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SAN ANTONIO’S PREMIER PET MAGAZINE
FREE TO A GOOD HOME February 2019
2019 San Antonio Sweethearts
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{February 2019}
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THE BLUEBONNET BUNK’N BISCUIT is the realization of a decade long dream to provide quality, pet supportive boarding, exercise and interaction for the San Antonio community. We believe that the human-pet bond is one that should be nurtured to maximize the benefits to both human and pet. • Boarding with Doggie Daycare • Luxurious private Dog Suites Play Included! • Raintree Cat Condos • 1 Acre Outdoor Playscape/yards • Grooming & Training • 9000 sq. feet indoor play area • Open 7Days/Week • Covered drop off/pick up 6:30am-6:30pm • Eco Friendly Pet Care • Pet Taxi
210.655.2865
16302 North IH 35, | Selma, TX 78154 (North Bound Access of I35 at FM 1518)
www.mybunknbiscuit.com | info@MyBunknBiscuit.com
We have Private Lessons, In Home Training, Board & Train Immersion, and Group Class programs which address such things as: Basic Puppy Manners • Come When Called • Leash Pulling • House Breaking • Control Aggression • Jumping • Basic & Advanced Obedience • Car Manners • Chewing • Digging • Boundary Training • Nuisance Barking
10% off Any Training Package
Cannot be combined with any other discounts. Must present coupon at consultation.
“Our mission is to provide dog training programs that result in a super happy, confident, and obedient dog, as well as a happy, confident and satisfied owner.”
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Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center Dr. Patricia Gomez Dinger (210) 499-4824 (ITCH)
Dr. Patricia Gomez Dinger is a Board Certified Allergist/ Immunologist specializing in allergy care for the entire family. Dr. Dinger is committed to decreasing the number of pets that are surrendered to local shelters by offering medical treatment and education to families who think they may be dealing with a pet allergy.
If you think someone in your family might be allergic to your family pet, please make an appointment right away! 210-499-ITCH (4224)
2 LOCATIONS:
540 MADISON OAK DR. #210 5000 SCHERTZ PARKWAY, BUILDING 400, SUITE 401
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COVER PHOTOGRAPHED BY RENEE SPADE COVER MODELS: L-R, OWNER OF INBALANCE IS HOPE COWGILL PEDRAZI & CAROL HERNANDEZ. FURRY COVER MODELS COME FROM THE ANIMAL DEFENSE LEAGUE OF SAN ANTONIO (SEE PAGE 8)
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Doggie Makeover
About Our Cover Models Dnc World Champs Adoptables Calendar of Events
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Recognizing and Reacting to Seizures in Dogs & cats Furry Sweetheart Pics Pet Puzzlers Kiss Kiss Ow Dog Door Advertorial
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PUBLISHER/EDITOR Dana Raimondi Tel: 210-436-9009 dana.texasdogsandcats@gmail.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE advertising inquiries to Dan Greenhouse (630) 220-2911 or dana.texasdogsandcats@gmail.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Fran Sherman 314.275.2208 fran@shermanstudios.com
DESIGNER Barbara Negron
PHOTOGRAPHER Renee Spade Photography Tel: 210-254-4255 renee@reneespadephotography.com
CONTRIBUTING PARTNERS
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Veronica Araiza Dr. Leslie Hopes Dr. Lauren Severns
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Jocelyn Cooper Coleen Ellis Dr. Leslie Hopes Dr. Dan Kirby Catherine Laria John Moya Shannan Lamb Parker Hilary Sandoval Dr. Mina Youssef
5 Foods You Should Never Give Your Dog Dog Treats Recipe Pet Directory Ask the Vet The Price of Love
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ADVERTISE WITH US!
Dana.texasdogsandcats@gmail.com or 210-436-9009 Next Issue: March 2019 find us on and at www.texasdogsandcatssa.com
{February 2019}
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contributors LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER It's February and love is in the air. Our pet pictorial this Valentine's month is "Sweethearts of San Antonio", where our readers get to show off their furry loved ones. In tune with this theme, Dr. Leslie Hopes, of the San Antonio Humane Society, writes about kissing your pets and managing their oral health. Other topics this month, include Catherine Laria, of K9 Country Club, who recaps the World Championship of dog agility competition, which was held in Scottsdale, AZ. Dr. Youssef, of North Star Animal Hospital, guides us on what not to give your dog for their Valentine treats this year (as well as any day) with his article on "5 Foods You Should Never Feed Your Dog." I hope you receive many kisses from your Furry Valentine this year...
Dana Raimondi
Tell our advertisers you heard about them in Texas Dogs & Cats– San Antonio! The opinions of authors of articles in this Magazine are those of the writer or contributor and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher, and the publisher has not conf irmed the accuracy of information contained in articles.
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DANA RAIMONDI is the publisher of Texas Dogs & Cats Magazine. She is a recent transplant to San Antonio from “the Windy City” but has become an admirer of the San Antonio cultural scene. Although a CPA, her true passion in life is the caring and welfare of animals. FRAN SHERMAN has been a freelance creative director/graphic designer since 1985. Throughout these years, she has designed a myriad of materials for a staggering number of companies, and she has won numerous graphic design awards for her work, many of them for magazine/publication design. RENEE SPADE is the owner of Renee Spade Photography. She has been spreading furry joy to pet parents with her photography/graphic design services and super-fun pet product line, The Jack & Spade Collection since 2005. DR. DAN KIRBY, DVM, graduated Cum Laude from Texas A&M with a degree in Biomedical Science in 1979 and earned his DVM in 1984. Dr. Kirby has been the owner and director of Alamo Heights Pet Clinic since 1997. He uses both a conventional and a holistic approach to medicine. DAN GREENHOUSE , Sales Director, graduated from the University of Missouri School of Journalism and has been in magazine advertising sales his entire career. He currently is the “daddy” of two Bearded Collies and “grandpa” to an Italian Greyhound.
contributing partners
DR. LESLIE HOPES joined the San Antonio Humane Society in October of 2017. She is proud to call Baton Rouge, Louisiana her home. She attended LSU for her undergraduate and veterinary school where she received her DVM in May 2015. Dr. Hopes completed her internship in shelter medicine in Madison, WI. VERONICA PEREZ is the PR Associate for the San Antonio Humane Society and has been with the organization since 2016. She is UTSA alumni and a native to San Antonio. She currently lives under a full roof with her husband, son, two dogs, and cat, Chewie.
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BEFORE
makeover
{dogmakeover}
FEATURED DOGGIE
AFTER
Lucy was a new customer. Although she was very matted, she was a good sport about being groomed, knowing she would feel and smell better...one of our many challenges.
Grooming by Gloria • 10811 Perrin Beitel Rd., Suite #102, San Antonio, TX 78212 • (210) 654-1350
about our
covermodels Hope Cowgill Pedrazi & Carol Hernandez
Our furry cover models come from the Animal Defense League of San Antonio. The Animal Defense League provides a variety of services and resources including: • Sheltering of animals, regardless of their conditions when they arrive. • Complete medical treatment provided to animals under the care of the shelter. • Full-time veterinarian and staff who treat all resident animals. • Spay/neuter program for pets of lowincome families. • Humane education programs in schools and the broader community • Active adoption services to find homes for all the animals taken in by the Animal Defense League. To adopt a pet or learn how to volunteer and help at The Animal Defense League, visit them at their main address of 11300 Nacogdoches Rd., or their website at www.adltexas.org or contact them via phone at (210) 655-1481.
About the Location Our photo shoot took place this month at inBalance of San Antonio, a yoga, pilates, barre, and dance studio. As quoted from their website "inBalance is a community that will provide a safe place for all levels and age groups to get moving, challenge their minds, and gain empowerment over their bodies. We want people to fall in love with sustainable movement, while living a strong, healthy and beautiful life.” They will also be holding this month on Saturday, February 23rd, at their Alamo Ranch Location (6626 W. Loop 1604 N., Suite 212) from 12-1PM, a class full of kitties. This class will help benefit the Animal Defense League. The class is free, but they ask for a minimum donation of $10, all going to ADL. You can find out more information about their class schedules and locations at http://www.inBalancesanantonio.com/about-us/ 8
COVER AND INTERIOR PHOTOS BY RENEE SPADE
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dncworldchamps 2018 ended with a bang in the dog agility community in South Texas. This past November K9 Country Club had two agility students become World Champions at the Cynosport® World Games hosted by the United States Dog Agility Association, Inc. Hundreds of competitors and canine athletes from six different countries and over 30 different states met in beautiful Scottsdale, Arizona for five days of intense competition. Judges from across the globe designed special obstacle courses for handlers from the US as well as countries as far away as Japan, Mexico, and Canada. Much like the Olympics, this event consists of multiple chances to become a champion based on class specifications as well as age and the dog’s jump height.
{February 2019}
Laria, owner of K9 Country Club and breeder of these amazing Whirlwind Border Collies. USDAA® was created in 1986 and is the world’s largest, independent canine sports authority promoting dog agility and it is extremely unusual throughout its history to have 3 siblings take gold in 3 different events at the same Cynosports®. “We had a number of K9 Country Club family members who attended the event this year reaching many personal milestones. I’m so happy to play a small part in their success.” says Catherine. K9 Country Club has been the leading agility school in South Texas for more than 12 years, developing the largest number of teams from hobbyist to the highest levels of competition. They have world class trainers in multiple sports in addition to agility, such as dock diving, herding, obedience, rally, nose work, and more. For more information visit www. k9countryclub.net or call 830-980-8476. You can also find them on Facebook @ k9countryclubtexas.
BY CATHERINE LARIA
Catherine Laria and her 9-yr old border collie, Blizzard, had an incredible week taking 4th place in the Performance Team event, making the Semi-Finals in the Performance Grand Prix event, winning a Bronze medal in the Performance Speed Jumping event, and winning GOLD in the Performance Biathlon event. Shannon Grimes and her border collie, Rocky, made the Semi-Finals in the Performance Speed Jumping event, and WON the Performance Grand Prix competition. Both dogs earned Lifetime Achievement awards. ALSO, Both Rocky and Blizzard are littermates. How cool is that!?! To make it even more special, their younger brother, Racer, who lives in Colorado with his owner Bobbie Ambruzs took gold in the Grand Prix of Dog Agility competition. It was a complete family affair. “This was one of the biggest accomplishments and proudest moments of my career so far”, says Catherine
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adoptablepets at the San Antonio Humane Society! OH SO
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This 3-ye a is OH SO r-old Pit Bull Terr ier mix ready to re your life -invigorate !
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KENTUCKY
CUPID
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Kentucky is a handsome 2-year-old Retriever mix who gets along with other dogs.
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This Shep herd mix is full of energy and lo daily walk ves s.
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All pets adopted from the SAHS receive their spay/neuter surgery, microchip, first set of vaccinations, 30 days 24PetWatch Pet Insurance, and much more!
Visit SAhumane.org to see more adoptable pets! SAHS is located at: 4804 Fredericksburg Rd, San Antonio, TX 78229 10
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Adopt
A KITA
Currently In Foster Care
Scan for Video:
Adoption Fee Sponsored by Red McCombs Toyota
2-Years-Old 55 pounds People Social Loves Belly Rubs Potty & Crate Trained Enjoys Squeaky Tennis Balls Knows “Sit” “Focus” “Down” “Stay” “Come” Needs A Single-Pet Home
For More Info: foster@SAhumane.org {February 2019}
FACEBOOK.COM/AKITABANANA
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ARMANI
CAPTAIN
BELLE
calendarofevents
PAWSITIVE SOLUTIONS
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Penny Paws Clinic and Times Penny Paws offers affordable cat and dog vaccinations, microchipping services, heartworm testing and prevention, flea and tick prevention and toenail trimming. They have a licensed veterinarian on site at each location. For more information, and additional locations, visit their website at https://pennypaws.com/sanantonio/ Every Saturday in February from 10AM-4PM 99 Cent Store 2942 Thousand Oaks, San Antonio, TX 78247 Saturday, February 2nd from 12PM-3PM Annual Puppy Bowl at Austin Humane Society (124 W Anderson Ln, Austin) This years tailgate will be jampacked with delicious food, drinks, kids activities, and other vendors. If your looking to add a puppy to your home team, they will have a dozen puppies available for adoption and, only during Puppy Bowl, adoption fees will be discounted to $175. 12-4PM Ground Dog Day! (1902 S. Flores St. SATX). Join us for a day of pet fun! A Low Cost Vaccine Drive will be sponsored by 4 Paws Animal Hospital, with Rabies for $10 and all vaccines on special. Animal Defense League, Lucky Dog Bakery & Boutique, and other pet vendors will be on site. The pet event will be held at Dorcol Distilling & Brewing Co. For more info: call 4 Paws Animal Hospital @ 210-337-1919. Like us on Facebook. Sunday, February 3rd from 12PM-7PM Sosy’s Kitten Bowl Adoption Special at the San Antonio Humane Society (4804 Fredericksburg Rd.) All cat and kitten adoption fees waived thanks to Sosy the Cat and her loving owners. Sosy wants everyone to find their forever home, just like she did! She's sponsoring all feline adoption fees in the hopes that every cat finds their companion. Find all adoptable pets at SAhumane.org/adopt. Saturday, February 9th from 8AM-12PM Low Cost Pet Wellness Clinic at the San Antonio Humane Society (4804 Fredericksburg Rd.) Help your pet stay healthy with preventative low-cost wellness clinics provided by the San Antonio Humane Society! Services are offered on a first-come, first served basis as time allows and include vaccinations, microchipping, nail trim, wormer, heartworm test and prevention (dogs), and flea prevention. Find pricing and more at SAhumane.org/wellness-clinic. Sunday, February 10th from 12PM-4PM Kissed by a Pit Pet Photos at Krisers Natural Pet (427 N. Loop 1604 W.) Adoption event and Valentine’s
pet photos at Krisers. Each pet parent will receive will receive one digital image of their furry friend by donation. Saturday, February 16th from 8AM-12PM Low Cost Pet Wellness Clinic at the San Antonio Humane Society (4804 Fredericksburg Rd.) Help your pet stay healthy with preventative low-cost wellness clinics provided by the San Antonio Humane Society! Services are offered on a first-come, first served basis as time allows and include vaccinations, microchipping, nail trim, wormer, heartworm test and prevention (dogs), and flea prevention. Find pricing and more at SAhumane.org/wellness-clinic. 9:30AM-2:30PM Low Cost Pet Wellness Clinic at Brooks Spay/Neuter Clinic (8034 City Base Landing) Help your pet stay healthy with preventative low-cost wellness clinics provided by the San Antonio Humane Society! Services are offered on a first-come, first served basis as time allows and include vaccinations, microchipping, nail trim, wormer, heartworm test and prevention (dogs), and flea prevention. Find pricing and more at SAhumane.org/wellness-clinic. Sunday, February 17th from 10AM-2PM Pancakes for Paws at Magnolia Halle (10319 Huebner Rd.) Eat a short stack and support the pets at the San Antonio Humane Society! Three dollar pancake short stacks will be available for purchase, courtesy of The Magnolia Pancake Haus, with 100% of proceeds going to needy pets. There will also be pets available for adoption. Learn more at SAhumane.org/events. Wednesday, February 20th Mardi Gras Pawty at Pawderosa Ranch (7 Commercial Pl, Schertz, TX) All pups are invited to enjoy a celebration of festivities including games, fun and their very own goodie bag. Let your dog party y’all, it’s Mardi Gras! Drop off by 11AM and $15 per pup. (210) 404-9941 for information. Thursday, February 21 from 9AM-7:30PM Krost Symposium is an annual academic event that is free and open to the public at Texas Lutheran University
(1000 W Court St, Seguin, TX) All topics will be canine related. For more information, you can contact their marketing staff at (830) 372-8023. Friday, February 22nd from 9AM-3:30PM Krost Symposium is an annual academic event that is free and open to the public at Texas Lutheran University (1000 W Court St, Seguin, TX) All topics will be canine related. For more information, you can contact their marketing staff at (830) 372-8023. Saturday, February 23rd Krost Symposium will be hosting Dog Sport Demonstrations, Walk-A-Thon Fundraiser for friends of Paws in Prison, Vendors and food truck. For more information, you can contact their marketing staff at (830) 372-8023. Purrfect Pilates at InBalance Alamo Ranch from 12-1PM (6626 W. Loop 1604 N. Suite 212) Come to a pilates class and a room full of kitties! InBalance is partnering up with Animal Care Services to help these kitties find a home. The class is free but they ask for a minimum donation of $10 that will go directly to ACS. Pet supply donations are welcome as well. Mardi Paws (1902 S. Flores St. SATX) from 12PM-4PM Everyone is invited to join us for a Mardi Gras Pet Pawty! We will have lots of pet vendors, live music, food trucks and Mardi Paw Fun! A Mardi Gras style pet parade will be held @ 2:00pm with beads for everyone! Sponsored by 4 Paws Animal Hospital & Dorcol Distilling and Brewing Co. The event will be held at Dorcol Distilling & Brewing Co. For more info: call 4 Paws Animal Hospital @ 210-337-1919. Like us on Facebook. Wednesday, February 27th Mardi Gras Pawty at Pawderosa Ranch (923 Clydeville Rd.) All pups are invited to enjoy a celebration of festivities including games, fun and their very own goodie bag. Let your dog party y’all, it’s Mardi Gras! Drop off by 11AM and $15 per pup. (210) 404-9941 for more information.
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RECOGNIZING AND REACTING TO
seizuresindogsandcats Seizure basics: What is a seizure? A seizure is essentially a group of neurons within the brain generating abnormal electrical activity for a period of time.
initial diagnostic tests. MRI and spinal tap are also commonly recommended in order to identify the cause of the seizures. Are there safe treatments available to control my pet’s seizures? Although each case is different, we have several different medications available to help manage seizures safely. Because there are several options available for treatment, most veterinary neurologists recommend treating early in the course of the seizure disorder rather than waiting until the seizures are happening frequently. Discussing medication options and your pet’s particular needs with your veterinarian is recommended before selecting a medication.
BY JOCELYN J. COOPER, DVM, DACVIM (NEUROLOGY)
What does a seizure look like? The outward appearance is variable and can cause anything from twitching of the eyelids or face to an unconscious pet paddling and having limb spasms. The typical seizure lasts approximately 2 minutes or less. Seizures lasting longer than this can lead to a higher risk for brain damage or can DR. COOPER’S DOG, LEVI, HAS IDIOPATHIC EPILEPSY potentially be life-threatening. THAT IS MANAGED WITH MEDICATION. After the active part of the seizure (the ictus) is over the Quick facts: post-ictal phase occurs. During this time period your pet 1) Seizures are one of the most common neurologic may temporarily walk abnormally, seem sleepy, agitated emergencies seen by veterinary neurologists. or hungry, or may be blind. 2) Seizure management should be pursued early and aggressively in order to prevent additional events and help your pet have a better quality of life. Are there other conditions that can mimic 3) Patients should be evaluated immediately if it is the first seizure activity? seizure ever noted for that pet, if more than 2 have Yes. Tremors, syncope, narcolepsy, vertigo, and painful occurred within a 24-hour period, or if a seizure lasts more muscle spasms can mimic seizures. than 3 minutes.
What causes seizures? Seizures can be secondary to issues like low blood sugar, kidney or liver disease, toxin ingestion or trauma, or may be due to primary brain disease like congenital malformation, meningitis or encephalitis, stroke or brain tumor. The most common cause of seizures in younger patients is idiopathic epilepsy. Idiopathic epileptic patients have no underlying or structural disease, no neurologic signs between seizures, are systemically healthy, and many have a genetic cause behind their seizure disorder. What diagnostic tests might my pet need? Baseline blood work (CBC, chemistry profile), urinalysis, and liver function testing are common 14
Dr. Cooper is a boardcertified small animal neurologist, partner and Hospital Director at MissionVet Specialty & Emergency. She graduated with her DVM from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine & then completed a one-year small animal rotating internship at the University of Missouri. Dr. Cooper completed a three-year Neurology/ Neurosurgery residency at Texas A&M in 2012 and was awarded the neurosurgery certificate in 2013. Dr. Cooper enjoys spinal surgery as well as managing inflammatory disease and seizure disorders.
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OPEN 24/7/365 FOR EMERGENCIES A true partner in your pet’s health, MissionVet is open 24/7 for walk-in emergencies, in addition to specialty care. OUR COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES INCLUDE: Dermatology & Allergy | Emergency & Critical Care | General Surgery & Orthopedics Internal Medicine | Neurology & Neurosurgery | Oncology
EMERGENCY HOURS: 24/7/365 SPECIALTY HOURS: Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.* Surgery, Internal Medicine and Neurology services only
*
Text PETS to 31996 to have directions sent to your phone 8202 N Loop 1604 W | San Antonio, TX 78249 | (210) 737-7373 | www.mission.vet
Furry Sweethearts
DAKOTA & ANYA
GIGI
KOKI
LUNA
BELLA & TEDDY
LOE
DAPHNE
ERIC, JUDE, ELLE & LOLA
BUSTER
LUNA
JUBA
NORTH STAR ANIMAL HOSPITAL
of San Antonio
NEWMAN 4 PAWS ANIMAL HOSPITAL
GRACEY (RIP)
RODEO
TEDDY & NEECHEE
SCOTTY
DROVER
CHLOE
CHARLOTTE & JASPER
BISCUIT
KEANU
LILY 4 PAWS ANIMAL HOSPITAL
LAYA
petpuzzlers Word Search
BY SHANNAN LAMB PARKER & SCHOLASTIC.COM
Pet Puzzle Crossword Puzzle
Questions & Answers Q: What do squirrels give for Valentine's Day? A: Forget-me-nuts! Q: What did the Valentine card say to the stamp? A: Stick with me and we'll go places!
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Q: What did the boy octopus say to the girl octopus? A: Can I hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand! Q: What is a vampire's sweetheart called? A: His ghoul-friend!
Q: What is a ram's favourite song on February 14th? A: I only have eyes for ewe, dear! Q: What travels around the world but stays in one corner? A: A stamp!
FIND ANSWERS ON OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.TEXASDOGSANDCATSSA.COM
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• • •
www.PetGalaxyUSA. Call us about all day Doggie Daycare for $24.75 with door to door service directly from your home.
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Doggie Day Care Cat & Dog Lodging Dog Training Dog/Cat Grooming Retail All photos and cartoons Copyright of Pet Galaxy.
19 13060 US Highway 281 N, Spring Branch TX 78070, Phone: 830-885-5335
{February 2019}
kisskissow Y
ou may be happy to accept a kiss or two from your pets when they’re offered, but how much consideration have you given to their oral health? According to the American Veterinary Dental College, “by three years of age, most dogs and cats have some evidence of periodontal disease.” Is this due to neglect? San Antonio Humane Society (SAHS) Associate Veterinarian, Leslie Hopes, believes it’s more likely due to a lack of information: “I believe most pet owners are shocked to hear this fact and have probably just not put much thought into their pets’ oral care.”
BY ASSOCIATE VETERINARIAN, LESLIE HOPES
So whether they just came in off the streets or have spent years in the care of loving owners, many pets that come into the SAHS have some dental issue that must be treated. Prior to intake into the shelter, all animals receive a physical examination by clinic staff that includes an oral cavity examination. This examination can tell us the estimated age of an animal and gives us a glimpse into the overall health of each pet. According to Dr. Hopes, broken and chipped teeth are very common amongst our incoming pets, especially those dogs that have been surviving as strays. Chewing on rough or hard objects, such as rawhides or rocks, often result in chipped or broken molars. And traumatic events such as dog fights, falls from high places, and automobile accidents also contribute to tooth damage. Broken teeth are painful! Teeth can break near the crown, at the gum line, or near the roots. Several options are available for treatment, including teeth extraction and root canals, and fortunately the SAHS has the resources and staff to treat these conditions. Periodontal disease is also very common with pets coming into our care. Periodontal disease includes gingivitis and is characterized by the loss of bone and soft tissue around the teeth. SAHS surgery and clinic s taff regularly perform dental procedures and cleanings for our pets to ensure their quality of care is the highest possible. While we continue to treat the usual dental issues on a regular basis, we also sometimes come upon very 20
uncommon medical cases that need extra care Floyd, a 1-year-old longhaired cat, was returned to the San Antonio Humane Society after being previously adopted as a kitten. Upon examination, he was diagnosed with stomatitis, an autoimmune disorder which causes the body to be allergic to the plaque on the cat’s own teeth resulting in painful, chronic gingivitis and ulcers. Due to the severity of his condition, it was determined that the best option for Floyd was the removal of all teeth, thus eliminating the source of the problem. Though some may think it’s a drastic decision, the severity of the condition can result in young cats like Floyd to waste away because they refuse to eat due to the pain. Floyd had to undergo two operations due to the length of the procedures and the amount of inflammation present. It was a first for Dr. Hopes, “It taught me a lot about patience and how easily cat teeth can fracture!” After his surgeries, Floyd went into her care for several weeks of recovery and rehabilitation, “He was up and eating canned food the very evening of his major procedures.” Floyd spent several weeks in foster care, but ultimately returned back to the SAHS where he was quickly adopted into his new forever home. Thanks to generous donors in our community, the SAHS has funds available to help treat injured and neglected pets. If you would like to help pets like Floyd, please visit SAhumane.org/donate for ways to give.
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• Board & Train
• In Home Training • Boarding
They All Said I was Crazy for Getting a Pet Door, but Now I Have No Worries! BY JOHN MOYA
W
hen I first started talking about getting a pet door, friends and family all said I was crazy. “Think of the animals you will be letting in! Think of the thieves that will have easy access to your home. You will not be able to sleep at night knowing that someone could crawl in and do very bad things to you or your family!” Between 3:30 AM and 5:00 AM, I could count on being licked in the face with the sound of whimpering in the background. Sebastian, my Golden, was telling me something…. he needed to go out! Being woken up from a good dream like this was not the way I wanted to spend the rest of Sebastian’s life. Sebastian was left inside in the nice comforts of my home while I was away at work. At that time, I worked at the airport and the daily commute was 35 minutes to my doorstep. This was before all the traffic lights and development on US 281. Upon arrival from work, he would run me over on his way to relieve himself. At times, I would find out that something did not agree with his stomach. An expensive call to Stanley Steamers usually occurred afterwards. 16 22
I received a phone call at work, “Sebastian ate the carpet—the whole carpet!” I can’t believe that I lived like this for years. I replaced door jambs from him scratching at the door wanting out. I replaced carpet due to his destruction. I have caught him in Kitty’s litter box (Yuck!). I have tried crating him only to give in to his whimpering. The loss of sleep was the last straw! Something had to be done! installed one of the best (if not the best) pet doors on the market that had dual security features and the maximum energy efficiency of any pet door on the market. Sleeping until I had to wake up for work was the biggest satisfaction that I got from it. Even Kitty got a pet door. Her litter box was moved to an empty closet and the poop eating contest was over for Sebastian. I never got an animal in the house that wasn’t supposed to be there. I didn’t have to rush home from work to see if there was a gift waiting for me to clean up. A would be thief would also have to think twice prior to entering. Judging from the pet door size, a German Shepard, Pit Bull, or a Rottweiler could be waiting. My friend’s and family’s concerns never occurred. If these events sound familiar, and you would like to stop the worries and stress over your pets, you may receive free information on the type of pet door that I installed. You may contact us directly at 210-464-8953 or by email at john@alamodogdoors.com. Some of your neighbors may alreadybe satisfied customers and I am sure that they would speak highly of their pet door and our installation services.
ADVERTORIAL
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Mina Youssef, DVM Veterinarian SANANTONIOTXVET.COM
210-342-7387 (PETS) 7227 San Pedro Ave. San Antonio, TX 78216
5foodsyoushould neverfeedyourdog T here are many human foods that aren’t good for our canine companions—it’s likely that you already have some in your kitchen! The trick is preventing the problem ahead of time so that your pet doesn’t ingest anything harmful.
Garlic and Onions Garlic and onions, as well as similar foods like chives, scallions, shallots, and leeks, aren’t safe for dogs. These sorts of foods can damage your pet’s red blood cells when ingested in large enough quantities, potentially even leading to a deadly case of anemia. All forms—raw, dried, powdered, cooked, etc.—of garlic, onions, and related foods pose a threat, so don’t leave them within reach of your dog. Chocolate You’re probably already aware that dogs and chocolate don’t mix. It’s one of the most dangerous—and most common—pet poisons out there! Chocolate of all types (dark, milk, powdered, semisweet, baking chocolate, white chocolate, etc.) can harm a dog who ingests too much; potential symptoms include increased thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and worse if a dog doesn’t receive prompt treatment.
BY DR. MINA YOUSSEF
Candy Many candies and gums, as well as other common household items like toothpaste, are sweetened with an artificial sugar substitute called xylitol. It’s not harmful for humans, but it’s a dangerous toxin for our four-legged friends! Xylitol’s primary danger lies in its ability to cause the release of insulin when your dog’s system mistakes it for real sugar; this leads to hypoglycemia and resulting lethargy, vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and more. Keep your pooch far away from candy and sweets! Grapes and Raisins Grapes, raisins, and currants have proven toxic to dogs—and cats—in the past, although it still isn’t known exactly why these foods are poisonous. Some dogs even 24
seem to be able to ingest them without incident. That doesn’t make it worth the risk! Keep your dog away from any fruit trays, and never feed your pooch these foods as a snack. Salty Foods It’s tempting to give your dog salty snack foods like potato chips, crackers, or pretzels, but it’s best to reconsider. When a dog ingests too much salt, it can lead to excessive thirst and increased urination, and large amounts can even cause sodium ion poisoning! Keep the salty snacks to yourself. These aren’t the only dangerous foods out there— call us today to learn about more! 210-342-7387 Please reach out to us, your San Antonio, TX vet clinic, anytime. We look forward to offering your canine/feline companion great veterinary care in 2019 and beyond! Dr. Mina Youssef, is the owner and the chief veterinarian at North Star Animal Hospital. He gradated from the University of Missouri in 2007; his dream to become a veterinarian was the most fulfilling achievement of his life. North Star Animal Hospital opened on 02/14/2014 and our mission is excellent service with passionate care to every pet as a family member. Educate pet owners on the health of their pets as well as their own and apply extraordinary care in a professional, affordable and timely manner.
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* EXCERPTED FROM DOGSTER.COM
PET DIRECTORY OF SAN ANTONIO ANIMAL HOSPITALS & VETERINARY SERVICES
CAR DEALERSHIPS
OBEDIENCE TRAINERS
North Park Subaru......................IFC
Bluebonnet Bunk n Biscuit............ 2
4 Paws Animal Hospital.............. 13
Hill Country Pet Ranch.................. 3
North Star Animal Hospital........ 23
DOG DOORS
K9 Country Club & Training.......... 2
Penny Paws Animal Clinic............. 3
Alamo Dog Doors...................... 23
Pawsitive Solutions..................... 21 Pet Galaxy............................ 19, BC
EMERGENCY & SPECIALTY
GROOMING SERVICES
San Antonio Humane Society..... 11
Missionvet Specialty & Emergency................................ 15
Barbara’s Canine Clip “n" Bows...... 3
Sit Means Sit................................. 2
Bluebonnet Bunk n Biscuit............ 2 Boerne Grooming........................ 3
BANKS Frost Bank.................................. 23
Grooming by Gloria..................... 7 Hill Country Pet Ranch.................. 3
PET MORTUARY AND CREMATION SERVICES/HOSPICE Bluebonnet Pet Crematory......... 27 The Pet Loss Center.................. IBC
BOARDING KENNELS & DAYCARE FACILITIES
K9 Country Club & Training.......... 2 North Star Animal Hospital..... 23
Pet Photography
Bluebonnet Bunk n Biscuit............ 2
Pawderosa Ranch (2 Locations).... 1
Renee Spade Photography........ 21
Grooming by Gloria..................... 7
Pet Galaxy............................ 19, BC
Hill Country Pet Ranch.................. 3
The Pup Stop............................... 3
K9 Country Club & Training Academy....................... 2
MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS
North Star Animal Hospital........ 23
Dr. Patricia Dinger......................... 3
Pawderosa Ranch (2 Locations).... 1 Pawsitive Solutions..................... 21 Pet Galaxy............................ 19, BC
RETAIL STORES /PET SHOPS Walgreens.................................. 21 SPECIALTY FITNESS inBalance...................................... 8
NOT FOR PROFIT San Antonio Humane Society..... 11
The Pup Stop............................... 3
MELODY
KHALEESI
*ALL BUSINESSES IN OUR DIRECTORY/MAGAZINE ARE PET FRIENDLY AND HELP SUPPORT THE ANIMAL COMMUNITY OF SAN ANTONIO. PLEASE PATRONIZE THESE PET FRIENDLY SA ORGANIZATIONS.
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Q: It’s flu season for humans. Is it also flu season for dogs and do you recommend the vaccine? A: Canine flu is a reality for dogs. Two types are present in the environment to include H3N2 and H3N8. Mycoplasma and Bordetella bronchoseptica can sometimes be confused with these infections. Symptoms include: 1. Cough 4. Sneezing 2. Nasal Discharge 5. Watery eyes 3. Fever 6. Pneumonia Most cases resolve within 10 to 15 days. Eighty percent of cases resolve while ten percent may have severe symptoms and long term issues. Most cases develop through exposure during boarding, vet visits, pet parks and grooming. Droplet
exposure and sneezing with aerosols is the most common way to develop the disease. Treatment is mostly supportive with intravenous fluids and antibiotics. Prevention is a bivalent vaccine which reduces the risk, not total prevention. Q: My dog gets loose stools quite often. Can dogs get colitis? A: The question on colitis is general in nature. Dogs and cats do develop colitis. Usually presents as mucous and blood in a soft to watery stool. The question concerning dogs brings up the common causes which include: 1. Change in diet 4. Parasites 2. Inappropriate food 5. And many more less 3. Antibiotic reaction common causes The good news is your veterinarian can treat this easily and get your pet back to normal in a short period of time. Dr. Kirby uses both a conventional and a holistic approach to medicine. He treats dogs, cats, birds and exotics. Alamo Heights Pet Clinic: (210) 821-5544. Please email all questions for Dr. Kirby to Dana.texasdogsandcats@gmail.com.
{askthevet}
WITH DR. KIRBY OF ALAMO HEIGHTS PET CLINIC
thepriceof love T
here’s a beautiful story on the internet that every pet lover needs to read. It’s called “A Living Love.” Beautifully and so poignantly, the story talks about the three most memorable days in loving a precious pet. The first one is the day he comes home to join the family. He’s finding his own way, and the family begins to settle into their new normal as a unit. Full of memories and freshness as this new life together begins.
BY COLEEN ELLIS, PET LOSS CENTER
Time flies, with days of time with a beloved filled of life, adventure, pet is so much more. and memories. The It’s memories. Laughter. second day is one that Unconditional love. creeps up with almost a Learning life lessons as slow, abruptness. It’s the taught by a fur, finned, day a loving pet parent or feathered friend. It’s looks at their beautiful learning how to speak friend, and sees age, or another language, one the tolls of an illness. that only you and your Maybe these changes special friend knew. It’s ease in, or possibly they having a bond, free from come crashing in, but societal expectations as it’s they come nonetheless a relationship all based on announcing themselves love. It’s learning about as the beginning of a forgiveness and living pending day waiting in the now. It’s about around the bend, enjoying life and seeing or hopefully around the beauty it has to offer. many bends. But It’s having your heart the beginning of a proclaim, “I never knew I reality lurking. could love anything And, the third day. so much!” The day every pet lover Yes, foregoing the can almost recite. Every third day is one that, too, move that day, every comes with a price. So, minute that day, every I’ll take that third day, as strike of the second not having the other two IN MEMORY OF ELLIE MAE hand for years to come is one where that price is JUNE, 2003 - DECEMBER 13, 2018 will be a reminder of the too big for me to pay. I events of this third day. Whether our beloved know just by being in the presence of these amazing pets make the decision for us, or we dig into our creatures, I become a better person. For me, the pure broken yet loving hearts to help a friend out, that definition of love is living life just like they do… day will come. Unconditionally, full of joy and ready to forgive, and That day will be the one that will very clearly knowing how to live life in the moment. showcase exactly what the price of love looks like and feels like. It’s a day where so many pet lovers will Coleen Ellis proclaim “I can’t do this again,” as a shattered heart Pet Loss Pioneer tries to craft what the new normal of life without this The Pet Loss Center love will look like. 317.966.0096 However, I ask of you to look deep into your heart ThePetLossCenter.com and know that without this third day, the other two days would not have happened either. The price of 2215 West Pipeline Rd. love IS grief… but the price of love in sharing a bit Euless, TX 76040 28
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Your dog needs exercise! •
All dogs need plenty of exercise. If they don’t get it, they will develop bad habits such as chewing on furniture, socks and shoes, or dig up flowerbeds. They may even get depressed, and become really mischievous and unreliable.
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Spending 30 minutes to an hour walking to the park with a dog walker, although better than nothing, doesn’t provide much exercise for a pooch, and receiving a picture of where your baby pooped may make you feel better, but it doesn’t do much for your dog.
Introducing Pet Galaxy’s Doggieland® Daycare and Door to Door Service •
For roughly the same money you would spend on 30 minutes for a dog walker’s time, we will pick up your fur-babies from your home in the morning, transport them to Pet Galaxy’s large Doggieland® play park for the entire day, where they can enjoy the park and play with compatible, like-minded dogs. Once they have experienced enough play, they will come inside for an all-important nap before they go back out for more fun again. At the end of the day, we will bring your happy and satisfied babies back home.
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Prices start at $24.75 for all day daycare plus $5.00 each way for the bus ticket — flat rate. Our initial target areas are primarily neighborhoods north of Loop 1604 along the Hwy 281 corridor, including Stone Oak, Encino, Canyon Springs, Timberwood Park, Johnson Ranch and Bulverde/Spring Branch.
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On request — for an extra charge, we can even serve lunch and/or dinner, administer medications, provide Bath, Brush and Nails service and/or a full groom.
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And, of course, if needed — your pet is always welcome to spend the night (or longer stays) with us.
Call us today about Doggieland® Daycare and Door to Door Service! 13060 US Highway 281 N, Spring Branch, TX 78070
www.PetGalaxyUSA.com
830-885-5335 or 210-526-9680 www.PetGalaxyUSA.com www.facebook.com/PetGalaxyUSA