texas dogs and cats july 011

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July 2011

Training 101

will the

The Pet Food industry: What you need to know

REAL SHOW DOG please stand up!

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Cover models are Grimmace and Bravo photography by Sonya Sellers: www.sonyasellers.com

Astros Go to the Dogs “Photo shoot at Minute Maid Park has gone to the dogs�

8 Puppy 101

Wait at the Crate Door

10 Fundraising

Mister Car Wash Partners with Houston Humane Society to Raise Much Needed Funds

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12 Meet the Vet

Getting to Know Amy Kelley, Practice Manager at Kingsland Blvd Animal Clinic and the Animal Minor Emergency Center at Kingsland

14 Pawz-itively Natural The pet food industry: What you need to know

18 Tugg Tales 20 Dougie Deogi

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EDITOR

Shannan Parker Tel: 281.781.4727 info@texascatsanddogs.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jeff Parker Tel: 281.781.4727

DESIGNER

Fran Sherman 314.275.2208 fran@shermanstudios.com

Contributing Writers Tiffany Robinson Jeff Parker Tricia Fagan Nadine Jol-Coeur Dougie Deogi Blake Ovard

photographer Sonya Sellers

Reliant 22 The World Series of Dog Shows

The Fancy, the collective term used for those who breed and show dogs, is busy getting ready for Houston’s largest dog show

26 Splurge V. Steal Purebred v Pound Puppy

28 Marketplace {July 2011}

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ADVERTISE WITH US!

281.781.4727 • sales@TexasCatsAndDogs.com Next Issue: August 2011 Advertiser’s Deadline: July 15th 2011

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By Monica Schmidt, Houston Humane Society

Photo Shoot at Minute Maid Park has Gone to the Dogs

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T

he Houston Astros have once again teamed up with Houston Humane Society to create the Astros Player and Pet Calendar for 2012. The calendar is always a fan favorite with both baseball aficionados and pet lovers. There are many necessary steps to complete this project, and the first, and arguably most fun, is always the photo shoot.

Texas Dogs & Cats Magazine was on hand this year to capture some fun snapshots as 18 Astros players donated their time (and image) to support this wonderful project.

While some players were photographed with their own dog, many “borrowed” pets from the Houston Humane Society to pose with at the shoot. More than a few hearts were broken as players had to hand back their picture buddies, and several were seen sneaking one last cuddle before heading to the locker room to change for that night’s game.

The Astros Player and Pet Calendar project was started

by Former Astros’ pitcher and HHS Volunteer, Dave Borkowski and his wife, Jill.

Dave and Jill created the calendar in 2007 as a way to not only earn money for homeless animals in Houston,

but also as a tool to educate the public on the importance of responsible pet ownership.

In 2009, Houston Humane Society was selected as the animal partner because of their commitment to the Houston community, and to help fund the many programs and services they offer. Since that year, the Astros and Houston Humane Society have worked together to create a unique and fun calendar that is enjoyed by Astros fans and pet supporters alike.

Each year, an Astros player and wife “adopt” the pet calendar as a special project.

This year’s sponsoring couple is Mark and Mary Catherine Melancon, along with their new golden retriever puppy Louie. Mark Melancon is a pitcher with the Astros organization, and has been a part of the Houston team since July 31st, 2010. Without their

dedicated help and support, the calendar would be impossible to accomplish.

Proceeds from each calendar sold go directly to helping Houston Humane Society care for the thousands of homeless animals that come in to their shelter each year.

The 2012 Houston Astros “Player and Pet Calendar” will be available to purchase early this fall at the Astros Team Store in Minute Maid Park, the ballpark souvenir stores in Corpus Christi and Round Rock, at all HHS fundraising events, and on the HHS website, www.houstonhumane.org. It will also be available at the HHS booth at the next Dog Days at Minute Maid Park, scheduled for Sunday, September 4th. Each $10 calendar sold will offer a homeless animal a better tomorrow!

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{puppy101}

By Tricia Fagan

Wait at the Crate Door

Y

ou get home from work and your crazed puppy whines, barks and paws at the crate door.

When you open the door, puppy blasts out of the crate, jumps up and down on your head, nearly knocks you flat. There must be a better way to greet your dog.

Your puppy can be trained to wait for your permission to exit the crate. First, a warning, do NOT ask a young puppy to wait for the crate door when he needs to eliminate. Wait until puppy is a little older, or when he has only been crated for a short time.

Dogs who paw at the crate door, whine, bark and jump around when you approach to release them from their crate are rewarded for these undesirable behaviors when released from the crate. Releasing a barking, whining, pawing, jumping dog from the crate tells the dog that you like these behaviors. Every time you teach your dog self control, you increase his ability to behave well during exciting or distracting events.

Waiting quietly at the crate door will begin to teach your puppy self control.

Wait for your puppy to be quiet in his crate, then approach the crate. If your dog begins to vocalize, paw at the crate or jump, stop. Do not make eye 8

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contact with the puppy. Wait for your dog to have his feet on the floor and to be quiet.

Begin to approach again. As long as your dog is quiet, and has all of his feet on the floor of the crate, you may approach. If he does not have his feet on the floor, or he is vocalizing, stop and wait. Begin to approach again when he is quiet, with all his feet on the floor.

When you reach the crate, if your dog is quiet and all his feet are on the floor of his cage, begin to open the door.

If your dog jumps, paws or vocalizes, remove your hand from the door of the crate.

Wait until your dog is quiet, with his paws on the floor.

Again begin to open the door.

If your dog vocalizes, paws, jumps or tries to exit the crate, close the door, take your hand off of the crate. Continue to open the door, shutting the door gently when the dog tries to exit. When you are able to open the door completely and the dog remains in the crate, give your {July 2011}

dog his release word. (“Permission” or a release word was taught in last month’s article.)

He will probably be reluctant to leave, encourage him with your voice, hands and a treat.

Yeah! You did it!

The first time you do this exercise, it will take a little while. After the first successful completion, do this every time you let your puppy out of his crate. Each time your puppy will calm down more quickly. Soon, your puppy will sit calmly waiting for permission to leave his crate.

Congratulations! You are one step closer to a well behaved dog.

Tricia Fagan Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed DogS Gone Good www.dogSgonegood.comtrainer@dogSgonegood.com (713) 557-1949

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{fundraising}

Mister Car Wash Partners with Houston Humane Society to Raise Much Needed Funds

M

ister Car Wash will be hosting the 2nd Annual Paws-a-thon fundraising campaign throughout the month of July to benefit local humane societies in each of the cities where locations currently operate. Last year, Mister Car Wash raised a combined $48,564.73 in the 14 markets they serve. The city of Houston, with 15 Mister Car Wash locations, raised the most with a total of $19,188.38. A check was presented to Houston Humane Society last summer.

This year’s Paws-a-thon program hopes to raise even more money to help Houston Humane Society, and it’s easy for everyone in the community to get involved. Plan to wash your car this July? Stop by any one of 15 Mister Car Wash locations in Houston. At the register, you will be given the opportunity to purchase a “paw” in 3 different dollar amounts: $1, $5, and $10. With each “paw” purchase, 100% of the amount will be donated directly to Houston Humane Society. As a bonus for your good deed, Mister Car Wash will reward you with a receipt bounceback coupon. Customers have the option of taking their “paw” with them or writing their name on the “paw” and leaving it at Mister Car Wash to be displayed until July 31st.

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Scan the QR code for a full list of Mister Car Wash locations participating in your area.

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{meetthevet}

By Kingsland Blvd Animal Clinic 12

Getting to Know Amy Kelley Practice Manager at Kingsland Blvd Animal Clinic and the Animal Minor Emergency Center at Kingsland

W

hat is a practice manager you may ask? Well, says Amy Kelley, “the practice manager is the ‘Mama Dog’ behind the scenes of everything that happens in an animal clinic.”

The practice manager ensures that the receptionists, technicians, kennel staff, and associate doctors are doing their very best to make each and every client and patient interaction the absolute best it can be. The practice manager also deals with all of the other issues surroudning human resources, client problems, training of staff, hiring and firing of staff, and virtually anything else you can think of. Professionally, Amy is a member of the Houston Veterinary Practice Manager Forum, that allows practice managers from all around the Houston area to get together and grow each and every member hospital, because “we all care about the veterinary field as a wholefocusing on growth, client and patient satisfaction, and team work/training throughout the community.” Also, Amy is a member of the national Veterinary Hospital Manager Association, and she will also

be working on getting her CVPM recognition (Certified Veterinary Practice Manager) and starting her journey to get her MBA next year.

Amy says that being the practice manager at Kingsland Blvd Animal Clinic has fulfilled her more than any other job she has ever had, which is saying a lot considering she has been in the field since she was 17. “I have degrees in different, completely unrelated fields (Communication Disorders, Massage Therapy, Social Work), but I cannot and WILL NOT leave this field because I love it too much” says Amy. “There is just something so wonderful about being around all of the different dogs, cats, and all the other babies, and I will absolutely never do anything else. “ Kingsland Blvd Animal Clinic has been in the Katy community for 30 years, and there is something amazing that has happened with this clinic in the past three

years. “We have an absolutely amazing staff, and I have never seen a staff that cares as much for their patients and clients than this one. Also, we have grown leaps and bounds!

We have added the Animal Minor Emergency Center at Kingsland, we are expanding our current clinic because we need more exam rooms (and any of our clients can tell you that!), and our staff has grown almost double over the past three years.” Amy could not be more proud to work at such an amazing hospital. “I have an amazing management team (SHOUT OUT TO: Dr. Croft, Paula, Connie, and Terri) that make running this hospital fun, rewarding, and such a great learning experience. I could never thank them enough!”

In her off time (of which there isn’t a whole lot), Amy is dedicated to her two and four legged children. Noah, her 3 year old son, is the light of her life, bringing more joy

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than she could have ever possibly known (all you parents out there know that feeling.)

“Noah loves to swim and play sports, so we are ALWAYS in the pool or playing some type of ball game” says Amy. At some point, she would like more children, including an adopted child or two.

She also has lots of fourlegged children, including her extended family: Sassy (15 year old Retriever mix) & Madigan (6 year old mix), and her cats: Zoe, George, Buzz Lightyear, and Woody.

She also has an office gerbil named Walter and an office hamster named Hammie. In their spare time, they go to church each Sunday (Grace Fellowship Church), and she is just starting with a program over there that helps orphaned children find their forever families and homes.

“If I didn’t love veterinary medicine so much, I would have devoted my life to orphaned children, so it is nice to be able to do a little bit of both.” On the animal side, Amy has done work with Golden Beginnings Golden

Retriever Rescue, helping them with a few of their dogs to find homes. “Golden Beginnings is a wonderful organization of lovely people who want the best for these animals, and you can’t ask for any more! (www.gbgrr.org)” says Amy. And, if that did not take up all her time, Amy also pet sits for many families in the Katy and surrounding areas. “I have seen a lot of these babies grow up into amazing animals, and I get such joy to be their caretakers when their parents are out of town.”

Amy also has a few hobbies that she does when she gets the chance. She loves photography, hanging out and swimming at the beach, watching movies at home and in the theatre, cooking and baking, reading, spending time with friends and family, and she is learning to love the computer. “My job has had a huge learning curve when it comes to the computer: websites, internet marketing, and creating lots of colorful advertising. It has been a lot of fun to learn all of the little

details that go into this field, and I am liking it more and more, now that it is making sense.”

Overall, being a practice manager of an 8 doctor practice is a tough job, but Amy says that she loves every minute of it. “I love being at the center of this hospital, and I have never been happier than when I sit back, watch the staff enjoy their job and do it well, and know that I have helped the staff get to where they are today” she says.

“There is so much more that I want for this hospital and our staff, so I am greatly looking forward to the future. The vision of this clinic is wonderful, and I am so excited to see what is coming our way.”

If you need a great clinic to see your animals, you can’t get much better than Kingsland Blvd Animal Clinic and the Animal Minor Emergency Center at Kingsland.

{pawz-itivelynatural}

By Nadine Joli-Coeur 14

The Pet Food Industry: What You Need to Know

W

e all see the images that pet food manufacturers promote through the media and advertising. You see plump chicken, choice cuts of beef, fresh grains and fruits and vegetables. The images look inviting and tout messages such as all natural and healthy.

The pet food industry sales have skyrocketed to over $17 billion per year in the U.S in 2008. Pet food manufacturers want you to believe that they provide the best solution for your pet. So, what are you really buying? What most consumers don’t know is that the pet food industry is an extension of the human food industry. Left over remnants from the human food chain may be used for pet food subsidiaries.

WHO OWNS YOUR PET FOOD BRAND?*

• Nestlé’s purchased Purina to form Nestlé Purina Petcare Company (www.purinaone. com) • Mars the makers of M&Ms and Dove purchased Nutro, Pedigree, Royal Canin and Greenies and are owners of Banfield Pet Hospitals http://www.mars.com/ global/our-brands.aspx • Del Monte is the parent company of Heinz (MeowMix, Gravy Train, Kibbles ’n Bits,, 9Lives, Nature’s Recipe and treats such as Milk Bone, Pup-Peroni and Snausages). Del Monte in March 2011 was acquired

by Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P., Vestar Capital Partners and Centerview Partners.

We don’t know yet what that will mean for their Pet food department. http:// www.delmonte.com/brands/

• Procter and Gamble (P&G) purchased The Iams Company (Iams, Eukanuba) in 1999. and last year purchased Natura (manufacturers of Evo, Innova, California Natural) http://www. pg.com/en_US/brands/ all_brands.shtml - under household care products • Colgate-Palmolive bought Hill’s Science Diet in 1976 (Hill’s Science Diet,Prescription Diets). (http://www.colgate.com/ app/Colgate/US/HomePage.cvsp) The Pet food industry has been attractive to companies such as P&G, Nestles, Colgate Pamolive as there are opportunities for purchasing power, utilizing non-usuable leftovers of the human based product manufacturing. In addition their marketing and branding expertise can be

* Company ownership is as of June 2011 and is subject to change.

leveraged to convey pet orientated marketing messages to the end consumer. How many pet food commercials have you seen today? The fact is, millions of dollars are spent annually by pet food manufacturers to convince the consumer that their product is better. The question comes to mind, how do you distinguish what pet food to buy?

DOG & CAT FOOD REGULATIONS

The Pet food industry is regulated and monitored by the following organizations: • American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) • The Pet Food Institute (PFI)

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• The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) AAFCO establishes the nutritional standards for complete and balanced pet foods, and it is the pet food company’s responsibility to formulate their products according to the appropriate AAFCO standard.

They are not a government agency and have no regulatory authority to enforce any standards. They are made up of representatives from government, dog food companies, the Pet Food Institute and the rendering industries. AAFCO is in charge of establishing the rules for what needs to be displayed on dog or cat food labels, and “how” it must be displayed.

Although AAFCO does analyze new foods to ensure they contain the ratio of protein, fat, fiber and minerals, listed on the dog food labels, they do not analyze the source nor the safety of these ingredients. The pet food industry found the feeding trials expensive, so AAFCO designed an alternate procedure for claiming the nutritional

adequacy of pet food. Pet manufacturers need only create a product using “Nutrient Profiles. More and more pet food companies are returning to performing feeding trials as it provides a actual palatability...

FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) The next organization responsible for dog food regulations is the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM).

They are the branch of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that regulates the dog food ingredients. CVM investigates pet food in cases of widespread pet illness or death. They also investigate any health claims on dog food labels. They have NO say in the sources of the actual ingredients for proteins or fats.

The Pet Food Institute (PFI) Founded in 1958, PFI is “the voice of U.S. pet food manufacturers.” They represent the manufacturers of 98 percent of all dog and cat food produced in the United States. They function as the industry’s media relations and representative before the U.S. Congress and state and federal agencies. PFI shares responsibility with the above

agencies in establishing dog food regulations, and also plays a major role in setting AAFCO’s standards.

Official PFI Website: www.petfoodinstitute.org The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) The USDA is involved with regulations concerning pet food labeling and identification and the approval of pet food ingredients. The real “enforcers” are the feed control officials in each state.

They are the ones who actually look at the food and, in many instances, run basic tests to make sure the food meets its Guaranteed Analysis, the chart on the label telling how much protein, fat, moisture, and fiber are present. But regulation and enforcement varies from state to state. In Texas, pet food products must be registered and approved by the Texas State Chemist. To see if a product is approved in Texas, you can look at Reports/ Active Feed Licensee.

Official USDA Website: www.usda.gov Texas state Chemist (feed control) - http://otscweb. tamu.edu/Default.aspx The pet food industry regulation and compliance is comprised and shaped by the influence of pet manufactur-

ers, renderers and ingredient suppliers. The pet food recalls that occurred in 2007 should be a wakeup call for all consumers. It is important for consumers to educate themselves and look beyond marketing messages to make purchase decisions.

PET FOOD INGREDIENTS - What you need to know.

WHERE IS THE MEAT? The protein percentage on the label is derived not only from animal protein but increasingly from vegetable protein as well. Common sense tells us that our pets need high quality protein for a healthy body. The practice of replacing meat based protein with vegetable based protein reduces product costs, but at what price?

Once the protein that is fit for human consumption is removed, the rest is used in pet food, animal feed, fertilizer, industrial lubricants, soap, rubber, and other products.

These “other parts” are known as “by-products.” The nutritional quality of by-products can vary depending on what it consists of. The better brands of pet food do not use byproducts. However, depending on the company and its attention to quality, the protein used most likely consists of leftover scraps and may contain a lot of bone which can also increase magnesium and ash content.

Many dry pet foods also contain a large amount of cereal grain or starchy vegetables. These high-carbohydrate plant products also provide 16

a cheap source of “energy” (calories). In addition, gluten meals are high-protein extracts that are used to boost protein percentages so that they can use less animal source ingredients, which are more expensive. Corn gluten meal and soybean meal are the most commonly used to increase protein % on pet foods.

ADDITIVES TO PET FOODS Many chemicals are added to improve the taste, stability and to make the pet food look more appealing to the consumer. Additives typically provide have no nutritional value. Antioxidants prevent fat from turning bad (rancid) and artificial colors and flavors to make the product look more appealing to consumers and their pets.

CHEMICAL VS. NATURAL PRESERVATIVES. All commercial pet foods must be preserved. Preservatives are added during manufacturing but also are added by raw ingredient manufacturers to maintain freshness during transportation. Chemical preservatives include butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), propyl gallate, propylene glycol (antifreeze). These chemical preservatives are believed to have dangerous effects on your pet’s health (many are banned from human consumption). In addition, some pet food manufacturers use vegetables that are not fit for human consumption as determined by the USDA because of chemical residue, pesticides and fertilizers. However, these vegetables are often and

legally be used in pet food.

Natural preservatives such as Vitamin C (ascorbate), Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols), and oils of rosemary, clove, or other spices have been used by natural pet food manufacturers for a long time. Slowly, larger pet food manufacturers have started to use more natural preservatives.

The drawback is that the product’s shelf life is reduced (natural pet foods typically have a 9-12 month shelf life, compared to other store brands that may be up to 3 years)

PET FOOD IS BELIEVED TO HAVE A POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE EFFECT ON YOUR PET’S HEALTH.

Today, the store brand diets of cats and dogs are a far cry from the meat-based diets that their ancestors ate. Are these processed ingredients such as by-products, large amounts of non meat based protein, synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring contributing to your pet’s health?

Many nutritional problems have increased, which leads us to look at the evolution of the pet food industry. More and more we talk to customers that have pets with urinary tract disease. Kidney disease., obesity, dental disease, chronic digestive problems, cancer and on and on.

It is not surprising that a highly processed, cereal based diet has most likely had a detrimental effect our pet populations health. In addition, other contaminants such as

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bacteria, mold, toxic chemicals has negatively affected pet’s health worldwide.

PET FOOD INDUSTRY WHO MANUFACTURES THE FOOD?

Co-Packing - your pet food company may not manufacturer your food.

In 2007, consumers were shocked to realize that a reputable premium brands maker responsible for products such as Iams, Purina, Nutro were equally affected by the recall as low quality pet foods.

What came to light is that the premium brands maker was outsourcing manufacturing to the same company that low quality foods were also manufacturing. It raises the question of what are the real differences between expensive premium brands and low cost foods out there. A pet food company can use a co-packer using their contacted ingredients. However, the attraction of using a co-packer is that it can buy ingredients in larger bulk than any one pet food maker could on its own,

making the process cheaper and the profits larger. What is clear, is that the pet food manufacturers must take a proactive role in selecting a co-pack partner and ensuring that quality standards are done to their specifications.

Product quality issues will always be a concern, but it is important that vigilance and quality controls are put in place to catch these issues prior to manufacturing.

Many pet food manufacturers also make their own food and their attention to quality is critical to their success.

research!! Use the internet, talk to a local independent pet store and call your pet food company with any questions you have. Lastly, pets are similar to humans. If it is not healthy for us, it is highly likely it is not healthy for your pet. We feel better when we eat healthy and so do our pets.

CONSUMERS NEED TO DO THEIR HOMEWORK.

The pet food recalls over the past 5 years has brought increased awareness of the public. Unfortunately, pet food quality is difficult to determine in a billion dollar industry that uses phrases such as Super Premium, Healthy, All Natural, Specially formulated, Contains real meat, no fillers and the list goes on and on. So how do you know what to buy? Research, research,

With 7 stores in the greaterHouston area, Natural Pawz continues to set the standard in the market for 100%-natural pet food, treats and holistic health solutions , all of which are sourced from the USA and Canada. The Natural Pawz team can help navigate you through choosing the healthiest food for your companion cats and dogs, while showing you how easy and affordable it is to provide the proper nutrition to your beloved animal. www.naturalpawz.com

Winner National 2011 “People’s Choice” Veterinary Hospital 2011 Hospital Design Competition 2203 Thompson Road Richmond, TX 77469 www.roserichvet.com clinic@roserichvet.com

281-342-3727

Luxury Boarding Suites with 24-Hour Internet Video Access

Caring for our community’s pets for 45 years.

Sharon Moore, DVM Tucker Robinson, DVM

C. N. McDonald, DVM Julie A. Duty, DVM

Aaron Rainer, DVM Stephanie Ginestra, DVM

{tuggtales}

By Blake Ovard 18

S

ometimes people stop me on the street and ask me if I really think my dog, Tugg, does all of those things that I say he does. Tugg, for those of you who may not know, is a bull terrier who also happens to be a super hero.

My short answer to those disbelievers is, “of course.” The longer answer usually involves a more detailed list of what Tugg can, and has done — talk, fly, do good deeds, help dogs and people in need, teach children, comfort toddlers and seniors alike and be an all around good ambassador.

The first argument usually comes when I get to the part where he tells me things. At first, you see the questioning person’s eyes glaze over, then the lips purse and a frown begins and finally a simple statement of disbelief.

“Who ever heard of a talking dog? You’re not going to stand there and tell me you actually think your dog can talk, are you?” Then the arms cross, an air of smugness comes over them, and the frown usually turns into a wry grin.

“You mean you’ve never heard or seen a dog talk before? Do you not have access to the internet or T.V.?” These two questions usually bring to mind one of the hundreds of videos of dogs saying things like, “I love you.” But, just when they are starting to understand, they might have bitten off more than they can chew, I toss in a life line, “Of course you do! You were just teasing me with that talking question weren’t you?”

If I really want to have fun, and they are a person that is at east my age — and why is it that the older people get, the more skeptical they

become of anyone wanting to do good? Children seem to except the fantastical at face value, especially heroes who want to do good. But, I digress. Sometimes I ask the questioner if they have ever seen the cartoon where this guy finds a singing and dancing frog. When the guy and frog are alone, the frog sings and dances like nobody’s business. But, when the guy tries to show someone the singing, dancing frog, the frog stops and just sits there.

When the person asking questions says they remember that cartoon, I tell them, Tugg is the same way around skeptics. He knows they are just curmudgeons, so he stops to let the said curmudgeon live in curmudgeonliness.

“But what about flying?”

They ask.

“Have you not seen the photos?”

“You must have photoshoped those!” They counter.

“Why would I? I’m an award winning photojournalist,” I say. As a side note, I am pretty good with photoshop too.

“But Tugg couldn’t possibly…” and the dim light bulb above their head starts to get just a little brighter.

You see, it’s not that Tugg can talk in a voice as clear as yours or mine, but he can express his ideas. He brings me his leash — he is asking to go out, or for a walk. He picks up his toys and puts them away in his toy box, he is helping

out with chores around the house. He brings me his food dish… you get the idea.

As for flying, well, that is real. Sometime when you look up in the sky, and you see a little white blur, with a red cape, going by, you too will know that dogs really can fly!

Come on out and visit Tugg at the Reliant World Series of Dogs Shows! Tugg will be there July 22-24. You can meet him, have your photo taken with him and have a great time just hanging out with the only living dog ever inducted into the Hall of Heroes Super Hero Museum and Hall of Fame.

Blake Ovard is an award winning dog trainer and behaviorist, writer, photojournalist and artist — and when he’s not busy with those things, he’s also an animal control officer for the city of Fort Worth.

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advertisehere

281.781.4727 •sales@TexasCatsAndDogs.com

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{dougiedeogi}

Dougie Deogi, Rescue Reporter

H

ello Peeps! It’s your rescue reporter, Dougie, here with another editorial about the Houston rescue scene. I’m gonna be a bit serious here, so listen up! This is somewhat of a continuation of my column last month – but there’s even more stuff – so read it!!.

Have you heard about the 199 dogs surrendered to the Houston SPCA from a breeder last month?

That’s right 199 dogs! Are you KIDDING me? Who can take care of 199 dogs?

I went with my crazy owner to visit them because about 150 of them are shih tzu and she thinks she is the world’s gift to shih tzu rescue. It was horrible. The dogs looked just pitiful. Look at this picture – this is Fred. Fred was so unbelievably scared that the shelter thought his back or legs were injured. He had his tail tucked so tightly underneath his body, he didn’t use the back leg. He was scared to death.

You know peeps, I just wanna know what in the world is going on in people’s heads. So help me out here.

Where does a breeder breeding 199 dogs sell their puppies? Well, you’ve seen those slick websites right? The ones with really cute little puppy pictures – puppies in teacups or wine glasses – puppies with cute ribbons in their hair – puppies sitting in the laps of children – well that’s one place these puppies are sold. They are also sold at the side of the road all around Houston.

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Why, you wonder. Why would the breeder sit on the side of the road selling puppies? The answer is simple – they don’t want you to see where they breed and raise the puppies. They don’t want you to see the filth that the parent dogs live in. But, hey, if they took the time to clean the place up, they’d have to actually work at this job.

Also, do you think that these breeders spend the money to take care of their dogs? Do they hire employees to take care of this many dogs? Do you think they feed premium dog food? Do you think they take the dogs to the vet when they have ear infections, skin infections or an eye ulcer? Do you think they spend $45 every six weeks to groom them? Or even spend the hour it takes to groom the dogs.

You know what you spend on your dog each year, right? If you have a long-haired dog, like a shih tzu, you spend something like $1500 a year NOT including any unusual veterinary bill.

NO NO NO, they do not. The simply stick the dogs in cages with big buckets of nasty floor-sweepings-food and water and let nature have it’s way.

So, lets look at the numbers, ok?

I’m not a math professor or any-

thing, but these numbers are pretty easy to understand.

A shih tzu averages three puppies per litter and let’s say the mommy has one litter a year. (Good breeders only breed their mommy dogs every other year or so, but let’s use every year to make it simple) According to the American Shih Tzu Club code of ethics, shih tzu puppies shouldn’t be sold until they are at least 12 weeks old. So you, Ms. Responsible Breeder, are responsible for their care for the 12 weeks.

Have you ever wondered why puppies are sold by irresponsible breeders at six weeks? It’s because at six weeks, the mommy starts weaning them and then they need to eat puppy food. That means you, Ms. Responsible Breeder, have to buy puppy food. Cha-ching$$$.

And, the mommy no longer cleans up after the babies, so YOU, Ms. Breeder, have to get off your hiney and clean up after them now. Oh, heaven forbid – you actually have to do work.

And, if you are going to sell puppies with “age appropriate immunizations,” they will need vaccinations from age six weeks to 12 weeks.

Cha-ching$$$. Do you hear the sound of your profit margin heading to the ditch?

Alrighty, lets add it up. Most

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breeders sell their puppies for $350. So if a mommy has three puppies a year, that’s a total of $1,050 gross revenue per mommy.

Now let’s look at the expense side. If you, Ms. Responsible Breeder, maintain your mommy the way she should be handled, you will spend $1500 per year. Ok, let’s take out the grooming and assume you will groom her yourself. You will spend only $1,140 to maintain that mommy. Oops, there’s already a problem here. If you maintain the mommy well Ms. Responsible Breeder, you are already in the hole.

Let’s now add up the cost of puppies. You can do your own shots, so DHPPx3 (at 6 weeks, 9 weeks and 12 weeks) is $15. Bordetella x 2 (9 weeks and 12 weeks) is $10.

A puppy exam at the vet is $25. Deworming x 3 is about $10. High quality food for weeks 7-12 is approximately $80 per puppy.

Oops, for three puppies, the total cost is just over $400.

Now we REALLY have a problem, Ms. Responsible Breeder. If you do things the right way, you are now $855 in the hole per mommy dog.

And, we haven’t even added the cost of maintaining the daddy dog.

And, when you buy a puppy off a website or out of the newspaper or at the side of the road, the expenses go up even more! Do you really think that the breeder is selling just one litter of four puppies? Do you think they would invest in a website or a newspaper ad if they only had one or two litters to sell?

Good grief, people, use your common sense. A website is {July 2011}

at least $250 a year and then there’s the cost of creating and updating the website – probably around $100 a month – so add another $1200 per year. So far, they are investing $1400 a year to sell only three – six puppies.

N O T!!

So, add the LOSS for maintaining the puppies ($855) PLUS the cost of the website ($1400), there ain’t no way a breeder can stay in business unless, unless………wait for it……..

YOU DON’T SPEND ANY MONEY AT ALL ON THE CARE OF THE DOGS. And that just is not being a responsible breeder.

So, do you get it people?

Now do you see why breeders who are in the business for money don’t take care of their dogs the way you do? Ms. Irresponsible Breeder, you gotta subtract out high quality food, shots, vet visits, grooming and get rid of those puppies at six weeks or you aren’t going to make your buck on those little souls. That’s why you, Ms. Naïve Puppy Buyers, get sick puppies. That’s why you get puppies covered in fleas and ticks and gunk.

Do you get it? Do you get it folks?

A really responsible breeder, one who really cares about the dogs WILL spend the money on the dogs’ care.

Even if they’re selling “pet quality” puppies from their show champions, they will STILL care for the puppies. They WILL not sell you a puppy until it’s at least 12 weeks old. And MANY will only sell you a spayed or neutered puppy. And they will NOT sell you one with breeding rights. They will

NOT sell you a puppy covered in fleas. They will certainly let you meet the gorgeous mom and dad (or at least the mom). And, they will NOT be peddling puppies like they are vases or pots and pans on a website. They WILL check you out. They WILL make sure you are an appropriate home for their puppy. They WILL NOT make it easy for you to just plunk down the cash and walk away with a puppy – why??? Because a REALLY RESPONSIBLE breeder REALLY DOES care about the welfare of the puppy.

So, choose carefully.

Don’t be stupid and let some con artist pull the wool over your eyes. Be smart!

Do you get it yet??

Wanna email me about it? dougie@accordingtodougie.com Dougie Deogi, with special guest reporter, F.R.E.D., over and out.

Dougie Deogi is the official spokes dog for Lone Star Shih Tzu & Lhasa Apso Rescue. He often has interesting things to say on his own facebook page, www.facebook.com/ accordingtodougie. The rescue can be followed at www.facebook.com/ LSSTLAR.

Doggie Daycare, Boarding, Grooming and Obedience Training 6434 Washington Avenue Houston, TX 77007 713-868-7555 deogi@deogidogspa.com

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By Holly Furgason, Pup Scouts

The Reliant World

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elcome to the fun, competitive and very confusing world of dog shows. The Fancy, the collective term used for those who breed and show dogs, is busy getting ready for Houston’s largest dog show, the Reliant World Series of Dog Shows, and the excitement is building.

Even if you’re not part of the Fancy, it’s an experience not to be missed. The dogs (including many breeds that you probably won’t see anywhere else), the competition, the vendors and the activities make The Reliant Shows one of the best entertainment values in the city.

Dogs shows are not spectator sports. There are no announcers giving you information like when watching the Westminster Kennel Club show on TV. If you’ve never shown dogs, you’ll be totally lost as you try to figure out what the judges are looking for (did that ugly dog really win?), why each breed goes into the ring several times or even who won as they dogs leave the ring.

Dog shows are not beauty pageants. They allow dog breeders to meet, compare and judge their dogs against a standard- the conformation of the dog. Of course,

breeders and handlers work very hard to make their dog look their best but “best” can change with each breed.

Some of the things the judges evaluate are toplines, coat, head, teeth and angulation, the width of the angle in the leg joints. With just one pass of their hands, judges take in a lot of information. It may look like they are only petting the dogs but very quickly and expertly, they’re measuring.

As the handlers move the dogs around the ring and up and down the center, the judges are taking in how the dogs move. When a handler stacks the dog (the typical dog show stance), the judges are looking at the top line (the shape of the back) and how the tail is placed and held. They also get an idea of the temperament of the dog which for some breeds is an important

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Series of Dog Shows part of the standard.

All dogs in conformation will be one of the recognized breeds in the American Kennel Club and all breeds fall into seven different groups- sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting or herding. There are other breeds represented as part of their Foundation Stock Service program which is the first step towards being recognized by the AKC. Dogs are shown first in Breed where they are judged against others of the same breed according to the standard. Breed judging is broken down even further into Puppies, Bitches, Dogs, Bred by Exhibitor, Open and more. It’s hard to tell the winners when you’re watching. No one stands in the middle of the ring in fancy ribbon ceremony.

All that happens is the judge quickly gestures to

Ettiquette Grab a catalog

The show catalog has a list of all the times and ring numbers for the breeds that are being shown.

Have you shown yet?

Before you pet a dog or even start to ask questions, ask if they’ve shown yet. If the answer is no, move along. They’re waiting to go into the ring and need to focus and the dog will be perfectly groomed. One quick pat on the head could require a fix-up they don’t have time for. If the answer is yes, ask politely to pet the dog or ask some questions. Many people showing dogs have multiple dogs in multiple rings and they don’t always have time to talk.

Don’t assume the breed

If you aren’t familiar with the many breeds of the AKC, it’s best to ask, “What breed is that?” Getting the breed wrong or even worse, asking if it’s a mix will just annoy people who are very busy. The AKC does not recognize any “doodles” so do not ask if any dog is a Labradoodle.

Don’t have food ringside

It’s a distraction to the dogs. Also, don’t move around much, talk loudly or be distracting in anyway. Ringside is for people who are interested in what’s going on the ring. If you have small children, your own dog or don’t need to follow closely, sit in the rows a little further back or stand and watch.

Don’t call to the dogs

The dogs need to focus on what’s going on as much as the handlers. Trying to get the dog’s attention will cause the dog to show poorly.

Don’t go in the grooming area

Groomers and handlers are very, very busy people. When they’re working, they need to pay attention to their work and when they’re taking a break, they need to relax. Some groomers have to groom over 20 dogs to show ring perfection everyday.

Don’t let your dog greet other dogs

You can’t assume dogs are friendly even they appear so in the ring. These dogs are very well trained to behave in the ring but they may not like other dogs going nose to nose with them or sniffing them. And because they’re working dogs, they are not there to play with other dogs.

{July 2011}

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the winners in order (1st through 4th place) and then every-one collects their ribbons as they leave the ring, the ring steward writing their numbers. If you blink, you’ll miss it.

Once all Breed classes are done, all the winners go back into the ring for the final judging for Best of

Breed. These winners are also joined by the Specialsdogs of the same breed who have earned their championships already.

After Breed judging comes Group judging. The Best of Breed winner is shown against all the other breeds in their group. As they start mixing up the breeds,

The Groups Toy Group

The diminutive size and winsome expressions of Toy dogs illustrate the main function of this Group: to embody sheer delight. Don’t let their tiny stature fool you, though - - many Toys are tough as nails. If you haven’t yet experienced the barking of an angry Chihuahua, for example, well, just wait.

Toy dogs will always be popular with city dwellers and people without much living space. They make ideal apartment dogs and terrific lap warmers on nippy nights.

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Sporting Group

Naturally active and alert, Sporting dogs make likeable, well-rounded companions. Members of the Group include pointers, retrievers, setters and spaniels. Remarkable for their instincts in water and woods, many of these breeds actively continue to participate in hunting and other field activities.

Potential owners of Sporting dogs need to realize that most require regular, invigorating exercise.

Working Group

Dogs of the Working Group were bred to perform such jobs as guarding property, pulling sleds and performing water rescues. They have been invaluable assets to man throughout the ages.

The Doberman Pinscher, Siberian Husky and Great Dane are included in this Group, to name just a few. Quick to learn, these intelligent, capable animals make solid companions. Their considerable dimensions and strength alone, however, make many working dogs unsuitable as pets for average families. And again, by virtue of their size alone, these dogs must be properly trained.

Non-Sporting Group

Non-sporting dogs are a diverse group. Here are sturdy animals with as different personalities and appearances as the Chow Chow, Dalmatian, French Bulldog, and Keeshond.

Talk about differences in size, coat, and visage!

Some, like the Schipperke and Tibetan Spaniel are uncommon sights in the average neighborhood.

Others, however, like the Poodle and Lhasa Apso, have quite a large following. The breeds in the Non-Sporting Group are a varied collection in terms of size, coat, personality and overall appearance.

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it’s important to remember that they’re not being judge against each other but against their own standard. The dog closest to their standard will win the Group Winner.

At the end of the day, when all the Group judging is finished, we get to the most exciting part of the show- Best In Show- to determine the over-all best dog at the show that day according to the breed standards. Throughout the day many competitions have been going on in rings all over the show site. Now the field of competitors has been narrowed down just seven presented in one large ring.

This is the perfect time to sit back, relax and enjoy dog shows at their finest.

Herding Group

The Herding Group, created in 1983, is the newest AKC classification; its members were formerly members of the Working Group. All breeds share the fabulous ability to control the movement of other animals. A remarkable example is the lowset Corgi, perhaps one foot tall at the shoulders, that can drive a herd of cows many times its size to pasture by leaping and nipping at their heels. The vast majority of Herding dogs, as household pets, never cross paths with a farm animal. Nevertheless, pure instinct prompts many of these dogs to gently herd their owners, especially the children of the family. In general, these intelligent dogs make excellent companions and respond beautifully to training exercises. {July 2011}

Terrier Group

People familiar with this Group invariably comment on the distinctive terrier personality. These are feisty, energetic dogs whose sizes range from fairly small, as in the Norfolk, Cairn or West Highland White Terrier, to the grand Airedale Terrier.

Terriers typically have little tolerance for other animals, including other dogs. Their ancestors were bred to hunt and kill vermin. Many continue to project the attitude that they’re always eager for a spirited argument.

Most terriers have wiry coats that require special grooming known as stripping in order to maintain a characteristic appearance.

In general, they make engaging pets, but require owners with the determination to match their dogs’ lively characters.

Hound Group

Most hounds share the common ancestral trait of being used for hunting.

Some use acute scenting powers to follow a trail. Others demonstrate a phenomenal gift of stamina as they relentlessly run down quarry. Beyond this, however, generalizations about hounds are hard to come by, since the Group encompasses quite a diverse lot. There are Pharaoh Hounds, Norwegian Elkhounds, Afghans and Beagles, among others. Some hounds share the distinct ability to produce a unique sound known as baying. You’d best sample this sound before you decide to get a hound of your own to be sure it’s your cup of tea.

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Splurge V. Steal Y

Bravo, also known as Ballpark Standing Ovation is a stunning AKC Champion of record. He is owned

by Pam Spurling of Doggy Styles pet grooming.

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target

ou have probably seen the magazine articles featuring two similar fashion items with alarmingly dissimilar price tags.

For example: the first image might be a stunning strapless maillot swimsuit in a slimming black design with dense shirring textures and a skirted overlay while the second image could be an equally striking one shouldered maillot swimsuit in classic black with shirred details and a slightly skirted feature.

The catch? The first swimsuit was designed

by Carmen Marc Valvo and is available at Nordstrom for $167. The second suit sports a slightly less prestigious tag name called Merona and is offered at Targets everywhere for $34.99.

For that price difference you could buy one in black and one in purple, a new pair of shades, a beach towel, and some flip-flops. And probably still have money left over!

By Tiffany Robinson

nordstrom

Photography by Sonya Sellers Photography

Grimmace is one of the dogs saved by the Houston Human Society from a puppy mill. He is in basic training with Pup Scouts and can be adopted through Buster’s Friends.

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Crazy thought, but could the same be said for dogs???

Could you get that purebred or designer dog at a steal of a deal, and still have the look of paying hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars? It’s probably not very politically correct to look at it that way, especially with the hot topic of puppy mills and backyard breeders.

But if you put aside the horrors of animal cruelty and the huge problem of overpopulation, and you just ask the question, “can you really get that fancy purebred/ designer dog at a shelter or from a rescue group and fool everyone?” We think the answer is yes, and after seeing the photo evidence we think you will agree!

If you are reading this and wondering the likelihood of you finding that steal of a deal when it comes to dog breeds, take it from us, it’s pretty darn high! The national average of purebred animals found in shelters hovers at about 25%. Local shelters in Houston often boast a slightly higher

average, probably due to Houston’s vast overpopulation problem. Keep in mind that does not take into account the “new” idea of breeders selling “designer” dogs. A designer dog is defined as two purebred dogs of different breeds that are bred together in hopes of achieving a puppy with the best traits of both. A great example of this would be the goldendoodle. Keep in mind that with designer dogs it is often hard to determine which traits each puppy will exhibit as it grows older, unless of course multi generation crossbreeds are used.

So you never really know what you are going to get.

And to be honest, many of these “designer” breeds can be found at shelters across the city under the tagline of mixed breed or mutt! It’s really just great marketing on the part of breeders.

And don’t forget about rescue groups! Many rescue groups are breed specific, meaning they only take in purebred, or close to purebred animals. While some

animals that rescue groups take in do have problems, either medical or behavior, just as many or more simply find themselves homeless.

So if your heart is set on a particular breed, find out if there is a local rescue group.

Visit http://texasdogsandcats.com/ for a comprehensive list of rescue groups in the Houston area.

If you have a bit of patience, you can usually find exactly what you are looking for without the hefty “purebred” or “designer” price.

Not to mention the fact that you really will be saving a life and all of that other feel good stuff. To make things easier, many shelters and rescue groups have what they call a wish list. Qualified adopters can request anything from breed, sex, size, and/or personality traits. All that’s left to do is sit back and let the adoption agency or rescue group do the searching while you start making a list of names and shopping for rhinestone collars.

Tip: Look beyond the grooming! Most shelters lack the budget to have a groomer on staff, so you never know what might be hiding behind overgrown locks. Look past a bad hairdo and see the dog beneath the fro!

Take a chance: It’s okay to miss the puppy years and take in an older dog. You may come across some issues along the way to perfect pet ownership, but a brand new puppy isn’t without pitfalls either.

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Is your cat the next Leonardo Da Kitty or Vincent Cat Gogh?

Unleash your pets inner artist with ArtCasso paint kit for pets. www.artcasso. com

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Perfect for the beach, out on the lake, or just around the house.

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RELIANT PARK WORLD SERIES OF DOG SHOWS COMING JULY 20-24, 2011

Reliant Center, 8400 Kirby Drive, Houston TX

Visit us online or on Facebook or Twitter to get the latest news, coupons and event information.

Tickets available at the door or through

TicketMaster Adults $10

SHOW DATES AND TIMES

Senior Citizens $5

• Wed., July 20:

3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

with adult Parking $10 per day

• Thurs., July 21 through Sun., July 24:

8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Children 12 and younger $1

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