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July 2014

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{contents}

COVER BY SHANNAN PARKER

Dogs of 06 Therapy Houston Hospice

12 Puppy 101

The Two-Footed End of the Leash

a 14 Choosing Healthy Pet

16 Centerstage Baby Berlin

d gs cats Texas

PUBLISHER Shannan Parker Tel: 281.781.4727 info@texascatsanddogs.com

EDITOR Tiffany Robinson tiffanyrobinson99@gmail.com

DESIGNER Fran Sherman 314.275.2208 fran@shermanstudios.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

4 20 22

Tricia Fagan Texas A&M Nadine Joli- Coeur Connie Geodecke Karla Goolsby Holly Pappas, DVM, VCA Woodands Animal Hospital

PHOTOGRAPHER Shannan Parker

18 Hurricane Preparedness 20 Feline Heartworm Disease 22 Snake Bite 24 Fatty Tumors 26 Marketplace 28 Pet Puzzlers {July 2014}

28 ADVERTISE WITH US!

281.781.4727 • Houston@TexasDogsAndCats.com Next Issue: August 2014 Advertiser’s Deadline: July15th 2014

PHOTOS THIS PAGE COURTESY CARMEN SWANGER

therapydogs of Houston Hospice

BY KARLA GOOLSBY

n the midst of the largest medical center in the world, the 1920s estate of a former Houston Mayor has become an oasis. The Tudor-style faĂ§ade of Houston Hospice sits in stark contrast to its frenetic surroundings. Behind ivy covered walls, French doors and mullioned windows overlook moss-covered paths and a sparkling pond that reflects low hanging branches of century old oaks. In this tranquil place itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not unusual to see dogs trotting through hallways or sprawled, cooling their bellies on the smooth floor. These contented therapy dogs feel at home, and without trying they share a sense of normalcy; of being at peace in this place.

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“As we walked the halls, every soul we encountered smiled the moment they saw the dogs — broad, unabashed smiles; the kind that spring from real joy.”

The story of therapy dogs at Houston Hospice began 10 years ago when long-time volunteer, Ann James, rescued a particularly docile Golden Retriever named Chrissy. When Chrissy cheered an elderly neighbor by laying her head in the woman’s lap, Ann realized her newly rescued dog was a natural therapy pet. Ann found a certifica-

tion program through Faithful Paws, a ministry of Bellaire United Methodist Church, and recruited fellow Golden Retriever owner and friend, Lynn Hoster, to join her. After training and certification Chrissy, and Lynn’s dog, Dixie, became the first Houston Hospice therapy pets. As other volunteers became inspired by Chrissy and Dixie’s example, more dogs joined the ranks. I had the opportunity to shadow our pet therapy volunteers and their pups in June. The first foursome I met was Chris Chisholm with her rescued Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Jazz, and Judy Anderson with her Bichon Frise, Casey. They were excited to share their enthusiasm for pet therapy. Chris said, “I’m so glad you’re writing this story because people need to know that Houston Hospice is a great place to volunteer.” She went on to say that the volunteer training she received at Houston Hospice changed

her life. When I asked how, she answered explaining that the training gave her a new perspective on death, that her own fear of death has been alleviated and she has a new understanding of the importance of comfort. Chris and Judy told me Jazz and Casey love visiting people. They make sure the dogs are freshly washed because they even jump onto beds and snuggle up to patients. I asked how Jazz and Casey were affected by their jobs here, and Judy said it does take a lot of energy because they encounter so many new smells, and because new people constantly reach out to touch them. She added, “The dogs let us know when they’re tired and it’s time to go.” When I asked Chris and Judy what surprised them about visiting Houston Hospice, they said it was learning that caregivers and family members really appreciate the visits. Judy said, “Sometimes patients are unresponsive, but their families are helped. The visits bring them happiness at a very stressful time.” As we walked the halls, every soul we encountered smiled the moment they saw the dogs — broad, unabashed smiles;

PHOTOS THIS PAGE COURTESY ANN JAMES

d gs cats Texas

{July 2014}

able four-month-old puppy in training. The nurses affectionately call Cricket a diva and enjoy her visits because they love seeing which outfit she’ll be wearing. When I asked Loretta if she felt any trepidation about visiting a hospice, she answered, “No, only the usual fear of the unknown.” Then she added, “I love meeting new people and I have the gift of gab. But, more important is the gift of listening. I learned listening skills in the Houston Hospice volunteer training classes and it’s the best thing I ever did. I raved about them so much that several of my friends attended the training even though they didn’t plan to become volunteers.” Loretta said patients and families enjoy visits from her Yorkies because it relieves their stress and sadness for a few minutes. “The dogs get me in the door, and once I’m in, families and patients will sometimes open up and talk.” As I walked through the inpatient unit with Loretta, Cricket and Skyler, family members and friends of patients stopped Loretta continually to engage her in conversation. A woman from San Francisco, who was visiting her brother, showed us her iPhone filled with photos of with Jazz and Casey who were lying contentedly on the bed snuggled next to her brother’s legs. With the aid of a walker, another woman slowly emerged from a patient’s room so that she could see the dogs. After a short conversation, she returned to the bedside of the man she was visiting and began softly singing to him. When her song ended, Loretta entered the room quietly and asked if the

PHOTOS THIS PAGE COURTESY LEHANE RICHARDS

the kind that spring from real joy. As they trotted by, Jazz and Casey were like fairies scattering magic dust; leaving laughter in their wake along with exclamations of, “They’re so pretty!”, and “They look like stuffed animals!” At the second floor nurses’ station, RN’s Sarah Booth and Sy Baker, and Unit Manager, Irma Rodea, paused their work to pet and coo over the dogs. There have been somber moments too. On their very first visit, Chris and Judy entered the room of a fiveyear-old little girl. Life was ebbing away and she had been unresponsive all day. Chris asked the child’s mother if she could place Jazz on the little girl’s bed. The mother agreed, and Jazz, who normally never licks, began licking the girl’s hand. The girl moved her hand. Then Jazz moved up and began licking the little girl’s face. The child opened her eyes and her mother asked, “Do you like the dog honey? Isn’t he pretty?” The little girl responded, saying, she liked the dog. When it was time to leave, the girl’s mother followed Chris and Jazz into the hall and walked into Chris’s open arms sobbing. The child died that night. Because Jazz instinctively knew what to do, the mother had a few more moments with her little girl before she died. Chris and Judy said this event showed them that visiting hospice was what they and their dogs were meant to do. Next I trailed along with Loretta Uzick and her welldressed Yorkshire Terriers, Cricket and Skyler. Cricket is a pro who’s been visiting Houston Hospice for one year and Skyler is an ador-

PHOTOS THIS PAGE COURTESY LEHANE RICHARDS

patient would like a visit. The woman nodded and Loretta held Cricket close enough for the man to touch. Loretta said her most memorable visit was with her first therapy dog, GiGi, a rescued Yorkshire Terrier. They came to the room of a patient who was surrounded by family members, with some spilling into the hallway and more waiting in the nearby family room. The patient was a woman who had been unresponsive for three days. The woman’s sister asked Loretta to bring GiGi in because the patient loved dogs. Another family member objected, but eventually the sister won the argument and asked Loretta to place GiGi on the bed. The patient awakened and began speaking to GiGi. Word quickly spread and family members poured into the woman’s room to speak to her. As Loretta left the family thanked her for giving them one more opportunity to speak to their loved one. My final ‘walk along’ was with Cassie Chiaro and her Yorkshire Terrier, Vala, and Brenda Chan and her Gold Retriever mix, Andie. Cassie said a former co-worker is the reason Vala is a therapy dog today. Several years ago her co-worker and friend was a patient at Houston Hospice. He was fond of Vala, so Cassie brought her to visit. When Vala snuggled with him, Cassie realized she would be a good therapy dog. Brenda became inspired to volunteer after her father-in-law was a hospice patient in Dallas. Cassie and Brenda met during Houston Hospice volunteer training, hit it off, and became partners. Together with 10

their dogs, they visit almost every week. They have visited patients at other hospices but said it’s not the same as non-profit Houston Hospice with its homey and peaceful environment. Cassie said, “At one hospital they place a quilt on the bed and call it ‘hospice’ but nothing has changed. It’s still a hospital. It’s not as friendly, the staff is run ragged, and there is no support from volunteers.” Cassie and Brenda said there have been many surprises during their years of visiting patients and families at Houston Hospice. Once, they were visiting a woman whose daughter, a classically trained vocalist, sang a stunning aria. Brenda said it was so beautiful that they struggled not to weep. However, the biggest surprise and the most moving moment occurred when a family asked them to enter the room moments after their loved one had died. The room was filled with family members who stood in reverential silence. Brenda and Cassie couldn’t believe they were invited into such a sacred and personal space, sharing the family’s last moments on earth with their loved one. As we neared the exit, we paused at a bench where Mindy Fleisches and her teenage son, Michael Mescon, were resting after hours of being at their loved one’s bedside. When they looked up wearily, Cassie and Brenda invited them to pet the dogs. Michael lifted Vala to his face and, as he held her nose to his, he smiled and asked if he could keep her. Mindy stroked Andie’s soft golden fur and said, “Thank you. I feel better.”

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{puppy101} BY TRICIA FAGAN

the two-footed end of the leash

ne of the most difficult tasks to teach a dog is polite walking on a leash. Dogs walk faster than people (they have four legs, after all!). Many dogs drag their owners on a walk every day. Lots of articles are written about teaching dogs to walk on a leash without pulling. These articles describe where to deliver the treat, what to say (if anything), how to walk. Bookstores are filled with books that provide advice without end for dog owners with dogs that pull. There is equipment designed to reduce pulling, from safe, humane head halters to devices that look a bit like a medieval torture equipment. Videos are available on youtube, teaching you how to “fix” your dog. What if, just maybe, possibly, the human end of the leash is part of the problem? What if the human is contributing to the pulling problem? Could it be? Say it ain’t so, Joe! Let’s look at the way a leash is held and where the hand holding the leash is. Before we look at how and where to hold the leash, there

are some misunderstandings we should clarify. Many dog owners confuse a short leash with a tight leash, and a long leash with a loose leash. These things are not the same. You can have a short leash that is loose, and you can have a long leash that is tight. When choosing the length of your leash, chose a length

that will allow for looseness when the dog is in the correct position, but not so long that the dog can wrap your feet together. A short – yet loose – leash is appropriate for crowded areas, like a busy sidewalk or a pet store. A longer loose leash is suitable for less crowded locations.

PHOTOS COURTESY B.SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY | WWW.BS-CREATIVEART.COM/

d gs cats Texas

“If the hand is on a specific location on the leash, and the hand is held still, the dog will always have a predictable length of leash. With a predictable length of leash, the dog can learn where to be.” I’ve watched lots and lots of pet owners walking (er, or, trying to) their dog on a leash. I’ve seen dog trainers walking dogs on leash. There are two notable differences between the groups. Specifically where on the leash the person’s hand is, and where the hand holding the leash is in relation to the person. When you watch the average pet owner hold a leash, you often see the leash wrapped around a hand multiple times. The average pet owner will frequently wind more leash around the hand, or unwind loops of leash from the hand. The average pet owner walks his dog winding and unwinding nearly constantly. A professional dog trainer holds the leash differently. A common way for professional handlers to hold the leash is with a loop over the index finger or thumb, with the two sides of the leash being held in the hand. The loop prevents the dog from pulling the leash through the hand. The dog is securely held, without tangling the leash around your hand. Once you are holding the leash in your hand like a pro, what do you do with your hand? The average pet owner will hold the leash hand next to the right side, next to the left side, overhead and even behind the back. No wonder the dog is confused. For the dog to learn where he is supposed to be, he must have a consistently comfortable place to be. If the handler is moving his hand all over the place, the dog (and the human) cannot tell where the dog should be. If the hand is on a specific location on the leash, and the hand is held still, the dog will always have a predictable length of leash. With a predictable length of leash, the dog can learn where to be. Holding the leash is a specific way is fairly easy to do. Learning to hold your hand still can be very difficult. While training yourself to hold your leash hand in a fixed place, have a friend or family member watch you. Every time your leash hand moves, your spotter should remind you to keep your hand in one location. You can help remind yourself to keep the leash holding hand in one location by putting a thumb in a pocket, or through a belt loop. You can also pinch a bit of your shirt, or place your hand on your belt buckle. This sounds like and easy task, but it can be a huge challenge! Your diligent work on this task will help your dog learn his task. Put some effort into your leash walking skills. Your dog will appreciate it!

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

Happy Training! {July 2014}

choosing a

CONNIE GOEDECKE, CLIENT SERVICE AND COMMUNICATIONS, KINGSLAND BLVD ANIMAL CLINIC

HEALTHY PET

common breed-related healthconcerns

he Houston World Series of Dog Shows offers a fabulous opportunity to see dogs at their finest: displaying their beauty and grace in the conformation ring, showing off their athletic abilities in agility, flyball and weight pull, demonstrating their intelligence and connection to their owners and handlers in obedience, and exhibiting their love of play with their owners catching frisbees and dancing to music. These dogs are in their prime of physical wellness and absolutely glow with health and vigor. Every year, families come to the show, see amazing dogs, talk with breeders, fall in love (at least once!) and go home convinced they absolutely need to add a particular breed of dog to their family. Doing research into any dog breed you’re considering adding to your family is crucial to dog ownership success over the long term. Know-

ing the typical lifestyle needs of the various breeds means Grampa Charlie won’t end up with a border collie that has to run 3 hours a day or he’ll become destructive in the house. Knowing their grooming needs means Aunt Liz, who is an interior designer who has a beautiful home office that looks like a picture out of Southern Living won’t end up with a dog who sheds enough to build a whole new dog out of his coat.

It’s important to take one more step in researching breeds to make sure you’re really prepared to add that amazing dog you met at the show to your family. Selective breeding occasionally yields undesirable results, including a higher incidence of hereditary defects, deformities or infirmities within a certain breed. Most diseases are affected to some extent by both genes and the environment. A genetic disorder is

d gs cats Texas

one in which an abnormality in the genetic makeup of the dog plays a significant role in causing the condition. Some disorders occur by spontaneous mutation, however, many genetic disorders are inherited. As a result, almost every breed has its “Achilles heel” (or two, or more): breed-related health concerns that are genetically linked, and which tend to show up in that breed more frequently than in others. The effects of some of them can be minimized by genetic testing and carefully planned breedings. Others are less predictable, though, and being aware of the risks means you are less likely to unwittingly incur expensive veterinary treatment, the heartbreak of seeing your dog suffer, or finding that you are unable to cope with your dog’s needs. Some breed-related health concerns are by-products of the breed characteristics that we love: Bulldogs, with their wonderful smooshy faces, are prone to respiratory conditions and are known to overheat easily. Their skin folds also require a higher level of maintenance to keep healthy and free of infection. Pugs, with their adorable bug eyes, are subject to their eyes popping out due to trauma in far higher numbers than dogs with more typically-set eyes. Low slung German Shepherds, among a number of other breeds, far too commonly have dysplastic hips, in which the ball of the joint does not sit in the {July 2014}

“Selective breeding occasionally yields undesirable results, including a higher incidence of hereditary defects, deformities or infirmities within a certain breed.” socket properly. Many of the small and toy breeds have a tendency toward luxating patellas, in which the kneecap occasionally pops out of place, and which may need surgical correction. The low-riding Dachshund is notorious for back injuries and spinal disk problems. Those wonderful long floppy ears of the Cocker Spaniel are breeding grounds for ear infections. Other breed-related health concerns are not nearly so obviously connected to appearance, and so may require more research to discover. Boxers are at higher risk for certain types of cancer than other breeds of dogs, and so should be monitored carefully throughout their lifetimes. Doberman Pinschers are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition which may not show outward signs until the dog collapses, and some vets recommend regular cardiac screening as part of their annual visits due to this breed predilection. Yorkshire Terriers and some other small breeds see portosystemic shunts, a birth defect of the liver, in greater numbers than in their larger counterparts. Irish Setters are known to develop progressive retinal atrophy, an irreversible

condition of the eye. These are but a few of the health concerns that are often breed-associated. The good news is, the AKC and the parent clubs of the various breeds are concerned with the health of their breeds, and often information on the breeds’ health issues and the status of research in the area is available on their websites. Many parent clubs strongly encourage genetic testing before breeding for those conditions which can be predicted: for example, hip xrays can be performed and the hips graded. Eyes can be examined and certified. Dogs can be tested as carriers of the genes for a variety of inherited diseases. Registries exist where breeding stock who have been submitted to these tests can list the results for the public to examine. Knowledge is key. It’s important to take advantage of the resources available to make informed decisions about a living being that is going to be a part of your life for 10-15 years. Every dog is going to have health concerns; the trick is in managing the risks. It’s about having as many healthy years as we can with our furry friends! 15

{centerstage} 16

d gs cats Texas

baby berlin B

erlin was a stray, rescued from the streets by the Houston Humane Society. She was a matted mess when she was found and upon removing the coat, several wounds were found. She was treated and adopted and now spends her days playing with new brothers, Charlie and Yoda and swimming in the pool any chance she can get!

HEIGHT- 8 INCHES WEIGHT- 3.7 POUNDS GUILTY PLEASURE, PULLING DOG PAL CHARLIE OFF THE COUCH BY HIS FACIAL HAIR.

{July 2014}

{pawz-itivelynatural}

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS Y

BY NADINE JOLI-COEUR

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait until a storm hits to figure out a plan esterday, I heard on the news that the last big storm to hit Houston was 2008. We have been very fortunate but also lucky. We know that in Houston, another storm is bound to hit. Having a plan is the best thing you can do for your pet to ensure that if that storm does come you are ready to go.

d gs cats Texas

You should always make sure to have ID on your pet. I know that I have not always been as good as I have planned to be on making sure my pets have unto date ID tags. Well what happens if there is a storm and you need to transport their pet. Our pets are pretty smart, they pick up on our emotions and if you are stressed, they are likely pretty stressed as well. Vets and rescue organizations will agree that not only should you have a collar with a current tag with your contact info (definitely include your cell phone in case you have to evacuate. PREPARE A DISASTER KIT 1. Include food (and water) for at least 5 days. Always keep an extra bag of food and at least a case of canned food (for moisture) 2. Get an extra food and water bowl, 3. A can opener (if their cans need it) 4. Medical needs - always have on hand at least 2 wks of medical supplies and their records (many hotels or shelters will not accept animals with that). 5. If you have a cat - cat litter, an inexpensive cat litter scoop and either an extra litter box or in a bind you can keep a couple of

{July 2014}

cardboard boxes from a case of cans. 6. A carrier/kennel , collar/leash and harness. 7. Pet toys 8. Your pets info: petsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; feeding schedules, medical conditions, and behavior issues along with the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to board your pets or place them in foster care 9. Garbage bags, potty pads and paper towels DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T FIGURE OUT WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR PET AT THE LAST MINUTE. Many of us would never leave without our pet. If you are not staying, please bring your pet or find somewhere safe for them. In some circumstances if we are staying in a shelter or with friends, our pets may not be able to come with us. Make sure that you never assume but have a plan. You should also call the local emergency management office to see what their recommendation for pets is if you have to evacuate (they may have a recommended shelter set up). In addition, we see more hotels accommodating pets - it would be good to keep a list on file of pet friendly hotels and their phone

numbers in the area that you are likely to evacuate to. If you plan to evacuate to a family or friend make sure that they are okay with you bringing your pet and any special accommodations you may have to have (kennels, bedding etc)If you plan to stay home, make sure that you are prepared. IF YOU DECIDE TO STAY YOUR PET WILL NEED SPECIAL ATTENTION- Watch for the warning signs. Pets are very susceptible to heat stoke, dehydration and bug bites. It is very important that you make sure that your pet is iin the shade or a cool area. A dog will sweat in their feet and pant to cool down. Heat stroke can hit quick and can be difficult to recover from. Heat stroke symptoms include excessive panting, increased body temperature, reddened gums, rapid heart rate. Heat stroke can cause sudden kidney failure and dehydration. For more information or to talk to someone that can help, stop by a local independent pet store. You can stop by anytime at any of our Natural Pawz locations and they are not only a great resource, they are animal lovers and want to make sure that your pet is safe.

REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM TEXAS A&M

feline heartworm disease

H 20

eartworm disease is transmitted to an animal through the bite of a mosquito carrying heartworm larvae, which eventually settle into the blood vessels of the lungs or within the heart itself. Although cats are less susceptible than dogs to heartworm infection, our feline friends are still very much at risk of heartworm disease.

d gs cats Texas

“Cats have some innate resistance to infection, and the worms seem to prefer living in dogs rather than in cats,” said Dr. Audrey Cook, an associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “In addition, the tests we traditionally use in dogs, such as the Knotts test and heartworm antigen tests, are not very sensitive in cats as the number of worms is much lower.” Dr. Cook explains that though more sensitive tests are now available, cats are still not routinely screened for infection. It is highly likely that many cats are infected but are simply not identified. Although it is more probable for outdoor cats to come into contact with infected mosquitoes, indoor cats still have a not-insignificant chance of contracting the infection. “As infection requires a bite from an infected mosquito, indoor cats are less at risk overall,” said Dr. Cook. “However, we do still see this disease in strictly indoor cats, most likely occurring when an infected mosquito gets inside of the house and then bites the cat.” Some of the most common heartworm disease symptoms include frequent coughing, weight loss, vomiting, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. However, since

{July 2014}

“As infection requires a bite from an infected mosquito, indoor cats are less at risk overall,” said Dr. Cook. “However, we do still see this disease in strictly indoor cats, most likely occurring when an infected mosquito gets inside of the house and then bites the cat.” many of the symptoms mimic those of asthma and other disorders, affected patients may be misdiagnosed. “Although some cats are diagnosed because they show some of the clinical signs and the veterinarian then performs the appropriate tests, many cats are diagnosed with heartworm disease after suddenly dying and only then finding the worms in the heart or lungs,” said Dr. Cook. “The blood tests available have substantial limitations, and we sometimes only confirm the diagnosis by visualizing a worm in the heart using echocardiography.” If a veterinarian suspects heartworm disease in a cat, he or she is likely to recommend radiographs (X-rays) of the chest, along with antigen and antibody testing. Depending on these results, an echocardiogram (ultrasound examination of the heart) may be indicated.

Unfortunately, there are currently no approved treatments for feline heartworm disease. Veterinarians often recommend using medications to limit clinical signs such as coughing, and starting cats on preventative medications in order to stop future infection and hasten worm death. “In addition, an antibiotic called doxycycline may be prescribed to the cat, as it is also thought to weaken the worms and hasten their death,” said Dr. Cook. “However, sometimes the death of the worm causes an acute and fatal reaction in the cat, so it is a very difficult disease for us to deal with.” Indoor or outdoor, young or old, every cat is vulnerable to heartworm disease. Since there are no available treatments for this widespread infection, preventative medications administered on a regular basis are a must for protecting your feline friend.

snakebite S

BY HOLLY PAPPAS, DVM , VCA WOODLANDS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

ummer is here! As you and your pet prepare to enjoy outdoor activities, keep it in mind that we live in a snake endemic area. There are four main types of poisonous snakes in Texas; including the coral snake, rattlesnake, copperhead snake, and the cottonmouth, commonly referred to as the water moccasin. Coral snake bites, while very serious, make up less than 1% of venomous snake bites in Texas; rattlesnake and copperhead bites are the most common.

If a snake bites your dog, try to identify the snake based on size, color pattern and presence or absence of a rattle on its tail. If it can be done safely, try to take a picture of the snake with your phone or camera or bring the dead snake in for identification. Be extremely careful if you choose to handle the snake because even dead snakes can bite and poison you or your pet. Signs of a venomous snake bite: • Wound with a bloody discharge, redness, and bruising • Fang marks in the skin and severe swelling at the bite site, making it difficult to visualize the bite • Excessive panting and drooling • Severe localized pain, weakness, collapse and shock If your pet has been bitten by a poisonous snake, note the time of the bite and seek veterinary care immediately. Limit your pet’s movement as much as possible; activity causes the poison to spread more quickly through the body. If the bite is close to the head or neck, remove the collar as to not impede breathing. Do not apply a tourniquet or attempt to suck out the venom. Dogs bitten by venomous snakes can die within 2 hours of the bite depending on the location of the bite and the 22

size of the dog. After a snake bite, dogs that survive the first 24 hours usually recover. However, venomous snake bites can cause hair loss, scarring and severe skin and tissue damage that can require amputation. How to prevent poisonous snake bites: • Snakes are more active in April through October; remember to be extra cautious during these months • Always keep your dog on the path while hiking • Avoid high grasses, streams and creeks • Rattlesnakes are nocturnal most of the year, keep your dog on a leash at night • To prevent snakes from seeking refuge on your property, apply snake repellant and clear away rocks, logs, and debris Another option to limit the negative effects of rattlesnake bites is to pursue getting your dog the rattlesnake vaccine. Discuss with your veterinarian whether or not this is a good option for your dog. Living in a snake endemic area, remember to keep a look out for potential dangers that are present. Keeping this in mind will help you and your pet enjoy summer activities!.

d gs cats Texas

fattytumors REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM TEXAS A&M

he discovery of a fatty tumor underneath your pet’s skin can be disconcerting to any pet owner. Luckily, the most common fatty tumors, lipomas, are benign and usually not cause for concern.

“Lipomas are common tumors of dogs, and although the gross appearance and texture of these tumors is characteristic, they are benign tumors in most cases,” said Dr. Rita Ho, veterinary intern instructor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. Most lipomas feel fairly soft and movable under 24

the skin and do not usually typically make pets uncomfortable unless they are in a location where normal movement is disrupted. Once your pet develops a lipoma, it is common for additional tumors to appear. If this does occur, each tumor should be checked individually. “Dogs can form lipomas under any conditions, even if

the dog is in good body condition,” said Dr. Ho. “It is not related to any known cause or environmental factor.” Once diagnosed by a veterinarian, most lipomas do not require treatment unless the location or mass causes any inconvenience for the animal, such as located in an area that restricts any movement or causes discomfort.

d gs cats Texas

“Lipomas are common tumors of dogs, and although the gross appearance and texture of these tumors is characteristic, they are benign “In that case, we would recommend surgical excision,” said Dr. Ho. Performing surgery for cosmetic reasons alone is typically not condoned. Another sub-classification of lipomas, infiltrative lipomas, are also benign but can infiltrate locally into muscle tissue and may need to be removed in some cases. “These tumors are diagnosed by histopathology, which means you can’t just look at the lipoma and call it infiltrating lipoma,” said Dr. Ho. “We need advanced imaging and surgery to help us diagnose this uncommon tumor.” If, after diagnostic tests are run, it is discovered to be a liposarcoma, however, more immediate attention and action will be necessary. Unlike lipomas and infiltrative lipomas, these rare, fatty tumors are malignant and can spread to the animal’s lungs, bones, and other organs. “Liposarcomas can be diagnosed through either cytology or histopathology,” said Dr. Ho. “It really depends on the biological behavior of the tumor, and most of time they can be asymptomatic.” Since liposarcomas are malignant, and potentially can spread to other parts of the body, treatment varies greatly from that of benign lipomas. “Usually, we recommend surgery and/or radiation treatment to control liposarcomas and some infiltrative lipomas,” said Dr. Ho. “However, since these tumors are not as common, it is important to have your veterinarian check the mass out beforehand.” As with any abnormality, it is always advisable to consult your veterinarian at the first detection of any new lumps or bumps that you discover while giving Fido his daily tummy rub. Lipomas are fairly common, and though malignant liposarcomas and infiltrative lipomas are rare, it always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to our beloved pets.

{July 2014}

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jumpinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;july Put a smile in your dogs face- literally! These Rogz Grinz balls come in a variety of fun colors and firm enough to bounce but soft enough to not hurt your pets teeth!

Make a bold statement and show off your patriotic pride with this nickel plated dog tag! Available at A Dogs Dream Pet Salon!

Toss it, float it, chew it, love it! The Hurley dog toys are guaranteed strong! All the fun of a ball and bone in one durable dog toy! Available at Natural Pawz!

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Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own chew toy, antlers are naturally shed each year by wild deer. 100% natural, they are long lasting, rich in calcium and healthy minerals, and will not chip or splinter.

Made right here in the U.S.A.! This patriotic collar is just the safety accessory your pet wants!

{July 2014}

Show off your pooches patriotic pride with this adorable Red, White & Blue dress! Available at Pawty Palace in Katy!

Nothing says America like a good ol back yard b-b-q! This hamburger and hot dogs will keep your pooch intertwined during the grilling festivities!

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What is the most faithful insect? A flea, once they find someone they like they stick to them! What is the difference between a flea and a wolf? One prowls on the hairy and the other howls on the prairie! What do you get if you cross a rabbit and a flea? Bugs Bunny! What did the clean dog say to the insect? Long time no flea! What is the difference between a flea bitten dog and a bored visitor? Ones going to itch and the other is itching to go!

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Sunset Boulevard ANIMAL CLINIC

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Freeze-Dried & Frozen Dinners for Dogs Available in two convenient forms!

Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties • No refrigeration or thawing required • Ideal for a quick meal or busy lifestyle • Delivers the benefits of raw with the convenience of dry food • Complete and balanced meals • Specifically formulated for dogs’ nutritional needs • Made of 90-95% meat, organs and bones

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6 oz. Freeze-Dried Dinners for Dogs & 4 lb. Frozen Morsels for Dogs Offer valid the month of July. Redeemable at NATURAL PAWZ® locations only.

Frozen Dinner Morsels • Quick-thaw & serve morsels • Raw nutrition as nature intended • Complete and balanced meals • Specifically formulated for dogs’ nutritional needs • Made of 95% meat, organs and bones