in responding to reports of cruelty or neglect, it might be time to consider that funds instead go to supporting the Animal Control Officer in his or her duties.

By state statute, towns also add a $1 fee that goes to the state for rabies control programs – 45% to fish and wildlife, 45% to the Commissioner of Health and 10% to the secretary of Agriculture.

Annie Guiro is the Executive Director of the Windham County Humane Society in Brattleboro, VT

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Cooking for Fido and Felix Jen Risley - Keene, NH

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ack in the day, when there was no manufactured pet food, Fido and Felix ate what their humans ate (or what these pets hunted or scavenged on their own). Some pet owners have opted out of giving their pets manufactured food. Instead, they are preparing a homemade diet for their pet, hoping to avoid preservatives, toxins and other unsavory ingredients.

For our pets to live healthy, long lives, it’s not as easy as cooking an extra serving of what’s on tonight’s family menu and adding to your dog or cat’s food bowl. Pets have significantly different nutritional requirements than us and meeting these requirements can cost you real time and money. Many pet recipes call for precise measurements of each ingredient (making a digital scale a necessity) and must be followed exactly (no swapping ingredients if you’re out of something). Because of this commitment, pet owners may choose to supplement, instead of replacing, their pet’s diet with home-prepared food.

Whatever you choose to do, it’s best to consult with your vet and a vet nutritionist to find out the best diet for your pet’s breed, age, activity level, and overall health. Be sure to research the types of fruits, vegetables, meats and other foods your pet can eat and which to avoid (like onions, grapes, and raisins). If you choose to go 100% homemade, vitamin and mineral supplements will also need to be included in your pet’s diet.

The Monadnock Food Co-op provides a large selection of fresh and organic fruits and vegetables for both you and your pet.

Our meat department offers fresh choice cuts and organ meat ground to order, as well as frozen antibiotic-free and humanely-raised chicken. Purchase over 20 pounds of bulk food pet food in the meat department and receive a 10% discount.

“A homemade diet remains a popular and potentially very healthy alternative or complement to the many premium foods on the market,” said Vet Nutrition Consultant, Catherine Lane. “However, research and planning are essential. Gather information from a wide range of sources, exercise a little caution, start slowly and don’t forget to check in with your vet or nutrition specialist regularly to be sure the diet hasn’t inadvertently drifted out of balance.”

We want to hear from you -- do you feed your dog or cat homemade food? There’s a sea of conflicting information out on the world wide web -- who do you trust? Please email us at marketing@monadnockfood.coop.

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Ryan shopping for "The Kids"

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Winter Water

the winter, leaving it up to us to ensure adequate intake. This reduction, combined with the increased dry matter of hay, reduction of lush pasture, decreased exercise and sometimes reduced turn out, it’s no wonder that vets see an increase in impaction colic through the winter. If a horse has inadequate water they will reduce the amount of dry matter they consume, leadNicole Sicely, Custom Equine Nutrition, LLC ing to weight loss. This can spell disaster for your hard keepers already struggling to maintain weight through the season. Not

inter is the most important only does lack of water intake increase the time to ensure your horse has access to a risk of impaction, but mild dehydration constant supply of clean water. A horse’s can cause muscles to get tired and tie-up. weight consists of 70% water. For your aver- Keep an eye on your horse’s manure, if it age 1,000lb horse, that is 700lbs of water! looks drier than normal, you will want to Horses naturally drink less water in increase your horse’s water intake.

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Having access to water in a pasture or turnout area can be difficult in New England, but it is essential. Horses cannot rely on snow as a water source. This bears repeating, horses cannot rely on snow.

The first problem with using snow as a water source is the sheer volume they need to consume. The snow to water ratio is 10 parts snow to 1 part water. For a horse to get 10 gallons of water through snow, they would need to eat 100 gallons of it!

The second problem is that calories are used to melt snow, when these calories are needed to keep your horse warm instead.

Increased snow intake can lead to hypothermia, causing our horses to have a hard time staying warm. Again, this can be very hazardous for those hard keepers. Our horses already have a hard time staying warm in New England!

Horses drink less when the water temperature is cold. Ideally, water temperature should be kept around 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit. In one study, horses drank 38-41% less cold water compared to water at 66 degrees.

Salt will also help encourage drinking.

A horse at maintenance (not in work) requires 10g (10,000mg) of sodium per day. 1oz of salt provides 14g (14,000mg) of sodium. Horses should have access to a plain white salt block. However, if a 5lb salt block is not completely consumed with in two months, your horse is not meeting his sodium requirements, and salt should be added to his meals. Two level tablespoons will provide 1oz of salt. A horse in exercise will require 2-4x this amount. You can purchase a 50lb bag of plain salt at any local feed store for around $12, costing less than a penny per day. Compare that to the cost of a vet bill for impaction colic, cheap insurance!

Expensive “Designer Salt” is not necessary, nor recommended. Don’t be fooled by the claim that these salts provide needed nutrients. The amount of these nutrients are so miniscule that they might support a fly.

Provide your horse with an adequate amount of salt, and 24/7 access to water at 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit to keep his body functioning property and reduce the chance of impaction this winter.

Nicole Sicely owns Custom Equine Nutrition, LLC. Nicole is an equine nutritionist offering consulting services and formulated Vermont Blend forage balancer.

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From Head to Tail: Balanced or “Stuck”?

Dorothy Crosby

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hile attending an instructor clinic several years ago, a spontaneous educational event occurred and fascia was first explained to me in a barn. I was fortunate to observe cranio-sacral work on a horse “stuck” in its movement who had some tight spots, especially in his TMJ, which affected his stride. Sure, all the parts are connected; we know that the origin of physiological problems may be somewhere else on the horse’s body. But I was fascinated to see how this “melting” of the problem area changed the movement of the horse in a completely different place.

Fast forward a bit, to a nurse practitioner suggesting I try cranio-sacral therapy for myself. And then came good fortune: to have the previously mentioned equine practitioner work on my horses.

To see – and feel – the changes that took place amazed me. Even better, he taught me to utilize a specific technique; this was the first recognition that a new adventure, already begun, had been jump-started into something way larger than I had anticipated. Fascia, or myofascia, is the elastic, connective tissue in our bodies that surrounds every organ and cell. It holds us together, stabilizing the organs and muscles, and determines our flexibility. Considered “self-directing” and “self-intelligent”, fascia determines the extent and ease of our movement, ensuring our vital parts communicate with each other. Fascia has recall memory; a holding pot for emotional trauma and tension, any fascia release can produce both physical and psychological healing for human or equine (or dog, cat or other living creature!).

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One practitioner described fascia as a “big sheet of plastic wrap that surrounds everything; when it gets crinkled, it needs to be ‘melted’ so it can straighten out”, which it does from the heat of our hands. An equine chiropractor, also a vet, explained that in vet school they learned about fascia: it was “the stuff you had to cut through to get to everything else!” Now our knowledge about what it actually does is great; surely the rising interest in fascia release work comes partly from the results of experiencing it! Ever see the white stretchy film on a chicken breast? There it is; that’s fascia in the flesh!

Last fall, when presenting at Equine Affaire, I became fixated on attending a workshop by Margret Henkels, who had studied extensively the role of fascia, with significant experience working on horses. Margret had a book signing (Is Your Horse 100%?) and I went to meet her. A fascinating conversation ensued; she had desired a Centered Riding Instructor to connect with, and I hoped fascia release work could address an equine body issue. Margret had developed Conformation Balancing, a program integrating the many facets of equine bodywork she had invested years in studying. We eventually created and presented a workshop entitled “Soft Riders, Soft Horses”, our coordinated effort to facilitate softening the multiple areas of tightness affecting both horses and their riders; we have presented this twice so far. I have completed her course, becoming certified to work on equine bodies. And what a fantastic journey…

In some circles, fascia is considered to play an important role in just about everything. If it gets “stuck” we may have issues somewhere within the body: movement, pain, anxiety, tension, tightness, and flexibility, to name a few. Because it surrounds and connects all organs and systems, each part is affected by the whole; an entire network (Margret Henkels calls it internet-like) impacts each minute and a large piece in our structure by directing, recognizing, reacting, compressing, releasing, remembering, and feeling. That’s quite a system, and no doubt works better than my computer! Articles are available on the effects of tack on a horse’s nervous system and fascia. We need not avoid using tack; perhaps our practices will change somewhat as we consider fit and purpose in a new light. Personal observations from horses I’ve worked on have implicated pressure points from horse clothing, tack, equipment, injury, trauma, riding, or inactivity. Certainly, this list is not exhaustive; many physical and environmental factors can impact fascia.

The good news: our horses can be helped and they do tell us where the issues are. This is non-invasive work; strategic placement of our hands, on specific points of the horse, changes the temperature of both our hands and the horse’s body, ultimately changing the fascia. Horses do the work themselves, going deep inside and allowing the changes and releases. Any areas they don’t need or aren’t ready for, are places they resist, directing us to those spots most productive and helpful to them at that time. Of course, none of this precludes the need to consult your vet for health issues of any kind. But it is nice to know there many ways to assist our horses to optimal health and functioning!

Owner of Equi-librium and based in Stoddard NH, Dorothy Crosby is certified as both a Level III Centered Riding® Clinician/Instructor and CHA English and Western Instructor. Director of the Riding Program and Barn Manager at Southmowing Stables in Guilford VT, she loves working with riders and horses of all ages and abilities. Recently certified with Conformation Balancing, a program for fascia release in horses, Dorothy loves the softening and changes in the horses. Dorothy offers clinics, lessons, workshops, and fascia release bodywork sessions both on and off the farm.

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My Dog Helped My Anxiety W

Rylee Hayes

hen I was diagnosed with a panic disorder, I was thirteen years old. I started having panic attacks where my entire body would shake uncontrollably, I felt sick to my stomach, I would lose all feeling in my hands, and felt like I couldn’t breathe.

These episodes quickly began happening multiple times a day, affecting my ability to keep a normal routine.

The panic attacks were obvious, but it took me a long time to realize that about ten minutes before an attack, my dog Ella would come to sit near me. When an attack started and I began pacing around the house or tried taking a walk outside to help, she would follow me.

Our other three dogs were completely oblivious, but my then one-year-old Leonberger mix, Ella, was always at my side when I went into panic mode.

Because she always showed up just before I had an attack, I was able to recognize the early signs of my panic and I became able to calm myself down faster and easier.

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Rylee and Ella

Eventually, I had to be medicated due to the severity of my panic disorder. After a month of being on medication, I sensed my anxiety reducing gradually. I came to a point where I was having almost no panic attacks during the day, but I still had severe ones at night.

When I woke up in the middle of the night, it was dark. I didn’t know what time it was or where anyone went, and I would panic. One night I even woke up already shaking from a panic attack, and scared myself even more because I was convinced I was having a seizure.

After failed attempts at using sleeping supplements, my mom suggested we have Ella stay in my room. I was convinced that having a dog present wouldn’t keep my attacks at bay and didn’t even want to bother trying. But over the following few weeks of her staying with me nightly, I slept better overall, and when I did have an attack, I was able to sit up and pet her until I calmed myself enough to go back to sleep. I rarely ever needed to wake up my mom, which had previously been a nightly occurrence.

As I got older I was told by therapists and doctors that exercise would help with my anxiety problems. I got gym memberships but never went. Then Ella started to gain weight - so I took her for walks, which forced me to exercise as well.

Over the last six years I have had countless panic attacks, but rarely ever had one without Ella showing up to comfort me. I always knew to own a dog while mentally ill had various benefits, but never thought one could directly help my specific disorder. Ella continues to prove that they can with every panic attack I endure.

Rylee Hayes is a lifelong animal lover.

She works at VCA Windham Animal Hospital as an Animal Care Attendant, where she gets to give back to animals by being their companion and comfort.

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Ask Reese!

for our sensitive sniffers. Although I may use a light fragrance natural body spray between baths if I am stinky and need a quick freshening up.

Q: Why is it important to protect your feet in winter?

Q: Why do pets benefit from your holistic grooming approach?

We treat your pet as an individual using gentle, calming energy and understanding animal behavior are only portions of Aimee’s approach. We provide tailored spa packages for their needs and your requests.

Your pet’s first visit starts with a free consultation: review your pet’s likes, dislikes, medical and behavioral conditions. This helps us get to know your pet better while they get comfortable in a new environment on their terms. Your pet’s skin and coat is then assessed to determine appropriate services. Pets with separation anxiety may appreciate their owner in view or a calming aromatherapy bath treatment.

Some are scared of confined spaces or do not play well with others. We understand all pets have their own personality and needs. Therefore your pet may prefer a warm cage free drying option (a private appointment). Medical, skin and coat conditions are not overlooked either. Whatever the case is, Aimee has many options and services for your dog, cat, or small pet’s grooming needs.

Q: What are the benefits of natural products?

I have sensitive skin, seasonal dry skin, and seasonal allergies. My mom noticed a drastic improvement with my skin and coat after using natural grooming products and working with my veterinarian during a diet change. I am bathed or rinsed frequently during summer allergy flare-ups to wash away contact allergies. Winter months I am groomed monthly to keep my pet dander and dry skin under control and eliminating my “Grinch” feet. Maintaining trimmed pads and nails helps with traction on slippery surfaces. I use a Kaylaya Emu body spray regularly to keep my coat shiny, soft and moisturized. Chemicals, detergents and strong fragrances can cause skin irritation or be over powerful Winter 2019

your dog enjoy car rides? Stop by Aimee’s Grooming Boutique with your furry friend for a few treats and belly rubs or sign up for pet seminars. Other fun winter activities include trips to local doggy daycare facilities or sign up for training courses.

Training and doggy daycare is a great way to keep your pet socialized, bonding time with your pet and it never hurts to brush up on those old tricks! Aimee’s Grooming Boutique is more than a dog and cat grooming salon. Pets are always welcome to stop in. We have complementary treats and of course love doggy kisses!

Snow and ice melt packing into our fur can cause mats or a secondary infection from licking excessively in the same area.

I use Mushers Secret or a similar natural barrier cream on my pads. It acts as a safe barrier from these irritants and prevents our pads from drying out or cracking. We only use sand or pet safe ice melt to pre- Stay warm and safe this winter furry vent irritation or accidentally ingesting friends! harmful chemicals.

Aimee’s Grooming Boutique offers an Q: This winter is off to a cold and array of quality, professional grooming stormy start. Do you have a winter services for cats and dogs, small pets, feathered pets, even large animals. emergency kit?

We now have a client resource center I wear bright, reflective gear with a light where you will find newsletters, photo on my collar while outdoors to ensure I am gallery, the latest 4 Legs and A Tail visible. A basic essential kit should include: magazine, pet first aid and emergency water, food, and medications for your pet in reference guides, pet odor eliminator the event of a power outage or you become candles, natural human grade goursnowed in. We have (free) information met treats, toys, health and grooming packets available for pet owners (pet first products, natural and vet recomaid and emergency supply checklists, toxic mended flea/tick products, unique gift plants and foods, poison control links, options and more! We are open 6 days eliminating fleas and more). Pet owners a week, early mornings, evening and should have pre-made lost pet signs in the Saturday reservations are available. rare event they are needed, window and Call or stop in today! wallet cards (we have available), copies of veterinary records (vaccines, recent medical conditions and a medication list) in the event of an emergency during closed office hours, temporary relocation due to weather or when traveling.

Q: Can you prevent pet cabin fever?

Providing a variety of toys, mind stimulating games (hide and seek with toys or treats) are fun bonding and mind stimulating exercises while engaging a dog’s natural scent drive. My cat friend prefers laser games and catnip toys for exercise. Interactive treat toys can also be used for food motivated cats to promote exercise and fun feeding times. Does

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Common Myths About Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats Sandra L Waugh VMD, MS

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n my practice of veterinary dentistry I hear, over and over, these same myths from my clients. Many of the conditions that I see in dogs and cats would, if present in a person, cause complaint and an urgency for treatment. Unfortunately, dogs and cats do not complain about dental pain. Or, they do complain, but in a way that is not very obvious to their owners. They most certainly feel pain from and are adversely affected by dental disease.

In my practice of veterinary dentistry I hear, over and over, these same myths from my clients. Many of the conditions that I see in dogs and cats would, if present in a person, cause complaint and an urgency for treatment. Unfortunately, dogs and cats do not complain about dental pain. Or, they do complain, but in a way that is not very obvious to their owners. They most certainly feel pain from and are adversely affected by dental disease.

MYTH #1: “Dogs and cats do not feel dental pain the way people do. They have a higher pain threshold.”

Basis for Myth: Serious dental problems are often found on a routine physical examination, and the owner will say that they have had no indication that anything was wrong. The pet still eats and may even still chew on hard toys.

THE TRUTH:

Dogs and cats feel dental pain in the same way and to the same degree as humans. It has been shown that dogs and cats have the same pain threshold and tolerance as humans.

Then why do they continue to eat? The simple answer is that eating is necessary in order to survive. The dog or cat will often adopt various strategies, such as preferring canned food over dry, chewing on the less painful side of the mouth, or eating small amounts of food numerous times per day. And why not complain? I wonder, sometimes, exactly how a dog or cat should “complain” about pain in the mouth. If a leg hurts a limp will result. But what is the corresponding action with dental pain? The signs are often subtle and often increase slowly over a long time and thus are not as apparent as a limp.

A general decrease in enthusiasm, drooling, pawing or rubbing the mouth, decreased enthusiasm for games, discharge from the eye, sneezing are some of the signs that are seen.

Also, because dogs and cats still have behaviors left over from prior to domestication, there is a in-born desire to look strong and pretend that everything is fine. A display of weakness can make one vulnerable to becoming a meal to another predator. So, “stiff upper lip” and “fluff out that fur” to look as big and strong as possible.

Recommendation: If you see a condition that would cause pain in your mouth, assume that it is causing pain for the pet.

If you see a condition that would cause you to seek dental care for yourself, then seek out dental care for the pet.

MYTH #2: “If a broken tooth does not seem to be bothering the pet, there is no need to treat it” or “it is ok to just wait and watch it.”

Basis for Myth: Teeth that are fractured or worn with exposure of the inside of the tooth (the pulp) are commonly seen in dogs and cats. Yet the owner will often state that the tooth is not bothering the pet. (see Myth #1).

THE TRUTH:

If a tooth has been broken or worn to allow pulp exposure, it is a problem that must be treated.

A tooth with an open pulp chamber becomes a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the inside of the tooth and then to eventually exit out the bottom of the root and infect the bone. I know from personal experience that this can cause excruciating pain! These teeth need to be treated with either a root canal procedure or an extraction. To “wait and watch” the tooth makes no sense.

When I hear this I wonder “For what are you watching?” Since dogs and cats often do not show signs of dental pain, then watching for the appearance of pain is an unreliable indicator that the tooth needs treatment.

Recommendation: A fractured tooth, a worn down tooth or a discolored tooth with an intact crown are all likely to be non-vital teeth and should be treated with a root canal procedure or an extraction. Antibiotics often will temporarily relieve pain, but will not cure the problem.

Fracture upper right canine. The darker area surrounding the tip of the root was due to an infection in the bone. (red arrow).

MYTH #3: “For minor tartar accumulations and mild gingivitis, a simple scaling without anesthetic will often be sufficient.”

Basis for Myth: Owners may be reluctant to put a pet under anesthesia. Some groomers and veterinarians will offer this service. When finished, the visible parts of the teeth will look clean and there may be some reduction in odor.

THE TRUTH:

Proper dental care requires general anesthesia. A dental cleaning includes the removal of all of the plaque and tartar, including underneath the gum. There is a space where the gum meets the tooth, and it is this space that is the most important part to clean. All the teeth should be probed. A polishing is necessary to create a smooth surface that will easier to keep clean. Under general anesthesia every tooth can be fully examined and dental radiographs taken to determine if the entire tooth, meaning the crown and the root, are healthy. In the awake pet, most of this is not possible. Only the outside Winter 2019 20 4 Legs & a Tail

surface of the tooth can be cleaned, leaving behind all the plaque and tartar on the inside of the mouth. Subtle problems will be missed, leaving them to become worse over time.

Recommendation: Have your pet’s teeth cleaned under general anesthesia. Concern about anesthesia is reasonable, so ask about the monitors used, what parameters are being monitored and if a technician will monitor the anesthesia continuously.

MYTH #4: “Old animals are not suitable candidates for dental treatment.”

Basis for Myth: Generally, older patients have higher anesthetic risks and so some veterinarians feel the benefits of treatment do not justify these risks. In the past, anesthetic risks were higher and the level of dental treatment available lower and so the risks might not have been justified. Things have changed!

THE TRUTH:

It is true that some patients are too systemically ill to be candidates for a general anesthetic, however, I feel that no animal should be denied the benefits of proper dental care merely because they were born a long time ago.

As a veterinarian, I was sworn to prevent and relieve animal suffering (see the Veterinarian’s Oath). Many dental conditions are not only sources of chronic pain, but also serious sources of chronic infection. These situations have significant negative impact on both the quality and quantity of life for the patient. With our present re-sources for pre anesthetic diagnostics, risk management during anesthesia and post anesthesia care, the risk of loosing a patient to a general anesthetic has been greatly reduced (there is always a risk with any procedure in any patient). Also, the level of dental care available has increased incredibly over the past fifteen years. It is now safe to say that the risk to the quality and quantity of life associated with dental treatment is less than the risk associated with dental neglect.

Recommendation: If you hear yourself thinking or are told that your pet is too old for a needed dental procedure, find a veterinarian who will take all factors into account, not just the age of your pet.

MYTH #5: “Doggy Breath or Kitty Breath is normal” Basis for Myth: Treatment of periodontal disease has not always been emphasized by veterinarians and owners were not made aware of dental disease in their pets. I am often told by owners that the dogs and cats they had in the past did not have any dental disease. This, of course, is not true, rather dental disease was prevalent in the past but was not diagnosed and treated.

THE TRUTH:

Bad breath is a sure sign of significant infection in the mouth, and while there are other causes, periodontal disease is by far the number one cause of bad breath (halitosis). Periodontal disease has a “rotten egg” or “swamp gas” type of odor, while plaque has mildly unpleasant odor. If the odor from the mouth makes you gag or want to run away, then significant periodontal disease is highly likely.

Recommendation: Have your pet’s teeth examined and dental x-rays taken under general anesthesia. This can usually be immediately followed by performing whatever dental procedures (extractions, etc) need to be done in order to return the mouth to a healthy state.

Teeth do not have to end up in this state! This dog lost most of these teeth at 7.5 years of age.

MYTH #6: “Periodontal disease is an inevitable consequence of aging.”

Basis for Myth: Many old dogs and cats have severe periodontal disease.

THE TRUTH:

Periodontal disease is entirely preventable. Through the judicious use of abrasive foods and toys (nothing too hard), appropriate home-care programs and timely professional oral hygiene procedures, it is very possible for a dog or cat to live a long life and lose no teeth to periodontal disease. They may lose teeth to other conditions, such as broken teeth or tooth resorptions.

Recommendation: Adopt a preventative approach to oral health by starting dental care before disease is established.

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.

Parts of this article were adopted from “Dental Mythology” by Fraser Hale, DVM, FAVD, Dipl AVDC at tooth-vet.ca and “Pet Dental Health Month: Debunking Common Myths About Periodontal Disease” by Brook A. Niemiec, DVM, FAVD, Diplomate AVDC at dogbeachvet.com.

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Diabetes in Dogs and Cats Catherine MacLean, DVM - Grantham, NH

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ogs and cats can get diabetes just like humans. The most common type of diabetes in dogs and cats is diabetes mellitus, which is similar to Type II diabetes in humans. Although diabetes can happen to any pet, overweight and obese cats and dogs are most at risk along with certain dog breeds.

Diabetes occurs when there isn’t enough insulin produced by the pancreas. The cells of our body need a sugar known as glucose to function. The insulin that the pancreas produces helps the cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream and utilize it. Glucose comes from our diet. When the body needs glucose and we are not obtaining it through food, the body has to breakdown fat, stored protein and starches to provide calories to the cells. Starches and protein can be converted into glucose. Fat gets converted into ketones, which is another source of fuel that the body can use in a pinch.

If ketones can be detected in urine, it means that something is wrong. Ketones are produced when an animal is starving and is mobilizing massive amounts of fat for energy. Ketones can also be detected in diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a severe, life-threatening complication of unregulated diabetes.

The main clinical signs of diabetic cats and dogs are excessive drinking, urination, eating, and weight loss. These clinical signs occur in diabetic animals because they are not producing enough insulin for their cells to get glucose for the bloodstream. The animal’s body is also unable to detect the glucose in its blood and its body is fooled into thinking it is starving. The body then begins breaking down protein, starch, and fat.

However, with the lack of insulin being made by the animal’s body, it can’t get the glucose and nutrients it’s producing into the tissues that need it. At the same time the animal’s kidneys become overwhelmed by the amount of glucose in the bloodstream and spills the extra glucose into the urine where it is lost.

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Glucose is able to draw water into the urine, which then leads to excess urine production and excess thirst to keep up with the fluid loss.

Other clinical signs that may be seen are cataracts in dogs and urinary tract infections. Cataracts due to diabetes are seen in dogs and not cats. This is because the lens in the eyes of a dog allow excess sugar to enter it. Urinary tract infections can occur in diabetic animals because of all the excess sugar being excreted into the urine. This allows for a nice environment for bacteria to grow.

If you notice that your pet is losing weight, eating a lot, and has excessive drinking and urination it may have diabetes. Diabetes is diagnosed with bloodwork. If your veterinarian diagnoses your pet with diabetes, this is not a death sentence. Diabetes in dogs and cats can be treated and managed with insulin, diet, and dedication.

At this time there are no oral insulins that work well in animals, so insulin must be given as an injection. Your pet will also need a high fiber, low carbohydrate diet. After your pet has been started on insulin, your veterinarian will have your pet come in for a blood glucose curve in several weeks. Blood glucose curves usually involve your pet staying at the veterinary office for the day while blood glucose levels are measured and monitored. Some owners are able to perform the glucose curve at home. After the curve is done, your veterinarian may make adjustments to your pet’s insulin dose. Sometimes several adjustments and curves need to be done before the correct dose of insulin is found for your pet.

Occasionally a pet may be very difficult to regulate. This may be due to improper administration of insulin, very fast metabolism of insulin, steroid administration, and progesterone interference in unsprayed female animals.

Dental disease can also contribute to unregulated diabetes. There is also the possibility that the insulin selected for your pet was not the right fit and a different type of insulin is needed.

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If at any point a diabetic pet becomes disoriented, lethargic, or ill you should contact your veterinarian right away.

Once an animal’s insulin is regulated, their weigh usually regulates, their appetite returns to normal, and their increased drinking and urination stops.

If those clinical signs return, then you should schedule your pet for a recheck with your veterinarian.

Diabetic pets can have long, happy lives once they are regulated. Diabetes can be frustrating for owners when it takes a while to regulate their pet’s insulin dose since it can be expensive to treat and hard to deal with the excessive drinking and urination. The best way to avoid diabetes in animals is to keep your pet at a healthy weight and to have regular check-ups with your veterinarian.

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.

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Weight Control for Dogs in Winter Months

to closely monitor your dog’s activity.

Accurately tracking your pet’s activity levels is possible with one of many pet activity monitors available today.

These small devices mount on Fido’s collar and can double as a GPS Patrick Sturgeon & Ben Burroughs to locate a lost pet. Most devices generate simple reports and even offer pet

s the leaves change and the Step 2: Monitor & Plan for Activity: parents reminders if too much time has first dusting of snow sets in, we often Once you understand your pet’s elapsed since their dog was active. This notice our four-legged friends are not as physical status, then you can evaluate is a simple way to track Fido’s activity excited to run outside first thing in the activity needs and encourage additional playtime. morning. Then, the temperature drops based on breed, further, we have less daylight, and these age, and behavStep 3: Assess Lifestyle & trips outside become shorter and less ior. We all know Nutritional Needs: frequent. This can be a bad combination “that dog” – the Dogs who live predominantly indoors for many pets as it can lead to weight one smiling and vs. those who spend most of their time gain. It can also compound health & joint bounding through outdoors regardless of the temperaissues in many older pets. A variety of snow with a thick ture have very different caloric needs. steps can be taken however to ensure our coat of fur. Not all Experts explain that dogs who spend four-legged friends maintain a healthy our pets possess most of their time outdoors during weight without sacrificing on nutrition. a robust coat, but winter months shiver just like humans. they want to go Shivering can have a massive caloric out regardless of Step 1: Assess your Dog’s Health: impact on your dog. So, understanding This step considers many variables, the cold. So, by this need may result in more feedings. such as your dog’s age, breed, and ten- understanding breed and behavior, a Consult with a veterinarian or pet food dencies. When in doubt, consult a pet parent can invest in winter coats nutritional expert before changing your veterinarian. Veterinarians can do more to ensure even short hair breeds can pet’s meal plan. than give you the eyeball test; they can enjoy the snow if they have a drive to If your four-legged friend spends let you know whether your dog is at a venture out. more time indoors during the winter, healthy weight or potentially flag Fido If an unbridled desire to run free is feeding less for regular meals is not the as overweight. Together, you can create not in your dog’s nature and the thought answer. However, cutting back on treats a plan for increased activity and better of walking your pet in the cold gives you early in the seathe chills, you may need to develop a plan son may offer nutrition during the winter months.

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caloric savings to offset the lower activity levels.

Or, if you cannot resist treating your four-legged friends, seek out low calorie training treats. Zuke’s and Fruitables “minis” training treats offer generous portions at a low-calorie point.

If you still have concerns about diet, consult with a veterinarian. A lower calorie diet may be needed. Lower calorie over the counter (OTC) diets can include lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, and fish and have lower added fat contents. Brands such as Merrick, Annamaet, Blue Buffalo, Weruva, and others manufacture lower calorie diets that meet all other nutritional requirements. In drastic situations a veterinarian may suggest a prescription diet which takes many of the previous OTC formulas and layers in added fiber to promote satiety. These diets are also backed by extensive clinical trials.

If you follow these steps, your dog should emerge from the winter cold in peak health and ready to run through the mud come April!

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TAKING CARE of BUSINESS in the WINTER

t can be a challenge to get even the best housetrained pet to do their business outdoors on a bitterly cold, snowy day. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to encourage your pet to use outdoor bathroom areas and avoid indoor accidents all winter long.

Why Pets May Avoid Outdoor Potty Time in Winter

Understanding your pet’s reluctance to use an outdoor bathroom area in winter can help you take steps to keep your pet comfortable. Both cats and dogs are sensitive to very cold temperatures, particularly if they do not have a heavier winter coat, and extreme cold can be painful on their delicate paws and noses. Deep snow may brush against their bottoms if they must squat, and that sensation can be disturbing. An icy surface is slippery and unsteady, and can make a pet more tentative about being outdoors. Snow and ice will also cover scent markers that indicate a familiar outdoor bathroom area, making your pet more nervous about where they are. Even large landmarks – visual, auditory and scent clues – can be changed or eliminated in winter, making your pet feel nervous and vulnerable. When all these factors are added up, it’s no surprise that your pet may prefer an accident indoors rather than using an outdoor potty area.

they perform appropriately. Once your pet is trained, they will follow that command even in winter weather.

Create a Winter Potty Area Give your pet a safe, comfortable area to do their business outdoors in winter by clearing snow and ice. This will also make existing scent markers stronger, encouraging your pet to use the same area. Providing a simple windbreak can ease any discomfort on windy days, and if the area is under cover – such as under a large patio table or trampoline – it will be easy to keep the snow accumulation minimal.

Bundle Up Pets that naturally grow heavy winter coats will be more comfortable outdoors on cold days, but if your pet does not, it may be necessary to use a snug sweater to help them keep warm. Be sure the sweater is the appropriate size so your pet’s waste will not create a bigger mess. Booties or socks can also be helpful to give your pet better traction outdoors and to keep their feet comfortable.

Accompany Your Pet If your pet seems nervous outdoors in winter, it may be necessary for you to accompany them on bathroom breaks.

Stay near your pet without crowding them, but do not return indoors until they have gone potty. This is a great opportunity to reinforce verbal bathroom commands so your pet will go more easily even in unusual conditions.

Consider Indoor Potty Areas

Despite the best training and all the appropriate steps to help your pet feel comfortable doing bathroom business outdoors in winter, indoor accidents are to be expected. It may be worthwhile to consider an indoor potty area using puppy training pads or newspapers, not only to provide your pet an indoor alternative to accidents, but in case there are days when the weather is just too bad and dangerous for you or your pet to be outside. Keep the area clean and take your pet outdoors whenever possible, and eventually they will learn to be comfortable outdoors even during the coldest winter days.

To learn more about taking care of your pets, talk with the experts at the Pet and Aquarium Center or visit their website at www.NHPets.com

Encouraging Outdoor Winter Bathroom Breaks

It is possible to encourage your pet to do their business outdoor even on stormy, chilly winter days, but it takes some dedicated effort on your part to be sure they are safe and comfortable.

Walk and Play Outdoors

Many pets are reluctant to use the bathroom outdoors in winter because they are not used to winter weather conditions.

Taking short walks, playing outdoor games and otherwise exposing your pet to snow, ice and cold in safe, fun ways can help them feel more at ease in winter conditions so they are not too nervous to do their business.

Train Your Pet to Go on Command Using a verbal command – “Do your business!” “Go pee!” “Get busy!” etc. – to train your pet to do bathroom business can help them feel more comfortable in uncertain conditions. They will trust your command, and that training will be reinforced if you offer praise or a treat after www.4LegsAndATail.com 25

The History of the Chinook Jack R. Murray

The Beginning In 1896, Arthur T. Walden, the 24 year old son of a Boston minister, left Wonalancet, New Hampshire and his job as farm manager of Katherine (Kate) Sleeper’s Wonalancet Farm, and headed for Alaska. Driven by his sense of adventure, he took every job that came his way while there: prospector, logger, stevedore, river pilot; and the job that he was most taken with, “dog punching” (hauling freight by dogsled). Walden returned to Wonalancet six years later, and in December of 1902, he and Kate Sleeper married.

Walden now had dogsledding in his blood, but quality sled dogs were not available in New England, where horses and oxen were the draft animals of choice; so he brought a variety of dogs to Wonalancet Farm and began breeding for dogs that possessed his ideal combination of strength, endurance, speed, and good nature. He put together a team of four half-bred St. Bernards in 1910; they were reportedly the first sled dog team to work in New England since the Deerfield (MA) Massacre of the French and Indian War, in 1703!

Chinook

The Life of “Old Chinook” Foundation Sire of the Breed On January 17, 1917, a litter of seven puppies was born on Wonalancet Farm to

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Walden’s Greenland Husky, Ningo (a granddaughter of Polaris, Admiral Robert Peary’s lead dog from his 1909 Arctic expedition); and sired by Kim, a large mixed breed dog of unknown origin that had been picked up as a stray. In this litter were three large, tawny colored pups that Kate Walden first named Rikki, Tikki, and Tavi; taken from Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book”. Walden soon realized the intelligence of these pups, and finding the names Rikki and Tikki unworkable when calling them, renamed them Chinook and Hootchinoo after two outstanding lead dogs he had owned in Alaska. Hootchinoo was the first to prove his competence as a lead dog, and Chinook and Tavi were perfectly happy running in the team behind their brother. It was a full year later before Walden tried Chinook in lead position, and the unassuming Chinook astounded everyone with his intelligence, understanding, and trail sense. Walden was so taken with this dog that Chinook became Walden’s most trusted leader, foundation sire of his continued kennel lines, and Walden’s constant companion.

With Chinook’s children, Walden was finally getting the quality of dogs that he was accustomed to; and in 1920 his new line of “Husky half-breds” (as he called them), made their debut at the Gorham, NH winter carnival, and he started seriously promoting dog sledding for draft, recreation, and sport. Racing in New England began a year later, at the 1921 Gorham carnival; it was a modest race (two teams of three dogs each, over a six mile course) and Walden lost, but interest built rapidly from there.

Walden had also been promoting freighting by dogsled to the woodsmen as a faster, more economical way to move supplies to their logging camps, and convinced the Brown Paper Company of Berlin, NH to sponsor the first Eastern International Dog Derby in 1922 in part to encourage

more people to breed quality sled dogs in the region. Four teams competed in this 123 mile race; and Walden, with Chinook in lead, won hands down. Competition was keen, however; and Walden realized that Chinook, weighing just over 100 pounds in fit working condition, was too massive an animal to continue leading winning race teams. He started breeding Chinook with an eye for lighter boned, faster offspring, who still carried Chinook’s intelligence and trademark coloration.

Chinook team International Dog Sled Race 120 miles Berlin NH February 1922

In 1923, a distemper outbreak in Chinook Kennel took its toll, and Walden lost his entire winning team, except for Chinook himself. Walden took two years off from serious competition to concentrate on breeding another competitive team, but never stopped supporting the sport. In 1924, the New England Sled Dog Club (NESDC) held its organizational meeting in the Waldens’ home and elected Arthur Walden its first president. The NESDC is still actively promoting sled dog racing today.

In 1925, Walden returned to racing with a young but promising team of Chinook’s sons, and proclaiming his Chinook/ shepherd crosses as his ideal for strength and stamina. The popularity of Walden’s “Chinook dogs” was growing; and, boosted by his January 1926 win at the Poland Spring, Maine, race, interest was such that Walden was beginning to sell a few matched teams of his dogs to other racers as well.

In March of 1926, Walden and his team set out on an adventure that he had been considering for years, but which most people considered impossible: the first ascent of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the eastern United States, by dog team.

While turned back by a blizzard on the first attempt, Walden and his team, with old Chinook in lead again, successfully made the 8 miles to the summit in 8 hours time!

Chinook Becomes World Renowned The Chinook dogs’ popularity among the racing community was short lived, however.

After gaining recognition for their part in the 1925 Nome Serum Run, Leonhard Seppala and 40 of his Siberian Huskies left Winter 2019

Alaska on a national tour timed to land him in New England in late 1926 for the winter’s race season. At The Poland Spring race of January 1927, Seppala’s Siberians proved themselves much faster than anything the New Englanders had to offer and gained instant popularity. Seppala established a breeding kennel in Maine to supply his Siberian Huskies to the racers in New England, and interest in Walden’s dogs waned. Walden didn’t dwell on the loss; but instead went seeking the next adventure. Hearing that Commander Richard Byrd was planning a two year expedition to Antarctica, Walden volunteered; and even though over the maximum age limit, was selected as lead dog driver and trainer for the expedition. During the winter of 1927/28, dogs and drivers were assembled at the Waldens’ Wonalancet Farm, and training began. Winter survival gear was also evaluated there, in the harsh conditions of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. When Byrd’s expedition departed in the summer of 1928, Chinook, now eleven years old, and fifteen of his sons were included among the nearly 100 dogs selected to provide surface transportation on the Antarctic ice.

Conditions were severe when they arrived in Antarctica, and there was little time to unload the 500 tons of supplies and build their new “city”, Little America, before the four month long “night” set in.

Walden, Chinook, and their 13 dog team amazed everyone. Of Walden, Byrd wrote: “Seeing him rush his heavy loads along the trail, outstripping the younger men, it was difficult to believe he was an old man. He was 58 years old, but he had the determination and strength of youth.” Of Chinook, Byrd wrote: “...there was no doubting the fact that he was a great dog. ...Walden used him as kind of a “shock troop”, throwing him into harness when the going turned very hard. Then the gallant heart of the old dog would rise above the years and pull with the glorious strength of a threeyear-old.” And of their team, Byrd wrote: “On January 17th (1929) Walden’s single team of thirteen dogs moved 3,500 pounds of supplies from ship to base, a distance of 16 miles each trip, in two journeys.

Walden’s team was the backbone of our transport.” The night after this record was

set, Chinook woke Walden several times by putting his paw on Walden’s shoulder.

Each time, Walden gave Chinook a pat on the head and told him to lay back down.

The next day, as Walden and his team left Little America, Chinook wandered away and was never found.

Walden was devastated by the loss of his companion of so many years, and the disappointment was deepened by the fact that Walden was unable to honor his desire to bury Chinook in harness. Walden was, however, able to find a fitting way to memorialize his old friend. When he returned from Little America to Wonalancet, a new highway was being built on the rough trail that led from Wonalancet to Tamworth,

over which Chinook had passed countless times leading his team. The people of the area wanted to name the road Walden’s Road, but Walden requested instead that it be named the Chinook Trail; the name which it still bears today.

"Adventurer Arthur T. Walden with his sled dog Chinook at the Winter Carnival in Portland, Maine.

This photograph was on the front page of the Portland Evening Express on February 11,1922

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Squirrel Apocalypse 2018 A

Scott Borthwick

fter 40 + years in the nuisance wildlife control business and meeting lots of people I often hear “ I was thinking of you the other day when I saw a dead skunk in the road”. Of course, any roadkill will do. But this year more people than ever are thinking of me after witnessing the carnage on New England roads. On the off ramp from I-89 to I-93, I must have counted over a hundred dead gray squirrels. Even the news media were thinking of me as I was contacted by a NHPR reporter who wanted to drive along with me to see what impact this squirrel epidemic has had on my business. The story is on their website.

Unfortunately, more than just gray squirrels are affected by this event. Birds of prey, foxes, bobcats, coyotes, and even bears are lured into the highway of death. Tempted by a free meal of smooshed squirrel. A large crop of nuts and apples last year lead to a large crop of squirrels this year which will lead to a large crop of predators. Population cycles like this are not uncommon.

When I was a child we were told about lemmings running off a cliff and falling into the ocean due to overpopulation. I do not believe animals deliberately kill themselves to cull the population it’s more of a desperate search for food to sustain themselves through the winter.

With a lack of acorns, this year squirrel populations will decline to force predators to seek alternative food sources.

Everyone with livestock should use extra precaution in protecting their animals.

We are already getting calls relating to predators in chicken coops. It is not just a fox in the henhouse either. Raccoons, skunks, opossums, coyotes, mink, fisher, weasels and foxes are all making visits this year to the hen house.

The number of people who hunt and trap in today’s world is declining.

Because of this, to a certain extent, animal populations are not being properly managed. Which leads to events like this year’s squirrel apocalypse. Large populations are great for my business and we certainly have had a ton of calls.

However large populations lead to disease and other unpleasantries.

If you know anyone interested in hunting or trapping and don’t know where to start, give us a call. If we can’t help we can certainly send them in the right direction.

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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.

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Southern NH & VT Winter 2019

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