North vt fall 2015

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Autumn 2015 Northern VT & NH

Vermont DJ And His Dog Challenge School Bullies Finding A Horse That Won’t Break The Bank Spoil Your Cat With A Cat-io Consider The Original GOATee

4 LEGS & A TAIL FUN! What 7 Things Are Different?

Kids shoes are yellow, girl’s foot is missing, man’s thumb is missing, man’s foot is missing, tortoise claw is missing, shirt is missing the “N”, car and park bench are missing, silver box is missing, logo on shirt missing

On The Farm S D A O I C Z N H W Y F T D N N K T S I R W A R X P O A I D L Z H E X R Y F B T P Z E Y Y T N Q C U F J P A H Y T X I M L C Q C G Y S L I J S U N G A S Q E C I I P E M L L R J F H O U S B Q A C S O R Q K L V J S J R D C N N H J T V E A T J V V O A G T D L G Q Q Y C F K W Z H B A R P O X K K Z R N Y Q Y I O D X A E G C C M G C C S R G P I G S B E L A O I H O C H I C K E N S B H T N T F L B T S S K C U D R I S Q R K P B W S G O M R X A Q T S Q S L ALPACA CAT CHICKENS DOG DUCKS GOAT HOLSTEIN HORSE PIGS RABBIT SHEEP TURKEY

We met Wyatt Bonalumi of Canaan at the farmers market with his Sulcata Tortoise, Selma Hayek. She is six years old and weighs more than 33 lbs!

Tortoise Stats & Facts • Leopard tortoises are one of the largest tortoises in the world.

• The tortoise are herbivores eating mainly tree leaves, grass and ferns.

• Female tortoises dig nesting burrows in which they lay from 1 - 30 eggs.

• In most tortoise species, the female tends to be larger than the male.

• The tortoise is susceptible to parasites and pneumonia.

• A Tortoise is diurnal, meaning active during the day.

• Pet tortoises kept outdoors need some sort of structure in which to hide or spend the night.

• Most male tortoises have tails that are longer than those of the female.

Inside this issue of 4 Legs & a Tail

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NYC’s Kennedy Airport Building Luxury Animal Terminal, Verena Dobnik

An ARK that would impress Noah

Local DJ Bruce Zemen and his dachshund Hobbes draw national attention with their efforts to make our schools a better place

Not just a disease in Dogs, what to expect and ways to avoid this nasty disease

A unique way to keep both cats and birds safe

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Bruce & Hobbes Hit the Airwaves (and the Roadways) to Help End Bullying

6 Leptospirosis, Millie Armstrong, DVM 7 Catios, Catherine Greenleaf 9

Firemen, English Bulldogs and 2016, Karen Sturtevant

The Vermont based rescue group has some great gift ideas for the bulldog lover on your list 10 Forever, Tim Hoehn - The dog who never left her side

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11 Alternatively Speaking, Anne Carroll, DVM, CVA

The right tool for the job, Traditional Chinese Medicine gives us additional perspectives and treatment tools to help our patients

Your Pets and Thanksgiving – A curious pet or the most well-meaning of guests can land your pet in a predicament

The Vermont Veterinary Medical Association announces 2015 grants and scholarships

How one Labrador got a new walk on life

What are the chances of finding the perfect home for Gretchen? Pretty good when you live in Vermont

Did you know the world’s largest Dairy Breed Association is located in Brattleboro Vermont

Animals of all species deserve protection and compassion. Green Mountain Animal Defenders (GMAD), based in Vermont, protects the well-being of all animals

Some quick tips to get your tank back in shape after a busy summer

They don’t eat tin cans, but they could make for a wonderful addition to your family

A cat, abandoned and near death, finds its way to the love it was always meant to have

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

The founder of Vermont Therapy Dogs remembers a visit to a Rehabilitation Center and its heartwarming results

Is your horse stall walking? Heidi has some ideas on the causes and cures

Even today there exist several sources for reasonably priced horses. Denny Emerson puts us on their trail

12 Let’s Talk Turkey, M. Kathleen Shaw, DVM

13 Loan Repayment Program Promotes Food Animal Practice 15 Meet Mala Boo, Helia Zamprogno, DVM, MS, PhD 13 Small Dog/Small World, Tim Hoehn

16 Right in Your Own Backyard, Tim Goodwin 18 All Animals Matter, Alix Lara

19 If I Can’t Brush My Cat’s or Dog’s Teeth, What Else Can I Do to Control

Periodontal Disease?, Sandra L Waugh VMD, MS

A new product named SANOS may be just what the doctor ordered Pg. 25 21 Love Thy Aquarium, DJ Nelson 22 Goats as Pets

23 Broken Heart, Tanya Sousa

24 Jamie, Vesna Dye – A little Westie leaves an indelible mark on one woman’s life 25 Hyperthyroidism in Cats, Catherine MacLean, DVM 26 Surprise at a Vermont Juvenile Rehabilitation Center, Steve Reiman 27 Paddock Partners, Heidi Jo Hauri-Gill

28 Less Expensive Horse, Denny Emerson

4 Legs & a Tail Volume N.315 P.O. Box 841 Lebanon, NH 03766 603-727-9214 TimH.4LT@gmail.com Fall 2015

Publishers: Tim Goodwin, Tim Hoehn Senior Editor: Scott Palzer Office Manager: Beth Hoehn Accounting: Elisa Speckert Graphic Design: Monica Reinfeld, Lacey Dardis, Kate Haas Sales: Karyn Swett, Scott Palzer,

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

Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited.

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NYC’s Kennedy Airport Building Luxury Animal Terminal, Complete With Flat-Screen TVs For Dogs Verena Dobnik, Associated Press July 19, 2015

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This undated artist rendering provided by Classic Communications courtesy of ARK Development depicts Paradise 4 Paws, a holding area for dogs in a new luxury terminal at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. The privately owned ARK, as it’s called, will handle the more than 70,000 animals that pass through JFK each year, including dogs, cats, horses, cows, birds, sloths and aardvarks. It will sit on the site of an unused cargo terminal leased from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey that runs the airport.

(Classic Communications courtesy of ARK Development via AP)

EW YORK (AP) -- Jet-setting stallions and high-flying hounds at New York’s Kennedy Airport can look forward to a new luxury terminal that will handle the more than 70,000 animals flying in and out every year.

The ARK at JFK, its name inspired

by Noah’s biblical vessel, will more than measure up to terminals for humans: Horses and cows will occupy sleek, climate-controlled stalls with showers, and doggies will lounge in hotel suites featuring flat-screen TVs. A special space for penguins will allow them mating privacy.

The ARK is billed as the world’s first air terminal for animals. Set to open next year, the $48 million, 178,000-squarefoot shelter and quarantine facility will take in every kind of animal imaginable — even an occasional sloth or aardvark.

From here, they’ll head to barns, cages, racetracks, shows and competition venues in the United States and abroad.

Many arriving animals are quarantined for a period of time (for horses, it’s normally about three days) to make sure they’re not carrying contagious diseases.

And The ARK is designed to make their stay as pleasant as possible, with haylined stalls for up to 70 horses and 180 head of cattle, plus an aviary and holding pens for goats, pigs and sheep.

For dog owners, The ARK will offer a 20,000-square-foot luxury “resort” run by the company Paradise 4 Paws, complete with bone-shaped splashing pools, massage therapy and “pawdicures with colored nail pawlish.” Dogs can watch flatscreen TVs and their owners can check in on them via webcam.

Cats will have their own trees to climb. And all animals will have access to a 24-hour clinic run by Cornell University’s veterinary college.

Even animals that don’t need to be quarantined — a huge dog that can’t fit in the cabin and has to travel as cargo, for example — will be held at the facility until departure or pickup by its owner.

“A lot of our design making is in collaboration with veterinarians and consultants to help minimize the amount of stress placed on the animal,” said Cliff Bollmann, a leading airport architect working on The ARK for the San Francisco-based architecture firm Gensler.

Kennedy receives the bulk of animals entering the United States, but Continued NEXT PAGE

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there are similar facilities near airports in Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami and San Juan. Until Kennedy’s ARK opens, animals in transit will continue to be handled at the airport’s aging 10,000-foot Vetport, built in the 1950s.

Lachlan Oldaker, an Oklahomabased equine specialist and key member of the architectural team, called The ARK “an enormous leap forward.”

“The design allows planes to taxi directly to the building, so horses can be transported in a seamless fashion that reduces stress,” she said.

The ARK is being built on the site of an unused cargo terminal that has been demolished. ARK Development, an affiliate of the Madison Avenue real estate company Racebrook Capital, has signed a 32-year lease for the airport property with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey agency that runs Kennedy.

When completed, the facility is subject to approval by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Animals will be charged fees — still being determined depending on services — that will help fund the terminal. High-end dog “suites” could top $100 per night.

Transporting animals by air is not aimed at low-income owners. A flight to London for a dog can cost about $1,000, plus a crate, airport fees and vet certifications. And moving a horse can add up to at least $10,000.

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The ARK’s designers have had to meet challenges not found in other architectural projects — for instance, figuring out how to dispose of animal waste. They came up with the idea of a “poo chute,” an angled floor from which manure slides into a container.

Among the supporters of this unusual animal kingdom is Dr. Richard Goldstein, the chief medical officer at New York’s Animal Medical Center, which treats sick animals of all species from around the world.

“Our veterinarians have often been in a position of having to arrange transport for many of our traveling patients at all hours of the day and night, and will look forward to working with The ARK to make this experience better for everyone involved,” Goldstein said.

But even when it comes to healthy animals, the equine wing is a welcome improvement to international show jumper and organizer Derek Braun.

Horses must currently be driven to a quarantine facility in Newburgh, about 80 miles north of Kennedy. The ARK has an in-house quarantine.

“I personally, as well as competitors for my shows, ship so many horses from Europe each year that having the peace of mind that one step of the travel process will be eliminated is a big relief because it eliminates part of the risk of injury,” he said.

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Bruce & Hobbes Hit the Airwaves (and the Roadways) to Help End Bullying W

hen Bruce & Tami Zeman first rescued Hobbes from the Addison County Humane Society in Middlebury, Vermont in November 2009, they hoped to give the tiny dog a second chance, and change his life. Little did they know adopting the smooth, red dachshund would not only change his life, but theirs, too.

Radio personality & animal rights activist Bruce Zeman still remembers the phone call he received on November 26th, 2009 about the small, battered dog.

It came from the shelter manager of the Addison County Humane Society, who asked Zeman to look at the pup, recently rescued from a terrible domestic violence

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situation. Having extensive experience with dachshunds, Zeman agreed, and in seeing the dog, and the effects of his injuries - he knew he had to act. The next day, the Zeman’s adopted the pup, changed his name to “Hobbes,” and brought him home.

Not long after “Hobbes” joined his new

family, Zeman began talking about him on his morning radio show, ‘The WakeUp Crew with Bruce Zeman,” on WVTKFM in Middlebury. The response from listeners was immediate, and unprecedented, as the show grew in popularity, and gained a nationwide following. Listeners Continued NEXT PAGE

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loved Hobbes, and wanted him to be more involved in the program. Zeman realized the important opportunity the duo had to help animals, and people, by telling Hobbes’ story. Working with his program director, the visionary Gale Parmelee, the two made a historic decision - to create the nation’s first, and only, human / canine radio duo, “Bruce & Hobbes.”

The two “Best Buddies” were on their way, and haven’t looked back.

Since becoming radio partners, “Bruce & Hobbes” have used their radio show, and celebrity status, to help kids & animals across the country. The duo regularly

speak at events on topics such as antidomestic violence, bullying, empathy, compassion and the humane treatment of animals. Judging from the impact of their work, Bruce & Hobbes’ message is making a difference. In 2012, Bruce & Hobbes were honored by the Vermont Association of Broadcasters with the prestigious Alan Noyes Award, recognizing their extra-ordinary commitment to community service. The duo was also recognized by the Vermont Legislature, in 2012, for their work on behalf of animals. The pair has helped over 1,000 animals find homes, and raised over $50,000

for the Addison County Humane Society.

Yet the “Best Buddies” hopes to do more, and they’re hitting the roadways (and the airwaves) to do it.

Last year, to tell Hobbes’ story, Zeman and his wife Tami, wrote a groundbreaking children’s book, “Hobbes Goes Home,” which not only tells the dog’s story, but talks about issues such as bullying, an issue almost every school, and student, is confronted with. In an effort to help Vermont’s students, Bruce & Hobbes launched a statewide, anti-bullying tour, and are reading “Hobbes Goes Home,” in EVERY Vermont school. To date, the boys have visited over 80 schools, and they’re just getting started. With the 2016 school year underway, more schools are scheduled – and now, Bruce & Hobbes are receiving invitations to speak in schools across the nation.

How important is the book? “Hobbes Goes Home,” has received attention from President Barack Obama, VT Congressman Peter Welch, and Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin. The book has also been praised by educators, teachers and parents – some of whom have called “Hobbes Goes Home,” one of the most important children’s books written in years.

Earlier this year, Bruce & Hobbes returned to the airwaves with their new, national podcast, “Bruce & Hobbes Radio,” which is available Wednesdays at www.bruceandhobbes.com. The show features animal-related topics, and explores all aspects of animal care & welfare. Bruce & Hobbes speak with experts on animal-related subjects, and invite listeners to share their views & comments on the informative, and interactive podcast. Listeners can subscribe to “Bruce & Hobbes Radio” for free on I-Tunes, or can have the show sent to them each week by sending an e-mail to info@bruceandhobbes.com.

le Bruce & Hobbes are availab for speaking engagements, and anti-bullying presentations, nation-wide.

“Hobbes Goes Home” can be purchased by visiting www.bruceandhobbes.com.

Contact Information Scheduling / Inquiries: Info@bruceandhobbes.com Scheduling Contact: pi Zeman - 802-377-1602 Cru i Tam Website: www.bruceandhobbes.com

Fall 2015

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Leptospirosis:

Not Just a Disease in Dogs L

Millie Armstrong, DVM

eptospirosis is a bacterial infec tion that infects over 150 mammalian species worldwide, including people.

Leptospirosis in dogs can cause kidney and/or liver failure, pneumonia, or bleeding disorders. Signs of these include: depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, increased water intake, increased urination, jaundice, swollen limbs, coughing, bloody urine, and bloody nose.

More and more domestic dogs are becoming infected with leptospirosis, and many are getting sick because of it.

Leptospirosis has been reported throughout the United States, and increasing in the Northeast in the past 10 years.

There are over 250 subtypes of leptospirosis. Some strains are more potent and cause worse disease than others. The more common disease-causing strains in dogs are: Icterohemorrhagica, Canicola, Pomona, Grippotyphosa, Bratislava, and Autumnalis.

The leptospirosis bacteria are carried by wildlife (voles, raccoons, skunks, opossums) and many farm animals (cattle, horses, pigs and sheep). Leptospires are shed in urine and survive as long as they remain moist. Animals can be carriers shedding the organism in their urine for months without showing signs of disease. This makes it harder to control in the environment. The degree to which they can survive in urine-soaked hair is unknown. They are not shed directly from dog to dog. Exposure is not limited to dogs in rural areas with exposure to wildlife. Suburban and urban pets are at risk with high numbers of rodents living in apartment complexes. Cats can be exposed to leptospirosis through rodent contact, but clinical disease in cats is rarely reported.

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Dogs can also serve as a host and spread the disease. The organisms, shed through urine, collect in areas of standing water, puddles and ponds. Dogs become infected by drinking from these pools of water, ingesting the urine from contaminated grasses, or by eating mice and voles. They can then shed the organism and serve as a source for other animals and people. Leptospirosis organisms also enter the body through mucous membranes or open sores. Once established in the body, it causes serious damage to the kidneys and liver, and can be fatal.

The incubation period varies, depending on the number of organisms that enter the body, the strain of the organism, and the patient’s immune response.

Dogs may become ill within 1-7 days of contact with leptospirosis. Urinary shedding may not begin until 7-10 days following infection. Often, clinical illness is not detected until some time after the renal or hepatic injury, making it more difficult to treat.

Not all animals exposed to leptospirosis become ill. Depending on the number of organisms that enter the body and the host’s immune response, some are able to avoid illness. However, those who cannot ward off disease are at risk of sudden organ failure.

Leptospirosis is diagnosed with blood samples, often taken 2 weeks apart, to determine the antibody titers that indicate a recent exposure to the bacteria.

It is not possible to test for all of the 250 serovars of the bacteria, so laboratories will test for the most common strains that cause disease. However, if your pet suddenly develops renal or liver failure, treatment is often initiated while waiting for the blood results.

Treatment involves intensive IV fluid therapy, antibiotics, and supportive care. Treatment may take up to 2-3 weeks. Survival rates vary, depending on the severity of the disease. Early detection and aggressive therapy can increase the chances of survival. Extended hospital stays and intensive care is required.

Occasionally renal damage is so extensive that dialysis is required to support the kidneys while they recover from the damage leptospirosis causes. More referral centers are offering dialysis therapy, and more than 80% of patients that would have otherwise died will survive.

Leptospirosis is often fatal, despite these efforts. It is unclear whether dogs who survive leptospirosis will have a life-long

immunity to it. Re-exposure is certainly possible. Annual vaccines following recovery should be discussed with your veterinarian.

People also can become quite ill from leptospirosis, by contact with infected water or handling urine of an infected animal. Veterinary personnel take precautions such as wearing gloves and face masks when handling leptospirosis patients. Pet owners should avoid contact with their dog’s urine or wear gloves when cleaning urine. Bacteria are susceptible to routine disinfectants; a 1:10 bleach solution will kill the organism.

Dogs should urinate away from standing water, where no other animals or people, especially children, will have access.

Everyone should wash their hands thoroughly after handling their pets. People living in a household with a leptospirosis patient should contact their physician to discuss this disease in people, or any clinical illness they develop, especially if they are immunocompromised.

Prevention involves vaccination for dogs and avoidance of the environmental conditions known to harbor the organism. Current vaccines against canine leptospirosis offer protection against 4 of the more virulent strains. Routine vaccination will also help limit risk of infection to people. Vaccination of “at-risk” dogs should be carefully considered with your veterinarian. The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine recommends prophylactic use of antibiotics for other dogs in the household that may have been exposed to leptospirosis in the environment, ideally while monitoring blood antibody titers.

Since infection likely occurred through direct or indirect contact with wildlife or farm animals, exposure to these animals should be minimized.

Eliminating standing pools of water; preventing pets from drinking from mud puddles; minimizing exposure to swamps and ponds; minimizing wild animal contact by fencing and rodent control; controlling trash buildup around houses to minimize skunk and raccoon exposurethese are all ways to help prevent exposure to this potentially deadly organism.

For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control website: www.cdc.gov/leptospirosis/pets Dr. Millie was born in Burlington and grew up in Pennsylvania. (Go Flyers!)

She worked in pharmaceutical research before going to veterinary school at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Dr. Millie worked in various small animal clinics in Vermont before settling into Petit Brook Veterinary Clinic in 2000. She is very active in the Vermont and New England Veterinary Medical Associations. Her cats Percy and Emma have trained her well and allow her to live with them Fall 2015

Catios

KEEPING CATS AND BIRDS SAFE Catherine Greenleaf

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id you know that 2.4 billion birds are killed by outdoor cats in the U.S. every year? Did you also know that 50 million outdoor cats are killed annually in this country due to a number of causes?

Perhaps it’s time for birdwatchers and cat lovers to call a truce and work together to end what is, in effect, a holocaust of innocent animals.

Re c e n t j o i n t re s e a rc h by t h e Smithsonian Biology Institute and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service revealed that outdoor cats are the number one source of mortality for birds in the U.S. and Canada.

It’s important to realize how much suffering is involved, not just for birds, but for cats. Cats allowed outdoors are hit by cars and trucks, poisoned and shot by irate neighbors, trapped in sheds where they starve to death, caught in leg-hold traps, attacked by loose dogs and eaten alive by wild animals like fisher cats.

Outdoor house cats also contract feline leukemia (which is often fatal) from other cats outside, particularly from feral cat colonies.

If there are so many dangers for cats that venture outside, then why do cat owners allow their beloved pets outdoors? Cat owners are understandably often caught in a dilemma. They are concerned about adding variety to their cats’ lives and want to give their cats an outdoor experience in which they can receive fresh air, sunshine and stimulation. However, they are also concerned about keeping their cats safe while outside, as well as keeping wildlife safe.

A good compromise may be a catio.

What is a catio? A catio is a specially built outdoor enclosure for cats. Much like a small, screened-in porch, a catio allows cats to lounge in the sun on carpeted shelves and hammocks, play with toys, run through tunnels, climb up perches and scratching posts - all within the safe confines of an enclosure.

Kits available by mail can be completed in a single weekend. Catios can range in price from $100 to several thousand for the more palatial enclosures. Some catios are freestanding and portable.

Others attach to your house, balcony or back fence. Many catio owners install a human-sized door or fit the catio against Fall 2015

Purrfect Catios at www.PurrfectCatio.com

an exterior door, so they can sit inside the catio to enjoy their felines’ company.

According to the Humane Society, catios offered by CatsOnDeck are made of panels that snap together and can be fashioned into a five-level fun house for

cats. Safe Kitty Company offers a 36-footsquare, three-sided catio of wood that can be built so your cat has access to his outdoor play room via a window. Besides Continued NEXT PAGE

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a variety of enclosures (pictured on pg 7), Purrfect Catio also offers apartment balcony catios. Or you can contact Just4Cats, Catio Designs or Catio Spaces to buy a set of plans for $25-$50 to build your own.

“Catios are a great alternative,” says Grant Sizemore, Director of Invasive Species Programs at the American Bird Conservancy. A catio can have a dramatic positive impact upon the lives of birds.

The benefit to cats is incredibly positive, too. The average outdoor cat, especially in New Hampshire and Vermont, is lucky to make it to age 2 or 3, while an indoor cat that gets to use a catio can live to a ripe old age of 15.

It’s important to understand that when cats attack birds they transmit Pasturella bacteria into the bloodstream of the bird. Pasturella exposure is 100 percent fatal to birds unless the bird is treated Locally, Steve Knapp built a Tree House Catio, promptly with antibiotics. The enclosed with wire screening. safe window for treatment is usually 12-24 hours. After that, the Pasturella quickly replicates in the bird’s immune system and overwhelms and kills the bird by the 72-hour mark. This is why putting a cat-injured bird without treatment back into the wild results in a guaranteed fatality within three days.

Cat bites also result in a rupture of internal organs and internal hemorrhaging both of which often result in death. Swift action on your part in getting an injured bird to a wildlife rehabilitator can prevent a fatality.

In addition, a catio can help maintain good neighbor relations. Cats allowed to roam outdoors have a tendency to defecate in vegetable gardens, treating the raised beds as if they were giant litter boxes. These feces can carry Toxoplasmosis, which can make people very sick. Toxoplasmosis exposure can result in miscarriage, fetal deformities, blindness and memory loss, according to Sizemore.

The bottom line is that cats are not expendable items. They are cherished pets with unique personalities that deserve your care and protection. Birds deserve the same care and protection as well. With a little compromise, the rewards can be great–for all concerned.

Catherine Greenleaf is the director of St. Francis Wild Bird Hospital in Lyme, N.H. If you have an injured bird, please call 603-795-4850.

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Firemen, English Bulldogs and 2016

Karen Sturtevant

iddle me this: What do hand- playing dog wranglers and directors with some firemen, wrinkly English bulldogs a group of incredibly humble and courteand a warm July day have in common? ous, strong, and sweet firemen and EMTs. Answer: They all came together to make The dogs ranged from rambunctious summer magic.

(Ramsey, Buddy, and Pete) to calm and The Williston-based Vermont English can-I-have-a-break-and-lie-on-this-coolBulldog Rescue has placed over 20 dogs floor (Tilley, Penney, and Patches). just this year. Every dog arrives with its Each dog was given the red carpet own story: surrendered due to an owners treatment and doted upon––another illness, too many pets and one had to go, teaching lesson that not all people are too expensive, too this or too that, found cruel––including puppy mill survivors, tied to a tree behind an abandoned build- Buttercup and Lulubelle. With their big ing, one of 48 animals in one house––all hearts and strong want to trust, Butter true–– and the list goes on. and Lu bravely marched up when it was English bulldogs are among one the their turn and showed us that every day most expensive canine breeds to own, spent showing them kindness and comprone to respiratory problems, eye issues, passion comes back one hundred times. are heat susceptible, cold sensitive, and They were troopers, being fussed over often have arthritis and skin infections. and adored. Their photos, along with On the flip-side, they are delightful, silly, their canine companion and new human good-natured and show steadfast deter- friends, will grace the pages of our first mination. When a new bulldog arrives, annual calendar, The Rescuers and The they are seen by a vet where health issues Rescued. All proceeds will be used to pay are accessed and a spay or neuter sched- the astronomical medical, transport and uled, if not already done. The road to rehabilitation costs of saving these regal rehabilitation begins on day one, minute dogs. one.

Shiny red firetrucks (one an antique), Many dogs arrive outside of New a group of Vermont’s finest first respondEngland––as far away as Florida and ers and medley of somewhat well-behaved Texas. We’ve been able to coordinate the (but always well-meaning and darn cute) journey of many by way of land and air. English bulldogs will guide us through One leg of the Vermont-bound destina- 2016 page by page. Ramsey and Pete both tion may first be made with a road trans- want to be featured for May––we may port volunteer, the next by a foster, still have to flip a coin. another by a local shelter saint and then We are beyond thankful for the people the final leg flown by a member of Pilots that made this project happen in record and Paws. An army of like-minded peo- time. ple looking out for the welfare of those This special calendar will be available misfortunate through no fault of their for purchase at both locations of Pet Food own. A full-time job without question.

Warehouse and on our website,www.

This is not cheap vocation. The time VermontEnglishBulldogRescue.com. At and energy devoted to these smushy- the end of the day, the verdict was in: Yes, faced canines rivals that of parent to magic really does happen. child. High quality dog food (kibble and wet), nutritional supplements, vetKaren Sturtevant is a freelance writer, erinarian bills, baths, ear wash, vaccinaworks at the nutritional supplement tions, medications, harnesses, leashes, company, FoodScience Corporation, is and on and on. Like many rescues, these editor-in-chief and contributing writer expenses are paid out of our own pockets, of Vermont Bride magazine, and the donations and any funds raised by activiauthor of two children’s books, The ties like tag and bake sales. You’ll see us clipping coupons and searching for sales on pumpkin, sardines and two for one deals on organic kale and strawberries.

We’ve recently made photo notecards featuring our rescues and t-shirts, available on our website. We are grateful for every dollar and thought we’d take a chance, a big bulldog chance, at a fundraising calendar (remember the reference to the handsome firemen?). With the thumbs-up of town management, we arrived with a pack of adopted and hopeto-be-adopted rescue dogs, at our hometown fire station.

Professional photographers Cat McKeen and Jeremy LeClair with cameras at the ready spent the next few hours

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Adventures of Gert & Stu and Zippy too and The Rainy Day Adventures of Gert & Stu and Zippy too. She volunteers with Green Mountain Animal Defenders and Vermont English Bulldog Rescue. She shares her home with two guinea pigs, two Russian tortoises, fiancé, Mike and her beautiful English bulldog Penney.

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I

FOREVER

t was humorist Josh Billings who said, “A dog is the only thing on earth who loves you more than he loves himself.” The best part of a dog’s love is that it doesn’t come with an expiration date. How many of us have at least one password as the name of our first dog. After more than 40 years, my first dog will still visit me in my dreams. Whenever I see a beagle, it brings me back to a simpler time, and I can almost feel Snoopy’s presence.

As a little girl, Kate grew up with her best friend, Blondie, a Golden Retriever. Goldie was 70 pounds of love, who loved people, especially Kate. Before the spoils of video games and social media, Kate and Blondie would spend hours playing in winters wonderland and wasting summer days the way kids do. As fall arrived, Blondie was Kate’s constant companion, walking her up the driveway to catch the school bus and greeting her there in the afternoon, with tail wagging. Every night when Kate would climb into bed and say her prayers, Blondie would wait for mom or dad to turn out the light, then she would curl up at the foot of Kate’s bed, where she would sleep the night through.

But just as all of us are only here for a short time, the same goes for our best friends. The day came when it was only mom who met Kate at the bus. As the tears rolled like a summer thunderstorm, Kate’s mom hugged her with love and shared, “Your heart is large enough to always hold a place for Blondie and she will always be with us.”

Although only days passed before they boxed up Blondie’s bowl and collar, weeks and even months later, Kate would empty the vacuum and smile as she gently removed dog hair. Mom was right, Blondie would always be with us.

It was a cold night in October when Kate settled into a restless sleep. It was the kind of dream that you know is a dream but also feels very real. She heard a dog barking, so loudly in fact that it actually woke her. Maybe it was a neighbor dog? But before she could put her thoughts together, her mind raced to another issue...something’s burning! The smell was distinct and definitely not a dream.

Kate ran quickly down the hall and woke her parents. Her dad knew instantly that it was the furnace and rushed the family next door and called the fire department. The first responders arrived quickly and to the good fortune of all, the furnace had just begun to smolder with only minor smoke damage, confined to the basement. After a couple of hours the coast was clear.

“It will be light soon. Why don’t you try to get some sleep,” dad said to Kate. As her parents ushered her into her room, they all stopped on a dime. Maybe our dogs will always be with us, because there on the foot of the bed lay Blondie’s collar.

10 4 Legs & a Tail

Fall 2015

Alternatively Speaking: More Tools for Better Success Dr. Anne Carroll, DVM, CVA

E

arlier this spring I needed to cut a board to finish the last of my raised beds for my little garden. The wood kept moving, my progress was slow and frustrating. I managed a crooked cut, not quite the right length, good enough. Had I used a clamp to hold the board and a different technique to measure my cut things, it would have gone easier, come out better and I would not be nursing a blister.

We all know the sayings “the right tool for the job” and “if the only tool you have is a hammer you tend to see every problem as a nail.”

When I practiced only conventional medicine, the medical approach was thorough, but limiting. The tools for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment were all designed to fit this system of medicine.

Any patient whose disease did not fit into this system was left with few options. But medical traditions have existed for centuries before the birth of modern medicine. The fact that they were developed through observation and trial and error, not in a laboratory, does not detract from the knowledge these medical systems generated. Today they still provide tools for assessment and treatment that we can use to help our patients.

Teala was an adorable and very sweetnatured 6 year old Chihuahua who lived with a loving family. Teala was vomiting often and was very dehydrated and weak.

Her regular veterinarian identified liver and kidney disease, possibly from an infection or toxin, the cause was not clear. Further testing was not possible and neither was the level of hospitalization her condition required. Her owners were devoted and did not want to lose her at such a young age. Her veterinarian gave fluids and medications for nausea and infection. Drugs had mostly stopped the vomiting but she was still not doing well. From a Western perspective, her blood values were life threatening, without more tests or aggressive intervention, her chances were slim.

Teala was initially seen by my colleague, Dr. Black, five days later. Her kidneys were not working properly and waste products in her blood were 7 – 10 times over the normal limit and starting to damage her body. Her tongue was raw with ulcers, she was weak, thin, and eating and drinking very little. With this level of kidney damage there was not much hope with full Western tests and therapies, Dr Black used other tools to assess and treat Teala.

Fall 2015

Teala needed help for her damaged organs, but she had to eat to survive and to take in medicine. Dr Black used a combination approach or integrative therapy.

Teala continued on Western medicines for nausea, hydrating fluids, antibiotics and antacids for the heartburn caused by kidney failure. A nutritional support was added to provide whole food nutrients to the kidneys, containing the specific vitamins, minerals and enzymes needed. Western medicine often ignores the greatest tool we have to help our bodies fight disease – nutrition. In my opinion, nutritional therapy is best done using whole foods in supplements, raw feeding or fresh homemade diets.

After 24 hours Teala began to eat a little more. After 3 days she was still very weak and wobbling around, but feeling a bit better and continuing to eat. Her kidney values were high, but had come down significantly. Dr Black was still concerned her waste levels were too high for her little body. I was consulted to evaluate Teala from a Chinese medical perspective, allowing us another set of therapeutic tools.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is one of the most documented ancient medical practices, with Chinese explanations of physiology, identification of disease patterns, and formularies of herbal treatments dating back to 2000 BC. Using this method, the way we interpret exam findings are designed to fit the Chinese medical system and generate totally different ideas about what is going wrong.

This different perspective gives us the treatment tools of acupuncture and herbs, and gives us clues for what Western therapies may work alongside for maximum success. The formula we chose for Teala fit her Chinese diagnosis, but also the actions of the plants in this formula include treatment of acute inflammatory damage to the kidney and liver. It is being studied extensively for its success in treating a number of conditions in people.

Two weeks later, Teala was really starting to feel better, not vomiting, drinking well on her own, and playing with her pups. As kidney values improved she was weaned off Western medications. Dr Black added more nutritional supports for her liver and kidneys. Two months after becoming ill, Teala was back to her normal self. She was eating a home cooked diet, drinking normally, and had gained weight. Blood values were still elevated at only twice normal values.

Teala continues to feel and act like a normal dog. She is on nutritional supports for her liver and kidneys, a home cooked diet, and Chinese herbs. With no outward symptoms any kidney damage, her values continue to remain near normal.

How powerful our bodies can be at recovering from illness, given support and time to allow them to. This case is also an example of utilizing all the knowledge, modern and ancient, to help treat our patients. Integrating different medical approaches gives us opportunities to examine the patient using different yardsticks, giving us more tools for treatment should the conventional approach not provide the answers we need.

Having the correct tools and the knowledge of how to use them, makes all the difference. Every day that I practice medicine I am so very thankful for the additional “tools” alternative medicine gives us to help our patients.

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 www.4LegsAndATail.com 11

Let’s Talk Turkey Your Pets and Thanksgiving T

Goats have no upper front teeth. Instead they have a hard "gum pad" in the place of upper teeth.

Football is partfront of our Thanksgiving tradition.

Be sure your bird is cooked to temperature and your ball properly inflated.

12 4 Legs & a Tail

M. Kathleen Shaw, DVM

he last thing any pet owner wants to do on Thanksgiving is rush their pet to the animal emergency room. The sad truth is that many pets are injured or poisoned around Thanksgiving.

How can you make sure your holiday doesn’t end in disaster?

During the holidays, most animal related ER visits are due to eating something inappropriate. Some foods cause upset stomachs, some are poisonous, and some can cause life-threatening obstructions. We know that 60% of us will share our holiday meal with our pets, but you should follow a few basic guidelines.

A small amount of white turkey is an acceptable treat but definitely avoid the turkey skin and the turkey bones.

The skin is often fatty and can cause pets to develop pancreatitis, a painful and potentially lethal inflammation of your pet’s pancreas. Poultry bones, especially cooked, have potential to both break off and cause a perforation of the digestive tract or cause an obstruction.

Other foods to avoid include grapes and raisins, excessively salty foods, foods flavored with onion or garlic powder, desserts and sweets containing Xylitol, and chocolates. All leftovers should be secured behind a pet-proof door.

Remember, keep your trash can secure. As we leave the kitchen and dining room to relax with our guests, pets often are lured by the enticing smell of food and can sneak into the trash or leftovers. Many items used in the meal preparation and then thrown away can be dangerous. A turkey string, foil wrappers, and food containers may smell like food and be eaten by a curious pet.

During family gatherings, if you are having people over that you know can’t resist slipping your pet some people food (there’s one in every family), consider confining pets away from the kitchen/ dining areas. It might also be best to keep pets confined if they are overly anxious.

Monitor people going in and out of the front door so that your pets don’t escape.

Keep your veterinarian’s and the local animal emergency hospital’s phone numbers handy. A quick call to either of them can give you life-saving advice or even help you avoid a trip to the emergency room.

The Vermont Veterinary Medical Association (VVMA), founded in 1898, is a professional organization of more than 330 veterinarians dedicated to compassionate animal care and quality medicine. For more information, visit www.vtvets.org Fall 2015

Loan Repayment Program Promotes Food Animal Practice T

he Vermont Veterinary Medical Association (VVMA) has awarded $58,000 in grants to three Vermont food animal veterinarians: Dr. Alison Cornwall of Middlesex, Dr. Megan Foy of Danville, and Dr. Jennifer Hull of Enosburg Falls.

These grants were made possible through funding by the Vermont Legislature to the Vermont Agency of Agriculture. The program is administered by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture and the Vermont Veterinary Medical Association.

This is the third round of awards for the Loan Repayment Program which began in fiscal year 2012. The veterinarians commit to a year of service in food animal practice in underserved areas of the state in return for the award which is used to pay off their student loans.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the average student loan debt veterinary school graduate is over $162,000. “The loan repayment program helps to ease the burden of student loans while ensuring that rural areas of Vermont have access to veterinary services to protect the health of the animals and the quality of the food they produce” said Dr. Millie Armstrong, VVMA President.

The VVMA is pleased to announce the recipients of their 2015 scholarships: Rebecca Calder of Shelburne is a senior at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and a graduate of the University of Vermont;

Megan Haughy of Richford is a senior at Oklahoma State University and a graduate of the University of Vermont; Madalyn Kirbach of Mendon is a senior at Oklahoma State University and a graduate of Castleton State College; Jessica Werner of Middlebury is a junior at Colorado State University and a graduate of Colby College.

Congratulations to these Vermont students!

Small Dog, Small World A

Tim Hoehn

few days prior to Paws for a Caws Adopt-a-Thon in Barre, we found out that my elderly mother-in-law had stage 4 with cancer. After her husband of 50+ passed away a couple of years ago, she was very lonely and decided to get a dog (which we encouraged.) However, we Pauline with her mini "Gretchen" were surprised when she told us that she got a Miniature Long-haired Dachshund puppy and asked us to take care of it if anything ever happened to her. No, we didn’t want another dog, but what could we say.

As I was working the 4 Legs & a Tail booth that Saturday, I had many fans of the magazine stop by with greetings of praise. I asked one couple how they were enjoying the show. They said they came looking for a dog to adopt but didn’t find the right breed. It seems that they had Miniature long-hair Dachshunds and had to put their last one down last year.

I quickly explained the situation with my mother-in-law and asked if they might be interested in adopting hers when the time was right. They expressed some interest, but would need to know more about the dog and its background as they were longtime, responsible owners of the minis.

I said I would be in touch and asked her her name. “Samantha Smedy”, she re-plied.

As you know, Barre is a small town. When I asked if she was related to my mother-in-law, PaulineSmedy,shesaidshewasanauntandinfact, shehadapuppyfromherlastdogslitter.

Needless to say, they are on the top of the list to adopt my mother-in-law's dog to the delight of everyone. Talk about a small world!

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Fall 2015

Meet Mala Boo Dr. Helia Zamprogno, DVM, MS, PhD

M ala Boo is a beautiful, adventurous 8 year old Labrador. One day last

October after returning from a hike she began showing signs of neck pain.

The neck pain became more severe and progressed to tetraparesis (unable to walk and very little movement of her 4 limbs).

At Burlington Emergency Veterinary Specilaists she underwent a neurologic examination and CT scan showing a slipped disc (intervertebral disc disease), compressing the spinal cord at C5-C6 on her neck. Mala Boo’s amazing family decided to go through with surgery knowing a long road and tough recovery was ahead of them. The same day as the exam and CT, Mala Boo underwent a ventral slot (bone tunnel made on the spinal canal floor to retrieve the disc material compressing the spinal cord). Mala Boo was kept sedated and received different types of pain medication to control what we call wind up pain – a pain that persists even after the insult has been removed.

One of the most extraordinary moments in my career occurred 2 days post surgery while the owners were visiting. Mala Boo was still very painful and unable to move. We were going over all of the options and that prognosis can be good but recovery is long and difficult. At that moment, Mala moved her front limb for the first time since she became tetraparetic, and reached for her owner. At that moment, they said, we are going to continue, Mala deserves that support.

After that, slow improvements could be observed daily. Mala would be able to hold her head up for few minutes which progressed to her moving her legs more vigorously and wagging her tail. Five days after surgery, Mala was discharged from the hospital, still unable to walk and on several pain medications. Mala’s mom Micheline cared for Mala every day, giving her pain medications, doing her home exercises, expressing her bladder and carrying her outside. Again, Mala showed daily improvements and 2 weeks after surgery, she was be able to stand with very little support and did not show any more signs of pain.

The Vanovac family continued her exercises at home, holding her up for balancing exercises, doing range of motion, stimulating Mala to move with treats – luckily Mala Boo loves her treats! Five weeks after surgery, Mala could walk on her own and was enjoying the snow outside. What initially was a slow walk with Fall 2015

some paw placing mistakes, gradually became a normal walk and finally Mala Boo (and her family) got her life back.

Mala Boo and her family have many more hikes ahead of them.

Originally from Brazil, Dr. Helia Zamprogno completed her veterinary degree at the Rio de Janeiro College of Veterinary Medicine. Prior to moving to the US to pursue surgery as a specialty, Dr. Zamprogno managed her own mobile surgery practice in Brazil. Dr. Zamprogno completed her surgical residency at the University of Illinois in 2014 and joined BEVS later that fall.

www.4LegsAndATail.com 15

Right In Your Backyard!?!

Do You Know What Progeny Are?

D

Tim Goodwin

id you know the world’s largest Dairy Breed Association is located in Brattleboro Vermont? Holstein Association USA was established in 1885 and has been located in Brattleboro since 1903.

Since its formation, the Holstein Association has been dedicated to the development of the Holstein breed.

Today, Holstein cattle dominate the U.S. dairy industry due to unexcelled production, greater income over feed costs, unequaled genetic merit and their adaptability to a wide range of environmental conditions.

Holstein Association USA maintains the records for all ancestry, identity, ownership and performance information on more than 28 million Registered Holstein cattle that is contained in Association files.

The Association is in the business of providing information to dairy produc-

16 4 Legs & a Tail

Progeny are the offspring of an animal. Holstein cows typically calve for the first time when they are 23 to 26 months of age, with healthy calves weighing an average of 80 to 100 pounds at birth. Holsteins have a gestation period of nine months. ers, members and nonmembers. This data is translated into information used by producers in making profitable business decisions.

Producers who use Association programs and services find they can make accurate breeding and management decisions, set goals for their herd, evaluate management practices, determine mar-

ket value of breeding stock, and predict performance and profitability of animals not yet born.

The Association processes over 370,000 registrations and 70,000 transfers each year. On an average day, 1,400 registrations are received and processed.

The day-to-day business of the Association is handled by the Chief Executive Officer (CCO) and a staff of 140 employees. Nearly 100 employees are based in the home office, managing the operational details of providing Association programs and services. 40 field staff employees, located throughout the country, provide on-farm assistance and services to dairy producers.

Holstein cattle are the most prominent of the seven major dairy breeds in the United States, easily recognizable by their distinctive black and white markings. Cows of Holstein descent make up over 90% of the cows on U.S. dairy farms. Who knew such a major player in the industry was right here in Vermont and employing so many hard working Agricultural folks.

Fall 2015

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www.4LegsAndATail.com 17

GMAD’s president Sharon MacNair comforts baby goat

Chicks enjoy health and happiness in GMAD’s Hatchling “hospital”

All Animals Matter Alix Lara

“Animal lovers are a special breed of humans, gener-

ous of spirit, full of empathy, perhaps a little prone to sentimentality, and with hearts as big as a cloudless sky.” - John Grogan If you believe that animals of all species deserve protection and compassion, then you should check out Green Mountain Animal Defenders (GMAD), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-run organization based right here in Vermont.

We have been diligently utilizing our statewide network of interns and volunteers to protect the well-being of all animals since 1983.

GMAD’s volunteers effectively advocate for animal protection through education, outreach efforts, and collaboration, primarily in these six categories: pets (spay/neuter, petfood drives, TNR, feral-cat shelters, doghouses), wildlife (protection, support), animals used as entertainment (circuses, fairs, rodeos), animals used for apparel (fur, exotic skins), animal experimentation (product testing, dissection), and farmed animals (vegetarianism, rescue).

One of GMAD’s many programs is our very unique Chick Rescue Project, which began spontaneously when GMAD’s president, Sharon MacNair, was waiting in line at a hardware store. She overheard a complaint about a bleeding chick in a bin at the back of the store which compelled her to find out what had happened. After learning that hatchling chicks, poults (baby turkeys), goslings, and ducklings may arrive or

18 4 Legs & a Tail

become sick or injured and are not saleable, they are often put down with a snap of their tiny necks, Sharon intervened.

That chick went home with her, and the rescue program was “hatched.”

Next, several farm and feed stores were contacted with news of this unique program, and some now reach out to GMAD when they have sick or injured hatchlings. GMAD rescues the babies and provides them with medical care, and eventually they are adopted into compassionate families.

Over 80 babies have been rescued so far.

We are excited to announce our 5th Annual Walk for Farmed Animals, which will be held at the Church Street Marketplace in Burlington on October 3rd (rain date October 10). The walk makes a powerful statement in favor of humane treatment of these animals, and it coincides with celebrations of World Day for Farmed Animals. All funds raised will be put to lifesaving use to rescue, transport, and care for hatchlings and other farmed animals in need. Past donations have been used to purchase hay and bedding, defray medical costs, provide transportation, help fund the repair of a tractor at a farm animal sanctuary in Vermont, and purchase a round pen and other supplies to rehabilitate horses rescued from neglect/ abuse cases.

Please sign up for our 5th Annual Walk for Farmed Animals event and/or make a donation to support this great cause. To join the walk, volunteer at the event, or find out more, contact our walk coordinator at 802-861-3030 or at walk@gmad.info.

GMAD also offers a wide variety of volunteer opportunities and internships. Whether you are looking to help out once or work with us on an ongoing basis, we’ll always be grateful to have your help. With a constant stream of needs across Vermont, we are looking for longtime animal advocates, as well as volunteers who have no experience but have a desire to help animals. For more information about what we do and how you can help, please “like us” on Facebook, send a request to info@ gmad.info to be added to our e-alert list and visit our website at www.

GreenMountainAnimalDefenders.org.

Fall 2015

If I Can’t Brush My Cat’s or Dog’s Teeth, What Else Can I Do to Control Periodontal Disease?

I

Sandra L Waugh VMD, MS-Windsor, VT

have written about periodontal disease in prior issues of 4 Legs & A Tail.

Periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs and cats, and is present to some degree in 80% of pets over the age of 3 years. It is caused by plaque accumulation in the space between the gum and the tooth (the gingival sulcus). Periodontal disease is associated with oral pain, bad breath, ulcers in the mouth, loss of bone around the roots of the teeth, loose teeth with eventual loss of teeth and the potential for generalized disease in the heart, liver and kidneys. It is preventable with daily oral care, which means brushing the teeth every day.

However, many owners are either unwilling or unable to brush their dog’s teeth every day, and many cats, unless they are trained as kittens, will not tolerate toothbrushing. Fortunately some new products for prevention of periodontal disease or slowing the progression of already present periodontal disease have been introduced.

One new product is called SANOS®, which is applied by your veterinarian after the teeth have been professionally cleaned. It earned the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal in November 2011. VOHC exists to recognize products that meet pre-set standards of plaque and calculus (tartar) retardation in dogs and cats. Products are awarded the VOHC Seal of Approval following review of data from trials conducted according to VOHC protocols. The VOHC does not test products itself.

There are numerous products on the market that make claims about improving the dental health of dogs and cats. Consumers should be aware that there is no federal governmental oversight of such claims, and it is very much buyer beware. The Veterinary Oral Health Council provides a Seal of Acceptance to companion animal dental products that have undergone strict testing protocols to ensure the safety and efficacy of the product.

What is SANOS®? It was develop by Peter Emily, DDS, a human dentist who really wanted to be a veterinarian but whose father would not let him attend veterinary school. He has subsequently worked in veterinary dentistry as well as human dentistry. SANOS® is a liquid which is applied Look for the VOHC Seal by means of a small brush directly into the space of Acceptance on any between the gum and the tooth (gingival sulcus). product with a dental The idea is to fill this space with the SANOS®. Once claim for cats or dogs. applied, the liquid dries in 10 to 15 seconds. It forms a barrier to plaque while allowing water and oxygen to pass through. The owner should not brush the teeth for the first week after SANOS has been applied.

It can best be described as a self-hardening liquid bandage device that helps and aids in gingival and oral health.

Importantly, no take home follow-up application is required by the owner and one application lasts up to 6 months.

While there will be some calculus on the teeth in 6 months, I have been impressed by the lack of plaque or tartar in the gingival sulcus in SANOS® treated pets at the 6 month re-application. Any Continued NEXT PAGE

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tartar on the teeth also seems easier to remove than in non-SANOS® treated pets. It is important to realize that the presence of tartar on the surface of the tooth is not the cause of periodontal disease and is not directly related to the presence and/or severity of periodontal disease.

Sanos® application to the upper fourth premolar and upper canine tooth in the cat. The gingival sulcus is normally quite shallow in the cat. It should be no more than 1mm deep on any of teeth.

Sanos® application to the upper canine tooth in a 100 pound dog. The gingival sulcus depth is quite variable in the dog, with the deepest sulcus occurring on the upper canine tooth and the least deep on the fourth premolars and molars on upper and lower jaws. The supplied brush slides easily into the space.

More information about SANOS® can be found at www.allaccem.com.

Note for Veterinarians: You must use a non-fluoride prophy paste or pumice flour made into a paste after cleaning the teeth if SANOS® is to be applied. Either product is available from veterinary distributors.

Typically prophy paste contains fluoride so you must specify fluoride free. The fluoride ion interferes with the hardening of the SANOS®. If any veterinarians or veterinary technicians have questions about SANOS®, you are welcome to call me for practical tips about using this product at 802-674-2070.

Dr.Waugh is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.

She also holds a Masters Degree from Washington State University of Veterinary Medicine and is owner of Windsor Veterinary & Dental Services.

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Fall 2015

Love thy Aquarium D J Nelson - St. Johnsbury, VT

T

he kids are back in school, you have had your last hurrah before the leaves turn. Yep, Fall is upon us. This fall, fall out of dread and fall in Love with your aquarium. After a summer of beach time, family vacations, camping, etc. our fish tanks can look a bit unloved. We put off cleaning the aquarium until a family function because we don’t want to spend hours draining the aquarium, scraping it all down and setting it back up.

The good news is you don’t need to.As Susan Powter used to say, Stop the Insanity! Believe it or not, the best thing for your aquarium is do small water changes. Thus putting less stress on you and your fish. With a few simple steps you can have your aquarium looking like it did when you first set it up. You will need a few items before you get started.

Test kit, Gravel Vacuum, Algae scraper, 5 gallon bucket (1 or 2 depending on if you need to clean your aquarium décor), Bleach (depending on condition of the aquarium décor), Water conditioner , Filter cartridge, Toothbrush Step 1

Test Your Aquarium.

Test for PH, Nitrite, and Nitrate. (If you don’t have a test kit you can pick one up at your local Pet Store) Chances are your Nitrate will be high which is anything above 40ppm (parts per million) and PH might be low (below 6.8).

Nitrite should still test at zero. It will be good to write down the results on a piece of paper dating it so you know when you took the test.

Step 2

Scrape The Aquarium.

Using your Algae scraper go over the glass. Front, sides and back. You may need to re-scrape once things settle and you can see the glass more clearly.

Step 3

Cleaning Aquarium Décor.

You may or may not need to do this step depending on how algae covered your décor is. If you have décor that is covered in algae simply pull it and place it in one of your 5 gallon buckets (make sure there are not fish, snails etc. hiding in the decorations. Fill it up with water then pour in a good 2 or 3 cups of bleach. Let it set anywhere from 1 hour to 12 hours depending on how tough the algae is.

Once you can’t see any algae on the decorations, you can empty the bucket and rinse (you may need an old tooth brush), the algae or any slime should come right off with minimal scrubbing. After you are done thoroughly rinsing your décor, place it back in the bucket, fill it up and add 2 to 3 times the amount of water conditioner that the directions tell you to, and let it set for 15 minutes. Afterwards, rinse your decorations and place them back in your aquarium. The water conditioner will get rid of any bleach residue. However cleaning your aquarium decorations can be also done at a later time. You may even find you want to put in new décor to give it a different look this is a perfect time to do so.

Step 4

Water Change

Useing your gravel vacuum and bucket, get the water flowing into the bucket. Then insert the vacuum into the gravel, moving it up and down covering the whole bottom of the aquarium. Be careful to only remove about 20% of the water. You should see any waste etc. coming up out of the gravel and flowing into your bucket. On 10 gallon aquariums or smaller you may want to only do ½ of the gravel at this water change and cover the other ½ in a few days.

Fall 2015

Step 5

Filling Your Aquarium

After you have taken out 20% of the water you will want to replace it. Rinse the bucket well, that you used to remove the water, then fill it and add water conditioner (using the amount recommended on the bottle), and add it to your aquarium.

Step 6

Filter Maintenance

Two or three days after doing your first water change, you will want to clean your filter intake, impeller, and change your filter cartridge. The user manual that came with your filter will assist you with how to take your filter apart and put it back together. Don’t have the manual? That’s ok! Stop in to your local pet store, they will be happy to assist in showing you how to clean it.

You will want to repeat step 4 and 5 for the next couple of weeks 2 times a week. Cleaning your aquarium décor can also be done at a later time. Decor covered in algae will not hurt your fish at all, nor does it contaminate your water quality. The most important actions are doing the water changes and filter maintenance. Water changes may only take 15 minutes of your time. Much better than taking the whole afternoon. I’m sure if your fish could talk they would agree. Test your aquarium once a week, you should see Nitrates go down and if your PH was below 6.8 you should see this go up, (High Nitrates cause CO2 that can drop your PH levels). After 2 or 3 weeks you should be able to add new fish to your aquarium. If you want to give your aquarium a new look with some new decorations this is a perfect time to do so.

If you have questions or concerns at any time, contact your local pet store. They will help you get your aquarium back to where you would like to see it.

DJ Nelson has worked in the pet industry for almost two decades and is the owner of AquaRealm Aquarium & Pets in St. Johnsbur y Vermont. He works with Reptiles, Birds, Small Animals , F r e s h / S a l t wa t e r fish, and Dog & Cat Nutrition. Since proper care is constantly changing, educating customers about their pets is the most important. www. aquarealmaquarium.com and Facebook. www.4LegsAndATail.com 21

Goats as Pets A

Tim Goodwin

s we wind down on the summer, and I look out at my nicely mowed lawn I remember (as I seem to each year about this time) that I don’t want to mow the lawn ever again... Hmmm, maybe I can find a fun pet that will mow for me.

Now we are talking...

As I come up with even more ideas of how to not mow (I wonder if Amazon offers a drone that will do it?). How about Goats. Goats sound great, the nice calming sounds of the Maaaaaaah’s coming from outside as they nicely walk around and trim the lawn. I can sip lemonade and relax while the work gets done.

Actually goats do not do well with trimming a lawn. They are natural wanderers and nibble on just about any plant.

More than likely they will nibble on part of the lawn and then move on to the roses, perennials and probably even the siding on the house. Got Apple trees? They love the bark and will kill a tree by nibbling the bark off.

But the nice calming sounds... well maybe not. A female in heat will make a lot of noise. And, this is once a month.

But.. Oh yeah, there is the poop to clean up off the lawn and they are nervous creatures that will pee with every loud

Goats have no upper front teeth. Instead they have a hard "gum pad" in the place of upper front teeth.

noise. Watch out for the puddles.

So, goats are not for trimming lawns.

But, they can make a great pet. They will offer hours of entertainment and companionship. They can jump very high and love to climb. A well designed fence with a good area to play will offer all the entertainment they, and you, need.

They will need plenty of hay or straw, feed and fresh water. A good shelter to keep them safe from the elements. Goats are herd animals so you will need to plan on at least two. One alone will be very lonely. Goats as kids are very cute and fun to watch.

Be aware that the intact males will grow to be big and strong, and they can smell bad. I spoke with Christy McLam from Birch Ridge Farm in Bradford, Vermont, and High Country Aluminum in Hartford, Vermont about goats as pets.

A castrated male goat is referred to as a Wether. A wethered male can make the best pet. They do not smell and they do not go into heat. She sold 30 of them this year to new homes. She enjoys her time spent with her herd of 50 goats.

Want milk, a female will need to have at least one set of offspring, and then you will need to deal with them going into heat. Be sure to do some research so you

are ready for this. Plus, what will you do with the kids?

Remember that they will need you to come out to care for them at least twice a day. You need to let them out in the morning and lock them up at night, check their water and be sure they have enough feed.

This is every day all year long. If this sounds like a great way to start and finish your day, then goats may be a great pet for you.

Lissa Hinkley, of RE Hinkley wrote to me about her experience with goats: I decided a couple of years ago that I wanted a couple of goats as pets. My husband was totally against it as we live at our business. He was worried about them climbing on his prized vehicles. I finally got my way and went and bought a nice little barn and a pen for them and ended up with 2 female Nigerian dwarf goats about 2 years old.

Eventually I felt like I needed some baby goats. I had both my girls bred, and I ended up with 5 baby goats. Now 2 or 3 are pets but 7 is a herd. The babies are a year old and the moms are both 3.

In the winter I take them for walks, and they will follow me because they don’t have anything to distract them. The rest of the year they are attracted by my perennial garden, flower pots and even my daughter-inlaws nice lilac bush.

I got them for the calming mental therapy they offer. I must say even in the coldest part of winter I have never wished I didn’t have them. I enjoy the blatting as they see me come out the door. I’d like to believe they are happy to see me, but I know it’s just because they are hungry.

Oh, and they have never jumped on any of my husband’s vehicles.

Overall goats are great pets, do your research ahead of time and talk to a breeder.

Check with your town, or city ordinances to be sure you can have goats. If you are ready for them, you will not regret the fun.

22 4 Legs & a Tail

Fall 2015

Broken Heart Tanya Sousa-Orleans, VT

T

he first sign of his broken heart

was that I couldn’t get anywhere near him. He’d apparently been dumped, and was slinking around the house and fields for days, a small but bright white spot in the green grass, striking in the sunshine and with an almost moon-glow in the shade.

I could see he was skinny, and worried about my free-range hens becoming his dinner. As it turned out there was no need for concern; he only walked gingerly around them, choosing instead to sit in the hen house doorway and watch for rats.

I tried calling out to him, but the moment he heard a window or door open, he dashed away. No amount of stealth seemed to work. One time, I did manage to sneak up silently behind him as he sat in the chicken house doorway. Thinking, if I could only startle him enough to make him run inside, I could shut the door, capture him, and get him the vet care that even the naked eye could see he needed. It was all to no avail. Some small movement on my part sent him racing away again.

This went on for weeks, the skinny white cat playing hide and seek but always coming back. He was running with less energy. And I never did see him run away with a rat or mouse. I feared he was dying.

The day came when he ran under my car instead of through the fields of grass. I dropped to my knees and peered at him, seeing terrified round yellow eyes looking back into mine. He was by the right rear tire and seemed unwilling to leave, huddled and boney. I slowly rose and went back to the house, put some canned cat food on a flat dish, and oh so slowly returned and eased the plate of food close to the frightened but clearly depleted animal. He sniffed, crawled to the plate, and began eating, his body relaxing and completely giving up the fight. I could see more of his broken heart then, because I could sense that he thought I might hurt or kill him, but he was too weak and sick and starving to care. What kind of situation had he come from? Who would leave him to fend for himself or die like this?

I would have taken him in, but I had my own twenty-year-old lady feline who was frail herself. I could never risk the stress or potential disease from introducing this new cat. Instead, I brought the white cat to my vet and paid for the care, then surrendered him to the area no-kill animal shelter, once he had a clean bill of health; even that took many weeks. The vet said, “It’s a good thing you caught him when you did. He would have been dead in days.”

Life went on. Six months later my own old cat died a natural death. Six months after that, despite my own broken heart, Fall 2015

I thought it might be good to adopt again.

I toured the animal shelter and saw, as always, too many bright-eyed, playful kittens and beautiful grown cats of all colors, sizes, and personalities. I’d been through all but one room when a few cats, who clearly had the run of the entire place, sauntered by. The shelter volunteer brightened. “Lorian! This is the nice lady who rescued you! Do you remember her?”

A white cat cautiously rubbed against my legs, his body now filled out and healthy; his yellow eyes appraised me carefully but not fearfully. All I could do was gasp.

“He’s still here?” It was unheard of, cats never languished at that shelter so long.

No one had taken him home. Though he was well cared for, he had been without a lap or loved ones of his own, for an entire year. This time my heart broke for him.

The only thing that would fix it would be to love this beautiful white cat who had suffered more than he ever should have.

It was as if I was chosen for him, and he for me, even if that meant he had to get through a year until I was ready. Without a doubt, I’m glad he waited.

Tanya Sousa is a published author of many magazine articles and several children’s picture books.Most recently,her environmental novel,The Starling God,made the short-list for the national“Green Earth Book Awards,”in the Young Adult Fiction category. www.RadiantHen.com www.forestrypress.com

www.4LegsAndATail.com 23

JAMIE Vesna Dye

I

was never able to have pets, as I never owned a home, and besides, I was often travelling. My love for animals was fulfilled by house-sitting and taking care of other people’s pets. Cats are my favorite, but there was a little dog that had always, since the day we met, occupied a huge place in my heart. Jamie, a Westie, was my friend Sarah’s dog. She chose him from a breeder when Jamie was a puppy. She said she was immediately drawn to him and knew right away he was the right dog for her.

He was already a few years old when we first met at Sarah’s home in Shelburne, Vermont. It was love at first sight – we practically ran into each other’s arms upon being introduced to each other. He was white, well-groomed and playful. But what I’d noticed right away were his big, wise and gentle brown eyes. There was something human in those eyes – he was like a wise being, maybe even a magician, locked in a dog’s body. My friend Sarah let me take him for a walk. He behaved trustfully toward me, as if he had known me for a very long time.

“You are my spirit guide in the shape of a dog,” I told him. He nodded his head in agreement.

When I’d told Sarah how I felt about her dog, she agreed that he was very special. She also said that although he was small in size, she always felt protected around him.

Once, there were ru-mors that thieves were watching her neighborhood. Jamie immediately placed himself at the window, barking if he spotted someone suspicious hanging around. He had strong intuition about the human character and would make it known if he didn’t like someone. One couldn’t pretend around Jamie – he would immediately sense one’s true thoughts.

Sarah told me how he liked camping trips; he would accompany her and her husband on their hikes. Her husband adored the little dog – when he was sick, Jamie would never leave his side. Jamie was treated like a human being – he was allowed to lick dishes after Sarah and her husband’s supper. He also liked to go shopping with them, staying in their car while they were in a store.

I was delighted I’d been invited to stay with Sarah and her husband Malcolm when I had to move out of my rented apartment in Essex Junction, Vermont. I needed some more time to get ready for my trip to my first homeland, Croatia, due to my father’s illness. Jamie was delighted when he saw me moving into the upper bedroom. We went for long walks in the neighborhood every day. He liked to chase squirrels and bark at motorcyclists! We couldn’t understand his contempt for motorcyclists, but we laughed at his antics – jumping up and getting mad at them!

In the evenings, Sarah liked to read to her husband. I started to read to Jamie; we were not surprised when he listened attentively! Like me, he didn’t care for mysteries, but liked love stories. I promised Jamie I would write to him from Croatia, and that I would also write a children’s story about him.

I stayed in Croatia for over two years, and in the meantime, my father passed away. Sarah wrote to me that Jamie was not doing well; he was almost 15 years old and he started to show signs of aging.

When I returned to Vermont, Sarah came to visit me with Jamie. He was curled up in the front seat, his beautiful brown eyes veiled. I petted him, told him I love him and would never forget him.

24 4 Legs & a Tail

Fall 2015

Hyperthyroidism in Cats Catherine MacLean, DVM

H

yperthyroidismisthemostcommon hormonal abnormality diagnosed in cats. It typically affects cats 7 years of age and older. The most classic clinical sign of hyperthyroidism is a cat that is losing weight despite an excellent appetite.

Other clinical signs include restlessness, vomiting, increased water consumption, increased urination, a hair coat that looks unkempt, agitation, and increased vocalization.

The thyroid hormone is comparable to an engine in a car. It tells the body systems how fast or slow to go. When a cat is hyperthyroid it speeds everything up.

Their appetite is increased and so is their metabolism. That is why despite eating well, the affected cat will continue to lose weight. If hyperthyroidism goes untreated it can lead to serious side effects such as kidney and heart issues.

To confirm hyperthyroidism in cats, blood work needs to be done. Most likely your veterinarian will do a full blood panel that will not only look at your cat’s thyroid level, but will also look at your pet’s red and white blood cells, major organ function, and a urine sample.

Occasionally after blood work is run, the most common thyroid level that is checked may be in what is called the grey zone. This is where the thyroid level that was checked is within the normal range, but on the higher end of normal. If your veterinarian is suspicious that your cat has hyperthyroidism, she may suggest testing additional thyroid levels.

The good news is that if your cat is diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, it is a treatable condition. There are several treatment options involved. These include: • Daily oral or topical medication.

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

• Therapeutic diet. There is a prescription diet available. This diet restricts the amount of iodine in your cat’s diet. It must be fed exclusively and often means cutting out most treats.

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

• Radioactive iodine treatment. This is considered the gold standard of treatment. This is not inexpensive. It involves your pet going to a clinic that is allowed by state law to administer the radioactive Fall 2015

iodine (there is one located in Concord, NH). Your cat will be given an injection under the skin of the radioactive iodine and then stay at the hospital for up to five days. After this treatment, your cat will no longer need medication.

My own personal cat Jack was very recently diagnosed with hyperthyroidism completely by accident. I adopted Jack from a shelter over eight years ago when I was in veterinary school. Jack picked me, and he was really lucky that he did because he is an expensive cat. He gets urinary stones, so he needs to be on a special prescription diet and he also has dental issues which needs frequent dentals.

In early June I brought Jack to work with me to extract a bad tooth. Whenever Jack needs dental work he gets blood work done. While at the clinic it was noted he had lost about 1.25 lbs in the course of a year. This was strange to me because we measure out our cats’ food and he is the dominant cat in our house (i.e. he’s always shoving Misty away from her bowl so he can eat her food after he finishes his). When his blood work came back the next day, I saw that the thyroid level we commonly look for was in the grey zone.

I ordered additional thyroid testing and it came back that Jack was hyperthyroid. I had no idea! If we had never weighed him and done blood work, I would have never known since he wasn’t having any of the typical clinical signs.

We started Jack out on pills because he’ll eat anything in a pill pocket. The problem for my family is that we travel a lot and we’re not always around to give a pill twice a day. So after Jack was on pills for about six weeks, we made the decision that due to his relatively young age of nine, and our lifestyle, that radioactive iodine was the best treatment for

Jack has fully recovered from Hyperthyrodism.

him. In late July Jack went to Concord to get treated. My husband and I got to be crazy pet parents and checked in on him with the pet camera that they had set up in his room while he had to stay there. After several days, his radiation levels were low enough that it was safe for him to come home. Jack was happy to return to being king of the house and keeping everyone in line.

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

Dr. MacLean completed her Bachelor of Science from Penn State University, her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Atlantic Veterinary College, and her pet acupuncture certification from Chi Institute. Her areas of special interest include general practice and acupuncture. She opened Sugar River Animal Hospital in 2013, and she has been practicing veterinary medicine since 2010.

Dr. MacLean’s family consists of her husband Matt, her daughter Katarina, and their three pets: Jack and Misty, two cats, and Arrow, a dog.

www.4LegsAndATail.com 25

Surprise at a Vermont Juvenile Rehabilitation Center

By Steve Reiman, Founder & President, Therapy Dogs of Vermont

A

Vermont rehabilitation center for juveniles has been asking for Therapy Dogs of Vermont (TDV) members to bring their therapy dogs to help the young residents. This is a fantastic opportunity and brings to mind a visit I made there a while back.

Many years ago, I was invited to bring the founding TDV dogs to this facility and speak to the students as one might to a high school class. I remember that there were 20 to 30 boys there at the time, aged 12 to 17. We had lunch with them and then headed to the classroom. They looked like pretty tough kids who had gone through some hard times and probably had caused a few problems.

I set up my video presentation and spoke for nearly an hour about the benefits of therapy dogs in the many settings they visit. I also spoke to them about what they might do after they get out. “Shovel the driveway of the little old lady down the

26 4 Legs & a Tail

street and never tell her that it was you who did it. You’ll remember that for the rest of your life,” I told them.

While I was rambling on, my two German Shepherds were working the class.

Lily brought her small Frisbee to every kid to throw for her. Jordan had a tennis ball which she would bring to people to toss to her. But, she did more than that. Jordan always sought out the one in the room who least wanted to play with her and found a way to overcome that. Sure enough, there was a large older boy sitting in the back of the room with his arms crossed and a deep frown on his face.

As I was talking about slide after slide, I saw Jordan slowly go up to this boy and put her wet tennis ball on his knee. “Go away” he said, Copyright 2015 Therapy Dogs of Vermont All Rights Reserved and she did – for a few moments. She returned and again gently placed the ball on his knee.

This time he looked around to see that no one was watching him, and he took the ball and tossed it aside. The game was on! Jordan brought it back to him again and again.

Then I noticed the boy sliding down in his chair which seemed strange. The next time I looked, Jordan had put a paw on his knee. Oh, oh, I thought; therapy dogs should always have 4 on the floor. But, I thought that the boy weighed about 300 lbs. and Jordan only 61. “I’ll wait and see what happens,” I said to myself. The next time I looked at the back of the room, there was Jordan fully in the boy’s lap and he, with a big smile, was gently hugging her. It almost brought tears to my eyes thinking that it had probably been a long time since anyone or anything had shown affection to that young man.

Times have changed and TDV dogs must always be on leash while on duty and there is the 4 on the floor rule too. In this case, I broke that rule . . . but it was a long time ago.

Therapy Dogs of Vermont unleash smiles in many venues. This is certainly one of them.

Steve Reiman is the President and Founder of Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Therapy Dogs of Vermont (TDV) is a non-profit organization of highly-trained dogs and their volunteer handlers. Our handler/canine teams work on the emotional health of hospital patients, students in educational settings, residents of nursing/retirement homes, and correctional facilities. www.TherapyDogs.org

Fall 2015

New FUNdraising comic for SAVE OUR STRAYS-VT [founded 1995].........

Follow the adventures of Lisa THE ADJUSTER, from Pro Rassler to Pet Rescuer. This includes actual photos & a copy of her official letter from Congress in recognition of her being honored with the prestigious ”American Red Cross Hero To Animals Award”.....

Professionally illustrated by local Burlington artist......

Helps pay veterinary expenses. only $1000 SOS - BOX 167 • Huntington, VT 05462

Fall 2015

www.4LegsAndATail.com 27

Less Expensive Horses Are Out There M

onths ago I wrote an article about importing horses from Europe.

Since then people have said to me, “Join the real world, Denny! Thirty to forty thousand dollars for a horse?! We’re hard pressed to spend $7500. What about us?”

Historically, there have been several sources of modestly priced horses. These include sales stables, race tracks, western ranches, breeding farms, auctions, individual sellers (off to college, moving to NYC), and more recently the internet.

My first horses, Paint and Bonfire, came from Louis Goodyear, of Sunderland, Massachusetts. Louis ran the quintessential backyard horse sales stable. He would drive his big wooden truck (early 50’s) to auctions in New Jersey and New York, where horses were shipped by rail from Oklahoma, Texas, and the plains states. They were every color, usually stocky horses about 14.3 to 15.3 hands.

The predominant breed was Quarter Horse. They made superlative children’s and amateurs’ horses, for English or Western, Louis had a great eye for “a kid broke horse.”

Sales stables are still around, but there is a growing shortage of reliable, middle aged horses. Riding horse dealers are in

28 4 Legs & a Tail

Denny Emerson - S. Strafford, VT

competition with European horsemeat market. Each year thousands of “Steady Eddie” type horses go for slaughter instead of for riding. Tying directly into that, there is likely to be a very stringent pre-purchase veterinary exam, even for modestly priced animals.

If a dealer sees a nice, quiet 12 or 15 year-old gelding, but knows a buyer will runflexion tests, front feet or hock x-rays, why take a chance? No middle-aged horse is free of problems. Years ago, a veterinarian might have said, “This horse has minor problems, they probably aren’t significant.” Today, veterinarians don’t dare, they might get slapped with a lawsuit.

Horses used to come off the race track if they had “a case of the slows,” before they were too physically or psychologically damaged. Many of the great American team horses of the 50’s and 60’s were just such racetrack rejects.

Trends in racing work against this source of supply. Pari-mutuel racing makes money, good sized fields induce more betting. So more racing at lower and lower claiming prices injures horses who, in the old days, might have come off the track unscathed.

Training expenses are so high owners want to cash out quickly when their purchases are only two or three years old.

This led to a change in the types of horses produced by the Thoroughbred industry.

The modern race horse is a little bullet that can fly 5 or 6 furlongs at two, not one that comes into his own over a distance at age 4 or 5.

Finding horses at the track is still a way, but no sure thing, and not for the faint of heart or the ignorant.

The most underrated source of elite horses is the large supply of well bred babies for which owners can’t find ready markets. American buyers won’t consider thousands of weanlings, yearlings, and two year olds because they can’t immediately climb on them and take them to competitions.

Not everyone has the expertise to break youngsters. But, as Jack Le Goff phrased it, “You Americans want instant dressage the way you want instant coffee.”

How often have you looked at an old dog and said “He’s ten? Only yesterday he was a puppy!” Time flies. A two year old now becomes a ready to go 4 year old before your very eyes. Don’t overlook fabulous, fancy youngsters just because they’re young. Training the quiet youngsters is less daunting, especially with knowledgeable help. You don’t want the hot ones anyway!

Go West, Young Horse Buyer! (But not as far as California). The horses from

America’s heartland can be as good as from Gloucester, England, but they look scruffier. Running around in muddy pastures, it takes an astute horseman to look through the dirt and recognize a great inner athlete. The problem is having knowledgeable contacts in these more remote areas of the country.

Auctions are inexpensive but risky ways to see huge numbers of horses at one time. The Blood Horse Magazine and The Thoroughbred Times list auction results, many sell for under $5000.

The problem is, if your new filly won’t load in the trailer, if she’s lame 3 days after the auction, or she’s plumb loco, she’s still your new filly. Probably the people who do well have a good-eye for a horse, a high tolerance for risk, and they play the odds by buying lots of inexpensive horses, knowing some will be losses.

Classified ads and the internet list hundreds of horses every week, but this requires endless telephone time and traveling. I dream of the classifieds in the back of the Chronicle and the one describing the hidden Gem Twist, pulses with a red glow only I can see!

A friend bought a wonderful advanced horse off the internet for next to nothing, (bad x-rays, but sound), another bought a fabulous young mare for $5000.

The good horses are out there, but you have to be smart and lucky, and willing to look, look, look.

No matter what you buy, you’re still going to have to ride it well if it’s going to go well. Once I was riding Epic Win in a clinic with the great German grand prix trainer Walter Christensen, coach of the Swedish Dressage Team. Walter rode Epic for about 15 minutes, when I remounted, I commented, “He feels so easy now.”

Walter replied in German, all the German speakers laughed. Louis Nathhorst was translating, and I said, “Okay, Louise, what’s the big joke?” Louise replied, “Walter said, that’s the definition of an easy horse, Denny. It’s a horse a much better rider than you has just gotten off of, before it realizes that you have gotten back on!”

One of the 50 most influential horsemen of the Twentieth Century (The Chronicle of the Horse, 2000), Denny Emerson is the only rider to have ever won both a gold medal in eventing and a Tevis buckle in endurance. In 2006, Denny was inducted into the United States Eventing Association (USEA) Hall of Fame. He is also a member of the Dartmouth College Athletic Hall of Fame and of the Vermont Academy Athletic Hall of Fame. www.TamarackHill.com Fall 2015

4 LEGS & A TAIL FUN! What 7 Things Are Different?

Kids shoes are yellow, girl’s foot is missing, man’s thumb is missing, man’s foot is missing, tortoise claw is missing, shirt is missing the “N”, car and park bench are missing, silver box is missing, logo on shirt missing

On The Farm S D A O I C Z N H W Y F T D N N K T S I R W A R X P O A I D L Z H E X R Y F B T P Z E Y Y T N Q C U F J P A H Y T X I M L C Q C G Y S L I J S U N G A S Q E C I I P E M L L R J F H O U S B Q A C S O R Q K L V J S J R D C N N H J T V E A T J V V O A G T D L G Q Q Y C F K W Z H B A R P O X K K Z R N Y Q Y I O D X A E G C C M G C C S R G P I G S B E L A O I H O C H I C K E N S B H T N T F L B T S S K C U D R I S Q R K P B W S G O M R X A Q T S Q S L ALPACA CAT CHICKENS DOG DUCKS GOAT HOLSTEIN HORSE PIGS RABBIT SHEEP TURKEY

We met Wyatt Bonalumi of Canaan at the farmers market with his Sulcata Tortoise, Selma Hayek. She is six years old and weighs more than 33 lbs!

Tortoise Stats & Facts • Leopard tortoises are one of the largest tortoises in the world.

• The tortoise are herbivores eating mainly tree leaves, grass and ferns.

• Female tortoises dig nesting burrows in which they lay from 1 - 30 eggs.

• In most tortoise species, the female tends to be larger than the male.

• The tortoise is susceptible to parasites and pneumonia.

• A Tortoise is diurnal, meaning active during the day.

• Pet tortoises kept outdoors need some sort of structure in which to hide or spend the night.

• Most male tortoises have tails that are longer than those of the female.

FR

EE

Autumn 2015 Northern VT & NH

Vermont DJ And His Dog Challenge School Bullies Finding A Horse That Won’t Break The Bank Spoil Your Cat With A Cat-io Consider The Original GOATee