Texas Dogs & Cats – June 2018

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SAN ANTONIO’S PREMIER PET MAGAZINE

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Pet Wedding ISSUE

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Overnight Lodging Dog Daycare • Spa & Salon

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Bark’beque

We are firing up the grill! Treat your dog to our official Summer BBQ Pawty at the Ranch!

All pups are invited to enjoy our backyard BBQ festivities including games, fun and their very own goodie bag. Your dog will surely THANK QUE for all the paw lickin’ goodness!

Br ing yo u r p up by the Ra nch for an enri chi ng stay & customi zed cani ne c a re .

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We have Private Lessons, In Home Training, Board & Train Immersion, and Group Class programs which address such things as: Basic Puppy Manners • Come When Called • Leash Pulling • House Breaking • Control Aggression • Jumping • Basic & Advanced Obedience • Car Manners • Chewing • Digging • Boundary Training • Nuisance Barking

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Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center 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

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• 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

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Dr. Patricia Gomez Dinger is a Board Certified Allergist/ Immunologist specializing in allergy care for the entire family.

Dr. Dinger is committed to decreasing the number of pets that are surrendered to local shelters by offering medical treatment and education to families who think they may be dealing with a pet allergy.

If you think someone in your family might be allergic to your family pet, please make an appointment right away!

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2 LOCATIONS:

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{contents}

COVER PHOTOGRAPHED BY RENEE SPADE COVER MODEL: CALIBER & HOPE (SEE PAGE 8)

10 13 17 07 Doggie Makeover 14 Canine Dystocia 08 About Our Cover Model 16 Calendar of Events 10 Summer Fun with your Dog 17 A Furry Wedding Story 2 12 Furry Wedding Story 1 18 Dog Wedding Etiquette Advice 13 Dad's Day Doggie Treats 19 Ask the Vet

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PUBLISHER/EDITOR Dana Raimondi Tel: 210-436-9009 dana.texasdogsandcats@gmail.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE advertising inquiries to Dan Greenhouse (630) 220-2911 or dana.texasdogsandcats@gmail.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Fran Sherman 314.275.2208 fran@shermanstudios.com

DESIGNER Barbara Negron

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

CONTRIBUTING PARTNERS Veronica Araiza Dr. Kristine Hawkins Dr. Lauren Severns

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20 Father's Day Pictorial 22 Wedding Guest Pictures 24 A Furry Wedding Story 3 25 Pet Directory of SA 26 Pet Puzzlers 28 Passage of Time {June 2018}

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Ryan Birks Tori Carroll Alyssa Clifton Coleen Ellis Frank Haegeland Dr. Leslie Hopes Dr. Dan Kirby Brittany Meeker Shannan Lamb Parker Mary Pitt

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ADVERTISE WITH US!

Dana.texasdogsandcats@gmail.com or 210-436-9009 Next Issue: July 2018 find us on and at www.texasdogsandcatssa.com

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contributors LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER It's that time of year again. Our June wedding spectacular edition is always a reader favorite. This years "cover couple" portray a punk rock theme. This issue has three new furry wedding stories, as well as great advice on pet etiquette at a wedding from Frank Haegeland, owner and trainer, at Pet Galaxy. If you have included your own furry children in your wedding or are planning to in the future, please email pictures and a story to dana.texasdogsandcats@ gmail.com for consideration for next years edition.

Also, included in this issue is an article from the San Antonio Humane Society, veterinarian, Leslie Hopes, about having summer fun with your dog. We also pay special tribute to all the fathers of "furry children" with a pictorial spread in this edition. Coleen Ellis, provides us with a heartfelt memoir of her late dog Blackie.

Enjoy this love is in the air issue and please make certain to keep your pets safe from the heat as the Texas temperatures are rising!

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 Tell our advertisers you heard about them in Texas Dogs & CatsSan Antonio!

DR. KRISTINE HAWKINS joined the San Antonio Humane Society in April of 2016. A Louisiana native, she grew up in the capitol of Baton Rouge. She attained her undergraduate degree in neurobiology at the University of Texas in Austin. She then returned home to complete her schooling at Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine and graduated in 2009.

The opinions of authors of articles in this Magazine are those of the writer or contributor and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher, and the publisher has not conf irmed the accuracy of information contained in articles.

VERONICA PEREZ is the PR Associate for the San Antonio Humane Society and has been with the organization since 2016. She is UTSA alumni and a native to San Antonio. She currently lives under a full roof with her husband, son, two dogs, and cat, Chewie.

Dana Raimondi

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BEFORE

makeover

{dogmakeover}

FEATURED DOGGIE

AFTER

This is Lucy, a regular at The Pup Stop groomed by Jayme. She always goes from scruffy to gorgeous!

Grooming by The Pup Stop, 15033 Nacogdoches Rd, #109, (210) 508-8922

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LIKE US FACEBOOK 15033 Nacogdoches Rd, ON Ste 109 • San, Antonio, TX 78247 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK LIKE USON ON FACEBOOK LIKE US ON FACEBOOK LIKE US FACEBOOK LIKE US ON FACEBOOK LIKE US US ON ON FACEBOOK FACEBOOK LIKE

{June 2018}

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covermodels about our

CALIBER & HOPE

Introducing for the first time ever a Puppy proposal with a Rock N’ roll twist. Featuring this month’s cover models Caliber and Hope. As this poodle asks for her paw in marriage with the promise to provide unconditional love and a lifelong supply of dog bones.

The groom to be , Caliber is a 4-year-old standard poodle who is no stranger to the spot light. You can usually find Caliber and bride to be Hope, maintaining quality control at Canine Couture Pet Spa & Boarding where it was love at first site. These two love birds enjoy living the life of luxury and the time they get

to spend together during their frequent spa days at Canine Couture where they receive the ultimate in comfort, health, and care. Where The best part is ….she said yes!

As industry leaders, Canine Couture continues the family legacy of 47 years by providing superior service and quality creative grooming while maintaining our core values built upon integrity, trust, and the importance of customer relationships To be continued…...

BY TORI CARROLL

COVER AND INTERIOR PHOTOS BY RENEE SPADE PHOTOGRAPHY

Swagg

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summerfunwithyourdog

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he temperature is rising and school is almost out for the year, which can only mean one thing: summer is almost here. We’re always looking for more ways to include our pets in our lives—they’re family after all! So it makes sense that summer activities should include our pets too, but it’s important to make some special arrangements to keep every–pawdy safe.

The Beach

BY SAHS ASSOCIATE VETERINARIAN, LESLIE HOPES

Many beaches have designated areas that are dog friendly. With the development of rental applications such as Airbnb, it’s even easier to find a place that allows our pets to attend family vacations too. When at the beach, remember that your pets can get overheated a lot faster than you. Always offer fresh, cool water and a place out of direct sunlight for them to cool off. Crashing waves and white foam can be new and exciting! If they enjoy the waves, letting your pet splash in them is just fine. Keep an eye on how much salt water your pup takes in. Drinking salt water can result in a very sick doggo.

Sand is great for building castles and turning friends into mermaids, but it can turn into a nasty problem if it gets in your pet’s eye. Most animal’s eyelashes and tear films will prevent sand from entering their eyes, but if you notice them becoming red, swollen or if your pet begins scratching at them, it’s important to take your pet to your veterinarian for an eye exam. A particle of sand in the eye could lead to a corneal abrasion or something more involved, so it’s best not to wait around to see if the eye will heal on its own.

The Pool

If a beach trip is not in the cards for you and your pup this summer, a poolside playdate can be just as fun. Baby pools are great for dogs to cool off in when the days of summer get too hot to handle. Make sure to fill the pool with fresh, cool water each time they play. Standing water can become a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, and mosquito bites lead to an increased risk for heartworm disease. If you have a water-loving pup, be sure your dog’s heartworm and flea prevention is adequate for water exposure. Dogs that swim regularly do best with oral or injectable forms of heartworm prevention as they do not become ineffective when exposed to water. Always discuss your options with your veterinarian!

The Hike

The Texas Hill Country is perfect for hiking. When

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taking your pup on a hike, pack enough fresh water for both you and your dog for the duration of the hike.

Pick a dog-friendly trail and take plenty of breaks in shady areas. Stay cool and plan your hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Hiking between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm is not recommended as this is the hottest part of the day.

Heat stroke is a very real summertime risk for dogs in Texas. Signs of heat stroke include excessive panting, bright red colored gums, excessive drooling, rapid heart rate, and an uncoordinated, wobbly gait. If you suspect your dog has heat stroke, seek immediate veterinary care as this can be a life-threatening condition if left untreated. If the weather is projected to be exceptionally hot, it’s best to keep your dog at home. While enjoying nature, remember to keep an eye out for wildlife: your dog’s interest in creeping rodents, slithering snakes, or other wild animals and insects could lead to potentially dangerous situations if you or they don’t react appropriately.

The Barbeque

It just wouldn’t be summer without a barbeque! Cookouts equal lots of food, fun, family and friends. Be sure to ask guests to not feed table scraps to your pets. “People Food,” especially those with bones, can cause serious injury to your pets. Another summer time barbecue staple that can be especially harmful to dogs is corn on the cob. Dogs will often swallow corn on the cob whole and their bodies are unable to digest this large cylindrical mass of corn which then requires emergency surgery to remove. There is a variety of pet treat options on the market that are shaped like hot dogs, burger patties, and even doggy ice cream pops. They’re safe, fun, and help your dog feel included during the festivities!

Take simple precautions and make more summer memories with your pet! Still looking for a companion to spend the season with? Visit SAhumane.org/adopt to find a new summer buddy!

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SHELTER FOSTER DONATE ADOPT EDUCATE VOLUNTEER

Connecting Friends for Life 4804 FREDERICKSBURG ROAD SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229 SAHUMANE.ORG • (210) 226-7461 11 {June 2018} @SAHUMANE

A Furry Wedding Story

Brittany, Christopher & Pepper Q1: When and where did you get married?

We got married at the beautiful Grand Hall at Hofmann Ranch on March 31, 2018.

Q2: Why did you choose to have your dog to be a part of your wedding day?

I have had Pepper since she was 8 weeks old & this year she turned 12 years old.

She has been a major part of my life and everyone knows she's my baby! There was no possible way I would have excluded her from my wedding especially since she is a major part of my family! I think people would have thought it was weird if I hadn't included her.

BY BRITTANY MEEKER / PHOTOS BY KODY MELTON AND DON ELMORE

Q3: How accommodating was everyone in letting your dog be a part of your wedding and did you get resistance from anyone?

Hofmann Ranch was kind enough to let me bring her to the venue. They knew how important it was to me and they were completely accommodating!

Q4: What advice would you give any future couples thinking of having their pets be a part of their special day?

My advise would be to make sure you get your pictures in with your pet as soon as possible, especially with this Texas heat!

Pepper was great but after a few pictures in the heat, she began getting hot and uncomfortable. Of course, have someone designated to take care of them or take them home as soon as they are done so they can relax.

Q5: What was the best part of having your dog be a part of your wedding celebration?

The best part of being able to have my dog be a part of my wedding celebration was having my partner in crime and best friend with me. With 12 years of being a part of each others lives, and her going through this journey with me, I wouldn't have done it any other way!

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canine dystocia: a potential pregnancy complication

H

earing the high-pitched chirping cries of newborn puppies as they pile onto one another in a mound, is one of the greatest rewards following delivery of a new litter.

Fortunately, most dogs have natural instincts and abilities to give birth (whelp) without assistance. However, as with people, there can be conditions that require emergency medical attention for a successful delivery.

BY RYAN BIRKS, DVM

Whether you are experiencing a first-time pregnancy in your beloved pet or making preparations for an upcoming breeding, dystocia is an important condition to be aware of. Dystocia is the medical term used to describe difficulty giving birth. More specifically, failure of contractions to deliver a puppy through the birth canal. Fortunately, the incidence of dystocia is <16% in most breeds; however, when it develops, rapid medical or surgical care is required. Dystocia can develop in any breed, but is more common in small and miniature dogs. Bulldogs and similarly shaped breeds are at greatest risk of dystocia.

Due to their conformation, surgical caesarean (C-section) is required to deliver these puppies in more than 80% of pregnancies.

The average length of gestation in dogs is 64 days. A reliable estimation of the whelping date is important for early detection of dystocia and for monitoring high-risk pregnancies. There are 3 stages of labor in dogs. In Stage 1, silent uterine contractions begin which may last up to 24 hours. Mom may display restlessness, nesting behavior, and seek seclusion. In Stage 2, observable contractions result in birth of each puppy, one at a time. Following the birth of each puppy, delivery of its placenta will take place shortly after (Stage 3). It is important to monitor mom during these stages to identify abnormalities.

Signs of dystocia include: failure to deliver a pup within 24 hours of starting stage 1; active straining for more than 30 minutes before birth of a pup; more than 4 hours between puppies; failure to deliver all 14

puppies within 36 hours.

If concern for dystocia is identified, seek veterinary care immediately. Rapid medical or surgical intervention during dystocia are key for success. Your veterinarian may perform x-rays and/or an ultrasound. X-rays help determine the number of puppies, their size, and position within the birth canal. Ultrasound is used to determine puppy heart rates which should be >200 beats/minute.

If dystocia is diagnosed and medical management is the best option, medication such as oxytocin may be given to strengthen contractions. Many cases can be managed medically, however >60% require emergency C-section to deliver the puppies.

Consultation with your veterinarian and scheduled pregnancy examinations will help ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery for your expecting pet.

Dr. Ryan Birks is a surgeon at MissionVet Specialty & Emergency. He graduated Cum Laude from the University of Missouri with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2012.

After graduation, he completed a one-year small animal internship at Oklahoma State University. He then completed a one-year surgical internship at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists followed by a three-year small animal surgical residency at Tufts University. Dr. Birks has special interest in arthroscopic surgery, fracture repair, and emergency soft tissue procedures.

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OPEN 24/7/365 FOR EMERGENCIES A true partner in your pet’s health, MissionVet is open 24/7 for walk-in emergencies, in addition to specialty care.

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{June 2018}

Text PETS to 31996 to have directions sent to your phone 8202 N Loop 1604 W | San Antonio, TX 78249 | (210) 737-7373 | www.mission.vet

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NASH

LIBERTY

YANKEE

calendarofevents PAWSitive SOLUTIONS

Saturday, June 2nd-Sunday, June 3rd Pup up Market at La Cantera (15900 La Cantera Pkway)

by Forever 21.

Join us near Forever 21 for our second Pup-Up Market featuring San Antonio’s best dog-related vendors!

Offerings including pet clothing, homeware, and treats for your favorite four-legged friend! Dogs with owners are welcome!

Saturday, June 9th Low Cost Vaccine Drive at 4 Paws Animal Hospital (3630 SE Military Dr., Ste 100) from 8:30AM-12:00PM. For more information, call 4 Paws at (210) 337-1919.

The District 6 People & Pets Events from 6-10PM at 8765 TX-151, San Antonio, TX. The District 6 People and Pets event will be held on Saturday, June 9th from 6 pm - 8 pm at the Potranco Branch Library/ YMCA (8765 Hwy 151, 78245). This FREE family event will be open to the entire City of San Antonio to have some summer fun with music, bounce houses, face painting, food trucks, giveaways, animal related resources, FREE microchipping for City residents and more. The evening will end with a showing of "The Secret Life of Pets" at Dusk. *PLEASE BRING YOUR PETS (MUST BE ON A LEASH) Pet Wellness Clinic at the San Antonio Humane Society 4804 Fredericksburg Rd., 78229 Help your pet stay healthy with preventative low-cost wellness clinics provided by the San Antonio Humane Society! Services are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis

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as time allows and include vaccinations, microchipping, nail trim, wormer, heartworm test and prevention (dogs), and flea prevention. Find pricing and more at SAhumane.org/ wellness-clinic.

Friday, June 15th-Sunday, June 17th 52nd Boerne Berges Fest (Herff Park, 1307 River Rd) Pet friendly, FREE Berges Fest celebrates Boerne's German heritage and features a variety of special events with something for everyone. From live entertainment to the pageant, parade and carnival, food and merchant booths to the washer pitching tournament, dachshund, wheel barrow and tractor races and more!

Saturday, June 23rd & Sunday, June 24th The next open dock date at K9 Country Club (31305 Oak View, Bulverde).

Pool is officially open and waiting for you to come out and have a BLAST!!! Book your time slot or lesson today! For more details, visit their website at www.k9countryclub.net.

The Splash zone opens at K9 Country Club June 10th.

Saturday, June 23rd Pet Wellness Clinic at the San Antonio Humane Society 4804 Fredericksburg Rd., 78229 Help your pet stay healthy with preventative low-cost wellness clinics provided by the San Antonio Humane Society! Services are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis as time allows and include vaccinations, microchipping, nail trim, wormer, heartworm test and prevention (dogs), and flea prevention. Find pricing and more at SAhumane.org/ wellness-clinic.

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A Furry Wedding Story

Lee Mercer, Mary Pitt, and Romeo

Q1: When and where did you get married?

We got married June 20, 2004 at Villa Piazza at Universal Studios Orlando’s Portofino Bay Hotel.

Q2: Why did you choose to have your dog to be a part of your wedding day?

He was allowed to be at the hotel so why not. Plus, my father had passed away not long before and Romeo was one of the last things my daddy did before he passed away.

Q3: How accommodating was everyone in letting your dog be a part of your wedding and did you get resistance from anyone?

Everyone was really awesome about Romeo being in the wedding! The best man kinda looked funny at me when I said, "Oh by the way, he has the rings on him." The hotel was really awesome to us. They brought him dog treats at the reception to eat.

{June 2018}

Q5: What was the best part of having your dog be a part of your wedding celebration?

The best part of having Romeo there was sharing the joy of the day with him. It was like part of my daddy being there too.

During the reception people cuddled with him and he laid on my feet. During the wedding he sat on my veil and train. It was the best thing ever having Romeo being there. When we took photos, he was in all of them. Tons of people came to see him who were passing through the hotel and gave him lots of love that day.

My husband passed away on 07/01/2009. Romeo was there for me then too. It was like he had been with me the culmination of my entire marriage until my husband passed away. Romeo and I then jumped in the car and came to Texas. I couldn’t take being in our house in Florida without my husband. Romeo has been my great companion all of these years. I have called him my best earthly companion from Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre. Romeo passed away on 12/4/18. He was almost 17 and he had been with me all but 4 months of his life. It has been the hardest thing for me. It has been almost like like grieving for Romeo, my daddy, and husband all in one. I sit at my desk at work as I type this and Romeo’s picture is sitting to my left. He had such a good life and was loved so much. I can sit here and cry about him still. I’m so thankful Romeo was with me on my wedding day and through everyday of the past 17 years of my life.

BY MARY PITT

Q4: What advice would you give any future couples thinking of having their pets be a part of their special day?

I would suggest to other couples to make their day about them and include their furry loved ones.

We love our pets like they are our children or a family member. Advocate for allowing your pets be at your wedding location and reception...they could be better mannered than the wedding guests, lol. Include them in the ceremony by letting them carry the rings or carry flowers. Dress them in their best attire or have custom wedding couture

made for them. To me, having Romeo at my wedding was a must, and I made it happen.

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etiquette for Dogs in Weddings ADVICE FROM A TRAINER

BY FRANK HAEGELAND

Although the custom had been practiced for many years mostly in upper class circles, it was former Baywatch babe Pamela Anderson that first caused weddings between dogs to enter the headlines and the national spotlight when she arranged a wedding for her Golden Retriever, Star, and her Chihuahua, Luca, on the beach in Malibu, California in 2005. The tradition has since taken off, making dog weddings a new trend for animal lovers that these days have evolved into a hot commodity for all. If you love your dog like a child why not throw them a festive party with all their friends and parents?

And while we are on the subject of festive parties, why not include your pooches in your own wedding to make an extra fun and memorable day. More and more people these days plan for their pets, usually dogs, to take part in their weddings together with friends and family.

Once the decision has been made to have a wedding that includes the family’s best friend, for most people the next several questions usually follow in lockstep; “How do we make this furry beast who can never sit still stop jumping up and down on family members and guests alike?”. “How do we ensure that the human guests will have access to their food without first having to play a game of catch the canine who stole the steak?” And although it was envisioned to work like a dream when the idea was first concocted, “How do we make this cutest of all puppies behave properly so the human bride and groom can retrieve their wedding rings without first having to wait until the next day to see if they are passed out through the rear of the furry ring bearer?”

There are several ways to incorporate the family’s favorite canine into the ceremony; a popular choice is for the dog to bring the wedding bands down the aisle to the awaiting groom or to walk the wedding rings down on a pillow. You can for example have the dog wear the pillow on his back or hold a basket in his mouth.

Yet if you don’t feel competent to take on a potentially major training project, an easier way out might be to have the dog simply perform certain tricks that he already knows.

Whenever a furry charmer is to be included in a wedding ceremony, whether it is for a fun and festive wedding of two loving canines or for a human wedding, there are two considerations that cannot be left to chance, these issues must be planned for well in advance:

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(a) You must train the dog to behave properly in the chaos of fun and commotions that a wedding ceremony and party are to man’s best friend. Let me repeat that: You must train, practice, practice and train the dog for all contingencies and distractions associated with a wedding, especially if the pooch has been assigned tasks to perform during the ceremony.

Keep in mind that the larger the event, the bigger the distractions. (b) You should seriously consider appointing one or more dog wranglers to be in charge of the animals. The wranglers would for example be in charge of otherwise easily neglected tasks such as canine bathroom duty.

While some dogs may do fine off leash at least during parts of the event, others may need to be on leash during the entire event. Make sure you judge your dog correctly. While he may be calm and attentive to your every need during normal circumstances, a wedding with potentially hundreds of guests is far from “normal circumstances” and can be overwhelming for even the best trained canine.

If you choose to train the dog yourself, most professional trainers agree that positive reinforcement of desired behavior works much better than punishing undesired behavior. As every owner knows, dogs are highly intelligent. Your job as a trainer is therefore to get your best friend interested in and focused on what you are teaching, and then to make the training fun – like playing a fun game. We all learn faster when the subject matter is exciting, pooches are no different.

Assume you are training complex behaviors such as: (a) Walk down the aisle. (b) Carry a basket in your mouth. (c) Give the basket to the best man when you reach him. (d) Confidently ignore all guests, animals, birds and other distractions around you while performing these tasks.

In order to perfect such complex behaviors, you must think “baby-steps” by training each behavior separately at first, and then combining them into what will appear as a seamless single behavior. Finally, once the dog has learned the entire series, you must start to introduce distractions, including having a crowd of people representing the guests at the real ceremony talking and laughing loudly while the dog is performing his tasks. If the real ceremony is to be held outdoors, you should ideally even introduce a few cats, squirrels and other animals in order to distraction-proof the dog.

If possible, you should do at least the last third of your training in the actual venue of the event. Remember, anything you can do during training to perfect your four legged star’s performance, will pay off handsomely during the actual event.

Finally, have fun with it – remember the worst that can happen is that your furry friend will cause the entire event to end in a much unplanned chaos. But what could possibly make the day more memorable than that?

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Q: My dog Sophie is an Irish Setter.

She is 6 years old but unfortunately has really bad breath-ughh! Is there something you could recommend like perhaps a spray or special bone that can help remedy this?

—Thank you! - Tina A: Dog breath can change with the diet, the pet’s general health and dental health. There are sprays, such as Leba III that can be used daily or weekly to keep teeth clean. Oxyfresh is another product for the breath; drops are added to the drinking water daily.

C.E.T. chews can help reduce plaque and calculus.

As always, a good physical exam and possible blood work by your veterinarian is important to determine if there are any underlying issues that may also be causing bad breath.

Q: I’ve seen several scorpions in my backyard recently. How do I know if my dog gets bitten, and is there anything I need to do if he does?

He’s a Yorkie Poo so he’s pretty small.

—Thank you, Jennifer A: Scorpion stings are painful but usually benign.

Occasionally dogs have an allergic reaction that may require steroids and Benadryl to alleviate the effects of the sting. You may want to seek advice from your local certified pest control company as to how to control the scorpion population in and around your house.

{askthevet}

WITH DR. KIRBY OF ALAMO HEIGHTS PET CLINIC

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.

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210-566-4501 Individual/Private Cremation Memorial/Communal Cremation Distinctive Urns & Memorials 8714 Business Circle | Converse, TX 78109 | www.bluebonnetpetcrematory.com Member of the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories.

DONALD & THE DROVER

ED & MISS WINNIE

ROB & SADIE

DAN & DEMPSY

Happy Father's Day

F

to all Fur Dads!

NOAM & BISCUIT

ather's Day this year is Sunday, June 17th. We would like to pay tribute and honor to all the furry fathers and grandfathers out there.

Although, our furry children may not be able to express their gratitude for us in words, their kisses, cuddles and wagging tails are worth a million words.

Happy Father's Day to all the amazing fur dads of San Antonio! You deserve a special day!

RUDY & FUR BABIES

MICHAEL & MUNECA

ROB & ELSA

DAVID & SAM

COLBY & BIJOU

SHAWN, DEXTER & DANTE

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d gs cats Texas

20 DAVID & BOLT

DANIEL & JOEY

DAD & BABY KORY

JEFF WITH MELODY & KHALEESI

WE BELIEVE IN L O YA LT Y T O O.

Frost is proud to support Texas Dogs and Cats.

And we’d be proud to help you along your financial journey too.

Visit us at frostbank.com or call (800) 51-FROST.

MEMBER FDIC

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

{June 2018}

®

Visit PennyPaws.com For More Info

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CONGRATULATIONS!

LENNON, CHARLIE & JUDE MISSION VET

MISS MINDY PET GALAXY

RED AND WHISPER BLUEBONNET PET CREMATORY

BLUE RELIABLE DELIVERY

LOTTIE BLUEBONNET BUNK'N BISCUIT

LEEROY PAWDEROSA RANCH

ACE FROST BANK

CRISCO THE PET LOSS CENTER

MOLLY NORTH PARK SUBARU

ARIA THE PUP STOP

ZOE & BRECK CALLAGHAN ROAD ANIMAL HOSPITAL

SPARK HILL COUNTRY PET RANCH

FROM THE WEDDING GUESTS

OLIVER SIT MEANS SIT

SASHA GRACE DR. PATRICA DINGER

ROSIE TEXAS DOGS & CATS

BAILEY TEXAS DOGS & CATS

MIA PAWSITIVE SOLUTIONS

LILLY 4 PAWS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Callaghan Road Animal Hospital DR. JENNIFER EVANS, DVM

5739 CALLAGHAN ROAD, SUITE 101 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78228

DR. EDUARDO GUEVARA, DVM

(210)647-1101 CALLAGHANROADANIMALHOSPITAL.COM

HERE AT CALLAGHAN ROAD ANIMAL HOSPITAL WE OFFER MOBILE EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE IN ADDITION TO CARING FOR YOUR DOGS AND CATS.

WE PROVIDE A VARIETY OF SERVICES INCLUDING: • WELLNESS PHYSICAL EXAMS • LAMENESS EXAMS • VACCINATIONS • COGGINS TESTING • SOFT TISSUE SURGERY • DENTISTRY – BOTH EQUINE & SMALL ANIMAL

• • • •

REPRODUCTIVE ULTRASOUNDS ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION (EQUINE) SURGERY (BOTH EQUINE & SMALL ANIMAL) LASER DECLAW FOR KITTENS AS YOUNG AS 3 MONTHS ADDITIONAL SERVICES INCLUDE: • BOARDING & GROOMING

For those unexpected situations, we are proud to offer after hour equine emergency service.

Dr. Evans and Dr. Guevara have combined experience of 15 years specializing in equine and small animal veterinary care. {June 2018}

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A Furry Wedding Story

Alyssa & Garrett Clifton and Luke & Chief

Q1: When and where did you get married?

We got married in Wimberley, TX on Sept. 23, 2017. Venue previously was Rustic Ranch it has now changed to Ivory Oak.

BY ALYSSA CLIFTON / PHOTO BY ALLISON LEGNON

Q2: Why did you choose to have your dog to be a part of your wedding day?

Our dogs are such a huge part of our life that I could not imagine our special day without them.

They are our family, and now they will forever be apart of our memories in our pictures.

Q3: How accommodating was everyone in letting your dog be a part of your wedding and did you get resistance from anyone?

Everyone at our wedding was extremely accommodating and loved that we included them!

Our close family and friends know how important our dogs are to us, so I think it came as no surprise to our guests that they were there.

Q4: What advice would you give any future couples thinking of having their pets be a part of their special day?

My biggest piece of advice would be to find someone to watch them for the day that is not a 24

close family member or friend. You will have so much going on, and you want those closest to you to be able to enjoy the day (and most importantly celebrate you) that you will not want to put that burden on them. You will want some one to watch, provide water/food for and clean up after them.. that is a full time job!

We also just included them in the ceremony and pictures, and they left before dinner/reception. I felt the music and atmosphere May be a little too much for them and didn’t want to stress them or ourselves out! This was just based on our personal dogs and their personalities.

One other important thing I learned, unless they are highly trained, expect and be ok with not everything going as planned. Being in a new place, with a lot of new people meant lots of distractions for them. Something as simple as sit and stay was a bit challenging!

Q5: What was the best part of having your dog be a part of your wedding celebration?

Your wedding day is full of happiness, excitement and let’s be honest..some stress and nerves. Having Luke and Chief there with us really helped me to relax and know that everything would be okay.

My favorite part was the memories and having the pictures for the rest of our life. Those are priceless.

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PET DIRECTORY OF SAN ANTONIO

ANIMAL HOSPITALS & VETERINARY SERVICES

Callaghan Road Animal Hospital........................ 23 4 Paws Animal Hospital................ 3 North Star Animal Hospital........ 21 Penny Paws Animal Clinic........... 21 EMERGENCY & SPECIALTY Missionvet Specialty & Emergency................................ 15

Pawsitive Solutions..................... 21 Pet Galaxy............................ 27, BC

NOT FOR PROFIT

The Pup Stop............................... 7

San Antonio Humane Society..... 11

CAR DEALERSHIPS

OBEDIENCE TRAINERS

North Park Subaru......................IFC

Bluebonnet Bunk n Biscuit............ 3 Hill Country Pet Ranch.................. 3

GROOMING SERVICES Barbara’s Canine Clip “n" Bows.... 21

K9 Country Club & Training Academy................... 3

Bluebonnet Bunk n Biscuit............ 3

Pawsitive Solutions..................... 21

Callaghan Road

Pet Galaxy............................ 27, BC

Animal Hospital........................ 23

BANKS Frost Bank.................................. 21

Canine Couture............................. 9 Grooming by Gloria................... 21

BOARDING KENNELS & DAYCARE FACILITIES

Hill Country Pet Ranch.................. 3

Bluebonnet Bunk n Biscuit............ 3

North Star Animal Hospital..... 21

Callaghan Road Animal Hospital........................ 23

Pawderosa Ranch (2 Locations).... 1

Canine Couture............................. 9 Grooming by Gloria................... 21

Sit Means Sit................................. 2

K9 Country Club & Training.......... 3

Pet Galaxy............................. 27,BC The Pup Stop............................... 7

Hill Country Pet Ranch.................. 3

MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS

K9 Country Club &

Dr. Patricia Dinger......................... 3

PET MORTUARY AND CREMATION SERVICES/HOSPICE Bluebonnet Pet Crematory......... 19 The Pet Loss Center.................. IBC PET PHOTOGRAPHERS Renee Spade Photography........ 21 RETAIL STORES /PET SHOPS Walgreens.................................... 9

Training Academy....................... 3 North Star Animal Hospital........ 21

MOVING SERVICES

Pawderosa Ranch (2 Locations).... 1

Reliable Delivery & Moving.......... 2

*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.

{June 2018}

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petpuzzlers Word Search

By Shannan Lamb Parker, 635 North Magazine, Tramor Media

Pet Party Crossword Puzzle

KOKI (P R

INCESS

Across 3. Flowers 5. It is his job to help the groom 6. Puts these on a finger as a sign of marriage 8. A vacation after the wedding

KOKI (PRINCESS BRIDE) & THE DROVER (GROOM)

Down 1. Small pieces of paper thrown at the bride and groom 2. A lace headdress worn by the bride 4. At a wedding these often come in tiers 7. Partner of the bride

Questions & Answers Q: What do chicken families do Q: What do you get when a chicken lays an egg on top of a barn? on Saturday afternoon?

A: An eggroll!

A: They go on peck-nics!

Q: What do chickens serve at birthday parties?

A: Coop-cakes!

Q: What does an alarm cluck say?

A: "Tick-tock-a-doodle-doo!"

FIND ANSWERS ON OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.TEXASDOGSANDCATSSA.COM

BRIDE)

photo by Renee Spade Photography

If you live in Stone Oak, Encino or any of the adjacent communities, Pet Galaxy’s new coach bus pickup and delivery service may soon be coming to a bus stop near you, or for an additional fee, directly to your home.The new offering is a subscription service customized for each individual family and canine. The company will pick up your dogs every morning and drop off your happy and satisfied best friend every evening. During the day, the dogs will be provided plenty of play time for exercise with all their canine friends, access to playing various fun enrichment games such as “Use Your Nose to Find the Treat” and retriever games such as having a staff member throw a stick, tennis ball or frisbee. If desired, dogs may even participate in formal obedience training instructed by one of the company’s professional dog trainers. Even all-important nap-time is scheduled for each dog at strategic times during the day. Each bus can safely transport over 50 dogs (and cats), which means this is a limited offering on a first come, first serve basis, especially targeting families in the Stone Oak and Encino areas.

Pet Galaxy is located about 20 minutes’ drive north of Stone Oak on Hwy 281, and has been offering daycare, lodging, grooming and training services for almost 10 years running.

The facility occupies almost 6 acres in the city of Spring Branch, and is arguably best known for their huge outdoor doggie play yards, and as Lynn Haegeland, Director of Operations, adds “Please don’t forget our fantastic staff, and our service that we work so hard to ensure is second to none.”

Most facilities located in and around the city of San Antonio offer either tiny indoor-only play areas, or in a few cases, a small outdoor play area. However, common for most of these, is that they are usually much too undersized for any real doggie play to materialize. If you have seen one of these facilities, you may have noticed how the dogs mostly stand around looking at each other, and the only break in the monotony is whenever a staff member decides to take a walk around the area. In the latter case, most of the dogs will simply follow the human to see if he or she has any fun ideas.

PET GALAXY'S NEW BUSES

Pet Galaxy, in contrast, is located in the beautiful Hill Country north of San Antonio. The facility covers almost 6 acres, and provides large outdoor play yards featuring natural ground cover and plenty of oak trees with squirrels and other fun wildlife. The largest of the yards even includes a palm-tree encircled in-ground doggie swimming pool with a 7-foot water fall and a giant oyster with a pearl that spits water. Your furry friends can run, play, swim and just be a dog to their hearts’ desire. A visit would quickly convince you that these are the happiest dogs in San Antonio and beyond, bar none. But don’t simply take our word for it, take a look at some of the videos and many photos on the company’s Facebook page (http://facebook.com/PetGalaxyUSA).

“Many of these canines’ families initially told us that their dogs did not like other dogs, or did not like to play at all.”, Lynn points out. “The reason was that they had previously taken their furry friends to some other facility with much smaller, or virtually non-existent, play yards.

They could not believe their own eyes when we showed them video of their best friends running, swimming and playing uninhibited.”, Lynn affirms with a proud smile.

As all informed dog owners know, it is absolutely essential for canines large and small to get plenty of exercise. Dogs have a vast surplus of energy, referred to by experts as “predatory energy”. This is the energy store originally utilized by the animal in pre-historic times, when dogs had to hunt for their own food just like other predators.

The energy is still there, creating a very strong craving in the animal for running and serious exercise, in most cases much more than a human, even an Olympic runner, can offer. Dogs need other dogs both for socialization and friendship, and for serious play. Otherwise they take out their frustration in some other way; for example, your flowerbeds, your underwear, shoes or furniture.

For more information and to subscribe to the service, call Pet Galaxy at 830-885-5335 or 210-526-9680, check out their website at http://PetGalaxyUSA.com or their Facebook page at http://facebook. com/PetGalaxyUSA.

markingthepassages

inourbookoftime

W

hether you’re of a generation where photos are tangible and touchable, or from a newer generation where it’s a simple swipe on a mobile device to take a walk down memory lane, one’s life events can be grouped into various chapters and events with a quick glance of these still images.

BY COLEEN ELLIS, PET LOSS CENTER

Looking back on the amazing chapters in my Life Story, more specifically to the pets that have been a part of the fabric of my make-up, my love of animals started early with my very first beautiful dog named Blackie. She was a part of my world many, many years ago but like a lot of us with our first childhood pet, I remember HER for a variety of reasons. For instance, who has not answered the security question countless times with the name of your first pet? I just love that! Interestingly enough I got her food dish back in my possession a few years ago when a beloved great-aunt passed away.

They shared “custody” of Blackie with us, so I could not believe my luck when this little treasure came my way! It now hangs on my wall, filled with photos of her tucked in the dish part! So special!

Even though it’s been years ago that Blackie was physically a part of my world, her existence and presence has been forever documented in the beginning chapters of my life. While we were not wealthy by any means, Mom had saved her money and purchased a movie camera. For the 60’s, that was really unheard of! It’s fun to watch their wedding and other life events that without the video would just be stories or locked in still photos.

A few years ago I had all of the 8mm movie reels converted into CD’s (which is already outdated yet again!) so nothing would be lost with these old pieces. Most recently I took a walk down memory lane, sat down and just got lost in the memories of 28

the past.

So back to the chapter in my book titled Blackie.

It was so heartwarming to see this beautiful little girl serving her role in our family. Every birthday party, Christmas event, Halloween, first day of school, or any other family function she was front and center with my brothers and me. I’d forgotten how she tolerated being dressed up in doll clothes, how she ran alongside our bicycles as we learned to ride them, or how she trick-or-treated with us in her homemade costumes.

In just a split second I was taken right back, all those years ago, where she marked an amazing passage in my world, serving that role as my first pet.

Our precious pets mark so many passages of time in our Life Story. Today it’s not eccentric or even looked upon with a raised eyebrow to see kitty birthday parties, doggie weddings, or dogs in weddings. Whatever moves you to fully define your own life’s chapters, do them. As time passes, and life experiences become memories, that’s what you’ll treasure most as a loving pet parent.

Coleen Ellis

Pet Loss Pioneer The Pet Loss Center

317.966.0096

ThePetLossCenter.com 2215 West Pipeline Rd. Euless, TX 76040

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{June 2018} 29

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE HAPPY COUPLE 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

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