pet THE
March/April 2021 • Volume 5 • Issue 6 wellness360magazine.com
ISSUE
TIPS FOR CALMING YOUR PET'S
SEPARATION ANXIETY
USING ESSENTIAL OILS AROUND YOUR PET? Meet Maloy, Zuko and 7 OTHER LOCAL PET OWNERS AND THEIR PETS! pg. 35
READ THIS NOW!
FIND OUT IF YOUR PET IS MAKING YOU SICK!
WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
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Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Irving Publications, LLC is not responsible for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. Nothing that appears in Wellness360 Magazine may be reproduced in any way, without written permission. Opinions expressed by Wellness360 Magazine writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion. Wellness360 Magazine will consider all never before published outside editorial submissions. Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/ or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. The information found in Wellness360 Magazine does not constitute individualized medical advice. You must NOT rely on the information in this magazine as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or other professional health care provider. If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should consult your doctor or other professional health care provider. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition you should seek immediate medical attention. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information in this publication. Wellness 360 Magazine assumes no responsibility for any circumstances arising out of the use, misuse, interpretation or application of any information supplied within the magazine. Always consult with your doctor for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing and care recommendations. Do not rely on information on in this magazine as a tool for self-diagnosis. You exercise your own judgment when using or purchasing any product highlighted in Wellness360 Magazine. Wellness 360 Magazine assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in this publication or other documents that are referenced by or linked to this publication.
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NEW IMPLEMENTING COVID-SAFE MEASURES
MARCH/APRIL 2021
PHOTO BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY
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features 35 More Than Just a Pet
Meet seven local pet owners and their animals that have become more than just a pet, the have become family!
50 So You Found An Abandoned Animal... Learn more about the next steps to take if you find an animal that has been abandoned or in need of assistance.
CONNECT WITH US /wellness360magazine ON THE COVER
Cover photo taken on location at Tioga Town Center by Tanya Consaul Photography. Find out more about Maloy and her German shepard Zuko on page 40!
@wellness360mag @wellness360mag /wellness360mag WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
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MARCH/APRIL 2021
in every issue
HEALTH
LIFESTYLE
10 Keep Your Pets Healthy
46 How to Adopt the Best
by Preventing Worms
12 Essential Oils: Your Pet's Friend or Foe?
14 Is Your Pet at Risk
Rescue Animal For You & Your Family
48 Life After Death: Making a Plan For Your Pets
For Covid-19?
12
16 Pet Checkups at Every Stage 18 Fact vs. Fiction: Is Your Pet Making You Sick?
MIND MATTERS 52 Dogs vs. Cats: Decoding
Your Pets' Secret Language
54 Please Don’t Go: How
FITNESS 20 Diagnostics in
Physical Therapy
22 How to get the Most Out of Your Daily Walks
Separation Anxiety Affects Our Pets
COMMUNITY 58 Calendar
24 The Year of a Bodily Buffet 26 Nam-Eye-Stay: Give Your
Eyes a Rest With Eye Yoga
26
STYLE + GEAR 28 Ulti-Mutt Gear For You
Supplements for Your Gut and Overall Health
32 Chickpeas: The New Healthy Carbs For Your Pets
WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
Learn how this real estate agent started breeding and showing award-winning French bulldogs.
FINANCE 44 The Hidden Costs: What You
Need to Know When Buying a Pet
PHOTO BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY
30 Probiotics and Prebiotics:
6
Meet Kelly Potter
& Your Pet
NUTRITION
54
56 SPOTLIGHT360:
WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
7
Editor's Note
the year of the pet As I scrolled through my social feeds over the last few months, there was a constant theme of photos and posts that popped up. Friends were welcoming new members to their families and I am not referring to the human kind, but, the animal kind. Over the last year, many have welcomed a new pet into their family. Posts showcased a sprinkling of puppies, kittens and even some cows licking the faces of their new owners. A few lizards, fish and birds made their way into the hearts of some as well. So, why the pet-pallooza all of a sudden? Maybe it was being quarantined and having extra time to train those puppies. Maybe it was the solitude and missing friends that brought on the addition. Maybe it was a sudden surge of a YOLO mindset that sparked the idea, or maybe it was mending a heart that was broken after a long time companion that passed. Regardless as to why the new four legged, furry or feathered friends joined, the last year could be coined “a year for all pets” as new members made their way into the hearts and homes of many. While we didn’t add any new members to our home this year, our furry friends, Jack and Jill, definitely got used to us being around much more often. We lounged, took walks and got in lots of extra cuddle time. They were a blessing to have during lots of mandatory stay at home time. And, when our lives semi-resumed back to normal, they definitely exhibited signs of separation anxiety. Is this also happening in your house? If so, read our article that highlights how to help your pets that are struggling
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
with being separated on page 54. And, while they missed us during the day, we equally missed them. Their snuggles and play time were an excuse to take a much needed break during the day and also calmed nerves in uncertain times. It’s amazing how one little fur ball can bring so much joy to a family! One of our most favorite issues, this year’s pet issue features amazing Gainesville families with unique and fun stories about their own special bond with their pets. From cows to hairless cats, we capture them in their best light… with their owners wrapped around their tails and their hearts! We hope you enjoy!
Nicole Irving, Publisher, EIC
PHYSICAL
BRAIN CHARACTER
WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
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Health
Keep Your Pets Healthy by Preventing Worms BY TRACY WRIGHT
The saying goes that the early bird gets the worm, but worms can actually be very bad for all of our pets, and not just dogs and cats. Worms can also affect reptiles, hamsters and birds. But what are worms and what do they mean for our critters? Worms are essentially parasites that use the animal’s body as its host. There are many types of worms, including heartworms, tapeworms, roundworms and hookworms. The tapeworm is often the one that pet owners know the best since they can view it in their pet’s stool. Animals contract them by eating something like a flea, mouse or lizard that already has the worm.
K HEARTWORM
Roundworm is another common type of worm that affects many animals including dogs, cats and birds. In fact, it is the common intestinal parasite in both dogs and cats. It can be particularly harmful for puppies and kittens because they can contract them from their mother’s milk. These worms then zap vital nutrition away from the baby animals and can lead to blocked intestines. Worms can cause vomiting and diarrhea in animals and even anemia. With hookworms, the animal’s stool can turn dark and tarry since its absorbing blood.
HOOKWORM K
“Every animal can contract its own type of parasite. That’s why it is so important to get regular health checkups with your veterinarian where they can obtain stool specimens and analyze them to make sure they have not contracted worms. If the animal does have worms, your veterinarian can provide treatment options,” said Terry Tomlin, D.V.M., veterinarian at Town and Country Animal Hospital. “Ask your veterinarian for their recommendations for monthly worm prevention medication. Kittens and puppies should also get on a strict deworming schedule with their vets as well.” The heartworm is among the most serious of the worms affecting animals since it can grow within the heart and cause lasting damage to the heart and lungs in dogs. In cats it can cause respiratory disease, according to the American Heartworm Society. It is more common on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States because it's transmitted by mosquitoes.
K ROUNDWORM
The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) recommends pets undergo annual screenings for worms and be given year-round preventative medication that has a broad spectrum that protects against parasites, fleas and ticks. Other tips CAPC has for preventing worms include providing fresh water and commercial cooked pet food as well as covering areas like sandboxes. Dogs should be kept on a leash when outside and cats should be kept indoors. Caged animals are less likely to contract worms outdoors. Properly dispose of animal waste and avoid handling feces with bare hands. If you suspect that your pet has worms, visit your veterinarian immediately.
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TAPEWORM K
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Health
Essential Oils:
Poisonous scents for both dogs and cats:
Your Pet's Friend or Foe? BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES
Essential oils have become very popular as a way to incorporate a more holistic approach to health. Whether applied topically or added to a diffuser, many Americans are using oils to promote health and relaxation. What about our pets and essential oils? Will they reap the same benefits? Reviews are mixed. Some veterinarians are prescribing oils for their patients with very specific instructions while others are cautioning against the use of oils.
Toxicity
There are many oils which are toxic to animals. Because oils are concentrated formulas, they are incredibly potent. Animals can be adversely affected by certain oils, either by topical contact, ingestion or even breathing in the air droplets that contain oil. If you use an oil diffuser at home, take into consideration that a dog’s sense of smell is much stronger than yours. It is best to keep pets out of a room that has strong scents and wait for the room to air out before letting pets enter.
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• cinnamon • citrus • tea tree • peppermint • ylang ylang • pine • sweet birch • wintergreen • pennyroyal
It is also important to ensure that your diffuser and oils are out of reach of all pets. If your pet knocked over the diffuser or the bottle of oil, they may ingest it or get it on their paws and cause substantial illness. Oils that are poisonous to dogs include cinnamon, citrus, tea tree, peppermint, ylang ylang, pine, sweet birch, wintergreen and pennyroyal. All of the same oils are also poisonous to cats, along with clove and eucalyptus. Symptoms of oil poisoning vary but can include unsteadiness, low body temperature, low heart rate, difficulty breathing, redness of the lips, gums, or skin, watery nose or eyes and potentially vomiting. If you suspect your pet may have oil poisoning, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Hotline at (855) 764-7661. These resources charge a fee but will give immediate instructions on what to do with the type of potential poisoning. You can also contact your veterinarian, which may have an after hours number, or take your pet to an after hours clinic if your vet is closed. The Pet Poison Hotline does not recommend inducing vomiting due to the risk of aspiration but they do recommend immediate veterinary care.
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) recommends not using essential oils in homes that have pet birds as they are more prone to respiratory ailments, which can be exacerbated by essential oils. If you have kittens and puppies, elderly cats and dogs, and pets with a history of respiratory or liver problems, it is recommended that you do not use oils in your home.
Benefits
Research is ongoing about the potential benefits of essential oils for pets. Some holistic veterinarians use oils in their practice for flea and tick prevention, skin irritation and other conditions. Ensure your vet is well versed in the safety and efficacy of the oils they are prescribing. Using essential oils in our homes for human purposes may put some of our pets at risk. Accidental ingestion, contact or inhalation may cause pet distress. Natural does not always equal safe. However, there are some practitioners who recommend certain oils for pet use. If oils are the best treatment option for your pet, discuss specifics with your veterinarian and follow instructions carefully to ensure your pet’s safety and wellbeing.
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Health
IS YOUR PET AT RISK FOR COVID-19? BY RENEE CASTRO
In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) a global pandemic. For the vast majority of the year, we have stayed inside and found every way possible to keep ourselves and our families safe. Eventually, the same questions rose for our household pets, can they contract COVID and how can we keep them safe? According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a small number of pets across the world, including dogs and cats, have been reported to be infected with the virus. Therefore, yes, it is possible that your pet could contract the virus, but it is a very small chance. According to research, here’s what you should know about the correlation between COVID-19 and your pet.
Can my pet get COVID-19?
“Yes, however, it is a very low probability that they will contract COVID-19. The small number of pets worldwide that have tested positive have been in close contact with a person infected with the virus. Cats and ferrets appear to be more susceptible than dogs,” said Dr. Amy Sone, Clinical Ast. Professor at UF College of Veterinary Medicine.
What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19 and have a pet at home?
“If you are not the only caregiver for the animal in the house, isolate yourself from the pet as you would from others in the household. If you are
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the only caregiver for your pet, plan to use good hygiene practices. Wear a mask and wash your hands when interacting with your pet,” said Dr. Stone, D.V.M, Ph. D.
Is it possible to contact COVID-19 from my pet?
“There is no evidence that the virus can spread to people from the skin, fur or hair of pets. Do not wipe or bathe your pet with chemical disinfectants, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or other products, such as hand sanitizer, counter-cleaning wipes or other industrial or surface cleaners. Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about appropriate products for bathing or cleaning your pet,” according to the CDC.
Are there any warning symptoms for pets with COVID-19? Do they look or act a certain way?
“Infected pets might get sick; however, many do not exhibit any clinical signs or symptoms. Of the pets that have gotten sick, most have had mild clinical signs and recovered completely,” said Dr. Stone, D.V.M, Ph. D. While it is possible your pet could contract the virus, there is a very small chance of them getting sick or gravely ill. That being said, if you happen to test positive for COVID-19, maintain good hygiene and keep a mask on around your pet to keep your furry friend safe.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY PET FROM CONTRACTING COVID-19? According to the CDC, “because there is a risk that people with COVID-19 could spread the virus to animals, CDC recommends that pet owners limit their pet’s interaction with people outside their household.
Keep cats indoors when possible and do not let them roam freely outside. Avoid public places where a large number of people gather. Do not put a mask on pets. Masks could harm your pet.
B E AUT IF UL F RO M T H E O UTS I DE I N. (352) 332-1150 www.drtyrone.com WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
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Health
Pet Checkups at Every Stage BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES
Adding a new pet to the family? Be prepared for shots, vet appointments, dental cleanings, vitamins and vaccines. Sound like you just brought home a new baby? It is! So, before adding a new member to your family, review the veterinary care recommendations below to ensure you are familiar with how to provide the best health care for your pet based on species. Each species will have different needs, so always reach out to your pet's veterinarian for questions.
DOGS
CATS
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Adult
Senior
Birth to 1 Year Old
(1 year to 7-10 years, depending on breed)
New puppies will visit the vet every three to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old. During this time, the vet will monitor weight and give a series of vaccines including rabies, distemper-parvo, influenza, kennel cough and Lyme disease. They will also begin heartworm and flea and tick medications at this stage. They will then have a check-up at six months and get spayed or neutered somewhere between approximately six months and one year, depending on breed and vet preference.
Healthy adult dogs will then receive an annual checkup including blood samples, heartworm check and a dental exam. Vaccines at this stage include distemper-parvo and rabies at the first annual checkup, then approximately every three years afterwards. They may also receive the annual influenza vaccine, kennel cough prevention and others.
Senior dogs require a biannual checkup including blood and urine samples, testing for kidney, thyroid and liver function as these tend to decline with age. At these visits, they will also receive vaccine boosters as recommended.
New kittens will also visit the vet approximately every three to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old. At these visits, they will receive vaccines for rabies and distemper as well as testing for feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus. They will begin their routine flea, tick and heartworm medications at this time. Kittens will receive another checkup at six months and get spayed or neutered around this time.
After the first year, cats should get an annual checkup that includes blood work and a dental exam. They will receive vaccines including distemper and rabies at their first annual checkup, then approximately every three years afterwards. They may also receive the annual influenza vaccine and others.
As a cat ages, biannual checkups are recommended, which include blood and urine samples that test for kidney, thyroid and liver function. They will also receive their vaccine boosters as recommended based on age and vaccination history.
(7-10 years and older)
GOATS
Goats have become a popular family pet but they require a significant amount of veterinary care. The average lifespan for a goat is 15-18 years. Newborn goats will need their horns removed by a process called disbudding at a very early age. Male goats should also be castrated at a young age if they will not be used for breeding. Goats need to have their hooves trimmed approximately every six weeks and will need veterinary deworming twice annually. Goats do require vaccinations such as tetanus and enterotoxemia, also known as overeating disease. While there is not currently a rabies vaccine indicated for goats, there has been some off-label use of sheep or cattle rabies vaccines that may be recommended in some areas.
HAMSTERS
Like many other species, hamsters should complete an initial visit with a veterinarian within the first 48 hours to establish care and ensure that all health guarantees are honored. Hamsters should have annual check-ups to monitor health and check for fecal parasites. The average lifespan of a hamster is two to four years, depending on specific breed. Senior hamsters (two years and above) should be evaluated by a vet twice annually.
BIRDS
Pet birds should see an avian veterinarian when they first join a family. During this initial visit, the vet will screen for bacteria, viruses and parasites and perform blood tests to assess baseline organ function. They will also determine whether the bird is male or female, since there are different health problems associated with each.
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After the initial visit, the bird will return for an annual check-up. Most caged birds do not receive any vaccines but some birds may need the polyomavirus vaccine. Birds will also need to visit the vet if they will have their wings clipped. They may also need a vet visit if they have excess keratin buildup on the beak, requiring the use of a sanding tool to trim the beak. If your bird needs nail clipping and you are not able to do this at home, the vet can trim your bird’s nails.
RABBITS
Rabbits do not require any vaccinations but are encouraged to have annual veterinary checkups. It is also highly recommended to spay or neuter your bunny. Common health problems in rabbits include dental disease, external parasites, gastrointestinal problems and cancer. Routine vet care can help identify problems in earlier stages.
Making the decision to adopt a pet is a big responsibility. While they bring joy and companionship, there are costs and time investments associated with this decision. If you feel you are not able to fully commit to providing the best care, it may be time to delay the decision until you feel you are ready. Pets are family members too and will provide love and entertainment if they are given the same in return.
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Health FACT VS. FICTION
Is Your Pet Making You Sick? BY RENEE CASTRO
If you’re reading this, it’s pretty likely that your pet is part of your family. As pet owners, we share our beds, food and just about everything else with our furry friends. But is their gift back to us more than just love and sloppy kisses? Can our pets actually be making us sick? Let’s dive into the facts about the ways your pet can make you sick.
Cats can spread leukemia to humans.
My pet cannot give me a stomach bug.
FICTION
FICTION
While cats cannot spread leukemia to humans, there is such thing as feline leukemia, as well as other feline immunodeficiency viruses. According to UF Health Medical Care Health Encyclopedia regarding pets and the immunocompromised person, while these viruses may not spread to humans, they can affect your cat’s immune system and you should have your cat tested.
According to Lisa Conti, a former veterinarian and Director of the Division of Environmental Health at the Florida Department of Health, “dogs have bacteria around their mouths you don’t want on your face.” An average of about 200,000 Americans get stomach flu after ingesting a common bacteria found on pets called campylobacter.
Kitty litter can cause allergies in humans. NO CLEAR ANSWER
While some people may have reactions to some of the ingredients used in their kitty’s litter, there is no clear answer yet as to whether the litter is actually causing any health problems in humans. According to the CDC, it is possible for humans to contract toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by a single-celled parasite that pregnant women should be cautious about. “You can contract this parasite by cleaning a cat’s litter box when the cat has shed Toxoplasma in its feces.” However, most cases are rare and a healthy person’s immune system usually keeps the parasite from causing illness. Dr. Andrew Weil, who founded the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine and has a skincare line with Origins, suggests switching to litters that are made of wheat or corn and contain no sodium bentonite. “When disposing of used litter of any type, you can reduce your own exposure to dust by slipping the litter into a large plastic bag before up-ending it.” @wellness360mag
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
Pet dander is harmful to humans. FACT
It has proved to be uncommon, but pet dander can affect your lungs. So, what is pet dander exactly? The ASPCA states that it is “scales of old skin that are constantly shed by an animal.” According to the Ear, Nose & Throat Institute, “not only can pet dander cause itchy eyes and a runny nose, but pet dander can potentially be harmful to your respiratory system.” Pet dander can also lead to a decline in the ability of your lungs to function, according to the American Lung Association. Some quick fixes to the problem are vacuuming often, getting rid of carpets in your home and washing your pet on a regular basis.
Health Pet bites can transmit an infection to humans. FACT
My pet cannot get an infection from drinking from the toilet. Fiction
According to UF Health Medical Care Health Encyclopedia regarding pets and the immunocompromised person, you should not let your pet drink from the toilet. Several types of infections and bacteria can be spread this way. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says, “even in the cleanest of households, the toilet is still a breeding ground for bacteria and germs that could potentially make your pet sick. Gastrointestinal upset could result from stagnant, bacteria-filled toilet water.”
According to the UF Health Medical Care Health Encyclopedia article on animal bites, “cat bites are less common, but have a higher risk of infection. Cat teeth are longer and sharper, which cause deeper puncture wounds.” There are plenty of different types of infections that you can get from a pet bite, depending on what the animal may be carrying. Bites that result in puncture wounds are the most likely to become infected. While dog bites are more common, the pose a less threat to humans because house dogs are less likely to carry infections and their teeth tend to not be as sharp as cats. According to the website, you should teach your children not to approach strange animals and do not provoke or tease animals as this could aggravate them and cause them to bite.
It is possible to get rabies from your pet. FACT
While it is uncommon for pet owners to contract rabies from their pet, it is possible. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to prevent your pet (and yourself) from getting rabies is to “visit your veterinarian with your pet on a regular basis and keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all cats, ferrets and dogs.” They also recommend calling animal control “to remove all stray animals from your neighborhood since these animals may be unvaccinated or ill.” You can’t tell an animal has rabies by looking at it, however if you see an animal on the street that is acting strange (foaming at the mouth, drooling excessively or even acting out of context) call your local animal control officer for help. The number for the Alachua County Animal Services is (352) 264-6870.
WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
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Fitness
Diagnostics in Physical Therapy BY DR. SCOTT EDDINS, PT, DPT
The practice of physical therapy has grown tremendously in its relatively short 100 years of existence since its wartime beginnings in the early 20th century, and none more so than over the past two decades. Physical therapists are now recognized as the practitioner of choice for evaluation and treatment of the human movement system, which is generally comprised of the neurological, skeletal, muscular and cardiopulmonary systems. As our professional autonomy has grown, so too has our scope of practice and deliverable services. Historically, only those physical therapists in the armed forces were able to order imaging for their patients to assess their problems more accurately. Diagnostic tests are used to help determine a diagnosis and implicate structures requiring intervention. Imaging studies are one example. Physical therapists use special clinical tests during our physical examination to aid in our evaluation and assessment of the patient’s symptoms. When combined with the patient history and overall presentation, these special clinical tests can be useful. However, in isolation, they may have poor diagnostic capacity. Recently, more and more physical therapists are undergoing extensive training to perform other diagnostic tests to improve patient management, ultimately leading to better outcomes, better patient satisfaction and lower costs. The two most common diagnostic tests many of us are now performing are musculoskeletal ultrasound and electrodiagnostic studies.
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MUSCULOSKELETAL ULTRASOUND (MSKUS) Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSKUS) uses the same technology many people are familiar with in other contexts, such as cardiology or obstetric visits, but instead is used to specifically evaluate muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and nerves. MSKUS allows physical therapists to actually see the structures they are interested in and perform a dynamic assessment of their integrity. This is one benefit of MSKUS that is superior to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) due to the fact that MSKUS can, and is often, used with movement, whereas the use of MRI requires there to be no movement during the study. While no imaging tool can see pain, a dynamic assessment often does allow us to be more accurate in determining the cause of someone’s pain or what may not be causing their pain. For example, someone may have shoulder pain and get an MRI that shows a tear in their rotator cuff which then they believe is the source of their pain. However, many individuals have rotator cuff tears but do not have pain. By specifically observing these tendons and testing these muscles under MSKUS imaging, we can determine what structures are actually involved and causing pain in real-time. MSKUS is also typically much less costly for patients to receive compared to MRI, takes less time, and can be used even when someone may not be able to have an MRI, such as if they have a pacemaker. This is not to say MRI studies are still not valuable tools and should continue to be utilized as they do allow for greater visualization of deeper structures and are widely still considered the gold standard for imaging studies. This is especially true for the spine where MSKUS is not an appropriate tool.
ELECTRODIAGNOSTIC STUDIES The other most common diagnostic studies we are now performing are electrodiagnostic studies which are actually comprised of the combination of two tests, usually performed together: nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG). NCS involves the recording of electrical signals that are transmitted to and from the brain by your nerves. The body has sensory nerves that transmit signals from your body to your brain about things such as temperature or pressure, and it has motor nerves that carry signals from your brain to your muscles allowing you to move your skeleton. EMG uses a tiny little pin to observe and record this electrical activity within your muscles. When you experience pain, numbness/tingling or weakness, this test can help us determine an accurate diagnosis with the location, severity and extent of the problem and even if it’s healing. This is commonly used in evaluating for compressive neuropathies such as carpal tunnel syndrome, radiculopathies or “pinched nerves” in the neck and back, and other nerve injuries from accidents.
Studies show utilization of these tests in physical therapy practice improves patient management, leads to better outcomes for patients and lowers costs. Next time you need to consult with your physical therapist you may be able to see the future of physical therapy now. DR. SCOTT EDDINS, PT, DPT Doctor of Physical Therapy and Clinical Director Kinetix Physical Therapy
GCM
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Fitness
How to Get the Most Out of Your Daily Walks
Fun Facts
ABOUT WALKING A Brisk walking for 30 minutes will burn off: A bowl of cereal
BY AMANDA ROLAND
Looking for an easy way to improve your mental and physical health? Try walking! We have some tips for getting the most out of your daily walks.
1 soft drink Small bag of chips An apple with peanut butter
WHAT TIME OF DAY?
First, it is worth saying that there is no bad time to fit in a walk! Not only can walking benefit your physical health but it can better your mental health, too, by helping you clear your head and get fresh air. So, at the end of the day, you should walk whenever your body is ready for a walk, which could be at any point throughout the day. However, some research suggests that working out in the morning before breakfast can help you burn more body fat throughout the day, according to a study published by EBioMedicine. So, if you are looking for a way to shed a few pounds, consider knocking out a 30-minute walk before breakfast!
WHERE TO WALK?
If possible, it is best to walk outside in the open air to reap the benefits of the fresh air, sunshine and natural surroundings. Did you know that getting fresh air outside can increase brain function, growth and healing? “The brain is extremely sensitive to decreases in oxygen levels,” according to Advanced Neurotherapy. “Therefore when a person takes a walk outside, getting to breathe fresh outdoor air actually improves brain function, especially if a person is cooped up in an office most of the day.” Also, vitamin D from the sun works to protect the neurons in the brain and reduce inflammation, so just getting 10 minutes of sunlight on your lunchtime walk can do the body and brain good!
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Half a bagel with cream cheese
WHAT SHOES?
Our feet do a lot of heavy lifting, and if you are going for a walk, it is best to wear shoes that will support brisk movement. For example, if you dress business casual for work, you definitely shouldn’t try braving a 30-minute walk in heels or loafers. Keep a pair of comfortable sneakers in your desk drawer or in your car so you can slip them on when you need to stretch your legs. Being prepared with shoes will also make you more apt to go on a daily walk knowing you will be comfortable. Did you know that walking shoes are very different from running shoes? Runners need a lot of heel support and stability to brace for impact with every stride. However, walking puts much less stress on the foot, so something a little more flexible and lightweight should be perfect for your walking shoe. If you are unsure of which shoe is best, visit your local fitness shoe store for guidance!
ADD THE ARMS!
If you want to up the ante with your daily walks, try adding in some arm movement to increase circulation and coordination. Pumping your arms back and forth with each stride is a great way to get the whole body involved. You can even carry some small hand weights (or cans of soup) while you pump your arm to feel more of a burn!
Don’t forget to wear a daily SPF to protect your skin when in the sun!
A quarter cup of almonds
Did You Know? To burn off one M&M, you need to walk the length of the football field. E=MC
2
Albert Einstein walked 1.5 miles everyday to Princeton University! An average pair of sneakers last for about 500 miles.
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Fitness
I've always tried to embrace a diversified approach to eating and exercise, though it hasn't always worked well.
TED TALKS THE HUMOROUS SIDE OF HEALTH
The Year of a Bodily Buffet:
A Little Bit of This, a Little Bit of That…
BY TED SPIKER
Ted Spiker (@ProfSpiker) is the chair of the University of Florida department of journalism, as well as a health and fitness writer. He is the author of DOWN SIZE, a book about the science and soul of weightloss and dieting.
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I went into 2021 without a massive declaration — no dream race to run, no ideal weight I must hit (though that number has had a three-decade occupancy in my brain), no cold-turkey commitment that I will forever give up quadruple-decker bacon sandwiches.
Instead, I decided to do what a lot of health pros would advise — adopt the plan and process, and the goals will follow. As I look back on the spreadsheets I created in the days before the year started, I’m sort of digging the buffet approach. While it’s not the kind I prefer (mmmm-mmmmmac-n-cheese), I do like the variety. My plan includes mileage goals (for running, walking, swimming, spinning). It includes session goals (amount of time spent stretching, number of strength workouts). It includes green boxes to log the days I eat healthy, yellow boxes for days I’m so-so, and red boxes for days I lose the mind-wrestling match to the pork belly special at 43rd Street Deli.
WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
I’ve always tried to embrace a diversified approach to eating and exercise, though it hasn’t always worked well. The approach this year — balancing consistency and variety — does feel different. Maybe it’s because of these factors: ADDING SOMETHING NEW: For me, this was a purposeful commitment to yoga and stretching (see January/February 2021 issue). While I’m still tree-trunk stiff, I did successfully hit my goal of 400 minutes in January. Not only can I feel the difference, but I’m excited about how my body will improve as I keep going. GAMIFYING ONE THING: Twice a week, I put the treadmill on a 15.0 incline and walk as fast as I can for one mile. Each session, I
try to beat the previous time. I’m not getting wrapped up in performance in the other fitness activities just yet, but this mini-competition has given me the mojo to ignite future workouts. MAKING ONE SMALL GESTURE: A couple days a week, I’m subbing in tea for coffee. There’s nothing wrong with coffee, of course, except perhaps the kiddie pool’s worth of cream I usually swirl in it. I’m also regularly making big pots of ginger-garlic soup to bring for lunch for the week. I’m not sure these new habits have any real bodily effect, but it feels like they do. #WHICHTOTALLYCOUNTS KEEPING THE FUTURE IN SIGHT: Of course, we all have the things that keep us going. Besides the uber goals (live healthier and longer), there’s also a more immediate one woodpeckering inside my skull: When the world opens back up, I want to be ready to get out there to new places — running, walking, exploring, playing, connecting. And doing all of them with more energy — and preferably smaller pants.
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Fitness
NAM-EYE-STAY
Give Your Eyes A Rest With Eye Yoga BY AMANDA ROLAND | ILLUSTRATIONS BY GRACE DOWNEY
Eye yoga refers to the gentle movement of the eyes in various positions to relieve pain and strain in the eyes!
In 2020, we learned what it was like to live in a completely digital world. Zoom calls, Google docs, laptops and Netflix really kept us all going when we were exiled to work from our homes last year. While all of this technology is great for getting the job done, it is not great for our eyes, and I'm sure we would be appalled to know how much screen time we have all accrued in 2020. Looking at screens all day can cause a lot of strain on the eyes and can make the muscles in your face sore. To combat this, a new trend has emerged in the health and wellness scene — enter eye yoga! The best part is eye yoga can be done anywhere, anytime and with no equipment. Here are some different eye yoga exercises that you can do daily to relieve eye strain and keep you comfortable throughout the day!
FOCUS SHIFTING PALMING Take your hands and rub them together for a few seconds to generate some warmth. Next, close your eyes and gently press your palms on your eye sockets for a few moments. You will feel the heat from your palms relax the muscles around your eyes, giving them a little break. Also with your palms, cup your hands slightly and place them over your eye sockets with your eyes open. Stare into the darkness in your hands for a few moments to give your eyes a break from the bright lights from your screens or surroundings. Repeat both of these palm exercises every hour.
For this exercise, sit straight in your chair with a relaxed spine. Find something that is far away to look at – this could be a far-away wall, a tree outside the window or a chair on the other side of your office. Focus on that thing for a few moments, then shift your focus to something close to you. This could be your office desk (not your computer), a picture on a wall close to you or even your shoelaces. Alternate looking back and forth between things that are far away and close to you to give your eyes a chance to shift focus! Do these exercises daily to reduce eye strain and fatigue throughout the day! If you are experiencing severe eye pain that will not go away, contact your eye doctor or health care provider immediately to get more help.
FIGURE EIGHTS To give your eye muscles a challenge, look at a blank wall and draw big figure eights on the wall with your eyes. Try making 10 figure eights going one direction with your eyes, and then repeat 10 more times going the other direction. You can also do this with your eyes closed if you are wanting a break from the light as well.
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EYE ROLL Sit straight up in your chair, looking forward with your hands resting on your lap. Start by looking to the right and slowly rolling your gaze up to the ceiling. Continue rolling your gaze to the left and down to the ground. Repeat this for 10 repetitions, and then repeat 10 more times rolling your eyes the other direction.
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Style + Gear PET GEAR
BY GRACE DOWNEY & NICOLE IRVING
Ulti-Mutt Gear For You & Your Pet OWNER'S CORNER
Our pets give us unconditional love, kisses and cuddles, so why not give them something special to show them how much you love them back? From a Furrari pet bed to a Yeti water bowl, we have something for every furry, fishy and four legged friend, and even a few for you too!
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FRENCHIE HOODIE KEYCHAIN $16, akrdesignstudio.com
TOP FIN PINEAPPLE SWIM THRU AQUARIUM ORNAMENT $9.99, PetSmart
THRIVE TURTLE START-UP KIT 40 GALLON $239.99, PetSmart
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
WHISKER CITY GREEN AVOCATO CAT SLEEPY HUT $29.99, PetSmart
Style + Gear ALL FOR THE PUPS
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PET BUNDLE BY BRANDLESS $20, brandless.com
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PAWNIX NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES $199, pawnix.com
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These noise cancelling headphones play a special playlist of music at just above a whisper level via Bluetooth to help keep dogs calm during fireworks and thunderstorms.
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REVERSIBLE HARNESS by Sassy Woof $31.99, sassywoof.com WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
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Nutrition
Probiotics and Prebiotics:
Supplements for Your Gut and Overall Health BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES
Probiotics and prebiotics line the shelves at the drugstore, are advertised on yogurt cups and may be recommended by your doctor when you were last prescribed antibiotics. What exactly are probiotics and prebiotics, do you need them and what is the difference?
PROBIOTICS
PREBIOTICS
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are often consumed or applied to the body as a supplement to improve overall health. Probiotics can include “good” bacteria such as those in the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium families as well as sometimes yeasts such as Saccharomyces boulardii.
Prebiotics are non-digestible food fibers that stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria within the gut. Prebiotics most often generate growth of Bifidobacterium but have also been shown to encourage growth of other healthy gut bacteria.
Depending on their intended use, probiotics may be classified as a food, drug or dietary supplement. While those classified as a drug are more highly regulated, those labeled as a dietary supplement do not require approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There is a growing body of research surrounding probiotics but many of the specifics are still unknown. There is promising research that indicates benefits for many different health conditions. The most widely publicized benefit of probiotics is assistance for gastrointestinal disorders. Probiotics introduce healthy bacteria into the gut, helping to restore a healthy microbiome within the intestinal tract. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), probiotics show promise with gastrointestinal problems that can cause diarrhea such as Clostridium Difficile infection, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD), and diarrhea caused by antibiotics, which can deplete the good bacteria in the gut. Probiotics have also been used to help in infant colic and Necrotizing Enterocolitis in infants. Beyond improving gastrointestinal conditions, the NIH lists a variety of other health conditions such as prevention of dental cavities and gum disease, allergies, asthma, atopic dermatitis, upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections and acne that may benefit from the utilization of probiotics.
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Prebiotics may be found in food products or supplement form. Some common foods that contain prebiotics include asparagus, garlic, fennel, onions, shallots, scallions, legumes such as chickpeas, soybeans, and lentils, nuts such as pistachios and cashews, and wheat products such as cereal. In supplement form, the most common prebiotics include oligofructose, galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), inulin, fructooligosaccharides and resistant starch. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend looking for a seal of approval from a third party such as NSF International, U.S. Pharmacopeia or ConsumerLab.com to ensure proper manufacturing practices. Like probiotics, the body of research surrounding the benefits of prebiotics is still growing. Some research, such as that conducted by Carlson et al. (2018) in Current Developments in Nutrition, indicates that prebiotics may also help improve the immune system, prevent allergies, positive effects on metabolism, and increase calcium absorption. The results on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) have been mixed. Common prebiotic foods
SYNBIOTICS
CORRECT GUM RECESSION QUICKLY WITH LESS PAIN!
Probiotics are short-lived so sometimes prebiotics are taken with probiotics to enhance bacterial growth. Combining these two therapies is called synbiotics.
What You Should
KNOW
Probiotics Are Responsible For 70% Of Our Immune Response. - probiotics.org
PINHOLE GUM REJUVENATIONTM IS PERFORMED WITHOUT THE INVASIVE CUTTING, STITCHES AND RECOVERY TIME
STATISTICS
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According to the 2012 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), approximately 4 million adults in the United States had taken prebiotics or probiotics in the past 30 days, a number that quadrupled between 2007 and 2012. This study also indicated that 300,000 children age 4-17 had used these supplements in the prior 30 days. Prebiotics or probiotics were the third most commonly used dietary supplement.
GUM GRAFTING. Instead, the entire procedure is done through one or more small pinholes made in the gum in a process that takes just minutes. The pinhole quickly heals and most patients report little or no pain and experience virtually no downtime.
SIDE EFFECTS
Gary I. Altschuler, DMD
According to the Mayo Clinic, most healthy individuals can take prebiotics and probiotics without adverse side effects. Before starting any new supplement, discuss with your healthcare provider your reasons for wanting to add it to your routine. Remember, different bacteria help different conditions so you will want their guidance on what is right for you and if it is recommended based on your history and current medications. Prebiotics can cause gas and bloating, so if you include these, it is a good idea to start slowly to let your body adjust. Talk to your provider about what supplement is right for you and how long you should take it for optimal results.
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* Talk to your doctor before adding probiotics or prebiotics to your diet WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
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Nutrition
Chickpeas:
The New Healthy Carbs For Your Pets BY SARAH CORREA-DIBAR
We bet you’ve never met a game night without a hummus dip. Soon, you will not meet a person who doesn’t give their furry friend hummus’ main ingredient — chickpeas. These legumes are healthy carbohydrate alternatives to grains and are a healthy and natural treat to consider instead of processed snacks. Despite them being a small size, chickpeas have high levels of protein and fiber and low levels of fat. They also have a healthy fat level of 4%, which is a higher percentage than in other grains. This in turn positively contributes to your pets’ energy. Chickpeas, or garbanzo beans as some like to call them, contain a fatty acid called Lethicin, which helps in cell production, in lowering your pets' cholesterol and digestion. For those pets who are more prone to heart diseases, such as miniature poodles, cocker spaniels, Pomeranians, schnauzers, Great Danes and Irish wolfhounds, this fatty acid may improve their heart health. There’s also a high percentage of potassium, which also boosts a healthy heart. Garbanzo beans contain vitamin A, which helps with your pets’ eyes, and vitamin C, which helps prevent cell damage and provides antioxidants to boost general health. According to the International Center for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies, adding chickpeas to your horse’s diet helps them develop a bright coat and soft skin, which is a sign of good health. It’s crucial to mention that chickpeas are not meant to be a complete substitution for your pets' meals. They should be given occasionally and in small portions to avoid too much bloating and therefore making your pet gassier (and let’s not even get into those already-gassy bulldogs!)
Always check with your veterinarian before adding any foods to your pet’s diet.
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Canned chickpeas are high in sodium, so make sure you prep them by rinsing them before you cook them. Put them in two to three inches of water on high heat. Once it starts boiling, lower the heat and simmer until the chickpeas are soft. You can choose to mash them to create hummus, but avoid any seasonings such as garlic and onion. Now instead of your pet lurking under the snack table, he’ll have his own hummus plate at your next watch party!
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tconsaul@gmail.com facebook.com/tconsaul Gainesville Family & Pet Photographer
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY AND ANNA MORERA PHOTOGRAPHY
In 2020, our furry and four-legged friends became more than just pets. As our world came to a screeching halt, adjustments had to be made. For many of us, these adjustments meant more time at home with our animals! They became a source of therapy and provided comfort in unusual times. They made us laugh when it was too hard to smile and they brought routine and structure during the chaos. For these Gainesville families and individuals, their furry (and not so furry) family members bring love and fun each and every day!
WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
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MORE THAN JUST A PET
with Augie, Angel, Reba and Betsy We had been talking about a farm for some time. The advent of COVID allowed us to slow down a little and focus on this new enterprise. It was something that all of the family could participate in and enjoy. We fenced off quite a bit of our property and decided to start the farm that we had been dreaming about. We began with one Scottish Highland bull, three Nigerian dwarf goats and two donkeys. There are now 32 animals on the farm. All of our Highlands are fairly easy going and well tempered. It's fun to watch them interact—our baby bulls are always going head-to-head with each other (our kids say it's like the bulls in the movie Ferdinand). The Highlands make really amazing pets, especially if you bottle-feed them starting at a few days old. Auggie and Angel are now four months old and will follow you around like puppies. It's really sweet. They will also try to eat your boots once the bottles are empty! We have multiple Highlands that are pregnant right now and are looking forward to having our first babies born on our farm in the coming months.
PHOTOS BY ANNA MORERA PHOTOGRAPHY
ASHLEY FINNEGAN
PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY
MORE THAN JUST A PET
DELLA AND EMMA TUTEN with Nora
Nora, born March 15, 2020, is a Havashu which is a combination of a Havanese and a shih tzu. We did a lot of research on breeds and we chose Nora because we loved their size and the fact that she is hypoallergenic, doesn’t shed and that she is good with kids. It’s also reported that these types of dogs have less health problems than you find in other little dogs. We had actually thought about getting a dog for a long time but during non-pandemic times we tend to travel quite a bit and had always felt that having a dog would slow us down. Once Covid happened, our travel came to a halt so we thought now is the time. We know that once we are able to travel again we will pick destinations that we are able to include her in our plans. I kind of feel like it’s how people think about having kids, you just make the adjustments and make it work. Nora is happy, playful, loyal and loving but she has a streak of stubbornness. She doesn’t know a stranger and you can almost feel her happiness when people are around. She has been such a wonderful addition to our family. She currently weighs 12 pounds and we’ve been told that the max weight should be between 12 and 14 pounds. Nora loves to play fetch, hide and go seek and tug-of-war. She is as fast as the wind and you can see her smile when she’s running. She is snuggly and affectionate. We are so happy she is with us!
MORE THAN JUST A PET
MIKE DAMIANO with Ally Pecia
I got Ally Pecia, a Canadian Sphynx cat, three years ago from a friend who was ironically allergic to her. I was looking for a low maintenance companion and happened to see a video of her playing with Ally and I jokingly said “I want her!” And, later that day I was headed to pick her up. The rest is history! Ally is super playful and loves ignoring all the toys I get her to play with paper balls or knocking everything off the counter. But, she can’t resist chasing a laser pointer. We will go on walks outside, and if we are feeling adventurous, she will go into her cat backpack (which got dubbed the Ally Pod by my neighbor) and I’ll take her out on a bike ride. Now, when she is ready for a ride, she will sit and wait in the backpack. She loves having visitors over, especially those who bring their dogs. She also loves stealing all the attention in the room. She is perhaps one of the most cuddliest cats I’ve ever met, and there isn’t a night when she’s not cuddled up under my arm or against me. My favorite thing about her is how she runs to the door when I get home to greet me and give some cat love.
PHOTOS BY ANNA MORERA PHOTOGRAPHY
Follow me on Instagram!
@ALLYPECIA
PHOTOS BY ANNA MORERA PHOTOGRAPHY
MORE THAN JUST A PET
GREG, TANYA, ALYSSA AND LIAM BANKS with Otie and Bear Otie and Bear were 8-week-old littermates and joined our family in July of 2020. We already had an English mastiff before these boys. Her name was Lola and she was such an awesome dog. Mastiffs are great family dogs, they love kids and are gentle and patient. The breed is known for being loyal, happy and loving. We enjoy snuggling on the couch and going for walks. They also like to go on adventures and walk around Tioga and Celebration Pointe. Otie and Bear enjoy stealing toys from each other which eventually turns into a friendly game of tug of war! Snuggling in their bed, running in the backyard and just being around each other constantly is what they enjoy the most! They literally love each other and play very nicely together. If one goes outside, the other has to go outside too. They also love us just as much as we love them! When we get home from work and school they will always greet us and show their excitement by chattering their teeth, smiling or crying and howling. It’s adorable! WELLNESS360 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
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MORE THAN JUST A PET
MALOY MEYER with Zuko
I got Zuko, who is a German shepherd, at the beginning of 2020. I have another German shepherd, his older brother Sirius. I love German shepherds and think they are an amazing breed. They are smart, loyal and silly.
Zuko is a very sweet, loving, giant baby bear. He loves getting belly rubs and kisses from everyone he meets.
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY
We love to go to the dog park and play with his friends. We also like to go on trail walks and get puppachinos from Starbucks.
PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY
MORE THAN JUST A PET
LINDSEY AND COLBIE JOHNSON with Kodak Kodak, a pomsky, joined our family on January 9, 2021. I love huskies but wanted a smaller dog that would fit in well with my other dogs (Wiley - Chihuahua mix and Luke - fox terrier mix). Also, I wanted a dog that we could take everywhere with us and pomskys have a reputation of being good family dogs that are both protective as well as cuddly. They are also relatively open to strangers and other dogs. With Kodak, we play a lot with toys and go for walks. He has made friends with all of our neighbors and their dogs! We enjoy taking him with us to restaurants, the kids’ sporting events and just about anywhere dogs are allowed. Kodak is a very sweet dog and he loves to play with all dogs (even those that are not interested in playing with him!). He likes to play and snuggle with his humans. He’s still a young puppy so he’s very inquisitive and loves to check out everything (usually with his mouth!) While it’s been a big adjustment to having a puppy at home (hello, toddlerhood!), he has brought a lot of liveliness, fun and love to our home. WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
41
MORE THAN JUST A PET
MELISSA AND BRIAN FURLOW, CADE AND COLBY BALOGH with Otis and Duke
We laugh that Otis is my shadow and Duke is Brian's. Since I'm working from home now, Otis pretty much sleeps all day in my office. Duke is happy just being in the room with anyone. He LOVES attention...even if that attention is Otis barking at him to just leave him alone and let him sleep! Duke takes daily walks around the neighborhood and loves a good tug toy. They both love to go on walks, but Otis spends the time trying to get Duke to leave him alone and JUST WALK DOWN THE ROAD! They act like typical siblings, the older sibling acts annoyed by the younger, but deep down they'd miss them terribly if they weren't there. Otis acts thoroughly annoyed by Duke's antics, but we know he likes having the company. Otis is a total bully. He will absolutely run Duke out of the room if he's over his games. He wants to be wherever I am and he loves any treats the boys might throw his way (even though they're not supposed to feed him people food!). He sleeps and SNORES the vast majority of the day, but he comes to life every night around 8:30 pm for a good tug of war game with Duke...and he never lets go! Duke is the sweetest dog we've ever owned. He just wants someone to play attention to him and love on him constantly. He likes to lean on you and try to block you from going wherever you're wanting to go. He would never grow tired of playing tug or harassing Otis to join in the game.
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
PHOTOS BY ANNA MORERA PHOTOGRAPHY
When we got Otis on November 14, 2015, we had Dozer (a bullmastiff) and needed to get a breed that we thought would get along well with him. I really wanted a French bulldog but thought that breed might be too small to bring home to a bullmastiff. An English bulldog had a little more size and weight. Little did we know, Otis would totally "bully" Dozer! When Dozer passed away unexpectedly to cancer in September in 2018, we were devastated! We knew we wanted another large breed. Being one of the largest breeds, Great Danes have the reputation of being a great family dog that doesn't require a ridiculous amount of exercise. We thought this would be a great fit for bossy Otis and our super busy lifestyle. We got Duke, our Great Dane, on November 4, 2018.
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43
Finance
The Hidden Costs: What You
Need to Know When Buying a Pet BY RENEE CASTRO
Opening your home to a furry friend is an adventure. It’s an exciting time for you and your family and is often compared to preparing for a baby. But, before you start the search, you should consider how to financially prepare for a pet.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. For your dog: a collar with an ID tag, a leash, a carrier, a crate and a training class. For your cat: a collar with an ID tag, a litter box and litter.
injury. It is important to know that most pet insurance plans are generally reimbursement plans so you will have to pay the bill up front and will then be reimbursed by the insurance provider, they said.
When you begin your search for a forever friend, consider adopting from a shelter. The fees for adopting can be lower (often by much) than purchasing from a breeder. Some shelters will even spay or neuter and microchip your pet and factor it into the cost. According to the Humane Society of North Central Florida, adoption fees are: Puppies (Under 5 Months) - $300, Medium & Large Breed Adult Dogs (Over 5 Months) - $150, Small Breed Adult Dogs (Over 5 Months; Under 25 Pounds) - $250. Kittens (Under 5 Months) -$125, Adult Cats - $75.
While working out the financials, there may be options to help you create a budget. Pet financing can be getting a personal loan for vet bills or purchasing pet insurance. OneMain Financial in Gainesville, FL has loan specialists who can help you find a solution to your needs, according to their website. They offer unsecured and secured personal loans from $1,500 - $8,000 with fixed interest rates and fixed monthly payments so you know what to expect, they said.
When taking out a loan and/or purchasing pet insurance, it is important to make sure to keep track of your budget. According to the ASPCA, the annual cost of a dog can range from $512 up to $1,040.31 a year, depending on their size. It is important to always keep track of when loan payments are due and that you have enough money on hand to pay your vet bills upfront. If you are having trouble taking care of your pet, be aware of your local resources and talk to those around you. The Humane Society of North Central Florida even offers pet food to families in need. Check out our pet budget plan to make one for yourself and your new pal.
Before you are ready to pick up your new pet, here are some essentials that you should already have in your home and consider in your start-up costs, according to the
Pet insurance may be another option to cover their needs in case they fall ill or have an injury. According to Newberry Animal Hospital, pet insurance can help by offsetting some or most of the costs of diagnosing, treating and managing your pet’s illness or
As you embark on your forever friend journey, remember to enjoy every moment, every snuggle and every sloppy wet kiss.
PLAN YOUR PET BUDGET Monthly Loan Payment Write down the payment amount and the due date.
Food Cost
Track how much you spend monthly on your pet's food and plan it in.
Other
Give yourself some room for toys and other expenses like treats or potty training.
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
Vet Cost
Factor in emergency vet visits, in addition to routine pet checkups.
Grooming
Depending on your pet, plan on visiting the groomer about once a month.
Training Classes
Add a spot in your budget for training classes if you expect to professionally train your pet.
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
45
Lifestyle
QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE ADOPTING A PET
How to Adopt the Best Rescue Animal For You & Your Family
How often will I be away from home? How much do I have to spend on the initial set up for a new animal? How much can I afford on a monthly and annual basis for supplies and medical care? How active am I? Do I have the time to commit to potty training or training in general?
BY TRACY WRIGHT
Pets are often seen as a remedy for loneliness, boredom and more fulfillment in individual and family lives. Yet beyond slobbery kisses and soft purring, adding pets to our lives is a choice that need to be considered very carefully. The Humane Society of North Central Florida recommends that potential adopters ask themselves many questions before even looking for a new animal.
“Before a family or person begins looking for a new animal, we always recommend that they evaluate their own lifestyle and schedule and consider the financial obligation of owning an animal,” said Sarah Gilley, adoption coordinator and customer care manager of the Humane Society of North Central Florida. “Even if the adopter does not know exactly what they want or need in a new animal, if they have the answers to basic questions about themselves, we can help better match them with an animal that will be the best fit for their home.” These questions may include costs and affordability, how often you are away from the home, time commitment for potty and general training, animal compatibility with current or future children as well as current pets, and level of current activity. On the Humane Society’s website, it includes listing for dogs, cats, rabbits and other small mammals. Even if the adopter does not know exactly what they want or need in a new animal, if they have the answers to basic questions about themselves, the shelter’s employees can help better match them with an animal that will be the best fit for their home, Gilley said. Potential adopters should understand that adopting a pet is making a long-term commitment, both personally and financially. This could be potentially 10-15 years for a dog or up to 20 years for a cat. Even as you go through changes in your life, your pet remains a permanent part of your life, the ASCPA said. Adoption requires a financial investment beyond just the initial adoption fees. Veterinary care expenses add up especially when adopting a puppy or kitten in addition to
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
Do I currently have children or other animals, or will I in the foreseeable future? Do I want a big or small animal?
food and microchipping. Many shelters, like the Humane Society, will include spay/neuter, microchipping and appropriate vaccinations by age. The investment of time is also something that should be considered. Dogs need time to exercise and be outside as well as bonding with their owners and family. Cats too benefit from being indoors and enjoying brisk play with their families. “We always recommend that adopters do their own research before and after getting a new animal, but they can always ask us questions about the animal's medical history and how he or she has behaved while with us,” Gilley said. “One excellent question adopters can ask is if the animal has been in a foster home. If so, the staff will have a better understanding of how the animal behaves in a home environment and outside of the stressful shelter setting.” Most shelters will require people to go through a “brief but thorough” application process with a series of questions to ensure that the pet is the right fit for the family or person. The Humane Society provides a counseling session so that pet owners have a better idea of what to expect. Unfortunately, there are instances where pets are returned to the shelter. Nationally that rate ranges between 7% and 20%
for the first six months following adoption, according to the American Humane Society. Locally the Humane Society of North Central Florida reports that their current return rate is much lower at 3.7%. Most of the time the return is made when an owner has to move. “There are more and more resources becoming available for pet owners to help them find pet friendly housing options, such as filtered search options on websites,” Gilley said. “When an adopter contacts us needing to return an animal, we will provide them with these resources or any other resources they may need to help keep the animal in their home. We may also recommend rehoming resources and ways for the adopter to find a new home directly and not return back to us or a different shelter, though we are always happy to take an animal back if resources are not an option.” Gilley also advises potential adopters to understand that even with the best fit, an animal’s transition to a new home is never easy and can be stressful for the animal. This transition period can last anywhere from days to months before the animal is comfortable in its new home. “The adopter should also keep in mind that they are able to reach out to us at any time with questions, and we are happy to help guide them through whatever issues they may be experiencing,” Gilley said.
HOW TO GIVE BACK TO THE PET COMMUNITY IN NEED Even during the time of COVID, pets still need our help! There are many places and ways to give back through volunteering and/ or donations. Due to COVID, volunteer shifts are limited so it is best to contact a shelter individually to see how you can help.
LOCAL ANIMAL SHELTERS AND RESCUE PROGRAMS Humane Society of North Central Florida, Alachua County Animal Services, Haile’s Angels Pet Rescue, Gainesville Pet Rescue, Puppy Hill Farm, Maddie’s Pet Rescue Project, Gainesville Rabbit Rescue
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47
Lifestyle
Life After Death:
Making a Plan for Your Pets BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES
Planning for death or a disability is not usually high on the to-do list. Many people delay planning until later in life or until illness or injury strikes. If you were suddenly unable to care for your pet, do you have a plan in place to ensure their wellbeing?
Short Term and Long Term
It is helpful to plan for who would take care of your pet in the case of a short-term need, such as a hospitalization. Discuss this with the intended caregiver to ensure they are in agreement and know what the responsibilities entail. You also want to plan for long-term placement in the event that you are no longer able to care for them due to permanent disability or death. This may or may not be the same accommodations as your short-term plan.
Legal Considerations
According to the American Pet Products Association, only 9% of people that have wills have made provisions for their pets. If you add your pet to your will, use generic language such as “pets” or “dogs” or “cats” instead of specific animal names, to prevent the need for editing the document should you adopt other animals. A will is a useful document to express your wishes but it may take some time before it is enacted. According to Florida law, pets are classified as property, which means that you cannot leave money directly to the animal. Because executing a will can take some time, many people choose to set up a trust. This allows for money to be allocated toward the care of the animal as well as immediate wishes regarding the responsible party. A trust kicks in immediately, allowing for your pet to quickly and seamlessly transition to the next chapter. The trustee is the person who will be responsible for managing the trust, including the financial components. If the trust is established as a pet trust, all funds must be used for the care of the pet. You may
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
also wish to designate a trustee that will manage the financial aspects and a different party who will provide the daily pet care. While considering your wishes, you may elect a Power of Attorney (POA) to make decisions on your behalf while you are living if you are unable to do so. This person may also be designated to make decisions regarding your pet or you may elect to have a limited POA regarding your pet, whose responsibilities solely revolve around your pet’s welfare. When selecting a professional to help draft legal documents, choose someone that is familiar with the needs and requirements of a pet will provision or pet trust. When working with clients on their trust or will, Alison Walker, an associate attorney at the law firm of Folds, Walker & Maltby, suggests that they spell out who will be the caregiver for their pet in the event that they pass, how much money to keep in a trust, and what their wishes are if the pet becomes ill. If there are specific instructions regarding the pet’s end of life care and burial instructions, these can also be included.
Rehoming Options
If you do not have someone who is willing to assume care for your pet, there are many charitable organizations that help with rehoming efforts. Designate a trusted person to oversee this process and initiate contact with the organization. They can provide your list with information about your pet to assist the organization in finding the perfect home. The Humane Society of North Central Florida has a list of rehoming resources and local rescues like Haile’s Angels and Faithful Friends sometimes accept rehoming requests based on space availability.
Other Considerations
It is also helpful to create a list that gives details about your pet. Include information you have learned over time about your pet’s personality and preferences, along with any quirks or bad habits. This will assist the transition for your pet as they will be more comfortable with fewer changes to their routine. A list can include any information you find pertinent but might cover the following topics:
• Feeding frequency and brand of food • Sleeping arrangements • Instructions for being left at home alone • Favorite toys • Favorite activities • Vet name, number and relevant health information • Routine and preventive medications • Toileting care • Walking schedules • Bad habits • Quirks (scared of storms, afraid of strangers) While planning for worst case scenarios can be difficult, there is peace of mind knowing that there is a plan for your pet if you are no longer able to care for them. Pets are family members and their safety and wellbeing are important factors to consider in estate planning.
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W H AT TO D O
AS BIRDS, SNAKES
SO YOU FOUND AN ABANDONED ANIMAL...
AND SQUIRRELS
BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES
WILDLIFE IS ABUNDANT IN FLORIDA WITH CRITTERS SUCH
TO BOBCATS, ALLIGATORS AND EVEN BEARS. ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS ARE COMMON. AS A GOOD RULE OF THUMB, LEAVING WILDLIFE ALONE IS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE ANIMAL AND THE HUMAN.
WHAT IF
WHAT IF
USE THE
I FIND A BABY ANIMAL THAT SEEMS TO BE ABANDONED? Many baby animals appear to be abandoned but this is not always the case. Sometimes parents leave babies hidden to keep them protected while they search for food. Baby birds are not usually abandoned but may have tried to fly from the nest before they were ready. Typically they will be able to fly within the next day or so and mothers will still feed their babies that have flown from the nest. If you see a baby bird on the ground, particularly a featherless one, you may return it to the nest. Despite the common myth that birds will abandon their young if they smell humans, the University of Florida Florida Wildlife Extension states that birds do not have a keen sense of smell and will not abandon babies touched by humans.
DECISION TREE
The Florida Wildlife Hospital suggests the following decision tree when you encounter a solo baby animal.
DOES THE BABY LOOK INJURED OR SICK? YES
CALL A WILDLIFE REHAB CENTER FOR HOW TO PROCEED
I FIND AN INJURED ANIMAL? The first step is to call a wildlife rehabilitation center to receive guidance based on the species and specifics of the situation. They may advise creating a shelter for the animal. Depending on the species, a covered box or brown paper bag with ventilation would work. Keeping the animal in a dark, quiet, and warm environment will help keep them safe and calm. Resist the urge to provide food or water. Take very detailed notes about where the animal was located as this will help with release after the animal has been medically cleared. Injured animals can be defensive as well as carry diseases, so take precautions to protect yourself such as wearing gloves, wrapping in towels and maintaining as much distance as possible.
A L W AY S C O N S I D E R Y O U R S A F E T Y B E F O R E INTERVENING WITH AN INJURED ANIMAL
NAH
CAN YOU IDENTIFY AN INTACT NEST OR DEN? YES
YOU MAY PLACE THE BABY ANIMAL IN THEIR HOME
NAH
PLACE THE BABY ANIMAL INSIDE A BOX OR SHELTER Keep it warm but out of the sun. If you are able, watch for the mother for four to six hours. It is important to keep all humans and pets completely out of sight as the mother will not return if she sees strangers.
RESOURCES There are a multitude of resources for wildlife rehabilitation and containment. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is a great place to start. They can help determine whether a species is native or nonnative and direct you to a local wildlife rehabilitation center if appropriate. 50 WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
Another option is to call the Florida Wildlife Care Center, Inc. at 352-371-4400. This number is active 24 hours a day.
Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo has information on their website regarding approved wildlife rehabilitation centers along with contact information for the University of Florida Vet School and West End Animal Hospital, who sometimes treat injured wildlife.
If possible, contact the experts before interacting with the animal. If instructed to take the animal to a rehab center, make contact with them prior to arrival.
The majority of wildlife interactions are pleasant and inspire a sense of awe. In most situations, admiring the animal from a distance is the best course of action. If you encounter an orphaned or injured animal, contact a wildlife expert before intervening. If asked to intervene, take precautions to protect yourself and the animal from unintended attacks or spreading disease.
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51
Mind Matters
Dogs vs. Cats Decoding Your Pets’ Secret Language BY SARAH CORREA-DIBAR
We all have our own unique relationship with our pets. Sometimes we want to grab them and say, “speak already!” But, they have been speaking in their own language this whole time. The out-of-ordinary things we see our pets do that make us laugh are many times their way of showing emotions such as anger, boredom, happiness and love.
DOGS
TALK ANIMAL TO ME
Just like when humans’ voices go to a higher pitch when they see their best friend, a dog's bark reaches a higher pitch when they want to play according to John Wedemeyer, a pet behavior specialist at the North Florida K9 Behavioral Center. To the same token, when you talk to your dog in a high-pitched voice or in baby talk, he or she can take it as a sign of play – which is why they like squeaky toys! In addition, often times when your dog barks in a low pitch it can also be a sign of play.
CATS
These felines may seem antisocial at first glance but have their own ways of showing you their love. According to The Animal Channel, they’ll greet you by giving you a high-pitched and short “meow” to say “hello.” But if your cat lets out a low and slow meow, they may feel threatened and want to stand up for themselves.
LET'S GET PHYSICAL Those silent language-glances that you share with your best friend are also present in your furry friend, adding a whole new definition to ‘A dog’s best friend.’ According to Jenny Higgins, a dog behavior specialist and owner of P.U.P.S Training, a dog looks at you for a prolonged period of time because they know it will elicit a question they love to hear like “Want to go for a walk?” and your dog will remember this is what they have to do to get you to do their favorite thing, which is why they’ll look at you during the walk. Let’s talk about those zoomies! The technical term is Frenetic Random Activity Periods, or frapping. Higgins said that it happens when a dog is over stimulated or excited and needs to release their energy. It could also happen when they’ve been stuck in their kennel or been at home all day because they have so much pent-up energy. It’s completely normal in all dogs –even at a very young age. Puppies, especially those who are less than 12 months old, get two periods of zoomies per day, said Higgins.
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
While dogs bring an “offering” to please their owner, cats might bring their prey (like a dead mouse) because they notice that you are providing food for the family and they want to help you out with dinner – showcasing their wild feline ancestry. Another common thing for cats to do is to knead their blankets, laundry pile and pillows. According to The Animal Channel, kittens did this movement on their mother to stimulate milk production. So, in turn, if your cat kneads you, they feel comfortable around you.
Our furry friends have their dialect and body language too, so next time give them a good scratch when they show you their affection in their own ways.
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53
Mind Matters
Please Don’t Go: How
Separation Anxiety Affects Our Pets BY TRACY WRIGHT
Pets are more than animals to us — they are family. And in 2020, we experienced a whole lot of quality family time, which included more time with our furry friends. Pets got used to having their family around…all the time! Now with many people already returning or preparing to return back to the office and school — even in a limited capacity — our pets will need to get used to us being gone after a long period of time at home. This separation can cause a great deal of distress and anxiety for pets. “During the COVID quarantine, pets generally fared better since they like having their ‘people’ around,” said Terry Tomlin, DVM, veterinarian at Town and Country Animal Hospital. “Dogs and cats crave routine, and once that routine abruptly changes, there is absolutely an increase in related anxiety.” According to VCA Animal Hospitals, the signs of pet anxiety can manifest itself in pacing, jumping, vocalizing, increased drooling, having potty related accidents indoors, chewing their paws or other part of their body, not eating, or worse, destruction of property or trying to escape. Many pets begin getting anxious when they see that their owner is preparing to leave the house. “Our Boston terrier, Sammie, starts shivering if she thinks we are leaving and won’t make eye contact if she thinks it’s time to go in the
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WELLNESS360 | MARCH/APRIL 2021
crate. She is so used to me being home,” said Katie West, local Gainesville resident. If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to talk to your veterinarian. Before prescribing something strong like medication, they may recommend ensuring that your pet is maintaining a regular routine, getting a proper amount of exercise, having proper socialization with family members and getting adequate rest time. “Dogs especially need to get out and have a lot of physical activity. They need to sniff and smell other dogs, be around them if their behavior allows it,” Dr. Tomlin said. “Dog parks are a great way to meet that need and help with related anxiety and stress.” VCA Animal Hospitals also advises that pet owners try to disassociate activities connected with leaving the house (putting on shoes,
picking up keys, getting your purse). Do this by wearing shoes while staying home, picking up keys from time to time etc. Don’t make a big fuss “saying goodbye” when leaving the house so that the pets do not connect these behaviors with anxiety, VCA recommends. If these behaviors don’t make that much of a difference, medications may be a solution. Before turning to strong pharmaceuticals, Dr. Tomlin suggests using natural products like pheromones before trying something stronger. Pheromones are chemicals that communicate to animals like dogs or cats. A study published in the Canadian Journal of Veterinary Medicine found that the use of dog-appeasing pheromone was shown to reduce separation induced anxiety and distress. These are sold commonly as sprays or diffusers that can be filtered through air similar to air freshener plug-ins and can be found in pet stores and websites or on Amazon.
KNOW THE SIGNS
Stronger medications that can be prescribed are fluoxetine (Prozac) or alprazolam (Xanax) specifically formulated for animals. Pet owners should carefully talk about these options with their veterinarians weighing both risks and benefits for their pet.
Not eating
Pacing Jumping Vocalizing Increased drooling Having potty related accidents indoors Chewing their paws or other part of their body
Destruction of property Trying to escape
C L EAN, SAFE C OS T-EFFECTIVE
New customers may be eligible for a $44 credit if they mention Giggle*! GRU natural gas rates are the lowest in the state. Switch to an energy-efficient natural gas water heater, furnace, range or dryer for more savings.
$1,600 Take advantage of up to
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Call GRU Natural Gas at 352-393-1464 or visit gru.com/naturalgas for details. *Some restrictions apply. Offer limited to eligible single-family homeowners who replace their LP gas, oil or electric appliances with natural gas models. New GRU natural gas customers only.
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Spotlight 360
Breeding Success One Show at a Time PHOTOS BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY AND KIM LANGEVIN PHOTOGRAPHY
Kelly Potter has always had a love of animals and owned dogs, but it wasn’t until she welcomed her Frenchies into her life that she finally knew she found her favorite breed. She has grown her love of Frenchies into a family passion and shares how she balances it all with her four legged family members always by her side.
Can you share the story of how and when you became involved with breeding and showing dogs? I have had a lifetime filled with animals; the love of horses was in my DNA. My father volunteered at the trail riding facilities in Griffith Park, Los Angeles and was a stunt rider in ever growing Hollywood in the early 60’s. After graduating with my degree in Equine Science, I was then hired in Idaho at a large breeding facility. After decades of breeding Appaloosa horses, it was only natural to take that knowledge and education and apply it to my favorite breed, French bulldogs (aka Frenchies).
What drew you to the Frenchies?
We have owned so many different dog breeds. As we started showing more as a family, we found that we wanted dogs that could travel well and had a trustworthy personality to have with us at horse shows. But we didn’t want anything yappy or overly excitable. We owned everything from shepherds and hound dogs to Boston terriers. They were all great, but they were all just pets… our Frenchies, they are actually family!
What is the most rewarding part of showing and breeding your Frenchies?
The most rewarding part of breeding is when you see the puppy that you nurtured from birth go to their forever families. It is the hardest part and I absolutely cry every time a pup leaves. But they are happy tears. Fortunately, on any given day, I get text messages or am tagged on Facebook or Instagram photos of the pups growing up and their special moments. It makes me smile.
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Spotlight 360 KELLY'S FAVORITE QUOTE:
A dog is the only thing on Earth that loves you more than he loves himself. - JOSH BILLINGS
For me, showing the dogs is a very important part of our breeding program. I believe if you are breeding a dog they need to not only be genetic and health tested, but they also need to “prove” themselves. Everything is about “form to function.” In my eyes, a breeding dog needs to have earned a title in one or more than one of the major recognized registries. It is my way of knowing that my program is on track. All my dogs are double registered American Kennel Club (AKC) and American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC).
Can you share a bit of your dogs and their personalities and what they love to do?
All of our dogs have amazing personalities. When I want to sit on the couch or sleep in, they are happy to snuggle all day long. But if I want to play ball and be active, they are ready to go. Chanel loves to go outside and “ZOOM” around the property. If I ask her if she wants to go run, she will start leaping up in the air, all four feet off the ground and start talking and barking at me. It is so cute. She does the same thing during the Fast Cat Competition. She gets so excited and the more excited she gets the faster she runs. She absolutely loves it! Chanel is our fastest “runner”. Currently she is unofficially rated the second in the Country for AKC French Bulldog Fast Cat Competitions for 2021. The Fast Cat Competitions are the human equivalent to the 100-yard dash. Essentially my dogs are considered sprinters. Some
Kobe and Chanel at the AKC French Bulldog Fast Cat Competitions dogs have a natural desire to chase an object and some do not. You cannot make a dog chase something they don’t want to. French bulldogs weren’t even considered able to do this event up till several years ago, but we have continued to educate and encourage people to breed with health in mind so these dogs have nice open nares, little longer noses so they breath better. This not only gives them the ability to run, but it also increases their overall quality of life. PDR Mamba Mentality aka “Kobe” has both his AKC B-Cat Title but also his Championship Title from ABKC in Conformation. Which means he has gone up in front of numerous judges, won several majors and best of awards. Currently all of our dogs hold their AKC “B-CAT” Performance Title in Fast Cat events and many are close to their next title. Our goal is to be someday invited to the AKC Invitational put on by ESPN.
How do you live #360life and balance it all?
My mom always jokes that I would not function properly without having a bunch of different things going on at the same time. She says I thrive on chaos. Truth be told, I am just a great multi-tasker. I think that when you have a hobby that you love and that you can nurture, it can also be fulfilling. Spending time with my dogs, researching pedigrees and show results, going to events, watching my boys care for pups or spending the afternoon at a dog show with my husband is a true gift. Even at my job, I am known for my animals. My fellow Realtors and clients all know my passion for my dogs. They always ask to visit with them and love it when a pup comes to one of our meetings.
Find them on social media!
Kelly with her husband Dave, two sons London and Brandt and French bulldogs Chanel, Suri, Baxter and Kobe.
@PDR_FRENCHIES
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Community Event information may be subject to change due to COVID-19. Please check with event organizers to confirm the status of events.
Wednesday, March 3 Union Street Farmers Market at Celebration Pointe 4 - 7 p.m. Celebration Pointe unionstreetfarmersmkt.com This farmer market is held every Wednesday, rain or shine!
Thursday, March 4 Sunday, March 14 Florida Strawberry Festival
10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Plant City, FL flstrawberryfestival.com The iconic Florida Strawberry Festival is an 11-day event that the whole family can enjoy! Go online to get your tickets!
Saturday, March 6 Haile Farmers Market
8:30 a.m. - Noon Haile Plantation hailefarmersmarket.com Head out to Haile to enjoy fresh, local produce, meats, honey, oils and more! This farmers market happens every Saturday!
Sunday, March 7 Depot Park Friends & Family Day
3 - 6 p.m. Depot Park facebook.com/depot.park Bring the whole family out to Depot Park to hang out with the Go Primal Fitness community! Enjoy frisbee, football, spike ball and more!
Thursday, March 11 Kinetix Physical Therapy Free Live Demonstration
5:30 p.m. Kinetix Physical Therapy Register by calling 352-505-6665 Learn more about diagnostic Ultrasound and Electromyography testing.
Friday, March 12 Sunday, March 14 Ocala/Gainesville Balloon Festival
5 - 8 p.m. balloonglowtour.com Weather permitting, enjoy glowing hot air balloons, food, activities for kids and more at the Balloon Festival — it’s free!
Saturday, March 13 Jazz on the Green
7 p.m. Celebration Pointe celebrationpointe.com Head to Celebration Pointe for food, drinks and live music for the whole family! This event repeats on the second Saturday of every month.
Monday, March 15 Museum in the Parks: Birds at Paynes Prairie
9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park floridamuseum.ufl.edu Join the Florida Museum in Paynes Prairie to view as many as 300 species of birds! Go online to register!
Monday, March 8 Tuesday, March 9 Inspiring Women Leaders Conference 2021 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Virtual Conference iwl.aa.ufl.edu Get inspired at the 2021 IWL Conference! Hear from amazing speakers and get resources to use in your everyday life as an inspiring female leader. Register today online!
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Wednesday, March 17 ST. PATRICK'S DAY Friday, March 19 GCM Golf Scramble
7 a.m. - noon Mark Bostick Golf Course at the University of Florida Register by calling 352-441-0760 Grab your clubs and your best foursome for the GCM Golf Tournament!
Saturday, March 20 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Phillips Center for Performing Arts performingarts.ufl.edu Enjoy this class tale presented by Dance Alive! You can buy your tickets online!
Saturday, March 20 Survival of the Slowest Virtual 5K
Virtual Event floridamuseum.ufl.edu/event/ virtual-5k Take part in this 5K from anywhere in the world! Complete the run between March 1 and March 20 to get a metal and a t-shirt! Register online.
Wednesday, March 27 PASSOVER BEGINS
Wednesday, April 3 and April 17 Kinetix Physical Therapy Free Workshop and Demonstration
10 a.m. Kinetix Physical Therapy Register by calling 352-505-6665 Learn about the common causes of knee and shoulder pain and how PT can help you fix it.
Sunday, April 4 EASTER SUNDAY Sunday, April 4 PASSOVER ENDS Saturday, April 17 Sunday, April 18 2021 Old Florida Celebration of the Arts
Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cedar Key, FL cedarkeyartsfestival.com Cedar Key is hosting its annual fine arts festival! They are working hard to make it a COVID-safe event, and you can find out more information online!
Sunday, April 22 EARTH DAY
Saturday, April 3 Swamp City 5K Obstacle Race Friday, April 23 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Playlist at the Pointe Celebration Pointe celebrationpointe.com Enjoy local food trucks on Celebrate the Phase II Expansion of Celebration Point with the Swamp City Fitness Obstacle Race!
7 - 9 p.m. Celebration Pointe celebrationpointe.com Enjoy all kinds of live music on the lawn at Celebration Pointe!
Saturday, April 3 Haile Farmers Market
Friday, April 24 Secrets of the Universe “Pops”
8:30 a.m. - Noon Haile Plantation hailefarmersmarket.com Head out to Haile to enjoy fresh, local produce, meats, honey, oils and more! This farmers market happens every Saturday!
7:30 p.m. Phillips Center for Performing Arts performingarts.ufl.edu Enjoy the Gainesville Orchestra performing its ends of the season celebration. You can buy your tickets online!
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