4 Legs and a Tail-North Vermont

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A Winter Wonderland Northern VT & NH

Vermont Prison Pups For Veterans Does Cat Poop Parasite Play A Role In Curing Cancer?

Appeasing The Bearded Dragon Winter Grooming For Your Dog A Guide To Buying A Horse Blanket

4 LEGS & A TAIL FUN! What's Different?

Dog’s Leg Missing, Dog’s Tail Missing, Women’s Purse Missing, Dog’s Bandana Blue, Women’s Fingernail polish blue, Women’s shoes red

A pet shop owner had a parrot with a sign on its cage that said “Parrot repeats everything it hears.” A young man bought the parrot and for two weeks he spoke to it and it didn’t say a word.

He returned the parrot, but the shopkeeper said he never lied about the parrot.

How can this be?

The parrot was deaf.

A cat and mouse die and go to heaven. One day St. Peter runs into the mouse and asks, “How do you like heaven so far?” “It’s great!

But it’s so big I wish I had roller-skates,” replied the mouse. “No problem,” said St. Peter.

A few days later, St. Peter sees the cat and asks how he likes heaven.

“It’s fantastic,” said the cat, “It even has mealson-wheels.”

Some dogs are more graceful than others

Inside this issue of 4 Legs & a Tail 2. Vermont Prison Pups

Springfield, VT will soon be home to service dogs in training for Vermont veterans

3. Oh the Weather Outside is Frightful…For Pets, Too! M. Kathleen Shaw, DVM

Cold weather dangers for pets

5. Don’t Get Caught in the Cold Without a Coat,

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Bow Meow - Winter myth busters about dog grooming My Last Trip to the Vet - Some people just can’t take a joke!

In The Winter Stable, John R. Killacky - A wonderful solstice evening in Vermont Holiday Hazzards - Keeping your pets safe helps ensure happy holidays

Animals As Gifts, Pat Jauch

Points to consider before you give a loved one a pet

10. Silly Millie the Mastiff, Talaia Thomas, LCMHC

How one therapy dog is making a difference for this autistic child

11. A Little Piece of Heaven, Paul and Sally Zeller

For more than a decade the Hooved Animal Sanctuary has cared for abused and abandoned animals

13. Taking a Bite Out of Obesity, Millie Armstrong, DVM

$34 million in vet bills for overweight pets, want to save some money this year?

16. “Treat” Your Dog Right

Edelweiss Bakery in Johnson, VT develops a healthier biscuit

17. Teaching Kids about Cats

The importance of “playing nice” with our furry friends

18. A Guide to Buying a Horse Blanket

How to look for warmth, size & durability

20. Alternatively Speaking - A Holistic Approach to Treating Cancer, Anne M. Carroll, DVM 21. Does Cat Poop Parasite Play a Role in Curing Cancer?

How a tiny “bug” can stop cancer in its tracks as a vaccine

22. Gunner, The Skijoring GreyHound, Diana Hanks

A fun (and fast) way to get around this winter

23. Chinchillas, Susan Dyer, DVM

Looking for a wonderful pet? Consider a Chinchilla!

24. Sweet Potato Pie, Samantha Bubar

A little love turns a Bearded Dragon into a couch potato

25. Slithering Snakes, DJ Nelson

Expert advice if you’re considering a pet snake

26. Abraham Lincoln’s Dog, Fido, Kate Kelly

With Presidents Day on February 16, we take a look at the Great Emancipator’s dog

27. Small Dogs with “Pushed-in” Faces Have Even More Dental Problems, Sandra Waugh, VMD

4 Legs & a Tail Volume N.414 P.O. Box 841 Lebanon, NH 03766 603-727-9214 TimH.4LT@gmail.com Winter 2014

If you have a tale about a tail or a photo that will make us smile, we’d like to hear Senior Editor: Scott Palzer from you. 4 Legs & a Tail is published quarterly and distributed free of charge Office Manager: Beth Hoehn throughout Northern VT & NH. Graphic Design: 4 Legs & a Tail, LLC is locally owned and Monica Reinfeld, Lacey Dardis, Shane Lichtsinn operated and acts as a moderator without approving, disapproving or guaranteeing the Sales: Karyn Swett, Scott Palzer, validity or accuracy of any data or claim.

Barry deSousa Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited.

Publishers: Tim Goodwin, Tim Hoehn

www.4LegsAndATail.com 1

Vermont Prison Pups

In a recent issue of 4 Legs & a Tail, we shared the story of Lt. Melissa Stockwell. She was the first officer wounded in Afghanistan. Upon her return stateside, she was teamed up with a service dog, trained by an inmate in one of the many prison-based “puppy raiser” programs here in the US, to help with the new challenges she faces as a civilian.

“A veteran is someone who, at one point, wrote a blank check, made payable to ‘The United States of America’ for an amount ‘up to and including their life’.” ~ Author Unknown

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ith many of our family and friends returning from a long war, the Vermont Department of Corrections will be addressing the needs of our veterans, thanks to the efforts of the Blue Star Mothers of Vermont. According to program coordinator Terri Sabens, inmates at the Southern State Correctional Facility in Springfield, VT will begin training service dogs this winter, to assist returning military personnel. As a former volunteer with Soldiers Angels, Sabens spent more than a year reaching out to the Vermont Dept. of Corrections. “PTSD is a widespread issue that many of our veterans face. There were just too many related suicides that can’t be ignored.”

This fall, Mazie (the first of two dogs to be trained at the facility) visited the facility for the first time. A second dog, Beetle Bailey, will join the team in February to begin a 12 month training program specifically designed for assisting a vet with

cations from inmates so far, and as word spreads I’m sure there will be more,” said Clarke. Each inmate will be screened extensively by both corrections officials and trainers, with each dog spending Monday through Friday with the inmate/ trainer. “I think we’re the perfect facility for this program. We even have a large, open yard that the dogs will love.”

As a detailed training program begins to take shape before Mazie Mazie and Beetle Bailey arrive, it is important to note that this program is special needs, including turning lights funded privately. Each dog can cost up on and off and waking them up durto $5,000 which includes vet bills, food, ing a nightmare. Dog trainers, including Sabens, Wanda Chapman and Jim Daignault will teach inmates the proper techniques, and supervise the on-going training at the prison.

Tara Clarke, Living Unit Supervisor at SSCF and a dog lover, is thrilled to see the program implemented at the Vermont facility. “I have a stack of appli-

Beatle Bailey

training and the purchase of the dog itself. So far, the Blue Star Mothers of VT has raised a few thousand dollars for this specific program, with a goal of another $6,000. In addition to financial contributions, the Vermont based non-profit group is also looking for volunteers/ donations, including: a veterinarian, Lamb Kibble dog food, weekend fosters for Mazie and Beetle Bailey, trainers and a grant writer.Terri Sabens says it best, “It’s Paw-some!”

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For more information or to help, visit www.BlueStarMothersofVermont.org Winter 2014

Oh the Weather Outside is Frightful… For Pets, Too! Cold Weather Dangers for Pets M. Kathleen Shaw, DVM- North Bennington, VT

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emperatures are dropping, and with the colder weather, it’s time to think about the dangers this presents for our pets, both indoors and outdoors-only ones. By taking a few common sense precautions, you can help reduce the cold weather dangers to your pets. Although some pets are conditioned to cold weather, veterinary experts agree that you should bring outdoor pets indoors if the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Puppies, kittens, and short haired pets should not be left outside for extended periods anytime the temperature goes below 40 degrees. For pets with long hair, proper grooming is essential to help them maintain a layer of warming air within their coat. Pets who are heavily matted cannot keep themselves warm.

If your pet must stay outdoors, be sure to provide shelter for them, they can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia just like we do. A pet’s outdoor house must have at least three enclosed sides, be elevated off the ground, and contain generous amounts of bedding, such as straw or hay. In cold weather, bigger is not always better. A house just big enough for your pet will warm up faster and retain heat better than something that is too big.

Your outdoor pet will need access to fresh water that isn’t frozen. Use heated water bowls and replenish them frequently.

Pets and vehicles can be a dangerous combination in the winter

Cats love to warm up underneath car hoods. If cats have access to your car outdoors or in your garage, be sure to pound on the hood of the car prior to starting it.

Many cats are killed or grievously injured by fan belts and moving engine parts.

Another danger that cars present to pets

SAFER ANTIFREEZE Not Only Is Regular Automotive Antifreeze Poisonous To Pets, Causing Kidney Failure And Death, But It Tastes Sweet And Attractive To Them.

What A Terrible Combination!

But There Is A New, Less Hazardous Antifreeze Option. Find Out What Kind Of Antifreeze To Buy To Help Keep Your Pets Safe.

The Toxic Element In Traditional Antifreeze Is Ethylene Glycol. The New Kind Of Antifreeze Contains Not Ethylene Glycol, But Propylene Glycol, Which Is Somewhat Safer. In Fact, Propylene Glycol Is Found In Pet Foods, Cosmetics, And Over-The-Counter Preparations.

One Brand Of This Newer Type Of Antifreeze Is Sierra, Made By Safe Brands. A 50/50 Mixture Of Sierra And Water Will Protect A Car’s Engine To -26F; Greater Protection Can Be Obtained By Increasing The Ratio Of Antifreeze To Water, According To The Company.

Sierra Is Available Nationwide For About A Dollar More Per Gallon Than Traditional Antifreeze. Many Of Us Feel The Price Is Little To Pay If It Eliminates A Serious Threat To Our Pets.

To Be On The Safest Side, However, Keep Any Antifreeze Well Away From Your Companion Animals!

Winter 2014

in cold weather is antifreeze poisoning. If you suspect your pet has consumed any antifreeze at all, call your veterinarian immediately.

Consider keeping dogs on a leash when they go outside. Each winter we see cases of dogs that have gone off exploring “frozen” lakes or streams and fall through the ice into the frigid water.

Inside the house, monitor all pets around wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, and space heaters. These can cause severe burns. Younger pets romping through the house can knock objects into these heat sources and cause a fire, so make sure to “pet-proof” the areas around them. With the colder darker months, many people like to use candles in the home. Make sure to place them where pets (especially cats) do not have access. They can not only tip over the candle, they can set their fur on fire leading to serious burns.

Our pets can suffer from arthritis in cold weather, just like humans do, and it is just as painful for them. If you are unsure if your pet has arthritis, want to know ways to keep your older pets comfortable during the cold weather, or if you have questions about cold weather issues with your pets, talk to your veterinarian.

The Vermont Veterinary Medical Association (VVMA), founded in 1898, is a professional organization of 340 veterinarians dedicated to compassionate animal care and quality medicine. www.4LegsAndATail.com 3

Pets and Ice Melting Products D

uring cold winter months, our pets can come into close contact with a variety of ice melting compounds during walks, some of which can cause serious illness. These products include calcium chloride, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride, rock salt, and urea.

The chloride salts are used for melting ice in colder temperatures (down to -25 F), and these tend to cause problems when coming in prolonged contact with the skin. When we walk our dogs on the pavement or even some driveways, the salts can get in the space between the toes and pads and cause irritation. The most commons signs are redness and swelling. Your pet may lick at the irritated paws. If the dogs ingest a large amount of these salts, they can become ill.

Rock salt is simply sodium chloride, which is the same as table salt. It can be harmful to metal, concrete, and plants and is generally only helpful in temperatures above 10 F. It can cause some redness and irritation to the paws but is unlikely to harm pets unless large amounts are eaten: a toxic amount for a ten pound dog is 1/2 cup.

Urea, a common fertilizer, is used in some areas to melt ice. It is useful in temperatures down to - 21 F. It can pose an environmental hazard as it adds nitrates to run off water.

Safe Paw Ice Melter is an ice melting product that combines the best of all of these products.

It contains an amide/glycol mixture that is not corrosive to metal, nor does it contaminate the water with nitrates. It is used down to -2 F and doesn’t cause skin irritation like other ice melting products. (The company does mention that it could cause stomach irritation if ingested.)

Because outside of your own drive, you can’t be sure which salt was used to melt the ice, it’s a good idea to wipe down your pet’s feet after returning inside. If your pet has a large amount of any ice-melting product on his fur (from rolling or walking through it), bathe the pet and monitor the contacted areas for redness, swelling, or irritation.

A safe alternate for your drive may be to simply use cat litter or sand for traction combined with the ice melting products for the best of both worlds.

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Don’t Get Caught in the Cold without a Coat Brought to you by the Staff of Bow Meow; Cindy, Brittany, Amelia, and Cece

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n winter, most pet owners believe that their dogs do not have to be groomed. This is a misconception. Time and time again we see dogs in October and November, but don’t see them again until April or May. Do you go six months without washing, brushing or cutting your hair just because the weather is colder? Here are some commonly asked questions, and their answers, that most pet owners ask during the winter season.

Commonly asked questions: Can my dog have a bath? Yes, it is alright to bathe your dog in the winter. In fact, most dogs need more baths during winter time than any other season. This will help to minimize doggy odors, and dry skin. If you are bathing your dog at home, make sure to completely dry it before allowing them outside.

Is it okay to give my dog a haircut during the winter? Yes. Most people think that dogs need their warm coats during the harsh weather, but in fact most dogs spend minimal time outside. If you choose to keep a nice long coat on your dog in the winter, it is suggested that you bring them in for frequent trims. If you are concerned with your dog becoming too cold outside, we would advise a longer cut or a sweater. If you choose a longer haircut, we stress the importance of frequent professional grooming. Without these frequent grooming their coat will mat. Then you have no choice but to shave your dog because of the severe matting.

Does my dog need to be combed and brushed during the winter? Yes. Dogs need to be brushed more frequently during the winter months because their coats are generally left longer. Longer hair and wetter conditions result in faster matting, which requires more attention and frequent brushing.

Do my dog’s nails need to be cut during the winter? Yes. Because dogs are not as active during the winter, it is important that their nails get clipped more often. We recommend that every 4 weeks you bring your dog in for a professional nail clipping.

How do I protect my dog’s paws from the elements of winter? You can minimize common problems associated with a dog’s pads by simply wiping down their feet after they come inside. We recommend that you use pet safe deicers for Winter 2014

your walk ways and driveways. We offer, in addition to our regular grooming services, a pawdicure that conditions and restores cracked pads.

We stress the importance of professional frequent grooming during the winter months because dogs tend to get drier skin, and most owners like their dogs to have a longer coat. Longer coats require more grooming upkeep. With the help of professional groomers, your dog’s hair can stay at an optimal length that can be functional and glamorous, so your dog won’t be caught outside without a coat.

Bow Meow Pet Groomingis a full service salon in Essex Jct,VT with grooming classes starting in January. With more than 40 years of experience, visit them today. www.BowMeowPetGrooming.com

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My Last Trip to the Vet J

asper was our family cat for nearly two decades. We’ve had other cats and still do for that matter, but he was, by far our favorite. A Maine Coon, he tipped the scale at one point, at 19 pounds and although his size could be intimidating, his disposition was that of an in-door playmate with personality.

He came to us as a two year old which worked out well, as our youngest daughter was also two. Along with her four year old sister, Jasper took to the girls quickly, and never shied away from being the subject of “dress up” or the catnapper in their baby carriage. Even at bed time, Jasper was always there.

But like all cats, last winter during one of the many ‘Nor’easters, Jasper exhausted his nine lives. Nestled by the fireplace, surrounded by family and friends both two and four legged, we said our final farewells to Jasper. Soon he would take his place in a special urn on the mantle, next to all of the others who had brought us joy and laughter.

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The only obstacle this time was the snowstorm. It was Thursday evening and our veterinarian had already cancelled office hours for Friday. In fact, the storm was so intense that non-emergency appointments on Saturday were also cancelled. I gently placed Jasper in a box and planned on a Monday morning trip.

If you’ve ever been to a Phish or Grateful Dead concert, you can imagine the vet’s office after being closed for three days in a row. There we stood, shoulderto- shoulder, me, my wife and a shoebox.

After more than an hour an exacerbated receptionist finally called us.

“Sorry for the delay. It’s been like a zoo today.” she said. “What can I do for you?”

Maybe it was the long wait, but I replied, “My cat is a little listless. Can you take a look at him?” When the poor girl opened the box, it took her no time to exclaim, “Sir, your cat is dead!”

My wife rolled her eyes at me, as she quickly apologized to the receptionist.

She swore that it was the last time I would go to the vet.

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In The Winter Stable John R. Killacky

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ate one night after work, I drove out to the barn to exercise my Shetland pony. The weather was freezing cold.

Lights were off and the barn doors were closed, as the horses had settled in for the night.

Turning on a few lights, I took my pony into the indoor arena and let her loose to run free. What fun we had, me with my walking cane and the lungeing whip, and her bucking with legs akimbo, darting and swerving around me in ever changing circles, trotting with gleeful abandon.

When I ambled around the perimeter, she followed just out of reach. I had brought along treats for encouragement.

She inched up to me, stretching out her neck and lips to grab an apple biscuit, and then darted away. We eyed other at opposite ends of the arena. Cuing off each other’s shoulders, we followed the other’s lead in an exquisite dance.

When I sat down to rest, she meandered toward me and gingerly reached for another treat. Then encouraging me with a nudge, she zipped out of arm’s reach to begin the game again.

There were only the two of us, but it wasn’t silent in the quiet arena: her hooves flying over the uneven dirt and her steamy breath filled the space. Sounds also rushed in from outside, horses stirring in their stalls and an occasional passing car provided accompaniment to our wintry tango.

Eventually, she let me know she was done frolicking. Nuzzling my shoulder, she put her head through the halter and I led her back to her stall. Once I gave her some fresh hay, she was done with me, so I put on her blanket and turned out the lights.

It is such a profound gift to be in relationship with this animal, as it requires me to be fully present: no past, no future, just now. What happened that evening had no agency the next morning; each day we begin afresh. When she greets me with a whinny, I interpret it as, “What do you have for me today?”

With every visit, I need to show up fully. If I try to rush through grooming and cleaning hooves, or lose focus in a training session, it guarantees frustration for both pony and me. Most of our work time together involves me harnessing her to a cart in which I sit, reins in hand, but I must always change the routine, as bored equines test their owners.

Not all of our interactions are hands on. Even in winter, quiet time is spent with me alongside her in the field; that Winter 2014

is if the snow isn’t waist high for both of us and I remember to bring along hand warmers for my gloves. Not so much dancing here – but more like a blissful coexistence for which I am deeply grateful.

John R. Killacky is executive director of Flynn Center for the Performing Arts in Burlington,Vt. Originally published as a commentary for Vermont Public Radio.

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Holiday Hazards

n an average Holiday Season evening, our emergency service at Burlington Emergency & Veterinary Specialists regularly sees pets suffering the effects of partaking in the holiday spirit a bit too joyfully. To keep your holidays both festive and safe for your pets, keep in mind a few of these hidden holiday hazards for animals.

Chocolate– While we at BEVS see

pets suffering from chocolate toxicity throughout the year, the holiday season certainly leads to an increase in pets who have gotten into chocolate, or treats containing chocolate. Even as small an amount as one ounce of chocolate can be potentially toxic to animals, resulting in symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea in cases with mild exposure, to cardiac issues and seizures in cases with higher levels of ingestion. If you find your pet has gotten into any holiday treats, your best bet is to contact your veterinarian, who can advise you if inducing emesis (vomiting) is necessary, and if hospitalization with supportive care is recommended.

Meat and Bones–Pet owners often want to include their pets in festive holiday meals. Keep in mind certain meats can be too fatty and rich for pets’ sensi-

tive stomachs. This may result in vomiting and diarrhea in mild cases, and the very serious condition of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) in others. Pancreatitis often requires hospitalization and supportive care.

Meat bones are tempting to give your dogs as a fun chew toy, but use caution here. Cooked poultry bones can splinter when chewed. The ingested fragments of bone can irritate and potentially perforate a pet’s intestinal tract, causing a condition called peritonitis, which can be lethal. Blockages of the intestinal tract may also occur from ingestion of bones, and may require surgery to remove the foreign material. Larger, uncooked beef bones are preferable, as they are less likely to splinter and be ingested. However, it is still advisable to monitor your pets while they enjoy this treat.

Christmas Decor– Pets find the

bright and colorful holiday decorations simply irresistible. Holiday decorations such as tinsel and ribbon may be very tempting to the feline members of your family. If ingested, these can become stuck in the intestinal tract and require surgical removal. Decorations such as tantalizingly shiny ornaments can injure your dog’s mouth if chewed on, and the sharp pieces can also become lodged and or irritate the stomach and intestines. Christmas trees, while beautiful, may also lead to holiday havoc. A cat shimmying up the tree could knock it over, leading to injury or a pet drinking from the water at the base of the tree may end up with an upset stomach due to the preservatives often found in the water.

Keep these few potential holiday hazards in mind and out of reach for your pets, so both you and your fourHoliday Plants– Certain holiday legged family members can enjoy a safe plants and flowers can be very hazard- holiday season. ous to pets, causing symptoms that vary from mild (vomiting and diarrhea) to very serious (kidney failure). Some of the plants to keep out of your pets reach include mistletoe, poinsettia, holly, amaryllis, lilies, among others. The ASPCA website www.aspca.org has a comprehensive list of potentially poisonous plants.

Chopper having some holiday fun.

Photo by Sloane Carbonell of Essex Jct.

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Animals As Gifts PAT JAUCH, CALEDONIA ANIMAL RESCUE, INC.

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here are gifts, and then there are gifts. Just as folks are admonished not to give bunnies or chicks for Easter presents, during the winter holidays it is important to be sure that the gift of a kitten or pup, cat or dog (or any other living creature) is something that the recipient will be committed to for the life of the animal. It is easy enough to choose a creature and then find that it is unwelcome, or that the amount of care it requires far exceeds the commitment in time and financing available from the new owner. Or worse yet, that the idealized concept of having a pet clashes with the reality of litter box or paper training, veterinary costs, and the emotional involvement required to make the arrangement successful.

Please do not misunderstand! Pet adoption is our goal, and there are plenty of dogs and cats available in the area in need of forever homes. However, every animal should be wanted and every pet owner should be prepared for the expense and long-term commitment that an animal deserves. There are few things more disturbing than learning from shelters and rescue agencies that the puppy or kitten “grew up” and found itself abandoned because it was no longer “cute.” Perhaps the animal developed health issues and was considered to be an inconvenience.

Behavioral issues often discourage pet owners, but even these can usually be overcome by employing a good trainer and/or having the patience to help the animal to adjust. It is important to remember that the animal is at the mercy of its human caregiver and it needs a commitment from that person for life.

Make this a happy holiday season for furry or feathered friends as well as their caregivers, and be sure that every animal will join a loving home where it can live out its life with the attention that it deserves. Care for your pet and it will reward you many times over with unconditional devotion.

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Silly Millie the Mastiff Talaia Thomas, LCMHC- Hardwick, VT

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welve-year-old Ryan arrives at my door. Silly Millie stretched out on the floor, opens one eye and thumps her tail against the floor. Ryan looks at his watch, the wall clock, and then reaches in and closes the door between us. We wait. At 10:15 exactly he knocks on the door and

I answer, “Come in.” The door swings open.

“I want could I.” He stumbles on his words, closes the door and we start again.

“Could I, I’d like…” A fumbling pause, and then he blurts out,“Walking the tiger is a fabulous idea, to walk the tiger.” I wait.

“Please.”

“Yes! Walking the tiger IS a fabulous idea. Will you take the stairs or the elevator today?” He looks at the calendar and counts the Mondays.

“Third Mondays are stair days. Thank you.”

“Rules?” I prompt.

“Rules: no running. The tiger sits at top steps and bottom steps and doors and crosswalk. Look both ways. Quiet voice.”

“Perfect! Have a good walk.” He clips a leash to Silly Millie’s collar and they stroll down the hall.

Mondays are Silly Millie days. Silly Millie the Mastiff. She’s one of those beauty is in the eye of the beholder - type dogs, safely out of the running for any canine MENSA award. She’s a slow moving brindle with floppy jowls and droopy eyes that make kids ask why she’s been crying. Silly Millie is the therapy office dog, still studying to be a genuine therapy dog, complete with certificate, vest, and scarf. For now she’s whatever people need her to be. Countless child-propelled Lego vehicles have climbed Dog Mountain and parked on Lookout Snout.

Passengers have camped under ear-tents and solders have hidden in Armpit Cave.

She’s been a pillow, a tear collector, and with her snoring and farting, a comic relief.

When Alisa Smith called for counseling she cited depression and mari-

tal problems, a ten-year-old son with autism, and financial difficulties. I asked my usual intake questions: History of the problem? Treatment? Health insurance?

Any pet fears or allergies? We scheduled for 10:00 AM Monday. Son Ryan would be in school.

I heard the commotion before I saw them; Ryan’s high-pitched screeching and his mother’s pleads for him to stop hurting her. Silly Millie stretched a bit at the noise and thumped her tail against the floor. I met them in the hall, a crazed child flapping and clawing at his mother’s arms, and her in tears repeating, “I’m so sorry. I didn’t know what else to do.”

Silly Millie pulled herself up and stood wagging her entire back end. There’s probably a right thing to do in this kind of situation, but instead I hollered Ryan’s name and when he didn’t respond, pried him off his mother. He darted by me, around Silly Millie, and into my office where he began dumping out Legos, toys, and art supplies. A colleague came and escorted Ryan’s mom to the bathroom while I attempted to help Ryan regain control. Instead, he dropped to the floor shrieking and burrowing himself into the toys. Silly Millie, whose only speed is slow, moseyed toward Ryan and plopped down beside him. He continued to flail, though not at her. She began to crawl towards him and then flopped one giant paw across his hips. I reached to drag her away, but Ryan’s squawking stopped and his thrashing quieted. She nuzzled closer, her big brindle head resting just below his chin. Ryan began to giggle.

“Grrrrr,” he growled. Laughter. “Tiger.

Grrrr. Tiger. Grrr. Grrr. Grrr.”

With autism experts financially out of reach we’ve fumbled along, developed a team, and learned through repetitions and mistakes. Ryan set a goal from himself: “To walk the tiger… Alone.” Two years and hundreds of dress rehearsals later Ryan and Silly Millie took their first solo walk. That was three months ago.

Each Monday when Ryan comes for my dog I have to quiet the “what ifs” in my mind and allow the same trust that led us here, to prevail. They stroll down the hallway and I wait by the window to see them emerge from the building. Ryan’s usual arm flapping and rocking are gone with Silly Millie, and I’m reminded again that purely by existence, animals can solve what people cannot. Passersby have always gaped at Ryan and they continue to do so, but for a few minutes each Monday morning they are not staring at the autistic kid. Rather they are watching a boy with his dog. *Names and identifying information have been altered for reasons of confidentiality.

Talaia Thomas is a licensed mental health counselor operating a private practice in Hardwick, VT and a crisis clinician in Washington County. For more information, Google her or call 802-279-8575.

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Winter 2014

she was able to resume normal feeding. Willow’s hooves were in terrible condition, but she was so weak a farrier could not pick up her feet for fear she would fall over and not be able to get up. Now Willow has regained her weight, her hooves are coming along well, her buckskin coat is beautiful and Deb has started riding her. Willow is now available for adoption by the right person.

Because HAS’s goal is to find a loving life-long home for its adoptive horses, it does have a comprehensive adoption process that includes a home visit and a contract to sign. Horses are paired with people based on the horses’ personality and level of training.

Since only 80% of the horses at HAS are adopted, the adoption fees do not cover the operating cost for the sanctuary. The HAS holds several fund raising events each year, including its annual open house, but any additional financial help or assistance from people with fund-raising skills would be greatly appreciated. More information on the HAS can be found on its web-site at www.hooved.org or find us on Facebook.

A Little Piece of Heaven Paul and Sally Zeller

Life is good at the Hooved Animal Sanctuary

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igh atop Beacon Hill in Chelsea, VT, is a place where horses that have been neglected, abused or are unwanted can find a little piece of heaven,a place where they have a warm, dry, comfortable home and a wonderful life. This scenic 125acre farm on Weswind Road owned by Deborah “Deb” Baker, is the home of the Hooved Animal Sanctuary (HAS) that she founded in 2003.

The HAS mission is: (1) To provide a safe, caring sanctuary for abused and abandoned hooved animals; (2) To provide for the protection and rehabilitation of neglected animals with the goal of placing them in loving, safe homes and (3) To provide ongoing youth programs and community education that will help achieve these goals.

During the year HAS hosts educational workshops, clinics and programs for the public to learn about proper horse care.

While a number of horses relinquished to HAS come from owners who can no longer take care of them, some, tragically, have to be seized. Most of these cases are reported anonymously through Vermont’s Animal Cruelty Reporting System (www.reportanimalcruelty.com or at 1-877-9HUMANE). This information is then passed to the nearest humane agent. For Vermont’s Orange County, that is the HAS. After the notification HAS dispatches members that are specially trained to evaluate neglected and abused horses, to investigate the complaint. In dealing with horses that have been neglected or abused, education is always the first course of action. Every attempt is made to work with the horse owners on the proper care and feeding of their horses. Assistance with re-homing the horses and other options are also explored.

Only after all attempts fail to correct the situation will HAS request law enforcement to step in and seize the animal.

Since its beginning the HAS has had over 150 horses come through its pasture gates with an adoption rate of about 80%.

The other 20% lived out their lives on the farm. The sanctuary has the capacity to accommodate 20 horses in the summer and 10 in the winter.

Rehabilitating a rescue horse at the sanctuary is not an inexpensive proposition. All horses coming to HAS go into quarantine for three weeks during which time a veterinarian and a farrier evaluate them and treat them as needed. All of this may cost over $300.00 per horse, not including special feed and hay.

On March 1, 2014, HAS assisted the Elizabeth Brown Humane Society of St. Johnsbury in the seizure of 21 horses.

Although this was not in HAS’s area of responsibility HAS accepted two of these horses. One of the horses that HAS brought home, a mare who was later named Willow, was near death from starvation. Deb fed her a specially designed diet every four hours around the clock for over two weeks until Winter 2014

Paul and Sally Zeller live in Williamstown, Vermont, and are members of the Hooved Animal Sanctuary’s Board of Directors.

Willow near death when rescued on March 1, 2014

Willow recovering at the Hooved Animal Sanctuary in late June 2014.

www.4LegsAndATail.com 11

Animal Cruelty Response Summit Last Year in Early December, we reported on Vermont’s Cruelty Response System. A summit was held this October by members Vermont’s Animal Cruelty Response Coalition. Here we gain some insight into some of the tough work these dedicated agencies and individuals are tackling.

O n a slightly overcast day in the middle of October over 40 people gathered

in the Old Labor Hall in Barre to discuss the advancement of Vermont’s Cruelty Response System (CRS). The Cruelty Response System (CRS) has been developed to help distribute the responsibilities of animal welfare law enforcement across several resources so that no single agency or individual is overburdened.

The meeting was organized by Joanne

12 4 Legs & a Tail

Bourbeau of Vermont Human Federation (VHF) and VHF’s Animal Cruelty Response Coalition with the intention of developing specific steps that can be taken to improve and strengthen Vermont’s statewide response to crimes involving animals. Last year Vermont’s Department of Public Safety noted that there is a need to improve the current data collection system and create a centralized and uniform process that will include all sectors involved.

Last year’s successful initiatives included an “Animal CSI” workshop at Forget-me-Not Farm where teams of students practice investigative skills by processing a mock crime scene and a “Farm Animal Cruelty” workshop which covered acceptable livestock husbandry. This year Bourbeau, the Vermont Humane Federation, and the Animal Cruelty Response Coalition hosted the Animal Cruelty Response Summit in order to provide a platform to tackle hard issues like a centralized reporting system and other issues related to the promotion of animal welfare.

During the Summit’s day long activities, teams developed action plans related to the Cruelty Response System’s three focus areas: enforcement, training, and legislation. Each plan progressed from identifying needs to concrete next steps which included support for law enforcement agencies in implementing standardized reporting, legislative awareness strategies, and training for humane society staff. Each plan focused on ways to integrate law enforcement, local and state municipal agencies, and the private sector to better manage complaints, handle cases, and lead to better outcomes for the animals and agencies involved.

By the closing remarks, it was clear to see significant interest in advancing animal welfare issues in the State. The conclusion of the Summit marks the beginning of the next chapter of hard work being tackled by Vermont’s Animal Cruelty Response Coalition. Hard work that would not be possible without the dedication of Vermont’s concerned citizens and professionals who collaboratively, promote positive societal changes for the benefit of animals and humans.

The Animal Cruelty Response Summit was made possible with the generous support of the ASPCA. Vermont’s Animal Cruelty Response Coalition is made up of various agencies and individuals who have an interest in quick and effective enforcement of animal welfare laws. Members of the coalition include: shelters and rescue groups; Animal Control Offices; veterinarians; municipal officials; prosecutors; local, county, and State law enforcement; and concerned citizen and volunteers.

Winter 2014

TAKING A BITE OUT OF OBESITY Millie Armstrong, DVM - Colchester, VT

A s a veterinarian, I see a lot of obese patients. One of my most recent patients gained 12 pounds this past year. He could hardly get on the exam table, his belly was

drooping to the floor. If he didn’t go on a diet soon, he was on the verge of developing very serious health risks, some of which might be life shortening. The patient, a beagle named Snoopy, should ideally weigh 25 pounds, but tipped the scales at 48.

Fortunately, his human friends were willing to listen to my advice and we planned a course of action to regain Snoopy’s waistline. By his first weigh-in one month later, he had lost 2 pounds! As he continued to shed weight, he became more active, more eager to be involved in family outings, and was a much happier member of the family.

With animals, a common axiom is “Food is Love.” Unfortunately, people take this to the extreme and really pile on the love when it comes to the dinner bowl.

Well-wishing friends add to the problem by saying, “One cookie won’t hurt him.”

How accurate the phrase “killing them with kindness” can be.

A recent survey of veterinarians indicates that between 25 to 44% of dogs are obese. The Body Condition Scoring Chart designed by Nestle-Purina makes it relatively simple to determine where pets fit into the scale of body condition.

Looking at pets from above reveals a definite shape to the body. Ideally, this should be an hour glass, where the waistline indents nicely in front of the hips.

Some pets are more tube-like, forming a long continuous shape from neck to hips.

Others appear more round, bulging outwardly at the midsection. When petting these rotund animals, it is not possible to feel any features, like ribs, along the outside of the body. Some dogs will even develop proverbial “love handles!”

REASONS FOR PET OBESITY People feed their pets too much, and supplement their food with table scraps or fatty snacks.

Many brands of lower cost pet food are full of fillers, animals can be overweight but nutritionally imbalanced.

Some dogs and cats are driven to eat non-stop until they find the bottom of the food dish.

Certain medical conditions can cause obesity in pets, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease.

Health risks associated with obesity in pets are a major concern. Obese animals pose greater anesthetic risks during surgery. Fat buildup around the heart makes it harder for the heart to pump efficiently, potentially leading to cardiac arrest. Managing the health effects of obesity increases the costs of veterinary care. Painful back, hip, and joint problems are often treated with pain medications that carry risks of kidney and liver impairment. If pain cannot be Continued Page 15

Winter 2014

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Winter 2014

controlled, euthanasia may have to be considered. As in people, obesity predisposes animals to diabetes, another disease that is potentially challenging to manage and increases the cost of care. Obese cats that stop eating for a few days, for whatever reason, risk developing fatty liver disease. This life threatening form of liver failure is often much more serious than the original problem that caused the cat to stop eating.

An annual health exam performed by a veterinarian will identify areas of concern and determine if additional testing is necessary.

HOW TO HELP YOUR PET LOSE WEIGHT Speak to your veterinarian about an appropriate course of action for your pet’s unique situation. Often, simply reducing the amount fed and replacing table snacks with appropriate low calorie treats will reduce the weight. Other tips include: Changing to a lower calorie weight loss diet. Mix the new food with the old food slowly to allow time for the pet to adjust to the new diet.

Feed the amount of food specified for the animal’s ideal or target weight, not its current weight.

Use treats such as low-calorie biscuits, low fat rice cakes, hard vegetables or fruit.

Do not feed grapes, raisins, onions or chocolate, as these can be toxic to pets.

Exercise to burn off calories and increase “quality time” with your pet. Playing fetch, swimming, walking - all burn calories and keep the bones and joints in good working order. Cats can be more challenging to stimulate; feathers, ping-pong balls, catnip toys and laser lights will trigger outbursts of energy. (Do not play with strings, yarn or rubber bands, as these may be swallowed and lead to an obstruction in need of surgery.)

Involving children in pet exercise and games adds to the enjoyment and instills a sense of responsibility.

Do not expect great changes in 1-2 months. It is best to lose weight gradually over the course of 6-12 months to avoid drastic changes in metabolism. Regular weight checks will follow the course of success. If the weight is not coming off, adjustments can be discussed with the veterinarian. Once the weight is off, a maintenance-feeding program can be developed.

Dr. Millie Armstrong is a small animal veterinarian at Petit Brook Veterinary Clinic in Colchester, VT. She is a member of the Vermont Veterinary Medical Association.

For more information visit www.vtvets.org.

Winter 2014

www.4LegsAndATail.com 15

“Treat” Your Dog Right

E

delweiss Bakery is also the home of House Woof Dog Biscuits. This small local business sits in a valley surrounded by the beautiful Green Mountains, in the quaint little village of Johnson, VT. For 20 plus years, Ralf and Ken, owners of Edelweiss Bakery, have provided the public with healthy baked goods. In 2010 they began making biscuit treats for their three Siberian Huskies.

Sasha, Dakota, and Kayak were the inspirations that led them to create their healthy dog biscuit treats. Sasha came to them at 8 weeks old as a bundle of energy and high spirits. A year later they rescued Dakota, in his first year of life he had been placed in five different homes. A few months after Dakota they received a phone call about another pup needing rescue. This was Kayak, abandoned in the back yard of a home at four months old. Kayak was the Jester, free spirited with eyes that could capture the heart.

Throughout their lives the huskies developed health conditions such as Liver cancer, Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, Onset Cushing’s Disease and Degenerative Myelitis. These health issues directed their quest to find a healthier diet and treats.

Researching alternative diets, they began cooking the huskies’ meals and making their own treats. They feel that this change in diet allowed their three Fur Kids to live longer. The knowledge they gained trying to help them, has led to healthy and nutritious biscuit treats for all dogs, including Keysha & Struga.

Keysha & Struga are their newest adopted Fur Kids. Keysha is an alumnus of Patriot Siberian Husky Rescue, and Struga was rehomed to them for not receiving the attention he deserved. Both now enjoy a fur-ever-home with all the love and care they need and deserve. The best compliments House Woof receives come from Keysha, Keysha & Struga helping in the Struga and all the dogs whose photos have battle against canine epilepsy been sent in. (Check out their Facebook page and website’s Photo Gallery) Not only do dogs love the taste of House Woof Biscuit treats, Guardians have even commented that they have been “human tested and approved.” Passion is in their Biscuit Treats.

At House Woof Dog Biscuits, many ingredients are sourced from local organic farms, stores and orchards. This way they can see firsthand, the quality and freshness they are putting into their biscuit treats. This ensures that dogs will receive a treat full of quality and healthfulness from creation to consumption.

They prepare each biscuit dough by hand in a small kettle adding ingredients such as hand shredded carrots, fresh sliced cranberries, blackstrap molasses, homemade organic applesauce, all natural and organic peanut butter, Clover honey and spring water. They use just enough high quality steel cut oats to bind everything together creating the perfect balance of flavor for your dog.

In their line of biscuit treats, House Woof has the “Gibbie Snack,” a treat especially formulated for dogs living with epilepsy.

Gibson, a dog who lives with epilepsy is the namesake of this treat made from oatmeal, cooked green beans, carrots, sweet potato, zucchini, fresh parsley and a lean beef puree’. Epileptic dogs have to watch their salt intake due to the sodium bromide they need to take for epilepsy. There is no added salt in the Gibbie Snack or in any of their biscuit treats. House Woof never uses Rosemary, which is found in many biscuit treats. Rosemary acts as a neurotoxin, triggering seizures, neurological problems and anemia.

House Woof donates $1.00 for every bag of Gibbie Snacks sold from their Web Store, to The Wally Foundation (for canine epilepsy).

Keysha’s alma mater, Patriot Siberian Husky Rescue, has a biscuit assortment named after them called “The Patriot Blend,” it includes Growlnola Bark Bars, Vermont Apple K-9 Crisp Stix, and Paw-Nut Butter Biscuit treats. For every Patriot Blend sold from the Web Store, House Woof donates $1.00 to Patriot Siberian Husky Rescue.

They are also developing a grain free biscuit treat. They have created a few different personal batches for Keysha & Struga to see how their sniffers and taste buds react. They are getting close. One favorite ingredient is oven roasted sweet potato.

House Woof biscuit treats are made in small batches, and baked at low temperatures to maintain nutritional integrity. This assures every Guardian that their Dog will be receiving a biscuit treat essentially made just for them. House Woof Dog Biscuits wants to provide a biscuit treat that is healthy, nutritious and gives value to your Dog for better healthy living. They ship to all 50 States and all APO addresses.

Should you be visiting the Johnson area, stop by Edelweiss Bakery, Home of House Woof Dog Biscuits at 325 Lower Main Street West. Visit them on Facebook, or at www.housewoofdogbiscuits.com 16 4 Legs & a Tail

Winter 2014

Teaching Kids About Cats

A family cat can bring endless joy to a household, but it is important to teach children of all ages how to appropriately interact with their furry friend.

Whereas with older children you can have a simple conversation, younger children often have a harder time grasping how to properly handle and play with a cat.

Younger children are more likely to unintentionally play rough and take their frustrations out on people or pets. If your children are too young to understand spoken instructions on “playing nice” then your best bet is to lead by example.

Teach Your Child Respect Teaching your child to respect all creatures is a gift for both child and cat.

You know when your cat is scared or overwhelmed. Let your child know the cat wishes to be left alone, not touched when sleeping, and to respect the kitty’s feelings.

Play Modeling the behavior you want will show your child how to “play nice.”

Have your child watch you play and speak gently to the cat. Then have them do it as you supervise.

Safety Showing your child how to handle the cat will keep them both safe.

Explain that cats do not feel secure when ‘big people’ suddenly pick them up. If age appropriate, show them the proper way to pick up and hold your cat with their arm under the cat’s bottom. Explain that this should only be done when you are there to supervise.

Care Letting your child help care for your cat by giving her/him age appropriate tasks will allow the two to form a bond.

Even a very young child can help with feeding when supervised. Make sure to let your child know what you are doing and why it is important.

For more information visit www.catvets.org

Winter 2014

Save Our Strays talks Pet Care/Overpopulation with students at Brewster Pierce In Huntington

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A Guide to Buying a Horse Blanket B

lanket season is here again and choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming. Let’s make the process less complicated by answering some of the more common questions about horse blankets.

1. “WHAT TYPE OF BLANKET SHOULD I BUY?”

Deciding on whether you should purchase a stable blanket or a turnout sheet would depend on whether or not you need a waterproof blanket.

Stable blankets are NOT waterproof, and are typically used when your horse is kept in the barn. They feature a center seam and rump darts that give it a contoured design. Full hoods are also available. Sold separately from the blanket purchase, they help provide complete coverage for horses that are usually body clipped.

Turnout blankets and sheets are waterproof and can be found in two types available: Standard and Combo. Standard turnout blankets provide coverage from the withers to the tail. Combo or Detach-A-Neck blankets provide coverage from just behind the ears to the tail. The designs of a turnout blanket or sheet are more “drape” like and roomier, allowing for better coverage protection against the weather.

FILL WARMTH

2. “HOW DO I KNOW IF THE BLANKET WILL HELP KEEP MY HORSE WARM ENOUGH?”

Sheet - No fill 100 Gram Fill 150 Gram Fill 200 Gram Fill 250 Gram Fill 300 Gram Fill 400 Gram Fill

Provides protection from the wind and rain Light Warmth Light/Medium Warmth Medium Warmth Medium/Heavy Warmth Heavy Warmth Extra Heavy Warmth

The answer to this question is dependent on how much fill is in the blanket. This determines how warm the blanket should be. The fill can be either Polyfill or Fiberfill and is measured in grams. The higher the weight number, the warmer the blanket will be. Determining a desirable weight depends on your horse’s environment and the condition of your horse’s coat. Besides the climate, also keep in mind whether your horse grows a light or heavy coat, is body clipped mid-winter, is turned out with or without shelter, or kept in a barn. These are all factors in determining which blanket fill to choose.

We’ve provided two charts for you to reference to help you determine what would fit your needs best.

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TEMPERATURE

HORSE WITH NATURAL COAT

HORSE THAT IS BODY CLIPPED

50-60 Degrees

Sheet

Light Blanket (100g)

40-50 Degrees

Light Blanket (100g)

Light/Medium Blanket (150g-250g)

30-40 Degrees

Light/Medium Blanket (150g-250g)

Medium/Heavy Blanket (200-300g)

20-30 Degrees

Medium/Heavy Blanket (200-300g)

Heavy(300-400g) or Medium (200-300g) with Blanket Liner

Below 20 Degrees

Heavy (300-400g)

Heavy (300-400g) with Blanket Liner

3. “HOW EASILY WILL MY HORSE’S BLANKET RIP?”

DENIER

STRENGTH

210 420 600 1200 1680 2100

Very Light Strength Light Strength Medium Strength Heavy Strength Extra Heavy Strength Super Heavy Strength

Well, we can’t always guarantee that your horse’s blanket won’t get caught on a board, or that one of its pasture friends won’t think of his new blanket as a chew toy.

One thing to consider is the turnout blanket’s outer shell. Also known as “denier”, this strength is determined by the thread’s thickness; the higher the denier number is, the stronger the material strength will be.

4. “HOW DO I FIGURE OUT WHICH BLANKET SIZE TO ORDER?”

To answer this question, you will need to measure your horse; this task is much easier when done with the help of a second person. You will also need a flexible tape measure, which helps you get the most accurate measurement possible.

First, start by standing your horse as square as possible on a flat, even surface. Next, place the tape measure at the center of the horse’s chest, over the high point of the shoulder. With the tape measure held in place on the chest, run it alongside the horse’s body until you reach the rear of the hind leg. For the most accurate measurement, keep the tape as straight as possible along the side of the body without following the contours of the horse’s body. If the length falls on a size not offered by the blanket company, then simply round up to the next available size being offered.

Start Measuring Here

Take Final Measurment Here

5. “I RECEIVED MY BLANKET, BUT HOW CAN I TELL IF IT FITS MY HORSE PROPERLY?”

We recommend placing a thin, clean stable sheet on your horse to keep the blanket in new condition, just in case the fit isn’t just right. Now you’ll want to check if the blanket fits properly.

• First, place the blanket on the horse and fasten the chest straps so the fabric overlaps at the chest.

It should be snug here, but not tight.

• Next, fasten the surcingles and adjust to fit loosely on the horse’s stomach with about four fingers width

between belly and straps.

• Finally, fasten and adjust the leg straps so you can only fit a hand’s width between each leg strap on your horse’s thighs.

6. “THE BLANKET LOOKS LIKE IT FITS, BUT I’M JUST NOT SURE. ANY SUGGESTIONS?”

Once the blanket is on your horse, check the length and the fit on the front.

LENGTH - To check the length, stand behind the horse and gently bring the two ends

toward one another against the horse’s rump. Try not to pull the blanket out of place as you are doing this. If the ends meet on the horse’s tail, the blanket is too large. If you cannot bring them together at all or if you can see more than 2-3 inches of the horse’s rump on either side of the tail, then the blanket is too small. The end of the blanket should stop just above where the tail starts.

WIDTH - The best way to check the fit of the blanket is to watch your horse walk while wearing it. As your horse is moving forward, observe the shoulders. If the blanket fabric pulls tightly against the shoulder to the point of possibly impeding movement, then the blanket is too snug. If the blanket drops very low at the shoulder or chest, then the neck opening and/or the blanket is too large.

7. “HOW DO I CLEAN MY HORSE’S BLANKET?” The best way to clean your horse’s blanket is to wash it with a mild detergent and then hang to dry.

Submitted by Bill Healey Winter 2014

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Alternatively Speaking: A Holistic Approach to Treating Cancer Y

our pet has not been feeling well and after an extensive workup your veterinarian comes back with a diagnosis of cancer.

Your heart just sinks into your chest and this confusing flood of emotions overtakes you. It is probably the one thing you weren’t prepared to hear.

Cancer is not a new problem in pets, but just like in people, it feels like we see more of it now than in the past. Modern research helps us understand that cancer occurs when a body is damaged on a cellular level. Cancer cells ignore their original programming and grow unchecked, multiplying more than intended, living longer than they should, and spreading to tissues where they don’t belong. They are no longer playing a positive role in support of the body. Instead, they now function to support themselves, ultimately causing the death of their host.

Western medicine utilizes chemotherapy and radiation to try to kill cancer cells, often with good results. But, it is hard to poison the cancer, without poisoning the patient. So modern medicine still struggles to win against this disease. More recent breakthroughs have developed “vaccines” that prime a dog’s immune system, to fight a cancer directly. What is exciting about this line of thinking, is that it taps into the idea that our bodies themselves can defeat cancers, given the proper tools and direction. This notion fits very well with many of the alternative approaches to dealing with cancer.

Cancer cells require a lot of support to take hold and spread.

This support can come in the form of increased blood supply to provide nutrients and oxygen. Instead of highly toxic therapies, alternative practitioners use relatively weak and safe substances that interfere with cancer’s ability to obtain those resources. To borrow an analogy from one of my colleagues, you can think of alternative therapies working against cancer like the American militia did against the enemy in the Revolutionary war. Not strong enough to meet the superiorly armed and trained British troops head on, these rebels eroded their flanks, blocked roads and bridges impairing their ability to move, and deprived them of resources by cutting off supply lines. This approach effectively paralyzed them into a ‘stasis’

Anne M. Carroll, DVM- Chelsea, VT where all they could do was hunker down and wait for help.

In alternative medicine there are a wealth of compounds and nutritional supplements that work exactly like this. Any one of them is too weak to impact a cancer’s growth alone but when prescribed in the right combination to target a specific cancer’s needs, we can make it far harder for the cancer to thrive and without toxic effects to the body in the process.

Taking a holistic approach, we can simultaneously strengthen the immune system to fight more effectively so our efforts may be even more successful.

Alternative veterinarians have many cancer fighting tools to choose from. Using Chinese acupuncture and herbal medicine, we can look at patterns of circulation and try to direct blood flow towards some cancers that would prefer to stay hidden from the immune system, or deprive blood from other aggressive cancers that need that support to grow fast and invade surrounding tissues. Nutrition can be used to feed the body while starving the cancer as well as to reduce inflammation that can fuel a cancer. Homeopathy can help direct the body to move against a cancer or find balance and allow a body’s normal defenses to once again work effectively. All of these approaches can be used in conjunction with Western care, such as radiation and chemotherapy, to help minimize side effects and improve their effectiveness.

Certainly cancers can move fast and not all cases will have the time to respond to either traditional or alternative therapy.

As with any illness, it is most helpful to start treatment early.

Consult with an alternative practitioner and consider having them work in conjunction with your traditional veterinarian or oncologist to provide the best possible care for your pet. A foundation to this approach may include specific nutrition, promoting a healthy balanced blood circulation, and removing sources of chronic inflammation. In my practice this foundational work begins early when the patient is healthy and young so their body is armed with the protection it needs as it moves through middle and senior years. So, while it is wonderful to incorporate alternative supports early in a fight against cancer, it is even better to start early enough that perhaps the cancer won’t occur at all.

Dr. Anne Carroll is owner of the Chelsea Animal Hospital where she practices both conventional medicine and surgery, as well as several alternative modalities, including traditional Chinese acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. Her associate Dr. Betty Jo Black brings classical homeopathy to the practice.

For more information on alternative veterinary medicine visit their website at www.chelseaanimalhospital.com

Central VT Humane Society The final Central VT Humane Society event of the year, HOLIDAY WITH THE ANIMALS, will be held on Saturday, December 20 from 10 am-2.You can help spread good will to shelter animals and fill their stockings.The shelter animals are dreaming of canned pet food, enrichment toys, pet safe ice melt, financial support – and, of course, being adopted.

For the full gift in kind wish list, visit www.cvhumane.com.

HOLIDAY WITH THE ANIMALS is a fun, family-friendly time with food and festivities.

Please bring donations and financial contributions to help shelter animals so they can enjoy the holidays, too.There will be a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, too!

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Winter 2014

Does Cat Poop Parasite Play a Role in Curing Cancer?

How a Tiny “Bug” Can Stop Cancer in its Tracks as a Vaccine

T

Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center

oxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a single-celled parasite that is happiest in a cat’s intestines, but it can live in any warm blooded animal. Found worldwide, T. gondii affects about one-third of the world’s population, 60 million of which are Americans. Most people have no symptoms, but some experience a flu-like illness.

Those with suppressed immune systems, however, can develop a serious infection if they are unable to fend off T. gondii.

An Anti-Cancer Agent in Nature?

A healthy immune system responds vigorously to T. gondii in a manner that parallels how the immune system attacks a tumor.

“We know biologically this parasite has figured out how to stimulate the exact immune responses you want to fight cancer,” said David J. Bzik, PhD, professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth.

In response to T. gondii, the body produces natural killer cells and cytotoxic T cells. These cell types wage war against cancer cells. Cancer can shut down the body’s defensive mechanisms, but introducing T. gondii into a tumor environment can jump start the immune system.

“The biology of this organism is inherently different from other microbe-based immunotherapeutic strategies that typically just tickle immune cells from the outside,” said Barbara Fox, senior research associate of Microbiology and Immunology.

“By gaining preferential access to the inside of powerful innate immune cell types, our mutated strain of T. gondii reprograms the natural power of the immune system to clear tumor cells and cancer.”

Engineering T. gondii as a Cancer Vaccine Since it isn’t safe to inject a cancer patient with live rep-

licating strains of T. gondii, Bzik and Fox created “cps,” an immunotherapeutic vaccine. Based on the parasite’s biochemical pathways, they delete a Toxoplasma gene needed to make a building block of its genome and create a mutant parasite that can be grown in the laboratory but is unable to reproduce in animals or people. Cps is both nonreplicating and safe. Even when the host is immune deficient, cps still retains that unique biology that stimulates the ideal vaccine responses.

“Aggressive cancers too often seem like fast moving train wrecks. Cps is the microscopic, but super strong, hero that catches the wayward trains, halts their progression, and shrinks them until they disappear,” said Bzik.

Laboratory Success in Melanoma and Ovarian Cancers

Toxoplasma gondii, the parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, is being used

by Geisel researchers as a possible way to stimulate the immune system against tumors.

Published laboratory studies from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth labs have tested the cps vaccine in extremely aggressive lethal mouse models of melanoma or ovarian cancer and found unprecedented high rates of cancer survival.

“Cps stimulates amazingly effective immunotherapy against cancers, superior to anything seen before,” said Bzik. “The ability of cps to communicate in different and unique ways with the cancer and special cells of the immune system breaks the control that cancer has leveraged over the immune system.”

A Promising Future for a Personalized Cancer Vaccine This new weapon against cancer could even be tailored to the individual patient. “In translating cps therapy to the clinic, we imagine cps will be introduced into cells isolated from the patient. Then Trojan Horse cells harboring cps will be given back to the patient as an immunotherapeutic cancer vaccine to generate the ideal immune responses necessary to eradicate their cancer cells and to also provide life-long immunity against any future recurrence of that cancer,” said Bzik.

Fox and Bzik say a lot more study is needed before cps leaves the laboratory. They are trying to understand how and why it works so well by examining its molecular targets and mechanisms.

“Cancer immunotherapy using cps holds incredible promise for creating beneficial new cancer treatments and cancer vaccines,” said Bzik.

Winter 2014 www.4LegsAndATail.com 21

GUNNER, THE SKIJORING GREYHOUND Diana Hanks

W

inter was coming and I like to cross-country ski. Having a Greyhound wasn’t going to stop me from doing this. How do you ski regularly without leaving your poor dog home all the time? You train him for skijoring!

Short skate skis make me very maneuverable. If my Greyhound, “Gunner” does something suddenly, I can turn or stop quickly.

Without poles, my hands are free for handling the dog. A shortened retractable leash attaches to Gunner’s harness. If I fall or he bolts, the force goes through the harness, not his collar. A longer retractable leash gets hitched to his collar for control if I need it. I’m able to swing that arm as I skate, without touching his neck. When I want to communicate with Gunner through the collar, I squeeze the break button on that lead. With the slightest touch, he neck reigns, like a Western horse. Gunner also knows the voice commands “Gee”, “Haw”, “Whoa”, and “On By”, as well as his gaits, walk, trot, and canter.

Diana & Gunner on a winter "stroll". Photo by Peter Wadsworth

Being bred as a running dog and not a pulling dog, I help him by skating on my skis.

Speed skating is another passion of mine, so I enjoy this very much. Gunner aides me in going faster than I could on my own for short spurts, which is really fun for both of us!

Greyhounds are sprinters. Although he is faster than I could ever hope to be, I have much more endurance than he does. This has to be kept in mind at all times.

It’s just nice being able to go out and spend time on skis while exercising my dog.

He runs, and I skate. We both have fun and we get outside together. If he wants to stop, we stop. This would be considered horrible training amongst sled dog folks, but Greyhounds are not designed to run long distance. We stop and I let him sniff, mark, and be a regular dog. When he gets his energy back we pick up the pace for a while.

The whole outing is a balance between both of our needs. What we both have in common is a desire for speed. In his case it’s a series of short bursts.

22 4 Legs & a Tail

Diana Hanks got involved with Northern Greyhound Adoptions in 2007, when she saw Donald Westover of N.G.A with 2 Greyhounds at a home show. These dogs and their mild manners drew her in. She went from not having any interest in dogs to volunteering as a dog walker at the kennel, and eventually adopting Gunner. Gunner and Diana are seen at many of the home shows, representing this gentle breed, and Northern Greyhound Adoptions.

Winter 2014

Chinchillas

By Susan Dyer, DVM

C hinchillas make wonderful pets and are one

of the more long-lived small pets at up to 20 years! They are native to South America and nearly extinct in the wild due to overhunting. Most captive chinchillas are descended from a group of animals imported in the 1920s.

Chinchillas should be housed in a large cage with multiple levels to satisfy their need for exercise. Cages need to be constructed of chew-proof materials, so wire is often the preferred housing, with a solid bottom. Bedding should be made up of inert materials like recycled paper products (CareFresh), shredded newspaper or aspen bedding.

Avoid cedar, pine or other aromatic bedding. The enclosures should be cleaned at least twice per week since chinchillas are prone to skin infections in their feet.

Chinchillas are not tolerant of temperatures over 80 degrees due to their thick hair coat, so air conditioning in the summer may be necessary. They are great fun to touch due to their specialized hair coat. While the average dog or cat may have 3-20 hairs per follicle, a chinchilla can have up to 100, leading to the soft texture you can feel. They should have a hide box or two in their enclosures, to give them privacy. Chinchillas should be offered a dust bath 2-3 times per week for 10-20 minutes to maintain proper coat health. If the dust isn’t removed, prolonged exposure can cause eye and breathing problems.

Chinchillas should be fed a diet of high quality timothy, oat or orchard grass hay, chinchilla pellets and a small variety of dark green leafy vegetables like romaine, collard and mustard greens.

Fruits and raisins should be used in moderation since the sugars in these foods can lead to dental and gastrointestinal disease. Moderation means less than one of these “treats” per day!

Chinchillas make great pets and should live a long, healthy life with proper diet, exercise and housing.

Dr. Susan Dyer sees dogs, cats, birds, Chinchillas and other exotic pets at Bradford Veterinary Clinic (formerly Stoneciff Animal Clinic of VT) in Bradford, VT. 802-222-4903 or www.bradfordvet.com Winter 2014

www.4LegsAndATail.com 23

Sweet Potato Pie Samantha Bubar

W hen I first saw her, I had no idea what to expect. She was much big-

ger than any reptile I had ever held, and her previous owner informed me that he couldn’t handle her, because she was aggressive. Nevertheless, she was coming home with me.

As soon as she was in my hands, she wrapped her arms around my fingers, and that was it. She had found her forever home. I had no idea what the next few weeks had in store, and I’m sure, neither did she.

She had been relinquished due to lack of funds for proper care, and aggressive behavior. From her original owner she went to a temporary home, where she was housed with other similarly sized female bearded dragons. While there, she wasn’t aggressive and was handled with no issues. After a short time living in her temporary home, she was relocated to my house.

The first night “Spaz” came home went off without a hitch. She was dirty, skinny and cautious of her new home and new tank. She was content being tucked in my sweatshirt or wrapped in a blanket on the couch. I was smitten.

Whatever obstacles I had to face with this sweet girl would be worth it. It couldn’t be that bad, right?

Throughout the next week, she got progressively feistier, as she began to settle into her new home. Feeling more comfortable and secure with her surroundings, she would puff up her beard and turn black any time I would reach in to feed or hold her. What I noticed was

24 4 Legs & a Tail

Found naturally in the Australian Desert, Bearded Dragons came to the U.S. in the 1990's

not aggression, but complete and utter fear. She backed herself into a corner, puffed up and hissing, black beard and eyes wide, daring me to touch her.

I did just that. Every time she’d respond in fear, I’d pet her beard and the top of her head while talking to her calmly as she carried on. I made sure my hands were always in front of her, and never directly above her, and within minutes she would calm down. Once she was out of fight or flight mode, she would let me gently lift her out of her tank and onto my chest, where she would burrow into my shoulder. Patience and determination helped us over that first hurdle.

I spent hours those first few weeks sitting by her tank, talking to her and petting her. When I wasn’t sitting next to her tank talking to her, I was going about my daily routines with her tucked in my sweatshirt. After a month with proper lights, and well rounded meals, she had put on weight, and lightened up considerably in color (a sign of a healthy stressfree dragon).

I had given up her old name, and started lovingly calling her Potato, as a joke at first. But Potato stuck, and as she started to come into her own, the name fit her exceedingly well. When she wasn’t tucked away in my sweatshirt observing her new world from a safe place, she was

lounging in her tank or in the window; much like a “couch potato”.

Now she enjoys her days in a spacious tank in my living room. She will cause a scene if I sit on the couch without her, scratching at the glass and staring at me, until I take her out. At which point she instantly falls asleep in my lap for as long as I will let her.

On sunny days, she ventures from her spot on my lap, over to the window to nap in the sun and periodically watch the neighborhood. On some Saturdays she runs errands with me, and gladly lets any curious onlooker hold or pet her.

That alone is a huge milestone for her.

Children and adults alike are fascinated, and sometimes grossed out, by her.

It is such a joy seeing the reactions she gets. My favorite reaction was an elderly woman, who told me she didn’t even know “things like this” existed.

Every day I am astounded with the progress Potato has made, and continues to make on a daily basis. She has the most loving and gentle soul and I am so thankful every day for the lessons she has taught me. Most prominently, the value of perspective. Those hours on end I spent sitting next to her tank, trying to see life from her perspective, not only gave me the tools I needed to see what her fears were, but also the clarity to see how I could best help her through them.

How such clarity and joy can be given through one small creature continues to amaze me. There is an abundance to learn from our animal companions, if only we take the time to see things from their perspective.

Samantha Bubar, 24, of Barre, Vermont lives at home with two leopard geckos, three bearded dragons and a rat. With a degree in English and a passion for animals, she spends most of her free time writing, reading and caring for animals. She writes a weekly blog, Training Dragons, that can be found at www.trainingdragons.wordpress.com Winter 2014

Slithering Snakes DJ Nelson- St. Johnsbury, VT

M

y wife and I just celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary. To surprise her I took her to Boston for the weekend. Thankfully, my wife shares my love for animals and fish, so we visited the New England Aquarium.

One of the exhibits held a captivating individual. You could almost miss it if you just glanced. It looked like a part of a branch the way it came out of the water, perpendicular to branch and tree.

Truly a creature well adapted for land and water, it was an Anaconda.

This snake can reach approx. 29 feet and weigh more than 550 pounds. We got to hold a shed from an Anaconda that measured 15 or 16ft. Truly a huge beast. There are many other snakes that people are familiar with, that are overtaking the Everglades, like Rock pythons (can exceed 20ft), Reticulated Pythons (up to 22ft but often 18 to 20ft), and most have also heard of Boa Constrictors.

There is more and more concern about keeping these snakes as pets, especially with children. Someone hears constrictor and freaks out, and understandably so. The government wants to outlaw Reticulated Pythons, Burmese Pythons, Rock Pythons, Anacondas, and Boa Constrictors. I would like to go over a few things that might help clear up some misconceptions. Better education means less panic.

Q: Are all Constrictors dangerous??

A: No! Many snakes that are not venomous constrict their food. This is how they immobilize their prey to be able to eat it. Pythons, Boas, King, Milk, and Corn are some of the snakes that constrict their food. Many Boas, Kings, Milk, and Corn Snakes don’t get that large, and it’s unlikely they would hurt a child.

Q: What is the difference between a Python and a Boa Constrictor??

A: There are several differences from teeth, to how many bones in the head, but the most well-known is that Python’s lay eggs, and Boas give live birth.

Q: Aren’t all Boa Constrictors large dangerous snakes?

A: Actually Anacondas are the largest, Red tail Columbian Boas get 8 to 12ft.

Most of your boas are actually much smaller, like the Kenyan Sand boa that might get 2ft, and Boas tend to be more laid back then Pythons. Actually there are many species of Python that tend to be more aggressive.

Winter 2014

Q: They will just grow to the size of the tank won’t they?

A: No. A snake can outgrow their cage and/or will have their life and health severely decreased. The major players in how big a snake will get are genetics, how well the cage is being kept (humidity, Heat, clean), and how well it is feed- larger species like a Reticulated python, ing and what you are feeding it. or Anaconda, each state has their own laws for whether and how these animals Q: Are my children at risk if I have a can be kept. Know that these snakes pet snake? should have a minimum of 2 people for A: Snakes take down food when they are handling, and can be dangerous for even hungry and rely on opportunity. That experienced handlers. said, the cases I have read about where a child was killed, were due to the snake For more information on keeping your not being properly fed and the cage not pets happy and healthy contact your Vet. being secured. Snakes are pure muscle Your local pet store can also be a great and need an appropriate enclosure and resource. locks. Books, bricks, etc. are not suitable for keeping a screen cover on a cage. DJ Nelson has worked in the pet industry Using appropriate clips made for this for almost two decades and is the owner situation and multiples for larger cages of AquaRealm Aquarium & Pets in St. is ideal.

Johnsbury, VT. He works with Reptiles, Birds, Small Animals, Fresh/Saltwater fish, and There are some snakes, in my profesDog & Cat Nutrition. Since proper care sional opinion, which shouldn’t be kept is constantly changing, educating cusas pets by the general public (unless the tomers about their pets is very important. person is experienced), because of size www.aquarealmaquarium.com and aggression, like Anacondas and and Facebook.

Rock Pythons. Most snakes should be fine for keeping, but if you have a snake that is large and aggressive, I would recommend you find it a new home.

King, Milk, or Corn snakes and most small Boas are not going to be able to do anything fatal to your child. Wash your hands after handling the snake or anything inside the cage, keep children under 5 years from touching the snake, and the chance of getting Salmonella is low.

Q: How often do I feed my snake?

A: Depending on the individual and type of snake, Corn, Milk, or King snakes will tend to eat once or twice a week. Pythons and Boas tend to eat once a week or once every two weeks and tend to slow down eating during the winter months. This is an average, as some may eat more or less.

Keeping snakes can be fun and exciting.

As with most pets, as long as it is respected and maintained properly it can be a great pet. As always, do research first and find a snake that fits your needs. There are many types and sizes to choose from.

Most snakes do not pose safety risks for your child even though they constrict to eat their food. If you want to go for a

Spruce loved an old fashioned winter.

Photo from Mark Rochefort

www.4LegsAndATail.com 25

Abraham Lincoln’s Dog, Fido

By Kate Kelly

W hile living in Springfield, Illinois, the Lincoln family had sev-

eral animals including a dog named Fido (ca. 1855-1865). Fido was a yellow, mixed-breed dog who was said to accompany Lincoln when he went into town, sometimes carrying a parcel home from the market for Lincoln, or Fido would wait outside the barbershop while Lincoln went in for a trim.

When Lincoln was elected president, the occasion was acknowledged locally with great celebration. Fido was quit terrified by the booming cannons, the fireworks, the ringing of the local church bells and the sounds of the excited community. This gave Lincoln pause when he considered taking Fido with the family to Washington.

The family ultimately decided to make an arrangement to leave Fido in the care of another family. A carpenter, John Roll, who had done some work for the Lincolns, had two sons who were a little younger than Tad and Willy. The Roll family agreed to take responsibility for Fido. They also promised the Lincolns that the dog would be returned to them when the Lincolns came home from Washington.

Fido Was Accustomed to the Run of the House Fido was very much a “house dog” and the President specified that Fido was to be allowed to come into the Roll family home; if his paws were muddy, Fido should not be scolded for it. The Lincolns had always shared table scraps with Fido at mealtime, so the Lincolns also asked that Fido be permitted to join the Roll family at mealtimes as well.

26 4 Legs & a Tail

boys liked hitching the goats to carts—or even kitchen chairs—and being pulled around. The goats were not always popular with the White House staff as they tended to chew up things that they weren’t supposed to.

The boys also had ponies and some white rabbits, and Tad became very attached to a turkey that was being raised for Christmas dinner. At Tad’s behest, Lincoln had little choice but to spare the turkey. The turkey lived on with the Lincolns as a pet, and Tad gave him full run of the White House. (Lincoln’s own childhood was filled with fear and disappointment, so he chose to raise his boys with much more leniency.)

Lincoln himself was particularly fond of cats. According to the staff at Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace, if Mary Lincoln was asked about whether her husband had a hobby, she was very likely to answer “cats.”

In March of 1865 as the Civil War was winding down and all the requirements of rebuilding the country were being presented to the President. He would frequently sit at the telegraph office in Washington so he could send and receive messages easily. While there one day, Lincoln became distracted by three stray kittens. When he was informed that the kittens’ mother had died, he sat with them on his lap for a few minutes and then before he left, he made certain someone there committed to taking care of them.

Lincoln called his horse, Old Bob. In the funeral procession, Old Bob, wearing a mourning blanket with silver fringe, Fido at the Funeral walked immediately after the hearse car Fido was still living with the Rolls rying the President’s body. family when Lincoln was assassinated.

When the funeral was held, mourners For more stories like this one, please stopped in at the Lincoln family home in visit www.americacomesalive.com Springfield to pay their respects. The Roll where many other dog stories have family brought Fido there to say good-bye been published. On the website, you to his master, too. may also sign up for regular mailings of At the time, photographs were someupcoming dog stories. times copied and made into carte-de-visite (calling cards of a sort which were very popular during the Civil War when family members wanted to be remembered).

Shortly after Lincoln’s death, the photo of Fido was reproduced as a carte-de-visite and sold to souvenir collectors.

Fido is Killed Within the year of Lincoln’s death, Fido himself was killed. John Roll wrote of Fido’s sad fate: “We possessed the dog for a number of years when one day the dog, in a playful manner, put his dirty paws upon a drunken man sitting on the street curbing [who] in his drunken rage, thrust a knife into the body of poor old Fido. He was buried by loving hands. So Fido, just a poor yellow dog met the fate of his illustrious master- Assassination.”

Other Animals in the Lincoln White House Lydia is all dressed up for the holidays.

Nanny and Nanko were two goats kept at the Lincoln White House. The Photo by Linda Bryan of Newbury Village, VT

Fido slept on a favorite sofa. Arrangements were made to leave this horsehair sofa with the Roll family so that Fido would have every reason to feel at home.

It is unclear when the photo of Fido was taken. It may have been taken before the Lincolns departed for the White House.

Perhaps they wanted a memento of their beloved dog. However recently, it has been speculated that Fido’s photo was taken after the assassination. The town was overrun by people who arrived for the funeral, and visitors wanted to buy items related to Lincoln. A townsperson may have decided that that a photo of Fido would sell well.

Either explanation leaves us with the undeniable fact that we have the first photo ever taken of a Presidential dog.

A couple of years after Lincoln had assumed the presidency, the barber wrote a letter to the president, filling him in on local happenings. He added: “Tell Taddy that his (and Willy’s) Dog is alive and Kicking, doing well, he stays mostly at John E. Roll’s with his Boys who are about the size now that Tad and Willy were when they left for Washington.”

Winter 2014

Small Dogs with “Pushed-in” Faces Have Even More Dental Problems I

Sandra L Waugh VMD, MS Windsor Veterinary & Dental Services-Windsor,VT

n the last issue of 4 Legs & A Tail I wrote an article about why small dogs have more dental problems than larger dogs. The original dogs were related to Eurasian wolves, and were large dogs with matching large teeth. As breeds of dogs have been created through selective breeding, we now have dogs that are tiny. Unfortunately, there is a mismatch between the smaller body size and the size of the teeth, with the teeth being proportionately too big for the size of the skull.

The problem becomes compounded when the shape of the skull is abnormal, such as occurs when the muzzle is pushed-in or flattened. An example of this is an 18.5 lb Shih Tzu. This dog is neither a really small dog nor is the muzzle as pushed-in as other breeds, so he is not an extreme example.

In the normal muzzle, the teeth line up along the outer edge. When the muzzle is not as long as normal, the teeth must accommodate the smaller space. One accommodation is that the teeth are rotated up to 90º to the edge of the jaw. A second common strategy is for the teeth to overlap each other, or to be displaced away from the edge of the jaw. A third variation is that the teeeth are tipped over to some degree.

First, let’s look at a fairly normal occlusion. These are photographs of the mouth of my 20lb Schipperke, “Sammy”.

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107

408

106

407

105

406

205

405

Right side, upper and lower jaws

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305 306 307 308

Left side, upper and lower jaws

Notice that there is gum tissue between each tooth.This space is normal and required for the teeth to maintain their health.

105, 205, 305, and 405 are single rooted teeth. 106-107, 206-207, 306-307-308, 406-407-408 are all double rooted teeth. 108 and 208 are triple rooted teeth. These teeth are lined up in a row on the edge of each jaw, with the roots of the double rooted teeth lined up also as shown in the radiograph of the lower right jaw (of a larger dog).

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407

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405

Now, let’s take a look at what happens when the jaw length is shorter than normal in both the upper and lower jaws.

When the right and left sides of the Shih Tzu’s jaws are compared to the Schipperke’s, it is obvious that the teeth are no longer lined up. On all four jaws, the smaller double rooted teeth (106-107, 206-207, 306-307-308, and 406-407-408) are rotated to varying degrees. On the upper right side, tooth 107 is displaced entirely to the inside of the mouth, as well as being rotated and tipped. On both lower jaws, 308 and 408 are rotated, overlap 309 and 409 respectively, and the entire tooth is tipped toward the back of the mouth.

Continued Next Page

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408 407 406 405

Right side, upper and lower jaws Winter 2014

Right side lower jaw

305 306 307 308 309

Left side, upper and lower jaws www.4LegsAndATail.com 27

Looking down on the top of the teeth in each lower jaw makes it very clear how little space remains between many of the teeth.

Plaque, the cause of periodontal disease, is much more easily trapped in the close spaces. If the owners are willing to brush the teeth, then they would need to rotate the toothbrush on each tooth. It is possible to extract some of these teeth to relieve the crowding and make brushing easier.

108

107

106

105

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Left side, upper and lower jaws

Right side, upper and lower jaws Looking down on the upper jaw.

Compare the right to the left side. Every dog has four jaws, and each one grows independently from the others. When the shape of the jaw is not normal, the symmetry between the upper jaws and between the lower jaws can be lost.

The displacement of 107 toward the inside of the mouth becomes clear in the photograph to the left.

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205 206

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205 105 106 107

Even in big dogs with short muzzles, this same rotation, displacement, crowding and tilting occur.

The problem is magnified in small dogs, and the smaller the dog the worse it becomes, because the comparatively large size of the tooth means there is less bone to hold in the teeth. Keeping small dogs healthy means keeping the mouth free of periodontal disease, which takes more dedication as the dog becomes smaller and the jaws become less normal in shape.

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206 207 208

Upper jaw. The folds in the hard palate are normal

Dr. Waugh is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. She also has a Masters Degree from Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine. www.vetsinwindsor.com All photographs and radiographs are original to Windosr Veterinary & Dental Services 28 4 Legs & a Tail

Winter 2014

4 LEGS & A TAIL FUN! What's Different?

Dog’s Leg Missing, Dog’s Tail Missing, Women’s Purse Missing, Dog’s Bandana Blue, Women’s Fingernail polish blue, Women’s shoes red

A pet shop owner had a parrot with a sign on its cage that said “Parrot repeats everything it hears.” A young man bought the parrot and for two weeks he spoke to it and it didn’t say a word.

He returned the parrot, but the shopkeeper said he never lied about the parrot.

How can this be?

The parrot was deaf.

A cat and mouse die and go to heaven. One day St. Peter runs into the mouse and asks, “How do you like heaven so far?” “It’s great!

But it’s so big I wish I had roller-skates,” replied the mouse. “No problem,” said St. Peter.

A few days later, St. Peter sees the cat and asks how he likes heaven.

“It’s fantastic,” said the cat, “It even has mealson-wheels.”

Some dogs are more graceful than others

FR

EE

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