Tdsa july 2015 final lo res

&

d gs cats Texas

SAN ANTONIO’S PREMIER PET MAGAZINE

COMPLIMENTARY July 2015

SUMMER VACATION FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND

SCAN FOR APP

Helping families and furkids everywhere make their dreams of home ownership come true.

I donate 10% of my commission at closing BUY OR SELL FOR P.A.W.S.

www.BuyOrSellForPAWS.com

or BUY OR SELL FOR WAYWARD WHISKERS SPECIAL NEEDS CAT RESCUE

www.BuyOrSellforWWCR.com

Marie Crabb, GRI 210.326.2355 Marie@ExquisiteSA.com 2

Marie.ExquisiteSA.com d gs&cats Texas

L E T’S P LAY!

It’s Summer Time! Make your reservation ahead of time on our website or call either of our locations.

Call to make your appointment today.

Schertz (210) 566-4222

| Airport (210) 404-9941

weloveyourdog.net

Mention this ad for $5 off next service

Fun Boarding Activities Doggie DayCare Grooming Training Dock Diving 518 State Hwy 46E, Boerne 830-229-5425

Indoor/Outdoor Climate Control Boarding Kitty Kennels • Doggie Day Care Beach Club • Rental Facilities Award Winning Training in: Agility, Obedience, and Herding

It’s Our Honor to

SERVE

Your Best Friend.

830-980-8476 • Bulverde, TX • k9countryclub.net

We are a complete boutique, but also provide the best in foods, treats & supplements to keep your pet beautiful inside and out!

210.822.2525 www.fifiandfidos.com

5120 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209

hillcountrypetranch.com

$ 1 Special Offer "Nose to Tail" Exam

HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY - SATURDAY 10AM - 6PM | SUNDAY - NOON - 4PM Website: www.pawbasics.com | Facebook: facebook.com/pawbasics 2602 North Loop 1604 West, Suite 104 San Antonio, TX 210-479-1545

Harley says...

No Ticks No Fleas

Please..

(210) 717-3346

Harley says...

No Ticks No Fleas

Please..

(210) 717-3346

Harley says...

No Ticks No Fleas

Licensed & approved by Texas Dept.of Transporatation

Please..

View our video @ www.reliabledeliveryandmoving.com | email: reliadel@yahoo.com

{contents}

COVER PHOTOGRAPHED BY RENEE SPADE COVER MODELS: PARKER AND BEAR (SEE PAGE 26)

8 16 20

08 Pet Friendly Hotels in SA 09 Calendar of Events 10 Rescue Organizations 12 The Summer Blues 14 Traveling Texas 16 Fireworks and Pets 4

17 Pet Friendly SA 18 Periodontal Disease 20 Specialty Training 22 Allergens in Pet Food 24 Adoptable Pets 25 Puparrazi

&

d gs cats Texas

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 Eric Null

PHOTOGRAPHER

Renee Spade Photography Tel: 210-254-4255 renee@reneespadephotography.com

CONTRIBUTING PARTNERS

0 25 36

Seamus Nelson Mikael Persson Andrea Yanase

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Irma Bice Dr. Courtney Bridgeman Juli Coen Marie Crabb Dr. Patricia Gomez Dinger Frank Haegland Dr. Dan Kirby Dr. MJ Redman Marlene Ring

9

26 About our Cover Models 28 Heroes Among Us 30 Doggie Makeover 31 Ask the Vet CALENDAR OF 32 Pet Puzzler EVENTS 35 Directory Listing 36 San Antonio Pets ADVERTISE WITH US! Dana.texasdogsandcats@gmail.com or 210-436-9009 Next Issue: August 2015: 3rd Annual Equine Edition

{July 2015}

5 find us on

and at www.texasdogsandcatssa.com

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Traveling with your pets and children during summer vacations can be challenging to say the least. Although, we cannot advise in regards to your kids, we have come up with helpful ideas regarding your furry family members vacation plans. We all enjoy pool outings during the summer months. Why not let your dogs have the same treat. Our cover this month highlights dogs enjoying pool time at Pet Galaxy. If this might be of interest to you, one of our advertisers, Gary Pools, can help you realize you and your pet's dream.

Summer in South Texas also brings heat and LOTS of it. Dr. Bridgeman, Chief Veterinarian for the San Antonio Humane Society, provides an article that details the best methods to keep your pets cool and safe during our long hot spells. Perhaps the most challenging month of the year for our pets is July. Fireworks can play havoc with your pets. Marlene Ring of Pawsitive Solutions, provides helpful tips for keeping your pets calm during these unsettling evenings. This a fun time of the year for all members of the family.

We hope you and your pet have a fun time and above all, be safe.

Happy 4th!

Sincerely, 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 confirmed the accuracy of information contained in articles.

6

contributors 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. COURTNEY BRIDGEMAN joined the San Antonio Humane Society as their first fulltime veterinarian 7 years ago and has worked to create a healthy and happy environment for all the animals there.

FELICIA NIÑO is the Communication Associate for the San Antonio Humane Society. She has been with the SAHS for over 7 years and adores her 2 Dachshund Chihuahua mixes, Browny and Duke, 2 Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Sherlock and Brutus “Beefy” Beefcake, and Terrier mix, Pluto - all SAHS Alumni!

&

d gs cats Texas

Luxury Boarding and Doggie Daycare Lucky Dog is the top dog- groomer, boarding and daycare facility in San Antonio. We love our doggie clients and make sure that their time in our care is a fun filled positive experience. Contact us today 2267 NW Military Highway • Suite 115 Castle Hills, TX 78213 (210) 592-7648 • www.petgroomerssanantonio.com

Low Cost Mobile Vaccinations CONVENIENT SATURDAY CLINICS IN A NEIGHBORHOOD NEAR YOU. LOW-COST PET VACCINES & MORE. NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED.

VETERINARY COMMUNITY OUTREACH

helping people, helping pets

®

Visit PennyPaws.com For More Info

Two Locations To Serve You and Your Pets!

24200 IH-10 West

701 South Main Boerne, Texas

210-687-1122

830-331-BONE

(Five minutes outside 1604 next to Willie’s in Leon Springs. Exit 550)

(2663)

Every doggone thing you need under one ruff.

Open Every Day. Shop with your pets.

www.fetchandfriskers.com

Four Paws Inn of Converse DOG AND CAT BOARDING

petfriendlyhotelsinSA

A

ccording to the San Antonio Area Tourism Council, San Antonio draws upwards of 26 million tourists per year. Additionally, San Antonio is a big conference city and has experienced increased interest in the burgeoning locally driven restaurant and brewery scenes. This all undoubtedly adds up to more business for the hotel industry. Here are some pet friendly hotel recommendations that tourists and Staycationers alike might enjoy when traveling with their furbabies.

ALOFT HOTEL *Most Overall Pet Friendly* Pet friendly perks: The Aloft has the “ARF program” which offers wonderful amenities for each furry guest, such as: complimentary dog bowls, beds, treats and toys.

They truly consider pets like family, so your pet’s stay is free. They do have some limitations however: pets under 40 lbs only and 1 pet per room. Another great feature is their “backyard area” –a large grassy area for your pets to stretch their legs. What has been their most unique furry visitor? A teeny tiny Chihuahua.

LA QUINTA *Economically Pet Friendly* Pet friendly perks: With multiple locations in many of the touristy and well-traveled SA areas, they allow both dogs and cats, have no size limit and allow up to 2 pets per room. They require no pet deposits and have an outdoor dog walking area. What has been their most unique 4 legged visitor? A pig.

BY MARIE CRABB

DRURY HOTELS *Economically Pet Friendly* Pet friendly perks: They allow up to 2 pets per room and give out dog biscuits upon arrival, allowing both dogs and cats. They do have a $10 plus tax per night fee that applies. No size limit, however ask that guests do not leave pet unattended for more than 30 minutes at a time.

EXTENDED STAY AMERICA – SAN ANTONIO AIRPORT *Long-term Stay Pet Friendly* Pet friendly perks: For visitors staying a longer period of time, this extended stay has a non-refundable pet fee of $25 per day (not to exceed $150 total) per animal. They allow both dogs and cats 8

and a maximum of 2 pets per room allowed. The size limit is determined on a case by case basis. The hotel is surrounded by grass for walking your dog. Most unique furry (or feathery) visitor? A tropical bird.

EMILY MORGAN *Upscale Pet Friendly* Pet friendly perks: The Emily Morgan is a block from a dog park and has green space around the hotel for walks. They welcome all pets under 50 lbs with a $50 non-refundable deposit per pet (which they apply to completely refreshing rooms for the next occupant). They ask that pets not be left unattended. What has been their most unique furry (or feathery) visitor? A parakeet.

If you have a questions about whether your pet is ok to travel with you to one of these hotels (if it’s an exotic animal or large breed) please call the hotel for more information prior to traveling with your furbabies. Don’t see your hotel listed here but you are pet friendly and proud? Feel free to contact me and I’ll include your hotel on our Pet Friendly Hotels Blog: www.exquisitesa.com/petfriendlyhotelsinsa Marie Crabb is a San Antonio native and animal rescue advocate with 8 furkids of her own, plus numerous rescue fosters. She is a Realtor with Exquisite Properties, has a Master’s Degree in International Relations from St. Mary’s University and is a trained Mediator.

&

d gs cats Texas

calendarofevents SATURDAY, JULY 4TH-1ST

Annual Schertz Jubilee Dog Derby presented by Pawderosa Ranch at Pickrell Park at 1PM. Call (210) 5664222 for more information.

Adoption events at Fetch & Friskers Boerne (701 South Main) from 10AM-3PM with Fetching Fur-Ever Families.

SUNDAY, JULY 5TH

The BARKet at Luther’s Café (1442 N Main) From 3-8PM. There will be many vendors, farm to market, arts and crafts and plenty of pet centric vendors.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8TH-SATURDAY, JULY 11TH

River City Dog Show at the Freeman Coliseum (Bexar County Community Arenas). Check out www.rivercitycds. com for more specific events. Show time is 9AM-3PM each day and admission to the show is FREE.

SATURDAY, JULY 11TH

2nd Annual Chihuahua Derby presented by Pawderosa Ranch at Retama Park (1 Retama Pkwy, Selma, TX) at 6:45 PM. Adoption events at Fetch & Friskers Boerne (701 South Main) from 10AM-3PM with Fetching Fur-Ever Families.

San Antonio Humane Society Pet Wellness Clinic (4804 Fredericksburg Rd, SA, TX 78229), from 8AM-12PM. First-come, first-serve basis as time allows. Various vaccinations, microchipping, nail trim, heartworm test (dogs), Advantage Multi, and much more will be available.

Visit SAhumane.org for more info.

SATURDAY, JULY 18TH

Annual Fetch & Friskers Paw-ty and Silent Auction at Boerne location (701 South Main) from 10 AM – 3 PM. All proceeds from the Silent auction go to Fetching Fur-Ever Families pet rescue.

SATURDAY, JULY 25TH

Adoption events at Fetch & Friskers Boerne (701 South Main) from 10AM-3PM with Fetching Fur-Ever Families.

Pop Up mobile Pooch House Shop at Doggie Stylez, 2838 N Loop 1604 E, Ste. 103 from 9:30 AM-1:30PM. Complimentary light refreshments, shopping with TPH, and of course grooming with Dawn.

San Antonio Humane Society Pet Wellness Clinic (4804 Fredericksburg Rd, SA, TX 78229), from 8AM-12PM. First-come, first-serve basis as time allows. Various vaccinations, microchipping, nail trim, heartworm test (dogs), Advantage Multi, and much more will be available. Visit SAhumane.org for more info.

TUESDAY, JULY 28TH

Pet Loss & Grief support hosted by S.A.P.P.Y. at the English Tea Shoppe at 6877 Bandera Rd. The gatherings are free to the public and meant for support. They are held every 4th Tuesday of the month from 6:30-8:30PM.

IF YOU HAVE A PET EVENT IN SAN ANTONIO, THAT YOU WOULD LIKE ADDED TO THE CALENDAR AND/OR ON OUR WEBSITE, PLEASE EMAIL DANA.TEXASDOGSANDCATS@GMAIL.COM FOR CONSIDERATION

{July 2015}

9

RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS/NON-PROFITS O F

S A N

ALAMO AREA PARTNERS FOR ANIMAL WELFARE (AAPAW) aapaw.org

HOMES FOR PETS/SCHERTZ HUMANE SOCIETY homesforpets.org

ALAMO RESCUE FRIENDS alamorescuefriends.org

HOTK9RESCUE 830-981-2300 animalfriends4ever.org

ANIMAL DEFENSE LEAGUE 210-655-1481 adltexas.org ANIMAL FRIENDS HUMANE SOCIETY 830-981-2300 animalfriends4ever.org ANIMAL RESCUE CONNECTIONS 830-438-0398 animalrescueconnections.org APPLICATIONS 4 RESCUE www.gsdrescuectx.com BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY 210-306-6126 BULVERDE AREA HUMANE SOCIETY 830-980-2247 bulverdeareahumanesociety.com CANYON LAKE ANIMAL SHELTER SOCIETY (CLASS) 830-899-2527 canyonlakeanimalshelter.com CITY OF SAN ANTONIO ANIMAL CARE SERVICES 210-207-4738 saacs.net CONVERSE ANIMAL SHELTER 210-658-4821 casi.petfinder.com CRESSIE ANIMAL REFUGE AND ENRICHMENT (C.A.R.E.) 210-313-3600 caretx.org CUTE AND CUDDLIE ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY 210-647-3529 DELTA PET PARTNERS OF SA (210) 858-8351 www.deltappsa.org FRIENDS OF ANIMAL CARE SERVICES 210-826-4831 friendsofanimalcare.org GOD’S DOGS’ RESCUE (210) 916-1332 www.godsdogsrescue.weebly.com HANDS4PAWS hands4pawsrescue.org HELOTES HUMANE SOCIETY 210-422-6242 hhsanimals.org HILL COUNTRY ANIMAL LEAGUE 830-249-2341 hcaltx.com

10

A N T O N I O

HUMANE SOCIETY OF KERRVILLE 830-367-7722 humanesocietyofkerrville.com HUMANE SOCIETY OF LIVE OAK See Humane Society of Live Oak on Facebook HUMANE SOCIETY OF NEW BRAUNFELS 830-629-5287 hsnba.com IN DOG WE TRUST www.in-dog-we-trust.com JUST ADD LOVE DOG RESCUE justaddlovedogrescue.com

SA K9’S SERVICE DOG CLUB 210-214-0182 SAN ANTONIO FERAL CAT COALITION 210-877-9067 www.sanantonioferalcats.org SAN ANTONIO GUARDIAN ANGELS 210-379-9034 sanantonioguardianangels.com SAN ANTONIO HUMANE SOCIETY 210-226-7461 SAhumane.org SAN ANTONIO PETS ALIVE (SAPA) sanantoniopetsalive.org SAN ANTONIO R.O.C.K.S. (REAL OPTION FOR CHANGING KILL SHELTERS) sarocks.org SCHERTZ ANIMAL SERVICES 210-658-5321

KATIE’S ROADSIDE RESCUE www.krrtx.org

SOUTH TEXAS ANGEL PAWS RESCUE 210-632-9111 SouthTexasAngelPawsRescue.com

LAS LOMOS K9 RESCUE & ADOPTION FOUNDATION dogsrus.org

SPAY-NEUTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP) 713-862-3863 snapus.org

LOST PAW PATROL 865-742-1151 lostpawpatrol.com LOVE FOR PAWS RESCUE 210-639-4039 loveforpawsrescue.com MISSY’S HAVEN CANINE RESCUE 210-788-7420 missyshaven.org MYSTERY DOG RESCUE 210-551-8262 www.mysterydogrescue.org ORDINARY MIRACLES CANINE RESCUE www.omcr.org PAUSE FOR PAWS, INC. 210-378-5373 pfpsd.org PAWS FOR SERVICE Therapy Dog Organization www.pawsforservice.org PAWS 4 HEARTS WORKING THERAPY DOGS 210-325-3019 www.paws4hearts.net PAWS N CLAWS RESCUE 210-360-9933 PawsNClawsRescueSATX.com RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERS ALLIANCE 210-822-6763 responsiblepetowners.org

SPAYSA 210-351-7729 spaysa.org SPAY-NEUTER-INJECT-PROJECT OF SAN ANTONIO (SNIPSA) 210-576-3497 snipsa.org TALK ABOUT IT! SA 210-242-4720 talkaboutitsa.org TEJAS RESCUED PET ADOPTIONS 210-416-3947 tejasrescues.org TEXAS GSP RESCUE texasgsp.org THERAPY ANIMALS OF SAN ANTONIO 210-614-6734 therapyanimalssa.org WAGS Across Texas Therapy Dogs wagsacrosstexas.com WAYWARD WHISKERS CAT RESCUE www.wayward-whiskers-cat-rescue.org Please email dana.texasdogsandcats@gmail.com if you are a rescue organization or a Non Profit Pet Organization of San Antonio that would like to be added to this list.

All breed specific rescue groups are listed on our website.

&

d gs cats Texas

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 Play Included!

• 1 Acre Outdoor Playscape/yards • 9000 sq. feet indoor play area

• Covered drop off/pick up • Eco Friendly Pet Care • Luxurious private Dog Suites • Raintree Cat Condos • Grooming & Training • Open 7Days/Week 6:30am-6:30pm • 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 Make Dogs

Happy

{July 2015}

11

thesummerblues A

h, summer. The sun beating brightly overhead. The gentle breezes. Great weather for spending time outside with your family and pups, hiking, swimming, exercising!

True, all true, but before you pack up your camping gear with Fido in tow, before you strap on that reflective headband to go out for an afternoon jog and grab the leash, let’s talk about heat safety. Texas weather is not for the faint of heart.

BY DR. COURTNEY H. BRIDGEMAN, CHIEF VETERINARIAN, SAN ANTONIO HUMANE SOCIETY

1. Avoid the Roast: First off, at this point it should be common knowledge that leaving any animals (or children) in a parked car in Texas, especially in the summer months, is a great way to end up with a dangerous situation. You will be happy to walk away with a broken window because a Good Samaritan smashes it in to save your beloved family members. If you want all the statistics, do a quick web search of temperatures inside a parked car. They have great videos and charts to demonstrate how hot it can get as well as how fast! That 5 minute “run” into Walmart can very well be deadly.

Let’s just say they can bake cookies on your dash.

Moral of this story before we move on to the less well known, if you can’t take them in with you, leave them home!

2. Fries are bad for you: Just as cars can get ungodly hot, so too can asphalt. Most dogs love a good walk or jog. Getting out of the house and into the world is great for the body and mind. But consider the temperature of the world around you when planning your exercise or even camping adventure. The asphalt retains heat and sidewalk can as well. Videos of eggs frying on the pavement are yours for the pursuing. As a human, you think nothing of going for a late afternoon stroll or jog, but you have inches of rubber on

your feet! Those pads, though rough and thick, afford only very little protection from the heat of the pavement. Pad sloughing and blisters are common place among street dogs in the heat of the summer and are very painful.

Consider purchasing “puppy sneakers” and teaching your dog to wear them or choose early morning before the sun has a chance to warm it up!

3. From the frying pan into the fire: Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two conditions that humans and animals alike can suffer from during the summer months. Even when the air temperature seems tolerable, excessive exertion can lead to elevated body temperatures well out of the “safe” range. Jogging, long walks, even swimming, can elevate body temperatures to a point that is dangerous for the body itself. Signs to look out for in your four-legged friends (or even the 2-legged ones) are: excessive panting or rapid breathing that does not slow after exertion has stopped, excessive salivation (saliva production), dilation of the pupils, confusion, dizziness, vomiting, drinking water in excess (both too fast or too much), incoordination, weakness, lethargy, collapse, loss of consciousness, hallucinations, and possibly death. To prevent these conditions, it is important to consider that your pup is wearing a fur coat outside and does not sweat (get rid of extra heat) like you. He

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANDREA YANASE

&

d gs cats Texas

12

may be willing to jog beside you for miles and miles, but it may not be laziness making him hang back.

And contrary to popular belief, pets don’t have a natural “quitter” that will keep them safe.

Just like humans, though the body may be sending the right signals that it’s time to stop, the brain may be overriding it because the dog is having too much fun or just wants to be with you.

Just like with kids, you have to be the reasoning force.

To try to stave off heat related disease, take the following precautions: 1. Travel/exercise early in the day. During the intense heat of the summer, consider before dawn.

2. If you are hiking, shut down early. It is unsafe to do much hiking for pets after noon in the Texas summer. You can, however, pick back up again around 6pm.

3. Take lots of water and drink small amounts frequently.

4. Consider planning for stops for your dog to cool off. Moving water is best, but a pond, lake, or even some shade in the breeze are important to make sure you keep the core temperature down. And great to remember for people too!

4. Living in the sun: Though not considered ideal, there are dogs that spend a large portion of their time outside during the day while their owners are at work or making their living.

Taking steps to make sure they are safe while you are gone is paramount.

1. Shade. Shade. Shade. At all {July 2015}

times of the day.

Many people look out in their yard and see the giant tree shading half their yard, but what they don’t take into consideration is the sun shifting overhead leaves no shade at certain parts of the day as the large tree shades only their neighbors’ yard. A dog house that can also provide shelter from cold and rain is best.

2. Water. Water.

Water. Never underestimate the importance of a large source of water that cannot be tipped over. A children’s wading pool or a shallow livestock water trough are best. They cannot be spilled and provide more than enough water for a thirsty animal. Buckets are easily spilled by a hot dog looking for a way to cool off and small dishes of water only provide enough for part of the day.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke account for a very large number of injuries and illnesses in Texas during the summer months. Make sure everyone is safe and accounted for so they can all enjoy the picnic.

DR. COURTNEY H. BRIDGEMAN, CHIEF VETERINARIAN FOR SAN ANTONIO HUMANE SOCIETY, AND FRIEND

Dr. Courtney Bridgeman attended Texas A&M school of Veterinary Medicine (‘07) as well as College of Animal Sciences (‘02). She joined the San Antonio Humane Society as their first full-time veterinarian 7 years ago and has worked to create a healthy and happy environment for all the animals there. Dr. Bridgeman enjoys her small ranch of race bred Quarter Horses and raising her 3yr old twin daughters, Evellyn and Jaedyn.

13

travelingtexas Highlighting Pet Friendly Hotels and Restaurants in 2 Cities

I

t's summer and that means summer fun for the whole family, including your furry children.

Whether you are taking Fido with you or giving him a staycation, we have some pet friendly suggestions for you. This year we picked Austin and Houston as our pet friendly destinations.

Austin

HOTELS IN AUSTIN THAT WELCOME FIDO! (Please make certain to call first for specific pet policies at these selected hotels) 1. Extended Stay America Southwest, 5100 US Hwy 290 W (512)-892-4272 2. Drury Inn & Suites Austin North, 6711 I-35 North (512) 467-9500 3. Renaissance Austin North, 9721 Arboretum Blvd (512) 343-2626 4. The Driskill Hotel, 604 Brazos Street (512) 439-1234 5. Doubletree by Hilton Austin, 303 W 15th Street (512) 478-7000 6. La Quinta Inn & Suites Austin Airport, 7625 E. Ben White Blvd (512) 386-6800 7. Crestwood Suites of Austin, 12989 Research Blvd (512) 652-4300 8. Westin Austin at the Domain Hotel, 11301 Domain Dr. (512) 832-4197 9. W Austin, 200 Lavaca St (512) 542-3600 10. Red Roof Inn Austin North, 8210 N Interregional Hwy 35 (512) 835-2200 11. Aloft Austin at the Domain, 11601 Domain Dr. (512) 491-0777 12. Days Inn Austin, 3105 N. Interstate 35 (512) 478-1631 SELECTED RESTAURANTS IN AUSTIN THAT INVITE FIDO TO DINE WITH YOU. 1. Red's Porch, 3508 S. LaMar Blvd (512) 440-7337 2. Spider House, 2908 Fruth St. (512) 480-9562 3. Rudy's BBQ, 2451 S. Capital of Texas Hwy (512) 329-5554 4. Phara's, 111 E. N. Loop Blvd. (512) 632-7067 5. Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill, 303 Red River St. (512) 236-9599 6. Kerby Lane Café, 3704 Kerby Lane (512) 451-1436 7. Perla's, 1400 S. Congress Ave. (512) 291-7300 8. Phil's Ice House, 5620 Burnet Rd., (512) 524-1212 9. Cedar Door, 201 Brazos (512) 473-3712 10. Ski Shores Waterfront Café, 2905 Pearce Rd. (210) 394-7511 14

Houston HOTELS IN HOUSTON THAT WELCOME FIDO! (Please make certain to call first for specific pet policies at these selected hotels) 1. Four Seasons Hotel Houston, 1300 Lamar St. (713) 650-1300 2. La Quinta Inn & Suites Houston Galleria, 1625 W. Loop S. (713) 355-3440 3. Crowne Plaza Northwest Brookhollow, 12801 Northwest Fwy (713) 462-9977 4. Sheraton Suites Houston Galleria, 2400 West Loop South (713) 586-2444 5. Hotel Derek Houston Galleria, 2525 W. Loop S. (713) 961-3000 6. Aloft Houston by Galleria, 5415 Westheimer Rd. (713) 622-7010 7. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Memorial Park, 7625 Katy Fwy (713) 688-2800 8. Westin Galleria Houston, 5060 W. Alabama St. (713) 960-8100 9. Staybridge Suites Willowbrook, 10750 N Gessner Rd. (281) 807-3700 10. Drury Inn & Suites Houston Hobby, 7902 Mosley Rd. (713) 941-4300 11. Extended Stay America Houston Willowbrook, 13223 Champions Centre Dr. (281) 397-9922 12. Houston Marriott Hobby Airport, 9100 Gulf Fwy (713) 943-7979 SELECTED RESTAURANTS IN HOUSTON THAT INVITE FIDO TO DINE WITH YOU. 1. Tiny Boxwoods, 3614 W Alabama St, (713) 622-4224 2. Beaver's, 2310 Decatur St. (713) 864-2328 3. West Alabama Ice House, 1919 W Alabama St. (713) 528-6874 4. Bistro Le Cep, 11112 Westheimer Rd. (713) 783-3985 5. Saint Dane's Bar & Grill, 502 Elgin St. (713) 807-7040 6. CoCo's Crepe's & Coffee, 218 Gray St. (713) 521-0700 7. Collina's Greenway, 3835 Richmond Ave. (713) 621-8844 8. Winston's on Washington, 5111 Washington Ave. (281) 501-4088 9. The Buffalo Grille, 4080 Bissomet St. (713) 784-3663 10. Rudyards, 2010 Waugh Dr. (713) 521-0521

&

d gs cats Texas

Traveling with pets this summer?

Text MVS to 31996 to have

{July location 2015} sent to your phone.

1111 West Loop South Houston, TX 77027 713.693.1111 GCVS.com

Text GCVS to 31996 to have location sent to your phone.

7300 Ranch Road 2222 Austin, TX 78730 512.343.2837 AustinVets.com

Austin

8202 North Loop 1604 W San Antonio, TX 78249 210.737.7373 MissionVetSpecialists.com

Houston

San Antonio

Our affiliate hospitals are here to help with emergency and specialty care.

Text AVES to 31996 to have location sent to your15 phone.

{tipsfromthetrainer}

calmingyourpets

During this Firework Season

F

ear of fireworks is a fairly common phobia for dogs. The noise, smell of sulfur and flashing lights can be quite upsetting. Here are several ways to keep your pet safe during the celebration.

BY MARLENE RING

Prepare your House: Shut all doors and windows and draw curtains to block flashes and reduce noise levels. But, keep the lights on so your dog won’t be scared in a dark room.

Drown the noise out: Play music, vacuum, turn on a fan or something that emits white noise to minimize the sounds from outside.

Create a ‘Safe Place’: Choose an inner room that is least impacted by outside noise. Make it cozy with familiar bedding somewhere pleasant under a table or behind a chair. Allow the dog to hide when they’re scared and give them a special treat or a toy to divert their attention from the noise. Lavender scented items can be calming too.

Prepare: Make sure dog tags are up to date in case he flees. Give your dog plenty of exercise earlier in the day. Place them in their ‘Safe Place’ ½ an hour to an hour before the fireworks start. Purchase a “Thunder Shirt” ahead of time. These garments 16

apply gentle, constant pressure that has a dramatic calming effect.

Stay Calm: Your dog will pick up on any odd behavior.

Finally, for extreme cases of phobia, contact your vet to discuss a prescription medication.

Marlene Ring is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Professional Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).

Her Dog Training business “PAWSitive Solutions Dog & Puppy Training” has been offering positive training for 13 years.

Marlene shares her life with two rescue dogs, Dakota and Bliss.

&

d gs cats Texas

PET FRIENDLY DIRECTORY S A N A N T O N I O PET FRIENDLY APARTMENT COMPLEXES SUNSET RIDGE APARTMENTS Sunsetridgeapartments.com

POISON HOTLINE ASPCA ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTER 888-426-4435 • aspca.org/apcc

PET FRIENDLY HOTELS OMNI SAN ANTONIO HOTEL AT THE COLONNADE (210) 691-8888 • Omnihotels.com THE WYNDHAM SA RIVERWALK 210-354-2800 www.wyndham.com

PET FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS RITA'S ON THE RIVER

THE HANGAR TYCOON FLATS

PEARSALL PARK DOG PARK 4700 Old Pearshall Road

DOG PARKS

STONE OAK DOG PARK 20395 Stone Oak Parkway

CHRIS DOG PARK 111 Camp Street

TOM SLICK DOG PARK 7400 HIghway 151

PHIL HARDBERGER PARK EAST 13203 Blanco Road

SCHERTZ DOG PARK (Opened April 2015) On Community Circle behind Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex

PHIL HARDBERGER PARK WEST 8400 NW Military Highway MADISON SQUARE PARK 400 Lexington Ave. MCALLISTER PARK DOG PARK 13102 Jones-Maltsberger Road *PANTHER SPRINGS PARK (Opened March 2015) 22635 Wilderness Oak

UNIVERSAL CITY DOG PARK 134B Athenian Dr. Universal City, TX IF YOU ARE A PET FRIENDLY APARTMENT, HOTEL, OR RESTAURANT AND WOULD LIKE TO BE INCLUDED IN THIS LISTING, PLEASE CONTACT US AT DANA. TEXASDOGSANDCATS@GMAIL. COM OR AT (210) 436-9009.

periodontaldisease: common and preventable

O

BY MJ REDMAN, DVM, DAVDC

ne of the most common diseases in dogs and cats is also one of the most preventable. Periodontal disease is caused by the presence of plaque, a film of bacteria and other substances that forms in our pets’ mouths. Similar to human teeth, plaque can be removed by brushing the teeth. If it isn’t removed regularly, it can start to mineralize and form tartar (or calculus) which cannot be removed by brushing.

The body responds to plaque and tartar by producing inflammation in the gums and sometimes the underlying bone. When the gums are inflamed, it is called gingivitis. If the bone is affected, this is called periodontitis. Gingivitis is reversible but periodontitis is not and may result in the loss of teeth. Some individuals and breeds, particularly small breed dogs, are more prone to periodontal disease than others.

While having your pets’ teeth cleaned professionally by a veterinarian is important, it is not enough to prevent periodontal disease. Plaque forms on the teeth again within minutes of cleaning. Daily tooth brushing is the gold standard for removing plaque before it can cause a problem.

It’s easiest to teach a dog or cat to accept tooth brushing when they are young, but even older pets can be taught to accept and even enjoy tooth brushing. The key is to start gradually, use a petsafe toothpaste that your dog or cat likes, and use plenty of praise.

Many products on the market today advertise that they help keep teeth healthy;

not every product is effective. If your pet has food allergies, some products might aggravate their condition. Always check with your veterinarian before using something new. The Veterinary Oral Health Council website (VOHC.org) is a helpful tool as it provides a list of proven effective home dental care products. In addition to tooth brushing, there are dental diets, drinking water additives, dental chews and gels that can be applied to the teeth that can help with your pet’s dental health. It’s never too early or too late to start taking care of your pet’s teeth. A healthy mouth can contribute to a longer, happier life - something we all want for our pets.

Dr. MJ Redman is the board-certif ied veterinary dental specialist at Mission Veterinary Specialists and is the only in the San Antonio area. Prior to joining MVS in 2014, Dr. Redman owned Pacif ic Animal Dentistry, a mobile veterinary dentistry practice based near Seattle where she provided advanced dental services on a referral basis to local small animal hospitals. She then spent three years working in a practice limited to dentistry and oral surgery at the Animal Dental Center located in Maryland, a busy 3-doctor practice focusing solely on dental procedures including complex oral surgery.

Dr. Redman has extensive experience treating a variety of oral pathologies including periodontal disease, fractured teeth and jaws, malocclusions, stomatitis, masticatory myositis, gingival hyperplasia, cleft palates and oral neoplasia.

18

&

d gs cats Texas

What do these have in common?

A board-certified veterinary dentist

The Alamo

There’s only one in San Antonio!

Dr. MJ Redman, DAVDC Offering advanced dental procedures, including: 

Root canals



Oronasal fistula repair



Crown restoration



Oral tumor removal



Periodontal surgery



Jaw fracture repair



Cleft palate repair



Bite evaluations & orthodontic appliances

Surgery ● Neurology & Neurosurgery ● Internal Medicine ● Diagnostic Imaging ● Dentistry & Oral Surgery

8202 N Loop 1604 W | San Antonio, TX 78249 P: 210-737-7373 | F: 210-737-7372 www.mission.vet {July 2015}

19

{petsafety}

BY IRMA BICE

specialtytraining

T

he journey of training your dog doesn’t have to end with basic obedience classes, in fact it shouldn’t! Specialty classes are designed to: provide new and fun challenges for you and your dog, increase your training knowledge and reinforce the bond between you both. You can find a class for every breed with any temperament at any stage of life. Some of the classes offered by training facilities include:

Scent work (Also known as nose work) was created to develop your dog’s natural scenting abilities and hunting instincts. Dogs are worked one at a time with a very simple, but very rewarding goal; to search and rescue treats without direction. All breeds and temperaments are welcome to participate and no previous obedience training is required. Scent work is also a great confidence boosting class and the perfect preliminary course for the cautious canine.

Novice challenges everything you’ve learned in basic obedience and pushes towards skill mastery.

Every aspect of training is increased: the distance between handler and dog, the intensity of distraction and the duration for which a command is held.

This class is a good choice if you’re training toward an AKC Companion Dog title, if your dog is ready to challenge his obedience and as a pre-requisite for Rally class.

Treibball is a new, competitive sport that involves training your dog to drive 8 balls into a goal within ten minutes. This class was developed for dogs of all ages and sizes that work well off leash, love to play chase games and herding breeds that have no flock.

Dogs are worked in a group setting, increasing the level of cooperation between dog and handler, as you direct your dog through the stages of progression necessary to complete the objective.

Rally is an ongoing class that prepares the dog and handler for Rally competitions. Teamwork is emphasized and rewarded as each pair works their way through a series of stations. During competi-

20

tion, dog and owner will be asked to complete similar stations (the number varies with each level of competition) designed and scored by the Rally judge. You earn points along the way in hopes of gaining a competition title. This is a self-paced sport, best suited for dogs with advanced obedience skills who have completed a Novice class. It should be noted that Rally does not require that you compete and the experience is a great relationship building tool.

Trick Class keeps training fun. Is your dog bored? Ready for something new? They will have a great time as they learn how to: speak, crawl, spin, jump and more! If your dog has completed pet manners, they are all set to sign up. This class is family friendly and perfect for getting the kids involved in training activities.

Irma Bice is the training and Playcare director for the Palms Pet Resort & Spa. She has over 21 years of experience working with dogs as: a breeder, an obedience competitor, conformation exhibitor and trainer including service dogs. Throughout her nine years of teaching obedience and behavioral classes she has worked with all breeds and temperaments including aggression. Irma is a CPDT-KA, an AKC CGC evaluator, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, a member of the American Treibball Association, a founding member of San Antonio Pet Trainers Alliance and a member of the educational conference for the association of professional dog trainers.

&

d gs cats Texas

Directed by veterinarian owner

DEFINING QUALITY PET CARE THROUGH FOCUSED EFFORTS WITH AN ATTITUDE OF EXCELLENCE.

Mission Pet Emergency Formerly I-10 Pet Emergency

Our Mission is to be your Premier Emergency Care Provider • Urgent/Critical Care • Major and minor injury and illness treated • Caring and experienced staff

www.missionpetemergency.com N

Boarding Certified staff around the clock every day of the year. We focus on nurturing our guests by maintaining their physical, emotional, and behavioral health.

Grooming 5 professional groomers available to pamper your dog or cat, from basic bathing to specialized groom and the latest styling techniques.

Doggie PlayCare Exercising the mind and body of your social animal with consistent direction and correction from our certified staff.

Training Basic skill classes for young puppies, advance skill classes, private lessons, board and train, and interactive “fun” groups for you and your dogs.

BULVERDE

8202 N Loop 16043 W San Antonio, TX 78249

BOERNE

281

210.691.0900

I-10

HELOTES

W. Hausman Rd.

1604 410

Located at Loop 1604 and Hausman Road

DropCOLOR by for GUIDES a tour LOGO

12410 Bandera Road @ Loop 1604 Helotes (San Antonio), Texas 78023

(210) 695-1166

info@thepalmspetresort.com www.thepalmspetresort.com

allergensinpetfood A

BY DR. PATRICIA DINGER

s a mom of twins plus one more, just a year apart, I am all too familiar with chaos.

Don’t get me wrong – it’s usually good chaos – but chaos nonetheless. When the kids were all toddlers it was not uncommon to see one heading in every direction. More than once, I remember them bee-lining it to the pet bowl. Our dog’s food bowl was like a cookie jar in their eyes, except a lot smellier.

22

A few times I even caught them red-handed with their sweet little fingers about to put dog food into their mouths! That’s why, as a mom and Allergist, a new study recently learned about is drawing both my interest and concern over what is in many popular pet foods.

The study, presented in March, at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology national meeting, concluded that a majority of pet foods contain one of the major eight food allergens. These most common food allergens are peanut, wheat, soy, milk, eggs, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. What does this mean? Parents of children with food allergies may want to pay closer attention to the ingredients in pet food and their children’s contact with it.

How this information and the study that determined it came about is pretty interesting. Dr. Michael Land, of Kaiser Permanente’s Southern California Allergy Department, zeroed in on pet food brands and potential allergens after hearing about a case out of California involving a 5 yearold boy. The little boy was playing outside with his neighbor’s dog when the dog licked the boy’s cheek.

That’s nothing too unusual, right? Except that after being licked, the boy developed hives and his eyes swelled shut! It first appeared that the young boy had an allergy to dog. However, testing determined the boy did not have a dog allergy. Instead, he tested positive for a peanut allergy. More interesting, the dog with whom the boy had been playing with had been fed a peanut-flavored snack bone moments

before licking him. Testing determined that the peanut in the snack bone caused the boy’s allergic reaction!

Following the case, researchers looked at the ingredients in many different pet food brands. They found the most common allergens in dog food were wheat, soy, egg, and fish. In some brands, 100 percent of the products contained at least one food allergen.

According to the study, Hill Science dog and cat food had the least amount of allergens.

What I find most important to come from this case study is the need for clinicians and patients to be taught that food allergen sources can be found in pet foods. This includes dog, cat, even bird food. Also, if this 5-year-old boy developed hives from a simple lick imagine what could happen if a child with a food allergy were to actually eat the pet food containing allergens. He or she is susceptible to suffering a more serious or even life threatening allergic reaction. Therefore, as both a mom and board certified Allergist, I believe it is important that we become familiar with what’s in our beloved animal’s food. Just what we parents today need, right? One more consumer alert, telling us to stop and read food labels, causing us to spend more time in the aisle and spend more money on pet foods free of peanut, wheat, egg, or soy. I do believe, however, that what you may save, is much greater.

Being aware of potential allergens in pet food … may just save … a life.

Dr. Patricia Gomez Dinger is a board certified Allergist and Immunologist with Advanced Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Center, P.A.

&

d gs cats Texas

Making Your Real Estate Dreams Reality

Natalie Natalie Duran Duran Natalie Duran Contact: Contact:

Making Your Real Estate Dreams Reality

Direct:210.386.0969 210.386.0969Contact: Contact: Direct: 210.386.0969 Direct: Making Your Real Estate Dreams Reality Contact: natalieduran@kw.com Making Direct: Your Real Estate Dreams Reality natalieduran@kw.com natalieduran@kw.com Direct: 210.386.0969 210.386.0969

foraaa or for REE Direct: 210.386.0969 EE EE Call for Callafor a natalieduran@kw.com NatalieSellsTexas.com natalieduran@kw.com NatalieSellsTexas.com NatalieSellsTexas.com Call for a natalieduran@kw.com analysis FREE analysis analysis FREE NatalieSellsTexas.com FREE NatalieSellsTexas.com NatalieSellsTexas.com market analysis Located your your market analysis at: our market analysis Located at: Located at: onyour your Located ome! on Contact: Located at: at:at: me! on your me! home! 2338 N LoopLocated home!

1604 W, home!

2338 N Loop 1604 W, N2338 Loop 1604 W,W, 2338 N Loop 1604 W, N Loop 1604 Direct:2338 210.386.0969 Suite 120 2338 N Loop W, Suite 120 120 1604 Suite 120 Suite Suite 120 Contact: San Antonio, TX San Antonio, TX Suite 120 a SanTX Antonio, TX natalieduran@kw.com San San Antonio, Antonio, TX Direct: 210.386.0969 San Antonio, TX Call for a natalieduran@kw.com NatalieSellsTexas.com FREE ysis NatalieSellsTexas.com market analysis r on your Located at: Located at:

Contact: Direct: 210.386.0969 natalieduran@kw.com

CallContact: for a DOGGIE FREE Contact: 2338 N Loop 1604 W, Direct: 210.386.0969 market analysis Direct: 210.386.0969 SSuiteT120Ynatalieduran@kw.com L E Z San Antonio, TX on your natalieduran@kw.com home!

Call for a Call for a FREE FREE market analysis market analysis on your on your home! home!

2338 N Loop 1604 W, Suite 120 San Antonio, TX

NatalieSellsTexas.com

Located at:

NatalieSellsTexas.com home!

NatalieSellsTexas.com

2338 N Loop 1604 W, Suite 120 San Antonio, TX

Located at: Located at:

2338 N Loop 1604 W, 2338 N Loop 1604 W, Suite 120 Suite 120 San Antonio, TX San Antonio, TX

540 Madison Oak Dr. #210

More “ME” time

More FAMILY time

Pets and CLEAN floors

SAVE $ 15

off your first CHECKLIST CLEAN

100%

Satisfaction Guarantee!

“Where everyone can afford a maid!”

PROFESSIONAL, FRIENDLY, FULLY BONDED AND INSURED.

210-878-7743 • www.maidaffordable.com

adoptablepets at the San Antonio Humane Society!

JULIET

MAGENTA

Looking fo year old r a cutie patoo tie? This fe of gab a line definitely 6 h nd will spend h as the gift with yo ou u about your da rs talking y!

E PAIG

MU BU MDFD OYR

D

face – who After a nic Tw alkh, aFanrme his e daily Just look at her d r w s n o ill fu m b ve e e ha y to PyitouBrula pTeto rest. 1 yehaarpopld siteon wouldn’t want to ll This chill 7 Am rican h old Terrier? wgeitnhtlemanr rideer is re y a e d a y to ld with this 7 mont fi those he nitely loves snugr gole to cuddle ! lo ay d v to e r s he ! t p o !

Ad

SONIA

d roun She isn’t letting anything a h stop her c scrat back is from living her drea e l t m n of r being a e ge n he loving 3 year old comp A nic rs and o Oldie an ion! a her e a way to ar t! e y surel odie’s h o But G

VINC

E

y for read d n old ly, a iend ½ year t wait r f , t ’ e Swe e. This 6 i mix can e m P o ! ar ah mily se Sh w fa Chine et his ne e to m

Visit SAhumane.org to see more adoptable pets!

All pets adopted from the SAHS receive their spay/neuter surgery, microchip, first set of vaccinations, a starter bag of Hill’s Science Diet pet food, and much more!

24

&

d gs cats Texas

C F

elebrated with a Beach Blanket Bow-Wow on June 6th. Many human and furry guests came out to celebrate with live music, food, prizes, agility demos, swimming in their pool, as well as pet adoptions.

urr-tastic or flea infested! The Pupperazzi is on the scene and has your tail covered!

{spotted by the pupperazzi}

K9 Country Club

Schertz Doggie Dash

T

he Schertz Doggie Dash was held on June 13th, benefitting Homes for Pets, at Pickrell Park. 2 Legged and 4 Legged runners came out for a wonderful day. The 2 women, Leslie and Meagan, with medals, were first and second place winners in their age category (20-29).

PHOTOS BY CINDY KELLEHER

{July 2015}

25

about our

covermodels Parker & Bear from Pet Galaxy, Inc. Pet Hotel, Resort and Spa

W

e are very proud that Texas Dogs & Cats Magazine decided to feature our specially designed for dogs swimming pool on their front cover in this issue. Our featured models include Parker (cute Boxer mix) and Bear (handsome German Shepard). Parker enjoys daycare activities at Pet Galaxy and Bear recently spent his vacation with us enjoying the pool.

BY FRANK HAEGLAND

Pet Galaxy is a full service pet resort located on 6 acres in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, a short 20 minutes’ drive north of San Antonio’s Stone Oak area on US Highway 281.

When attempting to explain what Pet Galaxy is all about, it is easy to succumb to clichés such as “we are different” or “we really love pets”. Most people in this industry would naturally describe themselves and their business that way. Yet if you tour many of these “luxury boarding” or “premium” pet resorts, you all too often find the same old thing; dogs trapped inside their sleeping quarters for days or even weeks, only allowed to get out to “play” in small indoor rooms marketed as “play yards”. Even upscale resorts that advertise “outdoor play yards” often forget to mention that the size of their yards really is too small to allow for much playing – let alone running.

When designing the ultimate pet resort from a dog’s perspective, we need to remember that most dogs have lots of energy that they need an outlet for. This is known as “predatory energy”, and as most dog owners know all too well; if Fido doesn’t get his walk or playtime when he expects

it, he will let you know. As a matter of fact, dogs who are not allowed to run and play sufficiently, tend to become frustrated and sometimes even depressed. Frustrated dogs will often turn to digging up the back yard, chewing on furniture or tearing up pillows when left alone.

The other thing to keep in mind when designing the ultimate pet resort from a dog’s perspective is that canines have these big noses which they love to play detective with. When dogs see a bush or a tree, they don’t admire its beauty – they sniff it to get a history of what other animals and dogs have visited that place before.

Pet Galaxy is all about providing the ultimate dream vacation for your pets – not simply from a human perspective, but from your furry friend’s own perspective. That’s why we are located on six acres with multiple play yards. This is also why we don't cover our play yards with manmade so called “K9 Grass”, which is no more than a man-made outdoor plastic carpet that has been painted green to resemble grass. Our outdoor play yards are not even covered by a manmade lawn – because a manicured lawn can be really boring for a four legged detective, similar to placing a five year old child

COVER AND ABOVE PHOTOS TAKEN BY RENEE SPADE PHOTOGRAPHY

&

d gs cats Texas

26

in an empty room and telling him to enjoy himself.

Our outdoor play yards feature natural ground cover, lots of oak trees that serve both as shade and as home for local squirrels, in ground ponds and pools for cooling down on hot summer days, and lots of interesting places to sniff and investigate every day.

We naturally also realize that some pet owners prefer to have their pets play inside instead. For these pets we feature an indoor activity room full of squeaky toys, comfy couches, a fireplace and a large flat screen TV. All activities and play areas are supervised by our trained staff at all times.

But don’t just take our word for how wonderful your best friend will think we are. Come take

a tour yourself and see with your own eyes why we are so proud of our resort. After all, your furry friend is counting on you to make the right decision for him or her. Come find out for yourself what so many of our regular clients have already witnessed – that as soon as they turn off the highway to our driveway, their dog’s tail starts wagging.

So call us today to schedule training, grooming daycare, or a fantastic fun filled dream vacation for your pets: (830) 885-5335 or (210) 526-9680 www.PetGalaxyUSA.com www.facebook.com/PetGalaxyUSA

OUR PRINCIPLES AREN’T FOR SALE. THEY ARE, HOWEVER, AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD. With the Frost App for iPhone® & Android ® you can deposit checks, transfer funds, find nearby locations and talk to a real person at the bank with a single tap.

frostbank.com (877) 862-4900

MEMBER FDIC

heroesamongus

I

can’t tell you how many times I’ve apologized to God for saying “I just can’t stand people sometimes”. I know it’s not “people” in general, it’s their actions. The city of San Antonio has tens of thousands of abandoned pets at any given time. Fortunately, to counteract that careless side of humanity, there are true heroes among us taking them off the streets and giving aid and comfort to one little life at a time.

BY JULI COEN

Marie Crabb is one such hero in my book. She is a local Realtor® and sees many abandoned pets when showing homes; it’s almost as if some homeowners believe their pets are trash that can be left behind for someone else to clean up. I get pictures almost daily from Marie of dogs and cats that she has rescued as she goes about her work day. We call it Marie-dar… I think those in the most need can tell when Marie is coming; they know to go to the nearest street and wait for her. Kelsie was one such rescue.

Phoenix, on the other hand, was scheduled for euthanasia and Marie saved him minutes before the 5:00 p.m. cut-off. She said his eyes just told her he’d never had one good day in his life and she wanted him to have that. He is with a beautiful family now and is happily the center of attention!

Sweetie was saved by Marie’s brother Daniel Crabb, who is a law enforcement officer with the National Park Service. He found her in a box dumped at the Missions. Unfortunately, many abandoned pets are found there and they do their best to save them and move them into “the system”. In Sweetie’s case, one of my co-workers, Betty, fell in love with her and she found a wonderful home with an older brother Buddy, that she adores and a sister, Keeley that thinks she is annoying; typical family!

28

Sheba (Queen of(!)), was only about 4 weeks old when she was found crouched in the middle of a highway near Canyon Lake. Beverly Oakes, a professional petcare specialist and all around animal whisperer who just happened to be in the next car on the road, slammed on the brakes and scooped her out of harm’s way.

She spent almost two years as a therapy cat joining her big brother, Junior, who has helped hundreds of children in the Pediatric Unit of University Health System . Beverly is a member of Therapy Animals of San Antonio.

I just want to thank all the wonderful people who have a heart for animals and work tirelessly answering phone calls in the middle of the night or spending hours in the hot sun searching for a hurt animal. These folks spend t housands of dollars of their own money making sure these little guys and gals are safe, fed, vetted and find a good home. Thank you for being the heroes among us.

Juli Coen, Vice President, Sr. Loan Off icer & Military specialist with Iberiabank Mortgage in San Antonio TX. Juli and her husband Mark have been rescue parents for 22+ years.

&

d gs cats Texas

10% off Any Training Package

We have Private Lessons, In Home Training, Board & Train Immersion, and Group Class programs which address such things as:

Cannot be combined with any other discounts.

Must present coupon at consultation.

Basic Puppy Manners • Come When Called • Leash Pulling • House Breaking • Control Aggression • Jumping • Basic & Advanced Obedience • Car Manners • Chewing • Digging • Boundary Training • Nuisance Barking

“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.”

Remembering the years of love and care given to our pets and the lifetime of companionship, devotion returned, we cherish the memories long after their brief lives have ended.

They were more than just our pets, they were our best friends and are now eternal members of our families.

Mention this ad and receive and 10% off your 1st visit

MON – FRI: 9 A.M. TO 5 P.M. 8714 Business Circle Converse, Texas 78109 Phone: (210) 566-4501 Fax: (210) 566-4899 www.bluebonnetpetcrematory.com

{July 2015}

29

{dogmakeover}

FEATURED DOGGIE

makeover

BEFORE

AFTER

FED-X came came in without a family. Andrea, a groomer at Barbara's, not only made her nice and pretty, but also found her a forever home.

BARBARA'S CANINE CLIPS 'N' BOWS, 5259 MCCULLOUGH, (210) 826-5742

All Breed Personalized Grooming Professional Training

Barbara Kneisel Muzny Owner - Groomer TUE - FRI SAT

7:30 A.M. - 5:30 P.M. 7:30 A.M. - 4 P.M.

PH. 210-826-5742 5259 McCullough San Antonio, TX 78212 www.barbarascanineclipsnbows.com

Q: Our dog has had dry red patches all over his back the last few weeks. Does that indicate an allergy and what do you recommend doing for it?

—Thank you, Laura A: Dry red patches on dogs as you described can represent stapyloccus (staph) lesion hypersensitivity or possible ringworm. Staph lesions occur most often in atopic (allergic) dogs, or they can occur in those dogs with decreased immune systems. Staph lesions can also occur during the hot summer months.

Your veterinarian will be able to distinguish the lesions between staph and ringworm. The treatment for staph is antibiotics and weekly medicated baths. For those severe cases of staph, your doctor may choose to run bloodwork or culture the skin.

Q: How long can you leave a dog in your backyard in this hot San Antonio summer and what should I watch for signs of heatstroke? —Thank you, Michael

Dr. Kirby 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. His veterinary interests are surgery, internal medicine, ultrasonography, and rehabilitation therapy. He uses both a conventional and a holistic approach to medicine. Dr. Kirby 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.

uneral Home & Cremat F t o Pe

N

IN HEAVE S W ry

P

A: The duration of time you leave your dog out is determined by a few factors. The first is your backyard. If

you have plenty of shaded areas and plenty of fresh water available in your backyard, I recommend 1-2 hours. If you do not have a shady area in your backyard, I only recommend them to be out 30 minutes to an hour at the most, even with water available. The second factor is the type of dog you have. Long thick haired breeds like Keeshonds or Chows are more sensitive to the brutal South Texas heat and can only be left out for about 30 minutes with shade and water available.Signs of heatstroke are: increased temperature, panting, rapid heart rate, excessive drooling, blood in stool, seizures, the inability to walk, or unconsciousness. If your dog has been outside for any length of time and is exhibiting any of these signs, get them to a veterinarian quickly. .

{askthevet}

WITH DR. KIRBY OF ALAMO HEIGHTS PET CLINIC

Serving South & Central Texas Since 1992

Individual/Private Cremation Memorial/Communal Cremation Distinctive Urns & Memorials “The final care for your faithful companion and family member... offering pet owners uncompromising service and choice.”

800-299-2210 www.pawsinheaven.com

{July 2015}

2106 Sattler Road | New Braunfels, Texas 78132.

Mailing address: PO Box 2109 | Canyon Lake, Texas 78133

31

petpuzzlers Travel Fun

Water Fun! Word Scramble 1. UOBTHT 2. GGLGESO 3. SVFEILTE 4. SNKESORL 5. OATB 6. ENOAC 7. IRVRE 8. MESATR 9. CJZAUZI 10. MIPLNMIOWSGO 11. HIORLNEC 12. HRKSA

Pet Water Safety Tips • Dogs should wear life vests too when at the beach, boating, or the pool. Life vests are made in all sizes for all breeds of dogs.

• Keep your dog on a leash when they are first learning how to become adjusted to the water.

• Pets should NEVER be allowed in the hot tub.

Dogs and cats have different body temperatures than humans and can quickly overheat.

• When your dog begins to paddle with his front legs, lift his hind legs to show him how to float.

• Pools may pose chemical dangers to animals.

You should rinse clean all animals with fresh water after exiting a pool.

• If you own your own pool, please put a barrier around the pool and install a possible alarm to make certain animals and children are safe when no one is around.

• If at an ocean, make certain to bring fresh water, as pets should avoid drinking the salt water as it can be dangerous to their health.

• ALWAYS supervise your four legged children in the water as you do your 2 legged children.

   

  

Socialization Training Obedience Training Behavior Modification We work with even the most difficult cases

Pets need (and deserve) vacations too — Whether it’s for daycare, or for a longer stay!

Below are some samples of what our guests have been up to lately.

Follow the fun through our daily updates on Facebook:

www.facebook.com/PetGalaxyUSA

www.PetGalaxyUSA.com

Large Grooming Department With Experienced Pet Stylists!

(Available Mon-Sat)

Call us today for a free consultation with an expert dog trainer, or to customize your pet’s daycare schedule or perfect dream vacation!

13060 US Highway 281 N, Spring Branch TX 78070, Phone: 830-885-5335

34

&

d gs cats Texas

PET DIRECTORY OF SAN ANTONIO ANIMAL HOSPITALS & VETERINARY SERVICES 4 Paws Animal Hospital................ 27 North Star Animal Hospital............ 3 Penny Paws Animal Clinic............... 7 Pleasanton Road Animal Hospital.......................... 2 The Ark Pet Hospital.................... 29 EMERGENCY Mission Pet Emergency................ 21 Gulf Coast / AVES......................... 15 SPECIALTY Mission Veterinary Specialists................................ 19 BANKS Frost Bank.................................... 27 BOARDING KENNELS & DAYCARE FACILITIES Bluebonnet Bunk n Biscuit............ 11 Four Paws Inn of Converse............. 7 Grooming By Gloria....................... 2 Hill Country Pet Ranch.................... 2 K9 Country Club & Training Academy...................... 2 Lucky Dog Pet Grooming............... 7 North Star Animal Hospital............ 3 Pawderosa Ranch (2 Locations)............................. 1 Pawsitive Solutions....................... 17 Pet Galaxy.............................. 33, BC Pleasanton Road Animal Hospital.......................... 2 The Ark Pet Hospital.................... 29 Ryckman Kennels........................... 7 The Palms Pet Resort & Spa........................... 21 CLEANING SERVICES Maid Affordable........................... 23

DOG DOORS & FENCES Alamo Pet Doors.......................... 11 GROOMING SERVICES Barbara’s Canine Clip “n Bows...... 30 Bluebonnet Bunk n Biscuit............ 11 Doggie Stylez............................... 23 Grooming By Gloria....................... 2 Hill Country Pet Ranch.................... 2 K9 Country Club & Training Academy...................... 2 Linda’s Pet Grooming..................... 2 Lucky Dog Pet Grooming............... 7 North Star Animal Hospital............ 3 Pawderosa Ranch (2 Locations)............................. 1 Pet Galaxy.............................. 33, BC The Palms Pet Resort & Spa......... 21 The Wash Dawg............................ 11 MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS Dr. Patricia Dinger......................... 23 MOBILE GROOMING Bark N Bubblez.............................. 7 Cool Dog Spa................................. 2 MOVING SERVICES Reliable Delivery & Moving............ 3

PEST CONTROL SERVICES Bug Stop Professional Pest Management....................... 3 PET BOUTIQUES/PRODUCTS/ SPECIALTY/STORES/SUPPLIES Bo Jangles.................................... 11 Fetch & Friskers (2 Locations)........ 7 Fifi & Fidos Pet Boutique............... 2 Paw Basics...................................... 3 PET MORTUARY AND CREMATION SERVICES/HOSPICE Bluebonnet Pet Crematory........... 29 Paws in Heaven............................ 31 PET PHOTOGRAPHERS/ART Renee Spade Photography.......... 23 PET WASTE REMOVAL SERVICES Bark-Yard Bomb Squad Pooper Scooper........................ 3 POOLS Gary Pools.................................. IBC REALTORS Exquisite Properties, LLC.............IFC Natalie Duran-Realtor................... 23

NOT FOR PROFIT San Antonio Humane Society....... 34 OBEDIENCE TRAINERS Bluebonnet Bunk n Biscuit............ 11 Hill Country Pet Ranch.................... 2 K9 Country Club & Training Academy................... 2 Pawsitive Solutions....................... 17 Pet Galaxy.............................. 33, BC Ryckman Kennels........................... 7 Sit Means Sit................................. 29 The Palms Pet Resort & Spa......... 21

COCO

*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. {July 2015}

35

SAN ANTONIO PETS Showing their Patriotic spirit for the 4th of July as well as enjoying the water in the summer heat!!!

36

AVERY AS LIBERTY BELL & MAX AS THE FLAG

DAKOTA ENJOYING K9 COUNTRY CLUB'S POOL

HOODAH AT THE FRIO RIVER

JASPER-WATER FUN

KHALEESI -RED, WHITE & BLUE

JASPER AND HANNA ROSE ENJOYING A DIP IN MEDINA RIVER

PUGLAS, PUGLITA & ALBUS CHILLING BY THE WATER TOGETHER

PATRIOTIC LUCY

MEER RELAXING AT PADRE ISLAND

ODIE & OLIVE CELEBRATE THE 4TH!

SOOSOO COOLING HER PAWS

&

d gs cats Texas

Delivering Integrity Since 1954.

South Texas’ Original Pool Company. Gary Pools has been building and servicing swimming pools in and around San Antonio and South Texas since 1954. We are the largest family owned and operated pool builder in Central and South Texas. If you’re thinking of a pool, give us a call at 210-494-1313 – we’d love to hear from you.

Safety

Best Value

• 24/7 wireleSS Pool SecuriTy cAmerA • PATenTed GAry PrimuS SAfeTy drAin

• STronGer reinforcinG STeel • TouGher concreTe • Proven reliAbiliTy

Swim Ready Starting at

EvER {July 2015}

Most Efficient

• eXcluSive Power miSer PumP • 24/7 oPerATion • $18.87 A monTh

$30,000

Pool y HomE DE S E R v E S a G a Ry

13800 San Pedro Ave. • San Antonio, TX 78232 • garypools.com

37

Happy 4th of July! From PET GALAXY

   

  

Socialization Training Obedience Training Behavior Modification We work with even the most difficult cases

Pets need (and deserve) vacations too — Whether it’s for daycare, or for a longer stay!

Below are some samples of what our guests have been up to lately.

Follow the fun through our daily updates on Facebook:

www.facebook.com/PetGalaxyUSA

Large

www.PetGalaxyUSA.com

Grooming Department With Experienced Pet Stylists!

(Available Mon-Sat)

Call us today for a free consultation with an expert dog trainer, or to customize your pet’s daycare schedule or perfect dream vacation!

& 13060 US Highway 281 N, Spring Branch TX 78070, Phone: 830-885-5335 38

d gs cats Texas