Citizen Pet & Equine Spring 2015

Page 1

-2015 lishing! 20052005-2015 10 years pubIncorporate 10 years publishing! www.citizenpet.com

celebrating life with our animal companions Equine-assisted learning:

‘In the Dog Kitchen’

Julie Van Rosendaal with

the power of horses to heal

Vaccinations

&feline cancer %PH EBZT BU The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

You are what you eat SPRING 2015 I $3.95 CDN

and so is your pet!

The link between second-hand smoke and

pet cancer

The role of genetics in

canine cancer

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*ULIE 6AN 2OSENDAAL S REVISED BOOK In the Dog Kitchen OFFERS EASY TO PREPARE RECIPES A WHOLE CHAPTER ON GRAIN FREE TREATS AND INFO ON HOW TO CUSTOMIZE EACH RECIPE TO SUIT YOUR DOG S SPECIlC DIET

-2015 lishing! 20052005-2015 10 years pubIncorporate 10 years publishing!

celebrating life with our animal companions

www.citizenpet.com facebook.com/citizenpetmagazine Publisher/Editor Sherry Warner

Contributors

April Clay Susan Crawford Marianne Disipio-Vitale Sarah Figley Jacqueline Louie Liz Nishimura Beth O’Connor Carol Perehudoff Terri Perrin Sherry Warner

Design/Layout

+ENDRA $ESIGN )NC s WWW KENDRADESIGN CA

Advertising Inquiries

Denice Hansen Business Sales Consultant T: (403) 828-0226 % DLHANSEN TELUSPLANET NET

Subscriptions

'34 PER YEAR FOUR ISSUES #ALL 3HERRY 7ARNER TO SUBSCRIBE Citizen Pet & Equine is published quarterly BY &RESH 0!).4 #OMMUNICATIONS )NC CITIZENPET SHAW CA

#OPYRIGHT !LL RIGHTS RESERVED 2EPRODUCTION IN whole or in part is prohibited without permission of the PUBLISHER 4HE VIEWS AND OPINIONS IN ARTICLES AND advertisements in this publication are not NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE PUBLISHER

This magazine is a proud member of the Alberta -AGAZINE 0UBLISHERS !SSOCIATION ABIDING BY THE STANDARDS OF THE #ANADIAN 3OCIETY OF -AGAZINE %DITORS 6ISIT WWW ALBERTAMAGAZINES COM celebrating life with our animal companions

-2015 lishing! 20052005-2015 10 years pubIncorporate 10 years publishing! www.citizenpet.com

celebrating life with our animal companions

Equine-assisted learning:

‘In the Dog Kitchen’ with Julie Van Rosendaal

the power of horses to heal

Vaccinations

&feline cancer %PH EBZT BU The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

You are what you eat The link between second-hand smoke and

The role of genetics in

canine cancer

pet cancer

!UTHOR *ULIE 6AN 2OSENDAAL WITH HER DOG ,OU 0HOTO BY %VOCATIVE 0HOTOGRAPHY WWW EVOCATIVEPHOTO COM Copies of Citizen Pet & Equine are available in Alberta and other parts OF #ANADA AT YOUR SPECIALTY PET SUPPLY RETAILER SELECT VETERINARY CLINICS

RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS AND SHELTERS #ITIZEN 0ET %QUINE IS ALSO AVAILABLE at Calgary Public Library and Edmonton Public Library locations and other MAGAZINE STANDS THROUGHOUT !LBERTA #ITIZEN 0ET %QUINE IS ALSO INSERTED INTO SELECT COMMUNITY AND SPECIALTY NEWSPAPERS

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The role of genetics in canine cancer

8

Be sun savvy: reduce the risk of susceptible pets developing skin cancer

10

You are what you eat, and so is your pet!

12

Second-hand smoke is harmful to both you and your pet

16

Pet Pin-up: a foal named Dan de Lion

18

Higher learning: two books to get you cooking for your pet

20

Vaccinations and feline cancer

22

Dog days at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

24

The art of making mistakes

26

Kali’s Wish Cancer Foundation set to launch new website

28

Equine-assisted learning: the power of horses to heal 3

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SPRING 2015 I $3.95 CDN

and so is your pet!

contents

editor’s note

T

his year we celebrate our 10th anniversary publishing Citizen Pet & Equine! During the last decade (wow, that sounds old!), I’ve had a lot of fun putting together 40 issues. It’s been a real pleasure meeting all the special animals, pet guardians, veterinarians, shelter and rescue staff and volunteers and pet industry businesses and organizations through all the stories told between the pages of Citizen Pet & Equine. It’s also been great working with all our advertisers! Without your support, we would not have the opportunity to inform, educate and inspire our readers with top-notch stories written from a Canadian perspective. If you are a fan of Citizen Pet & Equine, please support our advertisers, many of whom are small, independent businesses who help keep the pages coming! Our Spring issue is dedicated to pet cancer prevention. These days, you’d be hard pressed to find someone who has not been touched by cancer, whether a relative, friend or pet. And even though the pet cancer statistics are grim — one in three dogs and one in four cats will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their life — there are many things we can do to help keep our pets cancer free. In this issue we’ll talk about pet food and preventing cancer, the role genetics plays in canine cancer, the link between second-hand smoke and pet cancer, vaccinations and feline cancer and how to be sun savvy to help prevent skin cancer in susceptible pets. We’ll go into the dog kitchen with Julie Van Rosendaal and make some tasty home-made treats and meet up with Smudge, the canine ambassador for the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald in Edmonton. We also have a great story on equineassisted learning and the cutest little foal as our Pet Pin-up. May is Pet Cancer Awareness Month and we have some great ways for you to donate to Kali’s Wish Cancer Foundation. Please help the foundation on its mission to support families faced with a cancer diagnosis in their pet through the launch of its new website and mobile pet cancer centre. Turn to page 26 for more information. Citizen Pet & Equine has been a labour of love for the last 10 years and I thank you so much for supporting our magazine — here’s to 10 more years!

Sherry

www.citizenpet.com

celebrating life with our animal companions

Pet nutritional supplements

101

The case for

holistic vet care

for the

Love

of the birds and the bees SUMMER 2014 I $3.95 CDN

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Pairing animals and therapists to heal

‘Pet Cancer Centre’ offers hope for a future free of animal cancer

keeping your

senior pet healthy

Focus on complementary therapies:

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Cancer is the number one killer in dogs and cats. Animal cancer statistics reveal that one in three dogs and one in four cats will be diagnosed with cancer, and even these stats appear to be on the rise. At Pet Planet, we bring awareness and provide support for our Guardians and their furry companions throughout their entire guardianship journey. For the month of May we will focus on supportive products and complementary therapies for cancer. Look for this icon in stores! There is always hope.

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been around for 11 ye The snow and cold may finally ars be gone, but for some what’s left behind is just and we’ve seen it all — there’s nothing we ca as unpleasant — months worth of smelly, n’t handle. disgusting dog poop. YUCK! Pet waste we do, So don’t be embarrassed by what you see in the back yard, just give removal is what us a call and we’ll make your yard look good as new in no time. ve

And the sooner you call the better! Winter run off carries dangerous bacteria and harmful parasites! from pet waste into our sewer system and eventually into our rivers.

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genetics in canine cancer

PHOTO COURTESY $R 'ERALD 0OST

The role of

Is your dog genetically predisposed to developing this dreaded disease? If so, what can you do to mitigate the risk? $R 'ERALD 0OST $6- IS A BOARD CERTIlED VETERINARY ONCOLOGIST AND BOARD MEM BER OF !NIMAL #ANCER &OUNDATION

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By Terri Perrin f all medical conditions that your canine companion can develop, few are met with more shock and trepidation than cancer. As with cancers in humans, canine cancers can be scary, but it is important to be aware that not every diagnosis is a death sentence. Thankfully, veterinary oncologists around the world are making great strides in treating and curing many types of cancers in dogs. The good news is that surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and complementary therapies are now being used in combination to treat and, in many cases, cure canine cancers. By some estimates, one out of every three dogs will develop cancer in their lifetime. While it’s difficult to pin down why our pets get this disease, some breeds are genetically predisposed to specific forms of cancer.

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What does “genetically predisposed� mean? Your dog has inherited genes from both parents. Genes are part of your dog’s molecular structure called Deoxyribonucleic Acid or DNA. These genes dictate your dog’s size, coat type, body structure, head shape, temperament and other characteristics, as well as its predisposition to some types of cancers. To be “genetically predisposed� means that in your dog’s family lineage, specific

6

types of cancers have been known to occur at a higher than average rate. In both animals and humans, genetic predisposition (sometimes also called genetic susceptibility) is an increased likelihood of developing a particular disease based on an individual’s genetic makeup. A genetic predisposition results from specific genetic variations that are often inherited from a parent. These genetic changes contribute to the development of a disease but do not directly cause it. Some people or animals with a predisposing genetic variation will never get the disease while others will, even within the same family. Genetic variations can have large or small effects on the likelihood of developing a particular disease.

What is the research telling us? Veterinary oncologists have been collecting cancer-related data for 25 years and have statistically proven that different cancers more commonly affect several types of purebred dogs. (See sidebar.) “Although we have known that some breeds and mixes develop cancer more commonly than others, it was not until recently that some of the reasons for this phenomenon were exposed,� explains Dr. Gerald Post, DVM, board-certified veterinary oncologist in the U.S. and board member of Animal Cancer Foundation. “The decoding of the

dog genome added immensely to our understanding of why certain breeds and mixes have a higher cancer risk. Scientists are now inching closer to allowing us to answer the question that all of us want answered: Why did my dog get cancer? “Scientists studying the factors that contribute to increased cancer risk in people point to four main factors: genetics, environment, diet, and infectious causes,� adds Dr. Post. “It is probable that all people and animals have some inherent risk for developing cancer and that these four factors work to either increase or decrease that baseline risk. I hope that by manipulating one or more of these factors, we can dramatically decrease the rate of cancer in our pets and ourselves.� Dr. Post respects the fact that when a positive cancer diagnosis is given, many pet guardians like to search the Internet for information. Unfortunately, not all information is good information so be cognizant of where the information comes from. He highly recommends the research paper entitled Breed Predispositions to Cancer in Pedigree Dogs. (www.hindawi.com/journals/ isrn/2013/941275/) This article is written by a qualified expert and is published in a respected scientific journal. It presents the real facts, backed by sound research, for those who want to learn more.

Dog breeds most susceptible to a variety of cancers:

Golden Retriever

"ASED ON A NUMBER OF RESEARCH STUDIES IN .ORTH !MERICA AND THE 5NITED +INGDOM HERE ARE SOME OF THE DOG BREEDS THAT ARE GENETICALLY PREDISPOSED TO CERTAIN TYPES OF CANCERS "E AWARE THAT THIS LIST IS NOT ALL INCLUSIVE !ND IT IS PRESENTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER BY DOG BREED NOT ORDER OF FREQUENCY RISK 0LEASE DO NOT CHOOSE YOUR DOG BASED SOLELY ON THIS LIST BUT USE THIS AS A TOOL TO HELP AID YOU AND YOUR VETERINARIAN IN EARLY DIAGNOSIS SHOULD YOUR CANINE COMPANION BECOME ILL 2EMEMBER THAT ALL DOGS FACE THE THREAT OF CANCER NOT JUST THOSE LISTED BELOW

Bernese Mountain Dog

Pug

Any large or giant breed: Osteosarcoma (bone) Basset Hound: Trichoepithelioma Bernese Mountain Dog: Histiocytic Sarcoma (soft tissues) Boxer: Astrocytoma (brain) Chow Chow: Adenocarcinoma (stomach) Cocker Spaniel: #UTANEOUS 0LASMACYTOMA SKIN

Lymphoma (white blood cells/soft tissues) Collie: Adenocarcinoma (nasal) English Springer Spaniel: Various types of breast/mammary gland cancers Flat-coated Retriever: 4RANSITIONAL #ELL #ARCINOMA BLADDER

-ELANOMA SKIN MOUTH German Shepherd Dog: Hemangiosarcoma (blood vessels/spleen) Golden Retriever: Lymphoma and Hemangiosarcoma (blood vessels/spleen) Greyhound: Osteosarcoma (bone) Labrador Retriever: ,YMPHOMA LYMPHATIC

Hemangiosarcoma (blood vessels/spleen) Pug: Mast Cell (immune system) Rottweiler: Osteosarcoma (bone) Scottish Terrier: Transitional Cell Carcinoma (bladder) -ELANOMA SKIN MOUTH Shar-pei: -AST #ELL SKIN LUNGS AND INTESTINAL TRACT Shetland Sheepdog: Liposarcoma (fat cells/soft tissue)

How to mitigate the risk of canine cancers

Shetland Sheepdog (Shelt

ie)

7

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s !S WITH PEOPLE DIET AND EXERCISE PLAY AN INTEGRAL ROLE IN HELPING YOUR DOG LIVE A LONG AND HEALTHY LIFE 'ETTING OUT FOR A WALK AT LEAST ONCE A DAY IS GOOD FOR BOTH YOU AND YOUR DOG s %NSURE YOUR DOG IS THE OPTIMUM WEIGHT FOR THE BREED /BESITY INCREASES CANCER RISK

AS WELL AS INCIDENTS OF HEART AILMENTS JOINT PROBLEMS DIABETES BREATHING DIFlCULTIES AND MORE s "RUSH YOUR DOG S COAT ON A REGULAR BASIS AND BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR ANY CHANGES OR IRREGULARITIES IN HIS SKIN EYES EARS AND NOSE s 4OOTH BRUSHING ALLOWS YOU TO WATCH FOR CHANGES IN YOUR DOG S MOUTH AND THROAT s !VOID ACCESS TO POTENTIALLY CONTAMINATED DRINKING WATER SUCH AS PUDDLES STREAMS ETC s !VOID INDOOR AIR POLLUTION ESPECIALLY CIGARETTE SMOKE AND TOXIC FUMES s )F YOUR PET ALREADY HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER AVOID FUTURE VACCINATIONS s 5SE mEA PRODUCTS ONLY IF NEEDED AND ONLY USE NATURAL PRODUCTS OR THOSE NATURAL PRODUCTS RECOMMENDED BY YOUR VETERINARIAN s +EEP YOUR DOG AWAY FROM PESTICIDES AND HERBICIDES USED ON LAWNS AND GARDENS s 2EDUCE STRESS BY MAINTAINING A ROUTINE AND KEEPING PEACE IN A MULTI PET HOUSEHOLD OR A HOME WITH ACTIVE YOUNG CHILDREN 0ROVIDE YOUR DOG A QUIET PLACE TO REST ALONG WITH PLENTY OF 4,# s 3UDDEN ONSET OR UNEXPLAINED LACK OF APPETITE VOMITING DIARRHEA LAMENESS SKIN LESIONS OR LUMPS IRRITABILITY AND OR LETHARGY MAY ALL BE EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF CANCER $ON T WAIT UNTIL SYMPTOMS WORSEN -AKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR VETERINARIAN

Be

sun savvy

reduce the risk

and of susceptible pets developing

skin cancer

$OGS WITH SHORT LIGHT COLOURED COATS SUCH AS $ALMATIONS 0ITBULLS WHITE "OXERS AND !MERICAN "ULLDOGS AS WELL AS CATS WITH WHITE COATS ARE MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO SUNBURNS SO BE PARTICULARLY CAREFUL WITH THESE ANIMALS WHEN YOU RE OUTSIDE

By Sarah Figley

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W

ith spring’s arrival and summer not far behind, people and pets alike flock outdoors to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine. We take along sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and clothes to protect our skin from the damaging ultraviolet (UV) light of the sun — but what do we do to protect our pets? If you’ve never thought about this before, don’t worry, you’re not the only one! Sun protection for animals is an important consideration that many pet guardians innocently overlook. Dr. Allison Foster is keen on helping pet guardians understand the risks and signs of skin damage so they can keep their animals safe. “It’s important to have annual check-ups so your veterinarian can look for changes in your animal’s skin — especially since the changes can be subtle,� says Dr. Foster, a clinical associate in dermatology at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s Veterinary Medical Centre. Just like humans, dogs can get sunburns that can be painful and uncomfortable. These burns also increase their risk of developing skin cancer — something that can be successfully treated if diagnosed early. Dr. Foster explains that there are varying levels of sun exposure and damage. If your pet does get sunburned, you should consult with your veterinarian to discuss treatments and future preventative skin care.

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For dogs and cats that have skin damage from chronic sun exposure, therapies may be available for pre-cancerous and cancerous changes. Dr. Foster recommends that owners do what they can to prevent sun damage. “Avoidance is key,� she says. Here are some tips for guardians who enjoy spending time outside with their pets: s $OGS WITH SHORT LIGHT COLOURED COATS SUCH AS $ALMATIONS 0ITBULLS

white Boxers and American Bulldogs) and cats with white coats are more susceptible to sunburns so be particularly careful with these animals when you’re outside. s 3UNBURNS ARE MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR WHERE THERE IS NO HAIR SUCH AS THE nose, paws and around the eyes; where there is thinner hair such as on the tips of the ear, muzzle, lips and groin area; and in nonpigmented areas such as the lighter spots in the hair/skin and around the eyes. s !PPLY SUNSCREEN TO UNPROTECTED AREAS OF SKIN SUCH AS THE EARS AND nose and re-apply sunscreen regularly as directed. s (UMAN SUNSCREENS MAY CONTAIN INGREDIENTS THAT CAN BE HARMFUL TO both dogs and cats including zinc oxide, octyl salicylate, homosalate and ethylhexyl salicylate. Always check with your veterinarian before using a product to ensure it is appropriate for your pet. If available, use sunscreen products that are designed specifically for animals.

Thinking of welcoming a new addition to your family this spring?

Adopt, Don’t Shop!

#HRISTINA 7EESE

$R !LLISON &OSTER IS A CLINICAL ASSOCIATE IN DERMATOLOGY AT THE 7ESTERN #OLLEGE OF 6ETERINARY -EDICINE S 6ETERINARY -EDICAL #ENTRE IN 3ASKATOON 3+ s )F YOU CAN T lND A PET SPECIlC SUNSCREEN YOU MIGHT BE ABLE TO use one that is for children/infants but check with your veterinarian first. Dogs and cats have a tendency to lick or ingest sunscreen, so it’s best to make sure it’s safe. s "E CAREFUL WHEN TAKING YOUR ANIMAL ON THE WATER OR IN A BOAT The reflection of UV rays off the water can cause extra exposure and damage to your pet’s skin. s !VOID BEING OUTSIDE DURING PERIODS OF INTENSE SUN ˆ GENERALLY between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. (times can vary depending on where you live). Keep animals in shaded areas when possible. s $ON T BE FOOLED BY GOING OUT ON CLOUDY DAYS 56 RAYS CAN penetrate the clouds, and that means your pet is still at risk. s +EEP WATER READILY AVAILABLE !NIMALS THAT ARE OUTSIDE AND ACTIVE get dehydrated easily.

—Sarah Figley is a second-year veterinary student from Saskatoon, SK, and was the WCVM’s research communications intern for the summer of 2014. This article is reprinted with permission from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s Companion Animal Health Fund (www.cahf.usask.ca).

Visit www.citizenpet.com and find the directory under “Pet Adoption�

The Western Veterinary Cancer Centre offers the most advanced full service cancer treatment in western Canada including:

radiation therapy, surgery and chemotherapy overseen by two of Alberta’s three board certified veterinary oncologists.

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There are a few things you can look for that may indicate sun damage. Redness and scaliness on sparsely haired areas as well as lesions that won’t heal — particularly on the ears, nose or around the eyes — are all common signs of sun damage. Spending time in the sun can also amplify or trigger the onset of other conditions. “UV exposure can potentially cause or exacerbate the symptoms of certain autoimmune skin diseases in animals such as discoid lupus erythematosus or pemphigus erythematosus,� says Dr. Foster. If your pet likes to sunbathe, as many animals do, Dr. Foster recommends that owners use a sunsuit or bodysuit on their pet. She adds that some animals prefer lying on one side exposing certain areas of skin to the sun more often. “Some animals will also lick off sunscreen, and it’s not something you can control. If that’s the case with your pet, consider using a sunsuit or bodysuit,� Dr. Foster suggests. Sunsuits and bodysuits are made of light, breathable fabric that also blocks UV rays. Animal-specific clothing can offer additional skin protection but make sure your dog doesn’t overheat. For more information about protecting your animals from the sun, talk to your veterinarian.

Find your new furry family member through Citizen Pet & Equine’s Rescue and Shelter Directory, FEATURING PROlLES OF RESCUES AND SHELTERS IN YOUR AREA

Dr. Julie Schell combines conventional and complementary veterinary medicine when caring for her patients at her southeast Calgary practice, Bow Bottom Veterinary Hospital.

Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs. He practices at Paws & Claws Animal Hospital in Plano, Texas.

You are what you eat, and so is your pet! By Jacqueline Louie

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A

healthy diet, together with a good lifestyle and healthcare program, are very important in ensuring your pet enjoys optimal health for life, says Dr. Julie Schell, who practices at Bow Bottom Vet Hospital in southeast Calgary. “Food is one of the key elements for preventing cancer,” says Dr. Schell, who is certified in veterinary acupuncture, veterinary chiropractic, veterinary Chinese herbal medicine, and essential oil therapy for pets. “There really isn’t any disease out there where nutrition won’t play a role. You are what you eat, but you have to be wise about it.” When it comes to diet and cancer prevention, Dr. Schell says it’s important to make sure your pet’s food is very well balanced. And the amount of food you feed your pet is just as important as the quality. Your veterinarian should be able to advise you on how to ensure your pet is getting the right nutrition. “Be in close contact with your veterinarian, who can help you,” says Dr. Schell, noting there are many good recipes available for pet guardians who are interested in preparing healthy home-made food for their cat or dog. Or, if you pre-

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fer to purchase pet food, Dr. Schell recommends choosing products where the manufacturer has done a lot of research, including longterm clinical trials. In a natural health care program for your dog or cat, everything you do should support your pet’s immune system, says Dr. Shawn Messonnier, the author of The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs. This approach can work to reduce the odds of developing everything from cancer and infections, to inflammatory conditions and chronic illness. The best diet to feed your pet is the most natural food you can afford; food that you’re comfortable providing and that your pet enjoys eating, says Dr. Messonnier, who practices at Paws & Claws Animal Hospital in Plano, Texas, located just north of Dallas. “Whether it’s homemade, raw, cooked, or you buy it prepared, it really comes down to the owner. I’m OK with any of that as long as it’s natural, and preferably organic. And if one diet isn’t working, you can pick something else.” When taking a holistic and natural approach to nutrition, the most important thing to remember, he adds, is that the right diet is going to be unique to your dog or cat’s individual needs.

In addition to following a healthy diet, Dr. Messonnier recommends including supplements, especially those that support healthy immune function such as a good quality essential fatty acid, found in fish oil; antioxidants; and Vitamin D3. There are many factors at play in the development of cancer, including genetics, says nutritional consultant Dr. Meg Smart, DVM, PhD, professor emeritus in Small Animal Clinical Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan’s Western College of Veterinary Medicine. Feeding your pet live whole foods is appropriate — “preferably fresh, organic and non GMO,� says Dr. Smart, who co-authored Not Fit for a Dog! The Truth About Manufactured Cat and Dog Food. “I cannot say dogmatically that cancer can be prevented,� adds Dr. Smart. “But when cancer did not seem to be as big a problem as it is today, our pets had access to the outdoors, and were allowed to roam and often hunt.� For more on Dr. Smart’s take on pet nutrition, please visit her blog at petnutritionbysmart.blogspot.com; follow Dr. Messonnier at www. petcarenaturally.com; and for more information on pet nutrition Dr. Schell recommends the following websites: www.completeandbalanced.com and www.completeandbalancedforcats.com.

For all you cooks out there who would like to try making a home-made treat for your pup, here is a recipe from In the Dog Kitchen by Julie Van Rosendaal. Julie is the author of seven best-selling cookbooks, is the food editor at ParentsCanada magazine and the food and nutrition guide on the Calgary Eyeopener on CBC Radio One.

Bubble and Squeak Bites Makes 2-3 dozen treats

1 cup chopped roast beef, lamb, chicken or turkey 1 cup chopped cooked vegetables, such as carrots, beans or broccoli 1/2 cup mashed or boiled potatoes 1 large egg

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Strong aluminium pooper scoopers in a variety of colours, also available in the spade and rake option.

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Bubble and squeak is a traditional British dish made with the previous day’s leftover roast and vegetables. It is generally cooked in a hot skillet until crisp (the steam creating the “squeakâ€?), but here the ingredients are blended and baked to eat in one bite. Preheat the oven to 350ÂşF. Line two or three baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl or in the bowl of a food processor, combine the meat, YHJHWDEOHV SRWDWRHV DQG HJJ ,I \RX ZDQW D Ă€QHU WH[WXUH SXOVH WKH PL[WXUH LQ WKH IRRG SURFHVVRU XQWLO DV URXJKO\ RU Ă€QHO\ EOHQGHG DV \RX OLNH 'URS WKH PL[WXUH E\ VSRRQIXO RQWR WKH SUHSDUHG EDNLQJ VKHHWV press down each cookie with the back of a spoon, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until set and springy to the touch. Let the cookies cool completely on the sheets. Store in a tightly sealed container in the fridge, or freeze.

Second-hand smoke is not only harmful to people but pets too! By Terri Perrin

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once worked as a receptionist at a veterinary clinic. From my vantage point at the front desk, I was able to observe our clients as they parked their cars before they came in for their appointments. I will never forget one client who always had a cigarette hanging from her mouth while driving in her car. She was repeatedly bringing her droopy-eyed Bassett Hound in for chronic eye irritation. The poor dog’s mucous membranes were angry red and inflamed. He was in obvious and severe discomfort. And, the client reported, “Buster” was constantly rubbing his face and eyes along carpets, furniture and the back seat of the car. “My friends warned me that this breed could be prone to eye problems,” complained the client. “I should have listened to them! Treating these eye infections is getting so expensive and it’s very frustrating because nothing seems to help!” As a receptionist, it was not my place to give a second opinion on the veterinarian’s diagnosis and treatment of Buster’s eyes. But we all knew that it was not the droopy eyes that were the root cause of the problem — the irritation was, without question, the result of repeated exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke. Confined to the back seat of the car, while the woman happily puffed away in the front seat, Buster’s poor eyes (and nose) were being constantly irritated by smoke. The only real “cure” for his condition was for the woman to stop smoking around her dog. As a society, we have made great strides in protecting people from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. Public buildings are smokefree and those who chose to breathe in “firsthand” cigarette smoke are assigned to designated smoking areas. We have become more conscientious about the dangers of smoking around children. But what about our pets? Can your smoking cause your pets harm? You bet!

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The very real dangers of nicotine and carcinogens Both people and pets can suffer similar health problems when subjected to second-hand smoke. The same carcinogenic molecules that cause cancer and other diseases in people affect animals the same way. So, if you smoke in your home or car, then your pet is essentially “smoking” too. Second-hand smoke is not the only problem. Most people never consider “third-hand smoke.” This is the residue that remains in the smoker’s environment on furniture, rugs, curtains, fabric lampshades, clothing, human skin, animal fur and other surfaces. Both second- and third-hand smoke is referred to as environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). Research shows that ETS is dangerous to animals living with smokers. A research study conducted in 2007 at the University of Minnesota showed that cats that live with smokers have nicotine and other toxins in their urine. Inhaling carcinogens is not the only health risk faced by pets that live in homes where people smoke. Poisoning is another potential risk for curious pets. Many family pets, but especially puppies and kittens, find packages of tobacco (or marijuana) cigarettes, e-cigarettes,

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nicotine gum and nicotine patches irresistible. Cigarette butts left in ashtrays or carelessly tossed on the ground are also a major problem. When ingested, tobacco products may cause nicotine poisoning, which can be fatal. If you must smoke, be sure to store all new and used smoking materials safely out of reach of pets and small children.

Second-hand smoke-related diseases in pets A number of scientific papers have documented the significant health threats that are more common in pets exposed to second-hand smoke. In addition to the cancers listed below, animals can suffer excessive salivation, diarrhea, vomiting, asthma-like symptoms, respiratory problems, and cardiac abnormalities. All types of pets, like Buster, can be prone to skin, eye, and respiratory conditions that do not respond well to treatment, due to the on-going exposure to the irritant. s #ATS ARE PRONE TO MOUTH CANCERS SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA

resulting from their self-grooming habits. When they lick their fur, their mucous membranes are exposed to cancer-causing toxins. s -ALIGNANT LYMPHOMA IS ANOTHER TYPE OF CANCER THAT CATS LIVING in homes with smokers are twice as likely to have, as compared to cats living in a non-smoking home. This form of cancer is fatal to three out of four cats within 12 months of developing the disease. s $OGS WITH LONG NOSES ARE MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO CANCER OF THE nose and sinus area because they have a greater surface area to be exposed to carcinogens. Most dogs with nasal cancer do not survive longer than one year. s $OGS WITH SHORT AND MEDIUM LENGTH MUZZLES ARE MORE PRONE to lung cancer, because their short nasal passages are not as effective at accumulating the second-hand smoke carcinogens. s "IRDS ARE AT GREAT RISK OF LUNG CANCER AS WELL AS PNEUMONIA

because their respiratory systems are hypersensitive to any type of air pollutant. You should never EVER smoke around your pet bird.

ACCOUNTING YOU CAN COUNT ON!

How to minimize the risk to your pet’s health It is possible not just to minimize but also to completely eliminate the risk to your pet’s health from second- and thirdhand smoke. Just don’t allow them to be around people who are smoking. If you don’t smoke, then bravo! Good for you. If you do smoke, just stop! Okay, okay, we understand that in a perfect world this would be the ideal solution, but we recognize that quitting cold turkey can be a challenge. So, in order to mitigate risk, both for the health of pets and others living in the household, here are some tips:

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s )F YOUR PET HAS UNEXPLAINED OR RECURRING HEALTH PROBLEMS TELL your veterinarian that you are a smoker. s 3MOKE IN A DESIGNATED AREA IN WHICH THE SMOKE IS PHYSICALLY separated from your home. And think of poor old Buster and his itchy red eyes ‌ don’t smoke in your car. s $O NOT ASSUME THAT E CIGARETTES ARE SAFER FOR PETS AND PEOPLE than tobacco. They also contain a number of potentially harmful chemicals. s !FTER SMOKING WASH YOUR HANDS BEFORE HANDLING YOUR PETS If your kitty likes to “head buttâ€? your face, wash your face, too. s 2EMEMBER THAT THIRD HAND SMOKE RESIDUE LINGERS ON YOUR HAIR and clothing. Minimize your animals’ contact with clothing that is “smokey.â€? s 0ROPERLY DISPOSE OF ALL CIGARETTE BUTTS AND PACKAGING AS WELL AS nicotine patches and gum. Store unused products in a safe place, out of reach of pets and children. s 4ALK TO A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER ABOUT HOW YOU CAN REDUCE OR eliminate your dependency on cigarettes.

We customize our sevices to our clients needs!

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When you want to change your dog’s behaviour, you’ll have an easier time if you look at the root cause of the problem.

Puppies need to chew when they are teething. Just as in human babies, the gums are irritated as the new teeth emerge and chewing helps alleviate this irritation. Wooden furniture at ground level is an awesome chew toy for this purpose so use baby gates or fences to prevent access to table legs and chairs. A great teething toy is a tug rope that has been soaked in water or plain beef broth for an hour and then frozen. Bully sticks and deer or elk antlers are good for this purpose too. Some people find it useful to spray a taste deterrent like “Bitter Apple” on the pieces where the dog frequents if they can’t be blocked off by barriers. Try and take your dog to the pet store and ask to test before you buy because not all dogs are repelled by these products. If the chewing is due to boredom, make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise to burn off excess energy and then provide her with chew toys that contain frozen food inside that challenge her to get it out. Remember to take into account how many calories this is replacing from her daily diet so you are not over-feeding her.

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In either of the above cases, a low growl from you should interrupt inappropriate chewing and when your dog stops, praise her with a high pitched tone and then give her the substitute chew toy. If the chewing is due to separation anxiety, it will only occur when you’re not around. A dog who is stressed due to your absence may need training that is best provided by a professional dog trainer. In the meantime, before you leave, try confining your dog to the area where he sleeps at night as this tends to be the place where he feels most relaxed and secure. —Liz Nishimura is a Master Dog Trainer and Behavioural Therapist with FURRY LOGIC Home Dog Training in Calgary. Visit www. furrylogic.ca or call 403-995-0342.

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Q

How do I get my dog to chew on his toys rather than the furniture?

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My first dog, Jett, destroyed more laptop cords, iPhone cables, shoes, rugs and furniture than I care to admit. We were first time dog guardians and had no idea what we were getting ourselves into! Believe it or not, my dog Leia has never chewed or ruined anything except her toys. I’ve had her since she was nine weeks old. What’s my secret? Constant supervision! If you see your puppy chewing on something they shouldn’t have, take it away and get them something you want them to chew on. Your puppy might be teething so a good way to numb their gums is to get them a wet rag that has been in the freezer for a few hours. For older dogs that are chewing on things they shouldn’t, it is usually a behavioural issue. The most common causes of behavioural issues are lack of exercise, leadership and consistency. If your dog is misbehaving and chewing everything, you may not be giving them what they need to be a balanced calm dog. They are probably bored! Dogs need the right amount of exercise, both mental and physical, to release any pent-up energy. And this is not just taking your dog for a walk around the block. He’ll need a good work out at least three a week that gets his heart pumping for a sustained period of time, usually about 20 minutes. You can’t expect your dog to be self-motivated to exercise or selfdisciplined to stop chewing — you have to consistently show leadership by engaging with your dog. My clients that come to group classes notice a significant decrease in destructive behaviour after a very short period of time. We focus on mentally and physically stimulating the dogs so that they get a complete work out. It’s been my experience that dogs who get proper leadership, consistency and exercise don’t have destructive habits! — Beth O’Connor is a certified dog trainer and owner of Cultured Canines. She can be reached at 403-472-2384 or visit www.culturedcanines.ca.

Beth O’Connor

Liz Nishimura

TRAINER

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Quality supplements for what ails your pet By Sherry Warner

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HEY SAY THAT hNECESSITY IS THE MOTHER OF INVEN TIONv AND THAT S JUST HOW A SMALL ANIMAL NUTRI TIONAL SUPPLEMENT COMPANY GOT ITS START h7E BEGAN MANUFACTURING SUPPLEMENTS BECAUSE WE HAD A NUMBER OF FAMILY MEMBERS AND FRIENDS WHO HAD PETS WITH ILLNESSES OR INJURIES AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO lND GOOD QUALITY SUPPLEMENTS THAT COULD HELP v SAYS ,ISA 7IEBE OWNER OF 0ET 4EK BASED IN ,EDUC !" 4HE COMPANY S lRST PRODUCT LINE 2E'EN WAS DEVELOPED IN TO ADDRESS JOINT PROBLEMS IN HER BROTHER S #OCKER 3PANIEL 3HAY AND HER AUNT S 'OLDEN 2ETRIEVER +ATIE WHO WAS DIAGNOSED WITH HIP DYSPLASIA AT A YOUNG AGE 4HESE CAREFULLY RESEARCHED AND FORMU LATED SUPPLEMENTS COMBINE GLUCOSAMINE AND CHON DROITIN ALONG WITH METHYLSULFONYLMETHANE -3- AND HYALURONIC ACID TO REDUCE INmAMMATION AND HELP BUILD AND MAINTAIN STRONG BONES AND mEXIBLE JOINTS 4HE RE SULTS WERE IMPRESSIVE SO THEY KNEW THEY WERE ON TO SOMETHING &ROM THERE THE COMPANY DEVELOPED ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS BASED ON WHAT THEIR CUSTOMERS WERE ASKING FOR 4ODAY 0ET 4EK OFFERS A FULL LINE OF NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR DOGS CATS SMALL ANIMALS AND HORSES PROVIDING NATURAL SOLUTIONS TO A HOST OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS ISSUES FROM BAD BREATH AND EXCESSIVE SHED DING TO HOT SPOTS ARTHRITIS ANXIETY URINARY TRACT PROB LEMS AND ALLERGIES TO NAME A FEW -OST OF 0ET 4EK S PRODUCTS ARE MANUFACTURED AT ITS

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WE PURCHASE OUR MATERIALS FROM WITHIN #ANADA OR THE 5 3 v SAYS ,ISA !LL OF THE INGREDIENTS AND PACKAGING MATERIALS USED IN 0ET 4EK SUPPLEMENTS ARE SOURCED FROM COMPANIES WITHIN THE HUMAN NUTRACEUTICAL SECTOR WHICH ARE AP PROVED BY (EALTH #ANADA AND OR THE &$! h4HIS HELPS US ENSURE OUR PRODUCTS CONTAIN THE HIGHEST QUALITY INGREDIENTS v SAYS ,ISA !ND ADDS h7E GUARANTEE OUR SUPPLEMENTS PER CENT )F FOR ANY REASON OUR CUS TOMERS AREN T HAPPY THEY CAN RETURN THE PRODUCT TO THE STORE IT WAS PURCHASED FROM FOR A FULL REFUND v 4O HELP ITS CUSTOMERS CHOOSE THE RIGHT SUPPLEMENT FOR THEIR PETS THE COMPANY DEVELOPED ITS ONLINE 3OLU TION &INDER h7E WANTED TO MAKE IT AS EASY AS POSSIBLE FOR PEOPLE TO lND THE RIGHT 0ET 4EK PRODUCTS BECAUSE PEOPLE DON T ALWAYS KNOW WHAT THE SPECIlC DISEASE OR AILMENT IS BUT THEY KNOW WHAT THE SYMPTOMS ARE v SAYS ,ISA 4O USE THE 3OLUTION &INDER JUST VISIT 0ET 4EK S HOME PAGE AT WWW PET TEK CA AND CHOOSE EITHER h#ANINE 0RODUCTSv OR h&ELINE 0RODUCTSv THEN CLICK ON THE h3OLUTION &INDERv IN THE COLUMN DOWN THE LEFT SIDE OF THE PAGE (ERE YOU LL lND A LIST OF COMMON HEALTH IS SUES AND THE RECOMMENDED 0ET 4EK PRODUCTS

!LTHOUGH THERE ARE FEW STUDIES ON THE EFlCACY OF NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR PETS ,ISA WITNESSES ON A REGULAR BASIS HOW 0ET 4EK SUPPLEMENTS BETTER THE LIVES OF HER FOUR LEGGED CUSTOMERS h7E TEST A LOT OF OUR SUPPLEMENTS ON OURSELVES v SAYS ,ISA h) M NOT WILLING TO SELL SOMETHING THAT ) PERSONALLY WOULDN T TAKE MYSELF OR FEEL COMFORTABLE GIVING TO MY PETS v 7HATEVER SUPPLEMENT YOU CHOOSE ,ISA RECOM MENDS ADMINISTERING IT TO YOUR PET FOR A MINIMUM OF DAYS h7ITHIN DAYS YOU SHOULD SEE THE FULL RE SULTS OF THE PRODUCT -ANY TIMES IT TAKES WAY LESS AND YOU COULD START SEEING RESULTS WITHIN THE lRST SEVERAL DAYS v SHE SAYS 4HAT S WHAT CUSTOMERS TELL HER ABOUT 0ET 4EK S JOINT CARE SUPPLEMENTS 0ET 4EK NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS ARE AVAILABLE ACROSS #ANADA AT YOUR SPECIALTY PET SUPPLY RETAILER 5SE 0ET 4EK S ONLINE hLOCATION lNDERv TO lND A STORE NEAR YOU

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Visit www.pet-tek.ca and use our Solution Finder to find the right supplements for your pet. 15

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higher learning

Feed Your Best Friend Better By Rick Woodford Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing ISBN-10: 1449409938 $16.99 US $19.99 Canada

In the Dog Kitchen By Julie Van Rosendaal Paperback: 196 pages Publisher: TouchWood Editions ISBN-10: 1771511052 $19.95 US $19.95 Canada

By Susan Crawford, M.Sc.

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ick Woodford’s book Feed Your Best Friend Better showcases 85 recipes for meals, treats and cookies that are easy, healthy, fast to prepare and so tasty your dog will not miss commercial kibble. Woodford’s mother gave him a dog food cookbook for his birthday one year — the first birthday he shared with his rescue dog, Jackson. His journey to become the “Dog Food Dude” began at the meat counter of his favourite grocery store three years later. Jackson’s veterinarian called Woodford on his cell phone, with the devastating news that Jackson had lymphoma. Woodford left the store with two steaks that night, and hand fed one of them to Jackson. He spent hours researching nutrition for dogs, and read many veterinarian manuals to develop his recipes. His book is veterinarian approved too. Jackson would often refuse commercial kibble once Woodford started feeding him homemade food. The more enthusiastic and healthier Jackson seemed when eating homemade food during his chemotherapy, the more Woodford was spurred on to come up with new recipes. Jackson went into remission 18 months later, and lived four more years cancer-free. The recipes are quite easy and a fair number of them are made in slow cookers. All recipes include a range of portion sizes and nutritional information. Pet guardians will know exactly what their pet is eating — no worries about corn or soy or meat by-products. There is a section on how to feed puppies, how to transition to homemade food, as well as how to provide supplements. The section on grainfree recipes is very informative especially for dogs with dietary issues and so is the section of recipes for dogs with specific ailments. Our favourite? Gingerbread Mailman Cookies were a huge hit for our dog, but so were the Sweet Potato Fries (that we could share with our dog), and so was the homemade kibble recipe. Our dog was either walking around the kitchen sniffing or laying on the floor right in front of the oven waiting for the timer to ring, in hopes of a tasty morsel coming his way. Four paws up!

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By Susan Crawford, M.Sc.

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ulie Van Rosendaal’s passion for baking shines through every page of the new edition of In The Dog Kitchen. It is jam packed with 70 recipes for treats for every palate — and even has a new grain-free section that was not included in the first edition of this book. Back in 2003 when the first edition was published, pet guardians were feeding their dogs differently, so she wanted to incorporate a bunch of new recipes in 2014 to cater to those readers. The recipes are easy, and will definitely save pet guardians money, but at the same time they guarantee that wholesome ingredients go into each treat. There is no risk of soy, corn or meat by-products going into any of these treats. Van Rosendaal has even included a section on how to customize each recipe to your dog’s diet, so that gluten-free, dairy-free, and even vegetarian options are possible. The photographs are delightful, making this book a wonderful addition to the bookshelf, and recipe collection, of every dog lover. Pet guardians who have been leery of the difficulty of making homemade treats will be relieved to see Van Rosendaal’s photos and her easy to follow instructions. Those not wanting to make a special trip to the grocery store will enjoy the information on how to use their own leftovers for treats for their dogs. And best yet, because they are dog treats, you won’t be tempted to eat them right out of the oven. That definitely cannot be said for your dog though! Our dog’s favourite recipe was Bubble and Squeak Bites — no doubt partly related to our dog’s obsession with squeaky toys! No, these treats do not squeak, but they are healthy and definitely delicious all the way to the last crumb. Four paws up!

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Compassionate care for your cancer pet By Sherry Warner

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Occy (left), two-time cancer survivor with his new furry sister, Mercy.

OTHER AND WITH YOUR REGULAR VET TO DETERMINE WHICH COURSE OF TREATMENT IS MOST APPROPRIATE FOR YOUR PET AND CONDITION DIAGNOSED v SHE SAYS h-ANY TIMES

THERE IS MORE THAN ONE APPROACH TO THERAPY v ADDS #ATHY 4HIS MAY INCLUDE CHEMOTHERAPY RADIATION THERAPY OR SURGERY AND SOMETIMES A COMBINATION OF ALL THREE /CCY WAS TEAMED UP WITH $R 'LENNA -AULDIN AND UNDERWENT A COMBINATION OF CHEMO AND RA DIATION THERAPY 7ITH TREATMENT THE FAMILY WAS TOLD /CCY MAY LIVE SIX MONTHS TO A YEAR 7ITHOUT TREAT MENT HE WOULD HAVE THREE TO SIX MONTHS h! YEAR AND A HALF LATER $R -AULDIN CLEARED HIM OF CANCER v SAYS $AN h4HE DOCTOR WASN T SURE WHETHER IT WAS A MIRACLE A SUPERDOG OR A MISDIAGNOSIS BUT SHE HAD NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT v #ANCER TREATMENT IS A BIG lNANCIAL COMMITMENT AND THAT EXPENSE IS OFTEN VERY UNEXPECTED FOR FAMI LIES SAYS #ATHY h7HEN FAMILIES HAVE THEIR CANCER DOGS INSURED IT JUST EASES THEIR BURDEN IN A VERY SIGNIlCANT WAY h7E DEAL WITH ALL OF THE INSURANCE COMPANIES THAT ARE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE AND OBVIOUSLY WE ARE BIG PRO PONENTS OF PET INSURANCE )T MAKES THAT PART OF THE DECISION MAKING SO MUCH EASIER v SHE ADDS h4HANK 'OD WE HAD PET INSURANCE v SAYS $AN

)N THE SPAN OF FOUR YEARS /CCY WENT THROUGH TWO ROUNDS OF TREATMENT ! YEAR AND A HALF AFTER UN DERGOING THE lRST ROUND OF CHEMO AND RADIATION THERAPY /CCY WAS CLEARED 3ADLY IN /CCY S CANCER RETURNED AND HE WENT THROUGH A SECOND ROUND OF CHEMO AND RADIATION THERAPY 4HE GOOD NEWS IS HE IS CURRENTLY IN REMISSION AND BACK TO HIS OLD SELF AGAIN h/UR @SUPERDOG HAS COME THROUGH ONCE AGAIN v SAYS $AN h7E RE HOPING THAT IF ANYTHING TAKES HIM IT WILL BE LIVING A LONG LIFE AND NOT CAN CER v 4HE -IKALUKS HAVE A NEW LITTLE FURRY SISTER

-ERCY FOR /CCY TO PLAY WITH h3HE KEEPS HIM ON HIS TOES v SAYS $AN 4O SUPPORT CANCER PATIENTS WHO ARE CRITICALLY ILL 7ESTERN HAS A HOUR INTENSIVE CARE UNIT AND A CRITICAL CARE SPECIALIST ON STAFF TO CARE FOR YOUR PET 4HE CENTRE ALSO OFFERS REHABILITATION THERAPY FOR POST OPERATIVE CARE ! GRIEF COUNSELLOR IS AVAILABLE TO MEET WITH FAMILIES TO SUPPORT THEM THROUGH EVERYTHING THEY ARE GOING THROUGH 3OMETIMES FAMILIES ARE OVERWHELMED WITH THE SHEER AMOUNT OF INFORMATION AND CHOICES THEY NEED TO MAKE OR THEY NEED SUPPORT AFTER THE LOSS OF A PET TO CANCER h/UR COUNSELLOR IS VERY HELPFUL AND COMFORTING TO MANY FAMILIES HERE v SAYS #ATHY h4HE ANIMAL CANCER CENTRE IS IN THE PROCESS OF MAKING A SIGNIlCANT INVESTMENT INTO THE TECHNOLOGY FOR OUR RADIATION THERAPY PATIENTS v SAYS #ATHY )N -AY 7ESTERN 6ET WILL BE THE lRST VETERINARY CANCER CENTRE IN #ANADA TO IMPLEMENT STATE OF THE ART 2APID!RC TECHNOLOGY 4HIS TYPE OF RADIATION TREATMENT DELIVERS THE PRESCRIBED DOSE IN A CONTINUOUS hARCv AROUND THE PATIENT 4HIS SIGNIlCANTLY MINIMIZES EXPOSURE TO SURROUNDING NORMAL TISSUE AND GREATLY IMPROVES THE ACCURACY OF THE DOSE DELIVERED TO THE TUMOUR 7HILE NOT EVERY PATIENT IS A CANDIDATE FOR 2APID!RC THERAPY MANY WILL BENElT FROM THIS EXCITING NEW TECHNOLOGY 19

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F YOU VE HAD A PET WITH CANCER YOU KNOW THE STRESS THE DISEASE CAN PLACE ON THE WHOLE FAM ILY BOTH EMOTIONALLY AND lNANCIALLY 4HAT S WHERE THE 7ESTERN 6ETERINARY #ANCER #EN TRE AT 7ESTERN 6ETERINARY 3PECIALIST %MERGENCY #ENTRE CAN HELP 4HE FULL TREATMENT REFERRAL CANCER CENTRE IS STAFFED WITH A TEAM OF BOARD CERTIlED VET ERINARY ONCOLOGISTS SURGEONS HIGHLY TRAINED TECHNI CIANS AND SUPPORT STAFF AND OFFERS THE LATEST MOST ADVANCED CANCER TREATMENTS AVAILABLE -OST PETS lND THEIR WAY TO THE CANCER CENTRE USU ALLY AFTER THE FAMILY OR REGULAR VET NOTICES SOMETHING ˆ MAYBE A LUMP SOMETHING SPOTTED ON ROUTINE BLOOD WORK OR THE PET IS ACTING OUT OF CHARACTER )F CANCER IS SUSPECTED THE PET IS REFERRED TO THE CENTRE 4HAT S EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED TO THE -IKALUK FAMILY AND THEIR DOG /CCY PRONOUNCED !UKEE 4HE CUTE LITTLE MIXED BREED IS VERY FOOD DRIVEN SO WHEN HE WASN T EATING $AN KNEW THERE WAS SOME THING WRONG 4HE FAMILY VET FOUND A GRAPEFRUIT SIZED TUMOUR IN /CCY S CHEST CAVITY AND PERFORMED EMERGENCY SURGERY TO REMOVE IT ! BIOPSY WAS PERFORMED ON THE TUMOUR AND THE NEWS CAME BACK IT WAS CAN CEROUS 4HE VET THEN REFERRED /CCY TO THE 7ESTERN 6ETERINARY #ANCER #ENTRE /NCE A REFERRAL ARRIVES AT THE CENTRE THE NURSES REVIEW ALL THE INFORMATION FROM THE FAMILY VET AND DETERMINE WHICH OF THE CENTRE S TWO BOARD CERTIlED VETERINARY ONCOLOGISTS $R 'LENNA -AULDIN MEDI CAL ONCOLOGY OR $R .EAL -AULDIN RADIATION ONCOL OGY IS THE BEST lT FOR A CONSULT WITH THE FAMILY SAYS #ATHY 'AVILLER CLINIC MANAGER 9OUR PET MAY UNDERGO FURTHER DIAGNOSTICS THAT MAY INCLUDE #4 SCANS ULTRASOUND BLOOD WORK AND BIOPSIES THAT WILL HELP THE ONCOLOGISTS DETERMINE A MORE DElNITIVE DIAGNOSIS 4HEN THE DOCTORS WORK WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY VET TO COME UP WITH THE MOST APPROPRIATE TREATMENT PLAN h/UR DOCTORS WORK IN COLLABORATION WITH ONE AN

Vaccinations

and feline cancer

By Jacqueline Louie

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accinations help animals live healthier, longer lives by preventing potentially fatal infectious diseases. But, like any aspect of medicine, vaccines need to be used appropriately to ensure they’re contributing to your cat’s optimum health. With vaccination protocols tailored to meet the needs of the individual cat, veterinarians advocate for the regular vaccination of all cats, indoors and outdoors, says Dr. Liz Ruelle, certified feline specialist through the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners and owner of Wild Rose Cat Clinic in southeast Calgary. “Infectious diseases are all around, and not going away any time soon,� explains Dr. Ruelle. “That said, vaccinations are not without risk. The most common side effects from vaccines are similar to those in people — a mild ache at the injection site and a day of malaise. One very rare, but albeit serious risk of vaccination, is the development of a soft

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tissue tumour (cancer) known as an injection-site sarcoma.� Injection site sarcomas were first seen in cats in the late 1980s. Although initially linked with vaccinations, injection-site sarcomas have now been associated with a variety of commonly used, and life saving, injectable medications in cats. When a person or animal receives an injection, there is a local inflammatory reaction at the injection site. In a normal patient, that local inflammation soon calms down, but in those rare cats who are genetically primed to develop an injection-site sarcoma, the inflammation becomes chronic, and they can go on to develop a tumour. “There is no way to predict which cat will form a sarcoma, as the underlying risk factors are at the DNA level and thus not detectable on examination or patient history,� Dr. Ruelle says. When a patient forms a sarcoma, there is often no way to know what was the underlying trigger, as sarcomas can develop years after an injection; they can also devel-

$R ,IZ 2UELLE IS A CERTIlED FELINE SPECIALIST AND OWNER OF 7ILD 2OSE #AT #LINIC IN SOUTHEAST #ALGARY op in cats without any history of having received an injection (vaccine or other). “This is why the causes of cancer are not

black and white, in both human and veterinary medicine,� Ruelle says, noting that cancer is a multi-factorial disease that encompasses everything from an individual’s environment, to their genetics to their lifestyle. “Vaccines still are really important,� she adds, noting that vaccines protect against diseases that can be deadly, such as rabies, and for the vast majority of the cat population vaccines are hugely beneficial. For instance, thanks to both improved vaccinations and screening tools, veterinarians typically don’t see feline leukemia virus as often any more. “You hear stories from vets in the 1980s, when the feline leukemia virus was absolutely rampant. Now I rarely see it in practice, because we have had good dedicated vaccine and testing protocols,� Ruelle says. The current vaccine philosophy, she explains, is that “we want more cats vaccinated, but to vaccinate each individual less often. It’s balancing risk between appropriate disease protection and patient safety.� When choosing the appropriate protocol for an individual cat, a veterinarian takes into account factors such as disease exposure risk, patient age and

health status. Newer vaccines are much more effective, substantially safer and are a very important part of cat health. Dr. Ruelle says: “If you have concerns about vaccination risk, or the risk of any treatment plan for that matter, then that’s a conversation you need to have with your veterinarian. Medical decisions, even the most routine ones, are made after careful discussion between owner and doctor.� The most common cancer that Dr. Ruelle currently sees in her feline patients is intestinal lymphoma — a cancer type common in her older patients, unrelated to both vaccinations and infectious disease. “Just like in people, cancer is a disease that’s of higher risk as a cat gets older and as the cell’s “photocopier� gets worn out and DNA starts to get damaged. “Just like people, for optimal health and cancer prevention it’s all about ensuring that cells stay healthy — but that is easier said than done,� she says. “Lifestyle factors that owners can control include feeding their cat an appropriate diet, maintaining an ideal weight, minimizing toxin exposure (such as second-hand smoke), and routine veterinary care to catch disease changes early.�

10 subtle signs of sickness in cats /NE OR MORE OF THESE h SUBTLE SIGNS OF SICKNESSv COULD BE A SIGN OF STRESS !ND $R ,IZ 2UELLE A FELINE SPECIALIST PRACTICING AT Wild Rose Cat Clinic in Calgary recommends calling your veteriNARIAN IF YOU NOTICE ANYTHING AMISS WITH YOUR KITTY h+NOW WHAT THE STATUS QUO IS WITH YOUR CAT AND IF YOU RE SEEING A CHANGE AND ESPECIALLY IF YOU SEE ONE OR MORE OF THE TOP SIGNS OF SICKNESS

THEN THAT S A REASON TO BE CALLING YOUR VET v SHE SAYS Inappropriate elimination behaviour: urinating or DEFECATING OUTSIDE THE LITTER BOX Changes in interactions: A social cat not wanting to be touched or a cat that is not typically cuddly wanting to be cuddled #HANGES IN ACTIVITY LEVELS EITHER UP OR DOWN Changes in sleeping habits #HANGES IN WATER INTAKE Increased or decreased water or food consumption 5NEXPLAINED WEIGHT LOSS Changes in grooming habits Changes in vocalization Bad breath &OR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CARING FOR YOUR CATS VISIT THE !MERICAN !SSOCIATION OF &ELINE 0RACTITIONERS AT WWW CATVETS COM AND CLICK ON h#AT /WNERSv ON THE NAVIGATION BAR OR VISIT 7ILD 2OSE #AT #LINIC AT WWW WPFELINECLINIC COM

It lies at the heart of many of the decisions we make each and every day. As you know, today’s marketplace offers you many different resources for the products you need to best support your pets. From grocery to big box stores, the options can seem overwhelming. So how do you make the right choice when everyone claims to be the best source for your needs?

We believe that Pet Planet is that choice.

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By choosing Pet Planet, you make a choice to shop with a retailer that is truly dedicated to the pets you love. We work hard every single day to ensure that the products we offer, the services we provide and the information that we share always has your pet’s needs in mind. Whether you’re bringing your pet home for the first time or supporting your loving senior, we will work with you to help ensure your pet lives the longest and healthiest life possible.

Dog days at The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald By Carol Perehudoff

“Whoa there, Smudge!� I say, as

the big yellow lab suddenly takes off down Edmonton’s riverbank path with me in tow. Thankfully she didn’t go far because Smudge, a celebrity employee at The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, is strong. Stronger than she looks. In fact, when she was lolling around at the foot of a red velvet divan in the lobby of the hotel, her head on her paws, looking up at me with big doleful eyes, I thought she was a pussycat. Smudge, officially the K9 Ambassador for The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, is owned by (or owns, depending on your point of view) the hotel’s general manager, Garrett Turta. He obviously can’t bear to part with her for even a day so he brings her to work, where she’s kept busy dealing with the paparazzi (that would be me), fans wanting to pat her soft yellow head, games of tug o’ war with the doorman, chewing her bright pink rubber bone and, of course, private lunch breaks away from the madding crowd. Happily, Smudge is also available for walks if, that is, it fits into her schedule.

A dog who knows her own mind “She’s a diva,� one employee warned me when we left. And now that Smudge is leading me off the paved riverbank trail up a hill through the grassy brush, stopping to sniff at every rock and tree, I have to agree. Smudge is a dog with an agenda.

About Edmonton’s riverbank trails

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A highlight of this Canadian prairie city, Edmonton’s river valley has more than 160 kilometres of riverbank trails that follow along the North Saskatchewan River, creating a swath of green through the heart of the city. It’s a well-used, well-maintained spot of nature with cyclists, strollers and dog walkers — even a “Segway� tour passed me by.

Back on track Once I get Smudge back to the paved path, the grey limestone walls of the hotel rising high above us, Smudge and I pass a group of teenagers hanging out by the river. Normally I’d scuttle past as quickly as possible. Normally they’d have bored surly faces. Not when you’re with Smudge.

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3MUDGE A SIX YEAR OLD YELLOW LAB IS THE OFlCIAL + !MBASSADOR FOR 4HE &AIRMONT (OTEL -ACDONALD IN %DMONTON !"

Celebrity canine

Take pity, Smudge!

“Beautiful dog!� one says. Another comes up and wants to rub Smudge’s pretty head. Stifling a yawn, Smudge turns away. Smudge is not accepting pats at the moment. I can’t help it. I start to laugh. Maybe she only likes hotel guests. And now that we’ve impressed the teenagers, Smudge and I sail imperiously on.

This is where Smudge’s training kicks in. She immediately slows to a stately pace. And whenever I fall the slightest bit behind she waits patiently. Is this the same dog that was bounding around happily sniffing everything in sight a few minutes earlier?

He who laughs first ...

Like many people Smudge has a playful side and a professional side. And (unlike a few people I could name, possibly including myself) she knows when professionalism counts. Happily, Smudge senses that not humiliating yourself in front of a group of teenagers because you can’t keep up with your dog is one of those crucial times.

It’s not until we turn back that I realize the teenagers may have the last laugh on me. The wooden steps leading up from the riverbank to the hotel seem to have multiplied in number. Strange. It felt so easy going down. I wouldn’t mind the climb if it weren’t for the teenagers who are now going to witness me wheezing as I try to keep up with Smudge.

Feeling like a Fairmont failure I head up the stairs at a sprightly pace, trying to look bouncy and full of energy. But the sun is really quite hot, springing into summer when I’d dressed for fall. My feet are roasting in my boots. Why hadn’t I packed sandals? Why had I worn such a warm coat? Why had I worn a coat at all? It’s weighing me down! I need to rest! But I can’t because I can feel the teenagers’ eyes boring into me.

An ambassador who knows her job

Smudge, a dog with a past Smudge senses a lot of things, not just because she’s a savvy canine ambassador but because she was originally trained to be a guide dog by the Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind. Over the course of her training, the now six-year-old lab was deemed too easily “distracted� to make it in the guide dog business, and that’s when she switched to the hangingaround-the-lobby-making-everyone-loveyou industry.

Dr. Wanda Vockeroth is pleased to announce her relocation to Little Creek Veterinary Clinic in southwest Calgary

I suspect, however, that Smudge wasn’t ever easily distracted at all, but was simply following her own path (much like our walk). She wanted to reach a bigger audience and knew she was destined to be a star.

Who doesn’t love luxury? She probably also had a fondness for luxury and 5-star hotels (Smudge and I have much in common), and she decided that holding court on a doggy bed in the lobby of The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald was the right place for her.

About The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald Built by the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, the centrally-located Hotel Macdonald opened in 1915. Considered especially modern for its time (elevators! running water in every room!), it quickly became an Edmonton landmark, a glamorous French chateau-esque building with an Indiana limestone facade and copper peaked roof.

The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald - pretty inside and out Today the hotel has a number of designated heritage areas: the exterior, the Confederation Lounge, the lobby, the Wedgwood Room, the Empire Ballroom — and oddly enough, the stairway.

The Fairmont Edmonton is a celebrity favourite

Sure enough, when I looked into Smudge’s career history, it included a stint as the canine ambassador at The Fairmont St Andrews. “Smudge,� I said, bending down and ruffling her soft blond ears (once I was sufficiently rested). “I knew you were a local star. I just didn’t realize you were international celebrity as well.�

#3125, 150 Millrise Blvd. SW 403-452-2060 www.littlecreekvet.ca

—About the author: Carol Perehudoff, a Toronto-based writer was voted a Top 10 Luxury Travel Blogger in the USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards. She blogs at WanderingCarol.com. Follow her on Twitter @WanderingCarol or visit her Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/ WanderingCarolBlog

Travel tips for The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald is UNQUESTIONABLY %DMONTON S TOP LUXURY HOTEL It’s located downtown with lovely views of the .ORTH 3ASKATCHEWAN 2IVER AND THE SCENIC RIVER VALLEY 4O RESERVE A ROOM CALL -Y ROOM WAS ABOUT PER NIGHT BUT IT S ALWAYS WORTH CHECKING THE HOTEL S PACKAGES AND PROMOTIONS ONLINE 7HILE h4HE -ACv IS THE GRANDEST HOTEL IN %DMONTON IT S ONE OF THE SMALLEST &AIRMONT PROPERTIES AND WITH AN AMBASSADOR LIKE 3MUDGE AN APPROACHABLE STAFF AND A LIVELY LOBBY BAR PATRONIZED BY LOCALS AND GUESTS

it’s friendly rather than intimidating — so even IF YOU RE NOT STAYING HERE ) D SUGGEST STOPPING IN FOR A DRINK

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Other than a long stint in the 80s when it was shuttered, The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald has seen numerous celebrities come and go, from royalty to pop stars, but perhaps none more memorable than Smudge — at least I was so taken with her I told my sister about her, who told her daughter, who had gone to school in St Andrews in Scotland and insisted she’d met a yellow lab in St Andrews that sounded exactly like Smudge.

,EFT 3MUDGE TAKES GUESTS FOR WALKS AROUND THE LUXURY HOTEL INCLUDING THIS LONG WOODEN STAIRCASE LEADING FROM THE BANK OF THE .ORTH 3ASKATCHEWAN RIVER UP TO THE HOTEL 2IGHT %DMONTON &AIRMONT (OTEL -ACDONALD PERCHED ATOP THE CITY S BEAUTIFUL RIVER VALLEY WAS BUILT IN BY THE 'RAND 4RUNK 0ACIlC 2AILWAY 4HIS DOWNTOWN LANDMARK WITH ITS LIMESTONE FACADE AND COPPER PEAKED ROOF HAS HOSTED MANY CELEBRITIES OVER THE YEARS FROM ROYALTY TO ROCK STARS

New and existing clients welcome!

The art of making mistakes By April Clay, Psychologist

T

he real truth about mistakes is that they will inevitably happen. Sometimes we will need to make mistakes to further our learning and sometimes we will want to let go of mistakes as fast as our minds will allow. Observe some top riders you admire and watch the way they handle their errors (yes, they do make them). If they are truly good at what they do, watch long enough and you will be able to tell what their philosophy is about making mistakes and also how they cope with them. Through your observations, you will likely pick up on this: the artful mistake maker doesn’t judge. Think about it. As soon as you label something as “bad” this changes the thoughts in your head, which in turn, change the chemistry in your body. An error is not the end of your ride or performance; it’s just a wandering from the path. And wanderings can be corrected smoothly, with practice.

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Practice “perfect mistake-making” You may have heard the expression “practice makes perfect.” You may have also heard this clarified to mean “perfect practice makes perfect.” In other words, you have to watch carefully what it is you practice every day, because you may well be training yourself to do the wrong thing. You may be putting in hours of sweat-inducing, mindbending practice but if it’s not correctly targeted, your effort will be for naught.

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Now, the very same principle applies to the art of mistake making. If what you practice every day is stopping whenever you make a mistake, consider what you are training yourself to do. You may be inadvertently teaching yourself to stop your mind and horse (and keep in mind you are also training your horse!) whenever an error comes up. What happens when you get to the competition? Well, your first (and very trained) impulse will likely be to stop in some way when a mistake occurs when we all know what you have to do is keep going. So, to encourage this skill you have to practice it. Take a day every week or every two weeks and make this “mistake practice day.” Whatever comes up you work through, you keep moving. You also use this to practice with cues or strategies to help you recover gracefully. This may sound scary to you, practicing with mistakes, like “what if I get too used to it?” Remember this: it is not the mistake you are practicing, those happen all by themselves. It is the recovery portion you are practicing, or teaching yourself to cope with.

You have to have a plan In the show ring, you need a way of redirecting yourself after a mistake happens. Because time is of the essence, this strategy needs to be simple and quick. No time for lengthy talks with yourself or mega analysis. Save that for your training work.

There are popular tried and tested ways, but bear in mind you are free to create your very own. Among the tested, there are visualization cues, word or phrase cues, and emotional cues. Martial artists have been known to use the term “back to form” when distracted by an error or an emotion. This is a good example of a meaningful phrase that quickly said to yourself, gives the cue to get back to your task. Visualizing parking the error in a stall or in a container is also effective. The message to you: put it away; take it out for understanding purposes when it’s more appropriate. Emotional cues are anything that helps you connect back up with your fortitude to carry on, or be competitively tough (because that’s what you want, right?) Smiling is one of my all-time favourite emotional cues. Whether you smile slightly on the outside or big on the inside, it has an impact on how you feel. One ingenious rider came up with this emotional cue for herself: “Grrr.” She growled at herself under her breath to remind herself of her strength. For this rider, it helped her to connect to the determination she already knew she had. Whatever cue you choose, make sure you incorporate it into your “mistake practice.” If you use your chosen strategy enough in training, it will be there to help you out the next time you really need it in a show — guaranteed.

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Naturally good food for your pet By Sherry Warner

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VER THE LAST DECADE MORE AND MORE PET GUARDIANS ARE REALIZING THE BENElTS OF FEEDING THEIR PETS A RAW FOOD DIET lRMER STOOLS IMPROVED DIGESTION HEALTHIER SKIN AND COAT

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&OR INSTANCE THE TURKEY 3PRING -EADOWS USES IN ITS TURKEY PRODUCTS COMES FROM A FEDERALLY INSPECTED PLANT IN -ANITOBA 7HEN IT ARRIVES TEMPERATURES ARE CHECKED TO MAKE SURE THEY MEET STANDARD 4HE TUR KEY IS RECEIVED INTO THE COMPANY S COOLER AND THAT S WHERE IT STAYS TEMPERATURE MONITORED DAILY UNTIL IT S PROCESSED $URING PROCESSING IT GOES THROUGH THE EQUIPMENT

WHICH IS TESTED lRST FOR PATHOGENS THEN IT S FROZEN IN TUBES /NCE FROZEN THE TUBES ARE PULLED OUT IN THE CLIMATE CONTROLLED CUT UP ROOM WHERE THEY ARE CUT INTO PADDIES VACUUM SEALED AND PUT THROUGH A METAL DETECTOR /NCE THEY PASS METAL DETECTION THE PADDIES GO INTO CASES AND BACK INTO THE FREEZER

h7E HAVE A lRST IN lRST OUT PROTOCOL v SAYS "RETT h4HAT MEANS ANY INVENTORY WE BRING IN IS DATED AND MARKED AND ALL PRODUCTS WE MANUFAC TURE HAVE BATCH DATES AND BEST BEFORE DATES FOR TRACEABILITY v 3PRING -EADOWS HAS AN AUDITOR COME OUT ONCE A YEAR TO GO THROUGH ITS FACILITY AND DOCUMENTA TION AND QUESTION THE STAFF ON THE MANUFACTURING PRACTICES AT THE PLANT SAYS "RETT 4RAINING IS ONGOING THROUGHOUT THE YEAR AND THE STAFF GO ONCE A YEAR TO A FEDERAL TEST KITCHEN FOR TRAINING ON FOOD SAFETY AND HANDLING )F YOU RE CURRENTLY FEEDING YOUR PET A HIGH QUALITY KIBBLE THE COST TO FEED RAW IS ABOUT THE SAME SAYS "RETT 4O HELP DETERMINE HOW MUCH TO FEED YOUR PET 3PRING -EADOWS OFFERS A FREE

h&EED #ALCULATOR APPv BOTH FOR !NDROID AND I0HONE ON ITS WEBSITE /NCE HOME HANDLING RAW PET FOOD IS THE SAME AS HANDLING RAW MEAT WHEN PREPARING MEALS FOR YOUR FAMILY SAYS "RETT 5NTHAW THE FROZEN PADDIES IN THE FRIDGE USE A CLEAN BOWL AND UTENSILS EVERY TIME SERVE THE CORRECT PORTION SIZE FOR YOUR PET DIS CARD ANY FOOD LEFT IN THE BOWL WIPE DOWN KITCHEN SURFACES WITH SOAPY WATER AFTER WORKING WITH RAW PET FOOD AND WASH HANDS BEFORE AND AFTER HANDLING THE FOOD &OR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW SPRINGMEADOWS NATURALPETFOOD COM

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Kali’s Wish Cancer Foundation set to launch new website

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O

ver the past several years, Kali’s Wish Cancer Foundation has been focused on generating awareness into the causes of animal cancers; available conventional and alternative treatment options; and ways to prevent cancer in our animal companions. While we recognize that awareness plays a role in fighting this disease, we see a more immediate need — to make a concerted effort to help families understand the nature of pet cancer and its prevention as well as offering support to families caring for a pet with cancer through every stage of their journey including diagnosis, treatment, survival and/or loss. With that in mind, our mission for 2015 is to develop a new, comprehensive website you can trust as a credible source of pet cancer-related information and resources, then take that information and resources on the road and into your community with our mobile pet cancer centre. Money raised during the year will help fund both the development of the website and the mobile pet cancer centre. The new website, slated to launch in May, will roll out in stages during the rest of the year. When complete it will include lots of information about how to prevent cancer;

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common types of pet cancers; conventional treatment options and complementary therapies; frequently asked questions about pet cancer; and information about pet loss along with a Directory of Veterinarians and Complementary Therapy Practitioners. Whatever pet cancer-related information or resources you’re looking for — such as healthy pet food choices to help prevent cancer; recipes for eco-friendly cleaning products; the difference between chemo and radiation therapy; where to find a veterinary oncologist in your area; or how do help your child cope with the loss of a pet — we can help. And, you can be sure that all the information you read on our website has been gleaned from trusted sources and/or vetted through our Editorial Advisory Panel — a group of veterinarians, veterinary oncologists and complementary therapy practitioners — to ensure its accuracy and relevancy. Once the website is up and running, we will move on to the next phase of our plan, launching the mobile pet cancer centre along with a schedule of events where you can find us in your community. Please help us become the trusted source of pet cancer-related information and resources so we can support families faced with a cancer

diagnosis in their pet and help prevent this dreaded disease. To donate or become a Kali’s Wish sponsor for our website and/or our mobile pet cancer centre, please call 403-249-2233 or email kaliswish@shaw.ca.

K

ali’s Wish Cancer Foundation was named after Kali, the beloved Golden Retriever of Kali’s Wish founder, Laura Leah English. Kali was only seven years old when she was taken by cancer. Laura Leah believes that Kali’s “wish” from where she is now is for the day when far fewer families are forced to deal with the devastating loss of a beloved pet to this deadly disease. While Kali’s life on earth is tragically over, the work she has inspired for those of us left behind has only just begun.

May is Pet Cancer Awareness Month at all Pet Planet locations across Canada. Money raised during the month will help fund the ongoing development of the new Kali’s Wish Cancer Foundation website and its Mobile Pet Cancer Centre. Here is how you can help:

D.H. Petcare & Ser vice

CASH DONATION

We love spare change! Just pop into a Pet Planet location near you and drop your spare coins into the Kali’s 7ISH DONATION BOX OR MAKE A DONATION WITH YOUR PURCHASE

TIME

+ALI S 7ISH IS IN THE PROCESS OF PLANNING SEVERAL FUNDRAISING EVENTS AND INITIATIVES )F YOU ARE INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING YOUR TIME AND ENERGY TO THE FOUNDATION PLEASE CALL 3HERRY AT OR EMAIL KALISWISH SHAW CA

MERCHANDISE

4HE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE AT ANY 0ET 0LANET LOCATION ! PORTION OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF EACH ITEM IS DONATED TO +ALI S 7ISH #ANCER &OUNDATION

s 0ET SITTING LIVE IN SERVICE AVAILABLE s 0RIVATE DOG WALKING s 0ET MASSAGE 2EIKI s 1UALIlED TO ADMINISTER MEDS s YEARS EXPERIENCE s ,ICENSED BONDED INSURED s !FFORDABLE RATES

Debra Howe

Animal Health Technologist T: E: OWNER DHPETCARE COM W: WWW DHPETCARE COM

Little Wishes plush toys ,ITTLE 7ISHES ARE LIMITED EDITION COLLECTORS PLUSH DOG TOYS PRODUCED BY +ALI S 7ISH #ANCER &OUNDATION IN MEMORY OF SOME OF THE BELOVED PETS THAT HAVE BEEN LOST TO CANCER ,ITTLE 7ISHES ARE AVAILABLE AT ALL 0ET 0LANET LOCATIONS AND MAKE A GREAT GIFT FOR THE DOG OR CHILDREN IN YOUR LIFE

Advanced treatment for veterinary cancer patients

RapidArc technology

“Golden Love� rings 4HE GOLD RING IN THE +ALI S 7ISH #ANCER &OUNDATION LOGO SYMBOLIZES NEVER ENDING h'OLDEN ,OVE v )T REPRESENTS THE ACTUAL RING WORN BY ,AURA ,EAH %NGLISH IN MEMORY OF HER BELOVED 'OLDEN 2ETRIEVER +ALI A DAILY REMINDER OF THE SEVEN WONDERFUL YEARS TOGETHER AND THE LIFE LESSONS THAT +ALI TAUGHT 0URCHASE A 'OLDEN ,OVE 2ING AND WEAR IT TO REPRESENT YOUR OWN h'OLDEN ,OVEv AND TO SUPPORT A VERY IMPORTANT CAUSE ! SIGNIlCANT PORTION OF THE PURCHASE PRICE OF EACH RING IS DONATED DIRECTLY TO +ALI S 7ISH #ANCER &OUNDATION Kali’s Wish branded collars and leashes Now available! Custom designed leash and collar sets beautifully embroiDERED WITH THE +ALI S 7ISH #ANCER &OUNDATION LOGO 4HESE DURABLE CLIP BUCKLE COLLARS ARE AVAILABLE IN SMALL MEDIUM OR LARGE AND THE LEASHES COME IN YOUR CHOICE OF FOUR OR SIX FOOT LENGTHS !VAILABLE AT ALL 0ET 0LANET LOCATIONS

Cloud Star treats +ALI S 7ISH IS NOW A DONOR RECIPIENT THROUGH #LOUD 3TAR S 50# 0ROGRAM &OR EVERY #LOUD 3TAR 50# LABEL THAT IS COLLECTED BY 0ET 0LANET #LOUD 3TAR WILL DONATE TO +ALI S 7ISH 0LEASE ALLOW 0ET 0LANET STAFF TO REMOVE THE 50# LABEL AFTER PURCHASE AT THE STORE

RapidArc accurately delivers the prescribed dose of radiation to the tumour in a continuous “arc� around the patient, minimizing exposure to surrounding normal tissue. Visit www.westernvet.ca for more details.

403-770-1340 27

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NaturPet remedies .ATUR0ET IS A PRODUCT LINE OF .ATURES &ORMULAE (EALTH 0RODUCTS ,TD THAT HAS BEEN DEVELOPED IN CONJUNCTION WITH VETERINARIANS FROM ACROSS #ANADA 7HEN YOU PURCHASE #HRONIC 2ECOVERY AND OR 4UMOR 8 AT 0ET 0LANET STORES IT ADDS TO THE TOTAL AMOUNT .ATUR0ET DONATES ANNUALLY TO +ALI S 7ISH #ANCER &OUNDATION !T THE END OF THE YEAR .ATUR0ET WILL DONATE OF SALES OF THESE TWO PRODUCTS MADE THROUGH 0ET 0LANET TO THE FOUNDATION

Available May 2015 at Western Veterinary Cancer Centre

-ARIANNE $ISIPIO 6ITALE WITH HER HUSBAND 'EORGE AND THEIR THREE DAUGHTERS 'ABRIELLE 3IMONE AND %VA AND THEIR HORSE *UST FOR +ICKS +ICKS A RESCUE HORSE IS USED IN EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING

0HOTOS BY $AN %NDERS

The power of horses to heal

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By Marianne Disipio-Vitale

quine-assisted learning can be described as a wellness practice in which horses are the main teachers, guides, and communicators. Although the facilitator applies coaching and counselling techniques to help clients address their goals, horses are responsible for using very effective techniques to assist with this process. Unlike therapeutic riding, equine-assisted learning does not teach riding skills. It is primarily relationship based, however, motor skills, health issues, functional skills for everyday life, social/emotional skills, family dynamics, and all spheres of child development are appropriate goals to address during sessions. All activities with the horses are done on the ground and adjusted to the person’s comfort level around the animal. The following describes ways in which horses can assist the therapeutic process in equine-assisted learning.

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Achieving calm breathing It is well known that bringing awareness to the breath can be an effective way to address anxiety. By remaining still, in close proximity to the horse, the client works towards matching the slow rhythmic breathing of the horse. The horse will naturally guide the client towards an ideal breathing rhythm. Initially, the horse will begin by simply bringing attention to the person’s breath. Breathing often starts off as deep and heavy. As clients allow themselves to relax with the horse, it often leads them to adopt a softer and more natural rhythm. A flow soon develops between the person and the horse, and self-regulation can then begin for the client. It is best to let the horse determine when the session is complete. Horses simply proceed by “breaking� the meditation. These animals with therapeutic qualities seem to possess an understanding of when you’ve managed to synchronize your breath with their own and reached a calmer state.

Creating a positive neurophysiological memory Within the brain lies a structure called the amygdala. This structure is responsible for linking a sensory experience to an emotional memory. Once a positive memory is stored, it has an automatic calming response on the nervous system. In fact, it is the most powerful way the body has to reach a calm state. When a horse succeeds in helping a person store a positive memory, the brain becomes more effective in creating connections for new learning to occur. The facilitator and client can then use that opportunity to make healthy changes.

Improving moods Everyone emits a certain kind of energy. It is well established in psychology that this emotional energy is transferable and infectious. This is also true for animals. Horses are particularly effective at transmitting positive emotional energy. They are considered high

vibrational animals simply because of their humongous size. People who own horses, and have developed a trusting relationship with them, often describe their horse as their “drug� of choice. This positive effect on mood is often experienced with clients in equine-assisted learning.

Developing insight Horses are constantly communicating with us. At the very least, they are somehow responding to our presence. Horses will let us know if they feel at ease around us, or if we are somehow making them uncomfortable. Although their body language is subtle, they can mirror our hidden emotions. Even a simple grooming session can easily turn into a period of self-analysis for the client. There are many messages the horse can relay to you if you are listening. The facilitator helps the client explore those issues in a meaningful way.

Building self-confidence Horses are impressive creatures. When people share pleasant and peaceful interactions with horses, they are left feeling inspired and amazed. If they were once intimidated or fearful of horses, there can be a newfound sense of being able to overcome fears, and conquer self-doubts. As comfort levels increase between clients and their horses, they often describe the experience as magical. They develop an inner confidence around the fact that they can control their responses to their environment, and have a positive influence on other beings. This sense of control contributes to the development of mind over matter for the client participating in equine-assisted learning.

Connecting with your spiritual self People are now developing more natural and meaningful relationships with horses, and not just restricting their interactions to equine sports. It is interesting to observe that women find themselves particularly drawn to horses at specific transition periods in their lives. In equine-assisted learning, it is possible to work through many challenges within a trusting human/horse relationship. By con-

tinually encouraging clients to be present in body, mind, and spirit, the horse becomes a great guide in helping them address personal goals. Children are also great candidates to work with horses, as “what you see is what you get.� Horses are prey animals, and their very survival depends on their sophisticated ability to read body language and subtle emotions. Children are more consistent than adults at exhibiting behaviours that are truly congruent with their emotions. Horses respond best to this emotional authenticity, and therefore can create very powerful connections with children. This relationship can become a great foundation for working on other areas with children, while keeping them motivated and interested.

Identifying aches and pains Horses are social animals and can show sympathy, as well as engage in nurturing behaviour within their own herd. Horses are believed to be able to perceive emotional states, muscle tension changes, blocked chakras and even pain. Horses with healing qualities are also recognized as being skilled at targeting any troublesome areas of the body, and assuring the flow between all bodily systems. This is similar to other energy-based techniques. Equine-assisted learning is a great example of how the use of horses as teachers and guides can be effective in addressing goals for children and adults. In fact, equine-assisted learning can complement many other types of therapies, by adding a spiritual dimension to the therapeutic process, which is not often addressed or considered. Clients are always encouraged to discover their own true sense of self, and their respective place in the universe. This can be extremely empowering, and allow for a certain sense of peace. —Marianne Disipio-Vitale has a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Occupational Therapy and is a wellness coach and equine-assisted learning facilitator out of Sweet Talk Stables in Chestermere, AB. She can be reached at 403-828-0242 or mariannedisipio@hotmail.com.

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MerLynn Imaging

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We take the crap so you don’t have to! By Sherry Warner

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PASSED AWAY FROM LEUKEMIA THEY MADE A DONATION TO THE ,EUKEMIA ,YMPHOMA 3OCIETY AND CONTRIBUTED A GIFT CERTIlCATE TO THE SILENT AUCTION AT THE SOCIETY S ANNUAL ,IGHT THE .IGHT 7ALK 4HAT SENSE OF COMMUNITY SERVICE EXTENDS TO ALL THE STAFF AT 0OOOH "USTERS h/UR GUYS TAKE THAT EXTRA CARE AND LOOK AT OUR CLIENTS AS PART OF THE FAMILY v SAYS %RIN !ND THAT MEANS SPOTTING ANYTHING UNUSUAL WITH THE PET WASTE THAT MAY SIGNAL A POTENTIAL HEALTH PROBLEM WITH A DOG h7E HAVE A PRETTY CARING STAFF AND THEY DO GET EMO TIONALLY ATTACHED TO THE ANIMALS v SHE ADDS h7E GET A LOT OF EMAILS FROM CLIENTS TALKING ABOUT HOW HELPFUL OUR GUYS ARE v %NSURING THEIR FOUR LEGGED CUSTOMERS ARE HEALTHY AND HAPPY IS ONE REASON 0OOOH "USTERS WILL BE PUT TING ITS STAFF THROUGH PET lRST AID TRAINING h) THINK THAT WILL ADD GREAT CREDIBILITY TO OUR BUSINESS IF OUR GUYS ARE TRAINED IN CASE THERE IS AN EMERGENCY WITH A CLIENT S DOG OR EVEN WITH THEIR OWN PETS v SAYS %RIN #LOSER TO HOME THE COUPLE IS LOOKING FORWARD TO FOSTERING DOGS h.OW THAT WE ARE DOWN TO A TWO DOG HOUSEHOLD FROM FOUR WE RE lNDING IT A BIT EMPTY SO WE ARE LOOKING AT DOING SOME FOSTER WORK v SAYS %RIN h!NYTIME YOU READ ABOUT A FOSTER HOME IT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT THERE THAT HELP

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SERVICES AND MONEY TO NUMEROUS NON PROlTS BOTH IN AND OUTSIDE THE PET INDUSTRY 4HE IDEA IS NOT TO HAVE TOO NARROW A FOCUS WHEN IT COMES TO COMMUNITY SER VICE SAYS %RIN h4HAT WAY IT GETS OUR NAME OUT AND ALLOWS US TO HELP A LOT OF DIFFERENT ORGANIZATIONS v 0OOOH "USTERS SPONSORS SEVERAL LOCAL NON PROlT EVENTS EVERY YEAR FOR A VARIETY OF SHELTERS AND RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS INCLUDING THE #ALGARY (UMANE 3OCIETY

!NIMAL 2ESCUE &OUNDATION !2& AND !LBERTA !NIMAL 2ESCUE #REW 3OCIETY !!2#3 TO NAME A FEW /NCE THINGS SLOW DOWN THE TWO ARE SET ON TAKING THE TEAM OUT TO DO A VOLUNTEER WEEKEND OR VOLUNTEER DAY WITH THE !LBERTA 3PAY .EUTER 4ASK &ORCE h7E KNOW THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT INITIATIVE HELPING COM MUNITIES THAT DON T HAVE THE FUNDS TO SPAY NEUTER THEIR ANIMALS v SAYS %RIN 7ITH A mEXIBLE WORK SCHEDULE THE TWO ARE ALSO AVAILABLE TO HELP OUT IN CRISIS SITUATIONS SUCH AS LAST 3EPTEMBER WHEN A TRAILER CARRYING RESCUE DOGS ROLLED OVER ON (IGHWAY NEAR /LDS LEAVING SEVERAL DOGS ON THE LOOSE 4HE TWO STEPPED IN TO HELP !!2#3 lND THE MISSING DOGS /UTSIDE THE PET INDUSTRY 2OLAND AND %RIN LIKE TO SUPPORT THEIR CUSTOMERS 7HEN A CLIENT S BROTHER 30

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h/UR GOAL IS TO PROVIDE A VALUABLE SERVICE SO OUR CUSTOMERS CAN SPEND MORE TIME WITH THEIR FAMILY AND PETS RATHER THAN OUT IN THE BACK YARD DOING WHAT A LOT OF PEOPLE WOULD CONSIDER AN INCONVENIENCE v SAYS 2OLAND h)T S THE UGLY END OF HAVING A DOG v !LL IN ALL IT S EASY TO SEE THAT THE TWO ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT THEIR BUSINESS AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITY h)T S NOT JUST ABOUT BUSINESS ˆ TRADING MONEY FOR SERVICE ˆ WE WANT IT TO BE MUCH MORE THAN THAT AND THAT S WHAT WE ARE STRIVING TO DO v SAYS %RIN

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May help with arthritis, mobility, disc and joint problems, neck/back/leg pain and more Dr. Josée Gerard, BA, DC, CVSMT Certified Animal Chiropractor 403-978-7399 Serving Calgary, Airdrie & Area www.kiro4pets.com

celebrating life with our animal companions

Visit our Citizen Pet & Equine booth at Calgary Pet Expo, April 25-26, 2015 at Spruce Meadows Equi-plex and enter to win this beautiful 24 x 18 custom digital painting, “Ceremonies of Spring” by MerLynn Imaging. All you have to do to enter is sign up for our FREE monthly e-newsletter and/or make a donation to Kali’s Wish Cancer Foundation.

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